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	]		\|'''The Masonic Square and Compasses.''' ''Found with or without the ‘G’'']]
	'''Freemasonry''' is a ] whose membership is held together by shared ] and ] ideals and—in most of its branches—by a constitutional declaration of belief in a ].<ref name="FMreligion"> Accessed ] ]</ref>		'''Freemasonry''' is a ] whose membership is held together by shared ] and ] ideals and—in most of its branches—by a constitutional declaration of belief in a ].<ref name="FMreligion"> Accessed ] ]</ref> MASON IS KINDA OF FUCK,SHIT,BITCH,DOG,PIGS RELIGION!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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	The fraternity of Freemasonry uses the allegorical metaphors of operative ] tools and implements, to convey what is most generally defined as: ''A peculiar'' (some say ''particular'' or ''beautiful'') ''system of morality veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols.''<ref>http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/09771a.htm 1913 Catholic Encyclopedia. (1911 Encyclopædia Britannica agrees)</ref> This is illustrated in the 1991 English ''Emulation Ritual''.<ref name="Ritual">Emulation Ritual ISBN 0-85318-187-X pub 1991, London</ref>

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	It is an ] society only in that certain aspects are private;<ref name="Const"> Accessed ] ]</ref> Freemasons have stated that Freemasonry has, in the 21st century, become less a ] and more of a "society with secrets."<ref> Grand Lodge of North Carolina Accessed ] ]</ref><ref> Accessed ] ].</ref><ref name="YQA"> Accessed ] ]</ref> Dr. Dieter Anton Binder,<ref name="Binder"> Accessed ] ].</ref> a historian (and not a Freemason) who is a professor at the University of ] (Austria) describes Freemasonry as a "confidential" society in contrast to a secret society in his book ''Die diskrete Gesellschaft''.<ref name="Binder2">Dieter A. Binder: ''Die diskrete Gesellschaft. Geschichte und Symbolik der Freimaurer.'' ISBN 3-222-12351-9, Styria</ref> Most modern Freemasons regard the traditional concern over secrecy as a demonstration of their ability to keep a promise<ref> Accessed ] ]</ref> and a concern over the privacy of their own affairs.<ref> Accessed ] ].</ref> "] meetings, like meetings of many other social and professional associations, are private occasions open only to members."<ref name="secrets"> Accessed ] ]</ref><ref> (Victorian Lodge of Research No 218, UGLV) Accessed ] ].</ref> The private aspects of modern Freemasonry deal with the modes of ] amongst members and elements within the ].<ref name="Ritual">Emulation Ritual ISBN 0-85318-187-X pub 1991, London</ref><ref name="YQA"> Accessed ] ].</ref>

	While there have been many disclosures and exposés dating as far back as the eighteenth century, Freemasons caution that these often lack the proper context for true understanding, may be outdated for various reasons,<ref name="changes">John J. Robinson, A Pilgrim's Path, M. Evans and Co., Inc. New York, p.129 </ref> or could be outright ] on the part of the author.<ref name="secrets"> Accessed ] ]</ref> In reality, Freemasons are proud of their true heritage and happy to share it, offering spokesmen, briefings for the media, and providing talks to interested groups upon request.<ref name="secrets"> Accessed ] ].</ref>

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	== Organizational structure ==
	{{main\|Grand Lodge}}

	]s and ]s are independent and ] bodies that rule over the fraternity in a given country, state, or geographical area. There is no single general governing body that presides over world-wide Freemasonry. Fraternal connections depend solely on mutual recognition. There are two major branches of Freemasonry: "]"<ref name="Const"> Accessed ] ].</ref> Grand Lodges that are recognized by the ] and "liberal" Grand Orients that are recognized by the ]. While in very general terms, one can tell which branch of Freemasonry a Masonic Lodge conforms to by determining whether it was chartered by a Grand ''Lodge'' or a Grand ''Orient'', there are exceptions. A few Grand Orients are recognized by UGLE and a few Grand Lodges are recognized by Grand Orient de France. To confuse matters more, many Masonic practices are determined by custom at the individual Lodge level, and so any general description will not be, and cannot be, universally true.

	=== Regularity ===
	{{main\|Regular Masonic jurisdictions}}
	]

	'''Regularity''' is a constitutional mechanism by which Grand Lodges or Grand Orients give one another mutual recognition. This recognition allows formal interaction at the Grand Lodge level, and gives individual Freemasons the opportunity to attend meetings at Lodges in other recognized jurisdictions. Conversely, regularity proscribes interaction with Lodges that are ''irregular''.

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	Grand Lodges that afford mutual recognition and allow intervisitation are said to be ''in amity''. Regularity as far as the UGLE Constitution is concerned, is based around a number of ''Landmarks'', set down in their constitution and the constitutions of those Grand Lodges with which they are in amity. Even within this definition there are some variations with the quantity and content of the Landmarks from jurisdiction to jurisdiction. Other Masonic groups organise differently.

	However, even without formal recognition of regularity, some Grand Lodges continue informal relations.

	=== The Masonic Lodge ===
	{{main\|Masonic Lodge}}

	A Lodge, often termed a ''Private Lodge'' or ''Constituent Lodge'' in Constitutions, is the basic organization of Freemasonry. Every new Lodge must be warranted by a Grand Lodge, but is subject to its direction only in enforcing the published Constitution of the jurisdiction. A Lodge must hold full meetings regularly at published dates and places. It will elect, initiate and promote its own members and officers; and it will own, occupy or share premises, and will normally build up a collection of minutes, records and equipment. Like any other club it will also have its formal business, ]s (AGMs), ]s and ], ]s, reports, ]s and ]s, etc.

	A man can only be initiated, or made a Mason, in a Lodge, of which he may well remain a subscribing member for life. A Master Mason is generally entitled to visit any Lodge meeting under any jurisdiction in amity with his own; and a Lodge may well offer hospitality to such a visitor after the formal meeting. He is first usually required to check the regularity of that Lodge, and must be able to satisfy that Lodge of his own regularity; and he may be refused admission if adjudged likely to disrupt the harmony of the Lodge. If he wishes to visit the same Lodge repeatedly, he may be expected to join it, and pay a membership subscription.

