Harashim
The Quarterly Newsletter of the Australian & New Zealand Masonic Research Council
ISSN 1328-2735 Issue 49 January 2010
First Prestonian Lecture in Australia John Wade at Discovery Lodge of Research
Laurelbank Masonic Centre, in the inner Sydney suburbs, was the venue for the presentation of the first Prestonian Lecture in Australia by a current Prestonian Lecturer. Discovery Lodge of Research held a special meeting there on Wednesday 6 January to receive the Master of Quatuor Coronati Lodge No. 2076 EC, the editor of Ars Quatuor Coronatorum, and the Prestonian Lecturer for 2009—all in the person of Sheffield University’s Dr John Wade. Some 37 brethren attended the lodge, including the Grand Master, MWBro Dr Greg Levenston, and representatives from Newcastle and Canberra. WM Ewart Stronach introduced Bro Wade, outlining his academic and Masonic achievements, gave a brief account of the origin of Prestonian Lectures, and closed the lodge. Ladies and other visitors were then admitted, swelling the audience to 54, for a brilliant rendition of the lecture: ‘“Go and do thou likewise”, English Masonic Processions from the 18th to the 20th Centuries’. Bro Wade made good use of modern technology with a PowerPoint presentation, including early film footage of 20th-century processions, supplementing it with his own imitation of a fire-and-brimstone preacher, and a spirited rendition of the first verse of The Entered Apprentice’s Song. (continued on page 16)
From left: GM Dr Greg Levenston, Tom Hall, WM Ewart Stronach, Ian Shanley, Dr John Wade, Malcolm Galloway, Dr Bob James, Tony Pope, Neil Morse, Andy Walker Issue 49 photo from John page Wade 1 About Harashim Harashim, Hebrew for Craftsmen, is a quarterly newsletter published by the Australian and New Zealand Masonic Research Council (10 Rose St, Waipawa 4210, New Zealand) in January, April, July and October each year. It is supplied to Affiliates and Associates in hard copy and/or PDF format. It is available worldwide in PDF format as an email attachment, upon application to the Asst. Secretary, [email protected]. Usually the current issue is also displayed on the website of the Grand Lodge of Tasmania http://www.freemasonrytasmania.org/. Copyright and reprinting Copyright is vested in ANZMRC and the World News author of any article appearing in Harashim. International Conference at Canonbury; Affiliates and Associates are encouraged to Sheffield’s financial woes reprint the entire newsletter (at their own and that Dr John Wade of Sheffield In September 2009 Dr Andreas expense) and circulate it to their own members, University was helping to raise funds for including their correspondence circles (if any) Önnefors, Director of the Centre for the CRFF by sale of copies of his and to supply copies to public and Masonic Research into Freemasonry and Prestonian Lecture for 2009. libraries within their jurisdictions. Fraternalism, and Senior Lecturer in Individual items from any issue may be reprinted by Associates and Affiliates, provided: History at Sheffield University, The item is reprinted in full; announced that: The name of the author and the source of the the CRFF is currently under immense article are included; and pressure to secure funding for its future A copy of the publication containing the survival and commitment to the creation reprint is sent to the editor. Anyone else wishing to reprint material from of international excellence in the field of Harashim must first obtain permission from the academic research into freemasonry and copyright holders via the editor. fraternalism. With immediate effect a Unless otherwise specified, authors funding shortfall is putting the centre’s submitting original work for publication in activities at stake. Harashim are deemed to grant permission for their work to be published also on the Internet He explained that ‘during the course of Dr Andreas Önnefors websites of ANZMRC http//anzmrc.org and the 2009 the CRFF has lost three major Grand Lodge of Tasmania: opportunities for providing continued The University of Sheffield website http://www.freemasonrytasmania.org/. funding’ and that ‘due to accumulated contains a ‘Research Assessment Contents overspending’ the University had frozen Exercise’ document headed Affiliate and Associate members are encouraged the CRFF account. ‘RAE2008 . . . RA5a Research to contribute material for the newsletter, The three lost ‘major opportunities’ environment and esteem’ which, under including: the heading ‘2.4 Collaborative Their lecture programs for the year; cited by Dr Önnefors were: an Any requests from their members for unsuccessful ‘European research bid in Research’, contains a brief summary of information on a research topic; the range of €850k’; a decision in the work of the CRFF from its inception Research papers of more than local interest August by the United Grand Lodge of in 2001 to 2008: that merit wider publication. A distinctive feature of Departmental The newsletter also includes news, reports from England not to provide ‘continued research is the extensive participation by ANZMRC, book reviews, extracts from other funding of project-based research publications and a readers’ letters column, from between two and seven years, with a our staff in collaborative research time to time. total volume of around £2m’; and the endeavours. 1) The Centre for Research into If the source of an item is not identified, it is University’s decision in January ‘to by the editor. Opinions expressed are those of the Freemasonry and Fraternalism author of the article, and should not be attributed cease negotiations with the so-called US- (Önnerfors). The Centre was set up in to the Council. based Liafail Foundation, which through 2001 as outlined in RAE2001. Until Material submitted for publication must be in its British intermediary in 2004 had February 2007 it was directed by Prescott a digitised form by email or mailed on a CD or pledged funding in the range of £1m in and focused on the involvement of DVD, addressed to the editor, Tony Pope, 15 Rusten St, Queanbeyan, NSW 2620, order to support the CRFF’. Freemasonry in the prominent themes of Australia, [email protected]. Dr Önnefors stated: ‘We hope that it modern British history (empire, radical Clear illustrations, diagrams and will soon be possible to reconstitute our politics, trade unions, masculinity). photographic prints suitable for scanning are operational capacity for the last quarter Funding is provided by the charitable welcome, and most computer graphic (IBM) Trust for Research into Freemasonry, of this year, but the question still remains formats are acceptable. Photos of contributors which has no involvement in staff (preferably not in regalia) would be useful. about how the activities of the CRFF can appointments or the research agenda. The Contributors who require mailed material to be be secured on a long-term basis beyond Centre was awarded £250,000 from 2000 returned should include a stamped, self- the end of 2009’. He listed five addressed envelope. to 2002 and has received £85,000 per year ‘immediate initiatives for support’: sale from 2003. Agreement in principle has General correspondence of books of collected lectures at £20 per been given by the Liafail Foundation to All other correspondence, including about contribute £1 million towards the cost of purchase of CDs and books, should be directed volume; private donations to CRFF; a refurbishment and construction of the new to: The Secretary, ANZMRC forthcoming academic journal, Journal 10 Rose St, Waipawa 4210, for Research into Freemasonry and premises occupied by the HRI and the New Zealand. Fraternalism; a jointly-arranged Centre. The Centre’s activities include [email protected] two international conferences, an page 2 Harashim exhibition, and a series of lectures, seminars and postgraduate seminars. Publications include a bibliography of English-speaking works on freemasonry, searchable online versions of Lane’s President’s Corner Masonic Record of England and Wales and Drafften’s Scottish Masonic Record, Prescott’s edited volume Marking Well, and seemed to be present when he several articles by Prescott and Burt appeared! (Exeter). Our next important ANZMRC When the Centre for Research into function is the biennial conference Freemasonry began in 2001, it was jointly from 3rd to 6th September next year in funded by the United Grand Lodge of Mandurah, Western Australia. We England (UGLE), the Provincial Grand have endeavoured to publicise the Lodge of the West Riding of Yorkshire occasion and I would like to thank the and the Pro Grand Master, Lord lodges and chapter in New Zealand for Northampton. In 2002 UGLE agreed to their enthusiasm and interest in this continue funding until 2009. In 2003 the event. Our organising committee has Supreme Grand Chapter HRA also been working hard for the past year to became a contributor. In May 2006 the arrange for a conference that you will Douglas Knoop Centre was opened, to not forget and over 500 PowerPoint house the CRF, and the UGLE magazine It did seem a long time between the promotional presentations have MQ reported this as being ‘thanks to a decision at our biennial conference at already been circulated to brethren in munificent donation by the Liafail Queanbeyan in October 2008 and the Australia, New Zealand, Asia and Foundation’. The MQ article also stated joint, in lieu of a single, ANZMRC other parts of the world. We are able to that: ‘The senior director of the Liafail lecture tour one year later. However, it offer top class facilities and the Foundation unveiled a plaque honouring has come and gone and now Kerry and opportunity to see the famous Western Douglas Knoop and commemorating the I are both back home after delivering a Australian wildflowers at their peak Foundation’s gift’. total of 23 presentations in four and a time. half weeks—an average of five We have been very lucky in presentations per week. obtaining several generous I thoroughly enjoyed the experience sponsorships and this has allowed us to despite the continual transportation keep the registration fee for from one area to another. As I was Freemasons to a low AU$99 or NZ transferred from one car to another at $124, with their partners intermediate points between my complimentary. This fee includes all delivery destinations, I felt the sadness morning and afternoon refreshments, of saying goodbye to brethren and buffet lunches, transport in Mandurah, their partners whom I had just got to and printed Proceedings. The costs for know well, but I also had the pleasure the Friday night dinner, the Saturday of meeting new friends. It is amazing night banquet and the many optional Prof Andrew Prescott how quickly Masonic friendships can tours around the area are extra. In 2007 the Director of the CRF, Prof flourish and I sincerely thank all my Andrew Prescott, resigned his position, hosts in New Zealand for their Peter Verrall having accepted a post as Manager of hospitality, their concern for my well Library Services at Lampeter University being, the opportunity to stay in in Wales. He was succeeded in January their homes and to meet their 2008 by Dr Önnefors, who announced the brethren. I was most impressed. commencement of a Master of Arts Both Kerry and I did all that program in the History of Freemasonry we could do to make the tours a and Fraternalism, which has not yet success and we hope that the begun. Under the new Director, research twenty-two research lodges and emphasis has changed towards European the one research chapter were and Middle Eastern Freemasonry. Prof pleased to see and hear us. There Prescott has since moved from Lampeter will no doubt be more details of to Glasgow University, where he will take our respective tours in later up the position of Director of Research for editions of Harashim. the Humanities Advanced Technology and One strange phenomenon that Information Institute on 11 January 2010. did occur throughout my tour was The Liafail Foundation does not appear the fact that every time when I to have a website, and Google reveals no returned from leaving the links or references prior to 2009, other refectory during the evening, I than those above. Lia Fail features in understood that they had Celtic mythology. According to Dr experienced a visit from none Önnefors: ‘The supposed foundation and other than the Grand Master and (Continued on page 9) Architect, Hiram Abif. I never
Issue 49 page 3 jewel. I checked the April and July 2008 NSW Freemason but, sadly, he was not listed. However, even those few minutes of research turned up a candidate omitted Book Reviews from the list: Smokey Dawson, who was the subject of an excellent article in the April issue, describing his achievements IT’S NO SECRET, REAL MEN WEAR in the entertainment industry and APRONS: the story of Freemasonry in containing a brief account of his Australia Masonic career. How difficult would it Peter Lazar AM, ed be to find others with Masonic as well as Masonic Care Limited (Sydney, NSW) public biographies? I chose Sir Thomas 2009 Playford GCMG (1896–1981), described xvii+271 pp, 23.5x15.5 cm, no index, col as one of the greatest of all South & b&w illos, pb Australians, who was Premier from 1938 ISBN 987-0-646-52446-7 to 1965. I googled him and within ten Price from pub $29.95, retail $34.95. minutes I had a PDF file from the Playford Memorial Trust, with Two tired old clichés come to mind photographs, public and private when trying to describe this work: the biography, and this little gem from Prof curate’s egg (good in parts) and a camel Peter Howell of Flinders University: (a horse designed by a committee). It On his discharge [from active service comprises a series of essays, mostly in WWI ], he returned to fruitgrowing. unattributed, interspersed with brief Though he had ceased worshiping with biographical notes on ‘Famous his Baptist parents, he became an Freemasons’ and other material. The active member of the Producers’ editor is Peter Lazar AM, a New South Martin’s ‘Crafting the Fellowship Lodge of Freemasons, at Wales Freemason of senior years and Future’ (interesting, but evidently her Ashton. Thereafter, Masonry and its rank, a former scriptwriter, editor of a literature search did not find Geoff ritual provided him with a substitute university newspaper, and co-author of Ludowyk’s Kellerman Lecture, for churchmanship, support for his ‘greenMasonry’). moral principles, and contacts with The Australian and New Zealand Public many leading citizens. Relations Manual. His wife, Jan Lee The ‘Famous Freemasons’ appear in Martin, ‘sub-edited the text, corrected clumps of five or six between the essay Other contributors to It’s no secret and re-wrote’, and also contributed the ‘chapters’. They are all Freemasons of include: journalist non-Mason John final chapter, utilising her skills as ‘one Australian nationality or with an Tuffin with short interviews of Sir James of Australia’s leading futurists’. Four Australian connection. Of course, such Hardy and PGM Tony Lauer (NSW); other women are acknowledged as lists seldom define famous, and never Noha Sayed, a Muslim woman whose contributing writers and researchers: contain an in-depth analysis of how mission was to change the old ways of Jane Llewellyn, Marion Newall and Freemasonry benefitted the nominee, or her husband’s lodge, increasing the Karen Finch (whose contributions are what he did for Freemasonry. To its participation of women and attracting not identified), and Noha Sayed (see credit, this book does supply a biography young members; and a third piece by below). of several hundred words, and in most Bob James, on the voyage of discovery The essays are headed: what is cases the lodge and date of initiation, but which brought him to Freemasonry. Freemasonry?; the Masonic ceremonies; it does not follow up on the Masonic Appendix A is a ten-page ‘History of debunking the myths (this one is careers of those selected. Freemasonry in Australia’, derived from definitely by Peter Lazar, and I The list includes all 16 Freemasons Grahame Cumming’s Foundations of particularly enjoyed his ‘Kentucky fried among a claimed 99 Australian holders Freemasonry in Australia, which rabbit’ illustration); leading by example; of the Victoria Cross, 10 Prime appears to be the justification for the principles in practice; Masons at war; Ministers, and an assortment of publisher’s claim that It’s no secret symbols of an ancient craft; architecture sportsmen, businessmen, scientists, ‘reveals the history . . . of Freemasonry and Freemasonry (contributed by Dr. explorers, actors and others. With some in Australia’. Two other appendixes Bob James MM); Masonic art (includes it is their product which is famous, rather follow: four pages on ‘Other orders and a comparison of the tracing boards of than themselves, including Fred Walker degrees’; and Peter Lazar’s script for a Robert Reid and Richard John Harris); (Vegemite, Bonox, and cheese), Harry sound and light show at the Sydney Masonic music (the author is apparently Melbourne (Freddo the chocolate frog), Masonic Centre. There is no index; there unaware of Sibelius’s Masonic music, of Adolphus Appleroth (Aeroplane Jelly), is a detailed list of contents, but not of which the Grand Lodge of Finland holds C A Gregory (street directory), Thomas the illustrations, of which many are the copyright, and repeats the mistaken Mayne (Milo), Frederick Peters (ice black and white, throughout the book, claim that Louis Armstrong was a cream) and Mervyn Richardson (Victa plus 12 pages of colour illustrations with Mason); another book about lawn mower). no attribution. One of the latter is a Freemasonry? (in which Bob James I noted that athlete John Treloar was portrait of Lord Carrington, who—we reviews scholarly works and Masonic initiated in New South Wales in March are informed in the caption—‘united the fiction over the past 50 years, with brief 1948 and was still alive; I wondered if he Irish, Scottish and New South Wales mention of such books as Freemasons had remained in the Craft, in which case Grand Lodges to create the United Grand for Dummies); and finally Jan Lee he would have qualified for a 60-year Lodge of NSW’.
page 4 Harashim The book is clearly intended for at previous editions: I treat the opponents of Masonry in least two different categories of reader: Who’s Afraid of Freemasons?: the the same way. Who or what the the potential candidate for Freemasonry, phenomenon of Freemasonry opponents are is for me a minor and the average Freemason. It is ISBN 1860460291 concern. What really matters is their conscious attitude to Masonry and to available from the (NSW) Museum of Hard cover, 1997, out of print. themselves as relating to Masonry. Freemasonry
Kerry Nicholls and Peter Verrall have successfully completed their simultaneous lecture tours of Australia and New Zealand. The tours began in Perth (WA) on 24 September, when Kerry lectured at Western Australian Lodge of Research with Peter in attendance. This was reported in the October issue of Harashim by Alan Gale (see ‘Is Freemasonry male, female, or both?’) Kerry continued his tour of Australia, speaking at eleven other venues, of which only two—W H Green Memorial Masonic Study Circle (Townsville) and Leonardo da Vinci Lodge (Adelaide)—have submitted reports. The defaulters are: Leichhardt Lodge of Research (Darwin), W H J Mayers Memorial Lodge of Research (Cairns), Toowoomba Lodge of Instruction, Barron Barnett Lodge (Brisbane), Discovery Lodge of Research (Sydney), Canberra Lodge of Research & Instruction, Hobart Lodge of Research, Launceston Lodge of Research and Victorian Lodge of Research (Melbourne). Peter began his tour in the south of the South Island of New Zealand and worked his way steadily north. We have reports and/or pictures from Masters’ and Past Masters’ Lodge (Christchurch), Top of the South Lodge of Research (meeting at Motueka), Hawke’s Bay Research Lodge (Hastings) and our newest affiliate, (RA) Research Chapter of New Zealand (Auckland). Kerry was back from Australia in time to join Peter in Auckland. The NZ defaulters are: Midland District Lodge of Research (Timaru), Research Lodge of Otago (Dunedin), Research Lodge of Southland (Invercargill), Research Lodge of Wellington, Research Lodge of Taranaki Province (New Plymouth), Ruapehu Research Lodge Peter Verrall and Kerry Nicholls (Palmerston North) and Waikato Lodge of Research (Rotorua). at the start of the tour, in Perth
entertaining sojourn at the Venus Battery facts and some good stories. The Townsville Connection where in the gold rush days large Thursday afternoon we reached the by Graham Stead quantities of gold were separated from business end of the Townsville leg of the the ore to reward many a lucky miner tour. Les, Kerry and I went into the It was on a beautiful winter’s morning, a who found his bonanza. After an Townsville Masonic Centre and ensured cloudless sky and a gentle zephyr enjoyable lunch at the Stock Exchange that the data projector, etc, were all in a blowing and with the mercury hovering Restaurant, we visited historical places state of readiness for the night’s around 28 that my wife Helen and I of interest including the old Stock proceedings. waited at the Townsville airport for the Exchange itself, which in its heyday Seven-thirty came around very arrival of WBro Kerry Nicholls, our operated 24 hours a day and became the quickly. Our host Millican Lodge, the Touring Lecturer. He and his wife commerce centre of what was known as Irish-working lodge in Townsville under Cheryl landed on a Qantas Link flight ‘The World’. the UGLQ, opened the lodge and then from Cairns and were soon very Back in Townsville, on Wednesday received the Deputy District Grand comfortable at our residence in evening Kerry and Cheryl were guests at Master and District Grand officers. After Annandale. a dinner at the Aqua Restaurant, Jupiter's the formalities were completed, the Tuesday night was a leisurely night at Casino. It was attended by the members Travelling Lecturer then addressed the home catching up on the latest in of W H Green Memorial Masonic Study brethren; we were greedy and had papers developments across the Tasman and Circle, Millican Lodge and some 7 and 8, covering the whole ‘Seven further afield and renewing a friendship members of the District Grand Lodge of Liberal Arts and Sciences’. At the formed at previous ANZMRC North Queensland. After sampling the conclusion the brethren retired to the Conferences. culinary delights of the smorgasbord we banquet hall, where they were treated to After a leisurely breakfast in the headed home very satisfied after a most an excellent repast prepared by the Job’s pergola watching the birds feast on the enjoyable day. Daughters. I am sure that the thirty-nine grevillea blooms, we headed up to the Next day our guests were treated to a brethren who attended were well historic town of Charters Towers. The tour of Townsville by RWBro Les satisfied with the evening. first port of call had to be the Keane. Born in Townsville, Les was Next morning at 9.30 Kerry and magnificent heritage-listed Masonic amply qualified to show them around the Cheryl were winging their way south for Centre. After that we had a very city, interspersed with some historical the next leg of their tour, in Brisbane.
Charters Towers Masonic Centre Graham, Helen, Cheryl and Kerry Graham, Kerry and Les Keane
page 6 Harashim Two Adelaide visits
Kerry Nicholls visited Adelaide twice in 2009. The first visit was in April, to receive his (SA) Diploma in Masonic Education, the result of four years study, from the outgoing Grand Master, MWBro Graham Bollenhagen. The second visit was in October, despite the fact that the South Australian Lodge of Research was not prepared to participate in the 2009 ANZMRC tour. Thanks to the efforts of our webmaster, Richard Num, Leonardo da Vinci Lodge (which works an Italian ritual) agreed to host Kerry, and selected his paper on ‘Sacred space in Freemasonry’. After the lecture several presentations were made. First, the Master of the lodge, WBro Silvano Orlando, thanked Kerry and presented him with the Leonardo da Vinci Lodge medal. Then Kerry presented Richard Num with a book on an NZ Masonic charity, for the Grand Lodge library. Finally, the Mark Grand Master, MWBro Alan Pearson, presented Kerry with a Mark Certificate of Masonic Education, in company with RWBro A W (Fred) Martin, who developed the course, and RWBro Colin Preece, Kerry’s tutor for the course. Kerry plans to continue extramural morning considering he had come from studies in South Australia with a Royal Perth (I had thought of the various Arch course which is being developed. permutations of his arrival time and I [Information supplied by Richard Num was a bit apprehensive!). We spent the and Ray Nicholson (Director of morning chatting over a cuppa, then Community Relations). Photo courtesy of went to the Lodge Rooms where the SA Freemason.] lecture was to be held the next night, to meet our Editor (VWBro Rod Harries) and the previous Editor (RWBro Roy Wade). A convivial hour was spent with them discussing a wide range of topics before Peter and I repaired to the hotel next door where Peter was spending his first night. After leaving him to relax and catch up on a little sleep, my wife and I returned to have dinner with him. It was Above: Peter Verrall, Roy Wade another pleasant occasion with plenty of and Graeme Martin. Below: Hiram Abif on the phone talk between the three of us. The next morning Peter came over to the Lodge Rooms while we were setting up for the meeting at night, and we made sure all was in readiness for his presentation. Once everything was to his Colin Preece, Fred Martin and Kerry Nicholls liking, the Master (WBro Graeme Martin) took Peter home to his place out at Rangiora and I believe they may have done a bit of touring around. Start of the New Zealand tour RWBro Peter Verrall was well by John Worsfold, JGW received with his lecture to the Masters’ & Past Masters’ Lodge No 130 in Christchurch on Wednesday 30th The arrival in Christchurch of Peter September, 2009. The title of his lecture Verrall was at a good hour of the was ‘Architects in Freemasonry’ and (Continued on page 8) Issue 49 page 7 (Continued from page 7) his journey down State Highway 1 to to the Masons in one of the outlying with his PowerPoint presentation a Timaru and the Midland Lodge of parts of the district, this was an number of questions were generated by Research. encouraging turnout, and thoroughly the 28 brethren in attendance. A most enjoyable time was spent with enjoyed by those in attendance, if the Observations were also made by Peter and I look forward to meeting him discussion both in the lodge room and in brethren who had been overseas and again when I am in Perth at the end of the refectory was anything to go by. visited some of the places Peter talked this month for the Western Australia The lodge members and guest dined about. Grand Installation. at 6 pm on a wonderfully prepared bacon While still in the Lodge Room, Peter and potato chowder, followed by an was presented with a copy of Questions apple crumble and coffee and cake. all & Answers, a reference book published Top of the South the recipes having been prepared by the by our lodge. The editor of the third by Phil Ivamy Motueka Bays lodge’s WM and family edition, RWBro R T Wade, PGW, from the ‘Live Life Longer’ recipe book! presented the inscribed copy and it was Last night (Monday 12 October) went Eight of the tour books sold on the duly acknowledged. very well in Motueka, where Peter night. In the refectory R W Bro Verrall presented his paper on ‘True & Proper Peter has enjoyed three days in the presented his ‘Telephone Call’ skit and Signs’ at Motueka Bays lodge rooms in Nelson region, catching up with friends this was very well received. Only a Motueka, which is some 50kms from and relations, relaxing, enjoying the sun, couple of brethren knew it was going to Nelson. He presented to 28 members and catching up on his busy schedule and happen so it was a big surprise to nearly visitors to the ‘Top of the South reflecting on life as a travelling all present. Research Lodge #470’, which has been presenter—not bad for a man in his Peter returned to Rangiora for the in existence for some eight months. eighth decade! night then was taken to his relations’ Given that this is a fledgling lodge and Today he is off to sunny (we hope) place the next morning to relax before that the lodge had taken the presentation Wellington
Top of the South
and Hiram is still on the phone!
Above: Peter Verrall at Hawke’s Bay Below: at Research Chapter NZ—Hiram, DepGM Neil Ingram, Peter Verrall, Z Hans Kracke, GZ Graham Pengelly, Kerry Nicholls
Phil Ivamy and Peter Verrall at Motueka
Kerry and Peter signing in at the Research Chapter of New Zealand, Auckland
page 8 Harashim Italy (Fabio Venzi) and the Deputy Grand Master of the Grand Orient of Italy (Massimo Bianchi). The theme of Brotherhood was developed further in October with a Symposium in Ankara, ‘Freemasonry and Brotherhood’, in which four of the World News eight scheduled speakers were from its chairman most likely do not exist’. other jurisdictions: Trevor Stewart The mind boggles at the thought of the (Scotland), John Belton (England), Fabio University negotiating for up to five Venzi (Italy) and Tony Pope (South years with a non-existent US entity or its Australia). Unfortunately, illness equally non-existent British ‘subsidiary’. prevented GM Venzi from returning to In CRFF Newsletter 42 Dr Önnefors Turkey. states: ‘The general situation remains In ‘The curious case of Brother critical and the next few weeks will Gustav Petrie’, Trevor Stewart described decide the future survival of organised a problem of Brotherhood in time of war academic research into freemasonry and and its aftermath, then examined wider fraternalism at academic institutions in philosophical questions about the nature the United Kingdom’. Subsequent CRFF of our Fraternity, territoriality, and newsletters contain no reference to the possible incompatibility with ‘the financial crisis, but list events at the original Grand Intent of the early Church of St Sophia, Istanbul, Turkey Centre to the end of 2009, and elsewhere eighteenth-century founders of sketch by Rodney Grosskopff in 2010. speculative Freemasonry’. (SAf Kellerman Lecturer 2008) For downloadable papers from the Predictably, Tony Pope’s paper CRFF, go to www.freemasonry.dept. ‘Brothers under the skin’ was about Georgia lacks in-State mainstream shef.ac.uk/ and select ‘Working papers’. racial segregation in North American recognition; the adoption by South Freemasonry. After a brief outline of the Australia of the ‘when in Rome’ rule, Turkish Centenary origin and separate development of allowing its members to visit The Grand Lodge of Turkey celebrated Prince Hall Freemasonry, including the ‘recognised’ lodges which have its centenary in 2009 with a series of National (Compact) Grand Lodge, and ‘unrecognised’ visitors; and the events which included a festival in the proliferation of ‘bogus’ groups, he recognition by South Australia of both September in which the Grand Lodge examined the problem of reconciliation the Grand Orient of Italy and the Regular demonstrated its attitude to the concept between PHA and PHO, and the defects Grand Lodge of Italy, who do not of Brotherhood by inviting of the current system of recognition recognise each other. Their example, he representatives of grand lodges it does between Prince Hall and mainstream argued, could be followed by grand not formally recognise as well as those grand lodges. He pointed to actions by lodges outside of North America, to with which it is in amity. More than 40 grand lodges in Australia and New extend the hand of friendship to the grand lodges were represented, including Zealand, rejecting notions of eleven PHA jurisdictions which lack in- Scotland and Ireland; England was not territoriality and recognition imposed by State or in-Province recognition, and to there officially, but several English others, thus asserting their own the National Grand Lodge. Masons attended. Among those present sovereignty, namely: the admission of John Belton examined the issues of who do not officially recognise each Prince Hall Masons regardless of territoriality and recognition more other were the Grand Masters of the whether the grand lodge is ‘recognised’; widely in ‘International Brotherhood: to Grand Lodge of Greece and the National the recognition of the Prince Hall Grand seek for that which was lost’. He Grand Lodge of Greece, the Grand Lodge of Georgia by some Australian reviewed the development of concepts of Master of the Regular Grand Lodge of grand lodges, despite the fact that PHA (Continued on page 16)
Sheffield University’s Douglas Knoop Centre, housing the Centre for Research into Freemasonry, as reported by Prof Prescott and illustrated in MQ magazine issue 18, July 2006 [http://www.mqmagazine.co.uk/issue-18/p-41.php], with ‘Delegates at the opening of the new centre’. One may wonder if the ‘senior director’ of the possibly non-existent Liafail Foundation is among the delegates (see article commencing at page 2).
Issue 49 page 9 An in-depth study by mathematician and philosopher James Franklin, published ten years ago in the Journal of the Australian Catholic Historical Society, this paper would have gladdened the hearts of our late brothers Harry Kellerman (for depth of research and wealth of endnotes) and Max Webberley (for even-handed assessment). It is reprinted here by kind permission of the author. His books and other publications are listed on the University of NSW website at http://web.maths.unsw.edu.au/~jim/.
