Le Droit Humain
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37
InternatIonal
Special International Convention 2012
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EN
ordre Maçonnique Mixte International
Le Droit Humain
Le Droit Humain #37
Special Issue on the International Convention
held at les Salons de l’aveyron, Paris from 16 to 20 May 2012 edition: Communication Commission February 2013
INDEX
Opening speech of the XIV International Convention
Most Illustrious Sister Danièle Juette
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10 14 18 22 24
Past Grand Master and Sovereign Grand Commander of the Order
Impressions on the International Convention
Sister Jóhanna Sigurjónsdóttir
Icelandic federation
A harmonious Babel
Brother Luis Alberto Acebal
Argentinian jurisdiction
Memories and experiences
Brother Pedro-José Vila
Spanish federation
Report from Australia
Most Illustrious Sister Laura R. Ealey
Australian federation
Closing speech of the XIV International Convention
Most Illustrious Sister Yvette Ramon
Grand Master and Sovereign Grand Commander of the Order
oPenIng SPeeCh oF the XIV InternatIonal ConVentIon
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V.·. Ill.·. S.·.
DanIèle Juette
Past grand Master and Sovereign grand Commander of the order
My Sisters and Brothers in your various degrees and capacities,
It is a deeply emotional moment to see us all gathered here, arriving as we have from our various Orients for this, the 14th International Convention of our Order.
It is an exceptional moment of coming together, enabling us to experience universal brotherhood first hand. This is what our founders wished for. In creating our Order, by way of the Declaration of Principles and the first three Articles of our International Constitution, they expressed the desire that our meetings and exchanges should take place marked not by religious, ethnic or national identity but simply by our common humanity. And for that reason, they wished for an Order that, first and foremost, is essentially initiatory in character, one that is actively working, here and now, at the heart of our shared human experience. The aim was and is to bring different people together that they might reflect and act more effectively, one with the other, for the mutual benefit of their own individual, spiritual development and for society in general. That is, to actively work to build a society of universal brotherhood.
To accomplish this task, they chose a rite, the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite. This was not a random choice, for the rite is a fusion of diverse traditions in which no single one is given pride of place. It opens up a broad field of knowledge, understanding and reflection capable of uniting human beings of various faiths, beliefs and philosophies around universal, humanist values.
This is why the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite is the constitutional rite of our
Order. It enables all Sisters and Brothers in the Orients throughout the world to work together in their lodges, be they atheistic, agnostic, deistic, theistic, of no religion or adhering to all religions.
In this connection, I would like to remind you that ours is not a deistic Order. It is inadmissible, in breach of the International Constitution, for lodges within our Order to make a belief in God or in a Supreme Being a condition for admission. On the contrary, our International Constitution obliges us to respect human dignity by recognising every human being’s right to enjoy a freedom of conscience. It is on this principle that our Order was founded and its international dimension established. During the first International Convention in 1920, The V.·. Ill.·. Bro.·. Goaziou, M.·. P.·. G.·. C.·. of the American Federation, said “...for the first time, delegates who not only came from far-away countries and spoke different languages but also held, one might say, opposing religious and political opinions came together to set out a Declaration of Principles and an International Constitution that would unite them in a common endeavour...”
The Declaration and the International Constitution of 2007 have remained identical in spirit to those drawn up in 1920.
That is why the Declaration of Principles and the first three Articles of our Constitution serve as a signpost for each and every member of the Order. They set out in plain language the task that lies before us: To ensure that the values enshrined in our motto of “Liberty-Equality-Fraternity” become a true reality both within Freemasonry and in the world outside of the lodge. The aim is that men and women throughout the world should enjoy social justice in equal measure as human beings organised into free and fraternal so-
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cieties. To attain this goal, the Order adopts a ritual, symbolic method of working by means of which members build their own Temple to the perfection and glory of Mankind.
To carry out this task, we have only to perfect our own ashlars, bearing in mind that, as Freemasons, we are at one and the same time both the ashlar itself and the path leading to that ashlar’s being perfected. It is within the symbolic lodge that we are invited to journey forward with ourselves for company, for it is here that a truly liberating relationship develops. This is the crucible in which nigredo, “blackening or nothingness,” takes place. Masonic labour is not being privy to a few revelations of a mystical nature but, more fundamentally, pursuing a quest for one’s own humanity. The true Masonic secret is to be found in the heart of each Mason where it will slowly, endlessly evolve. It lies at the
heart of life in the symbolic lodge, in the regular brotherly confrontation of one Mason
with another.
