Doric Lodge No. 2695 · Harrogate
Joining Doric Lodge
Joining a lodge is a personal and important step. Here is who can join, how to get in touch and how we will welcome you.
What is Freemasonry?
Freemasonry is one of the oldest social and charitable organisations in the world. Its roots lie in the traditions of the medieval stonemasons who built our cathedrals and castles. Today, Freemasons meet to build friendships and communities rather than buildings, and use those old building analogies to learn how to lead productive lives that benefit the communities they live in.
Four values help Freemasons define their path through life: integrity, friendship, respect and service. Freemasonry has no political or religious affiliations, and it brings together men of all ages, races, religions and backgrounds.
What it offers you
- A wide circle of friends. You will meet men from all backgrounds whom you might never otherwise meet, and form friendships for life.
- A chance to develop yourself. Freemasonry is about building character, from greater self-confidence to transferable skills such as public speaking.
- A way to make a contribution. Through fundraising, volunteering and Masonic charities, members support local and national causes.
- Ceremony and tradition. Our ceremonies are built around three principles: look after those less fortunate, improve yourself, and live life well so as to be remembered for the right reasons.
What happens at a lodge meeting?
Lodge meetings are typically held in two parts. The first deals with lodge business, such as proposing and balloting for new members and hearing news of charitable fundraising. The second is a ceremony, such as welcoming a new member or installing the Master of the lodge and his officers. A Freemason's journey is made up of three degrees, or stages, each marked by its own ceremony. Meetings are also social occasions, and members dine together afterwards.
Family first
There is a saying in Freemasonry: "Family First, Work Second and Freemasonry Third." A journey through Freemasonry thrives when wives, partners and families are supportive and involved, which is why so many of our social events are open to them.
Who can join?
Membership of Doric Lodge is open to men aged 18 and over who:
- are of good character, with no criminal convictions;
- believe in a Supreme Being or spiritual principle, in keeping with Masonic values. Men of any faith are welcome, and your belief will not be questioned.
We ask that members show a spirit of friendship and charity and take part at their own pace. Everyone contributes as he is able.
How to join
- Get in touch. Send us a message using our enquiry form. You do not need to know a Freemason already.
- Hear from a member. A member of the lodge will be in touch to tell you more about Freemasonry and to answer any questions you have.
- Get to know us. We take time to welcome prospective members informally, through casual meetups such as curry and pie nights and conversations before or after rehearsals. We would be delighted to welcome you to one of our meetings or events.
Thinking of rejoining Freemasonry? Please use the same form, and we will be glad to hear from you.
Your first steps
Your first contact with us will be informal and friendly. You will meet members of all ages and backgrounds, and nobody will expect you to know anything about Freemasonry beforehand. Questions are always welcome, and there is no pressure to perform or take on roles before you are ready.
The Festive Board
After each meeting, members and their guests sit down together for the Festive Board, a formal, black-tie three-course dinner. It is where friendships are made and renewed, and the conversation carries on afterwards in the bar.
Life beyond the lodge room
Our social calendar is a big part of lodge life: summer barbecues, golf days, treasure hunts, clay pigeon shoots, weekends away, theatre visits and family-friendly pantomimes. Many of these events are open to family and friends.
Frequently asked questions
Who can become a Freemason?
Membership of Doric Lodge is open to men aged 18 and over who are of good character, with no criminal convictions, and who believe in a Supreme Being or spiritual principle.
Do I need to know a Freemason to join?
No. Simply send us a message using our enquiry form, and a member of the lodge will be in touch.
Do I have to belong to a particular religion?
No. Freemasonry has no religious or political affiliations and welcomes men of all faiths. A belief in a Supreme Being is required, but your belief will not be questioned. Religion and politics are never discussed at our gatherings.
Can women become Freemasons?
Doric Lodge is a lodge for men. Women Freemasons have been meeting across the country for more than 100 years, through two Grand Lodges for women: the Order of Women Freemasons and HFAF – Freemasonry for Women. Both follow the same ceremonies as male Freemasons, and the United Grand Lodge of England has an excellent working relationship with them.
How much time does it take?
Our regular meeting is one Friday evening a month for nine months of the year, with optional rehearsals on the first three Thursdays of each month at 7pm and social events. You take part at your own pace. As Freemasons say: family first, work second and Freemasonry third.
Can my family get involved?
Yes. Many of our social events, from summer barbecues and golf days to theatre visits and family-friendly pantomimes, are open to family and friends.
Does Freemasonry support charity?
Yes. Service is at the very heart of Freemasonry, and Freemasons are one of the largest charitable givers in the country. All funds raised come from members' own donations, and we ask every member to show a spirit of charity.