THE OBJECT OF MEETING IN A LODGE ROOM

Bro.  Robert H. Thornton, P.D.D.G.M.

Opion  (81-01-24)


There is an old song most of you are familiar with, "We're here
because we're here, because we're here . . . etc." The song never
gets to the purpose of why we're here.  I sometimes wonder if the
members attending a lodge meeting ever have the same feeling,
when attending Lodge? What then is the object of meeting in a
Lodge room?

If the object of meeting in a Lodge room is physical, then the
Constitution orders it.  Meetings were held on high mountains or
in deep valleys for security reasons. Our weather and time
prohibit such locations, so we are forced to meet in a room of
sufficient security, according to the Constitution, and this
paper is finished! But there are mental reasons for meeting, be
they intellectual, moral, spiritual reasons, just to name a few.

Freemasonry, as we know it today, is so complex, so many sided,
and so varied in its activities, that it may be taken for granted
that it does not present exactly the same attractions to any two
Brethren. Each one has probably a slightly different idea of what
it is generally, and what it especially means to him.

To one, the outer aspect is most prominent, most important: the
Lodge and its activities take first place in this regard. The
member attends degree nights, entertainment events, sport
competitions and social gatherings, and enough meetings to
qualify attendance at these social gatherings.

To another, it is the inner meaning of Freemasonry, the spirit,
that underlies all the outward forms and ceremonies, and appeals
most strongly and fascinates him intensely enough to attend Lodge
meetings. This member takes part in the degree work, produces
papers, and by study and reading is enlightened by the knowledge
of the Craft and lessons therein.

To some, the Lodge is a haven of rest, where they may retire for
an hour's quiet from the rush and turmoil of everyday life. 
There is no better place to restore the body and mind than an
orderly, well regulated and harmonious Masonic Lodge, except
perhaps a sacred edifice or the communion with nature, whether
field or stream.

To others Freemasonry offers an opportunity for social
intercourse, for making new and strengthening old human
friendships.  Indeed, no truer friends can be found anywhere than
those selected as members of the Masonic Fraternity.

To others it may be the Masonic Ritual and ceremonies where they
find ample food for thought and reflection. These encourage them
to apply the tenets and principles to the betterment of their
lives.

Two hundred years ago the world population was some 750 million. 
Today it is approaching 3 1/2 billion. So with space travel,
communication through various media, assembly lines, mass
production, the hordes of humanity are driven to distraction by
confusion and noise.  Thousands of societies are clamoring for
service, all advertising their activities.

But what of the man who wishes to "belong" to a club or society
that not only provides outlets for charitable work without
advertising, but also affords a sanctuary in which he can morally
improve himself? It may be that he shuns publicity and the
limelight, and yet is genuinely not satisfied with his present
life form. It is here in the precincts of a Masonic Temple that
such men can find retreat. Regardless of social significance he
will find the Spirit Of Masonry is the one thing most needful. 
Size and numbers do not count because without that Spirit, all
else is insignificant.

Freemasonry is great because of its profound faith, ideals of
morality, sincere friendships, its fruitful and practical service
to the common good. Of greater importance is that these virtues
of Masonry, are intended for use throughout each day, not just
for certain occasions. What a man does in his home, in public
life or even within the confines of the Temple will reflect on
the extent he has morally advanced to the spiritual goal of
Freemasonry.

The object of meeting in a Lodge room must be to enable the
seeker to enquire after the Spirit of Freemasonry, to master the
art of self-discipline, to show peace in the face of inner
conflict, to forgive mistakes and look for the best in men. 
Hence he will travel on the road to success, after learning to go
about an assigned task with the main thought of accomplishing the
best results, not a desire to see what there is in it for him, or
what promotion he can expect, but to truly live the Spirit Of
Freemasonry to its fullest, to teach, to help, to do good to all
mankind.

To learn how to make good men better must be the object of
meeting in a Lodge Room!





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