THE SOUTH AFRICAN CO-MASON - Droit Humain … Official Journal... · 2018-05-11 · THE SOUTH AFRICAN CO-MASON ... MASONRY page 6 DAN BROWN page 8 THE SWORD page 9 TRANSVAAL RAM

INTERNATIONAL ORDER OFCO-FREEMASONRYLE DROIT HUMAIN

THE SOUTH AFRICANCO-MASON

Official Journal of the South African Federation

VOLUME 11 - DECEMBER 2010

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INDEXFROM THE PENOF OUR MPGCpage 2JANET ISOBELHAVIKpage 3ACCEPTINGCHANGEpage 3MY UNDER-STANDINGpage 4CO-FREEMASONRYpage 6DAN BROWNpage 8THE SWORDpage 9TRANSVAAL RAMpage 10LODGEDEDICATIONpage 11KEEPING ITSECRETpage 12PURITYpage 13JOININGpage 13MASONICTEMPLESpage 14THEANO LODGEpage 15SOMEDIFFERENCESAND STILLFREEMASONRYpage 16IN THE FAMILYpage 18SPHYNX LODGEpage 18THE RIGHTWORSHIPFULMASTERpage 19

FROM THE PEN OF OUR MPGCDear BrethrenLe Droit Humain - meaningHuman Rights - our mottoforms the basis of ourOrder, namely Service toHumanity, which is donewithout detriment toourselves, family orconnections.Service is defined as: “theaction of serving, helping,or benefiting conducttending to the advantage ofthe welfare of others”. If so,then how is service beingapplied in our Lodges andChapters?Having entered the Orderof our own will and accordand pledged our loyalty bythe length of our CableTow - has our Cable Towremained the same length?No matter the position you

hold in the Lodge, eachbrother is vital and weshould work as a team. Nomatter the rank you mayhold, you must be anexample of service to yourbrethren. Have you paidyour dues? Have yourtalents been used in theadministration and growthof the Orient or are you justa monthly member? Do thebrethren feel part of thebrotherhood?Are we spending part of theTFIG in meditation andstudy in order to win someof the hidden secrets ofnature and then are wecommunicating this to ourfellow brethren?Are we building on thefoundations of ourfounders and brethren

departed to the GLE? Arethe Lodges producing,according to talents, thepieces of architecture,music, artwork or poetry?Let us not forget what weowe to the brethren of thefuture.The harmony of the Lodgeis like a well played harp ora well aligned brick wallwhere each string or brickis dependent on the otherfor support and strength.The vibrations of eachLodge therefore dependson each member.Brethren, wishing you all apeaceful break and lookingforward to a newenlightened year.Hearty good wishesThe V. Illus Sis. EE Bronner 33°MPGC

APPEALTHE SA FEDERATION WILL BE CELEBRATING OUR CENTENARY

CELEBRATIONS IN 2014.MAY I PLEASE APPEAL TO ALL THE ORIENTS

TO ASSIMILATE THE HISTORY, STORIES, PHOTOGRAPHS,ARTWORK AND OR MEMORABILIA OF THE ORIENTS

IN PREPARATIONFOR OUR CENTENARY CELEBRATIONS

The Very Illus Sis EE Bronner 33°



Let us not forget the founders of theSouth African Federation.Janet Isobel Havik (nee Gillian) isone of the founder members of Co-Freemasonry in SA. The V Illus BroHavik was born in Durban onAugust 6, 1878. She was educatedin Durban and studied music whenshe left school and became aprofessional music teacher.The Very Illus Bro J I Wedgewood,initiated Bro Havik in May 1913 at13 Blomfield Road, London, passedin June and raised in July 1913.In September she was passedthrough the chair. Illus Bro Havikremained an Honorary PM of LodgeEmulation No 2 in London.Brn. Gillian and T Marsh weregiven permission to work as aTrangle by The Very Illus Bro ABesant 33°.

Amity Lodge No 200 was started asa Triangle on Easter Sunday 1914and was consecrated in July 1915.Illus Bro Havik was the secondRWM of Amity Lodge 1916 - 1917.Illus Bro Havik was a founding

member and was instrumental in theformulation of the Lodges andChapters in the Durban Orient.* Natal Mark Lodge No 5 in Pmb. -which later moved to Durban* Holy Royal Arch CommonwealthNo 33* Sovereign Chapter Veritas RoseCroix No 31* The Encampment of the SouthernLight Last* Royal Ark Mariners moored toNatal mark Lodge* 1 December 1952 she set upLodge Masonic Light as a studyLodgeIn 1947 she became a member of theCourt of Honour and being the headof the Order Illus Bro Havik wasgranted the 33°.She passed to the GLE on 5 May1970.

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ACCEPTING CHANGEThe following address was given atthe first Occasional Lodge at 25Rose Avenue, Durban in December1989 by The Very Illus Bro L ASutherland. I feel it is as appropriatenow as it was then.

“I would just like to put a fewthoughts to you on acceptingchange. We are living in a period ofvery rapid change, not only in ourown country, but the whole world -in fact it is a bit bewildering formany of us to accept the pace atwhich it is taking place.However, it is a law of nature that

everything must change and adapt,or it dies.An example is that little bird calledDawin’s Finch, which was blown bygales out of its own environment onto a strange island - it adaptedimmensely quickly to the absence ofits suitable food by developing astrong beak for breaking open hardnut-like foods, in order to survive.In our own ways, in our own circles,we have to adapt, making way fornew concepts and relaxing rigid andout-moded ideas and views. I amsure you will agree that we are livingin such an exciting era, one in which

we, as Freemasons are being giventhe wonderful opportunity of puttingour principles into action andworking to the good of humanity andthe promotion of Brotherly Love forall beings.Let our thoughts for the new year betowards open-mindedness and arespect (if not an acceptance) for theother’s point of view, so that we canall take part in the march of changetowards that unity which willultimately be the state of the PerfectMan and let ”Brotherly Love“ be ourown keynote for the coming year.”

