Becoming a Freemason with Airedale Lodge 387
Masonry offers the opportunity to make each man better through its teachings, his Masonic associations and a philosophy that has served the social needs of men for centuries, by promoting the following.
- Tradition: when you become a Mason, you become part of an ancient tradition that spans centuries. From the original stonemasons that produced some of the most majestic architectural wonders of Europe to modern day Masons who participate in numerous charitable foundations, you’ll feel connected to a vital, growing and spiritually uplifting organization of like-minded men.
- Self-Improvement: learning portions of the Ritual and participating in the Degree stimulates the mind and, coupled with committee work and lodge management, presents the opportunity to develop leadership and organizational skills, build self-discipline through commitment, poise and self-confidence, and strengthen presentation and public speaking proficiencies.
- Sense of Accomplishment: participating in lodge projects, be they charitable or social in nature, provides the opportunity to contribute, work with others and enjoy the success of effort well expended.
- Fellowship – Belonging to a Like-minded Group: the modern work environment has reduced or eliminated social association with co-workers; joining with lodge members in a fraternal atmosphere can substitute for that former workplace fellowship lost;
- A Break from the Workaday Routine: Masonry brings together in lodge men of diverse backgrounds, where the daily pressures of a career can be left outside the door and where fellowship is the common theme.
What are the qualifications?
- Men who wish to apply the join Airedale Lodge 387 should:
- Preferably live near enough to attend regularly.
- Be at least 18 years of age.
- Have a belief in a Supreme Being. A man’s religion of no consequence.
- Live a good and moral life.
- Want to be part of a group of people who care for the Lodge and promote its wellbeing.
These attributes are summarized in the tenets, or fundamental principles of Ancient Freemasonry: Brotherly Love; Relief; and Truth. If these values address your needs, Masonry welcomes you.
What is the process?
A man interested in joining the Lodge must:
- Fill in the Airedale-lodge online expression of interest form. The Webmaster shall then contact you and you will be required to fill in and return a Lodge questionnaire. If all is in order a convenient time shall be arranged for you to meet and discuss the way forward.
- If all is still in order you will be asked to attend one night at Hoyle Court Baildon to meet the Brethren of the Lodge to become more acquainted with everyone and the surroundings. One of the traditions in Freemasonry is that membership is not directly solicited by current members—if you want to join, you must ask a member of the Lodge.
- This then usually leads onto attending a social event at Hoyle Court when you prospective Proposer can get to know you more. This often takes place during a Lodge dinner or event.
- If all is still in order and you are still keen, and the Lodge is happy to welcome you. Your Proposer shall arrange for you to fill in Grand Lodge forms and the process of joining Airedale Lodge 387 and the Order of Freemasons begins.
- This process is not a speedy one for good reason. The Harmony and peace of the Lodge is paramount, and all should be made aware of any/all obligations before anything goes too far.