The origins of Masonry reach back to medieval times when the great cathedrals of Europe were built. The stonemasons who created these inspiring Gothic structures formed craft guilds to protect the secrets of their trade and to pass on their knowledge to worthy apprentices.

In 17th century England, these guilds began accepting honorary members, men of learning and position. These new members were not working stonemasons or even associated with the building trades. As “accepted Masons,” they eventually grew into a separate organization called Freemasonry, a moral and ethical society that taught the 18th century ideals of equality and the importance of education in freeing mankind from prejudice, superstition and social injustice.

Masonry is not a religion, but it is religious in nature. Belief in a Supreme Being is of fundamental importance. Masonry is a charitable Organization, an organization dedicated to strengthening a man’s character, improving his moral and spiritual outlook, and broadening his mental horizons.

Masonry seeks to make good men better; not better than others, but better than themselves.