Path: utzoo!attcan!uunet!cs.utexas.edu!rutgers!aramis.rutgers.edu!athos.rutgers.edu!christian From: thompson@athos.rutgers.edu (Marge Thompson) Newsgroups: soc.religion.christian Subject: Re: Christianity and Freemasonry Message-ID: Date: 3 Dec 89 17:34:10 GMT Sender: hedrick@athos.rutgers.edu Organization: Rutgers Univ., New Brunswick, N.J. Lines: 27 Approved: christian@aramis.rutgers.edu In response to your inquiry about masonry, I am involved with the women's group called Order of the Eastern Star. Most of the ritualistic ceremonies in both masonry and ES are based on the bible. Masons use more of the OT than the Eastern Star. We use both books of the bible. I do not feel qualified or at liberty to discuss this at length, but there are some excellent books on the subject that explain what masonry is about. I must tell you, however, that I personally have found some satisfaction in the good we have done for people in need. However, it is, by no means, a substitute for my church life. It probably enhances my beliefs, but it is in my Church that I find my most satisfaction. I have served as Worthy Matron (president) of my chapter and I also served as President of the Past Matrons and Past Patrons Association of the State. I believe my most satisfying year in star life was during this time because I was in a position to make some vital decisions to help people in need, not only financially, but with things they needed, i.e. wheelchairs, canes, etc. etc. This help is not just given to members, but to non-members. The masons are involved with children's hospitals, MD, burn centers, etc. I can only tell you that you must belong in a Supreme Being in order to belong to either masonry or Eastern Star. Your best bet would be to go to a local bookstore and thumb thru some books. You will find books pro and con. It will prove to be interesting research. Marge Thompson