Your First Step Toward Brotherhood, Purpose, and Personal Growth

Becoming a Freemason is a personal journey — one grounded in character, integrity, and the desire to grow among good men.
If you’re seeking meaning, mentorship, and a strong community rooted in centuries of tradition, the path begins right here.

Who We Accept

Freemasonry welcomes men of all backgrounds, faiths, and walks of life. To petition our lodge, you must:

• Be a man at least 18 years old

• Believe in a Supreme Being (your specific faith is your own)

• Be of good moral character

• Be free-thinking, honest, and responsible

• Choose to apply of your own free will

We do not judge men based on race, nationality, income, occupation, or politics.
Only your character matters.

What You’ll Gain

Men who join Freemasonry often seek — and find:

• Lifelong brotherhood

• A community of honorable men

• Purpose, structure, and direction

• Leadership and mentorship opportunities

• A deeper understanding of moral and philosophical principles

• A direct connection to Detroit history

• A place to belong in a fast-moving world

Freemasonry doesn’t change a man overnight…
but it gives him the tools to change himself.

How the Process Works

Becoming a Freemason is straightforward, respectful, and designed to help you make an informed decision.

Step 1 — Contact Us

Reach out using the form on this page, or email the Secretary.
A brother will reply and arrange a time to meet with you informally.

No pressure.
No obligations.
Just a genuine conversation.

Step 2 — Visit the Lodge

We encourage all prospective candidates to visit our lodge, meet our members, and ask questions.
This helps you decide whether Freemasonry — and our lodge specifically — is right for you.

You’ll be welcomed warmly and treated with respect at every step.

Step 3 — Request a Petition

If you feel that Freemasonry aligns with your values and goals, you may request a petition.
The lodge will guide you through completing the application.

Step 4 — Investigation & Ballot

Three brothers will meet with you (and your family, if they wish) to learn more about you and answer any remaining questions.

Afterward, the lodge votes.
A unanimous ballot is required — a tradition that ensures harmony within the lodge.

Step 5 — Begin Your Masonic Journey

If elected, you will take your first step as an Entered Apprentice.
From there, you will advance through the Fellowcraft and Master Mason degrees — each one building on moral lessons, symbolism, and personal growth.

This journey is unique to every man, but its purpose is universal:
to help good men become better men.

Where We Meet

Union of Strict Observance Lodge Nº 3 meets inside the
Detroit Masonic Temple – Fifth Floor
the largest Masonic building in the world.

Visitors and prospective candidates are always welcome to arrange a meeting or tour.

Ready to Begin Your Journey?

Contact the Secretary directly at:

📧 secretary@unionofso3.org
📞(734) 560-1137

A brother will reach out and personally welcome you. Alternatively, if you are sure that you wish to begin your journey, download, print, and complete this Petition for the Degrees, then mail it to:

The Office of the Secretary
Union of Strict Observance Lodge No. 3
5th Floor East
500 Temple St., Detroit, MI 48201

We look forward to meeting you —
your journey begins here.

Union of Strict Observance Lodge Nº 3
Building Good Men in Detroit Since 1851