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What
is Freemasonry?
Freemasonry
has in all ages required that men should come to its doors entirely of
their own free will; not as the result of importunity nor from feelings
of curiosity; but from a favorable opinion of the institution, a desire
for knowledge, and a sincere wish to be serviceable to their fellow
creatures.
Masonry
is a system of morality based on the belief in the existence of God, the
immorality of the soul, and the brotherhood of men; therefore no atheist
can be made a Mason. It strives to teach a man the duty he owes to God,
to his country, to his family, to his neighbor, and to himself. It
inculcates the practice of every virtue and makes an extensive use of
symbolism in its teachings. It interferes with neither religion nor
politics, but strives only after light and truth, endeavoring always to
bring out the highest and noblest qualities of men.
It
should be clearly borne in mind that Freemasonry is not to be entered in
the hope of personal gain or advancement. Admission must not be sought
from mercenary or unworthy extent of his ability.
It
cannot be too strongly emphasized that Freemasonry is not a benefit
society, although the practice of charity is a fundamental virtue taught
in Freemasonry. We do not pay so much a year to entitle us to draw sick
pay, or other benefits, or to make provision for those we leave behind.
There are other excellent societies founded for this purpose.
Loyalty
to one's country is an essential qualification in Freemasonry, and those
only are acceptable who cheerfully conform to every lawful authority.
Disloyalty in any form is abhorrent to the teachings of Freemasonry and
is regarded as a serious Masonic offense. Freemasonry is not contrary to
the beliefs of any man of upright heart and mind, and has in it nothing
inconsistent with his civil, moral or religious duties.
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