If Freemasonry is to be successful we need to address the changing times and make it more applicable to modern family situations. What follows is an example of a letter that can be sent to the partner of a new Entered apprentice, explaining our role to her spouse and to her family. In this sense it will relieve any questions she may have that her new mason cannot answer.
Dear ____________:
I am writing to you today because your _____________ has received the First Degree in the Masonic Fraternity. He is now an Entered Apprentice and you are now as much a part of our family as he. Allow me on behalf of _______ Lode No. _____ to take this opportunity to extend our greetings to you. While you personally have not joined our organization, there are certain things that may be helpful for you to know about the fraternity your partner has joined.
The Masonic Fraternity is the world's oldest, largest and best know fraternal organization for men. It takes its roots from the operative Masons who built the great cathedrals of Europe and formed guilds to instruct its members in the building arts. Freemasonry as it is practiced today has a more recent origin being 1717 when the first Grand Lodge was formed.
The basic purpose is to make "Good Men Better Men"; better fathers, better husbands, better brothers, and sons. We try to place emphasis on the individual man by strengthening his character, improving his moral and spiritual outlook and broadening his mental horizons.
Freemasonry is not a secret society as our membership, meeting times and locations are not hidden in any manner. Neither is it a religion or substitute for religion. It is religious in nature in that all members must profess a belief in God, but beyond that the nature of his faith is a matter of personal choice and he is encouraged to actively participate in that faith.
Lessons in Masonry are taught in three separate stages in our lodges. The degrees, in order are Entered Apprentice (first degree), Fellowcraft (second degree), and Master Mason (third degree). Each blends a moral philosophy in a unique lesson, which is intended to have a serious impact and influence on the man who receives the degree. Upon receiving his third degree your partner will receive an apron, which is worn in our meetings and ceremonies. It designates his rank among masons and at a later date, should he become an officer of the lodge and ultimately the Master of his new lodge, he will receive a new one with different symbols to befit his new rank.
The most widely recognized symbol of the Fraternity is the Square and Compasses with the letter "G" in the center. On receiving his third degree your partner will be permitted to wear a ring or pin with this symbol. Members wear it to remind themselves of their obligation to the lessons learned in their Lodges, and to identify their membership to other Masons and all people.
Our Lodge meets in regular monthly sessions and on such other days as are necessary to conduct its business and degree work. While every Mason's attendance is required, it is not intended that a Lodge should interfere with one's employment or duty to family, God, or country. He can best receive all that he should by frequently participating in its meetings and events. We hope that you will approve and encourage him to attend regularly, and we hope also, that you, too, will join us whenever possible for the guest activities held by the Lodge.
In the event our member becomes ill, we would appreciate knowing. You may call the secretary of the Lodge or myself. Your Mason has joined an organization, which wants to assist him and you when in need, and we need your help to do it.
As the partner of a Mason you are eligible to become a Member of the Order of the Eastern Star, which is the female counterpart of Freemasonry. Should you at any time be interested in learning more, please feel free to contact me personally. You are encouraged to share in many social activities, parties, dinners, dances, tours, civic events, and charitable efforts of the Lodge. Many full family activities are regularly scheduled. Non-Masonic friends and families may also take part in many Masonic programs.
We hope you will be proud that your husband has chosen to become a member of the world's oldest and best fraternity. We welcome you into this extended family. If we can assist you in any way or should you at any time have questions I am but a phone call away.
Sincerely yours,
Master of _________________