35. How much does it cost to become a member?
    The initiation fee is $60.00, of which the local Lodge keeps $10.00 to cover its expenses and $50.00 is sent on to support the expenses of higher authorities. The new member has other expenses of not more than $10 for a “Masonic Passport,” which is a document attesting one's good standing and status in the Order. Apart from whatever expense may be involved in getting the appropriate general white clothing, there are no other entering expenses. Annual dues in a local Lodge are set by the members of that Lodge to cover their needs and so vary from group to group. At each meeting, two collections are usually taken, one for charity and one to help with Lodge expenses. All members are expected to contribute something, however much or little, to the collection for charity. The other collection is optional, according to individual means. Master Masons need to purchase their own “aprons” for wear in Lodge meetings, the cost of which varies according to the quality and elaborateness of the materials and workmanship. They are not expensive.