Joining the fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons requires that a man, of his own free will and accord, petition a Masonic Lodge for the Degrees in Free Accepted Masonry. Entrance into this organization is never solicited but sought by man of his own free will!
Below are basic steps for man seeking membership in Freemasonry too consider. This will help you get started and give you a better understanding of the process.
ASK FOR INFORMATION
If you know a Mason, ask him about the fraternity. Don’t be shy, we love talking to those interested in Masonry. If you don’t know a Mason, you can contact our lodge or visit our Grand Lodge at mwphglil.org if your interest is in Prince Hall Masonry.
VISIT THE LODGE
Try to find out if there is a good time for you to visit lodge outside of normal communication, fundraiser or charitable. Take this opportunity to meet some of the members and ask any questions. Don’t be intimidated, they’ll be happy to meet with you. Visit as many as you can, get a feeling for the lodges you visit and pick the one that best meets your needs.
REQUEST A PETITION
Request a petition from a regular constituted lodge of Masons you would like to join. Your petition will also require signatures of several Masons. If you don’t know any Masons, ask the lodge you’re petitioning for advice.
SUBMIT YOUR PETITION
Turn in your completed petition to the lodge you would like to join along with any fees if required accompanying it! Your petition will be received by the lodge and will be read during a stated meeting.
Now that the lodge have your petition, below are some of the following actions a candidate can expect the lodge to take:
THE INVESTIGATION
The Master of the lodge you submitted your petition to will assign three members of the lodge to interview you and investigate your background. The investigators typical request to meet with you at your home. There is a standard set of questions that all investigators must ask, but many will ask additional questions to learn more about potential candidate. During this time would be a great opportunity to be honest with the investigators. No Mason is perfect but we strive to be. So we don’t expect ever petitioners to be perfect, either.
THE BALLOT
Your investigators will be given a deadline by which to return their completed investigation report regarding you to the lodge. Their reports will consist of a recommendation which will be read to the lodge at a stated meeting. During this time, the Master of the lodge will call for a ballot to be taken on your petition. Eligible Masons will then vote on your petition with the outcome of the ballot announced during lodge communication.
AFTER THE BALLOT
Soon after the stated meeting, a member from the lodge would contact you with the outcome of the ballot and provide any additional instructions if needed.