The United Grand Lodge of England

Freemasonry: Your Questions Answered

Q What is the relationship between Freemasonry and groups like the Orange Order, Odd Fellows and Buffaloes?
A None. There are numerous fraternal orders and Friendly Societies whose rituals, regalia and organisation are similar in some respects to Freemasonry's. They have no formal or informal connections with Freemasonry.

Q Is Freemasonry an international Order?
A Only in the sense that Freemasonry exists throughout the free world. Each Grand Lodge is sovereign and independent, and whilst following the same basic principles, may have differing ways of passing them on. There is no international governing body for Freemasonry.