About Freemasonry (with calendar)


	About Freemasonry
Freemasonry is a way of life. It is fraternal in organization, religious in character, based on the belief in the Fatherhood of God, Brotherhood of man and immortality of the soul. Freemasonry is NOT a secret society as many surmise. It is a voluntary association wherein the interested one comes of his own free will and accord. Freemasonry is NOT a religion as many claim it to be.		Freemasonry, in its every effort and purpose strives to do charitable work within its membership and for society and through its teachings, seeks to make good men better men. The lessons conveyed by our ritual are based on the Golden Rule. It is a band of men bound together in the bonds of brotherly love and affection that extends throughout the world.
Freemasonry is: kindness in the home - honesty in business courtesy in society - fairness in work resistance toward the wicked pity and concern for the unfortunate help for the weak - trust in the strong forgiveness for the penitent - and above all love for one another and - reverence and love for God. Freemasonry as a Society is: Charitable - it is devoted to the welfare and happiness of mankind Benevolent - teaching that the good of others is of primary concern Communal - recognizing that Society is made up of individuals, it impresses upon its members the principles of personal righteousness and responsibility, enlightens them in those things which make for human welfare; and inspires those feelings of charity and goodwill toward all mankind leading to practical application of those cherished principles. Educational - its authorized ceremonials teach a system of morality and brotherhood based upon Sacred Law. Religious - it acknowledges a one and caring Deity. Neither secular nor theological, reverence for a Supreme Being is ever present in its ceremonials. The volume of the Sacred Law is open upon its Altars whenever a Lodge is in session. Social - in so far as it encourages the meeting together of men for the purpose of its primary objectives, education, fellowship and charity.
Other reference material: US News and World Report article on Freemasonry