Considering Masonry's emphasis on the individual and personal conscience, discussion of religion or politics could be downright disruptive in Lodge.

Have you ever thought about why we don't talk about religion or politics in Lodge? The Brother Masons who decreed that rule centuries ago were very wise.

Many of our contemporary world problems are a result of differences in religion or politics. There might be some general agreement among most men, but numerous points of contention remain regarding details.

A study of the religions of the world reveals that the basic principles are similar. Those of Christian background can find many of the same tenets in nearly every religion. The same might be said of Judaism and Islam.

Problems arise when individuals or groups attempt to interpret religious doctrine according to their own purposes or desires. Throughout history, there are numerous examples where individuals have prevailed upon a religious authority to approve, officially or unofficially, what these individuals wish to do privately. Primary examples occurred in England when kings sought the blessing of the church to divorce or even put to death their wives or their enemies. Similar incidents occurred on the continent when early Popes confiscated wealth by decree or had those who opposed them exiled or put to death. Within modern-day churches, there are many interpretations as witnessed by the fact there are so many different churches. Every day, disagreements lead to defections and the development of new churches.

Politics provide as many areas of disagreement as religion. While many agree on specific ideas and their value to the general welfare, the means of implementing those ideas may be as different as the individuals who are considering them.

Within each of us, there may be varying conceptions as to what we feel is best for us and for our country. Our own personal feelings may be quite complex varying from conservative on some matters to a more liberal approach on others or vice versa. Few, if any, of us are completely one way or the other.

Politics are influenced by our own self-interest. What is good for me? It is easy to agree if there is a personal benefit involved. There is nothing wrong with an individual accepting a position on either religion or politics. It would be unusual if we didn't. The problems arise when we attempt to influence others. What is right for us as individuals may not be right for someone else.

There are so many Masonic tenets on which we can agree and which are healthy for all of us that we are well advised to avoid controversy.

In America, our forefathers recognized quite early that religion and politics do not mix. The doctrine of separation of church and state resulted from the understanding that a dominant church would influence government or a dictatorial government would infringe upon freedom of religion. Both institutions exert serious influence on the individual. That influence causes each of us to have strong feelings. In private and in public forums, there are places to discuss those feelings, but the Lodge is one place where they should not be aired.

Adherence to the ban on discussion of religion and politics in the Lodge has led to a diversified membership in Masonry. Brother Masons of diverse political parties and many different religions dwell together in harmony because we recognize that religion and politics, though important to each of us, are best left outside the Lodge.

Donald E. Lavender is a former Secretary Registrar (1974-1979) of the Des Moines, Iowa, Scottish Rite Bodies. He is retired from the City of Des Moines Engineering Department and enjoys the hobbies of instrumental music and photography.