This is why we need to remain vigilant regarding the work carried out in our symbolic lodges, for it is on their vitality that the future of the Order depends. In this connection, I would like to mention a problem that arises all too often: the race by certain Sisters and Brothers to take the Higher Degrees as quickly as possible, with little regard for the initiatory aspect. Wearing a Higher Degree collar, especially parading it around, in particular, outside the lodge appropriate to the degree in question, does not automatically mean that the wearer is a grand initiate with power over Entered Apprentices, Fellow-Crafts or Master Masons. Given our initiatory continuum, such attitudes are destructive. Members of the Higher Degree lodges may and must be visible only by the example they set, not because of any regalia they may wear in an ostentatious fashion.
The Higher Degrees are scales that reflect nothing but the amount of work devoted to perfecting oneself. No degree, as such, confers power; only duly-elected officers have the authority to carry out specific functions on behalf of the Order and of our federations and lodges, both near and far.
The Supreme Council elected at the International General Assembly in 2007 endeavoured to fulfil its mandate to the best of its ability and to live up to the oaths taken by all the Grand Inspectors General. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Supreme Council members who devoted themselves unsparingly to the various –and not always simple– tasks entrusted to them. Those who are leaving office at the same time, as I am, will have the pleasure of working once again in their own lodges and, especially, to pursue their unending initiatory work.
During the past five years, the rate at which our Order has grown varied from one country to another. Several Federations, Jurisdictions and Pioneer Lodges have seen their memberships steadily grow, while others remained static or even regressed. From visits to different Orients and from studying the annual reports of the Federations, Jurisdictions and Pioneer Lodges, it seems that those which progressed are those who concern themselves with modern-day problems. Groups who have stagnated or gone backwards undoubtedly will need to ponder over this loss of momentum, because lack of growth constitutes a danger at both the material and spiritual levels. And though external factors may have a role to play, it would be a mistake to overlook any internal factors involved or fail to reflect on one’s working methods in according to the time in which we live.
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Among the assignments carried out by the Grand Master and members of the Supreme
Council, workshops are organised to reflect on these problems. These assignments enable fruitful exchanges, with the Orient playing host to Brothers and Sisters from neighbouring countries, through which an enriching, energising dialogue becomes possible. At the request of Sisters and Brothers, members of the Supreme Council are also available for lectures as well as meetings with journalists (written press, radio, television, etc.). The intercontinental colloquia organised with the support of the Supreme Council also prove to be memorable moments for the participants.
The Supreme Council has been keen to work hand in hand with the Pioneer lodges: in lodge meetings or in discussions on administrative and initiatory topics. Pioneer lodges and Jurisdictions with ongoing projects have received financial assistance from the Supreme Council.
During some of our visits we have noticed how poorly the structures of the Order are understood, owing largely to a lack of knowledge of the International Constitution, not all members having a copy. It is, therefore, worth recalling that every member of the Order should receive the International Constitution along with the Regulations immediately following initiation.
Exchanges among Sisters and Brothers from different Orients are vital. Although modern means of communication have made it far easier to exchange views from a distance, there are still not enough moving spirits acting as go-betweens amongst different areas, who all too often still know so little about each other. There are still too few frontier guides. Meeting and exchanging ideas with Sisters and Brothers from various backgrounds may not make it easier to accept each other’s differences, but they do help awaken in us new feelings, a new spirit of revolution, new aspirations for a more fraternal world. Because our outlook is limited by our own cultural backgrounds, we all benefit from seeing one another’s viewpoint, so long as upon ourselves we use the tools of doubt and critical awareness, a method lying at the root of all initiatory work.
One of the major areas of responsibility has been the International Committee’s work, whose task it was to amend our Constitution.
It had been decided that this committee should consist of the Grand Master, the Grand
Orator and a member from each Federation. Out of the 19 federations existing in 2007, twelve appointed a representative, three were excused and three failed to respond, despite reminders sent. As a result, six federations had no part in this important reflection on the Constitution of our Order.
The purpose of this work was, in the wake of a whole series of previous, partial modifications, to rewrite the text in such a way as to lend greater coherence. It was also necessary to take into account the expansion of our Order in a world in which societies aspire to increasingly decentralise responsibility and in which information and communication, through the advent of new technologies, have been completely transformed; and, as we are well aware, for better and for worse.
One select committee regularly considered proposals coming from federations working in this area. These exchanges led to the document which tomorrow’s future Delegates to the International Constitution Committee will focus.
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This group’s work has been crucial. The effort and investment in time, including weekends, made by five Sisters and Brothers has been 100%. Our thanks go to SS.·. and Bros.·. Valérie, Brigitte, Fabienne, Manuel and Alain.
