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November 12, 2026
United Grand Lodge of England is publishing a book called The Freemasons to explain what Freemasonry is, what its members do, and the role it plays in society today – and every member registered on Portal will be sent a copy in the new year.
It will provide a straightforward account of our organisation, its history, traditions, values and activities, as well as the changes it has undergone in recent decades. The book also explores why Freemasonry still matters in the modern world. While our traditions span more than 300 years, our focus today is firmly on the challenges of modern life.
The Freemasons is intended for members and non-members alike, and forms part of UGLE’s ongoing efforts to make Freemasonry more open, accessible and better understood.
The book highlights how the organisation is evolving to meet contemporary expectations while remaining true to its core principles. At a time when society is grappling with rising loneliness, declining trust in institutions and a growing search for belonging and purpose, Freemasonry believes it has something meaningful to contribute to the conversation.
Alongside the book, the Grand Master has approved a small number of changes to the wording of UGLE’s traditional ceremonies, including to reinforce the principle that a Masonic obligation never overrides a member’s duty to the law, to their employer or to any public office.
In a foreword, the Grand Master His Royal Highness The Duke of Kent writes: “Freemasonry asks one thing above all of those who join it: that they should put the needs of others before their own.”
Pro Grand Master Jonathan Spence says Freemasonry has itself contributed to these misunderstandings by becoming too inward-looking and failing to explain its activities adequately. He said: “An organisation that will not explain itself leaves the explaining to somebody else. The organisation this book describe is not the organisation of 1950, or of 1980. Our own members will recognise the difference at once, and the wider public deserves the chance to see it too.”
The book also addresses the continued cooperation between men’s and women’s Freemasonry, including the establishment in 2024 of the Council for Freemasonry in Great Britain, bringing together UGLE and the two women’s Grand Lodges, subsequently joined by the Grand Lodge of Scotland.
Ultimately, it highlights the contribution Freemasons make to society, not only through charitable donations but through the time, skills and practical assistance they provide to communities across the country. By showcasing these often-unseen acts of service, it offers a powerful insight into the role Freemasonry continues to play in helping individuals, strengthening communities and fostering a culture of support, purpose and belonging.
The Freemasons is now available free online at this link .
