Masonic lodge

Freemasons gather together as a Lodge to confer (also known by the term "work") the three basic Degrees of Entered Apprentice, Fellowcraft, and Master Mason.

Although the term was originally frowned upon, it has gained widespread and mainstream usage in America in recent times.

The ability to hold remote lodge meetings allows those who are distant to continue to attend, whether they are military servicemen serving overseas or they inhabit a sparsely populated region.

Membership requirements in Freemasonry have evolved over time and vary depending on the jurisdiction and the specific Masonic style or branch.

Some notable developments include: In the early days of speculative Freemasonry (18th century), the requirement of being a "Free Man" may have stemmed from the refusal of operative masons to share their secrets with slaves, who could be ordered to divulge them.

[15] The minimum age requirement has varied over time and across jurisdictions, with some allowing candidates as young as 18 and others setting the limit at 25.

The belief in a Supreme Being has been a consistent requirement, although the specific religious affiliation has not been prescribed, reflecting Freemasonry's openness to men of various faiths.

The membership requirements in Freemasonry are guided by the fraternity's Landmarks, which are the fundamental principles that define the essence of the Craft.

Some of the Landmarks related to membership include: These Landmarks and requirements serve several purposes: Ensuring that candidates share common values and are committed to personal growth and moral character Maintaining the integrity and harmony of the lodge by admitting members who are compatible with Masonic principles Preserving the traditions and symbolic teachings of the fraternity Fostering a sense of brotherhood and trust among members Once a candidate is elected and initiated into a lodge, he progresses through the three degrees of Freemasonry: Entered Apprentice, Fellowcraft, and Master Mason.

A Master Mason is considered a full, lifetime member of the lodge where he received his degrees, with the right to demit (resign) if he is in good standing and has paid his dues.

A Master Mason in good standing may join another regular lodge without taking the degrees again, although he may be expected to serve in office.

The rules for affiliation and plural membership differ for Freemasons of the Entered Apprentice and Fellowcraft degrees.

The membership requirements, progression through degrees, and affiliation rules in Freemasonry are designed to ensure the integrity, harmony, and continuity of the fraternity while allowing for personal growth and brotherhood among its members.

In most cases, there is an equivalent office in the Grand Lodge of the given jurisdiction, with the addition of the prefix 'Grand' to the title in question.