Misplaced Pages

#661338

54-677: These organizations, often belonging to groups such as CLIPSAS , are not recognized by the Grand Lodges that form Anglo-American Freemasonry , including Prince Hall Masonry . Most American Freemasons belong to Grand Lodges that follow the Anglo-American Masonic tradition , which requires new candidates to have a belief in Deity, meaning that atheists are not allowed to join. In 1877 the Grand Orient de France (GOdF) dropped this requirement and

108-405: A democratic forum for member participation and decision-making. During this period, CLIPSAS developed comprehensive recognition protocols that would guide inter-obedience relations for decades to come. The creation of regional coordination structures enhanced operational efficiency and facilitated closer cooperation between geographically proximate members. The 1980s marked CLIPSAS's emergence as

162-511: A Mason "must love well God and holy church always." James Anderson 's 1723 Constitutions state that "A Mason is oblig'd by his Tenure, to obey the moral Law, and if he rightly understands the Art, he will never be a stupid Atheist, nor an irreligious Libertine." Anglo-American Masons interpret this passage to mean that Atheists are barred from joining the fraternity, while Continental Freemasons disagree. However one interprets Anderson's Constitution, it

216-750: A Supreme Being, CLIPSAS empowers each lodge and obedience to determine its own spiritual framework. This autonomy extends to the invocation of the Great Architect of the Universe , the use of sacred texts , and the interpretation of Masonic symbolism . Through this approach, CLIPSAS creates space for meaningful spiritual exploration while respecting individual conscience and belief systems. The organization's philosophy acknowledges that authentic Masonic light can emerge from various traditions and interpretations. This inclusive stance has enabled CLIPSAS to bridge divides between different Masonic traditions while maintaining

270-490: A bulwark against clandestine Masonry and fraudulent organizations. The organization maintains detailed documentation of legitimate Liberal Masonic bodies and facilitates constant information sharing among members about irregular activities. Member obediences work together to identify and respond to irregular Masonic bodies, while developing and sharing practices that maintain Masonic authenticity. This collaborative approach extends to

324-474: A deep understanding that universal brotherhood encompasses all humanity, challenging centuries of male-exclusive Masonic practice. The organization's commitment to gender equality manifests not only in recognition policies but in active support for feminine and mixed Masonic bodies worldwide. CLIPSAS has played a pivotal role in establishing and strengthening women's participation in Freemasonry , contributing to

378-590: A direct response to what Liberal Masonic bodies viewed as overly restrictive and dogmatic recognition policies of Anglo-Saxon Freemasonry, particularly those enforced by the United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE). While UGLE and affiliated Conservative Grand Lodges maintain strict requirements regarding belief in a Supreme Being and male-only membership, CLIPSAS established an alternative system of recognition based on freedom of conscience and gender inclusivity. The organization provides Liberal Masonic bodies with

432-741: A federation and a confederation. These include Grand Orient of Belgium, the Grand Lodge of Belgium, the Regular Grand Lodge of Belgium, the Women's Grand Lodge of Belgium, the Belgian Federation of Le Droit Humain and Lithos Confederation of Lodges. Freemasonry began in Belgium whilst the region was ruled by Austria, and later came under influence from Freemasonry in France (following the area's annexation) and

486-690: A majority above 50%. This decision prompted the immediate withdrawal of several prominent obediences from the assembly, including the Grande Loge Féminine de France , Grande Loge Mixte de France , and the Grande Loge Symbolique Espagnole. Critics have highlighted systemic problems in CLIPSAS's governance structure, particularly the absence of a formal commission for validating presidential candidacies. The organization has also faced scrutiny over its financial transparency, notably regarding

540-725: A modern, globally influential organization. The achievement of UN ECOSOC observer status significantly enhanced its international standing and advocacy capabilities. Embracing technological advancement, CLIPSAS implemented comprehensive digital transformation initiatives to facilitate communication and cooperation among members. The organization intensified its focus on global humanitarian projects, coordinating substantial relief and development efforts across multiple continents. Geographic expansion continued, with new member obediences joining from previously unrepresented regions, particularly in Asia and Eastern Europe . The evolution of CLIPSAS's leadership

