Becoming a Mason?

[moon monkey]

I'm interested to know from individuals with the knowledge on this forum how they became a Mason. We you invited, were you interested and sought entry or is it a family tradition?
Furthermore what does being a Mason add to your life that wasn't present prior to your association with the Mason's?

PS: This is a genuine inquiry and not an opening to later ridicule or general smart arsery.

[oilydoyley]

hi mm,

you have to go off your own accord to become a freemason.

you are not asked.

it is something that should be initiated from the individual.

there are numerous threads on freemasonary and the craft, have a read as some are for masons and other against.

also i am sure that other better qualified than i will reply.

regards

[stevepenny]

I'm interested to know from individuals with the knowledge on this forum how they became a Mason. We you invited, were you interested and sought entry or is it a family tradition?
Furthermore what does being a Mason add to your life that wasn't present prior to your association with the Mason's?

PS: This is a genuine inquiry and not an opening to later ridicule or general smart arsery.

To quote a well known phrase: 2B1 Ask 1 - If you are interested in becoming a Freemason then i'm sure we will (those who already are) be more than glad to assist.

It would help to know which part of the UK you currently live in?

But to answer your question; Freemasonry can only add to your life if you are missing something; and as stupid as that sounds, we all gain something unique from the craft; for some it is brotherhood and friendship for others it is knowledge and to a degree knowing oneself.

Freemasonry does not recruit, and therefore each 'entrant' has to have a reason for asking. Some will join because it is a family tradition, and others will join out of curiosity. Some will join and then immediately leave because they missunderstood the whole essence of Freemasonry in the first place; and others will join and become thoroughly involved.

We each have our reasons; what might yours be?

[grandsecretary]

My uncle was a Free Mason, and he suggested that I apply, which I did.

I worked with a number of Freemasons. One proposed me and another seconded my application.

Nowadays the internet plays an important part in the proceedings. It is a great way for anyone who is interested in the subject to educate themselves somewhat before making a petition.

There is male only freemasonry, female only freemasonry, and mixed gender freemasonry. Amongst these there are other choices that you must make.

I would suggest that you take your time, and when you decide upon which one suits you the best, then make a telephone call, or send an email applying for an application form.

[moon monkey]

To quote a well known phrase: 2B1 Ask 1 - If you are interested in becoming a Freemason then i'm sure we will (those who already are) be more than glad to assist.

It would help to know which part of the UK you currently live in?

But to answer your question; Freemasonry can only add to your life if you are missing something; and as stupid as that sounds, we all gain something unique from the craft; for some it is brotherhood and friendship for others it is knowledge and to a degree knowing oneself.

Freemasonry does not recruit, and therefore each 'entrant' has to have a reason for asking. Some will join because it is a family tradition, and others will join out of curiosity. Some will join and then immediately leave because they missunderstood the whole essence of Freemasonry in the first place; and others will join and become thoroughly involved.

We each have our reasons; what might yours be?

I have asked along to a lodge that a friend attends. I'd never even considered me being a Mason before or beyond what one reads in the garbage press what it entails for that matter. However I am interested as any open and inquisitive minded man should be about what is involved. To this end I would like to read up on the subject before attending and I have told my friend this.
I would of course appreciate any pointers as to appropriate reading matter to assist me.

Kind Regards

MM

[stevepenny]

I have asked along to a lodge that a friend attends. I'd never even considered me being a Mason before or beyond what one reads in the garbage press what it entails for that matter. However I am interested as any open and inquisitive minded man should be about what is involved. To this end I would like to read up on the subject before attending and I have told my friend this.
I would of course appreciate any pointers as to appropriate reading matter to assist me.

Kind Regards

MM

Hi MM,

I'm not sure what you mean when you say you have been asked along to a lodge, although I know that some lodges hold informal 'meet and greet' evenings, especially those Lodges who have a very old and historic lodge.

Normally you would petition a lodge who will then meet to discuss your application; meet with you to ascertain your motives and suitability; and then put your petition to a ballot at the next suitable lodge meeting.

Assuming your application is acceptable then you will be invited along to take the first regular step in Freemasonry.

You will be required to have a belief in a supreme being; be over the age of 21, and be of good report (i.e. not a criminal). Other than that there is not much more to becoming a Freemason.

Costs to join vary but are usually (at least here in Scotland) around £190 for the first year and £30 to £40 per year afterwards.

[grandsecretary]

Hi MM,

I'm not sure what you mean when you say you have been asked along to a lodge, although I know that some lodges hold informal 'meet and greet' evenings, especially those Lodges who have a very old and historic lodge.

Normally you would petition a lodge who will then meet to discuss your application; meet with you to ascertain your motives and suitability; and then put your petition to a ballot at the next suitable lodge meeting.

