Why I joined Freemasonry

On this page you will find several accounts from men who have recently become a Freemason, they describe the various reasons they decided to join Freemasonry and the benefits they have identified during their membership of the fraternity.

Chris Fitzgerald

I have been interested in Freemasonry for quite some time but I was always concerned what lay behind those mysterious doors to my local Masonic hall in Chorley.

One hears so many conflicting stories about the Freemasons and the mere mention of the word still raises eyebrows. Throughout my working life I have always belonged to large organisations and now I have more time on my hands since I retired, I missed the friendship, comradeship and co-operation of other likeminded people.

I knew that the Freemasons consisted of many 1,000’s of members spreading all over the world, and I heard about the work they do for charities and good causes and also the social aspect of the fraternity.

I wanted to find out more. After making a few enquiries, I was contacted by Peter Horgan the Chorley Group Membership Officer and I was invited along for an informal chat during which I was shown around the hall.

I was put at ease by the sense of humour and friendliness of the people that I met there. All my questions were answered and in return I spoke about myself and my interest in Freemasonry.  

Soon after my initial meet, I was invited to attend for an informal interview and I was asked several questions which I answered honestly. As the interview ended I was wondering if I had passed the first hurdle. I was relieved to receive a letter shortly after inviting me to join Chorley Lodge, which I accepted. It’s early days yet, but each time I attend I meet more new faces and I’m always met with a hand extended in greeting and friendship.

At the festive boards, delicious meals are enjoyed in the company of new found friends. Light hearted banter and humorous chat flow, interspersed with speeches and toasts to honour achievements and occasions of various members of the lodge. I look forward to the coming years as a Freemason, and as I learn more of the Craft, I hope to play a bigger part within the organisation.

 

Tekena Craig Fubara

My name is Tekena Craig Fubara and I am a 33 year old Chemical Engineer in the Oil and Gas industry.

I was born in Edinburgh of Nigerian parentage. I have always had an interest in ancient history and art, the philosophical and the mystical. And so several years ago in London, I enquired about the opportunity to be a Freemason. Due to the nature of my work commitments and fairly frequent movement from city to city, the organization gave me a chance to decide when and where I was settled enough to begin the study.

In every city I went to, I had the opportunity of meeting Freemasons which allowed me to develop friends quickly in those new areas, and also to see their lodge even though I wasn’t a Mason then.

When I thought I was literally settling for at least a year in Lancaster, I joined the Duke of Lancaster Lodge No 1353 in 2011 where I have risen through the various degrees and currently hold an office in the lodge.

Freemasonry has re-kindled virtues such as charity and a quest for morality which I highly cherish. The opportunity offered for public speaking has helped me to challenge and develop my communication skills which are very useful to me, even in my job.

There are people of all ages and I have made good friends, who I take as brothers, and who have been very supportive from personal life to career life. I happen-stance met a fellow Chemical Engineer in the lodge who dedicated his personal time to mentor me through my drive to be a Chartered Chemical Engineer.

I have as well gotten good elderly advice on personal issues as well as going on a family walk with a Brother over the weekend.

Joining the lodge offers me an opportunity to be responsible for various tasks outside of the home and work and therefore engenders a sense of responsibility as people depend on me to carry out those tasks effectively.

I enjoy the social life where we meet for fantastic meals and drinks and where I have laughed my ribs out over the pot-pouri of jokes that have come from the speeches. As I travel frequently, I am able to meet friends outside of work in new cities and not feel isolated, as well as visiting other lodges to meet new people.

Most importantly, Freemasonry has wrought in its clout an exoteric and esoteric fountain of knowledge which I have dedicated myself to study at my leisure to illumine my mind, and to gradually help me to be a better person to myself and society.

I have enjoined my journey so far and I would say that I am looking forward to a great career in Freemasonry as I plunge and dedicate myself even deeper. I would therefore recommend Freemasonry to every young aspiring individual as it is a great anchor for life.

 

Louis Warburton

Freemasonry is something that started to interest me some time back, after I felt a need to be a part of something. I wanted to belong to a group that shared my morals and be with like-minded individuals who enjoyed each other’s company but, also to be able to offer something back in to the community.

I started to investigate Freemasonry and quickly found myself being intrigued by the history so I decided to apply via the Warrington group web site.

I was rather nervous at first but fortunately the Warrington group membership officer came to see me and over a number of months after attending various functions I had made up my mind and knew that I wanted to continue with my application.

I was amazed to see that the environment within the group was so friendly and welcoming. The trust shared amongst the brethren and the respect for one and other was fantastic. It quickly became clear that Freemasonry would not only give me the opportunity to belong to a fantastic brotherhood but also the chance to meet fascinating people and make great friends with like-minded individuals.  

The charity shown by Freemasons has also amazed me and has made me very proud to be a part of a group of such caring people. Since my initiation Freemasonry has become a core part of my life. I have learnt so much that already I feel I am growing in to a better, upright individual.

