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Article WHAT MASONS OUGHT TO BE. ← Page 2 of 4 Article WHAT MASONS OUGHT TO BE. Page 2 of 4 →
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What Masons Ought To Be.
different t " mes , and for various purposes , been organised and put iu operation . Some have been formed for tlio advancement of the various arts whoso productions aro necessary for tho convenience , comfort and pleasure of man ; others havo been established for the promotion of
sciences ; others for tho diffusion of knowledge , and others for feeding the hungry , clothing the naked , relieving the distressed , and improving the moral aud religious condition of our race . In no age of the world has tho principle of association been so largely developed , and carried into operation so extensively , as in our own day .
The present timo is proverbial for the multifarious associations and institutions which are in operation for numberless objects having relation to tho advancement of the arts , sciences , knowledge , morals and religion among
mon . Amidst the variety of associations tbe most prominent station is held by the Masonic Institution . This society
has many peculiar and striking characteristics . Ifc has existed from time immemorial , as there is abundant evidence to prove ; it has spread over almost the whole habitable earth ; it has witnessed the rise and fall of
empires ; it has beheld kingdom after kingdom , and nation after nation , rise to the zenith of earthly grandeur and fame , and fall into decay and ruin . Generation after generation have appeared upon the world ' s wide stage ; have performed their parts in the great drama of human
life , and sunk into their primeval dust . Year after year , century after century , have rolled away into the boundless and unfathomable ocean of eternity . Societies and associations of varied character have been organised in our world , have flourished , and at lasfc dwindled away into
nonentity . And during this long series of changes Freemasonry has existed . Wor has our society constantly enjoyed the sunshine of prosperity . No ! " Many times and oft" has the tempest-cloud of adversity hung over it nnd darted its bolts in fury upon it ; often have the raging
waves of cruel persecution beaten against ifc , and the winds of foul calumny and reproach blown their pestiferous blasts ; but all in vain . The rain descended , the floods came , the winds blew and beat upon it , but Masonry fell not , ifc stood—it still stands—and we believe with
undoubtmg confidence that it will stand , firm and stedfast , until the noontide blaze of the millennial day shall burst in glory upon our darkened and sinful world . The questions now arise : Wherein does the strength of the Masonic Institution lie ? From what source has
proceeded thafc sustaining influence which has borne ifc safely over the tide of time ; that has preserved ifc amid fche destruction of nations ; thafc has shielded it from the storms of adversity , and rendered the efforts of power to
effect its overthrow impotent and vain ? I reply : The strength of Masonry is to be found in its doctrines ami principles ; these are its very life blood ; take from our Institution its principles , and nought would remain but a useless skeleton .
My friends , I have to ask your indulgence while attempting , in my simple manner , to present to your view a faint picture of the doctrines and principles of the Masonic Institution . These are : Faith in God , liope in immortality , and Charity or love to all mankind .
The atheist cannot knowingly be permitted to tread the courts , or even pass the threshold of the temple of Masonry ; on those walls , in every apartment , from foundation to capstone , is inscribed in characters of living light : » There is a God . "
Bnt Masonry does not rest satisfied with admitting the abstract prosposition that God exists . We , as Masons , believe in God as the Architect of universal nature , as a moral Governor of the Universe , who has established and promulgated laws for the government of- his moral
creation . In one word , we believe in God as He has made Himself known to men in the Holy Writings . This great light in Masonry , whose sacred pages are now lying open in oar midst , we regard as the inestimable gift of God to man , and take as the man of our counsel , and the
guide and directory of our faith . .. Masonry views man as a being designed for immortality and possessing attributes and powers which eternity alone can fully develop ; and , therefore , it is his intellectual and
moral constitution that she values . With her , the mind is the man , and ifc is in accordance with this principle thafc she acts . Wealth , power , rank , and the many puerile , senseless distinctions , that poor , deluded man is too apt to consider as constituting the very summit of greatness and
What Masons Ought To Be.