	Freemasons ''correctly'' meet ''as'' a Lodge, not ''in'' a Lodge, although Masonic premises may be called ''Lodges'' or ''Temples'' ("of ] and ]"). In many countries ''Masonic Centre'' or ''Hall'' has now replaced these terms to avoid arousing prejudice and suspicion. Several different Lodges, as well as other Masonic organisations, often use the same premises at different times.

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	Early Lodges often met in a ] or any other convenient fixed place with a private room. According to Masonic tradition, the Lodge of medieval stonemasons was on the ] side of the building site, with the sun warming the stones during the day. The social ''Festive Board'' or ''Social Board'', part of the meeting is thus sometimes called ''the South''.

	Most Lodges consist of Freemasons living or working within a given town or neighbourhood. Other Lodges are composed of Masons with a particular shared interest, ] or background. Shared ]s, ], ]s, Masonic appointments or degrees, arts, professions and ] have all been the qualifications for such Lodges. In some Lodges, the foundation and name may now be only of historic interest, as over time the membership evolves beyond that envisaged by its "founding brethren"; in others, the membership remains exclusive. Every Lodge may always exclude any candidate for membership, whether or not already a Mason.

	There are also specialist Lodges of Research, with membership drawn from Master Masons only, with interests in Masonic Research (of ], ], etc.). Lodges of Research are fully warranted but, generally, do not initiate new candidates. Lodges of Instruction in UGLE may be warranted by any ordinary Lodge, for the learning and rehearsal of Masonic ].

	=== Prince Hall Freemasonry ===
	{{main\|Prince Hall Freemasonry}}
	{{see also\| Regular Masonic jurisdictions}}

	Prince Hall Freemasonry derives from historically unique events which led to a tradition of separate, predominantly African American, Freemasonry in North America. Prince Hall Masonry has always been '']'' in all respects except constitutional separation.

	In 1775, an ] named ]<ref>, accessed ] ].</ref> was initiated into an Irish Constitution Military Lodge then in Boston, Massachusetts, along with fourteen other African-Americans, all of whom were free-born. When the Military Lodge left ], the African-Americans were given the authority to meet as a Lodge, form Processions on the days of the Saints John, and conduct Masonic funerals, but not to confer degrees, nor to do other Masonic Work. In 1784 these individuals applied for, and obtained, a Lodge Warrant from the Premier Grand Lodge of England and formed African Lodge, Number 459 (Premier Grand Lodge of England). When the United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE) was formed in 1813, all U.S. based Lodges were stricken from their rolls – due largely to the ]. Thus, separated from both UGLE and any concordantly recognised U.S. Grand Lodge, African Lodge re-titled itself as the African Lodge, Number 1—and became a ''de facto'' "Grand Lodge". (This Lodge is not to be confused with the various Grand Lodges on
	the Continent of ]). As with the rest of U.S. Freemasonry, Prince Hall Freemasonry soon grew, and organised on a Grand Lodge system for each state.

	Widespread ], in the 19th and early 20th century North America, made it difficult for African Americans to join Lodges outside of Prince Hall jurisdictions—and impossible for inter-jurisdiction recognition between the parallel U.S. Masonic authorities.

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	At present, Prince Hall Grand Lodges are recognized by some UGLE Concordant Grand Lodges and not by others, but appear to be working toward full recognition, with UGLE and the majority of US Grand Lodges granting at least some degree of recognition.<ref>, Paul M. Bessel, accessed ] ]</ref> There are a growing number of both Prince Hall Lodges and non-Prince Hall Lodges that have ethnically diverse membership.

	=== Other degrees, orders and bodies ===
	{{main\| Masonic Appendant Bodies}}

	There is no degree in Freemasonry higher than that of Master Mason.<ref name="Aims and Relationships">http://www.grandlodge-england.org/pdf/cr-rule-update2-141205.pdf Aims and Relationships of the Craft</ref> There are however a number of organisations which require being a Freemasonic Master Mason, as a prerequisite for membership, which have similar aims and methods to Craft Freemasonry.<ref name="Beyond">''Beyond the Craft'', Keith B Jackson, ISBN 0-85318-248-5, 2005</ref> These bodies have no authority over the Craft,<ref name="Aims and Relationships"/> and in fact their senior Grand Officers may be more junior Officers in the Craft. These orders or degrees are considered to be additional or appendant, and provide a further perspective on some of the allegorical, moral and philosophical content of Freemasonry.

	Appendant bodies are administered separately from craft Grand Lodges but are styled ''Masonic'' since every member, including the Rulers, must be a Mason. Within both there is a system of offices, both active and honorary, which confer rank within that order alone, but inevitably many individuals are Grand Officers of both.

	Craft Masonic jurisdictions vary in their relationships with such bodies, if a relationship exists at all. The Articles of Union of the "Modern" and "Antient" craft Grand Lodges into ] limited recognition to certain degrees, such as the ] and the "Chivalric degrees", but there were and are many other degrees which have been worked since before the Union. Some such bodies are not universally considered as ''appendant'' bodies, being simply separate organizations that happen to require prior Masonic affiliation for membership. Some of these organizations have additional requirements such as religious
	adherence (e.g. requiring members to profess Trinitarian Christian beliefs) or membership of other appendant bodies.

	Quite apart from these, there are organisations which are often thought of as related to Freemasonry, but which are in fact not related at all, and are not accorded recognition as Masonic, such as the ] which originated in ], may have been founded by Freemasons, apparently style themselves along Masonic lines and use similar regalia and ritual. Equally, some Friendly Societies simply have in common with Masonry, which was itself a Friendly Society in the original sense, the forms and ceremonies common in the eighteenth century, but without any other connection at all.

	== Principles and activities ==
	Freemasonry is described as: ''A peculiar'' (some say ''particular'' or ''beautiful'') ''system of morality veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols.'', for example, articulated in the 1991 English ''Emulation Ritual'',<ref name="Ritual">Emulation Ritual ISBN 0-85318-187-X pub 1991, London</ref><ref>]</ref> and as such the activities centre around this.

