| St. Johns Masonic Lodge No 788 Cairncastle. (Province of Antrim) |
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| Introduction 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 custom and tools of the stonemason as allegorical guides. The Essential Qualification for Freemasonry The essential qualification for admission is belief in a Supreme Being. Membership is open to men of integrity from any race or religion who can fulfill this essential qualification. 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. The Three Great Principles Freemasons are expected to adhere to three principles: "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. "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. "Truth" Freemasonry strives for truth and requires high moral standards of its members. |
| WHAT IS FREEMASONRY? (Extract from a leaflet issued by the Grand Lodge of Ireland) |
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