From Speculative to Operative Freemasonry?

Posted by felixramos@ymail.com on August 23, 2010 at 11:40 PM

The evolution and development of the craft has finally reached its zenith as to the direction of Operative to Speculative Masonry. To wit: ( Just a few )

1. On members – they come in with the attitude and perceptions that the brotherhood is no different from Lions, Kiwanis, Rotary; social or civic clubs, so to speak. Petitioners and candidates come in vast numbers thereby sacrificing the qualities of becoming an ideal members of professing the prestined moral values that “Freemasonry is a Way of Life.” After being Raised in the sublime degree of MM, they were converted of “NOT” becoming a better person, they change not for the better and instead for the worst!

2. Obligations – The once a month stated meeting where proficiency in rituals and continous study of the craft existed no more. What to be expected is just simply the opening of the lodge, a few minutes of readings from the secretary and the treasurer will suffice the much awaited day.

3. Conferral of Degrees – If there are initiation, passing, raising, they will opt for the short form of masonic ceremonies and, on a rush, close the lodge and proceed to fraternal banquet or fellowships. Inside, they will eat and drink with no limits. Some says that the traditions were inherited in England where the ancient lodges were formerly taverns and inns where binges like drinking and eating abound ( Kalatog Pinggan ang tawag sa kanila!). In fact, there was a painting, somewhat satirical by Hogarth during the 17th century of a ” very drunk worshipful master” being accompanied by a woman ( wife or spare tire? he he…), presumably coming from a lodge meeting and had their fraternal banquet. Expect these things to happen my brethren at least every saturdays. With the aforementioned, don’t you think that we revert the direction FROM SPECULATIVE TO OPERATIVE?

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