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	=== Ritual, symbolism, and morality ===
	Freemasonic ritual makes use of the ] symbolism of the ] ''operative'' ], who actually worked in stone. Freemasons, as ''Speculative'' Masons, use this symbolism to teach moral and ethical lessons of the principles of "Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth" — or as related in France: "]".<ref name="Dummies">''Freemasons for Dummies'', , ISBN 0-7645-9796-5, Hungry Minds Inc, U.S., 2005.</ref>

	Two of the principal symbols always found in a Lodge are the '']'' and '']''; symbols always displayed in an open Lodge . Some Lodges and rituals explain these symbols as lesson in conduct: that one should "square their actions by the square of virtue" for example. However, as Freemasonry is non-dogmatic, there is no general interpretation for these symbols (or any Masonic symbol) that is used by Freemasonry as a whole.<ref> http://www.mqmagazine.co.uk/issue-10/p-61.php.</ref>

	These moral lessons are communicated in performance of allegorical ritual, based on solid foundations of Biblical sources. A candidate progresses through ''degrees''<ref name="Aims and Relationships"/> gaining knowledge and understanding of himself, his relationship with others and his relationship with the Supreme Being, (as he interprets this for himself). After taking each degree, he will attend the same ritual many times, taking part in it from the different points of view of each office, until he knows it by heart — and so is in the best possible position to moralize about it, within the bounds of his own competence.

	The balance between ritual, philosophical and spiritual, charitable service and social interchange varies between the Grand Lodges governing Freemasonry worldwide. History, philosophy and esoteric knowledge are of deep interest to many individuals. The philosophical aspects of the ''Craft'' tend to be discussed in Lodges of Instruction or Research, and sometimes informal groups. Freemasons, and others, frequently publish — to a variable degree of competence — studies that are available to the public. It is well noted, however, that no one person "speaks" for the whole of Freemasonry.

	The ''Volume of the Sacred Law'' is always displayed in an open Lodge . In English-speaking countries, this is frequently the ] or another standard translation (there is no such thing as an exclusive "Masonic Bible").<ref name="UGLE home"> Accessed ] ].</ref> In many French Lodges, the Masonic Constitutions are used. A candidate is given his choice of religious text for his Obligation, according to his beliefs. UGLE alludes to similarities to legal practice in the UK, and to a common source with other oath taking.<ref> Accessed ] ].</ref><ref> Accessed ] ].</ref><ref> Accessed ] ].</ref><ref> Accessed ] ].</ref> Christian candidates will typically use the Lodge's Bible while those of other religions may choose another book that is holy to them, to be displayed alongside the Lodges' usual VSL. In Lodges with a membership of mixed religions it is common to find more than one sacred text displayed representing the beliefs of the individuals present.

	In keeping with the geometrical and architectural theme of Freemasonry, the Supreme Being is referred to in Masonic ritual by the titles of the ''Great Architect of the Universe'', ''Grand Geometer'' or similar forms of words to make clear that their reference is generic, not about any one religion's particular concept of God.

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	=== Degrees ===
	The three degrees of ''Craft'' or ''Blue Lodge'' Freemasonry are those of:

	# ''Entered Apprentice'' (EA) - the degree of an Initiate, which makes a Mason
	# ''Fellow Craft'' (FC)- a fellow of a Lodge, comparable to a fellow of a college
	# ''Master Mason'' (MM)- the "third degree", a necessary qualification for election as the ''Worshipful Master'' (or in Scotland ''Right Worshipful Master'') of his Lodge, which is an office not a degree.

	A ''Past Master'' is a Master Mason who has served as Master of his Lodge; this is a rank, not a degree.

	The degrees represent stages of personal development. No Freemason is told that there is only one meaning to the allegories; as a Freemason works through the degrees and studies their lessons, he interprets them for himself, his personal interpretation being bounded only by the Constitution within which he works.<ref name="UGLE home"/> A common symbolic structure and universal archetypes provide a means for each Freemason to come to his own answers to life's important philosophical questions. Especially in continental Europe, Freemasons working through the degrees may be asked to prepare papers on related philosophical topics, and present these papers in open Lodge.

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	For example, one Mason's interpretations of the three degrees is as follows: The Entered Apprentice is at the step of self-knowledge, the apprentice should recognize his own imperfection, which is symbolized by a rough stone, and should be able to discover and remove his own flaws. With these abilities, he is promoted into Fellow Craft with its symbol of the smooth worked stone. At the least, the Fellow should acquire the ability of self-control, a requirement to fit with the other Freemasons into the building of humanity, symbolized as a rectangular stone. The Master Mason is raised into the step of ennoblement, its symbol is the drawing board. The Master Mason should understand that all life is transient. It is his duty to help others with his drawings to complete the building of humanity.

	There is no degree of Freemasonry higher than that of Master Mason.<ref name="Aims and Relationships"/> Although some Masonic bodies and orders have degrees named with higher numbers, these degrees are considered to be supplements to the Master Mason degree rather than promotions from it.<ref name="Beyond">''Beyond the Craft'', Keith B Jackson, ISBN 0-85318-248-5, 2005</ref> An example is the ], conferring degrees numbered from 4° up to 33°.<ref>http://www.supremecouncil.org/faq/</ref> It is, however, essential to be a Master Mason in order to qualify for these further degrees. They are administered on a parallel system to ''Craft'' or ''Blue Lodge'' Freemasonry; within each organization there is a system of offices, which confer rank within that degree or order alone.

