Address of R.W. Bro. Hermann Waxl
on His Official Visit to Strong Lodge No. 443, Nov. 15, 1999

Is Freemasonry a Religion?

Whether Freemasonry is or is not a religion can be determined in its teachings, from its purposes, its aims, its practices and the intentions of its members. We can not use the enthusiastic words of some individual Masons, even though they may be outstanding Masons, who are religiously inspired by the ceremonies and the teachings of Freemasonry. If your religious faith is increased by Freemasonry, that is a matter of credit -not discredit.

One thing is certain, the ceremonies of Freemasonry are not intended to serve as a substitute for religion.

We attend our Lodges for the purposes of Masonry, and not for divine worship. Our opening and closing prayers to the G.A.O.T.U. do not detract from, or add anything to, the fundamentals of our individual beliefs. They represent an act of faith and reference, serving only to bring us to a fuller understanding of our dependence on Him.

The best explanation of the matter is that Freemasonry is religious. Then in that case, what is Freemasonry?

There are many conventional definitions. The most apt and perhaps the most self explanatory is: "Freemasonry is primarily a philosophy, or rather it is a whole of philosophies." It is based upon a vast volume of history, some provable and some traditional.

Whatever the definition, if allegories and symbols are followed closely the light of Masonry will be revealed and every Brother will be able to have his own definition, based on the main theme of Freemasonry. For me it is charity.

Masonry: by its very nature demands abstract thinking, - it is said: - "A man is not transformed into a Mason overnight." It is a process of a certain period ot time, and that period may very from Brother to Brother, but it can never be sudden.

Learning to live and understand your fellow man is a life long journey. It is proven that a journey of hundreds of miles begins with a single step. Getting initiated into Masonry is the first step in a Mason's journey.

It is the beginning of the exploration of masonry's teaching, symbols and mysteries and the start of new friendships.

Brethren: May we all march, foot to foot, hand in hand towards that goal of realizing the ultimate in Masonry: to belong to a society which professes universal brotherhood. That is the first step, which leads to - taking the second step, the third step and the innumerable steps beyond as a brother to brother.

Brethren, on a different note, these are times for remembering and honouring those who have given so much for our freedom and prosperity. It is a time for realizing that many sacrificed their health, gave up their dreams, or even invested their very lives so we might enjoy the many rich blessings we have today and look forward to a better future tomorrow.

We should express our gratefulness by making a positive investment in our nation. We can do that by being informed, and by volunteering our time for the good of our neighbours. However, nowhere can we make a more positive investment in our country than through those who are most precious to us: our children. After all, our children are not only an investment in the future - they are our future.

Children: They are our gift to the nation: indeed to the world. We must realize that, aside from our spouse, we have no greater responsibility. We must remember that through the actions we take every day, we have the chance to say thank you - your sacrifice is not forgotten.

Thank you.

R.W.Bro. Hermann Waxl, DDGM