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Posted: 9/13/2013 10:47:27 AM EDT
[#1]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By Clack:
I have been interested in becoming a Mason for a long time. Currently I am planning to relocate in 6 months to a year. Would I be better off waiting until I relocate to Florida, or would I still benefit by doing a petition here in SC? Once you submit your petition, plan on 1-3 months for it work through the system. In Utah, you're looking at a minimum of three months from submitting your petition until you are initiated. Your new and old jurisdictions might have some rules on transferring before you are a Master Mason or other jurisdictions performing courtesy work. |
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Posted: 9/13/2013 10:55:59 AM EDT
[#2]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By Clack:
I have been interested in becoming a Mason for a long time. Currently I am planning to relocate in 6 months to a year. Would I be better off waiting until I relocate to Florida, or would I still benefit by doing a petition here in SC? Yes. Unless you want to pay two sets of dues or be dropped from a Lodge for non payment. Just wait. What part of FL? If you are moving to S. Florida, hit me up on IM and I will help you out. If anywhere else, check the Grand Lodge Website or call Grand Lodge and ask for Richard Lynn, he is the Grand Secretary and will direct you to a Lodge in the area you are moving to. 
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Posted: 9/13/2013 11:15:48 AM EDT
[#3]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By BrowardMason:
Yes. Unless you want to pay two sets of dues or be dropped from a Lodge for non payment. Just wait. What part of FL? If you are moving to S. Florida, hit me up on IM and I will help you out. If anywhere else, check the Grand Lodge Website or call Grand Lodge and ask for Richard Lynn, he is the Grand Secretary and will direct you to a Lodge in the area you are moving to. Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By BrowardMason:
Originally Posted By Clack:
I have been interested in becoming a Mason for a long time. Currently I am planning to relocate in 6 months to a year. Would I be better off waiting until I relocate to Florida, or would I still benefit by doing a petition here in SC? Yes. Unless you want to pay two sets of dues or be dropped from a Lodge for non payment. Just wait. What part of FL? If you are moving to S. Florida, hit me up on IM and I will help you out. If anywhere else, check the Grand Lodge Website or call Grand Lodge and ask for Richard Lynn, he is the Grand Secretary and will direct you to a Lodge in the area you are moving to. PM sent. Thank you. |
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Posted: 9/13/2013 11:39:15 AM EDT
[#4]
each state is independent of the other. i'd wait until your move
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Posted: 9/23/2013 9:56:55 PM EDT
[#5]
I proved up on my FC last week at lodge. Now trying to get my 3rd scheduled. Looking at the emails from our secretary, it seems that there were a lot of FCM's proving up this month when the lodges all met after summer break, as everyone is looking for help getting enough people to help give the 3rd degree at their lodge.
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CO, USA
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Posted: 10/10/2013 11:42:47 AM EDT
[#6]
I am a Master Mason El Paso Lodge #13 A.F.&A.M. in Colorado Springs Colorado you can find information at this link: https://www.facebook.com/2B1ASK1.Colorado13?ref=hl
If you are visiting Colroado Springs or are being stationed here feel free to contact us. Our Lodge is has many Active, Reserve/Gauard and Retired Military Brothers. We are here as well to answer any questions you may have about coming ito masonry. |
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Posted: 11/9/2013 6:29:05 PM EDT
[#7]
Here's one I haven't seen yet: Is a 4 year college degree a requirement?
My wife was maried briefly (to an epic turd, to put it politely) before we met. The father was a Mason, and the son (her ex) wanted to be a Mason. Apparently, in that group, you would not even be considered without a 4 year degree. Father wanted son to go to Germany (father was german) for 4 years to get a degree, so he could then become a Mason. And the wife (now my wife) was simply expected to put her life on hold for 4 years. This was in the Fort Collins, CO area. |
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Posted: 11/9/2013 6:42:37 PM EDT
[#8]
As I suspected The Grand Lodge of Colorado does not require a four year degree to become a Mason.
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Posted: 11/9/2013 6:49:07 PM EDT
[#9]
Her response: It may not be official, but they would not consider you without it.