	=== Signs, grips and words ===
	Freemasons use '''signs''' (gestures), '''grips''' or '''tokens''' (handshakes) and '''words''' to gain admission to their meetings and identify legitimate visitors. There is no evidence that these modes of recognition were in use prior to the mid-1600s after Sepeculative, non-operative, members were admitted to Lodges. The easiest way to determine an operative Mason's qualification was the quality of his work.<ref>Coil, Henry W. (1961). Articles: "Grip," pg. 306; "Modes of Recognition," pp. 504-506; and "Word," pg. 690. ''Coil's Masonic Encyclopedia'', (rev. ed. 1996). Richmond, Va: Macoy Publ. Co.</ref>

	From the early 18th century onwards, many exposés have been written claiming to reveal these signs, grips and passwords to the uninitiated. However, as each Grand Lodge is free to create its own rituals,<ref>http://www.mqmagazine.co.uk/issue-10/p-61.php</ref> the signs, grips and passwords can and do differ from jurisdiction to jurisdiction.<ref name="Dummies">''Freemasons for Dummies'', , ISBN 0-7645-9796-5, Hungry Minds Inc, U.S., 2005.</ref> Furthermore, John J. Robinson states that Grand Lodges can and do change their rituals frequently, updating the language used, adding or omitting sections.<ref name="changes">John J. Robinson, A Pilgrim's Path, M. Evans and Co., Inc. New York, p.129 </ref> The logical conclusion of Hodapp's and Robinson's assertions is that any exposé is only valid for a particular jurisdiction at a particular time, and therefore may or may not be accurate with respect to modern ritual.

	=== Landmarks ===
	:''Main article ]''
	The '''Landmarks''' of Masonry are defined as ancient and unchangeable precepts; standards by which the regularity of Freemasonic Lodges and Grand Lodges are judged. Each Grand Lodge is self-governing and no single authority exists over the whole of Freemasonry. The interpretation of these principles can and does vary, leading to controversies of recognition.

	The concept of Masonic Landmarks appears in Masonic regulations as early as 1723, and seem to be adopted from the regulations of operative masonic guilds. The term ''Landmark'' is still generally understood by the definition of Dr. Albert Gallatin Mackey. He laid down three requisite characteristics: (1) immemorial antiquity (2) universality (3) absolute irrevocability.

	In 1856, Mackey attempted to set down the 25 Landmarks, as he saw them. In 1863, George Oliver published Freemason's Treasury in which he listed 40 Landmarks. A number of American Grand Lodges attempted the task of enumerating the Landmarks; from West Virginia (7) and New Jersey (10) to Nevada (39) and Kentucky (54).<ref>, by Bro. Michael A. Botelho. Accessed [[7 February, 2006.</ref>

	=== Charitable effort ===
	Outside the ritual context the fraternity is widely involved in charity and community service activities, as well as providing a social outlet for the members.

	Money is collected ''only'' within the membership, to be devoted to '''charitable''' purposes. Freemasonry worldwide disburses substantial charitable amounts to non-Masonic charities, locally, nationally or internationally. However in earlier centuries the charitable funds were collected more on the basis of a Provident or ], and there were elaborate regulations to determine a petitioner's eligibility for consideration for charity, according to strictly Masonic criteria.

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	Masonic charities include:

	*Homes<ref>http://www.rmbi.org.uk/</ref><ref>http://www.grandlodgescotland.com/glos/FMH/info.html</ref> that provide sheltered housing or nursing care.
	*Education with both educational grants<ref>http://www.rmtgb.org/</ref> or ]<ref>http://www.royalmasonic.herts.sch.uk/pages/default.asp</ref> which are open to all and not limited to the families of Freemasons.
	*Medical assistance.<ref>http://www.nmsf.org</ref>

	== Membership requirements ==
	]

	A candidate for Freemasonry must apply to a ''Private'' (or ''Constituent'') Lodge in his community, obtaining an introduction by asking an existing member. In some jurisdictions, it is required that the petitioner ask three times, however this is becoming less prevalent.<ref> "Illustrious Borgnine also told of the difficulties he had in becoming a Mason. He did not know that, at the time, it was necessary to ask three times" accessed ] ].</ref> After enquiries are made, he must be freely elected by secret ballot in open Lodge. Members approving his candidacy will vote with "white balls" in the voting box. Adverse votes by "black balls" will exclude a candidate. The number of adverse votes necessary to reject a candidate, which in some jurisdictions is as few as one, is set out in the governing Constitution. Lodges conduct these elections in a number of different ways; a wholly secret ballot where every member is given the means to vote either way, or semi public where members who choose to vote go to the ballot box and cast a secret vote.

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	=== General requirements ===
			Ass!
	{{see also\|Regular Masonic jurisdictions\|Co-Freemasonry\|List of famous Freemasons}}
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			Oh gila banget!
			No peace!

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	Generally to be a ] Freemason, a man must:<ref name="Aims and Relationships"/>

	* Be a ] who comes of his own free will. Traditionally, Freemasons do not actively recruit new members
	* Believe in a ]
	* Be at least the minimum age (18–25 years depending on the jurisdiction, but commonly 21)
	* Be of sound mind, body and of good morals, and of good repute
	* Be free (or "born free", ''i.e.'' not born a ] or bondsman)
	* Have one or two references from current Masons (depending on jurisdiction)

	A candidate is asked 'Do you believe in a Supreme Being?'. Since an initiate is obligated on that sacred volume which is applicable to his faith, a sponsor will enquire as to an appropriate volume once a decision has been made on the applicant's suitability for initiation.

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	A number of Grand Lodges allow a ''Lewis'', (the son of a Mason), to be initiated earlier than the normal minimum age for that jurisdiction.

	Being of "sound body" is thought to be derived from the operative origins of Freemasonry, an apprentice would be able to meet the demands of their profession. In modern times Grand Lodges tend to encourage the use of the ritual in ways to mitigate for difficulty.

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	The "free born" requirement remains for purely historical reasons. Some jurisdictions have done away with it entirely.

	Some Grand Lodges in the United States have a residence requirement, candidates being expected to have lived within the jurisdiction for certain period of time, typically six months.<ref>http://www.ilmason.org/Basic1/bainfo.htm</ref>

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	It is notable that the requirement for the candidate to have a belief in a Supreme Being is present in some, but not all, ] bodies, leading to a significant divergence in organisational direction and philosophy.

	], ]]]

	=== Membership and religion ===
	Freemasonry explicitly and openly states that it is not a religion, nor a substitute for religion. "There is no separate Masonic God", nor a separate proper name for a deity in any branch of Freemasonry.<ref>, accessed ] ].</ref><ref>http://www.mqmagazine.co.uk/issue-13/p-46.php</ref>

	Freemasonry requires that its candidates believe in a ''Supreme Being'', the nature the interpretation of the term being subject to the conscience of the candidate. A wide range of faiths, drawn from the ], other ] religions, or non-monotheistic religions, (subject to candidates answering ''Yes'' to the ''Supreme Being'' question), include, for example, ] and ].

