On Sunday, January 19, 2025, MW Victor C. Major, Grand Master of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of South Carolina, made then-President Joe Biden a Master Mason in a private ceremony "in recognition of his outstanding service to the United States of America."
According to Chris Ruli, author of The White House and the Freemasons, "This 'private meeting' to confer honors occurred during a 3-4 minute public photo opportunity. No resolutions of membership exchanged, no formal acknowledgement received." It would seem that Grand Master Major did little more than shake hands with Mr. Biden and inform him that he was now a Master Mason. There simply wasn't more time.
It would seem that this extraordinary action makes Joe Biden officially the 15th American President who has received the degrees of Freemasonry, as well as the first Prince Hall Affiliated U.S. President.
According to subsequent reporting, this private meeting took place backstage at the Royal Missionary Baptist Church in North Charleston, South Carolina while Mr. Biden was visiting on his last full day in office.
Online discussions among Masons have been heated all week over this story, and unfortunately, most have improperly revolved around diametrically opposed political opinions concerning Mr. Biden himself, rather than any possible Masonic jurisprudence discussions.
Online discussions among Masons have been heated all week over this story, and unfortunately, most have improperly revolved around diametrically opposed political opinions concerning Mr. Biden himself, rather than any possible Masonic jurisprudence discussions.
Making a Mason "at sight" (or "on sight" as it is sometimes expressed) is a right of grand masters dating to at least as early as the 1730s and was defended by Laurence Demott when the so-called 'Antients' grand lodge was formed in England in the 1770s. The details even then were undefined, but it is generally interpreted as a method of conferring the degrees of Freemasonry in an accelerated manner. In most cases, that means the candidate witnesses each of the three degrees, performed in full in a temporary or 'occasional' lodge, without having to demonstrate his proficiency before continuing on to the next.
However, none of the information released by the MWPHGL of South Carolina indicates that this particular incident was conducted in this manner.
Interestingly, when Albert Mackey first baked up his list of so-called 'landmarks' that were never widely adopted in or outside of the U.S., he made 'making a Mason at sight' his 8th landmark. But because the actual practice itself has never been widely accepted, nor uniformly defined, there is obviously great leeway in what a grand master can and cannot do, based on the limitations of the laws within his own jurisdiction. The practice has been hotly debated in Masonic jurisprudence for almost three centuries, and is, at the very least, controversial.
Another question that arises is whether Joe Biden could even remotely be considered under the jurisdiction of South Carolina - mainstream, Prince Hall, or otherwise. He's never lived there in his life, and certainly isn't currently a resident. However, I've been subsequently told that Biden has a vacation home in South Carolina.
With all of those Masonic qualifiers out of the way (and disregarding any possible partisan political objections to Mr. Biden by Masons among the rank and file members of the MWPHGL of South Carolina), this development presents a curious problem for Masonic chroniclers. Namely, the MWPHGL of South Carolina is not recognized by any so-called mainstream U.S. grand lodge, the United Grand Lodge of England, or any other major regular, recognized Masonic jurisdiction. So, the semantic (and arguably technical) question is, does this really count as legitimate? (See recognition map below.)
The Conference of Grand Masters Prince Hall Masons (which does count the MWPHGL of South Carolina as a recognized member of their conference) posted this story on their website this past week. So as far as the Prince Hall Affiliated world is concerned, Mr. Biden is legitimately a Prince Hall Mason. But outside of their Conference, it's doubtful any regular Masons would accept this action and confidently list him as the 15th Masonic President of the United States. If nothing else, it will likely require an explanatory footnote.
Below is the official wording of the Resolution of Membership issued by MW Victor C. Major, Grand Master of the MWPHGL of South Carolina:
It is with great pleasure that I, Victor C. Major 27th The Most Worshipful Grand Master, welcome our newest member to the Prince Hall Family. On Sunday, January 19, 2025 at a private event, Master Mason membership with full honors were conferred upon President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. in recognition of his outstanding service to the United States of America.
RESOLUTION OF MEMBERSHIP
To be a Freemason is to be part of a brotherhood dedicated to personal growth, service to others, and the pursuit of knowledge and truth. It is an honor to belong to an organization that promotes these timeless values:
WHEREAS, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. has demonstrated exceptional dedication and service to the United States of America.
WHEREAS, his service reflects the core values of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of the State of South Carolina, including brotherly love, relief, and truth.
