IGLPI MOVES ON

CENTER FOR MASONRY IN FILIPINO ESTABLISHED

Grand Master Nicolas Ricafrente, attending the January 2008 District Council meeting in Mendez, Cavite announced the designation of Pintong Bato Lodge No. 9 as the Center for Masonic Studies in Filipino, the national language. Aside from compiling and translating English Masonic literature, the Lodge was also tasked to review existing rituals already written in the national language and to start translating other rituals and ceremonies. Once translated, each ritual shall be exemplified by Pintong Bato Lodge for approval of the Committee on Works and the brethren.

Pintong Bato has been known for its efforts to promote the use of Filipino in Masonic rituals. It has rendered funeral services and installed its officers in Filipino. It has also translated the ceremonies for a Lodge of Remembrance. With the special function designated for the Lodge, it is expected that Filipino rituals will soon get official recognition as an alternative to the existing ceremonies in English. It is also expected that Masonic literature would be enriched with the addition of Filipino essays and lectures in the national language.

There are still Spanish language Masonic historical records in the Philippine archives and some old Lodges like Pilar which traces its roots from the Gran Oriente Espanol. With the research work being undertaken by Bagong Buhay a century old lodge itself and Center for Research and Information, it is also expected that Pintong Bato will in the future include Spanish-Filipino translations that can add further to the rich literature and heritage of Filipino Masonry.

IGLPI ESTABLISHES DISTRICT CENTER FOR RESEARCH, OTHER CENTERS FOR MASONIC ACTIVITIES

The Independent Grand Lodge, F. & A.M. of the Philippine Islands recently designated several Lodges as District Centers for special Masonic functions. Given the status as sponsors and lead lodges to conceptualize and coordinate specific Masonic programs were: Bagong Buhay Lodge No. 2 as Center for Research and Information, Cavite Lodge No. 2 as Training Lodge and Pilar Lodge No. 3 as Center for Masonic Formation and Community Services. Mendez Nunez Lodge No. 8 was assigned as lead Lodge for Family Oriented activities while Emilio Aguinaldo Lodge No. 5 was designated to lead and coordinate participation in Masonic historical commemorative events. These Lodges were given latitude to partner with sister Lodges and to form their respective core groups.

The assignments are aimed to create greater focus in the planning and implementation of projects and enhance Lodge collaboration within the District. A comprehensive district program is expected to be completed by the Grand District Supervisor by February.