Frequently Asked Questions - Austin Lodge No. 12 A.F. & A.M.

Here is a list of the most frequently asked questions. If you don't find the question or answer you are looking for, please let us know.

1. How often does the Lodge meet?

With the exception of holidays, we typically meet every Monday. The Lodge building is open at 5pm. Dinner is at 6:30, with the actual meeting at 7:30.

2. When is the Lodge’s Stated Meeting?

Our Stated meeting is the 3rd Monday of every month.

3. Where is the Lodge Located?

We are located at the corner of 18th and Lavaca. Our address is:

207 W. 18th St.
Austin, TX 78701

4. What is required to become a Mason?

Masonry is open to all men of good character and moral standing who possess a belief in deity. Any man who wishes to join a lodge should be able to demonstrate these traits.

5. How do I become a Mason?

The easiest way to start the process is to visit a lodge and request a petition from the lodge secretary. At Austin Lodge #12, we have a roundtable discussion every Monday at 5pm for anyone interested in joining.

6. What is involved in the application process?

The petition requires two members of the Lodge to recommend you for membership. This may take some time if you don’t already know some members.

The petition will also require references from three other Master Masons in good standing.

In addition, you will be asked for work and family history, as well as any relevant criminal background.

You will also be asked to affirm your belief in Deity and the government under which we live.

7. What is involved in the Investigation Process?

Once your petition is completed and submitted to the Lodge secretary, it will be read at the next Stated Meeting (3rd Monday of the Month).

An investigation team of 3 Lodge members will be appointed to investigate your petition. They will contact your references, visit your home in person and get to know you better.

After the investigation is complete, they will report back to the Lodge and the Lodge will vote.

8. How Long Does the Process Usually Take?

It depends. If you don’t know anyone the first time you walk through the Lodge door, the process from start to finish usually takes around six months.

Members will want to know you before they recommend you. The formal investigation by the Investigation Committee usually takes one month, but may require additional time.

9. What happens after the Lodge votes favorably on my petition?

Once you’ve been approved to receive initiation, your first degree will be scheduled by the Lodge secretary, and performed by the brethren of the Lodge.

10. After I’m initiated, what then?

A newly-initiated Mason has up to one year to complete his Entered Apprentice memory work. The amount of time required varies from person to person.

Once an Entered Apprentice can demonstrate proficiency to the Lodge, he can be passed to Fellow Craft.

Once a Fellow Craft can demonstrate proficiency, he can be raised to a Master Mason.

11. How long does it take to become a Master Mason once I’m initiated?

How fast you go through the three degrees depends on you. Some men can do it in a few months; some take years, and many never finish.

Everyone at the Lodge is eager to help Masons go through the degrees; however, the work is not easy. It takes time and dedication, and nobody can do it for you.

12. Once I'm a Master Mason, what then?

Master Masons have a range of options and each person\’s journey is personal.

One option to consider is joining an appendant body, such as the York Rite, Scottish Rite or Shrine.

Some seek a path as an officer of the lodge providing the opportunity to advance through various leadership positions.

Some pursue esoteric knowledge and practice in the blue lodge rituals.

Others focus their efforts on our charitable giving and public outreach.

There are many options allowing our members to find a niche unique to their interests and skills.