WHEREAS, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. contributions have significantly benefited the citizens of the United States of America;
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that I, 27th Most Worshipful Grand Master, Victor C. Major, on behalf of the members of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of the State of South Carolina, hereby confer membership upon President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. in recognition of his outstanding service to the United States of America.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this resolution of Membership be recorded in the archives of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of the State of South Carolina.
GIVEN THIS 19th DAY OF January A.D. 2025
Victor C. Major
27th Most Worshipful Grand Master
Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Free & Accepted Masons of the State of South Carolina
Bro Chris this occurred during a private moment at the International African American Museum in Charleston, South Carolina during President Biden's last official trip on January 19 to South Carolina. PM Jeffrey P K Graham, MWPHGL of SC
ReplyDeleteThe entry of "diametrically opposed political opinions" into the discussion (whether those involved admit it or not) is probably unavoidable. Even points of view technically couched in Masonic terms will reflect those opinions. The "first fourteen" all shared the common experience of passing an individual Lodge's assessment of their worthiness to be a Mason, and Mr. Biden, having only satisfied one individual's assessment of that worthiness, will have no such claim in his favor. That is the reality for any Mason made "at sight," and his status therefore depends upon Lodges & jurisdictions recognition of MW Victor C. Major's authority. It would be unfortunate if his action, tainted by politics...and it is, were to in any way damages the progress in amity between PHA and Grand Lodge Masonry.
ReplyDeleteBro. Hodapp, while your assessment is largely correct. The incorrect assumption falls within the Biden’s do have a traveling vacation property on Kiawah Island, SC.
ReplyDeleteI’m familiar with the planning of the event prior to it taking place.
Cheers
Bro. Collins, what do you mean you are familiar with the planning of the event? Because we only have the Lodge’s claim and no other evidence to indicate that Biden joined the Freemasons (barring the pictures, however those were taken during a receiving line and could therefore have been taken out of context), it would be very interesting to hear if you know more about the event.
DeleteIt actually did take place in SC and not DC. A quick search will tell you that President Biden was in SC on Jan 19th his last day in office speaking at a church and touring an African American History Museum there which is where I imagine the Degrees were conferred.
ReplyDeleteFor those wondering why SC? I’m guessing this was helped arranged by his friend Congressman James Clyburn who is a long time Mason and member of that Jurisdiction.
ReplyDeleteA number of years ago I had the privilege of helping making a man a mason on sight. It was an interesting situation; the candidate was an elderly gentleman from my town who was in a rehab facility in a neighboring town, which also happened to be in another state.
ReplyDeleteHis petition was properly received, investigated, and balloted upon by my lodge.
After much coordination between the two Grand Jurisdictions, one Grand Master attended the event and the other sent his representative. Fortunately the rehab facility was owned by the Grand Lodge and had a lodge room on premises.
Both Grand Lodges and my mother lodge opened on special communications, and the candidate received instruction, was obligated on each degree, received the mandatory lectures and charges, and received an abridged (ad hoc) explanation of the allegory of the third degree.
It was an unusual event which was made possible thanks to two Grand Masters who knew each other and were gracious in letting an elderly man receive the degrees. Due to health complications, the new brother passed away about two months later, but his family was very grateful that the brother was able to die as a mason, like his father and grandfather before him.
Not sure I want to bring this up, and I am doing so here instead of the FB page: Now-former-President Biden is quite proud of his status as a practicing Roman Catholic. I assume that the papal ban on Masonic membership applies to Prince Hall as well. I know quite a few RC's that are also Masons, their business not mine, but they do keep things to themselves, which this announcement clearly does not. Perhaps the papal ban might be lifted as a result? Or might there be other ramifications?
ReplyDeleteSorry, my server does not let me use Blogger, so I am WB Steve Gatton, member of Lodges in OH and OR.
The Need for Modern Definition and Clarification
ReplyDeleteThe practice of "making a Mason at sight" or "on sight" has long been a topic of debate within Masonic jurisprudence. Laurence Demott’s early explanations of this practice date back to at least the 1730s, and Albert Mackey’s inclusion of it as his 8th Masonic 'landmark' reflects its historical significance. However, the lack of a universally accepted definition or standardized procedure for this practice has led to considerable variation in its application.
A modern definition and clarification of this concept could help bridge the gap between historical tradition and contemporary expectations. By revisiting Demott’s and Mackey’s interpretations, and by providing clear guidelines, a governing Masonic body—whether in the U.S. or abroad—could lend greater legitimacy to the practice of "making a Mason at sight." Such clarification might also pave the way for Mackey’s 'landmarks' to be officially recognized and adopted across jurisdictions, fostering greater unity within the Craft.
