Freemasonry is the oldest and largest fraternal organization in the world;

Open to all men of good will who believe in a Supreme Being of their choice; in upholding the laws of the land; in helping each other; in improving their communities; and the brotherhood of mankind.

Some men join the Masons because their father, relative or friend is a member. Others join because they want to meet new friends and make their community a better place in which to live and bring-up their children. However, most join because they share a common belief in the values on which this country and Masonry are based. They enjoy a belief in a Supreme Being worshipped in the religion of their choice. Masonry is not a religion. They believe in this country's laws, and voting for the party and candidate of their choice. Masonry has nothing to do with any political party. They share a basic belief in helping each other. They also feel secure knowing that they have a friend in every state... in fact, every country in which they may travel.

Because Freemasonry is centuries old, scholars can not agree about precisely when and where it began. An accepted theory is that it reaches back to medieval Europe when the great Cathedrals were built. The Stonemasons who built these awe-inspiring structures formed craft guilds to help one another and pass their skills to worthy apprentices. In early 18th century England, these guilds began accepting men in learning and position. These new members were not Stonemasons or even associated with building. As "Accepted Masons" they grew into a separate organization called Free And Accepted Masons, or Freemasonry.

Today, men of every walk in life belong to the Masons or "Freemasonry". Both names are used interchangeably. The fraternity's membership in the United States numbers 2.5 million in 14,000 lodges where Masons meet. New York State has about 85,000 members in over 700 lodges.

Membership in a Masonic Lodge is open to men 21 years of age and older, without regard to race or religion. Those accepted for membership must be of good character and reputation, and they must believe in a Supreme Being and immortality of the soul.

La Guardia Lodge is located in Staten Island, New York. It meets on the first & third Friday of the month.