Grand Virtual lodges one day

I sometimes imagine the idea of virtual lodges where brothers from all over the world could log in via an internet connection with some google glass or other tech and allow them to participate in a meeting or working. Not so impossible eh? Workable?


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"We have 25698690 bit encryption the lodge is tyled WM."


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While a high-security login message and chat system is workable, I would never think of it as a Lodge. Just as the work is to be transmitted mouth to ear, not using the modern convenience of writing in the process of actual transmission, there are times when some of "the old ways" need preservation.

True, I think if we ever get to the point of "virtualizing" the Lodge, we've created an organization that emphasizes the individual rather than the fraternal aspects. How much further is it to having degrees conferred by watching an online video? That's a bit of an exaggeration, but still... I hope to always see the aspect of coming together to practice our art in person as a core value.

I think it could be great if the business meeting side of a meeting could be conducted in such a manner. It could allow more time for brotherhood and masonic instruction during the actual meeting.

The only place I see virtual lodges acceptable is something like the internet lodge the UGLE has.

You must be a MM in good standing belonging to a lodge that is recognized...

In fact, I believe some of the Brothers here are members of said Lodge.

http://internet.lodge.org.uk/

There is nothing "virtual" about Internet 9659; it meets four times a year in various locations, with officers, regalia, etc. There is a mail list for members only, as well as a members only side of the website, but beyond that it is very much a "brick and mortar" lodge.

trysquare said:

There is nothing "virtual" about Internet 9659; it meets four times a year in various locations, with officers, regalia, etc. There is a mail list for members only, as well as a members only side of the website, but beyond that it is very much a "brick and mortar" lodge.

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Is it like a Lodge of Research?

No, it's a regularly chartered lodge with all the usual rights and privileges of all UGLE lodges.
This article tells the tale better than I can...
http://internet.lodge.org.uk/whatisit

trysquare said:

There is nothing "virtual" about Internet 9659; it meets four times a year in various locations, with officers, regalia, etc. There is a mail list for members only, as well as a members only side of the website, but beyond that it is very much a "brick and mortar" lodge.

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That was what I was driving at. Lodges must open and close face to face but fellowship can be enjoyed on-line with those you know to be regular Master Masons.

Lowcarbjc said:

"We have 25698690 bit encryption the lodge is tyled WM."

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The hartbleed exploit was an encrypted exploit. As someone that is a cyber security professional in the electric power industery I would say nothing is tyled to 10% of those that want to esdrop. Now before anyone jumps on me about saying th electric power industery it really is a lot more secure than congress and FERC think or know and that is why it is more secure THEY DON'T KNOW.

If this internet lodge is a regular lodge how do they initiate, pass or raise candidates. Just on the surface it sounds clandestine to me.....


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Rob_Eades said:

If this internet lodge is a regular lodge how do they initiate, pass or raise candidates?

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The same way any lodge does.
As I have mentioned previously, it is a brick-and-mortar lodge that meets quarterly. The name is "Internet," but the meetings aren't held there.

Rob_Eades said:

If this internet lodge is a regular lodge how do they initiate, pass or raise candidates. Just on the surface it sounds clandestine to me.....


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You must be a master mason in good standing to join so it is not an issue. They are recognized by the UGLE.

Candidates may also be Initiated, as per the by-laws, and in accordance with the provisions of Rules 157 to 166, Book of Constitutions.

trysquare said:

Candidates may also be Initiated, as per the by-laws, and in accordance with the provisions of Rules 157 to 166, Book of Constitutions.

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Didn't notice that you were a member. I stand corrected.

I've enjoyed this entertaining and enlightening discussion (I've now looked at and will likely petition for membership in Internet Lodge No. 9659).

To the OP, I honestly hope we never reach the point where we conduct all Lodge business online. There is something to be said for us being able to meet, discuss, and debate what we think is right face to face. It also gives us the opportunity to maintain peace and harmony despite the fact that we often have different ideas about the future of our Fraternity. The face-to-face meeting means we have to actually swallow any hurt pride or hot tempers to work together as Brothers, a lesson that is hugely (and increasingly) important in dealings with other people. On the internet, I think something is lost if all we have to do is close the browser and not participate further if we don't like the way a vote goes or a discussion develops.

I know that, regardless of how business is conducted, though, we will always have the opportunity for real personal interaction in fellowship and that is, in my mind, the most valuable thing that Masonry provides to its members.

TU

MRichard said:

You must be a master mason in good standing to join so it is not an issue. They are recognized by the UGLE.

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They aren't just recognized by UGLE, they're CHARTERED by UGLE.