Recently, I found myself reading about the Templars, and consequently, Freemasonry. I have heard the advertisements on the radio about open lodges in my area, but, I did not attend. I would like to become a Freemason, but, quite honestly, I do not know how to go about applying. Could someone, who recently went through the process, tell me a little about their experience?

I became a Mason, 26 years ago. The procedure has not changed, in any substantive way, for many hundreds of years. The procedure to petition (apply for) Masonry is very simple. You locate a lodge in your area of residence, and obtain a petition form (some states permit you to download the petition from their website). You complete the form, and return it to the lodge secretary. Then the lodge appoints a committee, to determine your fitness for Freemasonry. The lodge meets, and votes on your application. The vote must be unanimous. If accepted, you will be informed of where and when to report for the degree ceremonies. Once you complete the three (3) degrees of craft Masonry, you will be a Master Mason. This is the highest Masonic degree (the “black belt"). The entire process can take about 4 months or so.

Here is an excellent “capsule description”, which explains Masonry, and the petitioning process:

http://www.masonic-renewal.org/freemasonry_explained.htm

You will never be asked to petition, the decision must be yours alone, without outside pressure. If you decide that you wish to proceed, please let us know, and we will assist you in locating a lodge, and in completing the petitioning process.

May the Great Architect of the Universe, guide your steps.

Hi, Paul-

Thank you for your question and interest in Freemasonry.

I noticed you listed you address as Boston. I assume you are interested in joining a lodge in the Grand Lodge building on the corner of Tremont and Boylston (although there might be other lodges closer to your work or school you might also want to consider). The “Find a Lodge” feature on AskaFreemason.org can help you find the closest lodge and provides the name and contact information of a Brother who will assist you.  I can also help you find an appropriate contact, or direct someone to follow up with you if you prefer. 

There are eleven lodges meeting in the Grand Lodge.  Three are “affinity” lodges, or lodges for men with a specific connection to another group.  The Harvard Lodge is for faculty, staff, students, and alumni of Harvard; Major General Henry Knox Lodge for current and former servicemen in the Armed Forces; and, The DeMolay Lodge for those who were members of DeMolay, an organization in the Masonic family for young men between 12-21.  If you fit in one of these groups you might want to consider that lodge.  There are two lodges, The Lodge of Saint Andrews and Winslow Lewis Lodge, whose bylaws require they keep their membership limited. Openings only occur because of a death or if someone drops out and you have to be invited to join.  Therefore, there are six remaining lodges open to anyone who meets the eligibility requirements.  I encourage you to contact one or more of the lodges to learn a little more about the Fraternity, their lodge in particular, and to explore the possibility of becoming a member. 

You might also want to consider taking a tour of the Grand Lodge.  It is a historic building with magnificent architecture and it is also a good way to learn more about the Fraternity.  There are two tours given at 10:30 and 2:00 on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.  Call first to find out about availability.
-Robert

Paul:

I went through the process over a year and a half ago. Let me say this:

1) It was very enjoyable
2) It was absolutely worth it, one of the best choices I have ever made
3) The connections you make in the fraternity will last a life time

After going through the petitioning process and it is a process, you go to the degrees. The ritual in Freemasonry is very special, that is all I am going to say about the ritual. Your question is a great one, I wish you best of luck on your masonic adventure.

Sincerely,

Jacob P. Descheneaux
Pacific Lodge