... least letters, figures or characters ...

Cymbals Or Trumpets

2011-12-03T11:12:00.003-05:00

by RmOlano
3Dec11

The less you feel the pain, the less you care or love.

Reaction to sorrow depends on individual threshold of pain. Holy persons might react the way religious people believed that their “… suffering can make us more sensitive servant of God” however, normal people prefer not to endure pain or be subjected to misery. Saints loved to be blamed and be kicked around, pa-awa (self-pity) syndrome; they loved the word, "Kawawa naman ." People turn to God mostly if the situation is so hopeless, "Magdasal na lang tayo " Downtrodden mortal beings are "more" sensitive because there is nothing left, no more humanly possible option. People who known pain typically try to forget the feeling, we put distance between ourselves from that experience. Pain and suffering are usually something not to be shared with.

It is hard talk about God without getting into religion which resembles as discussing national economic condition without discoursing politics. In light of numerous and consistent posting of topic about how the Brethren thought what God wants us to do, what we should do to please Him, how suffering is a way of God’s demonstration of power, etc., I ask the Brethren indulge me to make some observation about this subtle proselytizing. Let remind ourselves that disagreement does not correlate to disrespect. I do respect each individual belief and I expect the same in return. One, No mortal being knows what God is thinking, we could only guess and hope what we did is close to what we approximate to His wish. Two, all “Holy Books” were written by mortals with biased agenda bar none. Three, "GOD" is not a name; it is a title like Christ or GAOTU. Knowing His personal name is to embark on a journey which for some is a lifetime commitment and finding out His real name is to know the Ultimate Truth.

Many people try to "talk" to God but only few could claim that they heard Him "talked back." Many would attest that the "voice" they heard was their conscience. Now, if those Christian brothers who love to quote these metaphors from their Volume of Sacred Law (VSL) could tell this free thinker that the "voice" I heard was not my conscience or my soul but from the Spirit I talked and prayed, would that meant that the Spirit is in my body? If that is the case and if it is true, then the logic would be that I am also I AM WHAT I AM? These questions that being asked are meant not to trifle the Brother person or feeling but to teach me an important lesson in Freemasonry --- Searching for that which was lost.

The practice of preaching one's religious leaning with such regularity lead people like me to believe that they seems know what they are talking about. Asking for light to those who appear to possess some sort of heavenly insight and purposely discount inquiries to these "heavenly messages" is very disappointing to say the least.

In the spirit of being on the level, for those who love to post issues or messages on public domain, it is civilized to respond to question posed by those who took time to read their thought. It is rude and ill manner to ignore serious questions especially when one is professing to have the intellectual well of knowledge of the given subject. An "I don’t know" answer is an acceptable response for not everybody has an answer to all possible problems. Bypassing the question and pressing into other topic shows that these postings are just a sound of emptiness of tinkling cymbals instead of silver trumpets in the early dawn and eve of day. If these faithful disciples of their chosen faith desire to convert unbelievers, they should stand up, explain and/or defend their Dogma otherwise, these preaching are just a show of “I am holier than thou” which meant nothing except showing the hollowness of such character.

...

On Vet Day 11-11-11

2011-11-12T00:11:00.002-05:00

by RmOlano
11-11-11

There were times when as a non US citizen I was categorized as a mercenary which by definition can be argued as somewhat closer to the classical definition of the word. But having earned the right to be a US citizen while in active duty, I can honestly claim that I am with my country's Navy.

"Again, I do thank our Brother for his acknowledgement and glad that he accepted the fact that those who chosen to raised their right hand to serve and protect the Constitution of their ADOPTED country have the moral responsibility to carry it through. The negative connotations, innuendos and speculation against the country I honorably served in uniform for twenty-one years is not something I will take lightly though. Despite of my heritage and culture of "old country," despite of my color and physical feature, despite of my language accent and grammar, the day I wear the uniform of U.S. and swear to defend it's Constitution against foreign and domestic--- I am no longer what I used to be. More than once, I and those who were neither citizen of both countries were labeled "mercenaries." For those who allowed themselves to be "conscripted" and did it for the money--- the label could be true but for those of us from poor families without padrinos and connections, saw the "conscription" as a chance, as an opportunity to make our lives better. Maybe some of the readers may call it, unpatriotic, they have their opinions and properties in the Philippines, but I have my American dream, a small house, a job, and college opportunities for my children. Between paying taxes, voting in local and national elections, jury duties and Naval Service, for all intent and practical purposes, I am an American and I do not appreciate anyone bashing MY country---the United States of America."

To My Brother

2011-10-08T13:54:00.006-04:00

rmolano

8Oct2011

…. To my dear true brother….

We disagreed on the issue that all Holy Books were written by human with biases and agenda. According to Christian Bible, the only instructions written by God himself were given to Moses and he broke it because people don’t believe him. If we consider that “somebody” made the prophets and apostles to do what they did--- then should we free a whole lot of people incarcerated in jails because, “somebody/someone” made them did what they did? If we have confidence in those stories/legends made by people who went to wilderness and came back half starve to death and almost crazy with thirst and declared that they have “seen the light” then so be it. However, I don’t hence, we are in disagreement. The Christian Bible was assembled from very selected writings collected by early Christians. The selection process was highly politicized and those who were not in agreement were eventually banished to the desert monasteries. The Council of Nicaea in 325 AD laid the ground rule of what will be acceptable or heretical. As we know, the Council was called by Constantine for political reason and was attended by about 200-300 Bishops out of about 1800 throughout Christian world. The Christian Bible or as Freemasons call it along with Quran/Koran, Talmud, Tao-te-ching, Upanishads, Bhagadvad Gita, Analects, etc., as one of the “Volume of Sacred Law.” They are only applicable to those who believe in it.

Christians were proclaiming the nearness of “end” of the World for almost 2000 years. They truly believed that the time has come when Crusaders took Jerusalem from Muslims, as they and their neighbors Jews and Muslims alike were slaughtered by invading Crusaders---kill them all, God will sort out who are His flock ordered by the Pope. Then came World War 1, WW2, Cold War, etc. Fear is a powerful weapon that has been consistently used by those with power throughout the ages to control people mind/behavior. Fascist, Communists, terrorist, non-Christians, Anunakis, you name it, name calling were used by everyone even religious leaders. I agree that this world will come to an end but it’ll take a while. The history of this world were shaped by shifting continents, earth crusts colliding with each other thereby creating new landscapes that has direct effect on living things inhabiting the surface. This process continues unabated since time immemorial with or without human existence in consideration.

There was a time when knowing ones name is a sign of acknowledgement of being equal or superior. That’s why commoners call their owners as e.g., “Lord of Brittany” or simply “Lord.” It was punishable by death if commoners to even look on their King’s face as much as calling the King with his first name such as Richard. Name is or was as personal that you can be with that individual therefore; God’s name is no different. To claim to know God’s personal name is the mother of all claim if you ask me. Titles such as God, Christ, Ama, Banal na Isa are NOT names, they are substitute to a real name like Rodolfo who you call utol. Though the idea is the same (person or being) the designation is unique i.e., there are many Rodolfo but you only have one utol. If you redefine the meaning of utol but retained the meaning of who I am then you can have many utol as you like but only one real brother--- me. There is a difference between name and title.

All-Seeing Eye

There is notion that calls for a study of how to be a moral and ethical man, an idea of making good men to be a better man. This concept has a very basic rule that to be accepted into the mist is that a man has to have belief in Supreme Being and Afterlife. The candidate’s particular Faith is immaterial and no relevance to the Craft--- only his character and his willingness to “improve himself” are essential prerequisite. This study was often described as “a system of morality veiled in allegories and illustrated by symbols.” One of the major lesson or mysteries is not to accept literally of what we see, hear or feel for there might be messages hidden beyond the thin veil of façade we often encounter in our experience we know as life. Sadly to say that most Brethren stopped in searching for that which was lost and were satisfied to the given substitute which led me to ponder --- we stopped because we already found what we are looking for hence, at peace with ourselves or are we aware that looking for answer is far easier than knowing the question? A path to enlightenment is to inquire when I can see the darkness of my soul for only the All-Seeing Eye can see what is in my heart. To be able to see through the depth of shallow mortal existence is to approximate one’s nearness to the final stage of illumination and perhaps to immortality.

...

Recognition

2011-10-01T23:51:00.004-04:00

rmolano

1Oct2011

… in my research, IGLPI has been found to be regular in origin and practice. how do you think can it best get recognition from other Grand Lodges—Bro CarlosS

First allow me to thank you for throwing a very interesting inquiry which without a doubt some our Masonic scholars in Masonic jurisprudence are certainly grappling for the answers. Far from possessing in-depth knowledge of intricacies of the Grand Lodge policies, my opinion in your inquest is only one of million views available out there in the galaxy of thought of those who care about the subject.

Each Grand Lodge is sovereign entity and can declare blue as black or yellow as orange. Once approved by membership, no other Grand Lodge can change that decision and the only option is to “withdraw” their “recognition.” That is the nature of being sovereign. Many Grand Lodges took years to be recognized by other Grand Lodges, the Grand Lodge of Japan took a “beating” before GLP finally recognized its “own” daughter. We heard the word “Time and patience will take care of things” from one of our lectures. For those who can’t wait--- the quickest way is the hardest option. This is for GLP to let go the mentality that GLP is the sole “authority” of all Masons in the Philippines. For GLP to consider that “territorial exclusivity” is as always a political tool to gain control of claimed territory. Many countries do have multiple Grand Lodges in their country and they all co-exist in harmony e.g. US with fifty Grand Lodges, Canada, Germany, Australia, etc. If GLP extend its right hand to IGLPI and as well as to GLNF, it’ll be a downhill run from then on.

From what I gathered, IGLPI is expanding as new Lodges are being consecrated. Although creating more Lodges under IGLPI has certainly had a positive trend, the quality of IGPI membership will make the difference between the Masonic Bodies. Let us remind ourselves that Freemasonry is not intended to be a large organization, there are requirements to be satisfied---mental aptitude, financial ability, and upright character. The credibility of the organization in terms of moral and ethical doings of its officers and members are visible to the public especially to those who want to follow the footsteps of “those who have gone that way before.” There is no need to neither produce fancy slogans nor toot their own horn; good men will be attracted to same caliber of men they want to be associated with. Freemasonry is not about networking, rings, dues card, car decals or “my gang is better than yours.” It is an ideal within a group of good men who strive to be a better man, men with morals, and employs ethical values in their daily life will be always be recognized --- if not on this earth, it will in a place where the ultimate Truth would bestow him his place in an Ark anchored within the peaceful harbor where at last we can unload our human baggage and be at peace at last.

...

Rizal and Quezon: Freemasons or Not?

2010-08-29T13:06:00.003-04:00

by RmOlano
26July2010

Does Rizal really denounced freemasonry during his trial in Fort Santiago? --- Bro Erick

First allow me to say that in no way shape or form that I can be considered as a historian nor subject master expert on Jose "Rizal" Mercado's biography. Having said that it is just fair to say that Bro Jose's last minute "retraction" of Freemasonry and/or returning back to fold of Catholic dogma is still being debated by experts. The "evidence" presented by the Church is being contested for its validity. In his fourteen paragraph Ultimo Adios, Bro Jose mentioned God twice and never by His name. The Catholic Dogma is very clear in regards to naming Name. Unlike Manuel Quezon, PGM who in August 1930 demitted not only from his Lodge but was on the record that he "resigned" from the Fraternity because of Masonic and Catholic ideology conflict. Now why is that "small" detail was not even hinted nor mentioned in the official History of Philippine Masonry published and sanctioned by the Grand Lodge of the Philippines?

As a young veteran Manuel L Quezon, the future first Filipino Grand Master of GLP was "taken under the wings" of American Freemasons. His meteoric political flight from the rank of Major during revolution to Presidency of the Commonwealth of the Philippines was not a matter of luck or chances. If we are to believe that his rediscovered religion guided him to the places he was in then we ought to consider whose hands actually placed him where he can assert his "calling." We should not be naïve to remember that during Quezon's period, American expansionism policy influenced every political, economic, and military affair of the islands. Although the official version of the cause of returning to Catholic Church was due to his children, it could be postulated that Quezon's resignation from Freemasonry in 1930 was a political statement to the Americans that he was no longer bound to American policy. Being an ardent nationalist, Quezon was possibly thinking about his other children--- the Filipino people. One could also wonder if Philippines would fare better in terms of pre- WW2 American military and economic aid from Bro Franklin Roosevelt Administration had Quezon did not demitted from the Craft.

There is a lesson in the Prince of Royal Secret degree or better known as 32 Degree of Scotish Rite that emphasized the importance of balance in our life. To achieve equilibrium is to maintain harmony, to support harmony there must be Truth and without Truth there is no Justice.

I salute those who fought for truth to achieve justice, may you find your equilibrium hence, harmony of your spirit. You know who you are as He is what He said He is. I thank the Brother for the nice words.

**reposted from West to East Yahoogroup.

...

Defending to be a Freemason

2010-07-01T00:22:00.002-04:00

by RmOlano
30Jun10

Taking a chance to join in beating up a very dead horse, this issue came up numbers of years ago in this forum. One of the wisdom imparted to the young man was a reminder that marriage is about partnership, about trusting and respecting other belief and opinion, making allowances to each other errors--- in short making the union work. If the other half is being force to "defend" something that the other half believe is important then, we could only speculate where this trend could stop. Defending why a 32" LED flat screen is better than 54" plasma or SUV rather than family van? There are things that a man could tell his wife, girl friend, or fiancée to just trust him and in the same token, there are things that she could say the same. If this fundamental ingredient is absent i.e. lack of trust then the young man has more important issue to resolve. Without doubt, that the Craft will still be around when he is truly ready to knock as all brothers and fellows have done who have gone that way before.

One lesson we can learn from Mosaic Pavement is the presence of opposite colors on a level plain. It could be interpreted as symbolized notion of the presence of opposite views or beliefs. They are out in the open and co-exist under the canopy of Heaven where all Masons work. The significance of tiles laid side-by-side, level, its placement, and usage during ritual work are well calculated to inculcate in the mind of novitiate that the ceremonies of Masonic Degrees are intended and hoped to make deep and lasting impression. It is unnecessary to recapitulate events that non-initiates would not understand. The point of this long-winded thought is the concept of agreeing to disagree. For those who are members of this group for sometime the subject is a very dead horse. I understand why some do not see it that way. Even a light from the same source when it passed through a prism of our choice would yield different shades of colors. If we substitute prism as experience then we can correlate “shades of colors” as opinions and/or beliefs. There is no right or wrong, just different view from different vantage point.

Not to belittle or offend the intelligence of uninitiated, even regularly made Masons could not come to agreement on how to define Freemasonry. Freemasonry can be defined in many different ways. It is like defining beauty--- it is in the eye of beholder. For some it is a good old boy network, some see it as social group, some it is a mystic circle and some perceived it as making good men a better man. As the definitions numbered as almost the same as its members world wide, how anyone can “defend” something he does not even experienced or even know yet?

If we subscribed with Brother Albert Pike definition of the Craft as “a system of morality, veiled in allegories and illustrated by symbols,” one need to know the symbols first before grasping what it mean to him, to his brethren, and to the world around him. This study as our young Brother is now embarked is a life long endeavor. The journey is bisected with trials and tribulations over the rough and rugged road—it is not always easy. It will take time therefore; it is wise to allow the time and patience to run its course. The journey is not for anybody else, it is always for the traveler--- to build his own temple not made by hands eternal in Heaven. The answer to the inquiries at the door can only truly answered by responses coming from the candidate’s heart. Am I duly and truly prepared? Of what I am in search of? If the object is to be able to wear a ring with square and compass to impress those who can, then just buy the ring and be done with it. If someone need permission or to “defend” himself to join a group of good men trying to be a better man—then someone need to think again as to why he wanted to be one. Freemasonry is not for everybody.

...

To Widows and Orphans

2010-05-25T13:39:00.002-04:00

Words will never desribe,

soft counsel to ears might not be enough.

Hand shake or hug might capture some warmth

but no one will never really feel your pain

until each of us went through the experience ourselves.

Our Order reminds us of the hourglass

to watch the grains of sand passing through the portal of time.

no matter how many honors and accomplishments each of us achieved

our sand will keep on pouring until nothing is left behind.

The lecture in the second section taught us that the hourglass is not a symbol of time

Further Light and Lessons of the Craft reminds us that unlike time

Life is finite.

So Mote It Be

To Widows and Orphans

/rmo

28Jul07

Greatness And Immortality

2010-02-22T19:05:00.002-05:00

by RmOlano

21Feb10

Not expected to be called upon but being trained as a Boy Scout, Always Prepared.

Greatness and immortality are words that could be interchanged, as its core idea is almost the same. Numerous definitions from different sources would come down to splitting hair but what really count is what we ourselves characterize these words--what we understand and believe what greatness and immortality means. Micro and Macro are also words though almost spelled the same—difference of “I” and “a” but the meanings are past interpretation. Tactical or Strategic, small or large, no medium and no cheese—sounds like my recent lunch at mikeedee.—can I have number 1 to go?

Greatness and immortality can be seen through macro lens as building an empire and leaving monuments to trumpet that achievement like Ceasars of Rome. Then there are those who choose to see the notion thru micro lens and believed what was accomplished is just a common sense and in modern idiom “right thing to do.”

Growing up in Olongapo City, I was fortunate enough to be watched and taken under the wings of many great men of Lincoln Lodge No 34. In 1976 after acceptance to the Craft, it was my distinct privilege and pleasure to call one of those stalwarts of the community to be my brother. This is big time—macro-strategic sense. This issue put me into unique situation as the son of my newly found brother—my friend Leo is now my nephew and I am his uncle or dad?

We gather here tonight to honor and be a part of an event--- mostly likely a no big deal for the couple who spent their lifetime together for 65 years --- and counting. Knowing their humbleness and low keyed demeanor, this is a micro with small “i.”—no big deal. (no cheese, make it small coke — drive thru). However, this is macro “with capital A” for us privileged to witness, participate, and enjoy this occasion of greatness and immortality. Greatness as evidenced through your children now with their own thriving families. Immortality because your legacy will be etched in our memories forever.

In behalf of all used to be young boys and girls of youth groups sponsored by Lincoln Lodge, we thank you for you guidance, patience, and vision. I personally thank you for being a part of your 65th Wedding Anniversary.

*** The above article was written for 65th wedding anniversary of Mr. and Mrs. Armando Lincangco, PM held at College Park, Wash DC. WB Mando was the Master of Lincoln Lodge No. 34 during the author's election and subsequent initiation to Freemasonry in summer of 1976.

***

Inactivity

2009-10-04T09:44:00.007-04:00

RmOlano

09Aug09

The problems with (our the) inactivity of our membership have more to do with what we do with our members after they are raised, not with how their degrees were conferred. --- PM

The statement gave me a pause, as at an impulse I would like to agree. Taking a Brother experience, there are Lodges who are sometimes little "aggressive" in filling up their empty officers line with "new blood" that sometimes backfired i.e. scared off the new guy once he found out the amount of work ahead. However, we can also agree that some "fresh meat" would accept the challenge. They would be honored for the consideration for an office, as that was a testament to confidence and hope. And indeed, there are some newly minted members whose conviction to the Fraternity is not yet fully developed would get "intimidated," may resent the pressure and disappear. There are those who see beyond the notion of good old boy system, knew what they are searching for therefore, disregarded the background noise and continue to seek the furtherance of his light. With or without office and title.

Although we can say that, the Fraternity is not about baby-sitting new members i.e., finding something for them to do, as there are so many things for them to do, the statement from WB from VA rings so true. However, instead of saying "we" I am looking more to the side of those who brought them in the first place. The way the "recruitment" work, is that someone sponsor and along X number of Brothers recommend a "well qualified" candidate. The signatures on a petition paper are not just dried ink on a parchment to satisfy a legal requirement. Those signed names are testament that some trusted Brothers gave their word that the petitioner has the potential of being someone worthy of being accepted into the Fraternity and be called--- a Brother. The question now is what happened to these sponsors who are suppose to nurture and teach the ropes to these new guys? This really a rhetorical question as we all know in today's quest for more members, the signatures on petition papers often times are just for formality. Many times the candidate did not even know who the signers are. So we are back to the chicken and the egg scenario. Signers do not feel the "ownership" of the nurturing of the new guy who don't know whom he could turn to for "up close and personal" guidance relative to Masonic issues. Most of the time these duty and responsibility falls into the lap of Master of the Lodge as if he does not have anything else to do. Granted there is a lesson about the EA proximity to the East but just like any other lessons in our Craft, those are not to be taken literally.

I agree in part with our WB in that there are more tasks to be done after each degree and I take the other view relative to how Masonic Degrees were conferred. Those with weak resolved could be weeded out or allowed not to continue after each degree. Only those willing to go through certain prescribed process should be permitted and partake the group journey like those "who have gone that way before." To reiterate my opinion in regards to one-day class;

"There are those who opposed this idea for its unfairness to those who will miss the very essence of the initiatory process. There are many small and invisible but valuable nuances that make up an experience, sitting on the chair and watching someone stumble on might be funny at a time but that is not what the Degree work is about." One Day Class.

Do not grade our Craft by action or inaction of individual Lodges or members, as they might not share Albert Pike vision of Freemasonry in 1888, "a system of morality veiled in allegories and illustrated by symbols." A light from same source passing through a prism would result in multitude of colors. If our Craft is a prism, who can say that someone is incorrectly or seeing less colors compare from someone else. Is it possible to see same light, same result, and same intensity from different perspectives? Who can truly see the darkness of my soul? Many Brethren doesn't even think of the quest hence, I congratulate those who found their question and bade good tidings in their personal search for that was lost. It would be pleasure to correlate what discoveries you have made----maybe sometime in the future.

...

Masonic Titles – An Observation

2009-09-09T17:46:00.006-04:00

by RmOlano
09-09-09

Honorificabilitudinitatibus -"the state of being able to achieve honours."

In an organization that espouses a notion of equality among members in particular and humanity in general, it is worth mentioning of the widespread use of Masonic titles and its apparent acceptance. The titles come abound such as religious sounding designation--- Most Worshipful, Right Worshipful to self-styled label as Past Assistant Grand Secretary. On a personal level, there are the alphanumerical amalgamation after a name e.g. “32,”“33,” “PDDGM,” “Founding Mmbr,” etc., which sometimes attended by letters before ones name such as “SK,” “VW,” “WB,” and other similar symbology. The long list of letters before and after names sometimes compete with equally long list of Masonic affiliations which at times takes half the page of correspondence. While this practice is a personal choice therefore, could not be characterized as “right” or “wrong,” this writer sometimes wonder where is the real message. Is it in the body of the letter or imbedded somewhere between the alphabets and numbers accompanying the name? There a little doubt as to the object of the effort is to identify oneself to the audience thereby establishing credibility. Although someone can offer divergent rationale, an introduction to an audience is an accepted and civilized etiquette. In the same token, the manner by which one conducts his introduction also establish the rule on how the player intend to play or expected to be treated. When someone is placing heavy emphasis on the importance on titles and decorations thru symbols, this seemingly inconspicuous act could be interpreted as an alligorical attempt to illustrate ones transition from rough ashalar to a polished marble. The perceived state of smoothnes might be indicative of ones apparent understanding of arrival within the arena of Masonic honorificabilitudinitatibus where the number of degrees completed or offices held were deduced as the validation of fruitfull Masonic journey.

The Fraternity is not immune to this concept. Organized entities such as military, religious or even academia carry out this human pleasure world wide. Like any culture, there are rules when, where, and how honorifics are to be practice. From military’s colorful ribbons to announce achievements to feminine laces decorating black robes of Supreme Court female justices, symbols are unspoken message of one-way communication. In armed services, ranks symbolized by uniform collar, shoulder or sleeve badges denotes hierarchy and corresponding demand to adherence with the protocol of military tradition. A salute is given to the rank and not necessarily to the person wearing the insignia. There are times when salute is given when not in uniform, this is because of the respect owed to the individual. In military, true respect is earned by trust and not by dressing up with metallic devises. In the absence of uniform, most civilian entities utilize titles instead. In United States, a judge of court of the law is introduce as “The Honorable John Doe” while the judge will simply introduce himself as “I am John Doe, judge of XX Court” not as “I am Honorable John Doe.” The same rule applies to our Fraternity, someone would introduce a past master as “Worshipful Brother John Doe” who would sign his name as “John Doe, PM” not as “WB John Doe, PM.” Masonic titles such as “Sir Knight John Doe” is a title to be used within the confines of Knights Templar Commandery when in session. Outside the asylum the “Sir Knight” title has the same effect as using “32 Degree” within a Blue Lodge--- it doesn’t carry measurable connotation. There are honorary titles conferred by Universities to invidual such as Doctor in Education, Philosophy, etc. Generally, only those who received the degree in traditional manner are entitled to use the title “Doctor” however, there are segment of receipents that believed otherwise.

Honorifics are words or terms of respect used when referring a person. Its is given and awarded during the moment as recognition to deserving personage. A manifestation of respect, it is earned and at a times very challenging to own in perpetuity. Those who truly recognize the lessons of the Craft will receive the words with humility and with the same passion of wearing a plain lampskin apron rather than the model bedecked with fancy handwork. Indeed, astute student of the Craft understand that vanity loom to its conclusion when his “weary feet shall come to the end of its toilsome journey.”

...

Reality Check

2009-08-01T08:31:00.010-04:00

by RmOlano
01Aug09

"brotherly love should always prevail. i love you. i may not agree with you. i love you . i may not be allowed to tolerate you by the same rules that made you what you profess to be." ---Brother from GLofG

From the tone of the Brother’s response regarding admission to a Lodge, it seems the credence is that depending on jurisdiction, a visiting Brother can demand his entry to a Lodge he is not a member after presenting credentials and passing examination. I believe in agreeing to disagree hence, I disagree and would leave it at that. And if I may also be allowed to use the legal term, Nolo contendere --- so be it, that is his opinion.