CATHOLICS VERSUS MASONS
by Professor James Franklin
As is well known, one of the most campaign for secular education, later breath, to melt down into an significant events in Australian Catholic printed as a pamphlet called ‘Hidden International Communism, when the history was the withdrawal of state aid to Springs’. It is one of the great conspiracy impossible equality of all men shall be Church schools late last century. In 1880 theories, combined with a vision of achieved, when the Almighty God, and, in New South Wales, and at similar grand conflict of philosophical systems. consequently, dogma and Christian times in other parts of Australia, the The three main currents of thought, he morality shall be expunged.’ Earlier, the State Governments set up systems of says, are Paganism, Supernaturalism and Masons sneaked out of their lodges to ‘free, secular and compulsory’ schools, Materialism. Paganism, whose ‘hidden foment the Revolutions of 1789, 1830 and at the same time withdrew aid they spring’ is man’s animal passion, as and 1848. But now they have a new plan. had paid to the schools of the various shown by the gross immoralities of the Spreading from Belgium is an churches. The Catholic Church gods of Olympus, belongs to the past. ‘Education League’, and Masons around maintained its system at great expense, The future, unfortunately, may belong to the world are now to rally behind their at the same time as Catholics paid taxes Materialism; the threat is so great that campaign. ‘Its watchword or war-cry is for state schools. That situation lasted for the Catholic and Protestant churches “Universal Secular, Free and ninety years, and defined the shape of need to co-operate against it. But Compulsory Education”.’[2] Australian education thereafter, dividing Vaughan does not see Materialism as This outburst raises a number of Australian youth into three categories: just a way of thinking into which it is questions. The first one is, is it true? Was those in private schools, usually run by a natural to fall when religion begins to Freemasonry an international communist Protestant Church, those in Catholic seem less plausible. It would soon conspiracy, plotting revolutions and the schools, and the majority in the secular disappear, he says, if it were not being downfall of the Church, and secular State school system. It was one of the ceaselessly revivified by its own hidden education in New South Wales? If not, main reasons for the distinctiveness of spring. ‘The Hidden Spring of who were the Masons, why did the Australian Catholic culture. Materialism is centred in, and derives its Catholic Church find itself in conflict The high point of the Catholics’ main energy from the Sect, the Church with them, and what is the relation of struggle against the withdrawal of State of the Revolution, the International that conflict to job discrimination against aid came with Archbishop Vaughan’s Secret Society, which is weaving its Catholics in the 1930s? First Pastoral on education, attacking network around the world’, that is, No, it is not true. Not of Australia, at Henry Parkes’ plan for a free and secular Freemasonry. Promoting a Voltairean least. Freemasonry was not an atheist school system. Education without gospel of ‘absolute toleration’, its real communist plot. An answer on behalf of religion, Vaughan maintained, was programme is deicide, and the the Masons was written by Wazir Beg, impossible in principle. It was, he said, deification of humanity. ‘The Sect fixes earlier a Muslim of Poona but at this ‘a system of practical paganism, which savagely on one dogma of its own, period a Presbyterian minister in Redfern leads to corruption of morals and loss of whilst gnashing its teeth at all dogmas, it and editor of both the Freemason and the faith, to national effeminacy and to is this, viz., that absolute liberty and Orangeman.[3] His reply to Vaughan national dishonour’ and—in a phrase that unlimited freedom to do, say, or think denies the charges of atheism, caused particular offence—the existing anything he likes, is the natural and immorality and disloyalty. Masonry state schools were ‘seedplots of future inalienable right of every man.’ It is true inculcates a ‘rigorous morality’—without immorality, infidelity and lawlessness, that ordinary Masons do not know of the dispensations or indulgences—and it is being calculated to debase the standard plots of the inner circle, and are often hardly likely that Masonry intends to of human excellence, and to corrupt the men of character, even dukes, but such subvert the State when the last King and political, social and individual life of men are ‘paraded before the world, that the present heir to the throne are not future citizens’.[1] His extreme remarks the world may be reassured, that, a blind merely members, but Grand Masters.[4] caused a great deal of indignation in oath of secrecy notwithstanding, little Beg is right: the idea of an international Protestant circles. harm could attach to a Craft, however communist conspiracy led by royalty is So much is well-known. What is not secret, so long as Dukes and Lords, and ridiculous. so familiar is what Vaughan thought men of large estate, and of high character All the same, Vaughan is not exactly about the enemy he was facing. were members of it. How could that making his theory up out of thin air. Nor Society be subversive of the throne, is he alone. To understand what was Vaughan and the Masonic Conspiracy which is patronised by Royalty itself?’ happening we need to look at the Theory But the truth is otherwise. ‘The Altar, the situation in Europe on a long time scale. On 9 October 1876 he gave a speech on Throne, Civil Society as at present The Masonic conspiracy theory is part what he believed was really behind the constituted, are, under the action of its of a plot theory that had wide appeal for
page 10 Harashim the European political right from the the origins of the Revolution.[12] time of the French Revolution to the Liberty, equality and fraternity were Second World War. The principals in the originally Masonic ideals, which one supposed world conspiracy varied: needs to read free of associations with Masons, Jews, Liberals, Socialists,[5] but the Terror—in the spirit of the American the linking idea was that a world Revolution, not the French.[13] in the conspiracy of some or all these was years of the Napoleonic Wars and the behind all revolutions real and potential, Restoration, the lodges did act as covers and all anticlericalism. The Masonic plot for the spread of revolutionary theory came first. It appeared in the brotherhoods, even if Freemasonry as a Abbé Barruel’s Memoirs Illustrating the whole was not revolutionary.[14] It must History of Jacobinism of 1797, which be emphasised that Freemasonry does claimed to expose the French Revolution not have any international central as a Masonic conspiracy. After a long controlling body—something, of course, run in the nineteenth century, where it which the Catholic Church found hard to was promoted by Pius IX as an understand. That means, on the one explanation for his troubles[6] (and of hand, that an actual international course that was where Vaughan got it Masonic plot is unlikely; on the other from), it acquired an antisemitic tinge in hand, it means that individual lodges or Professor James Franklin the last two decades of the century.[7] groups of lodges and shadowy quasi- The most famous expression of it, the was neither, this is to take far too Masonic organisations can be captured Protocols of the Elders of Zion, written intellectual a view of it. A church is not by strange ideas, and develop in their in France probably in the 1890s, was simply a creed and catechism, but also own, sometimes revolutionary, Barruel’s theory over again, with the an institution that supplies tradition, directions. For example, around 1820, addition that the Masonic plot was ritual, mutual comfort and community there were genuine Masonic connections actually controlled from the inside by support for right conduct and sanction to the Decembrist revolutionaries in Jews.[8] Descendants of the Protocols for wrong, and, at least in earlier times, a Russia, the Carbonari in Italy, and theory include the Nazis’ Jewish social security agency. The organ Spanish liberals resisting the conspiracy theory, the Jewish–Bolshevik through which the Enlightenment Restoration.[15] Even in early New plot theory that was an issue in Helen competed in these respects was South Wales, there were fears of Demidenko’s The Hand That Signed the Freemasonry. After developing in a still Masonic revolutionary activity. Paper, and the Jewish–Masonic– obscure fashion out of Scottish and Governor King feared the French might Communist plot believed in by such English guilds of stonemasons around sail up the Hawkesbury, unite with the people as Franco.[9] 1700, it spread quickly to the Continent Irish at Castle Hill, and leave him Those full-blown conspiracy theories and the American colonies during the defended only by the mutinous rabble of are all false. The Protocols were a eighteenth century, and included among the New South Wales corps. Since all forgery, there was no world Jewish plot, its members such notables as Walpole, three of these threats were riddled with and there was no secret international Pope, Hogarth, Franklin, Washington, Masons, he took seriously the possibility organisation behind all revolutions. Voltaire, Haydn, Mozart and Goethe. of their cooperation on the basis of It might seem, then, that although [10] It was not the intention of brotherhood, and suppressed attempts to Vaughan was not alone, his plot theory Freemasons to undermine the existing form a lodge.[16] was a pure fantasy. That is not quite true. political or religious order. There was For the rest of the nineteenth century, It does not follow that there was no basis nevertheless an inevitable tension Freemasonry was associated with the at all for the fears of the right. To between Freemasonry’s ideals of internal anticlerical ‘liberal’ political faction in understand what was really happening, it constitutional self-government and the Catholic countries. Latin America was a is necessary to look at what Freemasonry absolutist regimes on the Continent. scene of perennial conflict.[17] An was, and why the Catholic Church was There was also a philosophical conflict article in the Australasian Catholic in conflict with it. If it was not a between Freemasonry’s ideals of Record of 1899 on ‘The just man of the communist plot, what was it? religious toleration and the Catholic nineteenth century’ tells the story of the view of dogma. As a result, there was a Catholic President of Ecuador, Gabriel Freemasonry in Europe certain amount of police action against Garcia Moreno, who dedicated Ecuador It was an institutional embodiment of the the lodges in countries like France, and to the Sacred Heart, gave the state Enlightenment, or at least of one version the Catholic Church condemned education system to the Catholic Church, of it. The difficulty with the common Freemasonry.[11] Up to the time of the and then was assassinated by, it was view of the Enlightenment is that it French Revolution, however, the conflict thought, Masons.[18] It was the same in portrays it as existing purely in the realm was not a matter of great importance to Spain.[19] The unification of Italy, with of ideas. The philosophes are supposed either side. Indeed, the Church’s the confiscation of the Papal States, was to have written learned books full of condemnations of Freemasonry were not a success for Freemasonry, among other dangerous theories and radical ideas, promulgated beyond the English forces.[20] By and large, the Catholic which somehow filtered down to the Channel, and around 1800 Irish right fought a losing battle. As we saw, bloodthirsty souls who cut off the Freemasonry was full of Catholics. they did not attribute that to their being aristocrats’ heads. Apart from making The French Revolution was not a out of touch with the spirit of the age, or the mistake of conceiving the Masonic plot in any simple sense, but it to a lack of concern for social problems, Enlightenment as primarily atheist and is true that Masonic ideals, symbols and but to a literal plot. an enemy of the state, when in general it organisation had something to do with (Continued on page 12)
Issue 49 page 11 (Continued from page 11) Freemasonry in Australia campaigns of 1916 and 1917, since The control of primary education was The story of the influence of the Masons Catholics were not enthusiastic about one of the main issues in the conflict. is one of the great untold narratives of being drafted as fodder for an officer Vaughan’s story that the Education Australian history. Manning Clark, for corps dominated by Freemasonry, ‘the League in Belgium was a Masonic front example, though seeing Australian most insidious enemy of God and promoting free, compulsory and secular history as an epic struggle between country . . . a huge tumour growing education is entirely true.[21] In France, Christian and Enlightenment principles, upon the life and blood of the whole of laws instituted by a heavily Masonic hardly mentions the main Enlightenment the country’ (Mannix).[41] Membership government in 1879–82 took public institution, and even full-length increased again after the Second War, as money from Church schools, and biographies of famous Australians often returned servicemen used the lodges to instituted general moral education in fail to mention they were Masons. They continue the mateship of the armed public schools.[22] When the Catholics were involved in most of the significant forces, and a high point of membership added a Jewish conspiracy theory to the developments in Australia. Joseph Banks was reached in the mid-1950s, with Masonic one, they were discredited over was a Mason, and in the early colony so some 330,000 members in about 2000 the Dreyfus affair, and in the early years were Governor Macquarie, Francis lodges, or one Australian man in sixteen. of this century, a vigorously anticlerical Greenway, and the explorers Oxley, [42] Since there were no Catholic and largely Masonic government took Hume and Leichhardt.[29] More than members, and very few blue collar advantage of having the upper hand to thirty of the hundred and eleven workers, this represents an extraordinary expel the religious teaching orders from members of the first Commonwealth penetration of the target group, the France and seize their property without Parliament were Masons, either at the ‘managerial classes’. compensation.[23] time or later, ‘some indication’, This leaves the question, what did There was a lot of interest in these according to Masons, ‘that our Masonic membership mean? It could, of events among Australian Catholics,[24] Commonwealth was in its beginning also course, mean nothing: like religious and Australia benefited by the based on righteousness and virtuous membership, it could simply be a way of immigration of the De La Salle Brothers, character’.[30] Almost all of the getting out of the house, meeting people whose first Australian school, in conservative Prime Ministers up to who might help one get a better job, or Armidale, was founded in 1906 by 1972—Barton, Reid, Cook, Bruce, Page, providing security for one’s widow. brothers just expelled from France.[25] Menzies, Fadden, McEwen, Gorton and Masonic membership seems to have At the same time, it came to light in the McMahon—were Masons.[31] Many meant nothing to Menzies, for example. ‘Affaire des fiches’ that there really was governors were Masons, often the Grand He was a club man rather than a lodge a Masonic conspiracy: the French Masters of their states.[32] Masons man. But for those who took Masons were keeping a huge card index prominent in other fields include Edward membership more seriously, and many on public officials who went to Mass, Hargraves, the discoverer of gold, did, more was on offer. Freemasonry is a with a view to preventing their Lawrence Hargrave, the pioneer of philosophy. It is not easy to say precisely promotions.[26] The animosity between flight, and such quintessentially what that philosophy is, not only because French Freemasonry and the Catholic Australian heroes as Sir Charles part of it is kept secret, but also because Church waned somewhat in the next Kingsford Smith, Sir Don Bradman and putting ‘doctrines’ into propositional decades, but revived when the Vichy Sir Edward ‘Weary’ Dunlop. The form is not the preferred method of regime published long lists of Masons, Masonic Historical Society’s web site is exposition of the Masonic point of view, and sacked them from state schools and informative.[33] even to initiates. Freemasonry is other employment.[27] Naturally, not The first recognised lodge, the Lodge officially ‘a system of morality veiled in much has been heard of these things of Social and Military Virtues, arrived allegory’.[43] The allegory and since 1945. with the regiment it was attached to in symbolism, intended to assist the There was, however, a problem with 1814,[34] and Freemasonry was imagination and memory of the initiate, Vaughan’s theory that what was associated with wealth and the party of [44] is the main method of instruction, happening in Australia was the same as political reform by the 1830s, in both and the interpretation of the symbols is what was happening in France and Sydney and Hobart.[35] The lodges to some extent left to the individual. But Belgium. It is significant that all the spread widely, especially in the 1890s the general outline of the system is not Masonic documents Vaughan quotes as and again between the Wars.[36] secret. The only Masonic ‘dogma’, evidence are Continental, and all Beg’s Specialised lodges included Lodge strictly speaking, is the existence of God, British. British (and hence Australian) Cricket, of which Bradman was a belief in which is a condition of entry. Freemasonry is not the same as the member, Lodge Literature, for Belief in immortality is, however, Continental variety. It was not in conflict newspapermen,[37] and lodges for the strongly suggested.[45] Beyond that, with the Established Church or the state— old boys of particular schools, such as religious matters are left to the on the contrary, kings, prime ministers Sydney Grammar, Fort Street, Sydney individual’s own sect; a Mason is and Archbishops of Canterbury have High and Shore.[38] Melbourne expected to pursue his own faith, which been Freemasons. There is no need to University, Sydney University and later may be of any Christian or other theistic plot revolution against a state one the University of New South Wales had persuasion. controls already or if not ‘controls’, at lodges for academics and graduates.[39] The centre of Freemasonry is not least has an easy relationship with. Freemasonry was particularly strong in doctrinal but moral. ‘The whole purpose Catholic propagandists knew their theory the Armed Forces, the police, banks, of Freemasonry is to teach the Moral had a problem here, and made the most AMP, the state and commonwealth Law and show that man should live of the occasional meeting between the public services, and the councils of rightly with his fellow man under the all- Prince of Wales and an Italian Mason. country towns.[40] Freemasonry in the seeing eye of God’.[46] The normal [28] army was an issue in the conscription meanings of the symbols mostly concern
page 12 Harashim morality. The well-known symbols of job discrimination. Catholics believed Equally obvious, when you looked square and compasses, for example, that up to about 1960, at least, most closely, was the absence of Catholics symbolise respectively rectitude in positions of power in organisations like from the top legal appointments and general and the circle separating right the armed services, many public service among hospital specialists. For a start, Catholics could not be behaviour from wrong. Truth and departments, the private banks, and so Freemasons, and were therefore honesty in dealings are crucial.[47] on, were virtually barred to them by a automatically excluded from the Harmony has not characterised the conspiracy of Masons looking after one mutual help towards promotion that relations of Freemasonry with the more another.[54] It is very hard to discover Freemasons gave one another. There dogmatic religions, and the reasons for any undeniable facts about it. It has not were of course men with high ideals— conflict concern basic matters of the even proved possible to establish and good friends of ours—who relation between philosophy and whether the best-known story about the enjoyed the convivial nights out at the religion. Freemasonry insists that it is whole matter is literally true: that NSW local masonic lodge with men friends, not a religion, but admits to being Police Commissioners were by helping one another, perhaps even ‘religious’, or having something to say in arrangement alternately Masons and relishing a night out away from the wife. The rank-and-file Mason areas already occupied by religion.[48] Catholics. probably didn’t realize that helping his Its tolerance of all religions can easily For one thing, it is difficult to prove buddy get ahead in business or career give rise to the impression that dogmatic that any given failure to get a job is due could and often did mean that a better- differences do not matter, even though to underhand motives. And even if there qualified applicant didn’t stand a that is never asserted explicitly. were hard statistical evidence that there chance. That is not justice. Suspicion in this regard is encouraged by were almost no Catholics in, say, the It is not entirely obvious, nevertheless, the phrase ‘the Religion in which all men management of the Bank of New South that Masonic influence was responsible agree’, in the original 1723 Constitutions Wales which there is not[55] it is hard — — in this case. The Professor of Latin, of Freemasonry.[49] to demonstrate anything about the Todd, was a peculiar person, who It is clear why Masons should have reasons for it. And even if there was disliked Letters on personal as much as generally felt happy with a system of discrimination against Catholics, it may sectarian grounds. Letters eventually secular education. Vaughan’s suspicion have been due to Protestant sectarian obtained one of the foundation that a large-scale movement inimical to feeling, or anti-Irish racism, rather than lectureships at the New England his position was under way, and that the to the Masons. University College. When the College Masons had something to do with it, was I know of no admissions by anyone became an autonomous University in not altogether without foundation, even that they ever discriminated against a 1954, all the pioneers were given chairs, if there was no plot. W.C. Wentworth Catholic in favour of a less qualified except Letters.[58] He never did become and John Woolley, the earlier leaders of applicant for a job, though the Masons a professor, despite his international the campaign for secular education, were have informally agreed that they did reputation based on respectable books on Masons, while William Wilkins, the provide a certain amount of help to one Sophocles, Virgil, Thomas Mann and effective decision-maker on the syllabus, another with jobs.[56] As one senior Huysmans, and successful essays and was a prominent Mason, who wrote in Mason explained it to me, Freemasonry poetry. Academic excellence is more favour of the possibility of moral is intended to make good men better— open for inspection than talent in, say, education free of dogma.[50] Parkes was unlike religions that hope also to make the public service, and it is fair to say not a Mason, but that was not much bad men good. So being a Mason is, that for Letters to fail to get a chair at a consolation for the Catholics, since his other things being equal, a sign of being provincial university was an obvious views were actually closer to those of the a good man, and hence a scandal. The book has some actual anticlerical European masons.[51] recommendation for a job. Applicants evidence about the role of masonic The conflict between Catholics and for membership who appeared to be influence:[59] Masons did not rest so clearly on any interested simply in improving their matters of principle. There is nothing employment prospects were supposed to All Armidale could see the university explicitly anti-Catholic in Freemasonry be denied membership. men’s cars on Thursday nights near the (unlike the Orange lodges), and Catholic There are hardly even any complaints Masonic Lodge on the corner of objections, other than on the secular Faulkner and Barney Streets. Frank by Catholics that they were passed over could not fail to deduce that he, a education question, rested mostly on for any definite job. There is one case, Catholic and the only one not a Lodge supposed Masonic plots in Europe and though, recently described in some member, ‘would never get anywhere’. job discrimination in Australia. The main detail. It is in a life of Frank Letters, The dice were loaded against his objection of principle was to Masonic recently written by his widow. Letters professional advancement . . . oaths, committing Masons not to reveal was a classical scholar who applied for Frank also recalled the invitation to secrets before they knew the nature of and failed to get positions in the late a welcome for a Supreme Court judge the secrets.[52] Since the 1960s, better 1930s:[57] and two barrister friends of Frank’s at relations have prevailed,[53] mainly Tatt’s Hotel. One had just won a because Catholic theology has itself When Frank was a young graduate spectacularly interesting case and adopted a more tolerant view of other hoping for an academic post, there was offered to send some details to Frank, asking for his address. ‘Send it to The religions. The reasons for this are not one practising Catholic senior staff Lodge’ was the answer. [The Letters probably not, as some think, that the last member at Sydney University. In 1938, of the forty professors at Sydney family lived in a former gatekeeper’s four popes have been secret Masons. University there was no Catholic. It lodge at the University.] One of a was little different in the higher nearby group, half-hearing the answer Discrimination in Employment in echelons of education departments, the but not the question, complained, ‘You Australia police force, the public service, university men have taken us over’, This brings us to the vexed question of banking, and in many businesses. (Continued on page 14)
Issue 49 page 13 (Continued from page 13) the mind of the Roman Curia be in eighteenth-century Europe, N.Y., 1991; W. assuming that Frank had meant the anything but gravely suspicious of R. Weisberger, Speculative Freemasonry and the Enlightenment, Boulder, 1993; R. van Masonic Lodge. This was news to anything coming out of England or Frank who had not up to that point Dülmen, The Society of the Enlightenment, America? In particular, ideals of trans. A. Williams, N.Y., 1992, pp. 52–65, seen the close link between ‘freedom’, toleration and constitutional 151–65; S.C. Bullock, ‘Initiating the Freemasonry and his colleagues. government have not been well Enlightenment?: recent scholarship on Once, when delivering a packet of European Freemasonry’, Eighteenth-Century Leaving Certificate English papers to understood by the Roman mind. There Life 20, 1996, pp. 80–92; Australian Sid Musgrove [the only other member has been a grave misunderstanding knowledge of it in M. Conway, ‘Freemasonry of his department], Frank looked over between the international Church and the and the Age of Enlightenment’, Masonic the bookshelves where to his surprise international language, which has been a Research in South Australia, (South he saw books to do with Freemasonry. Australian Lodge of Research) 1, 1990–4, pp. great misfortune for both. 19–21; K. Brindal, ‘Brother Mozart, ‘Oh no! not you, Sid’, he said, Freemason’, Masonic Research in South laughing heartily at the thought of Sid, Endnotes Australia 2, 1995, pp. 27–9; N.J. McDonald, the cynic, being caught up in a 1 Archbishop and Bishops of N.S.W. Pastoral, ‘Desaguliers’, New South Wales Freemason conservative secret society. Catholic Education Sydney, 1879, repr. in P. 29, 1934, pp. 81–2; American background in ‘I wouldn’t get anywhere if I didn’t O’Farrell (ed.), Documents in Australian S.C. Bullock, Revolutionary Brotherhood: belong’, Musgrove said simply. Catholic History, vol. 1, London, 1969, pp. Freemasonry and the transformation of the 386–99. American social order, 1730–1840, Chapel Catholics didn’t take things lying down, 2 R.B. Vaughan, Hidden Springs, or the Perils Hill, 1996. of course. Their best chance for of the Future and How to Meet Them, 11 J.A. Ferrer Benimeli, Los archivos secretos advancement came through the system Sydney, 1876; brief summary in J.N. Molony, vaticanos y la masonería, Caracas, 1976; G. The Roman Mould of the Australian Catholic Adilardi, Un’antica condanna. le origini di of public service entry through Church, Melbourne, 1969, p. 150; similar un conflitto tra Chiesa Cattolica e competitive examination, and promotion later in Anon, ‘Freemasonry versus Church massoneria, Foggia, 1989; R.E. Jenkins, ‘The by seniority. It is an expensive solution and State’, Australasian Catholic Record 10, evolution of the Church’s prohibition against to job discrimination, but an effective 1904, pp. 23–41; by Archbishop Kelly, in M. Catholic membership in Freemasonry’, Jurist one. The Knights of the Southern Cross, Clark, Sources of Australian History, 56, 1997, pp. 735–55. London, 1957, p. 577; Sydney Morning 12 Annales historiques de la revolution a kind of Catholic Masons, acted Herald 15/7/1913, p. 8. française, special issue July-Sept 1969, frequently as an employment agency. 3 ‘Wazir Beg’, Australian Dictionary of especially D. Ligou, ‘Structures et [60] In due course, there were networks Biography, vol. 3, p. 130. symbolisme maçonniques sous la révolution’, of Catholics as well as networks of 4 W. Beg, Dr. Vaughan’s Ignorance of pp. 511–23. Masons in public service departments; if Freemasonry Exposed, Sydney, 1876, pp. 10, 13 Jacob, Living the Enlightenment, p. 12; anyone had a just complaint, it was those 19–21, 34; other replies: D. Allen, Reply to emphasised in J.E. Carnegie, Freemasonry: Dr Vaughan Upon Hidden Springs (Sydney, its origin, history, principles and doctrines, in neither camp. The best opportunity for 1877) (on Allen’s anti-Catholic struggles, see Melbourne, 1862, p. 7; also P. Carter, Catholics to use raw political power to F. Beedel, Letters and Other Writings of the ‘Visions of God — a Masonic perspective’, recover territory from the Masons was in Late Pastor Daniel Allen (Sydney, 1901), ch. Theosophy in Australia 58, 1, Mar 1994, pp. 13); J.A. Downie, Rome’s Polluted Springs 16–19. Queensland, where there were Catholic- (Sydney, 1877). dominated Labor governments for 14 J.H. Billington, Fire in the Minds of Men: 5 J. Rogalla von Bieberstein, Die These von der origins of the revolutionary faith, London, decades. Freemasons lost ground in the Verschwörung 1776–1945. Philosophen, 1980, pp. 91–9. Queensland public service after 1915, Freimaurer, Juden, Liberale und Sozialisten 15 L.G. Leighton, The Esoteric Tradition in [61] and in 1957 the Premier, Vince als Verschwörer gegen die Sozialordnung, Russian Romantic Literature: Decembrism Gair, took on the University of Berne, 1976 (see reviews in Annales 33, and Freemasonry, University Park, PA, 1994; 1978, pp. 754–6; History of European Ideas Queensland for, among other things, an Billington, pp. 141–2, 330; R. Lansdown, 4, 1983, pp. 109–11.) ‘Byron and the Carbonari’, History Today 41, alleged bias in favour of Masons.[62] He 6 R.F. Esposito, Pio IX. La Chiesa in conflitto May, 1991, pp. 18–25; B.R. Hamnett, failed. col mondo. La S. Sede, la massoneria e il ‘Liberal politics and Spanish Freemasonry, Nationalising the banks might have radicalismo settario, Rome, 1979 (see review 1814–1820’, History 69, 1984, pp. 221–37. helped, but Chifley and Calwell did not in Catholic Historical Review 68, 1982, pp. 16 A. Atkinson, The Europeans in Australia, 667–8); L. Leoni, La massoneria e le succeed with that particular plan. They Melbourne, 1997, ch. 12; King to Sullivan, annessioni degli Stati pontificii, Viterbo, 21/4/1804, Historical Records of Australia, did achieve a major change in the ethnic 1892–3; summary in J.A. Ferrer Benimeli, series I vol v p. 142. Masoneria español contemporanea, Madrid, composition of Australia, away from the 17 C. Gazmari, El ‘48’ chileno: igualiterios, 1980, vol. 2 pp. 36–41; Australian comment Anglo-Saxon Protestant mould that reformistas, radicales, masones y bomberos, in T.A. Fitzgerald, ‘The present condition of Santiago, 1992; J.A. Ferrer Benimeli, prevailed up to then, by importing Italy’, Australasian Catholic Record 4, 1898, ‘Bolivar y la masoneria’, Revista de Indias 180,000 displaced Eastern Europeans, pp. 361–79, 460–74, at p. 467. 43, 1983, pp. 631–87; J.-P. Bastian (ed.), mostly Catholics. It is the 7 R.F. Byrnes, Antisemitism in Modern France Protestantes, liberales y francmasones: multiculturalism of Australia that has vol. 1, New Brunswick, 1950; pp. 126–40, Sociedades de ideas y modernidad en done as much as anything to make the 187–92; R. Millman, ‘Jewish anticlericalism América Latina, siglo xix, Mexico, 1990; P. and the rise of modern French antisemitism’, old conflicts irrelevant. Rich & G. de los Reyes, ‘Freemasonry’s History 77, 1992, pp. 220–36; J. Katz, Jews educational role’, American Behavioral Finally, a moment of speculation. and Freemasons in Europe, trans. L. Oschry, Scientist 40, 1997, pp. 957–67. Harvard, 1970, chs. 10–11. Possibly the most significant effect for 18 J. Brennan, ‘The just man of the nineteenth the Church of its long conflict with 8 N. Cohn, Warrant for Genocide, 2nd ed, century’, ACR 5, 1899, pp. 162–72. London, 1996, ch. 3. Freemasonry has been that many of the 19 M.A. Ortiz de Andres, Masoneria y men in the highest positions in the 9 J.A. Ferrer Benimeli, El contubernio judeo- democracia en el siglo xix: el Gran Oriente masonico-comunista: del satanismo al Church have not understood the English- Español y su proyección politico-social, escandalo de la P-2, Madrid, 1982?; Ferrer 1888–1896, Madrid, 1993. speaking countries. With the English Benimeli, Masoneria español 20 R.F. Esposito, Le grande concordanze tra contemporanea, vol. 2 ch. 5; M.R. Marrus & kings being Grand Masters, and many Chiesa et massoneria, Firenze, 1987; L. R.O. Paxton, Vichy France and the Jews, N. American presidents being Masons and Braschi, La massoneria e la Chiesa cattolica: Y., 1981, pp. 76, 199. operating under a Constitution un terribile scontro, un possibile incontro, 10 European background in M.C. Jacob, Living embodying Masonic ideals, how could Firenze, 1984; A. Luzio, La massoneria e il the Enlightenment: Freemasonry and politics Risorgimento italiano, Bologna, 1966; page 14 Harashim A. Lattanzi, Bibliografia della massoneria 35 A. Atkinson & M. Aveling, eds, Australians 46 ‘Masonry and the moral law’, NSW italiana e di Cagliostro, Firenze, 1974. 1838, Sydney, 1987, pp. 330–1, 314; Clark, Freemason 42, 1947, p. 185. 21 R. Desmed, ‘A propos du mémoire de la Loge History of Australia, vol. 2 pp. 300–1; G.M. 47 F.S. McDowell, ‘Masonic philosophy’, in K. des Amis Philanthrops sur l’enseignement Dow, Samuel Terry: the Botany Bay R. Cramp, From Jubilee to Diamond Jubilee: primaire obligatoire et laïque’, Revue belge de Rothschild, Sydney, 1974, pp. 215, 225–6. history of ten years of the United Grand philologie et d’histoire 53, 1975, pp. 357–401, 36 The Tongue of Good Report: Lodge Zion No. Lodge of Freemasonry in New South Wales, especially pp. 385, 395–401. 218, Gunnedah 1894–1994, Gunnedah, 1994, 1938–1948, pp. 262–4. 22 J.S. Schapiro, Anticlericalism, Princeton, and similar histories of individual lodges; A. 48 ‘Masonry not a religion’, NSW Freemason 28, 1967, pp. 56, 60, 153–6; E. Acomb, The Richards, The Centennial Story: the history of 1933, pp. 208, 223. French Laic Laws, 1879-1889, N.Y., 1941; T. Freemasonry in Queensland, Brisbane, 1959; 49 ‘The charges of a Freemason’, Anderson’s D. Lauder, ‘Freemasons and Freemasonry in F. Power, Jules Ferry and the Renaissance of Constitutions of 1723, repr. in M.C. Jacob, Queensland’, J. of the Royal Historical French Imperialism, N.Y., 1966, pp. 16-21; J. The Radical Enlightenment: pantheists, Society of Queensland 14, 1990, pp. 33–40; R. Fulton, ‘The revival of church/state hostility in Freemasons and republicans, London, 1981, France: the affair of the religious decrees, W. Bell, ‘Freemasonry and early Ballarat’, p. 280; see L. Vibert, ‘Anderson’s Ballarat Historian 4, 2, Mar, 1989, pp. 17–21 1879–80’, Journal of Religious History 20, Constitutions of 1723’, NSW Freemason 47, & 4, 10, Mar, 1991, pp. 6–12; W.C. Vahland, 1996, pp. 20–31; P. Nord, ‘Republicanism and 1952, pp. 397–404, 451–8, 467, especially p. Utopian vision: French Freemasonry in the History of Freemasonry in the Bendigo 453. District, Bendigo, 1904; M. Chapman, ‘Jews 1860s and 1870s’, Journal of Modern History 50 ‘Woolley, John’, ADB vol. 6 pp. 435–7; 63, 1991, pp. 213–29. and Freemasons in the Colony of Victoria 1840–1900’, Journal of the Australian Jewish ‘Wilkins, William’, ADB vol. 6 pp. 400–2; W. 23 M. Larkin, Church and State After the Dreyfus Wilkins, National Education: an exposition of Affair, London, 1974, pp. 23–8, 91–101, 138– Historical Society 11, 3, Nov, 1991, pp. 415– 91; R.J. Linford, ‘Freemasonry in the the National System of New South Wales, 41; C.S. Phillips, The Church in France, Queanbeyan–Canberra area, 1877–1939’, Sydney, 1865, p. 12; elsewhere, L. Fletcher, 1848–1907, 1936, repr. N.Y., 1967, ch. 9. Canberra Historical Journal 36, Sept 1995, (ed.), Pioneers of Education in Western 24 J.J. Norris, ‘The Catholic Church and liberty’, pp. 18–27. Australia, Perth, 1982, pp. 72, 159; for ACR 3, 1897, pp. 564–72; letter of Leo XIII, Queensland, T.L. Suttor, Hierarchy and 37 Lodge Literature No. 500, Sydney, 1938. ACR 2, 1896, pp. 149–53; D. Lynch, Democracy in Australia, 1788–1870, ‘Freemasonry in France’, ACR 8, 1902, pp. 38 Cramp & Mackaness, pp. 475, 587–8. Melbourne, 1965, pp. 302–3. 529–46; P.S. Cleary, ‘Freemasonry—the 39 Cramp & Mackaness, p. 475; K.R. Cramp, 51 H. Parkes, ‘Darkness or light—which is to enemy of throne and altar’, ACR 17, 1911, pp. Lodge University of Sydney, Sydney, 1945. conquer?’, Empire 13 Oct 1851, p. 250, partly 467–510; M.Q., ‘A few notes on 40 J. Maguire, Prologue, Toowoomba, 1990, p. quoted in Martin, Henry Parkes, pp. 105–6; Freemasonry’, Austral Light 4, 1903, pp. 672– 63; R. Haldane, The People’s Force, 2nd ed, discussion in A.W. Martin, ‘Henry Parkes and 4; ‘Hiram’, ‘Sidelights on Freemasonry’, Melbourne, 1995, pp. 56, 171; B. Winter, The the political manipulation of sectarianism’, Austral Light 5, 1904, pp. 403–12, 467–73, Intrigue Master, Brisbane, 1995, p. 174; Journal of Religious History 9, 1976, pp. 85– 515–21, 609–14, 772–8. Lieut-Gen H.G. Bennett, ‘Anzac Day, 1953’, 92; NSW Parliamentary Debates 1879–80, 25 Br Aloysius, The De La Salle Brothers in NSW Freemason 48, 1953, pp. 133–6; R.J.W. vol. 2. p. 1284; discussed in P.F. Cardinal Australia, 1906–1956, Sydney, 1956, pp. 19– Selleck & M. Sullivan, Not So Eminent Moran, History of the Catholic Church in 27; Fogarty, Catholic Education in Australia, Victorians, Melbourne, 1984, p. 127; Australasia, Sydney, 1895, p. 875, cf p. 869. vol 2, p. 274.; P.V. Dwyer, ‘The Marist Henderson, Masonic Grand Masters, pp. 89, 52 P.J. Lynch, Freemasonry: its incompatibility Brothers and their work in France’, ACR 12, 91; M. Cannon, The Long Last Summer, with practical Catholicism, Sydney, 1923, pp. 1906, pp. 461–9; Count de Mun, ‘The Melbourne, 1985, p. 62; ‘Clarke, W.J.’, ADB 30–2; A.J. Dunn, ‘Christianity and religious persecution in France’, ACR 13, vol. 3 pp. 422–4; G. Davison, J.W. McCarty Freemasonry’, Austral Light 8, 1907, pp. 179– 1907, pp. 398–421, at pp. 414–16; R.S., & A. McLeary, eds, Australians 1888, 90; E. Cahill, The Truth About Freemasonry, ‘France and the Catholic schools’, Austral Sydney, 1987, p. 196; Bill Gammage & N. Australian Catholic Truth Society pamphlet, Light 3, 1902, pp. 726–9. Spearritt, eds, Australians 1938, Sydney, Melbourne, 1936; L. Rumble, Radio Replies 26 Larkin, Church and State after the Dreyfus 1987, p. 237; D. Armstrong, ‘Freemasons on in Defence of Religion, Sydney, 1936, pp. Affair, pp. 138–41: ‘Freemasonry in France’, the march again’, Bulletin 3/10/78, pp. 44–6, 292–9. 51–4; M. Hogan, ‘The Sydney style’, Labour Austral Light 6, 1905, pp. 164–72, 241–50. 53 M. Baume, ‘Masons and Catholics: a new History 36, 1979, pp. 39–46, at p. 42; P. 27 D. Rossignol, Vichy et les francs-maçons. La understanding’, Bulletin 13/1/68, pp. 20–2; liquidation des sociétés secrétes, 1940–1944, O’Farrell, Catholic Church and Community, Jenkins, ‘The evolution’. Sydney, 1985?, p. 380; D. Horne, The Paris, 1981; R.O. Paxton, Vichy France, N.Y., Education of Young Donald, rev. ed., 54 M. Hogan, The Sectarian Strand, Ringwood, 1972, pp. 4, 102, 156, 172–3, 255. Melbourne, 1988, p. 20. 1987, pp. 197–202, 217. 28 T.A. Fitzgerald, ‘The Jewish Masonic 55 A preliminary attempt in Anon, ‘Catholics in combination in France’, ACR 6, 1900, pp. 41 Age 15/2/1916, p. 8 repr. in O’Farrell, Documents in Australian Catholic History, the Australian public service’, Australian 342–88; Molony, p. 150; A. McLay, James vol. 2 p. 265; cf. pp. 107–9; reply in Argus Quarterly 32, 3, Sep, 1960, pp. 16–22. Quinn, 2nd ed, Toowoomba, 1989, pp. 135–9. 17/2/16, p. 9; also 10/7/16, p. 9; ‘The 56 ‘The practical side of Freemasonry’, NSW 29 G.H. Cumming, The Foundations of coadjutor-archbishop and the freemasons’, Freemason 31, 1935, p. 19. Freemasonry in Australia, West Pennant Austral Light 17, 1916, pp. 185–6; some facts 57 K. Letters, History Will Out: F.J.H. Letters at Hills, 1992, pp. 1–10; ‘Was Sir Joseph Banks about Catholics in the officer corps in D.J. the New England University College, a Mason?’, NSW Freemason 47, 1952, pp. Blair, ‘An Australian “officer-type”? A Armidale, 1997, pp. 37–8; see also E. 185; ‘Francis Greenway’, NSW Freemason 46, demographic study of the composition of Campion, Australian Catholics, 1987, p. 152. 1951, pp. 133–6; P. Krüger, ‘Ludwig officers in the 1st Battalion, First AIF’, 58 History Will Out, ch. 10. Leichhardt: a German geologist of the Sabretache 39, Mar, 1998, pp. 21–7. “Vormärz” period’, in H. Lamping & M. 59 pp. 67–8. 42 N.S.W. membership figures in M.H. Linke (eds), Australia: studies on the history 60 C. Kierce, ‘The men in the know?’, Observer Kellerman, From Diamond Jubilee to of discovery and exploration, Frankfurt, 1994, 12/12/59, pp. 7–9; ‘The silent knights’, Nation Centenary: history of forty years of the United pp. 127–38. 13/1/60, pp. 8–10; ‘The meeting at Chapter Grand Lodge of Freemasonry in New South Hall’, Nation 6/10/62, pp. 5–6. 30 K.R. Cramp, ‘Federation and Freemasonry’, Wales, 1948–1988, Sydney, 1990, vol. IV, NSW Freemason 46, 1951, pp. 441–6, 47, ch. 5. 61 R. Fitzgerald, From 1915 to the Early 1980s: 1952, pp. 313, 48, 1953, p. 5. a history of Queensland, Brisbane, 1984, p. 43 M.H. Kellerman, ‘Freemasonry’, in Australian 13. 31 Freemasonry: Australia’s Prime Ministers, Encyclopaedia, 4th ed, Sydney, 1983, pp. Masonic Historical Society of N.S.W., booklet 241–4; C.D. Morpeth, ‘A peculiar system of 62 B. Costar, ‘Vincent Clair Gair’, in The 2, Sydney, 1994. morality’, NSW Freemason 30, 2, Feb 1935, Premiers of Queensland, P. Murphy et al 32 K. Henderson, Masonic Grand Masters of pp. 43–5; W.C. Bowler, ‘Immortality’, NSW (eds)., 2nd ed, Brisbane, 1990, pp. 459–74, at Australia, Bayswater, 1988, passim. Freemason 22, 1927, pp. 169–70. p. 467; M.I. Thomis, A Place of Light and Learning: the University of Queensland’s first 33 http://www.uglnsw.freemasonry.org.au/ 44 E.A. Hough, ‘What is Freemasonry?’, NSW seventy-five years, Brisbane, 1985, p. 138; cf. historic/historical.html Freemason 33, 1938, pp. 561–2; F.A. Maguire P. O’Farrell, UNSW: a portrait, Sydney, 1999, 34 Cumming, p. 6; K.R. Cramp & G. Mackaness, (ed.), Masonic Foundations, Redfern, 1940. p. 133. A History of the United Grand Lodge of New 45 W.C. Bowler, ‘Immortality’, NSW Freemason South Wales, Sydney, 1938, ch. 4. 22, 1927, pp. 169–70. Issue 49 page 15
John Wade Local in Australia News
