JOIN OUR BROTHERHOOD
WHY FREEMASONRY?
Discover how Freemasonry can enrich your life through brotherhood, personal development, and service to humanity
MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS
What You'll Gain
Brotherhood
Join a worldwide fraternity of men who share common values and support each other through life's journey.
Personal Growth
Engage in self-improvement through our teachings, rituals, and philosophical discussions that promote moral and ethical development.
Community Service
Make a positive impact through charitable work and community service projects that help those in need.
Wisdom & Knowledge
Learn from centuries-old traditions, symbolism, and teachings that promote wisdom and understanding.
Networking
Connect with accomplished men from all walks of life, forming lasting friendships and professional relationships.
Leadership
Develop leadership skills through various roles and responsibilities within the lodge structure.
THE JOURNEY
What to Expect
Regular Meetings
Attend monthly stated meetings where we conduct lodge business, confer degrees, and enjoy fellowship with brothers.
Meet Other Brothers
Connect with accomplished men from all walks of life who share your values and commitment to personal growth and community service.
Social Events
Participate in social gatherings, dinners, and family events that strengthen bonds between brothers and their families.
Community Service
Engage in charitable activities and community service projects that make a real difference in people's lives.
YOUR REWARDS
What Do I Get Out of Being a Freemason?
What you get out of Freemasonry depends on what you put into it.
Freemasonry is not a passive experience—it's an active journey of self-improvement and community involvement. The more you engage with your brothers, participate in lodge activities, and embrace the teachings, the more meaningful your experience becomes.
You'll build lasting connections within your community, work toward becoming a better man through moral and ethical growth, and contribute to meaningful events and charities that make a real difference in people's lives.
Your commitment shapes your rewards—whether that's lifelong friendships, personal development, leadership opportunities, or the satisfaction of serving others.
OUR FOUNDATION
Core Principles
Symbols & Tools
Working Tools of the Builders
In Freemasonry, each tool of the builders represents a code of conduct and teaches moral truths and virtuous ways of thinking. Through understanding these symbols, we learn principles that guide our personal and professional lives. The symbolism of our craft connects us to centuries of wisdom and practical wisdom that builds better men and stronger communities.
Rising Hope
Compassion & Fairness for All
Freemasonry provides men with a philosophy that teaches and empowers them to treat all humanity with compassion and fairness. We recognize that we are small but very important cogs in a vast machine built to benefit all. Our teachings demonstrate that our individual actions have meaning and impact when guided by integrity and a commitment to serving something greater than ourselves.
Charity for All Mankind
Service & Relief
Our philosophy teaches that when the cause is worthy and we are able, we should provide relief to those who seek it. Globally, Freemasons donate millions daily to charitable causes, medical research, and disaster relief. Locally, Lebanon Lodge #175 invests in community programs that address real needs and create meaningful change in people's lives.
WHY MEN CHOOSE US
Why Men Join Freemasonry
Men of good character and high moral standards seek Freemasonry for many meaningful reasons
Self-Improvement & Personal Growth
Develop a deeper understanding of yourself through our teachings, philosophy, and mentorship from experienced brothers. Many men seek Freemasonry because they have a genuine desire to learn and improve themselves.
Lifelong Friendships & Brotherhood
Create bonds of friendship with accomplished men from all walks of life that last a lifetime. Men can support one another, learn from each other, and discover their true abilities together.
Global Impact & Charity
Be part of the world's oldest and largest fraternal organization with over 6 million members. In the United States alone, Freemasons donate approximately $2.5-3.0 million per day to charitable causes, medical research, and disaster relief.
Community Service
Contribute to your local community through monetary assistance and active participation. Freemasons improve their communities not just through donations, but by joining civic and charitable organizations and imparting moral and ethical principles.
Connection to History
Walk in the same path as influential figures throughout history including Isaac Newton, Benjamin Franklin, George Washington, Duke Ellington, Thurgood Marshall, and many others. Understand how these great men thought and strived for achievement.
Family & Inclusive Community
Enjoy a family-oriented organization where spouses and children can participate through various women's and youth organizations. Freemasonry offers activities for the entire family, not just individual members.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Questions & Answers
What is Freemasonry?â–Ľ
Freemasonry is the world's oldest and largest fraternal organization, with over 6 million members globally. It unites men of good character who are interested in self-improvement and service to humanity. We promote moral and ethical living through our teachings, rituals, and community service.
Is Freemasonry a religion?â–Ľ
No. Freemasonry is not a religion and does not advocate for, restrict, teach, or replace one's personal religion. We welcome men of all faiths and require belief in a Supreme Being and a resurrection to a future life. Religion and politics are not discussed at our meetings.
Why should I join Freemasonry?â–Ľ
Men join for many reasons: to improve themselves, develop lasting friendships, contribute to charitable causes, impact their community, and be part of a legacy connected to history's greatest thinkers and leaders.
What are the costs involved?â–Ľ
There is an initiation fee and annual dues that support lodge operations, charitable giving, and member benefits. Costs vary by lodge, but Lebanon Lodge #175 keeps fees reasonable to ensure membership is accessible to good men from all backgrounds.
How much time does membership require?â–Ľ
Freemasonry is flexible. You can participate as much or as little as your schedule allows. Most lodges meet monthly, but there are additional optional events and activities. The time you invest directly impacts the benefits and friendships you gain.
What happens during the degrees?â–Ľ
The three degrees—Entered Apprentice, Fellowcraft, and Master Mason—are ceremonial experiences that teach Masonic philosophy and values through symbolism and ritual. Each degree represents a code of conduct and moral truths that teach a virtuous way of thinking.
Will I be pressured to do things against my beliefs?â–Ľ
Absolutely not. Freemasonry respects your personal beliefs and values. You are free to decline any activity that conflicts with your conscience. Our organization emphasizes integrity and personal choice.
How do I petition to join?â–Ľ
In Maryland, you must be a man of good character, freeborn, 18 years of age, and believe in a Supreme Being. Start by attending one of our open events or contacting Lebanon Lodge #175 directly. You'll need to be recommended by two current members and go through a membership investigation.
QUALIFICATIONS
Basic Requirements
To petition Lebanon Lodge #175, you should:
- 1Be a man of at least 18 years of age
- 2Believe in a Supreme Being
- 3Be of good moral character
- 4Be recommended by two current members
- 5Have a genuine desire for self-improvement