Before the creation of this great Nation, the Fraternity created a document which is known as Anderson’s Constitutions of 1723 - a legal document that becomes a model of the U.S. Constitution. Even this forum has rules thus, discussion of “legality” is within the “realm” of dialogue. As each jurisdiction is sovereign, each can declare black color as blue or yellow as orange. Same applies to the one-day class or one-year class, decision was made, voted upon, end of discussion, that is the nature of being sovereign, that is a fact and within Grand Lodge's rights. It is given, that some will object while the general membership agreed to pass decisions. If someone strongly opposed and cannot stomach the issue, no need to debate about spilled milk, just leave and find a place where one can be happy and content. No one is being forced to stay. It would be for the good/harmony of the Order and well-being of the dissenters to “encourage the practice Freemasonry and pass on opinion” to some place else where the same thinking is welcome and shared with. Otherwise, be part of the solution and help educate those who need and/or asking for help with implied superior Masonic knowledge.

Being a member of this forum (Free-Masons) for sometime now, and participated in whole range of discussions, it should be stated that it would be disservice to underestimate the quality of information one can glean from this forum. Unless someone is recommending a “better” site but that would be distasteful and violate the protocol of civilized forum hosting, it would be preferable to remind ourselves the basic computer rule - garbage in, garbage out. If not happy with current status, do something to improve it. Raising awareness is a standard conference call solution to any issue---all it is is a cheap talk. For those who want to know or bring forth their academic and intellectual concerns regarding the creation of the book, Bro Chris Hodapp, PM has a website. Anyone with Internet savvy can find his “Freemasonry for Dummies.” Since Bro. Chris is also the editor in chief of the journal of The Masonic Society, I will not even think to speak for him as he is obviously more than capable of discussing the questions the Brother raised.

Obfuscation is not the same as confusion. Loving and intolerance does not share the same plain. Using legal excuse “not to allow to tolerate” while professing “love” can be hypothesized in three ways. One, misunderstanding the meanings therefore, confused. Two, knows the meanings but trying to be politically correct therefore, obfuscating and three, have some idea as what the topic is about therefore, should consider reading Freemasonry for Dummies.

Let us be “realistic” here and be “direct and to the point.” The “I love you” phrase is really misused and abused in the context of this discussion. The phrase is usually or traditionally reserved for those who are willing to go all the way to marriage; hence, we all know the way it is being used is really a hyperbole-- an exaggeration not to be taken seriously. Reality check probably would not make any difference to some contemporary man but would make traditional person squeamish using the phrase to same gender. The same way, “hero” is being applied nowadays. A person who is being paid to do his job is not. A fireman who went out to put out a fire is a fireman, a cop who rescued a kitten stuck up on a tree is a nice person, a soldier who was ordered to cover the retreat of this unit and was killed was a soldier Killed In Action (KIA) no more, no less, a passing-by individual who rescued a person in a burning car/house is a hero. In the interest of adult and honest discussion, let us spare these politically correct BS and deal each one on the level without pretense instead of playing “what you profess to be.”

...

One Day Class

2009-07-25T17:51:00.013-04:00

byRmOlano

2Aug09

There are sections within the Fraternity which tend to “look down” upon those who did not take the “traditional” course of instructions. This group of hard core Brothers played by the rules and to see that the same rules get “optimized” for the benefit of some reasons they don’t agree is always comes down to a very predictable reaction. If we are to view Freemasonry as an entity that provide ladder for societal advancement, then the manner by which a brother achieve his laurel of victory i.e. Master Mason Degree is a consideration may be worth looking into. There are those who in spite of lack of memorization skills forged ahead to get through proficiency examination in front of the entire Lodge therefore, gets annoyed to those who skipped the process. Justice is a tenet of Freemasonry---meeting on the level, acting by the plumb and parting upon the square. Those words are more than learning by rote.

Having said that, in my view, it is un-Masonic conduct to treat any Brothers “less” than those who did went through the “old fashioned way.” Obviously, there were not many options offered to the candidates as the some jurisdictions made the decision for them. I have witnessed candidates who preferred to go through “long form” rather than the easier “short form” proficiency examinations. One doesn’t have to be surprised why it’s easier for them to get “approval” and recognition from the old-timers.

Aside from obvious abbreviated time, the "law of unintended consequenses" of the one-day class of conferring degrees is an issue for the hard liners. The perceived deficiency in "real world of masonic knowledge" of one-day class graduates is a bone of contention to those heavily tilted to "traditional" way. If we view Freemasonry as a mere good old buddy system, i.e. Fraternity then it could be assume that the "real world of masonic knowledge" is about passwords and tokens, lecture, and dramas. One doesn't need to sound mystical about such mundane exercise as one can visit a local book store or watch video peddled by "born again" ex-Masons. There are not many Lodges that would subject a visiting Brother with full blown 3rd Degree proficiency examinations. In the "real" world that could be characterized as "cruel and unusual punishment." There are Grand Lodges that require successfully completion of MM proficiency to be able to serve as appointed or elected officer of the Lodge. The unstated idea is to make sure those going through the line has the determination and mental capability to tackle what lies ahead e.g. memorization of duties, Charge, fellow craft lecture, etc. Anyone, who were able to commit to memory all three degrees proficiency examination in "long form" (did I say Obligations?) could be expected to tackle the staircase lecture as a starter.

On the other hand, if we perceived Freemasonry as “a system of morality, veiled in allegories and illustrated by symbols,” what moral lessons in one-day class can we identify as deficient from the preferred method? If we already taken the interest of some good men, would a one day class would make them less than from what they were? Men stayed with the Fraternity not because of the short or long class but because they found something that held and sustained their interest. Whether the curiosities are about philosophical, mystical, camaraderie, and even religious, these are also examples of why men joined the Craft. Sustaining interest on a deeply held notion is what makes an individual do what others do not even care about.

Furthermore, let us not assume that those who went through the "traditional way" are smarter and better prepared than those who went through one-day class. It is unwise to make too quick generalization. In his speech at CT, the author of Freemasonry for Dummies, Brother Chris Hodapp mentioned that he went through one-day class therefore, I am confident that he can intelligently discuss anything about the Craft with anybody. Let us not turn our blind eye to some of those whose slept through the conferrals and woke up just in time to receive the platitude of "32nd Degree" or "Super Most Excellent Master." Manly Hall once said that a Mason who is seeking the Truth may find high things in low places and low things at high places. Key word as a counsel to ear my dear Brother, is not to lose the sight of the lesson of Tolerance. As any awake "Prince of the Royal Secret" or 32nd Degree Mason would remember that there is a value in finding balance in our life.

One of various rationale of one-day class is to make “easier” for the contemporary man to “join” the Craft. Time as always gets to be blamed for the majority of illness in this world. The process to become a Master Mason is “too long” for some hence, comes an abbreviated version as if the idea was taken from the “higher bodies” e.g. Scottish Rite or York Rite class concept. Same pretext, it takes too long to become Knight Templar or get 32nd Degree so instead of experience, the candidates get to watch the process from the comfort of his chair or bench. So much for the initiatory experience, the feeling of getting lost, uncertainty, rush of adrenalin, the acceptance of something beyond ones control, the initial thought of “Aha” and the possible glimpse of a dark side of the unknown. These concept are lost during our pursuit to draw “more” members. Somehow the quest becomes an exercise of numbers and statistics as if the Craft is about profit, operating expenses, overhead, etc. In the never ending discussion of quality versus quantity, the one-day class is heavily tilted to quantity cabal of Fraternity.

There are those who opposed this idea for its unfairness to those who will miss the very essence of the initiatory process. There are many small and invisible but valuable nuances that make up an experience, sitting on the chair and watching someone stumble on might be funny at a time but that is not what the Degree work is about. It is more than amateur stage plays and although the modern Freemasonry initiatory practice is a mere shadow of the real process---every Masonic Degree work is a favor not a required statistic for someone advancement.

“Each degree work should be considered as a favor to be given and not as a requirement to fulfill. We should and must hands out favors sparingly, to give it to those we hope that will return the same favor to somebody else when we old-timers were gone and soon to be forgotten.”

It is truly a gift.

Degree Works- A Favor.

...

Knocking

2009-07-18T05:55:00.008-04:00

By Rudy Olano
15July06

“The idea that an organization would recognize everyone and every faith as equal and as a brother or that while they are praying the one next to them is sending praise to another God or differently perceived God is simply blasphemy.”

Your inquiry whether the preceding statement is correct in regards to complaints against the Fraternity can be viewed as partially correct. Our Craft is composed of multitude of men who joined for multitude of reasons. Brethren stayed, left and come back for motivation as diverse as the number of membership throughout the world. If you allow me to hazard an opinion, the statement was not the first time it was used to rationalize for dropping off from active participation and a bullet to discredit our Order.

“The idea that an organization would recognize everyone and every faith as equal and as a brother or that while they are praying the one next to them is sending praise to another God or differently perceived God is simply (blasphemy) a Tenet Freemasonry.”

Changing the last word with “a Tenet of Freemasonry” to be an accurate statement, will not change or entice those who left and those who cling to their dogmatic belief. Moreover, replacing the last word with “a religious tolerance” will still not make a difference with those who left and those with deep-seated passion of what other people should believe. Fundamentalists exist in every faith including Christians. This is a reason why some well established organized religious entities have some rather perplexing issues against Freemasonry.

If you allow me to remove the word “all” in the last paragraph of your original posting, I would agree in that nicely composed thought. Your description of what the Fraternity means to you is a very good vision especially coming from one who is not yet a member. Hold on that thought for it will serve you right whether you are a Mason or not. What you described is a notion that every human being in this planet ought to consider---- a nebulous dream in our time but then again we mortals can only dream of such things.

Don’t be annoyed if no one rushes to your doorstep or shoot a priority email to your basket. Remember that it is you who is asking a favor and not the other way around. Although through your writing, you seem to be in a right frame of mind to be considered for investigation. You will be contacted in due time. I will leave you with words that are familiar to all the Brethren of the Craft and who knows, that you might hear it again someday, “ …wait the time with patience…”

...

On Joining

2009-07-05T10:30:00.008-04:00

by RmOlano

5Jul09

It is true that variations exist between jurisdictions and Brother Fred captured the most common American way or mechanics of petitioning to receive degrees in mainstream Freemasonry. Let us not get wrapped around the axle in discussing who and what non-”mainstream” Freemasonry are nor the asking as recruiting as these are separate topics by itself. The subject is about joining the Fraternity because of "wanting to emulate a great man."

Great number of past and present Brethren petitioned to receive degrees of the Craft for the same great number of reasons e.g. self-improvement, philosophical, family tradition, mysticism, networking, and yes, even "mercenary motives." The people who made up of the Craft are as diverse as the reasons of petitioning therefore, if one would look closely one would find chinks in Masonic armor. Many true and worthy Brothers are/were attracted for the same reason as stated by the inquirer. It is not surprising as in most likelihood, these true and worthy Brother Masons are the stamina of the raison d'être why the Fraternity exists for sometime. These are the individuals who comprehend that Freemasonry is not about carrying dues card in their wallet, possessing signet ring nor bumper stickers with square and compass. These are the Brethren who by the abiding the Tenets of Freemasonry made significant impact to younger generation thereby planting the seed of future true and worthy Brother of the Craft. To them past and present, we owe them respect and gratitude.

In American system of membership protocol, the inquirer already had a jump start as he was asked if he wanted to be a Mason. This is a significant revelation that will certainly be wrestled by investigating committee. Nevertheless, for over a decade of contemplating what it takes to "join," the inquirer was probably surprised that all it take to get started is to simply --- ask.

One doesn’t have to be a Mason to be a good man. Many religious entities will attest to this statement therefore, being a Mason to give respect to someone is NOT a valid reason to be a true and worthy Brother of the Craft. Ideally, one knocks on the door of Freemasonry because of his own free will and accord not because of any other reason(s) however noble or appreciative sounding motivation it might be. There are pledges to be made, actions to be scrutinized, obligations to be met --- Freemasonry is not just a Fraternity. To be a true and worthy Mason is not supposed to be measured in how many degrees completed, decorations embroidered on apron or jewels hanging on the neck. Being a Mason doesn’t necessarily meant good person. It simply meant a mortal being traveling through rough and rugged road of life toward the Ark anchored within the sheltered harbor there to finally unload the baggage of imperfection known as human flaws. Freemasons do not own nor monopolize the road to illumination.

Albert Pike wrote in 1888, that Freemasonry “is a system of morality veiled in allegories and illustrated by symbols.” If I may be allowed to paraphrase a well respected and wise Mason who once wrote that “one join a Lodge not Freemasonry.” The Past Master of Benjamin B. French Lodge No. 15 in Washington DC, Brother Ken Giballa was pointing out that Freemasonry is more than a group of individuals with same interest--- it is an ideal that “makes good men a better man.” There are pre-qualifications to be fulfilled and one doesn’t become true and worthy Brother of the Craft on the account of joining the group. One doesn’t have to be a Mason to be a good man but it requires good man to be a true and worthy Mason.

To Bill L, if you want to honor your grandfather, continue to be a good man and petition to join a Lodge only because you wanted to not because of your grandfather. The Craft and your role model will indeed understand what you meant to say or do. Ask yourself what are you really looking for --- what are you in search of that you think you'll find within the circumference of a notion known as Freemasonry? What came you here to do? Only one person can truly answer that question and he won't be your role model.

...

Why Not

2009-07-04T07:21:00.006-04:00

by RmOlano
23April2007

In 1908's book Lexicon of Freemasonry by Brother Albert Mackey, part of his definition of demit is the phrase "once a Mason and always a Mason" because unless expelled by his Lodge and the sentence was confirmed by the Grand Lodge, any Mason is still subjected to "his masonic obligations" nor be excused to "moral conduct" expected to a member of the Order. Brother Mackey also wrote that expulsion is the equivalent of Masonic death penalty and only with those guilty of gross immoral conduct by a properly conducted trial will be receive this sentence. The concept is to have individual Lodges hands out the expulsion after a fair trial of an alleged grossly immoral conduct and only be carried out with concurrence of the Grand Lodge. The recent Grand Lodge of the Philippines' expulsion was the other way around. The Grand Lodge declaration of expulsion without trial was not because of grossly immoral conduct but due to individual Mason’s choice to go along with their Lodge’s decision to form their own Grand Lodge.

Which brings us back to the topic of discussion. Why only one Grand Lodge can exist in the Phil. Why not? Removing the prejudicial thinking of the motive, be it may imagine or reality, Freemasonry spread around the world not because a Grand Lodge “authorized” the creation of another Grand Lodge but because three or more Lodges banded together and formed their own. Neither Modern nor Ancient Grand Lodges of England authorizes the creation of Grand Lodge of New York or Pennsylvania or California to form Nevada. Individual Lodges warranted by either Grand Lodge of England formed their own Grand Lodge due to their own reasons. Even Spain at one time had two Grand Lodges until both sides settled their differences and merged into one. Needless to say the result of union of Ancients and Modern to become United Grand Lodge of England. If we look back to the history of Grand Lodge of Japan, GLP’s reaction was not something we could be proud of. Now how about if the three Lodges in Guam decided to form the Grand Lodge of Micronesia or Guam, would GLP declare our Brethren from Guam clandestine too? Or should GLP be a proud parent of a new born GL and instead of putting roadblocks, GLP could be an example of how a good and caring parent would act watching his offspring takes it's baby step toward maturity?

The GLP Constitution is supposed to have a provision for regional Grand Lodges. The idea was created for more efficient governance of the Fraternity. It does not take a rocket scientist to figure out the logistical problem involve in running the administrative matters in the whole archipelago. The VW Manuel Carranza noted the perennial attendance problem which plagued during ANCOM. Transportation and accommodations for many delegates plays a major role on not only quantity but also quality of representatives which determine the end product of this important event.

So why not?

...

HELL of a STORY

2009-04-11T11:26:00.009-04:00

Rudy Olano, IM

Visalia Council # 43, (CM)
27Jan05

What if the word "hell" came from an old English word halle or hele which was supposed to mean, a hole in the ground. Meaning that when a person die, the body goes to hele/hole in the ground and that's the end of that. No more, kaput, done, it’s over. The last thing a dying person will see is a dark empty space once the body ceased to live. Those worthy enough to will able to see further light and will continue to live and received his/her blessing.

What if the hell as we "knew it" or been taught as the place for torture and endless suffering, pain and misery is a relatively modern invention. I will venture to say that hell is a product of a very inventive and twisted mind. The very idea of eternal pain to be administered by a Loving God doesn't make any sense. How can a Deity could exists while multitude of His creation is being tortured endlessly for failing to be god-like, for being a human saddled with its inherent weakness. It is not a secret that in order to be worthy of an access to the Eternal Life is living in a way that approximates to be a godly, to be able to act and think as almost god Himself. That's a very tall order and for the majority of us, it will take a lifetime of struggle to be even close to what expected of us. Christian fundamentalist will object in that statement since they believe that they don't have to do ANYTHING except to "believe in Him." That's another topic of itself and I will not argue with that in this column. All I'll say for now is that being proactive has its merit.

There was a time in human history when people needs to be frighten to do what the leaders wanted them to do. A state/church can hardly sponsor a system when a prospect of dying will end their subject suffering. People commit suicide for "being tired and wanted to end their personal suffering." What a better way to control their subjects is by inculcating to their minds that endless misery awaits them even after death. Or the other way around, what a better way to ask their followers to die for the cause since there is a reward after death. Ask the "insurgents" in Falluja and they'll tell you about nine virgins waiting for the martyrs in their version of heaven.

To wrap this commentary up, nobody came back from death as an eyewitness and described the existence of Heaven, as well as Hell. People will believe what they want to believe. It is my hope that people should not readily accept what is/was being feed to them. To paraphrase the Worshipful Master Bryan Cochran, Master of the Hanford Lodge No. 279 that "tradition does not automatically mean it's the right answer to the right question." There is always the other side of the coin. I tend to believe that there is life after death to account for deeds done on this life. White balls elect, cube balls reject. Be careful how you live. Hell could means--- lights out. Good Night.

...

"Hel" (1889) by Johannes Gehrts. Hel, the female being, holding a staff, and flanked by what is presumably the hound Garmr - both atop a cliff's ledge. In the background, a serpent crawls around among roots, a basin sits, and partially shadowed figures appear to be in movement below the cliff. From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia.

Division Among Brethren

2009-03-22T13:39:00.016-04:00

by RmOlano

22Mar09

Before we indulged ourselves with ever familiar self-flagellation, let us consider that division among Brethren especially in Grand Lodge level political arena is not confined to the Philippines and undoubtedly not a Filipino invention. What can be noted is that the political environment of certain Grand Lodge is a reflection of the existing governmental apparatus where political connection is the name of the game. An environment that espouses manipulation by few elite to advance the welfare of anointed padrinos and squashing those who dared to raise their voices or cry for Justice is a preordained eventuality. This scenario is not a new issue. As my grandmother used to say, “lumang tugtugin na iyan” i.e. it’s an old song.

I concurred with the idea of multiple Grand Lodges co-existing and truly practicing the tenets of our Craft. If multiple Lodges can exists in one building, why it is so hard to practice tolerance at “higher” Grand Lodge level? Fear of losing power, prestige, and for some, access to annual dues is a worldwide issue not just to certain locality.

“Why only one Grand Lodge can exist in the Philippines? Why not? Removing the prejudicial thinking of the motive, be it may imagine or reality, Freemasonry spread around the world not because a Grand Lodge “authorized” the creation of another Grand Lodge but because three or more Lodges banded together and formed their own. Neither Modern nor Ancient Grand Lodges of England authorizes the creation of Grand Lodge of New York or Pennsylvania or California to form Nevada.” Why Not.

For Brethren who are interested in history of Philippine Masonry, it is fitting to suggest and give consideration to the point of view of the Brethren who don’t believe in Andrew Jackson’s “To the victors belong the soils” in regards to Masonic history of the Philippines. History of Supremo Consejo del Grado 33 Para Filipinas.

Serious student of history will discern that an American-sponsored Grand Lodge in the Philippines has many advantages in the aftermath of pacification campaign during "Philippine Insurrection." Not only American Grand Master could keep tab on subordinate Lodges but can expect members loyalty to American influenced/brand of Freemasonry. One doesn’t have to be a rocket scientist to figure out the threat (imagined or real) of groups of former "insurrectionists" which includes "rebel" General Emilio Aguinaldo meeting regularly in secured venues. General Douglas MacArthur was quoted that Freemasonry is a useful tool to pacify Japan by adopting Freemasonry for Japanese men. One should not have to guess who was "patron" General/Viceroy/saint of Grand Lodge of Japan.

Geo-political issues aside, it is a fact that in large cities, multiple Lodges does exist and meet in the same building. It is a fact that if there is truly harmony within, multiple Masonic Lodges are not needed nor justified. Lodges that meets members expectations will flourish and Lodges that don’t will and indeed slowly fade away. This scenario is also applicable to Grand Lodges. Those with substance will endure hardship and tribulation regardless of how rough and rugged road the travel offers while buildings not made from "good, true, and square work" will not last for so long. “Time, patience, and perseverance will accomplish all things.”

There are those who define Freemasonry as a Fraternity of select few hence, embrace the concept of them or us while there are those who view the Craft as a moral system reserved only for male gender. And there are some who are trying to reach into the darkness of their own soul to seek a glimmer of hope that the Order is path toward illumination to immortality. The Brethren will define and see Freemasonry through the filters of each own choosing therefore, division among men and Brothers are expected among mortals. One could hope that there is enough sand in the hourglass to realize the fallacy of vanity and embrace the joy of tolerance among creatures --- big or small.

...

Who Are We

2009-03-13T21:29:00.008-04:00

by Rudy Olano
Lincoln Lodge No. 34 (Phil)
Hanford Lodge No. 279 (CA)
2005

“A Mason is sometimes asked by a friend, a neighbor, or a business associate, "What do the Masons do?" The question may be worded more generally, "What are the Masons?"

The opening sentence of an article titled, What’s Your Answer brought out a fundamental question that been asked since time immemorial --- Who are we? The unknown author's real question to the readers was that do we know what Freemasonry is really all about. For what purpose it exist? Who are we? The article's last paragraph offers good and timely suggestions and should be good enough to satisfy normal and curious person. The piece offers adequate and standard explanation of the Fraternity however; its explanation is obviously directed to the non-masons.

Being a member of the Craft, we could ask ourselves, what are some of the specific lessons or Mysteries we study in the Lodge? We all know "the mystic ceremonies that were regularly developed and illustrated. They are intended and hoped to make a deep and lasting impression to our mind." But let's not talk in general terms and instead identify a specific example.

In one of the lectures, our attention is especially directed to the study of Geometry. As one and the most important of the seven liberal arts and sciences, Geometry treats of the power and properties in magnitude in general. This science enabled the architects, generals, engineers, geographers and astronomers to do their job.

A non Fellow Craft Mason will read and understand that the previous paragraph is about angles, measurements, and numbers. By knowing the formula to calculate the hypotenuse, a strong and well designed superstructure can be constructed. But for those who have already passed through a long aisle or porch, the letter "G" stands for more important implication. It is not tremendously difficult to correlate the Geometry materials mentioned in the lecture with the real meaning of "G." A point is the beginning of all geometrical matters. From a point to a line, from a line to..., etc. Without basic understanding of the science of Geometry, construction of stellar edifices is not possible. If one does not recognized his Creator, building one's temple not made by hands but eternal in Heaven is also an unattainable. This is only a fraction of the lessons or mysteries of Freemasonry.

Masonry is a system of morality, veiled in allegories and illustrated by symbols. Masonry is not about community service like Lions or Rotary Clubs; it is not about business development like local Chamber of Commerce; certainly not a specific religious denomination support group. While those endeavors are noble and worth of time, they are not the focus of the Fraternity. They are the result of one's understanding of the lessons of Freemasonry. Someone said that the real secret of Freemasonry is making a good man a better man.

Who are we? I would like to leave that question not for friends, neighbors or business associates but for us--- the members of the Craft.

...

Temple Building

2009-03-01T17:54:00.009-05:00

by Rudy Olano
15Mar05

History as we already know is documented events and agreed upon by historians. Because event(s) did not make it on the word processor, paper, papyrus or slab of stone doesn't mean that the said event(s) did not happen. Lomas and Knight's theory of the origin of our Craft is one of many that float around. Controversial to say the least but thought provoking to many including you and me. Born in Blood was written by medieval historian John J. Robinson who also wrote a detailed history of Templars in his Knights Templar and the Crusade book. Bro. Robinson's theory of origin of Freemasonry to me, is more convincing than Lomas and Knight. As an example, Robinson's explanation of ancient French words that was eventually translated/corrupted into English such as "frere" for brother became "free" thus freemason from original's brother mason.

There are hundreds of books authored by hundreds of convincing and not-so convincing writers. What book to read will depend on what may interest the readers. As a historian John J. Robinson's Born In Blood is akin to reading history book, Lomas and Knight's Hiram series has a good number of speculations, and Laurence Gardner's Shadow of Solomon's has more technical description. Chris Hodapp's Freemasonry for Dummies is easy to read, and then we have anti-masonic series like Stephen Knight’s The Brotherhood. Manly Hall's Lost Secret of Freemasonry was written before he became a Mason while Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma was his grand opus. John R. Heisner’s most recent Advanced Meditations on Masonic Symbolism is his interpretation of familiar symbols we heard and see inside the Lodge. Most readers find topics as the primary requirement and authors as secondary, some preferred the other way around. The bottom line is that the material should be interesting e.g. subject, author, etc., or else the book will be as good as a door stop.