We hope that the work of tomorrow’s committee will be rewarding and marked by a spirit of mutual receptivity, brotherly affection and the principles laid down by our founders.
For some time, the last edition of the Tuileur of the Order has been out of print. In that edition, not all the degrees of the rite were described. Therefore, we wish to characterise each of the 33 degrees of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite in the new edition.
The Grand Secretary and the Grand Treasurer will expand on the activities of the
2007-2012 Supreme Council in their respective reports.
Personally, I have arrived at the end of the mandate you gave me. During these last five years, I have learned a huge amount with all of you, my Sisters and Brothers, and I know I still have a good deal yet to learn. The moment has come to once more take my place in the columns, to carry on the task of shaping my ashlar, having been enriched by all the exchanges I have enjoyed in our various Orients.
I wish you all an enjoyable Convention. Let us remember that the prime movers in the
Masonic workplace are an unrelenting search for Truth and Love.
I have spoken.
D. J.
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IMPreSSIonS on the InternatIonal ConVentIon
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JÓhanna SIgurJÓnSDÓttIr
Icelandic federation
In September 2009, I became a member at the International Order of Freemasonry for men and women, Le Droit Humain. At my first meeting I did hear about the Supreme Council, the Grand Master of the Order, the Grand Commander and also the History of course, about the founders, Marie Deraismes and Georges Martin.
When I heard about the International Convention in Paris, I knew there was an opportunity to meet brothers and sisters from all over the world and also to learn much more about the Order. Besides, I found it very interesting attend a ritual meeting in Paris to see, if there were any differences between the meetings in Iceland and in France. It was really exciting to take a part in the Convention.
A few months before the International Convention took place, V.·. Ill.·. S.·. Kristín Jónsdóttir, invited me to be a delegate for the Icelandic Federation. I was surprised and deeply thankful for the trust she showed me and this great opportunity to know better the structure of the Order. I realised that this was also an opportunity to have some influence on the new draft of the International Constitution, having the right to speak and vote at the International Convention. Thinking of this responsibility, being a delegate, made me feel humble and grateful. Even though the Icelandic Federation is small, compared to some other Federations, the small Federations can have influence concerning the International Constitution, and this is exactly in the spirit of the Order; the values of liberty, equality and fraternity.
Before the Icelandic delegates went to Paris, we red the new draft of the International
Constitution and all the proposals, coming from many different Federations. This reading was very interesting and instructive. Many of the proposals made me think and try to find out the reasons why this particular Federation wanted the constitution to be changed in that way. Trying to understand what lay behind the proposals, it was necessary to remember that every proposal did have a meaning for the Federation that proposed it. All this reading, led to more and deeper understanding for the International Constitution and perhaps a little more understanding of the history of each Federation and their countries. I could hardly wait to meet all these brothers and sisters, sharing the same interests.
Paris is one of my favorite cities in Europe. With all these amazing buildings and a great history at every corner. But this time I was not visiting Paris, the way I have done before. The purpose was primarily, taking a part in the International Convention, being one of the delegates, and I knew I was willing to give that work every minute of my visit to Paris.
The first day of the Convention, there was the Opening of the International Convention by the Grand Master and the Officers of the Supreme Council, in the Master Mason Degree. It was a very great experience to meet those brothers and sisters in person. From the first moment I became a member at the Order, I had heard many of these names, especially the name of the Grand Master at that time, Daniéle Juette. Being there and meeting her for the first time was a special moment for me and also to meet all the brothers and sisters who are members of the Supreme Council. Then I did think about how important it is, that the small Federations also have a representative in the Supreme Council. I think this is very important because it shows very well that the Order really works in the spirit of its values.
The sessions for the delegates were very interesting and I felt it was a privilege to be one of the delegates. The sessions were instructive and really enjoyable to have the chance to participate in these sessions and a great opportunity to get to know better my brothers
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Past grand Master, Danielle Juette, gives the attributes of her office to present grand Master, Yvette ramon.
and sisters, coming from different Federations. It was also admirable how the brothers and sisters were able to speak liberally and open minded, while explaining each proposal. That made me understand much better the reasons for each proposals from the Federations and their situations. After the sessions I felt I had more knowledge and understanding for my brothers and sisters view on the International Constitution. As it is said in the General declaration, the Constitution establishes the duties and the rights of each and all.
