Kenosha, WI masons refer to themselves as "Craftsmen" because it holds historical and symbolic significance, representing the values of self-improvement, ethical conduct, and the collective pursuit of noble ideals. The concept of the craftsman is used to convey important moral and philosophical teachings within the framework of Masonic ritual and symbolism, symbolizing the pursuit of personal and collective enlightenment and moral development.
Prince Hall Freemasonry has a unique history that dates back to the late 18th century when Prince Hall and 14 other free African American men were initiated into Freemasonry in Boston. Due to racial segregation and discrimination, these men were unable to join existing white lodges. After receiving a Charter from the Grand Lodge of England, the men formed their own lodge, the African Lodge No. 1, which became the foundation of Prince Hall Freemasonry.
On the other hand, the term "Ancient Free and Accepted Masons" (AF&AM) generally refers to predominantly white Freemasons who trace their roots back to Europe.
While the two branches share the fundamental principles and teachings of Freemasonry, including the emphasis on brotherly love, relief, and truth, they have evolved separately due to historical, social, and cultural differences. Both Prince Hall Freemasonry and AF&AM are recognized as legitimate and regular branches of Freemasonry, and they are often in fraternal recognition with each other, meaning they acknowledge each other's legitimacy and often engage in fraternal visitation and collaboration.
It's important to note that Freemasonry as a whole prioritizes the values of tolerance, diversity, and equality, and many Freemasons are actively engaged in promoting racial and social justice within the fraternity and in wider society.
Yes. Like all organizations, Lodges must be able to pay their light bills. There is a one-time fee for the three degrees of Masonry, as well as regular annual dues. These vary widely depending on the number of members, the actual physical facilities of the Lodge, etc. The fees and dues, however, are not prohibitively expensive.
Yes. Prince Hall Masons have a long history of promoting equality and non-discrimination within its membership. While the fraternity was initially founded by African American Masons who were not allowed to join predominantly white Masonic lodges, Prince Hall Masons have evolved to welcome members of all races and backgrounds.
Today, it has a diverse membership, including men of various racial and ethnic backgrounds. Membership in Prince Hall Masonry is typically open to men who meet the organization's membership requirements and are willing to abide by its principles and rituals, regardless of their race or ethnicity.
It's important to note that Freemasonry as a whole has a strong commitment to promoting tolerance and diversity among its members, and many jurisdictions around the world have embraced this principle by fostering inclusive and welcoming environments for individuals from all walks of life.
If you're interested in becoming a Prince Hall Mason, we recommend reaching out to a local lodge or chapter to inquire about their membership criteria and any specific requirements they may have. Each lodge may have its own unique processes for membership, so it's best to connect directly with them to learn more about becoming a part of this historic and esteemed organization.
No. Secret societies are generally defined as organizations which are unknown to the public and whose existence is denied. The Illuminati and Mafia would be examples of secret societies. Masonry, on the other hand, is well-known and proudly displays its existence. Masonic Temples are clearly marked as such, and many Lodges are listed in the phone book (usually under “Fraternal Orders”). Members often wear rings or tie-clips that identify themselves as Masons, and Masons often participate in community charity work. Finally, some Masonic functions are open to the public. Masonry is not a secret society, but rather a society with a few secrets. These are mainly modes of recognition – the signals, grips, signs, and phrases by which Masons recognize each other. The actual degree rituals are considered secret, not because there is anything that would harm Masonry by their revelation, but rather because they are more meaningful if the candidate does not know what is going to go on during and beforehand. It should be pointed out that many other organizations have a similar class of secrets. College fraternities (a.k.a. “Greek letter organizations”) often have small secrets known only to their members, allowing them to travel from house to house and still be known. Just do a google search, while there's much you'll find on Masonry, (some of which is distorted) but there is very little you will find on Greek letter organizations.
No one. Each Grand Lodge has its own jurisdiction and is the supreme authority within that jurisdiction. Obviously, many Grand Lodges have regular communication with each other, but official policy in one has no effect in another.
No. Masonry is not a religion by the definitions most people use. Religion, as the term is commonly used, implies several things: a plan for salvation or path by which one reaches the after-life; a theology which attempts to describe the nature of God; and the description of ways or practices by which a man or woman may seek to communicate with God. Masonry does none of those things. We offer no plan of salvation. With the exception of saying that He is a loving Father who desires only good for His children, we make no effort to describe the nature of God. And while we open and close our meetings with prayer, and we teach that no man should ever begin any important undertaking without first seeking the guidance of God, we never tell a man how he should pray or for what he should pray. Instead, we tell him that he must find the answers to these great questions in his own faith, in his church or other house of worship. We urge men not to neglect their spiritual development and to be faithful in the practice of their religion. Freemasonry has no dogma or theology. It teaches that it is important for every man to have a religion of his choice and to be faithful to it. A good Mason is made even more faithful to the tenets of his faith by membership.