Multitude of books were written about our Craft, from expose' to its ties to mysticism written by disgruntled born-again Christians to psychics. Some books gathered dust, some sells like hot cakes. Books like the Hiram Keys, Book of Hiram, Born in Blood, Brotherhood, and others were about Freemasonry, its origins, its past, present and future, those books is NOT about the Craft itself. Those books were written for outsiders who often times (after reading) thought they knew more than the members themselves. This is an interesting phenomenon within our Fraternity. A self perpetuating idea that most of our own Brothers tend believed to be true. I witnessed a Master of the Lodge delivered the 3rd degree lecture in long form and then commented at the closing about a non-mason who knew more about masonry than anybody in the Lodge! As a visiting Brother I just bite my tongue real hard.

Referring to the study of the Craft, Brother Jim Bantolo, PGM, recently wrote, “There is still so much to read, researched, and to be illumined. So much to digest. So much to understand. So much to feel and see what true Masonry. It is just too much more than simply being Monitorial.” Let us take heed of these words of wisdom. Freemasonry is more than a small group of elite beings who think they are some sort of special. The Craft is more than parroting of arcane ritual lines or participating in an amateurish drama play. It is also embarking on a journey that will take time and patience, of understanding that the travel not the destination is what will matter most. It is about explaining the spots on individual's lambskin apron.

We have heard the lectures in our degrees. The interest to know the meaning of symbols and the message(s) of allegories is a lifelong search. It is truly a search of that which was lost. Although, the study and application of our Craft is a lifetime quest, it has an eternal reward. It is often said that asking for the answer is much easier than knowing the question. So I would say to you to disregard the peripheral noise and concentrate on what is important--- build your own temple using your own tools and available materials in accordance to the drawing upon your Trestle Board. The Lessons or as we called it, Mysteries of Freemasonry are not about who we are but rather what are we, as speculative Masons are building. Unlike operative, we in speculative Masonry are in the trade of building a temple not made by hands but eternal in Heaven. This is the central issue of confusion in the Temple, the clear understanding of what is the raison d'être of Freemasonry. To be able to truly help brothers in building their own edifice, we must be capable of building our own temple--- a master of our own mental and corporeal lodge, our very own temple.

"Masonry is a progressive moral science, divided into different degrees; and as its principles and mystic ceremonies are regularly developed and illustrated, it is intended and hoped that it will leave deep and lasting impression upon your mind."

I commend the Brother for his interest and obvious hunger for furthering his Masonic Light. I am glad to find Brothers who understand that Freemasonry is beyond dues card and rings.

*** originally written in 15 March 2005, edited and updated 1 March 2009 in response to Brother Erick Calica's question about Masonic books.

...

Darkness to Light

2009-02-21T19:07:00.007-05:00

by Rudy Olano
19Feb05

"Being in the condition of darkness, what do you most desire?" A question that doesn’t need prompting.

In the book The Hiram Key, the authors (Knight and Lomas) discussed a religious group although somewhat declining due to persecution were still existing in Southern Iraq. Known as Mandeans, they traced their religious belief to “Yahia Yuhana, better known to Christians, as John the Baptist!” Their religious leader or priest is called “Nasorian.” Also the believers did not like one of their priests named Yshu Mshiba who they thought to “a rebel and heretic who betrayed their secret doctrines” and was eventually crucified by the Romans. The Mandeans believed that there is life after death and “good souls” goes back to the where the light originates. A place commonly and symbolically illustrated by the morning star, known to Romans as Venus. The book Holy Blood Holy Grail, Michael Baigent detailed the Mandeans practices and beliefs especially their viewpoint about the Light itself.

Lucifer comes from the Latin word lucem ferre, meaning “bringer, or bearer of light,” according to the book, A Pilgrim’s Path by John J. Robinson. He wrote Lucifer in Roman's astronomy was another name of the morning star which appears in the sky before dawn. In his last book as a non-Mason, Robinson explained the transformation of the term “morning star” to “Prince of Darkness.” From a Babylonian king who persecuted the Israelites to his morphing into the Devil himself.

When someone asked to shed some light in a particular issue, we naturally assumed that someone is in need to understand something. There is no divine element in that statement. To provide a “light” is to give knowledge. Being in the condition of darkness, a seeker doesn’t need to be prompted. A true seeker knows what he is looking for. He is initially in search of a Light and later on, for something that which was lost. When we ask a candidate of his desires being in his present condition, prompting should not be allowed. We should let the candidate to think and honestly state what in his mind. The parroting of and response “Light” could mean different forms. It could be as simple as “whatever” because that is the right answer according to the prompter, a thing which is the synonym of darkness, an understanding of unfamiliar situation or it could be a real human plea for Divine Intervention. We should let the candidate contemplate of the question and allow him to seek within his heart of what he most desire.

… Light will illuminate “the pathway of human life through the rough and rugged road beset with temptations, trials and hardship all terminating at last in the grave, the end of earthly ambitions."

...

Broken Column and Virgin Weeping

2009-02-14T07:41:00.009-05:00

by Rudy Olano
13Feb05

I pasted my previous “take” on the meaning of virgin weeping and broken column issue which according to the writer is incorrect and postulated that “Blue Masonry” is either ignorant or purposely mislead us for some purpose “they alone could comprehend.” The writer depended heavily on Pike’s Morals and Dogma and accused the “Blue Masonry” of its ignorance or failure to explain the switching of the meanings. The last sentence of the fourth paragraph of the preface of Morals and Dogma bluntly states that “Perhaps it would have been better and more acceptable if he (Albert Pike) has extracted more and written less.”

We are in agreement of the phrase “a system of morality veiled in allegory” therefore, we could also agree that the virgin weeping could be Osiris, Venus, or Sophia. We could also agree that the old man stroking the ringlets of the virgin/female hair could be Time or death itself . It seems like the “lion” himself understood and accepted that the “marble monument” was erected in honor of GMHA but tenaciously insist that “Blue Masonry” took the meaning backwards. According to his interpretation and “little sleuthing” it should be broken column is the unfinished temple, and virgin weeping is expression of sadness INSTEAD of broken column is the death of GMHA, and virgin weeping is the unfinished temple. The GLP Committee on Works obviously understood what the symbolism means and disagreed with the Worshipful Brother. My interpretation and understanding can be read below (by the way, I am the “paraphrasing brother” he was referring to):

“The California Cipher of Grand Lodge of California which is the equivalent of our monitor shows almost word for word similarity of the issue. My Cipher is published by Allen Publishing Co. of Richmond, Virginia dated 2003.

My understanding is that the temple we are building is the temple within ourselves. This temple is to be supported by wisdom, strength, and beauty. Hiram abif represents one of the three pillars and his death was represented by a broken column---he is the broken column. The symbolism is about HA death or destruction of the pillar and not the status of the temple. The virgin is weeping not because of HA death but due to unfinished condition of the temple for without one to support of the others, the temple would be weak. Time however comforts her and reminds her and us that time, patience and perseverance will accomplish all things.

Masonry teachings as we know it should not be taken literally. It’s veiled in allegory and full of symbolism. The beauty of the study is the challenge to understand things that we don’t. Not because we don’t understand something doesn’t means it is wrong. The real challenge is not to ask for an answer but to know what is the question.”

I respect the writer’s opinion and his persistence to the issue however; I am in disagreement regarding the overture that some unknown entity called “Blue Masonry” as either ignorant or so smart to “waylay the gullible and unsuspecting brothers.” Despite the disclaimer statement at the end of the article, his conjecture which borders to Conspiracy Theorist, is out of order. There is no such thing as Masonic or Appendant Body called, “Blue Masonry.” We all know that a “Blue Lodge” means ---- a Lodge of EA, FC and MM. The Worshipful Brother is reading and believing a tad bit more than he should to Morals and Dogma and probably have been confused on who’s trying to confuse who. Maybe he meant the “Blue Degrees” which according to Pike “are but outer court or portico of the Temple” for which “the mass of those called Masons” think they understand the symbols but in reality “intentionally misled by false interpretation.” (Morals and Dogma, Richmond, p. 819). According to Pike, it is the “Blue Degrees” that is being misled while the real meaning is reviled only to the “Adepts, Princes of Masonry “whoever those people might be. With all humility and brotherly love I could offer, I would like to counsel our esteemed Brother to ease off on double edge meaning or double headed idea. A true Prince of Royal Secret knows the importance of balance or equilibrium.

It has been said before those Masonry teachings as we know it should not be taken literally. They are veiled in allegories and full of symbolisms. The beauty of the study of the Lessons/Mysteries is the challenge to understand things that we don’t. Not because we don’t understand something means it is wrong.

...

Masonic Clubs

2009-02-07T07:46:00.005-05:00

by RmOlano
Hanford Lodge No. 279 (CA)
12Feb06 (Snow Storm Charles)

With the exception of Masonic Clubs in places where there are no Masonic Lodges exists such as in Diego Garcia, Bahrain, UAE and other places, possibly drawn by something lacking in their own Lodge, the brethrens often finds Masonic Clubs attractive for many reasons. Non masons such as wife, girl friends, co-workers can attend, semi-formal gathering, lunch break activity, etc.. are some of the unique atmosphere that makes it appealing. However, for brethren who cannot find time to attend the stated meeting or degree works, it seems strange to find one’s availability of spending time in Masonic Club. We all heard the complaints about boring meetings, long monotonous degree works, but yet brethren found moment to attend and enjoy their Masonic Clubs. The question we could then ask is what makes our brethren forgo the regular Lodge and choose Masonic Clubs instead? What makes physicians, carpenters, police, firefighters, college friends or brethren with same nationality form their own group and separate themselves from the rest? Is this a human reaction to circle the wagon for mutual defense or a tint of elitist corporeal and mental faculty to flaunt around?

No one, especially this writer contends that Masonic Clubs should be banned. No one in their right mind living in a democratic system of government would ever come close of proposing that idea. As it was said before with the exception of places where regular Masonic Lodges are not established, Masonic Clubs does offer a competition for the most valuable commodities of man--- time. And here lies the challenge to our regular Lodges, the leadership must offer something that would attract their membership back. Every man is unique and prudently must be treated individually. However, given that multitude of reasons can be given as an excuse for dropping off, human beings looks for the appreciation for the contribution of his particular skill(s). The honest acceptance in a voluntary group might be the key for holding his interest.

Do we really believe that because the District Inspector mandated that all Lodge Officers must attend the School of Instruction was the reason why brethren attend such events? Brethren showed up because they like to be there. They enjoy the company and looks forward to the evening of camaraderie. Masonry is a voluntary activity, no rules nor do solemn obligations make its members stay active other than him. No implied or direct threats from anybody even from Grand Lodge itself will make individual Mason to “like” to participate and “enjoy” in Masonic activities.

In the context of brethren participation to both, one can draw a notion that the proliferation of Masonic Clubs is an indication of something is eroding and vanishing from the local Lodges. The time honored rituals and its accompanying lessons in Freemasonry are not obviously being work in Masonic Clubs. Therefore, it could be argued that many other Craft illustrations and Masonic etiquette were not given emphasis thus were not practiced. We are living in a time of fast-foods, ATM, cell phones where time, distances were non-issue and human-machine interactions were just part of normal way of life. The Lodge is a rare place where civilities are expected during its transaction of business. When properly done, time stand still during opening and closing rituals. The actions and words spoken in the rituals within the Lodge convey Mysteries in Freemasonry---Lessons in Life. Masonic Clubs conduct its business like other organizations such as Lions, Rotary Clubs and the likes. While they have worthy causes and aims, the Craft encompass more than they could offer.

This article is not about putting culpability on Masonic Clubs for “taking away” brethren’s time from the regular Lodge but rather provoking a thought for brethren members of the club. As a member of the Craft, what are we truly seeking which could be found in place beyond our regular Lodge? Of what are we in search of ?

...

A Question Of Origin Of Freemasonry

2009-01-10T09:31:00.010-05:00

by RmOlano

07Jan06

The following was originally posted in The Grand York Rite of California website Forum as a response to an inquiry from Romania regarding the origin of the Craft.

We are all in debt to Companion Manny Tau, the webmaster of the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of California for providing us with this forum. Without his work and dedication, the chances of us "meeting" in other Masonic on-line sites might be somewhat slim. I would like also to Thank You for the nice words of encouragement and your questions which provoke our thoughts and imaginations. Lastly, allow me to acknowledge a truly respectable or in our vernacular, a Worshipful Master who dropped his working tools last month. A real Master Mason in every sense of word, who took time to listened, guided, and admonished this brother who was on the verge of dropping off from the Craft.

There are conflicting schools of thoughts on the origin of Freemasonry. Books written about the subject can filled up a decent sized library. The very recent addition is titled The Shadow of Solomon by Scottish Brother Laurence Gardner. Also written originally in French language and published in France by Paul Naudon, The Secret History of Freemasonry is another scholarly work in the same line of thought with Born in Blood by an American author and later on a Brother, John J. Robinson.

I am certain that you have already read the piece I titled Veiled in Allegories and Symbols. I was fortunate to be permitted to read that article in Knights Templar asylum in Hanford Commandery. To be fair I would like to point out that I completed the 32nd Degree of A&ASR in 1983 therefore, my personal opinion regarding the origin of Freemasonry is not biased in favor of the York Rite. I believe that the Freemasonry as we know now, evolved from a group who discovered or in possession of something valuable. Whatever "it" was caused their persecution by a jealous King and a weak Pope. Rather than renouncing their beliefs and vows, the group morphed itself and developed secret modes of recognition to protect themselves and their ideals.

Would it be surprising that the once "secret knowledge" are now common knowledge taught in schools? There was a time when only select individuals can possess the formula of hypotenuse. Can we really believe that Egyptian slaves and/or volunteers manhandled those rocks during the building of pyramids? Would it surprise you if you know that Benjamin Franklin, Robert Boyle, Isaac Newton, and Leonardo da Vinci are exposed to or have something in common? Why would the historians played down the role of "heretics" or non-Church conformists during the wonderful time in human history known as Renaissance, "Age of Enlightenment?" Why a land somewhere west was named America instead of Vespucia? Why historians continue to marginalize the role of the Freemasons during the creation of United States?

I can not produce concrete evidences to support my "feeling" and as a simple man just like you, I have full of questions too. And again, just like you, I can only open my eyes and believe what I will accept in my heart.

...

Mysticism and Freemasonry

2008-12-26T09:15:00.010-05:00

by RmOlano
21Dec08

“Any esoteric meanings to be found in our symbols and allegory, if indeed there are any at all, .... But I do believe the pinnacle or sum of Masonic knowledge is truly hidden in plain sight.” –Brother MattR.

In 1888, Brother Albert Pike wrote, “[Freemasonry] is a system of morality, veiled in allegories and illustrated by symbols.” I also concurred with the statement that Freemasonry is universal and that there are small group who correlate mysticism and religion with the Craft. Along with those who believed the social aspect of the Fraternity, Freemasonry is like definition of beauty--- what it is can be best defined through the eyes of beholder.

It is true that Freemasonry will be interpreted in many ways and probably the same number of reasons why individuals are drawn into the Fraternity. What is revealing are the instances when “higher ranking” Masons start to believed that they already “knew” what is there to learn and sort of pompously would declare issues as “end of the discussion---period.” This kind of display of pseudo-intellectual Masonic superiority shows how lofty titles and elitist affiliation can get into someone’s head. Even in our Fraternity there are those who still craved for power, recognition, and significance of vanity, of self-importance---rough ashlars pretending to be polished stones. Sad story of men masquerading as illuminated spirits. The legends in their own mind.

If a certain culture believed that eagles are reincarnation of their ancestors, who I am to judge that such notion is a foolish assumption? If a group of free spirits believed that their soul are destined to return to a place where the Light originates, what makes unbelievers assume such notion is preposterous? If some Brothers thought that they could find meaning of their life through the study of Freemasonry, who are we to judge that is a silly thought? If we can tolerate multitude of versions of Holy Writings on the altar, then I believe that we can tolerate Brother’s thought as long as he would tolerate ours. Often times, rejection or cause of the trouble in the temple is caused by fear of the unknown. Now, if the Brethren would enlighten us about the relationship of mysticism with our Craft maybe we could have better understanding of this issue hence, dispel the threat of the “unknown.”

Without objection, the topic started as scholarly inquiry regarding personal interpretation of mysticism and Freemasonry that drew responses related to spirituality. To discuss an issue where the point of the circle is not man but of a concept of Deity which in our case is the GAOTU, one cannot disregard the notion of what is religion. Mysticism, spirituality, religion, and belief in existence of Grand Lodge above are intertwined elements of the subject in which we are asked by a newly obligated Brother to think about.

Students of the Craft should not take lightly the symbols, words and actions within the rituals of the Craft. There are meanings and messages behind them. It is not a matter of “if there are any at all” but of discovering what they are and understanding what it conveys. Whether to keep or share even a single discovery is up to the traveler. The choice is either to be altruistic or be egocentric. A true Adept cannot be both.

“Veiled in allegories and illustrated by symbols. There are lessons in our Craft that are NOT to be taken literally. The hourglass is not about time keeping instrument equivalent to modern watch but it represents human life. The scythe is supposed to be the symbol of time yet the lecture was about death. This why studying lectures, symbols and allegories in our Craft are fascinating. In delving into the lessons of the Craft the number one lesson is not to take anything on its face value. There are meaning(s) behind the symbols, letters, figures and characters--- representations of a message.” Secrets of the Craft

Brother Albert Mackey’s Twenty Five Ancient Landmarks are not universally adopted. Some Grand Lodges adopted all and some only a portion thereof therefore, the applicability of Landmarks as a reference point for discussion applies only to members of the same Grand Lodges. Having said that let me direct the Brother’s attention that Brother Albert Pike wrote his opinions against number of the Mackey’s Landmark. Brother Pike completely disagreed with Brother Mackey’s Number 24. The response gave way to the often quoted meaning of Freemasonry.

“There is neither science nor art in Freemasonry. Its true definition is that it is a system of morality, veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols. It does not pursue scientific studies nor practice the arts.”

This quote was originally printed in the proceedings of the Masonic Veteran Association and copied by T.S. Parvin in his Correspondence Report of 1888. Shepherd, S.H. (1924). The Landmarks of Freemasonry Book 1, Little Masonic Library Book 1. Kingsport, TN: Southern Publishers. P. 59.

My abstraction is that there are questions to be asked and answers to be search. Finding of that which was lost can be a group journey but ultimately it will be an individual destination. Asking directions when weary and worn out during the travel over the rough and rugged road is acceptance of ones mortality. This is a positive sign of understanding of mysticism, and advancement toward illumination. Some mystics identify the transformation as a five-step process—the first stage is awakening. Freemasonry calls it---Entered Apprentice. Those who truly grasp the significance, message and meaning of the hourglass could be on their way to the purgation. Only those illuminated Adepts can “see the dark night of the soul.” It would be impertinent for me to comment on the final stage so I would leave that your own discovery.

There was a time when knowing one’s identity by name constitute a victory. Defeated knight are required by decorum to reveal his name to the victor. No honor would be tarnished if he lost to a better known knight but it is humiliation if it’s the other way around. In the Old Testament account mentioned the audacity of a man known as Moses to ask God’s name. Thunder and lightning was the response along with “I am what I am.” Giving out name constitute a defeat, surrender or lately, bestowing trust.

Relative to the current issue, the writer is not in a position to inquire whether what the Brother claimed to know is true or truth. Suffice to say that truth is not necessarily true since truth is anything we want to believe. Nevertheless, allow us to share the Brother’s profound victory. Even he is unable to speak and share with us---knowing the Name of his God is an illumination often found within a mystic circle.

"As we three did agree in peace, love and unity..." Royal Arch Degree taught us that Syrians, Chaldeans and Hebrews have their own ineffable names, it is not surprisimg if the Brother's discovery is not much different from ours.

I thank the Brethren for opportunity to exchange ideas regarding our Craft. This kind of freedom of expression is an example of how we can all see Further Light. I hope its continuance and invite all to answer the inquiry --- What discoveries have you made?

...

*** from previous emails, compiled and edited after Snowstorm Brooke 26Dec08 @ CT.

Immortality

2008-12-20T09:36:00.007-05:00

by Rudy Olano
2Dec06

“…reading so much about the Craft makes me think so much, gives me new ideas, new questions!...the Craft a place where a good man can debate all this things?”– a question of a friend

First I want to congratulate you in accomplishments so far, I know you will go a long way, distinguished, and successful, just keep that spirit of doing the best you can, not for its intrinsic value but because that is the right thing to do. Romania will be grateful to your future contributions.

I can sense that you are reading Lomas and Knight Hiram books. Although both authors have such lengthy credentials, I have a real hard time of accepting that they found the mummy of Hiram Abif, of their conclusion of Grand Master DeMolay’s image on the Shroud of Turin concocted by Leonardo DaVinci and other things which some people commented as result of “fluffy logic.”

I tend to side with the Templar theory even before I petitioned to York Rite. This idea was borne of personal readings, amateurish research, and own deductive reasoning buttressed by my own version of “fluffy logic.” I know this revelation could draw some comments from a law student reader from Serbia. As mentioned before, people will see what their eyes want to see. We will put filters of our own choosing thereby seeing different colors from the same source.

If you remember a year ago when you gave me an advice which I truly cherished, I responded by saying that I am so proud of the fact that we came into full circle. It’s now you giving wisdom to someone who seems like losing his way. I am grateful and pleased that all the time we corresponded were not to idle our time away but resulted of having my padewan to come up with fortitude to offer an advice to the little green guy. Possessing wisdom is not directly related to the age, it is directly proportional to the number of same experience and accepted results. I don’t have to cite an example as you will noticed that fools comes in all ages, genders, and statutes however, sages also appears in the same fashion.

Our ancient and honorable Fraternity used many symbols to convey messages. In 1888, Albert Pike wrote in response to Albert Mackey’s Landmarks or Unwritten Law, “It (Freemasonry) is a system of morality, veiled in allegories and illustrated by symbols.” There are many symbols of Freemasonry; most are plainly displayed to public who generally don’t pay attention to its origin. As an example, the States of Utah and Pennsylvania used beehive and keystone respectively for their highway signs. Beehive is Utah’s official State Seal while Pennsylvania is also known as “Keystone State.” Although beehive is a known Masonic symbol to a Master Mason, the keystone is a familiar sight for York Rite Masons while to the public those are the State signs for industry and for key role in holding the Nation’s unity. It is no coincidence that the men who were pivotal to the creation and existence of both States were members of the Craft.

The line of thinking relative to true origin of the Craft and its unpleasant by-product is again clouding your thought. Hundreds if not thousand of books had been written and being written by distinguished and undistinguished authors which at the end of the day, all will be classified as speculations. No one in our lifetime will ever answer your question, the lapse of time and physical milieu works against us---mortals who seek the real “truth.” Somebody asked you this questions before, would it really makes a difference if you found out the question you been seeking? Would the exposure of origin of the Craft make you change your decorum during the course of human experience called living? Finally, let us take for granted that after superhuman effort and tremendous time and resources expended for research and analysis that you personally found the answer, my question is that what you will do with it--- keep it for yourself or share it to the world who either don’t care or treat it as trivia? The Craft will go on as long as there are good men willing to learn how to be a better man. How the Order originated will be a subject of folklores, speculations and hypothesis for as long as there are people interested in the subject. If this is your fire breathing dragon then my friend, I bade you good hunting and send my regards to the Don.

There are intriguing ideas in your series of questions. What is time, after life, relationship of time and space. A very fascinating lady from Canada informed me sometime ago of her years of study in quantum physics and asked my thought of the same subjects. Since no one came back from the other side, and yours truly is lacking of first hand understanding on the subject, the issue is still open. Immortality is another status coveted by those who want to be remembered. The basic fact is that as mortals, the human experience is terminated at the grave --- it is over. Leaving a legacy whether it’s a physical object such as monument, bridge, or a gravestone, maybe books, painting, an ideal or a Nation, as long a those who were left behind remembers -— that is immortality. Good as well as bad deeds could make one an immortal. The choice depends on those cares to be remembered or being immortal.

Is there a place in the Craft where you can talk about the subject you termed as “crazy ideas?” I am sure that you will find Brethren who are interested with the same issues. Let me however remind you that the Craft is composed of multitude of good men with different agenda, from sharing grill cooking techniques, quail hunting, to meaning of life. The Craft per se is not a place to debate your interest but it is an organization where you can expect civility and decorum. Within the confines of the Brotherhood you will eventually find those who wear the same lens, looking at the same light from the same source.

Once I exchanged conversation with a truly worthy Brother in his driveway up until 2 o’clock in the morning. Despite of my concern of overstaying, he was genuinely glad every time I dropped in and talk with him for hours at the time. It’s been a year since he dropped his working tools but I can still felt the warmth of his hug when my daughter and I said goodbye the day we left California for a cross country drive here in Connecticut. I can still remember his chuckle, his humming of an old western song while driving us to visit other Lodges, and that early morning hours chat in his driveway. You even took time to write a sentence thanking the Worshipful Brother Bryan you never met or heard before --- that my friend, is immortality.

*** posted during 20Dec08 snow storm @ CT.

...

Of That Which Was Lost

2008-12-07T08:05:00.012-05:00

by Rudy Olano
05Mar05

"Of all the symbolism of Speculative Masonry, that of the True Word is the most philosophic and sublime. Mason's labor is the search for the Word, the search after the Divine Truth. This and this is only is Masons's work, and the word is the Mason's reward."

