Frequently Asked Questions

Freemasonry is a unique members' organisation that has thrived for over 300 years. Having no political or religious affiliations, it comprises members of all ages, races, religions, cultures and backgrounds.

Members meet in individual Lodges throughout the country where they have ceremonial traditions which encourage them to be more tolerant and respectful, and to actively fulfil their civic and charitable responsibilities. They also make time to eat, drink and meet together, forming lifelong friendships.

Freemasonry aims to attract people from all backgrounds and walks of life, enabling them to develop into more thoughtful and confident people. It inspires members to practise the core values of Integrity, Friendship, Respect, and Service in their private and public lives.

Integrity: Honesty, trustworthiness, honour, reliability and conscientiousness form the foundation of a virtuous character.

Friendship: Freemasonry gives members opportunities to make a wide circle of friends for life who share common values, providing a bond and sense of belonging.

Respect: Freemasonry promotes an environment where diversity is valued, fostering inclusivity, tolerance and harmony.

Service: Whether fundraising for charity or volunteering for community organisations, service is at the very heart of Freemasonry.

Aprons stem from Freemasonry's historical roots in stonemasonry. Originally made of leather, they protected workers from sharp tools. Today, the apron is a symbolic garment worn during ceremonies. Different styles and decorations denote the wearer's role and experience within the organisation.

A Lodge meeting usually consists of administrative business followed by a ceremony. Ceremonies mark a member's progression through the three degrees of Freemasonry. After the formal meeting, members and their guests dine together, which is an important social part of the occasion.

The three degrees of Craft Freemasonry are Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft, and Master Mason. Each degree uses allegory and symbolism drawn from stonemasonry to teach moral lessons about personal development and how to lead a good life.

The Royal Arch is considered the completion of a Master Mason's journey. It is a separate but complementary Order that provides further insight into the principles of Freemasonry. Many Master Masons go on to join Royal Arch Chapters to continue their Masonic development.

Freemasonry is open to any man aged 18 or over, regardless of race, religion, culture or background. Candidates must believe in a Supreme Being, be of good character, and join of their own free will. No one should ever be pressured into joining.

The first step is to make contact. You can email us at stgeorge5691@gmail.com or call 07386 525801. We will arrange for you to meet some of our members so you can find out more about the Lodge and about Freemasonry in general before deciding whether to apply for membership.

There is an annual subscription that covers the running costs of the Lodge and contributions to charitable funds. There is also a cost for dining after each meeting. Costs vary between lodges. Please contact us directly for current details.

The United Grand Lodge of England is for men only. However, there are two separate Grand Lodges for women in England: the Order of Women Freemasons and the Honourable Fraternity of Ancient Freemasons. Both are well established and follow similar traditions.

At most Lodge meetings there is a collection for charitable purposes. Freemasons in England and Wales donate millions of pounds every year to both Masonic and non-Masonic causes. The Masonic Charitable Foundation (MCF) is one of the largest grant-making charities in the country, supporting vulnerable people, medical research, and community projects.

The Lodge of St George regularly supports both local and national charitable causes through fundraising and direct donations. Our members are committed to making a positive difference in the community, both through the Lodge and in their personal lives.

The Lodge of St George No. 5691 was consecrated on 9th October 1937. It is registered under the Province of Worcestershire and meets at Kings Heath Freemasons' Hall in Birmingham.

A Daylight Lodge meets during the daytime rather than in the evening. Our meetings usually start at 11:00 am and we dine at approximately 1:00 pm. This is ideal for members who prefer not to drive at night or who want to avoid rush-hour traffic.

We meet on the 3rd Wednesday of December, February, April, and October (Installation Meeting) at Kings Heath Freemasons' Hall, 221 Alcester Road South, Birmingham B14 6DT.