Become a Freemason

"To be one, ask one." It captures an essential truth about Freemasonry—we do not recruit. A man must come of his own free will and accord, seeking light of his own volition.

This is not elitism. It is a safeguard. The mysteries of Freemasonry are given to those who genuinely seek them, not thrust upon the reluctant or merely curious. Your journey begins when you decide to ask.

While specific requirements vary slightly by jurisdiction, these fundamentals apply across regular Freemasonry worldwide:

You must be a man. Freemasonry as practiced under regular Grand Lodges admits only men. This is tradition, not discrimination—there are separate Masonic-style organisations for women and co-ed groups, though they operate independently.

You must be of lawful age. In most jurisdictions, including Oregon, this means 18 years or older.

You must be a free man. This means you cannot be a convicted felon. But it extends further—you must be free in mind and spirit, capable of independent thought and moral reasoning.

You must believe in a Supreme Being. Freemasonry is not a religion and does not define what you must believe about the divine. But you must acknowledge something greater than yourself. Atheists cannot become Freemasons, not because we judge them, but because the oaths and rituals presuppose a sacred dimension that an atheist cannot honestly affirm.

You must come of your own free will. No one should pressure you into Freemasonry. If someone is pushing you to join, that itself is a warning sign.

You must be recommended. Typically, you need two Master Masons to vouch for you. If you don't know any Freemasons, then its fine to reach out to a lodge, and they will help you meet brothers who can get to know you.

The path from interested man to Master Mason typically follows these steps:

1. Make contact. Reach out to a lodge—whether Padegon or any regular lodge in your area. Express your interest. Many lodges have open events, dinners, or stated meetings where you can meet the brothers informally.
2. Get to know the lodge. Attend events. Have conversations. Ask questions. The brothers will be getting to know you as well. This is not an interview—it's the natural process of building relationships with men who may become your brothers.
3. Submit a petition. When you're ready, you'll complete a formal petition for the degrees of Freemasonry. This includes basic information about yourself and the signatures of those whom recommend you.
4. Investigation. A committee of brothers will be appointed to meet with you, often at your home. They'll ask about your motivations, your understanding of Freemasonry, and your life circumstances. This is also your chance to ask them anything.
5. Ballot. The lodge votes on your petition by secret ballot. In most jurisdictions, the ballot must be unanimous or nearly so. This protects both the lodge and you—you want to join a lodge that genuinely wants you.
6. Receive the degrees. If elected, you'll receive the three degrees of Craft Masonry: Entered Apprentice, Fellowcraft, and Master Mason. Each involves ritual, instruction, and the assumption of solemn obligations.
7. Continue the journey. Becoming a Master Mason is not the end—it's the beginning. The real work of Freemasonry is lifelong: study, service, fellowship, and the unending pursuit of light.

Freemasonry is organised into Grand Lodges, each sovereign within its jurisdiction. In the United States, each state has its own Grand Lodge. To find a regular lodge near you:

In Oregon: Visit the Grand Lodge of Oregon website, which has a lodge locator and contact information.

Elsewhere in the US: Search for "[your state] Grand Lodge" to find your jurisdiction's official website and lodge directory.

Outside the US: Look for the Grand Lodge recognised in your country or region. Be aware that some organisations use "Masonic" language but are not regular or recognised—if in doubt, check whether the Grand Lodge is in amity with the United Grand Lodge of England or the mainstream US Grand Lodges.

Padegon Lodge operates under the Grand Lodge of Oregon, practicing the same degrees and upholding the same ancient landmarks as any regular lodge. What distinguishes us is our focus.

We are dedicated to recovering the Eastern esoteric heritage of Freemasonry—the connections to Mithraic mystery traditions, Persian & Eastern philosophy, and the ancient wisdom that flowed from the Iranian tribes across the ancient world. This is not invention; it is restoration of what mainstream Freemasonry has largely forgotten.

We particularly welcome men of Middle Eastern, Central Asian, South Asian, and Persian heritage—though we exclude no one based on origin. If you feel called to explore Freemasonry's roots in the ancient East, to study the mystical dimensions alongside the moral and fraternal ones, Padegon may be your home.

Our emphasis is educational and esoteric. We engage with primary sources, comparative traditions, and serious inquiry. We are not merely a social club with rituals—we are a lodge of seekers.

If this resonates with you, reach out to us. Come to an event. Meet the brothers. Ask your questions. The fortress gates are open.

How much does it cost? There are initiation fees (typically a few hundred dollars) and annual dues. Freemasonry should not be a financial burden—if cost is a concern, speak honestly with the lodge. What we seek is your commitment, not your wealth.

How much time does it take? Lodges typically meet once or twice a month. During your degree work, you'll need additional time to learn the material. After that, your involvement is what you make of it—some brothers attend every event, others come when they can.

Is Freemasonry a religion? No. Freemasonry requires belief in a Supreme Being but does not define that belief, offer sacraments, or promise salvation. It is compatible with all major faiths. Many brothers find that Masonry deepens their existing religious practice.

Is Freemasonry a secret society? We are a society with secrets, not a secret society. Our existence is public, our meeting places are known, and our charitable works are visible. What we keep private are our ritual workings and modes of recognition—and even these are available in published exposés for anyone curious enough to look. The real secrets of Masonry cannot be written; they must be experienced.

What if I don't know any Freemasons? That's common and not a problem. Contact a lodge, attend open events, and you'll meet brothers who can recommend you once they've gotten to know you.

If something in these words has stirred you—if you feel the pull toward brotherhood, toward ancient wisdom, toward becoming more than you are—then you already know what to do.

To be one, ask one.

Contact Padegon Lodge to begin your journey with us, or reach out to any regular lodge in your area. The path is yours to walk. We can only open the door.