Freemasonry is the oldest, largest Fraternity in
the world. It's members have included Kings, Presidents, Prime Ministers,
Statesmen, Generals, Admirals, Supreme Court Chief Justices, corporate CEOs,
opera stars, movie stars, and probably, your next door neighbor.
Masonry insists on toleration - on the right of
each person to think for himself in religious, social and political matters.
Masonry teaches that each man has a duty not only
to himself but to others. We must do what we can to make the world a better
place. Whether that means cleaning up the environment, working on civic
projects, or helping children walk or read or see - the world should be a
better place because we have passed through it.
Masons are involved with the problems and needs of
others because we know it gives each of us a good feeling - unlike any other -
to help. Much of our help is given anonymously. We're not after gratitude, we're more than rewarded by that felling which
comes from knowing we have helped another person overcome some adversity, so
that their life can go on.
Masons believe that a country is strong so long as freedom, equality, and the opportunity for human
development is afforded to all. A Mason is true to his government and its
ideals. He supports its laws and authority when both are just and equitably
applied. We uphold and maintain the principles of good government, and oppose
every influence that would divide it in a degrading manner.
Masons see brotherhood as a form of wisdom, a sort
of bond that holds men together - a private friendship that tells us we owe it
to each other to be just in our dealings and to refuse to speak evil of each
other. Masons believe a man should maintain an attitude of good will, and
promote unity and harmony in his relations with one another, his family, and his
community. Masons call this way of life believing in the Brotherhood of Man. It
really means that every Mason makes it his duty to follow the Golden Rule. This
is why Masonry has been called one of the greatest forces for good in the
world.