Well, here we are again. Officers are being installed in the Lodges for the ensuing Masonic Year and the Annual Communication will be coming in April. Proposed changes to the Hawaii Masonic Code have been received and the Jurisprudence Committee will be reviewing them and ensuring that they are in proper form to be voted upon and that they will meet the intent of the proposer.
The Finance Committee will inform us whether the proposal will substantially increase or decrease the costs of operations for the Grand Lodge and/or the Lodges and the Committee on Policy and General Puerposes will give their position regarding the proposal to ensur that it is in keeping with Masonic Purposes and within the boundaries of the Ancient Landmarks and tenets of Freemasonry.
In this writer's opinion, we as members of the Grand Lodge have not given enough attention to the intent or purpose of the proposals and have voted for or against them based on emotion rather than careful thought. We seem to do the same when we nominate Brothers to Grand Lodge Officer positions. We appear to be nominating based on friendship and popularity rather than qualification.
I hope this time around, we pay more attention to the intent of the proposals, and consider the future growth of the jurisdiction and the impact that our actions have for the future.
Friday, December 11, 2009
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
New Proposed Legislation for Hawaii Masons
Well here we are again at that time when the lawfully submitted and received proposals are ready to be reviewed by our Jurisprudence Committee, the Policy and Procedures and the Finance Committees. These will then be reported on and a consolidated report will be generated by the Jurisprudence Committee. These will then be sent to our Past Grand Master, the Masters and Wardens of the constituent Lodges and the Inspectors.
We will have sufficient time to discuss these proposals and do decide how the Lodges and other voting members of Grand Lodge wish to vote.
Brethren, when you receive these, discuss them amongst yourselves and question whether or not they are needed. Are they covered elsewhere in the HMC? Will they benefit Masonry in general and our Grand Jurisdiction in particular? Are we making an advance or taking a step backwards?
You the voting member along with others are shaping Masonry in Hawaii. You are indicating the direction you believe Masonry should be taking. Think Well and Wisely.
We will have sufficient time to discuss these proposals and do decide how the Lodges and other voting members of Grand Lodge wish to vote.
Brethren, when you receive these, discuss them amongst yourselves and question whether or not they are needed. Are they covered elsewhere in the HMC? Will they benefit Masonry in general and our Grand Jurisdiction in particular? Are we making an advance or taking a step backwards?
You the voting member along with others are shaping Masonry in Hawaii. You are indicating the direction you believe Masonry should be taking. Think Well and Wisely.
Friday, August 17, 2007
Our Hawaii Masonic Jurisdiction What Say You?
This is taken from the email sent to our Brethren
Are there subjects regarding Masonry in Hawaii that you would like to know more about. How about things that you would like to say about how Masonry is or is not flourishing in Hawaii. Do you have ideas that may improve Masonry in Hawaii? Do you have a story about Masonry that you would like to share with other Masons? Do you have a recipe?
I believe that for too long Masons have been silent about Masonry. We have been too quiet. I believe that for too long we didn’t let others know what Masonry was about, the kinds of men that were Masons and how others of Masonic quality were not becoming Masons because they didn’t know how to become one or who to speak with to gain the knowledge about how to become one.
I have also thought that too often we as Brethren, don’t really act like Brothers. Don’t get me wrong, what I am saying here is that our brothers as siblings mean quite a lot to us. We don’t just turn our heads if something is wrong. We discuss and to some degrees quite vociferously and nearly come to fisticuffs because we truly care for the welfare of our Brother.
In Masonic circles I often see Brethren turn their heads and allow a Brother to be embarrassed, continue down a path that is incorrect because we will not whisper kind counsel or correct our lesser Brethren. We hide behind what we determine to be “Brotherly Love”. What a cop out! What a bunch of B.S. “B.S.” is not what you are thinking. “B.S.” to me means Big Sissy! I don’t have the fortitude or actually Love for my Masonic Brother because I wussed out. (I don’t know if the spelling is right, but I think you get my meaning.)
Am I right or wrong? What do you think? Well, “What Say You?”
What Say You is the name of a blog that I started to get Brothers expressing themselves in written form so that others could share their experiences, thoughts or deeds and learn from, agree or disagree. But to shed a little light on a subject that others were thinking about regarding Masonry in Hawaii.
Let’s get communicating with each other. Let’s come alive and explore our Masonic visions, ideas etc. Let’s help make a difference and improve Masonry in Hawaii. How can I participate? Go to http://raymond.wieckowicz.googlepages.com and explore that website, then click on the link to go to the blog or you may go there directly by clicking this link http://changestohmc.blogspot.com/ . If you would like to submit an article other than one already posted, please address it to kuhiohello@hotmail.com . You will be notified of its posting.
If you wish to make a comment to an already posted article, click on the “comment” word after the article. You will be taken to another page on which you may input your comment. It will be posted if it falls within the rules of good order.
If you like to be notified each time there is a post, enter your email in the “subscribe” box and every time there is a new posting, you will receive it in your email. If there are no postings, no email.
Give it a try, be a contributor to this great fraternity of ours in general and of this Grand Jurisdiction in particular.
Thursday, August 16, 2007
Proposed Legislation
PROPOSED LEGISLATION
What is the meaning of “proposed legislation” and how does it get from being a proposal to being codified in the Hawaii Masonic Code? Is there a process that it goes through with time limits, various people reviewing it or what?
Over the past seventeen years, one question seems to keep cropping up, “where are the proposals”, “how do we get to discuss proposals if we don’t have sufficient time?” or other derivatives of that ilk.
Committees also don’t have sufficient time to review and provide their reports to the Grand Secretary and the Jurisprudence Committee. The Code Review Committee then must decipher what is and is not part of the accepted or passed legislation.
Previous Grand Masters have tried to make the submission of proposed legislation easier for the proponents and also for the committees reviewing them and the Brethren who must vote on the proposal and for the Code Review Committee who ultimately have to publish the changes to the Hawaii Masonic Code.
It is not correct to simply say, it’s the Grand Secretary’s fault, he is at the mercy of the proponents, and the committees. He is more like a guard and a messenger.
Purpose
This article has been prepared to assist you in the preparation and submission and consideration of your proposals and to help you understand the timing at the various levels and how a proposal is written and considered. I hope that this helps you. If you have suggestions, please don’t hesitate to present them. This information is also posted in my blog located at http://changestohmc.blogspot.com/
Below is the format that MW Donald Wilson, PGM used during his term. MWs Phillips, Hager and Wieckowicz used the same submission to maintain consistency and to provide for ease of administration regarding legislation.
Submission of Proposed Legislation-Format
The following copy of the MW Wilson’s letter is basically the format for the letter informing the Past Grand Masters, Grand Lodge Officers, Lodge Masters and Secretaries of the timing and the format for the proponents to follow in the submission of their proposals. It further informs them that the information is to be read at the Lodge’s next stated meeting and placed in their next trestleboard (newsletter) so that all may be apprised. The format for the “proper” or as indicated in the Hawaii Masonic Code as the lawful form is the enclosure to that letter, which provides the form and further instructions regarding its submission. These both are shown immediately below.
The Letter discussed follows:
21 March 2001
To: All PGMs, GL Officers, Lodge Masters and Secretaries
From: Grand Master
Subj: Resolutions to be voted on at the Annual Communication on 12 January 2002.