Illus Bro Janet Isobel Havik

Grateful thanks to the founders of our Order. May we not disappoint them



In this paper I present myunderstanding of Freemasonryrelevant to the first degree. The pastfew months have been extremelydifficult and challenging,. I havebeen challenged by the information Ihave learnt from my instructor, myown research and my journey of self-discovery. Many questions havecome to mind during the time of myinstruction. It is with these questionsthat I present this paper.The questions are :Why have I chosen to become aFreemason?I have always had an enquiring mind,always questioned and never tookanything for granted. Coming from abackground of following instructionsand ideas simply because “that is theway things are” you can imagine thatquestioning everything could nothave been easy. Very often I was notgiven the answers that satisfied mycuriosity. Thus, I was led from theoutset on a long and very difficultjourney of self knowledge and selfdiscovery.I found myself searching for peoplewho shared my thoughts and idealsabout life and its interpretations. Ineeded a place in the world where Ifelt understood. I feel that I havefound a place in Freemasonry. In thisspace I find my sincerest beliefs andideals. I am not judged by my beliefs,faults or achievements. I remain aperson like everyone else rich orpoor. I am here to learn more aboutlife, myself and to be supported andguided to achieve one of my ultimate

goals, to serve humanity, to give backto GOD and to myself.Have I been practising Free-masonry unknowingly before Ibecame one?I live by the three principle virtues ofHope, Faith and Charity. Hope thatthe difficulties we face are withingood reason and part of a better planand outcome. Faith that hope willcarry us through our trials andtribulations. Charity I have oftengiven in material and immaterialways, by contributing with acts ofloving kindness, friendship andsupport among other things.What is my basic understandingof Freemasonry in the FirstDegree?I remember my experience whilewaiting in the candidates roomvividly. I experienced feelings ofimpatience and restlessness. Inretrospect., I now realise howconflicted my mind was at the timeand still is at times. The fear of theunknown had been ever present atthat moment. My initiation feltoverwhelming. I could not absorb theritual and I could not make out whatwas happening around me. From aMuslim perspective, I felt tornbetween two worlds. One that wasknown to me and which at somepoints in the ritual seemed to havebeen in total contradiction with myalready internalised belief system. Irealise now, that every act of theritual was symbolic of somethingrelevant to my faith and encompasses

all of the basic principles thereof.I have learnt that Freemasonry is asystem of knowledge and self-discipline. It is a system that requiresthe willingness to be open to the truthand other ideas. It simply requiresmental self-surrender. One often hasto unlearn some aspects in one’s lifein order to grasp concepts of thesystem beneficially, all in the questfor personal growth anddevelopment.Furthermore, Freemasonry is basedon a universal belief in the divine.This belief is illustrated by virtue thatsymbolically teaches me a system ofself-discovery that leads to a personaldegree of self-improvement and aninclination towards the betterment ofsociety.Symbolically Freemasonry has givenme the light. A way of seeing andinterpreting the world, my life andthe lives of other’s differently. I havelearnt that the physical symbols haveunderlying symbolic meaning.Different meanings for differentindividuals. The symbols and toolstaught in Freemasonry have specialuse for each aspect in life. Therefore,one has to understand the symbolicmeaning of the philosophy in orderfor the heart to be fully present andthe mind to be willing to participate.It is only through understanding thatthe symbols of my new way ofinterpreting life can reflect in ameaningful way. Silent meditationand introspection is necessary todiscover the lessons learnt aboutFreemasonry..... . . ..Continued

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MY UNDERSTANDING OF FREEMASONRY



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FOCUS ON THE POSITIVE.THERE IS ROOM IN YOUR MIND FOR ONLY ONE THOUGHT,

SO MAKE SURE ITS A POSITIVE ONE.YOU CAN’T CHOOSE YOUR CIRCUMSTANCES,

BUT YOU CAN CHOOSE YOUR ATTITUDE TOWARDS THEM.

Cont....What is my understanding ofthe Tracing Board? And howcan I apply the symbolicmeaning to my life?The tracing board as I understand it isdedicated to the further discovery ofesoteric wisdom and light withinFreemasonry. The goal and purposeof the tracing board in my view is topursue a personal understanding ofthe Divine in the context of man andhis/her individuality. It representshuman life, always comprising ofopposites.The tracing board has inherent in itprinciples of piety and virtue. Thetracing board is a plan designed forindividuals, to use as a guide for rightthought and right action.In this plan my body represents thetemple. Once the spiritual principlesare developed within it, it will radiatethrough me just as the canopy ofdiverse colours shines bright. Man isphysical, psychological and spiritual,all encompassing of an embodiedself. Very similar to moving up aladder these qualities are attainedwith progress and through time andstudy. I identify myself with mybody, my habits, my soul, mydesires, my thoughts and my spiritualself all ascending to a higher order of

being.The three principles of Faith, Hopeand Charity symbolically representsmy mind, body and spirit. Faithrepresents my mind, faith to holdonto what I have been taught before,until I learn and experience Truth.Hope represents my body, hope formy body to become one with myspirit for me to have hope for afulfilling life. Charity represents myspirit since charity symbolicallyrepresents love which cannot be seenwith the naked eye, the same way thespirit of man often goes unnoticed.Charity also represents the point oflight in one’s life since one cannotlive freely without caring for GOD,others and oneself. Temperance,prudence, justice and fortitude isCharity in its most simple sense.In this world and the next wisdom,strength and beauty remains relevantto ones existence. Life requireswisdom to be of service to humanity.Wisdom is where the sun rises andnever sets, just as GOD is allknowing and never sleeps. Onerequires strength for spiritual energyand enlightenment and beauty forspiritual life to seek knowledge andthen to reflect, and to seekknowledge again.I realise the only way in which Iwould be able to attain improved

spiritual development is throughself-discipline, spiritual inspiration,spiritual intuition and spiritualinsight. I will have to love and besympathetic of my spiritual self forthe light to shine through.

In conclusion, I have discovered thatunderstanding Freemasonry isdifficult and complex. Interpretationand introspection is important inunderstanding how meaningful thePhilosophy is to life.Objectivity is needed for one to keepan open mind while studying thesymbolic meaning of Freemasonryand subjectivity is needed for one tounderstand the symbolism in relationto ones life.Freemasonry can be defined on threelevels. It can be defined on aphilosophical, historical andcontextual level.Freemasons are individuals who seekuniversal Truth and self-travel. It isan adventure that requires strippingthe mind bare where necessary. Theprocess is gradual and requires self-love, respect, understanding andpatience all of which are necessary toachieve self-development and thechallenge to work towards thebetterment of humanity.

H Safodien- Maloon FC



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CO-FREEMASONRYRecently I had the privilege of beinginvited as speaker to a Male CraftLodge of the English Constitution. Ithas become evident that masons ofvarious Constitutions are not onlycurious about “female masons”, butalso have a desire to understand howour Order functions. It is of interestthat this address has sparkeddiscussion about the ethical andmoral implications of man-madetenets - and more so in South Africawhere we have an enlightenedconstitution which acknowledgesfemale gender as equal.Masonry is a secular, fraternalorganisation. Fraternity, asunderstood in Masonic terms, meansto practice Brotherly Love, Relief andTruth . These three principles formthe strong pillars on which our Orderis based.

1. Brotherly Love. Each brother mustlearn to show tolerance, respect,compassion and empathy for hisfellow creatures.2. Relief. Masonry is synonymouswith charity, but charity is not merelyhanding out money.3. Truth. Freemasonry imposes norestrictions on the search for the truth.

