My Freemasonry | Freemason Information and Discussion Forum
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I got a chuckle out of quote- once I take the first step, I know that I won't want to stop learning, end quote. That is so true! Masonry is "addictive" for some people, including myself. I have taken the degrees of the Craft lodge, and the Scottish Rite (southern jurisdiction). I started...
I recommend that you read "The complete idiot's guide to Freemasonry" and "Freemasonry for Dummies". These books give an excellent overview of the Craft (and many of the appendant bodies). These books are great for a beginner, and a good review for us "old coots". Also: One of the best websites...
You should check the pawn shops in your city, there are usually some decent rings in the selection . You may wish to get a stainless-steel ring from Gordons, or one of the other suppliers.
Does Masonry cause Marital conflicts? There is no easy answer. Each marriage is unique, so each time that a man takes up some activity, like fishing or bowling, there is a "ripple"effect.
As for myself, my wife is 100% supportive. Although she does not wish to know the specifics, she has no...
One difference, is that after over 11 years of military conflict in Afghanistan, not one USA Grand lodge (other than PHA) has set up a lodge in this country. The Grand Lodge of Ontario established Canada lodge at Kandahar, Afghanistan a couple of years ago. I wish USA Grand Lodges would follow...
There is a new "Translation" of M&D. The verbiage has been updated to a more modern form, to enable modern readers to understand the meaning of the text more easily. See
Morals and Dogma for the 21st Century
or
www (dot) morals-and-dogma (dot) com
There is no one simple answer to "How Much are dues"? The amount of dues that a Mason must pay per year, varies from lodge to lodge. A new, modern lodge in a major metropolitan area like New York City, with high maintenance and insurance and overhead costs, must charge a higher dues rate. A...
The Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania has permitted all masons in their jurisdiction to pay dues online, through Payliance . You can pay all at once, or have the website deduct 1/12 of your dues each month from your account. I think this is fabulous. You will soon see more lodges and Grand Lodges...
In my home lodge in Kentucky, we are generally casual. Some members wear old clothing, t-shirts, etc. Virtually no one wears a necktie. In Afghanistan, we wear camouflage uniforms. When I lived in Paris, France, I usually wore a tuxedo and white gloves to lodge meeting, else I would wear a dark...
I belong to a lodge in a college town. We often perform courtesy work on individuals from other lodges. Most all of them, are from lodges which are in our own state, and therefore there is no difference in ritual or proficiency.
When there are multiple Grand Lodges involved, it can get more...
I am returning to Afghanistan, in a couple of weeks. I will on a project that requires frequent in-country travel. I will not be in any one place, so that will make participating in Freemasonry difficult. I will just keep it on hold, until I return to the USA.
The National Sojourners is a fine organization. I understand that their membership is restricted to Active/Retired/Veteran commissioned/warrant officers who are freemasons in good standing. (Therefore I am not eligible)
If someone knows of an organization for military veterans who are...
I understand that the Canadian lodge has closed in Kandahar. I would like to get an update. I work in Afghanistan (other locations). I shall always cherish the experiences I had at the lodge there.
I try to wear a MM ring, every time I go out. I have a stainless-steel ring that I wear when I work overseas. And I have my Grandfather's heirloom ring, for special occasions. And I have an "everyday" ring that I wear in the USA. I have a gold-plated Shriner's ring, that I wear when I attend...
I found this marvelous listing. Although it is only a partial listing, I think everyone should read this. Many masons are not aware of all of the terrific things that Masonry (and the appendant bodies are doing today). Feel free to share this info with other Masons and non-Masons.
What...
Reading "M&D" will not detract from your Craft Lodge experience. There are many excellent books about Freemasonry, which deal with the history and philosophy of the organization. None of them will in any way lessen the impact and enjoyment of the Craft degrees. If in doubt about a particular...
(I have never read M&D). I was presented with Henry Claussen's "Commentaries on Morals and Dogma", when I took the Scottish Rite. Reading M&D, will not detract or lessen your Masonic Craft lodge experience. The main thrust of the book, is in examining some of the esoteric and historical...
The Grand Lodge of Massachusetts holds a statewide "open house" at least once per year. Here is how it works:
1- Every lodge in the state, is open on a Saturday morning from 0800am to 1pm. The lodge serves coffee and pastries and snacks. The lodge members conduct tours through the lodge...
I would like to pose the question in a different manner. We all agree that the numbers are bad, and that nearly all Grand Lodges are experiencing a decline in membership. Can Freemasonry adapt to the new realities of our society, and still keep true to our ancient landmarks? I believe we can. We...