Is masonry is a secret society?

Freemasons use the Ancient Stonemasons Guild Secrets as a way of recognising a fellow Mason as an honourable man and preventing imposters. It is a society with secrets within, but it is NOT a secret society. There is a plethora of information about Freemasonry freely available, much of which has been published by Masons themselves.

Do Freemasons only look after each other?

This claim is not true, but we do, of course, support internal charities, but in addition also give large amounts to charities which have no connection with freemasonry. Welbeck Lodge regularly supports many non-masonic charities, some of which are in the West Bridgford area. In an organised programme spread over 7 years, Nottinghamshire Masons recently donated £2.6 million to the United Grand Lodge of England fund to support charities, many of which are non-masonic. As a national organisation, freemasonry is amongst the top donators giving to various charities that have local, national and international causes.

Is freemasonry a sort of religion?

We are expressly requested NOT to discuss religious beliefs or politics in our meetings, although every member has to have a belief in a supreme being that is relevant and personal to them. Freemasons do not wear their religion on their sleeve but quietly continue their day-to-day business without imposing it on others.  On joining freemasonry, Masons take a pledge to obey the laws of our country and respect the moral and legal views of others.