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Women Freemasons

Whilst the United Grand Lodge of England is the headquarters of a male-only organisation. Women Freemasons have two separate Grand Lodges.

The Honourable Fraternity of Ancient Freemasons and the Order of Women Freemasons.

Freemasonry for women came to this country from France in 1902 in the form of mixed Lodges (Co-Masonry). In 1908 some Co-Masons decided to break away to start a new Order because they objected to control from France and to some of the ritual and influences found in Co-Masonry. They wanted to practise Freemasonry on the same lines as the male United Grand Lodge of England.

Order of Women Freemasons

The Honourable Fraternity of Antient Masonry was founded on 20 June 1908, changing its name to the ‘Order of Women Freemasons’ in 1958. The new Order at first included both men and women, but eventually the decision was taken in the early 1920s to restrict entrance to women only and to no longer admit men as visitors. By 1935 the Order had become an exclusively female organisation and remains so today.

Honourable Fraternity of Ancient Freemasons

The Honourable Fraternity of Ancient Freemasons (HFAF) was founded in 1913 and is a fraternity for women and organised by women. Membership is open to women of any race or religion, who are able to profess a belief in a Supreme Being.

The Sussex Lodge no 17 of the Honourable Fraternity of Ancient Freemasons now meets at the Lewes Masonic Temple, High Street, Lewes, East Sussex. This temple, which has been built against the walls of the historic Lewes castle, was first erected in 1797 and rebuilt in 1868.

https://www.owf.org.uk
http://www.hfaf.org/

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Integrity 

Integrity is the cornerstone of the Four Pillars of Sussex Freemasonry, underpinning everything we do with honesty, accountability, and moral strength. It is not just about doing the right thing when others are watching, it’s about doing the right thing, always.
 
Freemasons across Sussex strive to lead by example in their personal, professional, and Masonic lives. From keeping our promises and standing by our principles, to supporting one another with sincerity and discretion, integrity is what builds trust, both within the Craft and in the wider world.
 
This pillar reflects our unwavering commitment to truth, reliability, and ethical conduct. It reminds us that our words and actions should always align, and that a Freemason’s honour is one of his most valuable assets.

Friendship 

Friendship forms a cherished part of the Four Pillars of Sussex Freemasonry, reflecting the deep bonds of trust, loyalty, and shared experience that unite us as brethren. It is through friendship that we find support, encouragement, and joy in our Masonic journey.
 In Lodges across Sussex, this pillar comes to life in countless ways, from the warm welcome given to visitors, to the companionship shared over festive boards and the quiet, steadfast presence during life’s more difficult moments. These relationships often last a lifetime, rooted in mutual respect and a shared commitment to personal growth and service.

More than fellowship, friendship in Freemasonry represents a powerful network of genuine human connection, a reminder that no one should walk alone, and that together we are stronger, kinder, and more resilient.

Respect

Respect holds a vital place among the Four Pillars of Sussex Freemasonry, representing the dignity, kindness, and consideration we show to others—both within and beyond the walls of the Lodge. It is the foundation of our relationships, guiding how we treat our fellow Freemasons and all those we encounter in daily life.
 
In Sussex, this pillar is lived out through the way we listen, support, and uplift one another. Whether it’s welcoming a new member, supporting a brother in need, or engaging with our local communities with humility and open-mindedness, Freemasons show that respect is not just a value—it’s a way of being.

This pillar is more than just courtesy; it reflects our deep commitment to fairness, tolerance, and the enduring principles of equality and mutual regard that define Freemasonry at its heart.

Service – A Core Pillar of Sussex Freemasonry

Service stands proudly at the forefront of the Four Pillars of Sussex Freemasonry, having taken the place of ‘Charity’ to reflect a broader and more active interpretation of giving. While charitable donations remain important, Freemasonry recognises that offering our time, energy, and effort is equally valuable.

Across Sussex, Freemasons are making a real difference, whether it’s volunteering at Amberley Museum to help maintain and preserve our local heritage, or organising community litter picks to keep our towns and countryside clean. These acts of service demonstrate our commitment to making a positive impact where it’s most needed.

This pillar represents more than just physical effort, it embodies the spirit of brotherhood,