What is Masonry?

  • What is a Mason?
    • A Mason is a member of the oldest and largest goodwill fraternity in the world, known as Masonry or Freemasonry. Masonry teaches that each man has a duty to make life better, not just for himself, but for everyone. Whether that means helping to clean up the environment, volunteering on civic projects, or helping a child learn how to read – Masons make a difference every day.
    • Although Masonry is not a religion, members must have a belief in a Supreme Being. All religions are welcome. Masonry insists on toleration and the right for each member to think for himself in religious, social, and political matters. Like any fraternity, some of the Masonic information is privileged to only the members. However, Masonry is not a secret society. It does not hide its existence or attempt to conceal the purposes, goals, or principles of Masonry.
    • Most importantly, Masons are presented with the opportunity to grow as individuals, are provided with the tools to make a difference, and are challenged to leave the world a better place.
  • Who are Masons?
    • Masons are everywhere. In Texas alone there are more than 880 Lodges with more than 90,000 members. Over the years, presidents, politicians, military leaders, corporate executives, and community leaders have been Masons. The men who choose Masonry come from all walks of life – from the rich and famous to the everyday blue collar worker – but agree to join together, improve themselves, and improve the world around them.
  • Philosophy and Beliefs
    • Masons Believe in Courage, Kindness, and Generosity
      • We’ve watched the centuries pass, wars fought, diseases cured, countries founded and destroyed. While the world has continued to evolve, the principle foundations of what Masons believe in have not wavered.
      • We believe in . . .
        • Kindness in the home
        • Honesty in business
        • Courtesy in society
        • Fairness and dependability in work
        • Compassion and support for the weak and less fortunate
        • Brotherly love and respect for one another
        • Devotion to a Supreme Being
      • While Masonry is an ancient organization that has impacted the world in so many positive ways, it’s not for everyone. That is part of what makes us unique in the world today. Words like honor, virtue, and integrity describe how we choose to live our lives.
    • What We Do
      • Masons Stay Active in Community, Church, and School
        • Freemasons meet regularly at their established Lodge (the local organization of Freemasony) for the transaction of lodge business, for fellowship, and for the discussion of matters of Masonic interest. Since Masons are pledged to fulfill the demands of good citizenship, each Lodge works to maintain a vibrant, respected, and active role in community life. Lodges also work to forge alliances within the community designed to help the general public while developing the character of Masons.Community programs supported by Hill City Lodge #456 include scholarships to graduating high school student and to college students; financial support for community organizations, such as Boy Scouts of America and Meals on Wheels; and assisting in the construction of community spaces, such as the Southwest Austin Youth Sports Association.
      • Special Focus on Education
        • Freemasons started some of the first public schools in both Europe and America. We supported legislation to make education universal. In the 1800s, Masons lobbied for the establishment of state-supported education and federal land-grant colleges. In fact, many Texas public schools began on the first floor of Masonic lodges.Today, Masons give millions of dollars in scholarships each year. We encourage our members to give volunteer time to their local schools, buy classroom supplies for teachers, help with literacy programs, and do everything they can to help ensure that each person – adult or child – has the best educational opportunities possible.