	Since the early 19th Century, in the '']'' Continental European tradition - irregular to those Grand Lodges in amity with UGLE - a very broad interpretation has been given to a (non-dogmatic) Supreme Being; in the tradition of ] and ] - or views of ] Cosmic Oneness - along with Western atheistic ] and agnosticism.

	The Freemasonry that predominates in ], known as the ], accepts only Christians.<ref name="Dummies">''Freemasons for Dummies'', , ISBN 0-7645-9796-5, Hungry Minds Inc,U.S., 2005.</ref>

	== Women and Freemasonry ==
	{{main\|Women and Freemasonry}}

	The position of '''women and Freemasonry''' is complex and without an easy explanation. Traditionally, only men can be made Freemasons in '']'' Freemasonry. Many Grand Lodges do not admit women because they believe it would break the ancient ]. However, there are many female orders associated with regular Freemasonry, such as the ], the ], the White Shrine of Jerusalem, the Social Order of Beauceant and the Daughters of the Nile. In addition, there are many non-mainstream Masonic bodies that do admit both men and women or exclusively women.

	=== Co-Freemasonry ===
	{{main\|Co-Freemasonry}}

	Co-Freemasonry is one such body. It is a form of Freemasonry admitting both men and women. Since women are not generally allowed in Freemasonry, it is not officially recognized by most Masonic Lodges & Grand Lodges, and is held by them to be 'irregular'. The systematic admission of women into International ] began in ] in 1882.

	==History==
	{{main\|History of Freemasonry}}

	The first Grand Lodge formed in Freemasonry was ''The Grand Lodge of England'' (GLE), founded in 1717, when four existing London Lodges met. This rapidly expanded into a regulatory body, which almost all English Lodges joined. From the 1750s onwards, two competing English Grand Lodges vied for supremacy - the "Moderns" (GLE) and "Ancients" (or Athol) Grand Lodges. They finally united in 1813 to form the present ] (UGLE).
	]
	The Grand Lodges Scotland and Ireland were formed in the 1720s, and Freemasonry was exported to the British Colonies in North America by the 1730s - with the English "Ancients" and the "Moderns" Grand Lodges and the Grand Lodges of Scotland and Ireland chartering offspring ("daughter") Lodges, which in turn set up Provincial Grand Lodges. From the ], and again after the breach caused by "]", independent US Grand Lodges formed themselves within the State boundaries. Some thought was briefly given to organizing an over-arching "Grand Lodge of the United States", with George Washington as the first Grand Master, but the idea was short-lived. The various Grand Lodges did not wish to diminish their own authority by agreeing to such a body.<ref>''Revolutionary Brotherhood'', by Steven C. Bullock, Univ. N. Carolina Press, Chapel Hill, 1996</ref>

	The oldest jurisdiction on the continent of ], the ] (GOdF), was founded in 1728. Most English-speaking jurisdictions cut formal relations with the GOdF, however, around 1877.<ref name="Dummies">''Freemasons for Dummies'', , ISBN 0-7645-9796-5, Hungry Minds Inc, U.S., 2005.</ref> The ] (GLNF)<ref>{{fr}} , accessed ] ].</ref> is currently the only French Grand Lodge that is in ''regular amity'' with the United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE) and its many concordant jurisdictions worldwide.

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	Originally, there was mutual recognition between UGLE and the Grand Orient de France. However, this was changed when the Grand Orient de France removed the term of the ] at their convention in 1877, following the request of the protestant clergy Fréderic Desmons who stated that Freemasonry is based on unconditional freedom of conscience and human solidarity; nobody is excluded because of its belief. The United Grand Lodge of England removed their recognition of the Grand Orient de France, and soon afterwards the majority of Grand Lodges around the world followed suit. A Schism was formed. Additionally, while the Grand Orient de France has no female Freemasons itself, it has mutual recognition with ], which admits both women and men as Freemasons. Female Co-Masons are allowed to attend the rituals of the GOdF. These are the main reason, why "regular" Grand Lodges consider "liberal" lodges to be irregular. "Regular" Freemasons are not allowed to take part of the rituals of "liberal" Lodges, although they are recognized by "liberal" lodges and made welcome if they do.

	Due to the above history, Freemasonry is often said to consist of two branches ''not in mutual regular amity'':

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	* the UGLE and concordant tradition of jurisdictions (termed Grand Lodges) in amity, and
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	* the GOdF, European Continental, tradition of jurisdictions (often termed Grand Orients) in amity.
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	In most Latin countries, the GOdF style of European Continental Freemasonry predominates, although in most of these Latin countries there are also Grand Lodges that are in ''regular amity'' with the United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE) and the worldwide community of Grand Lodges that share regular "fraternal relations" with the UGLE. The rest of the world, accounting for the bulk of Freemasonry, tends to follow more closely to the UGLE style, although minority variations exist.

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	== Contemporary challenges ==
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	As with other fraternal organisations in the 21st Century, Freemasonry in some districts of the United States, the UK and other jurisdictions has been losing members, faster than it can replenish them.<ref> </ref> The Masonic Service Association of North America (MSANA)<ref></ref> attributes the loss to six possible causes:<ref></ref>

	*A downward cycle
	*Loss of the Vietnam generation
	*Busy lifestyles
	*Joining organizations is no longer fashionable
	*Loss of Masonic identity
	*Lack of energy invested in Masonry

	== Opposition to Freemasonry ==
	'''Anti-Masonry''' (alternatively called '''Anti-Freemasonry''') is defined as "Avowed opposition to Freemasonry".<ref name="antimasonrydef">Oxford English Dictionary (1979 ed., p. 369).</ref> However, there is no homogeneous anti-Masonic movement. Anti-Masonry consists of radically differing criticisms from sometimes incompatible groups who are hostile to Freemasonry in some form.

