RESPONSE TO "THE LODGE"
E. Arthur Haglund
Past Grand Master, Grand Lodge of California F&AM
member Southern California Research Lodge
INTRODUCTION
The Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod -
published a booklet in 1977, "How to Respond to the
Lodge," by Pastor L. James Rongstad. The booklet was written
as one in a series requested in 1975 by the Synod "for
specialized literature to assist in the evangelization of persons
who belong to anti-Christian sects and cults." (1 -
Rongstad: How to Respond to the Lodge, pg. 5)
The Synod classifies Freemasonry an
anti-Christian sect and cult! Unbelievable and not true! The
following pages attempt to shed some Masonic light on the
accusations.
"Every one is entirely free to reject and
dissent from whatsoever herein may seem to him to be untrue and
unsound." From the introduction to "Morals and
Dogma" by Albert Pike, this statement applies to these
writings, and I assume as well to Rongstad's.
Albert Pike is one Masonic author often quoted,
including by Rongstad, as a "Masonic authority." A
prolific and complex witer, Pike also borrowed liberally from
others. Pike and others have really been 'historical authorities'
who speak with the expertise that comes from long study.
It should be emphasized that "Masonic
authorities" do not and cannot speak for Freemasonry nor for
all Masons. No single person represents Freemasonry, including
Pike. The only "official" words are those published by
each Masonic Grand Jurisdiction as part of it's Masonic Code and
it's ritual or ceremonies, including those of the Masonic
Degrees.
I appreciate the many studies and writings of
the other Masons whom I liberally quote. My experience in and
knowledge of Freemasonry is fairly extensive however I do not,
cannot, speak for Freemasonry nor for other Freemasons. I do
acknowledge my prejudices regarding Freemasonry as well as my
lack of knowledge about the Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod.
I am a Christian.
I am a Freemason.
I find no conflict between the two. Perhaps the
following will help explain why.
E. A. Haglund, Spokane WA. June 1995.
2
MASONIC CHRISTIANS
My maternal grandfather was active in Masonry.
He was the first elected Secretary of his Masonic Lodge in 1908.
My father was a Past Master of his Masonic Lodge and Past Eminent
Commander of his Knights Templar Commandery. Several uncles and
my only brother were also Freemasons.
They were all Christians and active church
members. My father and grandfather both served as Elders of the
First Presbyterian Church of Havre, Montana. During the 1940s
their pastor was Rev. Lyman W. Winkle who has been a Mason for
nearly 60 years.
I continued in their footsteps. I am a
Presbyterian. I am a Past Master of my Lodge in California where
I completed the Masonic degrees. We then belonged to the
Lafayette Methodist Church, whose Pastor at the time, Rev. Dr.
Sargent J. Wright, wrote me a note congratulating me as a Brother
Mason. Sarge later served the Grand Lodge of California as Grand
Chaplain during the year of my service (1983-84) as Grand Master
of the Grand Lodge, Free and Accepted Masons of California.
I am proud to be a Mason and I am proud of my
Masonic heritage. Freemasons are from all walks of life and
include many of the founders of our country. Nine known Masons
signed the Declaration of Independence, including John Hancock
and Ben Franklin. Nine Masons also signed the Articles of
Confederation while 13 known Masons signed the Constitution of
the United States, including again Ben Franklin, who was elected
in 1734 to serve an Grand Master of Masons in Pennsylvania. Three
other signers also became Grand Masters: Bedford in Delaware,
1806-09; Blair in Virginia, 1778-1784; Brearly in New Jersey,
1786-1790. (2 - Heaton: Masonic Membership of the Founding
Fathers, pgs. 4-7, pg. 74)
President of the Federal Constitution
Convention and a signer of the Constitution, George Washington,
was later elected President of the United States; the first of 14
Presidents who were Masons. He completed his Masonic Degrees in
the Lodge of Fredericksburg, VA., in 1753. (2 - Heaton, pg. 74)
Presidents Andrew Jackson (Tennessee) and Harry
Truman (Missouri), share my honor of being a Past Grand Master of
Masons in their respective states. Besides Truman, several
leaders of government and military during World War II were
Freemasons, including President Roosevelt and Prime Minister
Churchill.
Approximately one third of the Justices of the
United States Supreme Court have been Masons. Two who were Chief
Justice also served the Masons of their state as Grand Master;
John Marshall, Chief Justice from 1801 to his death in 1835 was
Grand Master of Masons in Virginia in 1793. Governor Earl Warren,
Chief Justice from 1953-1969, preceded me as Grand Master of
Masons in California in 1935.
