First Degree
Initiation
You become an Entered Apprentice. The First Degree ceremony reminds us that all are equal — and that it's the responsibility of those who do well to look after those less fortunate.
Curious?
Freemasonry — In Plain English
No mysticism, no jargon. Honest answers about what Freemasonry actually is, what it isn't, and how the United Grand Lodge of England describes itself.
What is Freemasonry?
One of the world's oldest social and charitable organisations
Freemasonry's origins are rooted in the traditions of the medieval stonemasons who built our cathedrals and castles. Today it has around 175,000 members across England and Wales, with Districts overseas. At Gosport Lodge, we're one small but lively part of that community.
Freemasonry uses building analogies to teach members how to lead productive lives that benefit the communities they live in. In the medieval era, stonemasons wore aprons and gloves to protect themselves while working on shaping rough pieces of stone. Today, Freemasons meet to build friendships and communities rather than cathedrals and castles.
For Freemasons, four values define the path through life: Integrity, Friendship, Respect and Service. In today's world filled with uncertainty, these principles ring as true now as they have at any point in the organisation's history.
175,000UK Freemasons
£50m+Given to charity each year
300+Years of recorded history
1861Gosport Lodge founded
The home of the Craft
Three centuries of history
From our own Lodge Room in Gosport to the great Grand Temple at Freemasons' Hall in London — the ceremonial home of English Freemasonry — the story of the Craft is written into the very buildings in which it meets.
The four values
What every Freemason commits to
Integrity
Honesty, trustworthiness, honour, reliability, and conscientiousness form the foundation of a virtuous character. They foster trust, maintain integrity, and demonstrate commitment, ultimately leading to a life of strong principles and dependable actions.
Friendship
Freemasonry gives members many opportunities to make a wide circle of friends for life who share common interests and values. It provides a bond of friendship and a sense of belonging that promotes a feeling of enjoyment and fulfilment.
Respect
From its earliest days, Freemasonry has respected the beliefs of its members. It promotes an environment where diversity is valued — a space where different beliefs and backgrounds converge, fostering an atmosphere of inclusivity, tolerance and harmony.
Service
Whether participating in events, fundraising for a charitable cause or volunteering for public or community organisations, service is at the very heart of Freemasonry. Our members make valuable contributions by donating time, resources and skills.
Common questions
Frequently asked, plainly answered
Is Freemasonry a religion?
No. Freemasonry is not a religion and has no theology of its own. Members are required to have a belief in a Supreme Being, but we welcome men of any faith — Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Hindu, Sikh and others. Discussion of religious or political matters is set aside in the Lodge so that all may meet on common ground.
Is it secretive?
No — we are private, not secret. Our meetings, our charities, our members and our regalia are openly known. We publish our addresses and contact details. The only things we keep private are the traditional ceremonies that mark a man's progression through the Craft, much as a sports team keeps its tactics among themselves.
Who can join?
Men of good character, over 18, of any background, faith or profession, who profess a belief in a Supreme Being. We're looking for honest, decent men who would be a positive addition to the Lodge — and that's it.
What happens at a Lodge meeting?
Meetings are typically held in two parts. The first involves administrative procedures — proposing and balloting for new members, news about charitable fundraising. The second part focuses on ceremonies, which might relate to admitting a new member or installing the Master of the Lodge and his officers. After the meeting, we adjourn to the Festive Board for dinner together.
What's the time commitment?
Roughly one evening a month for our regular meeting (the second Tuesday, September through May), plus social events at your discretion. There's no pressure to attend everything — many of our members join with busy careers and families and find a rhythm that works for them.
What does it cost?
A modest annual subscription, plus dining costs at the Festive Board on meeting nights. There are also one-off costs when you join (regalia, an initiation fee). The figures are honest and reasonable — we'll talk you through them when you get in touch.
Can I bring my partner or family to anything?
Yes. While our regular meetings are men-only, much of what we do socially — Ladies' Night, the Summer BBQ, our Charity Night — actively welcomes partners, family and friends. Freemasonry is part of family life, not a substitute for it.
Do I need to know anyone already?
No. Many of our members joined with no prior connection to Freemasonry — they were curious, got in touch, came along to a social, and decided this was for them.
The journey
The three degrees of Freemasonry
Every Mason progresses through three stages. Each is marked by a traditional ceremony in the Lodge, and each typically takes place several months apart so that the lessons of one are well absorbed before the next.
Second Degree
Passing
You become a Fellowcraft Freemason. The Second Degree encourages members to better themselves through education, and focuses on self-development.
Third Degree
Raising
You become a Master Mason. The Third Degree teaches us how to use our lives wisely and be remembered for the right reasons. Full membership of the Craft begins here.
Still curious?
There's no substitute for a real conversation. Drop us a line and we'll arrange an informal chat with our Membership Officer.
Get in touch