You should probably read this -
http://enlightenedawareness.wetpaint...age/The+Druids taking special care to note the name of it's author,
I have looked at your recommended reading and find it to be "enlightening" to say the least. I must admit, however, that the author's name was not one with which I was previously familiar. I sought additional information on him and learned that his written contributions to Masonry are considerable, although not viewed as authoritative by everyone. (Brent Morris & Art de Hoya, also 33rd degree SR, have raised questions.)
For over 40 years now I have believed that Masonry required a mono-theistic belief of its initiates. Today I attempted to find support for that belief in the laws of the Grand Lodge of Texas, but could not. Perhaps I have unfairly judged those who believe in more than one God, (ie: trees as Gods). I hope not.
I was not a member of the investigating committee in either of the examples offered. One moved out of state before an investigation was done. The other was investigated, balloted upon and elected to the three degrees. I have spent a considerable amount of time with him since then and I think we have a reasonable understanding of each other's spiritual beliefs. In spite of the rather significant difference in those beliefs, we do respect each other's right to have his own beliefs and we have become good friends in spite of our differences.
My spiritual beliefs have always differed from those of the petitioners I have known, sometimes quite markedly. Yet, those differences, in over forty years as a Mason, have rarely led to any action on my part to exclude someone from Masonry.
Still, the EA charge says, "If in the circle of your acquintance, you find someone desirous of being initiated into Masonry, be particularly attentive not to recommend him unless you are CONVINCED he will conform to the laws, customs and usages of the order; to the end that the honor, glory and reputation of the institution will be firmly established and the world at large convinced of its good effects." I can be "CONVINCED", but it usually takes more than a simple "yes" on the petition for that to take place.
I have found your posts to be generally insightful and reflective of a deep passion for Masonry. Most of the time, I agree with your views. This time, however, we have obvious differences. Your arguments are not going to change my view and I don't expect mine to change yours. It won't be the first time I've disagreed with a Brother and I am sure it won't be the last.