(Continued from page 1) ANZMRC Biennial Conference After quite a few questions and Organisation of the conference to be comments, everyone adjourned to the held between 3 and 6 September 2010 at dining room, to enjoy a tasty two-course Mandurah, Western Australia is well in meal, good company, and a minimum of Trevor Stewart (above) and hand. For details see the website http:// toasts. Next morning, Neil Morse, John Belton in Turkey anzmrc.org or contact the Western Preceptor of Canberra Lodge of Australian Lodge of Research. Keynote Research and Instruction (CLORAI), speaker at the opening dinner on the and your editor were privileged to spend Friday evening will be Yasha Beresiner, an hour or so with Thelma and John 2000 special Kellerman Lecturer; do not Wade over brunch before heading back miss his address, ‘Jack the Ripper . . . a to Canberra with David Slater, Secretary Freemason?’ of CLORAI. Directory changes The event became possible because ANZMRC Secretary Colin Heyward has Dr and Mrs Wade decided to visit issued an updated directory of officers, relatives and friends in Australia, associates and affiliates (11/11/2009). spending a week in Sydney and a week before outlining modern problems: Since then, the following changes and in Melbourne, then visiting India on the Greece (1981 onwards), and corrections have been notified: way home (where he is scheduled to consequently Cyprus (see Harashim give his lecture in Mumbai on 22 #47); and the New York–District of Midland District Lodge of Research January). He offered to give two Columbia dispute over Lebanon (2008– 436, change of secretary to: VWBro presentations of his Prestonian Lecture, 09, see Harashim #45&46). He said that Ray Gudex, PDistGM, 29 Mitcham one each in Sydney and Melbourne. It he was aware of the misery and anxiety Rd, RD2, Ashburton 7772, New was unfortunate that the opportunity of ordinary brethren as ‘the leviathans of Zealand, [email protected]. should occur at a time when Grand the masonic world battle out their game Irish Masters Lodge 907 IC, change Lodge premises were closed and most of international politics, diplomacy and of secretary to: Bro Andre Smith, 149 lodges did not meet, but Discovery recognition’, and asked who benefited Border Ave, Kingston 19, Jamaica, Lodge proved sufficiently adaptable to from this: certainly not the individual [email protected]. take advantage of the offer; the brothers. He referred to the 2007 President Peter Verrall’s phone Victorian Lodge of Research did not. conference of European Grand Masters number should read: (08) 9534 8880. However, arrangements were made to in London (Harashim #42), the South Assistant editor Alan Gale’s phone renew acquaintance with Fred Shade on Australian changes of visiting rules in number should read: (08) 6396 0609. the Wades’ last full day in Melbourne. 2001 (Harashim #21), and the European Court decisions in Grande Oriente Congratulations d’Italia di Palazzo Guistiniani v Italy Happy 100th Birthday to United Masters (No.2) and Balsamo v Grande Loge Lodge 167, celebrated on 26 November. Nationale Française (GLNF). In conclusion, he recommended consideration of adopting: the ‘when in Rome’ visiting rule; a commonsense Book Reviews approach to ‘open territory’; and the ‘Australian precedent’ of recognising (Continued from page 5) more than one grand lodge in the same Ceremonies. Such imprecision does not state or country. sit well with even an amateur historian. Thursday Brunch Two days before the symposium in As for the ‘phenomenological aspect Thelma & John Wade, Neil Morse Ankara, Brothers Stewart, Belton and photo from Neil Morse of Freemasonry’, I found it harder going Pope attended a meeting of Mimar Sinan than Jacob’s book, and even less Research Lodge in Istanbul, where Bro rewarding. It seems to me that Stewart presented his 2004 Prestonian academics are beginning to jump on the Lecture, ‘Pioneering in English Masonic bandwagon in increasing Freemasonry, 1717–1750’. This was numbers, imposing their own disciplines followed by a ‘special’ dinner meeting on the study of Freemasonry, and we of Internet Lodge 9659 EC—somewhat Freemasons—flattered by their World News similar to a meeting of Breakfast Creek condescension—welcome them Lodge during an ANZMRC conference, indiscriminately, without any regard to (Continued from page 9) but with a gypsy orchestra and some whether or not their work is of benefit to territoriality from 1770 (Netherlands) to unusual culinary offerings. the Craft. A few are of enormous benefit Massachusetts (1783/84), Quebec The eight papers of the Ankara and some are useful, but others—well, (1867–81), and the concept of open symposium will be published in English judge for yourself. territory (‘a decision of genius’ c.1819), and Turkish later this year. Tony Pope page 16 Harashim Harashim
The Quarterly Newsletter of the Australian & New Zealand Masonic Research Council
ISSN 1328-2735 Issue 50 April 2010
COMMENDATION AND CHALLENGE FOR ANZMRC
In commending ANZMRC’s commitment to ‘quality research’, DGM (NZ) Neil Ingram said that the challenge is to make this research accessible to younger brethren seeking a deeper understanding of the Craft. RWBro Ingram was speaking at the close of the 2009 ANZMRC lecture tour, at Auckland on 26 October. The full address is printed below. Masonic research contributes to the after 50 years of membership and its Without doubt, a discerning use of the intellectual side of Freemasonry and preservation is very important to our Internet is something we must develop enables the enquiring Mason to gain a future. over the next few years. The potential of deeper knowledge of the organisation The ANZMRC’s commitment to this medium goes largely unrecognised he has chosen to join. bring quality research to the Masonic by the generation represented here today. At the consecration of Lodge Quatuor community of Australasia is On the other hand, to those under thirty, Coronati, in London, on 12 January commendable. The challenge in future it is their primary source of information 1886, Bro Adolfus Woodward, PGC, will be to adapt the dissemination of and communication. Ignore it we cannot, stated in his Oration that: such information to make it readily embrace it we must. [T]hose believing that an intellectual and accessible to the enquiring minds of Brethren and Companions all, I cultured study of Freemasonry, thoughtful those younger brethren seeking a deeper congratulate the ANZMRC on the and prudent, zealous yet discriminating, is understanding of the Craft. These men great work it is doing. I am sure that it essential to a proper understanding of Masonic archaeology and formulae, may represent our future and we must learn to will continue to disseminate light and rejoice. For thus it may chance that we shall think like them to be able to knowledge to the Freemasons of be able to rescue contemporary communicate with them effectively. Australasia. Freemasonry from the charge often brought against it, that it sacrifices an intellectual study of Freemasonry proper to the more pervading requirements of the social circle, and that it is too easily contented with a routine of ritual on the one hand, and the MEMBERSHIP STILL pleasing exercise of hospitality on the other. I suspect there may well be a number in FALLING this room today, one hundred and twenty years later, holding a similar view. Despite the warnings of researchers such as Harry Kellerman (‘The challenge of The challenge for serious researchers the changes in membership’, AMRC Proceedings, 1992), R Pottinger (‘New today is how to communicate to our Zealand Freemasonry in 2005’, Harashim, April & July 1999), and John Belton brethren the historical and philosophical (‘The missing Master Mason’, Harashim, April & July 1999)—and the various aspect of Freemasonry. It is my personal reforms at lodge and Grand Lodge levels—membership has continued to fall in view that it is the philosophical base of all jurisdictions in Australia and New Zealand. This is confirmed by statistics Freemasonry which leads men to recently gathered by New Zealand Grand Lecturer Martin McGregor. become ‘Lovers of the Craft’ and which These show a drop in membership of Figures from each jurisdiction for the creates that special ethos which nearly 44,000 in the past ten years years 1999 and 2009 are given in the distinguishes us from service clubs and (1999–2009), spread proportionally over tables on page 16, based on information other organisations of more modern the seven jurisdictions, a loss of around from Henderson & Pope’s Freemasonry origin. I believe that this ethos accounts 4% cent per year. During the same Universal, and from Bro McGregor. for the significant number of brethren period the number of lodges has dropped Issue 50 page 1 who remain committed to their lodges by over 500. (Continued on page 16) About Harashim Harashim, Hebrew for Craftsmen, is a quarterly newsletter published by the Local News in brief Australian and New Zealand Masonic Research Council (10 Rose St, Waipawa 4210, New Zealand) in January, April, July and October each year. NZ–Canada link renewed Bishop Sheil in Adelaide in 1871], it was It is supplied to Affiliates and Associates When PGM High Young of Alberta a Jewish ex-convict, Emanuel Solomon, in hard copy and/or PDF format. It is invited ANZMRC to nominate a few who provided her and her Sisters with available worldwide in PDF format as an email attachment, upon application to the Australian or New Zealand researchers accommodation. The article mentioned Asst. Secretary, [email protected]. to link via the Internet with the (Alberta) that he was ‘also instrumental in the Usually the current issue is also displayed on Internet Lodge of Research for a young colony in establishing the website of the Grand Lodge of Tasmania presentation from the USA in February Freemasonry’. http://www.freemasonrytasmania.org/. 2009, two researchers from Hawke’s Emanuel Solomon (1800–1873) was Copyright and reprinting Bay Research Lodge accepted the born in England and died in South Copyright is vested in ANZMRC and the author of any article appearing in Harashim. invitation. (Harashim #46) This year the Australia. In 1817 he was convicted of Affiliates and Associates are encouraged to same two researchers, Kerry Nicholls housebreaking and sentenced to reprint the entire newsletter (at their own and Kevin Allen were invited to transportation for seven years, arriving in expense) and circulate it to their own members, participate in a similar venture on 21 NSW in 1818. After completion of his including their correspondence circles (if any) and to supply copies to public and Masonic February. sentence he set up in business in libraries within their jurisdictions. This time the link was between partnership with his brother, Vaiban Individual items from any issue may be Alberta, New Zealand, USA and Ireland, Solomon, in Sydney as general reprinted by Associates and Affiliates, provided: for a presentation by a young Irish merchants and auctioneers. In 1838 The item is reprinted in full; Mason, David Naughton-Shires, on Emanuel moved to South Australia and The name of the author and the source of the article are included; and ‘Masonic Art and the foundation of the set up an SA branch of the NSW A copy of the publication containing the Masonic Art Exchange’. Bro Naughton- business. reprint is sent to the editor. Shires formed a group called ‘Masonic Adelaide researchers Joe Marschall, Anyone else wishing to reprint material from Art Exchange’ on Facebook, ‘to provide Richard Num and others have Harashim must first obtain permission from the copyright holders via the editor. a central hub for the coming together of established that Emanuel Solomon was Unless otherwise specified, authors people who wish to improve the invited to attend the first meeting in submitting original work for publication in graphical look of the many newsletters, Adelaide of the Lodge of Friendship EC Harashim are deemed to grant permission for leaflets, circulars and such presented in 1838, became a joining member in their work to be published also on the Internet 1840, and was appointed a Provincial websites of ANZMRC http//anzmrc.org and the within the Craft by providing a forum Grand Lodge of Tasmania: and communication point for each other Grand Steward (EC) in 1858. He http://www.freemasonrytasmania.org/. to offer advice and support on a design supported Adelaide Lodge SC from its Contents basis’. It was so successful that he inception in 1844 and presented the Affiliate and Associate members are encouraged created a website for the group, and lodge with a set of officers’ jewels which to contribute material for the newsletter, publishes an electronic newsletter as an he imported from Sydney. At a dinner including: example of what can be done. The given in his honour by this lodge in June Their lecture programs for the year; Any requests from their members for website is at http://masonic-ae.com. 1844, he is reported as saying that he information on a research topic; was ‘a member of several lodges in these Research papers of more than local interest Sinner and Saint colonies’, and had been ‘for many years that merit wider publication. On 19 February the Sydney Morning a Mason’. He was foundation treasurer The newsletter also includes news, reports from of the first Mark lodge in South ANZMRC, book reviews, extracts from other Herald ran a story under the heading publications and a readers’ letters column, from Sinner who saved nation’s homeless Australia, in 1854, and in the same year time to time. ‘saint’. It stated that when Mary was treasurer of the first Royal Arch If the source of an item is not identified, it is MacKillop was excommunicated [by chapter. by the editor. Opinions expressed are those of the author of the article, and should not be attributed to the Council. Material submitted for publication must be in a digitised form by email or mailed on a CD or DVD, addressed to the editor, Tony Pope, 15 Rusten St, Queanbeyan, NSW 2620, Australia, [email protected]. Clear illustrations, diagrams and photographic prints suitable for scanning are welcome, and most computer graphic (IBM) formats are acceptable. Photos of contributors (preferably not in regalia) would be useful. Contributors who require mailed material to be returned should include a stamped, self- addressed envelope. General correspondence All other correspondence, including about purchase of CDs and books, should be directed to: The Secretary, ANZMRC 10 Rose St, Waipawa 4210, New Zealand. Portraits of Emanuel Solomon and Mary MacKillop, [email protected] from the cover of the Australian Jewish Historical Society Journal, XVIII:2 page 2 Harashim All of this strongly suggests that he was initiated in Sydney, was a member of more than one Craft lodge there, and in the Mark and Royal Arch before moving President’s Corner to South Australia in 1838. Unfortunately, Sydney researchers have yet to confirm any of these suppositions. More research This was a momentous decision, to in Sydney, please! bring in the New Zealand research lodges and it has helped to add considerable strength to our organisation. Last year, with the addition of a new research lodge and the research chapter, their membership increased to 12. During my ANZMRC lecture tour in October last year I was able to visit and speak to 11 out of Strine Shrine those 12. While an essential qualification for I note that the first biennial membership of the American fraternal and conference of the ANZMRC was the charitable organisation, the Ancient one in Perth, Western Australia in Arabic Order of the Nobles of the Mystic 1996. Our turn has come round again Shrine, was completion of either the and we look forward to welcoming Scottish Rite or York Rite of Brethren, this is my eighth President’s you to Mandurah, south of Perth, from Freemasonry, there was no potential Corner since I started writing it in Friday 3rd to Monday 6th September membership base in Australia or New April 2008 following the death of our inclusive. If you have not been able to Zealand, but this changed when the president, Max Webberley, and I think obtain our publicity documents and the qualification was ‘reduced’ to being a there will be one more to go before our Registration Forms, including Master Mason. new president is in office in accommodation information, please Now, Shriners Australasia has been September. I would like to thank past find them on the following websites: established, with an inauguration president Graham Stead and vice- anzmrc.org, ceremony and 40 founders in Sydney, president Andy Walker for doing www.freemasonswa.org.wa, New South Wales, last November. They ‘guest’ Corners when I was overseas www.freemasons.co.nz plan ceremonies in Brisbane, Melbourne (issues 43 & 48). or email conference secretary Kevin St and New Zealand and have a website at This is also the 50th issue of Jack at www.shrinersaustralia.com. Harashim since its beginning in [email protected]. January 1997. I do extend sincere Documents can also be obtained by NSW News congratulations and thanks to our writing to: Kevin St Jack, 194/41 In a letter dated 18 November 2009, the editor, Tony Pope, whose ‘baby’ it has Portrush Parade, Meadow Springs, Grand Secretary of the United Grand been for 13 years, for the amount of WA 6210. Payments in New Zealand Lodge of New South Wales and the work that he has put into the currency should be made to ANZMRC Australian Capital Territory (PDGM publication, the high standard of the Secretary Colin Heyward, 10 Rose Kevin McGlinn) informed the President contents and the professional way that Street, Waipawa 4210, New Zealand, Elect of Shriners Australia (Ross Jackson) it has been produced. I hope that those email [email protected], who can also that Grand Master Dr Gregory Henry of you who do not have all the 50 supply the necessary documents. Levenston ‘has no objection to the issues will be able to buy the CD at the We promise to make it an establishment of Shriners Australia within Conference in September. outstanding Conference and an the Jurisdiction of this Grand Lodge’. Under the heading ‘Highlights from opportunity for you to see our lovely According to an article in the the Conference’, the first paragraph in State, including the wildflowers. December 2009 issue of the New South the first issue read: Partners and friends are very welcome Wales Freemason, the charter of an old What began as the third biennial at the two dinners and to listen to our lodge will be ‘resurrected early in 2010’ conference of the Australian Masonic keynote speakers, Yasha Beresiner and will work ‘an officially sanctioned Research Council, held at Freemasons’ from England and Jim Soutar from English edition of a ritual as practised by Hall, East Perth, Western Australia, on Thailand. Also it is possible that the Grand [sic] Loge Nationale Française Sunday 13 October 1996, ended two partners and friends can attend some of (GLNF)’. This is Zetland Lodge of days later as the first biennial the other lectures. We are asking the Australia No 9, and it will meet six times conference of the Australian and New Kellerman Lecturers to let us know if per year. Which French ritual is not Zealand Masonic Research Council, when delegates voted to change the their presentation is suitable for non- specified but readers will note from constitution, to enable New Zealand Masons and this information will be articles elsewhere in this issue of lodges of research to join as full passed on to registrants as soon as it is Harashim that a lodge in Bangkok, Star in (affiliated) members. This means that available. the East No 1600 GLNF, works the Craft New Zealand affiliates will be entitled I look forward to welcoming you in degrees of the Ancient & Accepted to nominate a Kellerman Lecturer every September. Scottish Rite in English. Alternative two years and send voting delegates to GLNF rituals include the Rectified future conferences, and in due course Peter Verrall host a conference in New Zealand. (Continued on page 15)
Issue 50 page 3 [The following information has been abstracted from http://www.thaifreemason.com/, with the consent of webmaster Jim Smith, an American Mason who has lived in China and Thailand. The website is chock full of information, beautifully presented; it contains links to the websites of lodges in Thailand, and email addresses of the secretaries, from whom meeting times and locations may be obtained. Long-time readers of Harashim will recall four previous contributions by Bro Smith, including the story of his encounter with government officials when he imported an American dress apron into China, and his first experience of a Scottish third degree in Hong Kong. Some will also recall his elegant Tracing Board newsletter for Thai lodges.]
DIRECTORY OF LODGES IN THAILAND
BANGKOK Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite The Valley of Taipei, Orient of Taiwan United Grand Lodge of England of the AASR (SJ) holds an annual Chula Lodge, No 9745 — (English conferral in Thailand to meet the needs speaking) Founded in 2001 and meeting of the brethren in Southeast Asia. These in Bangkok. meetings allow local brethren to meet Grand Lodge of Ireland others from Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore and around the region while Lodge Morakot, No. 945 — (English learning about this interesting series of speaking) Founded in 1995, it was the degrees. first Irish lodge in Thailand. Grand Lodge of Scotland ELSEWHERE IN THAILAND Lodge St. John, No. 1072 — (English Chiang Mai speaking) Lodge St. John is the first and oldest lodge of Freemasons in Thailand. Lodge Les 7 Niveaux de la Sagesse, No. Founded in 1911 after a tumultuous start 891, GLNF — (French speaking) and through two world wars and several Founded in 2007 to serve the needs of other domestic difficulties, this lodge has French Freemasons in the north of the survived and is prospering today. kingdom. Meetings are held at the newly Webmaster Jim Smith Hat Yai consecrated Lodge St. John Masonic Lodge Songkhla, No 936, IC — Hall. Tantawan work an elegant and (English speaking) Founded in 2005 to Lodge Lane Xang, No. 1632 — (English interesting continental Masonry with extend Irish Freemasonry to the far speaking) Lodge Lane Xang was skill and drama. south. originally consecrated in Vientiane, Lodge Hoa Sen Lumière d’Asia, No. Laos, in 1967 and worked there until the 1503 — (French speaking) Founded in Pattaya Laotian government was overthrown by 2005, this lodge is intended to work in Lodge Pattaya West Winds, No. 1803 communists. The lodge finally went into Vietnam once conditions there improve SC — Founded in 1992 by several darkness in 1976 and was reopened by to the point where Masonry is possible. brethren living in Pattaya trying to bring concerned brethren in Bangkok in 2000. Lodge Foederis Arca in the Orient of a more positive image to that beautiful Lodge Ratanakosin, No. 1833 — (Thai Shanghai, no. 1524 — (French city. & English speaking) The world’s first speaking) was founded in 1873 in Phuket Thai language lodge was consecrated in Shanghai and consecrated on December Light of Siam Lodge, No 9791 EC — 2006 and meets in Bangkok. 2nd, 2005 by the Grand Master of the Founded in 2004 in Phuket, Light of GLNF and his Grand Warden, a rare and Grand Lodge of the Netherlands Siam is the second English Constitution exceptional privilege for an equally very lodge in the kingdom. Loge Erasmus, No. 297 — (English exceptional Lodge. Most of our members speaking) Founded in 2006, Loge live in China and the China Coast and Premier Siam Lodge of Mark Master Erasmus is a Dutch lodge working meet in Bangkok. Masons, No. 1893 EC, The Premier continental Masonry in English. Siam Lodge of Mark Master Masons is Lodge Star in the East, No. 1600 — an ‘unattached’ Lodge. This means that MW Prince Hall Grand Lodge of (English speaking) Founded in 2007, this the Lodge is under the direct control of Delaware is the world’s first and only GLNF lodge Grand Lodge and the Lodge Secretary working the AASR Craft degrees in Siam Military Lodge #30 — (English reports only to Grand Lodge via the English. speaking) The kingdom’s only Prince Grand Secretary. It is the only English Hall lodge. Royal Arch Chapter, Lodge & Council Mark Lodge in the kingdom. French National Grand Lodge Bangkok Royal Arch Chapter, No. 357 (GLNF) SC— Founded in 1912, Bangkok Royal Lodge Tantawan Fleur du Soleil, No. Arch Chapter has worked continuously 1030 — (French speaking) Founded in except during World War II from 1942 1996, Lodge Tantawan was the first to 1945. French speaking lodge in Bangkok. Bangkok Lodge & Council, No 357 SC
page 4 Harashim James Soutar MA resides in Thailand and will be a guest speaker at the ANZMRC conference at Mandurah, Western Australia, in September. He is Master of Morakot Lodge 945 IC and Senior Warden of Lodge Star in the East 1600 GLNF, both meeting in Bangkok. Star in the East works the AASR Craft degrees in English. THE CHAMBER OF REFLECTION
by James Soutar
For those of us who were initiated into Freemasonry in ‘Anglo-Saxon’ Constitutions, the Chamber of Reflection is strikingly different from anything in our experience in Craft Freemasonry. It indicates from the very start the great difference in emphasis between Anglo-Saxon Freemasonry and Freemasonry as practiced in Continental Europe and in Latin and South America. And that great difference is, very basically, the much greater demands made on the sincerity of the Candidate in the AASR in wishing to enter on a search for personal spirituality. The Chamber of Reflection is ‘one of Freemasonry’s most alluring, thought-provoking, and truly esoteric symbols’. It requires the Profane, before he can be initiated, to meditate profoundly on why he has decided, ‘of his own free will and accord’, to set out on the long, demanding, and – if successful – most rewarding, search for the union with the Divine within himself. The word ‘reflection’ must first of all knowledge of alchemy plays in AASR be better explained. It comes from the Freemasonry. Latin reflectere, meaning, literally, ‘to Alchemy, in its highest aspect, deals bend over inwardly’, and implies a with the spiritual regeneration of Man, desire to endeavour to find one’s true and teaches how a god may be made out Self. The Profane is directed towards this of a human being or, to express it more desire by having to answer, while in the correctly, how to establish the Chamber of Reflection, the three most conditions necessary for the important questions that confront all of development of divine powers in Man, so that the human being may become a humanity during our brief spell in our god by the power of God, in the same mortal existence, namely, sense that a seed becomes a plant by the What are your duties to: aid of the Four Elements and the action A. The Supreme Being? of the invisible Fifth Element, the B. Yourself? Quintessence or Life Force, which C. Mankind? alchemists termed ‘Ether’. in the Chamber of Reflection It is not expected that the Profane will be Let me now describe the ‘furniture’ of in any manner capable of adequately inhabit termed as ‘Mother Earth’, and the Chamber of Reflection. Firstly, in an answering any or all of these questions, the symbolism alchemically of the ideal situation it should be a darkened as we, as Freemasons, recognize that to Chamber of Reflection is an ancient one, room built in the ration of 1:2, and thus do so is the work of a committed life- being a figurative return by the Profane reflects the ideal dimensions of the time of contemplation. But by his to the ‘Earth’s Womb’, from which he is Lodge room itself, namely what we in inadequate answers the Profane has been shortly to be ‘re-born’ for the first, but Freemasonry refer to as an ‘oblong challenged to put into words mystical certainly not the last, occasion in his square’, and which we know to have and metaphysical beliefs that his Masonic life. been the dimensions of the Temple of conscious mind has most probably never Alchemy is the science of dealing Solomon. directly addressed. He will thus be fully with material things with the aim of On the wall we see the acrostic conscious of this inadequacy and will, arriving at a spiritual goal, for spirit and V.I.T.R.I.O.L. This means, in Latin, hopefully, realize that there is much matter, as we are taught in AASR Visita Interiora Terrae Rectificandoque more to be learned before he can truly Masonry, are two opposite expressions Invenies Occultum Lapidem, and in know himself. or poles of the eternal Truth. There English, ‘Visit the interior of the earth, The Chamber of Reflection is much cannot be one without the other, and our and, rectifying it, you will find the more full of obvious alchemical imagery challenge as Freemasons is to understand hidden stone’. This ‘hidden stone’ is, of than is the case in Anglo-Saxon Craft the reality of our very being, in order course, the famed ‘Philosopher’s Stone’, Freemasonry, and represents an integral that we can be re-united with that which which was the Holy Grail of all part of the Profane’s first steps along his is divine within ourselves. Alchemy is Alchemists, from the Dark Ages to the path to personal enlightenment. After he the science of understanding the monumental alchemical studies of Sir has answered the three great questions Universe and the intrinsic part we play in Isaac Newton. A more exact explanation and enters the Lodge, he will undergo the constant motion of that Universe. of this acrostic is, ‘Journey to your own the tests of air, fire and water. These are When we comprehend the actual Centre and, by purifying yourself, you three of the important ‘physical’ or meaning of the word ‘universe’, we will will unite with the Divine’. It is another tangible elements in alchemy, The fourth begin to comprehend the journey we form of that famous injunction carved on is ‘earth’, and it is in the bosom of the have undertaken, because the word the portal of the temple at Eleusis, an earth, in a simulated underground ‘universe’, coming from the Latin injunction to all who wished to be cavern, symbolized by the black confines universus, literally means ‘turned initiated into the Ancient Mysteries, of the Chamber of Reflection, that the towards one’. namely ‘Know Yourself’, or as it is Profane sets out on his quest. A quotation by Franz Hartmann will referred to in Anglo-Saxon Freemasonry, We often hear the planet which we assist us to understand the role that a (Continued on page 16) Issue 50 page 5 Illustrated report of the 2009 ANZMRC Lecture Tour of Australia by WBro Kerry Nicholls, Hawke’s Bay Research Lodge. Kerry Nicholls in Australia
Before I commence this report, Cheryl and I would like to thank from the bottom of our hearts all the new friends made as a result of this tour. We disrupted your everyday lives, lived with you for a time, and you expressed to us hospitality beyond words—and not once did we experience any issues that were disappointing. I have to admit that for some of you we did feel extremely sorry, for the hours you had to arise to get us to our connecting flights in order that a smooth transition was possible at our destination. We apologise. You are the backbone that allows Freemasonry to have many proud moments to rest upon, and the people—Masons and non-Masons—that made this possible, we thank you. I note this is the 50th issue of Harashim. Congratulations to all who have made this possible. It is an honour for me to contribute to your ‘Anniversary Issue’. Monday 21 September 2009 him an enjoyable time and safe journey We left our home in Feilding on a to New Zealand. The next time we beautiful sun-filled day, travelled to would meet would be on 26 October in Taupo, stopped to wish Kevin Allen a Auckland for the closing presentation by speedy recovery from his recent ailment, Peter. and continued to Auckland, where we Back to Alan’s home and relaxation, I stayed overnight at a motel which agreed read through the presentation and to store our car while we were away. ensured all was ready for the evening. ‘Is Freemasonry Male, Female or Both?’ Tuesday 22 September Kerry Nicholls and host Alan Gale has been extensively covered in Alan’s Well rested, we left for Melbourne at report (Harashim #48). A big thanks to 1310 hrs, a bit of a rocky ride. We did Gudrun Skrapac for such a finely crafted some shopping in Melbourne, then plate, which now occupies pride of place caught the Perth flight. On arrival at on our lounge wall. Brian Haffenden: 2100 (AWST), Alan Gale met us at the great to meet you after so long, and the airport. After all the phone calls and loan of an apron that got me out of a emails I finally met the person who bind. edited and made the book move from Cheryl’s comments to me afterwards dreamland to reality. What a guy! were: a little long in presentation, Returned to Alan and Mona’s home, audience participation enthusiastic, where we had a hot chocolate and Alan several complimentary remarks on and I talked into the wee small hours. subject, style and presentation. This was Wednesday 23 September before a mixed audience, which was Today was a day of rest and relaxation ideal for this type of paper. Afterwards while we waited for books to be we returned to Alan’s home, a red wine, Presentation of Fifty Years of Care to John delivered to Alan’s home by courier, and debriefing, and bed at about 0130. Worrell in Leichhardt Lodge of Research we read, talked, and solved all those Friday 25 September ongoing issues. Awoke to a sunny day, a keen wind but Thursday 24 September certainly warmer than home, which was Cheryl was collected by Karen at 0900 experiencing excessive snowfalls and a and taken to King’s Park to view cold front from Antarctica. At 1600 hrs wildflowers—a big thank you for your we left for the Perth Airport, said our company, Karen. Alan and I headed off goodbyes to a true Masonic friend, and to the Grand Lodge building in Perth, onward to Darwin. armed with the books, for the official Saturday 26 September welcome and morning tea with GM Just after midnight (ACST) we touched Wayne Hibble, DGM Frank Hayes (now down in Darwin to 35°C and were met GM), Peter Verrall and the Grand by John & Susan Adams. They took us Relaxing in Darwin Secretary, whose kind assistance and to their lovely home and after a quick investigatory skill solved the mystery of orientation tour it was off to bed—a the ‘Wilberforce Gavel’ (which features combination of heat and tiredness. later in the report). John and Susan had other After the formal introductions we commitments for the morning, so Cheryl exchanged small gifts and had morning and I relaxed by the swimming pool and tea. This hospitality set the stage for a played games with the dog. In the very successful day and evening. This afternoon it was off to the Leichhardt was the official launch of the 2009 lodge rooms to present the lecture, ‘Lux ANZMRC Lecture Tour. Libertas – Light and Liberty’ to an We went with Peter and Alan for a audience of eight, including Cheryl and great lunch at the Royal Fremantle Yacht (Continued on page 8) Club and bade farewell to Peter, wishing Host John Adams with model aircraft
page 6 Harashim Illustrated report of the 2009 ANZMRC Lecture Tour of New Zealand by RWBro Peter Verrall, WA Lodge of Research. Peter Verrall in New Zealand
It had always been the procedure from the time of the Council’s original formation in 1992 that a travelling overseas international lecturer should visit all the research lodges in Australia in alternative years, and in New Zealand after they joined in 1996. These lecturers have included many famous Masonic scholars, such as John Hamill, Neville Barker Cryer, Cyril Batham, Yasha Beresiner and Jim Daniel from England, Bob Cooper from Scotland and Wallace McLeod from Canada, all members of the famous and exclusive Quatuor Coronati research lodge in London. In 2008 it was decided at the biennial conference in Queanbeyan (NSW) to move closer to home and to have a joint tour with an interchange between Australia and New Zealand. It was my privilege to be chosen as the Australian representative to visit New Zealand, and WBro Kerry Nicholls GS, from Feilding in New Zealand, was to visit Australia. Thursday 24 September 2009 edited the third edition of their excellent Our Grand Master, MWBro Wayne reference book Questions and Answers, Hibble, extended a formal welcome to and VWBro Ron Harries, their Kerry at a small reception at Grand Transactions editor. They were Lodge in Perth during the morning. In arranging to put all their library books the evening, the joint tour was officially into boxes for storage until such time as opened by the then Grand Master-Elect, they had decided where they would be RWBro Frank Hayes DGM, at the moving. The Master (and my host), regular meeting of the Western Graeme Martin, also arrived and took me Australian Lodge of Research, at which I to see his lodge rooms in Rangiora. had the pleasure to see and hear Kerry From there we went to his home in deliver the first of his presentations, Rangiora where I met his wife, entitled ‘Freemasonry: Male, Female or Margaret. Later in the afternoon we Both?’ drove back to the lodge rooms in Christchurch and prepared for the Monday 28 September evening meeting. This was a full meeting On the overnight plane from Perth to with an attendance of 29 brethren. I was Auckland, I sat next to a descendant of invited into the lodge room while their the famous English art critic and social business was transacted, including the thinker, John Ruskin, who was also an decision as to where they would meet in author, poet and artist during the 19th future. Visitors were then received and century in England. His descendant had after I was introduced, I delivered my the same name and his family came from first presentation, entitled ‘Architects in the Lake District in England. Above: Lodge rooms at Rangiora Masonry’. This was well received, with Below: Concord lodge rooms, Christchurch, a few questions afterwards. Roy Wade, where Hiram Abif makes his first Tuesday 29 September appearance in New Zealand. I was met at Christchurch airport by in thanking me for my presentation, gave RWBro John Worsfold JGW, Secretary me a copy of Questions and Answers, of Masters’ and Past Masters’ Lodge. which I fully appreciated as it is a This was a name I could not possibly reference book to which I refer regularly. forget, since it is also the name of the I had decided that I would bring the coach for the Eagles, an Australian Rules Hiram Abif costume, used in the Football Club in Perth. My first night Masonic Pageant in Perth in 1996, to was in the Elms Hotel because my host, present the mobile phone monologue in WBro Graeme Martin, had been called the various refectories I would be away to a conference in the North Island. visiting. This was the first time on the However, John and his wife Sue came tour and necessitated arranging for my round to the hotel and we enjoyed a very mobile phone to ring at an exact time. pleasant dinner together. This was excellently executed by John Worsfold and the brethren thought that Wednesday 30 September the phone had been left on in error. In the morning we went across to the When the conversation with Adoniram Concord lodge rooms, where Masters’ ended, I returned to the refectory and and Past Masters’ Lodge has met for replied to the toast. many years. Our meeting that night would be the last meeting held in that Thursday to Saturday 1–3 October building, which had been sold and would Graeme took me round to my relatives in shortly become a Hindu temple. I did Christchurch, Lynda and David Gower, raise the question as to whether it should where I would be spending the next few be un-dedicated or de-constituted but days. I first found out in 2004 that John nobody had the answer! Miles Verrall, a nephew of my great- Here I met two of the lodge’s stalwarts, RWBro Roy Wade PGW, who (Continued on page 9) Issue 50 page 7 Australia
(Continued from page 6) the wife of the Junior Warden. There were no questions, but some very constructive and informative comments, so it was a successful presentation and I enjoyed the opportunity. Unfortunately, no data projector or laptop was supplied but I had prepared slides and handed them around. In Darwin, as elsewhere on the tour, I took the opportunity to present a copy of the New Zealand book, Fifty Years of Care for the research library. Sunday 27 September John took us to Darwin Model Airplane Top left: Darwin airport; above left: Kerry with host George Lister at Cairns Airport Above right: the 40-mile beach, north of Cairns; Below left: Lodge room, Townsville; Flying Club in the morning. He makes Below right: Relaxing at Jupiter’s Casino his own models and has a great F111 jet. It was interesting to see the passion portrayed by the followers of this hobby. We had a restful afternoon by the pool, a great seafood pizza for dinner and an early night, as we had to be up at 0245 to catch an 0510 flight to Cairns. Sorry, John and Sue. Monday 28 September We arrived in Cairns at 0800 (AEST) and were met by George Lister, our new host. George lives surrounded by palms and lush green tropical vegetation. He Tuesday 29 September day at Charters Towers, and in the took us for a tour of the area, through the We had a leisurely breakfast with some evening we dined with Townsville hills to Mareeba, onto Mosman. This is a lovely fresh fruit: red pawpaw, mango, brethren at Jupiter’s Casino, where many lovely, scenic and relaxing part of the sweet banana and citrus. George took us stories were exchanged in a congenial world. We learned that vegetation for a tour of Cairns and on the way to the atmosphere. recovers very quickly after a bushfire, airport his car developed a problem, but Then a very relaxed night’s sleep in with new growth within a couple of that did not deter him from showing us preparation for the next day. weeks. We went on to Port Douglas and great hospitality. He dropped us at the Thursday 1 October returned to Cairns along the coast road. airport and then headed off to see his In the morning Les Keane took us for an On the return journey George took us mechanic. informative tour of Townsville city: to a working sugar refinery and the We had a short 45-minute flight to around the port area where sugar is amazing observation was that there is no Townsville, arriving there at 1400. We stored for shipping around the world; the wastage. Ground husks called ‘gas’ are were met by Graham and Helen Stead large military bases; then up Castle Hill used to fuel the burners, and the dirty and it was fantastic to catch up with this for some panoramic views of the city. husk residue is utilized as fertilizer, an lovely couple. We only ever meet at Thank you, Les, for your booklet on the example of recycling in action, quite ANZMRC conferences but that has Customs House. In the afternoon fitting considering the paper I am sealed a great friendship. We went for a Graham, Les and I went to the presenting later this evening. walk through the park area surrounding Townsville Masonic Centre and checked After a superb meal we went to the their home and sampled a tamarind off a out the technology for this evening’s lodge at Gordonvale for the presentation tree: an interesting taste. We saw wild presentation. of ‘Freemasonry – Environmentalism – turkeys and turtles: the flora and fauna In the evening I presented two linked is there a way forward? Think are amazing for such a dry area. At home papers: ‘The Seven Liberal Arts and Universally Act locally’. On arrival we we met their daughter Renelle, who was Sciences – The Trivium – how they were met by a cane toad which scurried visiting from Darwin. originated and their place in today’s off. We had an enjoyable evening with Wednesday 30 September society’ and, after a break, ‘The 21 brethren and solo Cheryl. The Another fantastic Townsville morning Quadrivium of the Seven Liberal Arts presentation was well received; there and I read while Cheryl, Helen and and Sciences – an historical overview were some excellent questions and Renelle went for an early morning walk and portrayal of them in today’s society’. Cheryl told me I answered them well through the park. We had breakfast The excellent repast which followed (biased perhaps?). After the festive board outside and watched the parrots enjoying was prepared by Job’s Daughters; it is we headed home to George’s about the grevillea flowers. As Graham has 2230 hrs. reported (Harashim #49), we spent the (Continued on page 10)
page 8 Harashim residence on a 32-acre property in New Zealand Ashburton. Ray has 200 sheep and one solitary donkey. Ashburton has a population of about (Continued from page 7) 15,000 people. Ray was a member of the great-grandfather, who was born in the Midland District Masonic Choir and, county of Sussex in South England, since he had a rehearsal in Timaru that travelled to Australia in 1880, where he evening, I travelled down with him. The first settled and took up a cattle station in choir has about 25 members of which 20 Queensland. He later moved to New were present. Alan Kerr was the Zealand and farmed in North Canterbury conductor and David White the pianist. Above: Ray Gudex and his donkey in the South Island, where he also The choir went through their various Below: the Masonic choir at Timaru became a Member of Parliament. One of songs, repeating some of them if they his offspring was the late WBro John were not the standard that Alan wanted. Verrall, a member of Avon Lodge in It was great to see the enthusiasm. I had Christchurch, and Master in 1978, the an opportunity to speak during the break, same year that I was Master of Lodge to pass on my appreciation and point out Matakana in Rotorua. that singing was a large part of the early speculative lodges in the 18th century in Sunday 4 October England. They included songs from the VWBro Ray Gudex, Secretary of the third degree and I suggested that they Midland District Lodge of Research, consider using some of those early collected me and my belongings from Masonic songs such as ‘We meet upon my relatives and drove me down to his the level’. That night it was very cold— for me, anyway—with 2 degrees of frost. Monday 5 October The next day we drove into Ashburton and visited the Masonic Centre. The car park is let for private parking during the day and is close to the local council offices, which use the facilities on occasions. We drove to Lake Hood, named after contractor Doug Hood, who developed a large man-made lake in the Above & left: Ashburton Masonic Centre low-lying land, which is used for rowing Below: St George lodge room, Temuka and other water activities. High class houses skirt the lake and canals. On the way down to Timaru we stopped at the St George lodge rooms at Temuka and went on to the lodge rooms in Timaru. That evening we would be visitors at the regular meeting of the Caledonian Lodge, whose Master, VWBro George Hughes DGM, is a PM of the Lodge of Research. The attendance that night was the second highest of my tour, with 40 brethren present. I came in with the Master and a large number of members from the Midland District Lodge of Research and delivered my second presentation, ‘From Below: lodge room at Oamaru and Don Barkman showing a tracing board slotted into the floor Labour to Refreshment’. I had asked for the supply of a sound system, but unfortunately it only consisted of two small, low-powered speakers. It was very cramped in the refectory afterwards, but I still managed to bring them Hiram Abif ‘in person’. Unfortunately, this time the mobile phone did not ring. My toast was given by WBro John Tandy, Master of the Lodge of Research, to which I suitably replied. I went home with George