RESPONSE TO "THE LODGE" 3
In my heart and mind it is inconceivable to me
that any of these men, including myself, members of my family,
leaders of our country and Masons of all professions, including
ministers and church leaders, would ever belong to an
organization with anti-Christian teachings or belong to a cult of
any kind. Yet the Synod considers Masonry an 'anti-Christian
sect' by concluding that "the lodge is a religion -- a
Christless religion -- and thus a cult, a cult totally
incompatible with Christianity and to be avoided by every
Christian." (1 - Rongstad pg. 24)
FREEMASONRY A RELIGION?
One of many conclusions in the booklet is this:
"Masonry's attitude of condescension toward specific
religions is really an elevation of the lodge as a
"super-religion." (1 - Rongstad pg. 12)
Freemasons know better. So does the court of
law. The Supreme Court of Nebraska, for example, in deciding a
case some years ago, used the following illuminating language:
"The guiding thought is not religion but
religious toleration .... The Masonic fraternity refrains from
intruding into the field of religion and confines itself to the
teaching of morality and duty to one's fellow men, which makes
better men and better citizens.
"The distinction is clear between such
ethical teachings and the doctrines of religion. One cannot
espouse a religion without belief and faith in its peculiar
doctrines. A fraternity broad enough to take in and cover with
its mantle Christian, Moslem and Jew, without requiring him to
renounce his religion, is not a religious organization, although
its members may join in prayer which, in the case of each, is a
petition addressed to his own Deity. Neither can the belief in
the immortality of the soul be denominated religious in the sense
that it is typical of any religion, of any race, or of any age.
It constitutes one of the most beautiful and consoling features
of our own religion, but it is equally found in almost every
other. It is so unusual and spontaneous that it is not so much
belief or dogma as it is an instinct of the human soul. Neither
does it imply or require adherence to any system of religious
worship.
"The fact that belief in the doctrines or
deity of no particular religion is required, of itself refutes
the theory that the Masonic ritual embodies a religion, or that
its teachings are religious." (3 - Cerza; Let There Be
Light, pg. 42)
Perhaps as important as a court of law is the
opinion of a knowledgeable church leader and Masonic leader.
"We (Masonry) have none of the marks of a religion. We have
no creed, and no confession of faith in a doctrinal statement. We
have no theology. We have no ritual of worship."
These words are by Past Grand Master of Masons,
Rev. Dr. Thomas S. Roy. He was ordained in the United Baptist
Church, serving several pastorates until his retirement in 1951
to become Grand Master in Massachusetts. (4 -Roy; An Answer to
Anti-Masonic Religious Comments,
4
Scottish Rite Journal, February 1993, pg. 70)
Roy continued: "Our purpose is not that of
a religion. We are not primarily interested in the redemption of
man. We seek no converts. We solicit no new members. We raise no
money for religious purposes. Freemasonry does not assert and
does not teach that one religion is as good as another. We do not
say that all religiouns are equal because we admit men of all
religions. We refuse to apply a theological test to a candidate.
We apply a religious test only. We ask a man if he believes in
God and that is a religious test only." (4 - Roy pg. 71)
Another inappropriate conclusion by the Synod:
"It is our claim that to avoid the revealed Scriptural names
for God is a deliberate attempt to deceive by reducing
Christianity to just another of the religions of the world."
(1 - Rongstad, pg. 24)
"When Freemasonry accepts a Christian, or
a Jew or a Buddhist, or a Mohammedan, it does not accept him as
such, but as a man, worthy to be received into the Order. We ask
him to pledge himself to the highest and holiest loyalty in his
life to be true to his vows. To ask him to vow on a book in which
he did not believe would be the kind of hypocrisy condemned by
the highest teachings of the Christian religion.
"To say that we reject Christ because we
do not mention him would be as reasonable as to say that we
reject the prophecies of Isaiah because we do not mention them.
It is the glory of Masonry that a man who believes implicitly in
the deity of Christ, and a man who says he cannot go that far,
can meet as brothers in their acknowledgement of the sovereignty
of the Supreme Being, the Maker of Heaven and earth, and in
acknowledgement of their duty to love Him with heart and mind and
soul and strength." (4 - Roy, pg 72)
WHAT IS FREEMASONRY?
Let's begin at the beginning with the Ritual of
the First Degree. The "charge" given the new Mason at
the conclusion of his First Degree includes: "It
(Freemasonry) is an institution having for its foundation the
practice of the social and moral virtues; and, to so high an
eminence has its credit been advanced, that, in every age and
country, men preeminent for their moral and intellectual
attainments have encouraged and promoted its interests. Nor has
it been thought derogatory to their dignity that monarchs have,
for a season, exchanged the sceptor for the trowel, to patronize
our mysteries and join in our assemblies. (5 - Monitor &
Officers Manual, Grand Lodge of California pg. 15)
Mere words? Swedish King Karl XVI Gustaf if a
Freemason and H.R.H. Prince Bertil is Grand Master of Sweden. It
was my pleasure to meet these brother Masons in 1984. I am also
proud of my Swedish heritage (my father's birthplace).
