about freemasonry
What's it all about then?
What is Freemasonry?
"A system of morality veiled in allegory and illustrated with symbols". "A system of making good men better, but Freemasonry cannot make bad men good". You could ask 100 different people what Freemasonry is and it is possible that you would get 100 different answers. Freemasonry is a worldwide ancient fraternal society of good men from all walks of life who believe in friendship, honour, morality and sound ethics. Freemasonry and Masonic Lodges in Scotland are governed by The Grand Lodge of Scotland which is based in Edinburgh.
What Principles do Freemasons believe in?
Freemasons believe in three great principles, these are:
- Brotherly Love: is the concern which each Freemason has for his Brother, which is readily shown by tolerance and respect for the beliefs, opinions and practices of his fellows and his willingness to care for his Brother and that Brother's dependents.
- Relief: The Freemason is by nature and teachings a charitable man. He will cheerfully and kindly assist those less fortunate (whether Freemasons or not). He will care for and support his community - Local, National and International.
- Truth: The Freemason believes in Truth in all things, in honesty and integrity in his personal, business and public life, in fair dealings and in firm standards of decency and morality.
Why should I become a Freemason?
Our members each have their own reason for becoming a Freemason. Many join because they have family members that are members, some join because the fully understand our principles and want to promote these, some join because they have an interest in in our ceremonies, traditions and antient history, some join because of our charitable support we offer and our engagement with our communities. Others join for the social interaction with other from all ages and from all walks of life.
Is Freemasonry a Secret Society?
Freemasonry is often mistaken as a "Secret Society". If it were then we wouldn't have published this site on the World Wide Web for all to see, neither would you be able to identify the Masonic Lodge in your town, many Lodges have plaques at the door. Members are free to acknowledge their Masonic membership to others and some Lodges even publish the dates of their meetings in local newspapers. Masonic processions are a common sight in many towns; these are hardly the actions of a Secret Society. The secrets of Freemasonry are connected with the traditional modes of recognition and like many other societies, clubs and organisations it regards many of its internal affairs and actions to be of a private nature for its members.
Is Freemasonry a Religion?
It is not a religion, although an essential requirement to become a member is the belief in a "Supreme Being". Membership is open to men of any religion or race and they are encouraged to follow their own faith and do their duty to their own "God". Religious discussions are not permitted at Lodge meetings.
Is Freemasonry a Political Party?
No! Freemasonry is not a Political Party, it is true that leading Politicians are members of the fraternity, however, discussions of a Political nature are forbidden at Lodge meetings, Freemasonry is neither a Subversive Organisation nor an Action Group and members must be peaceful, law abiding members of the community who are of good repute.
Is Freemasonry a Charity?
It is not a charity either, although members contribute considerably to a number of worthwhile charitable organisations and causes.
Who are Freemasons?
Freemasons include members from all walks of life including members of the Royal Family, Business Leaders, Political Leaders, Government Agents, Writers, Entertainers, Actors, Artists, Sportsmen, Inventors, Designers, Pioneers, Founders, Patriots, Presidents, members of the Police Force, Judges, Justices, members of HM Forces, as well as Joiners, Janitors, Bin Men and other tradesmen, the ordinary man on the street and may be even your next door neighbour. You will most probably know of someone who is a Mason.
Who can become a member?
Men of the mature age of 18 who believe in a "Supreme Being" who are of sound character and judgment and are law abiding members of the community, free of any convictions and have never plead guilty to a crime, may apply to be considered to become a Mason.
Can Women Join?
Under the constitution we work under, only men can join.
Do I have to wear an Apron?
Yes, aprons form part of our formal regalia and are symbolic of the aprons that the operative stonemasons used to wear while executing their craft. When you first join you get a plain apron, however, as you progress and advance, aprons become for ornate and elaborate.
So, what happens at a Lodge Meeting?
Just like other formal meetings, there is a certain amount of business and administration to deal with which is followed by formal ceremonies, which includes our antient rituals, to progress members through their "degrees". There are three degrees, Entered Apprentice, teaching you that we are all equal and the importance of Charity. The Fellow Craft Degree teaches you about productivity and how to become a better person. Finally, the Master Mason Degree reminds us that you only get one chance at life and that we should use the opportunity wisely. After the ceremonies there is usually an opportunity to relax and mix with other members socially.
How many Masons are there?
The Grand Lodge of Scotland has about 30, 000 members, The United Grand Lodge of England has about 180, 000 members and the Grand Lodge of Ireland has about 20, 000 members. Globally, there are about 6 million Freemasons.
What does it cost to become a member?
There is a joining fee followed by annual dues to support your Masonic Lodge which you should be able to pay without the detriment to you or your dependents.
How can I learn more?
If you want to learn more ask a Freemason for information or have a look at the website that The Grand Lodge of Scotland has published.
Right, how do I join?
