What is Freemasonry?

The United Grand Lodge of Victoria states succinctly that Freemasonry is a liberal organisation recognising the value of all men who share a common goal of self-improvement, and who work towards the betterment of mankind. It recognises the richness of the cultural beliefs of all men and excludes no individual from membership on the basis of race, religion or politics.

The traditional definition often quoted is "a peculiar system of morality, veiled in allegory and illustrated in symbols".

So, what does all this mean?

• We are an organisation - we have a formalised structure with office holders, regular meetings and internal regulations.  This is the Lodge.
• We hold particular moral values to be important and necessary for our personal and community lives - in particular
  • Brotherly Love - respect for all people, readiness to extend the hand of friendship
  • Relief - willingness to help, charity, concern for others
  • Truth - honesty and openness in life, education, understanding of our selves and our world
• In our meetings these ideas are taught to members in a progressive sequence of rituals that use symbols, legends and poetic imagery to present the concepts.

Freemasonry has a long and colourful history.  Over the 3 centuries through which modern Freemasonry can be documented, it has played a role in all European societies.  It has also attracted an immense range of opinions from proponents, opponents, historians and fantasizers. These Links to other Masonic pages around the world will give you more information and explanations, and more pathways to explore.

Understanding Freemasonry is a personal journey to take at your own pace.
 

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These pages are designed by David Beagley for the Hall Board of the Bendigo Masonic Centre.
Responsibility for, and copyright of, content (unless otherwise noted) are his and his alone.

Last updated November 2005