Freemasonry never solicits its members. By an old and deliberate tradition, 2 B 1 ASK 1, a man must come of his own free will and accord, asking to join rather than being recruited.
That is not a barrier. It is an invitation. If fellowship, charity, self-improvement, and a place in an illustrious history speak to you, we would be glad to hear from you.
Who May Petition
The requirements are few, and they are about character, not credentials.
A Man of Good Character
Freemasonry seeks good men and helps make them better, honest, of sound reputation, and willing to meet others as equals.
At Least 18 Years of Age
In New York, a candidate must have reached the age of eighteen.
Belief in a Supreme Being
A man must profess belief in a Supreme Being. Which faith is entirely his own, Masonry unites men of every religion.
Your Journey to Membership
There is no rush and no mystery. Here is the path, step by step.
Inquire
Reach out using the form below, or write to us directly. We'll answer your questions and invite you to get to know the lodge.
Meet Us
Join the Brethren for a few informal dinners and open events. This is as much for you as for us, a chance to see whether the lodge feels like home.
Petition
When you're ready, you complete a petition for the degrees of Masonry. In New York, two current Master Masons in good standing sign it in support.
Investigation & References
A small committee of Brothers meets with you, and references are confirmed, a friendly, getting-to-know-you process, not an interrogation.
The Ballot
Your petition is presented to the lodge at a stated communication, and the members vote. A favorable ballot welcomes you forward.
The Three Degrees
You are initiated through the three degrees (Entered Apprentice, Fellowcraft, and Master Mason) progressing at your own pace, guided by a mentor from the lodge.
Common Questions
Looking for New York–specific answers, costs, requirements, lodges in Westchester? See the full NY & Westchester FAQ →
No. Freemasonry is a fraternity, not a faith. It requires a belief in a Supreme Being but takes no part in theology and asks no man to set aside his own religion. Brothers of every faith meet as equals.
Not at all; you found us, after all. Freemasonry is a private society rather than a secret one. We openly say who we are and what we value; what we keep close are a few traditional modes of recognition and the experience of our ceremonies, best discovered firsthand.
No. While many men are introduced by a friend or relative, you are equally welcome to reach out to us directly. That is exactly what "2B1ASK1" means.
There is a one-time petition and initiation fee, and modest annual dues that support the lodge and its charity. We will explain all costs clearly and upfront, before you commit to anything.
Our stated communications fall on the first and third Thursdays, September through June, with optional dinners and events in between. You are as involved as your life allows, many Brothers find the rhythm a welcome one.
You must be at least eighteen. There is no upper limit, men join Solomon's Lodge in every decade of life.
Send Us an Inquiry
No obligation, just the beginning of a conversation.