I want to join the Masons, I’ve done my research on Masonry, and I miss the intellectual stimulation that college once brought, so I’m hoping that Masonry through its ethos of promoting fellow Masons to become the next best self they can be, is something that is very alluring. Especially since it is disheartening that most people my age in college, not to disparage them, but, it was apparent from their disinterest in classroom discussions, that they did not care to learn, but did so only to obtain a diploma.

Fortuitously, about a month ago, I made the acquaintance of a gentleman whom I believe to be a Mason, but I’m not certain. After conversing with the gentleman for a few minutes while at work, I began to inquire more about Freemasonry. I explained to the gentleman that I’ve read many of the blogs on this site (AskAMason.com) and I have done thorough research…

But now dear readers, I am worried that someone, especially in today’s world, one could pose as having Masonic values, when in actuality, are contrawise to the noble values set forth by the Masons, and very well could quite dangerous. I did not feel completely comfortable as my intuition sensed something wasn’t right. He asked me to come to a lodge in a very very small town, which of course, is in a remote part of Pennsylvania. I know there is a Klan lodge there, so I’m worried that I might be dissuaded into something that I’m not expecting, nor even interested in. I was brought up with values to respect all men, regardless of creed, religion, nationality, etc; since all men are created equal as defined by our Constitution--ironically, the very thing the Klan was purported to protect. But I’m digressing. Is there any way that I can find out if a lodge is legitimate before I go some place and have it be no where near what I expected, and in doing so, possibly put myself in harms way? I want to join a fraternity, not a pseudo-cult disguising to be a Masonic lodge, so is there a list of legitimate Freemasonry lodges in Pennsylvania? This way I can advert putting myself in harms way.

Thank you so much for your time.

Congradulations on your interest in becoming a Freemason.  Here is some helpful information Grand Lodge of PA Lodge Locator.  This will help you find a lodge that is convenient in location and meeting time.  If you find one on this web page that interest then just contact them and I assure you a Brother will want to meet with you and show off his lodge.  Good luck on your journey.

I encourage you to follow Bro. Sutton’s advice. Seek a lodge, through the Grand Lodge of PA website. (I used to live in Philadelphia). There are many lodges in PA, PA has a long and splendid tradition of Freemasonry, ever since Bro. Ben Franklin brought Freemasonry to the USA.

I promise you, you will have many fine experiences in Masonry, and a chance for some genuine mental exercise.  Masons come from all walks of life, from day laborers, to college professors. (I am a telecommunications enginee, posted to Iraq).

Good luck in your journey!

As a college Mason in Massachusetts, freemasonry has enriched my life and expanded my college career. The hardest part in the beginning for me was signing up. There are no members in my family who are masons so I literally joined of my own free will. I have made some great decisions in my life and becoming a Mason was one of the best. Pennsylvania is a great state and rich with Masonic history. I know you will find a great lodge.