‘New research society in New York “To seek the Light”’

    

The brethren up in the Orange Rockland Sullivan District announced the other day the launch of the ORS Masonic Research Society. Its motto, Quaerere Lucem, means To Seek the Light. From the publicity:

To the Worshipful Masters, Wardens, and Brethren of the Orange-Rockland-Sullivan Masonic District:

Brethren,

It is with great enthusiasm that we announce the formation of the ORS Masonic Research Society, an initiative dedicated to the advancement of Masonic knowledge, research, and education within our district.

This Society is open to all Master Masons in the district who seek to deepen their understanding of Freemasonry through research, discussion, and the sharing of Masonic scholarship. Our goal is to provide a structured and collaborative environment where Brethren can engage in the exploration of Masonic history, philosophy, symbolism, and esoteric teachings.

How the ORS Masonic Research

Society Will Work: 

➢ Quarterly Zoom meetings to discuss research, presentations, and Masonic education. 

➢ A Shared Digital Resource Library organized into categories accessible to different Masonic audiences (Public, EA, FC, MM) available to all District lodges.

➢ 
A peer review process to ensure the credibility and quality of shared research.

➢ Standardized formatting and citations for proper attribution in all contributions.

Benefits to the Craft:

The Society will serve as a valuable resource for lodges and Brethren, offering access to well-researched Masonic papers and presentations. By fostering a culture of learning, we aim to:

➢ Strengthen Masonic knowledge among our Brethren.

➢ Encourage engagement and participation in Masonic education.

➢ Preserve and share valuable Masonic teachings for future generations.

➢ Build deeper fraternal connections through intellectual and philosophical discussion.

We invite all interested Brethren to consider joining this initiative and contributing to the enlightenment of our district. If you wish to learn more or become a founding member, please contact: RW Robert Schroeder, Jr., Grand Director of Ceremonies, here.

We look forward to your participation in this endeavor as we seek further light together.

Fraternally,

The ORS Masonic Research Society

There are thirteen lodges in the ORS District. I wish them great success.

I was told a few years ago about a desire for such a group in that part of the state, and I am happy they went this route, rather than seek a charter for a research lodge. I have nothing against research lodges, y’understand, but I think the brethren will enjoy greater freedom as a research society, without the encumbrances of the lodge structure (officers, paperwork, regalia, ritual, et al.).

I communicated my congratulations and offered any assistance The American Lodge of Research possibly could deliver.