About Freemasonry

Freemasonry has many aims and objectives:

  • Knowledge

    We are dedicated to making good men better and to developing our knowledge of ourselves as individuals and the world around us through education, discussion and social exchange.

  • Mental and Physical Abilities

    We aim to make proper use of our time, dividing it between worship, work, leisure and service, thus making the best use of our mental and physical abilities.

  • Providing Talent

    We aim to use our talents for the benefit of ourselves, our families, our neighbours and our communities throughout our private, public business and professional life.

  • Membership

    We declare our membership whenever any possible conflict of interest may arise or be perceived to arise.

  • Integrity

    We promise not to use our membership to promote our own or anyone else’s private, public business or professional interests.

Moral & Social Standards

Although there are several regional and national Masonic charities, which you can read about under the section Charity, Pilgrim Lodge, supported by Yorkshire West Riding Province, is also very active in local charities.

These include supporting the Yorkshire Air Ambulance, purchasing waterproof radios for the Otley Sailing Club and purchasing and building a playground for a local school etc. The list goes on..

Friendship

  • We admit members from every ethnic group in the world.
  • We believe that all individuals are equal and dependant on each other. That they must be valued for their own merits regardless of factors such as race, national origin, religious creed, social status or wealth.
  • We respect the ideals and beliefs of others and endeavour to behave with kindness and understanding to all.
  • We cherish all life and the well being of all.

Charity

  • We consider charity as being goodwill to all.
  • We care not only for Masons and their families, but also for the community as a whole.
  • We raise money for charitable purposes only from our own members, not from the general public.
  • We give as generously as our wealth will allow and through voluntary work in the community.
  • Not only do we donate to local charities and good causes but also to medical research and need both locally and on a National scale.

Integrity & Values

  • We strive for truth and believe that nothing can justify the telling of lies or being untrustworthy.
  • We treat everyone in an open and honest manner.
  • Our Values are expressed as single words, which describe those attributes that Freemasons try to practise.
    • Friendship
    • Charity
    • Integrity
    • Respect
    • Virtue
    • Self-discipline
    • Patience
    • Discretion