594-950: A more inclusive and representative Masonic community. This stance reflects both philosophical principle and practical commitment to equal opportunity in Masonic development. CLIPSAS envisions Freemasonry as a transformative force in society, actively engaging with contemporary challenges while upholding Masonic traditions. The organization's approach to social progress integrates Masonic wisdom with modern humanitarian concerns, creating innovative responses to global challenges. Through coordinated efforts among member obediences, CLIPSAS advances human rights initiatives, supports educational development, and promotes cross-cultural understanding. The organization's social engagement extends beyond traditional charitable works to encompass systematic approaches to social transformation. CLIPSAS members work within their communities to promote education, defend human rights, and foster cultural dialogue. These efforts reflect

SECTION 10

#1732909473662

648-575: A significant crisis in CLIPSAS's history. The controversial election of Louis Daly as president, winning with only 32.06% of votes, led to immediate protests from multiple member obediences. The dispute centered on Article 14 of CLIPSAS's regulations, which states mandates are "three years non-renewable." Daly's eligibility was contested due to his previous tenure in the organization's leadership. The situation escalated when outgoing president Ivan Herrera Michel declared Daly's victory despite vocal opposition and without following traditional procedures requiring

702-652: A structured framework for mutual recognition that challenges the traditional monopoly of Conservative Masonry over Masonic legitimacy. This system enables Liberal obediences to maintain their philosophical independence while benefiting from international recognition and support. CLIPSAS maintains rigorous standards for recognizing legitimate Liberal Masonic bodies, distinguishing them from both irregular organizations and Conservative Masonic bodies that may not acknowledge Liberal Masonic practices. The admission process requires thorough verification of Masonic lineage and constitutional establishment, alongside demonstrated commitment to

756-487: A tool for Masonic politics has a long history. Currently, none of the mainstream US Grand Lodges recognize GOdF. There is some debate as to exactly when Freemasonry in the Anglo-American tradition started requiring its members to have a belief in Deity. There are hints that this was the case from the earliest days of Freemasonry: The Regius Manuscript , the oldest known Masonic document dating from around 1390, states that

810-532: A truly global organization. Latin American obediences joined in significant numbers, bringing fresh perspectives and enriching the organization's cultural diversity. African membership grew substantially during this period, establishing CLIPSAS as a significant presence on the continent. The organization also began developing formal relationships with international bodies, laying groundwork for future diplomatic recognition. Recent decades have transformed CLIPSAS into

864-637: Is a Masonic obedience for women only which works in the first three degrees of Freemasonry. The Grande Loge Féminine de France founded its first lodge in Brussels on 20 April 1974, followed by three more in Liège , Brussels and Charleroi . The Women's Grand Lodge Of Belgium was founded on 17 October 1981. Various iterations of the Scottish Rite exist in Belgium. The oldest is the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite under

918-524: Is for men only, and works in the first three degrees of Freemasonry. It was founded in 1959 by 5 lodges of the Grand Orient of Belgium in order to regain recognition by the United Grand Lodge of England. When in 1979 this recognition was lost again, 9 lodges founded the Regular Grand Lodge of Belgium. In 1989, the Grand Orient of Belgium, the Grand Lodge of Belgium, the Women's Grand Lodge Of Belgium and

972-1087: Is imperative to restore among all Freemasons the Chain of Union broken by regrettable exclusions contrary to the principles of Anderson's Constitutions of 1723, and that it is important to this effect to research in common, taking into account all traditions, all rites, all symbols, all beliefs and in respect of absolute freedom of conscience, the conditions which determine the quality of Freemason. The Appeal established several revolutionary principles for its time: Following its establishment in 1961, CLIPSAS formally registered as an association under French law (1901), establishing its headquarters in Paris . The organization's foundational years were marked by deliberate efforts to create robust institutional structures while expanding its influence beyond European borders. The first decade of CLIPSAS operations witnessed steady growth in membership, with particular emphasis on European obediences. The organization instituted regular General Assemblies, creating

