Freemasonry

Yes I am a freemason and I make absolutely no secret of the fact. I am a master mason in Ravensbrooke Lodge #8936 in the province of West Kent under the United Grand Lodge of England. I also belong to 2 chapters of Royal Arch masons; Ravensbrooke and Assembly. In addition I am a member of the United Religious, Military and Masonic Order of the Knights of the Temple, of St John of Jerusalem, Palestine, Rhodes and Malta, of England and Wales and it's Provinces Overseas. Quite a mouthful eh? Usually referred to as just KT's

Any Questions?

Many people refer to freemasonry as a "secret society" but a body that publishes it's meetings in the local press, is listed in the phone book and so on can hardly be considered secret. Many of the questions you might have can be answered at the web site run by The United Grand Lodge of England. but here is a short list:

1. What is Freemasonry?
   It is a secular and fraternal society that attempts to make good men better. It achieves this through allegorical teaching.

2. Is Freemasonry a religion?
   Absolutely not. It does require that it's members believe in a God or Gods. Hindus and other polytheistic religions are not excluded. It also encourages its members to be active members of their local religious community. However, discussion of any religious topic is forbidden at meetings.

3. Freemasonry and politics
   Freemasonry is completly apolitical. It espouses no political doctrine and like religion, discussion of political matters is forbidden in lodge meetings.

4. How do I become a freemason?
   Talk to someone you know to be a mason. If you don't know anyone who is a mason then contact your local lodge secretary. He will be listed somewhere, these days more than likely the listing will be available on the net.

   Contrary to one myth I have heard repeated several times you will not be approached to become a mason. You have to ask, masonry does not have a recruiting arm.

5. Any famous freemasons?
   Way too many to list. Mozart, George Washington, Rudyard Kipling.....A list of prominent English masons can be viewed at Grand Lodge The list includes 5 Kings of England no less

6. Why can't women become masons?
   They can. Just google on co masonry.

As I stated earlier there is much more info at the United Grand Lodge Site but if you have a question that isn't answered there feel free to contact me and I'll have a go. Bear in mind that I won't tell you the secret word(s) or describe the "funny handshake" so please don't bother asking.