Assuming your application is acceptable then you will be invited along to take the first regular step in Freemasonry.

You will be required to have a belief in a supreme being; be over the age of 21, and be of good report (i.e. not a criminal). Other than that there is not much more to becoming a Freemason.

Costs to join vary but are usually (at least here in Scotland) around £190 for the first year and £30 to £40 per year afterwards.

Steve, I am not being difficult, but you are assuming that this young man wishes to become a member of the Moderns male system of freemasonry. That might not be the case at all.

I would recommend him to research the various systems and requirements for admission. They differ from Grand Lodge to Grand Lodge.

For instance, if he does not believe in God or even in a supreme being, but is an atheist, he may still be accommodated by a Grand Orient and find a great deal of fulfilment.

Not your or my taste, but possibly his. It would be folly in the extreme to point him in a direction where he may not be happy or where he will not last.

This should be a considered long term decision. I hope that this advice helps you moon monkey. Take your time, and get it right.

[stevepenny]

Steve, I am not being difficult, but you are assuming that this young man wishes to become a member of the Moderns male system of freemasonry. That might not be the case at all.

Peter,

Timely advice indeed. I concur with you exactly in that this could be a lifelong commitment and needs careful thought.

It's easy to be overenthusiastic in these matters :)

[moon monkey]

[QUOTE=stevepenny;1287859]Hi MM,

I'm not sure what you mean when you say you have been asked along to a lodge, although I know that some lodges hold informal 'meet and greet' evenings, especially those Lodges who have a very old and historic lodge.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

As you say Steve I've simply been asked if I'd like to go along with a friend on an informal basis. I'm interested and curious. But being a stickler for detail I've said i'd rather do my own research first in order to find out what I can as I won't wish to appear ignorant.

As I said in my previous post. I would appreciate being pointed in the direction of some appropriate reading matter so that I can do some research of my own.

MM

[nihil]

No, Thanks.

- my answer to the ? into the title .

[grandsecretary]

No, Thanks.

- my answer to the ? into the title .

The poll? Are you sure he wasn't Czechoslovakian?

[keystone]

Czechoslovakian?:confused::confused: Do catch up! :D

[nihil]

Bulgarian percentages

:confused: :D 'ndeed.

Cheerz

[stevepenny]

[QUOTE=stevepenny;1287859]Hi MM,

I'm not sure what you mean when you say you have been asked along to a lodge, although I know that some lodges hold informal 'meet and greet' evenings, especially those Lodges who have a very old and historic lodge.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

As you say Steve I've simply been asked if I'd like to go along with a friend on an informal basis. I'm interested and curious. But being a stickler for detail I've said i'd rather do my own research first in order to find out what I can as I won't wish to appear ignorant.

As I said in my previous post. I would appreciate being pointed in the direction of some appropriate reading matter so that I can do some research of my own.

MM

Hi MM,

The problem with any reading material is that it is likely to be skewed one way or the other; I don't know of any books that purely deal with facts across the broad spectrum of Freemasonry.

[grandsecretary]

Visit the Masonic websites. It is like reading different newspapers. They all have and express a point of view. The more you read and compare, the better informed you become.

[boots]

I'm interested to know from individuals with the knowledge on this forum how they became a Mason. We you invited, were you interested and sought entry or is it a family tradition?
Furthermore what does being a Mason add to your life that wasn't present prior to your association with the Mason's?

PS: This is a genuine inquiry and not an opening to later ridicule or general smart arsery.


Really!!!

How about you go to a MASON forum and ask the question there.



.

[mike martin]

Grow up and don't be so ridiculous.
To be fair, he has a point and a good one at that!

If someone is seriously thinking of becoming a Freemason he's hardly going to ask for advice and info from a Forum attached to a site that makes money claiming that Freemasonry is involved in all kinds of nefarious plots and schemes. Especially when it's really easy to find Forums where Freemasonry is the actual topic matter and where most of the members are actually Freemasons.

Just a thought.
Mike

[moon monkey]

Well thanks for that Mike. Any idea where my last post that you refer to has gone?

I don't frequent any Masonic sites Mike and those that I have looked at don't offer very much in telling you EXACTLY what Masonry is actually about.

If you think I'm a TROLL as well there is nothing I can do about that. I have however, found certain individuals quite helpful on this forum.

[nihil]

http://www.davidicke.com/forum/images/editor/smilie.gifYawn...

[grandsecretary]

Horlicks!

