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aedifico42| Importance of “The Code”

Posted at: 5:45 pm

We bitch and moan alot around here about the loss of knowledge known as “Masonic” that past generations have left us with.  This dearth of traditional learning is a pain, and we are slowly getting back to it…

I want to focus right now on the “other” knowledge that is very important to Lodges…the administrative and jurisdictional knowledge…that usually gets ignored.

Here’s the question…when was the last time that you read through the Masonic Code, or Constitution, or By-Laws (whatever you call it in your jurisdiciton) that run the Grand Lodge and her subordinates?  Are you even familiar with this document?  Have you a copy readily available for reference?

The least sexy thing about Masonry is our laws.  But this is among the most important, for without our Laws, we are nothing.  Laws are what defines a society…and the people who are familiar with the laws are usually in control of society.

Just look at the United States…how many non-lawyers do you know in Congress…on the Supreme Court…running departments for the Executive.

Now, this is not to say that lawyers are superior in any way…on the contrary.  This statement goes to those who know the laws and are familiar with them.  These Masons, the ones who know their code, are far better equipped than most to deal with tough situations.  They tend to have a clearer idea of the do’s and don’ts of Masonry in their jurisdictions.  They tend to go on the authority, instead of some fading memory of another’s tradition…

So why is this important?  Because to be a leader you must know how to get to your goal.  The rules can be a great aid in the promotion of peace and harmony as well.  Familiarity with your Code is an invaluable resource, and can bring a quick end to many conflicts.

Especially if your Code is a thick as the one in my jurisdiction.

Learning is not just about magic squares and the 47th problem of Euclid…it’s about the every-day stuff also.

Happy reading!

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