(Continued on page 11)
Issue 50 page 9 Australia
(Continued from page 8) great to see Freemasonry involving our young people. Left: Glen & Ken Stephen Friday 2 October with a Bunya pinenut. We had to be at Townsville Airport just Right: an interesting after 0800 for our two-hour flight to statue at Toowoomba Brisbane, where we were met by Richard King who had been tasked to drive us the 130 km to Toowoomba. We discussed The Spring Bluff Railway is a heritage- many Masonic issues on the journey. listed site where you can relax and picnic About 1400 we arrived at Ken and Glen in the landscaped gardens. In 1914 Stephen’s home and were greeted by Queensland Railways launched a garden Bomber, their playful little dog. Ken & competition to encourage railway staff to Glen took us on a tour of the Japanese beautify the stations, and to grow Gardens and also the first pub in the vegetables. The gardens are now area, which is now a museum. beautifully maintained and have won Saturday 3 October awards in the Carnival of Flowers. We After breakfast we went for a drive, also learned something of the 130 years taking in the views of Toowoomba and of railway history, and then went to the the tail end of the ‘Festival of Gardens’. Cuckoo Clock Shop, with its hundreds of Toowoomba is a city that is proud of its different clocks, so that our hosts could Above: relaxing at Gatton immaculate and well presented gardens. collect their clock which had been in for Below: Brethren of Barron Barnett Lodge, Glen was a fount of knowledge on the repair. with Richard King on the right various plants, their descriptions and In the afternoon Ken and I went to the medicinal uses. Two plants in particular venue for tonight’s presentation, St caught our attention: the Shrimp Plant, James Parish Hall, for last minute with a flower like a shrimp; and the checking that everything was OK. Ochna, an amazingly exquisite flower. That evening I presented In the afternoon we did some ‘Freemasonry, Humanity – will we necessary shopping for clothes and survive?’ to an audience of 25 brethren shoes. In the evening Ken and I went to of the Toowoomba Lodge of Research & Lodge Toowoomba for the raising of Instruction and their wives. Audience Brother Pran Boolaky, to whom I participation was good, with a variety of presented a copy of the tour book. thought-provoking questions and hospitality we bade farewell to our hosts informative discussions. Among those and the marvellous Brethren and their Sunday 4 October present was a very dear friend, Jonathan wives who met us at Gatton. Then Today we went for a pleasant 270 km Rudduck, who lives at Gatton, between Richard King drove us to Brisbane. drive to the Bunya Mountains. This was Brisbane and Toowoomba. We first met We decided to have a little time to memorable for us and nostalgic for Ken in New Zealand in 2005, at Ruapehu ourselves in Brisbane for some and Glen because we drove through Lodge of Research, and it was great to refreshing and recharging, and stayed at areas where they had both grown up and see him at Toowoomba. The dinner at the Balhouse Apartments in Costin commenced their married life. The the presentation was well catered and Street, not a palace but it suited our scenery, plants, and bird and animal life prepared by the ladies of the Church and needs: bed, shower, toilet, kitchen and have to be seen to be believed; we have this contributed to a memorable night. microwave. The manager gave us a map, some marvellous photos and everlasting we got a day transport pass and went to Tuesday 6 October memories. After a picnic lunch we the CBD of Brisbane, organized our After breakfast and feeling refreshed, we walked some of the tracks through the tickets to Sydney by train on Friday, on were on the road to Gatton, located in rain forest, and when we returned home to a coffee shop and then back to sort out the fertile Lockyer Valley and a one- we had an early night. Although it was the evening presentation. hour drive from Brisbane. It is known for still very warm, the nights were a little Tonight’s presentation was at Stone’s its spectacular scenic backdrop of steep cooler than we had experienced further Corner Masonic Centre. The hosting hills and the mountains of the Great north and maybe this gives it the edge on lodge was Morningside 196, on behalf of Dividing Range. In a truly Masonic way other areas. Barron Barnett Lodge of Research. The there was a morning tea and lovely paper chosen was ‘Sacred Space in Monday 5 October sandwiches with fresh produce from the Freemasonry’. There were 69 members After breakfast we went to Spring Bluff, local area awaiting us at Lodge Gatton. in attendance and nine apologies for where there is an old but well preserved There was some interesting discussion absence. This was a Grand Lodge visit, railway station steeped in Australian on the history of this wonderful lodge, and the well known Masonic history. The gardens are a glorious sight particularly on the furnishings and their motivational speaker Glen Golding was and the caretaker is from Hokitika, New handcrafting by the founders of the Zealand—the ‘Canopy of Diversity’. lodge. After a good hour of fantastic (Continued on page 12)
page 10 Harashim was intrigued to see the Tracing Boards New Zealand were set into the floor. My luggage was transferred into Don Barkman’s car and we drove around (Continued from page 9) Oamaru, having a look at the lovely old Hughes, my new host, to find a note on stone buildings, including the Opera the door that his wife Linda had been house. From there we drove to Alan and taken to hospital urgently with arythmia. Linda’s house in Dunedin, which had a George rang the hospital and found that nice view over the hills. they were keeping her in overnight. In the afternoon Alan took me to the The Opera House, Oamaru local bowling club, where Jim Headley Tuesday 6 October delivered a presentation entitled ‘The George drove firstly to the hospital Caucasus’ for U3A. He had just returned where I met Linda, who is a librarian in from Russia and spoke about all the charge of several libraries in Timaru. countries that used to be included in the Linda seemed fine, and we then drove Soviet Union. off down to the lodge rooms at Oamaru, where we were met by VWBro Don Wednesday 7 October Barkman, Secretary of the Research Alan and I went to the printers in Lodge of Otago, his wife Wilma, and Dunedin to get another 100 copies of the WBro Gordon Fraser, 2008 ANZMRC brochure for the 2010 ANZMRC Kellerman Lecturer and a member of the Conference and then had a most Midland Districts Research Lodge. We enjoyable walk around the Botanical had a look at the lovely lodge room and I Gardens. Alan & Linda Hughes’ house at Dunedin In the evening we drove to the Dunedin Masonic Centre, a four-storied building built against a hill to allow access to the middle floor. The total attendance at the meeting was 34 brethren, with a large contingent from Timaru (probably because Gordon Fraser was there, since he had been unable to attend at Timaru). Everybody came into the lodge room at the The Botanical Gardens, Dunedin commencement and were welcomed by the Master, WBro Brian Coutts. I spoke on ‘Numbers and Their Masonic Significance’, and answered a few questions afterwards. I was presented with an illustrated book on Otago, an early numbered print of an 1886 water colour of Oamaru Harbour, and one of Dunedin in 1888. In the refectory we sat at circular tables. Lodge Secretary Don Barkman was well to the fore in providing service. I am pleased to say that Hiram Abif The lodge rooms at Dunedin again made an appearance, but it always seemed to happen when I had left the room! Thursday 8 October Brian Coutts came about 9.30 AM and drove me to Balclutha, where VWBro Philip McDiarmid, Secretary of the Research Lodge of Southland, was there to meet us. It was here that I realised that this change-over manoeuvre at halfway points was rather like a transfer of prisoners, except in this case I was not in handcuffs! Phil drove me to John and Diane From left: Alan Jackson, Lightfoot’s 100-year-old house in Gordon Fraser, Peter Invercargill, with large rooms and high Verrall, Brian Coutts, and ceilings. I even weathered the cold when (with the pies) Don Barkman (Continued on page 13)
Issue 50 page 11 Australia
(Continued from page 10) present, who coincidentally was leaving to present his ‘Order in the House’ papers in New Zealand. The discussion at the conclusion of my paper was followed by an excellent meal. My thanks to the Worshipful Master, Dr Michel Fried, and the many people who made this evening possible. Above: the Brisbane—Sydney train Above: Ewart Stronach & Kerry Nicholls at Below: Presentation at Discovery Lodge of Kokoda Walk, Sydney Wednesday/Thursday 7 & 8 October Research—from left Kerry Nicholls, Andy Below: before departure for Canberra—from These two days were down time for us Walker, WM Ewart Stronach left Kerry Nicholls, hosts Richard & Rosemary Dawes, chauffeur Neil Morse and we made the most of this: shopping, found some great book shops, bubble teas at the Central Railway Station, and photographed the Grand Lodge Building in Ann Street, where I bought some white gloves. I met Richard King for coffee later in the afternoon and he gave me some excellent papers and research material that I am still reading. Richard, I sincerely thank you for this, your hospitality and for transport in the Brisbane area. The photograph from the Tuesday evening is greatly appreciated. Friday 9 October Up at 0400 hrs and off to Roma Street Railway Station, baggage sorted, coffee and raisin toast for breakfast, and on the train to Sydney at 0630. A great train journey, the scenery was worthwhile and the diversity of the area amazing. The carriage was occupied by many people heading to Sydney for the 2009 Master’s Games. They certainly enjoyed themselves, to say the least. We arrived in Hornsby at 2115 and were met by Richard Dawes; he took us Host Bob Nairn and Kerry Nicholls on a misty Six Kellerman Lecturers in Canberra: from left, to his home and we met his wonderful Canberra morning Bob Nairn, Kerry Nicholls, Tony Pope, Neil wife Rosemary, quick orientation of Morse, Geoff Ludowyk and David Slater. where everything was, chatted for a while, then sleep. but the highlight of the evening for me of the area is amazing. We saw the new was the presentation to Andy Walker of Masonic Centre being built, which on a Saturday 10 October his 50 year badge as a Freemason. At previous visit in 2008 had been just a After a good breakfast, Ewart Stronach, Ewart’s request, I made the presentation, hole in the ground. Master of Discovery Lodge of Research a very moving moment for us both. We stayed at the Belconnen Hotel/ collected us and we went sightseeing: After cleaning up the hall we left with Motel for Sunday night, as our hosts Bob Kokoda Trail Walk, very close to our hosts and sat up until one o’clock, and Jenny Nairn were in Adelaide, Sydney Central and thoroughly talking and generally exchanging ideas. returning Monday morning. We had a enjoyable; Cheryl bought some cottage quiet and relaxing night at the motel. I Sunday 11 October craft marmalade for our Hobart host, his spoke to David Slater, all is organized Neil Morse joined us for breakfast and favourite spread on his toast, we’d been for Tuesday evening’s presentation. told; on to the Sydney Fish Market at the after bidding farewell to our wonderful wharf for lunch, and home around 1500. hosts, Richard and Rosemary, we left Monday 12 October My presentation at Discovery Lodge with Neil for Canberra. We stopped at Neil collected us after breakfast and took of Research that evening was ‘The Goulburn on the way, for lunch, and the us to our hosts, Bob and Jenny Nairn. Hidden Mysteries of Nature and heavens opened up; rain and hail flooded We went to the Botanical Gardens with Science – are they hidden or have they the roadway, but certainly it cooled the Bob, enjoyed a fantastic lunch there, and not been found’. There were 28 people air temperature down. on to the National Gallery of Australia present, including wives, and there were When we arrived in Canberra, Neil where the McCubbin exhibition was many question and comments. I certainly took us on a sightseeing tour and we enjoyed the feedback and audience input, thoroughly enjoyed this; his knowledge (Continued on page 15) page 12 Harashim New Zealand
(Continued from page 11) I had to go right outside in the middle of the night to the toilet! It was in a lovely farm setting. I was quite intrigued by the artistry of Diane, who exhibits her creations at different places, including the Museum. When they took me there everybody seemed to know her and she had worked there for a time on the exhibit designs. That night John and I went down to the Cabbage Tree Restaurant with several of the brethren, including Graham Warhurst WM, Lex Noble DepM, Phil McDiarmid Secretary, Alex Mackenzie, and Ken Top left: Philip McDiarmid & Brian Coutts Russell SW, for a very enjoyable dinner at Balclutha together. Left: John and Diane Lightfoot’s house at Invercargill Friday 9 October Above: Peter—Where next? In the morning we drove to Bluff, the southernmost point of the South Island, and saw the chain sculpture which appears to stretch across all the way to Stewart Island, and also saw how far we were away from the rest of the world. The weather was cool and windy but we had a nice lunch at the ‘Drunken Sailor’. That evening we went to the magnificent three-storied Southland Masonic Centre with its impressive external grand flight of stairs up to the front entrance doors. The building has a Historical Places Trust Category 1 classification. There is a proposal to Above: Southland Masonic Centre install a lift and apparently this is Right: the larger of the two lodge rooms acceptable if it is situated outside the Below: Pillars in the West, with detail below right present building. The building contains two lodge rooms and we occupied the larger one. The view to the East shows the VSL resting independently from the Master’s pedestal, which is different from our arrangement in Western Australia. At the West end of the pavement are the two pillars representing ‘the porchway or entrance’ of King Solomon’s Temple. When I lived in New Zealand this was a common feature in lodge rooms, but now, as in my old lodge room in Rotorua, they have been moved in a number of instances to either side of the Senior Warden’s chair. The District Grand Master, VWBro Alan Cross, and visitors were received, making a total of 20 brethren present. The lodge were very disappointed at the low numbers but attributed it to the fact that the special meeting was held on a Friday night; a similar problem had occurred previously. It was a pleasure to Left: Pillars beside the Senior Warden’s chair, at Rotorua (Continued on page 15)
Issue 50 page 13
Freemason Academy online Jack Buta, who believes it takes just one Mason to change the face of Freemasonry (see ‘How many Masons . . .’, Harashim #46, April 2009) has created a Masonic college online. He describes it as ‘an autonomous Masonic education institute under the sponsorship of the Philalethes Society’ with a mission ‘to teach solutions rather than talking about them’. The academy offers ‘college-level courses on Masonic history, ritual, philosophy’ and practical leadership. The courses are divided into World News three levels, the 100, 200 and 300 series. The initial plan was to charge from Texas ‘invades’ England TMS in London $100 to $250 for each course of ten to The Texas Lodge of Research has The Masonic Society (TMS, an thirteen lessons, with 70% of the fee opened a Study Group in England, with American group formed by dissidents going to the teacher, but this has been the consent of the United Grand Lodge from the Philalethes Society, with modified. Now, the only cost is an of England. The group, under a allusions to the Royal Society) plans to annual admission fee. Admission for an ‘Marshal’, was inaugurated on 13 March hold a symposium in London in unlimited number of courses at the 100 at Chester-le-Street, Durham, with 25 conjunction with the (English) Library level is open to Masons and non-Masons founder members, for the purposes of and Museum of Freemasonry. The for $50; Master Masons can have historical and esoteric research. It will Library and Museum has an admission- unlimited access to courses at all levels meet four times a year, on 4 July, the 4th free exhibition from 11 January to 28 for $75 (but some subjects will require a Thursday of November, 19 January and May 2010 to mark the 350th anniversary pass at a lower level before enrolment); 2 March, and the meetings will be of the foundation of the Royal Society, and there is a provision for lodges to followed by a western-style festive and the TMS event will begin with a tour enrol ten of their members at all levels board. of the exhibition in the final hour of the for $500. The website indicates current Membership of the Group will bestow last day of the exhibition. This will be membership at 242, but whether this full membership of the Texas Lodge of followed by an informal dinner that reflects enrolment numbers is not clear. Research (TLR), and will be by evening at the nearby Prince of Wales [www.freemasonacademy.com] invitation only. A candidate for Marshal Tavern. To date, three teachers offer eight must have had a research paper accepted The symposium will be held next day, courses. At the 100 level, Milo Dailey (a by TLR—which has to pass the stringent Saturday 29 May, at the Kensal PM of South Dakota Lodge of Masonic tests of the TLR Form and Style Manual Community Centre, at which the Research) offers ‘A Masonic Primer’, and the Submission Procedure of the speakers will be Michael Baigent (Editor Jack Buta offers ‘The History of Editorial Committee—before of Freemasonry Today) and Robert Freemasonry’ and ‘The History of Prince appointment to that office. Cooper. The organising committee is Hall Freemasonry’, and Karen Kidd The Master and Secretary of the under the chairmanship of Yasha offers ‘Early Women Freemasons’. At Texas Lodge of Research travelled to the Beresiner. the 200 level are ‘Leadership Course for UK for the inauguration. Lodge Officers in the 21st Century’ (Jack Buta), ‘Fellowcraft: the Degree of Arts and Sciences’ (Milo Dailey) and ‘The Lodge of Perfection’ (Jack Buta). At the 300 level, Jack Buta offers ‘How to Retain Lodge Members’. Others who have been mentioned as teachers of future courses are Robert Davies FPS, Leon Zeldis, Errol Feldman and Alain Bernheim.
Inauguration of the English study group of the Texas Lodge of Research The study group members are wearing white US Master Mason aprons, with the Marshal (Dr Alan Bell) in a white stetson; the Master (Jack Harper, also with a white stetson) and Secretary (Jim Dougherty) of TLR are wearing aprons of the original Grand Lodge of the Jack Buta Karen Kidd Republic of Texas. page 14 Harashim Australia
(Continued from page 12) being shown. The Melbourne-based artist, Frederick McCubbin (1855– 1917), is represented in all the main Australian art galleries, and we were able to relate to a number of his paintings. This was a leisurely and relaxing afternoon, then home to Bob and Jenny’s for a lovely dinner and, as Bob and Jenny had a meeting, we stayed Above: The House of the Temple, Washington Right: The George Washington National there, checked e-mail from home, read Masonic Memorial and relaxed. Tuesday 13 October Big Freeze for ‘Masonic Week’ like listening to myself think. As Bob had some business to attend to, Heavy snowfalls all but wrecked the My open lunch was attended by he dropped us off at DFO (Direct traditional ‘Masonic Week’ in and around only 9 folks this year, down from a Factory Outlet, Cheryl’s paradise) at Washington DC in February. Janet usual number of about 18-20. There Fyshwick and collected us later in the were years in the late 1990s when we Wintermute, our Washington morning. We had lunch there and reached 40 once or twice. correspondent, reports: I was prepaid to go to Saturday's returned home to relax and prepare for Apparently attendance was down lunch, with Brent as the keynoter, but the evening’s presentation. about 40% this year, thanks in part to ran out of energy. Because of snow- After a light dinner it was time to the economy but in the main to our related lane closures, it took me three head off to Queanbeyan Masonic Centre incredible snowfall. Thirty inches the hours to make the normally 45-minute in Crawford Street, venue of the 2008 previous weekend and another ten or drive home during Friday afternoon's ANZMRC conference. The papers so on Wednesday, the first day of rush hour. That just took all the starch chosen by the Canberra Lodge of AMD [Allied Masonic Degrees] out of me. So my report ends on Research and Instruction were ‘The activities. The Wednesday afternoon Friday after the luncheon. Jay Seven Liberal Arts and Sciences – The Rose Circle lectures by Piers Vaughan Hochberg and David Lindez should be Trivium – how they originated and their and Oliver Kruse did not happen. Only able to provide more details. a helicopter could have delivered them place in today’s society’ and (with a and the audience to the top of break between) ‘The Quadrivium of the Shooter's Hill, where the George Seven Liberal Arts and Sciences – an Washington Masonic National Local historical overview and portrayal of Memorial is. them in today’s society’. In the audience Brent Morris was scheduled to News of 18 were five previous Kellerman speak at three events. He could not Lecturers: Tony Pope, David Slater, Bob get out of his driveway in Columbia, (Continued from page 3) Nairn, Neil Morse and Geoff Ludowyk. Maryland, about 45 miles NE of the Scottish Rite and the French Rite. AMD venue. The Wednesday snow hit A big thank you for your support, guys. It is usual in this jurisdiction for a the northern suburbs and Baltimore Following the presentation with some harder than the rest of the DC metro Grand Master to serve for three years; questions and feedback, we enjoyed a area. The MSCRIF (Rosicrucian) although an ‘election’ is held each year, supper and a wine or two, then back to dinner on Thursday was delicious but the incumbent is usually the only Bob & Jenny’s for a few hours sleep. speechless, Brent having been signed nominee. But this year the energetic and to be continued up for that job. innovative incumbent, GM Greg The Blue Friars lecture on Friday Levenston, was opposed by DGM was given by the BF's new initiate, Derek J Robson AM, who stated his Pierre ‘Pete’ Normand of the Scottish case in a widely circulated letter, in New Zealand Rite's Southern Masonic Jurisdiction. which he proclaimed his loyalty to the (He's the current editor of their newsletter, The Plumbline.) Pete, who GM but went on to say: ‘I have only (Continued from page 13) hails from College Station, Texas, been appointed as DGM for 12 months, present ‘Our Officers: Whence Came gave a very well received lecture on I have not been offered any further They?’ in such a large room, and there Traditional Observance / European involvement and hence I am essentially were several discussions following. I Concept lodges. He is the founder of a free agent when this term completes was given an excellent illustrated book one back home and carefully and I am able to progress my interests entitled Rakiura. Stewart Island and also explained the characteristics of the as I see fit’. All Master Masons in the genre and how to best go down that a lapel badge from the newly constituted jurisdiction are entitled to vote, but the Kakapo Lodge. This is what they call a road if there's local interest. vote must be cast in person at the Grand Pete believes that today's bright ‘Dining Lodge’ and will be raising young men are craving exactly the Communication in Sydney. Of the money for the rare Kakapo (meaning kind of Masonic experience that a TO 12,500 or so members in this night parrot) bird. I also had the lodge can provide. But TO lodges will widespread jurisdiction, some 500 were opportunity of meeting VWBro Martin never be the predominant form of able and willing to vote, and the result McGregor, Grand Lecturer. Masonry in the United States, and was approximately 60:40 in favour of that's OK, too. Hearing his speech was the incumbent. to be continued Issue 50 page 15 Chamber of Reflection
(Continued from page 5) the pursuit of ‘that most interesting of all human studies, the knowledge of yourself’. This acrostic was first coined by the 8th-century alchemist, Jabir Bin Hayyan, the probable discoverer of how to make sulphuric acid and, indeed, for many centuries this acid was known as ‘vitriol’. It was, in its time, the most important of all substances used in alchemical experiments, as it reacts with all other elements with the important physical and metaphysical exception of Gold. The Chamber of Reflection is lit by a single flame and, for us here in Thailand with its predominant Buddhist faith, it is significant that in Buddhism the candle and its flame are symbolic of Wisdom. Below the acrostic, V.I.T.R.I.O.L., is a banner with the words, ‘Vigilance’ and ‘Perseverance’. These words mean that we are to watch ourselves, our thoughts and our actions, so that we will avoid arrogance, because arrogance is a major obstacle Jim Soutar and daughter Tara in our search for knowledge of ourselves; and that, to achieve success in our search, constant research and learning is a total for Inner Truth is reflected when we look in the mirror. necessity. Also on the table is a container of water and some bread, Superimposed on the banner is a Cock. The matinal song of representing the most basic essentials necessary for sustaining the rooster announces the rebirth of the Sun, and symbolically life. These also imply that we should exercise temperance in announces the Profane’s resurrection or rebirth from the our daily lives, as excess of physical appetites will also prevent Earth’s womb. us from achieving success in our search for Inner Truth. Below this is a Scythe and an Hour Glass. The hour glass Finally there are three small containers, one holding reminds us that all human life is ephemeral and subject to mercury, one salt and the third one, sulphur. The container unavoidable death, which is represented by the scythe. In with the salt must be positioned between the other two. Salt mediaeval symbolism the scythe represented Saturn, the Lord and sulphur are symbols of matter and spirit respectively. of Time, The scythe is also an ancient symbol for Universal Mercury, also called quicksilver by the alchemists of yore, was Justice, which has come down to our modern day in the moral believed by them to be capable of being a catalyst in the expression, ‘as you sow, so shall you reap’. transmutation of base metals into precious gold, and spiritually On the table in the Chamber of Reflection lies paper and being symbolical of the catalyst that we must discover within writing instruments for the use of the Profane in producing his ourselves to reach that divine union of spirit and matter which Last Will and Testament, his declaration of his spiritual and results in true Enlightenment. philosophical beliefs, as well as his responses to the three great Brethren, as you will no doubt be very aware, this has been questions. There is a skull, once again to direct the Profane’s but the briefest of explanations of the importance of the attention to the inevitability of Death. There is a mirror, a symbolism of the Chamber of Reflection, but I hope that it will symbolical forewarning of the mirror which will play such an have been an introduction to you of what – should you so important role in the Profane’s initiation ceremony. The mirror desire – will undoubtedly prove to be a very personally symbolizes esoterically that our own worst enemy in the search rewarding and wide-ranging area of esoteric research.
significant up to 2007. However, if Bro Belton’s theory is correct, they need to be read in conjunction with a survey of Falling membership the retention rate of new Master Masons. If the majority of new Master Masons are being retained for less than eight years, then—regardless of the number of new members, and other (Continued from page 1) factors—Grand Lodges are definitely still in trouble. Comment Such a survey, conducted over all seven local jurisdictions, It may be argued that these figures do not reflect the results of could form the basis of a report that would be invaluable to the changes in the last year or two, that more time is needed to Grand Lodges in measuring the success or failure of their assess results. While that may be true, the numbers are still reforms. Will ANZMRC researchers undertake this task? Members Lodges
Year NZ NSW Qld SA Tas Vic WA Year NZ NSW Qld SA Tas Vic WA 1999 16000 26000 16129 6000 3357 24314 6300 1999 331 488 379 149 58 481 175 2009 9697 12711 9157 3617 1400 13566 3997 2009 273 330 300 111 47 327 134
Loss 6303 13289 6982 2383 1957 10748 2303 Loss 58 158 79 38 11 54 41
page 16 Harashim Harashim
The Quarterly Newsletter of the Australian & New Zealand Masonic Research Council
ISSN 1328-2735 Issue 51 July 2010
CONFERENCE PLUS To the dedicated researchers who (WBro? VWBro? RWBro?—it depends Kellerman Lectures (instead of the usual regularly attend the biennial ANZMRC which of his jurisdictions you have in four), and a four-hour break before the conferences, the formula has always mind) will be the keynote speaker, banquet and presentation of certificates. been the Kellerman Lectures, the entertaining us with ‘Jack the Ripper . . . It should be noted that all Kellerman presentation dinner, the business a Freemason?’. At last count there were Lectures are open meetings, throughout meeting, and the opportunities for 150 booked for the dinner. the conference. informal discussion and networking. Saturday will feature the first three Two Kellerman Lectures will be Attendance is usually low, split fairly given on Sunday morning. In the evenly between locals and visitors, and afternoon, WBro James Soutar MA, WM this has become the accepted norm. But of Morakot Lodge 945 IC and SW of the Western Australian Lodge of Lodge Star in the East 1600 GLNF, is Research has made a concerted effort to scheduled to speak on ‘The history of attract a larger audience for the 10th Freemasonry in Thailand: 100 years in a biennial conference, to be held in Masonic microcosm’, to be followed by Mandurah, WA, over four days instead WBro Ed Robinson GS, editor of the of the usual three, 3–6 September. Transactions of the Research Lodge of On the Friday evening there will be a Wellington, who will report on the tyled meeting of the WA Lodge of Masonic Digital Library. Research, attended by the Grand Master, On Sunday evening there will be an MWBro Frank Hayes, who will present official opening of the Grand Lodge RWBro Arthur Hartley MA, MEd, Library and Research Centre, in Perth. PJGW, Kellerman Lecturer, with his 80- With the move into a new building, the year jewel—yes, 80 years in the Craft, opportunity was seized to completely 58 of them as a member of the WA revamp and update the old library, Lodge of Research! utilising the skills of Grand Librarian This will be followed by a dinner, at David Ganon, Kellerman Lecturer, and which the Grand Master will formally his wife Yvette, herself a librarian of open the conference, and at which Yasha Arthur Hartley great experience. Beresiner LLB, Kellerman Lecturer photo courtesy of MB magazine (continued on page 16)
Issue Yasha 51 Beresiner James Soutar Ed Robinson David & Yvette Ganon page 1 About Harashim Harashim, Hebrew for Craftsmen, is a quarterly newsletter published by the President’s Corner Australian and New Zealand Masonic Research Council (10 Rose St, Waipawa 4210, New Zealand) in January, April, July and October each year. compatriot was travelling around It is supplied to Affiliates and Associates Australia. It was a great opportunity to in hard copy and/or PDF format. It is available worldwide in PDF format as an see research lodges at grass root level, email attachment, upon application to the and I did appreciate the hospitality and Asst. Secretary, [email protected]. friendship. When one realises that we Usually the current issue is also displayed on ask our touring international lecturers the website of the Grand Lodge of Tasmania http://www.freemasonrytasmania.org/. to attend double the number of lodges that I had to visit, they certainly need Copyright and reprinting Copyright is vested in ANZMRC and the some stamina. author of any article appearing in Harashim. Our Conference organising Affiliates and Associates are encouraged to committee, under the chairmanship of reprint the entire newsletter (at their own David Ganon, has worked really hard expense) and circulate it to their own members, including their correspondence circles (if any) over the last two years to make the and to supply copies to public and Masonic This is my eighth and last ‘President’s forthcoming Conference one to libraries within their jurisdictions. Corner’ as we start the countdown to remember. There will be plenty to do, Individual items from any issue may be the Biennial Conference in Mandurah, to see, to hear and to talk about during reprinted by Associates and Affiliates, provided: Western Australia starting on Friday the three days in an excellent venue, The item is reprinted in full; The name of the author and the source of the 3rd September and the appointment of considered to be the best Masonic article are included; and a new President and Committee at the Centre in Western Australia. Nobody A copy of the publication containing the Biennial General Meeting. can forecast the weather, but we do get reprint is sent to the editor. I do thank the members of the some lovely sunny days at that time of Anyone else wishing to reprint material from Harashim must first obtain permission from the present Committee: our three Vice the year. copyright holders via the editor. Presidents, Andy Walker, Charles I am pleased to report that Unless otherwise specified, authors Miller and Ian Green; our Treasurer everything is now ready for September submitting original work for publication in and Immediate Past President, Graham but registrations have been lower than Harashim are deemed to grant permission for Stead; our hard working Secretary, we had expected. For that reason, it is their work to be published also on the Internet websites of ANZMRC http//anzmrc.org and the Colin Heyward; our Assistant definitely not too late to register and I Grand Lodge of Tasmania: Secretary, Kent Henderson; still have two offers of free http://www.freemasonrytasmania.org/. Information Officer Richard Num and accommodation from Mandurah Contents Conference Convenor David Ganon. brethren if you have difficulty in that Affiliate and Associate members are encouraged I took office unexpectedly in 2007, direction. to contribute material for the newsletter, following the sad death of our newly We have obtained the use of a small including: Their lecture programs for the year; appointed President Max Webberley bus, thanks to Freemasons WA Any requests from their members for from Tasmania. As I have mentioned (Homes), as well as the use of a information on a research topic; in previous articles, the task of number of cars so there should be no Research papers of more than local interest President is unusual in that we only difficulty in getting to and from the that merit wider publication. meet as a Committee once every two Conference Centre. Also, thanks to the The newsletter also includes news, reports from ANZMRC, book reviews, extracts from other years so we really do not get an generosity of our supporters including publications and a readers’ letters column, from opportunity to get to know one the Grand Lodge of Western Australia, time to time. another. Certainly the internet and Freemasons WA (Homes), the Peel If the source of an item is not identified, it is email have made communication Development Commission, Dobson by the editor. Opinions expressed are those of the author of the article, and should not be attributed easier by the power of words but there Family Funeral Care, Kingswear to the Council. is something nice in being able to have Stores and Peter Feswick, P.F.E. Material submitted for publication must be in discussions face to face. Australia Pty Ltd, we are able to a digitised form by email or mailed on a CD or At this time, each jurisdiction is include a number of additions which DVD, addressed to the editor, Tony Pope, 15 Rusten St, Queanbeyan, NSW 2620, being asked to nominate their we otherwise would not be able to Australia, [email protected]. representative on the Committee, and provide. Clear illustrations, diagrams and it is from these nominations that the All Registrants, including their photographic prints suitable for scanning are outgoing Committee will recommend partners, are able to attend all the welcome, and most computer graphic (IBM) formats are acceptable. Photos of contributors the distribution of the various offices. I lecture presentations at no extra cost. (preferably not in regalia) would be useful. hope that we can get some ‘new blood’ A letter will go out to all registrants by Contributors who require mailed material to be included, with new ideas in how we email in August giving them further returned should include a stamped, self- can proceed in the future. I am sure detailed information regarding dress, addressed envelope. that this should be one of the topics transport, etc. General correspondence discussed at the Biennial General I look forward to welcoming you in All other correspondence, including about Meeting. September. purchase of CDs and books, should be directed to: The Secretary, ANZMRC I also had the pleasure of making 10 Rose St, Waipawa 4210, the lecture tour to New Zealand last Peter Verrall New Zealand. October at the same time that my [email protected] page 2 Harashim The Influence of Plato’s Republic on understanding of Greek history, develop a thinking leader, a Freemasonry and Masonic Ritual: mythology and Platonic writing, the ‘philosopher-king’. Bro Michalak goes Tertullian’s question and its influence authors of Emulation composed a on to equate the ideal Masonic leader— on modern Freemasonry ritual that (once explained) speaks to be he Master or Grand Master—with us today with a message that is Stephen Michalak Plato’s philosopher-king, and devotes a particularly relevant for our lives in E-book, PDF format, on the Pietre- this 21st century. chapter to comparing the texts (Republic Stones website, http://www.freemasons- and Emulation ritual) on the subject of freemasonry.com/ He goes on to say: the liberal arts and sciences, and another Where this work departs from on the four cardinal virtues: prudence, Do not be put off by the title. This book mainstream Freemasonic research is in temperance, fortitude and justice. is not long-winded, but is simply, providing a primer—or, in other And there is more, much more. engagingly and convincingly written. words, a first attempt—to reconcile Chapter Nine compares Platonic and Nor is it a fanciful excursion into the our Ritual to Platonic philosophy and Masonic themes: merit, preparing for realms of make-believe; it is founded on Greek history and mythology. . . death, duty to parents, allegiance to historical fact, and itemises clear and If my argument holds even the native land, living respected and dying compelling comparisons between Plato’s smallest germ of truth, then we are faced with the recognition that from regretted, self knowledge and self Republic and Emulation-type ritual—our the moment we stood at the North East understanding, knowledge of good and ritual. Corner, something of extraordinary evil, life, metals and valuables, The author, Stephen Michalak, is a significance was taking place that innovation, submission and obedience, former teacher, a financial planner, and a linked us to the philosophy of Plato’s light, wisdom and strength of mind, South Australian Freemason. In the ten philosopher-king. At that one moment advantages of social education, years after his initiation, he undertook in time, we became active participants regulating lives and actions, preserving the South Australian four-year diploma in an engagement model with the conscience, deportment, Pythagoras’s course of Masonic Education, became a objective of being groomed to become teaching, blessings of God on our member of the panel of authorised philosopher-kings in every arena of our lives. undertakings, the heavens, self- lecturers, was promoted to Assistant The seamless, effortlessly elegant discipline, good management, the centre Grand Lecturer, then Deputy and now amalgam of Platonic writings with and the circle, the soul’s accountability, Grand Lecturer. The book has not been Hebrew scripture (as evidenced in belief in Supreme Being, and importance published in hard copy, but was accepted English Emulation ritual), has always of initiation. Chapter Ten compares by the prestigious Pietre-Stones Review been focused on achieving in the lives Greek mythology and history with of Freemasonry website in 2008, and is of each one of us, the highest Masonic ritual, in similar detail. These freely available for reading on the potential—or, in Platonic terms, the are followed by a lengthy postscript, and website in PDF format. highest ideal—of a human being that acknowledgments, references and At the outset, the author poses the each of us has the potential to achieve in the brief years of life given to us. bibliography; there is no index, but rhetorical question: ‘Are there any Greek Adobe Acrobat provides an adequate philosophical, historical or mythical The author devotes several chapters to ‘search’ facility. influences in our ritual?’ and responds: providing the background to the Without even the smallest qualification, compilation of the Emulation ritual: a Confirmation? we can confidently say that in any Ritual brief overview of Masonic history to the The author presents a convincing that is based on the ritual and rubrics of year 1823; the love of all things Greek— argument, which finds support from an English Emulation, the answer is—yes! panhellenism—in 19th-century England; independent source: MWBro Fabio Furthermore, these Greek influences are desirable qualities of leadership; and a Venzi, Grand Master of the Regular neither minor, nor accidental. These brief account of Plato’s life. Then he Grand Lodge of Italy, whose allocution, Greek influences were carefully considers the relationship of Plato’s The great deceit of the theory of an considered, carefully selected and then Republic to Freemasonry, and describes ‘Enlightened Freemasonry’—admittedly artistically embroidered within the Republic as ‘a detailed study of the Hebrew story of the building of King on different grounds—also argues for concept of morality’; that, in order to Solomon’s Temple that is related in the Neoplatonic, and against Enlightenment, Books of Kings and Chronicles. lead a happy and fulfilling life, it is influence. (see page 7, this issue) Then, when Emulation Ritual was necessary to lead a life which is approved in 1816, it was released as a intrinsically moral; and this may be Where do we go from here? modern . . . reinterpretation of Plato’s achieved by undergoing a course of How do we apply this philosophy (Plato/ principles of leadership as he education which aims to train the mind Emulation) to the practical tasks (a) of developed in a number of his to think clearly (the liberal arts and making good men better (do we go dialogues, but primarily a dialogue sciences) and to act rightly (the four further than working the degrees, and known as Republic. With a high-level cardinal virtues). Plato’s aim is to (Continued on page 10)
Issue 51 page 3 BOUNDARIES OF CRAFT FREEMASONRY IN NSW/ACT
The following documents are reproduced verbatim, without comment; only spacing and fonts have been changed.
