At St. Andrew’s Lodge No. 560, the Friend to Friend Program helps us get to know men who are interested in Freemasonry before they are encouraged to petition for membership. We believe that becoming a Freemason should be a thoughtful process, not a rushed one.
Most prospective candidates now first approach us through our website or after learning more about how to become a Freemason. From there, our Membership Committee begins an informal process of getting to know them, answering questions, and helping them understand what Freemasonry and membership in St. Andrew’s involve.
Our Friend to Friend Program in Practice
On August 20, 2026, St. Andrew’s held a dedicated information evening for seven previously vetted prospective candidates.
The evening began with a shared meal and informal introductions, giving our guests an opportunity to meet members of the Lodge in a relaxed setting.
The group then moved to the Lodge room for a presentation on Freemasonry, a tour, and an extended question-and-answer period. The discussion covered what Freemasonry is and is not, what candidates may expect from the Craft, and the importance of attendance, participation, learning, fellowship, and service.
Our guests also heard personal experiences from an Entered Apprentice, a Fellowcraft, and a Master Mason, offering three different perspectives on the Masonic journey.
Taking Time to Build the Right Foundation
At St. Andrew’s, prospective candidates are encouraged to attend social functions and other appropriate Lodge activities over several months before a petition is encouraged.
This gives both the candidate and the Lodge time to determine whether the relationship is a good fit.
The result is a slower but more deliberate membership process, focused on engagement and long-term retention rather than simply increasing numbers.
Our objective is not simply to initiate candidates. It is to welcome men who understand the commitment, value the experience, and are prepared to become active members of the Craft.
A Healthy Membership Pipeline
The Friend to Friend Program is helping St. Andrew’s maintain a healthy membership pipeline, with prospective candidates currently at several stages of the process and potential initiations extending into 2027 and beyond.
Earlier this year, with our own pipeline approaching capacity, we also referred four suitable prospective candidates to another Lodge that was seeking candidates.
Freemasonry is larger than any individual Lodge, and helping a sincere prospect find the Lodge that best suits him benefits the Craft as a whole.
For St. Andrew’s, the principle is simple: quality before speed.
By investing time at the beginning of the process, we hope to welcome better-informed candidates, build stronger relationships, and support long-term engagement in Freemasonry.
