More on the Freemason F.A.Q.

This is the next installment of the 32 questions about Freemasonry. This is question 2 and 3 in the line up, and i would be interested to hear your thoughts on them. They are again in response to past questions that I have received at FreemasonInformation.com from non-masons.

Why are Freemasons so secretive?
Many masons will not answer questions about the fraternity as they believe it is supposed to be a "secret". In the end that is a loss for the fraternity as any time someone asks a question about Masonry it's a great opportunity to talk openly about it. An often retort to this idea is that it is a Society with Secrets, rather than a secret society, but this is equally confusing. There are aspects to Freemasonry that are kept and taught to only those who go through the initiations and ceremonies so as to keep them in a proper perspective and context of meaning. These aspects are not “secrets” but instead knowledge that is best communicated in a specific and concise manner.

Is Freemasonry a patriotic body?
Yes and no. The aims of Freemasonry are not specifically to embolden patriotism. It does however; promote a strong affinity towards a passionate interest in the nation in which the Freemason resides. It encourages more than a passive interest in the development of civil society and our roles as citizens in it. The patriotism that is displayed is the result of that interest in the well being of society itself. The fraternity does strongly encourage the adherence and following of the principals and laws of the country in which the man lives.