SEPARATION OF CHURCH AND STATE

The Stonemasons: A Call to Defend the Separation of Church and State

Throughout history, the principles of Freemasonry have profoundly influenced the evolution of democracy, liberty, and the rule of law. Many of America's Founding Fathers were Freemasons, and their commitment to the ideals of reason, tolerance, and the separation of church and state played a pivotal role in shaping the founding documents of the United States. In the modern era, as we face a concerted effort to erode this foundational principle, we must revisit these ideals and establish a robust organization to defend them—a movement we propose, "The Stonemasons."

Freemasonry and the Foundations of America

Freemasonry, a centuries-old fraternity, is built upon core tenets that transcend borders and faiths: liberty, equality, fraternity, and the belief in the inherent worth and dignity of all individuals. Central to Masonic thought is the separation of church and state, ensuring that no single religion or ideology dominates governance. This principle was echoed by the Founding Fathers, including George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, and John Hancock, whose Masonic affiliations influenced their commitment to religious liberty and secular governance.

The First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which guarantees freedom of religion and prohibits the establishment of a state religion, embodies this Masonic ideal. It ensures that citizens are free to worship—or not—without coercion or persecution. This separation has allowed the United States to flourish as a pluralistic society, welcoming diverse beliefs while safeguarding individual freedoms.

The Modern Threat: A Rising Theocratic Movement

Today, a troubling trend threatens to undermine the separation of church and state. In secret and public, a growing movement seeks to impose a theocratic governance model, blending religious dogma with political power. This movement is not confined to the United States; it reflects a global trend toward authoritarian regimes that use religion as a tool for control.

In America, this effort is driven by groups that aim to dismantle secular institutions, undermine public education, and inject religious ideologies into lawmaking. The push to overturn landmark decisions protecting reproductive rights, LGBTQ+ equality, and scientific education signals a dangerous regression to a time when the church wielded unchecked power over state affairs.

A New Movement: The Stonemasons

To counter this growing threat, we propose the formation of a free and open organization: The Stonemasons. Inspired by the Freemasons’ legacy, The Stonemasons would champion the separation of church and state as its principal purpose. Unlike secretive societies, this movement would operate transparently, inviting all individuals who value liberty, reason, and equality to join.

Goals and Principles of The Stonemasons:

1. Defending Secular Governance
   Advocate for laws and policies that preserve the separation of church and state. Monitor legislative and judicial actions to ensure religious neutrality in government.
2. Educating the Public
   Raise awareness about the dangers of merging church and state, drawing lessons from history to illustrate the consequences of theocratic rule.
3. Supporting Candidates and Policies
   Endorse political candidates committed to upholding secular principles. Develop a platform that promotes religious freedom while rejecting the imposition of religious beliefs on others.
4. Global Outreach
   Collaborate with international organizations to combat the spread of theocratic ideologies worldwide, promoting secularism as a cornerstone of democracy.
5. Practical Solutions
   Design actionable plans to counter the influence of theocratic movements, such as strengthening public education, supporting civic engagement, and fostering interfaith dialogue.

Returning to Foundational Principles

The Stonemasons would draw inspiration from the Founding Fathers, who recognized the dangers of religious entanglement in governance. Their vision of a secular republic was revolutionary, ensuring that no single faith could dominate a diverse nation. By reasserting this vision, Stonemasons can counter the trend toward theocracy and reaffirm our commitment to liberty and justice.

The time to act is now. The Stonemasons must rise as a beacon of reason, uniting citizens who value freedom over dogma and democracy over authoritarianism. Through education, advocacy, and action, they can preserve the separation of church and state, ensuring that future generations inherit a nation that respects individual rights and upholds the principles of its founders.

Stonemasons embrace the ideals of liberty, reason, and fraternity, building a movement that safeguards the very essence of what it means to be free. Stonemasons can lay the foundation for a future where secular governance prevails and the principles of democracy endure.

William James Spriggs