Freemasonry means different things to those who join. For some, it’s about making new friends. For others it’s about being able to help deserving causes – making a contribution to family and for society. But for most, it is an enjoyable hobby.

Freemasonry is one of the world’s oldest and largest non-religious, non-political, fraternal and charitable organisations. It teaches self-knowledge through participation in a progression of ceremonies known as Degrees. Members are expected to be of high moral standing and are encouraged to speak openly to others about Freemasonry.

The meeting, which like those of other groups, are open only to members, is normally in two parts.

First, there are normal administrative procedures such as:

• Administration matters such as the confirmation of minutes of the previous meeting
• Proposing and balloting for new candidates
• Discussing and voting on the annual accounts
• Masonic news and correspondence from the Province or United Grand Lodge of England and
• News about charitable work and donations

Second, there are the ceremonies for:

• Admitting new members into Freemasonry
• Progressing members to the next Degree
• The annual installation of the Master of the Lodge and his officers

Generally a meeting will end with a Festive Board where members and their guests dine together.

New Freemasons make solemn promises concerning their behaviour both in the Lodge and in society.

Members also promise to keep confidential the way they recognise each other when visiting another Lodge.

Freemasons also promise to support others in time of need but only so far as it does not conflict with their family, work commitments and public obligations.

Freemasonry, as a body, will never express a view on politics or state policy.

The discussion of politics at Masonic meetings is not permitted.

Wearing regalia is historic and symbolic. Like a uniform, the regalia indicates the rank of the wearer in the organisation.

Basic Freemasonry consists of three degrees:

• Entered Apprentice
• Fellow Craft
• Master Mason

There are other Degrees of interest which a Mason can explore.

There is an initiation fee on entry to Adel Lodge and in due course regalia will have to be purchased.

There is also an annual subscription of £225.00 to the Lodge.

On the 1st Tuesday of every month we have a three course meal costing £16.50

Freemasons are invited to give to charity at each meeting but this should always be within their means and it is entirely up to the individual how much they wish to contribute.

If you do not know anyone who is a Freemasons explore the website for more information.

Once you have made the decision that you want to join complete the Contact Us form to register your interest. The secretary from Adel Lodge will be in touch shortly after to arrange an informal chat and an opportunity for you to meet some of our members.

The Square and Compass are the symbols of Morality, a reminder to be good men.

In Masonry, the Square is a symbol of our ability to use the teachings of conscience and morality, and to try the rightness of our actions. It is a reminder to deal “squarely” with someone, to be fair and honest, as we ourselves would want others to treat us.

The Compasses symbolize our intention to draw a boundary around our own desires, to circumscribe our passions and our determination – thus to keep ourselves within that circle of self-restraint and moderation, which is the foundation of morality and wisdom.

They, together with the Volume of the Sacred Law are also called the Three Great Emblematical Lights of the Lodge.