Many critics of Freemasonry have long maintained that the Order is a religion. In fact, although Freemasonry is by tradition a society of religious men, it is categorically not a religion. It has no theology; it offers no sacraments; and it does not claim to ensure, or offer a way to achieve, salvation after death. While its teachings can be interpreted to have a spiritual frame of reference, each Brother is expected to practise [sic] those teachings in the context of his own religion.

However, it must be admitted that some Masonic activities may appear to be 'religious'. The picture above, for example, depicts what is sometimes referred to as a 'Masonic Wedding Ceremony'. This is not quite true. Certainly some jurisdictions, usually in Continental Europe, conduct Masonic ceremonies that 'reaffirm' marriage. However, the Master of a Masonic lodge is not an agent legally authorized to perform a marriage, and so a couple who participate in a Masonic ceremony of this nature must already be married. Therefore it is solely an event for a married couple who want to celebrate their union with a group of personal friends. Part of the ceremony, depicted here, involves the pouring of water and wine into the same cup, to symbolize the couple's union.

The apron opposite is of the sort worn at a 'Lodge of Sorrows', which is held at the request of the family or friends and Brethren of a deceased Brother as a memorial to his good life and service. Again, it is not a sacrament, nor does it replace any religious funeral services of a Brother's religion. It is simply a formal remembrance. Neither of these events are held in an open Lodge.