The 3 Great Principles

For many years Freemasons have followed three great principles:

1. Brotherly Love
Every true Freemason will show tolerance and respect for the opinions of others and behave with kindness and understanding to his fellow creatures.

2. Relief
Freemasons are taught to practise charity and to care – not only for their own – but also for the community as a whole, both by charitable giving and by voluntary efforts and works as individuals.

3. Truth
Freemasons strive for truth, requiring high moral standards and aiming to achieve them in their own lives. Freemasons believe that these principles represent a way of achieving higher standards in life.

Charity
From its earliest days, Freemasonry has been concerned with the care of orphans, the sick and the aged. This work continues today, financial and practical help are given to national and local charities, to help those less fortunate or needy individuals or groups.
All monies raised have been freely given by Freemasons themselves and not by calling the on the public to subscribe to any such appeals.

Religion
Freemasonry is not a religion, nor is it a substitute for religion. Freemasonry does not allow religion to be discussed at its meetings. One of its essential membership qualifications are that individuals have to have a belief in a Supreme being and expects each individual to continue to follow their own faith.

Freemasonry and Society
Freemasonry demands from its members a respect for the law of the country in which a man works and lives. Its principles do not in any way conflict with its members’ duties as citizens or of those owed to their families, but should strengthen them in fulfilling their public and private responsibilities. The use by a Freemason of his membership to promote his own or anyone else’s business, professional or personal interests is condemned, and is contrary to the conditions on which he sought admission to Freemasonry. His duty as a citizen must always prevail over any obligation to other Freemasons, and any attempt to shield a Freemason who has acted dishonourably or unlawfully is contrary to this prime duty.

Freemasonry Worldwide
Freemasonry is practised under a number of different independent Grand Lodges with standards similar to those set by the United Grand Lodge of England. Such Grand Lodges and other Masonic bodies that do not meet these standards, e.g., that do not require a belief in a Supreme Being, or that allow or encourage their members as such to participate in political matters, are not recognised by the United Grand Lodge of England as being Masonically regular, and Masonic contact with them is forbidden.

Conclusion

A Freemason is encouraged to do his duty first to his God (by whatever name he is known) through his faith and religious practice; and then, without detriment to his family and those dependent on him, to his neighbour through charity and service.