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Post by Tamrin on Jul 4, 2008 6:41:17 GMT 10
Statement issued by UGLE - 10th March 1999 There exist in England and Wales at least two Grand Lodges solely for women. Except that these bodies admit women, they are, so far as can be ascertained, otherwise regular in their practice. There is also one which admits both men and women to membership. They are not recognised by this Grand Lodge and intervisitation may not take place. There are, however, discussions from time to time with the women's Grand Lodges on matters of mutual concern. Brethren are therefore free to explain to non-Masons, if asked, that Freemasonry is not confined to men (even though this Grand Lodge does not itself admit women). Further information about these bodies may be obtained by writing to the Grand Secretary.
The Board is also aware that there exist other bodies not directly imitative of pure antient Masonry, but which by implication introduce Freemasonry, such as the Order of the Eastern Star. Membership of such bodies, attendance at their meetings, or participation in their ceremonies is incompatible with membership of this Grand Lodge. HFAF, Caxton, 1937
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Post by Tamrin on Aug 2, 2012 15:00:36 GMT 10
As I read it the positive element of this statement is the acknowledgment that “Freemasonry is not confined to men.”
The negative aspect is “Except that these bodies admit women, they are... otherwise regular in their practice.” The words “except” and “otherwise regular” here imply that, although Freemasonry is not confined to men, the admission of women is contrary to regularity!? In other words, except for each and every one of their members, they are regular — How does that work?
Clearly this is just slippery rhetoric, bordering on Orwellian New-Speak.
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Post by hrafn9 on Nov 25, 2012 6:30:24 GMT 10
Are the Women's Orders active in Australia?
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Post by Tamrin on Nov 25, 2012 6:45:28 GMT 10
Are the Women's Orders active in Australia? Barely.
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