Freemasonry, as we know it todaywas born on 24 June 1717. The four“old” Lodges met at the Ale House inSt Paul’s churchyard and the PremierGrand Lodge was founded.By 1723, the “Constitutions ofFreemasons” and “The History of theCraft” was published.Reverend Anderson’s constitution of

1723 included women as bondsmenwho could not be admitted to theOrder. But since slavery has beenabolished, women should now belisted with the “good and true men,free born and of mature and discreetage”.During the latter half of the 19thcentury the idea of women’s rights,equality of women and universalsuffrage was gaining support in theUK and on the continent. This wsparticularly so in France and manymen including masons weresympathetic to these ideals. So muchso that in 1882, Mlle MariaDeraismes, a writer, journalist andleading French feminist was initiatedin the “Loge Libre Penseurs” of theGrand Lodge Symbolique de Francein Pecq outside of Paris.Sister Deraismes refrained fromattending meetings so as not to causedisharmony within the Lodge.George Martin, a prominent figure ofFrench society, together with his wifeMarie, prepared the creation of a newMasonic order which admitted bothmen and women.So the International Order of Co-Freemasonry, Le Droit Humain wasfounded on 14 April 1893 with 14newly raised sisters. A Constitutionwas drawn up under the title GrandeLoge Symbolique Ecossaise Mixtrede France. The first Lodge was calledLe Droit Humain. Its activities wererestricted to Craft Masonry only.In 1900 these activities wereextended to include the other ordersand degrees of Freemasonry. IllusBro Martin was true to his

convictions of equality of men andwomen. He remained a member untilhis death in 1916.

On what principles is theInternational Order of Co-Free-masonry founded?The Int. Order of Co-Freemasonry,Le Droit Humain and the SAFederation, in accordance with theancient declaration of Freemasonry,works to the Glory of the GreatArchitect of the Universe and /or tothe perfection of Humanity.It maintains the ancient Landmarks ofFreemasonry and withholdsrecognition from all irregular andclandestine meetings, or Lodges notholding proper Charter.It is open to Men and Women (withoutdistinction of race or religion) whoare free, of good report and of soundmind and strict morals. It imposes norestrictions on the free search forTruth and to secure that freedomexpects Tolerance from all theMembers.It pledges its members to obedience tothe laws of the country, loyalty to theState, silence with regard to Masonicsecrets, a high standard of honourand a ceaseless endeavour topromote the welfare of Humanity.Every Freemason belonging to theAncient and Accepted Scottish Rite isbound faithfully to observe thedecisions of the Supreme Council towhich one owes allegiance.

The motto of our Order is Le DroitHumain. .

......continued



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Cont...This translates as “Human duty orobligation” or “Human Rights”.So let us strive to help our fellow man- masons and non-masons - bylooking upon all with love andcompassion.We believe in Co-Freemasonry, buthave no wish to influence or changeother Masonic Orders. In France thereis the Reykjarvik protocol of mutualfriendship and co-operation betweenGrand Orient de France, Grand Lodgede France and Grand Lodge Femininede France.It is a pity we do not have the sameco-operation in South Africa.However, there is hope because in1997 the United Grand Lodge ofEngland stated that lady masons maymeet in Masonic Halls and use theLodge or rooms provided no malefreemasons were present.In 1999 the United Grand Lodge ofEngland acknowledged the existenceof the Order of Women Freemasons:an order which broke away from LeDroit Humain and which admits onlywomen. As far as I am aware theUGLE still do not acknowledge Co-Freemasonry.

Dutch Masons brought masonry tothe Cape in 1800 and was followed byEnglish Lodges in 1811. Co-Freemasonry was established in 1914in Durban and the Mother Lodge isAmity Lodge No 200. We havetemples in Durban, Johannesburg andCape Town. Pretoria uses male craftpremises.International Order of Co-Freemasonry, which is Universal,

uses the AASR and works the degreesfrom 1-33° in one hierarchical order.Various Craft rituals are used in theOrder - Emulation (United GrandLodge of England), Scottish ritual (aplain ritual), Verulam (a comprom-ise between the Lauderdale andScottish), Irish (performed in theround and mainly in England), French(the triangular layout which is usedextensively on the continent) andLauderdale.In SA we use the Lauderdale ritualwhich stresses the mystical side ofMasonry. Our Charters are alldedicated to the Glory of TGAOTUand to the perfection of Humanity.

So in essence the Co-FreemasonicOrder is no different from otherOrders. The main differences are:1. Universal. It is found on allcontinents. There is even a triangleLodge in Tokyo.2. Work all the degrees from 1 - 33°within one Order.3. Both genders are admitted asequals.

If each brother lives the precepts ofMasonry he will truly attain goodnessand wisdom.

I wish to conclude with the followingthought by Anthony Robbins:

“It is not what we get,But who we becomeWhat we contribute...That gives meaning to our lives”

The Very Illus Sis. EE Bronner 33°MPGC

Man communicates bysymbols because the

lower mind has tomould the thought or

abstract ideainto a definite form

whether these be words,sounds or objects

and thereforeuse parables, metaphors

or symbols to expressan idea.

The meaning, qualityand significance of

a symbol isonly gradually realised or

experienced.If you are not in tune

or do not have an affinityto the symbol;

then the symbol will failto register its hidden

meaning.You are the key

to unlock the meaningof the degree.

Masonic symbols areset to be the outer

objectivemanifestationof subjective

spiritual realities.

SYMBOLS



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DAN BROWN - THE LOST SYMBOLThere was some trepidation when DanBrown’s book The Lost Symbol waspublished. Was this going to beanother “exposure” and denouementof our principles of the kind thatabounds on the web?However, as it turns out, our fearswere unfounded. Whatever one’sopinion of Brown as a writer, it is

always interesting to follow his fastpaced and careful plotting. A non-mason reviewing this book for theCape Times wrote:“The Lost Symbol is as good anintroduction to Freemasonry as alayman reader is likely to encounter infiction.”

Scrupulously researched, it is in thelast pages of the book that we comefully to realise with what respect forthe Brotherhood that Brown hastreated it - and as indicated by thisletter he wrote to a Lodge inWashington when he was unable togive a talk he had planned to presentthere.

October 6, 2009Guests of the Southern Jurisdiction.

It is my great honour to be invited to greet you via this letter. I had hoped I might be able to join you in person tonight, but thelaunch of my novel, “The Lost Symbol”, has me far from Washington.

In the past few weeks, as you might imagine, I have been repeatedly asked what attracted meto the Masons so strongly as to make it a central point of my new book.

My reply was always the same: “In a world where men do battle over whose definition of God is most accurate, I cannotadequately express the deep respect and admiration I feel toward an organisation in which men with differing faiths are ableto “break bread together” in a bond of brotherhood, friendship and camaraderie.”

Please accept my humble apologies for the noble example you set for humankind. It is my sincere hope that the Masoniccommunity recognises “The Lost Symbol”, for what it truly is.....an earnest attempt to reverentially explore the historyand beauty of Masonic Philosophy.

