“On earth peace, goodwill towards men,” was part of the song of Angels who appeared to the shepherds of Bethlehem, praising God.  

Freemasons of all nations and creeds, acknowledge a belief in God. And these words, just quoted, inscribed in large characters, are to be seen in many of our ancient buildings erected by Freemasons, and also on some of our modern buildings. The Exchange for example, in which men of almost all nations and creeds intermingle to exchange with each other the produce of their respective countries, and where it may be said that the word of God is perfectly fulfilled, “I will gather them all together.” But if we have its fulfilment, in some measure, in the commerce of the world, we have the parallel of this also in Freemasonry, in which a universal brotherhood is recognised in all who meet in the same Lodge. 

The importance of peace is one of the early doctrines taught to every Craftsman, for it is only by peaceful labours with his brethren, who are joined with him in the work of Freemasonry, that he can achieve any success. 

Freemasonry demands peace as one of the most essential conditions of its prosperity; and every Freemason is bound not only to be peaceful as a member of his Lodge and as a citizen of the world, but is taught to promote peace according to his ability amongst all around him. The brotherly kindness, which Freemasons are to exhibit, eminently tends to produce peace among men, not only within, but also beyond the bounds of the Masonic body. Masonic brethren are the first and immediate objects of it, but it extends on every side, radiating like light, with no determined limit, but the power of making itself felt; and the benefits of it are enjoyed by all with whom in any way the Mason comes in contact.  

Peace, is painted in the form of a matron adorned with olives, laurels, and roses. The peculiar emblem, which represents peace, is the caduceus, a white staff, borne by ambassadors in ancient times, when they went to treats of peace. The dove with the olive branch in its bill is also a familiar symbol of peace, and is generally worn by the Deacons of a Lodge. 

It is often given as a reason for not admitting women into a Masonic Lodge while the Lodge is at work, that if they were there one brother might get jealous of another, and there would be no peace in the Lodge. It is however, certainly a law of Freemasonry derived from the ancient landmarks, that no women can be admitted into the Order, and it is needles to enquire into the reason on which this law is founded, as the landmarks are unchangeable.  

But, the ancient rule of Freemasonry, providing for peace as one of its requirements, and necessary elements, is unquestionable, and can not be changed, for, indeed, it is one of the landmarks. 

“Peace on earth.” There is more of it, happily, for mankind, than there once was. Not too many years ago, almost all the countries of the world were occupied with war. More recently, war has been confined to regional, political, sectarian, and ideological conflicts. Modern man has not seen the world free of conflicts.  

So how different is the scene in a Masonic Lodge? We find the children’s children of those who made war upon one another in the same Lodge. These men of the Order, not only accepting their difference, but celebrating what these differences have brought to our understanding and growth. That these men are able to unite under the banners of Freemasonry speak not only to the wonderment of the institution, but also to the strength of the brotherhood of man, under the fatherhood of God. 

Let us hope that the nations of the world may unite that peace may prevail, and there is an end to wars and rumours of war among the nations of the world. 

Sometimes self-interest prevails to secure peace on the earth, but far better it is, that peace is secured with an outpouring from the heart.  

Let every Freemason seek to maintain peace in that best way, by showing brotherly love and kindness in his whole intercourse of professional and social affairs. 

Thank you Brethren.

Wm. David Maddin

P.M., Redwood 193, G.R.A.