WK News - Issue 13 (2) - Flipbook - Page 18
ISSUE NO.13 SUMMER 2024 | WEST KENT NEWS 19
PROVINCIAL LEARNING &
DEVELOPMENT OFFICER:
ERIC LEWIS
Morals in Freemasonry:
The Ethical Foundation
of our Fraternal Order
Brethren, on occasion we can all
benefit from a reminder as to why
we are Freemasons, the obligations
we take on being received into the
craft and how our actions in our
daily lives, as Freemasons can have
a positive impact on those around
us.
Freemasonry is one of the world's
oldest and most well-known fraternal
organisations, is deeply rooted in a
rich tradition of moral and ethical
teachings. These teachings are
conveyed
through
allegory,
symbolism, and ritual, emphasising
the development of personal virtues
and the betterment of society. In this
brief article I will explore the key
moral
principles
upheld
in
Freemasonry and how they shape
our lives and the lives of those
around us and in the wider
community.
Integrity:
Upholding
Ethical Standards
Strong
Integrity is a key moral principle in
Freemasonry. We are expected to
uphold strong ethical standards,
demonstrating honesty, fairness,
and reliability in all our actions. This
commitment to integrity ensures
that, as Freemasons, we are
respected and trusted members of
the
fraternity
and
of
our
communities.
Freemasonry
promotes
the
continuous self-improvement of its
members. Through our rituals,
teachings, and fellowship,
Freemasonry encourages us to
strive for moral and intellectual
excellence. This pursuit of personal
development is seen as a lifelong
journey, with members constantly
working to refine their character and
skills.
Friendship: The
Freemasonry
Foundation
of
Friendship in Freemasonry is one of
the cornerstones of the fraternity,
deeply rooted in the values of
brotherhood, trust, and mutual
support.
Within
the
Masonic
tradition, friendship transcends mere
social connections, evolving into a
profound bond among members who
are committed to each other’s
growth and well-being. This fraternal
friendship is built on the principles
of equality, respect, and shared
moral and ethical values.
As Freemasons we are encouraged
to support one another in times of
need, celebrate successes together,
and uphold each other's honour and
integrity. Through rituals, meetings,
and
communal
activities,
Freemasonry fosters an environment
where genuine friendships can
flourish, contributing to our personal
development and the strength of the
fraternity as a whole.
Respect: Respect for All
Freemasonry teaches us that all
men are equal, regardless of
background, race, or creed. This
principle of equality promotes a
culture of respect and inclusivity
within the fraternity. We are
encouraged to treat each other with
equal consideration and to reject
any form of discrimination or
prejudice.
In an increasingly diverse world,
tolerance is a vital Masonic virtue.
We are taught to be open-minded
and respectful of others' beliefs and
opinions. This principle fosters a
spirit
of
understanding
and
cooperation, allowing us to engage
with people from different cultural
and religious backgrounds.
Freemasonry places a high value on
truth, both as an ethical standard
and as a lifelong pursuit of
knowledge. We are encouraged to
be honest in our dealings with
others and to seek wisdom and
understanding. The quest for truth
involves continuous learning and
self-reflection, fostering intellectual
and moral growth.
Service: Compassion in Action
Charity
and
philanthropy
are
cornerstones of Masonic practice.
We are encouraged to provide relief
to those in need, whether they are
fellow Masons or members of the
broader community. This principle of
relief manifests in various charitable
activities, ranging from supporting
local and national charities to
offering scholarships and disaster
relief. As Freemasons our aim is to
alleviate suffering and contribute
positively to society.