Principles and Charity

          

For Freemasons, these four important values of Integrity, Friendship, Respect and Service help define their path through life.
 In today’s world filled with uncertainty, these principles ring as true as they have at any point in the organisation’s history.


Integrity - Building Good People
Being a Freemason gives members a sense of purpose, supporting and guiding them on their journey through life.
Collectively, members are bonded through an understanding of unity and equitability - principles fundamental to Freemasonry.

Friendship - Building Together
Being a Freemason means something different to each person who joins, but whether looking to make acquaintances or develop their own potential, all members share a sense of togetherness that strengthens their ability to succeed and grow.

Respect - Building Unity
Freemasonry brings people together irrespective of their race, religion, or other perceived differences that can divide us as a society.

Service - Contributing
Whether participating in events, fundraising for a charitable cause or volunteering, our members make valuable contributions to communities by donating time, resources and skills.

Tonbridge Lodge No 1678 on behalf of West Kent Freemasons present a cheque for £2,280 to Fordcombe Green CofE Primary School
to assist in the purchase of four laptops for the school.

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.

Every Freemason, no matter what rank or office he holds, is encouraged to be aware of the support that is available from the Masonic Charities. They offer vital assistance to Freemasons, their wives, partners, widows and dependants.

Almost all of the money employed by the charities is provided by Freemasons and their families. The main sources of funds are dervied from a Fundraising “Festival” held each year by Provincial Grand Lodges in England and Wales.

The central Masonic Charities have consolidated their activities under the Freemasons' Charity which now provides the full range of support and services available to masonic families and other registered charities.

Funded entirely through the generosity of Freemasons and their families, the Freemasons' Charity is one of the largest grant-making charities in the country. Most of the support provided by the Freemasons' Charity takes the form of financial grants to individuals and families to assist with daily living costs.  They can also award grants to provide specific items or services.

The Freemasons' Charity is the  body with responsibility for managing the charitable activities of the Order. By clicking on the link, you will be directed to the website of the Freemasons' Charity, where you can learn more about its charitable activities.

Tonbridge Lodge continues to support the tradition of donating to charity and the West Kent 2026 Festival (which has now concluded) in favour of the Freemasons' Charity and has received the Platinum Award.