About Joining Freemasonry
Who Can Join
To qualify for membership, a petitioner must be male, at least 18 years of age, one who believes in the existence of a Supreme Being, of good moral character, motivated to join for reasons unrelated to personal gain or profit, prompted by a favorable opinion of Freemasonry, desirous of earning knowledge and willing to conform to the ancient usages and customs of the fraternity.
How to Join
Your interest is enough, if you meet the qualifications.
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To start the process, you must first submit a petition for membership. This petition will be read at a meeting of the Lodge you are seeking to join. You will then be visited by a small committee from the Lodge who will ascertain your qualifications and answer any questions you or your family may have regarding Freemasonry. At the next meeting, the members will vote on your petition for membership. Once approved, you will begin your journey learning the teachings of Freemasonry. In ceremonies known as Degrees you will assume your vows of membership. The fee for joining Freemasonry varies with each Lodge and includes your dues for the first year.
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For more information on petitions, please reach out to the secretary of the Lodge you are interested in joining.
Why You Should Consider Membership
Every man has his own reason for wanting to be a part of the greatest fraternity in the world. Regardless of your reason, you will benefit from membership, because Freemasonry makes good men better. Look around www.grandlodgeofvirginia.org and you will find much about our history, purpose, and current day programs of education, character development and charity. To take the next step, you need to submit your petition to a Lodge. If you know a Mason, ask him to help you find the right Lodge for you.
What You Should Also Know
Hazing
There is absolutely no hazing permitted in the Masonic fraternity.
Attendance
Attendance requirements depend on a members role in the craft. Candidates are required to attend their degrees, officers are required to attend their business meetings, and general members should attend meetings when able.
Religion
Freemasonry is not a religion. Your religious beliefs are your own. You must, however, believe in a Supreme Being.
Secret Society
Freemasonry is not a secret society. Our members do not hide their affiliation with us. Our buildings are well-marked and often available for community use. While there are a few confidential handgrips and passwords used to confirm membership, we have no secrets concerning our purpose and programs. Many of our activities are open to family and friends.
Memorization
Like all fraternities, Freemasonry has impressive ritual ceremonies that date back centuries. These are presented from memory by officers, candidates, and other members who are developing their leadership and public speaking skills.