One of Freemasonry’s customs is NOT to solicit members. However, anyone should feel free to approach any Mason to seek further information about the Craft. Below are answers to some common questions about joining Freemasonry.

What are the requirements for becoming a Freemason?

The doors of Freemasonry are open to men who seek harmony with their fellow man, feel the need for self-improvement and wish to participate in making this world a better place to live. In order to be considered for membership you must:

• Be 21 years of age or older
• Be of good character and reputation
• Believe in the existence of a Supreme Being
• Have resided in Ontario for the previous 12 months

How much does it cost to be a Mason?

Fees vary by Lodge. In The General Mercer Lodge, members pay annual dues and a one-time initiation fee. All funds received go towards the expenses of running and administering the Lodge, including: space rental, food and refreshments served at Lodge meetings, Masonic regalia, and other administrative expenses. We have members from a variety of professional backgrounds, and we seek to ensure that lodge fees are within the financial means of all who wish to be members of our Fraternity.

How much time would I have to commit if I joined?

The General Mercer Lodge meets on the second Friday and fourth Monday of the Month (except in July and August), from 7:30 to 10:30 – you would be expected to attend these meetings, however exceptions are made in cases of pressing family or professional commitments.

Where do Freemasons meet?

Freemasons meet at Masonic Temples, which are located in communities across the Province (and the World). The General Mercer Lodge meets at the Annette Street Masonic Temple, which is located at 151 Annette Street in Toronto (just north of Keele subway station). Click here for a map.

Will I have to do a lot of memorization and public speaking?

Memorization and public speaking are an important part of Freemasonry, and you would be expected to do some reciting of memorized text. While this may seem daunting if you are not used to public speaking, you will find that most Masons can tell you how their comfort with public speaking increased dramatically as they progressed in Freemasonry. It is also important to note that a Masonic Lodge is a supportive environment, and your fellow Masons will endeavour to help you with any memorization you may be asked to do.

How will becoming a Freemason benefit me financially and in my professional life?

Freemasonry is not a networking society. As detailed throughout this website, the goal of Freemasonry is to ‘make good men better’ through the virtues of fraternity, charity and truth. When Masons enter a Masonic Lodge, they leave their professional lives at the door and meet ‘on the level’ with men from a variety of backgrounds to practice these virtues, and not to network or make business connections.

How will becoming a Freemason make me a better man?

Freemasonry is not a religion, but it is grounded in religious and spiritual teachings and uses these teachings to impart a system of morality grounded in ancient wisdom. This system of morality reinforces and further supports notions such as the equality of men before God, the virtues of hard work and perseverance, the importance of providing relief and assistance to those in need, and the awe and reverence we should all feel towards the universe. The more a Mason participates in and reflects on these teachings, the more he will feel them to be fundamental, eternal truths, and not simple notions or social conventions, and the more he will practice them with confidence in all aspects of his life.

I am interested in becoming a Mason, but don’t know anyone who’s a member – can I still join?

In order to join a Masonic Lodge, you must be recommended by two members of that Lodge. If you do not know a member that you can ask, you can contact The General Mercer Lodge and someone from the Lodge will contact you to discuss your interest in applying.

Once I’ve submitted my application when will I know if I’ve been accepted?

After you submit your application to the Lodge an investigation will be made into your character. This will include a background check, as well as having three members of the Lodge visit with you to discuss your interest in Freemasonry and your motivations for joining. The three people who visit with you will then file a report with the Lodge, after which the members of the Lodge will ballot on your application.

If the ballot is favourable, you will be contacted and notified of the date of your initiation. On average, it takes about 6-12 months between the submission of your application and your initiation if you are accepted.