1026-427: Is important to remember that they only applied to the Grand Lodge of England. GOdF did not include this requirement in its original constitutions. While GOdF did add language that required belief in Deity in 1849, in 1877 GOdF changed it back to the original usage, without this requirement. Whatever the historical rights and wrongs of the matter may be, the reasons for the disharmony between these two Masonic factions in

1080-890: The Belgian Federation of Le Droit Humain signed an agreement of mutual recognition. The Regular Grand Lodge of Belgium (French: La Grande Loge Régulière de Belgique , Dutch: Reguliere Grootloge van België , R.G.L.B.) is for men only and works in the first three degrees of Freemasonry. It was founded on 15 June 1979 by 9 lodges after the Grand Lodge of Belgium lost its recognition from the United Grand Lodge of England. Today it has nearly 57 lodges throughout Belgium. The Belgian Federation of Le Droit Humain (French: Fédération belge du Droit Humain, Dutch: Belgische Federatie Le Droit Humain) with more than 7,800 members working in 112 French-speaking, Dutch-speaking or bilingual Lodges. The Women's Grand Lodge Of Belgium (French: Grande Loge Féminine de Belgique, Dutch: Vrouwengrootloge van België)

1134-458: The United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE) withdrew its recognition. Many masons believe that this caused the American Grand lodges to follow UGLE and withdraw recognition. However, the historical facts are more complicated. Several American Grand Lodges had withdrawn their recognition of GOdF as early as the 1860s, as the result of a jurisdictional dispute that had nothing to do with the change in

SECTION 20

#1732909473662

1188-468: The United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) and comprises over 100 member obediences across multiple continents. CLIPSAS is distinguished by its recognition of masculine, feminine, and mixed-gender Masonic bodies, as well as its philosophical stance that religious belief should not be a prerequisite for Masonic membership. The formation of CLIPSAS emerged from growing tensions within

1242-480: The 2024 controversies, over fifteen member obediences withdrew from assembly proceedings. This unprecedented protest has raised questions about CLIPSAS's future effectiveness as an international coordinating body for Liberal Freemasonry. Some member obediences have called for comprehensive reforms of the organization's governance structure and electoral procedures. Women%27s Grand Lodge Of Belgium Freemasonry in Belgium comprises several Masonic obediences,

1296-476: The Anglo-American and Continental traditions, though it allows atheists to join its own ranks and maintains relations with bodies that are considered irregular. For these and other reasons, it is also not currently recognized by any of the mainstream American Grand Lodges but were during the twentieth century recognized, or visitations were approved, by up to twenty-three of the US mainstream Grand Lodges. The willingness of

1350-590: The Centre de Liaison et d'Information des Puissances maçonniques Signataires de l'Appel de Strasbourg ( CLIPSAS ). It was refounded in 1996. By 2001 several other Continental-style lodges had been formed in North America. It was deemed appropriate in 2002 that the Grand Orient de France officially recognize and collaborate with the George Washington Union as a separate Grand Orient operating in North America with

1404-654: The Continental tradition. The George Washington Union began as a single lodge, named "George Washington No.1", on December 10, 1976, to work under the concept of absolute freedom of conscience. The newly established Lodge received its Charter from the Grand Orient de France in accord with a covenant signed in August 1977 and ratified by the General Assembly of the Grand Orient de France in September 1978. In 1979, this lodge joined

1458-540: The Craft, advocating for a more inclusive and progressive interpretation of Masonic tradition. Through its structured approach to recognition and legitimacy, CLIPSAS provides a counterbalance to Conservative Masonic influence while protecting the integrity of Liberal Masonic practice worldwide. As of 2024, CLIPSAS includes over 100 member obediences. Below is a comprehensive, current list organized by region: Notable obediences joining since 2022: Through its observer status at

1512-663: The GOdF's stance on religion or the Bible in the lodge. Furthermore, during the First World War a half-century later, several American Grand Lodges briefly reinstated their recognition of the GOdF; this was "long after the GOF had changed its policy on religion, and the American grand lodges made detailed studies and were fully aware of the policies of the French bodies they were recognizing." The use of God as