[logo] FREEMASONS NSW & ACT
CIRCULAR
PLEASE READ IN OPEN LODGE
To: Lodge Secretaries Regional Grand Counsellors District Grand Inspectors of Workings Grand Lodge Officers Past Grand Masters From: Grand Secretary Date: 12 May, 2010 Subject: ESOTERIC RESEARCH & PRACTICE Following recommendations from the Masonic Light Committee, the Board of Management has unanimously resolved that the following points become effective immediately and therefore should be brought to the immediate attention of all brethren within this jurisdiction. l. The Board acknowledges that authorised official Masonic Education and Instruction is only 'Regular' when applied to Free and Accepted or Speculative Masonry (Regular Freemasonry). 2. Because of the widely divergent interpretations which can be placed upon it, the Board is concerned about the unqualified use of the word "esoteric" or any of its derivatives within Regular Freemasonry. 3. The Board also acknowledges and encourages that all Masons should make daily progress in the acquisition of Masonic knowledge and that speculation and discussion within the Landmarks of the order are to be commended. Under certain circumstances the word "esoteric" could be applied to this activity, but as defined below. 4. Within Regular Freemasonry esoteric thought and principles mean only the progressive acquisition of Masonic knowledge towards an understanding of the secrets and mysteries of the Craft, promoting the brotherhood of man under the fatherhood of God. (See Mackey's "A Lexicon of Freemasonry: Esoteric and Exoteric Masonry".) 5. Regular Freemasonry does not permit within it any form of esoterism [sic] which encompasses or tends towards occultism, sorcery, alchemy, astrology, profane mysticism, transcendentalism, supernaturalism, druidism, rosicrucianism, satanism or any concept or movement related to any of these. The presentation, endorsement and/or promotion of such subjects in any Lodge holding under the UGL of NSW and ACT whether the Lodge be open, adjourned/at refreshment or closed or of any connected or associated Lodge function should be deemed irregular and should not be allowed. NB - every regularly installed Worshipful Master solemnly undertakes not to introduce innovations or to deviate from the established usages and customs of the Order. Indeed he is held to "guard our Landmarks from encroachment". 6. The Board, therefore, defines its sole tasks – as the promulgation of the history and origins of NSW & ACT Freemasonry; the understanding of the symbols and allegories within Masonic ceremonies; and an explanation of what Freemasonry is and who are the Freemasons of the 21st Century. 7. The Board therefore earnestly insists that all and every communication, document, publication or spoken comment from any source deemed as 'official' emanating from the UGL of NSW & ACT be strictly held to these definitions. In determining this resolution the Board received the full support and endorsement of the Grand Master MWBro Dr Greg Levenston. Yours fraternally, [signature] Kevin McGlinn GRAND SECRETARY
page 4 Harashim QUESTIONS WITH NOTICE Grand Lodge Communication, June 2010 Question 3 – Directed to Chairman Board of Management VW Bro David Slater KL PDGDC, Convenor, Canberra Esoteric Masonry Discussion Group What is the Masonic Light Committee, when was it formed and who are its members? RESPONSE: A committee formed at the behest of the Grand Master in August 2009. It is a Committee established by the Grand Master to advise on a learning curriculum, on information and on information sources for Masons who wish to widen their knowledge of Freemasonry, perhaps to tertiary level studies. In this capacity, the Committee must examine all relevant aspects and, after due consideration, advise/recommend what is appropriate material and what is inappropriate and also any action it may consider desirable / necessary. Its members are: RW Bro Richard Dawes, Chairman RW Bro Grahame Cumming RW Bro Norman Garland RW Bro Joe Haffner Bro Bob James RW Bro Geoffrey Q Lamb RW Bro Ian McCulloch RW Bro Frank Radcliff W Bro Chris Williams Question 4 – Directed to Chairman Board of Management VW Bro David Slater KL PDGDC, Convenor, Canberra Esoteric Masonry Discussion Group What is the background to the issue of the circular entitled Esoteric Research & Practice, dated 12 May 2010? Was there an incident that gave rise to the issue of this circular and, if so, what was it? RESPONSE: One of the members of the Masonic Light Committee had knowledge, on the basis of reliable printed information to hand, of a Lodge planning to work one of the Degrees and to do so with an “esoteric” interpretation thereof. He was concerned and discussed this with other Committee members. A small group of the Committee then proceeded to draft the resolution which was subsequently adopted by the full Committee. The proposed resolution was submitted to the Board of Management. Question 5 – Directed to Chairman Board of Management VW Bro David Slater KL PDGDC, Convenor, Canberra Esoteric Masonry Discussion Group Are the underlying objectives of the instruction to ensure the quality of any novel explanations of the Craft’s philosophy or is it the intent to exclude areas of inquiry seen to be irrelevant or antithetic to our objectives? What analysis and alternative strategies were explored? RESPONSE: The purpose of the instruction contained in the Circular is to exclude, from discussion in Lodge, subjects deemed to promote false ideas and ideas contrary to the principles of Freemasonry. To give two simple examples it may be pointed out: 1. A discussion on satanism is clearly out of place in an organisation which insists on belief in a Divine Creator as an obligatory qualification for membership. 2. Again, in an organisation devoted to assisting its members to examine and improve their personal character, discussion of astrology – with its implied theory of a fixed character or at least fixed personal characteristics; that is a form of predestination – is inimical. Similarly, a close examination of the various unacceptable topics listed in Clause 5 of the Circular will show that each embodies like ideas and/or philosophies that are not based on rational and/or scientific fact, and/or cannot be reconciled with the promulgations of Freemasonry. It should also be remembered that the exclusion of certain topics in Lodge is hardly new. We all accept that discussion “upon any religious or political topic” in the Lodge is forbidden. Question 6 – Directed to Chairman Board of Management VW Bro David Slater KL PDGDC, Convenor, Canberra Esoteric Masonry Discussion Group Do the decisions of the Board of Management promulgated by this circular place any restrictions on Masonic research, in particular that undertaken by and presented in Masonic Research Lodges and discussion groups? RESPONSE: As one undertakes any area of Masonic research - esoteric or not esoteric- one should only consider the facts as the researcher sees them. If the facts, as you (the researcher) see them, lead you to conclusions counter to the guidelines issued by Grand Lodge, so be it. In research you have to be guided by the truth as you see it. However, careful consideration needs
(Continued on page 6) Issue 51 page 5 (Continued from page 5) to be taken as to whether such material would be appropriate and presented to a wider Masonic audience. Presentation When one comes to the presentation of one’s research paper one has to be more circumspect. For example if you were to preface your presentation by a set of words such as: "Grand Lodge has stated that Regular Freemasonry does not permit within it any form of esoterism which encompasses or tends towards – occultism, sorcery, alchemy, astrology, profane mysticism, transcendentalism, supernaturalism, druidism, rosicrucianism, satanism, or any concept or movement related to any of these. However my research has resulted in certain findings that touch on these subjects and I emphasize that I do not promote these findings in any way or as part of Regular Freemasonry and I mention them only in the context of pure research and not in any Regular Masonic context." ... then you should be on safe ground. The Worshipful Master must also consider his audience. Among the audience there may be brethren with very little experience in the Craft. The WM must ensure that an inexperienced brother is exposed to a balanced set of opinions and not unduly influenced by extreme and perhaps persuasively presented argument. We believe that presentation of a research paper on a forbidden “esoteric” subject may occur only in very limited and special circumstances, namely in a properly licensed or warranted Lodge of Research and then only having been reviewed and recommended for approval by the appropriate Committee of the Board of Management. Question 7 – Directed to Chairman Board of Management VW Bro David Slater KL PDGDC, Convenor, Canberra Esoteric Masonry Discussion Group Will there be any repercussions from the issuing of this circular in our relations with other recognised Masonic Orders which refer to rosicrucian or astrological concepts in their rituals? RESPONSE: To the best of our knowledge there are no Masonic Orders which advance rosicrucian or astrological concepts in their rituals. The Rosicrucian Orders are NOT Masonic Orders and UGL has no form of agreement with them. They are organisations which, of their own choice, have made it a qualification for membership that those wishing to join be Master Masons. This is no different than any other Club which sets a similar qualification for membership. Question 8 – Directed to Chairman Board of Management VW Bro David Slater KL PDGDC, Convenor, Canberra Esoteric Masonry Discussion Group What is the meaning of “profane mysticism”? The questioner added the following reason for the question: (We would still like to know what "profane mysticism" is, as this seems to us to be an oxymoron. ‘Profane’ is an adjective indicating that something is not concerned with the sacred; mysticism has to do with the quest for union with the sacred.) RESPONSE: ‘Profane Mysticism’ is NOT an oxymoron – ‘mysticism’ can be either sacred or profane. ‘Profane’ is an adjective meaning, amongst other things:- “secular; speaking or acting in contempt of sacred things; to violate anything holy; to abuse anything sacred; to put to a wrong use; to debase”. ‘Mysticism’ can be profaned and profane mysticism is clearly incompatible with an organisation which insists on belief in a Divine Creator as an obligatory qualification for membership. Question 9 – Directed to Chairman Board of Management VW Bro David Slater KL PDGDC, Convenor, Canberra Esoteric Masonry Discussion Group As it is stated that the “sole” tasks of the Board are “the promulgation of the history and origins of NSW & ACT Freemasonry; the understanding of the symbols and allegories within Masonic ceremonies; and an explanation of what Freemasonry is and who are the Freemasons of the 21st Century” (Point 6), it follows that the Board’s insistence (in Point 7) regarding the nature of every “official” communication, document, publication or spoken comment cannot be one of its tasks. This would also apply to many of the tasks that the Board now undertakes. Please explain this contradiction? RESPONSE: The original motion from the Masonic Light Committee read as follows: 1. The Committee, therefore, defines its sole tasks – as the promulgation of the history and origins of NSW Freemasonry; the understanding of the symbols and allegories within Masonic ceremonies; and an explanation of what Freemasonry is and who are the Freemasons of the Twenty-First Century. 2. The Committee therefore earnestly requests that all and every communication, document, publication or spoken comment from any source deemed as ‘official’ emanating from the UGL of NSW & ACT be strictly held to these definitions. After the proposal and motion was accepted and endorsed by the Board of Management it had to be slightly amended to reflect the Board’s decision. The amending of the motion after the May Board meeting effectively replaced ‘Masonic Light Committee’ with ‘Board of Management’. This resulted in an unintentional change of meaning and will be corrected. However, - the Board of Management, and its Committees, is effectively entrusted with the instruction of the Brethren in the understanding of the symbols and allegories of our ceremonies -- this surely implies that the instruction be correct and within the proper and regular limits of Masonic principles and aims. The Board therefore also has an implied responsibility to ensure that anything improper or irregular be excluded. page 6 Harashim The following allocution was presented to the Regular Grand Lodge of Italy on 12 December 2009, by the Grand Master, MWBro Fabio Venzi, and subsequently posted on the Grand Lodge website, www.granloggiaregulareitalia.org/. It is reproduced herewith by kind permission of the author and the Grand Lodge.
THE GREAT DECEIT OF THE THEORY OF AN ‘ENLIGHTENED FREEMASONRY’
by Fabio Venzi Of all the theories that have harmed and ritual moreover being perpetually proved particularly damaging to a articulated by the triptych ‘Liberté, correct understanding of Freemasonry, Egualité, Fraternité’. There are no one of the most commonly Prayers, Invocations, Bible readings, acknowledged maintains that the origins walkabouts and esoteric formulas, none of Freemasonry derive from the of the features observed in the Anglo- Enlightenment movement. This theory Saxon Masonic ceremonies; furthermore, purports that an esoteric-initiatic society the ceremony concerned is no longer originates from a school of thought even known as ‘consecration’, with all based on empiricism and positivism. that the term implies from an esoteric- As I wrote in a recent essay, I initiatic point of view, but is now called personally do not believe that ‘Inauguration’, a term of undeniably Freemasonry expresses the philosophy ‘profane’ connotations. underlying the Enlightenment It can thus be asserted that during the movement, but is rather the daughter of eighteenth century ‘several’ Masonic the Neoplatonic system, therefore far bodies in Europe included the removed from the empiricism and enlightenment principles in their rituals, rationalism of the eighteenth century that thus distorting their esoteric and initiatic are clearly incompatible with the esoteric origins. In these cases the ritual, an and metaphysical principles of Freemasonry is the offspring of the indispensable element in an initiatic Freemasonry. Thus, the origins of the eighteenth-century movement of organisation, has been gradually latter more likely represent a enlightenment and progressivism is hard deprived of its true symbolic phenomenon that developed as a to eradicate, and the damage produced significance and replaced by ‘reaction’ to modernity, and to all the by this forcing of history has been commentaries and exegeses ensuing consequences, with the aim of considerable. Undeniably, during the characterised by a desolating banality re-establishing contacts with the eighteenth century several Masonic and a dull moralism reminiscent of the metaphysical world. Indeed, the Masonic societies introduced principles pertaining ‘century of the Enlightened’. All this of ‘method’ makes use of a symbolic to the school of thought of the course does not apply to the entire language to express the integration, Enlightenment into the realms of eighteenth-century society of European denied from the time of René Descartes Freemasonry, thereby distorting the Freemasonry. The Enlightenment was a onwards, between mind and matter, an esoteric and initiatic origins. These were vast spiritual movement (of culture) that esoteric language differing from however only sporadic occurrences. first developed in England during the philosophic and scientific languages as The most outstanding case was that of eighteenth century and subsequently for its way of communicating by means the Grand Orient of France, the oldest extended to France and the rest of the of images intended to arouse knowledge French Masonic Obedience, which European continent. The movement was through ‘intuition’ rather than by rational increasingly absorbed the ideals of the denoted for its unerring faith in reason means. Enlightenment movement, so much so as and the capacity of the latter to This ‘intellectual intuition’ constitutes to ultimately remove, in 1877, all emancipate mankind from religious the instrument, the method on which the reference to the Great Architect of the fanaticism and, particularly, to free it Masonic process is based, a method Universe from its rituals. Indeed, rituals from ignorance and superstition. The facilitating the implementation of an performed by the Grand Orient of France Enlightenment focused on the study of active process of inner transformation display clear features reminiscent of daily, mundane issues, reducing leading to the development of an actual enlightenment and progressivism. knowledge to the mere data gained from change in status in, and this is the Merely as an example, the ceremony experience. It is clear therefore that a fundamental issue, a ‘personal’ rather performed on occasion of the school of thought that tends towards a than a ‘social’ context. The aim is to be ‘Inauguration’ of a Temple, contains the process of perfection based on reunited with the Supreme Being, and in wording the ‘flame is the symbol of symbolisms and allegories such as that doing so free oneself of material bonds Reason (capital letters)’ and ‘let the adopted by Freemasonry has little in (‘metals’), thereby becoming a spiritual Flaming Star lead us towards common with the experimental nature of entity. progress’ (reason and progress being the the empiricism of the Enlightenment. However, the theory whereby singular features of Enlightenment), the (Continued on page 8)
Issue 51 page 7 (Continued from page 7) cannot be conveyed to others. In intellect. Let us now consider some of the main conclusion, it represents the true essence The last aspect to be considered is characteristics of the enlightenment of the initiatic secret. ‘Relativism’. Our ideas are all closely principles and analyse the lack of Let us subsequently proceed to linked to external impressions and to the common issues with the principles and examine ‘Rationalism’ and ‘Anti- associations formed by the latter, they singularities on which an Initiatic historicism’. The thinkers of the Age of are undeniably moulded on experience. Organisation is based. First of all Enlightenment, based on the premises Therefore, these ideas could actually ‘Empiricism’, a new philosophy which, that truth can only be secured from vary from their current status if our in the same way as science is based on experience, tradition, the voice of the experience and the behaviour of experience, maintains that all ideas and past, maintained that the authority phenomena were to change. If they are principles are unequivocally derived exerted by the ancient thinkers could not based on a universal, eternally from experience. Intellect is conceived only cause harm as it constituted a constant, firm foundation, not linked to as a blank slate on which the marks prejudice hindering a clear unimpeded worldly occurrences (in the same way as made by experience are gradually vision of reality and truth. Within the platonic or divine ideas) no reference can etched, thereby refuting the existence of realms of Freemasonry however the be made to good or bad, beautiful or innate ideas. The latter is unacceptable to knowledge contemplated by the ugly, true or false things and qualities. Freemasons for whom the concept of traditional doctrines is intellective, Everything is relative, nothing is ‘Religio Perennis’ (a ‘transcendental symbolic and synthetic, with intellect absolute. Indeed, the latter is one of the unity’, primordial wisdom in which the being deemed superior to colloquial accusations moved by the Catholic various forms of religion that reasoning, thus providing mankind with Church against Freemasonry, although it contemplate manifestation of a divine a diverse, higher-reaching form of is, as I have already had occasion to entity are not mutually exclusive and do sensitive life. Furthermore, as a underline in a Conference focusing on not propose different truths, the truth consequence of their anti-historic this topic, totally groundless. The entire being one alone) referred to in justifying attitude the enlightened took it upon Masonic ritual is a journey undertaken tolerance towards all creeds divergent themselves to re-assess the roots, the with the sole aim of seeking the ‘truth’. from their own, is indeed based on an virgin soul of knowledge; prior to the Incredibly, it was Lennhoff, a scholar of ‘innate’ predisposition of mankind to the eighteenth century there had only been Freemasonry to first apply the term ‘Sacred’. An ‘Anti-metaphysical errors, barbarisms, obscurantism. But ‘relativist’ to the Masonic school of agnosticism’ according to which Freemasonry is a form of ‘Tradition’; thought, thereby providing the Catholic experience is an action strictly limited to and similar to all traditional forms Church with the opportunity, punctually actual facts, consequently incapable of maintains all aspects present from ‘the exploited several decades later, to use reaching the very essence of things, and start’, unchanged by the ravages of time, this inanity against the Masonic society. totally unable to comprehend anything thereby diverging from the profane Indeed, a book written by Lennhoff, pertaining to the suprasensitive. It ensues world constantly open to change. In the International Lexicon of Freemasonry, that the true metaphysics is thus context of ‘Tradition’ the transmitting of was included among the texts presented excluded, whilst, as we are well aware, primary principles occurs in a vertical by the Grand Lodge of Germany to the intellectual intuition, the source of the fashion, from superhumans to humans, a German Episcopal Conference to Masonic method, is necessarily based on concept totally unacceptable to the evaluate the presence of elements of metaphysics, the pure intellectual Enlightenment. incompatibility between the Catholic knowledge of universal principles, The means best suited to instilling Church and Freemasonry. The book by transcendent, super-rational wisdom. On knowledge of higher order, religious or Lennhoff and Posner states that the contrary, the characteristics of metaphysical truths is represented by ‘Freemasonry may therefore be modern thought and of the essentially symbolism, a tool that has been rejected conceived as a movement aimed at atheist Freemasonry that sought or ignored by the modern world but attracting men of relativistic tendencies’. inspiration from the latter, represent the which is perfectly suited to expressing Thus, in 1980, following six years of absence of metaphysical knowledge, the truths belonging to the order of pure discussions with representatives of the negation of all forms of knowledge intellectuality. Human nature is by no United Grand Lodge of Germany, the diverse from scientific dogma. means purely intellectual, but is conclusions reached by the German Accordingly, one of the major concepts characterised by the need of a sensitive Episcopal Conference maintained that underlying Initiatic Organisations, the foundation to aspire to elevation to a one of the six items of incompatibility secret, becomes totally higher order. Symbolism is well suited to between the Church and Freemasonry incomprehensible, not being able to the intellectual needs of mankind, being was provided by ‘relativism’, ‘essentia grasp the essentially symbolic value of an analytical, colloquial language massoneriae est relativismus et the latter, referred rather to an inner resembling human reasoning of which it subiectivismus, ersiae negatur obiectiva initiatic secret that is ‘revealed’ solely is a tool. Conversely, symbolism is veritatis cognitio’, as reported in through spiritual development and essentially synthetic, and for this reason ‘Quaesitum est’, the Declaration on which, due to its inexpressible nature, is intuitive. These characteristics imply Masonic Associations dated November cannot be communicated to others. an increased suitability compared to the 26th 1983. Metaphysical truths can never be wholly spoken language in lending support to Yet others have defined the Masonic expressed, thus hindering the clear intellectual intuition. Being of a school of thought as deist, which is even defining of metaphysics in view of its synthetic nature, symbolism affords the more ridiculous. It is an established fact boundless essence. The inexpressible possibility of a truly unlimited wealth of that in the deist doctrine there is no place may be effectively grasped and conceptions, proving superior to spoken for a relationship between God and man; conceived by means of intellectual language characterised by more God exists but is in no way involved in intuition within the limits of one’s specifically defined meanings imposing the historic events of man. Then how can personal intellectual capacities, but it considerable limitations on one’s the constant reference to the assistance page 8 Harashim of the Grand Architect of the universe in distinctively civic quality of masonic characteristics of Masonic association our rituals be explained, and particularly sociability – its building of the polity differ not at all from the many other how can it be overlooked that the key within sociability, the political content of private societies that sprang up Masonic documents: Three Distinct its moral vision and its discourse; its throughout Europe in the course of the Knocks (1760) and Jachin and Boaz imitation and initiation of form of eighteenth century. Members, proposed (1762) contain reference to ‘Christian governance, not lest its quasi-religious and chosen by other members, paid dues, Prayers’, together with the recurring quality.’, ‘The point about the Masonic attended meetings, voted and discussed, mention of the fact that Lodges are impulse wherever we find it is that it gave loyalty, and sought conviviality, if ‘dedicated’ to Saint John? Not forgetting strove to be political.’, ‘It is the not self-improvement, from their moreover the Royal Arch in which we contention of this book that the Masonic association.’ and I wish to underline, ‘in address the ‘True and Living God Most experience in every western European some cases’! The initiatic process is seen High’, therefore to a ‘personal’ theistic context, from Edinburg to Berlin, from as an incidental component, someone God. the 1730s to the 1780s, was resolutely will occasionally decide to take into The disasters provoked by books such civil and hence political.’ And conclude account the esoteric component of as the one written by Lennhoff are with her absurd theory about the origin symbols present in the Lodge and in the incalculable; the latter author maintained of English Freemasonry: ‘These small rituals carried out, but the issue of major that Masonic rituals were in no way private societies came to be seen as interest is to ‘They taught men to speak associated with knowledge ‘concerning organized around a constitution in the in public, to keep records, to pay “taxes”, the ultimate questions of being’, post-1688, or parliamentary, sense of to be tolerant, to debate freely, to vote, to underlining that if Masonry had any that term. The goal of government by moderate their feasting’. What need was esoteric secret it was surely of an ethical consent within the context of there therefore to consecrate Temples nature, focusing on a spiritual agreement subordination to “legitimate” authority and Lodges, to create rituals and between Masons throughout the entire was vigorously pursued by the Grand symbols with such deep esoteric and world, all pertaining to humanity and Lodge of London and was demanded of philosophic connotations, to wear tolerance. However, among the theories all lodges affiliated with it…the lodges vestments, merely to achieve aims that that have most affected the correct practiced a civil administration, derived could have been accomplished in any interpretation of Freemasonry, those put from British political practice and club. forward by the writer Margaret Jacob tradition. Predictably in a British context To conclude, in my opinion the theory should not be overlooked. Even worse, lodges were, on the whole, remarkably maintaining that, as the Masonic Ms Jacob, a historian, is considered one supportive of established institutions, of Brotherhood aspires to the achieving of a of the leading experts of the history of church and state’. progressive degree of ethical perfection Freemasonry. However, the most incredible theory this must necessarily be based on the In providing an example of the absurd is undoubtedly constituted by Ms enlightenment philosophy, particularly in theories advanced by Jacob we are Jacob’s account of the reasons view of the idea of progress held by the indeed spoilt for choice, ranging from ‘It underlying the exclusion of women from latter, and that Lodges represent a clear would seem that the constitutional and initiation into the Masonic Obediences. manifestation of eighteenth century legislative environment was what In the words of Ms Jacob, Freemasons progressivism, is totally misguided. attracted men on the Continent to the ‘And throughout the century they will be The unconditioned trust displayed in first lodges. Within their confines harassed by charges of libertinism and the value and powers of science has brothers adjudicated new forms of sodomy. Partly in response, freemasons indeed led to progress on a technical personal power and they could imagine would alternatively encourage women’s level, not, regrettably, corresponding to a themselves as involved in governance as participation and seek to exclude them. similar progress in spiritual life. The idea well as in opposition.’ ‘Those historians In the eyes of their frequently clerical of indefinite progress, stemming from who have emphasized only the opponents the reason for this exclusion the enlightenment thinking, has come democratic elements in Masonic was simple: Why would women wish to true only with regard to ‘material’ government miss the obvious: The be involved in the practices of progress, not associated to a parallel lodges mirrored the old order just as they government?’ There is no need for progress on a ‘moral’ plane. were creating a form of civil society that further comment. would ultimately replace it.’, ‘Masonic Throughout the entire text there is no discourse, in whatever western European explicit reference to rituals, to their language, although permitting the esoteric and initiatic content, absolutely mli expression of local interests and nothing. Freemasonry is reduced to a For a really useful collection of circumstances, did so within the mere association on a par with numerous Masonic websites, check out: framework of a rhetoric that was British others, Ms Jacob never entertains the www.masonic-lodge.info/. in origin as well as invariably civic, thought that it originated as an ‘Initiatic It contains lists of Grand Lodges hence political, and most frequently Organisation’, featuring all the by continent and country, progressive and reformist.’, ‘Certainly peculiarities this implies, and it is including Provincial, District and the historical phenomenon of therefore a serious mistake to treat Regional Grand Lodges, and freemasonry has significance in the Freemasonry in the same way as an Grand Lodge foundation dates, interesting similarity of its rhetoric with insignificant association. Indeed, plus research lodges, study groups, that of the first modern democratic and although deviations from the original private lodges, collectors, clubs, radical movements. But we shall model may have occurred, these can museums, libraries and magazines. approach it for what it can tell us about certainly not be generalised to the entire The webmaster is not identified, the eighteenth-century Enlightenment’, European Freemasonry. However, Ms but the details are accurate and ‘For all of its strengths it misses the Jacob again emphasises that ‘Certain updated frequently. Issue 51 page 9 and until recently was a member of the fraternalism in general, within the social Book Reviews Masonic Light Committee ‘established framework of Australian history, and not by the Grand Master to advise on a in isolation. This applies particularly to learning curriculum, on information and Freemasonry, which has held itself aloof, (Continued from page 3) on information sources for Masons who as special and unique. incorporate the teaching in ‘Masonic wish to widen their knowledge of In his closing paragraph, Bro James education’ courses?), and (b) of Freemasonry, perhaps to tertiary level says: measuring and selecting our leaders by studies’. In the 20th century, while still this yardstick? And if we find such They call each other Brother draws sufficiently strong, trade-oriented leaders, do we keep them in position for on more than half a lifetime of study. societies did not care enough to life, or replace them only when other The author argues that fraternalism and attempt this path to renewal. Friendly such leaders emerge? mateship arrived with the First Fleet, and societies have been fraternally such organisations were not imitators of impotent for some time. It remains to But the first essential is to read this Freemasonry, but shared a common be seen, as I write these last words in book at http://www.freemasons- source. He outlines the early 2010, whether Australian Speculative freemasonry.com/ development of many such societies, and Freemasonry has the wit and the reveals the hypocrisy, cupidity, venality strength to join the push for renewal being articulated by their brothers, and and even criminality of some of the sisters, in Europe and North America. leaders of several groups, particularly Freemasonry. Then Bro James paints a This book is more than an absorbing fascinating picture of the further read; it is a clarion call to all members of development—and devolution—of the Craft who value authentic history. It various strands of fraternalism in the deserves a place in every Masonic 19th and 20th centuries. library, and on the shelf of every In conclusion, he sees a need for both Masonic historian. academics and members of these But do not let it gather dust on the societies—or such as have survived—to shelf—make use of it! research and record their history in the Tony Pope context of the development of
Less of the Worshipful Apart from that of Worshipful Master, no office in the Lodge should be prefixed by ‘Worshipful’. Thus, e.g., ‘Worshipful Brother Secretary’ is wrong in principle – quite apart from being unnecessarily pompous – because the status and seniority of the office is unrelated to the personal status of the individual holder. . . . They call each other Brother: the Whilst it cannot be said that to address or refer to someone as ‘Worshipful strange slow death of mateship in Brother Smith’ is wrong, it is unnecessary, unless the Lodge is one that goes in for Australia 1788–2010 a great degree of formality. He is, of course, entitled to the prefix, but it does not Bob James PhD have to be used on every occasion. To refer to someone as ‘Worshipful’ in the third Self-published, Newcastle, NSW, 2010 person is less stilted than to address him in such a way, but it is equally 238 pp, 19x26cm approx, index & unnecessary. endnotes, pb What should be particularly avoided, however, is the uneasy mixture of the $20 + p&p, from the author, formal and the informal represented by the prefix ‘Worshipful’ with a Brother’s 90 Henry St, Tighes Hill, NSW 2297. first name alone. Dr Bob James—teacher, commonwealth Graham Redman, Asst. Grand Secretary UGLE, public servant, anarchist, commune in a letter to Freemasonry Today. farmer, historian—is author of several The title of the head of a Masonic lodge is ‘Master,’ not ‘Worshipful Master.’ books (including Craft, Trade or Thus, a brother is not the ‘Worshipful Master’ of his lodge, he is the ‘Master’ of the Mystery? Part One—Britain from Gothic lodge. The honorific ‘Worshipful’ is part of the form of address for Masters and Cathedrals to the Tolpuddle Past Masters. . . Conspirators, and A Reader of When addressing the Master of a lodge, the correct address is ‘Worshipful Australian Anarchism) and many papers, Master.’ Conversely, when referring to the Master of a lodge, the correct usage is available from www.takver.com or his [for example] ‘Worshipful Brother John Smith, Master of Washington Lodge. own Centre for Fraternal Studies website When referring to, or introducing yourself, however, while it may be technically www.fraternalsecrets.org. He has been a correct to use the form, ‘I am Worshipful Brother John Smith,’ it does fall a bit flat Freemason for about three years and is a on the ear. . . While the form of address may be accurate, the use of the honorific in member of Discovery Lodge of Research one’s own case may be seen as having a somewhat elevated opinion of oneself, and (Sydney) and Newcastle Masonic Study is probably best left for someone else to employ for you. Circle; he will be the 2010 Kellerman Lecturer for NSW&ACT (‘New Masonic Official website of the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia History: the future of Australian http://www.dcgrandlodge.org/, Freemasonry, and Ned Kelly’s sash’) adapted from the Saint Johns Commemoration Program, 26 June 2009. page 10 Harashim RGLI and obtained recognition by the Grand Orient of Italy. In February 2010 COGMINA were advised: ‘The Commission is of the opinion that since there is no way for this Grand Lodge to correct their origin, and since they are regular in all aspects of Masonic practice, they can now be considered to have met the standards for recognition’, and American Grand Lodges have begun to recognise Moldova. Curiously, recognition by the UGLE also occurred after Moldova was recognised by the World News Grand Orient of Italy. Romania—To launch the Romanian Eastern Europe and the Mediterranean of Grand Officers, to serve a term of Institute for the Study of Freemasonry Cyprus—The United Grand Lodge of three years. However, in 2006 the and Fraternalism, and to celebrate the England has recognised the Grand Constitution was changed, to provide 130th anniversary of the National Lodge of Cyprus, on the that only the Grand Master and Grand Grand Lodge of Romania, the first of understanding that further English Treasurer should be elected (having a series of annual international lodges may still be chartered in been recommended as worthy conference will be held in the Cyprus in the future. [One wonders, candidates by the Board of General Transylvanian city of Sibiu will the Grand Lodge of Turkey seek Purposes), and all other officers are (Hermannstadt) on 23–26 September a similar accommodation with the appointed by the Grand Master. This 2010. The subject is ‘Freemasonry, Grand Lodge of Cyprus? See change did not sit well with some Fraternalism, and the Rise of the Idea Harashim issue #47] Cyprus is brethren, and in December 2009 the of Liberty in Eastern Europe and the recognised by the Grand Lodge of three senior lodges—M A Vassalli, Mediterranean Region’. In 2011, Greece, but not by the National Grand Abercorn & Fenici—quit the Freemasonry and Fraternalism are to Lodge of Greece, which has lodges in Sovereign Grand Lodge and formed be studied in the context of the Cyprus. To date, 68 Grand Lodges their own Grand Lodge of Malta. In region’s authoritarian and dictatorial recognise the Grand Lodge of Cyprus, addition to the rival Grand Lodges, regimes of the twentieth century. In which was formed in 2006. there are still English and Scottish 2012, the event is to focus on the lodges in Malta. rebirth of Freemasonry and Moldova—Circumstances Fraternalism in Eastern Europe after surrounding the formation of the 1989. In 2013, the meeting will deal Grand Lodge of Moldova in 1999 and with notions such as ‘regular’ and subsequent events have caused the ‘irregular’, ‘recognized’ and Commission on Information for ‘unrecognized’ in the field of Recognition of the Conference of freemasonry and fraternalism. Among Grand Masters in North America the speakers this year are: Thomas W (COGMINA) to vary its criteria for Jackson, executive secretary of the recommendation for recognition. In World Conference of Grand Lodges; 1993 the Grand Master of the Grand Prof Andrew Prescott; and the Orient of Italy quit the Grand Orient ubiquitous John Belton who will and formed the Regular Grand Lodge speak on ‘Revolutionary and Socialist of Italy (RGLI). The United Grand Fraternalism 1848–1870: London to Lodge of England (UGLE) and its the Italian Risorgimento’. The closest associates withdrew Institute’s website is: www.irsmf.ro recognition from the Grand Orient Panayiotis Michael Joannou and recognised the new Grand Lodge. GM Cyprus However, the majority of mainstream Grand Lodges, including those of Malta—The Sovereign Grand Lodge North America and Australia, of Malta was formed in 2004 by four continued to recognise the Grand Irish Lodges—M A Vassalli 387 Orient. In 1999, nine lodges in (1851), Abercorn 273 (1899), Fenici Moldova, chartered by the RGLI, 906 (1991) & Hospitaliers 931 formed the Grand Lodge of Moldova. (2004)—and one English lodge, The new Grand Lodge was Count Roger of Normandy 9265 recognised by most of the Grand (1988). Two further lodges were Lodges which recognised the RGLI, chartered in 2005, Ars Discendi & but not by American Grand Lodges. John Belton Flos Mundi. At its formation, the Subsequently, the Grand Lodge of Internet Lodge 9659 EC Grand Lodge had an elective system Moldova severed its ties with the (Continued on page 15)
Issue 51 page 11 Illustrated report of the 2009 ANZMRC Lecture Tour of New Zealand, continued from the April 2010 issue of Harashim. Peter Verrall in New Zealand
