Frequently asked questions
Questions arealways welcome.
Freemasonry is often surrounded by curiosity and misconception. Here are straightforward answers to the questions people ask Bedic Lodge most often.
Three quick answers
Begin with the basics.
You do not need to know a Freemason, understand the ceremonies or make any commitment before speaking to us.
Men aged 18 or over
Membership under the United Grand Lodge of England is open to men from every background.
Simply get in touch
You can approach Bedic directly. Knowing an existing member is not required.
There is no obligation
Initial conversations are informal and give you time to decide whether Freemasonry is right for you.
01
Understanding Freemasonry
What is it really?
What is Freemasonry?
Freemasonry is one of the world’s oldest social and charitable membership organisations. Members meet in Lodges, take part in symbolic ceremonies, form friendships, support charitable causes and work to live by the values of Integrity, Friendship, Respect and Service.
Is Freemasonry a religion?
No. Freemasonry is not a religion and does not replace personal faith. Members come from different religious traditions, and religious debate is not permitted during Lodge meetings.
Do Freemasons have to believe in God?
Members joining a Lodge under the United Grand Lodge of England are expected to affirm belief in a Supreme Being. This deliberately inclusive wording allows men from different faiths to meet together; active membership of a particular religion is not required.
Is Freemasonry political?
No. Freemasonry has no political affiliation, and political debate is excluded from Lodge meetings. Members may hold their own views outside the Lodge.
Is it a secret society?
Freemasons are free to acknowledge their membership, Lodge buildings are publicly identifiable and information about the organisation is widely available. Certain ceremonial details and traditional ways of recognition remain private.
Why do Freemasons wear aprons?
The apron comes from Freemasonry’s symbolic connection with historic stonemasons, whose protective leather aprons represented their trade. In modern Freemasonry, different aprons indicate membership and progress.
02
Joining Bedic
Could it be for me?
Who can join Bedic Lodge?
Bedic Lodge welcomes enquiries from men aged 18 or over, from every race, occupation, social background and religious tradition, who are of good character and able to affirm belief in a Supreme Being.
Do I need to know a Freemason?
No. You can contact Bedic Lodge directly. We will arrange an informal conversation so that you can meet members and ask questions before deciding whether to proceed.
Will anyone pressure me to join?
No. Joining must be your own free choice. The enquiry process gives you and the Lodge time to get to know one another, and you can step away at any point.
How much does membership cost?
Costs vary between Lodges and normally include annual subscriptions, dining and some one-off joining expenses. Bedic will explain the current figures clearly before you make any application, so you can decide whether the commitment is comfortable.
How much time does it require?
Bedic’s regular Lodge meeting is held once a month from September to July. Members may also attend rehearsals, social events, charitable activities and visits to other Lodges. The full likely commitment will be discussed during your initial conversations.
Can women become Freemasons?
Bedic works under the United Grand Lodge of England, whose Lodges admit men. Women interested in Freemasonry can approach the Order of Women Freemasons or Freemasonry for Women, the two leading women’s Grand Lodges in England.
03
Lodge life and visiting
What should I expect?
What happens during a Lodge meeting?
A typical evening includes Lodge business, a ceremony or presentation, discussion of charitable activities and a meal afterwards. The ceremony is formal, while the meal provides relaxed time for members and visitors to talk.
Where and when does Bedic meet?
Bedic Lodge meets at Penshaw Masonic Hall, Station Road, Shiney Row, DH4 7LQ, on the fourth Wednesday from September to July.
Can an existing Freemason visit Bedic?
Yes—visitors are warmly welcomed. Contact the Lodge Secretary before travelling with your name, Lodge name and number, and the meeting you wish to attend.
What is discussed at the meal afterwards?
The meal, often called the Festive Board, is a social occasion involving conversation, speeches and traditional toasts. It is an important part of the friendship surrounding Lodge life.
Does Freemasonry support charity?
Yes. Charity and service are central to Freemasonry. Members and Lodges support local causes as well as wider charitable work, through donations, fundraising and practical volunteering.
Where can I learn more?
Explore our What Is Freemasonry? page, visit the UGLE frequently asked questions, or contact Bedic Lodge directly.
Still wondering?
Ask a person, not a search engine.
Some questions are easier to answer in conversation, particularly those concerning Bedic Lodge itself.
Contact the Lodge Secretary
Send your question by email. There is no obligation and no question is too basic.
Ask your question
Bedic Lodge No. 5915
Curiosity is welcome here.
Learning about Freemasonry begins with questions. We will always do our best to answer yours honestly and clearly.