A: No. The existence of Freemasonry is hardly a secret. Our buildings are visible and in many cases are shared with non-masonic entities or even open to the public. We make no attempt to keep our existence a secret. However, even though we are not a secret society, we are a society with secrets.

A: That would be telling.

A: No. A common misconception about Freemasonry is that we’re just a ‘good old boys’ club out to further our own interests. Certainly there are politicians who are Freemasons, but there are also lawyers, artists, computer programmers, construction workers, military personnel, businessmen, musicians, etc. Our Brothers come from every walk of life. We don’t spend our time sitting in smoky rooms pulling the strings of power. We’re out there in the world living our lives like everybody else, and doing our best to help others do the same.

A: Sure, so long as it isn’t illegal. Since we know and trust one another, we’re likely to turn to one another for help in the same way that most people turn to their friends and family for help before anyone else. But under no circumstances can that help involve breaking any laws. In fact to do so would violate our most solemn Masonic obligations.

A: No. We do undertake Masonic obligations, but those obligations specifically state that they are subservient to the laws of the land. We are not above the law. Breaking the law in any way would be considered un-Masonic and could in fact lead to a Mason being expelled from the Fraternity.

A: No. We welcome men from all religious denominations and backgrounds. Our only requirement is that you have a belief in a Supreme Being, but what name you call that Supreme Being and how you choose to worship him/her/it is entirely your business.

A:  The majority of Freemasons consider the Bible to be the Volume of the Sacred Law. However, it's essential to acknowledge that Freemasonry accommodates individuals of various faiths who may not identify as Christians. For these members, the Bible is not their sacred book, and they will make their promises on the holy book revered in their religion.

In American lodges, the Bible always remains present. Nonetheless, as Freemasonry warmly welcomes men from diverse religious backgrounds, it is referred to as the Volume of the Sacred Law. This designation ensures that during ceremonies, the Volume of the Sacred Law represents the holy book of each non-Christian's respective religion, while for Christians, it remains the Bible.

Lastly, in lodges where only Christians are present, the Bible is simply referred to as "The Bible" or "The Holy Bible."

A: First and foremost, the Universe's design and creation are attributed to God, forming the primary basis of belief. Additionally, Freemasonry opens its doors to all men who share a belief in God, regardless of their religious affiliations, encompassing Christians, Jews, Hindus, Sikhs, Muslims, and followers of other faiths. To promote harmony and understanding among its diverse members, Freemasonry uses the term "Great Architect" as a symbolic representation, free from the notion of a specific Masonic god or an attempt to unify all deities into one. As a result, individuals from different religious backgrounds can come together and pray collectively without causing any offense or discord.

A: No. We screen prospective applicants very carefully. Becoming a Mason is a significant undertaking and not to be taken lightly. Anybody who wants to join purely for social networking or because they think it will lead to material gain need not apply. To call another man ‘Brother’ is a significant sign of trust and we want to be sure that aspiring Masons are going to live up to our principles of integrity and dedication.

A: The process depends entirely upon how much work and dedication one is prepared to put into it. Make no mistake, a significant amount of time and energy is required to progress through the degrees. Freemasonry is a lifelong pursuit and a constant learning experience. Nothing will be handed to you, it has to be earned. The more one puts in, the more one gets out of it.

A: The simplest way is to ask another Mason. For any inquires on membership at Porter Lodge No. 137, or any other questions you might have, contact us here.