Post-Modern Freemasonry is something that must be approached as a fundamental principle to the founding of our lodge. Since most will not be familiar with the designation, we feel it vital to be as educational as possible on the subject up front.
Post-Modern Freemasonry is an evolutionary result. We, as Freemasons realize that we do not live in our fathers' or grandfathers' era. Not all of the concepts, structure or methodology of 18th, 19th and 20th century Freemasonry will work when applied to today's web 2.0 society.
Therefore, we are resolute that for the Craft to thrive in today's climate, changes are not optional, but mandatory. Change must come from within, the Temple of Self. We must be willing to adapt in every way to service seekers of Masonic light. Concepts and theories are good, traditions are beautiful but if those concepts and traditions stand in the way of building the Temple; of what use are they?
We are a Post-Modern lodge for Post-Modern Masons. In order to continue in our work we take the Craft back to it's core roots (the Ritual) and apply what we are taught within its framework. This is the core of our occupation and beliefs.
As Post-Moderns we make use of all modern tools availble to our profession. We do not blindly discriminate against any method of advancement. We lay everything out on the table, and examine with a thorough and observant process. From there we take from what we find of value, and politely discard what we feel is of little value. In this way a Post-Modern is also a Pragmatist.
Post-Modern Freemasonry is very fluid and evolutionary science and art form. It is not in any way a dogmatic or bureaucratic system.
Unlike generations past there are a variety of choices available today for someone interested in the Craft. The fact must be made clear that there is no one exclusive executor of the title Freemasonry or what Freemasonry may or may not encompass. Therefore, any claims to exclusivity on the behalf of any organization are strictly that, claims. They may be mandatory for the members of that particular group but they will apply to them alone.
With those points being made it is of high importance that the differences between Modern, Antient and Post-Modern Freemasonry be. Although it would not be appropriate to speak on the behalf on any other Order or structure of Freemasonry, we believe in the power of the human mind and in the individuals ability to be able to make their own educated decision based upon the evidence supplied by factual information.
Post-Modern Freemasonry sample core values.
A.) Secularly spiritual in nature. Embraces those of all faiths, lack of faith or the undecided.
B.) Primary focus on the Operative (Magikal, Esoteric) sphere of Freemasonry.
C.) Gender equal. No distinction made based on gender whatsoever.
D.) Does not claim any direct lineage to 18th century Freemasonry other than the use of original and authentic Masonic rituals from the period.
E.) Aligned mainly with other independent and sovereign Masonic lodges. Lodge sovereignty is of utmost importance. Self determination and self reliance are seen as masonic virtues.
F.) Fluid and dynamic organizational structure. Bureaucracy and dogma must never impede on the code enforced through Ritual.
G.) The embrace of member's right to practice absolute freedom of conscious. Freemasons are adults and they should be treated that way.
This is intended as a light overview of the formula behind the Post-Modern era of Freemasonry. It is by no means a definitive guide as Post-Moderns see Freemasonry as a living art, change and flow are bound to happen. Post-Moderns do not stand in the way of evolutionary changes and adaptations.