[nihil]

Ebezener

[deathbeast]

Moon,
I made contact with the Grand Lodge of Scotland, i myself am a 1st gen mason in my direct family and 5th gen mason in my extended family. I would suggest that you go into it with an open mind and an open heart. there are many preconceived notions regarding Freemasons and most of them are wrong to one degree or another. We have all heard the stories of jack the ripper and so on and so forth, if you decide to go for it i can assure you that you will enjoy yourself and a whole new world will open up for you. remember have and open mind and see for your self what its all about.

[grandsecretary]

So open was his open mind,
Above, below, in front, behind,
That every thought, perception, too,
Would, on arriving, rush right through.

It is VERY dangerous to approach anything that you do not understand with an open mind. An open mind is fertile territory indeed for those who would wish to close it for you. You look after your own mind.

[nihil]

it is very dangerous to approach anything that you do not understand with an open mind. An open mind is fertile territory indeed for those who would wish to close it for you.

m a s o n s

[grandsecretary]

m a s o n s

F r e e M a s o n s

[grandsecretary]

Why is the United Grand Lodge of England a male only preserve?

[mike martin]

Well thanks for that Mike. Any idea where my last post that you refer to has gone?
Not a clue!

I don't frequent any Masonic sites Mike and those that I have looked at don't offer very much in telling you EXACTLY what Masonry is actually about.
Maybe you should try it, here you'll get very little of that! What you will get is loads of people telling you EXACTLY what they imagine Masonry is about or exactly what they have read or been told Masonry is about..

If you think I'm a TROLL as well there is nothing I can do about that. I have however, found certain individuals quite helpful on this forum.
I'm not fussed either way (it's not my Forum) it's just that your outraged response was silly! This is a "conspiracy theory" Forum, it's not a place you go to ask for actual facts about a subject/target of "conspiracy theories" and if you do you can't really expect the conspiracy theorists themselves to take you seriously.

Mike

[mike martin]

Why is the United Grand Lodge of England a male only preserve?

Why is the Grand Lodge of All England at York a male only preserve?

[grandsecretary]

Why is the Grand Lodge of All England at York a male only preserve?

I asked the question deliberately Mike because it came up on another forum and nobody from the United Grand Lodge of England could answer the question with any clarity. I remain curious to know whether anyone here knows.

I promise you that I will give you a very clear answer in respect of this Grand Lodge of All England, but I prefer to let it roll for a few days if that is OK with you?

[keystone]

I asked the question deliberately Mike because it came up on another forum and nobody from the United Grand Lodge of England could answer the question with any clarity. I remain curious to know whether anyone here knows.

I promise you that I will give you a very clear answer in respect of this Grand Lodge of All England, but I prefer to let it roll for a few days if that is OK with you?Funny I was going to ask as well. Seeing as how you've given an explanation for the reason for the question heres my take on it:

Particularly in the US the idea of a women being a freemason is, for some reason, total anathema. There have been very heated arguments with American Freemasons on masonic forums in the past. This view is not because of some sexist feeling or because they feel women are incapable of understanding and appreciating the moral and spiritual lessons that Freemasonry can impart. It is because, simply, in their obligation they have sworn not to be present at the making of a woman a Mason. This is, as stated by their Grand Lodge, one of the 'Landmarks of Freemasonry' and is deemed unchangeable. For this, I guess we can blame Anderson but please don't take this as an excuse to "have a go" again. Personally I think the landmark is bunk (I think you are aware of that view) but I respect the view from above officially albeit taking a slightly different view privately.

Its worth quoting UGLEs published position on the subject:

"There exist in England and Wales at least two Grand Lodges solely for women. Except that these bodies admit women, they are, so far as can be ascertained, otherwise regular in their practice (emphasis added!). There is also one which admits both men and women to membership. They are not recognised by this Grand Lodge and intervisitaion may not take place. There are, however, informal discussions from time to time with the women's Grand Lodges on matters of mutual concern. Brethren are therefore free to explain to non-Masons, if asked, that Freemasonry is not confined to men (even though this Grand Lodge does not itself admit women). Further information about these bodies may be obtained by writing to the Grand Secretary."

"The Board is also aware that there exist other bodies not directly imitative of pure antient Masonry, but which by implication introduce Freemasonry, such as the Order of the Eastern Star. Membership of such bodies, attendance at their meetings or participation in their ceremonies is incompatible with membership of this Grand Lodge."

So its by no means the case that they can't. Incidentally I know Freemasons (men and women) who are actually quite happy with the opportunity to get away "from the other half" for a while and wouldn't join a mixed Lodge.

BTW when you say nobody from the United Grand Lodge of England could answer the question with any clarity I presume you to mean nobody who is a member of a lodge under the United Grand Lodge of England could answer. The way you have written it it sounds as though a) UGLE have official spokesmen on that site and b) they didn't know something they should have done if they were official spokesmen. Sorry if thats being a tad picky but it's as well to be accurate.