Matters not, I was just curious. She always had mentioned this in the past, and I was curious if this was really the case. |
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Posted: 11/10/2013 12:57:27 PM EDT
[#10]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By NAM:
Her response: It may not be official, but they would not consider you without it. Matters not, I was just curious. She always had mentioned this in the past, and I was curious if this was really the case. no and it it would be considered an offense for a lodge to require one. ALL men in the lodge are equal. That is the beauty of the fraternity. the lowest ditch digger is equal to the governor of the state in a lodge. education and social standing are dropped at the door. |
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Posted: 11/15/2013 8:54:10 AM EDT
[#11]
Thanks for the post guys, I've contacted my local lodge and have a tour on Sunday evening. I'm really looking forward to it. My late grandfather was a mason and I've always been intrigued by masonic history. My wife thought I was joining a cult until I explained it to her and made her read about it, now she loves the idea! haha
I'll let you know how it goes. The lodge website looks like they are pretty active and they meet once a week (lodge link) |
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Posted: 11/15/2013 8:58:44 AM EDT
[#12]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By drfroglegs:
Thanks for the post guys, I've contacted my local lodge and have a tour on Sunday evening. I'm really looking forward to it. My late grandfather was a mason and I've always been intrigued by masonic history. My wife thought I was joining a cult until I explained it to her and made her read about it, now she loves the idea! haha I'll let you know how it goes. The lodge website looks like they are pretty active and they meet once a week (lodge link) good luck and keep us posted... Greatest fraternity on the planet |
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Posted: 11/18/2013 12:34:21 PM EDT
[#13]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By The_Beer_Slayer:
good luck and keep us posted... Greatest fraternity on the planet Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By The_Beer_Slayer:
Originally Posted By drfroglegs:
Thanks for the post guys, I've contacted my local lodge and have a tour on Sunday evening. I'm really looking forward to it. My late grandfather was a mason and I've always been intrigued by masonic history. My wife thought I was joining a cult until I explained it to her and made her read about it, now she loves the idea! haha I'll let you know how it goes. The lodge website looks like they are pretty active and they meet once a week (lodge link) good luck and keep us posted... Greatest fraternity on the planet Thought I would update with my experience visiting the lodge. 1) The guy doing the tour was very very friendly and informative. He made me feel like I was already part of the lodge. 2) They seem very active and actually have quite a few other organizations that share the lodge on various days of the week to help with the costs (Baltimore area, very expensive living). 3) I was a little taken back by the up front cost. The petition fee is $240 and you have to pay $75/yr due when you get your master mason (he estimated 3 months). Don't go casting stones, I don't think $240 is too unreasonable. But my wife was not thrilled about that up-front cost before I even know the first person or do the first thing in the fraternity. I have to admit, I would do things a little differently (maybe have the $240 due after first degree is met then $75/yr due after 3rd degree is met). Regardless, I am still very interested in joining but will probably have to wait until the new year to get things rolling. The guy said it was a pretty young crew and said I would "fit in great" for what that's worth. I also like that they occasionally have family friendly events so my wife is able to meet the people I'll be associating with. Overall, I'm very impressed with the professionalism I was shown and can't wait to submit my petition in the near future! |
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Posted: 11/18/2013 6:28:12 PM EDT
[#14]
Most of that $240 probably covers stuff for your three degrees. $75 is very reasonable for annual dues. All three of your degrees will cost the lodge money. You will be given some items that come out of the Lodges budget and most likely they will serve a meal either immediately before or after the degree. In southern Alabama I paid $150 when I submitted my petition and $50 a year for dues, and the cost of living is SUBSTANTIALLY cheaper in AL. In other words fees sound about right.
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Posted: 11/18/2013 7:00:33 PM EDT
[#15]
here we require a 30.00 application cost that is generally refunded if not accepted. that covers the cost of the initiation. the other degrees also have a cost but they not not charged until they are planned. lodge dues here vary from 30.00 -150.00 per year depending on the lodge. every lodge is different. feel free to look around or even ask up front if another lodge has cheaper dues and up front costs. While every lodge will urge you to join them, i would happily refer a man to less expensive lodge if i found out money was an issue. I'd rather see a man join another lodge than feel he can't join because of a monetary issue. i have seen lodge here actually collect money to pay for a mans degrees that couldn't afford it.
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Posted: 11/18/2013 9:56:24 PM EDT
[#16]
I'm being raised this Saturday, and I still don't know what my tab is going to be
 I haven't spent a dollar yet. But I haven't asked either.
I looked at the Dues and initiation fees on the GLOW website, but that was 8 months or so ago. |
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Posted: 11/19/2013 10:32:52 AM EDT
[#17]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By Woodsrider:
I'm being raised this Saturday, and I still don't know what my tab is going to be I haven't spent a dollar yet. But I haven't asked either.
I looked at the Dues and initiation fees on the GLOW website, but that was 8 months or so ago. they should tell you upfront. those fees have to paid BEFORE the degree is done. |
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Posted: 11/20/2013 11:37:18 AM EDT
[#18]
Odd.
Nobody said anything last night at Lodge. Just a lot of "Are you ready for Saturday?" and Goat jokes. Lots of goat jokes. Like a said, I looked at the fees and dues on the states Grand Lodge Website months ago when I petitioned, and I was ready to write a check then. I was told that everything is covered by the lodge until you are raised. Then you are responsible for monthly dues, and I think I remember a petition fee or something. I set aside a few hundered bucks then, to pay for everything, and haven't brought it up since. I assume there are differences between the lodges. Our lodge is on very sound financial footing, maybe thats why they dont charge candidates for the degrees. 