Ref: (a) Sec. 160 Hawaii Masonic Code
(b) Sec.1108.17th Hawaii Masonic Code
The deadline for submission of proposed resolutions for consideration, at the upcoming Annual Communication, must be submitted to the Grand Secretary, in proper form, no later than 27 August 2001.
Attached you will find an example of the “proper form” of a resolution for consideration with explanation.
Proposed resolutions containing more than two signatures will indicate the two proponents authorized to speak on the resolution before committees and Grand Lodge. All proposed resolutions shall be submitted in “proper form”, as indicated on the attached, to be received no later than 27 August 2001 by the Grand Secretary, to be deemed timely. Those proposed resolutions received which are not in “proper form” or untimely will be returned to the submitter.
There will be no exceptions.
This Communication is to be read at your next stated meeting after receipt and to be published in your next trestleboard so that all may be apprised.
Fraternally,
Donald W. Wilson
Grand Master
Attest:
Raymond Wieckowicz, Jr., Grand Secretary
The format, known as the “lawful” submission to be used in submitting proposed legislation to the Grand Secretary follows:
To the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge F. & A. M. of Hawaii
WHEREAS, Section 3368 of the Hawaii Masonic Code provides that the Trial Master, in a trial of an individual Mason, may employ a duly accredited stenographic reporter to transcribe the proceedings of such trial; and
WHEREAS, Section 3368 also requires that any such stenographic reporter be a Master Mason; and
WHEREAS, within the state of Hawaii, very few, if any, duly accredited stenographic reporters are Master Masons; and
WHEREAS, most trials of individual Masons do not involve disclosure of any of the secrets of Freemasonry; and
WHEREAS, it would be beneficial to permit a Trial Master the option and discretion to have a stenographic reporter transcribe the proceedings, if a reporter who is a Master Mason is not available.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that Section 3368 of the Hawaii Masonic Code be amended as marked.
Section 3368. STENOGRAPHIC REPORTER.
For a Masonic trial, at the option of the Trial Master, a duly accredited stenographic reporter may be employed. if he is a Master Mason Whenever reasonably possible, such reporter shall be a Master Mason. The Trial Master shall, however, have the option to employ a stenographic reporter who is not a Master Mason if he has first
reasonably concluded that the conduct of the proceedings is not likely to disclose
any of the secrets of Freemasonry. If the reporter is a Master Mason, he and shall
qualify in the manner provided for the qualification of Masonic witnesses upon
his honor as a Master Mason before entering upon his duty. The expenses of such reporter shall be borne by the Lodge of which the accused is a member, if a Lodge in this jurisdiction. If the accused is not affiliated in this jurisdiction, and the reporter is employed with the approval of the Grand Master, the claim of said reporter shall be forwarded to the Grand Secretary, certified as correct by the Master and Secretary of the Lodge in which the trial was held and paid by the Grand Lodge in the same manner as other bills. Arguments of counsel are not part of the trial record.
Proponents:
Hopeful Justas Hopeful
Printed name and Signature Printed name and Signature
(Others may sign, however, only the two selected and indicated proponents above, are authorized to speak before committees and Grand Lodge.
(The old material to be deleted is lined out as shown and the new material is underscored. In the event the resolution is passed, the change to the HMC will be as shown without the deleted or lined out information. The new information (that underscored) will be inserted and the accepted Section will be published to the HMC as a change)
There are specific time frames that must be followed to ensure that proper attention is given to the submissions received. This article provides this information by presenting the applicable sections of the Hawaii Masonic Code. Adherence to these time frames ensures your submissions receive proper attention. Although the sections referred to appear to be out of order, you will notice that they speak to the calendar days beginning with 160 days prior to the next Annual Communication and advance to 60 days prior to the Annual Communication. The days and other important information has been highlighted to assist you in identifying them and to be aware of those deadlines.
Our next Annual Communication is scheduled for the 18th and 19th of April 2008.
§150. ANNUAL COMMUNICATION.
The Grand Lodge shall hold an Annual Communication for the transaction of its
regular business on two (2) consecutive days commencing at 9 o'clock a.m. on
the third Friday and following Saturday of each April, in the City and County of
Honolulu; provided, however, that said Annual Communication may be held in
the State of Hawaii at any other place or time upon the adoption, by a two-thirds
vote, of a resolution so providing, at any previous Annual or Special
Communication called for the purpose.[D91-2 Repealed] [D92-3] Res.2001-
14;1/11/02 , Res. 2004-01 as amended.
Further, the Grand Master may extend the Annual Communication to include
the preceding Friday if the business to be before the Grand Lodge is deemed
sufficient to warrant the extensions, and providing the Grand Master advises the
Lodges and other voting members of the Grand Lodge of the extension at least
seventy-five days in advance of the proposed extension. Further, these
changes shall be effective in the year 2003. [D91-02 Repealed] [D92-03]
[Res.2001-14; Jan 2002]
§1200. REFERENCE OF BUSINESS TO COMMITTIES.
Business of every kind shall be referred to and reported upon by a committee before it can be finally acted upon, unless by unanimous consent, and whenever referred to more than one committee, all such committees shall report thereon before any vote shall be taken in the Grand Lodge. When the report of the Committee, or Committees, is presented the vote shall be taken upon the business as originally presented.
§500. WHEN MAY BE PRESENTED.
Any proposed amendment to this Constitution shall be presented by written resolution or recommendation to the Grand Secretary at least 160 days prior to the commencement date of the next Annual Communication, provided, however, that this restriction shall not apply to emergent matters which may be presented and considered at any time upon consent of two-thirds vote of the members present. All such resolutions and recommendations shall be referred to the Committee on Jurisprudence, which shall report thereon before vote is taken. When the report of said committee is presented the vote shall be taken on the amendment. Res. 00-15; 1/2001
§1108.17th. This is part of the Grand Secretary’s Duties. To transmit, at least 140 days prior to the commencement date of the next Annual Communication, a copy of each and every resolution and recommendation lawfully presented to him, to the Masters of the several Lodges, Inspectors and Members of the Committees on Jurisprudence, Policy and General Purposes and Finance. Res. 00-15; 1/2001
This provides the parties with the knowledge that a submission on a certain subject which may impact certain provisions may be voted on. The committees receiving the proposed legislation will obtain information from the proponents to understand the intent and reason for the submission. The best method to ensure that the proposal provides the intent and will bring about the desired result, is to speak directly to the proponent(s). This is the primary reason for the period of time. The Jurisprudence, Finance and Policy and General Purposes Committees, at a minimum, will have 50 days to ensure that the final wording of the proposal will be presented. together with the brief statement of purpose and effect of each to the Grand Secretary for dissemination. Although the Jurisprudence Committee may rewrite the proposal to ensure it meets the intent etc., desired by the proponent, it does not mean the initial proposal need not be submitted in lawful form.
§1204. COMMITTEE ON JURISPRUDENCE.
The Committee on Jurisprudence shall report to the Grand Lodge its recommendations as to the legality of decisions and dispensations issued by the Grand Master, Life Membership resolutions, and other matters referred to said Committee; and whether proposed amendments to the Hawaii Masonic Code will accomplish the purpose of the proponents and the legal effect of the proposed amendments. When appropriate, it shall prepare legislation to accomplish the recommendations or decisions of the Grand Master, officers of Committees or Boards of Grand Lodge, and shall report to Grand Lodge
thereon with its recommendations.
