Freemasonry and Society

Freemasonry demands from its members a respect for the law of the country in which a man works and lives. Its principles do not in any way conflict with its members duties as citizens, but should strengthen them in fulfilling their private and public responsibilities. The use by a Freemason of their membership to promote his own business or anyone else's business, professional or personal interests is condemned, and is contrary to the conditions on which he sought admission to Freemasonry. His duty as a citizen must always prevail over any obligation to other Freemasons, and any attempt to shield a Freemason who has acted dishonorably or unlawfully is contrary to this prime duty.

United Grand Lodge of England, "Society
Freemasonry demands from its members a respect for the law of the country in which a man works and lives. Its principles do not in any way conflict with its members' duties as citizens, but should strengthen them in fulfilling their private and public responsibilities. The use by a Freemason of his membership to promote his own or anyone else's business, professional or personal interests is condemned, and is contrary to the conditions on which he sought admission to Freemasonry. His duty as a citizen must always prevail over any obligation to other Freemasons, and any attempt to shield a Freemason who has acted dishonorably or unlawfully is contrary to this prime duty."

Freemasonry is non-political, and the discussion of politics at Masonic meetings is forbidden.

Henry Clausen, "Industry and honesty are homely virtues that become a Perfect Master. Life is far too short and fleeting to waste time in idleness, follies or dissipation. To learn and to do combine and develop the potential human soul with inherent force and power. Satan finds mischief for idle hands. Honesty still is th best policy and an honest man still is the noblest work of God. This virtue should be reflected in contracts, business dealings, payment for services and acceptance of an honest day's pay only for an honest day's work." (Clausen's Commentaries on Morals and Dogma, page 25)

Albert Pike, "It is not the mission of Masonry to engage in plots and conspiracies against the civil government. It is not the fanatical propagandist of any creed or theory; nor does it proclaim itself the enemy of kings." (Morals and Dogma, page 153)

Henry Clausen, "True Masonry is active, not inert, especially when our country, our Brethren or mankind call on us for help. It is the apostle of Liberty, Equality and Fraternity but engages in no plots or conspiracies against civil government." (Clausen's Commentaries on Morals and Dogma, page 51)

George Oliver, "Laws of the land. The Freemason has the greatest respect for the laws of the land in which he lives, and he obeys them with the zeal of a faithful subject. If he is intrusted with the putting of those laws in force, his masonic duties remind him to be faithful and diligent in applying them. . . . In the event of a brother willfully violating the laws of his country, the Order itself directs the attention of the magistrates unto him, and he who is punished as a criminal by the laws, is excluded from the Order without exception." (A Dictionary of Symbolical Masonry)


Racism
Anti-Mason John Hope, "Prince Hall Freemasons have tried repeatedly to address the question of integration, or at the very least, recognition, without success." (Freemasonry: As Influenced By The Bible, pages 3-4)

Before the writing of Mr. Hope's book, 40 Grand Lodges of the United States and 8 Canadian Provinces had recognized Prince Hall Freemasonry.


October 28, 2007