What is the difference between Masonry and Freemasonry?
The distinction between these two terms is very tricky to nail down, but a proper understanding of this distinction is the first step in comprehending Masonry. Freemasonry refers to the organization of Masonry, namely the lodges, Grand Lodges, Grand Orients, etc. The term Masonry refers to the sometimes abstract teachings that we as Freemasons attempt to learn and apply to our daily lives. Thus it can be said that Freemasons practice Masonry. It is freely admitted by most Freemasons that anyone, regardless of their affiliation or lack thereof, can practice Masonry. However, we are obligated to officially recognize only those men who have followed the formal procedure to become Freemasons. Therefore, it would not be wrong to say that a person was a “Mason” if he (or even she) embodied the teachings of Masonry. But in order to be officially recognized by other Freemasons, a person MUST belong to a Freemasonic body that is recognized as such. TOP Why do some Freemasons not recognize other
