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There are probably many answers to these
questions as there are Freemasons because there are so many
facets to the organization, and its attractions so varied, that
not all members have joined to become active for the same
reason. Nevertheless, there are certain tangible
and intangible things which have made Freemasonry the largest
and oldest fraternity, as well as the largest philanthropic
organization, in the world.
Freemasonry has existed because it supplies
the answers to many human needs. Man is a social creature and
many a non-members is attracted to Freemasonry by the close
friendship that exists between its members. The elusive tie that binds all masons
together actually exists. Notice how often Freemasons who have
never met before immediately become friendly. This is no
accident but the result of knowing that each was recommended to
membership by a good man, was subjected to an investigation, has
taken part in ceremonies that obligates them to a high moral
standards and has taken the responsibility to become a
conscientious and honorable individual as well as to be
charitable in thought, word and deed.
Another factor is the number of great men
who have been members of the Masonic fraternity inn all ages.
But the most important element that commands attention of the
public is the charitable work that is done by the Freemasons and
the Masonic family. The Masonic family distributes approximately
three and half million dollars a day to various charitable and
research projects throughout the world.
The non-members is also attracted by the
spirit of tolerance that exists in Freemasonry. The tenets of
Freemasonry teach that every mason should espouse brotherly
love, relief and truth. Brotherly love in the sense that all men
are created equal; on this principle Freemasonry unites men of
all nationalities and religious beliefs and conciliates true
friendship amongst those who might otherwise remain at a
perpetual distance.
Clearly Freemasonry is attractive to
non-members for the many fine activities that are engaged in by
its members as well as the quality of its membership. Freemasons
spend time in working for the Craft because its many personal
satisfactions and the knowledge that Freemasonry does its part
in making this a better world to live.
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