. |
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Posted: 11/20/2013 12:02:40 PM EDT
[#19]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By Woodsrider:
Odd. Nobody said anything last night at Lodge. Just a lot of "Are you ready for Saturday?" and Goat jokes. Lots of goat jokes. Like a said, I looked at the fees and dues on the states Grand Lodge Website months ago when I petitioned, and I was ready to write a check then. I was told that everything is covered by the lodge until you are raised. Then you are responsible for monthly dues, and I think I remember a petition fee or something. I set aside a few hundered bucks then, to pay for everything, and haven't brought it up since. I assume there are differences between the lodges. Our lodge is on very sound financial footing, maybe thats why they dont charge candidates for the degrees.
. possible. here there is a initiation fee that is paid the Grand lodge once initiated the rest goes to the lodge. most lodges charge a fee to cover the expenses and equal your year dues once raised so you don't have to pay dues on being raised just the following year. but lodges and grand lodges are all different. |
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Posted: 1/21/2014 4:21:16 PM EDT
[#20]
Here's a video from the Wisconsin Grand Lodge's website. "Mason Mike" is the Senior Warden of my Lodge.
How to Join - Grand Lodge Free and Accepted Masons of Wisconsin |
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Posted: 10/26/2014 5:16:26 PM EDT
[Last Edit: soldierman79]
[#21]
I appreciate the info here. I visited a local lodge here last week and spoke with some of the gentlemen there. It sounds like something I'm very interested in. I was given a petition and filled it out except for the part asking for references from the Masons that I might know....except I don't know any Masons. I have asked family members, friends, work acquaintances...no one is a Mason. I went back to the lodge and was told to keep trying. I will, but it's beginning to look as though it's an exercise in futility.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated gentlemen. |
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Posted: 10/26/2014 5:36:54 PM EDT
[#22]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By soldierman79:
I appreciate the info here. I visited a local lodge here last week and spoke with some of the gentlemen there. It sounds like something I'm very interested in. I was given a petition and filled it out except for the part asking for references from the Masons that I might know....except I don't know any Masons. I have asked family members, friends, work acquaintances...no one is a Mason. I went back to the lodge and was told to keep trying. I will, but it's beginning to look as though it's an exercise in futility. Any advice would be greatly appreciated gentlemen. Sounds like you have already met some masons. Keep visiting them and before too long they will know you well enough to sign your petition.
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Posted: 10/26/2014 6:35:46 PM EDT
[#23]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By soldierman79: I appreciate the info here. I visited a local lodge here last week and spoke with some of the gentlemen there. It sounds like something I'm very interested in. I was given a petition and filled it out except for the part asking for references from the Masons that I might know....except I don't know any Masons. I have asked family members, friends, work acquaintances...no one is a Mason. I went back to the lodge and was told to keep trying. I will, but it's beginning to look as though it's an exercise in futility. Any advice would be greatly appreciated gentlemen. Follow these directions. |
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Posted: 10/26/2014 7:10:16 PM EDT
[Last Edit: soldierman79]
[#24]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By medicmandan:
Sounds like you have already met some masons. Keep visiting them and before too long they will know you well enough to sign your petition.
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By medicmandan:
Originally Posted By soldierman79:
I appreciate the info here. I visited a local lodge here last week and spoke with some of the gentlemen there. It sounds like something I'm very interested in. I was given a petition and filled it out except for the part asking for references from the Masons that I might know....except I don't know any Masons. I have asked family members, friends, work acquaintances...no one is a Mason. I went back to the lodge and was told to keep trying. I will, but it's beginning to look as though it's an exercise in futility. Any advice would be greatly appreciated gentlemen. Sounds like you have already met some masons. Keep visiting them and before too long they will know you well enough to sign your petition.
