FAQ

Freemasonry is a fraternal organization focused on moral development, fellowship, and community service. The Grand Lodge of Missouri describes it as “a system of morals which makes it easier to live with your fellow man.” Its core principles are Brotherly Love, Relief (charity), and Truth.

Freemasonry is about making good men better—not a substitute for church, politics, or professional networking. Members progress through three foundational degrees: Entered Apprentice, Fellowcraft, and Master Mason.

For a longer overview of history and philosophy, expand What’s the history of freemasonry? below. More from the Grand Lodge at momason.org/aboutmasonry.

Looking for a quick overview? See What is Freemasonry? above. This section is a deeper look at history and philosophy.

Missouri Freemasonry honors over 200 years of rich history and enduring tradition. Missouri Masons are active members of their communities, strengthening bonds through philanthropy and service. They inspire future generations to join a Brotherhood rooted in legacy and driven by purpose.
Building success: Founded on legacy, chiseled with vision.

Freemasonry is a fraternal organization with a long history, rooted in medieval stonemason guilds that evolved into a global network of members dedicated to moral and philosophical development. Here’s an overview of its key aspects:

Origins

• Medieval Roots: Freemasonry traces its origins to the 16th–17th centuries, when stonemasons in Europe formed guilds to regulate their craft. These guilds emphasized values like brotherhood, integrity, and skill.
• Transition to a Secret Society: By the 18th century, many masons sought to formalize their traditions and rituals. The modern fraternity emerged in the 18th–19th centuries, with the first formal constitutions established in the late 1700s.

Structure and Rituals

• Symbolism: Masonic rituals use symbols (e.g., the square, compasses, and alliances) to represent moral lessons, ethical principles, and the journey of personal growth.
• Hierarchy: The organization is structured into degrees (e.g., Entered Apprentice, Fellowcraft, Master Mason), each with increasing levels of initiation and responsibility.
• Secrecy: While some rituals are kept confidential, the core teachings are publicly available.

Philosophy and Values

• Moral Development: Freemasonry emphasizes virtues like honesty, self-discipline, and service to others.
• Universal Principles: It promotes equality, fraternity, and the pursuit of knowledge, often framed as a path to personal and spiritual growth.

Global Presence

• World Membership: Over 100,000 members worldwide, with lodges (local chapters) in nearly every country.
• Diverse Membership: Open to individuals of any background, though some jurisdictions have restrictions based on local laws.

Criticisms and Misconceptions

• Myth vs. Reality: While some associate Freemasonry with conspiracy theories, these claims are unfounded. The organization is transparent about its teachings and practices.
• Cultural Impact: It has influenced art, literature, and philosophy, with figures like Napoleon, Benjamin Franklin, and Albert Einstein being known Freemasons.

Freemasonry is a complex, centuries-old tradition that blends symbolism, ethics, and community. While its practices and beliefs vary by region and lodge, it remains a significant cultural and philosophical force in many parts of the world. For those interested, joining a local lodge or studying its rituals can provide deeper insight into its values and history.

If you would like to learn more about the fraternal order of freemasonry, visit https://momason.org.

Craftsmen Lodge No. 717 holds stated meetings on the second and fourth Thursday of each month at our lodge hall in the Bevo Mill neighborhood, except in July and August, when the lodge is on summer vacation and we do not hold regular communications.

Dinner is typically served at 6:00 p.m., followed by the lodge meeting at 7:00 p.m. Schedules can vary for special events, degree work, or holidays—check our calendar for the latest dates.

Craftsmen Lodge was chartered March 14, 1997. For more on our history, see the History page.

Craftsmen Lodge meets at:

4386 Bates St
St. Louis, MO 63116
(Bevo Mill neighborhood)

Visitors are welcome at many stated meetings, but please contact us ahead of time so we know to expect you and can confirm the meeting schedule. If you are already a Master Mason in good standing, bring your current dues card; if you are exploring membership, we are happy to answer questions over dinner before the meeting.

Freemasonry is open to men who meet a few basic qualifications and who ask to join of their own free will. Masons do not solicit members—you must express a sincere interest yourself.

Under the Grand Lodge of Missouri, typical requirements include:

• At least 18 years old
• A belief in a Supreme Being (Freemasonry is not tied to any one religion)
• Good moral character and standing in the community
• Ability to meet modest financial obligations for initiation and lodge dues

The best first step is to visit Craftsmen Lodge, meet our members, and ask questions. When you are ready, speak with the Worshipful Master or Secretary about submitting a petition. You can also use the Grand Lodge membership inquiry form and select Lodge No. 717.

Visit our Contact page for current officer information. As of this writing:

• Worshipful Master (Joshua Timbrook): joshtimbrook@gmail.com
• Secretary (Emil Fett): +1 (314) 825-0957

You can also reach the lodge hall at 4386 Bates St, St. Louis, MO 63116. For membership inquiries statewide, the Grand Lodge offers an online form at my.momason.org/public_lodges/inquiry.

For the pre-meeting dinner, business casual attire is appropriate—collared shirt and slacks are fine. For the stated lodge meeting, Missouri lodges generally expect coat and tie or a dark suit; many members wear a dark business suit.

If you are visiting for the first time or attending a social event rather than a formal meeting, ask when you contact us so we can confirm what is expected that evening.

Freemasonry in Missouri is designed to be accessible. The Grand Lodge describes financial obligations as typically modest, covering a one-time initiation fee and ongoing annual dues that support lodge operations and charitable work.

Exact amounts vary by lodge and may include optional costs such as regalia, meals, or appendant bodies you choose to join later. For current Craftsmen Lodge fees and payment arrangements, please contact our Secretary.

No. Freemasonry is not a religion and does not endorse any particular faith. Members must believe in a Supreme Being, but men of many religions—and those who practice no organized religion but hold a personal faith—have found a home in the Craft.

Lodge meetings may include non-denominational prayer, but Freemasonry does not offer sacraments, salvation, or theology. Masons are expected to follow the faith tradition they already profess. The Grand Lodge of Missouri emphasizes compassion, tolerance, and that Masons do not use the Fraternity to advance political or religious agendas. Learn more at momason.org/aboutmasonry.

Blue Lodge Freemasonry under the Grand Lodge of Missouri, A.F.&A.M., is a fraternity for men age 18 and older. Women do not petition Blue Lodges in this jurisdiction.

Freemasonry is a global tradition, and practices vary from place to place. In many parts of the world there are women’s and co-ed (mixed) Masonic obediences in which women are initiated as Masons. In Missouri, by contrast, mainstream Masonic organizations are generally organized as either men’s or women’s bodies—with some exceptions—so while women are not part of our Blue Lodge here, there are active and meaningful ways for women to take part in the wider Masonic family.

Many families participate in related Masonic organizations open to women and youth, such as the Order of the Eastern Star, DeMolay (young men), Rainbow Girls, and Job’s Daughters. These groups share Masonic values of character, service, and leadership. See the Missouri Masonic family overview at moamaranth.org/our-masonic-family or ask a lodge member for local contacts.