Freemasonry and Secrecy
Freemasonry ceased to be a “Secret
Society” on
24 June 1717
when it publically proclaimed its
existence.
The fraternity
does not conceal its existence, purpose, aims or principles.
Masonic Halls (also by tradition called Masonic Temples) bearing
the Lodge name and emblem are familiar sights in towns and cities
throughout the region, as are the blue highway signs at the
entrance to Town and Cities having Lodges, stating their Lodge
name, address and meetings nights. Many members proudly wear
Masonic insignia on rings, pins and emblems on their vehicles. To
be one, ask one. If you have any questions or wish additional
information please feel free to
contact us.
Any social group or private
business is "private" in the sense that its business meetings may
be open only to its members. In Freemasonry, the process of
joining is also a private matter, and its members are pledged not
to discuss with non-members certain parts of the ceremonies
associated with the organization.
Freemasonry does have
certain handshakes and passwords, which are kept private. They are
means of recognizing each other ---- necessary in an organization
which spans the entire world and which encompasses many languages
and cultures.
Today,
Freemasons make the same pledge to every member that he will be
offered assistance if he, or his family, ever requests it.
Freemasonry can’t be called a "secret society" in a literal sense.
A truly secret society forbids its members to disclose that they
belong to the organization, or that it even exists. Much of the
Masonic ritual is in books that are widely available, even in
public libraries. Most Freemasons wear rings and lapel pins which
clearly identify them as members of the fraternity. Masonic lodges
are listed in public phone books, Masonic buildings are clearly
marked, and in many areas of the country Masonic lodges place
signs on the roads leading into town, along with civic
organizations, showing the time and place of meetings. In Ontario
Freemasonry has its own magazine which is also available to the
public on the internet at
Ontario Mason Magazine.
It is a private fraternal
association of men who contribute much toward the public good,
while enjoying the benefits of the brotherhood of a fraternity.
