Question 1

What is Universalis Lodge No. 21?

Accepted Answer

Universalis is an all-women's Masonic Blue Lodge in midtown Manhattan, New York City. It is Lodge No. 21 of the Women's Grand Lodge of Belgium (GLFB-VGLB) and was the first chapter of that obedience founded in the United States, opening in 1993. The lodge works in the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite.

Question 2

Is Universalis only for women?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Universalis is a women-only lodge. It initiates and welcomes women from all walks of life, cultures and backgrounds, without distinction of nationality, race, religion, beliefs, wealth or social standing.

Question 3

Who can join Universalis Lodge No. 21?

Accepted Answer

Applicants must be women at least 25 years old who can commit to attending the monthly in-person meetings in Manhattan, take part in the lodge's instruction and activities, author papers (architectural works), accept the lodge's financial requirements such as annual dues, and agree to abide by its constitution and bylaws.

Question 4

Where and when does Universalis meet?

Accepted Answer

Universalis meets in midtown Manhattan, New York City, on the third Monday of each month from September through June.

Question 5

What is the Women's Grand Lodge of Belgium?

Accepted Answer

The Women's Grand Lodge of Belgium (Grande Loge Feminine de Belgique - Vrouwengrootloge van Belgie, GLFB-VGLB) is a women-only Masonic obedience working the first three degrees of Freemasonry. Universalis is its New York chapter and the first lodge it established in the United States.

Question 6

What is the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite?

Accepted Answer

The Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite is one of the principal systems of Masonic ritual used to confer degrees. Universalis works in this rite, exploring its symbolism, philosophy and ritual practice. The three foundational Blue Lodge degrees are Entered Apprentice, Fellowcraft and Master Mason.

Question 7

Is Freemasonry a religion or a sect?

Accepted Answer

No. Freemasonry as practised at Universalis is not a religion and not a sect. It teaches no doctrine of salvation, claims no exclusive truth, does not proselytise, and is non-dogmatic. Members come from many faiths and none, and are encouraged to seek truth for themselves through symbols, ritual and reflection.

Question 8

What happens during a lodge meeting?

Accepted Answer

A meeting is a structured, symbolic gathering. It may include degree work such as initiation or advancement, Masonic education through talks and discussion on symbols, philosophy, ethics or social topics, and personal reflection. After the formal lodge closes, members often share a meal or refreshments to continue fellowship and conversation.

Question 9

Why is Freemasonry sometimes called secret?

Accepted Answer

Freemasonry calls for discretion rather than secrecy. Much information is publicly available, but the experience is deeply personal and is best understood through direct participation in the rituals and the connections formed in the lodge. Members also undertake not to disclose what is seen or experienced in the Temple, a tradition that protects both the teaching and members from outside discrimination.

Question 10

Do I need to belong to a particular religion to join?

Accepted Answer

No. Universalis upholds complete freedom of conscience and freedom of thought. Membership does not depend on religious belief; it requires only a sincere pursuit of truth and a commitment to the wellbeing of others.

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Michael Andrews