Faithful Moore Lodge # 009
Modern Free Anthem
O Modern Free shall aways be so close to
me. Our guiding star, shall lead us on to
thee. We'll always know just why we came
to love you so, O Modern Free, so mote, so
mote it be.
We shall forever be so true, so true to you.
At work or play whatever we may do.
How marvelous do we love the fellowship.
O Modern Free, O Modern free, we love you
so.
O Modern Free our love for you and all
mankind. Shall ever be all true and in our
minds. We love you so, because the Bible
tells us so. So mote it be, so mote, so mote
it be.
We shall forever be so true, so true to you.
At work or play whatever we may do.
How marvelous do we love the fellowship.
O Modern Free, O Modern Free, we love you
so.
Enlightenment
What is Modern Free & Accepted Mason?
Modern Free & Accepted Masons of the world Inc is an benevolent and Patriotic
Society, established to promote Friendship, Brotherly Love among it's members
and to carry on benevolent work for the relief of the needy & helpless in our
communities.
Our leaders are of good character who strive to improve themselves and make
the world a better place. Through their leadership, they encourage members to
become better than they were before.
Our members comes from all walks of life; business, civil, and religious leaders,
scientists and philosophers, authors, musicians, and artisans, who have all joined
together in the pursuit of More Light. We are a fraternal organization, but for us
it is also "A Way of Life".
We invite you to embark on a journey of discovery and enlightenment, Welcome
to MODERN FREE and ACCEPTED MASONS of the WORLD, INC.
What is FREEMASONRY?
Freemasonry is the world's oldest and largest Fraternity. While its traditions look
back to earliest history, Masonry in its current form appeared when its public
events were noticed by the residents of London, England in 1717. Although
Masonry - particularly in its earliest days - had some elements of secrecy, the
first 'exposure' of the supposedly highly-secret Masonic ritual actually appeared
in 1696! Since that time, there have been tens of thousands of books
published about this 'secret organization'. And for over three hundred years,
despite the good works done by its members, Freemasonry has continually
suffered the slings and arrows of those who seek to use it's quiet nature against it.
What do Mason's do?
A Mason is also free to explain that Freemasonry is a charitable organization,
which acts to relieve the distress of local individuals who are victims of calamity,
and that it has created programs and institutions to care for its needy senior
citizens, or to provide scholarship aid for worthy and needy young people in
college. Masonic Homes and Hospitals, Grand' Lodge Scholarship Programs,
Charity Funds, and the Hospital Visitation Program of the Masonic
Service Association are examples of such achievements. Freemasonry is also, but
not primarily, a social organization, which arranges special meetings to which are
invited wives, children, neighbors and friends for the purposes of entertainment
and sociability. Masons seek the pleasure of associating with other members of
the community, hoping thereby to reveal the serious and idealistic nature of the
Fraternity's objectives.
The Masonic Teaching
Masonry teaches man to practice charity and benevolence, to protect chastity, to
respect the ties of blood and friendship, to adopt the principles and revere the
ordinances of religion, to assist the feeble, guide the blind, raise up the
downtrodden, shelter the orphan, guard the
altar, support the government, inculcate morality, promote learning, love
mankind, fear God, implore His mercy and hope for happiness.
Why are you a secret society?
We are not, but lodge meetings, like those of many other groups, are private and
open only to members. The rules and aims of Freemasonry are available to the
public. Meeting places are known and in many areas are used by the local
community for activities other than
Freemasonry. Members are encouraged to speak openly about Freemasonry.
What is the purpose of Freemasonry?
Freemasonry's singular purpose is to make good men better and its bonds of
friendship, compassion and brotherly love have survived even the most divisive
political, military and religious conflicts through the centuries. Freemasonry is
neither a forum nor a place of
worship. It is not a religion nor does it teach a religious philosophy. For nearly
three hundred years it has attracted men of high moral character who support the
tenets of temperance, fortitude, prudence and justice.
What happens at a lodge meeting?
The meeting is in two parts. As in any association there is a certain amount of
administrative procedure - minutes of last meeting, proposing and balloting for
new members, discussing and voting on financial matters, election of officers,
news and correspondence. Then there
are the ceremonies for admitting new Masons and the annual installation of the
Master and appointment of officers. The three ceremonies for admitting a new
Mason are in two parts - a slight dramatic instruction in the principles and lessons
taught in the Craft followed by a lecture in which the candidate's various duties
are spelled out.