--- from "The Word" by Brother Brent N. Martin

One of the often-misinterpreted meanings of the drama of the Third Degree is the belief that it represented the concept of immortality. One has to remember that at the end of the tragedy the main character was given a decent burial the third time around. Nothing was stated or even implied that he came back from death. The acacia tree was given to us as a reminder of the “spirit or soul of man who will leave when time shall be no more.” The acacia represents the immortality. Although the story evolved around the main character and events surrounding the unfortunate event, the main lesson was not really about the “truly exalted and exemplary character, his unfeigned piety to God and his inflexible fidelity to his trust…” of the celebrated Artist. The central issue was not even mentioned in the drama. One has to take note of what was recovered was the replacement of the Lost Word. An elaborate ritual was developed and illustrated for substitute of the Lost Master’s Word until the future ages may discover the right one. In a contemplating the finale, we are inspired to ask the question of what was the True Word and thereby, inducing the rational thinking mind to Search for that Which Was Lost.

The Grand Master had the premonition of the future in his conversation with Adoniram in Sanctum Santorum shortly before the tragedy. He explained it to the Fellow Craft that "death is a preordained event for young and old alike, that regardless of time it terminates the labor of man, and it is through the death’s gates that man will find the entrance of the higher Lodge." The Grand Master knew that he might not live to see the Temple completed but knew exactly where he will leave the Word.

Symbolically speaking, the Word is open for everyone to discover and to embrace. Most creatures already know "it" but just don’t realize or acknowledge its presence. Every seekers of the Truth or Word is invited to its discovery, there is neither elitist requirements nor special privileges needed. As a mortal being, one has to recognize the imperfection of oneself and of losing something greater than what we have. Seeking the Truth could be a lifetime undertaking with Eternal reward. Similar to the illustration of the old man stroking the ringlets of the virgin’s hair in front of the broken column--time, patience, and perseverance will accomplish all things.

Human beings in every culture possessed an unexplained urge to find something mystical, be it may a Holy Grail or Fountain of Life. Men lost their lives searching for tangible or intangible things that aroused their curiosity. Majority of our Brethren sadly to say stopped searching, most were satisfied to know the Substitute of the Lost Word. When we ceased asking questions, was it because we already know what needs to know or we already found peace within ourselves?

*** This article was delivered on 25th April, 2009 during regular meeting of Solomon Lodge of Research No. 5986, Saskatchewan Canada. My profound appreciation to Brother Heath Armbruster, Editorial Chair for Research for his consideration.

...

So Mote It Be

2008-11-05T19:33:00.010-05:00

by RmOlano
08Nov04
It was a nice piece about the phrase that we Masons used regularly, “So Mote It Be.” The explanation of transformation of an old Anglo-Saxon word from MOTAN to MOTE offers an answer to a question of what “mote” does really means. Its one of those phrases and words that seems different but the meaning remains the same such as from old French word “frere mason” meaning “brother mason” which when translated/adapted to English becomes “freemason” as explained in Born in Blood and also mentioned in Morals and Dogma.

Another thing that drew me to the article was the substitution of the word “Amen” to “So Mote It Be.” If we step back a bit, we will find “So Mote It Be” as modern term relative to the word “Amen.” Amen is a name of one of the ancient Egyptian gods whose name means hidden, cloaked from view. This god is supposed to be responsible for creation and often depicted as a man with head of the frog, a lion ready to paunch, etc. One known Egyptian king called himself Amen-hotep or Son of Amen who wanted to change his kingdom religion from worshiping Amon- the Sun. Incidentally, his father is called Amon-hotep. This sacrilegious attempt, made Amenhotep so unpopular that after he died, the subsequent king ordered his name to be erased from every record/history of the land.

Anyway, I do not hold a degree in Egyptology and you could further research that issue somewhere else, the point I am making is that by not uttering the word “Amen” does not mean we/Masons are not subscribing to the Christian tradition/ beliefs. It is the opposite, we are not invoking an Egyptian god at the end of the prayer instead we use a phrase which some thought, it’s un-Christian. We end our prayer by agreeing to the “Will of the Eternal.” As the short article mentioned, "So Mote It Be. It is not blind submission, nor dumb resignation, but a wise reconciliation to the Will of the Eternal.” We pray in hope that our wish is in harmony to His Will. No amount of prayer will change His plan for just because it is in our or individual advantage. The basic design has already been drawn on the Trestle Board. The Great Architect of the Universe could "enter the temple at high twelve when the craftsmen were called from labor to refreshment, to see any improvement could be made, in strength or ornaments…" It is His Will to change things for better, we only hope and communicate to Him by prayer that our own human desire falls in along with His plan.

...

*** reposted the day after 04Nov08

Flawed But Good Men

2008-10-30T17:16:00.006-04:00

by Rudy Olano4Jun06

The evolution of our fraternity from operative to speculative has been a subject of countless books, among the latest is the Les Origins de la Franc-Maconnerie: Le secre et le Mateir by Paul Naudon which was translated in English by John Graham in 2005 book titled The Secret of Freemasonry: Its Origins and Connection to the Knights Templar. The operative masons who traveled from places to places to build cathedrals, castles, mansions are obviously from working class. However, we can't dismiss the fact that the masters did enjoy special recognition from the Kings and/or benefactors. The names of the four Lodges which bonded together in 1717 to form a unifying body which, later called as Grand Lodge of London, might give us the indication of member's position or class. Names such as The Crown, The Apple Tree, The Runner and The Grapes, and The Goose and Gridiron were the names of the taverns where they held their meetings. Taverns not castle or mansions suggest that the assertion of a "higher class only" might be a subject of debate. The gradual take over of the non-operative members transformed the Craft into what we known as speculative Masonry. The transformation from physical building of operatives to creating an edifice "made not by hand eternal in Heaven" by speculative Masons comes with what the WBrother correctly described as the "social changes that flows with history."

The question of "having our own" is somewhat puzzling. Are we a part of a Fraternity with a regulatory body duly recognized by other regular Grand Lodges world-wide? If the question is about local spawned group as the "Sons of Lapu-lapu" suggests, I believe there are host of group like that such as Knights of Rizal, Barangay Tanod, etc. In our local/Philippine history, there was an organization patterned after Freemasonry. It is not surprising since the influential members and leaders were Freemasons themselves. Loosely translated in English it is called the Society of the Bravest, Greatest and Most Honorable Son of the Country which was commonly known as Katipunan. Various groups with countless mission statements are in existence, it only a matter of locating such interest. Membership in any organization is always a matter of personal comfort zone and it does not matter whether it is a local, national or international in scope.

The level of activities and members participation will always depend on each members feeling of being comfortable, at ease within that group. The result is directly proportional to what one has put into it. Being contented as a sideliner watching the things goes by is not as active and fulfilling as being a part of the process. Due to other contemporary living necessities, relatively speaking, most of the time things happened so quickly that there is not enough moment to invite fence-sitters to join in.

Our Craft is composed of multitude of flawed but good men trying to be a better man thus; it is not prefect as no Grand Lodge in this world can be. There is another Grand Lodge presided by the perfect Supreme Grand Master, it is relatively easy to enter but it will take almost super human effort to be accepted as the requirement is to have a spotless apron.

...

Political and Religious Discussion

2008-09-27T10:01:00.009-04:00

by RmOlano
27Sep08

"i think the ban on religion and politics being discussed inside a lodge are only observed in anglo-saxon masonry unlike in the grand orient or franco-masonry where the lodge is a venue of debate and exchanging of ideas." --- a Brother commented

Very keen observation my Brother. An opinion is something we thought that could be true but not as important as belief or Faith. So my dear Brother, the thought that you believe to be true which you characterized as lowly and unimportant is in reality has a ring of truth.

If we are to take exception of the American Revolution, which was carried out by members of the so-called Anglo-Saxon “brand” of Freemasonry, many revolutions were initiated, led and carried out by members of French-based Scottish Rite “brand” of Freemasonry. Not that the English-speaking Freemasons were immune from political agenda and influence as English history is also a history of divided groups of Masons supporting either usurper or disposed royalty.

It is interesting to note that English Freemasonry is under the patronage of their royalty who would not mind to socialize with commoners thereby, keeping tab and ensuring the loyalty and harmony of their subjects. Compare this setup with French-invented Scottish Rite Masonry where the rebel leaders ensured that the King literally lost his head along with great numbers of royalty during French Revolution. In addition, there was a time in Spanish history that large number of Spanish men were executed just because they are members or thought to be members of the Craft. Mindful of what happened to their neighbors; Spanish royal families were not fans of Freemasonry. Let us not guess who were the players of revolutions in South America, Mexico, Cuba, and yes, the Philippines. Logia Revolucion in Barcelona and the all-Filipino Logia Solidaridad in Madrid were not created with intention to be politically correct to the Spanish ruling class. It is seems the pattern was that where more violent revolutions in countries where Scottish Rite is strong and popular than with countries dominated by English-speaking brand of Freemasonry. How much political discussions or level of passion to argue/debate/talk about this subject among Masons seems to depend on the orientation of the Craft i.e., with or without Royal Patronage.

An opinion is a tentative thinking that could be true and could change based from additional variables. A confirmed or proven opinion becomes fact. For those who do not end exchanging opinions with “Period,” allow me to use the fashionable “au contraire” as oppose to more egalitarian --- nope, you’re assumption is wrong again. The use of such fancy repertoire might have some value for some folks but 'just the same and if I could borrow Brother Author Stephen Defoe’s recent word--- “pretentious.” Someone implied that those who entered in political arena in national, international or local level are not members of the mainstream Grand Lodge. This opinion was based on the common belief that politics were not to be discussed within the Lodge therefore; those who disobeyed this mantra must be from non-mainstream Grand Lodge.

When a group of people decided to do something, --- my friends that is politics. When the Master of the Lodge approved a motion to participate in KidsID at City Park during 4th of July---my friends that is politics. When a Grand Lodge adopt and proclaim that a certain day of the month will be dedicated to celebrate the creation of U.S. Constitution--- again, my friends that is politics. And if we urged a newly made EA his duty as a citizen i.e. “ to be exemplary in the discharge of (his) civil duties…” we are dabbling in politics.

It is NOT the discussion of politics within the Lodge that is prohibited but rather it is the sectarian or the my-way-or-highway approach to civil discussion which often led to disharmony among Brethren. What is not allowed is the mentality that my opinion, my party, my religion and my God is right and all others are wrong. Politics and religion will always be in our thought, to "prohibit" its discussion is to say, I have provided all the argument and all available documentation therefore, the case is close---Period. This kind of mind-set ought to be prohibited not the content of the discussion whether its politics, religion, sports or the best watering hole in the area.

In a speech titled World Wide Masonry and Its Desirability delivered by the Senior Grand Warden Oliver D. Street, before Bessemer Lodge No. 458 on May 29, 1922, published in Little Masonic Library Volume I, Book 2 (1924) Southern Publishers. Kingsport, TN., he said,

“If we drew the line on those who, we think, engage in politics, let us imagine, if we can, what the Masonic Fraternity of the United States would do if some party were to arise in this country which openly declared against free speech, freedom of press, freedom of thought, freedom of conscience and in favor of domination of the state and church. If Masonry did not fight such propositions it should perish, yet these are precisely the propositions which confront Masonry in France, Belguim, Spain, Italy and in all South and Central American nations, not to mention Mexico and numerous other countries. There are certain great fundamental political questions which Masonry always and everywhere has professed and for which, if it is not willing to fight, it is not worthy to exist.” (Street, 1924, pg 118).

Civilized men agree to disagree. No one has the monopoly of the fountain of knowledge hence, has the last word on this exchange of ideas i.e. “Period.” When politicians run out of arguments, the common tactic is to divert the topic and talk about personal issues including grammar and spelling. This is the basis why civil discussion fails within the Lodge room. It is not the topic e.g. politics, religion, or best beer brand but the mentality that some people were already enlightened thus does not need to be challenge because what presented was the Truth. Freedom of speech is still guaranteed by U.S. Constitution and that should include discussion inside the Lodge. Moral person knows what is right and what is wrong, finding the balance between the two extremes is a lesson all Masons labours to find --- of searching that which was lost. Equilibrium is not just a word, it is an axiom not only reserved for Scottish Rite Masons but also applies to the entire human race.

...

Remarks

from Brother John L. Cooper III, PGS, GLofCA

28Sep08

There is some truth in what you are saying, but also some problems. Freemasonry has always taken the position that partisan politics and religion should not be discussed in a lodge. That is essentially an English-speaking Masonic tradition. It is not the tradition in much of European and Latin American Freemasonry (except for the GLNF). However, that being said, it is an exceedingly hard process to monitor. In theory every Freemason should accord to another the courtesy of respect for his opinion. But over the years I have seen how difficult it is for some to truly practice it. The problem, as I see it, is that each one of us has some fundamental principles which are difficult to reconcile with tolerance and understanding.

Let me offer but one example. Freemasons are patriotic. Often at Masonic gatherings I hear prayers offered for our troops overseas who are thought to be protecting our country from the enemy. Probably 100% of Masons in the room would agree – until we get into the details. I’ll stay away from current events (Iraq) and talk about Vietnam of a generation ago because that may be safer. Some Masons then were supporting and participating in the anti-war movement. Some firmly believed that our war in Vietnam was immoral, and that America should get out as quickly as possible. This outraged other Masons who saw this as treason. Neither side could talk about the other’s position in a dispassionate way. If you want to take this into today’s arena, try discussing the issue of the phrase “under God” in the pledge of allegiance. What do you think would happen at any Masonic gathering you know of if a Mason advanced the point of view that this phrase should not be in the pledge, and that the unsuccessful lawsuit against it in Elk Grove Unified School District a couple of years ago should have been otherwise decided. Do you truly think that most of the Masons you know could have treated a Mason who advocated this a with the civility you are advocating?

I don’t want to be pessimistic about the prospects, but I cannot be sanguine about its success in most Masonic groups. When it comes to religion, there is usually little problem with civil dialogue amongst adherents of recognized religious groups. Roman Catholic Freemasons and Episcopalian Freemasons are unlikely to come to blows over the Pope. But we have had some serious problems with “new” religions, such as the Gnostic Catholic Church, and its parent organization, the Ordo Templi Orientalis. In 1998 the Grand Master authorized the use of the VSL from this organization on our altars for members of this faith to use for the Obligations. In 2004 another Grand Master withdrew this permission. All this was perfectly legal, and within the prerogative of the Grand Master. But why was this group singled out? All you need to do is to take a look at the liturgy of this church and the contents of their “sacred law” and you can see how it pushed the limits of toleration.

I am personally in favor of discussing things of substance and importance in the lodge. I am also aware of how difficult it is to maintain respect, civility, and toleration amongst our members when the limits of our respect, civility and toleration are pushed too hard.

/s/ John

...

Response:

28Sep08

First, I thank you for time and commentary. If my estimation is correct, I would say that we are in agreement that discussion within the Lodge should not be limited to any subject as long as the topic is "of substance and importance in the lodge."

I readily concurred that politics and religion will always be a hot topic as well as Red Socks and Yankees or Forty-niners and Raiders. The prevailing principle that certain subjects should not be even discuss because of the difficulty or failure of presiding authority to moderate the discussion is an acknowledgement of weak leadership and adherence to the contemporary cliché---politically incorrect. Standing on the level pavement adorned with black and white squares signifies that the speaker and his issue are on same plain along with other speaker with the opposite view. Both deserved to be heard regardless of the color they representing. To regulate what to bring forth is to disregard the lesson of Mosaic Pavement. I submit that Justice---equality and fairness will bring harmony among the group not restraining views but those notions could be a utopian thinking along with spotless apron for a mortal man.

If I could ask the VW John's permission to publish/attach his response to the original posting for furtherance of Brethren and my Masonic Light, it is always an honor and privilege to elicit responses from you. I thank the Brother in advance for consideration.

F/
RmOlano

...

Permission granted. /s/ John
Mon Sep 29, 2008 8:00 AM

...

Knowing A Mason

2008-09-20T12:31:00.010-04:00

by RmOlano

20Sep08

"How may we know a man to be a Mason?"-- a Brother asked

How do we may know indeed! On our way to qualification to the next level of illumination within the Craft, we are taught to commit to memory certain parts of the ritual. Some jurisdiction resorted to what is termed as short form thereby, allowing candidates to miss golden opportunities to digest many lessons contained within the long form. It seems that the popular stated reason to deviate from what was used to be the normal practice is about the inconvenience to the length of time a candidate to advance to the degree of Master Mason. For some reason, this writer does not comprehend the cause and impetus the rush to make someone a Master Mason as if we are engaged in a competitive race. We had witness instances where the lecturer would breeze through his spiel leaving the candidate with glazed look like a deer-looking-to-headlight and wonder what hit him. Compound this event with at least an hour of monologue without visual references and mixed it with archaic terminologies is a recipe of a sensory and memory overload.

It is something to watch and hear the candidate response to our elderly Brothers as to the candidate thought about the recently completed ceremony. It is normal expectation that most of the time a polite response will be given to an inquiry that touched majority of human emotion. Blindfolded therefore, darkness, the feeling helplessness, one’s dependency to unfamiliar person, fear to the unknown, feeling the cold sharp instrument and its implied promise of risk are some standard concern being played within the candidate mind which is the raison d'être of the ritual. It is mighty hard to answer such a question with detailed analysis on the spot. Most of us would simply blurt out something like, impressive, never been through that before or other superlative adjective that would reward the inquirer a smile in his face. A smile that usually meant, a confirmation that the night event was not a waste of time for someone did appreciate the labor of our Brethren. That same smile for some is a confirmation that the conferring team generated enough curiosity to this fellow that someday hopefully he will be a part of the tradition of inculcating others the ritual of the Craft. It is always a hope since time immemorial that out of many, few will carry on the work of the Craft, out of many, some would remain and understand what those archaic words, figures, and symbols intended. Understanding such mysteries signifies familiarity, contemplation, and testing that hypothesis is part of a process for illumination.

How may we know a man to be a Mason? The customary answer taken from the long form proficiency requirement would be about if someone knew the word, sign, token and posses personal virtues of a decent and moral man such temperance, fortitude, prudence and justice. The first three answers are the most popular and overused gateway in determining if a man is a Mason. The dues card, handshake, password, car decal, t-shirt and others like things are one interpretation of what is Freemasonry. There is nothing wrong with this understanding; it is within the definition of the Fraternity. In order to practice Brotherhood, members have to know his Brothers! To be a part of a group of society certain things have to be demanded and expected to be returned. Being one of them requires losing a part of me.

The last part of identity requirement is the often times skipped portion. This line of thinking subscribed to Brother Albert Pike’s 1888 definition of Freemasonry --- “a system of morality, veiled in allegories and illustrated by symbols.” Notwithstanding, the physiological terms e.g. throat, arms, hands and feet, to symbolize the cardinal virtues of a Mason, what makes man a Mason is his awareness to this litmus test. It is not only Mason’s mere understanding but of his daily attempt to restrain his passion from “allurements of vice,” of a his “steady purpose of mind” in face of expediency of the moment, of his virtue to live and act “to the dictates of reasons,” and adhering to “that standard or boundary of right which enables us to render unto every man his just due, without distinction.” Temperance, Fortitude, Prudence, and Justice. Our appendages might convey friendly welcome but if certain sounds come from the bowels of our throat express otherwise, the embrace became a façade for the benefit of the crowd. Just as speech can be confirmed with body language, what makes real is the equilibrium of all body parts. What makes a man a Mason is finding the balance of what is expected and what can be humanly accomplished. There is no perfect Mason in this world and to those who claimed to be one --- “let him cast the first stone.” Asserting to be a Mason is not a hard endeavor, living to be one is always a challenge and knowing one is an art by itself.

...

Constitutional Question

2008-09-05T20:14:00.010-04:00

by RmOlano
05Sep08

“... you may be right that the resolution was passed by the marority of the brethren, but the grand lodge of the philippines did not acknowledge the resolution and find the action not legal. i believe that due process has been given to them.” --- a Brother wrote

When a duly constituted Lodge conducts its business such as passing resolutions by a majority vote unless there is a specific law that prohibits the Lodge from declaring independence from its Grand Lodge, what is the ground of finding this “action not legal?” Since when it became legal for Grand Lodge to overrule local decisions that they (Grand Lodge) did not like. From what authority did this obviously pompous display of arrogance did derived its legitimacy.

While we can cite the Article XII of Anderson’s Constitutions of 1723, which states, “The Grand Lodge consists of, and form’d by the Masters and Wardens of all the regular particular Lodges upon the Record…” where in the GLP’s Constitution states that no Lodge will be permitted to annul its covenant with Grand Lodge? Is there provision in current GLP’s Constitutions that can be referenced to back up our Brother's statement which, he “believe(d) that due process has been given to them.”

Individual Masons belongs to a Lodge first and foremost hence, any disciplinary action to be taken should come from the Lodge first not Grand Lodge. The expulsion of a number of individual Masons by the Grand Master and superseding the Lodge Master’s authority to his Lodge which he is called to preside, is not only anomalous but a clear cut overstepping the power invested to GM office. This would be another position but because ANCOM approved the Grand Master’s action, this point is now irrelevant. Which bring us to another point--- that under the jurisdiction of The Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of the Philippines, individual Masons can be expelled for any reason without Masonic trial or appeal and subject to the whim of the Grand Master.

Question that needs to be answered: Is there any provision in the current GLP's Constitution that prohibits the withdrawal of member Lodge(s) from the Grand Lodge? When some GLP Lodges formed the Grand Lodge of Japan, was there revision(s) of GLP's Constitution to address, discouraged or prevent the occurrence of same issue?

It is a matter of record that UGLE established Lodges in Cyprus since late 18th century. When the Grand Lodge of Cyprus was consecrated under the sponsorship of three Grand Lodges, the new Grand Lodge declared "exclusive territorial jurisdiction" of all Masonic Lodges on the island. UGLE cried foul and rejected the "exclusive territorial jurisdiction" assertion but that does not stop the CGMNA from proclaiming the new Grand Lodge as "regular" and "recognized." (2007 CIR Report) So, here is another example of a situation where Lodges remained loyal to its Mother Grand Lodge, notwithstanding its geographical location. Now we have another example of Lodges following the established standard stated in the Constitution of the "Mother Grand Lodge of the World"—UGLE and even the CIR admitted that the reasons might have validity, but the group was not "recognized" because of the "exclusive territorial jurisdiction" rule---that's what I call anomalous decision. Standard of Recognition.

We are in agreement that “jurisdiction” means a power, influence or control over Masonic bodies specifically, member Lodges. It is true that the physical location of such Lodges is irrelevant. One example is the case of Lodge Perla de Oriente No. 1034 in Manila, which is still under the jurisdiction of Grand Lodge of Scotland. Another example is the existence of Masonic Lodges under the control of Gran Logia National de Filipinas such as Magdalo Lodge No. 79. These Spanish-speaking Lodges obviously are not under the “jurisdiction” of English-speaking American sponsored Grand Lodge of the Philippines however, we could wrap ourselves around the axle so to speak if we are to argue about their “regularity.” The point is that it is preposterous to declare a group of regularly constituted Lodges to become “not regular” just because they elected among themselves, of their own freewill and accord to walk away from GLP due to reasons they publicly proclaimed. The breakaway Lodges is not under the jurisdiction of GLP therefore, any declarations or edicts to them are worthless and comical. To claim the real estate/physical properties of such Lodges as Grand Lodge assets is mind-boggling and borders to imperial covetousness. Deja vu --Grand Lodge of Japan.

During the formation of Grand Lodge of Japan, according to its webpage, although invited to join, the Rising Sun Lodge No. 151 choose to remain with Grand Lodge of the Philippines and continue to do so to this day. The McArthur Lodge No. 183 in Seoul, Republic of Korea, Emon Lodge No. 179 in Saipan, and three in Lodges in Guam under the jurisdiction/supervision of GLP are some local examples of the contention of the validity of so-called "exclusive territorial jurisdiction" concept. This is one of the basic requirements for "recognition" by Conference of Grand Masters of Masons in North America (CGMNA). The notion that only one Grand Lodge can exist in one state or country, unless agreed upon by both Grand Lodges is a modern invention, which obviously shows political stimulus of those who concocted this rule. Nowhere in Ancient Landmarks mentioned nor in Anderson's Constitution of 1723, was it cited.

In defense of Perlas Oriente Lodge in Manila, I would not use the word “anomalies” as the chosen word has a negative connotation. Before the creation of GLP, Perlas de Oriente Lodge decided to remain with Grand Lodge of Scotland, that is within the Lodge right --- their preference. There is/was not an iota of anomaly in casting vote and carrying out its desire whether or not to remain loyal to its Mother Grand Lodge. What is erroneous is to imply that no Lodges in the Philippines have an option but to be “owned” by GLP. But then again, only matured Mason will be able to see through the veiled allegories, illustrated symbols and infer that Freemasonry is about personal morality not exclusive territorial jurisdiction or About Them. My point is that Perlas Oriente Lodge Lodge situation is neither unique nor deviation from common rule (Webster Dictionary) as there is no such rule to deviate from. I do not concur that we have a case of "not being in normal situation."

With certain confidence and backed up with references, it is a fact that multiple regular and recognized Grand Lodges does exists in many countries e.g. Australia, Canada, Germany, and before I forget in the United States. What is the basis of the statement that, “only one Grand Lodge will be recognized in any jurisdiction” or the so-called “exclusive territorial jurisdiction concept?

Aside from United Grand Lodge of Germany, there are the Grand Lodge of British Freemasons in Germany, the American Canadian Grand Lodge, Grand Lodge of Freemasons of Germany, Grand Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of Germany therefore, it is not true that "there is only one Grand Lodge in Germany." If "There are 6 Grand Lodges in Australia not 3 and they all exist together by mutual cooperation and have clearly defined areas that do not overlap" then we are in agreement on the existence of multiple Grand Lodges in Australia. Multiple regular and recognized Grand Lodges in Canada are based in Ontario, New Brunswick, Alberta, and Nova Scotia. There are multiple Grand Lodges in Mexico. "One source estimated there are or were some 130 Grand Lodges in Mexico. Of these, there appear to be only 30 state Grand Lodges and the York Grand Lodge that are considered to be practicing Regular Masonry and observing accepted and expected relationships among each other and with foreign Grand Lodges." Quoted from February 2004 Report Commission of Information for Recognition.