Upon receipt from the Grand Secretary of proposed Resolutions and recommendations to be considered at the next Annual Communication, and recommendations or decisions of the Grand Master, Officers of Committees or Boards of Grand Lodge, the Committee on Jurisprudence shall review them and prepare legislation as may be required, together with a brief statement of the purpose and effect of them by the Grand Lodge and which will carry out the intent of the proponents and confer with the Committees on Policy and General Purposes, and Finance and will consolidate their reports and recommendations
with theirs and transmit, at least 90 days prior to the commencement date of the next Annual Communication, a copy of any and all such Resolutions and recommendations and decisions together with the brief statement of purpose and effect of each to the Grand Secretary for dissemination. Res. 00-15; 1/2001
At this point, the Grand Secretary has now received the proposals as they are to be presented at the Annual Communication along with the reports from the committees that have provided input regarding them and the effects they will have on the Craft in this jurisdiction.
The Grand Secretary now has thirty days to prepare the packages for dissemination to those indicated in §1108.17a. To transmit at least 60 days prior to the commencement date of the next Annual Communication, a copy of each and every resolution and recommendation presented to him by the Committees on Jurisprudence, Policy and General Purposes and Finance, to the Past Grand Masters, Masters and Wardens of each constituent Lodge, and the Inspectors. Res. 00-15; 1/2001
Now the Past Grand Masters, Masters and Wardens of each Lodge and the Inspectors will be able to discuss the proposals, with each other, among themselves or within their Lodges and make decisions of whether to vote in favor of or to reject them.
In accordance with §502, if two-thirds of the vote shall be in favor of such proposed amendment it shall be declared adopted; and, from and after the close of that Communication, it shall become a part of the Constitution.
If however, the vote in favor of the proposed amendment is less than two thirds, but there be a majority it shall lay over for one year, and shall be published with the proceedings, under the caption of "Proposed Amendment to the Constitution"; and if, at the next succeeding Annual Communication, it shall receive two-thirds of the votes given thereon, it shall be declared adopted; and, from and after the close of that Communication,
it shall become a part of the Constitution. (§504)
§1201. COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP.
Unless these Ordinances specifically determine the composition thereof, every Grand Lodge committee shall consist of Master Masons who are members in good standing of a Lodge in this Jurisdiction, and who possess sufficient talent, skill, experience and interest to carry out the duties and purposes of the committee. In addition to regular committee members, the Grand Master may appoint any Mason who is a member in good standing of a Lodge in this Jurisdiction as a non-voting consultant to a committee, if such consultant possesses special talent, skill or experience in the matters to be considered by
the committee, which consultant shall serve at the Grand Master's will and pleasure. §1201Added by Res 99-1
§1202. STANDING COMMITTEES.
The following standing committees shall be appointed by the Grand Master at each Annual Communication just before the close thereof, viz: On Jurisprudence, on Policy and General Purposes, on Temple Properties, on Public Schools, on Charters, on Grand Lodge Week Activities, on Finance, on Trial Review, on Credentials, on Travel Allowances, on By-laws, on Review of Proceedings, on Masonic History, on Memorial Service, and on Masonic Information and Responsibility. The duties of such committees shall continue during the year thereafter, and shall cease at the close of the next succeeding Annual Communication except as to members of committees whose terms do
not end with the close of that Annual Communication.
Those committees most often called upon to prepare reports regarding the impact of proposed legislation on the craft of this jurisdiction are shown below:
§1206. COMMITTEE ON POLICY AND GENERAL PURPOSES.
The Committee on Policy and General Purposes shall consider and report upon such matters as may be referred to it, which may include such matters not referable by express provision of existing law to some other committee or may properly be termed mere matters of policy, and as to which it is deemed that the reference to such committee is advisable. Upon referral it shall report whether any action taken or proposed is consistent with the general purpose and policies of the Grand Lodge.
§1218. COMMITTEE ON FINANCE.
The Committee on Finance shall be a standing committee, and shall consist of the following persons and no others: The Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master, Grand Wardens, Grand Treasurer, Grand Secretary and the sitting Masters of each constituent Lodge. The chair of the Committee on Finance shall be the Deputy Grand Master; provided that, in his absence, the following committee members shall act as temporary chairman at any meeting at which a quorum is present: Senior Grand Warden, Junior Grand Warden, Grand Treasurer, a sitting Master elected by a majority of those present at the meeting.
The Committee on Finance shall meet annually in Honolulu, at 9:00 a.m. on the first Saturday in February of each year, unless the Deputy Grand Master gives written notice of another date and time at least 30 days before the new date, which new date may not be more than 10 days before or after the first Saturday in February. Special meetings of the committee may be called by the Deputy Grand Master or by a majority of the committee members by giving written notice of such special meeting and the purpose thereof at least 30 days prior to the date of the meeting. A quorum shall consist of a majority of the committee members. Neighbor Island committee members may attend and vote by written proxy given to any Master Mason in good standing, but no other committee
members may participate in meetings by proxy.
Every appropriation of money shall be referred to and reported upon by the Committee on Finance before it can be made; and no appropriation of money shall be made at any Annual Communication after the Election of Grand Officers, except by a two-thirds vote of the members present. Every over-expenditure of budgeted items, needing supplemental
appropriations approved by the Grand Master, shall be referred to and reported upon by the Committee of Finance.
The Committee on Finance shall be responsible for and supervise all financial affairs of the Grand Lodge, including, without limiting the foregoing, such matters as preparing an annual budget, capital expenditures, employee wage scales, internal auditing controls, and mechanization; and shall exercise a general supervision and surveillance over compliance with the adopted budget of the Grand Lodge. When requested, it shall advise and assist all constitutional Board in financial matters. The Committee on Finance shall
prescribe rules, regulations and procedures for the filing of all expenses claims and shall be responsible for recommending approval or disallowance of all such claims at the Annual Communication or such Special Communication as may be called for the purpose. Res. 03-07; 05/2003
§1235. COMMITTEE ON RITUAL.
The Grand Lecturer, the Assistant Grand Lecturer or Assistant Grand Lecturers (if any), and the Inspectors shall constitute the Committee of all ritual, and the ceremonial work. The Grand Lecturer shall serve as Chairman of the Committee on Ritual. Res. 07-2007
§1236. COMMITTEE ON MASONIC CODE.
The Committee on Masonic Code shall edit and prepare for publication the annual changes in our laws and submit to Grand Lodge from time to time any revisions which may seem necessary or desirable The Committee may omit codification of edicts and decisions which are repetitive of matters already codified.
§1238. COMMITTEE ON INVESTMENTS.
The Committee on Investments shall be appointed by successive Grand Masters from among the members of Grand Lodge with experience in the broad field of investments. Each successive Grand Master shall designate one of the members of said Committee as Chairman and another as vice-Chairman to serve in said capacity during the tenure of said Grand Master and until a successor in said capacity is designated. The Grand Master may, but need not, appoint the Grand Treasurer, the Assistant Grand Treasurer, or representatives of any Grand Lodge entity as one or more of his appointees to said Committee. This Committee, or a majority thereof, is empowered to invest and reinvest the funds of this Grand Lodge.
The Grand Secretary shall serve as Secretary of the Committee, attend its meetings, keep its minutes, and handle its correspondence. If the Grand Treasurer, the Assistant Grand Treasurer, and the Chairman of the Committee on Finance are not members of this Committee, they shall be given ample notice of the meetings of the Committee and may attend and participate, but without a vote.
§1282. COMMITTEE REPORTS.
Committees designated by the Grand Master shall file written reports with him at the time requested by him. If he deems a report to be of sufficient general interest to the Craft, he may direct that such report or any portion thereof may be presented orally by the committee during the Annual Communication.
