Masonry, an old fraternity shrouded in mystery. With roots that stretch even the medieval masons, their ancient traditions remained practically unchanged during the centuries. When people listen the term "freemason", they think of funny handshakes and in folded pants.
If you search a little on Google, It's a cabal of people who are taking control of government and things. Masonry. Secrecy.
100% secret society. Now with the celebration of the brotherhood's three hundredth anniversary, the United Grand Lodge of England is allowing entry of cameras for the first time, to reveal what really happens behind closed doors. Okay, now are you leaving?
With unprecedented access, we lift the veil of secrecy to find out what it means being a Freemason today. I feel inadequate. There are countless chic aprons.
Of the privilege. . .
My mother would tell me I look like a fool, but you can never please your mother. Forward, Brothers. .
. . to luxurious ceremonies.
. . You'll seal it with your lips.
. . .
. . and ancient rituals.
. . You have something to offer in the name of charity?
No. All the rituals we do, similar to parts, I love them. .
. . and, of course, the unbreakable bonds of the brotherhood.
Take some of that, Brother. Describing the Freemasons you would say: "Why would anyone do that? " But when you're in it, you understand.
LONDON SENIOR INSIDE THE MASONS Tell me a surprising Masonic fact. A surprising Masonic fact? There are no goats involved.
. . to ruin the whole illusion.
Oh, darling. Today, there are six million Freemasons around the world, but it was in London that it all started 300 years ago. The Freemasons' Hall in Covent Garden is headquarters for the United Grand Lodge from England, and spiritual home of Freemasonry.
This is the Great Temple of Freemasonry in England. You can say which is equivalent to Twickenham stadium for English rugby. The Venerable Jonathan Spence He has been a Freemason since 1982.
Freemasonry is a secular organization, it encourages members to become better people for communities, using the ritual and the metaphor used throughout of its construction that when you build something you get better over the years. Now, the Deputy Grand Master Jonathan is one of the rulers of Freemasonry, third in the hierarchy of His Excellency, the Duke of Kent. How does someone become a ruler?
Well, that's an interesting question. If I knew the answer, would be able to tell it. Today, Jonathan will lead one of the biggest annual Freemasonry events.
Quarterly Communication. Now we must get ready and putting on the tailcoat, the next step. Despite being a little more than a glorified business meeting, Quarterly Communication will serve 1,400 Freemasons from all over the country and even the world.
I am the Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Croatia. -Nice to meet you. -Equally.
Welcome to London. Hello. Quarterly Communication is a formal business meeting, and decisions range from establishing fees for the following year to recognize the Grand Lodge from other countries.
While the content of meetings may lack color, the same cannot be said about its development. I will try not to cheat with this, because that's what I usually do. Ready?
Forward, brothers. There is a long procession. It's something special when you walk through these double doors and see the Grand Lodge open to you.
And then you have the frightening prospect to realize that it's actually everything contingent when you start. It's a time of fear when you look around and notice that you have to get right. Freemasonry believes in brotherly love, help and truth as a form to make good men better.
The main premise is that we are all equal. It's as easy as that. Yes, there will be people who perform different roles, But fundamentally, we are all the same.
Sit down, brothers. Despite a reputation for secrecy, or maybe because of that, Freemasonry has thrived for 300 years. In all walks of life, all the people you can think of are Freemasons or can become one, from garbage collectors to judges.
It is open to everyone. Masonic classes are 100% relevant. As long as humanity requires morals and ethics, Freemasonry will have something to teach you.
Freemasonry helps me understand myself as an individual, as a man. I think the type of person who gravitates towards Freemasonry is. .
. curious. I don't say strangely curious, but intellectually.
Looking forward to joining to the Masonic fraternity is 40-year-old farmer James Wooton. Upon joining the Freemasons, I hope to meet a spectrum widest of friends, people beyond the farms, with different opinions, and find out what really happens behind all of this. So yes.
I'm excited, because there are so many legends and things about it, Let's see if we can find out the truth. He had taken. Come on then.
When he came to me and said who would like to become a Freemason, it was an incredible feeling, my heart almost stopped. It's comfortable to know that I have someone very close to me, and also my family, with whom I can discuss these matters. And we can help each other.
One takes care of the other. James's father, Edward, He has been practicing his craft for 50 years. And proud of the heritage Masonic in the family.
This and my dad. Store Era and never pressured me to enter Freemasonry. But anyway, it was clear to me the advantages that a Freemason has, and the others, no.
In the sense of having a protection ring around you, and that makes it comfortable. Okay, pull! I don't believe.
I can't get it right. He is proud, and I feel that no matter how much have thought about joining before, because this is your greatest interest, that would give me something in common to bring us closer. Good boy.
Since your father was involved, I thought he would be part of it at some point. But I didn't know when. Good thing he's joining.
Your father is really happy, but there are many myths and stories. And it's hard to know what really happens. I definitely I will question James later, no matter how much he don't know what you're going to tell me But I'll find out.
Yeah, he got the suit and everything, so. . .
My father bought me this suit. He never took me shopping. He is very careful with his spending.
It was a unique experience. An experience in itself, which probably means that everything will be special. Yes, something new.
This suit was bought by my father. I believe it has all the equipment. I have no idea.
What could go wrong? There are three ways to become a Freemason. They are known as degrees.
At each grade the candidate receives certain secrets. A sign, a handshake and a word. When starting in first grade, you become an Apprentice.
During initiation, the candidate must leave one breast exposed. This is to prove that he is not a woman. In some hours, farmer James Wooton will become a Freemason.
Look at the class of that animal. Look. Look at his ass.
This is what you want. Ahead of the infamous initiation ceremony, Edward, James' father, is anxious to reassure the nervous son, about to become a brother. Everyone, from all generations, went through the ceremony.
You enter the temple blindfolded, and there is a reason for that. I can't count it, but it will be explained why you are welcomed in Freemasonry in this way. And do you follow anyone?
Does anyone come in? One person will guide you. He is called a junior deacon.
He guides you until it is time to remove the sale. And from there you can walk. You'll see where you're going.
Okay, Crikey. It makes me nervous, but it looks exciting. Just like your father, and the five generations of the Wooton family, James is joining at the Russell Store in Bedford.
BEDFORDSHIRE MASONIC CENTER Follow me Tonight's candidate will be placed here before going up. He doesn't know anyone before the ceremony begins. The poor guy will be placed in your solitude.
The Venerable Brother Anthony Henderson is the highest ranking member of the Lodge. Welcome to the Russell Store. As in all Masonic lodges, signs and symbols make up the environment.
They help you reflect and understand. . .
To really understand what is right and wrong, to be charitable and attentive to the needs of others. In the Store, a rough stone known as Ashlar represents the still unfinished beginning. So when we pick up this rough stone and we polish it, we end up with a perfect stone.
And that's what we hope that every brother will become. Initiations have great importance in the Store, because it is new blood joining the Lodge. The whole family approaches, excited for having a new member of their family, because they are like a newborn baby.
Right. Next time you see him, you will be a Freemason. Right.
Crikey. It's a proud day for me. As important as getting married.
Quite exciting. Bricklayers wore aprons and gloves to protect themselves at work. For Freemasons, this serves differently.
We are about to enter the meeting. I'll get my regalia which denotes my position in the Grand Lodge. She is quite peculiar.
You're in the room on your own, isolated. It's a different atmosphere. Quite intimidating.
With the brothers gathered in the Lodge room, the outside guard, or Tyler, is sent to fetch the initiate. James, come with me, please. Do you feel as if he were being summoned.
As if rising for the final interview, or something like that. It is not for the faint of heart. Before the ceremony, the initiate must be physically prepared, what does it mean to be blindfolded, or as the Freemasons say: deceived.
Although we have unprecedented access, this ceremony cannot be filmed. To preserve the mystery to future candidates, only freemasons testify the initiatory ritual, and the guard stands outside protecting the entrance against intruders and eavesdroppers. We don't tell candidates what to expect from initiation, because you only go through this once.
And if you know what's going to happen, the surprise is spoiled. Enter the ceremony with some vibrations. Friends can play a little about sheep, goats and things like that.
The candidate is blindfolded. And he might have a bond around the neck. And, of course, the folded pants, although this is more for.
. . Back to the old days of the bricklayers, when workers should prove themselves fit.
This alludes to rebirth. It is your entry into Freemasonry. And you receive the light.
This occurs when an individual becomes a brother. When Brother James appears with his new white apron, symbolizing innocence, he is in possession of a secret handshake, a word, a secret sign, because, if necessary, can prove to other Freemasons that he is an Apprentice. A simpler apron than the rest of the people.
It really shows that you are a newbie. And that. I'm officially in.
It must be. -Just the two of us? -That.
My father shook my hand like a Freemason, a brother friend. And that was an important moment. It was like a golden nugget for me, something I will always remember, because at my age you no longer participate so many moments like that.
You are no longer a boy, see your father proud it's really incredible. You feel pompous and happy to have completed this. Brothers, arise to receive the Venerable Master, accompanied by Provincial Deputy Grand Master and the initiate.
It was an excellent night. A typical night Russel, especially with his father here. It was so pleasant.
. . An incredible experience for him.
All the brothers had fun and they performed superbly. It went really well, and that's what Freemasonry is, everyone having fun and having a pleasant evening. Look this.
Amazing how a little of dust rises there. Well, that's my little attic. We built it two years ago.
As you can see, my collection is growing a lot. Tony, a regional business manager, devoted 34 years of his life for the brotherhood, and dedicates 15 hours a week to Freemasonry. Beautiful.
But that's not his only passion. I know very well about each one. The big Ferrari is a very rare animal.
Within two weeks, in recognition for his services to the brotherhood, Tony will be nominated to the highest position in the county. Provincial Grand Master. It's like winning the lottery, although I only won small amounts betting, It's exciting enough.
Quite a responsibility. The brothers look for the Provincial Grand Master as an example of what a Freemason should be like. Okay, put them in the bowl.
Tony's promotion is big news at the Henderson home. This week, grandpa will be named Provincial Grand Master of Bedfordshire. Wow!
Installing a GMP is an event which occurs once a decade and will feature the participation of 500 Freemasons from Bedfordshire onwards. Everything is happening very fast. So I'm trying to keep things organized.
I hope you don't get too emotional throughout the day, but who knows. . .
We'll see. Today, Tony is visiting the perks experts to make sure your apron be shining. If you are extremely fortunate to be named Provincial Grand Master, you have the right to use one of those beautiful things.
Five-pointed star in the center, the three levels of gold are here, and we have this elaborate ornament embroidery around, of pomegranates, sunflowers and glass leaves, because they have representation in Freemasonry ceremonies, and that is a beautiful thing. An ornate apron can easily cost 1000 pounds, so it's worth taking care of them. STORAGE I bought this one at the store.
. . but the panel, as you can see, It's not good to use.
-Yes -He has these spots here. I think what we could do is to fit a new skin here. Right.
I don't think the belt needs to be extended. I'm a little bigger than the previous owner. If someone had told me In the 90's "One day you will be the Provincial Grand Master", I would reply: "You've got to be kidding me.
" -But here we are. I'll keep it. -Right.
However, Freemasonry It's more than positions and perks. Ritual is what makes Freemasonry unique. There are messages transmitted through ritual, and it passed from generation to generation for hundreds of years.
There is ritual in Freemasonry because it is part of the structure. It's like amateur dramas, and people who want to learn acting in the plays. And that's what we do, but in an impeccable way.
This gives great satisfaction to some people. Without the ritual, It would be pretty boring to be a Freemason. "Brother Walsh, as you have passed at the initiation ceremony, let me congratulate you for being admitted as a member in our ancestor and honorable institution.
" In Oxfordshire, the sales engineer, Brother Josh Spencer, tries to master a ritualistic piece of 900 words, known as the “Position”. "Ancestor without a doubt is, having existed since time immemorial and honorable, must be recognized, by natural tendency, like a driving to make them obedient to his precepts. " The position is designated to help the candidate who just joined Freemasonry understand what is expected of him.
I really like to do a good ritual, do it with meaning, and try to ensure that the candidate get a benefit with what I want to convey. I feel happy for having already learned the main thing. Now I'm polishing it.
Being able to deliver this to a new candidate It's something really special. My grandfather gave me the position at my initiation and I saw the tears in his eyes. So I know how strong it can be when delivered well.
There were tears in my eyes too. Tonight, Josh participates from his Loja's final rehearsal before the ceremony. Good to see you.
Gave me a laugh earlier. -Great. -Yes.
I figured you'd like it. From a family of eminent Freemasons, Josh is currently First Warden. At just 25 years old, one day you will become Venerable Master, the most important man in the Lodge.
Joshua is an excellent Lodge officer. He is a fourth generation Freemason have contact with Freemasonry practically since he was born. Brother First Watcher, Could you please hand over the Cargo?
I normally. . .
Certainly, Venerable Master. Brother Walsh, how have you been through the initiation ceremony, let me congratulate you for being admitted as a member of our ancestral and honorable institution. We try to achieve precision for the officers who deliver the work.
Like any performance, they know how well they delivered it, and that's where they get the excitement for success in the ritual piece. Be especially careful to maintain in its splendor the true Masonic ornaments, which have already been illustrated, benevolence and charity. Learning should be fun, as well as delivery.
And she is. I believe that you will appreciate the values of Freemasonry, and keep in your heart the sacred sayings of truth, of honor and virtue. You deliver the Job very well.
I'm tempted. . .
Part of it is the pacing. The candidate is listening for the first time, then stop at moments of emphasis. You know what they are.
And right at the end, every time you hand over the Cargo, you get a little stuck in the closure. Remember this. But the material is incredible.
You worked very hard. -Yes. -Thanks.
-Happy? -Yes. I'm anxious.
I believe they were satisfied, and that's good. . .
As you can see, David has exacting standards, but I believe I found them, and I'm excited for next week. But if Josh will find himself with the demanding standards of the Store he must reach perfection in just 6 days. ".
. . at his initiation.
Let me congratulate you for being admitted as a member in our ancestor and honorable institution. . .
" Famous foreign Freemasons include Buffalo Bill, John Wayne. . .
And many others. Sorry. Famous foreign Freemasons include Houdini, Nat King Cole, Mozart, and others.
In Bedfordshire, Anthony Henderson, dedicated Freemason, Still digesting the news of being about to become Provincial Grand Master. The GMP He is the head of the order of his province. He's someone to admire.
When he comes to visit the Store It's a great occasion. She feels very honored by the presence of the Provincial Grand Master, and the brothers have something to draw inspiration from. I'm sure they're here.
My God, we're in trouble tonight. This is Tony's Mother Store, where it was started 34 years ago. -Hello, Gino.
-How are things? -Good, thank you. And with you?
-Excellent. -Hello John. -How are you?
-Did you get the fruit salad? -Yes, it's on the way. -Thank you very much.
-I bought one for myself. John, how are you? All good?
-Good. You? -Good too.
-Everything okay, Tony? -Quiet? -Yes thanks.
And you? -Too well. You know what they say.
"It is not the cough that carries him to death, but the coffin they carry outside. " Hi, Jeff. How are you?
All very well. Good luck. -Good to see you.
-Equally. What I think becomes different is that when you come to the Lodge meetings, when to use the new perks, be Provincial Grand Master means receiving a different greeting, be seen by the Brothers differently, I'm sure of that. But nothing will change.
I will. . .
In fact, I hope we can enjoy the experience even more. In some days, Tony will be officially installed and will take possession of the entire province. Brotherly love.
Okay, let's get ready. Most Freemasons, when you visit the Store, requests admission. As Provincial Grand Master, he demands this admission.
That is its importance. A brother who achieves such a hierarchy takes Freemasonry very seriously. No brother receives such a promotion If that's what Freemasonry is all about for them.
He's the boss. He is the man who guides the province, appointed by London, appointed by the United Grand Lodge. We're all the same, but like most things, some are more equal than others.
This is the current Provincial Grand Master. It's in the center, back there. Its predecessor is this one.
They are similar, but it's not him. . .
And he wasn't very pleased with it, I know. A little disappointed when he saw it. Tony was always destined for the top.