glory , Masonry values only as they are made instrumental in promoting the good of our race , and increasing the sum of human happiness . Sho looks not afc the temporal circumstances in which man may , by tho providence of God , be placed . Moral virtue is tho test by which
Masonry tries those who seek a participation in her privileges and pleasures . The man who acts constantly with reference to his high parentage , who makes tho will of God his standard of duty , though ho may bo the tenant of a hovel , or clothed in rags , Masonry regards as exalted
in tho scale of true greatness infinitely above the despot , elevated on a throne and surrounded with all the " pomp and circumstance" of real grandeur , who with proud
arrogance looks upon his fellow men as mere tools of ambition , created solely for the purpose of administering to his wants and gratifying his unholy passions and appetites . With such views of man Freemasonry holds no com >
munion . Another of our doctrines is universal charity or love . Viewing the human race as constituting but one great family , whose dwelling-place is the earth , whose father is God , we are constrained to regard all as proper objects of
our love and good will . Our Institntion teaches us thafc we are all members one of another ; that the high and tho low , the learned and tho ignorant , the rich and the poor , boing the offspring of tho samo Infinite Parent , aro bound by the most sacred ties to aid each other in all lawful
undertakings , to exert thoir besfc powers in promoting each other ' s happiness , and in protecting ' each other , as far as possible , from danger and difficulty . On this broad basis the Masonic superstructure is erected ; and , in conformity to this principle , men of every sect , opinion and
country are found among the members or the brotherhood . Kings and subjects , nobles and peasants rulers and people , mingle together in Masonic assemblies on one common level , and recognize in each other a friend and brother . In the Lodge all earthly distinctions are lost , and
differences of opinion are suffered to sleep . You see , my friends , in the circle of Masons here assembled , men attached to the different political parties into which our population is divided ; men , too , who are zealous supporters of their peculiar views of public matters and
measures . Notwithstanding these differences , we hero meet as brethren and interchange feelings of kindness and good fellowship . I would here remark that in a country possessing a government like our own , whore political struggles ore maintained with such feeling and zeal , whero
the waves of party spirit sometimes roll over the land , threatening ruin and destruction to all we hold dear , it is beyond human power to estimate the good thafc results from tho Masonic Institution , in softening and subduing the angry passions passions ; in quenching the kindling
flames of hatred and discord , which too often appear in our political contests , and in allaying the feverish excitement incident to political life . Again , with reference to religious matters , similar effects are visible . In the Lodgo are seen members of the various denominations into which
the Christian world is divided , divested of their distinctive badges , meeting each other as the children of the samo Parent , and offering their prayers and thanksgivings at the same altar . Said a deceased brother , an Unitarian clergyman in a neighbouring State , " I bless God tbat
there is one place on earth where men of different and opposing sentiments can meet as brethren . Yes , I am received with the cordial grasp of friendship , when I enter the Lodge , by the Swedenborgian , fche Episcopalian , fche Methodist , the Calvinist , the Baptist , and the Universalist .
All feelings of pity or compassion , on acconnt of each other ' s error , are banished from our bosom . All hearts seem to be filled with brotherly love ; and , " he continued , " if the Christian Church would exhibit a similar specimen of union and affection , it wonld represent moro
fully the kingdom of heaven . " When we consider this peculiar trait in the character of the Masonic Institution , we have great cause for thankfulness . There seems to be in the human heart a strong tendency to nourish feelings of suspicion and jealousy
towards those who happen to disagree with us in opinions and sentiments ; and unless these dipositions are neutralised , and their baleful influence counteracted , they will at last break out in open dislike and hatred . But let the liberal
and generous sentiment inculcated in the Masonic Lodges be felt in every bosom , and the time will soon arrive when peace and love will pervade the earth " as tho waters cover the sea . "
Note: This text has been automatically extracted via Optical Character Recognition (OCR) software.
What Masons Ought To Be.
different t " mes , and for various purposes , been organised and put iu operation . Some have been formed for tlio advancement of the various arts whoso productions aro necessary for tho convenience , comfort and pleasure of man ; others havo been established for the promotion of
sciences ; others for tho diffusion of knowledge , and others for feeding the hungry , clothing the naked , relieving the distressed , and improving the moral aud religious condition of our race . In no age of the world has tho principle of association been so largely developed , and carried into operation so extensively , as in our own day .
The present timo is proverbial for the multifarious associations and institutions which are in operation for numberless objects having relation to tho advancement of the arts , sciences , knowledge , morals and religion among
mon . Amidst the variety of associations tbe most prominent station is held by the Masonic Institution . This society
has many peculiar and striking characteristics . Ifc has existed from time immemorial , as there is abundant evidence to prove ; it has spread over almost the whole habitable earth ; it has witnessed the rise and fall of
empires ; it has beheld kingdom after kingdom , and nation after nation , rise to the zenith of earthly grandeur and fame , and fall into decay and ruin . Generation after generation have appeared upon the world ' s wide stage ; have performed their parts in the great drama of human
life , and sunk into their primeval dust . Year after year , century after century , have rolled away into the boundless and unfathomable ocean of eternity . Societies and associations of varied character have been organised in our world , have flourished , and at lasfc dwindled away into
nonentity . And during this long series of changes Freemasonry has existed . Wor has our society constantly enjoyed the sunshine of prosperity . No ! " Many times and oft" has the tempest-cloud of adversity hung over it nnd darted its bolts in fury upon it ; often have the raging
waves of cruel persecution beaten against ifc , and the winds of foul calumny and reproach blown their pestiferous blasts ; but all in vain . The rain descended , the floods came , the winds blew and beat upon it , but Masonry fell not , ifc stood—it still stands—and we believe with
undoubtmg confidence that it will stand , firm and stedfast , until the noontide blaze of the millennial day shall burst in glory upon our darkened and sinful world . The questions now arise : Wherein does the strength of the Masonic Institution lie ? From what source has
proceeded thafc sustaining influence which has borne ifc safely over the tide of time ; that has preserved ifc amid fche destruction of nations ; thafc has shielded it from the storms of adversity , and rendered the efforts of power to
effect its overthrow impotent and vain ? I reply : The strength of Masonry is to be found in its doctrines ami principles ; these are its very life blood ; take from our Institution its principles , and nought would remain but a useless skeleton .
