A Freemason's Lodge
A new member will initially go through an initiation (1st Degree) ceremony, which is carried out by the Master and senior members of the Lodge. On later occasions he will progress through two further ceremonies (2nd Degree and 3rd Degree) before becoming a Master Mason.
These ceremonies are extremely colouful and interesting, being based on historical events and spoken in mainly 18th century English, in which his duties as a Mason and the high standards of behaviour expected of him are explained in detail
In the years that follow he gains in Masonic knowledge as he progresses, Masonically speaking, 'up the ladder,' until, if he wishes, he has the opportunity to be Master of the Lodge. This post is usually occupied for one year, after which he is known as a Past Master.
A meeting of a Masonic Lodge will also include regular business such as approval of minutes and accounts, reports from various representatives, correspondence, etc. Meetings not carrying out a degree ceremony may instead contain a lecture or discussion on one or other aspect of Masonic knowledge or history.
The meeting over, members usually sit down at the 'social board' to enjoy a convivial meal , during which there are several formal and informal toasts and responses, which are generally of a lighthearted nature.
One of the great strengths of Freemasonry is the intervisiting between members of different Lodges, so that at any meeting there may be several visitors from various Lodges, who have been invited by members of the host Lodge, who in their turn may expect to receive reciprocal invitations. Having visitors amongst them puts Lodge members on their mettle to perform at their best during the evening, though the whole ambience is not one of competition, but of pleasure at being with one's friends, and at being a part of our close-knit brotherhood of like-minded people.
On the benevolent side, Masons in the U.K.raise millions of pound each year for charities, and West Lancashire Masons are prominent in this field. Members give generously to help those worse off than themselves, but are directed not to cause detriment to themselves or their families by their giving. Masons families are an important part of the Masonic equation,and Lodges hold various events throughout the year to involve them, and to make them feel a part of the whole.
And our members themselves ? Well it is true to say that during their Masonic career they grow visibly in stature, confidence and self-esteem. It is entirely possible that we can do that for you !"
Who are masons?
Freemasons come from all walks of life. From the Royal Family, from the professions, from business, from trade and from the shop floor, and each is a "brother" to everyone else.
And it is not the prerogative of the rich - it costs far less to be a Mason than to be a member of the local golf club. Freemasonry does not have a restricted or closed membership but is available to all men of good character.
The popular image of Masons meeting with trouser legs rolled up, whilst amusing, is not, of course, true. It is based on the fact that a new member taking an obligation as to his conduct does so in the historic and traditional manner - "on bare and bended knee".
A way of living
"Freemasonry is a way of living. Its members are expected to be thoughtful to others, kind in the community, honest in their dealings, courteous in society and fair in all things. These attributes are instilled in Masons throughout their Masonic careers.
Great emphasis is placed on charity - concern for people, care for the less fortunate and help for those in need. Large sums of money are raised by West Lancashire Masons, and distributed to charities throughout the Province."