Why do Masons take oaths?
New members make solemn promises concerning their conduct in the Lodge and
in society. Each member also promises to keep confidential the traditional
methods of proving that he is a mason which he would use when visiting a lodge
where he is not known.A mason do not swear allegiances to each other or to
Freemasonry. A mason promise to support others in times of need, but only if
that support does not conflict with their duties to God, the law, their family or
with their responsibilities as a Citizen.
Isn't it true that masons only look after each other?
No. From its earliest days, Freemasonry has been involved in charitable activities.
Since its inception, masonry has provided support not only for widows and
orphans of masons but also for many others within the community. While some
Masonic charities cater specifically but not exclusively for Masons or their
dependents, others make significant grants to non-Masonic organizations. On a
local level, lodges give substantial support to local causes.
How many masons are there?
Today, the more than four million Freemasons around the world come from
virtually every occupation and profession. Within the Fraternity, however, all
meet as equals. In fact, one of the most Fascinating aspect of Freemasonry (and
an obvious source of irritation for those who thrive on the seeds of discontent)
has always been: how can so many men, from so many different walks of life,
meet together in peace, ignoring political or religious debates, to conduct their
affairs in harmony and friendship and to call each other "Brother!" It's truly a
conundrum which perplexes those outside the fraternity. Laying aside petty
jealousies and agreeing that issues of politics and religion are not proper for
discussion within a lodge, the 'bones of contention' that so often divide are
removed thereby making it possible for men of
varying religious and political interests to meet on common ground.
How many degrees are there in Freemasonry?
Basic Freemasonry consists of the three ‘Craft’ degrees (Entered Apprentice,
Fellow Craft and Master Mason) completed by the Royal Arch degree (Chapter).
There are many other Masonic degrees and Orders which are called ‘additional’
because they add to the basis of the Craft and Royal Arch. They are not basic to
Freemasonry but add to it by further expounding and illustrating the principles
stated in the Craft and Royal Arch. Some of these additional degrees are
numerically superior to the third degree but this does not affect the fact that they
are additional to and not in anyway superior to or higher than the Craft. The
ranks that these additional degrees carry have no standing with the Craft or
Royal Arch.
How much does it cost to be a Freemason?
It varies from lodge to lodge but anyone wishing to join can find a lodge to suit his
pocket. On entry, there is an initiation fee and an apron to buy. A member pays
an annual subscription to his lodge which covers his membership and the
administrative cost of running the lodge. It is usual to have a meal after the
meeting; the cost of this can be included either in the annual subscription or paid
for at the time. It is entirely up to the individual member what he gives to
Charity, but it should always be without detriment to his other responsibilities.
Similarly, he may join as many lodges as his time and pocket can allow as long as
it does not adversely affect his family life and
responsibilities.
What is Modern Free & Accepted Mason?
Modern Free & Accepted Masons of the world Inc is an benevolent and Patriotic
Society, established to promote Friendship, Brotherly Love among it's members
and to carry on benevolent work for the relief of the needy & helpless in our
communities.
Our leaders are of good character who strive to improve themselves and make
the world a better place. Through their leadership, they encourage members to
become better than they were before.
Our members comes from all walks of life; business, civil, and religious leaders,
scientists and philosophers, authors, musicians, and artisans, who have all joined
together in the pursuit of More Light. We are a fraternal organization, but for us
it is also "A Way of Life".
We invite you to embark on a journey of discovery and enlightenment, Welcome
to MODERN FREE and ACCEPTED MASONS of the WORLD, INC.
What is FREEMASONRY?
Freemasonry is the world's oldest and largest Fraternity. While its traditions look
back to earliest history, Masonry in its current form appeared when its public
events were noticed by the residents of London, England in 1717. Although
Masonry - particularly in its earliest days - had some elements of secrecy, the
first 'exposure' of the supposedly highly-secret Masonic ritual actually appeared
in 1696! Since that time, there have been tens of thousands of books
published about this 'secret organization'. And for over three hundred years,
despite the good works done by its members, Freemasonry has continually
suffered the slings and arrows of those who seek to use it's quiet nature against it.