Nothing could be further from the truth. The rituals used for degree work are designed to reinforce virtues that the Craft finds desirable, such as Justice, Brotherly Love, Truth, and Relief. The rituals are actually quite beautiful and filled with ancient language and much symbolism. At no point, however, is the candidate asked to do anything that would embarrass or demean him, nor anything that would violate his obligations to his faith, country, or the law.
The only religious requirement is that candidates believe in the Supreme Being. If you can in good faith profess a belief in the Supreme Being, you are eligible to be a Mason. No atheists will ever knowingly be made a Mason. There are Christian (Catholic, Protestant, Mormon), Jewish, and Muslim Masons. It would be tedious and pointless to go into a religion-by-religion (and then denomination-by-denomination) discussion. The key points to remember are the requirement of belief in the Supreme Being and the fact that Masonry is a fraternity, not a religion.
Must be a male older than 18 years, Belief in a Supreme Being and Good moral character. If you know a Mason, ask him about membership. He will be glad to tell you all about the Craft, the local lodge and how to proceed if you wish to join. If you do not know a Mason, complete the form on our contact page.
Freemasonry is the oldest and largest Fraternity in the world. Its members included Kings, Presidents, Prime Ministers, Statesmen, Generals, Admirals, Supreme Court Chief Justices, corporate CEO's, opera stars, movie stars, and probably, your next door neighbor.
Masonry is always ready to welcome good men into the Fraternity. It's ready to welcome YOU, if in your heart you can answer "yes" to a few questions
1. Do you believe that there is such a thing as honor and that a man has a responsibility to act with honor in everything he does? Masons teach that principle. We believe that a life not found on honor is hollow and empty-that a man who acts without honor is less than a man.
2. Do you believe in God? No atheist can be a Mason. Masons do not care what your individual faith is, that is a question between you and your God, but we do require that a man believe in a Supreme Being.
3. Are you willing to allow others the same right to their beliefs that you insist on yourself? Masonry insists on toleration - on the right of each person to think for himself in religious, social and political matters.
4. Do you believe that you have a responsibility to leave the world a better place that you found it? Masonry teaches that each man has a duty not only to himself but to others. We must do what we can to make the world a better place. Whether that means cleaning up the environment, working on civic projects, or helping children to walk or read or see - the world should be a better place because we passed through it.
5. Do you believe that it is not only more blessed to give than to receive?
Masons are involved with the problems and needs of others because we know it gives each of us a good feeling - unlike any other - to help. Much of our help is given anonymously. We're not after gratitude, we're more than rewarded by that feeling which comes from knowing we have helped another person overcome some adversity, so that their life can go on.
6. Are you willing to give help to your Brothers when they need it, and to accept their help when you need it?
Masonry is mutual help. Not just financial help (although that's there too) but help in the sense of being there when needed, giving support, lending a sympathetic ear.
7. Do you believe there is more to life than just financial success?
Masons know that self-development is more precious than money in the bank or social position or political power. Those things often accompany self-development. But they are no-substitute for it. Masons work at building their lives and character, just as a carpenter works at building a house.
8. Do you believe that a person should strive to be a good citizen and that we have a moral duty to be true to the country in which we live?
Masons believe that a country is strong as long as freedom, equality, and the opportunity for human development are afforded to all. A Mason is true to his government and its ideals. He supports its laws and authority when both are just and equitably applied. We uphold and maintain the principals of good government, and oppose every influence that would divide it in a degrading manner.
9. Do you agree that man should show compassion to others, that goodness of heart is among the most important of human values? Masons do. We believe in a certain reverence for living things, a tenderness toward people who suffer. A loving kindness for our fellow man, and a desire to do right because it is right. Masonry teaches that although all men are fallible and capable of much wrong, when they discover the goodness of heart, they have found the true essence of virtue. Masonry helps men see their potential for deep goodness and virtue.
10. Do you believe that men should strive to live a brotherly life? Masons see brotherhood as a form of wisdom, a sort of bond that holds men together - a private friendship that tells us, that we owe it to each other to be just in our dealing and to refuse to speak evil of each other. Masons believe a man should maintain an attitude of good will, and promote unity and harmony in his relations with one another, his family, and his community. Masons call this way of live believing in the Brotherhood of Man. It really means that every Mason makes it his duty to follow the golden rule. This is why Masonry has been called one of the greatest forces for good on the world.
If you answered "yes," you should consider becoming a Mason. We'd like a chance to talk to you.
Freemasonry offers much to its members - the opportunity to grow, the chance to make a difference, to build a better world for our children. It offers a chance to be with and work with men who have the same values and ideals - men who have answered "YES" to these questions.
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Yes, Kenosha Craftsmen is a registered 501(c)(3) organization, so your donation is tax deductible.
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