Worshipful Master
Charles W. (Buddy) Wagner
I want to thank every Brother of Hay Market Lodge for all that you do.
Welcome…
Freemasons have been meeting in Haymarket Virginia for over 106 years. Hay Market Lodge No. 313, A.F. & A.M. was chartered February 16, 1911 by the Grand Lodge, A.F. & A.M., of Virginia.
Membership in our Order is voluntary. A fundamental principle of membership is an obligation to aid and assist fellow members in time of need. Secret signs and other methods of identifying ourselves are used to recognize one another in maintaining our charitable efforts. Like other Masonic related organizations, the Order of the Eastern Star uses emblems and symbolism to teach moral lessons we use as a guide to make our lives more useful, both to ourselves and to others.
More Light...
Why I am a Mason...
Men become Masons for reasons that are as varied as the individuals that comprise our Order. For some, they follow in the footsteps of their father, their grandfather, their uncle, etc. because it's a family tradition. For others, they want to improve the community in which they live by helping those in need. We would like to feature the personal stories of some of our Masons about why they are a part of the World's Oldest Fraternity. These testimonials will be added to periodically and perhaps one will strike a chord with you and help you begin your own story about why you became a Mason!
I Have But One Regret!
- David K. Freemason
"I am always welcomed by the Brethren and am treated with dignity and respect. I have a feeling of belonging to something true and tried by history, a good something. I have but one regret and that is I did not take this step many years ago. Being a part of this Fraternity makes me look for the right path to take. It is becoming the compass to guide by, and I am glad to be a part of the oldest and greatest Fraternity ever to exist."
Morals & Principles
- Thomas F. Freemasons
"Personal pride to share the ideals and brotherhood of the Fraternity. My Masonic experience has helped me to live with a better understanding of my life as it relates to quality and preparation. I’m better prepared to live each day to the morals and principles that I have learned to this point."
Community & Widows
- John B. Freemason
"I have found Masons to be very loving and caring. Not only for Brothers but the community and widows of passed Brothers. I also have found that Masonry is very spiritual base, more so than any other organization I have ever been involved in. I mean this in a loving respect and not judgmental. I really enjoy my experience and am excited to continue my education and experience."
Becoming a Freemason In Virginia
Joining Freemasonry
In order to become a Freemason you must have two Master Masons vouch for your character and recommend you into our Craft. You also have to be a man, 18 years old or older, of good character, and believe in a God that promotes peace, love, and harmony towards all mankind. These are some of the basic requirements for membership into our Fraternity. To become a member of this ancient and honorable Fraternity, a man must apply of his own free will and accord and with an open heart. Invitations are not issued to prospective members, nor are members solicited. If a person is interested in joining, he should ask a Masonic friend for more information or contact the Grand Lodge of Virginia, or a local Masonic Lodge.