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Post by hollandr on Jan 7, 2005 3:33:02 GMT
I am a bit wary of raising this but it seems a pressing issue.
In my part of Australia we lose about 4% of our GL membership each year and have been doing so for perhaps 30 years. Given the average age of brethren the trend is for almost complete extinction of existing lodges within 30 years.
Then we will be back to the state in the early 18th century when it was difficult to find enough brethren to initiate a candidate.
So what is to be done? (I assume that Masonry has some higher purpose yet to be achieved.)
Shall we bypass the usual pleas for brethren to welcome the candidate? If that were the answer it would have worked long ago.
I believe that it is time for Masonry to expand. There are huge numbers of people having inner experiences and they search for genuine fraternity. But they clearly don't see much value in Masonry. Most new brethren barely last 5 years before resigning.
Will we have done our duty by preserving what little is left of Masonic ritual regardless of whether the new generation wishes to carry on?
Is anyone driven to save Masonry?
I have searched for 30 years for the way forward and now I believe that some intimations are being given.
We have had perhaps 3000 years of jewish custodianship of the western mysteries (KST etc) but that is now falling away as can be seen in the closure of lodges.
Prior to that the Egyptians had carriage of Masonry with the Great Pyramid as The Lighthouse.
What metaphor is next? Is TGAOTU to be replaced by the Great Steward? Can we seen spiritual work in the metaphor of stewardship rather than architecture?
Who is willing to start the discovery process?
Private replies are welcome.
Cheers
Russell
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Post by taylorsman on Jan 7, 2005 4:35:01 GMT
Russell, I'm with you on this and there has been much written on this matter both here and on other Fora.
Society has changed and what appealed to our Fathers after WW2 etc cuts little ice with modern men, indeed may turn them away, (See the extensive thread on Stewards and serving wine at Festive Boards- taken as a given by post war men, a pain in the **** to many of us today).
This however is but an external factor and I agree with you that, as custodians of important knowledge, the REAL "National Treasure", we must preserve The Craft.
Personnally I feel that Freemasonry may well retrench from its post war boom but will always persist, indeed some Lodges are experiencing a growth in the number of Candidates and even allowing for drop outs there is a consequent rise in the flow of Brethren entering the Higher Degrees, where as I have often said, the REAL Freemasonry is to be found, at least over here.
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Post by Hubert (N. Z.) on Jan 7, 2005 8:16:16 GMT
My experience over more than 25yrs is that we have an ebb & flow model functioning in freemasonry and indeed in many other organisations.
Way back in past history we had oppression, meaning it went underground, BUT IT STILL SURVIVED.
Of later times we had fundamental attacks, but they touched us not.
What I see is currently required is a steadfast resolute need to "carry the flag" by whatever trials it takes to keep "alive" a fragment of this precious gift, and in due time it will resurrect once again.
12 yrs ago in Ch'ch No6 we had 50 members (large for CoM). This has declined to the present 27, with very few applications these past 5 yrs. Now suddenly there might be 8 applications this year alone!
All that is required is that we keep the traditions going and we will regain that which was lost.
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Post by mumblingritual on Jan 7, 2005 18:53:54 GMT
'So what is to be done? (I assume that Masonry has some higher purpose ' what is it in masonry that leads you to assume this Russell ? if you dont mind me asking
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staffs
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Post by staffs on Jan 7, 2005 19:01:15 GMT
Russell,Dont worry about private replies ntoo much.
On this forum we let people be open and speak their mind as long s they are not anti masonry and their views and opinions are destructive to freemasonry and the continuation of the craft.
So lets all share each others thoughts.
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Post by leonardo on Jan 7, 2005 20:05:20 GMT
To be perfectly honest I am delighted to see that freemasonry is as strong as it is. When I first started looking into the Craft, with the intention of becoming a member, I had little or no notion as to how big it is around the world. Imagine my surprise! So from my particular perspective freemasonry looks extremely strong and if anything, will go from strength to strength.
Admittedly, they will be the occasional eagerness to join, with a swelling of the ranks, so to speak - followed by the inevitable quieter periods. But by and large freemasonry is looking pretty sound.
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Post by hollandr on Jan 8, 2005 0:13:03 GMT
I am a little surprised that brethren see Masonry as strong. I see lodge buildings sold and the local GL has a basement filled with no longer used regalia and furnishings.
From the point of view of preserving Masonry one might think that only one good lodge is needed somewhere on the planet and the task is done.