Yours sincerelySigned - Dan Brown

MASONIC LITERATURE - THE BUILDERSThe Builders: a story and study ofMasonry by Joseph Fort Newton wasfirst published in 1914. This noteappeared in an introduction to thebook....“Fourteen years ago the writer of thisvolume entered the temple ofFreemasonry, and that date stands outin memory as one of the mostsignificant days in his life. There was a

little spread on the night of his raising,and, as is the custom, the candidatewas asked to give his impressions ofthe Order. Among other things, hemade request to know if there was anylittle book which would tell a young manthe things he would most like to knowabout Freemasonry - what it was,whence it came, what it teaches, andwhat it is trying to do in the world? No

one knew of such a book at that time,nor has any been found to meet a needwhich many must have felt before andsince”.For many years this Masonic classichad been out of print, but has beenmade available on-line as an e-book aspart of the Gutenberg Project, or fromwww.sacredtexts.com or as a print-on-demand from Nuvisions Publications.


http://www.sacredtexts.com


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We held a MM study evening anddiscussed the sword. It proved to besuch a thought provoking discussionthat I decided to put some of the ideasof those gathered and my owninterpretations on paper...

It is there when the candidate firstenters the Lodge (held by the OuterGuard) and it is there when we leaveit. The sword is not only important tothe higher degrees, but from the verybeginning.

The sword has two sides and twoedges. It can be seen in two ways.* as a protection (a positive forcedefending right from wrong)* as a weapon (war and killing)

The Tyler or Outer Guard bears thesword to ward off “cowans andintruders” - to protect the Lodge. TheOuter Guard is our defence and thesword is then a symbol and tool ofprotection.

We enter the Lodge as a candidatewith our arm bare - not only exposingenergy centres, but also showing thatwe are unarmed.

During the candidate’s obligation(and at each obligation thereafter) theswords of brethren are used tochannel energy and power to thecandidate. The energy flows throughand from each sword-bearer and thesword is an extension of themselves.The swords are a symbol of the

protection with which the Lodgesurrounds the candidate.

In our Lodge it is the RWM who hasthe Flaming Sword. The RWM usesthis sword during the consecration ofthe candidate. The sword is used toconduct the invoked power to thecandidate.The Flaming Sword is said to be“wavy” to symbolise the flamingsword found in the Garden of Eden(Genesis 3:24) and also lightningbolts.It can even be said to represent thesun and is also found in Tarot cards.It is found in Alchemy where thefurnace is called the “Philosopher’sSword”. The Saxon word for swordwas “seax” - meaning “the fire ofgreat fire”.

The sword has a double-edged blade.It has a dual nature.It is also a weapon and is well knownin the military.The Japanese Samurai used swords.They considered each sword anextension of the owner’s spirit andthe forgers of the swords undergo aserious ceremony both before andafter the forging.Used from ancient times by themilitary and mentioned throughoutthe Bible and other ancient texts, itshistory is long. In a coat-of-arms asword depicted sheathed was onecarried working for an office to aking, but one unsheathed was asword for protection (eg. a position

in the army or the military).The Sword of Justice is a well knownsymbol. Lady Justice (a descendantof classical goddesses) bears thesword and the scales. The sword issaid to not only cut througharguments and evidence, but also tomete out justice and make right fromwrong.

Runes, symbols and prayers wereoften etched into the blade of thesword adding energies of protection,justice, honour and other virtues. Asword was an extension of oneself.In the example of an executioner’ssword, prayers for the mercy andforgiveness for the souls of both theexecutioner and the executed wereoften inscribed on the blade.

The sword is made of metal.In the first Degree we pay specialattention to the elements of Earth,Air, Fire and Water.The Earth is where we find the metalwith which we can create the sword.The Fire is to melt the metal. The Airbreathes life into the fire and givesthe additional heat required for theforging. Water to temper the metaland control the heat.

So when you next carry the sword,consider it part of yourself, theelements used to create and theimportance of the energy you putforth.

C Quickfall 31°

THE SWORD



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TRANSVAAL RAM MOOREDTO THE TRANSVAAL MARK LODGE No 27

The York Rite, like the Ancient andAccepted Scottish Rite, has severaldegrees with distinctive teachings,secrets and regalia. There are areas ofoverlap between these two rites,however, the York degrees are quiteunique and offer different insights tofreemasonry. The SA federationworks the Mark degree, Royal ArkMariners and the Holy Royal Arch.The Royal Ark Mariner degree isperhaps the most unusual degree inFreemasonry. It is thought to havedeveloped in the 18th century. Entryis restricted to Mark Master Masons.Hence the Royal Ark Mariner Lodgesare “moored” to a Mark Lodge. MarkMasons in good standing may applyto be elevated six months after theiradvancement in the Mark degree inorder to enjoy the teachings andspecial ambience of this remarkable

degree.The founding brethren of the degreeof Royal Ark Mariner were elevatedon Saturday 30th October 1948 at theTemple, 19 Bezuidenhout Street,Johannesburg by The Very Illus BroArnold Banks 33°. The TransvaalLodge of Royal Ark Mariner wasconsecrated on the 10th April 1949by the MPGC. A Charter was issuedto the Brethren, thereafter to beknown as the founding members.Grateful thanks to the Brethren S JBischoff, E C Vreede, D ECallamore, D J Bischoff, M A Carter,V M E Seymour, R G Izzinghelli, DGower, R E Lavery, G T Bidgood forinitiating the foundation stones forthis unique Lodge.On 15 February 1988, the Master - TL Riley 30°, sent a letter to theadministrator General, The Illus Bro

L A Membrey 33°, requesting that theLodge be put into recession due to thedeclining membership. What a sadmoment it must have been for theMaster to have written this letter. TheLodge however only went intoabeyance on 1st March 1994.It was therefore with muchanticipation and excitement that theTransvaal Royal Ark Mariner wasresuscitated on 10th August 2010.Seven members were elevated withanother expected elevation inDecember 2010.Appreciation is expressed towardsthe new “founding” members of thisLodge for not allowing thisremarkable degree to be sweptoverboard.May we look forward to many moreyears working with this degree.

WOMEN INITIATED IN THE GRAND ORIENT DE FRANCEThe largest Masonic Obedience inFrance, the Grand Orient deFrance, changed its rules on theevening of Thursday September 2in order to authorise members ofits Lodges to initiate women.Meeting at an Annual GeneralAssembly (Convent) at Vichy, at thesame time they elected Guy Arcizetas their new Grand Master.By agreeing to initiate women, theGrand Orient has decided to bring thissecular taboo to an end.Although opposed for many yearspast to the initiation of women in theirranks, this, the largest Masonic

Obedience in France with close to50,000 members, has now agreed tomodify its General Regulations.From now on it will be possible forLodges which wish to, to initiatewomen, and for women to apply formembership.In itself this is not a revolutionarymove for the French. MariaDeraismes, the celebrated feminist ofthe 19th Century became, in 1882, thefirst French woman to be initiatedinto Freemasonry, and it is from thisevent that our Order sprang.Nevertheless, opening membershipof the Grand Orient to women

constitutes a major event in thehistory of French Freemasonry.It will be interesting to see thereaction of other MasonicObediences in France, in particularthe International Order of Co-Freemasonry Le Droit Humain, whoare likely to be very concerned, and toa lesser extent the Grand LogeFeminine de France. In any case, it isestimated that for the foreseeablefuture, many Grand Orient Lodgeswill remain men-only Lodges.

