Best of 2024: The secret society you didn’t know existed is tearing itself apart
Dec 22, 2024
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Charlotte Grieve, an investigative journalist, takes us deep into the secretive world of the Freemasons, revealing their true value beyond popular misconceptions. She discusses the organization's rich history and highlights its significant community work in Australia. However, all isn’t well; internal conflicts threaten to tear the Freemasons apart, with property battles and dissent over transparency surfacing. Grieve uncovers the emotional toll on members amid disputes, raising critical questions about the organization's future and its ability to attract new members.
Freemasonry, once focused on education and moral guidance, is now grappling with internal fractures due to declining membership and financial crises.
Concerns regarding transparency and authoritarian leadership within Freemasons Victoria have created an atmosphere of fear and stifled open dialogue among its members.
Deep dives
Understanding the Freemasons' Origins and Evolution
Freemasonry is an ancient fraternal organization that traces its roots back to the stonemasons' guilds in Europe and England. Originally, it aimed to provide education and moral guidance to its members, many of whom were illiterate. The secretive nature of its rituals developed from the need for written communication among members who could not read or write. Over the years, Freemasonry has expanded globally, with notable members in Australia, emphasizing its role in community service and moral development.
Membership Decline and Financial Strain
Freemasons Victoria has faced a significant decline in membership, leading to financial difficulties that have prompted the sale of historic properties. The decision to demolish the Dallas Brooks Hall for luxury apartments sparked controversy among the membership, with claims of a lack of transparency and unequal treatment regarding the profits. This financial crisis has resulted in growing skepticism and tension within the organization, revealing a fracture between the leadership and local lodges. Key members express concerns that property sales should benefit local lodges and contend that the Grand Lodge's actions threaten their autonomy.
Culture of Fear and Repercussions for Dissenters
Members who have spoken out against Freemasons Victoria report facing severe repercussions, including expulsion and defamation threats. This atmosphere of fear discourages open dialogue about the organization's internal issues, with members citing a culture of authoritarian leadership that stifles criticism. The case of Barry Hodder underscores the significant personal impact of these issues, as he alleges deceitful practices surrounding property ownership and a lack of due process. This response contradicts the organization's founding principles of community and support, raising questions about its future and values.
Hi there, I’m Samantha Selinger-Morris the host of The Morning Edition, the daily news podcast from The Age and the Sydney Morning Herald.
We’re bringing you the best episodes of 2024, before your Morning Edition team returns in early January.
Today, we’re bringing you an episode that was a deep-dive into the oldest fraternal organisation in the world, the Freemasons.
Investigative journalist Charlotte Grieve entered the secret world of the Freemasons, in which it’s against the rules to speak publicly about what happens in this order.