But surely the lodge work has several purposes including being a place:
- for helping those humans and humanoids determined to grow spiritually - where the plans of TGAOTU may be perceived - where the brethren may determine how they will assist in the plans of TGAOTU - for forming partnerships with the other kingdoms - elemental, nature spirit, deva etc - where the lodges beyond the planet can have their greetings received - where the unfoldment of the human race may be accelerated
And no doubt there are others that will occur to me later.
In addition, the solar system is moving on spiritually and our work needs to move with it.
Who is there who has received a Charter to do the work of re-forming Masonry for the new cycle?
This is not a rhetorical question. I wish to know who amongst us is feeling the inner pressure to advance this work of reform and rebuilding. Am I alone? Surely not.
Private replies are fine.
Cheers
Russell
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Post by atarnaris on Jan 8, 2005 0:33:21 GMT
Bro Russell,
No you are not alone. I am here too and have received the "charter" to change Masonry.
Each one of us who has received this charter is fighting the "good fight" in an unseen, by those of the earth,but majestically orchestrated way.
I kept feeling as you you do that the Circle is about to close, the ofis to bite its tail for good.
We are already living these changes.
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Post by atarnaris on Jan 8, 2005 0:36:13 GMT
Personnally I feel that Freemasonry may well retrench from its post war boom but will always persist, indeed some Lodges are experiencing a growth in the number of Candidates and even allowing for drop outs there is a consequent rise in the flow of Brethren entering the Higher Degrees, where as I have often said, the REAL Freemasonry is to be found, at least over here. I have been reading some NLP material recently. Should we not therefore model those Lodges that exeprience growth, study them, and see where are they getting it right? Should we not congratulate these Brethren indeed?
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Post by Hubert (N. Z.) on Jan 8, 2005 3:46:14 GMT
The Charter for change is within all of us. To my mind the best way is to work within our present system and try that way first.
I'm sure that is why the recent side stepping by several countries within LDH to set up the Eastern Order occured. When threatened at loosing its' traditional esoteric workings we had to make the difficult decission to go our separate ways to keep alive that which we hold dear.
This could be the founding of what you Russell ask is the true mystical experience and investigation of this "spiritual' realm.
We still employ the traditional workings, but are very much more centred on finding all truths that lead to the esoteric. Most that I have met here in NZ tend to that philosophy. It was only in Paris that I had the distinct impression that CoMasonry (LDH) was a Social cum Ego thing!
As regards your inquiry... let us work together to achieve what we can, where we are, OR set about forming the "corner stone" for a better indepth Masonic Branch seeking true human advancement. Many have tried over the centuries, at least we have the background to further this end.
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Post by roberthlamar on Jan 8, 2005 3:55:32 GMT
Dear Brother Russell Holland,
1 - Is it time for regenerating Masonry?
R : Not only its time like you so wise have noticed the need for Masonic regeneration but it is in the opinion of many overdue.
2 - I am a bit wary of raising this but it seems a pressing issue.
R : You are not alone, others think the same.
3 - In my part of Australia we lose about 4% of our GL membership each year and have been doing so for perhaps 30 years. Given the average age of brethren the trend is for almost complete extinction of existing lodges within 30 years.
R : In England we have the same scenario, if I am to leave my Lodge today tomorrow they close, no members enough to open or close. It is a sad state, but they seem to have the three-monkey approach.
4 - Then we will be back to the state in the early 18th century when it was difficult to find enough brethren to initiate a candidate.
R : We would be lucky to go back to the 18th century state, if things keep going as they are now we will be on heading to the stone age.
5 - So what is to be done? (I assume that Masonry has some higher purpose yet to be achieved.)
R : Well he have to decide are we in Masonry for Grand Lodge Grand Honours or are we here for the Masonic Brotherhood and all it should stand for with its symbolism, initiation and Tradition. 6 - I believe that it is time for Masonry to expand.
R : Indeed.
7 - There are huge numbers of people having inner experiences and they search for genuine fraternity.
R : This is exactly what we are demanding We want the genuine Fraternity.
8 - But they clearly don't see much value in Masonry. Most new brethren barely last 5 years before resigning.
R : They see no meaning or purpose on the order, I am fed up as well, we have two choices either we cross our arms or we go about to help create something meaningful.
9 - Will we have done our duty by preserving what little is left of Masonic ritual regardless of whether the new generation wishes to carry on?
R : If we want to preserve what is left from the Masonic Ritual we must act now, and some of have understood that and have started the work.
