It is neither a religion, nor a political doctrine, nor a secret society with hidden aims. It is an initiatory, philosophical and philanthropic order.
What it is in practice
A space for reflection and freedom
It offers a benevolent setting in which one learns to think for oneself, to listen to others and to practise mutual tolerance, sheltered from the dogmas and oppositions of the profane world.
An initiatory method
Through symbols and rites inherited from the cathedral builders, Masonry proposes a personal journey. Each member learns to 'dress the rough ashlar' in order to help raise a more just and enlightened humanity.
A school of brotherhood
It gathers people whom origin, culture, profession or conviction might otherwise have kept apart, to forge sincere and lasting bonds of solidarity.
A commitment to the city
Without partisan politics, it invites its members to practise humanist values of equity, justice and respect in civic and daily life.
What it is not
Neither dogma nor religion
It imposes no belief and respects each person's freedom of conscience.
Not a network of influence
Its aim is neither power nor material profit, but human improvement.
Not a mysterious society
While it preserves the discretion of its labours to guarantee freedom of speech, its existence, major texts and principles are entirely public.
