Becoming a Freemason

Expressing a desire to join the fraternity is the first step to becoming a freemason.

What attracts a man to Freemasonry? Every man comes of his own free will and accord, with his own individual needs and interests. One man may join so that he can associate with other men who believe that only by improving themselves can they hope to improve the world. Another man may join because he is looking for a focus for his charitable inclinations. And yet another may be attracted by a strong sense of history and tradition. Many join simply because they knew a friend or relative who was a freemason and they admired that man’s way of living his life. All who join and become active discover a bond of brotherly affection and a community of mutual support; a practical extension of their own religious and social beliefs.

Please read a short article entitled “The Ideal of a freemason“. It was written over a hundred years ago and sums up much of what attracts some to Freemasonry. Keep in mind that this is an ideal. This is a goal that some freemasons may fall short of, but they all have committed themselves to a path that leads to this ideal. We do not consider ourselves superior, but we do hold ourselves to high standards.

While you’re at our website, these articles may interest you:

Responding to our Critics

Freemasonry and Religion

To be eligible for membership in the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of Nova Scotia an applicant must satisfy the following qualifications:

1. The ability to read and write in English.
2. Have resided in Nova Scotia for the previous six months.
3. Have resided within the jurisdiction of the constituent lodge for the previous six months.
4. “shall be a man, of the full age of 21 years, free born and capable of supporting himself and those dependent upon him.”

1. Be, in clear conscience, able to answer the following questions in the affirmative:
2. Do you seriously and upon your honour declare that uninfluenced by mercenary or other unworthy motives, and unbiased by the improper solicitations of friends, you freely and voluntarily offer yourself a candidate for the mysteries of Freemasonry?
3. Do you seriously and upon your honour declare that you are prompted to solicit the privileges of Freemasonry by a favourable opinion conceived of the Institution and a desire for knowledge?
4. Do you believe in the existence of a Supreme Being?

Initiates are required to pay an Initiation Fee. Members are expected to pay Annual Dues and be actively involved in the working of their lodge. This requires a commitment of two to four evenings a month and the effort to study and understand Freemasonry’s philosophy, history, ritual and practices. As in any society, the member can only get out of it what he puts into it.

Requirements in other jurisdictions may vary.