My Freemasonry | Freemason Information and Discussion Forum
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I've been outspoken on "the ring issue" in other threads. There is no official ruling in most (if not all) jurisdictions on personal jewelry, only local customs...it is merely commemorative. Wear it when YOU want to.
As for the ring itself, I like it. Not my personal style, but it looks neat.
I've read a few interviews with the director and the actors, and they're pretty tight-lipped about all of the symbolism. Decoding Loki's tattoos reveals a lot about his character.
Prisoners is one of the best movies I have seen in decades. The cinematography is phenomenal.
There is a lot of mystery surrounding Loki (Jake's character). It's easy to miss the first time viewing, so you have to watch it again to pick up on everything. For example, every time Jackman prays...
Common sense shouldn't need a mandate. There are a lot of Brothers who take the secrecy bit way above and beyond on their own accord. This should be addressed on the local level at their home Lodge through reeducation of their obligation and what they are actually supposed to protect.
Experience + record keeping. There should be a historical record that can predict with a certain degree of reliability how many NPD/demits (dues shortfalls) and new members (dues surplus) a Lodge will have.
Any shortfalls or expenses outside the budget should be covered via fundraising.
Drats...our secret plans to take over the world are exposed!
But seriously, there is nothing discussed on the forums that are "secret". If anyone lets something slip that may even be considered a gray area, the mods are very good at catching it. Always assume that cowans and eavesdroppers are...
My take on dues:
This is a nonprofit organization. Dues should be a simple math equation of members divided by operating costs. A Lodge should have a pretty good idea of how much it takes to keep the lights on, and base dues on that. Dues = how much does it cost to affiliate or belong. All...
Re: Dual/plural memberships. Should Masons be able
I don't see how being a multi-member would really hurt anything. If a guy has the time and/or financial means to support it, then more power to him.
There are some who, frankly, would do this solely to hold chairs for the reason of being...
Re: Dual/plural memberships. Should Masons be able
I see nothing wrong with any of that.
The main issue for me would be voting at the local level. You should only be able to vote or hold office in your home/mother Lodge.
We're having a Euchre tournament next month. $3 for single, $5 for couples. There's also a light dinner and snack items to purchase throughout the night. Should be a good turnout!
That might be geographical though. We're taught to play Euchre @ age 7 around here LOL.
Because nothing keeps those motivational fires burning like being able to one day attend a business meeting to vote "yay" on paying the electric bill?
If a Lodge has nothing more beyond the degree work to offer a new candidate besides the mystique of a business meeting, they have bigger issues...
It IS necessary in my opinion.
My Lodge didn't have a petitioner for a long while, until I came along. Ohio can conduct business/open in any degree. I can say for a fact that had I been told that I couldn't attend a meeting for 3+ months, I would've lost interest and walked away.
No, I can't...
I survived my first inspection last night as my Lodge presented its EA degree, with yours truly as the centerpiece...playing the role of the candidate. I had a feeling they were going to ask me to do it, being the new guy. Honestly, I was reluctant to do it. Having just been initiated a couple...
Here's the perspective of someone relatively new to Masonry:
1.) Does freemasonry study hermetic sciences?
No, not really. As others above have already mentioned, this can vary depending on location, but overall, no.
2.) Does freemasonry study magic (or magick if you prefer) in any way?
Nope...