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November 2022 Issue articles. In the shadows of history, Freemasonry wasn’t just misunderstood—it was outlawed, persecuted, even obliterated in pursuit of power. For over three centuries since Grand Lodge England’s founding around 1717, the fraternity bloomed into a global order of six million—but that very influence provoked widespread suppression. Totalitarian regimes, religious authorities and conspiracy-fuelled …
Editor
Dive into the Golden Age of Freemasonry, where the rise of American Fraternalism redefined brotherhood and communal purpose in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Explore how this surge in fraternal organisations fused civic identity with ritual, igniting a fervent quest for Masonic research and collective belonging. Curious? Discover more.
American Fraternalism in the 19th and Early 20th Centuries
Editorial
The late 19th and early 20th centuries in the United States has been called the "Golden Age of Fraternalism." How did this come about and why was the idea of joining a fraternal organization so popular? We will explore this question and examine the regalia used by many fraternal organizations in this period.
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Masonic Miscellanies – Masonic Master’s Carpets
Editorial
Have you got a magic "Masonic Master's Carpet" in your lodge? I say 'magic' with my tongue firmly in my cheek because (as far as I know) these fabulous works of art don't bestow any mystical powers but can bestow some educational ones! However, considering their possible value today, they may magic up some interest …
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Masonic Blogs – Universal Co-Masonry
Editorial
Possibly one of the most thought-provoking blogs dedicated to Freemasonry for men and women is to be found on the website of Universal Co-Masonry . There are a wealth of subjects authored by a host of superb contributors.
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8 Schools of Freemasonry – Esoteric P7
Editorial
Have you ever wondered what lies beyond the Master’s apron? The Esoteric School of Freemasonry, rooted in occult inner mysteries, beckons. Arthur Edward Waite championed this mystical path, drawing on Renaissance magic and the so‑called Egyptian Rite of Count Cagliostro. It’s a groundbreaking glimpse into hidden rituals—dare to explore further?
The Trowel – Working Tool of the Master Mason
Editorial
The Masonic trowel – the symbolic Masonic trowel – is no mere brick‑laying implement; within Freemasonry it embodies the spiritual mortar that binds brethren in unshakeable unity. This working‑tool of the Master Mason illustrates how, having tested the Craftsmen’s work, the Master uses the trowel to spread the cement of brotherly love, sealing harmony. Subtle …
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Editorial
At high noon in August 1865, the cornerstone of the new Masonic Temple in Brisbane was laid—an audacious statement of colonial ambition and Masonic pride. This Stirring ritual introduced the “antient workings” of Scotland to Australia’s fledgling fraternity. Discover how that moment reshaped Queensland Masonry—and why its echoes still challenge our understanding of ritual practice today.
The Builders – 13 The Spirit of Masonry
Editorial
“What if the deepest power of Masonry lies not in ritual, but in friendship?” In this stirring reflection, Joseph Fort Newton unveils the transformative idea that “Masonry is Friendship”, a philosophy rooted in spiritual kinship and universal fraternity. It portrays love as the constructive genius of the universe, calling us to foster genuine bonds. Intrigued? Discover …
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Editorial
Imagine a stairway not of stone, but of soul—ascending from earthly shadows into divine illumination. Jacob’s Ladder symbolism takes centre stage on the First Degree tracing board, drawing initiates towards the blazing star of Masonic enlightenment. This profound esoteric journey, rich in theological virtues and celestial gates, challenges Brethren to ascend beyond ritual and glimpse …
A Journey in Stone – Extracts of Wisdom p.10
Editorial
A “journey in stone” can reshape not just timber and rock, but the very soul. Amidst the symbolism of the rough ashlar, Craig Weightman reveals how Freemasonry’s working tools serve as a transformation metaphor—chiselling conscience, shaping character, and guiding initiates toward profound moral awakening. Read on to uncover how these millennia‑old symbols still inspire.
