21/09/2025
Brethren,
I have been reflecting on the events of the last 10 days, both in the USA with the shooting of Charlie Kirk, and the subsequent reactions across the wider world. Many of you know I do not make political posts and have discouraged others from doing so. This is not about politics, this is about morality and humanity.
Until his name hit the headlines, I had never heard of Charlie Kirk (perhaps I have been living under a rock!). I fully accept his views were polarising, but he was still a husband, a father, and a human being. None of his views or words, whether you agreed with him or not, justified his murder. What disturbed me more was the chorus of voices celebrating his death, quoting his views as if they excused his killing. Some then compared the loss of their jobs to the loss of his life showing the world just how distorted some moral compasses have become.
I am relieved that only an extremely small minority of Masons engaged with such shameful commentary. Let me be crystal clear: if you found any pleasure in Kirk’s death, you are in the wrong organisation.
Our teachings are not optional. We stand for Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth. We are taught to see each others interests as inseparable from our own, to show tolerance and kindness, be charitable and to practise in the world what we teach in our Lodges. Those principles are as valid now as they were centuries ago and they are needed today more than ever.
The lesson is simple: we all must be better humans. Masonry is not a badge to be worn when convenient, it is a way of life. Our society is crying out for examples of compassion, tolerance, and integrity. We, as Freemasons, are called to live those values openly and consistently.
So here is the challenge: let your conduct both online and in person, always be the proof of what we stand for. If we truly live our teachings, then we can help bend society back towards humanity and away from cruelty. Have those sometimes difficult conversations and stand firm with our principles.
That is our duty as Masons and that is what we should be doing.
Thank you for reading.
