How to join
If you are interested in becoming a Freemason, you may be surprised to find that it is easier than you might have expected.
Joining St. John's Lodge
Freemasonry, or The Craft as it is also known, is founded on the principles of Integrity, Friendship, Respect and Service. The Universities Scheme does not change that – it is a pathway to membership, not a different sort of Freemasonry. Membership is open to all men – the idea that you have to wait to be asked is a myth – but there are some basic requirements: you must ‘have a belief in a Supreme Being, be a mature man of 18 years and over and be of good character’.
To start the process off simply get in touch and register an interest – we will get back to you and set up an initial chat. You’ll have the opportunity to ask any questions along the way and to find out more information about things like meeting dates and times, dining costs and the frequency of rehearsals.
You will be made welcome. Every Freemasons’ Lodge has a Lodge Mentor, who’s specific role is helping new members settle into Freemasonry and to encourage and support them on every step of the journey.
The joining process
1. A meeting and a chat
We will organise an informal meeting with you and some members of the Lodge, at a convenient time and place. We will explain some things about Freemasonry and the obligations of membership and you get to ask any questions that you may have.
There is absolutely no obligation to this chat.
2. Proposed and balloted
Assuming you wish to proceed your details are presented to the Lodge and you are proposed as a new member. Usually by a member who was at the meeting, who agrees to be your proposer, and another who agrees to second you.
At a regular Lodge meeting we then hold a vote or ballot on your candidacy.
3. Initiated
Having been successfully balloted for by the Lodge we will schedule your initiation into Lodge at one of our regular meetings. Be aware that this may seem to take a little while sometimes, because of Lodge commitments and schedules.
This is an amazing and very special evening for every candidate.
What happens after university?
We understand that once a member finishes their studies at university they may well move away from the area. If you’re moving location after leaving university you’ll be given support to find other suitable Lodges to join.
You’ll always be able to remain a member of St. John’s Lodge but membership migration is an important and accepted part of Freemasonry. If you do move areas help is provided, through UGLE, to ensure that scheme members can easily transfer to a new Lodge when they move – if you’re moving to start a new job its a great way to quickly make friends in a new place.
UGLE is the governing body of English Freemasonry. The United Grand Lodge of England was founded in 1717 and the Universities Scheme is a nationwide initiative on their part. The UGLE website has more background information and suggested reading for anyone interested in Freemasonry generally and the Universities Scheme in particular.