Cheers

[grandsecretary]

Funny I was going to ask as well. Seeing as how you've given an explanation for the reason for the question heres my take on it:

Particularly in the US the idea of a women being a freemason is, for some reason, total anathema. There have been very heated arguments with American Freemasons on masonic forums in the past. This view is not because of some sexist feeling or because they feel women are incapable of understanding and appreciating the moral and spiritual lessons that Freemasonry can impart. It is because, simply, in their obligation they have sworn not to be present at the making of a woman a Mason. This is, as stated by their Grand Lodge, one of the 'Landmarks of Freemasonry' and is deemed unchangeable. For this, I guess we can blame Anderson but please don't take this as an excuse to "have a go" again. Personally I think the landmark is bunk (I think you are aware of that view) but I respect the view from above officially albeit taking a slightly different view privately.

Its worth quoting UGLEs published position on the subject:



So its by no means the case that they can't. Incidentally I know Freemasons (men and women) who are actually quite happy with the opportunity to get away "from the other half" for a while and wouldn't join a mixed Lodge.

BTW when you say I presume you to mean nobody who is a member of a lodge under the United Grand Lodge of England could answer. The way you have written it it sounds as though a) UGLE have official spokesmen on that site and b) they didn't know something they should have done if they were official spokesmen. Sorry if thats being a tad picky but it's as well to be accurate.

Cheers

PS When you say I presume you to mean nobody who is a member of a lodge under the United Grand Lodge of England could answer. The way you have written it it sounds as though a) UGLE have official spokesmen on that site and b) they didn't know something they should have done if they were official spokesmen. Sorry if thats being a tad picky.

No. I meant what I said. I cannot find anybody from the United Grand Lodge of England, official or otherwise who can say, or perhaps will say, why it is that they exclude women.

My view is that simply saying, "It's a Landmark", is not a reason. There is a reason why it is a Landmark, and that is the point. IMHO without a good and cogent reason, it is open to accusations of sexism.

[keystone]

No. I meant what I said. I cannot find anybody from the United Grand Lodge of England, official or otherwise who can say, or perhaps will say, why it is that they exclude women.Oh I see. Your post gave the impression that your statement was wholly related to the question posed on the other forum.

My view is that simply saying, "It's a Landmark", is not a reason. There is a reason why it is a Landmark, and that is the point.I would have to agree with you up to a point.

Cheers

[keystone]

My view is that simply saying, "It's a Landmark", is not a reason. There is a reason why it is a Landmark, and that is the point. IMHO without a good and cogent reason, it is open to accusations of sexism.Further to my other post the answer to the accusation of being sexist would probably be:

Under the United Grand Lodge of England, membership is male but this does not discriminate against women as there exist in England two other Grand Lodges which restrict their membership to women and two organisations which have mixed male and female membership.

Now, of course, that is a modern view. Do we have to review Anderson in the context of the 1700s? Probably. After all the thought of someone disabled not being admitted today would be unthinkable but then it was. Try telling the French that you can't admit a "stupid atheist" but in the 1700s twas "against the Landmarks". Same, same really.

As a sort of parallel might I ask when are you applying to join the WI? :D

Cheers

[grandsecretary]

The modern UGLE view, although very cleverly worded still means no women as members of the UGLE.

I don't believe that Anderson knew why, or if he did he was not prepared to say why. He just quotes "the Landmark".

The WI? Too many cakes and cream scones. I love them but I have to consider my waistline.

[keystone]

The modern UGLE view, although very cleverly worded still means no women as members of the UGLE.Yes I know.

I don't believe that Anderson knew why, or if he did he was not prepared to say why. He just quotes "the Landmark".Nor will we ever know I suspect. Heres an interesting, if impish, thought. How would UGLE react if an openly transexual (either way) wanted to join?

The WI? Too many cakes and cream scones. I love them but I have to consider my waistline.Heh Heh. But I think you get my point. Would the Wi be sexist if they refused to accept you because you are a boy.

Anyway - think we've done this one to death and I suspect there'll be little other input. So whats the GLAE POV then as asked earlier by Mike?

Cheers

[grandsecretary]

Yes I know.

Nor will we ever know I suspect. Heres an interesting, if impish, thought. How would UGLE react if an openly transexual (either way) wanted to join?

Heh Heh. But I think you get my point. Would the Wi be sexist if they refused to accept you because you are a boy.

Anyway - think we've done this one to death and I suspect there'll be little other input. So whats the GLAE POV then as asked earlier by Mike?

Cheers

Joking aside keystone I do believe that men can become members of the Women's Institute nowadays.

