Hackenburg Mt. Moriah Masonic Lodge Number 19 - 1 North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107

Q:		WHAT IS FREEMASONRY?
A:		Freemasonry is the most widely recognized fraternal society in the world. It is a centuries-old brotherhood of men from different religious, ethnic, social, and economic backgrounds. It requires each member to believe in God, while accepting that his fellow members may hold very different beliefs than his own. Freemasonry respects each man’s success and place in society while treating him as an equal in the lodge room. It encourages members to take the lessons learned in the lodge, such as tolerance, integrity, civility, and charity, and apply them outside the lodge for the betterment of themselves, their families, and their communities. Thus, good men build character and become even better friends, citizens, husbands, fathers, and brothers. Today, Masonry has over 3 million members, with more than 1 million residing in North America.
Q:		WHO WE ARE
A:		A Freemason is a man who has taken an obligation to uphold our timeless principles of Brotherly love, relief, and truth. Beyond these basics, being a Freemason means so much more. A Freemason is a man who is committed to bettering himself and his community, having taken a solemn vow to help and mentor his Masonic Brothers do the same. A Freemason is a man eager to be part of something bigger than himself, with a reverence for history, compassion in his heart, and a desire to create a better future. There are three degrees in Freemasonry: Entered Apprentice, Fellowcraft, and Master Mason. Most men advance to the level of Master Mason, some over the course of months; others may accomplish this goal over years. But once a man has taken his first obligation as an Entered Apprentice, he is, once and forever, a Freemason.
Q:		WHAT WE BELIEVE
A:		The core ethical principles of Freemasonry are about compassion and tolerance for all mankind. Freemasons do not use their position in the fraternity to advance an agenda, whether it be political, professional, religious, or secular. THE THREE TENETS OF FREEMASONRY INCLUDE: BROTHERLY LOVE Devotion to and caring for each other and our community RELIEF Concern for and selfless giving to those in distress TRUTH Using knowledge, honesty, and understanding to build ourselves into better men
Q:		FREEMASONRY IN THE COMMUNITY
A:		Masons in Pennsylvania serve their communities in various practical ways. You can find them hosting blood drives, sponsoring youth sports teams, cleaning up a local park, collecting food donations or serving as scout leaders. These community service projects, as well as random acts of kindness, are everyday reflections of who Freemasons are and the values for which they stand.
Q:		NEW MEMBER FAQ
A:		1. Is Freemasonry a Secret Society? Freemasonry is not a secret society. Our members do not hide their affiliations. Our buildings are well-marked and often available for community use. While there are a few confidential handgrips and passwords used to confirm membership, we have no secrets concerning our purpose and programs. Many of our activities are open to family and friends. 2. Is there Hazing? There is absolutely no hazing permitted in the Masonic fraternity. 3. Is Memorization Required? Like all fraternities, Freemasonry has impressive ritual ceremonies that date back centuries. These are presented from memory by officers who are developing their leadership and public speaking skills. There is no requirement to memorize any ritual, but members may choose to participate if they wish. 4. What Happens After I Submit My Form to Join? When the apply form is submitted, our team will process a background check. Upon passing the background check, a member will discuss with you the purpose, values and history of the fraternity; the requirements and expectations of a potential member; and the benefits of membership. The member will recommend a local lodge, to which you will submit a petition for membership. Some members will visit your home to meet your family and answer any questions they may have. Lodge members will vote on your petition for membership. After a favorable vote, you will be enrolled in the Masonic Education program and assigned a mentor to prepare you for receiving your three degrees.