Probably the finest definition ever devised for Freemasonry is: "It is a beautiful system of morality, veiled in allegory, and illustrated by symbols..." This system of morality, or ethics, is as old as civilization. One must penetrate the allegorical veils, with the aid of symbolical emblems, and practice the moral precepts which have been therein revealed to prepare ourselves, spiritually, "as living stones for that house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens." Freemasonry is a Way of Life." Freemasonry is a progressive science.

A Mason only advaces by taking every step. He must acquire and apply the knowledge available to him on each level and perfect his skills so that each stone designed for that Spiritual Building might be square, level, and plumb. Candidates for Freemasonry must come of their own free will. The applicant must have a sincere desire to unite with the fraternity dedicated to "Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth."

The first degree is that of entered apprentice and during it the candidate is introduced to the basic principles of Freemasonry.

In the second degree he becomes a fellow craft, learning still more of the principles and teachings of Freemasonry, especially of its close alliance with the arts and sciences.

The third and final degree is that of master mason, teaching still more of the moral truths of the fraternity, culminating with an impressive lesson concerning the rich rewards awaiting all good men.