Joint Unity Statement From The Grand Lodges of Missouri
The State of Missouri is suffering as are many states in our country. Unfortunately, it is
not the first time there has been strife due to the inequitable application of human rights
and varying treatments of various groups within our state and country. Those inequities
are profoundly contrary to the principles of our Order.
Our State has experienced social unrest in major cities on multiple occasions over the
years and we are saddened that the issues that precipitated the unrest have not yet been
fully resolved. Inequitable treatment and racial tensions are not just limited to the urban
areas of our State and we must recognize the inequities where they exist and attempt to
eliminate them through legal means as quickly as possible. While we recognize that
there must be changes made to our legal system, the true path to restoration, equality,
and healing starts with individual mindsets and proper actions.
We all know that the principles of our Masonic Fraternity can go a long way towards
assuring equality and fostering the respect that is due every person of the human family
when properly applied. Through exercising and practicing the masonic principles of
Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth and acknowledging that we are all created by God and
therefore equal in his eyes, we cannot waiver from these principles and be considered
true Freemasons. Freemasonry unites men of every race, country, sect, and opinion and
conciliates true friendship among those who might have otherwise remained at a perpetual distance. It is our duty as a fraternity to influence those within our ranks to make
decisions that help contribute to the repairing of the various broken systems that plague
our communities.
Our respective Grand Lodges have a long and rich history in the State of Missouri
which we need to share with each other and the world. Nearly 20 years ago, our Grand
Lodges acknowledged, by resolution, that we are both respected and valid Grand Lodges
inhabiting the same geographical area and we have worked diligently on expanding
our joint activities and relationships. Our members and our respective Grand Lodges are
so much more enriched because of our love and the respect we share for one another.
The death of George Floyd is a tragedy. Our members are free to make their own decisions
as to what should be considered justice in this situation and while we
acknowledge that we live in an imperfect world, we stand united in our strong belief
that the foundations of our moral system can and must bridge the chasm that divides our
state and country right now. Each member of our order is free to vote and express himself
without interference from our Grand Lodge and we pray that how you choose to
express yourself will be tempered with compassion and understanding for the entire
human race.
We call upon all peoples of our state to not fall victim to racism, hatred or contribute to
destructive expressions for the lack of progress. And to our members, be ever mindful
that we are one Brotherhood and we should always be our brother’s keeper. United we
will stand. Now, henceforth, and forever.
It is our ardent desire that we bond together as brothers to make our world a more just
and honorable place.
May the God of Love and Peace delight to dwell with and bless you.
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