An Exploration of Freemasonry: Beliefs and Core Values

Freemasonry, often referred to as “the Craft,” is a fraternal organization that traces its origins to the local fraternities of stonemasons that emerged in the late Middle Ages. It evolved significantly during the Enlightenment period, shaping its modern form in the early 18th century with the establishment of the Grand Lodge of England in 1717. Today, Freemasonry is recognized as the world’s largest fraternal organization. Its members are bound by shared values, moral principles, and a commitment to self-improvement and community service. This essay delves into the key beliefs and values of Freemasonry, providing a more defined, evidence-based analysis from historical, philosophical, sociological, and psychological perspectives.

Belief in a Supreme Being and Religious Neutrality

A core tenet of Freemasonry is the belief in a Supreme Being, often termed the “Great Architect of the Universe” (GAOTU). This concept is deliberately broad and inclusive, allowing for multiple interpretations across various religious and spiritual traditions. The United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE) clarifies that “Freemasonry is not a religion, nor is it a substitute for religion. There is no separate ‘Masonic’ god; a Freemason’s god remains the god of the religion he professes” (United Grand Lodge of England). This requirement ensures that all members hold a transcendent view that moral laws are grounded in a higher order.

This principle of religious neutrality is deeply rooted in Enlightenment values, which sought to foster tolerance, rational inquiry, and a separation between church and state. By rejecting dogmatic assertions and embracing religious pluralism, Freemasonry enables men of different faiths to come together and engage in philosophical discussions and moral reflections. The Grand Lodge of British Columbia and Yukon emphasizes that “Freemasonry neither competes with nor replaces religion” (Grand Lodge of British Columbia and Yukon). This philosophical stance aligns with the Enlightenment emphasis on deism and natural religion, where reason and the observation of the natural world were believed to be sufficient to determine the existence of a Supreme Being.

Core Values and Principles of Freemasonry

Freemasonry is built upon a framework of ethical values and principles that guide its members in both their personal and public lives. These values, often referred to as the “Three Great Principles” — Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth — are embodied in Masonic rituals, allegories, and symbols. They aim to promote ethical behavior, personal growth, and a commitment to social responsibility.

