Education
Education has always been closely linked with
Masonry, and is still a very important part of it. In fact,
Masonry and education cannot be separated, one from the other!
That the history of Masonry goes back into
‘time immemorial’ is a well known fact, and often discussed. Our
ancient Brethren were members of a craft guild (masons’ guild) or
trade union. They were builders of temples, cathedrals and
government buildings. Because of their knowledge and skills, they
enjoyed an enviable position in the society of their time. They
were paid much more than most workers, could travel freely from
one country to another, and were educated within their guild. All
this when most common men of their day were in serfdom, and could
not even leave the lord’s estate without his permission.
In order to practice their trade, it was
necessary for these men to learn the mathematical sciences, as
well as the liberal arts, which was needed in order to communicate
during working hours so that each workman understood clearly what
he was to do.
At this early stage of history, there were not
many opportunities for education outside the guild. There were
very few schools of even elementary achievement, much less
institutions of higher learning.
Since our ancient Brethren had all this in
place, and were doing so very well for themselves, they felt the
need to establish an extensive and strict moral code in order that
no dishonour be brought to the organization by any of its members.
The practices just described, attracted many
good men to the craft who were not practising or operative”
masons. These men became the .accepted’ members of the order, and
that phrase still is a vital part of our name. If the practice
were still in existence today, we would call them “honorary” or
“associate’ members.
By the end of the Renaissance period, or about
1700, the cathedral building era was over, and without this source
of work, the guild was in jeopardy. Also by this time, there were
more accepted members than there were operative members. In order
to save the institution and preserve the moral values it had
taught, a change was necessary.
On St. John’s day, June 24, 1717 four old
Lodges met in London and formed the first Grand Lodge the world
has ever known, and this was the beginning of Masonry as it is now
known and practised the world over.
Masonry had evolved into a moral institution,
and was no longer a craft guild. Under these new circumstances,
the Lodge has essentially but one thing to offer, and that is
education. The purpose of Masonry became to unite together groups
of good men and to speculate on the moral teachings of
Freemasonry. The fellowship, brotherhood and genuine affection
among the members is a natural result of this close association
and mutual interest. Over the years, the system has evolved and
been refined, but has not essentially changed.
My Brethren, I submit that education is the
root of Masonry, and if we can educate and involve the candidate
with enthusiasm, we can solve many of our problems and benefit our
beloved Fraternity.
George Clifford Ladman
Royal Arch Mason Spring 1999 page 275