Discover Freemasonry in New Castle
New Castle Lodge No. 61224 is the home of Freemasons in New Castle . We are a charitable organization that attracts men from all across Bedfordshire with a shared interest in charity.
About the Fraternity
Freemasonry, also known as Masonry, is based on the belief that each man has a responsibility to help make the world a better place. Through our culture of philanthropy, we make a profound difference for our brothers, our families, our communities, and our future.
A unique institution with global membership
People from all walks of life become Freemasons for a variety of reasons. Some are attracted by the valuable work that the movement performs in raising money for charity. A proportion of these funds is used to assist Freemasons and their dependents in times of need, particularly the sick and the elderly, but the greater part goes to non Masonic charities – local, national and international. Freemasons also assist the community in more direct ways, such as carrying out voluntary work.
Others become Freemasons because of the unique fellowship it provides. Visit a Masonic lodge anywhere in the country – or indeed, the world – and you are greeted as an old friend. Freemasonry is the ultimate leveller, a community where friendship and goodwill are paramount.
What Are the Degrees of Masonry?
New members progress through three degrees of Freemasonry, culminating with the Master Mason degree. Each degree involves a ceremony where the moral and ethical teachings of Masonry are expressed and illustrated. One of the most rewarding parts of becoming a Mason is receiving your degrees—and supporting others as they get theirs.
There are three degrees, each containing unique life lessons.
- First degree: Entered Apprentice
- Second degree: Fellow Craft
- Third degree: Master Mason
These ceremonies aren’t open to the public; they are for members only. But we can tell you this much: When you’re part of a degree ceremony, you’re part of history.
Why Should I Apply to Join?
The reasons people become Masons are personal to them. However, some of the most common reasons include:
- Forming lifelong friendships
- Focusing on personal development
- Helping others
- Being part of a historic organization you can take pride in
- Meeting people from different backgrounds who share your values
- Engaging with the community
- Learning time-tested leadership skills
- Enjoying regular social activities
- Connecting with a global network
How Do I Apply?
Candidates typically apply directly to the Masonic lodge they intend to join. To do this, you can either approach a lodge directly and request information or fill out this request for information, and we’ll reach out to help answer questions and connect you to a lodge. If there are multiple lodges in your area, it’s often a good idea to visit several. Since each Masonic lodge has a unique identity, you’ll be able to tell which fits what you’re looking for.
How Do Freemasons Give Back?
Masons feel a special sense of responsibility for the places they call home. As a result, Freemasons show up for the events and causes that matter most to their communities.
We’re known for charitable giving.
In 2021, New Castle Lodge No. 61224 raised approximately $6 million for charitable programs through the New Castle Masonic Foundation. At the local level, New Castle Lodge No. 61224 also donated their money and time to countless deserving programs.
We have a long history of supporting public schools.
Freemasonry is all about the pursuit of knowledge. And historically, Masons have been proud champions of education and literacy. New Castle Lodge No. 61224 continue to support youth education through scholarships, volunteering efforts, and more. Statewide, the New Castle Masonic Foundation is a primary partner of the youth literacy nonprofit Raising A Reader. Masons also support the New Castle Teacher of the Year Awards, lead Public Education Advisory Committees, and fund the innovative Investment in Success college scholarship program.
We support our most vulnerable.
California Masons provide a wide range of care and services for vulnerable seniors through the Masonic Homes of New Castle. That also includes supporting the Masonic Center for Youth and Families, which provides kids, adolescents, families, and seniors with mental health services.