Masonry Magazine March 1965 Page. 8
MASONRY • March, 1965
A MASONIC JOURNAL FOR THE THINKER
Published Monthly by the Masonic Service Association of the United States.
Volume XXXVIII MARCH, 1965 Number 3
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WHAT IS FREEMASONRY?
Freemasonry is a fraternity of men, believing in God, of good moral character, who meet together in lodges for the purpose of mutual improvement, and for the promotion of charity and good will toward all mankind.
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THE MEANING OF FREEMASONRY
Freemasonry is a way of life. It is a philosophy based on faith in God and the brotherhood of man. It teaches that life has a purpose and that each individual has a responsibility to himself, to his fellow man, and to God.
Freemasonry seeks to make good men better. It provides a moral and ethical framework within which men can grow and develop their potential. It encourages its members to be honest, just, and charitable in all their dealings.
Freemasonry is not a religion, but it is religious in character. It requires its members to believe in God, but it does not dictate what their religious beliefs should be. It teaches that all men are brothers, regardless of their race, creed, or social status.
Freemasonry is a force for good in the world. It promotes peace, harmony, and understanding among men. It supports education, charity, and other worthwhile causes. It strives to make the world a better place for all.
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THE SYMBOLISM OF FREEMASONRY
Freemasonry uses symbols to teach its lessons. These symbols are drawn from a variety of sources, including the Bible, ancient history, and the natural world.
Some of the most common Masonic symbols include:
* The Square and Compasses: These are the tools of the stonemason, and they represent morality and reason.
* The Level: This represents equality.
* The Plumb: This represents uprightness.
* The Trowel: This represents brotherly love.
* The All-Seeing Eye: This represents God's omnipresence.
These symbols are not merely decorative. They are meant to be studied and pondered, so that their meaning can be understood and applied to one's own life.
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THE BENEFITS OF FREEMASONRY
Freemasonry offers many benefits to its members. These include:
* Brotherhood: Freemasonry provides a sense of belonging and fellowship.
* Moral and Ethical Guidance: Freemasonry teaches its members to be honest, just, and charitable.
* Personal Growth: Freemasonry encourages its members to develop their potential.
* Community Service: Freemasonry supports education, charity, and other worthwhile causes.
If you are looking for a way to improve yourself and to make a difference in the world, Freemasonry may be for you.
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THE QUALIFICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP
To be eligible for membership in a Masonic lodge, a man must:
* Be of good moral character.
* Believe in God.
* Be at least the age required by the Grand Lodge in his jurisdiction.
* Be free and of lawful age.
* Be able to support himself and his family.
* Be willing to take an oath of obligation.
If you meet these qualifications and are interested in learning more about Freemasonry, you should contact a local Masonic lodge.
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THE MASONIC SERVICE ASSOCIATION
The Masonic Service Association of the United States is an organization that provides services to Masonic lodges and Grand Lodges throughout the country. These services include:
* Educational programs
* Charitable activities
* Disaster relief
* Public relations
The Masonic Service Association is supported by contributions from Masonic lodges and individual Masons.
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THE FUTURE OF FREEMASONRY
Freemasonry has a long and rich history. It has played an important role in the development of Western civilization.
In the 21st century, Freemasonry faces many challenges. These include:
* Declining membership
* Changing social values
* Competition from other organizations
However, Freemasonry also has many opportunities. These include:
* Reaching out to new members
* Adapting to changing social values
* Promoting its values of brotherhood, charity, and truth
Freemasonry has the potential to continue to be a force for good in the world for many years to come.
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THE END