‘UGLE to introduce Solomon’

     
Freemasonry Today magazine revealed the other day that the United Grand Lodge of England will provide a new avenue for Masonic education for its members this fall.

United Grand Lodge of England

RW Bro. Stuart Hadler, Provincial Grand Master of Somerset, and RW Bro. Anthony Howlett-Bolton, PGM of Berkshire, delivered an address Wednesday at the Grand Lodge’s Quarterly Communication titled “Solomon: Fostering Curiosity, Developing Understanding.”

Solomon has been in development for three years, and will be unveiled in November, they said. The planning was begun in response to a membership survey, which prompted a desire “to promote Freemasonry as a relevant, worthwhile, and attractive organization in the 21st century.” That survey revealed a need for the fraternity to deliver instruction on Masonic symbolism, moral and philosophical issues, history and traditions—particularly in Royal Arch Masonry.

“Whilst the performance of ritual is a highly valued tradition of our constitution, and social and charitable aspects are of key importance, we were failing many new and current members who seek to improve themselves through greater insight, knowledge, and understanding of Freemasonry,” said the two PGMs. “Furthermore, that only through a personal ability to communicate and share these values can Freemasonry hope to demonstrate its worth and value in the 21st century.”

They acknowledged how books and the web can offer plenty of material to read and enjoy, but “the opportunity to offer an explanation in the lodge or chapter can be much more effective. This can signpost relevant material, and help us along our own personal Masonic journey.”

“Many members are curious and have a sincere wish to improve their understanding,” they added. “They have expectations when they join and these should evolve over time. We have a responsibility to ensure that our members have ready access to the intellectual and practical resources to enhance their Freemasonry, fulfill their interest and help them become more rounded and committed members. There is a genuine concern that a concentration on the performance of ritual, without appreciating what we are doing and why, overlooks the important messages that lie within and is one reason why some members choose to leave.”

What is Solomon?

“Solomon is a central repository of informative material that will answer some of the questions, and point members along the path of daily advancement in Masonic knowledge,” they explained. “It is designed to be used by individual Masons, lodges, chapters, provinces, and districts, and to fit comfortably with the needs of all levels of experience and interest. It can be used on multiple platforms, such as smartphones, tablets, and computers, and currently contains over 350 items. It will continue to grow and evolve.”

There are no “definitive” answers offered, as the Grand Lodge does not advance official points of view of the speculative matters, but “Solomon is a collection of credible views and interpretations. So you may find different explanations of a symbol or ceremony. This variation in interpretation should stimulate discussion and debate. Such is the nature of Freemasonry.”

Congratulations to the United Grand Lodge of England, and to the brethren who are bringing this project to fruition. That is what real leadership gets you.