I can do that, but the WM made it pretty clear that they aren't going to sponsor me until I get those references. I'll keep looking though. |
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Posted: 10/26/2014 7:12:07 PM EDT
[Last Edit: soldierman79]
[#25]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By OverScoped:
Follow these directions. http://www.grandlodgeoftexas.org/content/process-petitioning Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By OverScoped:
Originally Posted By soldierman79:
I appreciate the info here. I visited a local lodge here last week and spoke with some of the gentlemen there. It sounds like something I'm very interested in. I was given a petition and filled it out except for the part asking for references from the Masons that I might know....except I don't know any Masons. I have asked family members, friends, work acquaintances...no one is a Mason. I went back to the lodge and was told to keep trying. I will, but it's beginning to look as though it's an exercise in futility. Any advice would be greatly appreciated gentlemen. http://www.grandlodgeoftexas.org/content/process-petitioning Yep, that's the website that I used to find the lodge. I'm still stuck at the 'References' portion of the petition due to not knowing any Masons. |
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Posted: 10/26/2014 7:21:36 PM EDT
[#26]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By soldierman79: Yep, that's the website that I used to find the lodge. I'm still stuck at the 'References' portion of the petition due to not knowing any Masons. Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By soldierman79: Originally Posted By OverScoped: Originally Posted By soldierman79: I appreciate the info here. I visited a local lodge here last week and spoke with some of the gentlemen there. It sounds like something I'm very interested in. I was given a petition and filled it out except for the part asking for references from the Masons that I might know....except I don't know any Masons. I have asked family members, friends, work acquaintances...no one is a Mason. I went back to the lodge and was told to keep trying. I will, but it's beginning to look as though it's an exercise in futility. Any advice would be greatly appreciated gentlemen. http://www.grandlodgeoftexas.org/content/process-petitioning Yep, that's the website that I used to find the lodge. I'm still stuck at the 'References' portion of the petition due to not knowing any Masons. OK great. I just wanted you to have all the info you need. Find out when the next meeting is. Go there about 45 minutes before in a suit or whatever attire is suitable and introduce yourself to some Brothers. They might invite you to stay for dinner. Let em know you are still interested and that you need some signatures. They will want you to join I'm sure. In Masonry everyone has been on the same path as you are. |
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Posted: 10/26/2014 7:25:48 PM EDT
[#27]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By OverScoped:
Find out when the next meeting is. Go there about 45 minutes before in a suit or whatever attire is suitable and introduce yourself to some Brothers. They might invite you to stay for dinner. Let em know you are still interested and that you need some signatures. They will want you to join I'm sure. In Masonry everyone has been on the same path as you are. That sounds like a plan. I'll keep at it. I was just surprised that no one I know/knew is a Mason. Guess I'm hanging out in the wrong group of folks. 
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Posted: 10/26/2014 7:51:03 PM EDT
[#28]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By soldierman79:
I can do that, but the WM made it pretty clear that they aren't going to sponsor me until I get those references. I'll keep looking though. Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By soldierman79:
Originally Posted By medicmandan:
Originally Posted By soldierman79:
I appreciate the info here. I visited a local lodge here last week and spoke with some of the gentlemen there. It sounds like something I'm very interested in. I was given a petition and filled it out except for the part asking for references from the Masons that I might know....except I don't know any Masons. I have asked family members, friends, work acquaintances...no one is a Mason. I went back to the lodge and was told to keep trying. I will, but it's beginning to look as though it's an exercise in futility. Any advice would be greatly appreciated gentlemen. Sounds like you have already met some masons. Keep visiting them and before too long they will know you well enough to sign your petition.
I can do that, but the WM made it pretty clear that they aren't going to sponsor me until I get those references. I'll keep looking though. That's ridiculous. We invite non-members to our functions so they have that opportunity to get to know masons who can then sign their petition. |
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Posted: 3/16/2015 10:58:57 PM EDT
[#29]
My fil is a mason/shriner. Are there asian shriners? Lol. Im saved and a christian. I believe in morality and doing right. I enjoy doing charity stuff. Just never seen any asians lol..
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Posted: 3/17/2015 4:37:37 AM EDT
[#30]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By thisisdudewhoru: My fil is a mason/shriner. Are there asian shriners? Lol. Im saved and a christian. I believe in morality and doing right. I enjoy doing charity stuff. Just never seen any asians lol.. |
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Posted: 3/17/2015 8:07:24 AM EDT
[#31]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By medicmandan:
That's ridiculous. We invite non-members to our functions so they have that opportunity to get to know masons who can then sign their petition. Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By medicmandan:
Originally Posted By soldierman79:
Originally Posted By medicmandan:
Originally Posted By soldierman79:
I appreciate the info here. I visited a local lodge here last week and spoke with some of the gentlemen there. It sounds like something I'm very interested in. I was given a petition and filled it out except for the part asking for references from the Masons that I might know....except I don't know any Masons. I have asked family members, friends, work acquaintances...no one is a Mason. I went back to the lodge and was told to keep trying. I will, but it's beginning to look as though it's an exercise in futility. Any advice would be greatly appreciated gentlemen. Sounds like you have already met some masons. Keep visiting them and before too long they will know you well enough to sign your petition.
I can do that, but the WM made it pretty clear that they aren't going to sponsor me until I get those references. I'll keep looking though. That's ridiculous. We invite non-members to our functions so they have that opportunity to get to know masons who can then sign their petition. we do not require references to be masons. i suspect if you read that petition it won't mention that either. we simply require names of people we can contact to verify your character. something doesn't smell right here. |
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Posted: 3/17/2015 8:08:32 AM EDT
[#32]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By thisisdudewhoru:
My fil is a mason/shriner. Are there asian shriners? Lol. Im saved and a christian. I believe in morality and doing right. I enjoy doing charity stuff. Just never seen any asians lol.. masonry in the Philippians and japan is HUGE... north korea/china... not so much. dictators tend not to appreciate us very much 
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PA, USA
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Posted: 4/9/2015 1:23:00 AM EDT
[Last Edit: SGStiles]
[#33]
So I really want to become a Freemason but please explain and clear this up for me.