Even within each State in U.S., despite of some holdouts, many regular Grand Lodges are now recognizing the regularity of Prince Hall Grand Lodges and the Masonic Lodges under the its jurisdiction. Racial prejudice or bigotry is not an excuse for long overdue recognition of the fact---that Prince Hall Grand Lodges do exist and now being recognized by majority of Grand Lodges in U.S. within their own State or jurisdiction. The statement relative to bigotry was not meant nor intended to imply a personal conviction to such scandalous behavior as it was directed to about 10 Grand Lodges in U.S. that still wont extend their right hand to persons who doesn’t looked like them. So what we can we deduced to people of same color who also exclude their own kind? double bigot? If I may make it clear that my statement is about pointing out that regular Grand Lodges in United States acknowledged the regularity and accepted the co-existence of ANOTHER Grand Lodge in their own state. Again, this fact debunked the statement that only one Grand Lodge within a jurisdiction or state can be “recognized.” Not to beat a very dead horse, let us not discuss the fact that there are 50 Grand Lodges in a country known as United States.

As a part of last year’s (2007) version of Constitutions of United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE), nowhere in the eight (8) Basic Principles for Grand Lodge Recognition mentioned this limitation. If I may be allowed to quote the first principle, that is “Regularity of origin; i.e. each Grand Lodge shall have been established lawfully by a duly recognized Grand Lodge or by three or more regularly constituted Lodges.” The No. 5 principle is about authority over the Lodges under its control or jurisdiction and not about geographical or political boundaries.

So we are back to the same question, is there a provision in GLP’s current Constitution that prohibits member Lodges to separate, abrogate, divorce or withdraw from membership to Grand Lodge? The question does not require a Grand Historian nor Grand Secretary’s response. Anybody with access to GLP Constitution could answer such simple question. The silence indicates to me that (a) GLP’s Constitution is secret hence, difficult to access (b) nobody want to even bother to see what is in the GLP’s Constitution (d) the answer is simply “none.”

I respectfully disagree with the notion of my way or highway approach to this issue. There are always other ways or alternatives that is ---if we let Reasons be allowed to any discussions. But like anything else, we can only beat the dead horse so many times hence, we can let it go. Live and Let Live--- until next time when some enlightened soul would be audacious enough to display his wisdom and only to find out that Northeast corner is not a bad place to be.

It is known fact throughout this area of discipline that it is extremely hard to win litigation from violation of its own rule. The most common way to “win” this kind of argument is to stall to buy time and hope that intellectually challenged parties will get tired of discussing the issue. The other way is to buy the other side by any means and/or thru a truly tried and true method---divide and conquer tactic. Either way it is a sleazy way of doing business, very unMasonic and only those with interior motives would agree to participate with such antics. This is NOT Freemasonry. It is not about legal issues or even customs.

Freemasonry is about living in a moral or righteous way instead of within established law or customs. To those who think they found the secret of Freemasonry could take a hard look of what they have for our Craft taught us to see beyond what is obvious and understand what allegories, symbols and illustrations really meant. More often than not, literal words meant something else, colors, shape and stories might not be what they are but possibly a series of invitation to what human could be--- a way to Nirvana, to Holy Grail or simply ---enlightenment of one’s thought.

...

*** the above article is a composite from a series of exchanges of opinions and thoughts with Brothers of the Craft in West to East Yahoogroup moderated by VW Ben Apacible of Araw Lodge No. 18, Manila, Phil.

Ancient Charges

2008-09-01T16:15:00.011-04:00

by Rudy Olano
04Sep06
Labor Day

“Old Charges” defined by RWB Daniel Doron, PGDC, Grand Lodge of Israel as “the name given to certain manuscripts having more or less the same contents. It is a term which is used to characterize 131 manuscripts, the oldest of which is "Regius" dated 1390."

Anderson’s Constitutions of 1723, contained history, charges and regulations, “extracted from the ancient records of lodges beyond sea, and of those in England, Scotland and Ireland, for the use of the Lodges in London.” Article XXXIX deals with Grand Lodge power and authority to create new regulations, “...provided that the old Land-Marks be carefully prefervd.”

Brother Albert Mackey, in an attempt to define what the “old Land-Marks” are, wrote The Landmarks or the Unwritten Law in 1874 which, drew stinging remarks from Brother Albert Pike in his 1888 Opinion of Mackey’s Landmarks published in the proceeding of the Masonic Veteran Association. What became known as Mackeys’s Twenty Five Landmarks was not a universally accepted as the true all encompassing “Ancient Landmarks.” In 1946, Brother Silas H. Shepherd, listed the different levels of acceptance of Twenty Five Landmarks by the U.S. Grand Lodges in the Book One of Little Masonic Library, The Landmarks of Freemasonry.

Being aware of the terms and the general nature of Ancient Landmarks and Old Charges, the term “Ancient Charges” seems to be another name of Anderson’s Constitutions of 1723. The reading of these charges during the Master of the Lodge installation also confirms the issue. Having to consider the lingering doubts surrounding the creation and adoption of the Constitutions of 1723, also known as Ancient Charges, this student is now perplexed to the idea that the document in question can provide further light for discovery of the “foundation on which Freemasonry is built." (Brother Nelson King, Editor, The Philalethes Society, 2006).

Brother Lionel Vilbert, PM, Quatuor Coronati Lodge No. 2976 analysis of Anderson’s Constitutions of 1723 bought out interesting subject such as, the yet to determined when and where the Reverend Doctor was initiated or what Lodge in London he was supposed to be a Master in 1722; missing record of Anderson involvement with Grand Lodge before the Duke of Montagu became the Grand Master. The report went on to state that the Reverend “was not even present at the Duke’s installation.”

Brother Benjamin Franklin reprinted the Anderson’s Constitutions of 1723 verbatim in 1734 in United States. WB Vilbert paper noted that in 1735, Anderson protested to Grand Lodge of one person named Smith who pirated his property, namely the Constitutions of 1723.

WB Vilbert postulated that “Anderson undertook to write the work as a private venture of his own and that this was sanctioned, since it was desirable that the Regulations at least should be published, without any very careful examination of his text, or so much of it was ready, and that he had taken what were felt by many to be unwarrantable liberties not only with the traditional Charges but also with Payne’s Regulations.”

The analysis concluded with a paragraph titled as “Our Debt to Anderson.” After illuminating host of discrepancies, the WB Vilbert reminds us/students not to be too harsh to make judgment. After all, the omission, addition and/ or twisting of some texts resulted the “universality today to its (Craft) wide undenominationalism and in this respect he (Anderson) builded better than he knew. The Constitutions of 1723 remains one of our most important text…” If this student will agree to this reason, then perhaps a suggestion for modification to Brother King’s statement could be entertained as to read, “Anderson’s Constitutions of 1723 as the foundation on which Freemasonry became.”

...

Searching for Morals and Dogma

2008-08-08T21:16:00.013-04:00

by RmOlano

08-08-08

Originaly composed in 16Aug05. Revised, updated and dedicated to Brother Alfred Ferrer of Malinaw Lodge No. 25, San Pablo City, Philippines.

A Brother sometime ago requested an assistance in finding copy of the original documents, which serve as the basis for Albert Pike’s opus Morals and Dogma. It stands to reasons that Pike consulted various references in his book. The catch was that this book was published in 1871 therefore, any references before that time will be a challenge to find. Books such as Clausen's Commentary on Morals and Dogma and the relatively new book, Bridge to Light by Hutchens, which “replaced” Morals and Dogma as a gift to new Scottish Rite Masons, can be valuable sources for understanding Pike’s work. Albert Mackey who introduced Pike to Scottish Rite recognized the diversity of various Scottish Rite degree works. Reportedly, he encouraged Pike to write a standard ritual for the A&ASR. Morals and Dogma came about, the point is that half of Pike work was compilation of other works which the preface of the book declared, “In preparing this work, the Grand Commander has been about equally Author and Complier; since he has extracted quite half its contents from the works of the best writers and philosophic or eloquent thinkers. Perhaps it would have been better and more acceptable if he had extracted more and written less."

Our brother quest to find for materials used in writing the Morals and Dogma is approximating to probing for the references used in writing the Holy Bible. It is important to note that I am not comparing the content of those books/volumes but rather using the analogy of questioning the source of the information. Some people accept them as it is/was, other people often called as freethinkers ask questions such as that. If I may be allowed to say a word regarding freethinking, the first thing to remember is be careful of what you learned for often times, you will find something that might cause you sleepless nights.

The familiar definition of Freemasonry coined by the author of Morals and Dogma in 1888 was that “… it is a system of morality veiled in allegories and illustrated by symbols.” Another way of interpretation can be offered as a way of life through adoption of collection of thoughts on how to live in a righteous conduct rather than laws or custom without attracting undue attention though the use of partly concealed or decorated representation of actions or models codified by symbols or signs. A lesson we can learn from the study the Craft is to see beyond corporeal presentation, to view the symbols for the message it meant to convey and its impact to our consciousness. The transformation from Operative to Speculative Masonry changes many literal meaning of the words and symbols used in the Craft’s rituals. Though today’s Freemasons do not physically utilize the trowel for building temples, we are instructed its use for more noble and glorious purpose. In our contemporary times, no one is expected to actually carry out the penalty of violating the Masonic Obligations, as this oath is also a symbol of its own accord. This Masonic Degrees requirement for advancement is more than a vow but also a lesson in Freemasonry, which briefly be boiled down to a tenet of an honest man honor his word. A major lesson one could learn from Master Mason Degree is about embarking into a journey of discovery. The ritual presented a tragic event through veiled drama and at the end, all Master Masons leaned of the Substitute Word and left to wonder what is the real Word.

On the positive note, this writer was glad as the line of question indicates that our Brother is well on his way in his Masonic journey. He chooses to study Pike’s Morals and Dogma as his quest--- as his Lost Word. By not accepting what was written and asking the sources of the script, our brother displayed something beyond customary and contemporary Masonic attribute. He understands that something important was lost and what he possessed is the substitute. It appears that our brother is searching for not what the book contains but a more important question of how it was created. Very advance state of thinking---looking for the root of knowledge, seeking out the Truth.

In our modern day world, many of our Brothers never went beyond realizing that something important was lost therefore, seems uncaring to the next phase of journey---searching for something, which was lost. It is ironic that the very notion itself appeared to be lost as Brethren often focused and interpreted correctly that the Hiram Legend was about keeping steadfast in ones principle in face of death. But there are more to it; the Tragedy in the Temple is only a part of the Mysteries/Lessons in Freemasonry. Taken the totality of the complete ancient rituals, we are being taught to accept that we lost something valuable, to search for what was lost and finally to preserve it when we found the object of the search. It is the path of our Masonic travel. With careful and diligent effort, we might find the Truth before the last grain of sand runs out in the hourglass.

It could be said that there are those courageous type who ventured out to peek what is beyond the veiled allegories. There are those who study and understand what illustrations meant nevertheless not afraid to question things that do not fit into the mold. Moreover, there are people who practice a system of morality bears the burden of facing the consequence of swimming against the tide, of feeling the pain of Simon of Cyrene and being haunted by what discoveries he had made. Such is the path of man’s life experience, our Masonic journey, and our individual quest for the Ultimate Truth.

...

Secrets of the Craft

2008-07-20T08:12:00.004-04:00

by Rudy Olano
11Jul06

If there is a secret to be known in our Fraternity, it is the fact that we have no secret worthy of exchange of anybody --Mason or non-Masons life. If the post is referring to the "lost word" since all Master Masons were told of the "secret" substitute of the Lost Master's word, one can find that in Royal Arch Degree in York Rite. Once he knew of that which we are in search of --- he might be surprised that it is not really a secret after all. If our Brother is talking about our rituals, all someone has to do is to type "Duncan Rituals" in any Internet search engines or buy that book on any book store. Those are not secret anymore. It is pointless to pretend there are or is a secret when reality states otherwise

Veiled in allegories and illustrated by symbols. There are lessons in our Craft that are NOT to be taken literally. The hourglass is not about time keeping instrument equivalent to modern watch but it represents human life. The scythe is supposed to be the symbol of time yet the lecture was about death. This why studying lectures, symbols and allegories in our Craft are fascinating. In delving into the lessons of the Craft the number one lesson is not to take anything on its face value. There are meaning(s) behind the symbols, letters, figures and characters--- representations of a message.

Our rituals including obligations were the relics of the past; those were our links to the Craft's rich heritage of the by-gone days. Old or ancient maybe but they are worth keeping since they meant something which teaches us that Freemasonry is a study of science of morality, veiled in allegories and illustrated by symbols. Deciphering or revealing the meanings of symbols and allegories contained in the series of Degrees is what the students of the Craft are studying for. To open up the knowledge we could use for constructing a building not made by hands eternal in heaven. "Secrets" or morality lessons we could share with our fellow human beings for our collective benefit which hopefully makes this world a better place to live. Those are lessons or lights in Freemasonry that needs to be shared and not kept as secrets

From operative to speculative, from solving mathematical problems to philosophical issues, even distinguished Masonic scholars were at odds in describing what is Freemasonry. If this humble writer could hazard an opinion, viewing Freemasonry is similar to defining beauty. What viewers see will depend on many things including what the eyes want to see. Demanding for further light is of no use if the eyes remain close not to mention distortion of light waves if selected filter is involved. Some of us ended our search for that which was lost in the Royal Arch degree. Maybe because we believe that the search was about Faith. For those who did not waver in their Faith, it is beyond that—something filtered through the calibrated prism of his choosing. People wears different lenses, different filters. Some found their Truth by wearing their shades and discovered peace within their own temple, while some continue to remain on their steed to hunt the fire-breathing dragon or to seek out for their own personal version of Holy Grail.

There is no argument about the lessons veiled in allegories and illustrated by symbols. The challenge has always been deciphering those lessons but more important is the application of those what we discovered. Those are the "secrets" that this traveler seeks. Lessons that could make good men a better man who in the process positively influences everything in his path. ---lessons that could be use to the betterment of this world. Lessons that should be shared and not kept as secrets.

...

Schism in Filipino Freemasonry

2008-07-13T09:41:00.005-04:00

By Rudy Olano
09July06

In a manifesto issued after an assembly held in the historic Tacloban City, Leyte, in central Philippines, a splinter group calls for dissolution of "the political bond which have connected us with The Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of the Philippines and assume the powers of Freemasonry, that is, the separate and equal station to which the laws of nature and that of the Great Architect has entitled us" and the formation of United Grand Lodge of the Philippines (UGLP). Charges of election and financial irregularities were cited in the Declaration of Independence dated 8th of July 2006. The group declared that due to reasons stated in the manifesto they “are now compelled to assert our rights, as freemen and masons, to abolish our former system of Masonic government and institute a new one based and founded upon the original principles and ancient landmarks of the Craft.” It is a sad day in the history of Freemasonry in the Philippines indeed.

Weeks before the Tacloban assembly, the announcement generated considerable responses in the GLP forum which is not surprisingly a hot topic. The opinions ranges from dismay, support, and spiced by exchanges regarding the use of all capital letters in the body of the text. Nevertheless, the call for moderation, lost and brotherly love did not prevail. Here is the official declaration of schism of Freemasonry in the Philippines. We live in a free country, breaking away and forming a separate group although not encourage is not entirely unlawful. Each has their own reasons and will certainly responsible for their own actions including its consequences. Veja vu. One can not help himself to recall the recent and parallel development of so called "United Grand Lodge of America." After being displeased with their own state Grand Lodge due to various stated reasons, a group of "Young Free-Masons," formed a Grand Lodge of their own. Instead of limiting their "authority" to the confines of their state, this group claimed the whole country! And again using what seems to be a contradiction to the meaning---“United Grand Lodge of….”

Our brethren who are planned and attended Grand Assembly must be aware of the significance of their action, as a participant of historical event of Freemasonry in the Philippines. Redundant this may be, let this humble brother repeat what he has been written before. “The outcome may not only affect the unity of Filipino Freemasonry but could have far more serious ripple effect to the country as a whole. The influence of our Brethren in the local, regional and national level whether in government and/or business affairs must not be taken out of the equation. Some may see this as presumptuous thinking but let it not be said that Filipino Freemasons initiated the spark which led to the division of their own Nation. Let us pray that I am terribly wrong.”

Freemasonry is more than opportunity to climb the ladder of fame. Its essence is beyond the chance of wearing the wreath or purple of the Fraternity, and has greater meaning than impressive sounding titles. It is a peculiar science of morality veiled in allegories and illustrated by symbols. It is a notion that seeks or dreamed of a world of brotherhood of man under the fatherhood of God. A utopian wish undeniably but as a mere mortal being, what else we can dream of?

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Mackey's Twenty Five Landmarks

2008-07-01T17:28:00.004-04:00

by RmOlano, IM
17Jul05

The twenty five Landmarks according to Albert Mackey has been discussed and challenged by other Masonic scholars such as Albert Pike, Roscoe Pound, R.F. Gould, etc. Not all Grand Lodges recognized or accepted all of the twenty five landmarks. Some accepted the portions of, while some such as California, “have half-heartedly adopted Mackey’s twenty-five.” Albert Pike’s Opinion of Mackey’s Landmark published in 1888, as a commentary to the Mackey, was I would characterize as little blunt to a point of rubbing off some tenets of Brotherly Love. I would agree on some and disagree on others therefore, the point is and always has is that there is no official written Ancient Landmarks that everybody agreed on. The Ancient Landmarks were intentionally vague because to “put it on writing” makes the Landmarks limited to certain issues. By “speaking” in general terms, the ideals of Freemasonry can be applied to multitude of issues limited only to ones imagination.

The following paragraph is an excerpt from Path of a Master Mason published by Educational Bureau, Grand Chapter, Royal Arch Mason:

“ In your journey through the three degrees of Symbolic Masonry and as you have learned the proficiency lecture for each degree, no doubt many questions have arise concerning the meaning of the ritualistic ceremonies, the historical implication and the "why" of the legends of Freemasonry.

Many believe the Sublime Degree of Master Mason to be the ultimate degree of Freemasonry and that all others are added and explanatory. However, most students of Freemasonry agree that the story of the Craft as presented in the three degrees is incomplete.

On the union of the Grand Lodges in 1813, a part of the compact of the union read, "Ancient Craft Masonry consists of three degrees and no more, namely, those of the Entered Apprentice, Fellowcraft and Master Mason including the Holy Royal Arch."

We trust that as a newly made Master Mason, you have been intrigued by the lessons and mysteries of Freemasonry which you have thus far received and that you will in due time investigate those available in the York Rite of Freemasonry in order to complete your Masonic knowledge.”

In the original form of Mackey’s The Landmarks, or Unwritten Laws, the Landmark Second quoted an article of the Union of Grand Lodges in 1813 regarding inclusion of Holy Royal Arch. important fact. I highlighted the factual quotation above. And just to intrigue our brethren mind, I would like to leave them with a short remark.

As a Master Mason, you received the substitute of the Lost Word. The substitute will not allow you to work and receive the Master Mason wages when you travel and work in foreign countries. As a Master Mason your journey is not yet complete.

...

Election Grand Style

2008-06-28T09:39:00.005-04:00

by RmOlano
11Dec06

Questions and Truth.
Instead of writing separate responses to offline emails with same topic, allow me to post my thoughts in regards to your inquiries through this medium of pinoymasons group.

I never meet nor heard of Bro Jimmy Gonzales until I saw his entry to the guestbook. Some of you vouched for his character and qualification which I don’t doubt to be true. I was taken back by the statement posted not only to a different jurisdiction (Arizona) but in Internet as well. We are talking about an election process here and for someone to openly say that one will be elected was a powerful statement of a very confident person. I guess I am expecting some resemblance of humility from those who will or aspiring be entrusted to wield power.

Let us get the facts and avoid the hearsays and speculation as to what is the intent or reason of the message. Certainly, I will not even delve into "correctness" or otherwise, as some hypothesized from previous postings.

Fact 1: Whoever signed the guestbook declared with certain confidence that the election result is already preordained as in "will be."

Fact 2: There was no caveat in the statement as in "maybe," or "if." It is a done deal.

Fact 3: The statement was true since the Brother was elected and the current Deputy Grand Master of GLP.

Election is a process where a vote is to be caste by qualified individual. A motion could be made to have the Secretary cast a unanimous vote BUT anybody could dissent to such motion or have the option to leave and refuse to participate. We could argue that the motion is rather polished way of ensuring the continuity of those who are serving or on-line. I do not agree on this method as it defeats the meaning of the word "election" but that is acceptable and that's how our system works. Not all Junior Wardens automatically assumed the next higher chair due to various reasons, non-qualification, withdrawal, political moves, etc. which is normally manifested by being NOT elected.

Talking about politics, the same good old boys network is alive even within our Order and to deny this fact will never change an iota of reality. Our Order is still composed of men---though flawed but still striving to be a better man. This is a fact of life not borne of speculation which brings us to the topic of truth. Often time's truth hurts and normal people avoid pain, we rather pat ourselves in the back and sing kumbaya while praising each other how good we are. Pity for those who bring discomfort by asking relevant questions, nine lashes for those who bring pain by soliciting for changes, and brand them as not loyalist or even clandestine as if the judges themselves never had spots on their purple aprons.

Some of you asked pointed question such as change in the process, some of you boldly raised issues on electoral change, some wonders what will happen if the research contradicts the current practice, my Brothers there are group of Masons who asked the same questions and concerns, they are now branded as "clandestine."However, if you are just lambasting the powers that be, you'll just a received a copy of poem about don't question your boss or you can get hell out of Dodge because you are a pain in the ass.

...

Masonic Symbols

2008-06-16T18:57:00.007-04:00

By RmOlano
17 June 2005

In Nov 2004, The MW Reynold S. Fajardo, PGM, Grand Secretary of GLP wrote an article titled The Philippine Flag-its Masonic Roots which is currently posted in the website of the Grand Lodge of British Columbia and Yukon. View the excellent historical resource and appreciate the Masonic influence not only to the flag which symbolizes the Filipino nation but also the struggle for independence led by our brethren of the Revolution.

In the aftermath of a recent popular movie, the subject of the Masonic influence or conspiracy, depending on which side the readers is on, again raised the consciousness of the public. With equal regularity, the meaning of the All-seeing Eye on top of the unfinished pyramid printed on the one dollar US bill became the focus of those entities that are not too friendly with the Craft. An excellent article by S. Brent Morris, PM, Eye in the Pyramid published in the Short Talk of Masonic Service Association of North America, gave us the a brief historical data of the of creation of the US Great Seal and the Masons use of All-seeing Eye symbol. The article was a snippet of a historical articles of both US and our Craft and a must read for all students of Freemasonry. WB Morris concluded that the Eye of the Providence and the Masons All-Seeing Eye are the same representation of the Divine Omnipotence. That the symbols shared the same meaning therefore, its use was not necessarily motivated or dominated by Masonic ideal. The belief in a Supreme Being is not proprietary right of the Fraternity.

Freemasonry is a progressive moral science taught by degrees; it is veiled in allegories and illustrated by symbols. Symbols could be defined as something that represents something else such as emblems or signs. Some of the emblems mentioned in our lectures which, most of the time are given a cursory wish to be familiar with at a later time. In our contemporary era where consideration for ticking time gave way to the oral explanation of symbols of our Craft, the newly advanced brethren were instructed to seek the monitor and study its meaning. The same concern for time often times resulted in the opposite effect. With time in mind the following symbols illustrated in the Master Mason lecture are being enumerated as a reminder for our contemporary brothers that Masonry symbols goes beyond the Square and Compass.

a. The Three Steps are emblematical of the three principal stages of human life.

b. The Pot of Incense is symbol of pure heart which is always a suitable gift to the Deity.

c. The Beehive reminded us that man was formed for social and active life. Although independent for all other things, mankind is dependent to each other for protection and security.

d. The Book of Constitution guarded by the Tyler Sword reminds us to be watchful and guard our thoughts, words and action.

e. The Sword Pointing to a Naked Heart is an illustration for us to realize that justice will sooner or later overtake us.

f. The All-seeing Eye is a constant reminder that although our thoughts, words and actions maybe hidden from the eyes of man, He pervades the innermost recesses of the human heart.

g. The Anchor and Ark are representation of mans sanctuary from earthly life. Together it alludes to that divine vessel moored safely in a peaceful harbor which provides sanctuary and rest to the weary travelers of time.

h. The Forty-seventh Problem of Euclid teaches us to be general lovers of the arts and sciences.

i. The Hour-Glass is an emblem of human life. A powerful reminder of how swiftly the sands run, and how rapidly our lives are drawing to a close!

j. The Scythe is an emblem of time, which cuts the brittle thread of life, and launches us into eternity. When the sands within the hourglass dropped its last grain so as we must soon be cut down by the all-devouring Scythe of Time and be gathered into the land where our fathers have gone before us.

There are group of emblems that can not be discussed in public and are reserved to elucidation of the brethren of the Craft. However, it is suffice to say that emblems of mortality and immortality were equally visible to the searching eyes. The undertaking to search for message of symbols of Masonry is also a quest for the answer to the proverbial question of --- What is Freemasonry?

...

