Membership at Alsen Pride Lodge No. 253
What Freemasonry is, and how to join — start here.
What is Freemasonry?
Freemasonry is one of the world’s oldest and most influential fraternal organizations. It has brought together men of goodwill from every country, sect, and belief. Masonry teaches its members to live with honor and integrity while working to improve themselves and their communities.
Masonry is built on three fundamental principles:
Brotherly Love
Masonry unites men of every nation, sect, and opinion. It teaches us to view all men as brothers and to aid, support, and protect one another. In Alsen Pride Lodge No. 253, this means direct, visible support for our members and community.
Relief
Freemasonry commits to helping those in distress, whether through charitable work, mentorship, or community service. We believe in active compassion — see Project Silk & Silhouette, that’s relief in action.
Truth
Truth is the foundation of virtue. Masonry teaches its members to be good men, to act with integrity, and to regulate their lives by principles of honesty and justice. We live this through transparency in operations and honest dealings.
Is Freemasonry Right for Me?
Freemasonry is open to men of good character, regardless of race, religion, or background. You must:
- Be at least 18 years old (our jurisdiction and lodge’s requirement)
- Believe in a Supreme Being
- Be of good moral character
- Genuinely desire to learn about Masonry
The most important requirement: you must ask. We do not recruit.
How to Join (2B1ASK1)
2B1ASK1 — The Most Important Rule
We do not recruit Masons. Masonry is seeking men — men must seek Masonry. This principle is known as 2B1ASK1: “To be one, ask one.”
If you’re interested in learning more about Freemasonry and potentially joining Alsen Pride Lodge No. 253, here’s what to do:
1. Know a Mason
Contact a brother in our lodge or another lodge you trust and express your genuine interest. You can find us on Instagram @alsenpride253 or reach out to a member in your network.
2. Express Your Interest
Have a conversation with the mason who knows you. Discuss your motivations, values, and what you’re seeking from Masonry.
3. Petition the Lodge
If both you and the mason agree, you’ll submit a formal petition for degrees to the lodge, including personal information and character references.
4. Investigation
A committee of lodge members will investigate your background and character, visit you, speak with references, and report to the lodge.
5. Balloting
The lodge votes on your petition. The vote must be unanimous. If approved, you proceed to the first degree.
6. The Three Degrees
- Entered Apprentice (1st Degree) — your introduction to Masonry
- Fellowcraft (2nd Degree) — deepening your understanding
- Master Mason (3rd Degree) — completion of Masonic training
7. Membership
You become a full member of the lodge with all rights and responsibilities — attending meetings, voting on lodge matters, and participating in degree work.
There is no self-service petition on this site — that’s intentional. If a brother has invited you to petition, they’ll send you a personal link to get started.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an age requirement to join?
Yes. In our jurisdiction and lodge, you must be at least 18 years old to petition for membership.
Is Freemasonry a religion?
No. Masonry is not a religion and does not attempt to teach men how to worship God. It requires only that members believe in a Supreme Being. Men of all faiths are welcome.
What happens in lodge meetings?
Lodge meetings include ritual work (for degree conferrals or regular ceremonies), business (voting on applications, paying dues, discussing fraternal matters), and refreshment (fellowship and social time).
Will I have to hide my membership?
Not at all. Our members proudly wear Masonic insignia, attend public events, and are visible in their communities. See Alsen Pride Lodge No. 253 on Instagram @alsenpride253 — we’re not a secret organization.
Do Masons help each other financially?
Yes. While we’re not a financial institution, members do help each other during times of hardship or distress. Relief is one of our core principles.
How often do I need to attend meetings?
Our bylaws require regular attendance to remain in good standing. Contact the lodge for the specific requirement.
Are women allowed in Freemasonry?
Traditional Freemasonry (this lodge) is for men. However, there are female organizations affiliated with Masonry, such as the Order of the Eastern Star, that women can join.
Can I visit another lodge?
Yes. Once you’re a Master Mason, you can visit any recognized lodge — encouraged for travel, fellowship, and learning from other jurisdictions.
What does the Square and Compass symbol mean?
The square represents morality and rectitude. The compass represents friendship and fellowship. Together, they represent the balance between individual discipline and brotherhood.
What’s the difference between Prince Hall and other Masonry?
Prince Hall Masonry and mainstream Masonry are separate governing bodies, though they share the same core principles and ritual. Prince Hall was established because Black men were excluded from mainstream lodges, and it has become the largest and most influential Black fraternal organization. Read the full Prince Hall history.
Your seat is still reserved.
Know a brother? Start the conversation. Have more questions? Reach out.
Contact the Lodge