It had always been the procedure from the time of the Council’s original formation in 1992 that a travelling overseas international lecturer should visit all the research lodges in Australia in alternative years, and in New Zealand after they joined in 1996. These lecturers have included many famous Masonic scholars, such as John Hamill, Neville Barker Cryer, Cyril Batham, Yasha Beresiner and Jim Daniel from England, Bob Cooper from Scotland and Wallace McLeod from Canada, all members of the famous and exclusive Quatuor Coronati research lodge in London. In 2008 it was decided at the biennial conference in Queanbeyan (NSW) to move closer to home and to have a joint tour with an interchange between Australia and New Zealand. It was my privilege to be chosen as the Australian representative to visit New Zealand, and WBro Kerry Nicholls GS, from Feilding in New Zealand, was to visit Australia. Saturday 10 October initiation, before I was taken to Nelson I flew from Invercargill to Nelson, where airport to fly to Wellington. The weather I was met at the airport by VWBro Phil had been perfect, with clear blue skies Ivamy, Master of the new Top of the for the three days that I was there. South Research Lodge. He had Jo and I was met at Wellington Airport by Pat Hatwell staying with him, who had VWBro Keith Knox, Secretary of the recently purchased ‘The Masonic Research Lodge of Wellington, and he Exchange Limited’ and were meeting took me to a Moroccan restaurant for an with the person reconstructing their web enjoyable lunch. Afterwards we drove to page. We met them later that evening at the Grand Lodge of New Zealand offices dinner. and I met Laurence Milton, the Grand Secretary. I had a look at the new Sunday 11 October Motueka Bays lodge rooms, Library, Museum and Archive areas an old tobacco factory We had a nice walk past a fast flowing which were being set up in their new stream and a ford, then into the city for a building. Then we drove to Plimmerton cup of coffee near Nelson Cathedral, and I saw the place where I had lived for followed by a quiet day. about six months in 1953, in two old Monday 12 October caravans, and where the cinema and Phil and his wife Jesse had to work, so I shops were burnt to the ground one spent quite a lot of the day catching up night, just around the corner. It was the on my diary, etc. Later in the afternoon year of the Tangiwai train disaster. (I Phil and I donned our dinner suits and, was working for New Zealand Railways as the Top of the South Research Lodge at the time and would have been on that has a peripatetic charter allowing it to train to visit my parents in Tauranga if meet in any lodge room in the District, my wife had not been working on we took off for Motueka Bays lodge Christmas Eve.) From there we went to The lodge room, looking East (above) rooms. The building was originally Keith’s home, which has extensive and West (below) owned by the firm of WD & HO Wills views, and I met his wife, Gill. as their tobacco factory. Wednesday 14 October I was welcomed by the Master, Phil In the morning we drove to the lodge Ivamy, into the lodge room and rooms at Petone in the Hutt Valley and delivered my presentation ‘True and had a look at the refectory area for my Proper Signs’ in the third degree to an Hiram Abif sketch. We returned in the audience of 28 brethren. There was quite late afternoon in pouring rain. I set up a discussion afterwards with regard to my laptop but no digital projector was signs, and one of the brethren presented forthcoming, as the Junior Warden from me with a lapel badge from the Indiana Otaki had forgotten to bring it, but after Freemasons. After the meeting in the several phone calls one was obtained. refectory the ubiquitous Hiram Abif The start of the meeting was delayed appeared again. Prior to the lodge because of the inclement weather, which meeting, one of the brethren asked if I affected the attendance, which was 20 knew a surveyor in Nelson called Mike brethren. We all entered the lodge Verrall, who was about to be initiated together as it was a special meeting. The into their lodge. I did not recall the name Master, WBro Ian Lawson— until I spoke to him on the phone and incidentally, a PM of my mother lodge found that he was the son of the late Matakana in Rotorua—extended a WBro John Verrall, a PM of Avon welcome to me and I spoke on ‘Numbers Lodge in Christchurch, another cousin. and their Masonic Significance’. In the Tuesday 13 October refectory afterwards, RWBro Murray I managed to meet Mike Verrall for a Alford proposed my health and short time and wished him well for his presented me with two books, New Presentation of an Indiana Masonic pin page 12 Harashim Zealand Landscapes and A History of where a Rose Croix meeting was in Wellington Cathedral of St Paul. Hiram progress. I soon found out that the large Abif duly arrived on time, to the number of cars present did not mean that amusement of the brethren. a large crowd had turned out to meet me! My host, WBro Norm Robson, Master of Thursday 15 October the Research Lodge of Ruapehu, arrived Keith Knox dropped me at the airport at soon afterwards and took me to his 10 AM and came into the terminal at house in Feilding (home town of my Wellington to see that I checked in for fellow touring lecturer Kerry Nicholls), my flight to New Plymouth. I went to where I met Norm’s wife, Bernie. the departure area and, while having a We drove back to the lodge rooms in cup of coffee, I thought I heard the name Palmerston North in the evening, where Grand Secretary Laurence Milton and ‘New Plymouth’ and the word Peter Verrall at Wellington there was no official lodge meeting for ‘cancellation’ mentioned. On checking, I my visit. This was the first venue where found I was correct and had to retrieve ladies were present. The total attendance my bag and check in again for a flight of 22 comprised four ladies and 18 departing at 4.45 PM. Nearly 7 hours of brethren. The attendance was less than waiting! I rang the Secretary of the they had expected but it was a Saturday Research Lodge of Taranaki and asked night and again pouring with rain. I him to advise my host, WBro Roger delivered my presentation ‘Doors in Gregory WM, of my impending lateness. Freemasonry’ in the refectory, with After we had taken off, the captain was discussion afterwards. This was followed full of apologies that we might still not by my usual Hiram Abif sketch which be able to land because of the low fog created a loud gasp from one of the The large candlesticks in the Irish lodge but that, in his words, he would ‘give it a ladies when he appeared. The WM gave room at New Plymouth, used by the go’. Anyway, we were able to land about Research Lodge of Taranaki him a royal welcome, to which Hiram 6 PM; Roger was there to meet me and replied with a gracious act of obeisance. we drove to his home. He had invited his The festive board spread was excellent. friend Peter Coombe and his wife Heather, and Roger cooked us a very Sunday 18 October nice dinner. We returned to the lodge rooms in the morning, where there was a Divisional Friday 16 October Meeting with a large attendance. After We drove to the lodge rooms owned by morning tea we went into the lodge room the Irish lodge. I was impressed with the and RWBro Wally Plank introduced the three large candlesticks on the VSL new Divisional Grand Master and four pedestal at the east end of the mosaic District Grand Masters. The main pavement. I was welcomed by Roger and discussion was about the ‘Live Life the meeting was quite informal. The Lighter’; campaign to reduce weight by attendance of 30 brethren was very good, what you ate and exercise. It was considering the very heavy rain. As my supported by the cancer, diabetes and presentation ‘The Entered Apprentice at heart organisations. After an excellent Work’ requires the assistance of brethren lunch we listened to RWBro Greg from the lodge, I met my cast earlier for Goding from Queensland, who spoke a rehearsal; VWBro Graeme Thompson about the increase in young members in acted as Narrator, VWBro Peter Harvey their area and how they went about as Director of Ceremonies, Bro Matt getting them. Afterwards VWBro Colin Capon as Junior Deacon, WBro Bill Heyward, Secretary of Hawke’s Bay Workman as Senior Deacon and Bro Research Lodge and also of the Sam Bennett as the Candidate. I found Australian and New Zealand Masonic that we needed to make some variations Research Council, drove me to his home in the perambulations because the VSL in Waipawa via Dannevirke and (Above) WM Roger Gregory welcoming was in a different position than in Waipukerau. Peter Verrall to the Research Lodge of Western Australian lodges. There was Taranaki plenty of discussion afterwards and I Monday 19 October (Below) Peter Verrall with three EAs and two newly-raised MMs was photographed with the three Entered In the morning we drove to the lodge Apprentices and two newly raised rooms in Hastings and set up the Master Masons who were in attendance. projector, etc, ready for the meeting. We returned in the evening and I presented Saturday 17 October ‘Delivery of the Ritual’ to the 17 It was a fine sunny day when Roger brethren and five ladies, and the Hiram drove me from New Plymouth to Abif sketch, in the refectory as there was Palmerston North and we had a pleasant no special meeting. After supper, drive through Wanganui and Sanson. We VWBro Tony Israel, who was a WM in stopped en route for morning tea and Taupo at the same time as I was in looked over the countryside. We arrived at the lodge rooms soon after midday, (Continued on page 14) Issue 51 page 13 New Zealand
(Continued from page 13) Rotorua, drove me back to his home in Taupo, arriving just after midnight. Tuesday 20 October During the day, I had the opportunity to see around Tony and Kathy’s new large home with extensive views over Lake The festive board spread at Palmerston North Taupo and the neighbouring countryside. the new Masonic Centre in Newmarket. We drove to Rotorua and at the lodge The lodge room had all the latest rooms met WBro Charles Miller, technology, with built-in screen, Secretary of the Waikato Lodge of bracketed projector, sound system, etc. Research, and WBro Terry Verrall, Unfortunately nobody present knew how another distant relative of mine who had to work it. Eventually somebody who driven over from Mount Maunganui. was conversant with it arrived and I was Tony then drove me to Lynmore to my able to try out the sound system, much to next hosts, Don and Anne Speedy; Don the surprise of the Companions standing was also a contemporary WM with us. in the Chapter room. For my presentation of ‘Amateur The Chapter opened and carried out Dramatics in Masonry’ I had their business before receiving visiting endeavoured over many weeks to A Divisional meeting in the lodge room at Companions and finally the Deputy Palmerston North provide movie clips with sound from my Grand Master of New Zealand, RWBro stage production ‘Four Faces of Neil Ingram, who kindly invited me to Freemasonry’ (which had been accompany him into the Chapter, where performed on an international stage in we were received by VEComp Hans Perth in 1996 before an audience of 1400 Kracke, First Principal, with the First Freemasons, their wives and friends). I Grand Principal, MEComp Graham experienced trouble with the sound Pengelly, present. We remained while transfer and eventually sent the DVD to the Chapter was closed and the other Michael Leon, at the Grand Lodge of brethren were then admitted, including New Zealand in Wellington, who was WBro Kerry Nicholls who had able to provide them for me when I completed the Australian leg of the tour. called in there earlier on my tour. Fifty Companions and Brethren were Unfortunately the screen, the present, the highest attendance of any of projector and, more importantly, the Colin Heyward’s home at Waipawa my meetings. I then delivered my final sound system did not arrive until we presentation, RWBro David Ganon’s were due to go into the lodge room, so I ‘Ark of the Covenant’, with full sound, had no idea whether the clips were which was well received. In the refectory successful. As the Foundation Master of afterwards, RWBro Neil Ingram DGM the lodge, I had the rare opportunity and mentioned the minefield through which the pleasure of filing in at the end of the he had travelled to be present that procession of other Past Masters. The evening but said how pleased he was to lodge was duly opened for the Special be at such a joint meeting of Freemasons Meeting and visitors, including myself, and Companions. The First Principal were duly welcomed by the Master, presented me with a Royal Arch tie and WBro John Lever. We then retired to the the evening was rounded off with the refectory where I delivered my final appearance of Hiram Abif. presentation to an audience of 30 The lodge room at Hastings brethren and six ladies. Tuesday 27 October 2009 My flight left Auckland just after 2 PM Wednesday to Sunday, 21–25 October and my wife was at the airport to meet I spent the time with my family in me. The plane was late leaving, so our Auckland and caught up with my great- arrival time was about 7 PM. grandson, who was two years old last November. Summary Monday 26 October So ended a remarkable experience which Later in the day, my granddaughter took I will always remember. Having lived in me to the Aarangi Motel in St Heliers, New Zealand for some 38 years, I had where VEComp Hans Kracke, First already experienced a lot of the lovely Principal of the Research Chapter of scenery. What was not expected was the New Zealand, had booked me in for the most outstanding and memorable night. Hans picked me up and took me to hospitality. The friendships that were The Rotorua lodge rooms, above a shop page 14 Harashim engendered within only a few hours of meeting could only occur in an organisation such as Freemasonry. I found that after staying two nights with a brother and in most situations their partners, I wanted to stay on to develop that friendship rather than move on to another stranger. But as soon as I changed hosts, the same feelings were again in evidence. I thank the Freemasons of New Zealand and their partners most sincerely for making my tour a pleasure. I thank you for turning out in the freezing cold, in pouring rain, on a World News Friday and Saturday night and, above all, on a different night from your (Continued from page 11) Canonbury Masonic Research normal meetings. Turkey—Readers will recall that in Centre—The 12th CMRC Conference On my part, I hope that my October 2009 the Grand Lodge of will be held in London on 30–31 presentations have helped you, Brethren, Turkey held a symposium in Ankara at October, on Anti-Masonry, including to make your ‘daily progress in Masonic which papers were given in English lectures by Prof Hagemeister (Munich) knowledge’. We all have different and Turkish, that were to be published on the Protocols of the Elders of Zion, interests at different levels of Masonic in both languages in 2010 (Harashim Prof Ferrer Benimeli (Spain) on knowledge. Let me remind you that in #49). There may be a slight delay in Franco’s persecution of Freemasonry, the Foreword to my section of the Tour publication, since one of the two and Prof Prescott (Glasgow) on John Book, and in my flyer, I mentioned that translators, Economics Professor Robison (1739–1805). See www. the theme for my tour was ‘A Better Mehmet Remzi Sanver, was elected canonbury.ac.uk/. Understanding of Freemasonry’. It Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Sheffield University—Activities of the stems from a wish to disseminate Turkey in May this year. At the age of Centre for Research into Freemasonry information on the basics of 39, that is quite an achievement. and Fraternalism have been suspended Freemasonry to as many Freemasons as and their website is ‘hibernating’. It possible. If you were one of the 266 would be a wise move for researchers Freemasons or 15 ladies who attended to download any papers legally my presentations and can remember one downloadable before the website piece of information that I mentioned, disappears. then my visit was not in vain. www.freemasonry.dept.shef.ac.uk/ Finally my special thanks to two of our brethren without whose help this Cornerstone Society—The website of tour would not have been possible. I the Cornerstone Society also appears refer firstly to our hard working to be in hibernation, and the same ANZMRC Secretary in New Zealand, advice is offered. Prof M Remzi Sanver www.cornerstonesociety.com/ Colin Heyward, who had the task of the GM, Turkey whole organisation of the two tours and USA the individual arrangements with the 12 South-East Asia Ohio and West Virginia—PGM Frank research lodges in Australia and the 10 Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand— Haas, expelled from the mainstream research lodges and the research chapter The Irish Provincial Grand Lodge for Grand Lodge of West Virginia, (see in New Zealand. Secondly to the South East Asia was scheduled to be Harashim, issue #44) moved to ANZMRC Assistant Editor in Australia, consecrated at Kuala Lumpur on 23 Steubenville, Ohio. After a year of Alan Gale, for his skill in designing and July, incorporating the three Irish residency, he petitioned Steubenville compiling the excellent 242-page lodges in Malaysia (Emerald-in-the- Lodge #45 for membership; the ballot colour-illustrated tour book containing East, Harmony & Shamrock-in- was clear, and the Grand Lodge of the 26 presentations available for Penang), the two in Singapore (St Ohio, fully aware of all the delivery in both countries. Patrick & Lion of Erin) and the two in circumstances, approved the ballot. Thailand (Songkhla & Morakot). The Bro Haas received all three degrees in various websites have yet to be Steubenville Lodge on 17 April 2010. amended to confirm the happy Two days later the Grand Lodge of occasion. Australia West Virginia severed fraternal UK relations with the Grand Lodge of Ohio, by GM’s edict. Three days after Owing to lack of space, Quatuor Coronati Lodge—PDF files that, the GM of Ohio (a lawyer and continuation of WBro Kerry of AQC vols 1-117 are available on former police officer) referred the three CDs, and an index to vols 1-120 Nicholls’ report on his Australian matter to the member Grand Lodges of is also on CD. Check them out at the Conference of Grand Masters of tour has been held over for the www.quatuorcoronati.com/books. next issue of Harashim. html. (Continued on page 16) Issue 51 page 15 lodges) in Iceland. It is named Snorri, after Snorri Sturluson (1179–1241), an Icelandic historian, poet and politician, who wrote many of the Sagas and other historical and literary treasures that came from Iceland in the Middle Ages. The foundation meeting, attended by 209 brethren, was opened by the Grand Master and Grand Officers. After the lodge had been founded the new Master and Officers were lead into their offices and took their stations. Then the tracing board was carried in. Guests included the Master of World News Frederich Munter Lodge and a Past Master of Ecleff, which are research (Continued from page 15) basis that it would constitute ‘having lodges in Denmark and Sweden North America. West Virginia is the communication and Masonic respectively. The lodge received many only US mainstream Grand Lodge intercourse with clandestine lodges gifts, including an official invitation to that is not a member of the and members of clandestine lodges’ partake in Acta Masonica Scandinavica, Conference. In his referral to the in breach of Masonic law. the yearly transactions of the Nordic Conference, GM Terry Posey (Ohio) Florida—The Florida Mason (vol 3 research lodges. listed ten reforms that PGM Haas had #1) lists proposed changes of Membership of Snorri Lodge will be introduced in West Virginia during legislation to come before the Annual open to all Master Masons in Iceland and his year as Grand Master, which had Communication of the mainstream other Masonic jurisdictions recognised been approved in open lodge, and Grand Lodge of Florida, 29 May–1 by Iceland. The new lodge is based on then disallowed by edict of his June 2010, including a proposal by the same model as the other successor. Bro Haas’s law suit for three members of Solomon Lodge Scandinavian research lodges, some of reinstatement in West Virginia is still #20 that the Grand Lodge recognise which allow corresponding members. before the Court, with a hearing the Union Grand Lodge of Florida Annual membership dues are ISK 5000 scheduled for late July. (PHA). The full wording of the per annum (about AU$46). The lodge Arkansas—The refusal of the proposal is listed, followed by the will meet three times a year, anywhere in mainstream Grand Lodge of Arkansas words ‘Jurisprudence recommends Iceland. to recognise the Prince Hall Grand rejection’. The new Grand Master has A Latin motto has been chosen for the Lodge of Arkansas has been extended adopted the motto ‘Masons always lodge: sub columna sapientiae (under the to motor vehicle licence plates. In rise to the occasion’; the website lists column of wisdom). As is customary, the 2009 the Prince Hall Grand Lodge resolutions which were adopted, but new lodge has a shield; it bears an Ionic arranged for licence plates to be does not mention the fate of the column between the Greek letters Alpha available indicating that the vehicle recognition proposal—a case of ‘No and Omega, on a blue background. owner was a Freemason—no mention news is bad news’. Union Grand of Grand Lodge, just the square and Lodge voted to recognise the compasses and the word ‘Freemason’. mainstream Grand Lodge several Part of the fee for the plates would go years ago, subject to agreement by the to a charity chosen by the Prince Hall mainstream Grand Lodge. Grand Lodge. In February 2010 the Grand Master of the mainstream Icelandic Research Lodge Grand Lodge of Arkansas sent a letter (reported by Richard Num) to the secretary of each lodge in his Iceland has its first lodge of research, jurisdiction, forbidding all members consecrated on 9 April 2010, number 14 from obtaining such plates on the on the list of St John’s lodges (Craft Richard Num
Conference Plus Local News in brief
(continued from page 1) Name change: ANZMRC associate member the Sunshine The conference will conclude on Monday with two Coast Masonic Study Circle has changed its name to Sunshine Kellerman Lectures and the biennial general meeting. Coast Masonic Forum, but still meets at Maroochydore, But the organisers have additional attractions planned Queensland. The Secretary is WBro Vernon Fludd, PO Box during the conference for partners of the registrants, and before 5208 SCMC, Nambour, Queensland 4560, Australia, phone and after the conference for everyone interested, including a (+61 7) 5476 0615, email: [email protected]. daylight lodge meeting on Thursday 2 September and a three- Congratulations to ANZMRC affiliate member the Research day wildflower tour starting Tuesday 7 September. Lodge of Southland 415 NZC, which celebrates its golden Further information is available from Kevin St Jack by jubilee in August this year. email: [email protected]. page 16 Harashim Harashim
The Quarterly Newsletter of the Australian & New Zealand Masonic Research Council
ISSN 1328-2735 Issue 52 October 2010
The 10th Biennial Conference Part 1—official report by Colin Heyward
Congratulations were deservedly transport, accommodation, venues, Lodge of Research in Mandurah’s bestowed upon the Western Australian meetings, dinners and lunches were all Freemason’s Centre. The first of the two organisers of the Tenth Biennial covered without a hitch. Mandurah 2010 guest keynote speakers, WBro Yasha Conference held in the coastal city of was an outstanding success – well done, Beresiner, launched the Conference with Mandurah over the four days of well- Western Australia! an enthralling tale of early London, planned activities in that first week of The Grand Master for Western posing the question ‘Was Jack the September. RWBro David Ganon and Australia, MWBro Frank Hayes, Ripper a Freemason?’ Bro Beresiner’s his team certainly looked after the officiated at the opening of the talk was given to about one hundred and visitors from not only Australia Conference that took place after a twenty brethren and ladies as part of the (interstate and local) and New Zealand, meeting of the Western Australian dinner proceedings after the research but also from Thailand and England. The (Continued on page 13)
The Stayers: of the 171 registrants for the conference, these are the ones with stamina, who turned up for the fourth and final day. Issue 52 All conference photos used in this issue are courtesy of Dick D’Abreu and Peter pageVerrall 1 About Harashim Harashim, Hebrew for Craftsmen, is a quarterly newsletter published by the President’s Corner Australian and New Zealand Masonic Research Council (10 Rose St, Waipawa 4210, New Zealand) in January, April, July and work is still to be done to see if they October each year. are feasible. Future issues of Harashim It is supplied to Affiliates and Associates will bring them to the forefront as they in hard copy and/or PDF format. It is available worldwide in PDF format as an can be listed. email attachment, upon application to the One of the outstanding events of the Asst. Secretary, [email protected]. Conference was the election of Usually the current issue is also displayed on RWBro Peter Verrall as a Fellow of the website of the Grand Lodge of Tasmania http://www.freemasonrytasmania.org/. the ANZMRC. Well deserved, Peter! In Scouting terms, Bravo! I also Copyright and reprinting Copyright is vested in ANZMRC and the welcome David Ganon and Ed author of any article appearing in Harashim. Robinson to the Committee, and am Affiliates and Associates are encouraged to looking forward to working with Alan reprint the entire newsletter (at their own Gale as our new Editor. I must also expense) and circulate it to their own members, including their correspondence circles (if any) thank Tony Pope for his many years of and to supply copies to public and Masonic As my first comment in the role of servitude as Editor; we have many libraries within their jurisdictions. president I cannot go past the standard joint experiences over those years. Individual items from any issue may be of organisation for our tenth Other matters from the General reprinted by Associates and Affiliates, provided: Conference. To Peter Verrall, David Meeting were that overseas Associates The item is reprinted in full; The name of the author and the source of the Gannon, Kevin St Jack and all the would have their fees reduced, article are included; and other members of the organising commensurate with the service we can A copy of the publication containing the Committee I award my personal ‘Gold give them. We always welcome reprint is sent to the editor. Medal’ for a job well done. overseas visitors, and on this occasion Anyone else wishing to reprint material from Harashim must first obtain permission from the Others may write of perceived (in addition to Yasha) we also had a copyright holders via the editor. flaws, but for me the organisation was contingent from Thailand, led by Jim Unless otherwise specified, authors spot on. I spent a total of 14 days in Soutar who was an invited Guest submitting original work for publication in Perth and Mandurah (Mandra, in WA- Speaker. He claimed that the rest of Harashim are deemed to grant permission for speak) and the treatment given to me the team were sent by his wife to make their work to be published also on the Internet websites of ANZMRC http//anzmrc.org and the by all I dealt with was in keeping with sure he didn’t stray. Grand Lodge of Tasmania: my comments in the V-P’s notes I Ed Robinson from Wellington has http://www.freemasonrytasmania.org/. wrote for Harashim when Peter done a colossal job in creating a Contents Verrall was on the speaking tour of Digital Library of the published work Affiliate and Associate members are encouraged New Zealand. of member lodges who have agreed to to contribute material for the newsletter, One of the best parts of attending have their work listed. We hope in the including: Their lecture programs for the year; our Conferences is the catching up New Year to have Henderson & Any requests from their members for with long-time friends. In the main we Pope’s Freemasonry Universal added information on a research topic; only meet physically every two years, to the list. Research papers of more than local interest but the bond of Masonic Brotherhood We do need some mirror sites for that merit wider publication. has become a very personal friendship: the Library, currently hosted by the The newsletter also includes news, reports from ANZMRC, book reviews, extracts from other people like Yasha Beresiner, Tony Grand Lodge of New Zealand. I publications and a readers’ letters column, from Pope, Graham Stead, Colin Heyward, understand the United Grand Lodge of time to time. Ed Robinson, Kent Henderson, the list New South Wales and the Australian If the source of an item is not identified, it is could fill this page. The memories of Capital Territory had agreed to be the by the editor. Opinions expressed are those of the author of the article, and should not be attributed the shared activities would fill this Australian mirror, and one perhaps in to the Council. entire issue, and all of them good. the Northern hemisphere would not go Material submitted for publication must be in Having attended every Conference astray. I thank Bro Michael Leon, a digitised form by email or mailed on a CD or except the first one, and having had GLNZ webmaster, for his assistance in DVD, addressed to the editor, Alan Gale, PO Box 619, Victoria Park, WA 6979, Australia, some job concerning the running of the this and other projects. [email protected]. Council since 1996, the first Perth We could also use more volunteers Clear illustrations, diagrams and Conference, I feel extremely honoured with the technical know-how to photographic prints suitable for scanning are to be elected your President. maintain and expand this library. If welcome, and most computer graphic (IBM) formats are acceptable. Photos of contributors The next two years will be a you feel you could be useful, talk to (preferably not in regalia) would be useful. personal challenge for me. I have some Ed Robinson
The Development of the Craft in England in the Last Century by Yasha Beresiner
Introduction other reason than that it was fashionable A review of Freemasonry in England in to do so. the last century is a subject for an entire book. In accepting this invitation to Women (1902) review the period within the context of a It was in this first decade of the 20th limited article, the only logical method is century that Britain witnessed the to select some dates of importance in the emergence of Freemasonry among past 110 years, emphasizing, briefly, the women. Following on the initiation in significance and consequence of the France in 1882 of Mlle Maria Deraismes historic events as they occurred in a (1828–1894), the distinguished feminist chronologic sequence. author, and the subsequent foundation in 1889 of the Droit Humain, the Royalty (1901) International Order of Co-Masonry, The year 1901 is an apt start in this London consecrated Human Duty Lodge chronology. It was the end of the reign, No 6 in 1902. The new and first co- for more than a quarter of a century, of a Masonic body in Britain had the famed Grand Master whose popularity had Duke of Connaught (1850–1942), his Mrs Annie Besant (1847–1933) as its brought the Craft into fashion and brother, initiated in 1874 in the Prince of first Grand Commander. It has always prominence. Albert Edward, Prince of Wales Lodge No 259, was installed as remained closely associated with the Wales (1841–1910), to be crowned King Grand Master in the Royal Albert Hall, Theosophical Society, founded in 1875. Edward VII, was initiated in Stockholm serving until 1939. As recently as March 2010, the Order in 1868 by Prince Oscar, future King of consecrated a lodge in central London. Sweden. In 1874 Edward was made Churchill (1901) In 1908 the Honourable Fraternity of Grand Master of the United Grand It was within this ambiance of popularity Ancient Masonry, under the guidance of Lodge of England (hereafter referred to that Winston Leonard Spencer-Churchill the Rev Dr William Cobb (1857–1941), as the UGLE) and his dedication to the (1874–1965) was initiated into the seceded, soon changing its name to the Craft and personal fun-loving approach Studholme Lodge No 1591 on 24 May Order of Women Freemasons, which, as to life made Freemasonry a stylish 1901. He came from a family of the name suggests, was restricted to pursuit. Britain as a whole, in this first Freemasons: Lord Henry John Spencer- women alone. The current Grand Master, decade of the 20th century, was enjoying Churchill (1797–1840), the 4th son of MWBro Brenda Fleming-Taylor, a sense of prosperity, even invincibility, the 5th Duke of Marlborough, became presided at the centenary celebrations of and Freemasonry swept along in the Deputy Grand Master in 1835. the Order in London in June 2008 at the same vein. Notwithstanding the drop in Winston’s father, Lord Randolph Royal Albert Hall. There were no fewer lodge membership following the Churchill (1849–1895), and his uncle, than 4000 Brethren of the Order present. Masonic independence of Australia and Randolph’s elder brother, George Another breakaway group, also restricted Canada, Freemasonry prospered, with Charles Spencer-Churchill (1844–1892) to women alone, was named The many Royals and aristocrats joining the the Marquis of Blandford, were both Honourable Fraternity of Ancient Craft. initiated in the Churchill Lodge in 1871. Freemasons and consecrated in 1913. It was nothing new. In 1737 Frederick Finally, Charles Richard John Spencer- The first Grand Master was Mrs Lewis, Prince of Wales (1707–1751), Churchill (1871–1934) 9th Duke of Elizabeth Boswell-Reid, who held the was the first member of the royal family Marlborough, and first cousin of Office until 1933 and was succeeded by to be initiated by Dr Desaguliers (1683– Winston, was initiated on 7 May 1894, her daughter, Mrs Lily Seton Challen. 1744) at Kew Palace. His younger aged 21. It is therefore not surprising that The present Grand Master is MWBro brother, William Augustus, Duke of Churchill should follow in the family Sheila Norden. The continued charitable Cumberland (1721–1765), was initiated tradition, even if his interest in the Craft contributions of these feminine orders in a military lodge in Belgium just six was far from enthusiastic. He never went are admirable and impressive. years later, in 1743, and an array of beyond his status as a Master Mason and The UGLE at first saw these bodies as members of the Royal family have resigned in October 1911, on being irregular. Several applications made to patronised our mysteries since. The appointed First Lord of the Admiralty. Grand Lodge by the Order of Women newly crowned King become the Grand Churchill’s membership is reflective of a Freemasons were refused. Only in 1998 Protector of the Order – as Queen large number of prominent men joining did the UGLE, still refusing to give them Elizabeth II is today – and HRH Arthur, the Craft due to expectation or for no (Continued on page 4)
Issue 52 page 3 (Continued from page 3) these splits when, in 1913, the last lodge camps have been well recorded. They any recognition, formally admit that The of the Grand Lodge of Wigan rejoined cover the Napoleonic Wars and continue Order of Women Freemasons and The the UGLE. Following on the foundation to the 20th century. The military record Honourable Fraternity of Ancient of the premier Grand Lodge in 1717, as of serving and fallen Brethren is a matter Freemasons were regular in practice early as 1725 – a date that remains of pride and well commemorated by the (with the sole exception of their gender). controversial to this day – a Grand institution. Lodge of All England at York was In 1911 members of the Malmesbury Masonic Ranking System (1908) founded. It is generally agreed that the Lodge No 3156 first began to consider a An interesting and important body and its daughter lodges, warranted Masonic Nursing Home and in 1916 they development in the London area in the in the North of England, had all died out purchased a property in Fulham, West first decade of the 20th century was the by 1792. In 1751 the formation of what London, and, appropriately, named it the institution of the new London Rank. became known as The Grand Lodge of Freemasons' War Hospital and Nursing From time immemorial, so to speak, and England According to the Old Home. The establishment dedicated itself until October 2003, London Masons Institutions (or Antients) kept to the treatment and welfare of maintained a unique status by being Freemasonry split for more than six servicemen wounded in the various directly responsible to the Grand Master. decades, culminating in the Union of theatres of war. The impetus thus given This was in stark contrast to their 1813. Another major split occurred in to what was intended as an initial Provincial colleagues, where power 1777. Several Brethren of the Lodge of temporary facility led to the formal rested with the Provincial Grand Master Antiquity (now No 2) under the opening of the Royal Masonic Hospital and allegiance to him led to rewards of leadership of their immediate Past by King George V and Queen Mary on Provincial honours based on a Master, the Edinburgh-born well known 12 July 1933. It was enthusiastically progressive system for which there was Masonic scholar William Preston (1742– supported by the Fraternity and went no equivalent in London. Perhaps the 1818), seceded from the premier Grand from success to success. It was soon great privilege of immediate access to Lodge (or Moderns). They formed the recognised for its excellence in all the Grand Master was thought to be Grand Lodge of England South of the aspects of medical care and sufficient. Nonetheless, in 1908 the River Trent, returning to the fold in rehabilitation, including a sophisticated establishment of the London Rank was a 1789. Finally, following the Union in training school for nurses. welcome compensation to bring London 1813, trouble began to brew in The hospital was functioning at its Masons, to some limited extent, in line Lancashire, in the North of England. In peak when the Second World War broke with their Provincial colleagues. Full 1821, Lodge No 31 of Liverpool was out. Once more the hospital successfully compensation and effective equality suspended for their refusal to accept and catered for over 8000 soldiers who were came with the establishment of the obey the authority of the UGLE. A year treated and rehabilitated in the premises. Metropolitan Grand Lodge of London in later the lodge was erased for having Following the war, however, with the October 2003. continued to meet while under establishment of the National Health The Grand Rank system, that is the suspension. As a result, Lodge No 31, Service in 1948, the fortunes of all the ‘national’ awards granted to Masons in together with Sincerity Lodge No 486 of hospitals in the country began to decline. England, remains unique. At the Union Wigan and a few members of Friendship The Royal Masonic Hospital was no in 1813, the right of nomination of all Lodge No 44 of Manchester, set up the exception. A successful appeal to the Grand Officers was vested in the Grand Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Brethren in 1960 was well supported, but Master. Grand Officers are still Masons of England According to the Old sadly did not suffice to allow the hospital appointed annually and invested by the Constitutions, popularly referred to as to maintain the very high standards that Grand Master or his representative at an the Grand Lodge of Wigan. They had had been established in the past. Annual Festival in April. The award of time to constitute six daughter lodges, Furthermore, one perennial problem, ‘past rank’ was an English innovation, before John Mort was elected their last namely the location of the hospital in initially very sparingly awarding grand Grand Master in 1886. He was an active London, surfaced again. Families who honours and yet not requiring the holder member of Sincerity Lodge, now No 1, had to travel long distances and incur to have previously held active office. It the only remaining lodge on the register high overnight expenses in support of the allowed the recognition of long and of the Wigan Grand Lodge. Mort sick members of their family were faithful service to the Craft by many who insisted on the continuity of the status of critical of its location. could not be accommodated within the a Grand Lodge, which thus persisted for The remainder of this story is tragic. limited number of available active Grand another quarter of a century, before In his 1973 report, RWBro Mr Justice Ranks. Today, though tensions are raised finally returning to the fold of the UGLE Bagnell indicated that the hospital could at times, the processes of in 1913. We have not looked back since. not continue to function as a general recommendation and selection continue hospital, and by the 1980s the hospital annually, having been tried and tested Wartime Hospital (1916) was making heavy losses. In September and operated relatively impartially over When war broke out in August 1914 and 1984 the report of the Committee of the years. Freemasons were called to arms, they Enquiry which had been set up under the followed in a long-established Masonic Chairmanship of the Rt Hon Sir Maurice Return to the Fold (1913) military tradition. The earliest recorded Drake – coincidentally and fittingly, a England saw several splits and lodges outside of England are attributed member of Malmesbury Lodge – breakaways since the inception of the to Military lodges who met on foreign identified a buyer for the hospital and premier Grand Lodge in 1717. At one land and even on board ships, under the recommended a sale. To the dismay of stage we had four Grand Lodges running authority of their ‘Travelling Warrant’. many Brethren, this was rejected at simultaneously. The 20th century Meetings held by Brethren under the Grand Lodge in October 1984. The brought to a happy ending the last of adverse conditions of prisoner-of-war hospital finally went into liquidation in
