Ask One Two Be One! (ASK12B1)

A common misconception about Freemasonry is that one must be asked to join - when in fact, there are strict rules which prohibit masons from directly soliciting or recruiting new members. Instead, it is up to a non-mason to seek out a Blue Lodge (where you receive the first three degrees of masonry) and join at his own volition.

Although it will not guarantee admission, knowing a Mason is a great way in to a Blue Lodge. This brother can recommend you to the lodge and vouch for you as an upright citizen. However, knowing a Mason isn't required. Applications must (1) be males of lawful age [21yrs old], (2) be of good moral character, (3) be sound in body, (4) openly profess a faith in God, and (5) desire to join.

10 Reasons to Join:

• You can confidently trust every fellow member and entrust your family with them.
  
• Free thought, free speaking and spiritual growth reach their fullest potential within moral and civil guidelines.
  
• You can meet outstanding individuals from all walks of life who you may not otherwise have the opportunity to know or call brother.
  
• The principle tenets are brotherly love, relief and truth.
  
• Masonry offers self-development opportunities, leadership training and leadership experience.
  
• As a Mason, you receive support, and offer it.
  
• Moral virtues are taught so that these virtues are regularly reinforced and experienced.
  
• You spend time with good men who make you want be become a better man – not better than others, but better than the one you otherwise would be.
  
• You become better equipped to serve the church and community.
  
• You meet established members of the community and become a part of the community.

Things To Consider In Seeking Membership

You should enjoy, or want to learn to enjoy, the company of men from all different social strata, faiths, backgrounds, races, countries, and ages, since Masonry is universal in its ideals.

You should consider your family obligations. In Masonry, your family and your obligations to them come first. You should have the time to participate in Masonic activities. Initially, this will require two or three evenings per month for meetings and instruction. After that, you will need at least one evening per month for stated meetings. If you wish to be more involved in Lodge activities, you will need a couple of more evenings per month for called meetings.
You should be able to afford the initiation fees and the annual dues without hardship to yourself or your family.
You should come to Masonry "of your own free will and accord." You should come because you want to improve yourself, to enjoy the company of other good people, and to help others.

Masonry is built upon the tenets of Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth. Masons are expected to demonstrate moral character, integrity, charity, and honesty. You must be willing to strive to live your life accordingly.

To Begin the Process

If you haven't already done so, you should seek out your state's Grand Lodge to find a Lodge near you. Most Lodges have their own websites and "Lodge Locators" to make the process quick and painless. If you are resident of Texas, there is a link in the upper right of this site to our Grand Lodge. If you live outside of Texas, you should check out The Masonic Service Association of North America. This site is full of great information and includes a Grand Lodge locator for most US states.

After you find a Lodge, you'll want to contact that Lodge's secretary who will help you "petition" the Lodge for membership. Petitioning a Lodge involves filling out a petition (an application of sorts) and usually getting to know members of the Lodge you wish to join because three members will have to sign your petition. The Master of the Lodge will appoint a committee to visit with you prior to the Lodge balloting upon the petition (usually during their next Stated Meeting).