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History and Purpose of
Brotherhood of Grand Lodges
On June 23, 1998
Grand Masters from the following jurisdictions met to talk about forming
an alliance to promote mutual support and recognition among the various
Grand Lodges in South Carolina. The founding Grand Masters and Grand Lodges
are the Most Worshipful B' Natural Grand Lodge Modern Free and Accepted
Masons, Inc. R.W. Melvin Heyward, Grand Master, the Most Worshipful King
Solomon Grand Lodge International Free and Accepted Modern Masons, R.W.
Jesse Moore Grand Master (Present Grand Master R.W. Leo Capers), the Most
Worshipful Palmetto Grand Lodge Free and Accepted Ancient York Rite Masons,
R.W. Clyde Shepard (Present Grand Master R.W. Louis Mackie), Grand Master
and the Most Worshipful Williams Grand Lodge Ancient Free and Accepted Scottish
Rite Masons, R.W. John Wrice, Grand Master. Joining the Brotherhood in 2000
was the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge Free and Accepted Masons,
R.W. Lonnie Hosey Grand Master
The Grand Masters felt that it was time to put aside the prejudices and
misunderstanding that has existed between the Grand Lodges. Realizing that
we all share the commons ideals, philosophy, and Ancient Landmark of Masonry.
They agreed that mutual support and recognition is critical to the survival
of Masonry. Thus was born the Brotherhood of Grand Lodges State of South
Carolina.
Under the banner of the Brotherhood of Grand Lodge State of South Carolina
we do herby extend cordial fraternal relations with one another in accordance
with and in conformance to the usual custom and traditions of the universal
society of Freemasons.
The Brotherhood of Grand Lodges recognizing that Freemasonry is based on
the fatherhood of God and the brotherhood of all men. It promotes elimination
of every form of bigotry, and admits to membership worthy men of all races,
creeds, religion, and ethnic background.
The Brotherhood of Grand Lodges has agreed to the following; acknowledge
the existence of one another, to work together in peace and harmony to further
the purpose and ideals of Freemasonry. To share in a joint project to promote
cooperation, respect, assistance, fellowship and trust.
The Brotherhood of Grand Lodges has no interest in merging the Grand Lodges,
simply recognition and fraternal cooperation between them. The sole purpose
of the Brotherhood of Grand Lodges is to also foster friendship, fellowship
and brotherly love that ought to exist between Masons in South Carolina.
On June 10, 2001 at 3:30 P.M. at Brookland Baptist Church 1066 Sunset Blvd.
Columbia, South Carolina the Third Joint St. John's Day Program will be
held. This event is expected to attract thousands of Masons throughout the
State of South Carolina.
Last year proceeds from this event went to SC African American HIV/AIDS
Council, the Reid House, Greenhouse Runaway Shelter and Attention Home for
Boys. This year we are expecting to make at least seven donations to nonprofit
organizations.
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