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Because I am a Freemason . . .
I believe that
freedom of religion
is an inalienable human right and
tolerance
is an indispensable trait of human character; therefore, I will stand in my Lodge with Brothers of all faiths, and respect their beliefs as they respect mine, and I will demonstrate the spirit of Brotherhood in all aspects of my life.
I know that
education
and the rational use of the mind are the keys to facing the problems of humanity; therefore, I will bring my questions and my ideas to my Lodge, and strive to advance the growth of my mind alongside my Brothers.
I know that the rich
tradition of Freemasonry
and its framework of
Ritual
are important platforms for growth and learning; therefore, I vow to stand upon these platforms to improve myself as a human being, and I vow to help in the mission of the Craft to provide tools, atmosphere, challenges and motivation to help each Brother do the same.
I know that
charity
is the distinguishing human virtue, and that
personal community service is the best demonstration of ones commitment to humanity; I acknowledge that words without deeds are meaningless, and I vow to work with my Lodge to provide service to the community, and to promote charity, friendship, morality, harmony, integrity, fidelity and love.
I know that my obligation to community extends beyond my local sphere and is partly fulfilled in my
patriotism
: love of my country, obedience to its laws and celebration of the freedoms and opportunities it symbolizes.
I know that
leadership
is best demonstrated by
commitment to serving others;
I will therefore participate in, and help work at improving individual leadership skills, and serve the Brothers of my Lodge to the best of my ability.
I know that
friendship, fidelity and family
are the foundations of a well-lived life; I therefore vow to be a faithful friend to my Brothers, as I expect my Lodge to respect my personal obligations, and to treat my family as though my family were their own.
I know that the last great lesson of Freemasonry --
the value of personal integrity and the sanctity of ones word
-- is a lesson for all people in all times; I therefore vow to be a man of my word.
I know that
Masonry's power is best exercised when its Light is shared
with the world at large; I therefore vow to bring the best of myself to my Lodge, in order that my growth might be fostered and nurtured, and to present myself to the world as a working Freemason, on the path to building a more perfect temple.
Because I am a Freemason,
these values and aspirations are guideposts for my progress through life.
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