10 - Is anyone driven to save Masonry? R : Fortunately yes there are remarkable good decent and valuable Master Masons that feel and have the drive to save masonry, because masonry is what they believe masonry is they passion masonry is a great institution that helps to make good man better, etc…<br> I have searched for 30 years for the way forward and now I believe that some intimations are being given.
11 - Who is willing to start the discovery process?
R : The process has started in England a Masonic High Council is being established to lead the way of Masonic Restoration in England and else where, at least these are our genuine aims it up to us to make this dream come true.
Masonic High Council for England and Wales (member)
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Post by hollandr on Jan 8, 2005 4:46:57 GMT
I am encouraged by the response so far.
It seems to me that there are various aspects to be unfolded by discovery and trial.
These include:
- a set of principles for a reformed Masonry e.g. admission of women - a reformed or a new ritual - with a new metaphor to replace KST - within or without existing Masonic institutions.
In any case the reformation may require 50 years of multitudinous forms and degrees with only the most effective and popular surviving - as occurred in the 18th century.
The other model of reform is found in Co-M where Besant and Leadbeater tell us they conversed with The Head of All True Freemasons to improve the ritual. For myself I think it is the best set of Masonic rituals so that might be a valid path. It would likely avoid a generation of vigorous committee work. (I speak in euphemism)
We may have to develop ritual outside existing GL and have Masons migrate to the new form.
For myself I have had a vision of a new ritual - not in detail. But there may be a whole range of new rituals given to us to try so I make no claims for the pre-eminence of my vision.
Any other visions or dreams of new rituals?
Robert can you tell anything about this Masonic High Council and how it is going about its tasks?
Cheers
Russell
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Post by a on Jan 8, 2005 8:04:17 GMT
In any case the reformation may require 50 years of multitudinous forms and degrees with only the most effective and popular surviving - as occurred in the 18th century. Ummmmm Freemasonry as an organisation will be with us until the end of time, but in terms of Freemasonry being there to help humanity when it needs it most, I am sorry but I dont think that Freemasonry has 50 years. Mother Nature is fighting back, we are exploring space, our world is so unbalanced and full of darkness. I also feel what has been talked about, and I am also fortunate to know my purpose (for those who understand what I mean here, those who dont work hard internally and hopefully one day you will). While my guts are always (so far) accurate (even if I dont always listen and believe at the time), but I can be out on timescales. But I really dont think that Freemasonry has another 50 years to find itself, if it takes that long it will have missed the boat. But with all of the tools that are available to Freemasons then if Freemasons cant sort this out, what hope is there for the rest of humanity? The time for evolution, for Freemasonry finding its own way again is here and now. And how by getting back to basics and believing in Freemasonry. Just my opinion obviously.
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Post by mrmason on Jan 8, 2005 8:05:58 GMT
I suppose it depends on which country you live in as to whether the membership is decreasing or not. In Scotland our membership is no lower than what it was prior to the Great War and WWII, which I think I mentioned on another forum. My own lodge for example will have initiated approx 7 candidates over last year and this year plus 3 affiliates. While not all get to the meetings on the same night, due to working shifts, etc, we have a steady regular attandance which is enough to have a pleasant evening amongst the brethren. I for one believe that we should not change any ritual for the sake of being up to date with modern thinking. The ritual working conferred up someone is in fact the reward for the work the brother has done over the period of time he has been a member. While we narrow it down in Scotland to 2 wks between degrees and give the candidate test questions before advancment, that is IMHO a token gesture. The real Freemasonry to be learned, not by attending the lodge regular but by the brothers' own personal teaching/advancement. The Initiation ceremonies are the key to open the door, what brethren decide to do once inside is up to them. By having this thinking I believe that yes we will get small and more compact but we will never die out. Freemasonry doesn't need saving. It has certainly survived in Scotland for ceturies, and IMHO will continue to do so.
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Post by staffs on Jan 8, 2005 8:15:34 GMT
Mr Mason wrote :The Initiation ceremonies are the key to open the door, what brethren decide to do once inside is up to them
Bob ! : Yes initiation is the key and by doing so freemasons sow the seed but that seed has to be looked after and nutured to grow into a Tree and even then it is always growing and has to be cared for .
If left alone it may well be come Dead Wood.and we have all seen dead wood in lodge and even the dead wood that has dropped out and become disillusioned.
It IS up to the brethren to do what they feel once inside but they must be guided and helped bt the bigger "trees"and their enthusiasm will shine through and give light to the other trees in the forest to help them develop.