1566-546: The Grand Lodge of France to recognize both sides in the larger Masonic Schism means that it is often the first to recognize small splinter groups that form out of both traditions. GLF can be seen as being the leader of a third faction in the larger Masonic schism, but is often grouped within the Continental Tradition by those in the Anglo-American tradition. As of 2010, there are no Masonic bodies that fall into this third grouping in North America, but there have been some in

1620-460: The Netherlands (in the period between 1815 and 1830). When the state of Belgium was formed in 1830, Freemasonry there expanded greatly, but faced dramatic changes and challenges over the course of the 19th and 20th centuries. The Grand Orient of Belgium (French: Grand Orient de Belgique, Dutch: Grootoosten van België G.O.B.) is for men only and works in the first three degrees of Freemasonry. It

1674-499: The Strasbourg Appeal") is an international Masonic organization that serves as the primary coordinating body for Liberal and Adogmatic Freemasonry worldwide. Established in 1961 through the historic Strasbourg Appeal, CLIPSAS represents an alternative to Conservative Anglo-Saxon Masonic recognition systems, emphasizing absolute freedom of conscience and inclusive Masonic practices. The organization maintains observer status at

Continental Freemasonry in North America - Misplaced Pages Continue

1728-506: The Strasbourg Appeal, a foundational document that would reshape the landscape of Liberal Freemasonry. The original signatories were: The Strasbourg Appeal of 1961 represents a watershed moment in Masonic history. Its text, carefully crafted to address fundamental issues within Freemasonry, declared: The Sovereign Masonic Powers meeting in Strasbourg on January 22, 1961, considering that it

1782-884: The United Nations Economic and Social Council, CLIPSAS maintains a significant presence in international advocacy work. The organization regularly participates in ECOSOC sessions, where it contributes meaningful perspectives to discussions on human rights and civil society development. This platform enables CLIPSAS to advocate for freedom of association at the highest international levels while promoting cultural dialogue between diverse communities. The organization's representatives frequently engage with other NGOs and UN bodies, leveraging these relationships to advance their humanitarian and social justice objectives. CLIPSAS coordinates an extensive network of humanitarian projects through its member obediences worldwide. In developing nations,

1836-697: The Universal Rite, a combination of Scottish and English Rite Freemasonry. Founded in 1903 in the United States as The American Federation of Le Droit Humain, Universal Co-Masonry was originally called American Co-Masonry, but after the split in 1994 and after expanding outside the United States in the 1990's and 2000's the name Universal Co-Masonry was adopted in 2017. CLIPSAS CLIPSAS ( Centre de Liaison et d'Information des Puissances maçonniques Signataires de l'Appel de Strasbourg ; English: "Liaison and Information Center of Masonic Powers Signatories of

1890-607: The ability to charter lodges. The International Order of Freemasonry for Men and Women Le Droit Humain , is a fraternal brotherhood that has many Federations and Jurisdictions worldwide. The Order has its headquarters in Paris. Every country works the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite, from the 1st to the 33rd degree. The first Le Droit Humain Lodge in America was founded in 1903. Splitting from Le Droit Humain in 1994, Universal Co-Masonry works

1944-524: The depth and significance of Masonic ritual and symbolism. Members engage with Masonic spirituality through their own authentic lens, creating rich dialogues between different interpretations and approaches. CLIPSAS's interpretation of universal brotherhood transcends traditional gender boundaries, recognizing that Masonic light knows no gender. The organization actively supports and recognizes masculine, feminine, and mixed obediences as equally legitimate expressions of Masonic tradition. This position stems from

1998-495: The essence of Liberal Masonic thought. Through ongoing philosophical dialogue among its diverse membership, CLIPSAS develops new insights into perennial Masonic questions while addressing emerging challenges. The organization's philosophical work demonstrates how traditional Masonic wisdom can illuminate contemporary issues while adapting to modern social realities. This balance between tradition and innovation characterizes CLIPSAS's unique contribution to Masonic thought and practice in