(To be continued)
RESPONSE TO "THE LODGE" 5
In the Masonic ritual of the Entered Apprentice
Degree, the new candidate is informed that "Every regular
Lodge is furnished with a Holy Bible, square and Compass. The
Holy Bible is dedicated to God, it being his inestimable gift to
man as the rule and guide of his faith..... (5 - Monitor, pg. 7)
The charge continues: "As a Mason, you are
to regard the Volume of the Sacred Law as the great light in your
profession; to consider it as the unerring standard of truth and
justice; and to regulate your actions by the divine precepts it
contains. In it you will learn the important duties which you owe
to God, your neighbor, and yourself. To God, by never mentioning
His name but with that awe and reverence which are due from the
creature to his Creator; by imploring His aid in all your lawful
undertakings; and by looking up to Him in every emergency for
comfort and support....." (5 - Monitor pg. 16)
Being a Christian, I consider the Holy Bible as
the rule and guide of my faith. As a Mason I am continually
reminded to refer to the Holy Bible as my 'great book of
insruction.' On this point, Rongstad and I agree for in his
introduction, he refers to "the authority of the Bible to
determine our moral values, our life principles, goals and
priorities; yes our very salvation." (1 - Rongstad pg. 8)
"It is the glory of Masonry that a man who
believes implicitly in the deity of Christ, and a man who says
that he cannot go that far, can meet as Brothers in their
acknowledgement of the sovereignty of the Supreme Being ... they
can unite in fulfilling the great purpose of Freemasonry, the
development of human character, and the establishment of the
colleective life of mankind in brotherhood. In doing this, we
dare to hope that we are more than neutral in helping the church
in its great task." (4 - Roy, pg. 72)
MASONIC HISTORY AND ORGANIZATION
The Synod booklet states that
"organizationally lodgery began with modern Freemasonry in
1717 AD stimulated by two clergymen." True, four London
Masonic Lodges formed the first Grand Lodge in 1717. It is also
true that two ministers were involved but there is no proof that
either man "stimulated" nor "inspired" that
action, as contended by Rongstad. Furthermore, it is a fact that
speculative Freemasonry pre-dates 1717.
The Premier Grand Lodge of England was
instituted on June 24, 1717. "The learned but undisciplined
Presbyterian Clergyman, the Reverend James Anderson, late Grand
Warden, in 1723, with the approval of that Grand Lodge, published
the most influential work on Masonry ever printed, the first book
of 'The Constitutions of the Free-Masons.' These included the
charges of a Free-Mason extracted from the ancient records of
Lodges 'beyond the sea and of those in England, Scotland and
Ireland', for the use of the Lodges in London. Apart from a dozen
or so tiny changes, the modern wording is identical." (6 -
McLeod; The Old Charles, pg. 3)
6
Careful research seems to show that the shift
from operative to speculative lodges began in Scotland before the
1700s. In fact, the first record of the admission of a
non-operative Mason in a Lodge of Scotland was the year 1600 and
the early records of the Lodge in Aberdeen in 1670 showed that
some members at that time were operative and others speculative.
By 1730 the practice of accepting speculative Masons to Masonic
ranks had spread throughout Great Britain with London becoming
the center of its headquarters. (7 - Barnardi; Attacks on
Freemasonry, The Philalethes magazine, pg. 69)
Much is written and speculation abounds
concerning the beginnings of Freemasonry, including the time of
building King Solomon's Temple. Contrary to the conclusion of
Rongstad, Masons are not taught their origin is traceable to King
Solomon. "The story of the operative masons at the time of
King Solomon and the building of the Lord's Temple form a
valuable part of Masonic ethical and moral teachings, but also
cannot be factually proven as the origin of our craft." (7 -
Barnard, pg. 69)
The name "Free and Accepted Masons"
or "Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons" is used
throughout all Masonic Grand Lodges in the world. The term
"Freemason" goes as far back as the 14th century and
probably referred at that time to an artisan who worked in
'free-stone.'
The booklet "Masonic Parallels with
History" by Alphonse Cerza reveals many historical facts.
(8) For example, the word "Freemason" appeared for the
first time in the Statutes of England, dated 1487 and the term
"Master Mason" appeared after the name of William
Orchard of Magdalen College in 1479.