The Co-Mason, 30 Sept. 2010British Federation



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THE CORD

2010 was a unique year in SouthAfrica and here in the south wecelebrated a most exciting winterthanks to vuvuzelas and the SoccerWorld Cup.But on a more serious note:This Lodge Year started and endedbeautifully with initiations. All inall, it was a year with a harmoniousmix of Initiations, Passings andRaisings and study meetings withPoAs, Tracing Boards, Charges andInternational signs in between - anexciting up and down through thedegrees.It is always wonderful to have newmembers joining - even fromanother federation; sadly one has toalso accept the occasionalwithdrawal or sabbatical too.We will be rounding off our yearwith the traditional St Johns Day inSummer Ceremony at which we willbe honoured to have our MPGC.For the second consecutive year theMaster Masons were able to meetmonthly to discuss the 3rd degree

Ritual and all arising topics -including Dan Brown’s “The LostSymbol”; and when the group met itwas each time at a differentBrother’s home.Individual instruction continues andensures the good standard on alllevels of Masonic knowledge,expertise and tradition.The informal Friday lunchescontinue to be another fixed point inour diaries in Cape Town.We recently met three newapplicants and this led to furtherinterviews and follow-up reports .We all profit so much from thiscross-pollination of views, ideas,information and personal input andour Masonry is carried through toour everyday, social lives.We have been supporting ourchosen charity, Sisters Inc., for afew years now. It is heartening to seethe difference we can make to thelives of the mothers and their littleones.It seems to be a natural conclusion,

recognising what we Freemasonsare and do, to be acknowledged as aPublic Benefit Organisation - finallyachieved thanks to the efforts of ourhard working MPGC, Sister EEBronner.Last December I was sighing as anexciting year with a heavy load ofresponsibility came to a close - andin the blink of an eye, it was timeagain for our AGM where, surprise,surprise, I was re-elected for asecond term.Now, as wonderful and satisfactorymy time in the chair has been - it wasalso stressful and I am tiring. I havetaken my tasks seriously and theresponsibility of the Lodge was andis an honour as well as a challengingservice. I thank you all from thebottom of my heart for the trust andsupport throughout this time and forthe generous smile when somethingwas not exactly as it should havebeen .

M Buchmuller 18°

LODGE DEDICATION No 238

There is a cord that binds us - allmankind, one to the other, and inturn we are all connected through adivine mystic cord to the PerfectMan.This cord that binds us togethercreates a circle of love - anenergising force that connects andinterconnects us. How beautiful toknow that through this Love we areable to bring ourselves closer to

God.Each time we fail, each time we fall,and are able to rise up again to re-connect to make a knot in the cordwhich has been broken, we find thatjust as the distance from one end ofthe cord to the other has beenshortened - so too are we closer tothe Divine.This is a gift of our humancondition, our imperfection makes

forgiveness and healing andredemption a path of intimacy withGod and with one another.This above all is precious andremarkable.How we put ourselves in oneanother’s care. How, in spite ofeverything, we trust each otherknotted together for the greatergood.P Selibowitz 18°



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Regrettably the Eurocentricteaching of history, to which mostmembers of the South AfricanFederation have been exposed, hashidden an important piece ofinformation - that most of thescience of the EuropeanRenaissance period was built on theknowledge developed by thescientists of Islam in the 12th and13th Centuries.It is also not generally known that,until the 1600s, the empire thatformed the world of Islam stretchedfrom Indonesia in the east to Spainin the west, reaching from northernAfrica to close to Venice.What is the relevance of this toMasonry?The teachings of the ProphetMohammed actively encouraged thesearch for, and accumulation ofknowledge. Many centres oflearning and libraries wereestablished by the Caliphs. One ofthe sciences that developed wasmathematics. The discovery of theuse of zero transformed the way inwhich numbers could be used.Geometry and trigonometry wererefined and well understood. Thiscreated a basis for a growth inarchitecture which allowed thedevelopment of the vaulted arch. At

the same time Europe was stillbuilding with a square arch, a lintelsupported on two upright pillars.The crusader occupation of the HolyLand in the late 11th Century lastedfor some 200 years. This opened upa “highway” from Western Europeto the lands and science of Islam.Many scholars from WesternEurope travelled into areas inEurope and around theMediterranean controlled by thecaliphs. They came to explore andlearn after hearing stories from thosereturning from the Holy Land.Amongst these were architects.They learnt the mathematics andbuilding techniques used in themagnificent buildings they saw.They also learnt a new numericsystem, one which differed from theRoman numerals used by theCatholic Church in Western Europe.(See note below)These architects returned to WesternEurope with this knowledge and,within a very short period of time,transformed the building style ofchurches and cathedrals to one withvaulted arches with a keystone. Thisnew, beautiful style of buildingcame into high demand, particularlyfrom the Catholic Church. Thisknowledge now had a high

commercial value. A Master Masonwith these skills had a large marketfor his products. It madecommercial sense to keep thisknowledge secret. You don’t giveaway your commercial advantage!In conclusion, there was acommercial logic in a selected groupof people with new geometric andarchitectural skills keeping secretthe key knowledge of their trade. Asthat grew they developed trustedapprentices to whom the appropriatesecrets could be revealed as theygrew in the practice of their skills.

Note: An interesting aside. Fornearly two hundred years WesternEurope had two numeric systems -Arabic and Roman. The CatholicChurch refused to recognise thenumerical system of the Islamic“unbelievers”.However, many of the buildingblocks of the new churches andgreat cathedrals were marked by theMasons with Arabic numerals. Thepaymasters of the church continuedto calculate payments due to themasons using Roman numeralswhilst the masons used infidelArabic numerals to build thechurches.J Fowkes 30°

KEEPING IT SECRET - THE COMMERCIAL IMPERATIVE

CIVILISATION IS DEFINED BY WHAT WE FORBID,MORE THAN BY WHAT WE PERMIT

“Shantaram” by Gregory David Roberts



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I felt moved to speak about “purity”. Itis very important in the life of a Mason,but also to men in general.

First the term “Purity” needs to bedefined. Etymologically, the wordpurity is derived from the Latin word -Puritas - and is defined as the conditionof being pure, cleanliness, innocence,freedom from foreign matter, chastity,freedom from anything sinister orunderhand, freedom from improperwords and phrases. (The ConsolidatedWebster Dictionary 1962)

I understand purity as being in a state ofbeing free from nuisance. This nuisanceis defined as bad thoughts and actions.Bad is defined as working in adestructive way.Most times purity is manifested bylove, by a positive attitude towards aproblem or situation. This would besomeone who uses his time in researchto help society or by protecting peopleagainst those who are impure in theiractions.