2052-737: The global Liberal Masonic community. These multi-day events transcend simple administrative meetings, evolving into comprehensive forums for intellectual and cultural exchange. The administrative sessions address organizational governance and strategic planning, while academic colloquia provide platforms for scholarly discussion of Masonic philosophy, history, and contemporary social issues . Cultural exchange programs during these conventions foster deeper understanding between member obediences from different regions and traditions. Strategic planning meetings focus on developing long-term initiatives and responding to emerging global challenges. These conventions often result in joint declarations or initiatives that shape

2106-510: The heart of CLIPSAS lies an unwavering commitment to absolute freedom of conscience, marking a profound departure from traditional Masonic requirements. This foundational principle has redefined Liberal Freemasonry's approach to spirituality, gender equality, and social progress in the modern world. CLIPSAS champions a revolutionary approach to Masonic spirituality , embracing diverse paths to philosophical and spiritual development. Unlike traditional Anglo-Saxon Freemasonry, which mandates belief in

2160-575: The international Masonic community during the mid-20th century. Conservative Anglo-Saxon Freemasonry, represented primarily by the United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE), maintained strict requirements regarding belief in a Supreme Being and male-only membership. These restrictions created significant divisions within the Masonic world, particularly affecting Liberal Freemasonry. On January 22, 1961, eleven sovereign Masonic obediences convened in Strasbourg to address these challenges. The meeting resulted in

2214-518: The issue of recognition is the fact that, in addition to the Grand Orient, there are at least twelve other Grand bodies in France, the two largest being: the Grand Lodge of France (GLF), and the Grand Lodge National of France (GLNF). The Grand Lodge National of France follows the Anglo-American tradition and is recognized by the mainstream American Lodges. The Grand Lodge of France falls between

Continental Freemasonry in North America - Misplaced Pages Continue

2268-1559: The organization facilitates coordination between legitimate Liberal obediences. This includes establishing standardized protocols for inter-visitation, developing mutual recognition agreements, and maintaining shared documentation systems that verify the legitimacy of member organizations. In response to contemporary challenges, CLIPSAS has developed sophisticated approaches to maintaining Liberal Masonic legitimacy. The organization has implemented digital verification systems for Masonic credentials while establishing comprehensive guidelines for online Masonic presence. These efforts include creating resources for identifying fraudulent organizations and coordinating responses to digital Masonic scams. This modernization ensures that Liberal Masonry maintains its integrity in an increasingly digital world. While CLIPSAS maintains cooperative relationships where possible, it fundamentally exists as an alternative to Conservative Masonic recognition systems. The organization empowers Liberal Masonic bodies to assert their legitimacy independently of Conservative recognition while maintaining philosophical and practical autonomy . This independence allows member obediences to develop alternative approaches to Masonic tradition and challenge exclusionary practices in mainstream Freemasonry. This position has sometimes led to tensions with Conservative Masonic bodies, particularly regarding recognition of feminine and mixed obediences. However, CLIPSAS maintains that diversity in Masonic practice strengthens rather than weakens

2322-713: The organization supports comprehensive educational programs that range from basic literacy initiatives to advanced professional training. Its healthcare initiatives span multiple continents, focusing on both immediate medical assistance and long-term healthcare infrastructure development. When natural disasters strike, CLIPSAS mobilizes its international network for coordinated relief efforts, providing both immediate aid and long-term recovery support. The organization also maintains several cultural preservation projects, working to protect historical sites and traditional practices while promoting cross-cultural understanding. The CLIPSAS annual conventions serve as crucial gathering points for

2376-693: The organization's crucial early decades, allowing for steady development of its institutional framework and expansion of its international influence. The transition away from exclusively Belgian leadership in 1990 marked a new era of broader international representation, reflecting CLIPSAS's evolution into a truly global organization. This shift enabled diverse perspectives to shape the organization's direction while maintaining continuity with its founding principles. Each subsequent presidency has contributed unique insights and priorities, enriching CLIPSAS's approach to advancing Liberal Freemasonry worldwide and establishing mutual recognition between Liberal Grand Lodges. At

