Freemasonry is a large secular, fraternal and charitable organisation.
It teaches self-knowledge through participation in a progression of ceremonies (referred to as degrees). Members are expected to be of high moral standing and are encouraged to speak openly about Freemasonry.
What happens at a Lodge meeting?
Lodge meetings are like those of other groups, are open only to members, is normally conducted in two halves.
Firstly, there are normal administrative procedures such as:
Minutes of the previous meeting
Proposing and balloting for new members
Discussing and voting on the annual accounts
Masonic news and correspondence
News about charitable work
Admitting new members
Secondly, there are the ceremonies for the conveying of moral lessons and to demonstrate the principles of Freemasonry.
Thirdly, after the lodge meeting, a supper is held (also referred to as a festive board) to continue the fellowship.
Why do Freemasons take oaths?
New members make solemn promises concerning their behaviour both in the Lodge and in society.
Members also promise to keep confidential the way they recognise each other when visiting another Lodge. Freemasons also promise to support others in time of need but only so far as it does not conflict with their family and public obligations.
Why do masons wear regalia?
Wearing regalia is historic and symbolic. Like a uniform, the regalia indicates the rank of the wearer in the organisation.
What is Freemasonry's relationship with religion?
All Freemasons are expected to have a belief in a Supreme Being, but Freemasonry does not seek to replace a Freemason’s religion or provide a substitute for it. It deals in a man’s relationship with his fellow man not in a man’s relationship with his God..
Throughout Australia's history there have been many notable men who joined this ancient fraternity including:
Lodge Picton was born of informal discussions between three men whilst out walking the hills around Picton in 1909. It has survived two world Wars, Depression, good and bad times, but to this day remains in continuous operation.
The first meeting of Lodge Picton took place in rented rooms in Menangle Street, Picton on 26 February, 1909. At this meeting rooms used were dedicated and the installation of Worshipful Brother Walter L. Craig, Picton's first Master, took place.
The minutes recorded 'The Charter having been exhibited, the Lodge under name "Lodge Picton" was declared open and according to established usage and custom, to practice the arts and conduct the ceremonies of Ancient Freemasonry". The first social function held by Lodge Picton was held later in that year, and became an annual event to serve as a reunion of the Brethren. This tradition has continued in March each year with the “Back to Picton” meeting at 3:00pm instead of the usual 7:00pm meeting.
1909 was a period when the railway had only been in Picton for 44 years and place names such as Tahmoor, Nepean, Avon Dam and Yanderra hadn't been thought of. There was however, Picton, Bargo Brush and Picton Lakes, as well as very few cars and a poor road system.
Picton, up until 1960 had a major locomotive depot and at one time there were up to 4,000 men employed by the Department of Railways. Out of the many men who came to work for the railways, a good proportion of them either initiated or affiliated into the Freemasonry in Lodge Picton.