1. Belief in God and Moral Uprightness: Freemasonry requires a belief in a Supreme Being, which it views as foundational to moral conduct and spiritual development. This belief is not confined to any one religious dogma but rather serves as a common ground for ethical behavior. The Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania asserts that “Masons are to follow God according to their faith, placing Him above all else” (Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania). This notion is supported by Kantian ethics, where moral behavior is grounded in duty and the categorical imperative, shaped by the belief in a higher moral order. Freemasonry’s emphasis on moral uprightness is encapsulated in its teachings that a Mason must act “on the square” and “meet on the level,” metaphorically highlighting equality, fairness, and integrity in all dealings.
2. Civic Responsibility and Loyalty to Country: Freemasonry encourages its members to be law-abiding citizens who actively participate in civic life and contribute to the welfare of their country. This principle is often encapsulated in the Masonic obligation to be a “quiet and peaceful citizen” who respects the laws of the land (Masonic Information Center). This reflects the social contract theory articulated by Enlightenment philosophers like John Locke and Jean-Jacques Rousseau, which posits that individuals have a moral duty to adhere to the laws of the state in exchange for protection and the preservation of civil liberties. Freemasonry’s civic-oriented philosophy aligns with republicanism, where citizens are encouraged to be virtuous, participate in civic life, and uphold the common good.
3. Community Service and Philanthropy: One of the most visible aspects of Freemasonry is its commitment to charitable activities and community service. The Grand Lodge of California states that “Freemasonry’s community involvement focuses on activities that support society at large, emphasizing charity, education, and community service” (Grand Lodge of California). Freemasonry’s emphasis on philanthropy is supported by sociological theories of social capital, which suggest that community engagement and volunteerism create stronger social networks and increase trust among community members. This focus on altruism and public service can also be linked to Aristotle’s concept of “eudaimonia” (human flourishing), where personal fulfillment is achieved through virtuous actions that contribute to the greater good.
4. Ethical Conduct Toward Neighbors: Freemasonry teaches that members should act with kindness, civility, and fairness toward others, reflecting the ethical principle of reciprocity found in various religious and philosophical traditions, often referred to as the “Golden Rule.” The Masonic Service Association of North America underscores this duty to “act kindly toward all, especially toward those in need” (Masonic Service Association of North America). This aligns with Confucian ethics, which emphasize “ren” (benevolence) and “yi” (righteousness) in social relationships, advocating for empathy and moral consideration in everyday interactions.
5. Friendship and Fellowship: Freemasonry places great importance on fostering deep and meaningful friendships among its members. The Grand Lodge of New York notes that “Freemasonry teaches its members to extend fellowship and support to their brethren and friends, fostering an environment of mutual respect and encouragement” (Grand Lodge of New York). This principle is consistent with Aristotle’s concept of “philia,” a form of love and mutual respect that is essential for a just society. In this context, Freemasonry can be seen as a microcosm of a just society where members strive to cultivate virtuous friendships that promote moral and ethical behavior.
6. Family Values and Responsibilities: Freemasonry strongly emphasizes family as the foundation of a man’s character and moral development. The Grand Lodge of Ohio asserts that “The family is fundamental in Freemasonry. Members are encouraged to be loving and supportive husbands, fathers, and brothers” (Grand Lodge of Ohio). This mirrors the Confucian concept of “xiao” (filial piety), which stresses the importance of family harmony and the moral duty to care for one’s family. From a sociological perspective, strong family units contribute to social cohesion and stability, reinforcing the Masonic belief in the family as a vital component of ethical living.
7. Professional Integrity and Vocation: Freemasonry promotes honesty, integrity, and diligence in one’s chosen profession. The Grand Lodge of Illinois emphasizes that “Freemasons strive for the highest standards of integrity in their professional and personal lives” (Grand Lodge of Illinois). This commitment to professional ethics aligns with the concept of “virtue ethics,” which focuses on character and the virtues one should cultivate to lead a good life. By embodying qualities such as trustworthiness and industriousness, Freemasons are encouraged to serve as moral exemplars in their vocations, promoting ethical standards within their industries and professions.
8. Personal Development and Self-Improvement: Freemasonry places a strong emphasis on lifelong learning, self-discipline, and the pursuit of personal growth. The Masonic Service Association of North America states, “Freemasonry challenges the Mason to improve himself and to become a better man, and through his efforts, to make the world a better place” (Masonic Service Association of North America). This mirrors modern psychological theories such as Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, particularly the concept of self-actualization, where individuals strive to realize their fullest potential. Freemasonry’s educational programs, which often include lectures, discussions, and study groups, serve to foster this growth and development.
9. Fraternity and Brotherhood: Freemasonry fundamentally operates as a fraternal organization that promotes fellowship, moral development, and mutual support among its members. The Grand Lodge of Michigan highlights that “Freemasonry is about brotherhood and fellowship, promoting a journey of self-improvement and service to others” (Grand Lodge of Michigan). This communal aspect of Freemasonry aligns with Emile Durkheim’s concept of “mechanical solidarity,” where social cohesion arises from shared beliefs, values, and traditions. Freemasonry’s emphasis on brotherhood fosters a sense of belonging and moral guidance, providing a supportive environment for members to pursue self-betterment and ethical living.

Equality and Universal Brotherhood

The principle of equality is fundamental to Freemasonry, which asserts that all men are inherently equal, regardless of race, religion, or social status. This idea is deeply rooted in Enlightenment thought, particularly the ideals of human rights and universal brotherhood. The Grand Lodge of Ohio reinforces this principle, stating that “Freemasonry believes that all men are equal and that it is the duty of every Mason to respect the opinions of others and to work together in harmony for the common good” (Grand Lodge of Ohio). This view aligns with the social contract theories of Rousseau, which emphasize equality and collective well-being as the foundation of a just society.

Conclusion

Freemasonry, while not a religion, serves as a moral and ethical framework that promotes personal development, civic responsibility, and social engagement. Its values of Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth encourage members to live ethically, support their communities, and seek personal improvement. By drawing from a range of philosophical, sociological, and psychological theories, Freemasonry provides a unique and enduring platform for men to align their lives with principles of integrity, compassion, and community service. Through its teachings and practices, Freemasonry continues to be a relevant and influential institution for those seeking to lead ethical lives and contribute to the common good.

Should you have further questions or require more information, please feel free to reach out.

2024 Spring Reunion – Scottish Rite

What a wonderful weekend of brotherhood and new wisdom. So grateful for these reunions and the opportunity to participate and serve. My soul is renewed!

Are you OK?

Welcome to the From the North podcast. It is a podcast where a few brothers come together and share our masonic experiences with each other. Have a good time and share some brotherhood.

I know it has been a while since we have talked.

AC, Jason, and I are doing well. A week ago, we were able to catch up and see each other face-to-face for the first time in many years at our lodge’s monthly breakfast. It was good to see them both, and it was just like we had never been apart. Good times and good brotherhood—that is what our fraternity is all about.

