Lux Lodge believes that Freemasonry is foremost
an initiatic institution. We believe that the main purpose of
Freemasonry is to teach good men to subdue their passions, to become masters of
themselves, and to become better men.
Lux Lodge supports the development of lodges,
based on the best traditional practices of Freemasonry, dedicated to the
cementing of Brotherhood in support of the inner transformation of each
individual on the path toward self-mastery.
A stated purpose
of Freemasonry is "to make good men better." Lux Lodge believes
that a man should only be made a Freemason if he is good and is capable of
being better. Determining the
qualifications of men seeking admission is an essential aspect of upholding the
integrity of our ancient institution. The investigative procedures should be taken very seriously and all
efforts should be made to
ensure that the
brethren of the lodge have as much information as possible about the candidate
on whom they will be deciding.
Lux Lodge believes that ritual should be
performed in a solemn manner. All
efforts should be made to provide the most meaningful initiatic experience for each individual candidate. An atmosphere that may lead to a positive transformation of the
individual is the goal of Masonic ritual.
Lux Lodge believes that sufficient time should
be given to candidates between the degrees. This time should be used for intellectual study, contemplation and
self-transformation. The candidate
should demonstrate some degree of improvement in his understanding of
Freemasonry before being advanced to the next degree. Most importantly, the candidate should be
able to discern actual positive changes within his everyday behavior and life
prior to becoming a Master Mason. Such
an approach helps every newly raised Master Mason realize that he has truly grown
in the process of accomplishing something important and worthwhile,
strengthening the brotherly bonds of virtue.
Lux Lodge believes in lodges with active
memberships. Masons have always come together to seek fellowship and fraternity in a common
pursuit of virtue. Lodges should have memberships small enough in number so the brethren may
closely know each other. Well ordered
festive boards with good food and drink are highly recommended after each
meeting, and while discussion at such gatherings is encouraged, debate is not.
Lux Lodge believes that Masonic meetings should
be dedicated to the understanding of Freemasonry. Brothers should frequently present thoughtful
and well researched papers as a service to their
brethren. Papers should discuss Masonic
symbolism, history and philosophy. The
focus of the papers should be on the spiritual path of self-mastery in the
pursuit of virtue.
Lux Lodge believes that Freemasonry teaches
duty and service. The brethren should be expected to attend
all meetings, and if unable to do so, inform a brother or the secretary of the
lodge of the reason in advance. Such an
arrangement
ensures active participation, instills
duty and is generally very rewarding in a number of ways. It keeps all the
brethren actively connected to the Lodge and makes them realize their
presence is valued, thereby inculcating awareness of self-worth and potential.
Lux Lodge believes that officers of a Masonic
lodge should be chosen based on their merit. It should be made clear that serving in any office within a lodge is a
privilege and not a right. Brethren should
be given positions of responsibility only after having demonstrated their good
faith, ability to make a serious time commitment and sincere desire to
correctly perform the necessary duties required. The election of the Master is of importance
and only those brethren should be considered for this honor and responsibility
who are well versed in Masonic teachings, who have the
resourcefulness to lead and whose personal character can serve as an example to
be followed.
Lux Lodge views the improvement of the
individual as the most fundamental aspect of improving society.
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