The so-called “Old Charges” of the Freemasons of 1723 state that only “a free man of good report” may be admitted to a Masonic lodge. What does that mean today?
First of all, being a “free man” means that the candidate is of legal age and in full possession of his civil rights. In addition, he must be able to meet the demands on his time and the financial obligations of lodge membership.
Outward characteristics such as social status, income, profession or level of education play no role in admission to a Masonic lodge. The “seeker” – as Freemasons call a candidate for admission – should be interested in moral and philosophical questions and willing to keep working on his own character.
Friendship, openness to the world, tolerance, brotherhood – if you identify with these timeless values, Freemasonry could be something for you!
If you are interested in membership: almost all of the around 500 lodges in Germany have their own website, where you will also find direct contact details. You are welcome to get in touch with a lodge near you.
We, the United Grand Lodges of Germany (VGLvD), are the umbrella organisation of the five regular Grand Lodges in Germany. We are not the right point of contact for membership.
To be sure that you are approaching a lodge that is recognised worldwide – a so-called regular lodge – it is best to contact one of the five Grand Lodges that are members of the VGLvD directly. Ask them for contact details of lodges near you; they will be glad to help.
The lodges you contact will then invite you to public events and guest evenings. Once you have got to know the lodge – and the lodge has got to know you – over a period of time, they will talk to you about membership at a suitable moment. They will then also be happy to discuss the further steps towards your initiation.
Contact the Grand Lodges with your membership enquiries.
