By Right Worshipful M. Mickey Ander for the Committee on Masonic Education and Publications (2008)
From the forward: “Under an old system of Lodge education, candidates were carefully coached in the private work connected with the Degrees. This task was usually assigned to a dedicated Brother, who was concerned with having the candidate commit the questions and answers of the catechism to memory “letter-perfect.” Sometimes he neglected to explain the meaning of the questions asked, and some coaches barely exposed the candidate to other key elements of Masonic education. In the mid-70’s, the Grand Lodge of Virginia felt that, in addition to learning the catechism, the candidate needed to know more about the history, philosophy, and traditions of the Fraternity.”
Pertaining to God and Religion
The Constitutions of Masonry require us to observe the moral law. Masons do not follow in the irreligious paths of an atheist or agnostic. We firmly believe in God and worship Him as the great Architect of the Universe.
Masons are to be good men and true – men of honor, integrity, and honesty; we vigorously reject all forms of bigotry. It is our duty to follow that golden rule, of “Doing to all men as we would have all men do unto us and those we love.”
Pertaining to the Civil Government
Freemasons, since time immemorial, were taught to be lawful and concerned citizens of the place where they lived or worked. Today, we are admonished to be well informed, obedient to the civil powers, and mindful of the welfare of our country and our community.
Freemasons are lovers of peaceful dignity. But, a Mason is never to shut his ear to just complaints. When a Brother, or any member of the human family, is oppressed or suffers, he is called to take appropriate action, according to his capacity.
Pertaining to Private Qualities and Duties
A Freemason should avoid intemperance or excess, which might obstruct the performance of his duties, or lead him to actions that would stain his honor and reflect dishonor on the Fraternity. He is to practice the virtues of patience and forbearance, which give him command over his actions.
What leisure his labors allow should be employed in studying the seven liberal arts and sciences in order to better perform his duties to his Creator, his country, his neighbor, and himself. It is the truly indispensable character of a Master Mason, “to walk humbly in the sight of God, to do justice, and love mercy.”
Freemasons promote warmth, love and service. It is mandatory to learn to abstain from malice, slander, evil-speaking, backbiting, and unmannerly, scornful, provoking, reproachful and ungodly language.
Unity Lodge No. 146 