It is nice to read the ratings on these posts because it shows how so many postings are written by just a few nutcases… But rated poorly by the majority. So how about some history?
The Devil worship accusation begins with the Catholic Church. The same Popes who condemned Freemasons also condoned Inquisitions… The legalized burning of people at the stake because of their religious views. Why did these Popes condemn? Because the Freemason accepts all religions, not just Catholicism. The modern Freemasons are a function of the Renaissance which cast off the control by the Church. Popes didn’t like losing their power, so they leveled the worst accusation they could. Of course, the accusations are nonsense.
We hold meetings with a Bible in my experience. But I would be comfortable if the Talmud or Quoran were used instead. Jesus was accused of being a Devil in disguise too; working miracles to woo victims down the false path. But He said that a tree shall be known by it’s fruit. An evil tree cannot produce good fruit. Such was true of Jesus and true for us all. Deceit is eventually revealed. The only things you can see Masons systematically doing is benefitting the community. The fear mongrering is just an attempt at mind control by those accusing Masons of evil. Don’t be fooled.
Government conspiracy? Yes, that too was begun by monarchs who didn’t like losing power to the idea of all men being equals. Masons are not only tolerant of religion but also see every man as an equal. This “leftist” mindset has always been a threat to the ruling royal party. But the USA was founded on this ideal and great Masons did influence that outcome… Lucky for each of us. Would you rather live in a class system? Me neither.
Great men have been attracted to the fraternity because of these uncommon ideals. George Washington was a Mason. He was offered the role of monarch of the new United States on several occasions, yet he refused and preserved the power in the people… Not take it for himself. If he was the leader of a power hungry, evil group intent on domination, why would he do that? The tree shall be known by it’s fruits.
Oooh, but Masons give each other special, preferential treatment, right? Well, no. Harry Truman fired Douglas MacArthur… Both were Masons. Read and you will find stories of Civil War Masons rendering aid to wounded brothers from the opposite side right on the battlefield.
New World Order? Yes, you bet! Although it’s not what you think. When men and Masons began using that term, the order at the time was “Divine Right of Kings.” the New World Order was coined in the 1700’s to announce the ideal that all men are created equal. It is not a world government idea, but a self-government idea. THAT’S the New World Order and I am hopeful that Egypt becomes the latest entrant into it. Where the power is retained by the people not controlled by royal masters.
The bottom line, think for yourself. Don’t buy the YouTube or blog nonsense. Go downtown to the Lodge which is likely on your main street. Stop by when they are open and meet the guys… You’ll never find a more honest, kindly group of men.
Dan, Master Mason, 32nd Degree Scottish Rite, Chaplain Weston Lodge #22