What do Mason's do?
A Mason is also free to explain that Freemasonry is a charitable organization,
which acts to relieve the distress of local individuals who are victims of calamity,
and that it has created programs and institutions to care for its needy senior
citizens, or to provide scholarship aid for worthy and needy young people in
college. Masonic Homes and Hospitals, Grand' Lodge Scholarship Programs,
Charity Funds, and the Hospital Visitation Program of the Masonic
Service Association are examples of such achievements. Freemasonry is also, but
not primarily, a social organization, which arranges special meetings to which are
invited wives, children, neighbors and friends for the purposes of entertainment
and sociability. Masons seek the pleasure of associating with other members of
the community, hoping thereby to reveal the serious and idealistic nature of the
Fraternity's objectives.
The Masonic Teaching
Masonry teaches man to practice charity and benevolence, to protect chastity, to
respect the ties of blood and friendship, to adopt the principles and revere the
ordinances of religion, to assist the feeble, guide the blind, raise up the
downtrodden, shelter the orphan, guard the
altar, support the government, inculcate morality, promote learning, love
mankind, fear God, implore His mercy and hope for happiness.
Why are you a secret society?
We are not, but lodge meetings, like those of many other groups, are private and
open only to members. The rules and aims of Freemasonry are available to the
public. Meeting places are known and in many areas are used by the local
community for activities other than
Freemasonry. Members are encouraged to speak openly about Freemasonry.
What is the purpose of Freemasonry?
Freemasonry's singular purpose is to make good men better and its bonds of
friendship, compassion and brotherly love have survived even the most divisive
political, military and religious conflicts through the centuries. Freemasonry is
neither a forum nor a place of
worship. It is not a religion nor does it teach a religious philosophy. For nearly
three hundred years it has attracted men of high moral character who support the
tenets of temperance, fortitude, prudence and justice.
What happens at a lodge meeting?
The meeting is in two parts. As in any association there is a certain amount of
administrative procedure - minutes of last meeting, proposing and balloting for
new members, discussing and voting on financial matters, election of officers,
news and correspondence. Then there
are the ceremonies for admitting new Masons and the annual installation of the
Master and appointment of officers. The three ceremonies for admitting a new
Mason are in two parts - a slight dramatic instruction in the principles and lessons
taught in the Craft followed by a lecture in which the candidate's various duties
are spelled out.
Why do Masons take oaths?
New members make solemn promises concerning their conduct in the Lodge and
in society. Each member also promises to keep confidential the traditional
methods of proving that he is a mason which he would use when visiting a lodge
where he is not known.A mason do not swear allegiances to each other or to
Freemasonry. A mason promise to support others in times of need, but only if
that support does not conflict with their duties to God, the law, their family or
with their responsibilities as a Citizen.
Isn't it true that masons only look after each other?
No. From its earliest days, Freemasonry has been involved in charitable activities.
Since its inception, masonry has provided support not only for widows and
orphans of masons but also for many others within the community. While some
Masonic charities cater specifically but not exclusively for Masons or their
dependents, others make significant grants to non-Masonic organizations. On a
local level, lodges give substantial support to local causes.
How many masons are there?
Today, the more than four million Freemasons around the world come from
virtually every occupation and profession. Within the Fraternity, however, all
meet as equals. In fact, one of the most Fascinating aspect of Freemasonry (and
an obvious source of irritation for those who thrive on the seeds of discontent)
has always been: how can so many men, from so many different walks of life,
meet together in peace, ignoring political or religious debates, to conduct their
affairs in harmony and friendship and to call each other "Brother!" It's truly a
conundrum which perplexes those outside the fraternity. Laying aside petty
jealousies and agreeing that issues of politics and religion are not proper for
discussion within a lodge, the 'bones of contention' that so often divide are
removed thereby making it possible for men of
varying religious and political interests to meet on common ground.
How many degrees are there in Freemasonry?
Basic Freemasonry consists of the three ‘Craft’ degrees (Entered Apprentice,
Fellow Craft and Master Mason) completed by the Royal Arch degree (Chapter).
