What is Freemasonry?

Freemasonry is a fraternity of brothers who share one common goal: to help each other become better men. We strengthen and improve our character by learning and practicing basic virtues of fraternal love, charity, and truth. Our principles extend far beyond our interactions with each other, and we strive to apply them to our daily lives. All who join Freemasonry must declare their belief in the existence of a Supreme Being, and practice their own personal faith, but the fraternity is neither a religion nor a place to worship. Rather, it is a place where men of all monotheistic creeds can meet and focus on the great truths of peaceful human interaction that are common to all religions.

Who can join? To qualify for membership, a petitioner must be male, at least 18 years of age, one who believes in the existence of a Supreme Being, of good moral character, motivated to join for reasons unrelated to personal gain or profit, prompted by a favorable opinion of Freemasonry, desirous of earning knowledge and willing to conform to the ancient usages and customs of the fraternity.

How to Join?  Our tradition was to wait for you to seek membership entirely of your own free will and accord. Today, however, we allow our members to selectively invite men of good character, who will be a credit to our Fraternity. But this doesn't mean that you have to wait to be invited to join the Freemasons of Pennsylvania. Your interest is enough, if you meet the qualifications.

To start the process, you must first submit a petition for membership (Click here to have an Officer of Mountain Lodge contact you). This petition will be read at a meeting of the Lodge you are seeking to join. You will then be visited by a small committee from the Lodge who will ascertain your qualifications and answer any questions you or your family may have regarding Freemasonry. At the next meeting, the members will vote on your petition for membership. Once approved, you will be asked to attend three successive meetings, during which you will learn the teachings of Freemasonry. In ceremonies known as Degrees you will assume your vows of membership. The fee for joining Freemasonry varies with each Lodge and includes your dues for the first year.

Values of Freemasonry

•    The Belief in a Supreme Being
•    The Brotherhood of Man
•    Family
•    Love of Country – Being a Good Citizen
•    Charity to our Community
•    Honor – True to Your Word
•    Duty – Civil and Moral Responsibilities

Why Do We Organize Into Lodges?

•    Support the Values of Freemasonry
•    Promote the Landmarks
•    Promote Charity Within Our Community
•    Confer Symbolic Degrees
•    Educate Our Members
•    Promote Harmony Among the Members