I feel sure this subject will raise quite a few interesting reviews.

The reasons for my posting this question are as follows:

My initiation ceremony is imminent and during the course of the last few weeks I've been subtlely gauging peoples opinion on the subject of masonry, specifically a couple of work colleagues with whom I respect (they are not masons and they do not know that I wish to become one).

One of the statements related to me has been that freemasonry was basically a "glorified booze up" and that this fact was communicated to one of these chaps through a lodge member friend of his (so it must be true!!!!);).

I would'nt bat an eyelid at this nonsense except for the fact that something was said to me at my lodge committee interview, albeit after the official formal meeting came to a close.

One of the senior members approached me and said "I hope you like a good drink" almost as if it were requisite for my membership application.

This matter has been playing on my mind somewhat. I'm not a big drinker and the nature of my occupation disallows such activity anyway.

To be honest, I'm not joining freemasonry in order to increase my social circle, although I completely understand that this may occur naturally, I also have no ambition to currie favour with any individual nor do I feel the need to improve my standing in life. My reasons for joining are more spiritual in substance. Upon much research I decided that the learning process offered by freemasonry was ideal for my personal way of thinking and reasoning, and I intend to take the matter very seriously.

If it is expected of me to the join the rank of "bar-flys" then perhaps I need to take another look at this.

What do you think?

Northern star.

The simple answer is no, it is not just a glorified booze -up. If some members treat it that way, then that is sad for them. Indeed there are many teetotal Lodges and many members who do not drink at all. Especially these days, it is nothing short of stupidity to drive to a Lodge meeting and consume alcohol before driving home. On the occasions that I know i am likely to have a drink (Installations and special occasions), my wife drops me off and I get a taxi home. Although I may have had up to or over the drink-drive limit, I am sober. I respect (fear?) my wife far too much to go home sozzled.

When I was on night duty and attending a Lodge prior to duty, I was on soft drinks. Every Lodge has its own character. There is absolutely no reason for you to drink beyond your personal comfort or inclination and no expectation that you "must do so to be one of the boys". If you are driving, then that to me is a good reason for not having any alcoholic drink at all.

And I am very active in Scottish Lodges and Scottish Masonry. I am saddened that, what I am sure was a flippant light hearted remark has caused you such anxiety.

Roy L.

"SELUME PROFERRE"

I suspect quite the opposite! In 16 years as a London and West Kent Mason I can only remember seeing one Mason who was noticeably drunk after a meeting.

However, that is not to say that we go to the Bar and run away, we will happily chat for hours but there is no compulsion to drink.

I belong to three different Lodges and have visited a further 20 or so. I have never experienced what you are alluding to. Occasionally people do have a few glasses of wine and if they do generally they have arranged a lift home with another brother. I have never seen anyone anywhere near drunk though.

Most of us have to drive home and most have to go to work the next morning. It simply does not happen.

  Stephen   

many thanks for your thoughtful insight.

Your comments have put my mind to rest substantially. I normally would'nt take too much notice of things said by non-masons but it was the statement from the senior committee member that initially caused me some concern.

BTW- The lodge to which I have been accepted comes under UGLE.

Regards,

Northern star.