There are many other Masonic degrees and Orders which are called ‘additional’
because they add to the basis of the Craft and Royal Arch. They are not basic to
Freemasonry but add to it by further expounding and illustrating the principles
stated in the Craft and Royal Arch. Some of these additional degrees are
numerically superior to the third degree but this does not affect the fact that they
are additional to and not in anyway superior to or higher than the Craft. The
ranks that these additional degrees carry have no standing with the Craft or
Royal Arch.
How much does it cost to be a Freemason?
It varies from lodge to lodge but anyone wishing to join can find a lodge to suit his
pocket. On entry, there is an initiation fee and an apron to buy. A member pays
an annual subscription to his lodge which covers his membership and the
administrative cost of running the lodge. It is usual to have a meal after the
meeting; the cost of this can be included either in the annual subscription or paid
for at the time. It is entirely up to the individual member what he gives to
Charity, but it should always be without detriment to his other responsibilities.
Similarly, he may join as many lodges as his time and pocket can allow as long as
it does not adversely affect his family life and
responsibilities.
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Masonic Religion
by Edward L. King
Anti-Masons often try to "prove" that Freemasonry is a religion -
and then, on that basis, condemn it as being a 'false religion'. Masons
know full well that Freemasonry is no more a religion than is golf,
Scouting, or the U. S. Navy League. The arguments raised, though,
may leave those unfamiliar with Masonry questioning.
Here are the facts:
When one examines the commonalities and differences in religions,
there is a short list of traits all share but which are unique to none
thereby achieving a WORKING model of what religion is. It is
important to remember that this involves RELIGION not
SPIRITUALITY, which for the most part, is a trait of being human.
A group of people who by means of culture, propinquity and common
beliefs come together in a recognized group.
A profession of belief in a higher existence and/or being.
Group action which encases their belief system in symbolism and
ritual.
Through the self-definitions of the above, the group proceeds in a
"we-they" quasi political (encased in mysticism and/or spirituality)
manner to promote and maintain their organization.
It can reasonably be argued that all of these are true of Masonry.
Similarly, however, they are also true of organizations like Scouting,
Campfire, Alcoholics Anonymous and The U. S. Navy League - to
name but a few.
So on the basis of this non-partisan, sociological model, Freemasonry
more than fits and for these reasons, some could find it hard to see
why Masonry is, in fact, NOT a religion.
However, when we look at what religion does, there is an entirely
different picture.
Religions do the following (though details vary from one to the next):
Practice sacerdotal functions - Masonry does NOT!
Teach Theology - Masonry does NOT!
Ordain Clergy - Masonry does NOT!
Define sin and salvation - Masonry does NOT!
Perform sacraments - Masonry does NOT!
Publish or specify a Holy Book - Masonry does NOT!
Describe or define the Deity - Masonry does NOT!
Freemasonry does NONE of these things - but religions DO!
Sometimes a Mason will - for whatever reason - find his religious
affiliation unsatisfying. In these times, it is particularly easy to find
a substitute. For some, it may be golf, bowling, computers, or other
activity. It may be politics or the constant involvement in public
affairs. For some though, it could become Freemasonry wherein the
member has an opportunity to reflect on the great works of the
Creator and which encourages his thoughtful circumspection. Small
wonder, then, that there are those Freemasons whose attachment to
the Fraternity is somewhat akin to that normally found in an
attachment to a set of religious beliefs. This human activity, though,
in no way makes Freemasonry itself something it is not - a religion!
Nothing that anti-Masons can say or write to the contrary and no
behavior by a handful of individual Masons will change that simple
fact!
One of the spurious charges against Freemasonry involves the
charge that because certain Masonic buildings are called "Temples",
there's obviously false religious worship occurring. Nothing could be
further from the truth. The use of this word comes into Masonry
from two sources: the first involves the symbols and history of the
organization which uses as an example of the Mason's art, the
building of King Solomon's Temple. The second comes from prior
English usage of the word "temple" as a place of learning such as
"Temple of Education" although such terminology is now lost in the
21st century. The term seems far more exhaustively used in the
United States than in other countries and thus attracts the attention
of religious intolerants.
Like other ill-conceived rants against Freemasonry, this one merely
shows the ignorance of the accuser. While some buildings are indeed
awe-inspiring, particularly when filled with good men with whom a
common purpose is shared, no Mason would ever assume that he was
entering a 'solemn place of worship' for the purpose of worshipping.
