Join Internet Lodge 9659

Welcome, Brother. Internet Lodge No. 9659, under the United Grand Lodge of England, offers a unique Masonic experience in the Province of East Lancashire. We are delighted you are considering joining our community. This page provides a clear overview of our joining process and the key information you will need.

The Application Process at a Glance

The journey to becoming a member of Internet Lodge 9659 is designed to be straightforward, following the rules set by the United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE). We've summarized the key steps here to guide you:

1. Initial Contact: You begin by filling out the application form below.
2. UGLE Registration Form P: We will send you the official UGLE Registration Form "P" which will include the details from your application form to be signed. This form requires your full name, address, occupation, employer, date of birth, and details of any previous Masonic memberships.
3. Declaration: If you are not currently a member of a Lodge under the United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE), you must also sign a Declaration Form. This form confirms your agreement to adhere to the Book of Constitutions and obey the Grand Master's rules and regulations An existing Freemason must witness this declaration.
4. Proposer and Seconder: Your application will be supported by a Proposer and a Seconder, who will be members of our Lodge. If you do not know any members, you will be contacted by members who will confirm that you are a man of good reputation and suitable for membership.
5. Fees: There are three fees to be paid during the process:
   • A one-off Joining Fee (£50.00).
   • A one-off UGLE Registration Fee (currently £126.00), if you are not already a member of a Lodge under UGLE.
   • An annual subscription for your first year (currently £120.00).
   • Please note that the UGLE Registration Fee and the first year's subscription are refundable in full if for any reason you do not join the Lodge.
6. An application for Clearance will be made to UGLE, who will communicate with your existing Grand Lodges.
7. Balloting: Your application will be proposed at a regular Lodge meeting and then a ballot (vote) will be held at the next regular meeting. If the ballot is successful, you will be admitted as a member.
8. Your application documents will be sent to UGLE for registration.
9. Welcome: As a new member, you will receive a link to the UGLE Book of Constitutions and, once received from UGLE, your Grand Lodge Certificate will be presented to you.

Important Information for Your Application

• Accuracy is Key: Please ensure that all information on the registration form is accurate and complete. Any errors may cause delays.
• Previous Memberships: You must provide full details of any Lodge of which you have been a member, including dates of admission and leaving (if applicable).
• Personal Information: The data you provide will be used for assessing your membership application, disciplinary processes, and maintaining historical records. Your data will be processed and shared with other Masonic bodies, such as the Province of East Lancashire and the United Grand Lodge of England, to fulfill the requirements of the Book of Constitutions.

What You Need to Know in the Future

As a Freemason, you are expected to uphold the values and principles of the Craft. Here are some key points to remember from the Book of Constitutions and the guidance provided by the United Grand Lodge of England:

• Belief in a Supreme Being: A fundamental condition for admission and membership is a belief in a Supreme Being.
• No Politics or Religion in Lodge: You are not permitted to discuss or advance your views on theological or political questions within the Lodge or in your capacity as a Freemason.
• The Book of Constitutions: Every joining Mason is presented with a copy of the Book of Constitutions, and accepting it signifies your submission to its contents. (Electronically)
• The Volume of Sacred Law: The Bible, or a volume held sacred by your particular creed, is always open in the Lodge. 
• Behavior: You are expected to be a "good Man and true" and to obey the moral law. You should be a "peaceable Subject" and adhere to the laws of the country where you reside.
• Charity and Conduct: Freemasonry promotes charity, integrity, and honesty. Conduct that brings Freemasonry into disrepute is a disciplinary offense.

Internet Lodge 9659 is a full, traditional Lodge that operates with modern sensibilities. We conduct all our formal business in accordance with the Book of Constitutions and hold three physical meetings a year. These meetings are not frequent, allowing you to be a valued member without the pressure of constant travel. All other interactions and communications are handled online through our website and other digital platforms.

• You must be a Master Mason in good standing in a recognised Lodge.
• You must hold a Grand Lodge Certificate.
• You must be willing to pay the joining fee.
• You will be asked to make a declaration of submission to the laws and regulations of the United Grand Lodge of England.