Our fraternity’s centuries-old tradition was to wait for interested men to inquire about membership. Today, however, we allow our members to selectively invite men of good character, who will be a credit to our fraternity, to consider submitting a petition. This doesn’t mean that you have to wait to be invited to join the Freemasons of Pennsylvania.
What is Freemasonry?
Through Freemasonry, men from all different backgrounds and walks of life come together as equals and call each other “Brother.” What unifies Masons is not where we come from or what we do for a living, but rather what we aspire to be.
Every Mason takes an obligation to strengthen his character by applying our timeless virtues of brotherly love, charity and truth to his everyday life.
Who Can Become a Freemason?
Freemasonry welcomes men of every religion, race, age, income, education and opinion. However, to join Freemasonry, one must meet the following qualifications:
- Male
- At least 18 years of age
- Hold a belief in the existence of a Supreme Being
- Good moral character
- Motivated to join for reasons unrelated to personal gain or profit
- Prompted by a favorable opinion of Freemasonry
- Eager to gain knowledge
- Able to pass a background check
- Willing to be part of the long-standing traditions of the fraternity
Membership Benefits
Social Benefits
- Being part of a worldwide network of quality men who go out of their way to support one another, as well as their friends and families, through both life’s challenges and achievements
- Many unique opportunities to use your talents and resources to impact the lives of others and make the world a better place
Educational Opportunities
- Masonic education, public speaking, leadership training, networking and mentoring opportunities
- Access to a circulating library with research and genealogical services
- Workshops, conferences and seminars for adults focused on skills and strategies to support the youth in their life
- Engaging programming and youth organizations that empower young people to develop into leaders
- Need and merit-based scholarships for students furthering their education and training
- Free guided tours of the magnificent Masonic Temple in Philadelphia, a national historic landmark
Supportive Services for Pennsylvania Masons and their Families:
- Temporary financial assistance
- Free information and referral services through the Outreach Program
- Access to volunteer attorneys and financial planners who provide free direction and advice.
- Free membership in the Masonic Blood+Organ Donor Program
- Priority access to retirement living, personal care and nursing care in Elizabethtown, Lafayette Hill, Sewickley and Warminster, without regard to the ability to pay
- Benefits counseling and support for veterans (also available to non-Masons)
- Support and assistance for widows of Pennsylvania Masons
Content provided by the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania