If you hold the Master Mason degree in Freemasonry, you qualify and are invited to join
the Shrine. A man receives the three degrees known as the Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft and Master Mason Degrees in the
Masonic Lodge, often known as the Symbolic Lodge, Blue Lodge or Craft Lodge. In Freemasonry, there is no higher degree than
that of Master Mason (the Third Degree).
In many parts of North America, Masonry does not solicit members. In these areas, no one
is asked to join, and a man must seek admission of his own free will — he must ask. In some areas, Masons are permitted
to solicit new members. In all cases, a man interested in becoming a Mason, if he has not been asked, should consult a friend
whom he believes to be a Freemason to secure his good counsel and recommendation concerning this important undertaking.
For men who would like to receive additional instruction and explanation regarding the allegory
and symbolism learned in the Masonic Lodge, the Scottish Rite or the York Rite bodies elaborate on the basic tenets of Freemasonry.
The Shrine of North America is a fraternity that grew out of Freemasonry over a century
ago. Because of this, the Shrine is dedicated to Masonic principles. The Shrine Fraternity provides Masonic brothers a means
to widen the fellowship first enjoyed in the Blue Lodge. It also offers men, their wives and their families an opportunity
to meet new friends who have similar interests, tastes and feelings.