Part of that system is to "research". We need to:
- discover knowledge past;
- prove legitimacy of same;
- prove the truth; and
- prove and justify the theoretical basis of the topics.
Research must:
- deal with establishing and proving facts, not ideals, by comparing and contrasting substantiating sources;
- challenge and expand original thought;
- be useful and useable, and
- extend its influence to the ordinary Mason.
At the consecration of the premier lodge of research - Quatuor Coronati No. 2076 EC/UGLE in 1886, the following was said:
" .... we may help forward the important cause of Masonic study and
investigation, may induce a more scholarly and critical consideration of our
evidences, a greater relish for historical facts, and subserve at the same time
the increasing and healthy movement for the extension of libraries and museums
in all Lodges . . . [We believe] that such a study, thoughtful and prudent,
zealous yet discriminating, is essential to a proper understanding of Masonic
archaeology and Masonic formulae . .... For thus it may chance that we shall be
enabled to rescue contemporary Freemasonry from the charge frequently brought
against it, that it sacrifices an intellectual study of Freemasonry proper to
the more pervading requirements of the social circle, and that it is too easily
contented with a routine of ritual on the one hand, and the pleasing exercise
of hospitality on the other .... as Freemasons who take pride in their order,
and who feel strongly that knowledge and light, the opposites of ignorance and
darkness, are, ever have been, and we trust ever will be, characteristic
features and the abiding distinction of Freemasonry."
That was in 1886 - 122 years ago !
We are accepted into the Craft because we affirm a
general desire for knowledge. We are admonished to make daily progress in the
acquisition of Masonic knowledge, and we are rewarded for making progress in
the science. Two kinds of knowledge are described, that of the Liberal Arts and
Sciences, and the hidden mysteries of Nature and Science. We must be prepared
to make the effort and discover the vast unknown of Masonic knowledge.
Research requires dedication. Research requires time. We need more
Brethren to undertake research. We need to promote ourselves to the very early
grass roots of this organization, to the very first steps. We need to mentor
and tutor these Masons, and say strongly 'we want you, we need you', and put
out a hand of scholarly friendship: no closed shop, no closed minds, no 'wait
for your turn'. We must identify and engage talent, promote, present, and be
seen. Research is a career path in Freemasonry that should have specific
attractive signposts. Active participation is the way to learn, and original
thought and work is within all of us.
Research is necessary to define 'What is Freemasonry'. Freemasonry as a living organization with a distinguished history
is in need of a contemporary, flexible image. We must enjoy our Freemasonry,
and learn to 'talk the talk' across the generations.
The discipline of training, study and analysis is crucial to the process, and
creates the differential between 'a member' and 'a Mason'.
This information provided by:
|