But I have something very important I want to discuss with you today. I want to know how you are doing?

Today you have made it! You have made it through one more day. I am proud of you. I really am and you should be proud of yourself. It is a big accomplishment.

A lot of guys like me and you didn’t wake up today, but you did. I am proud of you. I know it has been a long couple of months. I know it has been a long winter. Brother, it has been a long year. Several of them in fact.

I know what it is like to go from being able to take on the world, to not even being able to take on yourself, but you are getting through it. You are! I can see it. And you are going to be alright, my brother. I know you will.

You are taking the right steps in the right direction every day by just waking up and showing up. You are doing it, man.  You know, because the pain is inevitable. Unfortunately, it is. But the suffering is optional. You are not going to be like this forever. This will pass. I know it will because it has happened to me many times. It did last time and the time before that. Don’t underestimate yourself. You got this, brother.

Make sure you come back. I like seeing you. I need you and your brotherhood.

Are you OK?

If you are struggling, reach out to me. I will help and will do my best to find you some assistance.

If you feel you can’t go on and want to end it all. You don’t want to wake up tomorrow morning. Don’t end it. I need you. Lets get you some help. Pick up the phone right now and call 9-8-8. There will be someone on the end of the line that is dedicated to help you get the help you need. So don’t hesitate. Make that call.

I need you. Your loved ones need you. Society needs you. you are making a difference and life would not be full without you. So please make that call.

If you are not struggling right now and want to help someone who is, there is a way. There is a course called QPR. It is training given by the National Alliance on Mental Illness that helps lay people learn and have life-saving critical conversations. Gives you the confidence and resources on how to have these conversations with our brothers and sisters. It is just like CPR training, and like CPR, QPR saves lives. It is free to take in many states. The training just takes an hour and a half of your time during a lunch break. This training is well worth it.

I went through this course. It has changed my way of thinking and the way I see those around me. As many of you know, I am an EMS volunteer in my community. I manage a group of dedicated individuals who serve my community in their greatest time of need. Those emergency responses wear on us, first responders. Life and death are a daily reality for us. This wears on our mental health and we lose several of our brothers and sisters every year by suicide because of this immense pressure. I took the QPR training so I could help reduce the loss of my friends and family.

My unit recently had a bad call. It is the one all first responder’s dread. An infant not breathing. Two of my best EMTs responded to the call. Both of them are mothers. They both did a great job. Their training kicked in, and they worked the call with the ambulance staff. They did their best to ensure a good outcome. Unfortunately, the little one still succumbed to their illness. I knew how these two mothers were feeling. I have little ones (well, not so little now) myself. I knew the thoughts that would be running through their heads that morning after the call. So I reached out to both of them, asking how they were doing. It is such a simple question, but it starts the healing process and lets those we ask process their grief. Both responders texted back, I’m going to be OK. Thank you for reaching out. It helps.

Are you OK? Such a simple question to ask. It lets someone know you care. That they are needed, valued, and not alone. Such a simple thing we can all do, and it makes such a tremendous difference. It can save a life.

I challenge you to make a difference in someone’s life today. Ask someone how they are doing.

https://www.namiut.org/our-programs/for-families-caregivers/qpr-suicide-prevention-training

https://www.deseret.com/lifestyle/2024/03/24/male-loneliness-depression-mens-groups/

https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=pme8k-15b9b7b-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=7

Article for Camp Floyd Historical Lodge #205 Newsletter (November 2023)

Why focus on learning about our craft? Masonic education and learning go hand in hand with the ritual. One is useless without the other. An expert orator can deliver the most well-rehearsed, flowery, and emphasized ritual during a degree, but if he doesn’t understand what he is saying, is it as impactful? How many times has a candidate heard a great performance and then asked, “what does that part mean?”[1]. As a mason, I propose that learning is one of the important three tasks we are given when each of us were made a mason.

As most of you know, most stated meetings in the Grand Lodge of Utah open on the Entered Apprentice degree. All our degrees begin and end with a catechism-like exchange between the Worshipful Master and the Senior Warden—a reminder of the basic tenants and responsibilities of a mason for each of the three degrees.

In the Entered Apprentice degree opening and closing, an inquiry is given by the Worshipful Master to the Senior Warden. What came you here to do? The most monotonous response returned by our Brother Senior Warden is: To learn to subdue my passions [maybe a short pause is interesting here] and improve myself in masonry.

The response is ritualistically correct. I put to you, for your consideration, that we don’t fully understand the weight of this response, nor are we fully realizing what we have been directed to do as masons. I offer you a possible new look at this line from our ritual and Entered Apprentice (EA) catechism.