Addressing Issues of Recognition and Affiliation
The conferral of membership upon Mr. Biden raises another significant issue: the question of jurisdictional legitimacy. The MWPHGL of South Carolina, while recognized within the Prince Hall Affiliated world, is not considered regular by mainstream U.S. Grand Lodges, the United Grand Lodge of England, or other major regular jurisdictions. This lack of recognition complicates the matter, as it calls into question whether Mr. Biden’s Masonic status is universally legitimate within the broader fraternity.
One potential resolution to this issue would be for the MWPHGL of South Carolina to pursue recognition by a mainstream U.S. Grand Lodge or the United Grand Lodge of England. Such recognition would require alignment with established standards of regularity and a commitment to mutual recognition. While this process would be complex, it could help resolve the matter of non-affiliation and ensure that actions taken by the MWPHGL of South Carolina are broadly accepted within the Masonic world.
Preserving Prudence in Conferring Degrees
Another critical aspect of this discussion is the manner in which degrees are conferred. Accelerated processes, such as "making a Mason at sight," are often viewed with skepticism by potential members and even existing Masons. Concerns about nepotism, favoritism, and a lack of rigor in the initiation process can undermine the integrity of the Order. When these practices are not clearly defined or transparently executed, they risk saturating the membership and degrading the quality of the fraternity.
To address these concerns, it may be necessary to revise or amend the processes used to confer degrees in an accelerated manner. By emphasizing transparency, consistency, and adherence to established standards, the fraternity can preserve the integrity of its rituals and ensure that membership remains a privilege earned through dedication and understanding. Such measures could help counter negative perceptions and reaffirm the prudence and purpose of Masonic traditions.
A Call for Dialogue and Reflection
As someone who has recently submitted an open letter to the Grand Lodges of England and Scotland on this very issue, I believe that the current discussions present an opportunity for meaningful reflection. By engaging in open dialogue and critically examining the practices and principles that define our fraternity, we can work toward a more cohesive and principled future while honoring our historical foundations.
In conclusion, the recent events surrounding Mr. Biden’s initiation highlight the need for clarity, consistency, and collaboration within Freemasonry. Whether through defining longstanding practices, addressing issues of recognition, or preserving the integrity of degree conferrals, these steps are essential to maintaining the strength and unity of our beloved fraternity.
Fraternally and Humbly Submitted,
Darren J. Bunton, Indiana
The Need for Modern Definition and Clarification
ReplyDeleteThe practice of "making a Mason at sight" or "on sight" has long been a topic of debate within Masonic jurisprudence. Laurence Demott’s early explanations of this practice date back to at least the 1730s, and Albert Mackey’s inclusion of it as his 8th Masonic 'landmark' reflects its historical significance. However, the lack of a universally accepted definition or standardized procedure for this practice has led to considerable variation in its application.
A modern definition and clarification of this concept could help bridge the gap between historical tradition and contemporary expectations. By revisiting Demott’s and Mackey’s interpretations, and by providing clear guidelines, a governing Masonic body—whether in the U.S. or abroad—could lend greater legitimacy to the practice of "making a Mason at sight." Such clarification might also pave the way for Mackey’s 'landmarks' to be officially recognized and adopted across jurisdictions, fostering greater unity within the Craft.
Addressing Issues of Recognition and Affiliation
The conferral of membership upon Mr. Biden raises another significant issue: the question of jurisdictional legitimacy. The MWPHGL of South Carolina, while recognized within the Prince Hall Affiliated world, is not considered regular by mainstream U.S. Grand Lodges, the United Grand Lodge of England, or other major regular jurisdictions. This lack of recognition complicates the matter, as it calls into question whether Mr. Biden’s Masonic status is universally legitimate within the broader fraternity.
One potential resolution to this issue would be for the MWPHGL of South Carolina to pursue recognition by a mainstream U.S. Grand Lodge or the United Grand Lodge of England. Such recognition would require alignment with established standards of regularity and a commitment to mutual recognition. While this process would be complex, it could help resolve the matter of non-affiliation and ensure that actions taken by the MWPHGL of South Carolina are broadly accepted within the Masonic world.
Preserving Prudence in Conferring Degrees
Another critical aspect of this discussion is the manner in which degrees are conferred. Accelerated processes, such as "making a Mason at sight," are often viewed with skepticism by potential members and even existing Masons. Concerns about nepotism, favoritism, and a lack of rigor in the initiation process can undermine the integrity of the Order. When these practices are not clearly defined or transparently executed, they risk saturating the membership and degrading the quality of the fraternity.
