Entered Apprentice
The first step, focused on beginning, openness, and learning the principles of the Craft.
About Freemasonry
What Is Freemasonry?
A tradition of character, friendship, service, and personal growth.
Not a religion
Not political
A community of good men
Plainly Put
Character, friendship, and service.
At Southern Cross, men meet regularly, share a meal, reflect through tradition, support one another, and serve the community.
Private, not secretOur values, location, leadership, and charitable work are public. Some ceremonies remain private to members.
Moral, not religiousFreemasonry encourages each member to be faithful to his own convictions. It is not a church or a substitute for faith.
Traditional, not theatricalThe ceremonies use symbol and story to encourage reflection, responsibility, and self-improvement.
Lodge Life
What Freemasons actually do.
Men gather with purpose, build trust over time, and contribute beyond the lodge room.
- Meet monthly, with optional social and learning nights throughout the year.
- Share a meal and get to know one another beyond small talk.
- Take part in ceremonies that encourage self-reflection and growth.
- Support fellow members through life events, challenges, and milestones.
- Contribute to charitable work and practical service in the community.
- Keep lodge conversation steady and respectful, without politics or drama.
The Three Degrees
A gradual journey of learning.
Freemasonry is experienced through three Craft degrees: Entered Apprentice, Fellowcraft, and Master Mason. Each stage introduces symbolic lessons about character, learning, responsibility, and service.
Fellowcraft
A stage of further knowledge, reflection, and personal development.
Master Mason
The final Craft degree, bringing fuller participation in lodge life, mentoring, and service.
Watch
A clearer look at Freemasonry.
These short videos introduce the Craft, its symbols, and its values.
What Freemasonry means
An accessible introduction for men who are curious about the values and purpose of the Craft.
Symbols and tradition
A simple guide to why Freemasonry uses symbol, ceremony, and reflection to teach moral lessons.
Values
Standards for everyday life.
Respect
Good manners, careful listening, and dignity in how a man carries himself.
Integrity
Honesty, reliability, and doing the right thing when no one is watching.
Charity
More than donations. It is showing up and helping where help is needed.
Learning
A Mason remains teachable. There is room for improvement at every age.
Friendship
Real friendship is built slowly, through time, trust, and shared purpose.
Duty
A commitment to family, work, lodge, and community.
Questions
Common questions.
What prospective members most often ask.
Is Freemasonry a secret society or cult?
No. It is a lawful fraternity with public values, meeting locations, and charitable work. Some ceremonies remain private to members.
Who can join Lodge Southern Cross?
Applicants must be men aged 18 or over, of good character, who approach the lodge freely and with genuine interest.
Is Freemasonry a religion?
No. Freemasonry is not a religion and does not replace a member's faith. Members of different faiths meet as equals, while religious and political debate is set aside within the lodge.
Do I need to know a Freemason?
No. Direct enquiries are welcome, whether or not you already know a member.
What happens at a Masonic lodge meeting?
A typical meeting includes lodge business, education, or a degree ceremony conducted in a formal setting. At Lodge Southern Cross, members usually share a Festive Board dinner afterwards. The Lodge Life page explains the evening in more detail.
What is the time commitment?
The usual commitment begins with one meeting each month. Visiting, charity, education, and social events are optional.
How much does it cost to join Freemasonry?
Membership involves joining fees, annual dues, and dining costs. Current amounts are explained before any commitment.
From Understanding To Experience
See what lodge life is like.
Continue into meeting nights and the Masonic journey, or begin a private conversation.