	=== Religious Opposition ===
	Freemasonry has attracted criticism and suppression from ] states and organised religions for supposed competition with religion, or supposed ] within the Fraternity itself, and has long been the target of ] theories, which see it as an ] and evil power.

	==== Christian Anti-Masonry ====
	{{main\|Christianity and Freemasonry}}
	{{see also\|Catholicism and Freemasonry}}

	Although members of various faiths cite objections, it is certain ] ]s that have had the highest profile negative attitudes to Masonry, banning or discouraging members from being Freemasons.

	The objections raised by the Catholic Church are based on the allegation that Masonry teaches a naturalistic ] religion which is in conflict with Church dogma. However, those Grand Lodges in amity with UGLE explicitly adhere to the principle that "Freemasonry is not a religion, nor a substitute for religion. There is no separate 'Masonic deity', and there is no separate proper name for a deity in Freemasonry".<ref>, accessed January 21, 2006.</ref> Catholics are also are troubled by Masonry's openness to members of other faiths, feeling that any organization which fails to specifically endorse their faith impliedly rejects it.<ref>] ] to U.S. Bishops Concerning Masonry] by Cardinal Bernard Law</ref>

	A number of Papal pronouncements have been issued against Freemasonry. The first was ] '']'', ] ]; the last was ] '']'', ] ]. In 1983, Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger (who became ] in 2005) as the Prefect of the ], issued '']''. This states that "...the Church’s negative judgment in regard to Masonic association remains unchanged since their principles have always been considered irreconcilable with the doctrine of the Church and therefore membership in them remains forbidden. The faithful, who enroll in Masonic associations are in a state of grave sin and may not receive ]."Freemasonry welcomes Roman Catholics as members.<ref name="YQAreligion"> Accessed ] ]</ref> In 2005 the Regular Grand Lodge of Italy (RGLI), in amity with UGLE<ref> Accessed ] ]</ref> announced that it had installed a Roman Catholic Priest as its Chaplain. (This office requires that the holder is a Freemason, but not necessarily be in ]).<ref name="cathnews"> reported on ] ]</ref>

	The negative reaction of "Grand Orient" Continental European Freemasonry to what was perceived as Catholicism's ] and authoritarian political influence has in countries such as Italy, Spain and Portugal historically tended towards ], ] and at times even total ].<ref>''The fifth point, advocating or condoning overthrow of Church and State, may possibly have some basis if one makes the error of equating the Italian Masonry of the period with the entire Masonic Fraternity. From their founding, the Latin Grand Lodges, if not explicitly anticlerical, were strongly (at times, militantly) political. Thus it is quite possible that there may have been some basis in fact for the charge.'' by William G. Madison, MPS</ref>

	By contrast to Catholic allegations of rationalism and naturalism, Protestant objections are likely to be based on allegations of mysticism and occultism. Such authors may cite ] as an authority for the position of Masonry on these issues. However, Pike is but one commentator amongst many. No one voice has ever spoken for the whole of Freemasonry.<ref>"In preparing this work has been about equally Author and Compiler." (p. iii.) "The teachings of these Readings are not sacramental, so far as they go beyond the realm of Morality into those of other domains of Thought and Truth. The Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite uses the word "Dogma" in its true sense of doctrine, or teaching; and is not dogmatic in the odious sense of that term. Everyone is entirely free to to reject and dissent from whatsoever herein may seem to him to be untrue or unsound." (p. iv) Pike, Albert. Morals and Dogma of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry. Washington, DC : Southern Jurisdiction, 1958. 1950 revision.</ref>

	==== Muslim Anti-Masonry ====
	{{Further\|], ] and ]}}

	Freemasonry welcomes Muslims as members.<ref name="FMreligion"/><ref name="YQAreligion"/> ] anti-Masonry is closely linked with Anti-Semitism and Anti-Zionism though other criticisms are made.<ref></ref> In 1980, the Iraqi legal and penal code was changed by ] ruling ], making it a felony to "promote or acclaim Zionist principles, including freemasonry, or who associate with Zionist organizations."<ref name="freemasonryinSHIraq"> The Washington Times, 2004, Accessed ], ]</ref>

	=== Political opposition ===
	{{See also\|Anti-Masonry\|Freemasonry under Totalitarian Regimes}}

	Freemasonry has long been a target associated with the ] and other "agents", such as the ], seen by conspiracy theorists as either bent on world domination or already secretly in control of world politics. Historically it has attracted criticism - and suppression - from both the politically ] (i.e. ])<ref>James Wilkenson and H. Stuart Hughes, ''Contemporary Europe: A History'', Prentice Hall:1995 p.237</ref><ref>Otto Zierer, ''Concise History of Great Nations: History of Germany'', Leon Amiel Publisher:1976 p. 104 </ref> and the ] (i.e. the former ] states in ]). The Fraternity has encountered both applause for “founding”, and opposition for supposedly thwarting, ] (such as the United States of America).

	In some countries anti-Masonry is often related to ] and ]. Professor , of the University of Sheffield, writes: "Since at least the time of the ], anti-semitism has gone hand in hand with anti-masonry, so it is not surprising that allegations that ] was a Zionist plot have been accompanied by suggestions that the attacks were inspired by a masonic world order."<ref name="SFMNAD"> (page 13-14, 30, 33) by Andrew Prescott; accessed ], ]</ref>

	In 1799 English Freemasonry almost came to a halt due to Parliamentary proclamation. In the wake of the ], the ''Unlawful Societies Act, 1799'' banned any meetings of groups that required their members to take an ] or obligation.<ref name="UGLE history"> Accessed ] ].</ref> The Grand Masters of both the Moderns and the Antients Grand Lodges called on the Prime Minister William Pitt, (who was not a Freemason) and explained to him that Freemasonry was a supporter of the law and lawfully constituted authority and was much involved in charitable work. As a result Freemasonry was specifically exempted from the terms of the Act, provided that each Private Lodge's Secretary placed with the local "Clerk of the Peace" a list of the members of his Lodge once a year.<ref name="UGLE history"/> This continued until 1967 when the obligation of the provision was rescinded by ].<ref name="UGLE history"/> ''Regular'' Freemasonry inserted into its core ritual a formal obligation: to be quiet and peaceable citizens, true to the lawful government of the country in which they live, and not to countenance disloyalty or rebellion.<ref name="UGLE home"/> A Freemason makes a further obligation, before being made Master of his Lodge, to pay a proper respect to the civil ]s.<ref name="UGLE home"/> The words may be varied across Grand Lodges, but the sense in the obligation taken is always there in ''regular'' Freemasonry.

