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What Is Freemasonry?
No doubt you are wondering what kind of an organization Freemasonry is. First, we would like to assure
you that Freemasonry is a moral institution based upon the Fatherhood of God, and that the conferral of what
we choose to call "Degrees" is a means of passing on certain basic time-honored truths by which men can live
and fulfill God's hope for us as members of His community. The Holy Bible is always open on our altar when the
Lodge is meeting and nothing happens in the Lodge that anyone would not be proud to participate in.
It is the intention of a Masonic Lodge that its members be so impressed with the lessons taught that their lives
will be a mirror through which is reflected the beautiful lessons of Freemasonry. Freemasonry is a way of life that
can be meaningful and the fulfillment of God's design for us here on earth.
Freemasonry is not a "fly-by-night" organization. Record history of Freemasonry in its present form goes back
to the formation of the Grand Lodge of England in 1717, and there is much evidence that it existed in some form
as far back as the year 926. Its long life leaves no doubt that it is the will of God that Masonry is here today.
During these early times, our Masonic forefathers who were engaged as workmen on the cathedrals of Europe, not only
discovered and developed their various construction skills, but they discovered and developed basic fundamental
patterns of moral conduct that not only produced a better individual morally, but contributed tremendously to
the formation of an orderly and decent society. In Freemasonry, we apply these patterns of moral conduct and strive
to inspire our members to be better men, better husbands, and better fathers. We accept only those who, in our
opinion, meet certain qualifications, but if Freemasonry does not make a man better, then Freemasonry has failed.
You will benefit from Freemasonry according to your participation.
Our members become a part of a fellowship, that by action, has proven that when certain truths have been instilled
into the hearts of our members, they will perform in their everyday lives, through personal or organized methods,
in a manner pleasing to man and to our Maker. After a man has learned the truths taught in the three degrees of
Masonry, his integrity and honesty are beyond question, and behavior among his fellows should be above reproach.
Freemasonry does not solicit membership. All of its members have asked to become members by seeking out a member
and asking for a petition to join. If you are considering petitioning a local Lodge and are hoping of coming
into the Lodge with the expectation that membership will provide social or business gain, you will be
disappointed. That is not its purpose, though Freemasonry is known as a worthy organization and membership
carries with it a great amount of prestige.
The charitable and benevolent activities of the Masonic Fraternity are perhaps well known to you. Be assured
that the Masons of Arkansas have been ever willing to aid the distressed, assist children with their health and
educational needs, feed the hungry and shelter the roofless. Over a period of years, the Grand Lodge of Arkansas
has contributed substantially to many worthy causes throughout Arkansas.
There has never been an attempt to conceal the purpose, aims, and principles of Freemasonry. It is not a secret
organization, but an organization with only certain concealed methods of recognizing each other. Masons proudly
wear emblems of the craft; therefore no effort is made to conceal membership.
The above copy was obtained from the Arkansas Grand Lodge's website.
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