Originally Posted by ScottGem
Masonry started out as a building trade guild prior to the Renaissance. Masons jealousy guarded the secrets of their trade, passing them from journeyman to apprentice. Freemasonry grew from these trade groups and maintained the facade of a secret organization. Free Masons are not largely different from Elks, Rotaries or Knights of Columbus. The main purpose of the organization is philanthropy and community service. They do have certain rituals they conduct during their meetings that are kept secret. But these rituals are simply a very structured way of conducting a meeting.