Determining Masonic Regularity

Determining Masonic Regularity

To determine whether a Masonic Lodge or Grand Lodge is operating in a manner that is considered regular by the United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE), the mother grand lodge of the world, certain criteria must be met. These criteria may vary slightly depending on the jurisdiction, but generally include the following:

  1. The Lodge or Grand Lodge must be recognized by the UGLE.

  2. The Lodge or Grand Lodge must adhere to the principles of Freemasonry as outlined in the Three Great Lights (the Volume of the Sacred Law, the Square, and the Compass).

  3. The Lodge or Grand Lodge must follow the traditional forms and ceremonies of Freemasonry.

  4. The Lodge or Grand Lodge must be composed of members who are freeborn, of good moral character, and believe in a Supreme Being.

  5. The Lodge or Grand Lodge must be autonomous and self-governed, with no outside interference in its internal affairs.

Obtaining recognition from the UGLE, the mother grand lodge of the world, is important for several reasons. First and foremost, it signifies that the Lodge or Grand Lodge is operating in a manner that is considered regular and in accordance with the principles and practices of traditional Freemasonry. This is important for maintaining the integrity and credibility of the Masonic fraternity as a whole. Additionally, recognition by the UGLE allows a Lodge or Grand Lodge to interact and exchange Masonic ties with other recognized lodges and grand lodges around the world, strengthening the bonds of brotherhood within the fraternity. In order to obtain recognition from the UGLE, the Lodge or Grand Lodge must demonstrate that it is operating in a manner that meets the criteria for regularity, as outlined above. If the Lodge or Grand Lodge is found to be operating in a regular manner, it may be granted recognition by the UGLE, which signifies that it is considered a legitimate and regular part of the Masonic fraternity according to the UGLE, the mother grand lodge of the world.

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