You may have heard or seen the phrase "2B1ASK1" (to be one, ask one) meaning to be a Freemason, ask a Freemason, they will be more than pleased to tell you what they can about Freemasonry. If you don't know a Freemason you could find out who is the secretary of your local Lodge and give him a call or send a letter expressing your interest. If you have a specific interest in joining a Lodge within the Scottish Borders, discuss your interest with one of the Brethren at your local Lodge, or use our contact page to get in touch with our Provincial Grand Secretary for further information.
about our province
The Provincial Grand Lodge of The Scottish Borders
On the 15 of August 1747 the Province of Roxburgh & Peebles was formed. The title of our Province has changed several times over the years and it was only in 1991 that The Grand Lodge of Scotland relented and allowed the use the title, The Provincial Grand Lodge of Roxburgh, Peebles and Selkirk Shires . A title, however, does not improve or detract from the respect in which our Province is held throughout Scottish Freemasonry. This respect was earned by the tremendous efforts and hard work of our worthy predecessors.
In the heart of the Scottish Borders, with only 16 Lodges, ours is one of the smaller Provinces but we are proud to have some of the oldest Lodges in Scotland under our jurisdiction with a wealth of history.
From the foundation which has been laid we look forward to the future with confidence and optimism that our successors will continue to embrace the fundamental doctrine that has served our Province with distinction since it's creation.
The Grand Lodge of Scotland, at its Regular Communication on Thursday 1 February 2018 approved that the Province of Roxburgh, Peebles and Selkirk Shires be renamed to the Provincial Grand Lodge of The Scottish Borders and that Lodges Dunse No. 23 (Duns), St. Ebbe No. 70 (Eyemouth), St Luke No. 132 (Lauder), St. John No. 280 (Coldstream), Ercildoune No. 1119 (Earlston) and Whiteadder No. 1245 (Chirnside) within the Province of East Lothian and Berwickshire, be incorporated under the new Province of the Scottish Borders with effect from 31 March 2018.
To celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Province, a small book was written to give an insight as to how our Province germinated, grew and flourished. This can be read by clicking on the links below.
THE COMMISSION
JAMES THOM – PROVINCIAL GRAND MASTER
After an interest in Freemasonry from a young age, James (AKA Jim) was initiated into the Lodge of Melrose St. John No. 1bis in October 2006 and was proudly installed as Master thereof in 2015 and again in 2016.
James has been an active supporter of Provincial Grand Lodge holding a number of elective offices and was pleased to accept a commission, becoming Substitute Provincial Grand Master under the leadership of Bro. John W. Blackie and became Depute Provincial Grand Master for Bro. Andrew E. Forsyth. James’ fondest Masonic memory was being installed as the Master of 1bis in December 2015.
He lives in Kelso along with his wife and has two daughters. He works for a Europacific Soft Drinks Company and has an interest in Formula One Motor Racing.
STEWART CLARK – DEPUTE PROVINCIAL GRAND MASTER
Stewart was initiated into Lodge St. John Coldstream No. 280 in November 2004. Having progressed through all the Lodge Offices he was installed as Master thereof, in 2015 and again in 2019.
Stewart includes being part of Masonic history with the realignment of Provinces to become The Provincial Grand Lodge of the Scottish Borders with his ‘ transfer ‘ as Provincial Grand Junior Chaplin as one of his Masonic memories.
Stewart is a Forklift and Large Goods Vehicle Instructor and takes delight in trying to get a small white ball into a medium sized hole on various golf courses. Living in Coldstream, he has been married to his childhood sweetheart for 45 years.
DALE HALL – SUBSTITUTE PROVINCIAL GRAND MASTER
Dale is a well-known face around the Province who has held various elected offices of Provincial Grand Lodge as well as being a Past Master of Lodge Dunse 23.
Dale is a former Cavalryman who now works in the renewable energy sector. Outside of masonry and work, he is an elder of the Kirk. He is married and has two young children.
DAVID BELL – PROVINCIAL GRAND SECRETARY
David was initiated into Lodge Dunse No. 23 in April 1996 and installed as Master thereof in 2001, again in 2002, 2024 and 2025.
Whilst have never held office in Provincial before, he has been a life member of Provincial Grand Lodge for over 20 years. David was pleased and honoured to accept a commission under Bro. James Thom and looks forward to working for PGL and supporting the Lodges throughout the Province. As with most past masters, David’s fondest moment is his first installation into the chair in 2001.
David has worked for Scottish Borders Council for 25 years, with him spending the last 11 years as full-time branch convener of Unite the Union.
MICHAEL LAIDLAW – SENIOR PROVINCIAL GRAND CHAPLAIN
Retired bricklayer Mick was initiated into The Hawick Lodge No. 111 in April 1985, then installed into the chair in December 1992 and served two years as Master from 1993 until 1994.
His hobbies include scuba diving and fishing with a part time position as a ghillie for Bowhill Estates on the river Ettrick.
His proudest achievement in Freemasonry must be becoming Master of his Mother Lodge.
BRIAN DODDS – JUNIOR PROVINCIAL GRAND CHAPLAIN
Brian was initiated into Lodge St. John Selkirk No. 32 on the 28th of October 2013 and worked his way up to become Right Worshipful Master of the Lodge for 2023/24 and again for 2024/25.
Brian has lived in the Scottish Borders all his life and has been self-employed in the area for over twenty years and is well known in the local communities for working in his shops and he takes great pride in helping and participating in many local events.
When not working or enjoying freemasonry Brian likes to take advantage of the local walks in the area and enjoys socialising with family and friends.