	Freemasonry in America faced political pressure following the disappearance of anti-Masonic agitator ] in ]. Reportage of the "Morgan Affair" helped fuel an Anti-Masonic movement, culminating in the formation of a short lived ] which fielded candidates for the Presidential elections of 1828 and 1832.

	Even in modern democracies, Freemasonry is still sometimes accused of being a network where individuals engage in ], using their Masonic connections for political influence and shady business dealings. This is officially and explicitly deplored in Freemasonry.<ref name="UGLE home"/> It is also charged that men become Freemasons through ] or that they are offered incentives to join. This is not the case; no one lodge member may control membership in the lodge and in order to start the process of becoming a Freemason, an individual must ask to join the Fraternity "freely and without persuasion."<ref name="UGLE home"/>

	In Italy, Freemasonry has become linked to a scandal concerning the ] Lodge (aka P2). This Lodge was Chartered by the ] in 1877, as a Lodge for visiting Masons unable to attend their own lodges. Under Licio Gelli’s leadership, in the late 1970s, the P2 Lodge became involved in the financial scandals that nearly bankrupted the ]. However, by this time the lodge was operating independently and irregularly; as the Grand Lodge d'Italia had revoked its charter in 1976.<ref> Accessed ] ]</ref> By 1982 the scandal became public knowledge and Gelli was formally expelled from Freemasonry.

	The ] ] government, in the late 1990s and early 2000s, attempted to require all members of fraternal organisations who are public officials to make their affiliation public.<ref> ] ]: Column WA9 (UK House of Lords Daily Debates)] Accessed ] ].</ref><ref>, 3rd Report on FM in the Police & Judiciary, printed ] ]. Accessed ] ].</ref> This was challenged under ] ] legislation, and the government in enacting the European Convention on Human Rights into UK law,<ref> Accessed ] ].</ref> had to curtail the scope of their requirements.<ref> Accessed ] ].</ref> Arrangements for the declaration of Freemasonry membership have been established for the current Lay Magistracy, Judiciary, and voluntary registration was introduced in 1999 for the Police Service.<ref> , Hansard, ] ] : Column 329W (UK House of Commons Daily Debates) accessed ] ].</ref> Decisions on whether information should be released are the responsibility of the public authority receiving the request, on a case-by-case basis, acting in accordance with the principles of the ''Freedom of Information Act, 2000''.<ref> , Hansard, ] ] : Column 2191W (UK House of Commons Daily Debates) accessed ] ].</ref>

	=== Holocaust ===
	]]]
	{{main\|Holocaust}}
	{{see also\|Freemasonry under Totalitarian Regimes\|Liberté chérie (Freemasonry)}}

	The preserved records of the '']'' (Reich Security Main Office) show the persecution of the ].<ref> accessed ], ]</ref> RSHA Amt VII, ''Written Records'' - overseen by Professor ] - was responsible for "ideological" tasks, by which was meant the creation of anti-semitic and anti-masonic propaganda. While the number is not accurately known, it is estimated that between 80,000 and 200,000 ] were ] under the ].<ref name="Dummies">''Freemasons for Dummies'', , ISBN 0-7645-9796-5, Hungry Minds Inc,U.S., 2005.</ref> Freemasonic Concentration Camp inmates were graded as ], and wore an inverted (point down) '']''.<ref>''The Encyclopedia of the Holocaust'', volume 2, page 531, citing Katz, ''Jews and Freemasons in Europe''.</ref>

	The little blue ] flower was first used by the Grand Lodge ''Zur Sonne'', in 1926, as a Masonic emblem at the annual convention in ], Germany. In 1938 the forget-me-not badge – made by the same factory as the Masonic badge – was chosen for the annual Nazi Party ''Winterhilfswerk''; a supposed charitable organization, which actually collected money used for rearmament. This coincidence enabled Freemasons to wear forget-me-not badge as a secret sign of membership.<ref>{{De icon}} Accessed ] ].</ref><ref> Accessed ] ].</ref><ref>Die Freimaurer-Logen Deutschlands und deren Grosslogen 1737-1972 (Quatuor Coronati Bayreuth, Hamburg 1974). Second revised edition, Karl Heinz Francke and Dr. Ernst-Günther Geppert, Die Freimaurer-Logen Deutschlands und deren Grosslogen 1737-1985 (Hamburg 1988).</ref>

	After the ], the forget-me-not<ref> Accessed February 6, 2006.</ref> flower was used again as a Masonic emblem at the 1948, first, Annual Convention in of the United Grand Lodges of Germany, Ancient Free & Accepted Masons. The badge is now worn in the coat lapel by Freemasons around the world to remember all those that have suffered in the name of Freemasonry, and specifically those during the ].<ref> Accessed ] ].</ref><ref> Accessed ] ].</ref>

	== Cultural references ==
	(''There are books and websites dedicated to cultural information and references to Freemasonry''.)<ref></ref>

	* Freemason<ref> Accessed 25 October, 2006</ref> ] used Masonic symbols and characters in his works, most notably '']'', in which two adventurers are taken to be Masonic representatives of ]. This story was adapted and ] by ], in 1975.

	* In ]'s ] "]", Montresor alludes to being a Freemason.

	* Pierre Bezhukov, one of the main characters in ] novel '']'', becomes a Freemason.

	* The plot of ]'s opera '']'' ("The Magic Flute") contains several references to Masonic ideals and ceremonies. Mozart and his librettist ] were both members of Lodge of the Nine Muses, a Masonic Lodge.