Masons worship a god which they call the Great Architect of the Universe. The symbol they have chosen to represent their god is the All Seeing Eye, which the Egyptians used to represent their pagan god, Osiris. Since Freemasonry teaches a false plan of salvation, Masons are not following in the teachings of Jesus Christ. 2 John 1:9 allows us to know that since they are not following in the teachings of Jesus, they do not have God. Freemasonry is classic paganism. 1 Corinthians 10:20-21 allows us to know that the sacrifices of pagans are offered to demons, rather than God. Now that's a common argument I find against Freemasons but I'd like to believe that it's just a stretch come up by someone and therefore a load of crap. I know Freemasons are supposed to let you worship any one supreme god you wish (Mine being Christian God). ETA: I know that may sound stupid that I posted this as a concern in the first place but it is a legitimate worry. I just wish to have it cleared up so I can become one without some looming guilt. |
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Posted: 4/9/2015 4:57:01 AM EDT
[#34]
Your third paragraph is correct.
Your God is your choice. BTW, we don't worship anything in lodge. |
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Posted: 4/9/2015 6:55:17 AM EDT
[#35]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By SGStiles:
So I really want to become a Freemason but please explain and clear this up for me. Masons worship a god which they call the Great Architect of the Universe. The symbol they have chosen to represent their god is the All Seeing Eye, which the Egyptians used to represent their pagan god, Osiris. Since Freemasonry teaches a false plan of salvation, Masons are not following in the teachings of Jesus Christ. 2 John 1:9 allows us to know that since they are not following in the teachings of Jesus, they do not have God. Freemasonry is classic paganism. 1 Corinthians 10:20-21 allows us to know that the sacrifices of pagans are offered to demons, rather than God. Now that's a common argument I find against Freemasons but I'd like to believe that it's just a stretch come up by someone and therefore a load of crap. I know Freemasons are supposed to let you worship any one supreme god you wish (Mine being Christian God). ETA: I know that may sound stupid that I posted this as a concern in the first place but it is a legitimate worry. I just wish to have it cleared up so I can become one without some looming guilt. I too struggled with the very same issue before becoming a Freemason. I have since attended every stated meeting and degree since. Pretty much if the doors are open I am there. There has never been a single thing mentioned or done that conflicted with my belief in God. In fact quite the opposite. |
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Posted: 4/9/2015 7:50:01 AM EDT
[#36]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By SGStiles:
So I really want to become a Freemason but please explain and clear this up for me. Masons worship a god which they call the Great Architect of the Universe. The symbol they have chosen to represent their god is the All Seeing Eye, which the Egyptians used to represent their pagan god, Osiris. Since Freemasonry teaches a false plan of salvation, Masons are not following in the teachings of Jesus Christ. 2 John 1:9 allows us to know that since they are not following in the teachings of Jesus, they do not have God. Freemasonry is classic paganism. 1 Corinthians 10:20-21 allows us to know that the sacrifices of pagans are offered to demons, rather than God. Now that's a common argument I find against Freemasons but I'd like to believe that it's just a stretch come up by someone and therefore a load of crap. I know Freemasons are supposed to let you worship any one supreme god you wish (Mine being Christian God). ETA: I know that may sound stupid that I posted this as a concern in the first place but it is a legitimate worry. I just wish to have it cleared up so I can become one without some looming guilt. Masons do not worship a god call GAOTU.... that is simply a generic term given to deity. it allows the individual to participate with others of different faiths and still retain "their" god. For me it is the christian god, for a muslim brother allah.... etc. freemasonry is not paganism nor any other religion. We require a member to believe in a deity as we recognize the importance of faith and our obligations would be meaningless if given to an atheist. Masonry does not and should not promote any specific religion. That is left to the individual. A mason is simply told to follow the tenants of HIS religion. Masonry does not claim to know the nature of God, does not promote a particular god nor religion. Masonry is about finding a the common good in man and promoting universal brotherhood and love for all mankind. Your religion and your faith get you heaven, not the lodge. As masons we understand there are things which are sacred to some men. Religion is one of them. You will not change a mans mind on his faith and attempting to do so is considered rude and un-masonic. This is specifically why anything done with a "religious" tone is to be as generic as possible in the lodge. It's to prevent any man from becoming offended or uncomfortable. it really is as simple as that. As masons we really do not care what or who an individual believes in. Simply that he has faith in a higher power that he will be required to answer to. YOUR faith is not my concern. As a mason i can't ask and frankly shouldn't care. YOUR relationship with whatever you call god is between you and him. We hold generic prayers before and after lodge and many times they are done in the name of the "great architect of the universe". As i said above that is simply a generic name that is defind by the individual man, not masonry. Frankly the anti-masonic stupidity is written by people with ZERO understanding of masonry, it's history and philosophy. |
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PA, USA
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Posted: 4/9/2015 10:15:53 AM EDT
[Last Edit: SGStiles]
[#37]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By The_Beer_Slayer:
freemasonry is not paganism nor any other religion. We require a member to believe in a deity as we recognize the importance of faith and our obligations would be meaningless if given to an atheist. Masonry does not and should not promote any specific religion. That is left to the individual. A mason is simply told to follow the tenants of HIS religion. Masonry does not claim to know the nature of God, does not promote a particular god nor religion. Masonry is about finding a the common good in man and promoting universal brotherhood and love for all mankind. Your religion and your faith get you heaven, not the lodge. As masons we understand there are things which are sacred to some men. Religion is one of them. You will not change a mans mind on his faith and attempting to do so is considered rude and un-masonic. This is specifically why anything done with a "religious" tone is to be as generic as possible in the lodge. It's to prevent any man from becoming offended or uncomfortable. it really is as simple as that. As masons we really do not care what or who an individual believes in. Simply that he has faith in a higher power that he will be required to answer to. YOUR faith is not my concern. As a mason i can't ask and frankly shouldn't care. YOUR relationship with whatever you call god is between you and him. We hold generic prayers before and after lodge and many times they are done in the name of the "great architect of the universe". As i said above that is simply a generic name that is defined by the individual man, not masonry. Frankly the anti-masonic stupidity is written by people with ZERO understanding of masonry, it's history and philosophy. Thank you. Again I'm very sorry for having asked that. |
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Posted: 4/9/2015 10:31:42 AM EDT
[#38]
Don't be sorry for asking.
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PA, USA
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Posted: 4/9/2015 10:46:36 AM EDT
[Last Edit: SGStiles]
[#39]
Originally Posted By OverScoped:
Don't be sorry for asking. So do you know where any good lodges are around the area from Punxsutawney to Pittsburgh? |
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Posted: 4/9/2015 11:08:17 AM EDT
[#40]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By The_Beer_Slayer:
Masons do not worship a god call GAOTU.... that is simply a generic term given to deity. it allows the individual to participate with others of different faiths and still retain "their" god. For me it is the christian god, for a muslim brother allah.... etc. freemasonry is not paganism nor any other religion. We require a member to believe in a deity as we recognize the importance of faith and our obligations would be meaningless if given to an atheist. Masonry does not and should not promote any specific religion. That is left to the individual. A mason is simply told to follow the tenants of HIS religion. Masonry does not claim to know the nature of God, does not promote a particular god nor religion. Masonry is about finding a the common good in man and promoting universal brotherhood and love for all mankind. Your religion and your faith get you heaven, not the lodge. As masons we understand there are things which are sacred to some men. Religion is one of them. You will not change a mans mind on his faith and attempting to do so is considered rude and un-masonic. This is specifically why anything done with a "religious" tone is to be as generic as possible in the lodge. It's to prevent any man from becoming offended or uncomfortable. it really is as simple as that. As masons we really do not care what or who an individual believes in. Simply that he has faith in a higher power that he will be required to answer to. YOUR faith is not my concern. As a mason i can't ask and frankly shouldn't care. YOUR relationship with whatever you call god is between you and him. We hold generic prayers before and after lodge and many times they are done in the name of the "great architect of the universe". As i said above that is simply a generic name that is defind by the individual man, not masonry. Frankly the anti-masonic stupidity is written by people with ZERO understanding of masonry, it's history and philosophy. Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By The_Beer_Slayer:
Originally Posted By SGStiles:
So I really want to become a Freemason but please explain and clear this up for me. Masons worship a god which they call the Great Architect of the Universe. The symbol they have chosen to represent their god is the All Seeing Eye, which the Egyptians used to represent their pagan god, Osiris. Since Freemasonry teaches a false plan of salvation, Masons are not following in the teachings of Jesus Christ. 2 John 1:9 allows us to know that since they are not following in the teachings of Jesus, they do not have God. Freemasonry is classic paganism. 1 Corinthians 10:20-21 allows us to know that the sacrifices of pagans are offered to demons, rather than God. Now that's a common argument I find against Freemasons but I'd like to believe that it's just a stretch come up by someone and therefore a load of crap. I know Freemasons are supposed to let you worship any one supreme god you wish (Mine being Christian God). ETA: I know that may sound stupid that I posted this as a concern in the first place but it is a legitimate worry. I just wish to have it cleared up so I can become one without some looming guilt. Masons do not worship a god call GAOTU.... that is simply a generic term given to deity. it allows the individual to participate with others of different faiths and still retain "their" god. For me it is the christian god, for a muslim brother allah.... etc. freemasonry is not paganism nor any other religion. We require a member to believe in a deity as we recognize the importance of faith and our obligations would be meaningless if given to an atheist. Masonry does not and should not promote any specific religion. That is left to the individual. A mason is simply told to follow the tenants of HIS religion. Masonry does not claim to know the nature of God, does not promote a particular god nor religion. Masonry is about finding a the common good in man and promoting universal brotherhood and love for all mankind. Your religion and your faith get you heaven, not the lodge. As masons we understand there are things which are sacred to some men. Religion is one of them. You will not change a mans mind on his faith and attempting to do so is