The District Grand Lodge of Western Australia
What is Scottish Freemasonry
Freemasonry is the oldest and largest Fraternal Order in the World. It is a universal brotherhood of men dedicated to serving God, family and fellowman.
The Grand Lodge of Scotland was established in 1736. The heritage of modern Freemasonry is derived from the organised unions of stone masons who constructed the beautiful cathedrals and other stately structures throughout the world during the middle ages. The skills and architectural genius of these craftsmen and their commitment to the highest standards of moral and ethical values were universally applauded, and unlike other classes of people, they were allowed to travel freely from country to country. Thus, during this period, the word "Free" was prefixed to the word "mason", and these craftsmen, and the generations of masons who followed, were referred to as "Freemasons".
Tools of the stone masons are still used in the Fraternity today, but only to symbolise moral virture, not to build cathedrals.
Although the moral philosophy of Freemasonry is founded upon religious principles, it is not a religion, nor is it a substitute for religion. Candidates for membership (adult males) are, however, expected to profess a belief in a Supreme Being, and be of good moral character.
Its body of knowledge and system of ethics is based on the belief that each man has a responsibility to improve himself whilst being devoted to his family, faith, brothers and neighbours.
Freemasonry recognises that all men, whether Masons or not, are Brothers by birth endowed with the same nature, and share the same hopes. Freemasonry champions the cause of the widow, the fatherless, the weak and the distressed. It recognises that the time-honoured virtues cherished by our forefathers are still to be observed among Freemasons and the humility, patience, charity and gentleness are among the hallmarks of purity and integrity of character.
District Grand Lodge of WA
C/- Bro Stewart Mitchell
The Grand Lodge of Scotland
96 George Street
Edinburgh Scotland
© 2009 District Grand Lodge of Western Australia