It encourages good citizenship and political expression but is not a political organization. It's charitable activities are many, yet, it is not a welfare or benefit organization. Twenty-two words from our Entered Apprentice Degree establish the most important prerequisite to becoming a Mason. Under Iowa Masonic law, a person seeking membership must be a man at least 18 years of age and a resident of Iowa for at least six months immediately prior to petitioning. Membership in the Masonic Fraternity must be of one's own free will and accord.
Religion can best teach a man faith, hope, and charity.
Freemasonry reinforces those teachings and attempts to bring him closer to his God. It is an aid to religious development in that it builds character and stresses righteousness. It is significant that many clergymen are active members of the Fraternity. A mason reveres, respects, and is tolerant of that which is sacred to his brother, be he Christian, Muhammadan, Jewish, or of another faith in God. The Fraternity is essentially an institution providing moral instruction.