§150. ANNUAL COMMUNICATION.
The Grand Lodge shall hold an Annual Communication for the transaction of its regular business on two (2) consecutive days commencing at 9 o'clock a.m. on the third Friday and following Saturday of each April, in the City and County of Honolulu; provided, however, that said Annual Communication may be held in the State of Hawaii at any other place or time upon the adoption, by a two-thirds vote, of a resolution so providing, at any previous Annual or Special Communication called for the purpose.[D91-2 Repealed] [D92-3] Res.2001- 14;1/11/02 , Res. 2004-01 as amended.
Further, the Grand Master may extend the Annual Communication to include the preceding Friday if the business to be before the Grand Lodge is deemed sufficient to warrant the extensions, and providing the Grand Master advises the Lodges and other voting members of the Grand Lodge of the extension at least seventy-five days in advance of the proposed extension. Further, these changes shall be effective in the year 2003. [D91-02 Repealed] [D92-03] [Res.2001-14; Jan 2002]
From the information presented above, you can see that much is done to ensure the integrity of the Hawaii Masonic Code. It is very important that proponents have made lawful submissions for consideration and that the full process of review, by committees and possible redrafting of proposals to ensure they accomplish what was intended.
The time frames are very important so that the voting members of Grand Lodge are ready to intelligently discuss and vote on those pieces of legislation that come on the floor.
I hope that this has helped you to better understand the process that ultimately determines the make up of the Hawaii Masonic Code.
If you would like to share your comments regarding this article or any other please go to http://changestohmc.blogspot.com/ and submit your comments.
Raymond Wieckowicz, Jr., P.G.M.
What is the meaning of “proposed legislation” and how does it get from being a proposal to being codified in the Hawaii Masonic Code? Is there a process that it goes through with time limits, various people reviewing it or what?
Over the past seventeen years, one question seems to keep cropping up, “where are the proposals”, “how do we get to discuss proposals if we don’t have sufficient time?” or other derivatives of that ilk.
Committees also don’t have sufficient time to review and provide their reports to the Grand Secretary and the Jurisprudence Committee. The Code Review Committee then must decipher what is and is not part of the accepted or passed legislation.
Previous Grand Masters have tried to make the submission of proposed legislation easier for the proponents and also for the committees reviewing them and the Brethren who must vote on the proposal and for the Code Review Committee who ultimately have to publish the changes to the Hawaii Masonic Code.
It is not correct to simply say, it’s the Grand Secretary’s fault, he is at the mercy of the proponents, and the committees. He is more like a guard and a messenger.
Purpose
This article has been prepared to assist you in the preparation and submission and consideration of your proposals and to help you understand the timing at the various levels and how a proposal is written and considered. I hope that this helps you. If you have suggestions, please don’t hesitate to present them. This information is also posted in my blog located at http://changestohmc.blogspot.com/
Below is the format that MW Donald Wilson, PGM used during his term. MWs Phillips, Hager and Wieckowicz used the same submission to maintain consistency and to provide for ease of administration regarding legislation.
Submission of Proposed Legislation-Format
The following copy of the MW Wilson’s letter is basically the format for the letter informing the Past Grand Masters, Grand Lodge Officers, Lodge Masters and Secretaries of the timing and the format for the proponents to follow in the submission of their proposals. It further informs them that the information is to be read at the Lodge’s next stated meeting and placed in their next trestleboard (newsletter) so that all may be apprised. The format for the “proper” or as indicated in the Hawaii Masonic Code as the lawful form is the enclosure to that letter, which provides the form and further instructions regarding its submission. These both are shown immediately below.
The Letter discussed follows:
21 March 2001
To: All PGMs, GL Officers, Lodge Masters and Secretaries
From: Grand Master
Subj: Resolutions to be voted on at the Annual Communication on 12 January 2002.
Ref: (a) Sec. 160 Hawaii Masonic Code
(b) Sec.1108.17th Hawaii Masonic Code
The deadline for submission of proposed resolutions for consideration, at the upcoming Annual Communication, must be submitted to the Grand Secretary, in proper form, no later than 27 August 2001.
Attached you will find an example of the “proper form” of a resolution for consideration with explanation.
Proposed resolutions containing more than two signatures will indicate the two proponents authorized to speak on the resolution before committees and Grand Lodge. All proposed resolutions shall be submitted in “proper form”, as indicated on the attached, to be received no later than 27 August 2001 by the Grand Secretary, to be deemed timely. Those proposed resolutions received which are not in “proper form” or untimely will be returned to the submitter.
There will be no exceptions.
This Communication is to be read at your next stated meeting after receipt and to be published in your next trestleboard so that all may be apprised.
Fraternally,
Donald W. Wilson
Grand Master
Attest:
Raymond Wieckowicz, Jr., Grand Secretary
The format, known as the “lawful” submission to be used in submitting proposed legislation to the Grand Secretary follows:
To the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge F. & A. M. of Hawaii
WHEREAS, Section 3368 of the Hawaii Masonic Code provides that the Trial Master, in a trial of an individual Mason, may employ a duly accredited stenographic reporter to transcribe the proceedings of such trial; and
WHEREAS, Section 3368 also requires that any such stenographic reporter be a Master Mason; and
WHEREAS, within the state of Hawaii, very few, if any, duly accredited stenographic reporters are Master Masons; and
WHEREAS, most trials of individual Masons do not involve disclosure of any of the secrets of Freemasonry; and
WHEREAS, it would be beneficial to permit a Trial Master the option and discretion to have a stenographic reporter transcribe the proceedings, if a reporter who is a Master Mason is not available.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that Section 3368 of the Hawaii Masonic Code be amended as marked.
Section 3368. STENOGRAPHIC REPORTER.
For a Masonic trial, at the option of the Trial Master, a duly accredited stenographic reporter may be employed. if he is a Master Mason Whenever reasonably possible, such reporter shall be a Master Mason. The Trial Master shall, however, have the option to employ a stenographic reporter who is not a Master Mason if he has first
reasonably concluded that the conduct of the proceedings is not likely to disclose
any of the secrets of Freemasonry. If the reporter is a Master Mason, he and shall
qualify in the manner provided for the qualification of Masonic witnesses upon
his honor as a Master Mason before entering upon his duty. The expenses of such reporter shall be borne by the Lodge of which the accused is a member, if a Lodge in this jurisdiction. If the accused is not affiliated in this jurisdiction, and the reporter is employed with the approval of the Grand Master, the claim of said reporter shall be forwarded to the Grand Secretary, certified as correct by the Master and Secretary of the Lodge in which the trial was held and paid by the Grand Lodge in the same manner as other bills. Arguments of counsel are not part of the trial record.
Proponents:
Hopeful Justas Hopeful
Printed name and Signature Printed name and Signature
(Others may sign, however, only the two selected and indicated proponents above, are authorized to speak before committees and Grand Lodge.
(The old material to be deleted is lined out as shown and the new material is underscored. In the event the resolution is passed, the change to the HMC will be as shown without the deleted or lined out information. The new information (that underscored) will be inserted and the accepted Section will be published to the HMC as a change)
There are specific time frames that must be followed to ensure that proper attention is given to the submissions received. This article provides this information by presenting the applicable sections of the Hawaii Masonic Code. Adherence to these time frames ensures your submissions receive proper attention. Although the sections referred to appear to be out of order, you will notice that they speak to the calendar days beginning with 160 days prior to the next Annual Communication and advance to 60 days prior to the Annual Communication. The days and other important information has been highlighted to assist you in identifying them and to be aware of those deadlines.
