Relief is one of the three grand principles of Freemasonry — and in Australia the Craft has quietly given to the community for generations. Here is how, and why.
Ask a Freemason what the Craft is for, and sooner or later he will speak of charity. Alongside Brotherly Love and Truth, Relief is one of the three grand principles on which Freemasonry is founded — the plain duty to help those in need, quietly and without expectation of thanks. It is not an add-on to Freemasonry; it is woven into its very heart.
Relief — a principle, not a fundraiser
In the lodge room a Freemason is taught to regard the whole human family as one, and to give relief to a worthy brother or a distressed neighbour so far as he is able, without injury to himself or his connections. That teaching does not stay in the lodge room. It follows the Freemason home — into his family, his workplace and his community.
In New South Wales and the ACT: Masonicare
In our own jurisdiction, the United Grand Lodge of NSW & ACT carries out much of its charitable work through Masonicare, the Craft's charitable arm. Through the generosity of lodges and individual brethren, Masonicare funds community grants, disaster and emergency relief, medical research and health initiatives, scholarships for young people, and confidential support for brethren, their widows and their families who have fallen on hard times.
The work is deliberately practical. When bushfire, drought or flood strikes an Australian community, Masonic relief is often among the most local — because Freemasons live in the very towns they help.
A national tradition of giving
Across Australia, Freemasonry has for more than a century helped to build and sustain the things a community needs: hospitals and hospital wings, medical and university research, aged care and benevolent homes, scholarships and youth programmes, and relief in times of hardship. Much of it is given without fanfare — a Freemason is taught that charity is worth most when it is done quietly.
“To relieve the distressed is a duty incumbent on all men, but particularly on Freemasons, who are linked together by an indissoluble chain of sincere affection.”
— From the Masonic Charge
Charity begins in the lodge
Every regular meeting of a lodge includes a collection for charity, and the festive board that follows is itself a small act of fellowship and giving. At Lodge St Andrew at Bexley No. 7 we take our part in that tradition — supporting Masonic charities, our local community, and brethren in need — as Freemasons in this district have done since 1851.
Join us, or lend a hand
You need not be a Freemason to believe in quiet generosity — but if the idea of belonging to a fraternity that turns good intentions into practical help appeals to you, we would be glad to hear from you. To learn more about Freemasonry, our charitable work, or how to become a member, please contact Lodge St Andrew at Bexley No. 7.
Considering the Craft?
If Freemasonry speaks to you, the next step is simply a conversation. Lodge St Andrew at Bexley No. 7 would be glad to answer your questions — there is no obligation, only a warm welcome.
