Welcome to Freemasonry

Freemasonry is the world’s oldest, largest, and most charitable fraternity. It is composed of adult men (18+) of good character from every country, religion, race, income level, and walk of life. Our system of ethics and knowledge is built on the belief that every man has a responsibility to improve himself while remaining devoted to his family, his faith, his country, and his fraternity.

As Freemasons, we shape the future by fostering personal growth—of mind, heart, and moral character. We build lifelong friendships and offer philanthropic service to enrich the lives of our members, our Lodges, and our communities.

With a history that stretches back centuries, Freemasonry continues to offer modern men the chance to grow, make a difference, and help build a better world. Our values extend beyond our meetings, guiding us in everyday life, uniting us not by where we come from—but by what we aspire to become.

Become part of something great.

1. Membership Requirements

To join, you must:

  • Be a man, 18 years or older.

  • Believe in a Supreme Being and the immortality of the soul.

  • Lead an ethical and moral life.

  • Have a genuine interest in Freemasonry and a desire to participate in its activities and charitable work.

  • Complete a background check as part of the application process (cost: $16.00, sent directly to you).

2. The Process (Also Known as the NorthStar Process)

Each Lodge has a slightly different approach, but the general process is as follows:

📞 Step 1: Contact Us

Reach out through this website or connect with a Mason you know. Don’t hesitate—we’re happy to talk with those curious about Freemasonry. If you don’t know a Mason, click the “Take the First Step” button on this site.

🤝 Step 2: Initial Meeting

You’ll meet with a few members to ask questions and get a feel for our Lodge and its members. It’s informal and friendly.

🔍 Step 3: Background Check

Use this website to request your background check. It’s a standard part of the application.

📝 Step 4: Letter of Introspection

This brief personal reflection helps us get to know you better. Instructions will be provided after your initial meeting.

📆 Step 5: Follow-Up Meeting

We’ll review your background check and Letter of Introspection, and talk more about the next steps.

🍽️ Step 6: Social Event

You’ll be invited to a casual event—like a dinner, BBQ, or educational session—to meet more of the members.

🏡 Step 7: Family Visit

We’ll visit your home (if you’re comfortable) to answer any questions your family might have.

📜 Final Step: Receive a Petition

After completing the steps, you’ll be offered a petition to formally apply for membership.

3. The Petition & Initiation Fee

Once you’ve completed the initial steps, you’ll be invited to fill out a petition for membership.

There is a one-time Initiation Fee that covers all three degrees of Masonry, as well as annual dues to support Lodge operations. These costs can vary depending on the size of the Lodge and its facilities, but they are affordable and not cost-prohibitive.

4. The Ballot

After your petition, background check, and initiation fee are submitted, your request for membership is formally read during a Lodge meeting. A small investigating committee, typically made up of three members, will meet with you and report back to the Lodge.

At a subsequent meeting, a secret ballot is cast by the membership. Shortly afterward, a member of the Lodge will reach out to inform you of the outcome and provide next steps.

5. The Degree Process

Freemasonry is a private, but not secretive, fraternity. While our ceremonies are not open to the public, they are rich in history, symbolism, and tradition. The purpose of the initiation process is to help new members understand and reflect on the values of our Craft.

Our guiding principles are Friendship, Morality, and Brotherly Love. We encourage our members to live with integrity, show compassion, support charitable causes, and grow spiritually—without interfering with or replacing any personal religious beliefs.

In short, Freemasonry exists to make good men better.