During the investiture in the FirstDegree, the SW informs the candidatethat the badge (apron) is the emblem ofinnocence and purity.What is meant by “emblem”?Etymologically the term is derivedfrom the Greek “emblema” from“embalto-em” (in) and “balto” (to cast).This is a type of inlaid mosaic or is apicture or figure on another work of art.It represents one thing to the eye, butanother to the understanding. The

predominant quality of thefigure symbolises somethingelse - another quality or state.

The symbol of the badge as asymbol of innocence and puritytherefore means that thecandidate must reflect thequalities of the badge (apron).The candidate must become theapron. The lesson being that wemust make progress in aspiritual life. We must be pure.

Before the tribe of Israel couldmeet God in the desert, theywere told by Moses to purifythemselves for 7 days.We must start to purify ourspirit, our mind and soul bypositive action:The Buddhist use meditation.This is achieved by the use ofrespiration and visualisation ofthe good. The eckist ofEckankar use the song of Hu(chant du Hu). Some traditionalAfrican people use the dance.

Achieving purity is importantbecause it put people in contactwith the higher spiritual beingaccording to our belief or faith.If we are pure, we will drawinspiration from the HigherSpiritual Being.We will serve and help theprogress of Humanity and itspeople.O Biongo Azudo MM

When my daughter, Tracy-Lyn, was 17she began questioning us aboutFreemasonry and was so eager to jointhe Order, having grown up in a homewhere both parents were Masons.It was suggested by more experiencedBrethren that she should wait for awhile since she was still so young. Wethought she may loose interest, but infact, she couldn’t wait until she turned21 to apply once more. This time shewas successful!

She was initiated on 11 February 2003and progressed well enough throughthe ranks, as her father and I watchedwith pride.My proudest moment was when shebecame Master Elect of Sphynx LodgeNo 225. It was then agreed by theMaster, RW Bro J Mitchell, that I couldtake the Chair the following month, andin May 2010, I installed her into theChair of King Solomon.

As a mother, it was a very emotionalexperience, and one which I would nothave missed for the world. My greatestfear was that I would forget parts of theceremony. The forces must have beenwith me all the way that night as I wentthrough the paces and often foundmyself on the brink of tears.I am not sure of any other mother whohas installed her daughter or son,except our very own MPGC who wasinstalled into the Chair by her mother allthose years ago.Tracy-Lyn’s sincerity and commitmentto Masonry will hopefully take her to theheights to which she aspires, and I willwatch with pride all the way.L Lewies 31°

PURITY JOINING



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The SA Federation is fortunate inhaving three Masonic Temples in theOrients of Durban, Cape Town andJohannesburg. Each Temple has itsown character and history.Johannesburg is the oldest, havingbeen bought in the 1950s. The presentDurban Temple was purchased andrenovated in the late 1980s and CapeTown was built from the foundationsup and consecrated in 1977.These buildings did not just appear onthe landscape, but are here due tomany sacrifices, donations andbequests. They are a testament to thededication and loving care of pastBrethren and we can now enjoy thefruits of their labours.However, any building has to bemaintained. Has any thought beengiven to those Brethren who ensurethat the maintaining of the buildingsare done efficiently and promptly?This is a service not only to the Orient,but also to the Order and to Co-Freemasonry as a whole.A brief report of the Temples.DURBAN25 Rose Avenue, Sherwood South.Durban Orient received its PublicBenefit Organisation status (PBO) thisyear. We have been fortunate to havebeen rate and tax exempt for sometime, without which we would havenot managed financially. Besides theincome from Lodges we only have onetenant on the property. The income hasshrunk due to Lodges going intoabeyance and this is of concern.2010 has been a year of major repairs.During the past two years we have hadsome pipe bursts, flooding the wholeroad. It was decided to replace the

water pipes from the meter to thebuilding when we realised that theexternal hose reel did not even have awater source! This was followed by asewer overhaul. Then Durban’sfamous wood borer was flourishing inthe roof timbers and battens in theolder part of the building. The Templehad to be tented.Several trees were either felled ortrimmed to protect the foundations andincrease security. All external doorswere either varnished or painted andtreated for wood rot.JOHANNESBURG (& Pretoria)1 Buccleuch Street, Craighall Park.Rutland Investment Company, a CC,is still the owner of the property.Several legal aspects have had to beresolved and we are hoping to submitthe PBO application for the Johannes-burg Temple soon. There are twotenants on the property - The RutlandPlayschool and a 3-bedroomed house.New tenants moved into the house inFebruary 2010 and have made thehouse a home with manyimprovements to the garden for all toenjoy.Security has also taken centre stage. Amotorised gate, security gates on theTemple and palisade fencing havebeen installed. The rest of the propertywill be fenced in the new year.The “empty” Temple kitchen nowboasts new crockery and cutlery(bought with fund raising money), andalso a working microwave that wasfound in a cupboard, a donated stove, afridge and a dishwasher on loan.Grateful thanks to the Brethren fortheir help and assistance.All general maintenance has been

carried outTheano Lodge No 229, Pretoria orient,moved away from their crampedpremises at the Theosophical Societyand are now using the spacious andwell equipped premises of the VictoriaCross Lodge in Menlo Park. TheanoLodge has very kindly loaned theirchairs to the Johannesburg Temple andthey have been most gratefullyreceived.Pretoria Brethren also benefit from theJohannesburg Temple as the York,Sov. Chapter, Encampment and otherhigher degrees meet at No.1Buccleuch Street. It therefore servesboth the Johannesburg and PretoriaOrients.CAPE TOWN6 Rifle Road, Kenwyn. The Templerelies on donations and bequests tomaintain the free-standing building.Cape Town has also received its PBOstatus and is awaiting a decision fromthe municipality to have their ratesreduced or rebated - with out this thereis concern as to the viability of theproperty. Previous part-time tenantsassisted with income, butunfortunately they have left for largerpremises.Recently, the property security andlooks were enhanced with newperimeter fencing, the parking re-tarred and garden replanted. A leakingroof has been repaired and generalmaintenance carried out.Brethren must take pride in theirMasonic Temple. You are soprivileged to meet in consecrated,fixed abodes. Let us all ensure that thegenerations to come will build on thefoundation stones that we prepare.

MASONIC TEMPLES



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THEANO LODGE No 229

THE PROCESSDoes the clay welcome the wheel that turns it,

Spinning and sloughing and shaping the perfect bowl?Does the porcelain welcome the oven that burns it

Firing its weaknesses into a tempered whole?Does the marble welcome the tool that shapes it,

Chipping and hewing to set the spirit freeUntil the hidden form within escapes it

And stands revealed for all the world to see?

Does the see welcome the soil that takes itAnd buries, and into the ultimate beauty makes it?

