What is the profile of a Mason?
The profile of a Mason matches that of a man who adheres to the principles of perfectibility and transcendence, who is ready to take part in the knowledge of himself, and, therefore, to study subjects as diverse as philosophy, science, and humanism. This demands an open mind, a critical viewpoint, and the deepest conviction that personal growth is founded upon tolerance and work.
 

What activities are there to attract members to the Lodge?
Masonry does not advertise nor engage in any recruitment activity to attract members. A man who feels attracted to its altruistic ideals seeks contact with the Institution through one of its members, and, after his petition has been investigated and approved, he is received by a Lodge by means of a ceremony of reception called an “initiation,” in which the teachings of the Order begin to be imparted. 
 

How is Masonry organized?
Masonry is organized into Lodges and Grand Lodges, which constitute the central nucleus and focal point of its activities, purposes, and aspirations. In the sphere of instruction, Masonry is structured into three levels or “degrees”: Apprentice, Fellowcraft, and Master Mason, in which are captured the traditional teachings on which its humanizing ideals are based.
 

What are Masonic degrees?
In Freemasonry, members are divided into degrees or, put another way, into different levels of progress and of commitments, obligations, and rights. Each degree is differentiated by a particular ritual, by certain modes of recognition, and by moral lessons specific to each one. 
 

In what do Masons believe?
Masons believe in the perfectibility of man and the comprehensive development of all the capabilities with which man is endowed. They believe in the power of reason as the illuminating tool of truth and in fraternal sentiments as the tool of cohesion, so that human beings improve themselves, complementing their individualities, sensibilities, and thought. 
 

Why do Masons take oaths (or “obligations”)?
The philosophical and ethical meaning of taking oaths refers to a promise, an affirmation that is made concerning the faithful performance of some moral, material, and spiritual obligations that are freely accepted and that a Mason owes to himself and to his Brothers from that moment forward. 

If it is an organization with such excellent teachings and good qualities, why is Masonry so secret?

What is the secret?
Masonry is not secret in the sense of hiding its existence or its identity. The work done by Masons jointly or individually are known and respected by the community. Nevertheless, like all organizations, we have some confidential elements, such as the esoteric teachings of the Order, the modes of recognition between Masons, and some privileges that the Fraternity does not have to disclose publicly and that are reserved only for its members. This system permits Masonry to protect itself from its numerous, unjustified enemies throughout the ages, while at the same time advancing its activities that are needed for the good of humanity and in fulfillment of its principles.

What is the relation between Masonry and religions?
Freemasonry does not seek to occupy the place of religion nor to substitute the religious beliefs of its members, but an essential requirement for an applicant to be admitted into Freemasonry is the belief in the existence of a Supreme Being. Throughout the history of the Masonic Order, members of the Catholic, Protestant, and Jewish faiths, as well as the Hindu, Zoroastrian, Muslim, Buddhist, and other faiths, have found nothing in Masonry that may be incompatible with their own religious beliefs. Masonry promotes among its members the unceasing search for truth, without any type of formulas or exclusions for finding it. Its members have full liberty to prosecute their pursuit in accordance with their private, personal convictions, with the goal of freeing themselves from the chains of ignorance, prejudice, and the dogma of appearances, thereby understanding the purpose of existence and with it giving meaning to life.
 

What is the relation between Masonry and politics?
As a universal institution, Masonry practices an open humanism that exalts tolerance and rejects all dogmatic statements and all fanaticism, dispelling from its temples partisan political discussions. Among its ranks are found members of different social and political groups, all coexisting in wholesome fraternity and practicing the purest tolerance. 
 

Why does Masonry not accept women?
Masonry does not exclude women from its humanitarian and social activities, but the Fraternity must respect many ancient traditions that give it its character. Among those traditions is that of admitting only men whose preparation shall train them to defend its principles. 

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Are studies prior to acceptance as a member of a Lodge necessary?
Previous studies are not necessary. A candidate only should have enough general instruction and intellectual capacity to assimilate Masonic teachings and, as he advances through the degrees, to continue receiving instruction corresponding to each one until he has completed his basic Masonic training and familiarized himself with all the tenets of the Fraternity.
 

How are Lodges supported financially?
Like many organizations, the members of Lodges pay dues and make donations that make up the assets of each Lodge and each Grand Lodge. These means are used by our Institution to advance philanthropic community projects that, for our part, are principally related to education and medical care, such as scholarships for students and clinics to help children with dyslexia.