Proctorville Lodge No. 550

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 Freemasonry is the most widely recognized fraternal society in the world. It is a centuries-old brotherhood of men from different religious, ethnic, social, and economic backgrounds. It requires each member to believe in God, while accepting that his fellow members may hold very different beliefs than his own. Freemasonry respects each man’s success and place in society while treating him as an equal in the lodge room. It encourages members to take the lessons learned in the lodge, such as tolerance, integrity, civility, and charity, and apply them outside the lodge for the betterment of themselves, their families, and their communities. Thus, good men build character and become even better friends, citizens, husbands, fathers, and brothers. Today, Masonry has over 3 million members, with more than 1 million residing in North America. 

 Freemasonry functions on at least three levels:

1) Philosophically, Freemasonry is a system of morality veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols. This classic definition is used by many grand lodges around the world. Morality encompasses ethical principles of right and wrong, and adherence to these principles is one reason that Masons are often considered trusted leaders, employees, and volunteers.

2) Organizationally, Freemasonry is a nonprofit, private association that operates as a grand lodge with a network of subordinate Masonic lodges. In these lodges, members are received and cared for, lessons and ceremonies are conducted, and social events and fellowship opportunities are held.

3) Freemasonry is also a “way of life” for good men–Freemasons–who apply Masonic principles to their daily activities, both personal and professional. By so doing, men work to become the best they can be for themselves, their families, and their communities. Most of the fellowship and service to humanity that is inspired by Masonic teachings happens at this level of individual action.

 Ohio Freemasonry includes about 450 lodges and thousands of men across the state who believe in honor, integrity, truth, and love of country–men of respect, kindness, and tolerance, fully accepting of our brothers’ religion, race, age, status, or culture. By becoming an Ohio Freemason, you join a fraternity committed to finding and uniting men eager to improve themselves by doing good in the world. Here are some more benefits:

Acceptance – Opportunity to associate with men whom you would otherwise never know based on their station in life, occupation, location, or age.

Wisdom – Receiving and passing on the knowledge of manhood, of being a good man and true, including as a father, son, or brother, and of being a mentor to others.

Knowledge – Asking for and receiving counsel from friends and brothers about life’s challenges, whether it be fixing a broken faucet, buying and financing a home, or learning about leadership and service.

Respect – Being recognized as a man of honor and reputation in the community by men you care about because your deportment and behavior warrant that recognition.

Fellowship and Enjoyment– Sometimes just have fun! Enjoying the company of other men with whom you share a common understanding and experience forms the basis of many Masonic activities. With this comes acceptance, respect, friendship, trust, and support.

Accomplishment – Feeling like you are contributing to something that will last through time; being part of something greater than yourself. and that can become a gift to future generations.

Satisfaction – Finding balance or harmony between work, family, community, and faith by living your fraternal promise.

Brotherhood – Being part of a worldwide network of men who share certain values and who will welcome you if you choose to visit.

Relevance – Making a profound difference in Ohio, devoting countless hours and over $1 million each year to help those in our own backyard.

Achievement of a Life Well-Lived – Some ancient philosophers defined happiness as the satisfaction realized upon the completion of a virtuous life of meaning and accomplishment.

 The following are the criteria to become an Ohio Freemason:

• Be a man at least 19 years old
• Be an Ohio resident for at least six months
• Be able to read and write English
• Be prepared to profess a belief in a deity
• Be of good reputation as a man of honor and integrity
• Be a peaceful citizen not engaged in subversive activities
• Be recommended by two members of the lodge you wish to join

When a potential member does not know anyone in the local lodge, the lodge will arrange a casual meeting with several members who will be glad to share information about their lodge and its activities. This kind of “meet and greet” provides an opportunity for everyone to get to know each other, to ask and answer questions, and to see if there is a good fit between the man and the lodge.

Each lodge decides who may become a member, consistent with our customs, rules, and regulations. Some lodges will invite potential members to several activities or social functions before two members agree to make the recommendation.

 No, you do not. In fact, Masons traditionally will not ask you to join. They may tell you they think you would be a good Mason, but the choice is ultimately yours. Unfortunately, there are stories of sons who wait years for their fathers to ask them to join. When they finally ask the father or friend, “Why haven’t you asked me to be a Mason?” the father says, “I’ve been waiting for you to ask me for a petition!” If you know a Mason, go to him, and discuss your interest. If you do not know whom to approach, reach out to us at info@proctorvillelodge550.org and request more information or submit an inquiry through Freemason.com 

While Ohio Freemasonry views all people, regardless of sex or gender identity, as equals and all part of God’s creation and worthy of respect, the Grand Lodge of Ohio continues to observe the Masonic Landmark that only adult males can be made Masons.

In Ohio, there are other excellent organizations, some with a strong Masonic connection, such as Ohio Eastern Star, that provide women with similar fraternal experiences. Learn more about other Masonic organizations and opportunities.