I will let you know why women are excluded from the GLoAE and the UGLE soon, I promise you. There is a very good reason why the Landmark is there.

[stevepenny]

Moon,
I made contact with the Grand Lodge of Scotland, i myself am a 1st gen mason in my direct family and 5th gen mason in my extended family. I would suggest that you go into it with an open mind and an open heart. there are many preconceived notions regarding Freemasons and most of them are wrong to one degree or another. We have all heard the stories of jack the ripper and so on and so forth, if you decide to go for it i can assure you that you will enjoy yourself and a whole new world will open up for you. remember have and open mind and see for your self what its all about.


Have we met?

My Mother Lodge is Union 250; yours?

[stevepenny]

Joking aside keystone I do believe tat men can become members of the Women's Institute nowadays.

I will let you know why women are excluded from the GLoAE and the UGLE soon, I promise you. There is a very good reason why the Landmark is there.

I think there is a stong connection between Anderson's Presbyterian upbringing and 1 Timothy 2:12, in his decision to exclude women in his Landmarks.

Just a thought :)

[truth finder]

I'm interested to know from individuals with the knowledge on this forum how they became a Mason. We you invited, were you interested and sought entry or is it a family tradition?
Furthermore what does being a Mason add to your life that wasn't present prior to your association with the Mason's?

PS: This is a genuine inquiry and not an opening to later ridicule or general smart arsery.



Hey moon Monkey, my POP amd dad, and uncles where all masons, so they all seemed i would join, i went a event ( not a meeting ) and some reason it didn't intrest me..

i'm preety sure ur invited in to it, or so intreat in joing....

[grandsecretary]

I think there is a stong connection between Anderson's Presbyterian upbringing and 1 Timothy 2:12, in his decision to exclude women in his Landmarks.

Just a thought :)

I agree entirely with your thoughts here, but as I said he didn't know why women should remain silent. He simply accepted the Biblical references.

[nayan]

who wants to be a freemason? please..

http://justgetthere.us/blog/uploads/run-this-town.jpg

[deathbeast]

Have we met?

My Mother Lodge is Union 250; yours?

union & crown 307

its possible we have met.

[grandsecretary]

who wants to be a freemason? please..

http://justgetthere.us/blog/uploads/run-this-town.jpg

Huh?

[nihil]

Huh?

heh...

[unusual_suspect]

Can I please ask a question to the Free Masons here. My dad was approached by a lodge as family members had belonged to that lodge (he declined), does that mean that my brother could petition to join the lodge or my son even? How does it work.

[keystone]

who wants to be a freemason? please..

http://justgetthere.us/blog/uploads/run-this-town.jpg
Huh?Jay-Z. Get with the plot GS. :D

[grandsecretary]

Can I please ask a question to the Free Masons here. My dad was approached by a lodge as family members had belonged to that lodge (he declined), does that mean that my brother could petition to join the lodge or my son even? How does it work.

Any man may petition to join a freemason's lodge. The son of a Mason is given priority. This dates back to when, without giving anything away, shall we say that the elders or the leadership of the genuine form of religious Anglo-Saxon Free Masonry was inherited.

Now it is only in such districts as Druidism is known to have lingered in for generations that hereditary priestly descent in the Christian Church has been observed. In Brittany it prevailed until it was abolished by Hildebert, Archbishop of Tours, in 1127. At the end of that century Giraldus Cambrensis complains of it as a disgrace to Wales that sons should follow their fathers in the priestly office. Moreover, it is precisely in these localities where Druidism had been most strongly entrenched that we find the largest Culdee settlements. At Ripon and York they dwelt and flourished, in the time of Bede, and they worshipped at the Church of St. Peter in the latter city so late as the year 936. (SOURCE: The Mysteries of Britain: Secret Rites and Traditions of Ancient Britain Restored, 1905)

[grandsecretary]

Jay-Z. Get with the plot GS. :D

Oh, warm brown matter! And I collect my pension tomorrow as well. Fornicate with a webbed footed friend!

[stevepenny]

union & crown 307

its possible we have met.

Possibly, although i've never been to 'Barrhead'. I notice from your avatar that you were perhaps a 'bleep' at one time :)

[unusual_suspect]

Any man may petition to join a freemason's lodge. The son of a Mason is given priority. This dates back to when, without giving anything away, shall we say that the elders or the leadership of the genuine form of religious Anglo-Saxon Free Masonry was inherited.

Thanks, that intersesting, when you say that this is a form of religious Anglo-Saxon Free Masonry, is that a special branch of Free Masonary, is it still going today?

As far as I know my dad was not a son of a Free Mason as I am pretty sure that my Grandad was not a Free Mason, I think his brother may have been. My dad has old black and white photos of family members in their Masonic regalia, but my grandad is not among them.

