As a mason myself. I can only say it is a fantastic organization. The money is dues to the lodge. But if you can show you can not afford it, you don't have to pay it.

The rituals are a little strage for someone who doesn't understand the meaning behind them. Their purpose is to teach you how to be a better man, a better husband, and how to love and care for all.

The main thing is you must believe in God and are willing to follow his teachings. But you can be of any religion or faith.

Masons are brothers, like blood brothers.........who stick by each other and care for each other, unto death according to the rituals. Yea, a little extreme but you get the point.

If you go thru and become a shiner, you have a blast...you can be a clown, drive funny little crs, play in the band....whatever.......but the main purpose here is to offer free medical services to unfortunate children with crippling problems..re: shriners hospital

Of course........your decision, but it's a fantastic group that you can be proud to belong to.