Common Questions
Freemasonry FAQ
Curious about the Craft? Here are honest answers to the questions people ask us most.
- What is Freemasonry?
- Freemasonry is one of the world's oldest and largest fraternities — a society of men bound by shared moral values and a belief in a Supreme Being. Using the tools and symbols of ancient stonemasons as allegory, it teaches lessons of integrity, charity, and self-improvement. Masons often describe its purpose simply: to make good men better.
- Is Freemasonry a religion?
- No. Freemasonry is not a religion, nor a substitute for one. It asks that members believe in a Supreme Being, but it has no doctrine of salvation and takes no position on any particular faith. Men of many religions meet together as brothers, and the discussion of specific religion (and politics) is not permitted in lodge.
- Is Freemasonry a secret society?
- No. Our lodge, meeting times, members, and purpose are all public. Like many organizations, we keep certain traditions private — our modes of recognition and the details of our ceremonies — but Freemasonry itself is open about who we are and what we do. Its “secrets” have been in print for well over a century.
- What do Freemasons do?
- Masons meet regularly for fellowship, personal growth, and to conduct the business of the lodge. A great deal of what we do is charitable — supporting scholarships, youth programs, and neighbors in need. We also share meals, mentorship, and lifelong friendship.
- How do you become a Freemason? Do you have to be invited?
- You are never invited or recruited — a man must ask of his own free will. If you're interested, you simply reach out to a lodge, get to know the members, and when you're ready, submit a petition for membership signed by current Masons. In Texas, Masons are forbidden from soliciting members, so the first step is always yours to take.
- What are the requirements to join?
- In Texas, you must be a man at least 18 years of age, of good moral character, who believes in a Supreme Being and comes of his own free will. Race, national origin, and particular religion are not considered.
- How much does it cost to become a Mason?
- There are modest one-time fees for the three degrees and affordable annual dues that support the lodge. Cost should never keep a good man from joining. We're glad to discuss the specifics with anyone considering membership — just contact us.
- How long does it take to become a Master Mason?
- It varies by the candidate. You progress through three degrees — Entered Apprentice, Fellowcraft, and Master Mason — at your own pace, learning some memory work along the way. Many complete the journey in several months to about a year.
- What are the three degrees of Masonry?
- Entered Apprentice (the first degree, when a man is initiated), Fellowcraft (the second, when he is passed), and Master Mason (the third, when he is raised). Each degree builds on the last through ceremony and moral teaching.
- Can women join Freemasonry?
- Traditional Ancient Free & Accepted Masonry is a fraternity of men. Women and families are warmly welcomed through related Masonic organizations such as the Order of the Eastern Star, and we're happy to point you toward them.
- Do you have to believe in God, and which religions are welcome?
- You must profess a belief in a Supreme Being, but Freemasonry does not define that belief or favor any faith. Men of all religions are welcome to meet together in brotherhood.
- Are Shriners, Scottish Rite, and York Rite the same as Masons?
- They are part of the wider Masonic family. A man first becomes a Master Mason; he may then choose to join appendant bodies such as the Scottish Rite, the York Rite, or the Shriners, each with its own focus and charities.
- What charities do Freemasons support?
- Charity — what Masons call “relief” — is central to the fraternity. Nationwide, Masons give millions to hospitals, research, and scholarships. Locally, League City Lodge No. 1053 supports the Lamar Scholarship, the Eagle Scout Recognition Program, and the Fantastic Teeth children's dental program.
- Where and when does League City Lodge No. 1053 meet?
- We meet at 510 E Main Street, League City, TX 77573. Our stated meetings are the 1st and 3rd Thursday at 6:30 PM, with called meetings on Mondays at 6:00 PM. Visitors are always welcome — please contact us ahead of time so we can greet you.
Still have questions?
We're glad to answer anything else you'd like to know about Freemasonry or our lodge.