Welcome
Thank you for clicking onto our website, which is the home of The Lodge of Rectitude No. 502, in Rugby, Warwickshire. We welcome all, including visitors from other Lodges, and people who are new to Freemasonry and just looking for more information on the subject. We hope you find the content informative and enjoyable. Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions, we are happy to help.
What is Freemasonry?
“… A peculiar system of morality, veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols…”
United Grand Lodge of England- Mission Statement
“We are a unique members’ organisation that has thrived for over 300 years. Having no political or religious affiliations, we comprise members of all ages, races, religions, cultures and backgrounds. We meet in our individual Lodges throughout the country where we have ceremonial traditions which encourage us both to be more tolerant and respectful and actively to fulfil our civic and charitable responsibilities; we also make time to eat, drink and meet together, and form lifelong friendships.
To attract those from all backgrounds and walks of life, enabling them to develop into more thoughtful and confident people. To inspire and challenge them to practise the core values we celebrate – Integrity, Friendship, Respect, Charity – in their private and public lives. To cement our reputation as a force for good in our communities and society at large and as a thriving organisation that people aspire to join.”
How to become a Freemason?
It is a common misunderstanding that you have to be invited to join Freemasonry. The correct procedure is, in fact, that you should apply to join.
Our Core Values:
For Freemasons, there are four important values that help define their path through life:
- INTEGRITY – Freemasons are focused on building themselves as people of integrity.
- FRIENDSHIP – Freemasonry provides the common foundation for friendships between members.
- RESPECT – Freemasonry brings people together irrespective of their race, religion or any other perceived differences
- CHARITY – Kindness and charitable giving are deeply ingrained within the principles of Freemasonry
the Lodge of Rectitude No. 502
This Lodge meets on the second Tuesday of each month between October and May.
Historical Meeting Places in Rugby:
Spread Eagle Hotel, Market place, Rugby – 1845
George Hotel, Market Place Rugby – 1850
The Town hall, High Street, Rugby – 1859
Masonic Hall, Albert Street, Rugby – 1888
Masonic Hall, Castle Street, Rugby – 1898
Masonic Hall, Elsee Road, Rugby – 1936 to present day
What is a Lodge?
Freemasons meet together in groups known as ‘Lodges’. A Freemason Lodge is a place where members will spend a significant part of their journey in Freemasonry and each member can freely choose the Lodge they wish to be part of.
Lodge meetings are typically held in two parts. The first involves more administrative procedures, such as proposing and balloting for new members and receiving news about charitable fundraising. The second part focuses on ceremonies, which might relate to areas such as the admittance of new members or the installation of the Master of the Lodge and his officers – a process made up of three degrees, or stages, each marked by a special ceremony. After the meeting, we get together for a meal, known as the ‘Festive Board’. .
The process of becoming a full member of a Masonic Lodge is divided into three distinct and very meaningful ceremonial stages known as ‘Degrees’. Each is loosely based on the ‘Journeyman’ system which was used to educate and advance Medieval Craftsmen who were the builders of our historic castles and cathedrals.
In the medieval era, stonemasons often travelled around to find work in different locations. To demonstrate their level of qualification, they would use grips, words and signs in order to distinguish themselves from unqualified builders.
At each distinct stage, before being allowed to move on to the next level, the Craftsmen were required to demonstrate proficiency skills. In Freemasonry, we use grips, words and signs in our ceremonies to help us advance through the degrees.
The Three Degrees of Freemasonry
When a person is initiated into Freemasonry, they complete the First Degree. At this point, they become an ‘Entered Apprentice’. The First Degree ceremony reminds us that all are equal – it is the responsibility of those that do well to look after those less fortunate.
Upon completion of the Second Degree, a member becomes a ‘Fellowcraft Freemason’. This encourages members to better themselves through education and focuses on self-development.
After this, the member will then undertake the Third Degree. This ceremony teaches them how to use their life wisely and be remembered for the right reasons. On completion, they become a Master Mason.
Credit: UGLE
The Lodge of Rectitude
Freemasonry prides itself on its transparency and not only are Freemasons completely free to acknowledge their membership they are encouraged to do so.
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