Freemasonry and Secret Societies

The Freemasons are the oldest and largest, world wide, all-male "brotherhood" fraternity that have so-called "lodges" across the world. Although of a religious nature, Freemasonry is not a religion. It urges its members, however, to be faithful and devoted to their own religious beliefs. As a fraternity, Freemasonry provides an opportunity for men to meet and enjoy friendly companionship. In the spirit of helpfulness and brotherly love and guided by strict moral principles it encourages goodwill toward all mankind. Freemasonry is of a personal nature in its private ceremonies. Its ritual dramatizes a philosophy of life based on morality. It promotes self improvement. The tools of operative masons are used to symbolize and teach the basic principles of brotherly love, charity, and truth which Masons are encouraged to practice in their daily lives. Charity is a tangible way in which Masons help those whose circumstances in life fairly warrant it. The masons often raise and/or give money to charity and help with community work. Over the century, the media and such have often given a negative connotation to Freemasons and secret societies alike, referring to them as Luciferians or satan worshipers as they tend to believe in 'illumination' and such is revered as worship in Lucifer - being the morning star and the bringer of 'light' - illumination. Then again, who wouldn't think secret groups of people consisting of powerful men - world leaders and such, getting together and sharing time/information with each other, doesn't look suspicious in the public eye?