Charity
Charity and benevolence are a universal characteristic of Freemasons. Apart from caring for Freemasons, their wives, widows and children external charities and good causes benefit greatly from donations from Freemasons around the country. It is a little known fact that Freemasons are the largest organization to give to charities behind the UK National Lottery! Masonic actions speak louder than words!
The three Great Principles by which we stand are Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth. Freemasons are taught to practise charity and to care, not only for their own, but also for the community as a whole – both by charitable giving, and by voluntary efforts and works as individuals.
From its earliest days, Freemasonry has been concerned with the care of orphans, the sick and the aged. This work continues today. In addition, large sums are given to national and local charities.
Masonic charity is exercised at every level: individual Lodges make gifts and give aid to their own communities and every Province also gives large sums of money to regional causes.