Constitutions of 1723

2008-06-07T22:53:00.012-04:00

RmOlano

06-07-08

It is known position that each Grand Lodge is independent and sovereign therefore, does not recognized any "higher" Masonic Bodies such as Supreme Councils. The United Grand Lodge of England (UGLofE) does not nor claimed to be the "superior" Grand Lodge of all Freemasonic Grand Lodges. The UGLofE is bound to its principle of not to join and "has refused and will continue to refuse, to participate in Conferences with so-called International Associations claiming to represent Freemasonry...”

The often referenced Anderson’s Constitutions of 1723 has been replaced and updated since, starting with original Constitutions of 1815 when competing Grand Lodges became the United Grand Lodge of England. The latest edition of UGLofE’s Constitution can be accessed in their website. The front matter listed the years and number of revisions of the document which showed that it was edited and published thirty-five times of which 2007 was the latest. Among the addition from Anderson's work is the Aims and Relationships of the Craft which was accepted in 1949.

Furthermore, the Constitutions of 2007 provided eight (8) conditions relative to the Basic Principles For Grand Lodge Recognition which was accepted in 1924. The first principle stated, ”Regularity of origin; i.e. each Grand Lodge shall have been established lawfully by a duly recognized Grand Lodge or by three or more regularly constituted Lodges." Unlike the recent "Grand Lodge of All England" which was formed by individual Masons, the Independent Grand Lodge of Philippine Islands (IGPLI) was established "by three or more regularly constituted Lodges."

The current "General Laws and Regulations" is still in page 1 of the Constitutions. The "sovereign jurisdiction" discussed in 2007 edition refers to Lodges undisputed authority over the EA, FC and MM Degrees and not about geographical territory.

To quote, use or treat Constitutions of 1723 as a reference for contemporary Masonic legal application has some basic flaws. One, it was superceded and two, it was applicable only to Grand Lodge of England BEFORE the Union of 1813. And three, unless adopted by verbatim by using Grand Lodge, the document does not have legal authority beyond those under its own jurisdiction. The point is that the so-called Modern’s Constitutions of 1723 is a nice reference but should not be taken literally as it was way long been replaced by its intended user--- the Premier Grand Lodge of England. Though the Masonic credentials or lack thereof of Rev. James Anderson is a subject by itself, his work gave the Craft a framework for subsequent editions of Constitutions of United Grand Lodge of England and other Grand Lodges.

Photo credit:

Anderson's Constitution of 1723 from Grand Lodge of British Columbia and Yukon website.

...

A Dissenting View
by John L. Cooper III

johnlilburnfreemason@gmail.com
June 9, 2008

I would like to offer a dissenting view on this subject. The Constitutions of 1723 has greater importance in Freemasonry than any of its successors, either for the Grand Lodge of England, the United Grand Lodge of England, or any other grand lodges which came into existence since then. It was a radical statement of enlightenment philosophy in Masonic terms, particularly Article I – “Concerning God and Religion”. Later revisions by the Grand Lodge of England (1738), et seq., were more conservative statements of the original, probably occasioned by criticism from the church on the “deistic” implications of the original. While the Grand Lodge of England had the authority to change its constitution, and while other grand lodges have the right to establish their own constitutions, to the extent that they move away from the original, to that extent have the abandoned a radical commitment made at the very beginning of speculative Freemasonry.

There is a certain similarity to the Constitution of the United States. While it has been amended over the years, the majestic commitment to the kind of society it envisioned has remained the hallmark of American society. The original has inspired not only amendments in fulfillment of the original, but court interpretations over the years since 1787 have embedded the meaning and inspiration of the original in our form of government. In a similar fashion, Article I of the Constitutions of 1723 sets the standard for future development. That’s why Freemasonry that is restricted to a particular religion (the Swedish Rite, for example) is suspect as to its regularity, although we have reluctantly come to accept that rite as legitimate – as long as it doesn’t become the majority position of all of Freemasonry.

The Constitutions of 1723 deserves our respect, if not our slavish devotion. Certainly there are parts that have, and should have, been changed. The “physical disqualification” in the original deserves to have been consigned to the dustbin of history. But as a symbol of Freemasonry as an expression of the Enlightenment, it is unsurpassed by any of its successors.

...

*** Posted with permission from John Cooper III, Past Grand Secretary, GLofCA. An excellent article and a different view coming from his perpective. Though I am seeing the document through different prism, I am glad that my conclusion is in-line with his opinion. Thank you for taking time reading my ramblings and imparting your thought. /rmo12Jun08.

CONTEMPORARY MASONRY

2008-06-05T20:17:00.006-04:00

by RmOlano
4Jun05

In February 2004 issue of The Short Talk Bulletin printed by Masonic Information Center, a summary of the report regarding Masonic Public Awareness Program was discussed. A presentation was made and endorsed by the Grand Masters Conference at Washington, DC. The MIC proposed to create a Public Awareness Program to “take immediate steps to improve its (Masonic fraternity) image with the general public.” The short article also mentioned the “urgent need to reinvigorate enthusiasm among our current members.” The Center deduced that the fraternity should be building community based on shared Masonic values, construct positive environment, support sharing of idea and open discussion, welcome diversity, train members to be leader, adapting Masonic values for today’s living, and take care of the welfare of other Masons and their families. The Masonic Information Center then listed “two major hurdles that must be overcome:”

1. Freemasonry evolved from enlightened thinking and became trapped in its emphasis on ritual as the completion of a Mason’s education about the fraternity.
2. Contemporary Masonic performance conflicts with early Masonic values. How do you perform Masonry within the context of today’s environment?

The article closed by stating that answers to the questions will depend on the success of the Public Awareness Program and the ability to see the “urgent priority” and undertake the “this critical need.”

While community building is also an objective of other well known groups such as Lions Club, Rotarians, and others, this well intended concept should not be first on the list of this revised and modern Masonic goal, if I ever agree on one. A group of men living in Masonic ideals is already living in a Masonic community. “Build(ing) a community based on shared Masonic values” is a utopian thinking worthy of Pinocchio’s reverie. Freemasonry is about building a temple not made by hands and Eternal in Heaven. The stated six goals are individual actions which are the results of Masons actions who truly understands the meaning of Freemasonry. Our well intended brethren in MIC might be delving into issues beyond their office authority. Educating the public of who were are not Masons is an ocean apart from trying to “reinvigorate enthusiasm among current members” which, I submit that deserves more priority than improving the Masonic image from the public. What is the value of spending time and effort to “improved image” while wilting away its own members interest?

As to the major impediments to be overcome, aside from bigotry and homosexuality, this writer is puzzled on the issue of “early Masonic values” that clashed with “Contemporary Masonic performance.” Living a life guided by the Tenets of Freemasonry---Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth should not be harder than our ancient Brethren in the past when comparing to living and “perform(ing) Masonry within the context of today’s environment.” There was a time when a mans word is enough to seal an agreement while in our modern time, emails doesnt count much in legal court.

In closing, this writer is in agreement regarding the “entrapment” of the today’s Freemasonry emphasis on exact wordings, and floor work rituals while impressive to the sideliners is almost always incomprehensible to almost always blindfolded candidates. The idea however, was that the effort to commit to memory the parts of the lectures and other mental requirements has the same effect as to the study of Freemasonry. The student needs to understand the message of the sentence or paragraph in order to interpret and the use his “corporeal and mental faculties to their fullest energy.” Delivering a lecture is not the same as giving a lecture. One could train a parrot to speak but who would listen to a parrot repeatedly? Using “contemporary” words will aid in comprehension and memorization of the beautiful Lessons or Mysteries of Freemasonry. Let us focus on the message not to the messenger. What Freemasonry need’s is not PR but BR---Brethren Relations. Men with Masonic ideals are the real engines of the Age of Enlightenment.

...

Failure to Act

2008-05-25T00:09:00.008-04:00

RmOlano

01May08

The failure of Acacia Fund is the failure of people who composed or belongs to a certain group/brand of Fraternity either through indifference, lack of moral values and/or total ignorance of what Freemasonry is about. It is not the Craft fault to be used as a base for ego tripping, it is not the Fraternity's Landmarks to elect leaders and members who will bring shame to the Order, it is not Freemasonry's objective to turn the organization into vehicle of social welfare, good-old-boy-network or stepladder to "fame" by those who crave for self gratification.

The Fraternity is an avenue where men can practice a notion called, Freemasonry--- an ideal such as this doesn't die or get corrupted, it is those with weak moral values that fails --- not the Craft itself. Hence, with all due respect my Brother, through I would venture to say that I understand the point of the message, I am in disagreement as to where the failure must be blamed to.

We should call spade a spade--- those who allow such things happen in the name of "Harmony," those who call themselves "Masons" who kept silent in fear of being castigated by those in power, and those who chose to bury their head and turned their backs to the "Truth" are equally guilty of letting our Fraternity into disarray. The failure of GLP's Acacia Fund is a failure of Filipino men who called themselves "Masons." It was a failure to act and let a small number of real Masons to take the brunt of the work. Fence sitters with weak moral resolve, opportunists who looked out for their own agenda and those men who think wearing a ball cap, ring or sporting a "Masonic" T-shirt makes them a Mason---pathetic men who think they found the secret of Freemasonry must share the burden of this failure.

...

*** originally posted at Filipino Masons-Independent and Free blog.

Not A High Point

2008-05-24T23:40:00.006-04:00

RmOlano
13Apr08

the following are excerpts from postings before and after being banned from a Filipino Masonic discussion group:

“Anyone is free to leave the fraternity or this group if one feels that it no longer fits his views” because “we are always governed by certain rules which we abide.” But before someone pick up his marbles and leave to tell mother that there are bullies in the playground, let me ask for clarification of seemingly well thought “to prevent animosity it was decided not to identify a brother belonging to a certain jurisdiction.” Who was the “it” that made the decision? Did the moderators got together and agreed to this idea or maybe the group was consulted for their opinions and concurred that this is the right thing to do for the benefit of the group? Or this is another example of what the VW Jim Best posted earlier, “This smacks of the same dictatorial policy the immediate Past Grand Master was accused of...”

While it is true that we all come to this group on “our own freewill and accord” but that does not give anyone a license to shove anything to member’s throat. This is not an example of a notion we all proud to flaunt around. Quoting Bro Baltazar of Oceanside-San Dieguito No. 381 earlier post, “This is not Freemasonry to me”--- that would be interesting item on T-shirts and most especially on a banner.

Despite of what happened, I am still holding my ground that the group is not connected or in the words of a Brother "front of iGLP." The recent petty ruling of site owner that can be best summarized by VW Jim Best as "dictatorial" comment has the intent of preserving harmony within the group by burying ones head in the hole so to speak. It has a good intention but was poorly conceived, assessed as well as dismally executed.

As I mentioned to VW Ben Apacible, I wish the unfortunate incident did not torpedoed what he is laboring ever since the schism finally exploded. I am urging the Brother to reconsider his feelings regarding IGLPI Brethren. They are OUR Brothers of the Craft regardless of how some in GLP distorted the real meaning of "clandestine."

For a site that is so proud or being loud about "Brotherly Love," the recent experience with the group was certainly not a high point of being a Filipino Freemason.

...

UNIVERSAL MASONRY

2008-05-11T11:14:00.015-04:00

by RmOlano
16May06

In an article titled Universal Masonry, by the MW Brother Conrad Hahn, PGM, Deputy Executive Secretary of Masonic Service Association, he elucidated the rough and rugged road towards the realization of what he calls a Universal Masonry. In it, he gave us some of the historical facts related to the fraternal recognition practices between Grand Lodges and Grand Orients. The MW correctly stated that not all Freemasons are “free” to communicate with other brethren not” recognized” by their own governing body called Grand Lodge/Orients. Although the removal of the requirement for a belief in a Supreme Being was a popular excuse of withdrawing the “recognition” to other Masonic Lodges, the same old myopic excuse of racial bigotry is rarely mentioned. A student of the craft don’t have to seek far to be confronted with fraternal relationship issue with Prince Hall Lodges. The notion of Brotherhood of Man under the Fatherhood of God is somehow became a rhetorical quest for definition of Man and God.

Somewhat interesting is the silent response to the accolades bestowed to deeds committed by Freemasons whether “regular” or “clandestine.” It seems like that we Freemasons do not feel obligated to inform the general public of the difference. When the occasion for laurel wreath of victory to rest upon the head, or hang jewels to fit the diadem, we seems to forget the affiliation of famous black brother from Prince Hall Lodge or the Grand Orient Lodge membership of brother revolutionary General. Another case in point is the fact that Freemasons under the jurisdiction of Spanish Grand Orient initiated the Philippine Revolution. The “Masonically inspired and lead revolution,” Bro. Emilio Aguinaldo, the first President of the Philippines was referring to was not due to the Freemasons under the jurisdiction of various Grand Lodges from United States. Grand Orient Lodges were already established in the Philippines before the creation of the Grand Lodge of the Philippines which calls Grand Lodge of California as its Mother Grand Lodge. Under the pretext of being "different" these proud (rightly so) Lodges were declared “clandestine.” All "regular" Masons are prohibited to engage in any Masonic communications with "irregular" Masons. The notion of Brotherhood of Man under the Fatherhood of God is somehow became a rhetorical quest for definition of “standard” Freemasonry.

MW Hahn exhorted the readers to continue dream of “a universal Masonry, a universal Brotherhood of Man, without undermining the one common and universal aspiration of the fraternity which has appealed to men in every age and climate. The Brotherhood of Man under the Fatherhood of God is the universal dream of men of good will everywhere who call themselves Masons. To abandon that dream is to abandon Freemasonry. To abolish those tenets is to abolish Freemasonry. A Mason must dream if he is to continue his speculative building. A universal Masonry? Keep dreaming and building; it's on its way!”

Our Craft was created by men who united by a common desire developed a method of study called Freemasonry which can be defined as a progressive moral science taught by degrees and as Bro Albert Pike written, "a system of morality, veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols." Freemasons came from the same stock of men who saddled with human weakness tend to slide back to the slippery slope of creature existence. The Craft is not perfect as it was and still is composed of men. Men who still struggle to find peace within him. Men who knew that someday when his "weary feet shall come to the end of his toilsome journey and from nerveless grasp shall drop forever the working tools of life" --- hope that the "record of his life and action shall be as pure and spotless" as his lambskin apron. Men who dreams to hear the welcome words, “Well done my faithful servant; enter thou to the joy of the Lord.” The spirit of Universal Masonry can also be found in a sociological entity called--- religion. The notion of Brotherhood of Man under the Fatherhood of God is now became a rhetorical quest for a question ---- a Universal religion?

*** printed in first publication of IGPI Journal, November 2008. ***

...

Higher Degrees

2008-04-30T17:46:00.018-04:00

by RmOlano
30Dec05

“Higher degrees” are being work in “higher bodies” or more appropriately called, appendant bodies or Rites. Various Rites exists throughout the world, Scottish, York, Swedish, German, Egyptian, etc. Generally, any degrees after 3rd or Master Mason Degree are called or known as “higher degrees.” For lack of a better example which I hope that won’t offend other brothers who believed that they have already attained the Sublime Degree of Master Mason and all others are superfluous. The bottom line is that we can consider the Rite’s degrees as some sort of "college" level work after completing the Master Mason Degree.

The official explanation is that the additional degrees are not to be seen as a vertical progression but rather a horizontal expansion. It can be described as a trek to next the phase of travel or preparation prior to entrance to a door that offers promise of obtaining further light. The more portals one allowed to enter, the more unknowns could possibly be discovered. There are those brethren who subscribed to this concept and never joined the Rites and there are those who joined and understand that humility is a virtue. After all no one carries a college diploma in a wallet. It is usually left in the office or home. There are number of Brethren who still struggle to rationalize the notion of three is equal or not greater than 32. Unlike the Scottish Rite, the York Rite does not use numerical designation, but instead opted for a loosely organized structure. The final degree is called Knights Templar which requires that the candidate must be or be ready to defend Christian belief. Beyond that there are invitational bodies such as, Priory for KYCH of York Rite, AMD, honorary degrees such as 33rd of Scottish Rite, and others. I am not in a position to explain the prerequisites but the one thing that is common to all is that the Brethren don’t ask to be one but rather wait to get invited.

Masonry is a progressive moral science taught by degrees only; it is veiled in allegories and illustrated by symbols. In order to really appreciate the lessons or workings in York or Scottish Rites, a Master Mason must have a good foundation in his grade school before advancing into college works. It is a fact that majority of Masons believes that being a Master Mason or 3rd Degree is enough and contented thus missing what knowledge and opportunities that awaits them in the so-called appendant or higher bodies.

In the conclusion of The Higher Degrees’ Handbook by WB J.S.M. Ward, he wrote that, "... any man who has never gone beyond the Craft has still much to learn … Until he has taken them (Higher Degrees) he is in no position to form any kind of opinion, and after he has done so I feel sure that he will no longer speak slightingly of some of the greatest mysteries of this or any Age.”

...

A Question

2008-04-19T16:40:00.010-04:00

by Rudy Olano
Hanford Lodge No. 279
10May06

"I trust this finds you well. I hope you do not find this improper and if so then please forgive me on basis of my age (19), but after reading your posts, you seem to posses an understanding and wisdom that far surpasses many others therefore may I ask the question which you recently asked me:

Is your involvement in the Masonic doctrine part of your search for the Light?"

Answer:

Let me thank you for the very nice words which seems to validate your rationale for apologizing. If you look hard enough you will find that your expectation might be in jeopardy. Nevertheless, in behalf of those who did not received your full attention, allow me if I may, to accept your thought in their behalf.

Somebody said that it is far easier to ask for answers than knowing the question. I indeed asked you a question and your response was quite a statement--- “a subject of every waking moment.” Your question regarding morality did elicit a lively reaction from the group including a fellow with a MA degree in Philosophy. You certainly know how to raise relevant issues--- you know your questions. An advance way of thinking with, should I say, a hint of yearning in Searching for that Which was Lost.

To your question, as my journey is not yet complete so, let me suggest that the answer is the other way around. It is the search for what Freemasonry is all about that I begin to understand that I lost something valuable and that I have to travel over a rough and rugged road bisected with trials and tribulations to find what I am searching for. --- Only to find out that I already know the answer, I just did not want to admit it.

So, here we are, where we started, a question to answer an inquiry. A familiar phrase to all Brethren of the Craft---What came you here to do? One way to answer that is to look deep into our heart----for yet another question.

...

*** How pleasant it is to dwell in the knowledge that upon reaching lawful age the young man was properly vouched for and continued his search by knocking and gaining admission. May he find himself in his travel as well. ***

Black Cube Reject

2008-04-17T21:29:00.008-04:00

by Rudy Olano
Hanford Lodge No. 279
11June06

Numerous articles and debates about the “Tyranny of the Black Cube" has been on going for sometime, along with other issues such as regularity of certain "brand" of Freemasonry, women, spawning of breakaways "Grand Lodges," etc. The current system of one negative overruling the majority of positive votes was adopted with a thought of preserving harmony within the Lodge in particular and the Fraternity in general. A candidate that is acceptable by all members of the Lodge not by some or portion thereof is a key and major contributor to the continuing vitality of the Craft.

Granted that investigation has been conducted and recommendations were signed by members of the Lodge but as long as the rule of “black cube reject" endures, the Lodge must honor this time honored tradition. We have been participant of multiple elections of the same candidate on the same meeting to "ensure there was not a mistake" and/or subjected to a "raised voiced" from the East questioning the integrity of the unknown brother who caste the offending vote. When harmony of the Lodge is being disturbed because of a nonmember/candidate, one begins to ask the brotherhood aspect of the Lodge. A petitioner desire over a brother's feeling or thought about somebody wanting "to participate in our privileges?"

An indication of concern if not a flat out rejection by a non-member of a Lodge is to my opinion a separate subject by itself. This is a case of a non acceptance of a single member that overruled the majority. The dissention cannot be generally classified as an abuse but rather an exercise of a Brother’s right not privilege as or if stated in each Lodge constitution. Abuse could also come from implied pressure from others who also have their own agenda. Be it may a friend, relative or simply a true worthy candidate, campaigning to sway the direction of vote is to my myopic opinion does not deserve a time and place within the Lodge. Each of us regardless of current or past office can only cast one ballot; raising tenor from the august chair can only add cloud to otherwise simple affair.

Each Brother must be given a chance to formulate his own decision. Let him step in the center of the mosaic pavement, conduct his business and have peace in his resolve. Each of us is given a chance in full view of every one present to voice what is in our heart. In front of three Great Lights, everyone acknowledge what he is about to do. The sign signifies the acceptance of his responsibilities and wish to forthcoming events. To abuse the solemnity of the proceeding shows the roughness of still unpolished stone. Rough ashlar hoping to be a polished/perfect ashlar someday. If the Fraternity decided to disregard his vote, are we implying to get different stone rather than polishing what we already started?

Our Craft will continue to exist not because of quantity but of the quality. There are traditions worth keeping and I believe the Craft should keep this one.

...

To a Brother Templar

2008-04-15T16:55:00.029-04:00

by Rudy Olano
Hanford Lodge No. 279
08Apr05

One of the reasons why our Craft was/still persecuted by the Romans (not by the Greeks) is because of our respect to other people beliefs---religious tolerance. Whether in the Lodge, Chapter, Council or Asylum, we promote the concept of agreeing to disagree. Having said that, the glaring mistake that the Brother eloquently pointed out relative to Tranformations and Reflection article is a matter of opinion since no one is certain if we are even taking about the same individual. The Brethren sources might be correct regarding Yeshua bar Yusuf Ansaret and my sources could be also correct regarding Yesu bin Yusef/ Jesus son of Joseph husband of Mary or the Jesus the Nasorian. Certainly the Jewish historian, Josephus in his writings did not even mentioned an event of Biblical proportion and its ancillary effects but did noted a beheading of a fellow known as the Baptist. We all know that history is an event agreed upon by the historians. Because such events did not get written in papyrus, stone, paper or word processor, meant the said event did not occurred. Therefore, let me disagree with the Brother's conclusion and leave it at that.

The passing away of the Bishop of Rome is a poignant history to the faithful all over the Catholic world. He was a man of many accomplishments, truly a man of Peace. Among few of the unprecedented actions he made was the apology to the victims of Inquisitions. A nice gesture to those already dead who really cares for the word—I’m sorry we killed you because we don’t believe in religious tolerance. Ironic, since the Vatican also did not rescind the Bull regarding excommunication to all Catholic males who joined the Fraternity. Instead they took the easy way out and let the individual parish priest to make the determination as to the eligibility based on the individual activity related to the security and well being of the Church. I am preaching to the choir here. Anyway, this writer hoped that the new Pope will also reconsider and extend the apology to the Knights Templar. But then again, it could be another wishful thinking on my part.

...

*** reposted on occassion of Pope Benedict today's arrival for a visit to NewYork. (15Apr08)

Comments on Widow Son

2008-04-06T13:28:00.013-04:00

Rudy Olano, IM
Visalia Council No. 43
29Apr05

In a response to an article titled Widow Son by an unknown author, the writing was about two separate individuals. It relates to the Grand Master Hiram Abif of our Masonic legend and St. Paul, whose real name was Saul, a born again Christian, unknown and never mentioned in any Masonic literature. While it is arguable that both contributions to the human kind were stuff made from rich imagination, our unknown author might be tad generous in giving credit to both men. Allegories are based on fictional characters. The Hiram Legend of the Third Degree is a myth and should not be confused to the historical facts. Nowhere in the Bible even mentioned that Hiram Abif was killed. Some scholars suggested that Hiram Abif of the Bible could be a retired king of Tyre, even speculated from the meaning of the name that he might be the father or father-in-law of Hiram of Tyre. The point is whoever he was, Hiram Abif was a man of some high statute and somehow completed the construction of the first King Solomon’s Temple.

Our Hiram Abif was killed by standing steadfast to his principle. Accosted by violence, he paid the price for not divulging information to the unworthy. That was the main story. My Brethren, let me point out that however the sacrifice was in the highest order that was not the lesson in Third Degree. The message is not about holding on to the secret in face of torture and death but it is about losing and searching for something very important. A concept that one has to travel from West to East on the journey to a better life.

There is no secret in today’s Freemasonry that is worth of Brethren or anyone's life. Contemporary Freemasonry does not keep secret that is so valuable that the Craft teaches us to endure torture or death for its protection. That notion is what Hollywood movies were made of. Walking in Hiram Abif footstep might be noble but I submit that it might be misstep. We have to look a little farther in understanding the Hiram Legend. On the surface the lesson is an example of one fidelity to his duty but a more closer look through a veil or to the totality of the Legend and its appendant rituals, the real lesson or mystery is directed to an individual soul--- to realize something was lost and to inspire him to the most exalted idea of rediscovering of something that which was lost. A journey of our lives.

...

Happy Birthday to my wife, my apology for 30-years worth of troubles

and

farewell to SSgt John Charles "from my cold dead hand" Heston, B-25 RO/Gunner, 11th AF, WWII

Transformation and Reflections

2008-03-23T17:27:00.012-04:00

by RmOlano
26Mar05

Receiving emails with subjects ranging from reminders of our duty as Christians, family relationship, recognizing the greatest gift of all to the meaning of washing feet, makes me appreciate that this is the time when Holy Week and Eastern bunny comes together. In an extended version of Catholic Mass celebrated to commemorate the Palm Sunday, I was surprised to the changes of terminology used during the ceremony. The two thieves crucified are now called “revolutionaries” and Jesus of Nazareth is now called ‘Jesus the Nazorean.” As those words emanated from the crowd, I looked around to see if I could detect any reaction. It there are, I failed to detect it as the faithful continued on. The change left me almost speechless. As I stood outside the church waiting for the rest of the family, I looked around and tried to listen if I could hear comment of at least a buzz about that change. Nothing.

