MN3.6 – Pure Antient Masonry

Lesson Objectives

By the end of this lesson, the learner will be able to:

• Understand the foundational concepts and defining characteristics of Pure Ancient Masonry and its conjoined elements.
• Discuss the significance of the four building operations in Masonic practice: Building Better Communities, Building Better Knowledge, Building Better Character, and Building a Better World.
• Analyze the historical interplay between state, religion, and Masonic values, particularly as highlighted by Professor Andrew Prescott’s work.
• Evaluate James Anderson’s The Constitutions of the Freemasons (1723) with a focus on inclusivity, loyalty, and how these concepts have evolved over time.
• Appreciate the contemporary relevance and application of Masonic principles in addressing modern societal issues and fostering personal and communal growth.

Pure Antient Masonry

audio link

Gerald Reilly, a published Masonic author and contemporary English Freemason, starts a thought-provoking exploration of Pure Ancient Masonry and its relevance in contemporary society. This four-part series delves into the foundations of the Three Degrees and the Order of the Royal Arch, examining how these elements, when conjoined, form the essence of Pure Ancient Masonry.

Reilly’s series is structured around four critical building operations that highlight distinct facets of personal and communal growth: Building Better Communities, Building Better Knowledge, Building Better Character, and Building a Better World. Each part of the series focuses on how Masonic principles can foster improvement in these areas, thereby contributing to the greater good of society.

By drawing connections between ancient Masonic practices and modern societal needs, Reilly addresses the pressing “big questions of life.” He suggests that the true soul of the body Masonic lies in its capacity to enhance human understanding and behaviour, thus leading to the creation of better individuals and, consequently, a better world.

Furthermore, Reilly examines the interplay between state, religion, and Masonic values, a dynamic brilliantly expounded upon by Professor Andrew Prescott. He also revisits seminal Masonic texts, such as James Anderson’s The Constitutions of the Freemasons (1723), challenging assumptions about inclusivity and loyalty that have evolved over centuries.

In essence, this series is not just a historical overview, but a call to action. It underscores the relevance of Masonic values in our rapidly changing world and emphasizes that Freemasonry must evolve to maintain its significance. By engaging with contemporary issues through the lens of Pure Ancient Masonry, Reilly paves the way for a deeper understanding of how Masonic teachings can contribute to building better communities, advancing knowledge, character development, and ultimately, a better world.

This series offers a compelling examination of how an ancient tradition can adapt to modern challenges, enabling Freemasons to live out their shared values of integrity, loyalty, and community service in meaningful ways. Reilly’s exploration provides a vivid blueprint for anyone interested in the transformative potential of Masonic allegories and their contemporary applications.

Activities

Pure Antient Masonry

Read whole series – 4 articles ( approx. 10 mins each article )

Suggest read 1 article each day

Once completed return back here to continue with the next topic