[inverselogic]

So... back to the point that was brought up. Why are you discussing this here of all places.

If you want to defend freemasonry and explain why we are wrong about it, that would be more than welcome, but this is not a freemason forum for discussing membership.


I don't join exercise forums to discuss my favorite pizza. Savvy?

[keystone]

Ahh the forum police have arrived. Thou shalt not discuss this, thou shalt not discuss that. Pish. :p :rolleyes:

Cheers

[grandsecretary]

Thanks, that intersesting, when you say that this is a form of religious Anglo-Saxon Free Masonry, is that a special branch of Free Masonary, is it still going today?

As far as I know my dad was not a son of a Free Mason as I am pretty sure that my Grandad was not a Free Mason, I think his brother may have been. My dad has old black and white photos of family members in their Masonic regalia, but my grandad is not among them.

There are two strands of Freemasonry:

Ancient religious Free Masonrie dating back to time immemorial, and yes it is still going today, see: http://www.grandlodgeofallengland.org/

and the Moderns version that was self-started in 1717/1723, now governed by The United Grand Lodge of England, see: http://www.ugle.org.uk/

There is another extension of the UGLE or the Moderns system that should not be ignored and this is the Grand Orient system which caters for atheists, see: http://www.gomasons.org/

Your family would have been Moderns because the original Anglo-Saxon form of free Masonrie disappeared from sight between 1810 and 2005.

I hope that this helps. The page "Grand Lodges in England" webpage on the Grand Lodge of All England website will explain the history of Free Masonrie in England to you.

This history is disputed by the United Grand lodge of England but in the end you need to consider whether Free Masonrie, a religious entity, was started in the back room of a London Ale-house (UGLE), or in the Cathedrals, Abbeys and Churches of Europe (GLoAE).

[grandsecretary]

So... back to the point that was brought up. Why are you discussing this here of all places.

If you want to defend freemasonry and explain why we are wrong about it, that would be more than welcome, but this is not a freemason forum for discussing membership.


I don't join exercise forums to discuss my favorite pizza. Savvy?

No free rides.

You (conspiracy theorists) make your point, usually wrong but certainly prejudiced, and we respond.

If somebody comes on and asks a reasonable question, we answer it. If we did not, then you would immediately say, "There you are, they don't answer questions".

The die is cast and it is not compulsory for you to take part in a particular thread. Savvy? :cool:

[unusual_suspect]

There are two strands of Freemasonry:

Ancient religious Free Masonrie dating back to time immemorial, and yes it is still going today, see: http://www.grandlodgeofallengland.org/

and the Moderns version that was self-started in 1717/1723, now governed by The United Grand Lodge of England, see: http://www.ugle.org.uk/

There is another extension of the UGLE or the Moderns system that should not be ignored and this is the Grand Orient system which caters for atheists, see: http://www.gomasons.org/

Your family would have been Moderns because the original Anglo-Saxon form of free Masonrie disappeared from sight between 1810 and 2005.

I hope that this helps. The page "Grand Lodges in England" webpage on the Grand Lodge of All England website will explain the history of Free Masonrie in England to you.

This history is disputed by the United Grand lodge of England but in the end you need to consider whether Free Masonrie, a religious entity, was started in the back room of a London Ale-house (UGLE), or in the Cathedrals, Abbeys and Churches of Europe (GLoAE).

Thanks for answering my question, I find the origins of Free Masonrie, the Rosicrucians, alchemy to be a fascinating subject. No doubt there are interesting bits and pieces that you can't divulge to the profane, however, I think one can reasonably build up a picture of where such practises orginate from without becoming paranoid and donning a tinfoil hat!

[boots]

No free rides.

You (conspiracy theorists) make your point, usually wrong but certainly prejudiced, and we respond.

If somebody comes on and asks a reasonable question, we answer it. If we did not, then you would immediately say, "There you are, they don't answer questions".

The die is cast and it is not compulsory for you to take part in a particular thread. Savvy? :cool:


Fucking sounds elitist to me. Old fella.

You sheeple,:rolleyes: (there I've used to word for once) will go along quite happily into a NWO just like any sheep would into a livestock truck, ready for slaughter.


Wakey, wakey hand off snakey.

One thing I should give you credit for and that is your comprehension of corruption with in your own ranks of masonry.


.

[unusual_suspect]

I really don't understand why there is no much bad feeling towards this on the forum, I seriously don't believe that the Masons are responsible for all of societies ills.

I wish people would stop going off on tangents about things with wild and wacky conspiracies. There is plenty of real evil going on in the world regarding corruption, the pharmeceutical industry and the problem is that our leaders should be enlightened people, but they are not.

