First, you have to ask yourself why do i want to become a Mason, and what are the benefits? There are numerous benefits to being a Mason, but they tend to be personal, and they are quite varied. And they can only be truly discovered by becoming a member. But to try to give you an idea: Without question the opportunity to experience, camaraderie, and fellowship with a group of men across the boundaries of age, race, religion, culture, and opinion is a fundamental to the fraternity; Many find great value and knowledge in our ritual ceremony that uses symbolism and metaphors to encourage, and remind us to appreciate principles, ethics, and morality, and to live our lives accordingly; Others find great satisfaction in our charitable efforts, community service and the support we provide our members, and their families; Finally, for those who take on leadership positions within their lodge, they develop, or further very practical management skills. Masons do not recruit members because { It must be of your own free will and accord to join }, so if you know a mason, ask him for a petition and a recommendation. Otherwise drop by the lodge on any Tuesday night after 6:00 p.m., and anyone there will be more than happy to talk to you and give you a petition. After your petition is received by the lodge, a three man investigation committee will be assigned to meet with you and your family. Their recommendation will be returned to the lodge for a vote and you will be notified of the outcome. If you are elected by the members of the lodge, joining the Fraternity involves going through three "degrees". Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft, and Master Mason. Every man accepted into the Fraternity goes through the degrees, thereby making each, an equal to the others in the lodge.