originally written for West to East Forum
04Nov07
The results of the CONFERENCE OF GRAND MASTERS OF MASONS IN NORTH AMERICA should be taken as a welcome development. Although obviously there was a mixed up in the information gathered about the IGLPI and the UGLP, we should appreciate the fact that the conference has somehow addressed our case. In its report, the fact that the IGLPI is not a duly constituted Grand Lodge was the only big issue that stands along the way to recognition. Maybe, given the proper information and the full documentary coverage of our Declaration of Independence and subsequent constitution they will be able to make a better assessment of our present status as a new Grand Lodge.
The IGLPI after one year has survived the ordeals that normally confront new Grand Lodges. We now have eight member lodges which meet regularly and perform its basic functions as blue lodges. The IGLPI has already accomplished its primary goals:
- to establish a truly democratic Freemasonry in this jurisdiction: one that adheres to the basic tenets (BROTHERLY LOVE, RELIEF & TRUTH) and cardinal virtues of Freemasonry (TEMPERANCE, FORTITUDE, PRUDENCE & JUSTICE) as well as the basic democratic principles of LIBERTY, EQUALITY AND FRATERNITY;
- empower its member lodges without necessarily rendering the IGLPI powerless.
A truly DEMOCRATIC FREEMASONRY is what the IGLPI is all about. Its basic role is to foster harmony among its member lodges within its jurisdiction and harmony with other Grand Lodge jurisdictions.
The IGLPI Constitution and By-Laws and the implementing Legislative, Judicial and Administrative Codes which provide its basic framework are now in place and just awaiting final ratification. We had exhaustive discussion during the last District Meeting about the Legislative and Administrative Codes and all there is left is the finalization of these drafts and its ratification come November 30 - December 1 during our 2nd IGLPI Grand Assembly.