The social aspect is excellent and having the opportunity from time to time to share these experiences with my fiancé at social events such as the ladies evenings has made both our lives even more enjoyable.

If I was asked to summarise in a short sentence why I became a Freemason I would say – For the chance to be a part of a group with an amazing history and good intentions that will help me to become a better member of society whilst offering the opportunity to help others and have a good time with friends along the way!

 

Stuart Hunt

Hi my name is  Stuart Hunt, I’m 35 years old, I live in Warrington and work as a Software Support Engineer.

My interests include all things ‘gadget-ey’, playing my guitar and getting out in the great outdoors and climbing mountains. I was lucky enough to have my first high altitude experience last year when I trekked to Everest Base Camp with my Wife raising money for a local charity on the way.

I’ve been a Mason for almost 2 years and I think that curiosity and inquisitiveness (or being just plain nosey) initially led me to find more about it.

Previous to joining I had heard endless accounts of conspiracy theories regarding the underhand intentions of Freemasons, I decided to ask real questions to the people that could really answer them – Freemasons themselves.

As it turned out one of my close friends had been a member of a lodge for a number of years – he was someone I trusted and knew that he wouldn’t be involved in anything that was as unscrupulous as the theories I had heard.

He introduced me to other members of his lodge who were all very welcoming and after a few casual meetings I asked if I could join.

After joining it was initially a little bewildering entering a world that was so removed from my normal day-to-day life. However, after a while I realised that this in part is what I enjoy so much about Freemasonry. It enables me to learn the history and traditions of the Craft and is my opportunity to meet a diverse group of people who I otherwise would have never spoken to.

We meet once a month for our meeting after which we all enjoy a good hearty meal, a pint and a tall story or two – we also meet once a week, which is very informal to practice for our meeting.

Outside of the Meetings there are social evenings, trips and weekends away where the whole family can be included and more friendships can be made.

 I’m looking forward to many happy years in masonry as I progress through the offices and settle into this wonderful fraternity.

 

 John Hirst

Hello, my name is John Hirst, I am a 46 year old Prison Officer at HMP Risley and have been a Freemason for nearly two years. I am a member of The Warrington Lodge of Concord No 1250 which meets at Winmarleigh House in Warrington. My interests include Golf and Road Cycling, where I have raised over £1,000 for various charities this year.

I joined Freemasonry when a good friend and colleague invited me to join his lodge. My wife, Sharon, and I were then met by the group membership officer where we were both introduced into the life of a Freemason, including costs and expectations.

Our first formal function was the lodge’s half night celebrations where we were made to feel very welcome by all. My first year in Freemasonry was a whirlwind and came and went so quickly but the journey was very enlightening.

It was during this first year I saw the possibility and opportunity to start a monthly newsletter ‘On the Level’ which has been a huge success and each month is eagerly awaited by all brethren of the lodge. It was decided that as this was such an important historic document that a copy of each edition was to be held in the records at the lodge.

Freemasonry is both a good way to give back to the community and a great way to make new friends. You feel a sense of brotherhood through being around like minded people with similar values and beliefs.

I’m looking forward to my future Masonic journey and making new discoveries. I feel I’m developing spiritually and mentally. Freemasonry is helping build my inner strength and character.

I say to anyone browsing this website and reading these articles, Freemasonry has probably found you. If you decide to join, you’ll enjoy it! I am very proud to be a Freemason.

John Hirst

 

 

Scott Raisbeck  

Hello, my name is Scott, I am a 27 years old Software Engineer and have been a Freemason for four years.

I joined Freemasonry when a friend invited me to join his lodge. I spent much of the first year slightly bewildered by the ritual and ceremony, never the less, the camaraderie and social aspects of it kept me interested. I found that many of the brethren around my age shared similar interests and were extremely easy to get along with.

Most events attended are followed by a meal and a few drinks allowing you to socialise with people from all walks of life and of all ages, I can guarantee that you will meet an interesting character or two along the way.

It has helped me in other areas as well, especially in terms of confidence and speaking to a large audience. It is amazing how scary such an experience can be until you are faced with it and the only way to overcome that is to go and do it, Freemasonry allows you to do just that within a safe environment amongst friends.

More recently I have begun to learn about the history and traditions behind Freemasonry, this has heightened my interest in the topic significantly and I am really pleased I decided to join. I have pretty much recommended Freemasonry to all my close friends who have asked about it and believe you me they all did. It’s a great institution and concept. 

 Scott Raisbeck

 

Stefan Hodson

My name is Stefan and I’m 33 years old, originally from Blackburn but now living in the Preston area. My profession is a university lecturer in economics but I also work as a door supervisor at weekends. My interests include rugby (league and union), mixed martial arts and travelling.

I became involved in Freemasonry about 18 months ago when an old friend recommended joining. After getting in touch with my local membership officer, I was introduced to a number of current members. These meetings took place at a local pub and were very informal. I instantly felt at ease and was encouraged to ask questions to find out more about what goes on within the Craft.