This way freemasonry Will actually grow i belkieve,
"oops went on a bit again "
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Post by staffs on Jan 8, 2005 8:25:12 GMT
Stewart.
There is a bit of freemasonry in everyone .look how the moral of charity has been shown across the world.but i know giving is not ONLY a masonic attribute.My point is we can all show we care albeit only too sadly at troubled times.It should be a continued thing.
It is not only down to Freemasonry to help mankind in time of need (which it does all the time) but everyone needs to help mankind constantly not just in times of trouble and maybe the world would then be a better place to live.
These people feel good giving and feeling like they are doing their bit but what annoys me is the publicity celebrities give themselves when they give to charity.(Theyt can easily affoird it without suffering hardship) The real people are those who give when theyt canbarely afford .
Freemasons are always giving to charity and we dont bleat on about it and this is one of the factors you always miss out on Stewart when talking about your journey and advancement in life.
As freemasons the charity giving is kept fairlydiscreet and i prefer it that way but one of the benefits we also get is to experience a tremendous experience of brotherhood the world over and to develop our inner self in the process.
With this attitude Freemasonry will easily outlive your chidrn and their great grandchildren and mybe the world has shown there are more people who WILL make good freemasons.
Remember ,its not just about ME ME ME
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Post by mrmason on Jan 9, 2005 9:02:31 GMT
Hi Lee, I totaly agree with your words that we should nurture our new members, but they should also have a wish to "grow" themselves. A lot of the time we are worried about our membership to the extent that we go and actively seek new members. IMHO if the masonc membership as a whole reduces in size, we should have a true account of membership as those who are genuenly interested will still be around. The way forward I think would be to get rid of the "dead wood" re-organise the lodge and then start afresh by being much more careful about introducing new genuinely interested candidates. That doesn't mean that we should be more exclusive, just maybe take our time over things. There are different ways of approaching this subject, but I personaly feel that it is not the craft system/degrees/teachings that need changing but perhaps the administration.
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Post by leonardo on Jan 9, 2005 10:29:42 GMT
Hi Lee, they should also have a wish to "grow" themselves. Bob, A very sound and justifiable statement. But is there not also an argument that unless encouraged younger members may never fully realise their true potential?
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Post by middlepillar on Jan 9, 2005 10:46:01 GMT
Hello Bob
I think you have made some interesting points here except how are we going to decide who is dead wood? Are you talking about members who do not go anymore or maybe attend once in a blue moon? Or are you talking about those who use Freemasonry purely as a Social Club?
If it is about Social Clubbers you are refering, I have had several conversations about 'Social Clubbers'. And where I feel The UGLE is well directed is this. Social Masons have as much right to be Freemasons as anyone else, they get a lot of enjoyment out of The Masonry they practise and many contribute to Raising Thousands of Pounds for Charity and they also introduce other members who may go on to 'higher' things. My proposer into Freemasonry was indeed one whom you would call 'Social' But he has been a mason for over 25 years now and has contributed greatly to our Lodges success (He eventually joined The RA Last Masonic Year 2003).
Now the point I am trying to make (eventually) is that in UGLE you could almost say that The 3 Degrees are like a 'Filter'. Everyone is in these and everyone gets out what they want. But as soon as a Bro takes another step you know he is on a journey (maybe stopping after one step, but so what!).
I have introduced 9 candidates and I have stated before, elsewhere you could turn the Order in which I thought they would 'appreciate/perform/turn out, upside down. You can never possibly know how a candidate is going to turn out, so I do not feel it is possible to improve it will always be a chance, it is as Lee says up to us to support all new candidates, by answering questions as well as keeping them involved with Masonic business
I do not feel there is that much wrong with our beloved Craft, there are far to many people lining up to say this needs changing or that needs changing when in fact it has worked pretty well for the last 200 years! Bottomline is this if you want to progress further in to the Esoteric side or in to the Hiramic legend side of Masonry You have plenty of opportunity in UGLE Land. It is up to each individual, and it is up to the likes of us to encourage them the right way.
Internal work is just what it says, why do people want to tear down the walls to do internal work? Perhaps we should start looking at ego's?
There are a lot of people who are proud of thier internal work and how far and how much they have achieved, so lets concentrate on the reintegration rather than the regeneration and leave the ego's on the side where they belong.
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Post by Trinityman on Jan 9, 2005 12:22:16 GMT
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