A LETTER TO THE PETITIONER
(To be handed to the
petitioner with blank petition)
Albuquerque, New
Mexico
Dear Sir:
Having expressed a desire to become a
Freemason, we presume you are willing to consider thoroughly the step you
propose to take. The exact nature of our institution being unknown to you, we
deem it advisable that you should be informed on certain points, the knowledge
of which may affect your decision to apply for membership.
Freemasonry interferes neither with
religion nor politics, but has for its foundation the great basic principles of
the Fatherhood of God and the Brotherhood of Man. No atheist can be a
Freemason. Freemasonry strives to teach a man the duty he owes to God, to his
neighbor and to himself. It includes the practice of virtue and makes an
extensive use of symbolism in its teachings.
It cannot be too strongly
emphasized that Freemasonry is not to be entered into in the hope of personal
gain or advancement. Admission thereto must not be sought from mercenary or
other unworthy motives. Any one so actuated will be bitterly disappointed. The
aim of the true Freemason is to cultivate a brotherly feeling among men and to
help whomever he can. ,
Freemasonry is not a Benefit Society. This fact cannot
be too strongly emphasized. We do not contribute any amount to entitle us to
draw sick pay or benefits, or to make provision for those who survive us. There
are other excellent Societies founded for this purpose. No man should enter the
ranks of Freemasonry in hope or
expectation
that he will derive any financial benefit from it. Masonic Charity is directed
towards those who, from unforeseen circumstances and through no fault of their
own, have met with misfortune.
Loyalty to one's country is an essential
qualification in Freemasonry, and only those are acceptable who cheerfully
render obedience to every lawful authority. Disloyalty in any form is abhorrent
to a Freemason and is regarded as a serious Masonic offense.
Freemasonry has, in all ages, insisted
that men should come to its doors entirely of their own free will. Not as a
result of solicitations, or from feelings of curiosity but simply from a
favorable opinion of the Institution and a desire to be ranked among its
members.
We think it advisable to inform you that
admission to our craft will entail certain financial obligations which you
should be able to discharge without detriment to yourself or those dependent on
you. In addition to the fees payable on your entrance, there will be annual
dues and possibly other assessments for the support of the Lodge. From time to
time, you may be called upon to contribute for the relief work connected with
the Craft.
We have no authority at the present time
to give you further information regarding the Brotherhood you wish to join. We
have provided sufficient information to enable you to conclude that Freemasonry
is not contrary to the principles which mark a man of upright heart and mind
and is not inconsistent with one's civil, moral or religious duties.
Knowing that a man's family is interested
in any step taken that may affect their social connections and feeling that
they, too, should have a clear understanding of the nature of the Fraternity,
we would urge you to show this letter to them and discuss it with them, before
submitting your petition.
The Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of
PRINT THIS LETTER, THEN CLICK HERE
TO OPEN THE FORM & PRINT IT.