Perhaps you've seen the Square and Compasses like the one above on a pin, tie tack, or bumper sticker. It is the symbol of Freemasonry known around the world.
Freemasonry is the oldest and largest Fraternity in the world. Its members include men from all walks of life, and all kinds of occupations. We count among our number kings and presidents, construction workers, generals, firemen and police officers, corporate CEO's, office workers, opera stars, truck drivers, movie stars, and perhaps, your next door neighbor. Masonry is always ready to welcome good men into the Fraternity. It's ready to welcome YOU, if in your heart you can answer "yes" to a few questions.
Do you believe in God?
No atheist can be a Mason. Masons do not care what your individual faith is, that is between you and your God, but we do require that a man believe in a Supreme Being.
Are you willing to allow others the same right to their beliefs that you insist on yourself?
Masonry insists on toleration - or the right of each person to think for himself in religious, social and political matters.
Do you believe that there is such a thing as honor and that a man has a responsibility to act honorably in everything he does?
Masons teach this principle. We believe that a life not founded on honor is hollow and empty-that a man who acts without honor is less than a man.
Do you believe that you have a responsibility to leave the world a better place than you found it?
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 to walk or read or see - the world should be a better place because we passed through it.
Do you believe that it is more blessed to give than to receive?
Masons are involved with the problems and needs of others because we know it gives each of us a 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 feeling that comes from knowing we have helped another person overcome adversity, so that their life can go on.
Do you believe that a person should strive to be a good citizen and that we have a duty to be true to the country in which we live? Masons believe that a country is strong as long as freedom and equality are 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.
Do you believe that men should strive to live a brotherly life?
Masons see brotherhood as a sort of bond that holds men together - a private friendship that tells us, that we owe it to each other to be just in our dealings, and to refuse to speak evil of each other. 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.
If you answered "yes," then you should consider becoming a Mason.
Freemasonry offers much to its members - the opportunity to grow, the chance to make a difference, to build a better world for future generations of children. It offers a chance to be with and work with men who have the same values and ideals - men who have answered "YES" to these questions.
Find a Mason and ask him about Masonry and his Lodge. You may already know several Masons among family members, friends and co workers. If you still have questions about Masonry, we'd like the opportunity to talk with you. You may want to visit our Lodge before a scheduled meeting begins and get aquatinted with the members and officers of the Lodge.
Our Lodge building is located at the corner of Bethlehem & Dickens Roads, in Richmond’s West End (there’s a map link on our home page). The Lodge phone number is 288-5166. We meet on the first Thursday of each month at 7:15 PM for our monthly business meeting, and on most other Thursday evenings at 7 PM for a Masonic class and candidate instruction. Also, come to any of our fund raisers, public blood drives, or other open meetings to meet our Lodge members. Let them know of your interest, and ask any questions you may have about joining our fraternity.
Remember…..
To join, you have to Ask a Mason for a Petition for Membership. Preferably a Mason you know who is a member of the Lodge you wish to join. You can also get a Petition from the Secretary of the Lodge you wish to join. Masons do not solicit for membership…you must ‘Ask 1 to B 1’.
You must fill out the Petition in your own handwriting and have two Masons, who are able to vouch for your character, sign your Petition.
At Tuckahoe Lodge No. 347 the initiation fee for all three degrees is $130 and the annual dues are less than $70. Degree fees and annual dues may vary from Lodge to Lodge.
Return the completed Petition with a $10 fee to the Lodge, or have the Mason that provided the Petition to you return it to the Lodge for you.