So You Want to Be a Mason? A Guide to Joining the Fraternity Today

The Basic Requirements

While specific rules can vary slightly between jurisdictions (governed by a state or national Grand Lodge), the fundamental requirements for membership in a mainstream Masonic lodge are remarkably consistent and simple. A candidate must be:

A Man of Good Character: Freemasonry is a fraternity dedicated to "making good men better." Therefore, the primary requirement is a reputation for integrity, honesty, and good moral standing in the community.

Of Lawful Age: The minimum age is typically 18 or 21, depending on the jurisdiction.

Believe in a Supreme Being: A candidate must profess a belief in a higher power. Freemasonry is not a religion and does not require membership in any particular faith, but it is not a home for the atheist. This belief is a foundational requirement for all members.

Finding a Lodge

The first practical step is to find a local lodge. The easiest way to do this is to visit the website of the Grand Lodge that governs the state or region where you live, such as the Grand Lodge of Illinois. Most Grand Lodge websites have a "lodge locator" tool that can help you find the lodges nearest to your home or workplace.

It is often a good idea to visit several different lodges before deciding where to petition. While all lodges practice the same core Freemasonry, each one has its own unique identity, culture, and personality. Some may be more formal, others more casual; some may have an older membership, others younger. By attending a few social events or dinners that are open to the public, a prospective member can get a feel for the lodge and its members to find the best fit.

The Petition and Investigation

Once a man has found a lodge he wishes to join, he must formally petition for membership. This typically requires the recommendation of two current members of that lodge who can vouch for his character. After the petition is submitted, the lodge will form a small investigation committee.

This is not a background check in the modern sense, but a discreet and friendly interview process. Members of the committee will arrange to meet with the candidate, and often his family, usually in his own home. The purpose is twofold: for the lodge members to get to know the candidate better and confirm his good character, and for the candidate and his family to ask any questions they may have about the fraternity and the commitments involved.

The Ballot and Initiation

After the investigation committee reports back to the lodge, the members will hold a secret ballot to vote on the petitioner's admission. The tradition of the ballot is a cornerstone of Masonic harmony. To be accepted, the vote must be unanimously in favor of the candidate. This ensures that every new member is welcomed without reservation by all of his new brothers.

If the ballot is favorable, the candidate will be notified and a date will be set for his initiation ceremony, where he will take the first step in his Masonic journey by receiving the degree of Entered Apprentice.

The process of joining Freemasonry is not like signing up for a club; it is a deliberate and meaningful journey of mutual selection. The candidate investigates the fraternity to ensure it aligns with his values, and the fraternity investigates the candidate to ensure he will be a worthy addition to the brotherhood. This careful, two-way process is designed to protect the integrity of the lodge and to ensure that when a man becomes a Freemason, he is embarking on a lifelong journey of personal growth and fellowship.

Ready To Take The Next Step?

If you are in Illinois, visit the Grand Lodge Website to find a lodge near you!