Our next Annual Communication is scheduled for the 18th and 19th of April 2008.
§150. ANNUAL COMMUNICATION.
The Grand Lodge shall hold an Annual Communication for the transaction of its
regular business on two (2) consecutive days commencing at 9 o'clock a.m. on
the third Friday and following Saturday of each April, in the City and County of
Honolulu; provided, however, that said Annual Communication may be held in
the State of Hawaii at any other place or time upon the adoption, by a two-thirds
vote, of a resolution so providing, at any previous Annual or Special
Communication called for the purpose.[D91-2 Repealed] [D92-3] Res.2001-
14;1/11/02 , Res. 2004-01 as amended.
Further, the Grand Master may extend the Annual Communication to include
the preceding Friday if the business to be before the Grand Lodge is deemed
sufficient to warrant the extensions, and providing the Grand Master advises the
Lodges and other voting members of the Grand Lodge of the extension at least
seventy-five days in advance of the proposed extension. Further, these
changes shall be effective in the year 2003. [D91-02 Repealed] [D92-03]
[Res.2001-14; Jan 2002]
§1200. REFERENCE OF BUSINESS TO COMMITTIES.
Business of every kind shall be referred to and reported upon by a committee before it can be finally acted upon, unless by unanimous consent, and whenever referred to more than one committee, all such committees shall report thereon before any vote shall be taken in the Grand Lodge. When the report of the Committee, or Committees, is presented the vote shall be taken upon the business as originally presented.
§500. WHEN MAY BE PRESENTED.
Any proposed amendment to this Constitution shall be presented by written resolution or recommendation to the Grand Secretary at least 160 days prior to the commencement date of the next Annual Communication, provided, however, that this restriction shall not apply to emergent matters which may be presented and considered at any time upon consent of two-thirds vote of the members present. All such resolutions and recommendations shall be referred to the Committee on Jurisprudence, which shall report thereon before vote is taken. When the report of said committee is presented the vote shall be taken on the amendment. Res. 00-15; 1/2001
§1108.17th. This is part of the Grand Secretary’s Duties. To transmit, at least 140 days prior to the commencement date of the next Annual Communication, a copy of each and every resolution and recommendation lawfully presented to him, to the Masters of the several Lodges, Inspectors and Members of the Committees on Jurisprudence, Policy and General Purposes and Finance. Res. 00-15; 1/2001
This provides the parties with the knowledge that a submission on a certain subject which may impact certain provisions may be voted on. The committees receiving the proposed legislation will obtain information from the proponents to understand the intent and reason for the submission. The best method to ensure that the proposal provides the intent and will bring about the desired result, is to speak directly to the proponent(s). This is the primary reason for the period of time. The Jurisprudence, Finance and Policy and General Purposes Committees, at a minimum, will have 50 days to ensure that the final wording of the proposal will be presented. together with the brief statement of purpose and effect of each to the Grand Secretary for dissemination. Although the Jurisprudence Committee may rewrite the proposal to ensure it meets the intent etc., desired by the proponent, it does not mean the initial proposal need not be submitted in lawful form.
§1204. COMMITTEE ON JURISPRUDENCE.
The Committee on Jurisprudence shall report to the Grand Lodge its recommendations as to the legality of decisions and dispensations issued by the Grand Master, Life Membership resolutions, and other matters referred to said Committee; and whether proposed amendments to the Hawaii Masonic Code will accomplish the purpose of the proponents and the legal effect of the proposed amendments. When appropriate, it shall prepare legislation to accomplish the recommendations or decisions of the Grand Master, officers of Committees or Boards of Grand Lodge, and shall report to Grand Lodge
thereon with its recommendations.
Upon receipt from the Grand Secretary of proposed Resolutions and recommendations to be considered at the next Annual Communication, and recommendations or decisions of the Grand Master, Officers of Committees or Boards of Grand Lodge, the Committee on Jurisprudence shall review them and prepare legislation as may be required, together with a brief statement of the purpose and effect of them by the Grand Lodge and which will carry out the intent of the proponents and confer with the Committees on Policy and General Purposes, and Finance and will consolidate their reports and recommendations
with theirs and transmit, at least 90 days prior to the commencement date of the next Annual Communication, a copy of any and all such Resolutions and recommendations and decisions together with the brief statement of purpose and effect of each to the Grand Secretary for dissemination. Res. 00-15; 1/2001
At this point, the Grand Secretary has now received the proposals as they are to be presented at the Annual Communication along with the reports from the committees that have provided input regarding them and the effects they will have on the Craft in this jurisdiction.
The Grand Secretary now has thirty days to prepare the packages for dissemination to those indicated in §1108.17a. To transmit at least 60 days prior to the commencement date of the next Annual Communication, a copy of each and every resolution and recommendation presented to him by the Committees on Jurisprudence, Policy and General Purposes and Finance, to the Past Grand Masters, Masters and Wardens of each constituent Lodge, and the Inspectors. Res. 00-15; 1/2001
Now the Past Grand Masters, Masters and Wardens of each Lodge and the Inspectors will be able to discuss the proposals, with each other, among themselves or within their Lodges and make decisions of whether to vote in favor of or to reject them.
In accordance with §502, if two-thirds of the vote shall be in favor of such proposed amendment it shall be declared adopted; and, from and after the close of that Communication, it shall become a part of the Constitution.
If however, the vote in favor of the proposed amendment is less than two thirds, but there be a majority it shall lay over for one year, and shall be published with the proceedings, under the caption of "Proposed Amendment to the Constitution"; and if, at the next succeeding Annual Communication, it shall receive two-thirds of the votes given thereon, it shall be declared adopted; and, from and after the close of that Communication,
it shall become a part of the Constitution. (§504)
§1201. COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP.
Unless these Ordinances specifically determine the composition thereof, every Grand Lodge committee shall consist of Master Masons who are members in good standing of a Lodge in this Jurisdiction, and who possess sufficient talent, skill, experience and interest to carry out the duties and purposes of the committee. In addition to regular committee members, the Grand Master may appoint any Mason who is a member in good standing of a Lodge in this Jurisdiction as a non-voting consultant to a committee, if such consultant possesses special talent, skill or experience in the matters to be considered by
the committee, which consultant shall serve at the Grand Master's will and pleasure. §1201Added by Res 99-1
§1202. STANDING COMMITTEES.
The following standing committees shall be appointed by the Grand Master at each Annual Communication just before the close thereof, viz: On Jurisprudence, on Policy and General Purposes, on Temple Properties, on Public Schools, on Charters, on Grand Lodge Week Activities, on Finance, on Trial Review, on Credentials, on Travel Allowances, on By-laws, on Review of Proceedings, on Masonic History, on Memorial Service, and on Masonic Information and Responsibility. The duties of such committees shall continue during the year thereafter, and shall cease at the close of the next succeeding Annual Communication except as to members of committees whose terms do
not end with the close of that Annual Communication.
Those committees most often called upon to prepare reports regarding the impact of proposed legislation on the craft of this jurisdiction are shown below:
§1206. COMMITTEE ON POLICY AND GENERAL PURPOSES.
The Committee on Policy and General Purposes shall consider and report upon such matters as may be referred to it, which may include such matters not referable by express provision of existing law to some other committee or may properly be termed mere matters of policy, and as to which it is deemed that the reference to such committee is advisable. Upon referral it shall report whether any action taken or proposed is consistent with the general purpose and policies of the Grand Lodge.
