Freemasonry is one of the world’s oldest, largest, non-religious, non-political, fraternal and charitable organisation. It teaches self-improvement through participation in a progression of ceremonies. Members are expected to be of high moral standing and it provides a code of living in today’s society, based on moral and ethical standards. Freemasonry is a society that unifies men of high ideals, regardless of colour, faith or status.
It is about making new friends and acquaintances and being able to help deserving causes – thus making a contribution to society.
It is not a club, although you will find like-minded men who will welcome you wherever you go in the world. It is not an insurance company, although you may be assured that if you are in distress or need, you will always find consolation or assistance among Freemasons.
The ideals and intent of Freemasonry are indeed ennobling and altruistic and a pathway to enlightenment.
No. Freemasonry is not a religion. All Freemasons must believe in a Supreme Being (God) but Freemasonry does not seek to replace a Mason’s religion or provide a substitute for it. Freemasonry is a philosophy that seeks to learn from all faiths about the nature of Truth and the meaning of life. Freemasonry is made up of men who come from many different religions and there is nothing in Freemasonry that conflicts with a member’s religious beliefs and practices.
The ethical and spiritual foundation of Freemasonry accepts all forms of belief and amongst our members you will find Hindus, Sikhs, Muslims, Buddhists, Christians and those of other religions who acknowledge a One Supreme Being.
No, it is not a secret society. This is a misconception.
There is nothing ‘secret’ about Freemasonry and who the members are, and you need make no secret of being a Freemason. The organisation is registered with the Registrar of Societies, of Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand and we submit annual reports. It is, of course, a society which has certain secrets. The so called ‘secrets’ of Freemasonry are used solely during the ceremonies and are a means of recognition and are not to be used outside a Lodge. It is an organisation which has a lot of mystery.
No. Freemasonry is not a cult as it allows its members a say in Lodge matters and for them to resign from the organisation if they so wish. We have no Jewish or Zionist connection. Our ceremonies are based on integrity, friendship, respect and charity embracing the three main principles of brotherly love, relief and truth.
We are not part of the Illuminati and have never been associated with them.
Members are not allowed to join any of the above groups, as it will lead to expulsion from Freemasonry.
The meeting consists of 4 parts:
We support numerous charities e.g. Orphanages, Old Folks Homes, Society for the Blind, human and social catastrophes, medical assistance, tertiary scholarships, fundraising to support other community organisations, Freemasons and their families in need of assistance and much more.
For further information visit: JWY Eu Foundation; MCF Singapore
Yes – Freemasonry is open to men above 18 years of age, from all walks of life, regardless of their race, colour, religion, or socio-economic position in society.
Yes but there are no female Freemason lodges in the District Grand Lodge of the Eastern Archipelago. Female lodges are seen in Australia, in England and Europe. While families are involved in Freemasonry, and are especially important in our organisation, it is only males that can apply to become Freemasons in our District.
There is an initiation fee when you join and each lodge charges an annual subscription to cover its running costs. You will also be expected to wear a Tuxedo or a dark suit, white shirt, and Bow tie/a dark or other suitable tie and black shoes.
The final part of the meeting usually involves members sharing an enjoyable meal together, for which you must pay separately. However, if you are unable to for personal reasons, you may do so.
Members are invited to donate to charity, but this should always be within your means, and it is entirely up to you how much you wish to contribute.
Freemasonry enables you to expand your circle of friends and meet many different people whom you may never have met. It offers men an opportunity to develop their personal skills and opens your mind to philosophical ideals, which espouse the core values of prudence, temperance, fortitude and justice. Prudence is to help us make the right decisions in life; temperance keeps us on the straight and narrow path of righteousness; fortitude promotes self-confidence and strong self-esteem; and justice provides us with guidance in life. The ideals of Freemasonry is certainly a high one.
It is a tonic for the malaise of superficiality, materialism, and social isolation that grips today’s world. Members are also provided with training in self-development, which includes public speaking, mentoring, tolerance, communication skills and self-confidence.
If you know someone who is already a Freemason, contact them and tell them you are interested. They will be able to tell you about the next step in the process. You might like to attend some social and charitable events before you make your decision which is usually possible as most Lodges have “open” days to tour the premises and have discussions with senior Freemasons.
If you do not know anyone who is a Freemason you can complete the form expressing your interest to know more about Freemasonry.
If you do decide to become a Freemason you will need to complete an application form. Your application will be reviewed by the Lodge committee, and you and your wife (if married) will be invited to meet some of the members in an informal setting for a chat.
Once your application is accepted you will attend a Lodge meeting and take part in a ceremony where you will be initiated as a Freemason.