I was in Italy to witness a historic event. The re-election of the Grand Master Fabio Venzi and an alliance between the Regular Grand Lodge of Italy and the Ancient and Accepted Rite of Italy.
Let me tell you about them both in turn.
A Coming Together of Traditions
Grand Master Fabio Venzi of the Regular Grand Lodge of Italy is greeted by Sovereign Grand Commander Fr. Andrea Roselli accompanied by the Supreme Council
In a significant development that is set to reshape the landscape of Freemasonry in Italy, this historic accord marks a new chapter for both organizations, signaling a unified path forward for two of the nation’s prominent Masonic bodies.
The Regular Grand Lodge of Italy, recognized internationally as a regular Grand Lodge which is known for their high standards and the philosophical and thoughtful membership, adheres to the ancient landmarks and traditional principles of pure and ancient Freemasonry. Its commitment to regularity and its focus on the cultivation of virtue have long been cornerstones of its identity.
The Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite, is a comprehensive system that elaborates on the teachings and symbolism found in the Craft degrees. It offers a progressive philosophical and moral education through its intricate rituals and degrees, from the 4th to the 33rd. While distinct in its focus, the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite traditionally operates in harmony with regular Grand Lodges, complementing the foundational work performed in the Craft lodges. The Italian Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite is actually the second oldest in the world.
What This Means for Members
For members of the Regular Grand Lodge of Italy, this alliance provides a clear and recognised pathway to continue their Masonic journey within the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite if they should so wish it. A sociologist once told me that the 33 degrees of the Scottish Rite are the most comprehensive system of ritual known to man. This I have no reason to doubt. The members of the Regular Grand Lodge of Italy have for a long time had the Craft Ritual as their primary focus and, although they do have other degrees available to them, the Scottish Rite or Rose Croix is something very new. I rather suspect they will enjoy the beautiful ceremonies.
On the other hand for existing members of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite in Italy, the alliance strengthens their connection to traditional Craft Freemasonry, further solidifying their place within the regular Masonic tradition. It will be interesting to see how this progresses.
It is my understanding that many members of the Scottish Rite are becoming members of the Regular Grand Lodge of Italy having previously practiced their Craft Masonry in other Grand Lodges. It is my hope that this gradually continues as more genuine thoughtful Masons find their natural home. I am sure that new members of the Regular Grand Lodge will enjoy take time be sure to adapt to different culture and learning new way of doing things.
Re-election of Fabio Venzi as Grand Master.
At a time of change like this the members of the Regular Grand Lodge of Italy have decided that they would like a stable hand to steer the ship and keep things steady. Thus Grand Master Fabio Venzi was re-elected and I must say I didn’t think the applause was ever going to stop! “Thank you without limit” was the Grand Master’s response.,
Of course no meeting of the Regular Grand Lodge of Italy would be complete without an address from the Grand Master and in this case we heard a contemplation on Compassion and Freemasonry. Now, in this blog I would like to let you into a secret that few people know! This paper was infact inspired in part by a conversation with our late Grand Secretary of the the United Grand Lodge of England, Right Worshipful Brother Michael Higham, who, when asked by Fabio many years ago to summarise the essence of Freemasonry used that very word,
“Compassion.”
That’s the essence of Freemasonry.