While the tradition may be simply stated, its application in the real world has left even experienced Masons in doubt as to the propriety of discussing our fraternity with non-Masons for fear that our anti-solicitation rule will be violated. Because our anti-solicitation rule is part of our traditions and not our California Masonic Code, there is no place where the Mason can turn for help in understanding the boundaries of propriety in discussing Masonry with the Non-Mason. It is hoped that this decision will provide guidance in this area.

Although the origin of our prohibition on solicitation is unknown, it has been widely misinterpreted by well-meaning Masons. It has been carried to extremes when a member refrains from discussing the fraternity with an interested prospective member. This attitude is far more prevalent than we would like to admit and has undoubtedly deterred many good men from joining our fraternity.

There is a distinct difference between solicitation and information. Solicitation is the active and persistent attempt to influence somebody to do something. It can involve the use of presure or promises of certain favors. This approach to a prospective member is certainly unacceptable to the Masonic fraternity.

On the other hand, a man of character will not join an organization of which he has little or no knowledge. If he is unfamiliar with the details of Masonic membership, there is little chance that he will be interested until he has been exposed to some information, through friends or relatives. Offering information is not solicitation.

A member may provide information on the purposes and principles of Freemasonry to an interested inquirer. He may freely answer questions about the organization of the fraternity, membership requirements, financial obligations, expectations of members, personal development, charities, community service, family activities and many other subjects which would help a prospective member decide whether he wishes to apply for membership of his own free will and accord. A member may not discuss the ritual of the degrees of Masonry with the prospective member, except to explain that the ceremonies contain serious lessons which are highly regarded by Masons. Any further explanation would diminish the impact of the degrees on the candidate.

Masons may sponsor programs to explain what Masonry is and invite non-Masons to the program in an attempt to create a favorable impression toward the fraternity. Our Masonic Information programs in California have been used successfully by our Lodges to create such a favorable impression without crossing the line separating information from solicitation.

A member may ask a man whom he believes to be a worthy prospective Mason if he has considered membership in the Masonic fraternity or if he would like to have information to enable him to make such a decision. A member must inform the prospective member or inquirer that the fraternity does not extend an invitation to become a member, that his application must be made of his own free will and accord, and that he must pass a secret ballot for admission.

After providing the information, the inquirer or prospect should be left to make his own decision without persuasion. If the inquirer makes no decision within a reasonable time, the member may make a single follow-up contact to see if additional information is needed.

Great care should be taken when a Mason approaches a non-Mason under circumstances which might imply some coercion or intimidation. For example, a supervisor at work should be very careful when approaching a subordinate. An older family member should be very careful when approaching a younger family member. Under no circumstance should a prospective member be led to believe that certain favors or benefits will result form his membership, except that he may be made aware of the program of care provided for elderly members and their spouses through our Masonic Homes, if their conditions eventually warrant such care.

All communications with a prospective member should be courteous and friendly. Information about the fraternity should be factual. If questions cannot be answered adequately, the member should seek assistance form other members.

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