Records show that although speculative Lodges
existed prior to 1700, the Grand Lodge of Scotland was not formed
until 1736. The Grand Lodge of Ireland was formed in 1725, the
same year a Lodge was known to exist in Paris; another Lodge in
Paris was formed in 1732 under the English Constitution. In 1733
a Lodge was formed in both Sweden and Germany, whose Grand Lodge
formed in 1741. (8 - Cerza, pg. 33-37)
FREEMASONRY IN NORTH AMERICA
Freemasonry first came officially to North
America when the Grand Lodge of England, on July 5, 1730, issued
a deputation to Daniel Cox to act as "Provincial Grand
Master of the Provinces of New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania
in America." Later that same year the Pennsylvania Gazette,
published by Benjamin Franklin, mentioned several Lodges meeting
in Philadelphia. Franklin published the first Masonic book in
America in 1734, a reprint of Anderson's 'Book of Constitutions.'
(8 - Cerza, pg. 35)
The first Lodge was formed in Canada in 1749, the same year Ben Franklin was appointed Provincial Grand Master of Pennsylvania. (8 - Cerza, pg 49) There are currently 51 Masonic Grand Jurisdictions in the United States and 9 in Canada. Often a country has but one Grand Lodge. Such is usually the case in Europe and most of Central and South America.
RESPONSE TO "THE LODGE" 7
The Synod booklet concludes "The lodge, be
it local or regional, is not democratically governed. Rather,
rule is autocratic." (1 - Rongstad, pg. 14) Perhaps that is
a valid conclusion yet the Master is bound to govern with
moderation and with due regard so that peace and harmony prevails
within the Lodge. He must not only know and observe the Lodge
by-laws and constitution, but he should be familiar with the
general rules of parliamentary law, constantly having in mind his
obligation to "strictly obey the moral law."
The Master is elected annually by his Brethren
and is to govern "by diligent observance of the By-Laws of
the Lodge, the Constitution of Freemasonry and above all, the
Holy Scriptures, which are given as the rule and guide of your
faith." (emphasis added) From the Installation Service,
adopted by he Grand Lodge of California, F&AM, 1946, page 26.
A Masonic Code containing the Constitutions and
Ordinances is published by each Masonic Grand Jurisdiction. All
the laws, rules and regulations contained therein have been
adopted by vote in a Grand Lodge session. For California, for
example, in most cases by a 5/6's majority. A Grand Master's
decisions are also subject to a confirming vote by the Grand
Lodge.
The California Masonic Code contains 217 pages
plus an index. Article II states: "The Jurisdiction of Grand
Lodge includes all Lodges and Masons in the state..."
"Grand Lodge is the supreme Masonic power and authority in
this Jurisdiction and is vested with all legislative, executive
and judicial powers, limited only by a strict adherence to the
Ancient Landmarks, and by provisions of its own Constitution and
Ordinances.
"Any Master Mason who is a member of a
constituent Lodge in this Grand Lodge or any other Grand Lodge
recognized by this Grand Lodge may be present during an Annual,
Special or Ceremonial Communication." Advance notice as to
all matters to be voted upon (except those voted on as emergent)
is required. There is one vote for each Grand Officer, elected
Past Grand Officers, each of the three principal officers of each
chartered Lodge along with one collective vote of all Past
Masters of each Lodge.
The Code spells out in detail the means of
Lodge funding, property ownership, membership and duties of
officers. The powers and duties of each Lodge officer are clearly
specified. The Master is elected by his Lodge members for a one
year term, as are the two Wardens, Treasurer and Secretary. All
other officers are appointed.
Moral and physical qualifications for
membership are specified, including a man must be of the age of
21 (which now may vary by state down to 18), believe in a Supreme
Being and a future existence, be of good moral conduct and
without physical or mental impairment that would prevent the
applicant from learning and practicing the principles of Masonry
or which would create a burden on the Lodge, which question is
determined by the Lodge.
Race or religion is not a condition, only
belief in a Supreme Being. Question #12 in the "Application
for Degrees," "Do you believe in God and a future
existence." must be answered in 8
the affirmative.
All applications for degrees are referred to a
committee of three composing an investigating committee. Their
duty is to make strict examination into the moral, mental,
physical and other proper qualifications of the applicant.
Following their report, the application is voted upon and must
receive a unanimous vote.
Rongstad mistakenly concludes that
"favoritism is often practiced in employment, letting of
contracts, business deals, and other functions in society.
Likewise when someone has left the lodge recriminations are
sometimes taken if possible with that person's job, station in
life, position in a company, etc." (1 - Rongstad pg. 22)
To the contrary, the 'Application for Degrees'
also states: "It cannot be too strongly emphasized that
Freemasonry is not be be entered in the hope of personal gain or
advancement. Admission must not be sought from mercenary or other
unworthy motives." If it appears that Masons are patronizing
one another it is likely because it is natural for people who
know each other, or have mutual interests, to deal with each
other.
There are members who withdraw their
membership; this is their right under the Masonic Code: "A
member in good standing may withdraw at any time."
Rongstad's assertion that "consequences of leaving the Lodge
may have life-long significance" (1 - Rongstad pg. 8) may be
true to the extent that this withdrawal does not release the man
from his solemn promises. Not promises to Freemasonry but those
to his fellow-man and his God, which are positive, not negative
consequences.