In order to stem the complaints of those whose education in the
development and usage of the language is limited or those who might
unknowingly be seduced by Masonic detractors, many Grand Lodges
throughout the US are now changing their description of buildings
used by Masons to "Masonic Hall" or "Masonic Building" rather
than "Masonic Temple". Nevertheless, this spurious claim will
undoubtedly continue to haunt at the fringe of complaints made
by a vocal few.
by Edward L. King
Anti-Masons often try to "prove" that Freemasonry is a religion -
and then, on that basis, condemn it as being a 'false religion'. Masons
know full well that Freemasonry is no more a religion than is golf,
Scouting, or the U. S. Navy League. The arguments raised, though,
may leave those unfamiliar with Masonry questioning.
Here are the facts:
When one examines the commonalities and differences in religions,
there is a short list of traits all share but which are unique to none
thereby achieving a WORKING model of what religion is. It is
important to remember that this involves RELIGION not
SPIRITUALITY, which for the most part, is a trait of being human.
A group of people who by means of culture, propinquity and common
beliefs come together in a recognized group.
A profession of belief in a higher existence and/or being.
Group action which encases their belief system in symbolism and
ritual.
Through the self-definitions of the above, the group proceeds in a
"we-they" quasi political (encased in mysticism and/or spirituality)
manner to promote and maintain their organization.
It can reasonably be argued that all of these are true of Masonry.
Similarly, however, they are also true of organizations like Scouting,
Campfire, Alcoholics Anonymous and The U. S. Navy League - to
name but a few.
So on the basis of this non-partisan, sociological model, Freemasonry
more than fits and for these reasons, some could find it hard to see
why Masonry is, in fact, NOT a religion.
However, when we look at what religion does, there is an entirely
different picture.
Religions do the following (though details vary from one to the next):
Practice sacerdotal functions - Masonry does NOT!
Teach Theology - Masonry does NOT!
Ordain Clergy - Masonry does NOT!
Define sin and salvation - Masonry does NOT!
Perform sacraments - Masonry does NOT!
Publish or specify a Holy Book - Masonry does NOT!
Describe or define the Deity - Masonry does NOT!
Freemasonry does NONE of these things - but religions DO!
Sometimes a Mason will - for whatever reason - find his religious
affiliation unsatisfying. In these times, it is particularly easy to find
a substitute. For some, it may be golf, bowling, computers, or other
activity. It may be politics or the constant involvement in public
affairs. For some though, it could become Freemasonry wherein the
member has an opportunity to reflect on the great works of the
Creator and which encourages his thoughtful circumspection. Small
wonder, then, that there are those Freemasons whose attachment to
the Fraternity is somewhat akin to that normally found in an
attachment to a set of religious beliefs. This human activity, though,
in no way makes Freemasonry itself something it is not - a religion!
Nothing that anti-Masons can say or write to the contrary and no
behavior by a handful of individual Masons will change that simple
fact!
One of the spurious charges against Freemasonry involves the
charge that because certain Masonic buildings are called "Temples",
there's obviously false religious worship occurring. Nothing could be
further from the truth. The use of this word comes into Masonry
from two sources: the first involves the symbols and history of the
organization which uses as an example of the Mason's art, the
building of King Solomon's Temple. The second comes from prior
English usage of the word "temple" as a place of learning such as
"Temple of Education" although such terminology is now lost in the
21st century. The term seems far more exhaustively used in the
United States than in other countries and thus attracts the attention
of religious intolerants.
Like other ill-conceived rants against Freemasonry, this one merely
shows the ignorance of the accuser. While some buildings are indeed
awe-inspiring, particularly when filled with good men with whom a
common purpose is shared, no Mason would ever assume that he was
entering a 'solemn place of worship' for the purpose of worshipping.
In order to stem the complaints of those whose education in the
development and usage of the language is limited or those who might
unknowingly be seduced by Masonic detractors, many Grand Lodges
throughout the US are now changing their description of buildings
used by Masons to "Masonic Hall" or "Masonic Building" rather
than "Masonic Temple". Nevertheless, this spurious claim will
undoubtedly continue to haunt at the fringe of complaints made
by a vocal few.