§1218. COMMITTEE ON FINANCE.
The Committee on Finance shall be a standing committee, and shall consist of the following persons and no others: The Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master, Grand Wardens, Grand Treasurer, Grand Secretary and the sitting Masters of each constituent Lodge. The chair of the Committee on Finance shall be the Deputy Grand Master; provided that, in his absence, the following committee members shall act as temporary chairman at any meeting at which a quorum is present: Senior Grand Warden, Junior Grand Warden, Grand Treasurer, a sitting Master elected by a majority of those present at the meeting.
The Committee on Finance shall meet annually in Honolulu, at 9:00 a.m. on the first Saturday in February of each year, unless the Deputy Grand Master gives written notice of another date and time at least 30 days before the new date, which new date may not be more than 10 days before or after the first Saturday in February. Special meetings of the committee may be called by the Deputy Grand Master or by a majority of the committee members by giving written notice of such special meeting and the purpose thereof at least 30 days prior to the date of the meeting. A quorum shall consist of a majority of the committee members. Neighbor Island committee members may attend and vote by written proxy given to any Master Mason in good standing, but no other committee
members may participate in meetings by proxy.
Every appropriation of money shall be referred to and reported upon by the Committee on Finance before it can be made; and no appropriation of money shall be made at any Annual Communication after the Election of Grand Officers, except by a two-thirds vote of the members present. Every over-expenditure of budgeted items, needing supplemental
appropriations approved by the Grand Master, shall be referred to and reported upon by the Committee of Finance.
The Committee on Finance shall be responsible for and supervise all financial affairs of the Grand Lodge, including, without limiting the foregoing, such matters as preparing an annual budget, capital expenditures, employee wage scales, internal auditing controls, and mechanization; and shall exercise a general supervision and surveillance over compliance with the adopted budget of the Grand Lodge. When requested, it shall advise and assist all constitutional Board in financial matters. The Committee on Finance shall
prescribe rules, regulations and procedures for the filing of all expenses claims and shall be responsible for recommending approval or disallowance of all such claims at the Annual Communication or such Special Communication as may be called for the purpose. Res. 03-07; 05/2003
§1235. COMMITTEE ON RITUAL.
The Grand Lecturer, the Assistant Grand Lecturer or Assistant Grand Lecturers (if any), and the Inspectors shall constitute the Committee of all ritual, and the ceremonial work. The Grand Lecturer shall serve as Chairman of the Committee on Ritual. Res. 07-2007
§1236. COMMITTEE ON MASONIC CODE.
The Committee on Masonic Code shall edit and prepare for publication the annual changes in our laws and submit to Grand Lodge from time to time any revisions which may seem necessary or desirable The Committee may omit codification of edicts and decisions which are repetitive of matters already codified.
§1238. COMMITTEE ON INVESTMENTS.
The Committee on Investments shall be appointed by successive Grand Masters from among the members of Grand Lodge with experience in the broad field of investments. Each successive Grand Master shall designate one of the members of said Committee as Chairman and another as vice-Chairman to serve in said capacity during the tenure of said Grand Master and until a successor in said capacity is designated. The Grand Master may, but need not, appoint the Grand Treasurer, the Assistant Grand Treasurer, or representatives of any Grand Lodge entity as one or more of his appointees to said Committee. This Committee, or a majority thereof, is empowered to invest and reinvest the funds of this Grand Lodge.
The Grand Secretary shall serve as Secretary of the Committee, attend its meetings, keep its minutes, and handle its correspondence. If the Grand Treasurer, the Assistant Grand Treasurer, and the Chairman of the Committee on Finance are not members of this Committee, they shall be given ample notice of the meetings of the Committee and may attend and participate, but without a vote.
§1282. COMMITTEE REPORTS.
Committees designated by the Grand Master shall file written reports with him at the time requested by him. If he deems a report to be of sufficient general interest to the Craft, he may direct that such report or any portion thereof may be presented orally by the committee during the Annual Communication.
§150. ANNUAL COMMUNICATION.
The Grand Lodge shall hold an Annual Communication for the transaction of its regular business on two (2) consecutive days commencing at 9 o'clock a.m. on the third Friday and following Saturday of each April, in the City and County of Honolulu; provided, however, that said Annual Communication may be held in the State of Hawaii at any other place or time upon the adoption, by a two-thirds vote, of a resolution so providing, at any previous Annual or Special Communication called for the purpose.[D91-2 Repealed] [D92-3] Res.2001- 14;1/11/02 , Res. 2004-01 as amended.
Further, the Grand Master may extend the Annual Communication to include the preceding Friday if the business to be before the Grand Lodge is deemed sufficient to warrant the extensions, and providing the Grand Master advises the Lodges and other voting members of the Grand Lodge of the extension at least seventy-five days in advance of the proposed extension. Further, these changes shall be effective in the year 2003. [D91-02 Repealed] [D92-03] [Res.2001-14; Jan 2002]
From the information presented above, you can see that much is done to ensure the integrity of the Hawaii Masonic Code. It is very important that proponents have made lawful submissions for consideration and that the full process of review, by committees and possible redrafting of proposals to ensure they accomplish what was intended.
The time frames are very important so that the voting members of Grand Lodge are ready to intelligently discuss and vote on those pieces of legislation that come on the floor.
I hope that this has helped you to better understand the process that ultimately determines the make up of the Hawaii Masonic Code.
If you would like to share your comments regarding this article or any other please go to http://changestohmc.blogspot.com/ and submit your comments.
Raymond Wieckowicz, Jr., P.G.M.
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
Hawaii Masonic Code 2007 with Table of Contents
Aloha Brethren, The Executive Committee and Grand Master Jayme has approved the electronic edition of the HMC to be distibuted to the Brethren in order that they have an up to date and easy to use HMC. This will help to reduce the number of questions that the Grand Secretary has to answer and provides a form of Masonic Education.
The HMC is provided in Adobe format and makes it easy for all platforms to read and search its contents. The HMC Review Committee, consisting of MW Wieckowicz, RW Ing and VW Nightingale has been working diligently to ensure that historical and legislative content is correct.
In the past, proposed legislation was passed yet consideration was not given to how it impacted other sections within the code. As an example you will notice that the numbering of the Grand Secretary's duties contains redundancy in the numbering, however the information contained at each number is different. This is due to the necessity of only putting in what was passed, with numbering errors or not. The placing of the passed legislation leaves no leeway for change, without being accepted and noted by the members of Grand Lodge. Therefore, the next step in the HMC review is to correct those errors and others found and to place them in a true housekeeping measure, which details each change. It will not just be a blanket statement.
Additionally, while updating the Secretary's Manual, I am discovering many needed changes to the HMC so that the two documents work in harmony. Too often, we have changed procedures at the operational level but have not been in keeping with the Code, which is normally the policy level.
The Masters and Secretaries of each Lodge will be receiving the new edition of the HMC through emails. You can go to my website as noted in this blog and there you will find where you can download a copy of the HMC.
While we are discussing the HMC, we are all aware that changes are the result of voting by the members of the Grand Lodge of Hawaii at the Annual Communication held in April. Watch this blog and the Masonic Education Website for further information as to the dates for submission, how to submit, in what form and some interesting information as to how your submission is handled up and through the Annual Communication.
Aloha to all and to all a good night.
