The Constitution of the Grand National Lodge of Serbia

The Masonic Order is an association of free men, whose origin comes from the medieval brotherhood of builders. Its foundation is a pure ethical law, which finds its expression in Masonic regulations, and above all in the so-called „Old Charges of Free Masons“.

All people, of whatever rank and profession, regardless of material status or position, being born under the equal laws of nature, have equal rights in society. Therefore Freemasons meet one another as Brothers, and regard their Order as a Brotherhood. In the same spirit, they cultivate and extend brotherly love toward their fellow men in profane circles as well.

All work and all life within the Order are founded on love, truth, righteousness and humanity. Starting from this foundation, the Order carries these same virtues into profane society: – through the symbolic rites and customs of the Royal Art; – by cultivating, through upbringing, a sense of humanity toward others; – through an orderly family and personal life; – through exemplary work on everything that is good, beautiful and useful, both for the community and for the individual.

Freemasons honour the Great Architect of the Universe and tolerate everyone’s faith. The Order, however, belongs to no sect or dogma; it therefore performs neither a religious nor an ecclesiastical cult. Within it every Brother is welcome, whatever his faith may be.

As an open opponent of any restriction of freedom of conscience, faith and opinion, the Masonic Order defends these individual inviolable rights by all legal means. And as a champion of personal right and conviction, it likewise opposes any pressure on, or obstruction of, religious and political convictions.

The Freemasons of Serbia love their Fatherland; they are devoted and loyal to it. They regard it as their duty to defend its freedom, independence and the inviolability of its integrity, cooperating to uphold internal order and peace – in word, in writing and in deed. Accordingly, they may take part in any public affair; but in doing so they must always be guided by Masonic principles. For, by acting thus within their Fatherland, they contribute to the wellbeing of the whole of humanity.

Lodges are peaceful and closed Workshops. Within them, mutual exchange of views on religious, political and social questions in general is not excluded, but always within the limits of Masonic principles. Personal self-determination outside the Lodge, however, remains free.

The Masonic Order admits into its ranks free men of good repute, moved by the wish to cultivate virtue and morality in society. It makes no distinction as to their nationality, their political convictions, or their civic status. It does not, however, permit canvassing for membership, and gives the information requested only at its discretion, and only if it finds that the person concerned would be a worthy member of the great Masonic Family.

The history of Freemasonry, Masonic principles and Masonic aims are no secret whatsoever. It is forbidden, however, to disclose the existing internal rites and the established signs of recognition.

Freemasons are obliged to be faithful and loyal to the laws of their lodge. They safeguard its inviolability against anyone who does not belong to the Order; they defend Masonic interests and avoid discussing Masonic matters in profane circles.

Freemasons are free, in accordance with the existing regulations, to withdraw from the Order whenever they see fit.

Family life among Freemasons, as well as their relations with Masonic families and with profane circles, is cultivated on the highest moral foundation and is regarded as sacred.