page 4 Harashim 1996, following an extended period of 250th Anniversary (1967) temptation, notwithstanding the totally controversy and acrimony. The functions In England, charity is the pivot on which overt nature of the celebrations, to of the hospital are today filled by the Freemasonry rotates, and it is rich in its broadcast a covert strip of film depicting New Samaritan Fund and patients are history and traditions. The concept, the ceremony of initiation. now treated near their homes. however, remains particular to British Freemasonry, as practiced by the Grand A Major Review (1971) Freemasons’ Hall (1933) Lodges of the United Kingdom. It is not The many aspects of the charitable face In the three years following the end of emulated by European and other Grand of Freemasonry, which developed and the First World War in November 1918, Lodges, certainly not to the same extent. surfaced over the last two centuries, some 350 new lodges were consecrated European Freemasonry does not have a reached a climax in 1971. A committee in England. The founders consisted of centralised body coordinating or was set up by the Grand Master, to be servicemen who sought continuity of the administering charitable affairs. Each chaired by the Hon Mr Justice Bagnell, camaraderie they had enjoyed during lodge makes its own decision as to the to consider the rationalising of existing their difficult wartime service. distribution of charitable donations, Masonic charities, in the light of recent In 1919 a decision was taken to erect which are usually directed at non- development of the Welfare State and a Masonic Peace Memorial, honouring Masonic institutions or events. In the now active and accessible provision the 3225 Brethren who fell in the war. America, for instance, organisations of social security. Following exhaustive This was to become our present beyond the Craft, the Shriners being a enquiries, the committee published their Freemasons' Hall. The foundation stone primary example, place emphasis on care ‘Bagnell Report’ on 29 April 1974. It was laid by the Duke of Connaught, in the community with hands-on was well received and accepted by the Grand Master, on 14 June 1927 and the activities more in the style of Rotarians Grand Master, who set up a steering Hall was completed and dedicated in than English Freemasons. committee to implement the 1933. It was the third hall built on the The long-standing English tradition of recommendations. The historic context same site. The first consisted of two charitable giving was manifest in the for the dramatic changes that were now adjoining houses purchased in 1774 by 250th anniversary of Grand Lodge, to take place reverted to the Union of the the premier Grand Lodge. The architect celebrated on 14 June 1967 at the Royal Antients and Moderns in 1813. The appointed to amalgamate the houses with Albert Hall in London. The centrepiece general funds of both Grand Lodges a Grand Hall between them was Bro of the celebrations was the installation of were combined into a Board of Thomas Sandby (1721–1798). The our present Grand Master, HRH Prince Benevolence and Charity, which resulting building had the Freemasons’ Edward, Duke of Kent, grandson of continued as the predominant priority of Tavern as a frontage. Considerable George V and thus first cousin to Queen the newly formed United Grand Lodge structural changes took place after the Elizabeth II. A 250th Anniversary Fund of England. In January 1981, the original Union in 1813, when the Duke of Sussex was created in 1967 by the contribution Fund of Benevolence, which could trace invited his friend, the famous architect of of £1 per head by all members of the its roots to 1720, became the the Bank of England, Sir John Soane Craft to commemorate the founding of independent Grand Charity. It was given (1753–1837), to add extensions to the the Grand Lodge of England in 1717. its own President, Council and building. Having submitted his proposals The purpose of the Fund was to assist the Committees, and continues today the as a layman, John Soane was soon Royal College of Surgeons of England, most senior of the charities. Its annual initiated, passed and raised on the same to establish an annual grant for research donations (exceeding £6.8 million in day, and given the rank of Past Grand into the science of surgery. The fund, 2008) are dispensed equally within and Superintendent of Works, to add a supported by additional income, initially without Freemasonry. The Royal Masonic dimension to the respect he raised in excess of £500,000. The Masonic Institution for Girls (RMIG), very much enjoyed as an architect. When income from the fund is administered by founded by Chevalier Bartholomew Bro Frederick Cockerell (1833–1878) a body of trustees in Grand Lodge who Ruspini in 1788, and the Royal Masonic built the second Masons’ Hall in the make direct donations to the Royal Institution for Boys (RMIB), 1860s he incorporated Sandby’s original College of Surgeons. The total paid to amalgamated in 1986 to form the Royal Grand Hall of 1775 into his building and, date by the UGLE to the Royal College Masonic Trust for Girls and Boys. Today sadly, much of John Soane’s work was of Surgeons is £3.9 million (Euros 4.5 only the independent Masonic School for replaced. In 1908 the edifice was million). This is an outstanding and Girls survives, highly successfully. It demolished to allow the building of the excellent example of the application of provides for the education of all children present impressive Freemasons’ Hall. Masonic charity in England. Twenty-five and grand children of Freemasons up to The art deco architecture of the years on, on 10 June 1992, some 12,500 University level. It is responsible for building, its Grand Temple and stylised Freemasons and their guests gathered at over 1600 young people, involving also lodge rooms, the Museum and Library of West London’s Earls Court, to celebrate children with no Masonic connections. Freemasonry which it houses, are all a the 275th anniversary of Grand Lodge. source of great pride to all English For the first time press and television Openness (1983) Freemasons. The building, however, is were present at a meeting of Grand In 1983 the publication of Stephen also a source of concern and anxiety. Its Lodge. The event was featured on Knight’s (1951–1985) The Brotherhood annual maintenance absorbs much of the television newscasts around the world. had major repercussions on English membership income of the 239,209 The year also celebrated, in addition to Freemasonry. It brought about a Freemasons in England and the Districts the 25th Anniversary of HRH The Duke fundamental change in the manner in registered on 1 May 2010, and, as we are of Kent as Grand Master, the 40th which post-war Freemasonry presented frequently reminded, the membership is anniversary of HM The Queen’s itself to the public. The book was declining. accession to the throne. The British another exposure, similar to the hundreds Television media could not resist the (Continued on page 6)
Issue 52 page 5 (Continued from page 5) that the philosophy and practice of legislation, resulting from the successful of similar attacks on Freemasonry Prince Hall Masonry was regular. In case of the Grand Orient of Italy in 2005, published since Samuel Prichard’s’ doing so ,it followed a practice that has referred to as the Chamber judgement, Masonry Dissected saw the light of day started some years earlier in Connecticut Grande Oriente d’Italia di Palazzo in October 1730. The difference was the in 1989. In considering the application Guistiniani vs Italy (No 2) (Application public perception of such exposures. In from the Grand Master of the Prince Hall No 267400/02). the 1980s conspiracy theories were rife Grand Lodge of Massachusetts – from and popular, and the suggestion that the which, it was agreed, all Prince Hall Lord Northampton New Pro Grand Police and Judiciary were under the total lodges derive their authority – the Board Master (2001) control of Freemasons in England, was recommended that this Prince Hall If one single Brother has had an impact received with credulity. It was the Grand Lodge should be accepted as on changes in Freemasonry in the past aftermath, led by a press crusade against regular and recognised. The present 100 years, it would undoubtedly be the Freemasonry, that led the Grand Master philosophy of the UGLE is to favourably British Peer, Spencer ‘Spenny’ Douglas to launch his own campaign of openness, consider applications from Prince Hall David Compton, 7th Marquess of which continues to this day. Until 1984, Grand Lodges that have been recognised Northampton (born 1946). On 14 March since its foundation in 1717, the policy by the Grand Lodge in their own 2001 HRH the Duke of Kent, Grand of Grand Lodge had been one of ‘no ‘territory’. Data compiled in 2008 shows Master of the UGLE, invested the comment’. Today the function of our that 41 out of the 51 mainstream Marquess of Northampton as Pro Grand Director of Communications is to ensure American Grand Lodges recognise Master in succession to Lord Farnham. that what the press says is accurate and Prince Hall Grand Lodges. Lord Northampton came from twenty- factual. The radical changes, therefore, eight generations of the family, the leading to the appointment of a Director House of Commons Select Committee Comptons, which they can trace in direct of Communications, the nomination of (1997) male descent back to at least 1204. He provincial spokesmen, use of the Government interference in Masonic was initiated into Ceres Lodge No 6977, services of a Public Relations company affairs in England has been mercifully in Northampton, in 1976. In 1995 he was and other measures to ‘open’ moderate; the Unlawful Societies Act of appointed Assistant Grand Master Freemasonry to public scrutiny, was a 1799 that saw the first statue for the responsible for London, and kept the dramatic change indeed. Within the more effectual suppression of societies post for five years. In many ways he Craft, removal of the physical penalties established for seditious and treasonable revolutionised Masonic thinking, from the ritual was formally approved by purposes, comes readily to mind as a especially in London. He instigated the Grand Lodge and was a direct rare example. The decision, therefore, in ‘open’ policy of Freemasonry and, most consequence of these unprecedented December 1996 of the Home Affairs importantly, the establishment of the changes. Select Committee, to look into Metropolitan Grand Lodge. He was a Freemasonry and its influence on the popular and innovative Masonic leader Prince Hall (1994) criminal justice system, was received and totally dedicated to the Craft. He A long-standing and much discussed with considerable disparagement by the also brought into the English Craft a issue worldwide reached its climax in fraternity. The conclusion that the refreshing and much needed element of England in 1994, when the Prince Hall perception that Freemasonry interfered self search and philosophic, if not Grand Lodge of Massachusetts was in the criminal justice system was esoteric, appreciation of aspects of recognised by the UGLE. The origins of ‘unjustified paranoia’ was received with Freemasonry. In March 2008 Lord the tension date to 1775, when an relief and satisfaction. It was not, Northampton retired as Pro Grand African-American named Prince Hall, however, the end of the matter. In spite Master, having helped the fraternity together with fourteen other African- of the conclusions of the committee that come through one of the most difficult Americans, was initiated in Boston, ‘that when the (Masonic) oaths are read periods in its history. Sadly we have seen Massachusetts. On 29 September 1784, in context, there is nothing in them that very little of him since. He has left a these individuals applied for and would show a conflict between the oath huge gap and he is genuinely and obtained a lodge warrant from the Grand taken by a judge or policeman and that sincerely missed by Brethren of the Lodge of England (Moderns) and formed taken by a Freemason’, the text was fraternity at every level. MWBro Peter the African Lodge No 459. What amended at the last moment on the Lowndes has taken over as Pro Grand followed appears to be a comedy of proposition of Chris Mullin MP, to a Master. errors, with applications and recommendation calling for police communications of the African Lodge officers, judges, magistrates and crown Metropolitan Grand Lodge (2003) being ignored by the Grand Lodge in prosecutors to publicly register their As stated earlier in this paper, London London. In 1797 the African Lodge, membership of the society. Until very Masons had, since time immemorial, clearly without authority, allowed two recently, the Lord Chancellor’s form enjoyed a special status by being directly new lodges to meet at Providence, requiring statements of membership responsible to the Grand Master, in the Rhode Island and Philadelphia, required all magistrates, police officers, absence of the equivalent of a Provincial Pennsylvania. By 1813, though still legally qualified members of the CPS, Grand Master for London. This was to listed on the register of the Grand Lodge prison staff, probation service staff and cease on 1 October 2003, when the of England, all contact with the African members of the judiciary to declare Metropolitan Grand Lodge of London Lodge had been lost. In 1827 the African voluntarily whether or not they were (and Metropolitan Grand Chapter of Lodge declared itself an independent Freemasons. This requirement was London) was inaugurated in the presence Grand Lodge, later styled ‘Prince Hall finally and totally lifted by the Home of the MW the Grand Master, HRH the Grand Lodge’. In 1998, the Board of Secretary Jack Straw in November 2009, Duke of Kent, at the Royal Albert Hall. General Purposes of the UGLE agreed following on European Human Rights (Continued on page 12)
page 6 Harashim This was the Robin Hewitt Memorial Lecture, delivered to the Western Australian Lodge of Research on 27 May 2010. It is worthy of wider dissemination. The VSL and Symbolism by Alan Gale
It has become a custom in many be examined – but not in this paper. Masonic lodges worldwide for there to Examining the use of the VSL is quite be more than one VSL open during enough. meetings as a consideration for the differing religions observed by Anderson’s Constitutions subscribing members. Much has been written about the This paper asks the question: Is this decision in the early 1700s to move practice in accordance with, or contrary away from deliberate Christian imagery to: and content in Freemasonry. Whatever the Landmarks of Freemasonry, the reason, the move attributed to the the intent of Anderson’s Rev Dr James Anderson DD and those Constitutions, and who worked to compile ‘his’ the ritual we have received? Constitutions was theologically brave The answer depends on how the VSL is and legally revolutionary; considering used by Freemasons and its customary the religious and political climate of the application in Masonic lodges. This period. paper seeks to examine these and other provide ‘alternative’ Holy Texts for Unfortunately no papers have been related issues in an endeavour to create a candidates from a variety of faiths. brought to light which chronicle the Let us take some time to examine and processes which led to the publication of Masonically correct definition of the role 3 of the VSL in lodges and how many speculate upon this practice. Anderson’s Constitutions. We are left should be placed on display. This paper defines Freemasonry as with having to build a picture based on This, then, may have a consequential having peculiar, universal, and spiritual the political and sociological climate of finding on how Freemasons should symbols and moral guidelines which are the times. regard each other on matters of personal independent of nationalistic flavour and Some writers say it is unlikely the faith and how Freemasonry can doctrinal considerations, where its obvious intent of the Constitutions was unequivocally present itself to the wider candidates and members are made to remove Christianity as a requirement community as: the harmonic meeting welcome on the main proviso that they for membership of a Masonic lodge. The place for men of spiritual belief where have a faith in a Supreme Being. thesis is that the intent was to make their differing theological and political Continuing adherence or reference to Freemasonry open to men from the backgrounds can reside in harmony—or, a member’s country of origin or religious different Christian denominations. This more simply: The world’s oldest beliefs become only of ‘passing interest’ was no less a brave or radical step fraternity, dedicated to religious once the application process has been because, at the time, the Church of tolerance and world peace. completed and the lodge is tyled. England was the Established legal Members are told they must leave their church in the United Kingdom and being Text or Symbol? nationalism and religious enthusiasm a communicant member of a Church of By tradition and consequent outside the lodge room. Inside, England parish was the requirement for proclamation, the VSL used by lodges considerable care has been taken to many public offices and professional and derived from the ‘British observances’ is ensure all the symbolism is universally social acceptability.4 Making the King James Version (KJV) of the applicable. Freemasonry open to all denominations Christian Bible and it is required that it There is an argument, therefore, that would have been just as innovative as be opened at each lodge meeting.1 This the holy texts of differing doctrines making it clear that men practicing any has led to a degree of assumption by (including the Judaeo-Christian Bible) religion could join. Brethren (particularly in nations such as do not have a place within a tyled lodge Some say this occurred while Australia where the majority of room. Rather, that item of Masonic Anderson was on a frolic of his own,5 Freemasons come from a Judæo- furniture known as the Volume of the others that he was seeking his own glory. Christian heritage) that the Masonic VSL Sacred Law is just as much a Masonic It is unlikely the placing of the is the Judæo-Christian text known as The Symbol for contemplation and qualifying phrase that Religion in which Bible. This is certainly the view of many consideration as the Warden’s Level, the all men agree in the section of the ‘fundamentalist’ Christian groups, who Master’s Square, the Rough and Perfect Constitutions covering membership say the Bible’s contents and tenets are Ashlars and the pillars of Wisdom, admission for the new Grand Lodge was being used for the purposes of Strength and Beauty.2 made without the approval of the Freemasonry and are being invoked If this hypothesis is accepted, and a Masonic leaders of the day. under a different name. This belief is case will be made for doing so, then the It is known that both editions of sustained by the use of direct references appropriateness of items of national Anderson’s Constitutions were written from the KJV within the ritual and identity in lodge rooms (such as national with the assistance or oversight of a traditional history of Freemasonry. This flags), and the singing of national Grand Lodge Committee.6 has, in turn, led Masonic lodges to anthems at Masonic meetings could also (Continued on page 8) Issue 52 page 7 (Continued from page 7) applicable symbolic teachings on heading) specific mention of God. This At the same time it must be moral conduct and spiritual belief. vagueness, if not ambiguity, has remembered Anderson was a dissenting These teachings are universally exasperated generations of Masonic minister,7 and the Deputy Grand Master, applicable across the range of historians, who have generally attributed it to Anderson’s Desaguliers, was a Huguenot.8 religions. incompetence, but again this ignores Both men had intimate experience of Freemasonry has a universal the context. the religious discrimination of the time, appeal to adherents of the major His task was to provide a broad Desaguliers from his escape from religions because their adherents framework, not lay down a new dogma religious persecution in France can recognise elements of moral for a new denomination. Freemasonry (reportedly hidden in a barrel)9 and and spiritual symbolism in existed as an escape from Anderson as a minister in one of the Masonic ritual. denominational and factional Dissenting religions. It can be argued, constraints into a sphere into which Back to Anderson and his Constitutions. men concentrated on what bound them therefore, both had a personal interest in Whatever the intent, Freemasons quickly ensuring that Freemasonry did not together, not what divided them. took advantage of this widening of the In not defining the ‘Religion in become a Church of England men’s membership qualifications. which all Men agree’ Anderson is society, which is probably what it would The first members of the Jewish being evasive in one sense, but is also have become had it adhered to the community (who at that time were just appealing to an ideal. Vagueness requirements of the legal structures of beginning to enjoy greater access to becomes a virtue, for any attempt at the time. One is left to wonder just how English public life) were initiated by precise definition would have been much weaker Freemasonry would have destructive. His ambiguity should 10 Lodge Antiquity in 1721. The first perhaps be seen as masterly. been in its 293rd year had it been an Jewish Worshipful Master was installed Anglican institution rather than a in 1730.12 The same deliberate theological strength ‘universal’ one, especially considering There has been much argument about through vagueness gave the Church of the threat of schism and theological whether ‘grass roots’ membership did or England its role as a resolver of clamour currently railing through that did not support Anderson’s model. theological conflict some 150 years aged Church at present. The relatively rapid admittance of before and it is of note that this liberal It is worth repeating the relevant English reformation theology is 11 Jewish candidates shows that, whilst item: some lodges specifically voted not to specifically mentioned by Anderson in A Mason is oblig’d by his Tenure, to admit them as a class, there must have his charge on ‘Behaviour after the Lodge obey the moral law; and if he rightly been significant lodge-level support, is Over and the Brethren not Gone’. understands the Art, he will never be a because those first Jewish candidates had stupid Atheist nor an irreligious Therefore no private piques or quarrels Libertine. But though in ancient Times to be admitted in regular fashion by the must be brought within the door of the Masons were charg’d in every Country lodge members (which of course Lodge, far less any quarrels about to be of the Religion of that Country or consisted of Masons with Christian religion, or nations, or state policy, we Nation, whatever it was, yet ’tis now backgrounds). being only, as Masons, of the 15 thought more expedient only to oblige Those Freemasons of Christian Catholick religion above-mentioned; them to that Religion in which all Men heritage consciously voted to accept we are also of all nations, tongues, agree, leaving their particular Opinions gentlemen as candidates for Initiation kindreds, and languages, and are to themselves; that is, to be good Men who came not just from a different resolved against all politicks, as what never yet conduced to the welfare of and true, or Men of Honour and Christian denomination: but from a Honesty, by whatever Denominations the Lodge, nor ever will. This Charge or Persuasions they may be completely different faith. Within 15 has been always strictly enjoined and distinguish’d; whereby Masonry years there were many Jewish Grand observed; but especially ever since the becomes the Centre of Union, and the Lodge Officers. Reformation in Britain, or the dissent Means of conciliating true Friendship This consideration gives the lie to the and secession of these nations from the among Persons that must have theory Anderson was running a one- communion of Rome.16 remain’d at a perpetual Distance. man-agenda and confirms there must By requiring Freemasons to be tolerant have been widespread approval for a Whatever the stimulus for the process of different spiritual beliefs and by move which was deliberately inclusive.13 undertaken by Anderson, the eventual neither requiring membership nor I think this a crucially important point result was clear. Craft Freemasonry was adherence to a particular theology and, when seeking to define the Ethos of stripped of any overt Christian content additionally, by casting aside matters of Freemasonry. and opened to all adherents of any Deity- national identity; Anderson’s move laid Anderson remains a controversial based religion. the foundation for a place where figure in Freemasonry – he is slated by By using the readily appreciable Christian, Jew, Moslem and Buddhist; some and lauded by others. The symbols of Operative Stone Masonry, its and English, French and German men Constitutions are definitely inconsistent concepts and teachings were made could meet on equal terms; where the but, to quote David Stevenson who applicable across the spectrum of only Symbols present were the examines Anderson and his process in religions whose adherents were asked to designated universal symbols of some detail in his highly recommended practice tolerance towards differing Freemasonry: from which universal essay James Anderson, Man and belief codes. allegories and teachings were drawn to Mason:14 This alone is the content of many create a code of moral conduct. This then papers: the moral and spiritual …just as [Anderson’s] History had allowed men of often violently differing symbolism of Freemasonry. This paper Christ without acknowledgement of views to find a safe passage for their his divinity, the Charges have religion asks you accept: discussions. Freemasonry contains universally and moral law, and a denunciation of Atheists, without (except in the The three degrees reveal an Ethos of
page 8 Harashim Freemasonry which is common to all The Ritual, the VSL and the KJV the KJV scholars had relied and the faiths: Freemasonry’s traditional history and the study of which had revealed errors of There is a Supreme Being who teachings contained it its rituals are translation and fact in the KJV. created the Universe, drawn from apocryphal, textual and At the time of the formation of the Who established and revealed a created sources.17 The Freemasonry we Grand Lodge of England and the moral law and commands have received today takes examples from compilation of the Masonic rituals, the obedience, legend (known as Traditional History) KJV was, therefore, not only the pre- To Whom we must all give and events recorded in the Judæo- eminent religious reference, but it was account in a life after this, Christian Scriptures (J-CS) and mixes also the main historical text of its time. All of which can be revealed to them freely with symbolism linked to the The beauty of its prose had caused it to those who wish to explore the tools of Operative Stonemasonry to ‘enter, as no book has, the very personal create a peculiar system of morality character of the public institutions of the deliberately universal symbolism 19 and allegories of the Masonic veiled in allegory and illustrated by English speaking peoples’. degrees, symbols which is universally applicable Other Masonic observances have Which promote the universal to all who have a Spiritual Faith. since chosen to use a blank book as their Brotherhood of Man, requiring There is a case to be made that, VSL, considering this as a more Freemasons to actively practice because the J-CS are not the sole source appropriate symbol, being free of disinterested friendship in the for Masonic degree symbolism, it is not doctrinal overtones: however they tend grand design of being happy and sound to consider the Masonic VSL a to be humanistic versions of promoting happiness, light and Judæo-Christian text; no matter that it Freemasonry, not requiring a spiritual benevolence. happens to be the King James Version of belief for candidacy. the Bible (KJV).18 Whilst the adoption of a blank book Perhaps these could be termed the ‘Five The KJV was most likely chosen VSL would remove the doctrinal bias Theological Points of Freemasonry’ and because, in 1717, it was considered by associated with the use of the KJV, this they are certainly supported by material English scholars to be the most accurate is not advocated by this paper. from the lectures and related contents of and best presented religious and The issue facing Freemasons in 2010 the three Degrees, such as the discourses historical text available to them. The is that the KJV now only has a role as a on the Working Tools and the Tracing KJV was not, to these men, just a book theological text and is no longer Boards. of religious belief. It was also considered considered a semi-historical text. When Lodge Furnishings an accurate source document charting most Australian Freemasons look at the The purpose and place of the VSL is the history of humanity. book on the altar or pedestal, they see a explained in the First Degree Tracing It is of considerable importance that Christian Bible. They do not see a Board Lecture. the textual references taken from the universally applicable Volume of the When outlining the symbolism of the KJV and incorporated into Masonic Sacred Law. This paper argues, simply, board and describing Jacobs Ladder it is ritual used in Australia, England, they are wrong so to do. said to reach Scotland and Ireland are not used to back So much so, in one of the Australian … to the heavens, and rest … on the up theological dogma, but rather to give Constitutions, it has become the practice VSL, because, by the doctrines a foundation text for historical events, for Brethren (and even for Grand contained in that Holy Book, we are ritual excerpts which praise the ethos of Masters when taking their obligation of taught to believe in the dispensation of brotherhood or to back up the references office) to take their oaths from the divine providence, which belief for certain words and events mentioned ‘front’ or the ‘back’ of the VSL strengthens our faith and enables us to in the ritual. It is used as a reference text, depending on whether they are Christian ascend the first step; this faith not a religious text. or Jewish. This totally rejects the call for naturally creates in us a hope of The KJV was just as much a product universal symbolism in Freemasonry and becoming partakers of the blessed of the enlightenment as was the notion of is a sectarian practice, which is arguably promises therein recorded, which hope enables us to ascend the second step; a universal codification of faiths as a a Masonic offence. but the third and last, being charity, form for moral conduct which is Such is the ingrained practice and the comprehends the whole, … Freemasonry. power of the KJV as a religious text that Published in 1611, the KJV was the it is almost an impossible for many There are other references . . . and you result of a determined effort to remove Freemasons to consider the VSL as should all know them by heart! theological and factual errors which had being anything other than a book I repeat the credentials for crept into use as well as what was containing the ‘Old Testament’ and membership, as laid down by Anderson deemed doctrinal bias from the Christian ‘New Testament’. Masonically it and adhered to by Grand Lodges ever base text to be used in English speaking contains neither. since; that a candidate: churches. The compiling scholars not be an atheist, wanted to ensure it was the most The VSL as a Universal Symbol maintain a belief which is not accurate and reliable document that the The VSL has been, since the formation humanist, and scholarship of the time could produce. of the English Freemasonry we practice be prepared to meet peaceably The success of this desire is evident here in Australia, a Universal Symbol in with men of differing faiths and through its longevity of use. It was Freemasonry. In practice, it is not, and nationalities, and considered such a reliable document that that is to the detriment of Freemasonry. not try to enter into argument it was not revised until 1881 and even Therefore: about or seek to change the then not until after 30 year revision Does a universal symbol need religious convictions of other process instigated by the discovery of augmentation? (This paper argues it does brethren. manuscripts pre-dating those upon which not)
Issue 52 page 9 (Continued from page 9) case not to introduce differing texts. Volume of Masonic Lore—a If augmented by other religious texts, The Tracing Board lecture makes it VML—rather than the Volume of does it immediately cease to be a clear that the obligation of candidates Sacred Law, the symbolic volume universally applicable symbol? (This does not to take place on only the VSL, for all faiths present and held in paper argues that is does). but on the combined vehicle of the VSL, harmony by overall effect of its Could the fact that Brethren augment Compasses and Square. conjunction with the other symbols the VSL and that some Constitutions The Obligation is made on a threefold of a tyled lodge room? provide ‘individual VSLs’ for candidates symbol held to be a symbolic rule and Does supplying ‘Masonic Bibles’ be seen as a practice contrary to the guide for the faith each Freemason play into the hands of those critics intent of Freemasonry as a universal brings with him to lodge: as well as the of Freemasonry who accuse us of code of belief free from sectarian rule and guide for future conduct. Can it seeking to supplant recognised qualification? be argued this a much more potent faiths with a mish-mash of In the cases where augmentation symbol because it is held by every syncretic symbols which draw men occurs, has the VSL ceased to be a person present at the time the obligation away from their individual faiths? universal symbol of the beliefs of all its is taken? Does carrying a ‘Masonic Bible’ members present? It becomes a very strong tie that binds allow these critics to argue there is Has it, instead, become associated and is another reason to consider a ‘Masonic Religion’ because, to with the religious belief of local whether the practice of taking individual them, we have created our own Brethren? obligations on personal religious texts is version of the Bible which has If so, is this is a departure from the appropriate. been revised and edited to serve Landmarks of Freemasonry envisaged by This symbolism is totally destroyed our own ‘dark purposes’? Anderson and which were so quickly put by the use of a ‘personal VSL’, which Does maintaining the centrality of into practice by the brethren of his this paper holds to be an oxymoron. Do the symbolism of the VSL create a 20 time? This paper argues this is what we allow WMs to use personal squares better bond of brotherhood? has happened, again to the detriment of (which may be round) or lodges to install o Can it be argued that, by taking Freemasonry as a universal brotherhood. extra pillars to satisfy the sectarian his obligation on the lodge It is essential that the VSL, when wishes of members? We do not. So, just VSL, every candidate is described as such in a tyled lodge, be as there cannot be ‘personal squares’ or acknowledging the faith of recognised as the symbolic codification personal rituals, there cannot be personal every Brother present in the and explanation of the religious doctrine VSLs. The only way the symbolism of room? held by every Freemason in that room. It Freemasonry can remain universal is by o Is this the way he enters into is not the codification of the belief preventing it from being tampered with that symbolic bond of Masonic structure of one or a group of members or personalised. Brotherhood which is the present and therefore should not be Consider these points: Mystic Tie that Binds? changed to suit the creed of individual The VSL is ‘the rule and guide to o If he uses the text of his own candidates. our faith’, because it is not the faith, is he no longer If other holy books are admitted into book of one faith, but rather the acknowledging the central or used during Masonic ceremonies, it is symbolic codification of all Masonic requirement that, argued the ethos of Anderson’s original Freemasons’ faiths and is therefore within a tyled lodge room, intent: that a lodge of Freemasons universally applicable. personal faiths are not contains ‘Men of Honour and Honesty, The VSL is recognition that all recognised? by whatever Denominations or men in a Masonic lodge have a o Instead, is he proclaiming that Persuasions they may be distinguish’d; personal faith. his personal belief is ‘different’ whereby Masonry becomes the Centre of Depending on the background of from those around him – and Union, and the Means of conciliating each Brother present, that faith maybe superior? That is not a true Friendship among Persons that 21 can, but might not be, codified in a Masonic attitude. must (otherwise) have remain’d at a discreet volume. perpetual Distance’ – has been The VSL’s potency is its presence Universal Symbolism and the Future contravened. in the lodge as a symbolic Just as there was a need for universal To put it another way, Masonic codification applicable to all religious symbolism to heal the inter- lodges should contain men who have Freemasons, whether or not their doctrinal tensions of the early 1700s, found a common means to represent personal faith has its own sacred three hundred years later the need individual faiths: that Freemasonry is a text. remains, but is that universality being universal system of symbols which supplanted by sectarianism, displayed by enables Brethren to express a Friendship Now, consider these questions: the use of individual and multiple VSLs? which might otherwise not be realised to By seeking to augment its presence For many members of contemporary its fullest brotherly potential; which in a lodge room by adding society, the answer to the question ‘Do would otherwise have at the least kept codifications of dogmatic texts you believe in God’ can evoke a them apart and at worst resulted in open from one or several religions, has negative response, ruling them ineligible disagreement with the potential for the universal power of its for membership. What is ‘God’ to the violent verbal or physical disagreement. symbolism been diminished or contemporary candidate? ‘God’ is the One only has to consider the level of enhanced? different God that belongs to each of the worldwide argument over religious When placed alongside other Roman Catholics, Anglicans, Mormons, doctrine to understand the results of not religious texts, does the VSL lose Hillsong evangelists and Muslims. adhering to this tenet in support of the its potency and become instead the Many have a personal faith not
page 10 Harashim expressed by being subservient to a deity call for universal brotherhood, tolerance However, the Protestant dissenters continued named ‘God’. For many members of and forbearance is needed in in their vehement anti-Catholicism and formed the backbone of the Whig party, society, organised religions have a contemporary society. Anderson and his which coalesced (1679–81) in the attempt to negative image and God has therefore colleagues deliberately removed the exclude the Catholic James, duke of York become synonymous with their feelings label of ‘bible’ from the Masonic symbol (later James II) from the succession to the of negativity.22 chosen to represent the doctrinal beliefs throne. The anti-Catholic movement culminated in the overthrow of James II in Asking a young potential candidate a of all Brethren present in a tyled lodge the Glorious Revolution (1688), and the Bill question such as ‘do you believe in God room. This is why the practice of adding of Rights (1689) and the Act of Settlement or a higher spiritual force’ can evoke a additional religious books and the impact (1701) excluded the Catholic branch of the more positive response. Even asking ‘do this has on the universal symbolism of a house of Stuart from the throne. A Toleration Act (1689) relieved the Protestant you have a Spiritual faith’ may not be Masonic lodge has to be closely nonconformists of many of their disabilities 23 enough. The community no longer has considered. This paper argues that the (although they remained excluded from a high level of religious awareness. practice should cease. office). See esp. Revolution and Rebellion: Freemasons therefore need to rely on In conclusion, this paper suggests: State and Society in England in the Seventeenth and Eighteenth Centuries, (JCD their universal language of symbolism Craft Freemasons should take their Clark: Cambridge: 1986) when examining candidates about the obligations only on the combined 5 See especially Lionel Vibert, ‘Anderson’s faith-based conditions for membership. symbols of lodge VSL, the Square Constitutions of 1722’, AQC, vol. XXXVI No longer is it simply enough to ask and Compasses and not on their (1923), p37. 6 Knoop D. and. Jones GP, The Genesis of potential candidates ‘do you go to own religious text or ‘personal Freemasonry (London: 1947). church?’: 80 per cent of Australian men VSL’. 7 ‘Dissenter’ is one of those wonderfully do not.24 Only the lodge VSL be displayed. pejorative phrases which says as much about Freemasons need to ask universal No effort should be made to the climate of the times as it does about those questions in support of their universal to whom it refers. The term ‘dissenter’ (from accommodate the symbols of the Latin dissentire, to disagree), labels one acceptance of all personal faiths which differing religions, no matter what who dissents or disagrees in matters of have a Supreme Being (however it may the ceremony. opinion or belief. In the social and religious be conceived) and these new candidates The word ‘God’ should be history of England and Wales, however, it without doctrinal belief need to enter an refers particularly to a member of a religious removed from all Craft ritual and, body in England or Wales who has, for one environment categorised by universal in all cases, replaced by the reason or another, separated from the language and symbols – typified by the universal terms for Deity contained Established Church (The Church of England, universal VSL. in each ceremony (GAOTU, established by Act of Parliament). Originally, There is a theological chasm between the term included English and Welsh Roman GGOTU, MH). Catholics, whom the original draft of the the average Freemason in Australian Contemporary men are attracted to Relief Act of 1779 styled ‘Protesting Catholic jurisdictions and the young men seeking Freemasonry when it is actively Dissenters.’ In practice, however, it to join, particularly the X, Y and Z promoted as the world’s oldest fraternity, designates Protestant Dissenters referred to in generations. However the average sec. ii. of the Act of Toleration of 1689. dedicated to religious tolerance and 8 The Desaguliers family fled France in about Australian Freemason is aged between world peace. It is an organisation which 1686 to escape the persecution of Protestants. 25 69 and 72, comes from a Judæo- demands that its members leave their His father, Jean, was a Huguenot minister and Christian background, and views the personal religious beliefs outside the was admitted into the Church of England and Symbolism of Freemasonry from within ordained Deacon and Priest on the same day lodge room and pick up the universal by the Bishop of London on 28 November that context. This includes decision- symbols of Speculative Freemasonry. 1692. The same Bishop also later ordained makers who may not have a deep Why, then, allow the VSL to be John Theophilus on 10 June 1710. theological appreciation of their own replaced by another religious book? If 9 Stokes J ‘Life of John Theophilus faith nor have a full understanding of the Desaguliers’ AQC Vol. XXXVIII pp285ff. we would not countenance a Worshipful 10 This paper was written in 2010. universal power of the Masonic symbol Master replacing the lodge’s Square with 11 Constitutions, 1723. It is worth pointing out called the VSL. a personal symbol, why allow a Brother that ‘stupid atheist’ is not an insult, but rather Freemasonry’s appeal to the younger to supplant the lodge VSL? the traditional sense of the word: someone generation of potential candidates, who whose senses are deadened. 12 Shaftesley JM, ‘Jews in English Freemasonry do not come from the same spiritual Endnotes in the 18th and 19th Centuries’, AQC, vol. 1 This paper limits itself to considerations background as current members, will be XCII (1979), p42. within Masonic lodges holden under Grand increased by a more careful and 13 See Knoop D. and Jones GP, ‘Freemasonry Lodges claiming a descent from and and the Idea of Natural Religion,’ AQC, vol. thorough explanation of its universality constitutional reliance upon one of the Grand LVI (1943), pp38–57; Knoop D and. Jones and lack of doctrinal requirement. Lodges of England, Scotland and Ireland. GP, The Genesis of Freemasonry (London: 2 To name but a few. As all Freemasons know, To repeat: Freemasonry is the world’s 1947), p187; Clarke JR, ‘The Change from a tyled lodge room is redolent with oldest fraternity, dedicated to religious Christianity to Deism,’ AQC, vol. LXXXVIII symbolism. (1965), pp49–73, and Ward E, ‘Anderson’s tolerance and world peace. 3 A highly unusual occurrence worthy of Freemasonry Not Deistic,’ AQC, vol. LXXX Yes, it sounds like a line from Miss further investigation, considering the love a (1967), pp36–57. Freemason has for a good set of committee Congeniality, but the definition is 14 Stevenson, D ‘James Anderson Man and minutes. simple, powerful and universally Mason’ in Weisberger RW, McLeod W, and 4 After the Restoration of Charles II, 26 Morris SB, eds: Freemasonry on Both Sides attractive. It is as simple and powerful Parliament passed the series of laws known of the Atlantic, (Boulder: East European as the universally applicable symbolism as the Clarendon Code (1661–65) and the Monographs, 2002). pp115,118. Test Act (1673), which required holders of of the VSL, Square and Compasses – 15 ‘Catholick’ here means universal and should public office to take various oaths of loyalty undiluted by sectarian texts and not be confused with the Catholic Church of and to receive the sacrament of the Church of Rome. consistent with our base text: Anderson’s England. These laws penalized Protestant 16 Constitutions 1723, with emphasis added. Constitutions. nonconformists at whom, principally, they 17 For example the J-CS does not contain the were aimed, as well as Roman Catholics. As it was in the 1700s, Freemasonry’s (Continued on page 12)
