Freemasonry is one of the world's oldest and largest non-religious, non-political, fraternal and charitable organisations. For many, its biggest draw is the fact that members come from all walks of life and meet as equals whatever their race, religion or socio-economic position in society. Its values are based on integrity, kindness, honesty and fairness. Freemasonry is founded on three great principles:
Brotherly Love: Tolerance and respect for the opinions of others and an obligation to behave with kindness and understanding to our fellow creatures.
Relief: The practice of charity. Freemasonry is known above all else for its substantial outward giving to many worthy causes, donating many millions of pounds every year to masonic and non-masonic charities.
Truth: Masons strive for truth, aiming to achieve high standards in their public and private lives.
Freemasonry demands from its members under the United Grand Lodge of England a respect for the law, with which its principles do not in any way conflict.
A Freemason's duties are first to his God, then, without detriment to his family and those dependent upon him, to his fellow men. A Freemason's duty as a citizen must always come first and it is a serious disqualification to attempt to use membership of the order to promote one's own or anyone else's personal interests. More information on Freemasonry may be found at the website of the United Grand Lodge of England.
The success of the Apollo and other more recently founded Lodges that are affiliated with universities in the United Kingdom was a significant influence behind the formation of the United Grand Lodge of England's Universities Scheme, which was set up under the direction of the Past Assistant Grand Master, David Williamson, to make it easier for undergraduates and graduates to enter craft masonry whilst at university. The scheme is supported by the Provincial Grand Lodge of Oxfordshire.
Women students may be interested in the University Scheme that has been set up by the Honorable Fraternity of Ancient Freemasons.