The HMC is provided in Adobe format and makes it easy for all platforms to read and search its contents. The HMC Review Committee, consisting of MW Wieckowicz, RW Ing and VW Nightingale has been working diligently to ensure that historical and legislative content is correct.
In the past, proposed legislation was passed yet consideration was not given to how it impacted other sections within the code. As an example you will notice that the numbering of the Grand Secretary's duties contains redundancy in the numbering, however the information contained at each number is different. This is due to the necessity of only putting in what was passed, with numbering errors or not. The placing of the passed legislation leaves no leeway for change, without being accepted and noted by the members of Grand Lodge. Therefore, the next step in the HMC review is to correct those errors and others found and to place them in a true housekeeping measure, which details each change. It will not just be a blanket statement.
Additionally, while updating the Secretary's Manual, I am discovering many needed changes to the HMC so that the two documents work in harmony. Too often, we have changed procedures at the operational level but have not been in keeping with the Code, which is normally the policy level.
The Masters and Secretaries of each Lodge will be receiving the new edition of the HMC through emails. You can go to my website as noted in this blog and there you will find where you can download a copy of the HMC.
While we are discussing the HMC, we are all aware that changes are the result of voting by the members of the Grand Lodge of Hawaii at the Annual Communication held in April. Watch this blog and the Masonic Education Website for further information as to the dates for submission, how to submit, in what form and some interesting information as to how your submission is handled up and through the Annual Communication.
Aloha to all and to all a good night.
Saturday, July 7, 2007
I was reviewing the Blog yesterday and today trying to find a recent posting from an annonymous person. It was in reply to my post regarding the amount of time we, in this Jurisdiction had to review and discuss proposed legislation to be brought before the Grand Lodge. Also there was an opinion regarding electioneering.
I was sure that when I pushed the button "to post" the article it would be on the blog. I saw it once and then it was gone. Where it went I do not know. However, I am requesting of the sender, if he still has that email in his "sent messages" folder in his email program, to please re-submit it. I am sure it will be of interest to our other Brethren.
I would like to re-iterate that this blog is for each Mason's opinion on any subject that impacts Masonry in our Jurisdiction. This does not restrict information from other jurisdictions that may be of interest in our jurisdiction and that can lead to improvment.
Additionally, please notify those Brethren, in your email list, about this blog site and the Masonic Education Site. The more interaction we can generate, the better informed will be our Brethren and that usually brings about closer friendships.
What Say You?
I was sure that when I pushed the button "to post" the article it would be on the blog. I saw it once and then it was gone. Where it went I do not know. However, I am requesting of the sender, if he still has that email in his "sent messages" folder in his email program, to please re-submit it. I am sure it will be of interest to our other Brethren.
I would like to re-iterate that this blog is for each Mason's opinion on any subject that impacts Masonry in our Jurisdiction. This does not restrict information from other jurisdictions that may be of interest in our jurisdiction and that can lead to improvment.
Additionally, please notify those Brethren, in your email list, about this blog site and the Masonic Education Site. The more interaction we can generate, the better informed will be our Brethren and that usually brings about closer friendships.
What Say You?
This is a copy of the text of a letter from the Grand Master of Masons of California to all California Lodges. This warns of a clandestine organization and the need to prevent the spread of “The Snakes” in our Island Jurisdiction. Please take heed.
June 27, 2007
OPEN LETTER FROM THE GRAND MASTER
AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE REGARDING THE “SNAKES”
TO BE READ AT THE JULY STATED MEETING
Dear Brethren,
For more than two years, a number of lodges in California have experienced significant
disharmony due to the negative influence of certain lodge members who are also members
of an organization commonly referred to as “the Snakes.” Recently, we made a request
that each of the 2008 lodge officers affirm in writing (form provided) the fact that he is
not a member of this organization or its successors. Our request resulted in several
questions being asked and it is our intention to address these issues herein.
Formally named the Grand and Glorious Order Knights of the Creeping Serpent,
Formally named the Grand and Glorious Order Knights of the Creeping Serpent,
"The Snakes" is believed to have been organized by a group of Masons who wanted
to continue certain types of hazing in an initiation ceremony which had been prohibited
by the Shrine. Originally, the so called Snakes were Masons who had all received
this secret degree. Over time this informal, degree-centered association of Masons
transformed into something more organized and dangerous to Freemasonry. Masons participating in any form of hazing ritual place our fraternity in great jeopardy and
subject it to litigation due to intentional assault and battery. This was an important
reason for the Shrine to prohibit hazing. Adding to the gravity of the situation, the
motives of the now more developed Snake organization threatens the stability of our lodges.
When this problem was called to the attention of the Grand Lodge in the summer
When this problem was called to the attention of the Grand Lodge in the summer
of 2005, Grand Master David R. Doan ordered a thorough investigation of this
organization. While we were able to gain some information about the organization in
Arizona and the Philippines, no one would come forward to speak on behalf of the
organization which was reported to have at least two units operating in California.
Yet some of our members came forward and spoke out about what this organization
was secretly plotting. We received a copy of a message reportedly from a leader of
the Snakes directing its members to infiltrate the officer corps of our lodges so that
they could gain influence over the lodge’s decisions and control of lodge funds. Some
lodges have officers who have advised in open lodge that unless a brother is a Snake
he will not be eligible to be an officer in that lodge.
Many attempts have been made to communicate with the Snakes organization with n
Many attempts have been made to communicate with the Snakes organization with n
o response. We asked the leadership of the Snakes organization to furnish our Grand
Lodge with records of their members, facts about their initiation ceremony, and other information that would allow us to gain a better understanding of the organization.
Our requests were ignored. Grand Master Doan was left with no choice but to declare the Snakes a clandestine organization and he directed all Masons in California to cease their membership in the order if they were members. This was done according to the
Grand Master’s responsibility in the California Masonic Code concerning brother Masonic organizations which include any organization wherein membership in Masonry is
a perquisite for membership. (This applies to Snakes, but could not ever be applied to an
organization like the Elks, Odd Fellows, etc. that do not have the Masonic prerequisite.)
Since that time the problems have grown worse. Embezzlement of lodge funds has occurred,
violence has been perpetrated upon Masons, threats have been made against family
a perquisite for membership. (This applies to Snakes, but could not ever be applied to an
organization like the Elks, Odd Fellows, etc. that do not have the Masonic prerequisite.)
Since that time the problems have grown worse. Embezzlement of lodge funds has occurred,
violence has been perpetrated upon Masons, threats have been made against family
members of Masons, and factions have developed in our lodges as the result of the
continuing negative influence of Masons who are believed to be members of the Snakes.
This is a serious issue.
As a measure to raise awareness of the problem, give pause to any Mason who may
still be a member of the Snakes, and provide the necessary evidence if requested, we
have asked all of our lodge officers, beginning with the upcoming Masonic year, to
make the above mentioned affirmation to the Grand Master. It is necessary to have this affirmation in writing because any officer that is proven to be a member of the Snakes
after he has signed the affirmation will be subject to Masonic charges. An oral
affirmation may not be sufficient evidence in a subsequent Masonic trial. This
affirmation process has been agreed upon by all of the members of the
Executive Committee and we are committed to seeing that this process is continued
Executive Committee and we are committed to seeing that this process is continued
in successive Masonic years.
