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About Us...
What is Freemasonry?
Freemasonry is one of the world's oldest secular
fraternities with some 35,000 members in Ireland and around 4 million
members worldwide. It is a society concerned with moral and spiritual
values. Its members are taught these precepts by a series of ancient
forms, using the customs and tools of the stonemason as allegorical
guides.
Freemasonry and Religion
Freemasonry is not a religion, or a combination of
religions, nor is it a substitute for religion. It expects its members
to adhere to their own faith, and it does not permit discussion on
religious matters at Masonic meetings and gatherings.
A Freemason is encouraged firstly to do his duty to his
God through his faith and religious practice, and secondly to his
neighbour through charity, tolerance and service. These ideas are not
exclusively Masonic, but are universally acceptable, and Freemasons
are expected to follow them.
The Three Great Principles
Freemasons are expected to adhere to three principles:
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Brotherly Love
Every true Freemason will show tolerance and respect for the
opinions of others and behave with kindness and understanding to
his fellow creatures.
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Relief
Freemasons are taught to practice charity, and to care, not only
for their own members, but for the community as a whole, by both
charitable giving, and by voluntary effort.
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Truth
Freemasonry strives for truth and requires high moral standards
of its members.
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Charity
Freemasonry has been concerned from its earliest days with the care of
orphans, the sick and the aged. This work continues today, and in
recent times substantial sums have been donated to both Masonic and
non-Masonic charities. This trend is firmly established and will
continue.
Freemasonry and Society
Freemasonry demands that its members abide by the laws of the country
in which they work and live. Its principles do not in any way conflict
with members' duties as citizens, but should rather encourage and
support members in fulfilling their public and private
responsibilities. Whenever we dine or celebrate in Munster, the
first toast of the evening is always to: ‘The President of Ireland
The use by a Freemason of his membership to promote his
business, professional, or personal interests is forbidden. A Mason's
duty as a citizen must always prevail over any obligation to other
Freemasons, and any attempt to shield a Freemason who has acted
dishonourably or unlawfully is strictly forbidden.
Freemasonry and Politics
Freemasonry is non-political, and any discussion of politics at
Masonic meetings and gatherings is forbidden.
The Essential Qualification for
Membership
The essential
qualification for admission is belief in a Supreme Being. Membership
is open to men of integrity from any race or religion that can fulfil
this essential qualification.
Contact can be made by e-mail to:
The Provincial Grand
Lodge of Munster
All photographs on this website can be enlarged by clicking on
them.
Copyright 2007 - Provincial Grand Lodge of Munster - All Rights
Reserved
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