To be a Better Citizen of the World

To be a Better Citizen of the World

The thesis for this article series is that Pure Ancient Masonry consists of no more – nor no less – than Three Degrees and the Royal Arch: as stipulated in the Articles of the Union dated 27 December 1813.

The author is ‘advocating’ that the value proposition presented to existing members and future candidates for initiation, is that Freemasonry under the English Constitution, should be promoted as a four-part offering, conferred in a Craft lodge opened in four stages.

On a practical basis, the Royal Arch Chapter units would be absorbed back into the Craft lodges.  The Craft lodge would either conduct meetings in the first three stages, or would be configured as a Chapter and opened in the fourth stage. Membership of a Pure Ancient Masonry lodge would automatically include all four stages, which completes membership of Pure Ancient Masonry.

To be a good citizen of the world

Secondly, the value proposition for Pure Ancient Masonry is defined in terms of Citizenship; therefore the allegories, symbolism, and lessons will be a blueprint for all Freemasons to be a better citizen of the world. The world we live in now, and the world we want to leave to our children.

I acknowledge that many Freemasons achieve esoteric and spiritual fulfilment from their Freemasonry. This series of articles does not intend to replace or challenge that fulfilment. But, on the contrary, to offer an alternative Masonic fulfilment, through leadership and personal skill sets based on the lessons taught in Pure Ancient Masonry.

This is a series of 4 articles; Apprentice, Fellowcraft, Master, and Companion

In order for clarity, each step of this series focuses on the working tools and how symbolically these tools can be used as the working tools to become a better citizen of the world, through leadership and personal development skill sets.

1. Entered Apprentice Working tools – preparation for citizenship
2. Fellowcraft Working tools – communication skills
3. Master Mason Working tools – character building & leadership
4. Companion Implements of labour – building relationships & trust

Freemasonry offers so much more symbolism, in the charges, lectures, tracing boards etc. At the present time, it is left open for the student to investigate and incorporate these lessons into their personal path of a daily advancement of Masonic knowledge.