2430-559: The organization's direction and impact on international Masonic relations. The conventions frequently rotate between different host countries, allowing member obediences to showcase their unique Masonic traditions and cultural heritage while strengthening the bonds of universal brotherhood . These gatherings have become instrumental in maintaining the organization's cohesion and advancing its mission of promoting Liberal Freemasonry worldwide. The 2024 General Assembly in Durrës, Albania , marked

2484-539: The organization's understanding that Masonic principles must find practical expression in addressing societal needs and promoting human advancement. CLIPSAS's philosophical framework continues to evolve while maintaining fidelity to its founding principles. The organization engages with contemporary philosophical and social questions through a distinctively Masonic lens, contributing fresh perspectives to both Masonic tradition and modern social discourse. This dynamic approach enables CLIPSAS to remain relevant while preserving

2538-583: The past. The Women's Grand Lodge of Belgium , the Grand Orient de France and the Women's Grand Lodge of France have lodges in North America. The Grande Loge Nationale du Canada, which is a member of CLIPSAS, has 15 lodges, mostly in Québec and Montréal. In Mexico there is the Spanish-speaking Grand Orient of Mexico (also a member of CLIPSAS). There are several English-speaking groups that belong to

2592-519: The present day is primarily centered on whether a belief in Deity is required, although there is also disagreement as to whether women's Masonic groups can be recognized. Today, the Grand Orient de France believes in Laïcité , which "imposes that all men are given, without distinction of class, origine or denomination, the means to be themselves, to have the freedom of choice, to be responsible for their own maturity and masters of their destiny." Complicating

2646-442: The principles of the Strasbourg Appeal. Each prospective member must prove their adherence to democratic governance structures and financial transparency while maintaining regular initiatic practices. Central to admission is an unwavering commitment to absolute freedom of conscience, setting CLIPSAS members apart from more traditional Masonic bodies. Beyond providing an alternative to Conservative Masonic recognition, CLIPSAS serves as

2700-554: The requirement for cash-only payments at official events, as evidenced during the 2024 assembly where participation fees of €250 were mandated in cash. In 2024, CLIPSAS leadership attempted to pursue legal action against Masonic media outlets reporting on internal controversies, raising concerns about the organization's commitment to press freedom . This action particularly targeted coverage of electoral processes and organizational transparency issues. The 2024 General Assembly highlighted significant operational deficiencies: Following

2754-547: The twenty-first century. Building upon the Strasbourg Appeal's foundation, CLIPSAS issued the Lisbon Appeal, addressing contemporary challenges. This document emphasizes: That all Earth's inhabitants unite in actions promoting true human solidarity, that they rise against all forms of fundamentalism, against all aggression, against all exclusion, that they work towards the harmonious development of all human beings in freedom of conscience and mutual respect. CLIPSAS emerged as

SECTION 50

#1732909473662

2808-533: The verification of visiting members' credentials and the coordination of responses to various forms of Masonic fraud. CLIPSAS's international structure strengthens the position of Liberal Masonry globally . Its observer status at the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) provides additional institutional legitimacy, particularly important when Conservative Masonic bodies challenge the regularity of Liberal practices. Through annual assemblies and regional meetings,

2862-501: Was founded in 1833, three years after the independence of Belgium, and joined the Grand Orient of France and other Continental jurisdictions in not requiring initiates to believe in a Supreme Being . In 1989 the Grand Orient of Belgium, the Grand Lodge of Belgium, the Women's Grand Lodge Of Belgium and the Belgian Federation of Le Droit Humain signed an agreement of mutual recognition. The Grand Lodge of Belgium (French: Grande Loge de Belgique, Dutch: Grootloge van België, G.L.B.)

2916-448: Was in line with its commitment to international representation and diversity. The formative period from 1961 to 1990 saw the presidency held exclusively by representatives of the Grand Orient of Belgium , beginning with Georges Beernaerts. Under Belgian leadership, CLIPSAS established strong organizational foundations and developed the protocols that would guide its future growth. This period of consistent leadership provided stability during

#661338