The overall governing body of freemasonry is the United Grand Lodge of England https://www.ugle.org.uk/ which is divided into provinces and districts as well as links to other contry Grand Lodges that adhere to the same principles.
The Lodge is part of the province of Metropolitan Grand lodge. https://www.londonmasons.org.uk/what-is-freemasonry/history-of-metgl
Feemasonry in London is vibrant and is enjoyed by a wide variety of men living both inside and outside London. The earliest recorded ‘making’ of a Freemason in England is that of Elias Ashmole in 1646. Many people wonder about the history and day-to-day workings of Freemasonry. Previously, it has been clouded in mystery but in recent years we have been explaining to the public the positive influence which Masonry has on its members, their families, and the wider community.
The individual Mason benefits from the enjoyment of spending time with like-minded men in a supportive and social environment, sharing in a common philosophy for the benefit of the community and having a shared wish to live by a high moral code.
In the community of London most people know Freemasons for their charitable work.
Our members normally have an interest which is stimulated by the above principles and like to live according to our main Masonic principles of neighbourly concern, charity, and moral standards which are as important today as they were when Freemasonry was founded. Masonry is not a religion, but it does require that its members believe in a Supreme Being. It is open to men of all faiths and creeds
The Lodge of Fraternal Unity has members attending the meetings from across the London area as well as one or two members normally resident in Italy and Switzerland.
Meetings are held on a Thursday and normally start at 4 p.m. The meetings normally last between 2 and 3 hours and the dinner after the meeting would normally finish around 9.15pm.
For those considering becoming a Freemason with the Lodge of Fraternal Unity (or any other Lodge), there are a few main considerations. They are :
Having a belief in a supreme being.
Freemasonry is multi faith which means you can be of any faith. Or maybe you have not decided but you have a belief in a God. It does not mean regular attendance at a place of worship. Of course Atheists and Agnostics would not find it compatible with their view of life.
Being a man of good character.
No criminal record. Parking tickets are not counted. But if you have a situation of which you are uncertain just ask.
Be a man of 21 years and over.
There are some accepted exceptions to this rule.
Being able to afford membership.
Membership
does have a cost in terms of fees, in a similar way to other clubs.
The Lodge of Fraternal Unity is a dining lodge, meaning that we have dinner
after every meeting. The cost of the dinners forms part of the Annual
Membership Fees. The costs are made clear to those interested in joining
the Lodge of Fraternal Unity.
Having the support of your family and work commitments.
This is the most important consideration. Family matters take precedence over Freemasonry. It is important that your family is supportive of your joining and on-going membership and understands and accepts it. From time to time, work commitments will take priority over Freemasonry.
For more information on Freemasonry click on the following link to The United Grand Lodge of England Frequently Asked Questions:-
https://www.ugle.org.uk/about-freemasonry/frequently-asked-questions
