A Brotherhood Built on Values
Freemasonry is one of the world's oldest and largest secular fraternal organisations. It is not a religion. It has no political affiliation. And it is not — as is sometimes said — a secret society. It is a society of men committed to living by a set of values: Integrity, Friendship, Respect, and Charity. Those values are not abstract. They are lived.
Freemasons meet in Lodges — structured gatherings that combine ceremony with fellowship. The ceremonies use allegory and symbolism to explore ideas of character, service, and self-improvement. After the formal meeting, members dine together at the festive board. The combination of ritual seriousness and genuine warmth is unlike anything else.
Empire Lodge No. 2108 has been meeting in London since 1885. Its founding purpose — to bring together men of international background under the principles of English Freemasonry — remains unchanged today. Members are drawn from professional life, with strong connections to the City of London and the Livery Companies. What they share is a commitment to something larger than themselves.
The Kind of Man We Welcome
Membership is open to any man over the age of 18, of any background, race, or religion. What matters is character. Empire Lodge looks for men of integrity — those who want to grow, to serve, and to belong to a brotherhood with genuine purpose.
You do not need to believe in a specific religion. You are asked only to declare a belief in a Supreme Being — the nature of that belief is entirely your own.
You do not need to know a Freemason to apply. A conversation with the Secretary is all it takes to begin.
"The great strength of Freemasonry is that it brings together men who would never otherwise meet — and gives them a reason to remain in each other's lives."
The Journey Into Freemasonry
There is no pressure and no rush. The process is transparent and straightforward — and both sides take it seriously.
MAKE AN ENQUIRY
Contact the Secretary. You will be invited to meet members of the Lodge informally — a conversation, not an interview. Both sides assess whether the fit is right. No commitment on either side.
MEET THE LODGE
If you decide to proceed, you will be proposed and seconded by existing members. The Lodge votes by ballot. If accepted, a date for your initiation ceremony is agreed at a time that suits.
INITIATION
The initiation ceremony is dignified and memorable. You will be welcomed by the Lodge and assigned a mentor — an experienced member who guides you through Freemasonry at your own pace, with patience and good humour.
THE ROYAL ARCH
After the Third Degree, members are encouraged to join Empire Chapter No. 2108 — the Royal Arch — for deeper learning and continued self-development. It is the completion of a Freemason's journey in the Craft.
Answered Honestly
DO I NEED TO KNOW A FREEMASON?
No. If you don't know anyone who is a member, contact Empire Lodge directly. Many of our members joined without any prior Masonic connection. Curiosity is a perfectly good reason to get in touch.
DO I NEED TO BE RELIGIOUS?
No. Freemasonry is not a religion and has no theological doctrine. You are asked to declare a belief in a Supreme Being — the nature and expression of that belief is entirely your own affair.
WHAT IS THE COMMITMENT?
Empire Lodge meets four times a year in formal lodge, with additional social occasions. Members are also expected to contribute to charity and to participate in the wider Masonic community. Freemasonry is a genuine commitment — not an expensive hobby — and we are honest about that from the outset.
IS IT EXPENSIVE?
Beyond the annual subscription and dining fees, members are expected to contribute to charity and the wider Masonic community. It is not inexpensive, and we say so plainly. The Secretary will give you a full and honest picture before you make any decision.
WHAT HAPPENS AT A MEETING?
A formal lodge meeting — conducted according to UGLE ritual — followed by a festive board: dinner with toasts, speeches, and genuine conversation. Smart dress is standard. Regalia is worn in the lodge room and comes with time.
WHAT COMES AFTER THE THIRD DEGREE?
Members who have been Raised to the Third Degree are warmly encouraged to join Empire Chapter No. 2108 — the Royal Arch. Under the English Constitution, the Royal Arch is the completion of a Freemason's learning in the Craft. It is not compulsory, but it is expected of those who wish to grow.
Empire Lodge is under the United Grand Lodge of England and admits men. Women interested in Freemasonry are warmly encouraged to contact the Honourable Fraternity of Ancient Freemasons or the Order of Women Freemasons.
Write to the Secretary
If you are curious about Freemasonry and think Empire Lodge might be the right home for you, a letter or email to the Secretary is all it takes. A member will respond personally — answer your questions, and invite you to meet the Lodge. There is no obligation on either side.