RRCG members speak out: Brother Erik

Why I am joining the Rose Cross of Gold, by Brother Erik

[Brother Erik will soon be initiated into the Rose Cross of Gold]

Ironically, my journey into the mysteries of Freemasonry began on Sept. 11th, the very night of an American Tragedy. The initiation was a long time coming; I had studied Freemasonry via Mackey and Pike for several years and had involved myself in a little conspiracy theory espionage (way before The Da Vinci Code) in high school, working on the apparent world domination of Masons. Interestingly enough, I think that many new Masons today come to know the Craft through conspiracy theories first, and then their interest deepens and takes them down more authentic routes. Of course, once I was made a Mason, it became obvious that Masons were planning on dominating the world just as soon as they got through deciding which parking lot was the best location for their next BBQ.

Needless to say, I found Light in the Lodge — yet I wanted More Light. I felt there was a great gulf fixed between the Freemasonry that I had studied and the one that I had experienced. I began to seek the Haute Grades, and though it was interesting to go in one day as a Third Degree Mason and come out the same evening a Thirty-second Degree, I was again left feeling less than illuminated. I sought further experience by seeing all 28 degrees of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite under the direction of Jim Tresner and found the work stimulating. Yet even though there is certainly a place for the "Theatre of the Fraternity," I didn't feel like the Initiations happened to ME.

Even as an Entered Apprentice I began seeking Light outside of the mainstream when I began a series of e-mails and conversations with Brother Jeff Peace. Here, I found a REGULAR Mason who believed in the true principles of the Craft and the need for renovation of the Rituals, who understand the desires of younger Masons to study the Hermetic Tradition and the impact of Freemasonry on world-view shifts such as the Enlightenment. It seemed that More Light was right around the corner, yet I was hesitant due to my proximity to the Grand Lodge and my closeness to several Grand Lodge officers who "encouraged" me to cease and desist! And then, a few years later, we have the edict from Grand Master Garner proclaiming the Rite of the Rose Cross of Gold to be "clandestine."

So, I have been a quiet supporter and seeker all along. It was time to sit back no longer. My quest is more important than a slap on the wrist, and the work of the RRCG is more important than edicts and warnings! In fact, the very idea of it being silenced is reason enough for this revolutionary brotherhood to be united and to take up our proverbial arms to fight for liberty, equality and fraternity. Sounds a bit like the French or American Revolutions, eh?

I feel that the RRCG is moving Masonry in the right direction on all accounts. It is a matter of time before this great Rite becomes the premiere experience for Masons who seek authentic work and study. I am ready to take the plow myself and to give back to the Rite in any way that I possibly can.

Do I pine for the 33rd Degree? No. Am I patiently awaiting nomination to some Grand Pooh-bah office? No.

Yet I readily admit to my excitement at being made a Brother of the Rite of the Rose Cross of Gold!!! Thank you, and may the blessings of T.G.A.O.T.U. be with you all.

— Brother Erik


The image is of the Boston Tea Party.

Rite of Rose Cross of Gold | United Grand Lodge of America
Grand Lodge of Georgia | Freemasonry