Page 56 - MML - Journal - Centenary Edition - Vol. 01 / 2023

influence our brethren to understand some of the things they have heard repeatedly in our lodge halls during our ceremonies; and to perceive the value of some of our higher aspirations.
Let us not forget brethren that the real, lasting purpose of Freemasonry is to persuade men, through the lessons in our Work, to enter upon the pursuit of excellence. Excellence in what form? In just about every form, you can think of – in morals, in manners, in speech, in dress, in the quality of our leadership, in the attitude of our brethren toward the Craft Lodge.
Let me now get back to the modern Past Masters’ Lodges. You will recollect that I had pointed out that they were formed, ‘to bring Installed Masters together in a forum where they can exchange views, interact, network, socialize and most importantly, share their interest in Freemasonry beyond the routine ritual work: through organized lectures, demonstrations and discussions’.
Enforcing The Tenets Of The System: I am very conscious of the fact that the readers o this article are our future Masonic leaders: of Lodges, of the several Regions, and indeed, of our Grand Lodge. Please recall the last clause of the Charge after Initiation: ‘Without neglecting the ordinary duties of your station, endeavour to make a daily advancement in Masonic knowledge’. Let me call your attention to the Islamic Hadith, where it is written, ‘the Prophet prayed, O, my Lord, do not let the sun set on any day during which I did not increase in knowledge'. Recall also, the Final Charge of the Raising ceremony: ‘Duty, honor, and gratitude now bind you to be faithful to every trust, to support with becoming dignity your new character, and to enforce, by precept and example, the tenets of the system’. Do your duty, my brethren!
References
Jones B E; Beresiner Y; Short Talk Bulletin 1980; Henderson, K
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A Publication of Madras Masters Lodge No. 103, GLI
Madras Masonic Journal Vol. 01 / 2023 - Centenary Year Edition