Membership Qualifications
Freemasonry is one of the world’s oldest and most respected fraternal organizations, founded upon the principles of Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth. Membership in Prince Hall Affiliated
Freemasonry is a privilege extended to men who demonstrate integrity, good character, and a sincere desire to improve themselves while serving their communities. To ensure that the traditions and values of the Craft are upheld, applicants must meet certain moral, personal, and civic standards.
A man seeking membership should demonstrate a commitment to providing for his family, maintaining sound mental and physical health, conducting himself in a manner that earns the respect and trust of others, and possessing a sincere desire to assist others through community service and acts of universal benevolence.
Those who meet these qualifications may then begin the process of seeking admission into the fraternity as outlined below.
Qualifications to Become a Member
All Freemasons are held to the same high standard and must be men of good character and reputation to become and remain members. To join Prince Hall Affiliated Freemasonry in Illinois, an applicant must meet the following qualifications:
Be a man at least 18 years of age
Be a resident of the State of Illinois
Be of good moral character
Have a belief in a Supreme Being
Be loyal to your country
Seek membership of your own free will and accord
Be committed to providing for your family
Demonstrate a sincere determination to conduct yourself in a manner that earns the respect and trust of others
Possess a desire to help others through community service and universal benevolence
Be of sound mental and physical health, with good control and use of your limbs
How to Become a Member
Freemasonry does not recruit. Men who wish to join must take the first step. The process is as follows:
Connect with a Mason
If you know a Mason, speak with him about your interest.
If not, contact a Lodge in your area for guidance.
Express Your Interest
You must clearly express your desire to become a Mason of your own free will.
Complete a Background Check
Before receiving a membership petition, all applicants must successfully complete a background check.
All candidates for admission, must visit SentryLink.com and complete the background check process
Upon completion, email the results to the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge Secretary at: RWGSecboaz809@yahoo.com
Lodge Review & Contact
After review and approval of your background check, the Lodge Secretary will contact you.
Submit a Membership Petition
Complete the petition and obtain signatures from two members of the Lodge.
Submit the petition with the required $25 non-refundable fee to the Lodge.
Meet with Lodge Members
Three members of the Lodge will meet with you to answer questions and discuss your interest in Freemasonry.
Ballot & Notification
Your petition will be presented to the Lodge for a secret ballot vote.
If accepted, you will be notified and provided with instructions for the next steps.
Lodge Information
P.G. Porter Lodge No. 142
1611 Ohio Avenue
East St. Louis, IL
Meeting Times:
First and Third Saturdays of each month
1600 hours (4:00 p.m.)
Email: pgporter142@gmail.com