Well, I am disappointed with some of the reply posts. Let me explain why.
The UGLE states in their Freemasons guidelines to English Freemasons, that three regular lodges can form a Grand Lodge. That is providing their workings are considered regular, then the Grand Lodge in question can seek UGLE recognition.
Here's my issue:
I have been a UGLE Freemason for over 12 years and went through the Chair of my mother lodge as well as being secretary to a UGLE specialist lodge. Before my year ended, I found no other option by to resign from UGLE freemasonry. This was very upsetting and extremely painful, but a decision that was vital.
As I see it, UGLE do not own the registered trademark for freemasonry. Nobody does. And just because the UGLE are one of the oldest and greatly known globally, does not necessarily mean they are the only body that can govern the craft. Far from it. So why would a grand lodge of any repute want UGLE recognition? I don't get it.
Freemasonry is not about recognition or millions of pounds/dollars being thrown around here, there and everywhere. Charity is not about money, UGLE seems to forget that. Masonic charity is far more than simply handing out a cheque with lots of media attention.
I am mindful of a discussion I had with a Past Right Worshipful Master when my wife and I had a private tour of the New York Grand Lodge. He said and and I quote: 'UGLE English freemasonry is stuffy and they seem to have lost their way'.
Fraternally, in faith and fidelity,
You make, I think, incorrect assumptions, confuse concepts, and appear to have a bias against a your former obedience.
UGLE guidelines are for UGLE Freemasons, not English Freemasons.
UGLE are not the only governing body. There are many GLs which each govern, each in their own physical jurisdiction and each within their own obedience. UGLE governs recognised Freemasonry in England. There are other GLs, such as yours, which govern their own members in England but not for instance, in TN.
Your concern that as to any GL wanting recognition from UGLE is without a stated premise. Simply because they are not the only governing authority is no reason not to seek recognition. My GL recognized Malta simply so I could attend their communication!
To clarify, UGLE descends from the oldest
Grand Lodge. Many of us believe the oldest Masonic Lodges to be in Scotland.
As to the statement from the NY member (I'm not sure as to the relevance of the private tour, and he was not an RWM) one first would wish to know the basis for his opinion. How long has he been a UGLE Mason? How many UGLE lodges has he attended and in what provinces? Does he attend festive boards? I'm a UGLE Mason. Just like some American and Scottish Lodges, some UGLE lodges are stuffy. Some are pretty carefree. I don't recollect a stuffy lodge festive board. PGL and UGL certainly can be organized, but I've had delightful conversation.
Again, you don't state how UGLE had supposedly lost its way.
Clearly, you have a grievance against UGLE. That's fine. Your comments above appear to show a simple resentment that they are the big boy on the block, leading you to engage in hearsay ad hominem sniping, i.e., they're stuffy. I was waiting for your next statement to be "And their mother wears army boots."
It might be good to amend your sig line to your current obedience to avoid any misapprehension as to the jurisdiction under which you labour.