So, you think you would like to become a Freemason, a noble sentiment, but first of all, there is no rush, there are several questions you need to ask yourself. Like all important decisions we make in life, we must weigh what the advantages and disadvantages may be: the pros and cons. It is of little use to get involved in something if we do not have at least an appreciation of what it is, what it represents, what it does and what is expected of it. Only then can you decide if it is right for you.
It’s a safe bet you didn’t wake up one morning and say to yourself. “I want to be a Mason.” Something has probably piqued his interest, either within your own family, his work, or his immediate circle of friends. Chances are you know someone who is a Freemason and has given you something to think about. As a smart person, you need to do your own research. This can take various forms, probably starting with impromptu conversations with your contact or family and friends. The Internet and your local library are also informative sources for research with many pros and cons strongly expressed by the respective authors. Now it’s up to you, as an intelligent individual, to weigh the respective arguments, discern fact from fiction, and determine your next step.
So now, we assume, from your research you have learned how Freemasonry in its modern form came into being and you are probably still confused about the prevailing attitudes of society, ranging from favorable in some quarters, to overly vitriolic hostility in others. Hopefully, after all this research, he’s got his own first impressions of it and still has an interest in moving forward. Now what?
First of all, the application to become a Mason must come from you; the would-be candidate, even if the issue was brought up by a Freemason. This may sound a bit strange, but your decision is paramount, it can never and should never be made for you.
Assuming you’ve decided to go ahead, there are a lot of questions that need to be answered. The man with whom you have been in talks is a member of this Lodge; hopefully it is a family member or at least a friend of many years. He may fit comfortably within his circle of acquaintances, but what about the other members of his Lodge? Who are they? What do they do? Will you fit in with them? Will they accept you? Where are they? How often do they meet? Are your meeting days convenient for your work and other commitments? Is your partner happy that you’re involved? What do they expect from you? Can Freemasonry Afford?
Let’s take each question as it comes…
Who are the other members of your prospective proponent lodge? What do they do?
First of all, they are like-minded people, coming from all walks of life and professional backgrounds and facing the same daily challenges in life as you. Don’t be afraid to ask for a list of members, it’s best to find out early on that there may be a member you don’t want to be associated with. If the opportunity arises, it is important, if possible, that you and your partner meet with some of the Lodge members and their partners in an informal social setting. This allows both parties to get to know each other a little, gather impressions, and make preliminary determinations.
Will you fit in with them? Will they accept you?
During the various stages of your conversations with him, your prospective proposer will have a very good idea of whether you are suitable for Freemasonry and whether Freemasonry is right for you. He is in the best position to advise you. He too, a little further along in the process along with a second, stands before each member of the lodge and expresses his belief that you are a suitable person to become a Mason. His reputation and position among his fellows is now based on their judgment of you, so you can appreciate that this formal introduction of you to the General Purpose Committee of the Lodge and ultimately to the entire Lodge is a very serious matter. Hopefully you and your partner will, through the social functions, become known to some members of the committee and the Lodge.
Where are they? How often do they meet?
The Manor Royal Lodge meets at Crawley Masonic Hall, Ifield, and holds regular meetings on the first Friday of October, November, December, February, March and April; normally from 5:30 p.m. In addition, the Lodge has a Lodge of Instruction most Thursday nights, beginning at 7:30 p.m. The purpose of the Lodge of Instruction is to practice our ceremonies, learn about Freemasonry in general, and socialize and maintain our harmony in a casual atmosphere.
Are your meeting days convenient for your work and other commitments? Is your partner happy that you’re involved?
Like everything in life, Freemasonry demands certain things from each of us, in our opinion, you may be the best possible candidate to join The Manor Royal Lodge, but if it does not fit with your work and other commitments; or just as importantly, your partner isn’t happy with you disappearing into Lodge nights or Thursday nights, then there’s little upside to everyone. We see Freemasonry as a long-term commitment, beneficial to you, your partner, your family and friends, and of course us. You need to consider both questions very seriously. Fooling yourself or your partner that you can figure this out is being less than honest and just leads to unhappiness and eventually we all end up losers.
What do they expect from you? Can Freemasonry Afford?
As previously stated, we view Freemasonry as a long-term commitment, we are prepared to invest a considerable amount of time and energy in your Masonic education. We want you to enjoy all facets of Freemasonry, develop a full understanding of its precepts, and enjoy the benefits of fellowship, integrity, and good citizenship. Inevitably, membership is not free, there are specific costs associated with membership, as well as the expectation that you will recognize and participate in your charitable contributions, within the limits of your financial position. Your proposer will inform you of membership costs and charitable contributions.