Without the process even the fairest vaseWould never quit the clay, unseen, unknown

And all the glory Greece and Rome wasWould still lie hidden in broken stone.

Lord let us forget, who dare aspire,When on the wheel of life the form is caughtTo welcome the wheel, the chisel and the fire

For only this is lasting beauty wrought.

(The Late) Bro D Spears Lodge Dedication No 238

We started the year of 2010 with 11members. In February we movedfrom our previously crampedpremises to to our new Temple, inMenlo Park and we had the honourand pleasure of having our MPGC,The Very Illus Sister E E Bronnerto perform our consecration.In the first half on the year weinitiated Bro A S Damon - thisceremony being held in CraighallPark, Johannesburg. Our thanks tothe Brn of Sphynx Lodge who,once again, assisted us.We read the Charge of the First

degree, practiced the signs and readthe Tracing Board.In June Bro M Bataille and Bro SErasmus were passed to the FCdegree. Our congratulations tothem both. And our thanks again tothe Brn of Spynx Lodge forassisting us.During the winter recess , theRWM, The Illus Bro P Ferreiravisited England, Scotland andFrance where he visited TheFreemasons Hall, Rosslyn Chapeland other Masonic Lodges. Bro MBataille FC, visited some Lodges

in Belgium.In the months that followed ourLodge benefited from someinteresting Pieces of Architecture(including video and photographs)on their visits.So the end of the year is upon usand we are now more comfortableand settled in our new premises.We have increased in number andgrown in our Masonic paths andlook forward to an exciting 2011.

P Ferreira 31°



SOME DIFFERENCES AND STILL FREEMASONRY!

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My words and ideas in this PoA areintended at the 1st degree, and are inno circumstances a critic of ourrituals, even when sometimes I willexpress my preference.

I have divided this PoA into 3:1. EA instruction and work in theLodge2. In the Lodge3. For the outside worldAs you know, my experience as aFreemason was only in Male CraftLodges up until 4 months ago;mainly “Le Grand orient de France”in Paris (French ritual) and “LeGrand Rite Equatorial” in Libreville(Scottish ritual). I also had theprivilege to visit other Craft both inFrance and South Africa.Some differences I could notice areclearly liked to the size of the Lodge.My mother Lodge “La ClementeAmitie”, we were over 100 Brethren,which means that 50+ Brethrenseated on the columns at any 1stdegree meeting.1. EA Instruction and work in theLodge* Compulsory instruction sessionsare taking place at least once a monthfor the ERA under the authority ofthe JW, for all EA together. Most ofthe time other MM do attend theseinstruction sessions and it allowsfruitful discussions and sharing ofideas.* During their time an EA will have3 opportunities to address the Lodge:

The first time at the regularmeeting just after his initiation, to

present his “impression from theinitiation”. 10 to 15 minutes. Noquestions asked.

The 2nd time when they present asymbolic PoA. This is a compulsoryexercise before they can apply for asalary raise. This is a way to show thework that has been done inunderstanding the tools and symbolsof the degree.

And the 3rd time when he has toanswer the questions of the Lodge asan examination for his salaryincrease.* All EA have to contribute to at least1 of the “questions to the Lodges”.What are the “questions to theLodges”? It is a set of 4 to 5questions that the Council of theCraft submits to all the Lodges. EachLodge will choose the ones theywant to work on and they have tosend a PoA on the chosen questions.This is a joint work by the Brethrenof the Lodge which represents theopinion of the Lodge on a subject. Togive you an example, this is onequestion being studied this year:Fundamentalism does not start whenthe bomb explodes, but rather whenthoughts are becoming paralysed.What do you think? If from the firstreading of the question, it hasnothing to do with Freemasonry; acloser look will raise issues oftolerance and progressive thinking asa way to shape people and society. Agood way to develop Freemasonryprinciples with EAs.2. In the LodgeI have noticed a few differences in

the way the Lodge is run. Some haveto do with the differences in theritual, others I believe fall under theLodge choice.I will only mention a few:* At La Cle Ami there is no IPMposition at the Orient. At the time theRWM steps down he auto-maticallybecomes the IG. Humility and Levelat play.* Officers of the Lodge areauthorised to have a copy of the ritualopen during meetings and althoughwith time a good part of it becomeknown by heart, it has benefits in theflow of events and in creating theright atmosphere in Lodge.* The Widow Trunk, when broughtback to the RWM, is offered to theBrethren. To assemble in a Chain ofUnion around the Mosaic Pavement.The RWM will then invite theBrethren to rise to the ideal ofFreemasonry and allow this ideal tobe our light and to guide us on ourpath in the outside world. After asilent 30 seconds of meditation, theRWM will break the chain. I find thismoment very powerful as it gives theBrethren a moment of communionand materialises the fraternity thatkeeps us together, including outsidethe Temple.* I was used to a single Ritual Dinnerper year usually taken in a restaurantaway from the Temple. Once theLodge is closed by the RWM,Brethren are free to dine together orto leave. However most of the timeabout 50% of the Brethren have ameal together after the meeting in the



Continued...restaurant part of the GODF buildingin Paris.3. For the outside worldThis is a good transition to talk abouthow important is the world ofFreemasons. As Freemasons, wehave to shine outside of the Templeby living our Masonic principles.When closing a Regular Meeting,the following sentence is proclaimedby the RWM: May the light that havebrightened our work continue toshine within ourselves, for us tocomplete outside of the Temple thework we started inside... This has thepowerful meaning that our work as aFreemason must not be limited to theregular meetings or within thepremises of the Temple, but shouldbe extended to the outside world, byour individual actions. This istranslated into the following actions

as examples:* Recognition of the loved ones:after their acceptance as an EA a roseis given to our new Bro for him togive his loved one, as a token ofacknowledgement by the Lodge.* I already mentioned Questions tothe Lodges. In fact 2 questions arechosen every year: One Masonicquestion and one societal question.The latter will also get a responseprepared jointly by the Brn andusually deals with Peace and HumanRights. As an example: How, andbased on which criteria, shouldillegal immigrants be treated inFrance? As you see, this questionspecific to France, may apply to anumber of countries and is definitelyan issue threatening Peace.* More and more Crafts in Francecreate opportunities to expose theirideas and principles, through public

conferences or even in the Media.This has the power to attractcandidate Freemasons while de-mystifying the Craft in the eyes ofthe non-initiated.I would like to conclude this addressto you by saying that I am so proud tobe part of this Lodge with Brothersand Sisters from different horizons,white and black. Although thisshould be the norm for Freemasons, Iremember a few years ago attendingan all white Regular Meeting in amale Craft in South Africa. Letsmake sure that our differences aremaking us richer, always!Fraternity is a key principle of ourCraft. And we, individually orcollectively, have so many ways topractice our Fraternity in betweenour Regular meetings, and makesociety better.S Adjovi MM

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CABLE TOW

WHEN THE CABLE TOW OF EACH MASON IS JOINEDWITH THAT OF EVERY OTHER MASON,

AND ALL ARE UNITED IN ONECABLE OF KINDNESS,

IT MAKES A BOND OF BROTHERHOODTHE MIGHT OF WHICH NO MORTAL

CAN MEASURE.IT HELPS TO HOLD THE WORLD TOGETHER.