The changes don’t originate from the local parishes or Dioceses; Roman Catholic Church is not known to make alteration to their Canons overnight. The fact that the town of Nazareth did not existed in time of Jesus was confirmed by archeology for some time and the change was the acceptance of that reality. The Jesus of Nazareth I knew and taught about doesn’t really exist; instead the New Testament is about Jesus the Nazorean. On the surface, the change seems to minor but if we consider the resulting difference of the meaning, it dramatically changes the complexion of the character. The former was an individual from a small insignificant town while the later was a highly accomplished religious leader. In the book The Templar Revelation, Nasorean came from Hebrew word notsrim, meaning keepers or preservers. Not everybody wanted to or can be a nasorean. Only those who have the ability and means can. The fact was that we could use the term “elite” to be one. He was not from some backward town. Another misconception is being a carpenter. In the book, the authors reported that the original word used was naggar which means carpenter or learned man. A religious leader or priest could be a carpenter but most likely a scholar---learned man. And as a man of stature, His recruit or disciples were most likely owner of fishing boats and not necessarily fishermen themselves. Men of means. Women with resources to support themselves or in modern terms, rich women were a rarity in those times. When she is somewhat different from the majority such as letting her hair falls or uncovered in public, she is called magdala. Magdala or Magdalene doesn’t necessarily mean prostitute, she is just unusual or special. Maria Magdala could mean Mary the unusual or Mary the special---very special.

A thief to revolutionaries is another transformation that made me squirmed as unlike the previous fact with archeology to back it up. The implication here was that Jesus was executed by Romans not Jews along with rebels fighting the Roman Empire. Crucifixion is a slow public torture resulting in death by suffocation and exclusively reserved to the enemies of the Empire i.e. rebels, zealots or Iscariots which leads us to the issue of zealots or freedom fighters (depending whose side you are on) in the mist of “peace loving” group. He was arrested by a cohort of Roman soldiers; cohort is an infantry unit about the size of company, more soldiers if a cohort is composed of non-Roman legionnaires. The numbers of soldiers involved in arresting an individual give us a hint of seriousness on the part of Romans during the operation. Surely the Roman occupation soldiers were not scared of a religious leader with twelve hard core followers. But when someone is capable of commanding and attracting thousand of people, prudent commanders adapt to the situation for the completion of the mission and safety of his men. The ability of organizing for feeding thousand of people with loaves of bread without enticing riot, by grouping them in companies or ranks of fifty, hundred and command them to sit upon the green grass (Mark 6:39-40) has a tint of discipline often found in military environment. Jesus the Nasorean was publicly put to death along with two zealots by the Romans as a warning and example for the Jews to take a heed. History tells us via Josephus that the Jews did not and fought on resulting in the destruction of the second Temple and the last stand at Masada.

These “small” detailed alterations might not be a noteworthy to the big scheme of things for one might observe that the central issue or Dogma has not change. The Nicene Creed was not amended, the Trinity, resurrection, one church and others were not modified. Certainly the modification will not cause a massive turnaround by the faithful. Years of being conditioned to respond and accept the teachings from the church took care of the Doubting Thomases, slight changes were not really that noticeable.

Freemasonry taught us not to accept its own lessons on its face value. There are meaning and messages behind the allegory, symbols and illustrations. As a creature expected to utilize our “corporeal and mental faculties to their fullest energy,” rational thinking minds will lead us to ask what other things in the Bible that might change in the future? And for the Knights Templars, who really was Simon of Cyrene?

...

A Person Of Interest (aka Suspect)

2008-03-06T21:59:00.012-05:00

By RmOlano
17Feb08

In an article Enemies List by WB Tim Bryce, he spoke of the existence of a Masonic version of ”Nixon’s Administrations of (was) maintaining an “Enemies List” of any and all antagonists to the policies of the White House.” He further mentioned that the “activities of the people on the list were closely scrutinized by the administration and when necessary, life was made difficult for them by the administration.” Although the WB admitted his doubt about the existence of the list, he did not claim if he was going to be surprised if such list does turn out to be real. The article engages a familiar incident that may have relevance to the subject. The message of the WB Bryce’s editorial is similar to a recent formal letter received by this writer, which may somehow suggest the possibility of the reality of a list filed under “Person Of Interest (POI).”

The Grand Lodge Secretary’s letter is in behalf of the Grand Lodge of California (GLC) Grand Master’s inquiry concerning the Grand Lodge of the Philippines (GLP) Grand Master (GM) request to investigate the information about the involvement of this writer with the rival Grand Lodge in that country. The Grand Master of all Masons in California wanted that all the facts be made available to him as the GLP GM asserted that the member in question “had been active in supporting the clandestine Grand Lodge in that jurisdiction.”

Being a member of various international and national Masonic discussion groups, which includes non-Masons and Masons under the jurisdiction of various Grand Lodges, Orients of recognized, unrecognized and/or so-called “clandestine,” the possibility of communication not only existed but occurred in regards to exchanging interactions with Masonic topics and interest. The POI however, denied that he physically visited, entered nor sat in a Lodge of “clandestine” Masons regardless if that act is considered as “actively supporting” the rival Grand Lodge.

Furthermore, the Person of Interest admitted the authorship of a number of articles, which were highly critical to GLP because of the expulsion of many regularly made Masons. Six regularly constituted Masonic Lodges, some older than the GLP itself, passed their own Lodge resolutions to form their own Grand Lodge (IGLPI). Instead of dealing with subordinate Lodges, the sitting GLP GM expelled certain members of six Lodges without any trial or appeal. This occurred after a number of Lodges from a different area declared independence and formed their own Masonic governing body calling themselves the United Grand Lodge of the Philippines (UGLP). Despite the public announcement of its separation from GLP, no one was expelled or suspended from UGLP as opposed to IGLPI. This anomaly gave the POI reason to question the apparent unbalanced approach to the issue. His thoughts are well documented in his blog –Letters and Figures and website--- Under the 9th Arch. Also during this time, GLC GM signed a memorandum stating that no Grand Officers from GLP will be admitted to any Lodges under the jurisdiction of GLC without GM’s written approval.

In light of numerous written thoughts shared in various discussion groups, blogsites and websites, it is not surprising to receive positive feedback from friends and members of IGLPI but also to receive barbs, and stones from GLP. This is no different than the pointed responses received from supporters and personal emails from one of the founders of United Grand Lodge of America (UGLA)—Jeff Peace and blog comment exchanges from the Grand Lodge Secretary of Grand Lodge of All England---Peter Clatworthy. In addition, it may be pointed out that both could be described as “irregular” or “clandestine” Masons depending on which definition was used. Moreover, while in this topic, it is noteworthy that according to GGOKCS website, a certain "Jaime Y. Gonzales" was listed as a member of Alpha Class-May01 of “Snakes” which happens to be classified by GLC as a clandestine Masonic formation.

Despite the number of Brethren who communicated with IGLPI via Masonic forums, the POI was somewhat surprised to be the subject of personal inquiry by the Grand Master of GLP at the time when both Grand Lodges were working “on a number of very serious issues pertaining to” both jurisdictions. Although the POI hardly considers himself important enough to be a part of “very serious issues,” the query caused the writer to look back on what could cause the Filipino GM to recall such an insignificant name.

Few years back while researching for Masonic articles he was writing, the POI stumbled on an entry to the Grand Lodge of Arizona’s webpage, where the GLP Grand Senior Warden posted that he would be elected as Deputy GM the following year. The writer commented in a Filipino Masons’ discussion group regarding this presumptuous remark that the point is about an election process and not about the person who made the comment. Nevertheless, the topic touched a few raw nerves from GLP members, inciting a hosting of a “Jubelum Welcome Party” in San Diego for the writer. A Past Grand Officer of GLP promised to forward the comments to the elected DGM—who is currently the GM of GLP.

After a two-year span of trying to find the whereabouts of his GLP dues card/membership ID, the POI tendered his resignation/demit from his mother Lodge last year. The callous reply via a third party to just pay and wait for the card and another empty promise were the kind of responses/lack thereof is an example of why GLC GM banned the GLP GM and any of his Grand Officers from visiting Lodges in California last year. It was fascinating to read the email forwarded by a San Diego-based Brother in which then-GLP DGM (current GLP GM) blamed Filipino Masons in the US for starting the issue, causing the non-admission of GLP officers in California without GLC GM’s written permission.

Taking advantage of the ongoing dialog between Grand Lodges, the POI requested the GLC Grand Master to ask the GLP GM to prevent members of GLP to access official GLP Records and stop publishing name, date of birth, home address, and telephone numbers including posting those information in Internet discussion groups citing official GLP records as the source. Such postings are violation of privacy and a possible source of identity theft. An email to the discussion group owners was sent to protest this breach of personal information policy. The POI made it clear to a GLP Past Grand Lodge Inspector that should the POI’s family receive unsolicited/crank emails or phone calls at his California residence, the POI would hold the PGLI as personally responsible.

Aside from a possible “Enemies List” or the milder “Person Of Interest” list, one thing that stands out is the fact that there are people who do not want to be questioned or be criticized because they believe in “benevolent dictatorship.” As the POI wrote in one of his articles--- “Freemasonry is not a dictatorial institution, therefore, no one has an absolute power and that includes the Grand Master. The day when a mere mortal start thinking of himself as a monarch of the Fraternity and the time when members accept that illusion – the organization they are in is no longer the Craft we knew. Only those with interior motives will allow that to happen and hoodwinked fools to continue to stay.” One can easily end up on a list because of the belief that, "Words are manifestation of our inner thoughts, once released it can not be taken back. Unless certain, it is wiser to keep it rather than making a noise otherwise, take ownership of your words--- spoken or written."

If a Person Of Interest can be a part of a list, it is then possible for us to allow him to wear it as a symbol. As the WB Tim Bryce’s wrote in Enemies List article, “I would probably consider it an Honor Roll of Masons, a sort of Red Badge of Courage for speaking from the heart and trying to improve the status quo… After all, we should be acting more like Masons than like the Mafia.”

...

For Men's Only

2008-02-24T18:16:00.009-05:00

by RmOlano
24Feb08rev1

In 1888 response to Albert Mackey's Landmarks, Albert Pike wrote that Freemasonry's "true definition is that it is a system of morality, veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols." Like defining beauty, Freemasonry can be seen, and interpreted in many ways limited only to the eyes of beholders. Some it can be a social or fraternal group, for others it can be a way of life. If we subscribed to the notion that this Craft is about social interaction then there is a merit in grouping the members according to gender. Specific or mixed does makes sense as long as nobody is forced to join a group, be it may specific or combination thereof. If men can form our own group then women should have all the rights to form their own. While “mixed company” has its merits and roadblocks, in my own myopic view, it will take time for the mainstream Freemasons to accept this format. We don’t have to look far to see the present issues the Fraternity is dealing with all-male Fraternity let alone all-female Masonic Lodges.

Although we are witnessing some progress or at least not outright refusal to acknowledge the existence of the regularity of all-female Freemasonry, it is amazing to be an eyewitness of some Brethren who albeit their position and stature within the Fraternity continue to defy the very same Tenets of the Craft. In our lecture, we are reminded that Justice is “that standard or boundary of right which enables us to render unto every man his just due, without distinction.” Without understanding justice how can we find Truth, which brings to the dilemma of the kind of Brotherly Love we practice if we are hoodwinked from the Truth?

Freemasonry does change. It was said to evolve from operative to speculative. Operative, from actual builders of magnificent edifices to memorialize human offerings to Deity to speculative---we are now erecting “temples not made by hands.” The Fraternity was also postulated to originate from all male warrior-monks---Templar nevertheless, in our contemporary times; defending ones faith is not a gender selective domain. The Degree of Master Mason was relatively “new” addition. The institution of Grand Lodge is also a change. Even the popular square and compass as Masonic emblem was a result of change. As to our Obligation, it seems strange to hold ourselves only to selected part because we abhorred a portion thereof. We all know that like all other corporeal part of the Craft, the Obligation which some of us hold so dearly is also but a symbol of the Freemasonry. Something not to be taken literally but to interpret and study it as one of the Mysteries/Lessons of the Craft.

If we see the Craft through Albert Pikes vision in 1888 that the ideal is about "building a temple not made by hands, but eternal in heaven," who in this world can claim that the notion of practicing morality and improving oneself through Freemasonry is only reserved for male gender? Who can rightfully claim that the slogan "making good men to a better man" only applies to human being classified as male? What can be used as a reference or justification that only man is allowed, "to improve himself in Masonry?"

Ms Laurel Bergren recently inquired what makes her gender be not worthy to learn the “secret” of subduing passion and improving oneself through Masonry. Is there any Justice and Truth that only male can practice the “system of morality veiled in allegories and illustrated by symbols?” Like Ms Bergren, I am waiting for someone to answer her question, “Are women any less deserving of God’s Grace?”

I commend the Brother from GLNY for a very nice exposition of the fallacy of self-induce masculine superiority complex. Having acknowledged the intrinsic advantage of women with “far greater extent than men of our species ever will have,” then in a round-about way the answer to Ms. Bergren question is obviously "No, women are not less deserving of God's Grace."

Having that issue settled, we then can continue to discuss Bro/Doc Paul original article of "Why Masonry should remain a men’s club." As WB Ken noted, the crux of the dialogue is not about women joining male Masonic Lodges but facing the inquiry of why it seems strange to many Brethren to allow the opposite gender to practice a “system of morality veiled with allegories and illustrated by symbols?”

To non-Masons especially to women who are reading this exchange of opinions, the hollowness of speaking about men’s task to protect and nurture that “God gift” to humanity is undeniably transparent. Anyone who views Freemasonry as a way of life will be hard pressed to defend this issue unless one would take a myopic view that Freemasonry is nothing but a “good old boy” network masquerading as fraternity.

Let us not kid ourselves that even with long years of the Craft existence, there are still members of the Craft who don’t recognize other duly made Masons because the colors of the skin, religious belief, jurisdiction territorial jealousy, and other petty excuses. Before we really start tooting our own horn, let us look deeply into our heart and ask the question---what are we really in search of? And maybe in the bowels of darkness buried deep within the crypt of cold calculating human emotion, we can find a flicker of light just enough to understand what the word “tolerance” really meant.

...

On Recognition

2008-02-22T21:18:00.009-05:00

By RmOlano

22Feb08

In 1922, Bro. Oliver D. Street, Senior Grand Warden and Chairman of Committee for Foreign Correspondence, Grand Lodge of Alabama speech before Bessemer Lodge No. 458 said,

“We read in our Monitors and in the effusions of Masonic orators of the "Universality of Masonry," and how that Masonry "unites men of every country, sect and opinion." We are told that ....Masons are everywhere, ready to make themselves known by the familiar words, signs and tokens and to extend succor and relief even at the peril of their own lives....we belong to so beneficial and so universal a brotherhood. It is a beautiful fiction which it is pity to destroy, but lamentable fact is there is not a word of truth in it."

The illustrious Brother then talked about “The intolerance on the part of many Masons and Masonic Bodies towards others claiming to be Masonic is so extreme that they frown even on the suggestion of getting acquainted or of even conferring together."

It is amazing to read the concluding remark from the Chairman of the committee, which investigates and recommends which Grand Lodges should Grand Lodge of Alabama, extends its fraternal recognition.

"Finally, we must rid ourselves of the self-righteous idea that by having any communication or association with Mason or Masonic bodies not already recognized as regular, we render ourselves unclean. We will not be hurt Masonically, socially or morally by meeting and discussing Masonry with men whom we may never recognize as Masons.”

Although the above article was published in 1946 book, Little Masonic Library Book 1 with introductory remarks by Carl H. Claudy, PGM, the message still rings the bells of relevance in our contemporary times. While times change, despite of inroads created in fostering social changes with view of more understanding and tolerance between human beings, there are ideas and habits that will take more time to be accepted. As ordinary humans ordinarily inhabited our Craft, it should not be surprising to see human flaws among us. Nevertheless such limitation should not stop the Brethren from realizing what Albert Pike wanted us to discern --- eloquently suggested in Mark Stavish’s book , “Freemasonry: Rituals, symbols and History of the Secret Society,“ ---- the great secret of Freemasonry, clothed in the alchemical language of the Knight of the Sun.”

...

Like Religion

2007-12-21T17:50:00.004-05:00

by RmOlano
onboard Delta flight 1518
19Dec07

"... it is so far interwoven with religion as to lay us under the obligation to pay that rational homage to Deity which constitute our duty, our happiness ..."

Religious but not religion. Where do we draw the line or do we have to? Religion like politics are not to be discussed within the lodge as it was proven fact these subjects are so divisive that it frequently disrupts the peace and harmony among the Brethren. Despite of such admonishing, history of the nations are littered with names of men who were linked to the Craft. Nation building aside from economics issue is one of the factors hence, a synonym for political aspiration and key ingredient in the struggle. Politics is the arena for the leaders while religion is the notion that ordinary folks from time immemorial would fight and die for. The ability to convince the followers to do something not for leader's benefit or for the group, but to some form of Heavenly reward is a tried and true tactics/method of successful leaders.

What constitutes religion? Religion in classical term comprises of belief to a notion of existence of Higher Being(s), standard practices or rituals performed by the leaders and the group for the benefit of both sides and an understanding that obedience to the prescribed actions or reactions will be looked upon as show of fidelity hence, worthy of the covenant. It is important to consider what constitute this belief in the context that would take into account other than Christian view. It is indeed very easy to make a comment what is and what is not when we close our mind to already formulated conviction. My God is better than yours, my religion offer more for less effort. My God is better than yours for we have to do more hence, shows more faith than yours. My belief is better than yours for we devote our whole life praising our God. Same end game with different mode of travel.

What if a belief is about acknowledgment of the existence of Supreme Being who for a reason wont call Him by His Name not just out of respect but because for a simple reason that the Name is truly unknown? What if a principle does perform their standard practices or rituals not because of they are required by their legal constitution but because they are an integral part of the organization? What if this system does have a hierarchal organization that supervises the proper conduct of the rituals and performance by their priests? What if believers or members does truly trust that participation, either by going through or actively participating in the act of the standard practice/ritual, along with adhering to the teachings of the tenets that a Heavenly reward is therefore expected--- just like any religion. What if this belief grows so strong and confident that it dabbles into a system of governance or politics with the high hope of providing secular mixed with theological living condition for general population---just like some religion? And just like any religion, when its members were persecuted by both political and religious orders for what they believed in, will this concept or system be also called religion?

If not, why we can’t call it as such? What could be the main or real reason other than “just because it is not?” Is it because their priests did not go through the same school and training their priests undergone? But how would other religious order could prescribe training of priests from different belief? Would lack of so-called formal training for the priests makes this religion non-religion? If we looked into material aspect, even some recognized religion does not even own a building where they could gather and exercise their belief. With basic necessities satisfied, it is impressive to watch the phenomenon of social denial. It is reminiscent of the societal acceptance of existence of Santa Claus, Easter bunny rabbit which for some religion is a pagan idea or as in Christian tradition that Christmas is being celebrated during winter. Despite of the physical, historical, and other evidences or lack thereof, the common rationale is that it is the spirit of such events that really matters.

So, if we subscribed with this reason that the essence or “spirit of such event that really matters” is the key for public acceptance, why would the above notion or system is not considered religion if all the basic requirements are present? Could it be the answer is that because the members who practice such belief themselves won’t call it as such--- a religion. And why not? Was it because the members are instructed during the early indoctrination, that it was not? Could it be the reason why majority of the leaders won’t recognize that the system is a form of belief is because of expected political and other religious order backlash as a manifestation of hard lesson learned? Or is it because the members and the public are all in agreement to engaged in a collective phenomenon of social denial in reminiscent of easter bunny rabbit, effects of global warming and in the spirit of this season, Santa Claus? An interesting issue indeed but depending which side the believer is on, the issue is serious and not serious enough to question the very essence of the belief --- just like religion.

...

Note: See the October 9, 2007 article published by The Pew Forum "Court Says Freemasons Fall Under Religious Protection Law." /rmo31Dec07.

Masonic Historical Adjustment

2007-12-16T10:56:00.002-05:00

RmOlano

16Dec07

“Originally attached to the Grand Lodge of Spain - the Philippine archipelago is a former colony of Spain - the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of The Philippines became autonomous on 19 December 1912.”

I thank the WB for his research however; allow me to adjust his article and hopefully fill in some void between. The Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of the Philippines (GLP) was never been “attached to the Grand Lodge of Spain.” In order to make a balance presentation, the following materials were taken from history pages of two Lodges under the GLP, an equal number from Independent Grand Lodge of the Philippine Islands (IGLPI) and a Lodge under Gran Logia Nacional de Filipinas (GLNF). Furthermore, a short quote from official statements from both Grand Lodges:

First from GLP:

“Logia Isarog No. 378 in Nueva Caceres remained under the jurisdiction of the Gran Oriente de Francia until the early part of 1915. On September 16, 1915, Logia Isarog No. 378 was constituted as Logia ISAROG No. 376 under the Gran Logia Regional de Filipinas (Grand Regional Council) under the Gran Oriente Español. In spite of the protest made by the Regional Grand Lodge, the Mother Lodge of England and the Grand Lodges in the world maintained the legitimacy of the Grand Lodge of the Philippine Islands. In order to prevent disharmony and discord between the Spanish speaking and English speaking Lodges, the lodges then existing under the Regional Grand Council were fused or unified with Grand Lodge of the Philippine Islands. History of Isarog Lodge No. 33, F&AM.

“On February 14, 1917, as a result of the fusion of the lodges in the Philippines, and in part due to the changed political climate, SILANGANAN LODGE NO. 305 under the GRAN ORIENTE ESPANOL became SILANGANAN LODGE NO. 19, under the jurisdiction of the GRAND LODGE OF FREE & ACCEPTED MASONS OF THE PHILIPPINES, MW W. H. Taylor, the Grand Master, presiding.” Silanganan Lodge No. 19 History.

Second from IGLPI:

“Cavite Lodge was constituted in 1902 under the Grand Lodge of California. Later it joined other 2 Lodges in the Philippines to form the Grand Lodge of the Philippine Islands. Later it was joined by other 27 Filipino based lodges under the Grand Logia Regional de Filipinas of the Grand Oriente Espanol in 1917. On September 10, 2007, it joined the other ancient, very old, and old lodges to form the Independent Grand Lodge of the Philippine Islands (IGLPI). Cavite Lodge No. 2 History.”

"When the 29 Lodges under the Gran Oriente Espanol, two under the Grand Lodge of Scotland, two under the Grande Oriente de Espana, one under the Grande Oriente Lusitano de Unido, and 11 under the Grand Lodge of the Philippine Islands were finally united, Bagong Buhay Lodge listed 115 Master Masons as members and after the union, it was originally agreed that a Filipino Grand Master alternates with an American Grand Master in heading the unified Grand Lodge." Rechartering and Renumbering of Bagong Buhay Lodge.

Third from Grand Lodges:

“Invariably, confusion ensued. The Americans kept membership in their lodges to themselves; the Filipinos clamored for recognition, until, finally, the three American lodges that were chartered under the constitution of the Grand Lodge of California sought dispensation from their Mother Grand Lodge to form their own and thus established in 1912 what came to be the Grand Lodge of the Philippine Islands. Their respective Lodge numbers were also changed and became Manila Lodge No. 1, Cavite Lodge No. 2 and Corregidor Lodge No. 3, respectively.” Official Brief History of Freemasonry in the Philippines (GLP) .

“Our research showed that the 27 lodges under the Gran Logia Regional de Filipinas , under the Gran Oriente Espanol, BROKE OFF and AFFILIATED with the Americans - Grand Lodge of the Philippine Islands with their 10 lodges in 1917 under the reason of FUSION. When the FUSION did not happen, the lodges REVERTED back to the Gran Oriente Espanol. A History of Philippine Masonry.

Finaly, a statement from Freemasons of Gran Logia Nacional de Filipinas.

“The history of masonry in the Philippines was marked, however, by a period of growth pains, when in 1912 American masons in the country formed the Grand Lodge of the Philippine Islands. This brought two Grand Lodges – the other one being the Grand Regional Lodge under Gran Oriente Espanol – face to face in the question of territory and jurisdiction.” Magdalo Lodge No. 79 History.

The history of the formation of Freemasonic bodies in the Philippines is akin to reading the history of the Nation. There are so many names that can be found in both version that in Philippine History classes one question that is always been asked --- Why there are so many Freemasons in the history books? A question not specifically related to the Philippines but also elsewhere. Freemasons can be found in both sides of the aisles standing on the checked pavement doing their civic duties in face of adversities.

For additional tool for research see: Katipunan ng mga Mason. A compilation of Filipino Freemasonry websites.

...

Not A Dream

2007-11-24T08:33:00.002-05:00

RmOlano

23Nov07

"What shall we do now?" two fellows asked the ring leader,

"How we are going to do this?" a Brother of mine inquired.

Though this humble Brother might have some thoughts in response to a similar inquiry, I ask your indulgence for sidestepping for I would not hazard the notion as I am not certain if it will satisfy the end result of your question. Being away for more than half of my life and cannot even vote, I am but a lost voice of a former son who yearned for the welfare of the people and land I used to call home. So in way of replying and acknowledging your positive reflection that you might harbor to your Brother of the Craft, allow me to quote the last three paragraphs of The Legacy of Freemasons in Philippine History by Rodel J. Ramos.

"At the EDSA revolution, Worshipful Master Col. Tirzo Gador who was the provincial commander of Cagayan at that time led one hundred Cagayanos in defense of the rebellion. The so-called "Cavaliers" composed of Masons surrounded Gen. Rene Cruz, Senior Warden of Araw Lodge No. 18 in Camp Crame. Past Grand Master Rosendo Herrera - together with his family - defied tanks in that glorious EDSA experience. Past Grand Master Reynato S. Puno, Deputy Minister of Justice, met with Senator Jovito Salonga when Justice Estelito Mendoza was nowhere to be found.