considered rude and un-masonic. This is specifically why anything done with a "religious" tone is to be as generic as possible in the lodge. It's to prevent any man from becoming offended or uncomfortable. it really is as simple as that. As masons we really do not care what or who an individual believes in. Simply that he has faith in a higher power that he will be required to answer to. YOUR faith is not my concern. As a mason i can't ask and frankly shouldn't care. YOUR relationship with whatever you call god is between you and him. We hold generic prayers before and after lodge and many times they are done in the name of the "great architect of the universe". As i said above that is simply a generic name that is defind by the individual man, not masonry. Frankly the anti-masonic stupidity is written by people with ZERO understanding of masonry, it's history and philosophy. I believe this is very key point that shows that Freemasonry is not a religion. Where religious doctrines teach of the will of G-d, Freemasonry makes no distinction. Our reference to G-d is displayed in the universality of a one, omnipotent Creator of all, who is owed reverence by his creations. It is up to the man how to worship Him. |
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Posted: 4/9/2015 11:11:47 AM EDT
[#41]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By SGStiles:
Thank you. Again I'm very sorry for having asked that. Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By SGStiles:
Originally Posted By The_Beer_Slayer:
. Thank you. Again I'm very sorry for having asked that. no harm in asking as long as it is a sincere question. many come asking that with the express purpose of trolling. we are always more than happy to answer questions from those with a sincere interest. |
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PA, USA
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Posted: 4/9/2015 12:50:07 PM EDT
[#42]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By The_Beer_Slayer:
no harm in asking as long as it is a sincere question. many come asking that with the express purpose of trolling. we are always more than happy to answer questions from those with a sincere interest. Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By The_Beer_Slayer:
Originally Posted By SGStiles:
Originally Posted By The_Beer_Slayer:
. Thank you. Again I'm very sorry for having asked that. no harm in asking as long as it is a sincere question. many come asking that with the express purpose of trolling. we are always more than happy to answer questions from those with a sincere interest. I wouldn't troll on this topic purely out of respect. As soon as I can I will try to become a Mason. |
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Posted: 4/9/2015 5:43:45 PM EDT
[Last Edit: OverScoped]
[#43]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By SGStiles: So do you know where any good lodges are around the area from Punxsutawney to Pittsburgh? Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By SGStiles: Originally Posted By OverScoped: Don't be sorry for asking. So do you know where any good lodges are around the area from Punxsutawney to Pittsburgh? and here is the Grand Lodge website http://www.pagrandlodge.org/ |
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Posted: 4/28/2015 2:55:42 PM EDT
[#44]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By The_Beer_Slayer:
we do not require references to be masons. i suspect if you read that petition it won't mention that either. we simply require names of people we can contact to verify your character. something doesn't smell right here. Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By The_Beer_Slayer:
Originally Posted By medicmandan:
Originally Posted By soldierman79:
Originally Posted By medicmandan:
Originally Posted By soldierman79:
I appreciate the info here. I visited a local lodge here last week and spoke with some of the gentlemen there. It sounds like something I'm very interested in. I was given a petition and filled it out except for the part asking for references from the Masons that I might know....except I don't know any Masons. I have asked family members, friends, work acquaintances...no one is a Mason. I went back to the lodge and was told to keep trying. I will, but it's beginning to look as though it's an exercise in futility. Any advice would be greatly appreciated gentlemen. Sounds like you have already met some masons. Keep visiting them and before too long they will know you well enough to sign your petition.
I can do that, but the WM made it pretty clear that they aren't going to sponsor me until I get those references. I'll keep looking though. That's ridiculous. We invite non-members to our functions so they have that opportunity to get to know masons who can then sign their petition. we do not require references to be masons. i suspect if you read that petition it won't mention that either. we simply require names of people we can contact to verify your character. something doesn't smell right here. Our petition requires references to be Masons. |
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Posted: 4/28/2015 3:36:16 PM EDT
[#45]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By diggerwolf:
Our petition requires references to be Masons. all we require is one man in the lodge to vouch for you and sign your petition. the other references don't matter. How exactly could a man petition your lodge if he didn't know any masons? |
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Posted: 4/28/2015 4:42:44 PM EDT
[#46]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By The_Beer_Slayer: all we require is one man in the lodge to vouch for you and sign your petition. the other references don't matter. How exactly could a man petition your lodge if he didn't know any masons? Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By The_Beer_Slayer: Originally Posted By diggerwolf: Our petition requires references to be Masons. all we require is one man in the lodge to vouch for you and sign your petition. the other references don't matter. How exactly could a man petition your lodge if he didn't know any masons? |
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Posted: 4/28/2015 9:25:51 PM EDT
[#47]
good lord. you require a copy of a BC as well. i am not sure i would have even applied reading that.
