Question 1

What is Freemasonry?

Accepted Answer

Freemasonry is one of the world’s oldest fraternal organizations. It is centered on moral development, fellowship, and service to others. Members meet regularly, support charitable causes, and work to improve themselves and their communities.

Question 2

Is Freemasonry a religion?

Accepted Answer

Freemasonry is not a religion and does not replace a member’s faith. Members are required to profess a belief in a Supreme Being, but Freemasonry does not promote any particular religious doctrine.

Question 3

Is Freemasonry political?

Accepted Answer

No. Freemasonry does not endorse political parties or candidates, and political discussion is not permitted in lodge meetings.

Question 4

How do I become a Mason?

Accepted Answer

Membership begins with inquiry. A man must ask to join. If you are interested, you may contact the lodge for information about the process. We are happy to explain the steps and answer questions.

Question 5

How often does the lodge meet?

Accepted Answer

Wantagh Morton Lodge No. 63 meets on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of each month at the Baldwin Masonic Temple with the exception of July and August, and the 4th Tuesday of December.

Question 6

Can I attend a meeting?

Accepted Answer

Regular meetings are reserved for members. Visiting Masons are welcome to contact the lodge in advance. Non-members may contact us to learn more about Freemasonry and the membership process.

Question 7

Is Freemasonry a secret society?

Accepted Answer

Freemasonry is often described as a fraternity with private traditions rather than a secret society. Our meeting locations are publicly known, our members are part of the community, and our charitable efforts are visible. Certain ceremonial elements are kept private for members, but our principles and purpose are openly stated.

Question 8

What does it cost to join?

Accepted Answer

There are initiation fees and annual dues, which support the lodge’s operations and charitable activities. Specific amounts can be discussed upon inquiry.

Question 9

What does Wantagh Morton lodge do in the community?

Accepted Answer

Wantagh Morton Lodge No. 63 supports a variety of local charitable efforts throughout the year. Our members contribute to local food banks, provide meals to families in need during the holiday season, and support initiatives that assist veterans and their families.

In addition to charitable giving, we participate in district and community events and encourage members to be active, responsible citizens. Our approach is steady and practical, focused on meeting real needs within our local area.

Question 10

Is Freemasonry invitation-only?

Accepted Answer

No. A man must ask to join. While many people learn about Freemasonry through family or friends, membership begins with personal inquiry and a formal petition.

Question 11

I have heard someone referred to as a 32nd or 33rd degree Mason. What does that mean?

Accepted Answer

A typical Masonic lodge, sometimes referred to as a Blue Lodge, or Craft Masonry, consists of three degrees: Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft, and Master Mason. These are the foundational degrees of Freemasonry, and all members of Wantagh Morton Lodge No. 63 are Master Masons upon completion of that process.

References to a 32nd or 33rd degree typically relate to the Scottish Rite, an appendant body of Freemasonry that Master Masons may choose to join after completing the three lodge degrees. These additional degrees expand upon Masonic philosophy and symbolism but do not represent higher authority over a lodge. A 32nd or 33rd degree Mason is still a Master Mason within his local lodge.

Question 12

What are appendant bodies?

Accepted Answer

Appendant bodies are organizations that a Master Mason may choose to join after completing the three degrees of the Blue Lodge. They are separate organizations that expand upon Masonic teachings through additional degrees, educational programs, or charitable activities.

Examples include the Scottish Rite, York Rite, Shriners International, and other affiliated Masonic groups. Participation in these bodies is optional and not required to be an active Mason.

Wantagh Morton Lodge No. 63 is a Blue Lodge, sometimes called a Craft Lodge. The Blue Lodge is the foundation of Freemasonry, and all Masons begin their journey there.

Question 13

Are women allowed to join?

Accepted Answer

Freemasonry, as practiced by Wantagh Morton Lodge No. 63 and the Grand Lodge of the State of New York, is a fraternity for men.

There are, however, related organizations in the broader Masonic family that welcome women. One of the most well-known is the Order of the Eastern Star, which is open to women with specific Masonic family connections, as well as Master Masons.

These organizations share values of charity, fellowship, and service, while operating as separate bodies with their own leadership and programs.

Question 14

Are there Masonic youth organizations?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The Masonic family includes several youth organizations that focus on leadership development, community service, and personal growth.

For young men, the Order of DeMolay provides mentorship, public speaking opportunities, and service projects in a structured, values-based environment.

For young women, organizations such as the International Order of the Rainbow for Girls and the International Order of the Triangle offer similar opportunities for leadership development, education, and fellowship.

These organizations are independent but share historical ties and values with Freemasonry. Participation does not require future Masonic membership, though many members develop lasting connections to the broader Masonic community.

In addition, Camp Turk, located in the Adirondacks and operated under the Grand Lodge of the State of New York, provides a traditional summer camp experience rooted in character development, outdoor education, and leadership training for young people.

Wantagh Morton Lodge No. 63 F&AM

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