The 110th U.S. Congress recently sent to committee a resolution by Rep. Paul Gillmor, a Republican representing Ohio's 5th district, recognizing American Freemasons. My thanks to W. Bro. Tom Accuosti of the Tao of Masonry for the heads-up on this.The Freemasonry described in this resolution is the group I thought I had joined, and I hope the description is apt of most Masons.
Numerological-conspiracy fans should take note of the Masonic-related number of the Resolution.
110th U.S. Congress (2007-2008)
H. Res. 33: Recognizing the thousands of Freemasons in every State in the Nation and honoring them for their...
HRES 33 IH
110th CONGRESS
1st Session
H. RES. 33
Recognizing the thousands of Freemasons in every State in the Nation and honoring them for their many contributions to the Nation throughout its history.
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
January 5, 2007
Mr. GILLMOR submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform
RESOLUTION
Recognizing the thousands of Freemasons in every State in the Nation and honoring them for their many contributions to the Nation throughout its history.
Whereas Freemasons, whose long lineage extends back to before the Nation's founding, have set an example of high moral standards and charity for all people;
Whereas the Founding Fathers of this great Nation and signers of the Constitution, most of whom were Freemasons, provided a well-rounded basis for developing themselves and others into valuable citizens of the United States;
Whereas members of the Masonic Fraternity, both individually and as an organization, continue to make invaluable charitable contributions of service to the United States;
Whereas the Masonic Fraternity continues to provide for the charitable relief and education of the citizens of the United States;
Whereas the Masonic Fraternity is deserving of formal recognition of their long history of care-giving for the citizenry and their example of high moral standards; and
Whereas Freemasons have always revered and celebrated St. John's Day, June 24th, as dedicated to their patron saints: Now, therefore, be it
Resolved, That the House of Representatives recognizes the thousands of Freemasons in every State in the Nation and honors them for their many contributions to the Nation throughout its history.
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For the last 4 years a similar resolution has been proposed. It dies in committee each year.
ReplyDeleteI believe that Masonry would prefer to not be recognized by this resolution. It is a Masonic virtue to give anonymously and to serve with out recognition.
ReplyDeleteAs much as I applaud the sentiments of those wishing to give credit for good works, it seems to me that the US Congress should have much more pressing issues to consider right now than a "resolution to commend" a fraternal group.
ReplyDeleteThe representatives considering that resolution, as well as their staffs, will actually have to devote some time to research the subject, and they're getting paid a handsome wage for their work and judgment. Aren't there more important things they could (and should) be considering?
Just as one obvious (and urgent) example, what about the hundreds of thousands of US troops, who are stuck in Iraq right now? Those Americans are getting killed and maimed there every day, with no apparent end in sight!
Wouldn't it be better to devote as much brain power as possible to resolve that situation and bring our young men and women home, rather than debating whether or not to give a congressional pat-on-the-back to a social club?
Anonymous #1,
ReplyDeleteIf it's a Masonic virtue to work "behind the scenes," can you explain the thinking behind slapping Masonic symbols on a race car that will be seen by millions of NASCAR fans?
— W.S.
The Hon. Gillmor is a 33rd, NMJ.
ReplyDeleteOr putting their efforts into broader tax exemptions for the Fraternity so that its physical heritage can be preserved.
ReplyDeletePleased to see your blog is taking a more postive tone these days... Audi Vidi Tace
ReplyDeletePersonally, I like the idea of HRES 33 IH. Pretty neat if you ask me, I'm calling my rep to support it.
ReplyDelete