In the Entered Apprentice degree, we were told by the Worshipful Master that we now stand as an upright man and mason. To continue to be exemplary, this response from EA catechism encompasses what we are to do. We are to subdue our passions and improve our craft on initial reading and recital. We are to keep ourselves within the due bounds of the circle at which we sit at the center of by setting limits, having boundaries, and learning from our Volume of Sacred law those things we need to improve ourselves. Remember that Freemasonry makes good men better. We follow this line from the catechism of 1^st degree when we were made a mason. We always work to improve ourselves by learning from good brothers and taking our ritual seriously. But is that enough? Is subduing our passions and working on our ritual all we must do as masons?

As you know, the number three is significant in masonry. We have three degrees, three principal officers, three knocks on the door, the three stages of life are represented in each of the degrees, three greater lights, three lesser lights, three ruffians, and so on. I propose that the above line returned by our Senior Warden is a statement of three things we should be doing as masons. Three tasks we should take to heart as we make our plans for our temple on our tracing boards.

Here is my line of thinking. I feel the Senior Warden’s response can be divided into three statements using the word to as the divider:

• To learn,
• To subdue my passions,
• To improve myself in masonry.

Subduing our passions is almost second nature during our stated meetings and degree work. We respect the Worshipful Master by not interrupting and giving him or whomever he has directed to speak our full attention. We don’t correct ritual out loud during a degree. We follow the rules of order of meetings. We don’t talk about religion or politics in our meetings. We submitted ourselves to the rules and regulations of our lodge and grand lodge when we submitted our petition. We also improve ourselves in masonry by practicing and performing our best ritual and taking those lessons from the degree to heart to make ourselves better.

But what about learning? Masons come to the lodge to learn. Due to time constraints, learning has taken a backstage place in most of our meetings in recent years. Repeatedly, we have heard from studies and surveys that masons want more education and learning. Yes, there are places we can go to learn both practical and esoteric education. But are each of us taking advantage of the educational opportunities in front of us? I have been told that learning is a lifelong endeavor. It didn’t end when I got my degrees, at the end of my college coursework, or at the end of my Master Mason degree.

This idea about this statement being three things Masons are tasked with isn’t my own. I learned about it while reading short educationals published by brothers of my lodge back in England[2]. I read a lot. I am always trying to expand my learning of our craft. I share my thoughts on Brother Richard Carver’s paper to get you thinking about masonic learning and, by extension, reading masonic works. Look at Albert G. Mackey’s essay to understand the importance of learning our craft[3].

This is where I feel that our historic lodge can help with each of our efforts for this individual learning requirement. We have an opportunity to do research and share those ideas, do presentations at various lodge meetings, perform degrees in time-period regalia, and have deep intellectual discussions with each other to increase our understanding. Our lodge is in a great and unique position to share more light with others of our fraternity. If we take learning to be a serious endeavor, fully accepting the effort to heart, we can continue improving ourselves and those around us.

Speaking of learning, since becoming a mason, I have found that masonic lessons can be found everywhere. Not only from our ritual and our Volume of Sacred Law but everywhere as we are well informed when we became Fellowcrafts. Those liberal arts and sciences impart to each of us the wisdom of the universe and the wisdom of the Grand Architect of the Universe.

I recently was binging on the last season of Star Trek Picard. Admiral Picard (played by Sir Patrick Stewart[4]) was reflecting on a conversation he was having with a large group of cadets who had approached him asking for clarification and guidance. At the end of his reflection on recovering from a dangerous mission, he gave those young cadets some wisdom.

“Y’know, there will be a time when you will need to remember that no matter how bleak or unwinnable a situation, as long as you and your crew remain steadfast in your dedication, one to another, you are never ever without hope.”[5]

 Later in the episode, he imparts another tidbit of masonic light. “You’re only ever really as good as those around you. Your crew becomes a part of you. Complete you. They lift you up to accomplish the things you never could do alone.”[6]

 I felt these were directly related to the struggles our historical lodge has had over the past several years as I reflected on them. Those of you who have served in the military, public safety, or even your team at work know what Picard refers to. Strength is given to a team when they have fought in the trenches, overcoming bad odds or challenging situations. A bond is created that can be as thick as blood, and the synergy that is created is greater than the separate parts. This gives the team great strength that can be used to overcome almost any obstacle and creates mystic bonds that last a lifetime.