MW Teodoro M. Kalaw, past Grand Master of the Philippines observed: "In these days of peace and goodwill, under a government that neither condemns nor persecutes, but rather encourages and helps those who work for the benefit and progress of humanity, Masonry which is a universal institution to which many honest men belong, irrespective of religion, race or nationality, will be able to teach the Filipinos that the ideal life is that in which nobody interferes with the beliefs of others; in which everybody may profess the ideas that each considers best, if within the law; in which everyone is free to adore his God in his own way; in which all may practice as they deem advisable the commandment of "Love they neighbor as thyself; charity towards the needy, tolerance and humility towards the poor, justice and truth towards all; in which there is no hatred, but love, no division of classes, but fraternal cooperation, no monopolies for the few, but opportunities for everybody; and in which all will understand that morality is not expressed in words, or even in thoughts, but in daily deeds, in every industrial, commercial, agricultural activity, in every phase, in short, in human existence."

Even today, Masons are working for the preservation of our freedom, equality, unity and peace. Truly, the words "Masonry is in the heart of great men among nations" was upheld. Perhaps if more Masons were involved in our Government and Filipino Communities abroad, our dream of unity will be hastened. But many seem to be content with following the blind rather than leading them."

Rodel J. Ramos research documented the influence of the Craft to the shakers and movers of the Philippine history but concluded and left a stinging note --- an indictment of today's Filipino Freemasons. Blinds leading the blinds. May we find who we are, what we used to be and what our Craft can do for the sake of the Nation we pledge our allegiance to. May the Filipino Freemasons regardless of affiliations or jurisdictions bury the hatchet; end the in-fighting and joined hands to guide the Nation in seeking its own destiny.The Nation needs leaders and model citizens--- the Filipino Freemasons was once used to be and again, can be. Taking lesson from the familiar ritual we often heard inside the Lodge, we can stop searching for that which was lost and to simply open-up our eyes for us to see further light. And my Brethen, this ideal is not a dream.

...

Presumptous Vision

2007-11-22T16:50:00.001-05:00

RmOlano

Thanksgiving Day 2007

“These are supposed to be the sane Muslim or allies?”

The above is a reaction in form of a question from the report where a Muslim rape victim was given jail time and two hundred lashes. Viewing the report from Western cultural perspective most especially aided by selected sociological filter of our own bias, there is only but one response to this seemly rhetorical inquiry. The follow up question could be then postulated as to what the inquirer wanted to do with the responses. Is it to generate emotional stimuli so we can justify another comparable recent American adventure to free the oppressed by changing the leadership of a sovereign Nation and/or to elucidate that the world is full of unjust and bad people? Or to be thankful that although not perfect, our's is close enough that we American could pause and give Thanks not only to those who made sacrifices, bleed, maimed and lost their lives for us living so we could enjoy things that are often taken for granted in this country but also to acknowledge the bountiful gift from the Great Providence?

Though the latter is very attractive, within the spirit of today’s National celebration, and an appropriate choice from the first two, there is a nagging question after making the selection. Now that the reader acknowledged the generous present we Americans enjoyed, retreating into American psyche, the question now becomes what we can or will do about the knowledge we have gained? Considering we took time to digest an information relative to other culture “sanity,” we quarried into our awareness and compared our social values against morals of a distinct culture, are we going to suit up with our body armor and rescue a distressed damsel or retreat to a Wilson era not to get involved until absolutely required?

Taking again the latter option, what do we mean by “absolutely required?” Would this parameter mean an X-number of lives lost but whose lives? As a Nation are we ready to risk our sons and daughters lives for the purpose of accomplishing something “higher” than ourselves? Questions leads to more questions, as perceived solutions flickered into our mentality; the numbers seems infinite and at times endless. Which options to pick, which approach is more virtuous? A dilemma to a thinking individual who stumbles upon a “simple” question. --- if our friends are sane? Would it make any difference if we take our time, bothered to wear their cultural lens, and view their world according to their own standard? Would it mattered to us if the same people asked our sanity for having a law to let go a criminal because no one read the Miranda Right or the U.S. Attorney General could not make up his mind if water-boarding is or not a form of torture? Who is sane and who is insane---where and who set the line that will separate the two? Which filters to use to view the same object in order to come up with identical perspective? What makes us think they are wrong and we are right? Who or what give us the authority to render judgment? Pretty presumptuous vision, I would think.

...

On Immigrants and Being an American

2007-11-18T07:41:00.001-05:00

On Immigrants and Being an American

"In the first place, we should insist that if the immigrant who comes here in good faith becomes an American and assimilates himself to us, he shall be treated on an exact equality with everyone else, for it is an outrage to discriminate against any such man because of creed, or birthplace, or origin. But this is predicated upon the person's becoming in every facet an American, and nothing but an American... There can be no divided allegiance here. Any man who says he is an American, but something else also, isn't an American at all. We have room for but one flag, the American flag... We have room for but one language here, and that is the English language... and we have room for but one sole loyalty and that is a loyalty to the American people."

Theodore Roosevelt, 1919

...

from email sent by Ill Comp Allan D. Miller.

Standard of Recognition

2007-11-09T22:16:00.001-05:00

RmOlano
09Nov07

Few observations regarding The Commission on Information for Recognition (CIR) of the Conference of Grand Masters of Masons of North America (CGMMNA). The following was taken from their website.

“The Commission neither advises nor recommends that recognition be given to any Grand Lodges, but merely indicates whether or not it considers that a Grand Lodge in question satisfies the conditions of regularity.”

Aside from confusing the Independent Grand Lodge of the Philippine Islands (IGLPI) with Tacloban's United Grand Lodge of the Philippines (UGLP), the CIR 2007 Report cited interesting development in Cyprus. In mid January 2006, the Grand Lodge of Greece (GLG) installed the officers of Grand Lodge of Cyprus which was formed from six Lodges warranted by GLG. Alluding to the CGMMNA's Standards of Recognition No. 2, “Exclusive Territorial Jurisdiction, except by mutual consent and/or treaty,” the new Grand Lodge was found by the Commission as “generally meets the standards of recognition.” The issue was that United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE) has a District Grand Lodge, “has been present in Cyprus since 1888” and does not recognize the “Exclusive Territorial Jurisdiction” over its warranted Lodges which apparently did not joined with the new Grand Lodge.

In 2006 CIR Report, in response to the letter from the Prince Hall Conference of Grand Masters, the Commission stated the following:

The issue of Exclusive Territorial Jurisdiction is one of the standards for recognition that has been strictly observed by this Conference. It is held that only one legitimate Grand Lodge will be recognized in a particular state or country, unless by treaty or mutual consent two Grand Lodges agree to share the same jurisdiction. This is the mechanism by which our Grand Lodges have established a fraternal relationship with Prince Hall Grand Lodges. The terms of such an agreement are usually negotiated and ratified by the two Grand Lodges in question and no change in that process is recommended.

Notwithstanding the identity issue whether its IGLPI or UGLP, the Commission found the recently formed Grand Lodge not meeting the standard while the Grand Lodge of Cyprus does, despite of the glaring violation of their “strictly observed” standard of recognition. The presence of another operating District Grand Lodge from another jurisdiction whether it may be from “Mother Grand Lodge of the World—UGLE” or some “lesser” known Grand Lodge/Orient shows the holes of this idea. Taking the Prince Hall Grand Lodges recognition issue, this Commission finds it agreeable to have two Grand Lodges within a state or country as long as both agree to share the jurisdiction. It is also the opinion of this Commission that a Grand Lodge can be established as “regular” even the there were no sharing agreement with existing Grand Lodge as in the case with Grand Lodge of Cyprus and UGLE. Likewise, it is the opinion of this confused writer that if it looks, walk and sounds like a duck, it must be a duck. It should not matter whatever is the color of the feather, white, black or brown.

It is noteworthy that the CGMMNA is distinct and separate from the World Conference of Masonic Grand Lodges which is obviously more international in scope than the North American version. The next conference is scheduled in May 2008 and to be hosted by the Grand Lodge of Washington DC. Let us see what will be their position regarding the notion of Brotherhood of Men under the Fatherhood of God.

...

Mystical Inquiry

2007-11-03T14:57:00.002-04:00

a paper for Sequoia Council No. 228
RmOlano

03Nov07

“…So, my question is what exactly does Masonry say about these events and the process of change instigated by these experiences?”

An interested person asked “a simple honest question” regarding personal experience thinking that answer might be found within the teaching of the Craft. The unique inquiry delved into a subject that he explained as events experienced “beyond the five eternal senses.” An episode he depicted as “spontaneous shifts of consciousness on occasions: where ”there are levels and degrees of this, and including those which go way beyond the personality, time and space as we generally experience it. Indeed a timeless realm. … These events are very revealing, life enhancing and profound. But the most important feature being the effect which they have on people for change in this world here and now; and in the future.” Anticipating the difficulty of the question, a very civilized and educated way out was then offered.

A glaring dilemma one could see here is the assumption of what is Freemasonry. Ordinary members and for this matter, ordinary people do not normally “encounter spontaneous shifts of consciousness” and/or other “mystical experience” this gentleman has been describing about. By not being troubled to know a single Mason and then assuming that the Craft is "deeply into mystical experience," the gentleman unfortunately selected a difficult path of his chosen journey of Searching For That Which Was Lost. Like many others who embarked on their own discovery; those adventurous souls who tread the rough and rugged road bisected with trials and tribulations in search for personal Grail; seekers of truth who waged combat against his own dragon discovered in the midst of the battleground littered with broken lances and cracked armor, along with many free sprit found out that they already knew the answer to their search---had they only listened to their heart. The answer never left, it has been that way since time immemorial, only if we believe. But nay, man because of his nature has to ask questions, has to embark in a journey, and has to search for something he thought he lost.

Our inquirer from West Somerset was looking for a very definite answer to a query resulting from personal experience. As the issue has already been discussed with those who shared the same "spontaneous shift of consciousness," one has to wonder if the object of this inquest is to find out if the Brethren of the Craft goes through the same "very revealing, life enhancing and profound" occurrence. The question has the appearance of an honest and inquisitive in nature however, the message has a tone of someone who was been there and done that. In light of obvious less-than-glaring impression with "such things as AMORC," one has to wonder if any response that will be contrary to already perceived notion will merit the dubious consequence of being filed along with "few others of that ilk (like)."

Detecting a bruised ego from my response to his preordained concluding remarks, Brethren of the Craft, allow me to take the non-farmer from Exmoor’s offer—“you tell me.” One, you are wrong for “gathering” that Freemasonry and “mystical experience” are linked. Two, you are wrong for “gathering” that the Fraternity charge money for members to “learn something” from the Craft. And three, you are very wrong to bring forth a very complicated issue in our midst and expect a “simple honest answer” right away. Finally, Mr. Dick, let us put his issue in proper perspective, the Brethren of the Craft does not owe you anything therefore, and we are not obligated to respond to your demand. There is a simple lesson in humility and you should browse that one before probing into transcendental perspectivism philosophy or any outer body galactic adventures.

From A Concept of Freemasonry the following is being offered for further elucidation.

“From operative to speculative, from solving mathematical problems to philosophical issues, even distinguished Masonic scholars were at odds in describing what is Freemasonry. If this humble writer could hazard an opinion, viewing Freemasonry is similar to defining beauty. What viewers see will depend on many things including what the eyes want to see. Demanding for further light is of no use if the eyes remain close not to mention distortion of light waves if selected filter is involved. Some of us ended our search for that which was lost in the Royal Arch degree. Maybe because we believe that the search was about Faith. For those who did not waver in their Faith, it is beyond that—something filtered through the calibrated prism of his choosing. People wears different lenses, different filters. Some found their Truth by wearing their shades and discovered peace within their own temple, while some continue to remain on their steed to hunt the fire-breathing dragon or to seek out for their own personal version of Holy Grail.”

Esoteric knowledge may also mean a hard or difficult to understand discipline hence, available only to few "enlightened" or "initiated" individuals. There is a section within the Fraternity that believes in what they termed as "Esoteric Masonry." The notion is that there is a "hard to understand or obscure knowledge" buried within the rituals and lessons worthy of serious study therefore, the rationale for keeping "the secrets." When someone delved into Gnosis, alchemy, Rosicrucianism, etc… it is not fair to describe the individual as a "regular" free thinker. I submit that one has already crossed the Rubicon. If I may be allowed to offer a word or two— be careful of what you free thinkers read, for it might give you many nights without sleep.

"There are no magic words, formulas or proceedings that an individual will discover or receive in Masonry. He will find that there are more questions than answers for a curious/inquiring mind in our Craft. Often times, the answer is readily available, the real challenge is to know the question." Magic In Masonry.

Finally, allow me to commend our WB from Cincinnati No. 3 , Bro Tom Thornton for lighting up a dark alley where most seekers boldly rushed in. “Sometimes there are issues that can not simply written.” And as to “gathering” that Freemasonry is like other organization of being “deeply into mystical experience,” let me also quote a well respected Mason, Ken Giballa, PM, Benjamin J. French #15, Grand Lodge of Wash DC who said, “Those not holding membership on an organization best not attempt to describe the intricacies of membership.”

...

Magic In Masonry

2007-10-20T09:38:00.001-04:00

by Rudy Olano
Lincoln Lodge No. 34
11Oct04

Magic comes from the word magi meaning learned persons. Most famous of these individuals where the three magi of the traditional Christmas story or legend to some who often times depicted as the “three kings.” There is a book about a magus or magician in modern English term named Jesus who learned these skills while growing up in the land of Pharaohs/Egypt but that’s a different subject. My guess of the subject/ magick that the unknown author was referring is the unseen forces that makes something appear or perform without physical/visual or rational explanation of the occurrence--- in a most simplest way, being unable to explain the phenomena due to human limited understanding of the issue--- its easy to explain it as magic.

Our unknown author is expecting a magick after his initiation “into the mysteries of freemasonry.” My feeling is that he will forget the magick issue and he will start asking about the “mysteries of Freemasonry.” Exactly what is/are the “mysteries of Freemasonry?” Maybe someone could start with explanation of , “Why 4th or 32nd degree or Knights Templar is not higher than 3rd Degree?” Why in the Sublime Degree of Master Mason, he will receive the substitute and not the real word of the Master Mason. If it is the highest degree, why does he need to take” side degrees” to “receive further lights in freemasonry?” In his journey through the Symbolic Masonry, he will be Charged that” Masonry is a progressive moral science divided by different degrees., as its principles and mystic ceremonies are regularly developed and illustrated, it is intended and hoped that it will leave deep and lasting impression upon your mind…” That the “ impressive ceremonies is calculated to inculcate to the mind of novitiate the importance of the study of liberal arts and sciences, especially the noble science of Geometry, which forms the basis of Freemasonry….” There was once upon a time when only the magi know the formula on how to calculate the longest leg of the right triangle---square root of a+b. For unlearned persons, that was a magic, for learned person that formula can only be taught to a worthy individual.

So going back to the article “Magick in Masonry,” sorry to disappoint our unknown author, there is no magic formula in Masonry or as we called it in the Craft. I often cautioned the candidates I interviewed for the very same reason that our unknown author/candidate expressed. There are no magic words, formulas or proceedings that he will discover or receive in Masonry. He will find that there are more questions than answers for a curious/inquiring mind in our Craft. Often times, the answer is readily available, the real challenge is to know the question. What we are really looking for? It could be as mundane as which is higher, number 3 or number 32? Or it could be interesting as what is the difference of organized religion and freemasonry in relation to man's obligation to Deity, maybe to a nebulous aspiration to find the justification of man existence in this corner of Universe. Attentive ears will find that Masonry is “a progressive moral science” designed to teach each one of us that building our own Temple is not an easy job, it will need tools, materials, plans and most of all, a favorable design worthy of approval by the Great Architect of the Universe.

...

Moralist

2007-10-10T22:04:00.000-04:00

Papers for Sequoia Council No. 228 (AMD)
RmOlano

10Oct07

It is amazing to watch how a subject of dirty pictures and green jokes could elicit so much interest in one of the popular Masonic yahoo group. Despite of personal appeals and clarifications from the owner and moderators to drop the subject, the repeated hits on the issue is simply remarkable. When one consider the level of participation on a subject which the VW Ben Apacible called "Recent Events in Philippine Masonry," one does not need to be a rocket scientist to figure out what issues takes precedence over the other in the minds of the participants.

Many interesting annotations and rationale were exposed in order to justify the attention. Some memorable comments were from father-knows-best insinuation that one should be man enough to tell the wife to mind her own business, using family as an excuse to oppose such contents in a Masonic discussion group, and to a sort of transcendental perspectivism philosophy which deduced that the subjest is only dirty if at least two people accepted it as dirty. You have to love that one! The jaw breaker was when someone who claimed to be a priest chimed in and briefly laid out a philosophical and historical connection between clothes and Freud’s psychological thoughts, another one posted a one liner asking for “any reaction from the self-proclaimed moralist?”

So before some of the pretenders start throwing rocks or promising again to host a "San Diego Jubelum Party" to this writer, allow me to quote some lines taken from a proverbial Masonic lecture about a symbol that is represented in every regular Lodge.

"A certain point within a circle – the point representing an individual brother, and the circle, the boundary line of his conduct, beyond which he should never suffer his passions, his prejudices or his interest to betray him. This circle is supported by two perpendicular parallel lines, representing Saint John the Baptist and Saint John the Evangelist, and on its top rest the Holy Writings. In tracing its circumference we necessarily touch upon the parallel line and also upon the Holy Bible, and while a Mason keeps himself thus circumscribed ..."

“Any reactions from the self-proclaimed moralist?” An intriguing question indeed if one would consider this familiar theme during conferrals of Degrees in Freemasonry.

In Entered Apprentice Degree, we heard the Charge, "...men preeminent for their moral and intellectual attainment have encouraged and promoted its interest..."

"Masonry is a progressive moral science divided into different degrees..." is in the beginning address of the Fellow Craft Degree Charge.

Freemasonry is an ideal, as Albert Pike wrote in 1888 in response to Albert Mackey's Landmark or Unwritten Laws, "…it is a system of morality, veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols." We can infer Freemasonry as a collection of thoughts acting in unison to live in a righteous conduct rather than law or customs though the use of partly concealed or decorated representation of models usually seen as signs. From the article, Concept of Freemasonry .

Relative to the subject of intriguing inquiry, maybe the question could be rephrased as "any thoughts from self-proclaimed Masons?

As Masons we are being taught to be morally upright and so forth and so on. Being at Master Mason stage, we should know what is right or what is wrong. For a member who cannot tell the difference between what is moral and what is not, may be should grow up some more before calling himself a Mason. Somehow, many of us still need to learn to subdue our passion and improve ourselves in Masonry. Some of us never get "it" in the first place. And a few of us should never get in at all.

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Degree Works-A Favor

2007-09-23T10:23:00.001-04:00

a Paper for Sequoia Council No. 228 (AMD)by Rudy Olano
28May06

I am always amazed to watch any Brethren who can deliver any Masonic lectures from memory, period. Memorization is skill that you either have it or not. Ok, let me take that back. The ability to memorize materials which will require at least an hour of delivery with relative ease is a skill not everyone posses. I have meet number of brethren who can remember anything with one reading and be able to repeat it by memory. And I said this before and will say it again, I am awed. For others like me, memorization of anything is not an easy task. I will not use the excuse ---I am at the stage where my memories were not as good because even during high school days I know I am terrible in memorization department. I struggled through all three long form proficiency examinations. It took me a year to be brave enough to tell the Worshipful Master that yes, I could do my job as Senior Deacon to give the Fellow Craft Lecture. The first job was not pretty, I can tell you that.

Having a number of email exchanges with a very respected Brother on memorization issue, I was lamenting for not making long form examinations as mandatory and as optional. My view is that memorization makes people like me be "forced" to study the materials to know what a certain lines or paragraph means in order to aid me understand what I am talking about. Knowing the subject matter is for me a key element in retaining that information in my memory. The positive side of trying to understand the materials are the time to sit down and digest or in a plain word-- to literally study the Lessons of Freemasonry. An Illustrious Brother/Companion who holds Doctorate in Education degree, does not endorsed the memorization by rote since; according to him that method is not as effective. It makes us to memorize/concentrate on the words itself and tend not to understand what the material is all about. He did not say it and the following line is mine--- imagine a parrot who can "talk" with a perfect accent without knowing the beautiful melody its vocal cords played.

In this illustration, one don’t have to have a degree in education to grasp what the example means. However, my counter-argument was that I believe the majority (including myself) are not equipped with such talent and therefore, would compensate it with perseverance to commit to memory what is/are required. A brother who has the dedication will set aside time to do what needs to be done. We all can remember reading the little book everywhere, in the car, garage, break time, during watch, in the comfort room, you name it, mumbling something which drew stares from people nearby. Some of us even went beyond what we promise not to do-- recording, cheat sheet and slapping ourselves for missing or replacing words. I could imagine some of the Brethren, are smiling because they can relate to what has been described.

Let me conclude that those brilliant performances which we all can be proud of are the result of hard work. Our Brethren took their time to prepare for their part and this is very important lesson that our newly initiated Brothers MUST understand---each degree work is a gift. Each Brother in that lodge room, sideliners included, took their time from their immediate families and responsibilities, and exchanges it so that a degree can be bestowed to whom we thought to be worthy enough. Each degree work should be considered as a favor to be given and not as a requirement to fulfill. We should and must hands out favors sparingly, to give it to those we hope that will return the same favor to somebody else when we old-timers were gone and soon to be forgotten. To give away favors only to those who will take their time to study an ideal we know as Freemasonry and in doing so, hopefully comprehend that there is a reward for turning a good men to a better man.

What pains me is the fact that after all those preparations and works to confer degrees, even after magnificent efforts by those involved, the recipient does not even "return" the favor by showing to us his proficiency and often times disappear after 3rd Degree. We as Brethren of the Craft must be selective and demanding when dispensing favors not only to the good of the Order but also for honoring the countless hours expended by our talented and brilliant Brethren for the benefit of those who want to be among us---to be recognized and accepted as a Freemason.

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Loyalty

2007-09-20T21:51:00.000-04:00

by RmOlano

20Sep07

It could be said that a same object could be seen in many colors not just due to the environmental conditions. The selected filter we chose to wear before our vision or pre-conceived ideas which became more or less our belief could play a role in our vision. A single light source then, becomes rainbow of colors after passing through a prism of experience we often called--- life.

It is interesting to read a posting regarding “loyalty” when a pointed question could be brought as to whose side one has to plead “loyalty” to? Who takes priority and deserves closer attention, our local mother Lodge or the more distant, grandeur, and sometimes pompous Grand Lodge?

“...Allow me to congratulate you on your admission into our ancient and honorable Fraternity...” Who spoke those words, who gave the First Degree Charge, where did we hear that expectation? Grand Lodge or mother Lodge?

“Your past regular deportment and up-right conduct have merited the honor which we have conferred.” Who spoke those words, who gave the second Charge, where did we hear that expectation? In our mother Lodge or Grand Lodge?

“Your honor and reputation are concerned in supporting with dignity the respectable character which you now bear.” Who spoke those words, who gave the Third Charge? Where did we hear that expectation, within the legally constituted mother Lodge or Grand Lodge?

After contemplating those questions, we could then add:

Who congratulate us on becoming a Master Mason and as such commended to the kind care, love and protection of all Master Mason withersoever dispersed? In a more impressive sounding but distant Grand Lodge or our humble mother Lodge?

The message of the Loyalty poem by an American writer who perished with his wife in the 1917 ill-fated journey of USS Luisitania caused by a German U-boat was but as clear as crystal however, let us not forget that the start of the poem is “If.” It is a two letter word with so much impact to the rest of the sentence and in this case—poem. What if --- a profound inquiry that would be a subject of interest that can last for eternity. Would it make any difference if the Hubbard’s took the train to see the West or “if” they took a cruise to Japan instead? Would they still be alive to celebrate the Allies victory in WWI? What “if” the man was not worthy of such loyalty and devotion, would the essence of the poem still applies? Benevolent dictatorship whatever color, shape or form one has to be cloak it with—it is still a form of tyranny. For those who value their conscience and moral ethics might take heed to the rest of the poem and that is to choose your side. To shun fence sitting and avoid be like a leaf swinging wherever the prevailing wind happens to blow. The same Elbert Hubbard also said, “To avoid criticism, do nothing, say nothing and be nothing.”

Maybe we need to see another example of what loyalty is all about by taking a note of Isarog Lodge No. 33's history. Had their members plead their loyalty to the Grand Lodges instead of their OWN mother Lodge, I wonder where they at today? Had there was not a unity in this Lodge and individual members choose what Grand Lodge they would be “loyal to,” this Lodge probably disintegrated long time ago. Here is an example of Brotherhood in action, a decision was made, supported, and carried out as a Lodge--- one unit — one body not as an individual star player.

A) As Triangulo “Bicol” No. 64 and then as Logia BICOL (in Ambos Camarines) under the Gran Oriente Español 1891-1896;
B) As Logia LUZ MALAYA under the Gran Oriente Filipino, 1904-1906;
C) As Logia ISAROG No. 378 in Nueva Caceres, Ambos Camarines under the Gran Oriente de Francia in 1906-1915;
D) As Logia ISAROG No. 378 under the Gran Regional de Filipinas of the Gran Oriente Español, 1915-17;
E) As ISAROG LODGE No.33 under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of the Philippines, February 13, 1917 - present.

Loyalty like any other lofty notions should be taken in a context, not as generalized human quality. Unlike Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth where application are not limited to certain group of human gender, geo-political association nor as a matter of fact, neither to a so-called brand of Freemasonry. The idea of Brotherhood of Man under the Fatherhood of God is a concept that should not be distorted regardless of what kind of filters we choose or happen to wear.

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