Explaining Freemasonry in the 21st Century The Freemasons - Putting Others First

Despite Freemasonry’s long history and extensive charitable and community activities, it remains widely misunderstood. The book addresses this by providing a straightforward account of the organisation, its history, traditions, values and activities, as well as the changes it has undergone in recent decades.

The book also explores why Freemasonry still matters in the modern world. While its traditions span more than 300 years, its focus today is firmly on the challenges of modern life. As one of Britain’s oldest membership organisations, Freemasonry has more than 160,000 members across England and Wales, the Channel Islands, the Isle of Man and overseas, and continues to attract people from every walk of life.

Through its core values of Integrity, Friendship, Respect and Service, Freemasonry brings together individuals from different backgrounds, generations and faiths, demonstrating the enduring relevance of community and personal development in today’s society.

The Freemasons is intended for members and non-members alike. Its publication forms part of UGLE’s ongoing efforts to make Freemasonry more open, accessible and better understood.

The book highlights how the organisation is evolving to meet contemporary expectations while remaining true to its core principles. At a time when society is grappling with rising loneliness, declining trust in institutions and a growing search for belonging and purpose, Freemasonry believes it has something meaningful to contribute to the conversation.

The book also offers an insight into what happens at Lodge meetings, the purpose of its traditional ceremonies, the friendships members form, and the impact they make in local communities through volunteering, charitable giving and practical support. It also addresses directly the myths and misconceptions that have long surrounded Freemasonry, giving a clear and accurate account of the organisation, its values and its purpose.

Alongside the book, the Grand Master has approved a small number of changes to the wording of UGLE’s traditional ceremonies, including to reinforce the principle that a Masonic obligation never overrides a member's duty to the law, to their employer or to any public office. 

In his introduction, Jonathan Spence, Pro Grand Master of the United Grand Lodge of England, acknowledges that Freemasonry has itself contributed to these misunderstandings by becoming too inward-looking and failing to explain its activities adequately.

The book also addresses the continued cooperation between men's and women's Freemasonry, including the establishment in 2024 of the Council for Freemasonry in Great Britain, bringing together UGLE and the two women's Grand Lodges, subsequently joined by the Grand Lodge of Scotland.

Ultimately, it highlights the contribution Freemasons make to society, not only through charitable donations but through the time, skills and practical assistance they provide to communities across the country. By showcasing these often-unseen acts of service, it offers a powerful insight into the role Freemasonry continues to play in helping individuals, strengthening communities and fostering a culture of support, purpose and belonging.

The Freemasons is available free online from 11 November 2026 above on this web page. A printed edition will be available from December.

Continue the Conversation at Solomon Live

The conversation will also continue at Solomon Live in November, where members will have another opportunity to explore Contemporary Freemasonry in more detail. The webinar will provide an opportunity to hear more about this important work and to put your questions directly to our guest.

Reserve your seat for the webinar