When the last Provincial Grand Master announced that he would end his term, everyone thought Tony was the right man for the position, if he wanted. The paintings will change places, Mike's position will be there, and then. .
. a picture of me will be placed in some place of honor, something that hasn't been done yet. .
. He will be a great teacher. He's one of us.
This is the chain I will use, and it is quite heavy. In Oxfordshire, Brother Josh Spencer, the rising star of your Lodge, is replaying it for the last time the delivery of the ritual of the initiation ceremony tonight. .
. "In fact, no institution can boast of such a solid foundation like Freemasonry. " .
. . now with help from his girlfriend, Naomi.
-Justice. -Justice. I believe it is very important deliver this part of the ritual as an initial explanation and guide, That's what's expected of her.
So you do the job When is someone starting? That. The initiation takes a few hours of work of people previously and then the stage is prepared for delivery.
-To deliver this. -Yes, this. .
. All eyes are on me. Very important.
A little. I think the night of initiation and probably the most important for candidates, just as we insist hope it's the best night you can have. Health Without gin and tonic a Freemason does not work.
Here he is. -Goodnight. -Have a good night.
-Thank you very much. -I'm sure you'll have one. -Anxious?
-Yes. -Must be. -Thanks.
The ritual involves members of the Lodge doing a two-act play small and symbolic. . .
Josh's play, known as The Cargo, is the grand finale of the ceremony. It takes up more time than I thought, but it's very good. I'm sure I'll grow up to the occasion.
What a surprise. What is wrong with me? Be able to deliver a piece like Cargo, After initiation, it is very special.
I don't think it's possible to deny that. It makes me very happy. The ceremony is exclusive to Freemasons.
Brother Walsh, how do you went through the initiation ceremony. . .
Freemasonry is a society recognized for its secrets, but they are not secrets horrible or sinister. Freemasonry is not a secret society. It's a society with secrets.
We try to keep the secret, because that makes it more fun. It's like having a surprise party and know everyone who comes and what gifts you will receive. It's not the same if it's not a surprise.
Goodnight. -Goodnight. -Very good.
Congratulations. -Is happy? -Thanks.
I think it was good for everyone. Arriving at this point, performing the function given to them, you stay calm and enjoy the night. In Freemasonry, the date always ends in dinner, known as the Festive Council.
The Festive Council is superb. You have the Apprentice sitting next to the Venerable Master and there are freebies for each position. Brothers, the Venerable Master I would love to have wine with your Watcher.
Listen. There is an order for the toasts at the Festive Council This first half is made with the Store, with the event and with the people present. Brothers, the Venerable Master Now I would love to drink wine with all the provincial officials present.
Brothers. . .
the Venerable Master would love drink wine with the new initiate. Health. The freebies are accompanied by sincerity for the work of the Venerable Master and for visitors.
Brothers, the Venerable Master I would like everyone drink wine with the new initiate. Health. The second half is more formal, with toasts to the queen and the office.
To the queen and the office! They toast to His Highness, the Duke of Kent. Grand Master.
Toast to the Program Master, to the Assistant Grand Master and onwards. There are toasts to the Provincials, or the Metropolitans, and the Store too. Provincial Grand Master.
After initiation, there is a song for the initiated, and it is something that people inside the Store keep with care in their hearts before handing it over. Come, let's get ready We, brothers, who are Gathered on this joyful occasion Let's drink, laugh and sing Our wine has a source Greetings to the accepted Freemason Let's drink, laugh and sing Our wine has a source Greetings to the accepted Freemason It would be more or less like this. Come together hand in hand To the firm grips of others Lets be happy And let's put shine on our faces How deadly Can boast of such a noble toast Otherwise a free and accepted Freemason?
Great. It's a good tip tell the brothers to try on their aprons before going to the store. In Bedford, Tony Henderson took delivery of your restored apron of Provincial Grand Master.
Good. . .
I didn't see that. Wow. Absolutely fantastic.
Look. Wow. Who would think of that?
I wish my father were alive to see me today. Tony's installation Provincial Grand Master It's in 24 hours. Installation for the province It's a great and fantastic occasion.
