How to Become a Member of the Masons

Free Masonry can trace its roots back to the Egyptians and the building of the pyramids. This ancient society has long standing traditions and rules of conduct. Becoming a member of the Masons requires commitment, determination and sponsorship by another member.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

1. Contact your local Masonic lodge. These can be easily located in the phone book.
2. Find a member of the lodge to be your sponsor. Because Free Masonry requires living a moral life, your sponsor must know you for a certain period before recommending you.
3. Go through the pre-application process if your lodge requires it. This may include prescreening with a pre-application committee where you will have the opportunity to ask questions and get more information.
4. Submit your application with the appropriate fee. Your petition will be read at the next meeting.
5. Wait for the report of the investigating committee to be submitted on your behalf. After the report is read ballots will be cast for your acceptance. A unanimous vote is required for all new members.
6. Appear at the lodge for your "First Degree" when notified of your acceptance.
7. Memorize required parts of the ritual. During this process you will be assigned a tutor to help you.

Tips & Warnings

• Most local lodges do not have full-time staff to answer phones or take messages. Keep trying to get in touch with someone if your first attempt fails. If you are truly serious about becoming a Mason this is the important first step.