Editorial
Lest we forget the profound ties between Remembrance and Freemasonry—an evocative link seldom explored. In November, Armistice Day resonates deeply with international freemasons, spotlighting how memory, ritual and sacrifice converge within our Masonic tradition. This thought‑provoking connection challenges us to reconsider forgotten chapters of our shared heritage. Intrigued? Discover the untold narrative that may reshape …
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The Ritual of the Operative Free Masons – P1
Editorial
Discover the explosive truth behind Freemasonry’s origins, what if the Operative Free Masons ritual isn’t just history, but the actual seedbed of modern Masonry? This riveting extract reveals how Thomas Carr exposes the medieval guild’s ceremonies, complete with apprentices, secret passwords and stone‑working tools, as the very foundation of Speculative Freemasonry. Intrigued? Delve deeper to uncover …
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Freemasonry in Popular Culture P4 – TV
Editorial
Part 4 of our series on Freemasonry in Popular Culture takes a look at some of the TV series that feature Freemasonry. With much intrigue into the supposed machinations of the Freemasons within business, politics and the police force, TV was a ripe medium for ridicule and sensationalist anti-Masonic propaganda.
Editorial
Editorial
Speculative Freemasonry, as practise by Grand Lodge of England, was officially born just over three hundred years ago, is today an international organisation, counting over six million members. It has been subjected to persecution, suppression, and abolition throughout its history. In its infancy, only a couple of decades after its official birth, it had already …
The Master Mason’s Handbook P5
Editorial
Chapter 5 - The Secrets. Having thus been brought into the place of light the Candidate is given not the genuine secrets, but only substituted ones. This fact must often have puzzled the Candidate. The practical reason given in the ritual, though perfectly intelligible to a Royal Arch mason, cannot be the real one.
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Series
Discover the transformative power of Masonic podcasts — a vibrant gateway into leadership, esoteric study and Freemasonry education. From thought‑provoking discussions on ancient mysteries to lively debates on modern Craft, these shows challenge conventions and spark curiosity like never before. Dive deeper into this Masonic journey and uncover what lies beyond the Lodge door.
Series
Ever wondered which Masonic podcast is turning heads around the globe? The Craftsmen Online Podcast ignites curiosity by blending Masonic education with real‑world leadership development, all while delving into captivating Masonic history. Hosted by RW Michael Arce and esteemed guests, each weekly half‑hour episode challenges tradition and sparks fresh insight. Discover the conversation shaping modern …
Old Tiler Talks – The Greatest Work
Editorial
What is the greatest work of Masonry? The Old Tiler leans in and asks you to ponder, what truly moves your Masonry? “In my lodge, the greatest work isn’t one universal deed but that which each brother finds most powerful, whether charity, fellowship, kinship with the past, or the privilege of wise counsel. That personal …
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In Conversation with…Daniel Duke
Editorial
Author Daniel Duke talks to Philippa Lee about his new book 'Secret History of the Wild, Wild West' the third in a series on Outlaws, secret societies and hidden treasure. Dan is the great-great grandson of the infamous Jesse James, and the definitive authority on the subject.
Secret History of the Wild, Wild West
Editorial
Exclusive Extract of Daniel Duke's new book 'Secret History of the Wild, Wild West – Outlaws, Secret Societies and hidden Agendas of the Elite'.
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The Order Of The Temple And Its Doctrine
Editorial
THE Order of the Temple is divided into two great classes, denominated respectively the Order of the Temple and the Eastern Order. The Eastern Order gave birth to the Order of the Temple, and in the course of time has become an appendage of the latter. It is in ancient Egypt that we find the …
Editorial
Since 2018, The Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania’s “Embodying Masonic Values” open art competition has provided an opportunity for participants to explore Masonic values through art. Cash prizes are awarded to winners in five categories: Oil, Three-dimensional, Drawing and Print-making, Water-Based Medium and Digital Imagery. Most artwork is also available for sale.
Book Intro – Three Distinct Knocks (c.1760)
Books
Giving an exact account of all their proceedings in making a brother, with the three obligations or oaths belonging to the first second, and third degrees of masonry, viz. The entered apprentice, fellow-craft, and master-mason: with the obligating on belonging to the chair, and the grip and word.
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Book Review – Inventing the Future
Books
This book sets out those principles, considers the people involved and explores the framework within which their ideas were formed. And it discusses how the Constitutions evolved. - By Ric Berman
Book Review – The Freethinking Freemason
Books
Tim Bryce's "The Freethinking Freemason" offers sage advice on how to run a Masonic Lodge, editorials on the future direction of the fraternity, and stories aimed at entertaining Masons.
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How to join QCCC - the world’s first and oldest Masonic research society established over 135 years ago.
Book Review – 21st Century Rosicrucianism
Books
When the original Rosicrucian pamphlets were circulated in the early 1600s they sent a shockwave across Europe, instigating a surge of activity that changed the course of Western Esotericism.
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