Instead, it is a friend to all religions which are based on the belief in one God. Masonry, or Freemasonry, is a fraternity so old that its origins have been lost in time. It probably started with the guilds of stonemasons who built the great castles and cathedrals of the Middle Ages and might have been influenced by the Knights Templar, a group of Christian warrior monks formed in 1118 to help protect pilgrims making trips to the Holy Land. During the winter, when construction work was stopped, they lived in their lodges and worked at carving stone. All Masons believe in one God and in respect for each other.
Masons are men of charity and good works.
Our hospitals for burned and crippled children are known worldwide and are just part of the work we do. Therefore, only men of high character are considered for membership. Every applicant must state his belief in the existence of a Supreme Being. Atheists are not accepted into our fraternity. You must ask a Masonic friend to recommend you.