Any California Mason who is a member of the Snakes and who wishes to
Any California Mason who is a member of the Snakes and who wishes to
disassociate himself from the Snakes may do so by writing a letter of renunciation
and delivering it to the Grand Master at the Grand Lodge office. The letter can
simply read, “I hereby renounce my membership with the Grand and Glorious
Order Knights of the Creeping Serpents.” The renunciation should be signed and
the full name of the member should be clearly typed or written. The letter should
be mailed to the Grand Lodge office at 1111 California Street, San Francisco, CA
94108. No action will be taken against any Mason who renounces his membership
in the Snakes before he signs the affirmation.
We know that to many of our members this request seems odd and perhaps
We know that to many of our members this request seems odd and perhaps
overly cautious. The fact is that the Snakes pose a serious danger to Freemasonry
and every effort must be made to end any influence the Snakes organization or
its members may have in our lodges. Asking for the affirmation may seem like
punishing many for the actions of a few. We understand this concern. However,
if we raise our awareness of the problem, make it known that membership in
the Snakes will not be tolerated by our brethren, and subject to Masonic charges
any member who deceives his lodge or the Grand Lodge about his membership
in the Snakes, we might end this threat to the fraternity. We’re asking you to help
us break the code of silence of this dangerous organization and remove from our
ranks those who are destroying our beloved Craft.
Thank you for your understanding in this matter.
Yours in service to Masonry,
Melvyn B. Stein Richard W. Hopper Larry L. Adamson Kenneth G. Nagel
Grand Master Deputy Grand Master Sr. Grand Warden Jr. Grand Warden
Do you think "The Snakes" might invade our Island Jurisdiction? Do we have members here already? What should we, in Hawaii, do about this possible invasion? What Say You?
Friday, July 6, 2007
Here's another from our Past Grand Secretary and Grand Historian, the Honorable
Herb Gardiner.
Congratulations for your efforts to (1)expand the Masonic education of Hawaii's brethern and (2) to provide a venue for Brethren to express their views on a variety of subjects impacting the Craft in Hawaii.
I believe your's is a constructive approach to providing the Brethren with a venue to comment about how we conduct the business of the Grand Lodge, and Freemasonry in general here in Hawaii.
I have been a Freemason for over 51 years (Raised in Hawaiian Lodge 21) and I believe that one area we can improve on is Masonic education. I realize that we have some Brethern who strongly believe that the ritual provides all the Masonic education that is needed. In the real world that notion is obsolete and has been for many years. That's why there are Masonic Research Lodges in Hawaii.
Given all the anti-Masonic trash that exists on the WWW and also published, our members should be educated on (1) to expect it. and (2) how to counter it.
It should be recognized that the majority of the Brethern do not aspire to be Lodge officers, many of whom are interested in Masonic history. Especially the younger members...are interested in the history of the Craft and their Lodge. Very little if any is provided to them.
As you know I do some writing about famous Freemasons and the Craft. As you also know there is no venue for publishing this kind of Masonic research here in Hawaii. As a result my work is made available on the Web site of the Northern California Research Lodge, (NCRL). Our book about Le Progres which I was one of the three authors was also done under the auspices of the NCRL.
Fraternally,
Herb Gardiner in Soggy Manoa
Herb Gardiner.
Congratulations for your efforts to (1)expand the Masonic education of Hawaii's brethern and (2) to provide a venue for Brethren to express their views on a variety of subjects impacting the Craft in Hawaii.
I believe your's is a constructive approach to providing the Brethren with a venue to comment about how we conduct the business of the Grand Lodge, and Freemasonry in general here in Hawaii.
I have been a Freemason for over 51 years (Raised in Hawaiian Lodge 21) and I believe that one area we can improve on is Masonic education. I realize that we have some Brethern who strongly believe that the ritual provides all the Masonic education that is needed. In the real world that notion is obsolete and has been for many years. That's why there are Masonic Research Lodges in Hawaii.
Given all the anti-Masonic trash that exists on the WWW and also published, our members should be educated on (1) to expect it. and (2) how to counter it.
It should be recognized that the majority of the Brethern do not aspire to be Lodge officers, many of whom are interested in Masonic history. Especially the younger members...are interested in the history of the Craft and their Lodge. Very little if any is provided to them.
As you know I do some writing about famous Freemasons and the Craft. As you also know there is no venue for publishing this kind of Masonic research here in Hawaii. As a result my work is made available on the Web site of the Northern California Research Lodge, (NCRL). Our book about Le Progres which I was one of the three authors was also done under the auspices of the NCRL.
Fraternally,
Herb Gardiner in Soggy Manoa
Tuesday, July 3, 2007
Aloha Brethren,
Here is a post from our Past Grand Secretary, Our Grand Historian Herbert Gardiner. Maybe we can add a page to publish some of his works here. Here is his post
M/W Ray:
Congratulations for your efforts to (1)expand the Masonic education of Hawaii's brethern and (2) to provide a venue for
Brethren to express their views on a variety of subjects impacting the Craft in Hawaii.
I believe your's is a constructive approach to providing the Brethren with a venue to comment about how we conduct the business of the Grand Lodge, and Freemasonry in general here in Hawaii.
I have been a Freemason for over 51 years (Raised in Hawaiian Lodge 21) and I believe that one area we can improve on is Masonic education. I realize that we have some Brethern who strongly believe that the ritual provides all the Masonic education that is needed. In the real world that notion is obsolete and has been for many years. That's why there are Masonic Research Lodges in Hawaii.
Given all the anti-Masonic trash that exists on the WWW and also published, our members should be educated on (1) to expect it. and (2) how to counter it.
It should be recognized that the majority of the Brethern do not aspire to be Lodge officers, many of whom are interested in Masonic history. Especially the younger members...are interested in the history of the Craft and their Lodge. Very little if any is provided to them.
As you know I do some writing about famous Freemasons and the Craft. As you also know there is no venue for publishing this kind of Masonic research here in Hawaii. As a result my work is made available on the Web site of the Northern California Research Lodge, (NCRL). Our book about Le Progres which I was one of the three authors was also done under the auspices of the NCRL.
Fraternally,
Herb Gardiner in Soggy Manoa
Here is a post from our Past Grand Secretary, Our Grand Historian Herbert Gardiner. Maybe we can add a page to publish some of his works here. Here is his post
M/W Ray:
Congratulations for your efforts to (1)expand the Masonic education of Hawaii's brethern and (2) to provide a venue for
Brethren to express their views on a variety of subjects impacting the Craft in Hawaii.
I believe your's is a constructive approach to providing the Brethren with a venue to comment about how we conduct the business of the Grand Lodge, and Freemasonry in general here in Hawaii.
I have been a Freemason for over 51 years (Raised in Hawaiian Lodge 21) and I believe that one area we can improve on is Masonic education. I realize that we have some Brethern who strongly believe that the ritual provides all the Masonic education that is needed. In the real world that notion is obsolete and has been for many years. That's why there are Masonic Research Lodges in Hawaii.
Given all the anti-Masonic trash that exists on the WWW and also published, our members should be educated on (1) to expect it. and (2) how to counter it.
It should be recognized that the majority of the Brethern do not aspire to be Lodge officers, many of whom are interested in Masonic history. Especially the younger members...are interested in the history of the Craft and their Lodge. Very little if any is provided to them.
As you know I do some writing about famous Freemasons and the Craft. As you also know there is no venue for publishing this kind of Masonic research here in Hawaii. As a result my work is made available on the Web site of the Northern California Research Lodge, (NCRL). Our book about Le Progres which I was one of the three authors was also done under the auspices of the NCRL.
Fraternally,
Herb Gardiner in Soggy Manoa
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