The core of the brotherhood of Freemasons is a common idea, a tolerant fraternal unity and self-enrichment through symbolic emotional experience. As members of an association sharing strong ethical views, freemasons advocate humanism, fraternity, tolerance, placidity and social justice. As a set of fraternally united companions, they exercise mastering of the above values in their Lodges and as a symbolic fellowship, Freemasonry serves the transcendence of ideas and unity into emotional experience by its brothers. Behind this aspect there is the uniqueness of Freemasonry making it stand out among any other kind of associations.
Although communication among Freemasons does not always take place only in traditional forms, the central role is played by degree ceremonies organized according to definite rites. Moreover, it would be futile to argue whether degree ceremonies constitute the cause or means of Freemasonry and whether togetherness ensures the performance of the rite or traditions primarily serve for creation of togetherness.
It is hardly arguable that all activities of Freemasons are centred round the communication within the Lodge or rituals of the Temple. It should be admitted that the vitality of Freemasonry is largely based on forms and symbols that have been preserved immutable throughout centuries.
Freemasonry is one of the most ancient and largest currently existing brotherhoods in the world. It unites 5 to 6 million members globally. The origins of modern Freemasonry are found at the end of the 17th century and nowadays it continues to carry on respectfully the inherited traditions making Freemasonry so exceptional in human society.
The mission of Freemasonry is teaching of three principles: brotherly love, relief and truth as well as promotion of a lifestyle uniting like-minded men in the whole world who are above different religious, cultural, social and other differences.
The goals of Freemasons are:
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promotion of self-development and self-education;
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activities and charity targeted at building of a better society as the whole;
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Promotion of better life strengthened with high moral and ethical principles.
Freemasonry has inherited traditions rooted in the guilds of stone masons of the middle Ages. Ritual work serves the following purpose:
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admittance of new members,
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deepening the sense of fellowship among brothers,
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comprehending of the moral standards of freemasons,
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mustering of spiritual strength and elation of soul of brothers.