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Posted: 4/28/2015 10:03:25 PM EDT
[Last Edit: medicmandan]
[#48]
We also require two Masons to sign the petition. One must have known the petitioner for at least six months. We also require two character references (different from the signers).
We hold regular meet-up groups to give investigators an opportunity to get to know lodge members. We had legislation before GL this year to require petitioners to include a recent background check as well. It was withdrawn but I expect it to come back next year. We've had some individuals of questionable moral character petition and be accepted because we lack a method to do a good investigation. Has resulted in several Masonic trials. |
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Posted: 4/29/2015 7:16:46 AM EDT
[#49]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By medicmandan:
We also require two Masons to sign the petition. One must have known the petitioner for at least six months. We also require two character references (different from the signers). We hold regular meet-up groups to give investigators an opportunity to get to know lodge members. We had legislation before GL this year to require petitioners to include a recent background check as well. It was withdrawn but I expect it to come back next year. We've had some individuals of questionable moral character petition and be accepted because we lack a method to do a good investigation. Has resulted in several Masonic trials. we have had similar issues. A BG check is now at the discretion of the lodge. To be honest if the investigation committees would do their jobs properly instead of just rubber stamping an application much of that could be stopped at the gate. i caught hell for refusing to sign off on an applicant that was a relative of a brother. During his interview the first words out of his mouth were... "ain't no N*&(* in this lodge are there? i won't sit in a room with a a ni&*^". Then i found out he lied about his "disability" and that he had a history of domestic violence with his ex wife. The other 2 committee members never met with him and simply signed off because his cousin was a "good guy". This issue was one of several that got me branded as a trouble maker in my old lodge. This particular man was not worthy of being a mason and never should have been handed a petition by his cousin. Had i not done a proper investigation he'd have sailed right through the door. It took me a 10 min interview and 30 min on google to find everything i needed to know about this guy. It's not hard, it simply takes the effort to do the job you have been asked to do. |
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Posted: 4/29/2015 1:45:43 PM EDT
[#50]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By The_Beer_Slayer:
we have had similar issues. A BG check is now at the discretion of the lodge. To be honest if the investigation committees would do their jobs properly instead of just rubber stamping an application much of that could be stopped at the gate. i caught hell for refusing to sign off on an applicant that was a relative of a brother. During his interview the first words out of his mouth were... "ain't no N*&(* in this lodge are there? i won't sit in a room with a a ni&*^". Then i found out he lied about his "disability" and that he had a history of domestic violence with his ex wife. The other 2 committee members never met with him and simply signed off because his cousin was a "good guy". This issue was one of several that got me branded as a trouble maker in my old lodge. This particular man was not worthy of being a mason and never should have been handed a petition by his cousin. Had i not done a proper investigation he'd have sailed right through the door. It took me a 10 min interview and 30 min on google to find everything i needed to know about this guy. It's not hard, it simply takes the effort to do the job you have been asked to do. Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By The_Beer_Slayer:
Originally Posted By medicmandan:
We also require two Masons to sign the petition. One must have known the petitioner for at least six months. We also require two character references (different from the signers). We hold regular meet-up groups to give investigators an opportunity to get to know lodge members. We had legislation before GL this year to require petitioners to include a recent background check as well. It was withdrawn but I expect it to come back next year. We've had some individuals of questionable moral character petition and be accepted because we lack a method to do a good investigation. Has resulted in several Masonic trials. we have had similar issues. A BG check is now at the discretion of the lodge. To be honest if the investigation committees would do their jobs properly instead of just rubber stamping an application much of that could be stopped at the gate. i caught hell for refusing to sign off on an applicant that was a relative of a brother. During his interview the first words out of his mouth were... "ain't no N*&(* in this lodge are there? i won't sit in a room with a a ni&*^". Then i found out he lied about his "disability" and that he had a history of domestic violence with his ex wife. The other 2 committee members never met with him and simply signed off because his cousin was a "good guy". This issue was one of several that got me branded as a trouble maker in my old lodge. This particular man was not worthy of being a mason and never should have been handed a petition by his cousin. Had i not done a proper investigation he'd have sailed right through the door. It took me a 10 min interview and 30 min on google to find everything i needed to know about this guy. It's not hard, it simply takes the effort to do the job you have been asked to do. Some of that information can still be hard to come by even with a good investigation. I do agree that we do not guard the west gate well. I am no longer a member of a lodge because of the hard time I was given when I came back unfavorable on an investigation. |
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