Become a Freemason
Join within the Fifth Masonic District
This page explains the basics of Freemasonry in Pennsylvania and provides a private way to request information. If you are not sure which Lodge to contact, we will help route you.
What is Freemasonry?
Freemasonry is a brotherhood of men who share one goal: helping each other become better men. It is one of the oldest and most well known fraternities in the world.
Men from many backgrounds come together as equals and try to live three core virtues in everyday life: brotherly love, charity, and truth.
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Learn more from the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania:
PA Grand Lodge join pageQualifications for membership in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, to qualify for membership, a petitioner must be male, at least 18 years of age, and believe in the existence of a Supreme Being.
He should be of good moral character and motivated to join for the right reasons. Freemasonry is not for personal gain or profit.
What happens next
- Your request is reviewed and routed to the appropriate Lodge.
- A member reaches out to answer questions.
- You may be invited to visit before any decisions are made.
Your information is kept private and used only to reply to your request.
How to choose a Lodge
Many men start with the Lodge closest to home. Others choose a Lodge where they have friends or family. If you are not sure, submit the form and we will help you find a good fit within the Fifth District.
Fifth District questions and answers
These questions come up often for men looking at Lodges in our area.
What is the Fifth Masonic District Local Lodges in our area
The Fifth Masonic District is a local grouping of Pennsylvania Lodges that work together for coordination, events, education, and visitations. Each Lodge is its own organization with its own meeting night, culture, and traditions.
If you want to explore local Lodges, start with the Lodges page and open a Lodge card to view its meeting schedule and location.
Do I have to join the closest Lodge Not always
No. Many men choose the closest Lodge, but it is common to join a Lodge where you feel comfortable, where you have connections, or where the meeting night fits your schedule. Visiting a Lodge before petitioning is encouraged.
What are Lodge meetings like Simple, respectful, and organized
A stated meeting is the regular business meeting of a Lodge. Many Lodges also hold degree nights, education nights, and social events. The best way to understand the rhythm is to request information and then visit a Lodge when invited.
If dinner is offered, it is typically before the meeting. Check the District calendar or the Lodge page for event details.
What should I ask when I visit Helpful questions for a first visit
- When are stated meetings and degree nights held
- What is the usual dress standard
- What kinds of service projects does the Lodge support
- What is expected of new members in time and participation
- How mentorship is handled for new candidates
Frequently asked questions
Clear answers to common questions about joining Freemasonry in Pennsylvania.
Is Freemasonry a religion No, it does not replace faith
No. Freemasonry is not a religion and does not replace a man’s faith. It encourages members to practice their own religion but does not dictate belief or doctrine.
Must all Masons be obligated on the Bible Volume of Sacred Law
A Mason must believe in a Supreme Being and take his obligation on a book he considers sacred to his faith. This may be the Bible, Torah, Quran, or another Volume of Sacred Law.
What are the Degrees of Freemasonry Three degrees
Freemasonry has three degrees: Entered Apprentice, Fellowcraft, and Master Mason. Each degree teaches moral lessons using symbols and ceremonies.
Which important historical figures in Pennsylvania were Freemasons Early American history
Pennsylvania has played a central role in American Freemasonry. Benjamin Franklin served as Grand Master of Pennsylvania and helped establish early Masonic traditions in the colonies.
Other notable Pennsylvania Masons include Andrew Hamilton, a key figure in American legal history, and Thaddeus Stevens, a leader during the Civil War and Reconstruction era.
Which famous public figures were Freemasons Not U.S. Presidents
Many well known figures throughout history have been Freemasons, including:
- Benjamin Franklin, inventor and statesman
- Paul Revere, silversmith and patriot
- Nat King Cole, musician and entertainer
- John Wayne, actor
- Shaquille O’Neal, professional athlete
- Buzz Aldrin, astronaut
These men came from very different walks of life, but shared an interest in personal growth, service, and fellowship.
What makes Pennsylvania Freemasonry unique History and education
- Pennsylvania has the oldest Grand Lodge in the Western Hemisphere, founded in 1731.
- The Grand Lodge Library in Philadelphia is one of the largest Masonic libraries in the world.
- Pennsylvania Lodges traditionally place strong emphasis on ritual accuracy and education.
- Because of its early history, Pennsylvania Freemasonry has influenced Masonic practice far beyond the state.
When and where did African American Freemasonry begin in the United States Prince Hall history
African American Freemasonry began on March 6, 1775, in Boston when Prince Hall and fourteen other men were made Masons in a British military lodge.
Prince Hall later became a leader in the free Black community and laid the foundation for what is now known as Prince Hall Freemasonry.
Request information
Begin the journey
Complete the form below and a member of a Lodge within the Fifth Masonic District will respond. If you already know which Lodge you want to contact, mention it in your message.
Prefer to reach a specific Lodge directly? Use the Lodges page to find a Lodge and view its details.
Your information is kept private and used only to respond to your request.