On Sunday, there was the Closing Meeting. I have to say, from my point of view, I was a little surprised to see the difference in the clothing, because at our meetings in Iceland everyone is wearing black and white clothes. We think that is important because that is one way to declare and present that each and everyone is equal. It is also my personal opinion that it is also our way to show our respect for the ritual and the temple. But it is important to remember, that of course it is not the clothings that matters the most, primarily it is of course our purpose being members of the Order and to fulfil our duties as Freemasons.
Being members of the Order, brothers and sisters are united in the love of humanity, even though we come from different countries and different culture, it does not matter at all. As members we build our temples to the progress and perfection of humanity, seek to give concrete expression to the values of liberty, equality and fraternity.
I really enjoyed the Fraternal Banquet, held on Sunday, the last day of the Convention.
Musée des Arts Forains is an amazing place and arriving there was just like walking into
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an adventure. To be in this place for the banquet was a very good ending of memorable and enjoyable days at the Convention. It was also a appreciated to get this opportunity to have a conversations with the brothers and sisters, discussing the Convention and hearing their experience of these days in Paris.
These days at the Convention was very valuable experience, giving me a lot of knowledge but also I had a lot of new questions because I realised how little I know about the different Federations and their histories. I hope I will get the opportunity to enjoy the coming Conventions in the future. Many brothers and sisters have to travel a long distance to participate in the Convention. For all my brothers and sisters everywhere, I can surely recommend they enjoy this event, if they have any chance to do so.
Dear brothers and sisters everywhere, if you get the opportunity to be a delegate it is my opinion it will be a great and valuable experience for you. For me, it made me understand much better the structure of the Order and so many things I did not know before I took a part in the Convention. On the other hand, however, I have also many questions about many things I had never thought about, before going to the Convention.
When we close our Lodge, we form the chain of union. It stands for strength and solidarity. Not only between the brothers and sisters who are taking part in that particular meeting, but also between us and the founders and everyone that has walked the steps before us.
All of us are a link in the chain of union and every link is special. At the same time we have so many things in common. All of us have experienced the initiation and that experience we have in common but at the same time it is a personal experience for each and everyone. Let us all unite in the chain of union and be enlightening members.
I am looking forward to meet you all at the next Convention. Kind regards to all of you,
J. S.
LE DROIT HUMAIN / 13
a harMonIouS BaBel
—
luIS alBerto aCeBal
argentinian jurisdiction
When I arrived in Paris to participate in the International Colloquium of LDH, diverse sensations were intermingled and present.
I had no doubts about how I would be received by the Brothers, because during my membership in the Order I had received plenty of displays of affection from them.
My doubts were different, and of another type. Would I remember how to prove myself to the Tyler? Would I be able to give the universal word without my nerves betraying me? Would I find the time to visit Jules Breton?
With all of these questions reeling within me, the day of the beginning of the Convention arrived.
Waving my passport with the annual payments strategically in sight, I was intercepted by a brother, who at this moment appeared enormous to me, asking me, compellingly and tersely, to tell him in his ear the necessary password.
Upon hearing my reply, his face lit up with a mischievous smile, and placing his body by my side to clear the way, with a friendly gesture urged me to continue my path.
With the sensation of having crossed unscathed through the Pillars of Hercules, I recognized a number of Latin American Brothers and Sisters with whom I had shared some ceremonies at the Latin American Colloquium in Colombia.
Uruguayans, Bolivians, Paraguayans, Ecuadorians, Chileans, and Peruvians who together with us, the delegation of Argentina, joked and laughed, happy to be together again sharing the task.
I could not stop thinking about the generosity of the Order and of the country that sheltered us, always supportive and fraternal with the eternal diaspora of those who had to leave their homeland in the search for liberty.
But this was a moment full of positive emotions. As I stood and recognized voices and languages that until this time did not seem familiar, the opening of the workings of the Convention was beginning.
And then, upon beginning the Sacred Time, the harmonious and precise ritual, while ordering the physical movements of the Brothers and Sisters, enveloped us all in a deep sense of belonging to a Masonic Order, as ancient as current and as innovative as traditional.
The Very Respectable Grand Master, opening the labors in Spanish and the Senior
Warden responding in the same language, indicated that the belief in the potential of the continent of which I form a part was very great, and that Le Droit Humain could grow and expand with its ideology of brotherhood and justice, here, exactly where we (in Latin America) at times have lacked them for long periods.
Then came the committee work and the passionate, extensive, controversial, and always respectful discussions.
There was the realization that democracy was a daily practice with which the natural differences could be settled between men and not as a form of political manipulation.
They were three days that seemed to me to be eternal, that tired me, and that I never wanted to end.
With the election of our new Grand Master the formality of our work was closed. Beyond the number of addresses, phone numbers and e-mails that each of us took as evidence