None of this is conspiracy, it is fact. By giving energy to entertaing these wacky conspiracy theories we are making a mockery of the magnitude of real issues in the world and alientating people when we do actually talk sense. anyway, that is my opinion anyway.

[boots]

I really don't understand why there is no much bad feeling towards this on the forum, I seriously don't believe that the Masons are responsible for all of societies ills.

I wish people would stop going off on tangents about things with wild and wacky conspiracies. There is plenty of real evil going on in the world regarding corruption, the pharmeceutical industry and the problem is that our leaders should be enlightened people, but they are not.

None of this is conspiracy, it is fact. By giving energy to entertaing these wacky conspiracy theories we are making a mockery of the magnitude of real issues in the world and alientating people when we do actually talk sense. anyway, that is my opinion anyway.

Dont you.

Have you read what is said in Ickes books about freemasons? If you think it's just big Pharma and swine flu which are the evils in this world, then you haven't look into the fact that it's the elite satanic agenda that is behind it and that the higher degrees of masonry are part of that evil, Freemasonry uses symbols which the Satanist use. Think about it.

Not every mason is aware of it or will choose to look at it. They are NOT bad people within themselfs.

What makes me laugh is that the masons would call the evil YOU talk about as being the words of a conspiracy nut.

Ahh for gods sake:rolleyes:

[unusual_suspect]

Dont you.

Have you read what is said in Ickes books about freemasons? If you think it's just big Pharma and swine flu which are the evils in this world, then you haven't look into the fact that it's the elite satanic agenda that is behind it and that the higher degrees of masonry are part of that evil, Freemasonry uses symbols which the Satanist use. Think about it.

Not every mason is aware of it or will choose to look at it. They are NOT bad people within themselfs.

What makes me laugh is that the masons would call the evil YOU talk about as being the words of a conspiracy nut.

Ahh for gods sake:rolleyes:

Fair enough. I like the work of David Icke, it doesn't mean that I take it all as gospel though. I don't believe anything before I have checked it out for myself and I should think that the supposedly satanic symbols that the Masons use are in fact occult symbols and occult simply is that which is hidden. People have used these symbols through the ages and I do not actually think that these symbols are an indication of evil.

Anyway, surely it is the intent behind the use of these symbols that would determine whether they were satanic or not. Since I am unable to ask any high degree Masons about this my mind is still open on this!

Anyway, I have Gnostic leanings and do not agree that these symbols are pointing towards some Satanic adgenda. There are many other secret societies besides Masonic ones, Hitler was a member of the Thule society and as far as I can make out the SS was an exoteric branch of this. Many Masons were sent to concentration camps along with the Jews, disabled and homosexuals.

I think to concentrate soley on the role that Free Masonrie has played in shaping the world as it is today is to be missing the bigger picture.

[boots]

Fair enough. I like the work of David Icke, it doesn't mean that I take it all as gospel though. I don't believe anything before I have checked it out for myself and I should think that the supposedly satanic symbols that the Masons use are in fact occult symbols and occult simply is that which is hidden. People have used these symbols through the ages and I do not actually think that these symbols are an indication of evil.

Anyway, surely it is the intent behind the use of these symbols that would determine whether they were satanic or not. Since I am unable to ask any high degree Masons about this my mind is still open on this!

Anyway, I have Gnostic leanings and do not agree that these symbols are pointing towards some Satanic adgenda. There are many other secret societies besides Masonic ones, Hitler was a member of the Thule society and as far as I can make out the SS was an exoteric branch of this. Many Masons were sent to concentration camps along with the Jews, disabled and homosexuals.

I think to concentrate soley on the role that Free Masonrie has played in shaping the world as it is today is to be missing the bigger picture.

Thats thing with symbols unusual suspect, you turn them around and distort them and you change the energy pattern. Those in the know do that.

All these things are connected when it comes to secret societies. each has been used at various time through out history, to further the agenda.


I dont mean to diss on you unusual suspect, but I've been at this for awhile.


BTW I like some of the masons. I consider one to be a good friend. .

[unusual_suspect]

Thats thing with symbols unusual suspect, you turn them around and distort them and you change the energy pattern. Those in the know do that.

All these things are connected when it comes to secret societies. each has been used at various time through out history, to further the agenda.


I dont mean to diss on you unusual suspect, but I've been at this for awhile.


BTW I like some of the masons. I consider one to be a good friend. .

That is fine, I am not taking it as you dissing me Boots. I can see where you are coming from and to an extent that is true.

However, I do believe the origins of Free Masonry, Rosicrucianism etc to come from a system with good core values, a system for bettering ones self and realising ones full potential.

However, the extent to which this has been perverted is one of those eternal questions!

