How does Freemasonry work?

Freemasonry functions on at least three levels:

• Philosophically, Freemasonry is a system of morality veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols. This classic definition is used by many grand lodges around the world. Morality encompasses ethical principles of right and wrong, and adherence to these principles is one reason that Masons are often considered trusted leaders, employees, and volunteers.
• Organizationally, Freemasonry is a nonprofit, private association that operates as a grand lodge with a network of subordinate Masonic lodges (such as Tuscan Lodge No. 360 A.F. & A.M.). In these lodges, members are received and cared for, lessons and ceremonies are conducted, and social events and fellowship opportunities are held.
• Freemasonry is also a “way of life” for good men–Freemasons–who apply Masonic principles to their daily activities, both personal and professional. By so doing, men work to become the best they can be for themselves, their families, and their communities. Most of the fellowship and service to humanity that is inspired by Masonic teachings happens at this level of individual action.

What are the requirements to become a Freemason in Missouri?

• Be a male at least 18 years of age
• Believe in the existence of a Supreme Being, although Freemasonry is not concerned with theological distinctions or particular religious beliefs
• Be of good moral character
• Must have continuous residency in Missouri for the six months preceding his petition

How do I apply to become a Freemason?

Because Masons have not traditionally recruited members, and do not hold public meetings, there has long been confusion about how to join the Fraternity. Does someone ask you? Do you ask?

If you meet the requirements to join, it is really quite simple:

Most men can become a Mason by simply asking – like Washington, Franklin, and every other Freemason from the past to the present day. If you don’t know a Freemason personally, you can reach out directly to us on our Contact page or by emailing us directly at contact@tuscan360.com. Once we’ve received your correspondence, we’ll likely invite you to dinner for an opportunity to meet the members and to ask any questions you may have.

What is a Masonic lodge?

The Masonic lodge is the foundational organization unit of Freemasonry. It is comprised of a group of Freemasons, and resides under the Grand Lodge of its jurisdiction. Tuscan Lodge No. 360 A.F. & A.M. is a Missouri Masonic lodge under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Missouri. A Grand Lodge issues charters for all Masonic lodges to be official.

In Missouri, all Masonic lodges chartered under the Masonic Grand Lodge of Missouri are A.F. & A.M. Masonic lodges, which stands for Ancient Free & Accepted Masons. The Masonic Grand Lodge is the highest authority of Masonry for its members, so there is nothing “higher” in Masonry than the Masonic Grand Lodge of Missouri for Missouri Freemasons.

What is the history of Freemasonry?

Part of the mystique of Freemasonry can be attributed to speculation about its roots. Over the years, historians have never been able to conclusively determine exactly when, where, how, and why Freemasonry was formed.

The order is thought to have arisen from the English and Scottish guilds of practicing stonemasons and cathedral builders in the Middle Ages. Certain Masonic documents actually trace the sciences of geometry and masonry to the time of ancient Egypt, and some historians say that Masonry has its real roots in antiquity.

The formation of the first Grand Lodge in London in 1717 marks the beginning of the Modern (or “Speculative”) era of Freemasonry, when members were no longer limited to actual working stonemasons. These “Accepted” Masons adopted more enlightened philosophies, and turned what was a tradesmen’s organization into a fraternity for moral edification, intellectual recitation, benevolent service, and gentlemanly socialization.

Is Freemasonry a religion?

Masonry is not a religion. But because it is open to all men who believe in a Supreme Being, it is one of the few platforms where men of all faiths — Christians (including Catholics), Jews, Hindus, Muslims, and men of every other faith, can come together. Religion, though, is not discussed at Masonic meetings. Although lodges open and close with a prayer and Masonry teaches morality, it is not a church or a religion. Masonry does not have a theology or a dogma, it does not offer sacraments, and it does not offer the promise of salvation.

Do Freemasons take oaths on the Bible?

Yes, or on whichever Holy Book he holds sacred. In each of the three degrees, a Mason takes on an obligation that relates to the welfare of the organization, to his relationships with his fellow Masons, and to their mutual care and support.

These obligations are very old—truly medieval in character—and they include references to punishments from the Middle Ages. These punishments are understood to be strictly symbolic of the emotional distress an honest man would feel if he broke his sacred promises to his fellow men.

What are the degrees of Freemasonry?

There are three degrees of Freemasonry: Entered Apprentice, Fellowcraft, and Master Mason. These degrees are the three ceremonial stages that a man must complete to become a full member of the Masonic fraternity. Collectively, these degrees are known as the symbolic lodge (often called blue lodge).

The Masonic degrees are loosely based upon the journeyman system, which was used to educate Medieval craftsmen. At each educational stage, a craftsman was required to achieve proficiency before moving to the next stage. Symbolically, the degrees represent the three stages of human development: youth, manhood, and age. By advancing through the degrees, a Freemason learns the moral and ethical lessons of the Masonic rite.

What does Freemasonry use symbols?

Freemasonry is a system of morality, veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols. Symbols allow people to communicate quickly, and to transcend language barriers. When you see a green light or a circle with a line through it, for example, you know what it means. Likewise, Masons use metaphors from geometry and the architecture of stonemasonry to inform their continuing pursuit of knowledge, ethics, and leadership skills.

How much does it cost to be a Freemason?

The fees associated with membership include a one-time initiation fee and annual dues, which cover the operational expenses of the lodge. Contact us to find out the exact costs.