Elks vs. Freemason

Attribute	Elks	Freemason
Founded	1868	1717
Membership	Approximately 800,000	Approximately 6 million
Symbol	Elk	Square and Compasses
Beliefs	Charity, justice, brotherly love	Brotherhood, morality, charity
Structure	Lodge system	Lodge system

History

The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, also known as the Elks, was founded in 1868 in New York City. The organization was established as a social club for actors and entertainers, but it quickly evolved into a fraternal organization focused on charity and community service. The Elks have a long history of supporting veterans, children, and individuals in need through various charitable programs and initiatives.

Freemasonry, on the other hand, has a much longer history, dating back to the late 16th century. The origins of Freemasonry are shrouded in mystery, with some historians tracing its roots back to the medieval stonemason guilds. Freemasonry is a fraternal organization that emphasizes moral and spiritual development, as well as charitable work. Freemasons are known for their secretive rituals and symbols, which have sparked intrigue and speculation for centuries.

Membership

Membership in the Elks is open to men and women who are at least 21 years old and believe in a higher power. The Elks do not discriminate based on race, religion, or nationality, and members are expected to uphold the values of charity, justice, brotherly love, and fidelity. The Elks have over 1 million members across the United States, making it one of the largest fraternal organizations in the country.

Freemasonry is a male-only organization, with membership open to men who are at least 18 years old and believe in a higher power. Freemasonry is known for its strict membership requirements, which include a belief in the immortality of the soul and a commitment to moral and ethical values. Freemasonry has a global presence, with millions of members worldwide belonging to various lodges and grand lodges.

Structure

The Elks are organized into local lodges, which are overseen by state associations and the national Grand Lodge. Each lodge is responsible for its own charitable activities and community service projects, while the state associations and national Grand Lodge provide support and guidance to the local lodges. The Elks also have a number of national programs, such as scholarships for students and support for veterans.

Freemasonry is organized into lodges, which are overseen by grand lodges at the state or national level. Each lodge is led by a Worshipful Master and a group of officers, who are responsible for conducting meetings and rituals. Freemasonry also has a number of appendant bodies, such as the Scottish Rite and the York Rite, which offer additional degrees and opportunities for members to further their Masonic education.

Rituals and Symbols

The Elks do not have the same level of secrecy and ritual as Freemasonry, but they do have their own set of ceremonies and symbols. The Elks use the elk as their emblem, symbolizing strength, majesty, and loyalty. The Elks also have a number of rituals and ceremonies that are meant to instill a sense of brotherhood and camaraderie among members.

Freemasonry is known for its elaborate rituals and symbols, which are meant to convey moral and spiritual lessons to members. Freemasons use tools and symbols from the medieval stonemason guilds, such as the square and compass, to teach lessons about morality, ethics, and the importance of self-improvement. Freemasonry's rituals are kept secret from non-members, adding to the mystique and allure of the organization.

Charitable Work

Both the Elks and Freemasonry are known for their charitable work and community service. The Elks have a number of national programs, such as the Elks National Foundation, which provides scholarships and grants to students in need. The Elks also support veterans through programs like the Elks Veterans Service Commission, which provides assistance to veterans and their families.

Freemasonry is also committed to charitable work, with many lodges and grand lodges supporting local communities through donations and volunteer efforts. Freemasons are known for their support of children's hospitals, schools, and other charitable organizations. Freemasonry's emphasis on charity and community service is a central tenet of the organization's philosophy.

Conclusion

While the Elks and Freemasonry have some similarities, such as their commitment to charity and community service, they also have distinct differences in terms of membership requirements, rituals, and structure. The Elks are open to men and women who believe in a higher power, while Freemasonry is a male-only organization with strict membership requirements. The Elks have a more straightforward organizational structure, with local lodges overseen by state associations and a national Grand Lodge, while Freemasonry has a more complex hierarchy of lodges and grand lodges.

Ultimately, both the Elks and Freemasonry play important roles in their communities, providing support and assistance to those in need. Whether through scholarships for students, support for veterans, or charitable donations to local organizations, both organizations are dedicated to making a positive impact on society. Whether one chooses to join the Elks or Freemasonry, they can be sure that they are becoming part of a long-standing tradition of service and brotherhood.