It's exciting for everyone, It's a nervous day, a bit like getting married. That's it, there's no going back. The square and the compass are universal symbols recognized by Freemasonry.
Originally, the square and compass were used by bricklayers, but Freemasonry saw them symbolically. The square means exemplary conduct in our lives. The compass reminds us to change our behavior and keep us in the proper bonds.
If you are a Freemason, You are told to be "square". Freemasonry is an analogy of a large building, but, instead of lifting it, you must build your character. The Venerable Brother Anthony Henderson has a date with destiny.
I can't believe the day has come. Time passed quickly. I have my privilege, I have money, my cell phone.
. . gifts and.
. . As long as you don't forget anything.
-I can call you, right? -I'll be at work. I have to go to work.
Okay, I'll look in the mirror. -He dresses up better than a woman. -I'm nervous.
We tend to lose sight what is really important in life, as well as the right way to treat our human friends. And that is the beauty of Freemasonry. There is no difference between men, They are all brothers.
And that's the message. -See you later, boy. -Have a lovely day.
-I love you. -Enjoy. Love you too.
-Call you latter. -Have a nice day. -Thanks.
I'll try. -Take care. See you later.
Today, at Bedford's Corn Exchange, with the presence of Freemasons from all over the country, Anthony will be installed like the new Provincial Grand Master of Bedfordshire. Looking forward to this afternoon, Steve. Thank you very much for being here.
The cake topping for Anthony and the brothers of Bedfordshire and that the ceremony will be conducted by a great English Freemason. . .
Hi, I'm Jonathan Spence. How are you? .
. . the Deputy Grand Master.
Hello, nice to meet you. Hello. For the province, if a ruler is present, I hesitate to say, but they seem to like it even more.
Hello how are you? -Honored to meet you. -And I to you.
Certainly the arrival of a Provincial Grand Master will request from the province a good performance so that London go away with a good opinion how they do the ceremonies. Right. Enjoy.
Come on, keep control. I think I will. Calm before the storm.
I keep looking at myself. "'Vanity, all is vanity, says the preacher. " For the first time, cameras are allowed inside the ceremonial installation.
Forward, Brothers. Advance to the pedestal. Place both hands in the Volume of the Sacred Law and read your obligations.
In order, Brothers. I, Anthony Paul Henderson, in the presence of the Most High, and before of the Grand Lodge of the Venerable Provincial of Freemason ancestors, free and accepted, regularly convened and met, for the gift contained herein I solemnly undertake to accept the position of Provincial Grand Master In the Masonic province of Bedfordshire. You will seal this with your lips.
Ascend, duly obliged, Provincial Grand Master, Brother Anthony Paul Henderson, It's an honor, in the name of the Venerable Grand Master, invest it in your chain Provincial Grand Master in this different province from Bedfordshire. I wanted it to last a long time. I wish the moment went into slow motion, but everything is so fast, Then you think, "Wow.
. . " Do you want to put it in a bottle is to savor it, and use it again and again.
Forward, brothers. AUDITORIUM It was an incredible moment. Well, where can I go now?
Home. Leadership is complicated, but you have to remember like the Andrew Bonar Law said in the 1920s about the conservative party: "I am your leader, I must follow you", a Provincial Grand Master not only must have the vision where he wants to take the province, but you must remember to take members with you. -Mike, as always, a superstar.
-Congratulations, Tony. -Thanks. -Congratulations.
-Proud moment. -Have a good night. Thanks for coming.
Take care. Cheers, Keith. To the next.
-See you later. -Until. Many say that Freemasonry makes good men better, and it certainly is my case, I dread to think what kind of man I would be if there wasn't freemasonry.
"You compromise your honor and fidelity. . .
" In Oxfordshire, Josh Spencer is the Worshipful Master of his Lodge, and that means more rituals to be learned. Pull! While in Bedfordshire, for Edward and James Wooton.
. . Pull!
. . .
freemasonry did its job. -Is ready? -Yes you can go.
Pull! And, at the Russell Store, Anthony is the Provincial Grand Master of all searches. Look this.
God, who would have thought of that? Yes, a place in history for now.
