What is Freemasonry?
Freemasonry is one of the oldest social and charitable organisations in the world. Our roots lie in the traditions of the medieval stonemasons who built our cathedrals and castles.
Mission Statement
WHAT WE ARE (PURPOSE)
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 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 (VISION)
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 (MISSION)
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, FRIENDSHIP, RESPECT, CHARITY
In today’s world, which is frequently filled with uncertainty, these principles ring as true as they have at any point in our history.
Freemasonry is not defined by an ideology, it is open to people from all religions and political persuasions, all backgrounds and age groups. In West Lancashire we have members aged between 18 to 105 years old.
It provides the common foundation for friendships between members, many of which last a lifetime.
Being a Freemason means something different to each person who joins, whether looking to make acquaintances or develop their own potential, all members share a sense of togetherness that strengthens their ability to succeed and grow.
Support of family and their involvement in our social and charitable giving plays a key part in our membership. Some ladies develop their own love of Freemasonry and its principles and they too can join one of two female only Grand Lodges, The Order of Women Freemasons and the Honourable Fraternity of Ancient Freemasons.
Kindness and charitable giving are deeply ingrained within the principles of Freemasonry and all members are encouraged to make positive contributions to communities and worthwhile causes, not only through fundraising but also in giving that most precious of gifts – our time in volunteer work.
West Lancashire is one of the largest Provinces in the United Grand Lodge of England and we have around 8,000 members. Throughout England and Wales, as well as districts overseas, the membership is over 200,000 so you would be joining an amazing organisation focused on building people of integrity, bonded through a sense of unity and equability.
Our members build on the guiding principles as individuals, as family groups, as supporters of charitable giving and community involvement and we are all encouraged to speak openly about our membership.
Freemasonry is experiential, that is to say the lessons of integrity, friendship, respect and charity are taught through a series of plays or ceremonies that every member must participate in as part of becoming a Freemason. There is work involved in learning about these ceremonies and how to participate and support and guidance is always given. The work is personally rewarding and after it’s done, we always enjoy ourselves at a social meal afterwards.
It is hoped that each and every member will value and enjoy being a Freemason.