Freemasonry FAQ
Honest answers to the most common questions about Freemasonry, Masonic membership, and Lakewood Lodge #170 in Lakewood, Colorado.
About Freemasonry
General Questions
What is Freemasonry?
Freemasonry is one of the world’s oldest and largest fraternal organizations. It is a brotherhood of men united by shared values — brotherly love, relief, and truth — and a system of moral instruction conveyed through allegory and symbol. Freemasonry is not a religion, not a political organization, and not a secret society.
How old is Freemasonry?
Modern Freemasonry traces its founding to 1717, when the first Grand Lodge was established in London. Its philosophical roots extend to the operative stonemason guilds of medieval Europe. Several Founding Fathers, including George Washington and Benjamin Franklin, were Freemasons.
Is Freemasonry a religion?
No. Freemasonry is not a religion. It has no theology, no creed, no sacraments, and offers no path to salvation. While it requires belief in a Supreme Being, it is not affiliated with any specific faith and welcomes men of all religious backgrounds equally.
Is Freemasonry a secret society?
Freemasonry is a society with secrets — not a secret society. The existence of our lodges, the names of our members, and our charitable activities are publicly known. The “secrets” of Freemasonry refer to traditional ritual elements and modes of recognition passed down through the degrees of the craft — not a hidden agenda or conspiracy.
Do Freemasons control governments or world events?
No. This is a long-standing conspiracy theory with no factual basis. Freemasonry is a private fraternal organization focused on the personal development of individual members. It has no collective political agenda, endorses no candidates, and takes no organized positions on public affairs.
What is a Masonic lodge?
A Masonic lodge — often called a Blue Lodge — is the foundational unit of Freemasonry, where members meet for degree ceremonies, lodge business, education, and fellowship. Each lodge is chartered by the Grand Lodge of its state or country. Lakewood Masonic Lodge #170 is chartered under the Grand Lodge of Colorado.
What are the three degrees of Freemasonry?
The three degrees are Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft, and Master Mason. Each degree is a ceremonial experience rich in symbolism and moral instruction, drawing on the allegorical traditions of medieval stonemason guilds.
What are appendant bodies in Freemasonry?
Appendant bodies — such as the Scottish Rite, York Rite, and Shrine — offer additional degrees and experiences to Master Masons who wish to continue their Masonic education. A man must first be a Master Mason to join them. Lakewood Lodge #170 is a Blue Lodge; appendant body membership is a personal choice made after completing the three degrees.
Membership
Questions About Joining
Who can join Freemasonry?
Any man who is at least 18 years old, believes in a Supreme Being, is of good moral character, and seeks membership of his own free will may petition to join. There are no requirements related to race, ethnicity, political affiliation, profession, or wealth.
Can women join Freemasonry?
Traditional Freemasonry — including Lakewood Lodge #170 under the Grand Lodge of Colorado — is open to men only. This has been a defining characteristic of the fraternity since its founding. Co-Masonic and women’s Masonic organizations exist in some jurisdictions outside the mainstream Grand Lodge system.
Do I need to be invited to join?
In most jurisdictions, including Colorado, a man does not need a formal invitation to begin the process. However, Freemasonry requires that a man come to it of his own free will — membership cannot be solicited. The best way to start is to attend one of our open Tuesday meet & greet events.
How much does it cost to join Freemasonry?
There is a one-time initiation fee and annual dues. These vary by lodge. Contact Lakewood Lodge #170 directly for current figures. Freemasonry has never required wealth — men of modest means have always been welcome.
How long does it take to become a Mason?
The timeline varies. After petitioning, the investigation and voting process typically takes several weeks. The three degrees are then conferred over months, with a candidate expected to demonstrate proficiency before advancing. Most candidates complete all three degrees within one to two years.
How much time does Masonic membership require?
As much or as little as fits your life. Lakewood Lodge #170 holds one monthly stated communication and Tuesday evening meet & greet events year-round. Active participation deepens the Masonic experience, but the fraternity understands that members have families, careers, and other responsibilities.
Will Freemasonry conflict with my religion?
Freemasonry is not a religion and does not compete with any faith. It has no theology, no sacraments, and actively encourages its members to be more devoted to their own religion, family, and community.
Can I visit another lodge as a Mason?
Yes. One of the great privileges of Masonic membership is the ability to visit lodges around the world. A Master Mason in good standing may visit any regular lodge recognized by his own Grand Lodge. Lakewood Lodge #170 welcomes visiting brothers and encourages our members to travel the Masonic world.
About Lodge #170
Questions About Lakewood Lodge #170
When was Lakewood Lodge #170 founded?
Lakewood Masonic Lodge #170 was chartered in 1946 under the Grand Lodge of Colorado. It has been continuously active for over 75 years, serving the Lakewood community through Freemasonry, fellowship, and charitable service.
Where is Lakewood Lodge #170 located?
Lakewood Lodge #170 is located in Lakewood, Colorado, near I-70 and Youngsfield Street — 7 blocks south on the east side. Call (720) 333-0580 or visit our contact page for directions.
When does Lakewood Lodge #170 meet?
Lakewood Lodge #170 holds open meet & greet events every Tuesday from 6:30 to 9:30 PM. These are open to prospective members and guests. The lodge also holds a monthly stated communication for active members.
How many members does Lakewood Lodge #170 have?
Lakewood Lodge #170 currently has approximately 80 active members. The lodge is actively growing and welcomes men of good character who are interested in exploring Freemasonry.
What charitable work does Lakewood Lodge #170 do?
Lakewood Lodge #170 participates in charitable giving and community service as part of its Masonic mission. The lodge supports local causes, contributes to statewide Masonic charitable initiatives through the Grand Lodge of Colorado, and encourages its members to be active in their communities year-round.
Is Lakewood Lodge #170 affiliated with the Grand Lodge of Colorado?
Yes. Lakewood Lodge #170 is chartered under and in good standing with the Grand Lodge of Colorado, which has governed Freemasonry in Colorado since 1861.
What is the phone number for Lakewood Lodge #170?
You can reach Lakewood Masonic Lodge #170 by phone at (720) 333-0580, or submit a message through our contact page. We hold open meet & greet events every Tuesday from 6:30 to 9:30 PM — the best way to connect is simply to show up.
How do I get started if I want to join?
The first step is to attend one of our Tuesday evening meet & greet events. Come, meet the brothers, ask your questions, and see if Lakewood Lodge #170 feels like the right fit. Visit our Join page for the complete step-by-step process, or contact us directly.
Still Have Questions?
The best answers come from a real conversation. Come to a Tuesday meet & greet at Lakewood Lodge #170 and ask us directly — no obligation, no pressure, just honest answers from brothers who have been where you are.
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