Post by Tamrin on Sept 21, 2008 11:39:06 GMT 10
THE NEW MILLENNIUM, FREEMASONRY AND WOMEN
Report to the MW Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of South Australia & Northern Territory
Published in the Autumn 2002 issue of "The SA and NT Freemason"
[Excerpts]
Report to the MW Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of South Australia & Northern Territory
Published in the Autumn 2002 issue of "The SA and NT Freemason"
[Excerpts]
Positives include extolling freedom of speech, equality, democracy, peace, education and morality. Negatives, arising from [Freemasonry's] formative conditions, ultimately include autocratic government and resistance to change. The result is being out-of-conformity with today's society, which at best sees Freemasonry as irrelevant. This includes being seen as a male bastion embattled against women.
There have been great changes in society since Freemasonry was formed. It continues, however, with many old social practices which alienate younger generations. Should it allow this to continue its future must appear grim.
There is no legal requirement at present for Freemasonry to admit women. Ethics, however, is another consideration, overrides laws, customs and rules. Freemasonry extols morality, although has yet to address ethical issues in its relationship with women.
There have been great changes in society since Freemasonry was formed. It continues, however, with many old social practices which alienate younger generations. Should it allow this to continue its future must appear grim.
There is no legal requirement at present for Freemasonry to admit women. Ethics, however, is another consideration, overrides laws, customs and rules. Freemasonry extols morality, although has yet to address ethical issues in its relationship with women.
