Post #396605 by Billy the Crud on Fri, Jul 25, 2008 8:38 PM

Thanks for understanding. Some folks just think that this entire world is here for THEM and have no qualms about disrespecting ancient cultures and fraternities. If you want to wear a Shrine Fez, contact your local Masonic Lodge or even myself(I can look up your nearest lodge for you), and we can see what we can do about earning you the right. We can always use more Shriners, because there are TONS of children in need of your assistance.

I read back through the thread and found a few misconceptions about us "guarding" our symbols and being like the Hells Angels about it.......this is a horrible way to see the fraternity and we are in NO WAY shape or form like a one percent, outlaw, motorcycle gang, filled with felons and overgrown children. The Shrine is a Masonic club, filled with men who wish to do good things for disabled children and their communities and if a real Shriner saw what we call a "Cowan"(non-Mason, parading as such), wearing our regalia, he would simply be saddened at the disrespect of some people these days. Sure, the Cowan may get an explanation(even be guided towards a lodge, if he qualifies), but knocking a fez off of someones head or force-ably removing someone elses personal property is considered VERY un-Masonic behavior.
Negative actions reflect negatively on the fraternity and are not allowed. Public debate on the Craft is somewhat forbidden as well, as it reflects badly upon the entire brotherhood, so if someone is reading this and getting angry, save your typing, as I will not engage in debate.

RWT32, LasVegas Lodge 32, Free & Accepted Masons