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Freemasonry and External Relations
Introduction
The following information is intended to
expand a topic mentioned in the leaflet 'What is Freemasonry'. It explains the
United Grand Lodge of England's relations with other Masonic bodies.
Freemasonry is practised under many independent Grand Lodges with principles or
standards similar to those set by the United Grand Lodge of England throughout
its history.
Standards
To be recognised as regular by the United
Grand Lodge of England, a Grand Lodge must meet the following standards.
It must have been lawfully established by a regular Grand Lodge or by three or more
private Lodges, each warranted by a regular Grand Lodge.
It must be truly independent and self-governing, with undisputed
authority over Craft - or basic - Freemasonry (i.e. the symbolic degrees of
Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft and Master Mason) within its jurisdiction and
not subject in any other way to or sharing power with any other Masonic body.
Freemasons under its jurisdiction must be men, and it and its Lodges must have
no Masonic contact with Lodges which admit women to membership.
Freemasons under its jurisdiction must believe in a Supreme Being.
All Freemasons under its jurisdiction must take their Obligations on or in full
view of the Volume of the Sacred Law (i.e. the Bible) or the book held sacred by
the man concerned.
The three 'Great Lights' of Freemasonry, (i.e. the Volume of the Sacred Law, the
square and the Compasses) must be on display when the Grand Lodge or its
subordinate Lodges are open.
The discussion of religion and politics within its Lodges must be prohibited.
It must adhere to the established principles and tenets (the
'Ancient Landmarks') and customs of the Craft, and insist on their being
observed within its Lodges.
Aims and Relationships of the Craft
There are some self-styled Masonic bodies that do not meet these standards, e.g.
which do not require a belief in a Supreme Being, or which allow or encourage
their members to participate as such in political matters. These bodies are
recognised by the Grand Lodge of England as being Masonically irregular and
Masonic contact with them is forbidden.
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