What is okay to tell a candidate before initiation?
Before initiation, it is essential to inform the candidate about the purpose and design of the institution of Freemasonry. The Master of the lodge has the duty to explain the nature of the candidate's solemn engagements and to require his cheerful acquiescence to the duties of morality and virtue, as well as all the sacred tenets of the Order. Specifically, the candidate must declare, upon his honor, that he is offering himself voluntarily, without any undue influence or mercenary motives, and that he is prompted by a desire for knowledge and a wish to be of service to his fellow-creatures. The candidate should also be made aware that he is expected to conform to the ancient established usages and customs of the fraternity.
As stated in *Illustrations of Masonry by William Preston*, "It is a duty incumbent on every Master of a lodge, before the ceremony of initiation takes place, to inform the Candidate of the purpose and design of the institution; to explain the nature of his solemn engagements; and, in a manner peculiar to masons alone, to require his cheerful acquiescence to the duties of morality and virtue, and all the sacred tenets of the Order."