The Masonic Restoration Foundation endorses the following tenets as being the verifiable historical intentions of the founders of speculative Masonry, as established from the time of the Premier Grand Lodge. They are essential to the character of the Masonic institution, and widely accepted as representing the best practices in Masonic Lodges across the world.
It is the intent of Freemasonry that the fraternity is, above all else, an initiatic order whose main purpose is to teach good men to subdue their passions, become masters over themselves, and grow in life to be better men.
It is the intent of Freemasonry that only those who are duly and truly prepared are eligible to be admitted as members. Determining the qualifications of men in seeking admission is an essential aspect of upholding the integrity of our ancient institution.
It is the intent of Freemasonry that its ceremonies should be conducted with the utmost reverence and solemnity. All efforts pertaining to the presentation of the degrees should be focused on the candidate, providing each with the most profound and transformative initiatic experience possible.
It is the intent of Freemasonry that every Mason should be desirous to learn and apt to teach. Sufficient time between degrees should be given to each candidate so as to enhance his self-transformation through personal intellectual study, reflection and contemplation.
It is the intent of Freemasonry that each candidate should demonstrate his proficiency in learning at each individual stage or degree before he can be advanced to the next stage, including a demonstration of the candidate’s understanding of the journey from darkness to light, from ignorance to knowledge; and his insight into the uses and applications of Masonic symbolism.
It is the intent of Freemasonry that members of Masonic Lodges should be actively engaged in Freemasonry. Active participation in the business and purposes of Masonry by a large majority of those who belong is essential to the growth and vitality of a lodge.
It is the intent of Freemasonry that Masons come together to seek fellowship and fraternity in a common pursuit of virtue and moral improvement. Lodges should be large enough to be efficient, but small enough for all the brethren of the lodge to closely know each other. Fraternal ties must always be stronger than social ties.
It is the intent of Freemasonry that, through the exercise of genuine brotherly love, men become better enabled to regard humankind as one family and to consciously contribute to the betterment of society at large.
It is the intent of Freemasonry that Lodges should make regular time for feasting, communal dining, and embracing the social enjoyment of their members. Holding a formal dining event after meetings has long been a traditional element of Masonic evenings.
It is the intent of Freemasonry that its formal and tiled assemblies should be dedicated to the attainment of a deeper knowledge and understanding of Freemasonry. Presentation of lectures, poetry, music; discussions of the arts, philosophy, and history; and the interpretation of symbols, allegories and myths of Masonic ritual further the growth of a Masonic lodge and its members.
It is the intent of Freemasonry that only the ablest among us should serve in an office of Masonry. Serving in a Masonic office is a privilege and not a right. Officers of Masonic lodges should be elected and appointed based solely on their merit.
Above all, the most important intention of a Freemason is self-improvement. The improvement of the individual is the most fundamental aspect of improving society.
by the Masonic Restoration Foundation
Reprinted by kind permission from the Southern California Research Lodge’s “Fraternal Review.”
The Masonic Restoration Foundation is an educational organization that provides news, research, and analysis relating to the rich heritage in Freemasonry and current trends in the North American Masonic experience.
Excerpted from the MRF website, www.masonicrestorationfoundation.org
