Freemasonry is hundreds of years old – just where and when it began is lost to history but in 1717 the first or Premier Grand Lodge was formed when four Lodges in London met at the Goose and Gridiron public house. Freemasonry in Dore began in 1890.
What We Are
We are a unique members’ organisation that has thrived for over 300 years. Having no political or religious affiliations, we comprise members of all ages, races, religions, cultures and backgrounds. We meet in our individual Lodges throughout the country where we have ceremonial traditions which encourage us both to be more tolerant and respectful and actively to fulfil our civic and charitable responsibilities; we also make time to eat, drink and meet together, and form lifelong friendships.
What We Aim For
To attract those from all backgrounds and walks of life, enabling them to develop into more thoughtful and confident people. To inspire and challenge them to practise the core values we celebrate – Integrity, Friendship, Respect, Charity – in their private and public lives. To cement our reputation as a force for good in our communities and society at large and as a thriving organisation that people aspire to join.
How We Will Achieve This
Over the next 7 years, we will enhance our reputation as a thriving organisation that people aspire to join and broaden our membership across all age groups.
Integrity
Rather than working on buildings like the masons of old, today’s Freemasons focus on building themselves as people of integrity, and membership provides the structure to help achieve that goal.
Friendship
One of the oldest social organisations in the world, Freemasonry is not defined by an ideology. It is open to people from all religions and political persuasions and provides the common foundation for friendships between members, many of which will last for life.
Respect
With a membership of more than 200,000 people drawn from communities across the UK, Freemasonry brings people together irrespective of their race, religion or any other perceived differences that can divide us as a society
Charity
Kindness and charitable giving are deeply ingrained within the principles of Freemasonry. The organisation provides a support structure that helps members make positive contributions to communities and worthwhile causes through fundraising events or volunteer work.
The essential qualifications to be come a Freemason are that you must be male , be eighteen years of age and have a belief in a Supreme Being. You should also be of good character and be a good citizen.
Gary Mulcrone
King Egbert Lodge
“I’ve only been a Freemason for a couple of years but its like I’m part of a new extended family – I’m always welcomed wherever I go and the friendship I’ve experienced is fantastic”
Andy Glaves
Amadeus Lodge
“The ceremonies in Freemasonry are brilliant, it’s great to take part by doing some of the work although not everyone chooses to do so. The ceremonies invite us to consider how we can become better people. Some people say its an enjoyable hobby but its much more than that, it’s a way of life.“
Sam Erabadda
Beauchief Abbey Lodge
“When I first joined I had no idea what to expect but it was better than I could have imagined, I was amazed that they went to so much trouble to do this just for me – the ceremony was a bit difficult to understand but once I went to see another new member going through the same thing it became a lot clearer.”
Joe Royle
Beauchief Abbey Lodge
“I was told that in Freemasonry I would make new friends but actually I’ve made lifelong friends, it’s great to spend time with people who are like minded – you become a better person by following the example of others.”
Rob Wilson
Round Table Lodge
“Freemasonry encourages its members to think about what charity really means. We raise lots of money for good causes but you aren’t expected to donate what you can’t afford. We only give money from our own pockets and every penny goes directly to where it is needed.”
Jim Turner
Round Table Lodge
“Since becoming a Freemason I’ve starting looking at life differently – its encouraged me to do the right thing even if its not easy.”