The main attraction for me was the fact that you can meet socially with people who are friendly and accepting, many of whom you would otherwise never encounter.

There’s a great mix of social and charity events as well as the formal lodge meetings. I was initially surprised that there is such a cross section of different people that make up Freemasonry, its not just an “old boys business dinner“.

Even though it’s only been a few months I’ve met many people through these events and made some great friends. At least once a month I get to meet and dine in a completely different environment to work and other commitments.

 Stefan Hodson

 

Tristan Thorpe

My name is Tristan and I have been a Freemason for just under two years, joining when I was 29.

I decided when I was a teenager that I wanted to join Freemasonry due to a friend of the family passing away, I witnessed first-hand the true support the organisation offered at troubled times to its members.

I saw such an out pouring of family like care that I knew this was a something I had to be part of. After waiting a number of years for my life to be at such a stage I could dedicate some time, I enquired to become a Freemason via the Provincial website.

After a few meetings my application was approved and my Masonic journey started. It’s fair to say I didn’t know a lot when I first started on the path, which is half the enjoyment. Learning and experiencing things that were out of my normal walk of life was a refreshing break to an IT career. As time went on I started making good friends with people from all walks of life and ages that I would not normally have had the pleasure of meeting. I can honestly say since becoming a Freemason my life has become that much richer, so much so I have introduced my best friend and he is now a member of my lodge.

These days I enjoy nothing more than meeting up with other members and going for a pint and curry to unwind after a hard day at work, or nipping round each other house for a drink and a laugh at weekends.

One of the nicest surprises was how much families and partners are engaged, Freemasonry is not just enjoyable to the member but the whole family with events held over the whole year that all are welcome too, no more so that the festive time of year Christmas, with lodge parties being held embodying all the good cheer of that time of year. 

I still have a lot to learn however I can’t wait to expand my Masonic understanding.

Tristan Thorpe 

Martin Stewart

Hi my name is Martin, I am 33 years old and I am a manager at a window manufacturing company, I love playing football and going fishing.

I joined the lodge of Chivalry No 3974 in February 2012 and since then enjoyed every minute of it.

I became aware of Freemasonry when my mother in law was working at Pemberton Masonic Hall.  I then also found out that my great grandfather was a Mason.

I started to become interested and over a couple of years started to enquire more about it with the people I knew, I was then asked by a friend if I would like to join. I said I would think about it but really from that moment I knew I was going to join since then I have never looked back and can not wait to learn more.

When joining the lodge I was very surprised how welcoming everybody was and it seemed like it was a place that I had belonged all my life. We meet up once a month at the lodge, we hold our lodge meeting and then have a nice meal and a couple of drinks and also raise some money for our charities while we are at it, we also have social events outside the lodge.

I would advise anybody thinking of joining Freemasonry to enquire more and to join, you will never regret it and unlike me don’t wait for somebody to ask you to join contact a membership officer in your area yourself you will be surprised how welcoming they are.

 

Martin Stewart

 

Owen Thomas

I am new to Freemasonry, yet Freemasonry has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. My dad was a Freemason, as was my grandfather so you could say Masonic life is tradition in my family.

Sadly, my father passed away when I was young, but we had support from the Masonic Trust for Boys and Girls when times were tough.   

I decided to join the Freemasons to be a part of something bigger than myself and to join and contribute to the people who did so much for me when I was younger. I joined the Ingol St Margret’s Lodge 8544 in March 2012 and have enjoyed each social gathering and found the lodge meetings very interesting.

I am looking forward to learning more about the lodge and Freemasonry in general.

Owen Thomas 

 

 

Shaun Lavery

Hello, I am Shaun, I’m 23 years old and am currently training to be a barrister, the kind with the wig, not the one in starbucks! I have been a Mason for almost three years.

I originally joined Freemasonry because of relations who had been members, who had encouraged me to join. I am really interested in history and so the tradition and long, rich history of the Craft also interested me. Partly, also, I was intrigued as to what it was all about!

Those are the reasons i joined the craft, but the reason i enjoy it, the reason I plan on remaining a Mason for many years to come are quite different. Put simply, the best recommendation i can give to you about joining Masonry is for the friends you will make.

The meetings, the ceremony, the history and the tradition are all integral, and really enjoyable parts of being a Mason, but you will also meet a really diverse, welcoming, and friendly group of people, and it is these men, the heart of Freemasonry, that make it what it is.

The monthly meeting we hold is a great night out, you have good food, a few drinks with friends, and an enjoyable night out. You will meet people from all walks of life, many of whom you might never otherwise encounter. The other element to Masonry, its very foundation, is charity, while we enjoy our meetings, the real core of them, is to raise money for charity, and to give something back to the community.

Masonry is a fantastic way to do some good, to help others, while at the same time making some really good friends, and having a good time while you are at it!

Shaun Lavery 

 

If you would like to join or find out more about Freemasonry contact a membership officer in your area.