[grandsecretary]

Fucking sounds elitist to me. Old fella.

You sheeple,:rolleyes: (there I've used to word for once) will go along quite happily into a NWO just like any sheep would into a livestock truck, ready for slaughter.


Wakey, wakey hand off snakey.

One thing I should give you credit for and that is your comprehension of corruption with in your own ranks of masonry.


.

As I have said before it is definitely elitist, and I am very well aware of the corruption OF and WITHIN Freemasonry, but NOT within our ranks, the ranks of The Grand Lodge of All England. It does not happen within our ranks.

[thelonious]

As I have said before it is definitely elitist, and I am very well aware of the corruption OF and WITHIN Freemasonry, but NOT within our ranks, the ranks of The Grand Lodge of All England. It does not happen within our ranks.

That reminds me of Ahmadinejad saying there are no homosexuals in Iran.

[barney_rubble]

As I have said before it is definitely elitist, and I am very well aware of the corruption OF and WITHIN Freemasonry, but NOT within our ranks, the ranks of The Grand Lodge of All England. It does not happen within our ranks.
That reminds me of Ahmadinejad saying there are no homosexuals in Iran.

:D I had to laugh

[se19_london]

I hope that this helps. The page "Grand Lodges in England" webpage on the Grand Lodge of All England website will explain the history of Free Masonrie in England to you.

All in all, ( trying to remain civil, sticking with my masonic principles) I found your site rather difficult to comprehend, I cannot fathom as to why you have so few lodges in the UK if you are indeed:

"The Masonic High Council the Mother High Council is the World Governing body of Craft Freemasonry"

Just 2 lodges in the UK? the home of freemasonry??

Not trying to open a can of worms here, just seeking some more info?

Regards

[grandsecretary]

That reminds me of Ahmadinejad saying there are no homosexuals in Iran.

Oh, Iranian then.

[grandsecretary]

I hope that this helps. The page "Grand Lodges in England" webpage on the Grand Lodge of All England website will explain the history of Free Masonrie in England to you.

All in all, ( trying to remain civil, sticking with my masonic principles) I found your site rather difficult to comprehend, I cannot fathom as to why you have so few lodges in the UK if you are indeed:

"The Masonic High Council the Mother High Council is the World Governing body of Craft Freemasonry"

Just 2 lodges in the UK? the home of freemasonry??

Not trying to open a can of worms here, just seeking some more info?

Regards

We are not The Masonic High Council. You are possibly looking at the wrong website, but nonetheless:

We have a different structure to that of the UGLE. Our structure is similar to the one that was used by The Grand Lodge of All England before the Grand lodge of London self-started itself 1717.

All of our members are equal Fellows of the Grand Lodge at York. They meet locally in St John's Lodges. St John's Lodges ARE the Grand Lodge meeting in a territory.

For convenience we have two St John's Lodges in England. Renaissance St John's Lodge in London, administers our meetings South of the River Trent.

Our fellows meet as required. They do not need a named, numbered or separately constituted lodge. Any passed Master may call a meeting which as a minimum must comprise: A passed Master; two Wardens; three Fellows; one more Fellow or an Initiate.

If you are looking at the website of the Regular Grand Lodge of England I have no idea how it is structured, or how many lodges it has in England. Contact their website and ask them.

Our website link follows here. Just click on it.

[se19_london]

thanks for the swift response, presumably then, there cannot be that many UK based members should only 2 lodges suffice?

Regards,

[grandsecretary]

thanks for the swift response, presumably then, there cannot be that many UK based members should only 2 lodges suffice?

Regards,

You may have missed the point. Any qualified passed Master may call a meeting of a lodge. Not the St John's Lodge which is the point of administration, a lodge with no name. If a territory has 250 passed Masters you could have 250 lodge meetings each month. The determining factor is the passed Masters and the need for meetings.

You see a lodge as a building or a constituted thing. Our lodges are meeting places, wherever, usually a church hall. A lodge is actually a place to stay, eat and sleep overnight. It developed into the words "lodging house".

[decim]

Are these meetings similar to a Druidic Moot?

You may have missed the point. Any qualified passed Master may call a meeting of a lodge. Not the St John's Lodge which is the point of administration, a lodge with no name. If a territory has 250 passed Masters you could have 250 lodge meetings each month. The determining factor is the passed Masters and the need for meetings.

You see a lodge as a building or a constituted thing. Our lodges are meeting places, wherever, usually a church hall. A lodge is actually a place to stay, eat and sleep overnight. It developed into the words "lodging house".

[grandsecretary]

All postings by me on this thread have been suspended. I am sorry but I am precluded for legal reasons.

Peter Clatworthy
Grand Secretary
Grand Lodge of All England