Freemasons belong to the oldest and largest fraternal organization in the world.
Freemasons represent virtually every occupation and profession, yet within the Fraternity, all meet as equals. Masons come from diverse political ideologies, yet meet as friends. Freemasons come from varied religious beliefs and creeds, yet all believe in one Supreme Being.
A simple, but accurate, description is that Freemasonry is two things:
Freemasonry is an ancient and honourable society. Its principles are just steady standards of life and conduct in a changing world. The practice by Freemasons of Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth and the other principles of the Craft will go a long way to making a good man better.
Freemasonry is dedicated to the Brotherhood of Man under the Fatherhood of God. It uses the tools and implements of ancient architectural craftsmen symbolically in a system of instruction designed to build character and moral values in its members. Its singular purpose is to make good men better. Its bonds of friendship, compassion, and brotherly love have survived even the most divisive political, military, and religious conflicts through the centuries.
There are about 8 million Freemasons under more than 100 “regular” Grand Lodges worldwide. Membership of the Craft is open to every respectable Man who believes in a Supreme Being – usually known in Masonic terms as the Great Architect of the Universe, Grand Geometrician of the Universe or the Most High. These descriptive names show the importance the Freemason places on his Supreme Being.