ONCE A MASON ALWAYS A MASON

ONCE A MASON ALWAYS A MASON

Author: The Builder Magazine

Year: 1927

In the 1927 article, "ONCE A MASON ALWAYS A MASON," the author explores the traditional, though unofficial, saying that a man's Masonic identity is permanent. The central argument is that the Masonic bond is fundamentally different from membership in other societies and cannot be entirely severed. The author acknowledges that modern practices, particularly the suspension for non-payment of dues, create the impression that a Mason can be "out of the Fraternity." While suspension from a lodge now effectively means suspension from the entire Craft, the author argues this is a disciplinary and practical measure, not a nullification of a Mason's core identity. The crux of the argument lies in the nature of Masonic obligations. The author emphasizes that these vows are: Voluntary and Lifelong: A man takes them upon himself willingly and they are morally binding for his entire life. Personal, Not Institutional: The obligations are not made to the organization, but to every other individual Mason. They create a bond akin to "blood relationship." Therefore, even if a man is suspended or becomes hostile to the institution, he can never repudiate or escape the personal, moral obligations he v