In this episode we are joined by Brother Nelson King who is the past President and Editor of The Philalethes Society Journal of Masonic Research and Letters, and the first non-United States Citizen to hold those positions. He is also the second Mason to ever hold the position of President and Editor of The Philalethes at the same time. In June 2009 Br. King retired to focus on his work with Masonic Relief for Cuba, where he is the Executive Director.
Br. King is a veteran in the halls of Freemasonry, recorded in numerous affiliations across North American Masonry, and is well known for his public oratory, writing proficiency, and capable research.
Missed the live program?
Listen now:
or right click and download the Mp3
During the program we discuss The Philalethes Society which was founded on October 1, 1928, and has published numerous articles by and for its members. For many years it has been voted the best Masonic publication in the world as its sole purpose is to act as a clearinghouse for Masonic knowledge by through the exchange of ideas, researching the problems confronting Freemasonry, and relaying them back into the Masonic world.
Some of the broad areas we cover include:
- South American Masonry
- The idea of Masonry and the Cuban revolution
- The role of the Philalethes Society in comparison to Quatuor Coronati
- Masonic Scholarship, then and now
Our conversation with Brother King focused tightly on several areas which are little discussed in wide circles including the present the state of Masonic research, Freemasonry in Cuba, the role of the Philalathes Society, and contemporary Masonic research in general.
It is one of the most illuminating conversations on the craft.
This show was originally recorded September 21st , at 6PM PST on the Masonic Central Podcast.
It is true that many lodges founded in other countries are a great deal more detailed in instructions than the U.S.A. lodges, I’m not sure if this is also the case in Canada. Having approached a lodge who’s Grand Lodge was founded in France, I was questioned by phone, requested to answer certain detailed questions via email, and interviewed by the R.W.M. in person. I arrived with a copy of my photo ID in hand and agreed to a background check. Much later my initial contact then gave me the favorable report and I was given lectures and essays to study until the lodge as a whole accepted my application. Upon acceptance I was given a list of suggested reading materials and introduced to several senior brothers who agreed to answer questions and introduce me further into the order. After my initial preparation I also meditated in the chamber of reflection and all that followed was according to ancient standard. As a current Fellow in Gnosis Lodge #16, located on the North American continent and still under dispensation, I struggle with some of my Brothers from lodges founded in North America during discussions. Quite often, they have not begun Hermetic studies and have no interest Western or Eastern philosophy. Usually I have an easier time with Masters, as it seems that they know why they should be interested.
I belive, the first no USA president of Philalethes Society was Wallace Mcleud, profesor from Toronto University,Canada.