How do I become a Master Mason?

There are four steps to becoming a Master Mason. The first is acceptance into the fraternity; the second, third, and fourth correspond to the three degrees of Masonry.

A man who meets the basic qualifications of the Landmarks and Ancient Charges of our Fraternity can submit a petition for membership to a lodge. This petition must be sponsored by two lodge members. If he does not know anyone in the lodge, he can submit an inquiry through Freemason.com and the lodge will introduce him to several members who will get to know him, and then if they are comfortable, agree to be his sponsors.

These three ceremonial stages are loosely based on the apprenticeship system, which was used to educate medieval craftsmen. The 3rd Degree is Master Mason, making the candidate a full member of his lodge, enjoying both the rights and the responsibilities of membership.

The amount of time it takes to attain all three degrees depends on the lodge, the candidate, and the form of initiation. Generally, in Ohio, it can take anywhere between six weeks and six months to become a Master Mason, unless the Grand Master authorizes a special festival or class when the degrees are presented in an accelerated manner. In Ohio, such special classes are held every year or two.