Is Freemasonry A Service Organization?

There is a lot of discussion around what Freemasons "do" as an organization and this is a good question. The usual quick answer is "make good men better" and while this is true, it is a complex process, a lifelong journey. It's also important to undersand what Freemasonry isn't.

Freemasonry is not a "service organization" like Rotary Club, Lions or Kinsmen. These organizations were designed to raise funds to implement vital community projects, and their work is impressive, necessary and without reproach.

Freemasonry is a "way of life" a set of moral codes and guidelines for living honestly and giving back to society. As we apply the teachings of Freemasonry, we learn what it means to work hard, to appreciate our world, democracy and society.

Freemasons give back by joining community service organizations (like Rotary Clubs and Lions), by working hard at their work, participating in projects that benefit society and community. Many Masons are active in politics because the basic tenets of Freemasonry are democratic. In fact democratic process is a key area where Freemasonry has shown significant activity in the past. For good reason. Democracy works.

This about this: Most of the men who created the American Constitution were Freemasons. It was their desire for civil liberties and human rights that formed the underpinnings of the greatest democracy on earth today - the U.S.A. Because of the work of the founding fathers of America, an African American was able to win the Presidency of the United States.

Freemasonry is an organization that builds men of character, men who help their community, province, region and nation. Because of this, many bright, intelligent and charismatic men have been and are, Freemasons.