The Most Honorable, the Marquess of Northampton, addressed the quarterly communication of the United Grand Lodge of England on Wednesday September 10th, and surprised many in attendance by tendering his resignation as Pro Grand Master. He was installed as Pro Grand Master March 2001. Spencer Douglas David Compton, 7th Marquess of Northampton (or "Spenny" as he is affectionately known to close friends and brethren) has served for ten years in the position, but has had health issues arise recently. Interestingly, he has been described as "Britain's wealthiest Buddhist."
RW Bro Peter Lowndes, Deputy Grand Master, has been appointed by the Grand Master to succeed Lord Northampton, and will be installed in March 2009.
The Grand Master of the United Grand Lodge of England is Prince Edward, the Duke of Kent, grandson of King George V and first cousin to Queen Elizabeth II.
The Pro Grand Master is a Buddhist? I find that an interesting point for discussion.
ReplyDeleteDoes belief in a "supreme Being" not tend towards monotheism? My understanding, if limited, is that Buddhism can not even rightly be called theistic.
No doubt the Craft's teachings are universal... mostly. But I can't help wondering if the ritual, being permeated by a distinctly biblical flavour, might be problematic for someone from the Buddhist tradition or at least difficult to relate with.
It goes without saying that Buddhism is itself a whole, beautiful system with a great share in perennial wisdom.
Thoughts brethren?
Incidentally, am I transgressing Freemasonry's policy of not discussing religion? We may not be in lodge but we are convening here, albeit in a virtual sort of way.
Best fraternal greetings.
Jesse
There is no creed in Buddhism. So theism or non-theism is a personal matter and not a public test.
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