Issue 52 page 11 Legends and Facts’, Harashim # 15, The Craft in England July 2000. Hamill, John M: ‘And the Greatest of these is Charity. The Development of Masonic (Continued from page 6) regarded as a revolutionary and Charity’ (Prestonian Lecture 1993), The glittering ceremonies were attended courageous event. It came about by the AQC 108 (1995). by a full house that packed the stalls, invitation of the UGLE to European McKeown, Trevor W: ‘An Historical Outline balconies and galleries of the Royal Grand Masters, several from of Freemasons on the Internet’, AQC Albert Hall, as Lord Millett was installed unrecognised Constitutions, to meet and 121 (2008). Metropolitan Grand Master. This discuss aspects of sovereignty, Pilcher-Dayton, Ann: The Open Door – The controversial innovation, the brain child communications, and regularity and Order of Women Freemasons, London of Lord Northampton when Assistant recognition. The 44 Grand Masters who 2008. Grand Master, has had its fair share of accepted the invitation were formally Smyth, Frederick: A Reference Book for problems. The complexity of the set up, welcomed by the Grand Master, HRH Freemasons, QCCC Ltd, London the new ranking system, and the Duke of Kent, at a highly cordial 1998. appointment of Metropolitan Grand dinner. The two-day conference that Officers (ten Group Chairmen and ten followed was chaired by the then Deputy Deputies) had to be revised, and Grand Master, Peter Lowndes. The VSL & Symbolism considerable heart-searching reforms speakers included the Pro Grand Master, continue to date. Lord Northampton, the Grand Master of (Continued from page 11) Austria, Michael Kraus, and Gustavo verse: ‘I shall build this mine house that it Division of Responsibility (2006) Raffi, Grand Master of the Grand Orient stand fast forever’. Generations of Grand Secretaries of of Italy. It was an undoubted success that 18 Which came to be chosen as the item of Grand Lodge, before and after the has opened the door to future furniture referred to as the VSL in all lodges linked with the United Grand Lodge of Union, have monopolised the effective conferences, the second being held in England. administration of the Craft. The name of Paris in 2009 under the auspices of the 19 Preface to the Revised Standard Version of Laurence Dermott (1720–1791), that Grande Loge Nationale Française. the Bible, William Collins Sons and Co, most extraordinary man and Freemason, London 1952. 20 See earlier reference to the initiation and Grand Secretary of the Antients, comes The Internet Age (2010) installing of Jewish brethren very shortly to mind, as does Samuel Spencer, his Our forefathers could not have visualised after Anderson’s Constitutions were adopted. contemporary counterpart in the the success and universal expansion of 21 My parenthetic addition. Moderns Grand Lodge. Others include Freemasonry, let alone 21st-century 22 See works such as Bice, J, A 21st Century Rationalist in Medieval America: Essays on Thomas Harper, William White and technology, which is beyond the Religion, Science, Morality, and the Bush James Heseltine and, more recently, Sir comprehension of the average Mason Administration, (Chelydra Bay Press 2008); Edward Letchworth and Sir James today. Nonetheless, looking at present Hugh McKay, Reinventing Australia: The Stubbs, the last of that ilk of Grand trends and recent developments, Mind and Moods of Australia in the 1990s (Allen and Unwin, Sydney 1993); John Secretary. After his passing in the year Freemasonry appears well placed in this Rickard, Australia: A Cultural History 2000, the power of the Grand Secretary virtual age of cyberspace. The first (Longman 2edn, London 1996) and Geoffrey began to diminish, culminating in the Masonic bulletin board was set up in Stokes, The Politics of Identity in Australia 2006 announcement by the Board of 1978, and by then some Masons had (Cambridge University Press, Melbourne already been communicating by e-mail, 1997). General Purposes that henceforth the 23 Fewer than half of Australia’s Generation Y office of Grand Secretary would be the earliest record of which surprisingly (born 1976–90) identify with a traditional divided. The new system saw three areas is in 1966. What revolutionised the then religion, according to the Spirit of of responsibility instead of the single new communication media was the Generation Y project (2003–06). Conducted role of Grand Secretary: a Chief introduction of the modem in 1977. By by Monash University, the Australian Catholic University and the Christian Operating Officer whose responsibility 1995 we had the (still active and Research Association, it found Generation Y would be the management of popular) UK-Mason List, now boasting relies on family and friends as the sources of Freemasons’ Hall in London; the Grand some 1100 brethren, and the foundation its beliefs, values and social support; 48% of Secretary to remain responsible for all of Internet Lodge No 9659 in 1998, with Gen Y participants believe in ‘a god’, 20% do not, and 32% are unsure. Two-thirds of matters Masonic in England and for a membership of 300 brethren belonging those who do not believe in ‘God’, or are Districts and lodges overseas, and the to 75 different Constitutions, which led uncertain, believe in some kind of ‘higher new appointment of a Grand Chancellor us to the road of no return. Lodge being or life-force’. responsible for external relations with secretaries no longer need special 24 According to the ABS 2002 General Social Survey, 23% of Australian adults participate other Grand Lodges on the continent and dispensations to send minutes and in church or religious activities. Women overseas. These were major changes, summonses by e-mail, Grand Lodges (26%) were more likely to than men (20%). allowing England to fall in step with worldwide have their own websites, as 25 As at 2007 the average age of Freemasons in long-standing European practices. do many private lodges. So much is now Victoria is 68, in WA is 72 and in NSW/ ACT is 69 (information supplied by these so readily available on the World Wide Constitutions on request of the author). European Grand Masters in London Web that, subject to filtering the 26 In the 2000 film Miss Congeniality Sandra (2007) information for accuracy, life has Bullock played a Pygmalionesque role: a In the light of the age-old acrimony and become simpler and easier—even butch FBI agent in a beauty contest who among many things (such as bathing suits criticism endured by the UGLE on the writing this article! and evening dresses) had trouble expressing subject of recognition and regularity, the the universal beauty questers’ greatest desire: London Conference of Grand Masters in Bibliography world peace. Her oft stated greatest desire November 2007 must have been Brown, Aubrey & Ors: ‘Prince Hall, Myths, was ‘maximum sentences for all offenders (long pause) … and world peace’. page 12 Harashim Conference
(Continued from page 1) lodge meeting, whilst the second guest speaker, WBro James Soutar from Thailand, gave his presentation of Freemasonry in his country to a group of Book Reviews fifty brethren and ladies on the Sunday afternoon. Seven Kellerman lectures, from all the Australasian jurisdictions Corona Gladiorum: Transactions of the amused (for I hope we shall not neglect except South Australia and the Northern Bristol Masonic Society the saving grace of humour) for very Territory, were presented over three Antony R Baker, ed. many years to come, and I am confident days. [http://www.bristol-masonic-society.org. that we have brethren amongst us who The Biennial General Meeting held uk/transactions.htm] are capable and willing to place their on the last day of the Conference Annual vol. UKP 7.50 + 4 p&p. talents at our disposal’. resulted in the election of RWBro Andy It is not common for the I have discovered an interesting fact Walker from Sydney, NSW, as entertainment value of a presentation to about painting laundries with acrylic President for the ensuing two years. The be considered, and yet in the space of gloss. It takes an inordinate time to dry out-going President, RWBro Peter two paragraphs here we have references between coats. A good rule of thumb is Verrall, was elected as a Fellow of the to ‘enjoyment and instruction’ and that it takes as long to cure as it does to ANZMRC in recognition of his service ‘interested and amused’. read the six volumes of the Transactions spread over many years as Western Harry Kellerman said that if you can of the Bristol Masonic Society. Australia’s delegate, as a Vice President inform your brethren via a talk, then you Actually it was a grey gloomy day and as President. He has also presented are doing well, but if you can also with a sky the colour of galvanized iron three Kellerman Lectures in the sixteen entertain them, you have won them. and the paint wasn’t going to even try to years he has been involved with the The new Instruction and Guidance dry. So what better excuse to make ‘a ANZMRC. Manual produced by UGL Victoria for daily advancement’. (My father/brother The former assistant secretary, speakers operating in that jurisdiction told me after my initiation that I had to VWBro Kent Henderson (Melbourne, contains much of value, but nowhere take the admonition seriously. I told Nea Victoria), was elected as one of the three mentions the use of humour as a tool of that I was required to spend at least 60 Vice Presidents and the newly appointed education. Grand Lodges rarely offer minutes every day reading Masonic Western Australian delegate, RWBro proof that they have a sense of humour. books. It’s worked so far!) David Ganon, was elected as Assistant I don’t know why it’s taken me so The first volume is an anthology of Secretary. The remaining Executive long to discover some of the Masonic selected papers delivered to the Society Committee members were re-appointed research bodies in the UK. Merseyside, I between 1992–2004, then follow annual by their respective jurisdictions and re- recently found, is still operational. And volumes for the years up to 2008–09. elected to their former office. there are others. In 2004, more than 30 The URL above gives the contents. The After eighteen years as Editor of English Research Lodges and BMS website itself is what a Minister of Harashim and the other publications of Associations gathered to consider State directed that his Ministerial replies the ANZMRC, WBro Tony Pope ‘whether and how things should and can should be: clear, concise and helpful. It (Queanbeyan, NSW) has handed over be improved’ (Jim Daniel, quoted in is everything that the Quatuor Coronati this task to WBro Alan Gale (Perth, MQ, January 2005). I wonder if they website was not. (As of 9 September WA), with WBro Harvey Lovewell considered a body on the same basis as 2010, QC has a new, much improved (Cairns, Queensland) as his assistant. ANZMRC? Who are the thirty-plus? and ‘clear, concise and helpful’ website. WBro Ed Robinson (Wellington, NZ) Bro John Acaster, in his review in But even Yasha agreed that the old one was appointed to the new position of MQ [Issue 3, October 2002] said of was rubbish.) Masonic Digital Library Co-ordinator, Corona Gladiorum: ‘an admirable Each volume has more than one once the Library Project was formally publication, deserving of a much wider standout paper, but the first paper in the adopted by the ANZMRC. readership than merely around Bristol. It first volume had me ‘sold’ from the The Eleventh Biennial Conference is capable of charming the novice and beginning. It was the inaugural address will be held in Wellington, New Zealand also the learned.’ delivered in 1917 by Brother Cook, the in 2012. It certainly charmed me. Society’s first President. It started with The acquisition of a full suite of the what was, to me, a fascinating history Part 2—Tony’s take Transactions, as listed at the above URL, lesson, went on to describe the requires the investment of £47.50, plus Conference convenor David Ganon difficulties of steering the work of a £14 p+p to ‘the rest of the world’. But it delegated much of the organisational Masonic research body and ended with a is an investment I doubt you will ever work to local Masons who are not fervent prayer of blessing upon the new regret. members of the research lodge, and his endeavour ‘with the hope and assurance Oh, and the covers are a lovely faith in them was well founded. But I that it will in time come to be an colour. My laundry walls used to be that do have a whinge about the unending source of enjoyment and shade! recommended accommodation. The instruction for our brethren’. apartments were good, but self-service Bro Cook stated ‘there is abundant material to keep us interested and NWM (Continued on page 18) Issue 52 page 13 Illustrated report of the 2009 ANZMRC Lecture Tour of Australia by WBro Kerry Nicholls KL, DipMEd (SA), Hawke’s Bay Research Lodge, continued from issue 50. Two matters Kerry refers to, the Wilberforce travelling gavel and Lake Lodge (Tasmania), are the subject of separate articles, following Kerry’s report.
Kerry Nicholls in Australia
that Cheryl bought in Sydney [see Wednesday 14 October Harashim #50] then set out to Salamanca An early start today. At 0400 Bob Nairn Market in Hobart. This market is held took Cheryl and me to Canberra airport every Saturday and has a large number to catch our flight to Adelaide. We of stalls that close off the street. We then arrived in Adelaide about 0730, to be went on to Mures, a seafood restaurant at met by Richard Num. After leaving our the port. Whilst there we saw the Sea bags at the Wakefield Residence Hotel, Shepherd docked at the port. Hobart has Richard handed me the Wilberforce the deepest harbour in Australia, an gavel he had brought from Darwin. He extremely picturesque area and the old gave us a quick orientation tour and historical buildings that have been dropped us off at Freemasons Hall in renovated are a sight to see. We then North Terrace and we went for a walk to went back to George’s for a huge dinner; Rundle Mall – more shops – then off to a chatted for some time then to bed and little restaurant off Hindley Street that Leonardo da Vinci Lodge medal, presented enjoyed a long awaited sleep. we had been to before, for some lunch. I by Dario Priori to Kerry Nicholls then made my way to Freemasons Hall Sunday 18 October and spent some time with George Breakfast and off to see the sights from Woolmer, the Grand Librarian. Then Hobart to Port Arthur. This area is a Cheryl and I we made our way back to paradise of panoramic views, steeped in our hotel, had a very early light tea and history, relaxing and educational. On the caught up on some lost sleep. way we had to wait to cross a bridge that is moved by a turntable which rotates the Thursday 15 October road and allows the boats out to sea. On We had a leisurely day, and in the this lovely sunny Sunday a fishing boat evening Varlio Priori took us to was making its way out. This was the Leonardo da Vinci Lodge 238, host Dennison Canal at Dunalley. lodge for the presentation of ‘Sacred We then stopped at a wildlife park Space in Freemasonry’. This lodge is his young son, Alexander, and we all developed solely for the preservation of permitted to work the ritual of the Grand drove to Semaphore to see the old lodge the little Tasmanian Devils, an animal on Orient of Italy, in English, and the building and war fortresses. We went on the verge of extinction. There is a form Orator explained the first degree opening to Port Adelaide and saw some amazing of cancer found in the northern area and and closing ceremonies, a great old buildings and the ‘Masonic Building the southern ones appear to free of this advancement in Masonic knowledge for with the hieroglyphic name’. On a gene in their genetic makeup, so a very me. The 51 brethren present included previous visit I attended the Port advanced conservation and breeding Grand Master Ray Clark, Mark Grand Adelaide daylight lodge installation programme is underway to eradicate the Master Alan Pearson, First Grand there. We then went to the old Adelaide gene and save the species. There were Principal John Carter, RWBro Colin Prison and were fortunate to be given an also kangaroos, wallabies, geese, various Preece (my tutor for the Mark Certificate impromptu guided tour, thanks to the birds, and it was the chance to walk of Masonic Education) and RWBro Fred efforts of Marcin. amongst them that made this a Martin (who designed the course). The Then it was back to the hotel, light worthwhile experience. Master of the lodge, WBro Silvano dinner, early night, needing to be up and We arrived next at Eaglehawk Neck, Orlando, instructed his director of ready to go at 0400. well known for its impressive coastal ceremonies (RWBro Dario Priori, GDC) Saturday 17 October rock formations of the Devil’s Kitchen, to present me with the Leonardo da Richard Num picked us up at 0445. Tasman Arch and the Blowhole. In Vinci Lodge medal, and I also received Shortly after 0600 we flew to Melbourne colonial times this isthmus was guarded my Mark Certificate of Masonic and then changed flights and flew to by ferocious dogs intended to ensure no Education [reported in Harashim #49]. Hobart. George Sanders, Master of convicts escaped the Port Arthur penal Friday 16 October Hobart Lodge of Research, met us at the settlement. While little remains of the Friday was a day of relaxation, and mid- airport and took us back to his home at Eaglehawk Neck historic site, the afternoon I met Marcin Stankewicz. He Midway Point just outside of Hobart. infamous dog line has been marked by a is a member of my mother lodge George’s home has absolutely stunning bronze dog sculpture. Eaglehawk Neck (Awatea #258) and we keep in contact. views of the bay that you fly over is approximately an hour’s drive or 75 We discussed his forthcoming fleeting coming into Hobart, as well as mountain kilometres south-east of Hobart. visit to New Zealand to occupy the Chair views. George is a keen wood-turner and A further 25 kilometres on we came of King Solomon on our Past Master’s Tasmania is known for its Huon Pine. to Port Arthur, a part of Australia’s most night in November. Then he collected We gave George his ‘special’ marmalade significant convict heritage which holds page 14 Harashim a deep history for punishment of difficult for details). It was also great to meet up prisoners. Port Arthur’s history began in with Horrie Hollick, who asked me to 1830 when approximately 150 convicts pass his regards to Colin Heyward. were first transported to the peninsula to George took us home, where we met chop trees and erect rough timber and Fred Bridgewater, of Echuca, Victoria. bark huts. These were the first form of He had flown from Melbourne to attend buildings in the area. Prisons were the Installation of Bro H P Phillips as erected by the prisoners, each brick Master of Esperance Lodge 61 TC, individually handmade, and to this day which meets at Franklin. We had an the thumb prints in the bricks may be absolutely marvellous experience there; seen very clearly. In total 12,500 the installation was conducted by Grand convicts passed through Port Arthur Master Norm Cooper and his team. between 1830 and 1853. Those that died A ceremonial similar to the one we were buried on the Isle of the Dead have in New Zealand and well worth (visible from Port Arthur) where nearly experiencing if you are ever given the 2000 convicts and free people are buried. opportunity. The refectory was superb The free people included soldiers, George Sanders, Lance Strickland & Kerry and the Stewards who catered were officials and their families. exceptional – the dessert helpings were Today there is a shrine in the old certainly a test of ones will power. restaurant where the Port Arthur Arriving back at George’s home 0030 massacre of 28 April 1996 took place. Tuesday it was time for a sleep but a This claimed the lives of 35 people and little unwinding first. wounded 21 others when Martin Bryant Tuesday 20 October entered the Broad Arrow Cafe and shot George took Fred, Cheryl and me to at the patrons before barricading himself Norm Cooper’s home, as he was taking in a guest house. By the end of the day, us on the next leg of our journey to 35 people had been killed, including an Deloraine. Bidding our farewells to elderly couple, a young girl, and a baby George and Fred, we admired the view in its mother’s arms - the worst peace- from the GM’s home; the views are time massacre on record by a single The tessellated pavement superb and his garden amazing with gunman. Bryant was captured by police various fruits and vegetables. How does after he set the guest house on fire. he find the time? A Freemason who has On our return journey we found the his 24-inch gauge perfected! first of two ‘Masonic Secrets’ in The trip distance is about 230 km and Tasmania: The Tessellated Pavement. we drove through Richmond and stopped This is located just north of Eaglehawk at Ross for lunch. This town had a quaint Neck. It is one of the hidden mysteries of home bakery and it was very relaxing nature and science, a rock formation and a great time for us. Then we looking very much as if it were man- proceeded through beautiful scenic made, due to the very straight and countryside which reminded us of New parallel lines. A placard provided by the Zealand and in fact was the closest place Geology Department of the University of on earth that resembles home. Tasmania informs us: At Longford we stopped to view what The pavement appears tessellated (it's is now known as the Norfolk Plains tiled) because the rocks forming it Heritage Centre and Lake Lodge. This is were fractured by earth movements. The fractures are in three sets, one set a marvellous way of preserving runs almost north, another east north Freemasonry, keeping it alive in the east, and a third discontinuous set community and still allowing the lodge north northwest. These last two sets Kerry Nicholls and GM Norm Cooper to be used as a working Lodge. [See produce the tiled appearance. The separate article, this issue.] ‘Freemasonry, Humanity – will we flatness of the pavement is due to Arriving at Sven and Judi Joll- Survive?’. Before the presentation, I initial erosion by waves carrying sand Jensens’ home at Deloraine around 1530, handed George the Wilberforce and gravel and, nearer to the cliff, to we had coffee outside under the travelling gavel for use during the chemical action by sea water. The verandah, and the GM left to attend to rocks which absorb sea water during meeting, and afterwards he returned it to some business. high tide dry out during low tide me for transmission to Launceston After an orientation and some causing salt crystals to grow and Lodge of Research. There were 57 unpacking we found that Judi has a New disintegrate the rocks - a process brethren present, and during the meeting Zealand connection, so the ‘Canopy of which produces shallow basins. I was privileged and honoured to sit next Diversity’ is at work again. Following a to RWBro Lance Strickland, the longest- Monday 19 October lovely tea, it was off to Launceston serving Freemason in Tasmania (70+ After a hearty breakfast we left at 0930 Heather Hall at Newstead a distance of years). After lodge, I met Mrs Jan to take the 30-minute drive to Glenorchy about 50km. It was a combined meeting Webberley, whose late husband, Max, and attend Macquarie Daytime Lodge of Launceston Lodge of Research with 87 TC, hosts for Hobart Lodge of gave me the inspiration to dig and Research, for presentation of my paper, research more deeply (see the tour book (Continued on page 16)
Issue 52 page 15 (Continued from page 15) and have always experienced quality Lodge Scotch College. I presented the service. After a shower and tidy up it paper entitled ‘The hidden mysteries of was off to our favourite breakfast spot Nature and Science – are they hidden or which we always find welcoming; it is have they not been found?’ and at the run by a Lebanese family in Melbourne conclusion I presented the Master of and we have been patronizing it for Launceston Lodge of Research, WBro many years. Again they did not let us Albert Kusnezow, with the Wilberforce down. gavel. The next time I will see it is in After breakfast it was off to the September 2010 at the ANZMRC Theosophical Society Bookshop and Conference at Mandurah, Western Reader’s Feast. In the afternoon Cheryl Australia. The Grand Master was in had an appointment as regards her attendance and at the conclusion of the Masonic Hall, Deloraine occupation at the Northern Hospital at fantastic meal he returned to Hobart for a Epping so I returned to the hotel, had a meeting at 0900 on Wednesday. rest and read through that evening’s Returning to Deloraine we went to presentation: ‘Freemasonry in the Gerald and Helen Badcock’s home for context of our current existence and how some red wine and dialogue (Gerald is the teachings of the Second Degree Tyler of the local Meander Lodge 12 TC apply.’ and also of Launceston Lodge of At 1830 Alan picked me up and drove Research), then back to Sven and Judi’s, me to the new home of the Victorian where Judi and Cheryl amused Lodge of Research, Ivalda Masonic themselves with television, games and Temple at Darebin. There were 16 sudokus, and bed was about 0200. members present. Thank you to Jean- Michel David, Fred Shade, and the Wednesday 21 October Delivering the Wilberforce gavel to others for your warm welcome. At the We had lunch at the Deloraine Hotel Launceston Lodge of Research conclusion of a filling meal Alan with members and partners from the dropped me back at the hotel just before Deloraine and Launceston Lodges. There midnight. were 10 who attended and food was well worth the cost. The $10 fish and chips Saturday 24 October were absolutely superb. It was As previously arranged we decided to fraternalism at its best. After lunch Judi make today and tomorrow our own time and Sven took us for a drive through and, between shopping, we called at my Elizabeth Town to Sheffield, and on the favourite Natural Pizza Shop at St Kilda way I found the second of the two for the garlic and cheese pizza, a very ‘Masonic Secrets’ in Tasmania – King relaxing day. Solomon’s Cave, just outside Sheffield, Sunday 25 October which is known as the town of murals, Today we fly back to Auckland (NZ) at and is home to Roland Lodge 36 TC, Another Masonic secret revealed 1700, so it was some last minute which has a lovely mural painted on the shopping after an early sidewalk front of the building. This is another breakfast and coffee in Melbourne. The innovative way of projecting the image place Cheryl located served the biggest of Freemasonry into the community. It is breakfast I have ever seen for $8. I also an area of numerous second-hand enjoyed eggs, tomatoes, potato patties shops, and Slater’s Store, which is where and mushrooms, and Cheryl with hers the fox still flies. We also visited had 7 rashers of bacon, all washed down Railton, a town known for its topiary with coffee. creations, then back to Deloraine. At 1430 we arrived at Tullamarine Thursday 22 October (Melbourne) Airport, checked in our We spent the morning in Deloraine, baggage (no excess) and left on time to and in the afternoon Sven drove us to return home. We were met by our motel Devonport, where we boarded the Spirit shuttle and we were in bed back in New of Tasmania II to travel overnight to Zealand by 2330 (NZDT). Melbourne. The voyage took nine hours Monday 26 October and we had a smooth crossing of Bass Labour Day public holiday. Colin Strait in recliner seats. Heyward arrived, and we exchanged Friday 23 October notes and insights for most of the I woke up just before 0500 to see the afternoon. About 1830 we left for the lights of Melbourne and, as it became Roland Lodge mural, Sheffield Chapter of Research meeting at Khyber lighter, there were hot air balloons rising Pass Road, Auckland, and Peter from the CBD area of the city. We By a stroke of luck we were given access Verrall’s presentation of David Ganon’s docked and disembarked at 0630 to be to our room, as it had not been used the ‘The Ark of the Covenant’, this being met by Alan Jennings who took us to our night before. We have stayed at this Peter’s final presentation of his New accommodation at the Enterprize Hotel. hotel on previous visits to Melbourne Zealand tour. This was for both Peter page 16 Harashim and me a touching moment, we were re- to make this tour happen and the travel united again after a milestone had been arrangements organised were made to created for the Australian and New allow the best utilisation of time Zealand Masonic Research Council. constraints, airline schedules and deadlines which needed to be met. Tuesday 27 October 2009 Apart from having to adapt where we Peter returned to Perth, and Cheryl and I had an issue with equipment in a couple drove the 540 km home to Feilding and of instances this did not impact upon the back to the tasks that lay ahead after the presentations. However, the issue of data trip. projectors and laptop facilities if Ivalda Masonic Temple, Darebin requested adds to the final effect for the Summary presenter. I had taken into account how The tour was enjoyable for many reasons to address this issue if it arose. At every but I believe it was the people we met presentation there had been adequate that made this an experience that Cheryl publicity and the numbers who attended and I will remember and reminisce over I feel reflected this. A total of 12 in years to come. As I stated in my presentations were given and the total opening comments, the early starts did number of brethren presented to was not concern us, but I feel that future 387, with 55 ladies, 26 non-members, touring lecturers may find this a burden. and 48 apologies received; 7 In our situation we were able to adjust to presentations were in tyled lodge be able to enjoy the down time for meetings and 5 in conjunction with other relaxation and that, coupled with the lodges. As far as I am aware all books hospitality shown by our hosts, allowed were sold or pre-sold. With 14 the experience to be varied and this gave presentations in all (2 papers were time to take away any stress that could presented at Townsville and Canberra) have occurred. A thank you to Colin and 20,000 km of travel over 37 days, a Heyward for the work I know he put in Touring Lecturers reunited in Auckland big thank-you to all involved.
The Wilberforce Travelling Gavel
The New Zealand research lodges visited WH Green Memorial Masonic Study by Prince Hall researcher David Gray Circle (Townsville), Barron Barnett during his ANZMRC lecture tour in Lodge (Brisbane), and Toowoomba 2003 commissioned a gavel made from Lodge of Instruction. Thereafter, the laminated native timbers by Bro Jock sense of urgency was lost and the gavel Hannaford for presentation in Bro was slowly passed from lodge to lodge, Gray’s own lodge, Wilberforce 21 PHA, being used by the Research Lodge of in Xenia, Ohio. New South Wales (Sydney) in March The gavel, known as the Wilberforce 2006, Canberra Lodge of Research and Travelling Gavel, was used by each of Instruction in November that year, South the donor lodges: United Masters Lodge Australian Lodge of Research (Adelaide) (Auckland), Waikato Lodge of Research in February 2008 and Leichhardt Lodge (Rotorua), Waikaremoana Lodge 158 of Research (Darwin) in December the (Taupo), Hawke’s Bay Research Lodge same year. (Hastings), Research Lodge of As Kerry Nicholls reports, it was Wellington, Research Lodge of handed to him by Richard Num in Southland (Invercargill), and Masters’ October 2009, when it was used in and Past Masters’ Lodge (Christchurch), Leonardo da Vinci Lodge (Adelaide) and between September 2003 and June 2004. then taken by Kerry to Tasmania, for use The donor lodges then offered the in Hobart and Launceston lodges of Australian research lodges an research. Ian Green brought it from opportunity to use the gavel. It was Tasmania to the ANZMRC Conference intended that a group of New Zealand in Mandurah (WA) in September 2010. brethren (and perhaps some Australians) The Western Australian Lodge of would take the gavel to Ohio in 2005. Research will use it at the October Meanwhile, the lecture tour had been convicted and sentenced to nine years meeting in Perth, and Peter Verrall plans abandoned, after visits to Queensland imprisonment, resulting in his expulsion to take it with him for use in Mount and Sydney, because David Gray’s from Freemasonry. Faber Lodge 1825 SC in Singapore, daughter had been injured in a vehicle During the second half of 2004, the when he lectures there in November, accident. Upon his return to the USA, gavel was used by the Victorian Lodge then to seek direction from the donor David Gray was indicted on multiple of Research (Melbourne), WHJ Meyers lodges as to its future travels or final dishonesty charges, and subsequently Memorial Lodge of Research (Cairns), destination. Issue 52 page 17 Lake Lodge Museum
The lodge building which Kerry Nicholls 1839, and substantially restored in 1881 visited in Longford, Tasmania, is jointly by Harry Conway, who was District maintained as a museum for the Grand Superintendent of Works EC from surrounding district of Norfolk Plains 1882, Provincial Grand Master IC from and a fully-functional lodge room. 1884, and architect of the Masonic Hall The first lodge at Longford was at Launceston. Lodge of Peace 1021 EC, the only lodge In 1929, during the mastership of chartered by the short-lived (English) WBro Bishop William Barrett, the Provincial Grand Lodge of Tasmania. present building was commenced, not far The lodge was consecrated in 1857 and from the church. closed in 1859, the charter being In 2007 Lake Lodge handed in its transferred to Stanley, in the far charter, and there is now no lodge northwest. It is not known where the regularly at work in Longford, The lodge met, in Longford. building is controlled by the National In 1885 Lake Lodge 361 IC was Trust and is open to the public on Above: Lake Lodge chartered by the (Irish) Provincial Grand Sunday afternoons (and at other times by Below: GM Norm Cooper restoring the Lodge of Tasmania, meeting at the arrangement). (cancelled) warrant of Lake Lodge 29 TC Blenheim Hotel, Longford. It was among In September 2009 Launceston Lodge the lodges which agreed to form the of Research held a meeting there, with Grand Lodge of Tasmania, but it GM Norm Cooper and a Grand Lodge surrendered its warrant just before the team in attendance. When the lodge was formation of the Grand Lodge in 1890. closed, members of the Norfolk Plains In 1905 Lake Lodge 29 TC was Group of the National Trust were consecrated in the Sunday School room admitted, and the Grand Master returned of the Anglican Church, Longford, the charter. where it continued to meet for a number [Photos and some information courtesy of years. Christ Church was built in of Grand Lodge of Tasmania website.]
including MWBro Mick Gayfer (who competent scholars at question time. was GM in 1996, at the 3rd ANZMRC Then Bob James provided us with an Conference conference), as well as GM Frank Hayes example of what a Kellerman Lecture and the District GM SC; in lodge, Arthur should be (and had the grace not to (Continued from page 13) Hartley was conferred PSGW, and at the promote his own book, which is well required a 3 km round trip to the shops dinner which followed he was presented worth buying—see review in issue 51). for supplies, a bit much for an old fellow with an 80-year jewel (the first in WA), And he brought with him a sash similar with no transport except shanks mare. and Arthur just happened to have his to Ned Kelly’s sash for us to look at. And the lack of communal facilities in- harp with him, so we were treated to a After another good paper that house, such as a bar or bistro, restricted musical interlude; then, at long last, we afternoon, we had a long break before casual socialising. had the all too brief pleasure of seeing, dinner, which gave me a chance to hike Friday evening was eventful: visitors hearing and learning from that master to the local IGA and lay in some tucker were urged to use their own signs (I raconteur and after-dinner speaker, for the weekend. But I did not get a noted the ‘London’ second degree hand Yasha Beresiner. chance to visit the local bottle shop until position in use, seldom seen in Saturday morning began with a fairy Sunday! Australia); after some delay, WA fielded story, promoting a book of fairy stories, The Saturday banquet provided an 6 or more PGMs for the occasion, quickly demolished by several opportunity for presentation of
Try explaining that to Customs! The Thai Contingent The Mystic Tie Overseas speakers Jim Soutar and Yasha Jim Soutar with his minders, Yasha and GM Frank Hayes Beresiner with Conference souvenir plates. Chris Moor and Ken Harman. with matching GLWA ties. page 18 Harashim Evening Entertainment Friday: Arthur Hartley Saturday: The Mucky Duck Bush Band certificates and other necessary formalities, based on assumptions of events scheduled for Sunday and Monday. Some members were not happy that conclusions should be foregone, and it might be better, on future occasions, to schedule presentations at the close of the conference, rather than in the middle. Music and opportunity for dancing was provided by an excellent ‘Bush Band’. We knocked over another couple of Kellerman Lectures on Sunday morning, followed by an update on the Masonic Digital Library by Ed Robinson, and an instructive and entertaining paper by Jim Soutar. It was good to see GM Hayes and PGM Gayfer attending each day. The scheduled event for the evening was a quick trip to Perth and back for the official opening of the Grand Lodge The Kellerman Lecturers 2010 Library and Research Centre. I love Bob Grimshaw (WA), Bob James (NSW&ACT), Keith Knox (NZ), Kevin Allen (NZ), libraries, but opted to remain in Harvey Lovewell (Qld), Ian Green (Tas) and John Boardman (Vic), Mandurah, to dine on the waterfront with outgoing President Peter Verrall. with Graham and Helen Stead, and Andy Walker. Afterwards, Andy and I went back to his apartment to sip some Scottish nectar, and were joined later by Neil Morse and Charles Miller, who had been to the opening of the library. Between the four of us we were ‘researchers of three or more jurisdictions’ (Charles being NZ, Andy NSW&ACT; Neil ditto, plus Victoria; and me SA&NT plus Washington), and thus it constituted a meeting of Breakfast Creek Mob Lodge. But half a dozen of us would have been better. Perhaps I should explain the origin and purpose of the ‘lodge’. It began with the first AMRC conference in 1992, an informal gathering of researchers from three or more jurisdictions, without a warrant or officers, in a secure but untiled environment, talking freely about things Masonic and sharing a ANZMRC Executive Committee, 2010–2012 vintage port or a good whisky, with no Ed Robinson (NZ, convenor of 2012 conference), David Ganon (WA, Asst Secretary), Colin by-laws or rules except the above. It did Heyward (NZ, Secretary), Graham Stead (Qld, Treasurer), Ian Green (Tas, vice-president), Charles Miller (NZ, vice-president), Andy Walker (NSW&ACT, President), Peter Verrall (Continued on page 20) (Immediate Past President). Absent: Kent Henderson (Vic, vice-president) & Richard Num (SA&NT, information officer). Issue 52 page 19 how it went. Conference I’m told that the opening of the David & Yvette Ganon Library on Sunday (Continued from page 19) evening went well, and that Yasha Beresiner was nominated to cut the tape. not even have to be during the time of a Himself a Grand Librarian (RGL Italy), conference [see Harashim, # 26 p12, Yahsa marked the occasion by where John Belton (UK), Dick Bish presenting to the library, on behalf of his (USA), Max Webberley (Tas), John Grand Master, Fabio Venzi, a Master Worrell (NT) and a bunch from SA met Mason’s Certificate issued by the Grand for a barbecue and a wee dram in 2003.] Orient of France in 1807. ANZMRC Touring Lecturers The name Breakfast Creek Mob On Monday we heard the last two Rodney Grosskopff & Trevor Stewart Lodge was coined by Max Webberley at Kellerman Lectures and after lunch held the Brisbane conference in 2000. Over the biennial general meeting. At this Singapore, and would invite them to the years we have learned that half a meeting I proposed that the annual rejoin ANZMRC. dozen is a good number; more, and the membership subscription for overseas Brethren were informed that RWBro brethren tend to split into separate associates be reduced from $50 to $10. I Rodney Grosskopff would have limited discussion groups. Thus, more than one explained that there were two reasons time to make the 2011 lecture tour, and meeting may be necessary, to why this should be done: mainly because some lodges within reasonable travelling accommodate all. we were no longer giving them value for distance of each other would be asked to Two other problems have arisen in money (Harashim is now freely hold joint meetings. recent years: (1) brethren who bring their available in PDF format), and partly Brethren decided to invite Bro Trevor wives to a conference have difficulty in because some associates could not afford Stewart to be the 2013 touring lecturer, getting a leave pass; and (2) the the fees (we lost at least one overseas and were advised that he was prepared to informality of the arrangements can associate for this reason). The brethren visit overseas associates en route to the leave some brethren unaware of the time concurred and reduced the fees. Antipodes. He is a Prestonian Lecturer and place of meeting. Our new Fellow, Peter Verrall, (2004), a Past Master of Quatuor Charles Miller set a meeting at his advised that he would be visiting another Coronati Lodge and currently RWM of a place on the Monday evening, but I was former associate, Mount Faber Lodge, in Scottish research lodge, Lodge Sir among those who had already left the Robert Moray 1641 SC. venue by that time, and I don’t know The Grand Orient Certificate
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