Greetings:

I have read through the FAQs, and quite possibly may have missed the answer to my questions. If I have, please accept my apologies.

1: Is a social security number needed for application to the organization? And if so, what guarantees are in place for data security? In today’s age of high tech wizardy, an unfortunate consequence is the ease of ID theft. If no social security number is needed, would a valid driver’s license and/or passport be sufficient?

2: Are the handicapped allowed to enter an application? I am assuming this is a partial yes. Physically handicapped would be allowed; however, those with mental handicapps may not be allowed due to the requirement of a “sound mind”. Also, are there any “rituals” that are required? Mobility may be an issue.

3: Are non-drinkers and/or non-smokers allowed? And would there be at any times, where a member must smoke and/or drink?

Again, apologies if I missed these in the FAQs.

I am a US citizen, and a Freemason. I will attempt to answer your questions.

1- I have joined lodges in four states, and I have never been asked for my Social Security number. Keep in mind, there are 50 states, plus Washington DC, each state has their own Masonic Grand Lodges, and I am not an expert on all of them. There is no “Grand Lodge of the USA”.

Most individual lodges and Grand Lodges, maintain a records base, with the names, addresses,etc of each individual Mason. The records are closely held, never sold to commercial vendors, and the Grand Lodges generally do an outstanding job, in maintaining records integrity.

In order to petition a lodge, you must be of good moral character.  Illegal aliens, who by their presence are breaking the law, are not accepted into Freemasonry. You should be able to prove that you are a US citizen or Green Card holder, prior to application.

2- Requirements for petitioning (applying) for Masonry vary from state to state. Physically handicapped persons, are permitted to petition Masonry, in most states.  The nature and severity of the handicap is always considered.  I suggest that you check with the Grand Lodge in the state in which you wish to petition.

3- There is no qualification with respect to the use of alcohol or tobacco. I do not smoke nor drink, and I have been a Mason for 25 years. In the USA, most lodges are “dry”, with no alcohol in the lodge buildings at all.  In most foreign countries, alcohol is available for those to choose to drink. In the basement of the grand National lodge of France, there is a full bar and an excellent wine selection.

Most lodges in the USA are going “smoke-free”. No one is ever compelled to smoke or drink in a Masonic lodge.

Hope these answers help.

I asked why my SS number was requested on the petition form when I petitioned my local lodge. I was told it was needed for a “thorough” background check, which included a credit check.

possibly_interested - 10 May 2008 12:48 AM

1: Is a social security number needed for application to the organization? And if so, what guarantees are in place for data security? In today’s age of high tech wizardy, an unfortunate consequence is the ease of ID theft. If no social security number is needed, would a valid driver’s license and/or passport be sufficient?

I honestly do not recall if I had to give my SS number when I applied.  For all the high tech wizardry in the age we live in, my lodge keeps a huge volume of paper records in a series of combination locked file cabinets and regular old safes.  If you are concerned with giving our your SS number, ask if another form is acceptable.

possibly_interested - 10 May 2008 12:48 AM

2: Are the handicapped allowed to enter an application? I am assuming this is a partial yes. Physically handicapped would be allowed; however, those with mental handicapps may not be allowed due to the requirement of a “sound mind”. Also, are there any “rituals” that are required? Mobility may be an issue.

Several of my lodge brothers have mobility issues, mainly due to age.  In my lodge we make accommodation for all manner of canes and crutches.  Do keep in mind that many lodge buildings are quite old and predate the ADA.  As to rituals, one thing to remember is that Masonry respects the dignity of the individual and in spite of what one may have read our rites are not designed to haze or make anyone feel uncomfortable.  If the assistance of the brothers is required, it will be happily given.

possibly_interested - 10 May 2008 12:48 AM

3: Are non-drinkers and/or non-smokers allowed? And would there be at any times, where a member must smoke and/or drink?

Non-smokers and non-drinkers are most certainly allowed.  I can’t think of a time were you would be required to do either.  In fact, in the Blue Lodge in Massachusetts there is no alcohol at all.  Funny that we started as guys meeting in taverns, but it is what it is.