EP 106 Texas Grand Masters, Masonic Law, and the Fight for Lodge Integrity

What happens when Grand Lodge politics, Masonic law, and lodge integrity collide?In EP 106 of Masonic Muscle, I read and discuss a Facebook post attributed to Texas Past Grand Master Brad Billings, describing alleged charges, internal conflict, and tension among Texas Masonic leadership after the excitement generated by the 2022 team.This episode is not just about Texas.It connects directly to what we are experiencing at Palm Springs Lodge No. 693.This episode asks:How should Masons respond when leadership says one thing publicly but appears to conduct business as usual behind the scenes?We discuss:Texas FreemasonryPast Grand Masters and Grand Master conflictalleged charges against Brad BillingsR.W. RumseyMasonic lawGrand Lodge politicspublic unity versus private conflictwhy some leaders resist changewhy excitement and renewal can threaten old power structuresPalm Springs Lodge No. 693speaking truth without fearDwight L. Smith’s warnings in Whither Are We Traveling? and Why This Confusion in the Temple?why these problems are not newMy thoughts are simple.First, this kind of conflict has probably been going on much longer than most Brothers realize.Second, this is not just a Texas issue. Similar stories are happening in other jurisdictions.Third, too many Grand Lodges talk about unity, improvement, and leadership while quietly continuing business as usual.And what does “business as usual” often mean?Get more members by any means possible.But numbers without standards do not save the Craft.They weaken it.This is why Dwight L. Smith still matters. He warned the fraternity decades ago about confusion, weak leadership, shallow programs, and the danger of not knowing what Freemasonry is supposed to be.That warning still applies.So yes, we are going to talk about this.We are also going to publish episodes about the history of Palm Springs Lodge No. 693 — the good, the bad, and where we are now.Listen.Share.And do not be afraid to speak the truth.Stay strong.Keep studying the mysteries of Freemasonry.Stand your ground.If you want to come on the show or write in, reach me at:[email protected] Masonic Muscle on Instagram:@masonicmuscleFollow Masonic Muscle on Facebook.Subscribe and follow Masonic Muscle on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Overcast, or wherever you get your podcasts.