How to become a member
Freemasonry is open to men of good character aged 18 or over who believe in a Supreme Being, whatever their faith. You do not need to know anyone in the lodge; plenty of our members did not.
The process, step by step
There are two ways in. Both are friendly, unhurried and give you every chance to ask questions before you commit.
You know a member
Introduced by someone in the lodge- Introduction. Your friend tells our Membership Officer about you.
- Informal chat. You, your friend and the Membership Officer meet to talk it through.
- Committee interview. A relaxed but proper conversation with the lodge committee.
- Decision. We let you know the outcome and what happens next.
You don't know anyone
Enquiry through the Province or this website- Enquiry. You get in touch, or the Province passes on your interest.
- Informal chat. A friendly meeting with the Membership Officer and a member or two.
- Committee interview. A chance for both sides to ask questions.
- Decision. We let you know the outcome and what happens next.
Both routes then follow the same path
Application
The Secretary completes your formal application with you.
Proposal
Your name is put forward at a regular meeting.
Ballot
Members vote on your admission at the next meeting.
Date confirmed
The Secretary writes with your date and what to expect.
Initiation
Your first ceremony, and the start of your time at Ashlar.
Your journey as a Freemason
Initiation makes you an Entered Apprentice. Two further ceremonies follow in the lodge as you progress, making you a Master Mason. In line with UGLE's Building Together approach, the Royal Arch is then offered as the completion of that journey.
Entered Apprentice
Your first ceremony and your welcome into the lodge.
Fellow Craft
Focuses on learning and personal growth.
Master Mason
Completes your three ceremonies in the lodge.
Royal Arch
Taken in a Chapter when you are ready. It completes the journey, but whether and when you join is your choice.
What happens at the first ceremony?
Nothing humiliating, degrading or unpleasant. Every member has been through the same ceremony. It works like a short play with you as the central character, and it is designed to make you feel welcome.
How much time does it take?
We meet eight times a year, on the fourth Thursday of January to May and September to November, at 6.30pm, with a meal afterwards. There is an optional practice evening once a month. You will learn a few short answers between ceremonies, and members help you with that.
What does it cost?
We are open about costs from the first conversation. As a guide:
- One-off fees of £166 (initiation £25, Grand Lodge registration £126, Book of Constitutions £15).
- An annual subscription of £200, reduced pro rata if you join part way through the year, and payable monthly by direct debit.
- £21 for the meal at each meeting.
Regalia is provided free until you complete your third ceremony.
What should I wear?
A dark suit, long-sleeved white shirt, black tie, black socks and black shoes.
Can I meet people before I join?
Yes, and we encourage it. Candidates are welcome at our social events, charity functions and informal get-togethers, so you will know plenty of faces by the time you join.
What do you look for in a member?
Good character and integrity, a genuine interest in Freemasonry, a willingness to take part in lodge life, and respect for its values and traditions.
Fancy a chat?
Our Membership Officer, WBro Darren Sewell, is happy to answer any questions with no obligation.