Rongstad's accusation that "recriminations
are taken" is absurd. Masons are good men; men of character,
with charity and concern for others. "Vindictiveness or
recrimination" are neither taught nor practiced. Instead,
Masons are taught to practice the domestic and public virtues;
Temperance, Fortitude, Prudence and Justice. The three principal
tenets of Masonry are Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth.
MASONIC RITUAL AND SECRECY
The Masonic candidate is assured prior to the
conferring of the First Degree that his Masonic obligations will
not interfere with his duty to God, his neighbor or himself, but
appertain to Freemasonry alone.
The obligations taken by every Mason as he progresses through the degrees, are his solemn pledge whereby he is bound to perform certain duties to his family, his lodge, his country and his fellowman. "The sincerity of the new member is attested by the appeal to God, characterizing it as an oath. Yet, the taking of this pledge also brings about certain duties which the lodge and other Masons owe to the new member. The fact that so many others are involved in the ceremony makes it an "obligation." (3 - Cerza, pg. 45)
RESPONSE TO "THE LODGE" 9
Rongstad quotes a play "A Man for All
Seasons," and suggests that "As Christians, we need to
be reminded of the seriousness of oathtaking and with whom the
oath is taken -- refer to 1 Cor. 3:16-17; 6:19-20." (1 -
Rongstad, pg. 26)
"That oaths are permissible to Christians
is shown by the example of Our Lord (Mat. 26:63) and of Paul (II
Cor. l:23' Gal 1:20) and even God Himself (Heb. 6:13-18)";
from 'The International Standard Bible Encyclopedia' (1949) Vol.
4, pg. 2173.
Masonic obligations are serious; furthermore
they do not conflict with any moral or legal duty and are a
benficial influence in the community.
"No man ever took the oaths and subscribed
to the obligations with greater watchfulness and care than I
exercised in receiving the various rites of Masonry, and I say
with due deliberation and without fear of breaking the faith. I
have never encountered a lesson, never witnessed an example,
never heard an obligation uttered which could not be openly
proclaimed to the world." The words of a Mason who was also
a President of the United States, Warren G. Harding.
Rongstad concludes that "Secrecy so
dominates the lodge that the candidate, before he knows what he
is getting into, must take his oath under the most severe
penalties." (1 - Rongstad, pg. 12 and 26.) The penalties in
Masonic ritual, described by Rongstad, are clearly symbolic.
However, true penalties do exist.
The code published by each Masonic Jurisdiction
discloses the only true penalties that could be imposed on any
Mason; they are expulsion, suspension, or reprimand. 28 pages,
over 10% of the California Masonic Code, contains the definition,
application and proper handling of Masonic offenses, including
possible restoration. Books on Masonic Law (Code) are open for
all to read. They are not secret and are available for
examination.
"Another disturbing practice of the
lodge," writes Rongstad, "is the emphasis it places on
giving aid and defense to a fellow Mason, even if he is guilty of
a crime, except in the case of murder and treason." (1 -
Rongstad, pg. 21) Rongstad continues: "Can you imagine a
defendant, lawyer, judge, and member of a jury, all being Royal
Arch Masons, bringing justice to bear in a case?" This
accusation suggests that Masons take an oath that is above the
law.
The 'Application for Degrees" form, which
every man completes to petition a Lodge for membership, includes
the following: "Loyalty to one's country is an essential
qualification in Freemasonry, and only those are acceptable who
cheerfully render obedience to every lawful authority. Disloyalty
in any form is abhorrent to a Freemason, and is regarded as a
serious Masonic offense."
The commission of a crime is cause for expulsion and is clearly spelled out in the Masonic Code of every Masonic Grand Jurisdiction. It is also consistent with Masonic ritual. From the Ritual of the First Degree: "As a Citizen, you are enjoined to be exemplary in the discharge of your civil
10
duties, by never proposing or countenancing any
act which may have a tendency to subvert the peace and good order
of society; by paying due obedience to the laws under whose
protection you live; and by never losing sight of the allegiance
due to your country." (5 - Monitor, pg. 17)
The Supreme Court of Wyoming had this specific
point before it for decision. The Court in its opinion said:
"however binding an obligation may be, as between members of
the same society, secret or otherwise, not to divulge to others
that which may be confidentially communicated to them, such an
obligation must be understood to be subject to the laws of the
country, and doubtless the societies themselves recognize that
such a limitation attaches to the obligation; and therefore it
cannot be said that the obligation is violated when the
disclosure is compelled in a court of justice, in the course of
administration of the laws." (3 - Cerza, pg. 47)
Masons know that the obligation they have taken
is a good one, that it does not conflict with any moral or legal
duty they owe, and that the obligation is a beneficial influence.
