Freemasonry is one of the world’s oldest fraternal organizations, tracing its roots back to the stonemasons who built the great cathedrals of medieval Europe. Today, it is a society of men bound together by a shared commitment to moral and personal development, mutual support, and service to others.

Masons meet in lodges to share fellowship, participate in time-honored ceremonies, study the symbolism and philosophy of the Craft, and work together on charitable endeavors in their communities.

To petition a Masonic lodge in Texas, a man must be at least 18 years of age, of good moral character, and profess a belief in a Supreme Being. He must come of his own free will and accord — no one is ever asked or recruited to join.

Freemasonry welcomes men of every race, religion, occupation, and background. What unites Masons is not where they come from, but the shared values they practice.

Masonry requires only that a candidate profess a belief in a Supreme Being. It is not a religion and does not favor one faith over another. Men of all faiths meet as equals within the Lodge, and religious discussion is set aside so that Brethren may focus on what unites rather than what divides.

The first step is to get to know us. Masonry is a lifelong commitment, and we want you to be certain it is the right fit. You are welcome to contact the Secretary, visit on a stated meeting night for dinner, or meet a current member for coffee.

When you are ready, ask a Mason for a petition. Once you submit it, an investigation committee will meet with you, and the Lodge will vote on your application.

There is a one-time fee for the three degrees, which covers the cost of your initiation, degree materials, and Grand Lodge assessments. After that, members pay annual dues that help maintain the Lodge building and support its charitable work.

Exact amounts change from time to time. Please contact the Secretary for current fees and dues.

There are three degrees in Masonry: Entered Apprentice, Fellowcraft, and Master Mason. Each degree includes both a ceremonial initiation and a period of study and memorization of a proficiency.

Depending on how quickly a candidate learns his work and the Lodge’s calendar, the full journey from petition to Master Mason typically takes several months to a year.

No. Masonry is often described as “a society with secrets” rather than a secret society. Our buildings are clearly marked, our members are openly known, and our charitable work is public. What we keep private are the specific modes of recognition and ceremonial traditions that have been passed down for centuries — details that every Mason promises to safeguard.

Regular Freemasonry, including the Grand Lodge of Texas, is a fraternity for men. However, there are several related Masonic-family organizations that welcome women, including the Order of the Eastern Star, which is open to Master Masons and their female relatives. Young people also have opportunities to participate through DeMolay International (young men) and the International Order of the Rainbow for Girls.

Irving Masonic Lodge #1218 holds its Stated Meeting on the second Tuesday of every month. A light meal is served at 6:15 PM, followed by the meeting at 7:00 PM. Additional called meetings are held throughout the year for degree work and special events.

Prospective members are warmly welcome to join us for dinner before a stated meeting. Please see our Calendar for upcoming dates.