Freemasonry
A short guide to Freemasonry, to the Grand Lodge ALPINA of Switzerland under whose constitution we work, and to the Grand Lodge of Scotland whose historic tradition we follow.
Freemasonry is one of the world's oldest and largest fraternal societies — a system of morality, veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols. Using the working tools of the old stonemasons as metaphors, its members labour not upon stone, but upon themselves.
It rests upon three great principles: brotherly love, relief (charity) and truth. Freemasonry welcomes men of good character from every faith, background and profession, and asks that each believe in a higher purpose and strive to be a better man.
It is not a religion, and it is not a secret society; rather, it is a society with its own private traditions — open about its values and its charitable work.
Scotia Lodge No. 89 works under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge ALPINA of Switzerland (Grande Loge Suisse ALPINA · Schweizerische Grossloge ALPINA) — the regular sovereign Grand Lodge of Switzerland, founded in 1844 and recognised by regular Grand Lodges throughout the world.
The Alpina unites lodges working in German, French, Italian and English across the whole of Switzerland. As one of its lodges, Scotia Lodge is part of this Swiss family while cultivating its own Scottish character.
Our Lodge follows the historic traditions of Scottish Freemasonry — one of the oldest and most distinctive traditions in the Craft, with roots reaching back over four centuries.
The Scottish tradition is distinguished by its own rituals, its rich and colourful regalia, its offices — such as the Depute Master — and by customs such as the wearing of Highland dress. These are the traditions we carry into our work in the Orient of Zug.
Questions & Answers
Any man of good repute and mature age who believes in a higher purpose, of whatever faith or background. Freemasonry does not solicit members; a candidate comes of his own free will.
Neither. It is not a religion and demands no particular creed, though it asks a belief in a higher power. It is not secret — its principles and charity are public — but it keeps its own traditions and privacy.
Its distinctive ritual, regalia and offices, its Scottish customs, and the warmth of its fellowship at the festive board. The same universal principles are expressed in a particular Scottish style.
Sincere enquirers are always welcome. Please write to the Lodge through our contact page, and the Secretary will be glad to reply.