Masonic ritual adopted certain lessons or
charges, many traced back to versions of the so-called "old
charges," written between the 1400s and the early 1700s. One
version of ritual was published in 1917 in Scotland; 'The
Complete Manual of Freemasonry' by William Harvey, where he
writes that "Many Lodges (in Scotland) have characteristic
little touches peculiar to themselves. ... I have, however,
embodied everything that is essential and that is widely
recognized..."
Though many do not publish them, similar ritual
versions, only with 'characteristic touches peculiar to
themselves,' are used by all Grand Jurisdictions. Harvey's
version includes:
"... (and I will) relieve his (Brother
Mason's) distress as far as I can do so without serious injury to
myself or family.....; that (I) shall be the sacred repository of
his (affairs) when entrusted to my care -- murder, treason,
felony and all other offences contrary to the laws of God and
ordinances of the realm being at all times specially
excepted;....." (9 - Harvey; Complete Manual of Freemasonry,
pg. 60)
Yes, Masons are asked to aid Brother Masons
when possible, and to keep the concerns of a Brother Mason to
onesself, when asked to do so. The emphasis is on trust.
"There are some things that I don't
remember about that night I took that first step toward a rich
and rewarding experience (Masonry) that has enhanced my life. But
there are some things that I will never forget. There was a
foundation of trust;
--trust in God as the One to whom I could look for support and counsel
--trust in a Brother who could lead me in my
blindness to the light of understanding.
I discovered the reality of prayer as the place to begin before undertaking any task." (10 - Gant, "Why I Am A Mason," Freemasonry and Religion pamphlet, pg. 14)
RESPONSE TO "THE LODGE" 11
It is very clear that Freemasonry takes the
"moral code" seriously. Prospective Masons are first
examined, as previously covered, to assure their moral
qualifications. Second, should a Mason violate specifically
defined rules of conduct, his actions subject him to a review and
possible application of the specific penalties, as discussed
above. Such measures help assure each Mason that his trust of
fellow Masons, withersoever dispersed throughout the world, is
assured.
OTHER MISTAKEN CONCLUSIONS
The Synod booklet devotes several pages to the
questions of prayer, the Bible and the "glaring absence of
Jesus Christ" in Masonic ritual and prayer. Conclusions
reached are often untrue.
For example: "The Lodge does not want to
offend anyone. Rather it sees itself as above all religions in
the world," (1 - Rongstad, p. 11) Not true. As we've said,
Masonry is not a religion nor does Masonry apply any test or
judge any religion or church.
He cites two concordant Masonic organizations, the Knights Templar and the Scottish Rite, that refer to Jesus Christ by name in part of their ritual and prayers. "It is a concession granted to those bothered by the Christless prayers prayed in the Blue Lodge." (1 - Rongstad, pg. 21)
This is his conclusion but the fact is, a
Master Mason is under no obligation to petition for membership in
either of these two concordant organizations. If a
"Christian Mason" is concerned by the lack of reference
to Jesus Christ or "bothered by the Christless prayers
prayed in the Blue Lodge," it is doubtful he would desire to
be a member of either concordant group. A "concession"
--- I question the logic.
The Synod booklet is laced with other
questionable conclusions, even accusations. When referring to a
discussion of "contradictions in the teachings of lodgery
and Christianity," the Mason "usually retreats into his
shell of secrecy. In depth discussion is avoided. Quite possibly
he thinks of himself as above sectarian differences and so
refuses with politeness to openly talk." (1 - Rongstad pg.
13) And "At a certain point in the conversation the Mason
simply 'clams up.' He refuses to talks anymore. There is much he
tries to hide because he has been sworn to secrecy." (1 -
Rongstad pg. 25)
My knowledge of Freemasonry and personal
association with many individual Masons leads me to a completely
different conclusion. It is not "sworn secrecy" or
"being above sectarian differences" that would cause
many Masons to "clam up." Rather, it is perhaps their
feeling of inadequacy to properly represent Masonry in an
"in depth discussion," particularly with an educated
and well trained theologian.
"Every Mason knows that the privacy of the Masonic ceremonies lends dignity to them and make them most impressive. It creates a felling of closer unity among the members for they subconsciously feel that they have something in common with the other members which is not shared by others in the community. This makes for a more unified association.
12
"Secrecy in itself is not bad. It is only
the secrecy for unlawful purposes that is harmful. The principles
of Masonry are well known, and the work of Masonry is exposed to
the world. These are good. Therefore, the fact that Masonry
contains some secrets is not a point that can be urged against
the Craft." (3 - Cerza, pg. 40)
WITNESSES - FREEMASON MINISTERS
Perhaps Rongstad's conclusions would have
changed had he spoken with Masons who were as experienced as he
in matters of the Bible, church, Christianity and theology. What
follows are a few words by some distinguished Masons who are much
more qualified to address many theological issues raised by the
Synod.
