Qualifications

To become a member of this ancient and honorable Fraternity, a man must apply of his own free will and accord and with an open heart. Invitations are not issued to prospective members, nor are members solicited. If a person is interested in joining, he should ask a Masonic friend for more information or contact the Grand Lodge of Virginia.

Membership is for men, 18 years of age or older, who meet the qualifications and standards of character and reputation, who are of good moral character, and who believe in the existence of a supreme being.

A man who wants to join a Lodge must be recommended by two Master Masons in good standing in any Lodge recognized by the Grand Lodge of Virginia. He must understand that his character will be investigated. After approval by the members of that Lodge, he will be accepted as an applicant for membership in Freemasonry.

The doors of Freemasonry are open to men who seek harmony with their fellowman, feel the need for self-improvement and wish to participate in making this world a better place to live.

Any man who becomes a Mason is taught a pattern for living - reverence, morality, kindness, honesty, dependability, and compassion. He must be prepared to honor his country, uphold its laws, and respect those in authority. He must be prepared to maintain honorable relations with others and be willing to share in Masonic activities.

Who are the Masons?

There is no secret to what we believe!

We believe in some pretty old fashioned things.

We believe in God.

We believe in the Brotherhood of Man.

We believe in service to those who are less fortunate.

We believe in helping young people get a head start in life.

And we believe in freedom.

Some people consider us a secret society. Yet we don't hide our purpose or our membership. Our constitution and regulations are open for all to see. Masons provide homes for the elderly and for orphans. We provide college scholarships to promising young men and women. We contribute to blood banks, fund medical research, and maintain hospitals for crippled and burned children.