	*], the founder of ], was a Freemason, as were the first five presidents of ]: Smith, ], ], ], and ]. All became Freemasons at a regular Lodge in ], ].<ref name="LDS Presidents Who Were Masons"> Accessed ] ].</ref>

	* Several references to Freemasonry and its rituals are made in ] ] stories, notably in ] and ]. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle was raised a Freemason in ].

	* The ] '']'' by ]—and the movie based upon it—feature as their basic premise a ] linking "certain Freemasons" to the ] murders. The story is that "Freemason" ], the then British Royal Household's physician, covered up a child of ] born to a Catholic shop girl "by killing her, and all the women who knew about the baby". The story depends on the assumption that such figures as the ], Sir William Gull and ] were Freemasons, but there is no actual record of their initiation into Freemasonry in any Lodge.

	* Freemasons feature heavily in ] and ] satire, '']''.

	* ], and other cast members, portray ] Freemasons in the "How to recognise a Freemason" and "Architect's Sketch" sketches of '']''.

	* The Freemasons are ] in an episode of '']'', titled "]", as ], a secret organisation that controls everything from the ] to the ] (thereby securing ]'s stardom).

	* Another episode of ''],'' entitled "]", has a scene where ], obsessed with germs and having become a "]"-like recluse, sees germs on ] face. The germs chant "Freemasons run the country."

	* ] novels, '']'', '']'' and '']'' draw heavily on supposed Masonic and Christian lore and symbolism.

	* '']'' by ] also deals with Masonic themes.

	* ] films by ] use Masonic imagery.

	* The plot of the 2004 movie '']'' revolves heavily around the Freemasons and is somewhat unusual in that it depicts them in a benign light.

	* In '']'' Italian writer ] includes Masonic Lodges branching out into the lands of Ombrosa with the protagonist of the novel, Cosimo di Rondo, mysteriously and supposedly involved with them.

	* ] and Deborah Turner Harris use Freemasonry in their series ''The Adept'', most notably in ''The Adept Book Two: The Lodge of the Lynx'', and in Kurtz's ] ] ''Two Crowns for America'', which links Freemasonry and ].

	* In ]'s novel '']'', the main character Adam Trask is mentioned as becoming a Freemason later in life.

	* ]'s science fiction novel '']'' depicts a futuristic revolutionary organization that uses masonic terminology, and may include Freemasons as part of its coalition. (Heinlein himself was not a Mason.)<ref>http://www.heinleinsociety.org/rah/FAQrah.html</ref>

	* ] discusses Freemasonry in his ] novel, '']''.

	* Frank Ross is buried by members of his lodge in ]'s novel ].

	*There are references to Masonic Ladies' Nights in several of ] ''] stories.

	==Notes==
	<div class="references-small" style="-moz-column-count:2; column-count:2;"><references/></div>

	== Bibliography ==
	===Books===
	*], ], ], "]", 1982.
	*Baigent, Michael, Leigh, Richard, Lincoln, Henry, "The Messianic Legacy", 1989.
	*Bessel, Paul, M, "Abraham Lincoln and Freemasonry", Transactions of the A. Douglas Smith, Jr. Lodge of Research, v.203., July 29, 1995, #1949, Virginia.
	*Bessell, Paul, M.,
	*Bessell, Paul, M.,
	*Coil, Henry Wilson, Roberts, Allen, E., "Coil's Masonic Encyclopedia", 1961.
	*Coil, Henry Wilson, "A Comprehensive View of Freemasonry"
	*Harwood, Jeremy, "The Freemasons", Publisher: Hermes House; 1st edition, 2006. ISBN 0-681-46235-3<br>Beautifully illustrated with old and modern plates.
	*Hodapp, Christopher, "Freemasons for Dummies", Hungry Minds Inc, U.S., 2005. ISBN 0-7645-9796-5
	*Lomas, Robert, "Freemasonry and the Birth of Modern Science"
	*Mackey, Albert, G., "Lexicon of Freemasonry"
	*MacNulty, W., Kirk, "Freemasonry: A Journey Through Ritual and Symbol", 1991, Thames & London Ltd., London. ISBN 0-500-81037-0
	*Macoy, Robert, "A Dictionary of Freemasonry".
	*Morris, S. Brent, "The Complete Idiot's Guide to Freemasonry", Alpha (Penguin), 2006. ISBN 1-59257-490-4
	*Newton, Joseph, Fort, "The Builders: A Story and Study of Freemasonry", 1914.
	*Ovason, David, "The Secret Architecture of Our Nation's Capital: The Masons and the Building of Washington, D.C.", 2002.
	*], "]", 1872.
	*Ridley, Jasper, "The Freemasons", Arcade Publishing, 2001. ISBN 1-55970-654-6
	*Roberts, Allen, E., "The Craft and Its Symbols", 1974.
	*Robinson, John J. "Born in Blood: The Lost Secrets of Freemasonry", 1990.
	*Robinson, John J. "A Pilgrim's Path" M. Evans and Co., Inc. New York.
	*Vaughn, William Preston, "The Antimasonic Party in the United States 1826-1843", 1983, University Press of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky.
	*Supreme Council, Ancient & Accepted Scottish Rite, Southern Jurisdiction, USA. ''The Scottish Rite Journal'', and ''Heredom: The Transactions of the Scottish Rite Research Society''.

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	== See also ==
	* ]
	* ]
	* ] - ] condemns Freemasonry
	* ]
	* ]
	* ]
	* ]
	* ]
	* ] – The P2 Masonic Lodge Scandal
	* ]
	* ]
	* ]
	* ]
	* ]

	==External links==
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	*
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	* The Book of Constitutions of the Antient Grand Lodge of England (1756)
	*, USNews.com, by Jay Tolson, ] ].
	*, by William Morgan, from ]

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Revision as of 10:34, 9 November 2006

|The Masonic Square and Compasses. Found with or without the ‘G’]] Freemasonry is a fraternal organization whose membership is held together by shared moral and metaphysical ideals and—in most of its branches—by a constitutional declaration of belief in a Supreme Being. MASON IS KINDA OF FUCK,SHIT,BITCH,DOG,PIGS RELIGION!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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Freemasonry and Religion (UGLE) Accessed 12 June 2006