"Freemasonry is, for all its members, a
supplement to good living which has enhanced the lives of
millions who have entered its doors. Though it is not a religion,
as such, it supplements faith in God the Creator. It is
supporting of morality and virtue." (10 - Rev. Dr. Norman
Vincent Peale, NY, pg. 22)
"Let me quickly and emphatically say that
Freemasonry is not and has never been a religion; Freemasonry has
always been a friend and ally of religion. In 50 years as a
minister and as a Mason, I have found no conflict between by
Masonic beliefs and my Christian faith. I have not found and do
not now find that Freemasonry is 'incompatible with Christian
faith and practice.'" (10 - Bishop Carl J. Sanders, United
Methodist Church, Alabama, pg. 5)
"It is no secret that Masonry is not a
religion, nor a church. Masonry respects every man's right to the
religion of his choice and never claims or desires to be any
man's religion or a substitute for it. For any person to allow
Masonry to become his religion or to take the place of his church
is a mistake and not due to Masonic teaching but to someone's
misinterpretation or misunderstanding." (10 - Dr. James P.
Wesberry, Executive Director and Editor of 'Sunday,' a Georgia
Baptist Center, pg. 9)
"The question 'Why Are You A Mason?' can
be answered. It has allowed me to grow personally ... to serve
God ... and to reach out in concern to my fellow human beings. It
has supported my personal faith and work as a churchman. Let no
one say you cannot be a Christian and a Mason at the same time. I
know too many who are both and proud to be both." (10 - Rev.
Louis R. Gant, District Superintendent, The United Methodist
Church, Kansas, pg. 15)
"In my entire life as a minister, I have never experienced any conflict between my love and devotions to my Lord and His Church and my membership in the Masonic Fraternity. Masonry is not a religion, and it is by no means a substitute for religion." (12 - William M. Suttles, Professor Emeritus and Provost Emeritus, Georgia State University, Atlanta GA, pg. 78)
RESPONSE TO "THE LODGE" 13
As a Christian minister, I believe that Jesus
is the Son of God. I also believe that any Lodge prohibiting me
from holding that belief or berating me for being a Christian is
not a Lodge of 'Brothers' but a stronghold of bigotry. This same
belief, however, should hold true in a Lodge of 'Brothers' for a
Jewish Mason ..... The teachings of Masonry and the lives you and
I live as Jewish and Christian Masons will combine with others of
the Fraternity to represent what Masonry is in this century. Our
Jewish Brothers will espouse Moses, Abraham and David while
Christian Masons will also speak of Saint Paul and Jesus Christ.
Together, hopefully, we will exhibit unity and 'Brotherhood' to
those who hate on the basis of race, creed, color and
religion." (10 - Rev. Dr. W Kenneth Lyons, Maryland, pg. 16)
"I am unashamably a Christian, and as a
Christian I am commanded to love all people. If I don't respect
other men who have differing faiths, do I truly care for them? Do
I truly love as a Christian if I do not have appreciation for
others of differing faiths? I have been blessed in Lodge meetings
to share the friendship of my Jewish Brothers and others of
differing faiths." (11 - Rev. Dr. Gary W. Trail, Gospel
Train Evangelistic Ass., MD, Scottish Rite Journal, Sept. 1994,
pg. 21)
"All my life I have been a committed
Christian and church person. Masonry has always indicated to me
that an individual must find and follow his own faith. As a
Christian my faith has not been threatened or compromised by
Masonry in spite of the anti-Masonic interpretations and
explanations of those who could find better causes toward which
to devote their time and talent. Masonry does not make a person a
good man, but a good Mason is a very good man." (12 - Rev.
Dr. Warren C. Hultgren, Pastor Emeritus, First Baptist Church,
Tulsa, OK, Scottish Rite Journal, February 1993, pg. 83)
"Freemasonry is not a religion and cannot
take the place of religion. But in its acknowledgement of a
Supreme Being and the worth of human brotherhood, it has a
religious basis and a common meeting ground with all
religions." (12 - Rabbi Sidney S. Guthman, Long Beach, CA,
pg. 68)
"Masonry is not a religion. It is a
fraternity of men who, first of all, must believe in God. It is a
religious organization in that it encourages members to support
each individual's faith, whether he is a Christian, Muslim,
Hebrew or other monotheistic believer. Masonic teachings are
based largely on Old and New Testament principles, but also other
religious teachings -- all honorable. One of the first
instructions given to a new member being received into a Masonic
Lodge is that Freemasonry will not interfere with his religious
or political opinions. Masonry teaches toleration of other's
beliefs. (12 - John E. Johns, PhD, President of Furnam
University, Greenville SC, pg. 50)
The fact that these and so many other clergymen of different denominations are Masons and yet find no conflict in carrying on their duties, should be proof enough that Freemasonry is not a religion -- nor anti-Christian -- nor a cult!