My friends , I have to ask your indulgence while attempting , in my simple manner , to present to your view a faint picture of the doctrines and principles of the Masonic Institution . These are : Faith in God , liope in immortality , and Charity or love to all mankind .
The atheist cannot knowingly be permitted to tread the courts , or even pass the threshold of the temple of Masonry ; on those walls , in every apartment , from foundation to capstone , is inscribed in characters of living light : » There is a God . "
Bnt Masonry does not rest satisfied with admitting the abstract prosposition that God exists . We , as Masons , believe in God as the Architect of universal nature , as a moral Governor of the Universe , who has established and promulgated laws for the government of- his moral
creation . In one word , we believe in God as He has made Himself known to men in the Holy Writings . This great light in Masonry , whose sacred pages are now lying open in oar midst , we regard as the inestimable gift of God to man , and take as the man of our counsel , and the
guide and directory of our faith . .. Masonry views man as a being designed for immortality and possessing attributes and powers which eternity alone can fully develop ; and , therefore , it is his intellectual and
moral constitution that she values . With her , the mind is the man , and ifc is in accordance with this principle thafc she acts . Wealth , power , rank , and the many puerile , senseless distinctions , that poor , deluded man is too apt to consider as constituting the very summit of greatness and
What Masons Ought To Be.
glory , Masonry values only as they are made instrumental in promoting the good of our race , and increasing the sum of human happiness . Sho looks not afc the temporal circumstances in which man may , by tho providence of God , be placed . Moral virtue is tho test by which
Masonry tries those who seek a participation in her privileges and pleasures . The man who acts constantly with reference to his high parentage , who makes tho will of God his standard of duty , though ho may bo the tenant of a hovel , or clothed in rags , Masonry regards as exalted
in tho scale of true greatness infinitely above the despot , elevated on a throne and surrounded with all the " pomp and circumstance" of real grandeur , who with proud
arrogance looks upon his fellow men as mere tools of ambition , created solely for the purpose of administering to his wants and gratifying his unholy passions and appetites . With such views of man Freemasonry holds no com >
munion . Another of our doctrines is universal charity or love . Viewing the human race as constituting but one great family , whose dwelling-place is the earth , whose father is God , we are constrained to regard all as proper objects of
our love and good will . Our Institntion teaches us thafc we are all members one of another ; that the high and tho low , the learned and tho ignorant , the rich and the poor , boing the offspring of tho samo Infinite Parent , aro bound by the most sacred ties to aid each other in all lawful
undertakings , to exert thoir besfc powers in promoting each other ' s happiness , and in protecting ' each other , as far as possible , from danger and difficulty . On this broad basis the Masonic superstructure is erected ; and , in conformity to this principle , men of every sect , opinion and
country are found among the members or the brotherhood . Kings and subjects , nobles and peasants rulers and people , mingle together in Masonic assemblies on one common level , and recognize in each other a friend and brother . In the Lodge all earthly distinctions are lost , and
differences of opinion are suffered to sleep . You see , my friends , in the circle of Masons here assembled , men attached to the different political parties into which our population is divided ; men , too , who are zealous supporters of their peculiar views of public matters and
measures . Notwithstanding these differences , we hero meet as brethren and interchange feelings of kindness and good fellowship . I would here remark that in a country possessing a government like our own , whore political struggles ore maintained with such feeling and zeal , whero
the waves of party spirit sometimes roll over the land , threatening ruin and destruction to all we hold dear , it is beyond human power to estimate the good thafc results from tho Masonic Institution , in softening and subduing the angry passions passions ; in quenching the kindling
flames of hatred and discord , which too often appear in our political contests , and in allaying the feverish excitement incident to political life . Again , with reference to religious matters , similar effects are visible . In the Lodgo are seen members of the various denominations into which
the Christian world is divided , divested of their distinctive badges , meeting each other as the children of the samo Parent , and offering their prayers and thanksgivings at the same altar . Said a deceased brother , an Unitarian clergyman in a neighbouring State , " I bless God tbat
there is one place on earth where men of different and opposing sentiments can meet as brethren . Yes , I am received with the cordial grasp of friendship , when I enter the Lodge , by the Swedenborgian , fche Episcopalian , fche Methodist , the Calvinist , the Baptist , and the Universalist .
All feelings of pity or compassion , on acconnt of each other ' s error , are banished from our bosom . All hearts seem to be filled with brotherly love ; and , " he continued , " if the Christian Church would exhibit a similar specimen of union and affection , it wonld represent moro
fully the kingdom of heaven . " When we consider this peculiar trait in the character of the Masonic Institution , we have great cause for thankfulness . There seems to be in the human heart a strong tendency to nourish feelings of suspicion and jealousy
towards those who happen to disagree with us in opinions and sentiments ; and unless these dipositions are neutralised , and their baleful influence counteracted , they will at last break out in open dislike and hatred . But let the liberal
and generous sentiment inculcated in the Masonic Lodges be felt in every bosom , and the time will soon arrive when peace and love will pervade the earth " as tho waters cover the sea . "