Let’s form that brotherhood. We have some obstacles before us as we progress towards being that historical lodge we and our Grand Lodge need it to be. Let’s do the work, make the tough decisions, attend meetings, learn our ritual, recruit new members, shared newly learned knowledge, etc. Let’s become the band of brothers our historical lodge needs to make its future bright for us and generations of masons. Let’s fight together in the trenches and do the hard work. We are better together, working towards our ambitious goals, than we are trying to separately achieve this great endeavor.

I will end with another Star Trek quote that is apropos. I hope it motivates you as it does me. Let’s “.. boldly go where no man” or Mason “has gone before!”[7]

[1] https://www.nhgrandlodge.org/why-masonic-education/

[2] https://internet.lodge.org.uk/images/docs/spc/SPC200913.pdf

[3] https://www.thesquaremagazine.com/mag/article/202309reading-masons-and-masons-who-do-not-read/

[4] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Patrick_Stewart

[5] Star Trek: Picard, Season 3 Episode 4: “No Win Scenario”

[6] ibid.

[7] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Where_no_man_has_gone_before

Utah York Rite Sessions (2022)

This weekend, I attended my first ever Utah Grand York Rite sessions. The event was held in a hotel that I usually use when attending various events in the Salt Lake Valley. It was super convenient for me and came with a discount on the group rate. Always a good first step for a great weekend.

We hear from the elected officers, and our daisies officers elect new leadership. It was interesting that our state York Rite follows the line pretty well. There are always a few resignations due to age and life, but things move right along. But, since I am a people watcher, I noticed some leaders are there for title and power, and others are there for the right reason. To progress the craft. I had falsely presumed that Freemasonry was immune to this due to our vows as master masons to meet on the level. But I was wrong. I guess no organization run by man is immune from those who are “stupid” (you know what I mean if you heard the educational given by Worshipful Neil Wagner at our Scottish Rite meeting a couple of months ago). I guess I had higher expectations from an organization that is very Christian-based and is / or should be driven by the teachings of our Savior.

I have not been immune to having done this selfish stuff myself. An attribute I have been working on trying to diligently suppress in myself. Because I have seen it and done it, I can see it readily in others. So in an effort not to be a judge, this post is just an opportunity to get it off my chest and move on. To remind me how not to be. As in every X-step program, one step is recognizing what oneself and others have done. Then, humility kicks in, and repentance can then indeed happen. I take what I experience as an opportunity to learn from both the good and the bad. Take those good things and do them. Learn from the wrong things and vow not to do those same things to others.

There were some great things spoken by some of the leadership. One, especially of note, was when Right Eminent Grand Commander (now Past) Jason Varner shared his report for the past year. He shared the turmoils of the year and the hard things that happened in the Knights Templar organization over this year. In the end, he pleaded with us to “do the right thing.” Punctuating his remarks with “be kind.” Jason is a great leader and mason. He has served masonry as a leader for many years. I love his comments as he is one of our Grand Lodge Orators who writes well and always has a great message to learn from. I have read everything that he has written that I can get my hands on online. He truly believes in the message he is sharing and, I think, truly tries to live as he speaks. I will take his note to heart and push the pressure to do terrible things off and be kind as he has so ordered.

Today, I watched my local Episcopal Church’s worship service that punctuates this message. The bishop for the state of Utah (Rt. Rev. Scott B. Hayashi) was in attendance. He shared a great message using the Savior as the ultimate example of being kind. He shared that at the last supper (John Chapter 13 through 18), Judas left. Jesus knew why he was leaving and what Judas was about to do. He also knew that Peter was also going to betray him three times. Yet, as a compassionate leader, the Savior did not take the opportunity to chastise Judas and Peter directly. He did not take the opportunity to belittle them in front of the other apostles. Instead, he chose to serve them despite what they were doing or about to do. He washed their feet. He continued to feed them both spiritually and physically. He continued to teach them and set the example. He is the supreme example of kindness and genuine leadership.

After he had washed their feet, had put on his robe, and had reclined again, he said to them, “Do you know what I have done to you? You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for that is what I am. So if I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have set you an example, that you also should do as I have done to you. Very truly, I tell you, slaves are not greater than their master, nor are messengers greater than the one who sent them. If you know these things, you are blessed if you do them. I am not speaking of all of you; I know whom I have chosen. But it is to fulfill the scripture, ‘The one who ate my bread has lifted his heel against me.’ I tell you this now, before it occurs, so that when it does occur you may believe that I am he. Very truly, I tell you, whoever receives one whom I send receives me, and whoever receives me receives him who sent me.”

May we ever strive to follow the example of our Savior in both our personal lives and when given opportunities to lead.