IT HOLDS WHEN OTHER TIES BREAK.

unknown



SPHYNX LODGE No 225

IN THE FAMILYI have had the privilege of growingup in a home where both my parentsare Masons. So when I grew up andexpressed an interest in joining theOrder it did not come as a surprise tomy parents.I can’t describe what being a Masonhas meant or done for my parents, asI have always known them both asmasons. I can however say what ithas meant to me thus far.Growing up in a household with twoMasons taught me good values.Values I have come to realise, noteveryone shares. As a child I justassumed all families were like oursand I’m thankful now for all thevalues and life lessons my parentstaught me, even if I complainedabout it at the time!When it came time for me to join theOrder I had the special privilege ofhaving my mother present at myinitiation. So my Masonic journeybegan.

Slowly, but steadily, I made my wayup the ranks, with the help of somededicated, older Brethren guidingme on my way. I think the mostimportant lesson for me so far hasbeen:To be open....open to love, open toinstruction, open to criticism, opento learning, open to growing.Never underestimate the wealth ofknowledge we can miss out on bynot being open to listening orlearning from others.In May this year I was installed intothe Chair of King Solomon by theloving and capable hands of mymother. I can only imagine what itmeant to my parents, but it was aprofound experience for me.The biggest challenge for me so farhas been learning to rule the Lodge.To trust in myself and mycapabilities. It helps to know that myparents are there for me as well asbeing Brothers to me, to guide me

and answer my questions. I don’tknow how many other women havehad that blessing!The first ceremony after myinstallation was the very next month,in June, which happened to be aninitiation. Not just any initiationeither, but quite an historic one. Asfar as one can ascertain at least. Iinitiated the first black female intoour Lodge. I’m proud to say we arereally becoming as diverse andmulti-cultural as our wonderfulcountry. Its important to me toexpose myself to as many cultures asI can, as I believe that it can only leadto more understanding andtolerance. That is a large part of whatFreemasonry is to me. A tool to beused in every day life, that helps ustry to know ourselves and othersbetter....Long may the journey be.

T L Lewies IM

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Once again an exciting and busyyear is coming to an end. We are alllooking forward to St John’sCelebration and the holidays.Sphynx Lodge has been busy withinitiations - starting our year off withthree in a row from January toMarch. In April we had our AGMand our new RWM was elected.With Bro T L Lewies in the chair wehave made a generational changeand the young RWM brings fresh airinto the Lodge. It is also great to see

the support our more senior Brn giveto our new RWM. Many thanks forthis.In June we did the First DegreeCharge and in August Bro SergeAdjovi MM (of La Clemente Amitie,Grand Orient de France) joined ourOrder. A warm welcome to BroAdjovi and may he find many yearsof brotherly love with us.Bro Maria Masha was initiated inSeptember and in October we passedBro H Buber to the degree of FC.

We also held an interesting eveningwhere Bro Adjovi gave his PoA andthere was much discussion and manyquestions to follow. (see Page 16)Sphynx Lodge is looking forward toa successful, happy and exciting2011.Should you ever be in Johannesburgplease visit our Lodge. You are allwelcome.

K Tschumi MMSecretary



THE RIGHT WORSHIPFUL MASTERFreemasonry is a study of life - anoccult science - and a ritualenactment of Cosmic life in themacrocosm; of individual or innerlife in the microcosm. It is from thispoint of view that we must look at allthat we do and learn, not only in theTemple itself, but also in what onecould term the “life of the Lodge as awhole”. In this context let usconsider the role of the Master andthe benefit derived by eachindividual brother serving in thischair of office.The RWM represents Spirit, Will,the Sun, Creative Power - cosmicallyhe is a symbol of the GAOTU.During the ritual ceremony, it is theRWM who is the focal pointwhereby power from above is drawninto the Lodge, directed to thecandidate in particular, and throughthe corporate body as a whole -whereby another power or thoughtform is created, which in turnradiates out to the world around us.In Man, the RWM symbolises thespiritual or creative principle within- the apex and root of his being, andto which all his faculties should besubordinate and responsive.So often we hear a young Masondecline taking the Chair -maintaining that they are not lookingfor status and are content to sit in thecolumns and do whatever work isgiven to them to do. A commendableand correct attitude. For, in fact, the3° instruction manual states quiteclearly that for various reasons it is

not given to every MM to becomeMaster of his Lodge. It is also a factthat without ruling a Craft Lodge wecan, symbolically, learn to becomeMaster of ourselves. This isrecognised by the Supreme Councilruling that perfection in the 18° nolonger depends on a Mason havingruled a Craft Lodge, provided he hasworked faithfully therein for at least10 years. But in spite of this we findthat Masters and Past Mastersencourage the shy, the diffident orreluctant MM on his way to the Chairof King Solomon . I hope in thispaper to show why.The Installation ritual states what aMaster must be, as well as what heought to be.What he must be refers to his“external” qualifications. And eachBro eligible for the Chair usuallydoes possess those qualifications.What he ought to be is somewhatdifferent. I quote: “he ought to be ofexemplary character, courteous indemeanour, easy of address, steadyand firm in principle.” Thus what heought to be proceeds from within,and enables him to govern and leadwisely and intelligently. Not everyMM that comes to the Chair of KingSolomon is at that moment, what heought to be. But if he is open andreceptive, he learns throughexperience to become what he oughtto be.The RWM is Master on two levels -the ceremonial and what we canterm, the administrative. The many

differences of opinion that arisebetween the Brn from time to time;the purely tactical but thornyproblem of organising a ceremonywhen officers are away or ill. Allthese situations interact with andaffect the manner in which he carriesout his ceremonial andadministrative duties.The good Master must know whenhe must be as the Deacons andgently, but firmly guide the hesitantor sometimes misguided. The Mastermust learn to be as his own InnerGuard: know when and how to allowhimself to be influenced by thefeelings and opinions of members ofthe Lodge. Above all, he must knowwhen to Tyle himself and also learnto be as Treasurer to weigh andbalance his words before he uttersthem. He must be as the Almoner -charitable in word as in deed. Aboveall he must be as the Organist and tryto create harmony within himself andthe corporate body as a whole.From this I hope that you will haveseen that being placed in the Chair isnot the culmination of one’s career inCraft Masonry. It should be yetanother lesson and guide that willassist us to follow the Masonic blueprint that will enable us to become asLiving Stones in that Temple madenot with hands, and to assist us towork together with the GAOTU tobring to fruition his divine plan forhumanity.

M Raymond 33°

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