Master
W. Bro. Warren Spence

What is Freemasonry?

Freemasonry is the oldest and largest worldwide fraternity dedicated to the Brotherhood of Man under the Fatherhood of a Supreme Being (We have members of all faiths). Although of a religious nature, Freemasonry is not a religion. It urges its members however, to be faithful and devoted to their own religious beliefs. You'll find Masonic Lodges around the world! The organization of Freemasonry is based on a system of Grand Lodge, each sovereign within its own territory. There is no central authority governing all Grand Lodges. However, to be acknowledged by others, accepted traditions, standards and practices must be maintained. In our Province the governing body is called the Grand Lodge of Canada in the Province of Ontario. It is under the leadership of a Grand Master. He presides over the 57,000 Masons who belong to one or more of the 611 Lodges in our jurisdiction. Each of these lodges is under the direction of a Master. As a fraternity, Freemasonry provides an opportunity for men to meet and enjoy friendly companionship. In the spirit of helpfulness and brotherly love and guided by strict moral principles, it encourages goodwill toward all mankind. Freemasonry is of a personal nature in its private ceremonies. Its ritual dramatizes a philosophy of life based on morality; it promotes self-improvement. The tools of operative masons are used to symbolize and teach the basic principles of brotherly love, charity and truth which Masons are encouraged to practice in their daily lives, Charity is tangible way in which Masons help those whose circumstances in like fairly warrant it. The fraternity does not conceal its existence, purpose, aims or principles. Masonic Halls bearing the lodge name and emblem are familiar sights in towns and cities throughout Ontario. Many members proudly wear Masonic insignia on rings, pins and emblems on their vehicles. To be one, ask one.

The Structure of Freemasonry

The Structure of Freemasonry can be viewed in a painting by Everett Henry that appeared in LIFE, vol. 41 no. 15 October 8th 1956 (Time Inc., Chicago) The full image can be viewed here or by clicking the image below.