Description

Observing the Craft

[L1619]

By: Andrew Hammer

Publisher: Lewis Masonic

Product Code: L1619

ISBN: 978-0981831619

Tab 1= reviews  Tab 2 = The Author

Observing the Craft is a manifesto of sorts for the observant Mason, who seeks quality over quantity in every aspect of Masonry.

It is a stringent argument for the Symbolic (Blue) Lodge as the ne plus ultra of the Craft, asking that Masons put actions behind their statements that 'nothing is higher than the third degree.'

It is a book that calls for nothing but the utmost personal effort and commitment to be put into the operation of a Masonic Lodge, and the experience of a Masonic meeting, in search of the transformational experience which Masons define as 'making good men better'.

The book addresses the state of Freemasonry in general as it pertains to how it has been practised in recent years, how the author feels it was intended to be practised, and therefore should be practised today. The Preface puts the argument squarely down on the table that quality cannot be compromised for the sake of quantity, and asserts the position of those Lodges and brethren who seek to pursue Masonry as a more restrictive and philosophical experience. Speaking to the American innovation of 'one-day conferrals', the author maintains that such an innovation cannot make true Masons, and calls for Masons to defend the qualitative basis of their Craft by seeking to observe its core philosophy of the search for spiritual and intellectual light.

Tab 1

Praise for Observing the Craft:

'Andrew Hammer's new book Observing The Craft - The Pursuit of Excellence In Masonic Labor and Observance is a celebration of the preeminence of Craft Masonry. This book describes the elements of an Observant Lodge and how implementing those elements yield a transformer experience for each of its members. Observant Masonry has its distractions and Brother Hammer points out that Freemasonry is diminished when emphasis is focused away from its mission of promoting self awareness and self improvement. Observing The Craft is a must read for those men who value Craft Masonry and are seeking a method to restore its greatness.'
— M:. W:. John 'Bo' Cline, Past Grand Master of Alaska

'In an engaging and balanced style, Andrew Hammer presents a compelling rationale for a more thorough observance of Masonry's best traditions within today's lodges. At a time when Freemasons are clamoring for education and quality events, Observing the Craft is an ideal sourcebook for lodge leaders who desire to realize positive and lasting change.'
— Shawn Eyer, Editor, Philalethes: The Journal of Masonic Research & Letters

Tab 2

About the Author:

Andrew Hammer is Past Master of Alexandria-Washington Lodge No. 22, one of the nation's most historic Lodges. He regularly speaks to Lodges on the theme of excellence in Masonry, as well as philosophical aspects of the Craft. He is a Royal Arch Mason, a Scottish Rite Mason, and a member of Allied Masonic Degrees. Additionally, he is a member of the Philalethes Society and the Quatuor Coronati Correspondence Circle. Andrew is currently promoting Observing the Craft with an extensive tour across the United States.