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mikewint said:In summary, according to Freemasonry's critics, Freemasonry is a brotherhood or more aptly a cult which mandates secrecy and obedience within its ranks, affords protection and advancement of the interests of its members, punishes its enemies and turns a blind eye to criminal behavior committed by its members against non-members. Freemasonry provides a value system and an organizational structure which works to put brother Freemasons in positions of power in all organizations and can be used by its members for the most immoral and illegal purposes. Its foundation appears to rest upon the willingness of its members to selfishly exchange their ethics for personal advantage. Its strength appears to lie in a pervasive presence, unseen by those outside the brotherhood, working in concert to protect and expand their wealth and power.
In summary, according to Freemasonry's critics, Freemasonry is a brotherhood or more aptly a cult which mandates secrecy and obedience within its ranks, affords protection and advancement of the interests of its members, punishes its enemies and turns a blind eye to criminal behavior committed by its members against non-members. Freemasonry provides a value system and an organizational structure which works to put brother Freemasons in positions of power in all organizations and can be used by its members for the most immoral and illegal purposes. Its foundation appears to rest upon the willingness of its members to selfishly exchange their ethics for personal advantage. Its strength appears to lie in a pervasive presence, unseen by those outside the brotherhood, working in concert to protect and expand their wealth and power.
Freemasonry isn't as secretive as it once was. As I said, I've been into a masonic hall a number of times, and I'm no mason (I don't even qualify for membership).
I've even seen Freemason bumper stickers, which read "2B1 ask 1" hardly something a secret society would do.
The fact of the matter is that they, like many other organisations are having trouble maintaining their numbers, and have to open up some of their secretive practices to attract new members.
Regarding 'Christian' values - the only requirement here is for a belief in 'a higher power'. Basically, they don't care which god you believe in, as long as you believe in one.
Why don't you qualify?
That little bit about 'belief in a higher power'...
Yeah, and the older the conspiracy the bigger and better it gets!
Freemasonry is considered anti Christian and the 'supreme architect' is not the same as the Holy Trinity.....
GrauGeist said:So then, what's the difference between the Masons and the International Order of Odd-fellows, or the Elks Lodge, the Boy Scouts or any college fraternity?
Not much, really...except the Vatican hasn't condemned them.