To address these concerns, it may be necessary to revise or amend the processes used to confer degrees in an accelerated manner. By emphasizing transparency, consistency, and adherence to established standards, the fraternity can preserve the integrity of its rituals and ensure that membership remains a privilege earned through dedication and understanding. Such measures could help counter negative perceptions and reaffirm the prudence and purpose of Masonic traditions.
A Call for Dialogue and Reflection
As someone who has recently submitted an open letter to the Grand Lodges of England and Scotland on this very issue, I believe that the current discussions present an opportunity for meaningful reflection. By engaging in open dialogue and critically examining the practices and principles that define our fraternity, we can work toward a more cohesive and principled future while honoring our historical foundations.
In conclusion, the recent events surrounding Mr. Biden’s initiation highlight the need for clarity, consistency, and collaboration within Freemasonry. Whether through defining longstanding practices, addressing issues of recognition, or preserving the integrity of degree conferrals, these steps are essential to maintaining the strength and unity of our beloved fraternity.
Fraternally and Humbly Submitted,
Darren J. Bunton
Indiana, United States
I am a regular Mason in South Carolina and while my jurisdiction does not recognize Prince Hall Masons, I peraonally respect the authority and judgement of a Grand Master, regardless of his regularity, as his authority is is between him and his subordinates.
ReplyDeleteMy issue is "at sight" degree conferrals. Yes, Grand Masters of Masons of South Carolina have made Masons on sight, and my comments reflect on them as well.
Regardless of one's political leanings, and not knowing the specifics of how the ceremony was conducted on President Biden, the degree he received is, IMHO, just an honor. It does not necessarily reflect his personal beliefs or his commitment or dedication to the Craft in South Carolina or other jurisdictions. I question his Masonic future:
- Will he ever attend a meeting? Unknown.
- Will he ever make the sacrifice that other Masons have made to study and learn the Craft? Unknown.
- Will he ever contribute to Masonic relief? Unknown.
While I respect an organization granting an honor to deserving individuals, I have a real problem with "members" who wear lapel pins simply for show or recognition. I'm not saying that President Biden will do that, but I find it unlikely that he will continue to be Masonically involved other than for the sake of being "Number 15".
Maybe we should just put an asterisk by his name like they did when Roger Maris broke Babe Ruth's home run record. :)
ReplyDeleteRegularity, jurisdiction and politics aside. Where is a man first made a Mason? If a GM deems a candidate worthy of being a Mason then he has every right to elevate him as such. It's a prerogative of his office as the chief executive of Masonry under his jurisdiction.
ReplyDeleteThe particulars for how a man becomes a Mason "at sight" certainly will differ from GL to GL, and IMHO ought to be used sparingly.
My bigger concern is the fact that the case can be made that Biden would not ordinary qualify for membership on account of his age.
But I suppose all the more reason to suspend the usual channels for Membership and go the "At sight" route.
In the end it has the appearance of being highly political, even if it was well intentioned. There are other ways to honor non Masons for their service.
I'm not a fan but respecting each GL independence, won't loose too much sleep over it. It's not like our former POTUS is going to show up at my lodge randomly.
In the end it's, much ado about nothing.
"But outside of their Conference, it's doubtful any regular Masons would accept this action and confidently list him as the 15th Masonic President of the United States". So are we to believe that All of The PHA GLs that Recognize Brother Joe Biden as a Mason are not "regular". Simply because no mainstream GLs may not recognize the action Taken by The PHA GM of SC in no way takes away from the acto that he was Made a Mason at Sight! Also Brother Chris, you yourself laid out the Act of Making a Mason at Sight has no defined standards (As far as how the ceremony to convey this honor) within Masonic History and Jurisprudence! Let's keep it on The Level...Most of the distention that has been raised By Mainstream Brethren is Based on The Fact That It was done by a PHA GM!
ReplyDeleteWhile serving as Chief of the Hartford fire department in Connecticut, I was made a Mason on site in June 2004. The great honor filled me with a sense of gratitude that I am trying desperately to repay even now, 20 years later. I currently serve as Worshipful master of Tuscan Lodge #17 in Hartford. This I believe is one way by which I will pay back that debt of gratitude. “Everyone” raised on site should feel the same sense of obligation.
ReplyDelete