14
"No one who does not observe, participate
and experience the life and works of the Church or the Lodge will
be able to undertand them. Understanding comes not from just
talking the talk, but from walking the walk." (12 - Abner V.
McCall, President Emeritus, Baylor University, pg. 50)
CONCLUSION
Origins, titles, ceremonies, symbols - they are
not the heart of Masonry. "The heart of Masonry is in the
hearts of its members. That's what Masonry really is. Its the men
in it. No one has to tell me that these men believe God is
love." (13 - Robinson; A Pilgrim's Path, pg. 177)
The moral teachings of Freemasonry are in no
way opposed to the beliefs of Christianity. It is not possible to
find any lesson taught in the ceremonies of Freemasonry that can
be called anti-Christian. But it is possible to find good men who
believe in God and endeavor to practice the three principal
tenets of Masonry: Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth. Quoting from
the ritual of the First Degree: (5 - Monitor, pg. 11-12)
Brotherly Love - By the exercise of Brotherly
Love we are taught to regard the whole human species as one
family, the high and the low, the rich and the poor, who, as
created by one Almighty Parent, and inhabitants of the same
planet, are to aid, support and protect each other. On this
principle Masonry unites men of every country, sect and opinion;
and causes true friendship to exist among those who might
otherwise have remained at a perpetual distance.
Relief - To relieve the distressed is a duty
incumbent to all men, but particularly to Masons, who are linked
together by an indissoluble chain of sincere affection. To sooth
the unhappy, to sympathize with their misfortunes, to
compassionate their miseries, and to restore peace to their
troubled minds, is the great aim we have in view. On this basis
we form our friendships and establish our connections.
Truth - Truth is a divine attribute and the
foundation of every virtue. To be good and true is the first
lesson we are taught in Masonry. On this theme we contemplate,
and by its dictates endeavor to regulate our conduct. Hence,
while influenced by this principle, hypocrisy and deceit are
unknown among us; sincerity and plain dealing distinguish us; and
with heart and tongue we join in promoting each other's welfare
and rejoicing in each other's prosperity.
The benediction given at the close of every
Masonic meeting: (5 - Monitor, pg. 49)
"May the blessing of Heaven rest upon us
and all regular Masons! May Brotherly Love prevail, and every
moral and social virtue cement us! Amen. So mote it be!"
Bishop Sanders (above) wrote: "In a day of mistrust, suspicion, discrimination, separation and even hatred Freemasonry removes the distance between men. Friendship, morality, and brotherly
RESPONSE TO "THE LODGE" 15
love are the hallmarks of our relationships.
There is a basic integrity in the Fraternity so often lacking in
many of life's relationships." (10 - Sanders, pg. 4)
Perhaps there is a need for better
understanding.
REFERENCES
1 - Rongstad, L. James. 'The Lodge.' St. Louis
Mo: Concordia Publishing House, 1977.
2- Heaton, Ronald E. 'Masonic Membership of the
Founding Fathers.' Silver Spring, MD: The Masonic Service
Association, 1988.
3 - Cerza, Alphonse. 'Let There Be Light.'
Silver Spring, Md: The Masonic Service Association, 1983.
4 - Roy, Rev. Thomas S. 'An Answer to Anti-Masonic Religious Propoganda.' Abstract of the
Proceedings of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, 1952. The Scottish Rite Journal, Vol. CI,
No. 2, Feb., 1993.
5 - 'Monitor and Officer's Manual,' Grand Lodge
of California, F.&A.M. Revised 1977.
6 - McLeod, Wallace. 'The Old Charges.'
Canadian Edition. Toronto: Privately printed, 1986.
7 - Barnard, Robert C. 'Attacks on Freemasonry Truth and Fiction.' The Philalethes Magazine,
Vol XLVII, No. 3, June, 1994.
8 - Cerza, Alphonse. 'Masonic Parallels with History.' Silver Spring, MD: The Masonic Service
Association, 1983.
9 - Harvey, William. 'The Complete Manual of Freemasonry.' Dundee (Scotland): T. M. Sparks,
Croswell Works, 1919.
10 - 'Freemasonry and Religion.' Washington,
DC: The Supreme Council, 33, Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, May
1987.
11 - Trail, Rev. Dr. Gary W. 'Why I Am A Mason and a Minister.' The Scottish Rite Journal,
Vol. CII, No. 9, September 1994.
12 - Scottish Rite Journal, Special Issue 'Freemasonry and Religion.' Vol. CI, No. 2, February
1993.
13 - Robinson, John J. 'A Pilgrim's Path.' New
York: M. Evans & Co. Inc., 1993.