I thought it might be helpful to share a few words about Ormus Lodge regarding the nature of the organizational model we have adopted as well as indicating some of the principles which are important to us as a philosophical and research lodge aligned with Free Illuminism. It is my hope that this letter will provide a clear and true reckoning so that anyone who approaches us with an interest in affiliation will be doing so with an informed understanding. It is more important to the lodge to have a few suitable members who feel this is a good match than to have lots of members who don’t really understand where we are coming from or who seek affiliation for spurious and/or misguided reasons. We are open and welcoming and have a public presence but we are not evangelical. We don’t want to waste your time (or ours) if you find that another type of organization is more to your liking.
Ormus Lodge is nonhierarchical. By this we mean that our lodge places value on the principle of equality. We affirm the sanctity of all life and of the environment which nourishes and sustains us. We do not discriminate based on gender, creed, religion, sexual orientation, class, race or cultural background. We do not have any privileged ranks or grades/degrees within our lodge. We function more like a collective or cooperative where each member’s voice is given due weight and consideration. We do have three “facilitators” of the lodge. The role of a facilitator is to aid in the process of group decision making, keeping discussions on topic and ensuring that a steady stream of activity, mutual pursuits and explorations are offered within the lodge.
Ormus Lodge is experimental. By this we mean that our lodge is both exploratory and open-ended. We are not a “closed system”. We affirm the ever curious nature of consciousness to seek, to learn, to test, to question and to rejoice in the beauty and wonders of the universe. Research, documentation and peer review of collected data are highly encouraged .
Ormus Lodge is Free Illuminist. By this we mean that our lodge is one of the nodes in the network of other diverse groups and individuals who have voluntarily joined together to work in mutual support of each other under the banner of Free Illuminism, aka Congregational Illuminism. We affirm and uphold the following four principles as shared by many who self identify as Free Illuminists
1. Spiritual growth is incompatible with authoritarian structure.
2. Scientific Illuminism requires a non-dogmatic, experimental approach.
3. A free society linked in free communion should be actualized.
4. We facilitate, we do not lead. We do the Work, we do not extract oaths or dues, or require dogmatic beliefs.
Ormus Lodge is esoteric. By this we mean that our lodge explores the inner aspects of nature, consciousness and the universe and not just externals. We affirm that things are not always as they appear to be. Sometimes we must dig deep to access hidden vistas of gnosis that may be obscured by attachment to the status quo or stunted by an unwillingness to peer behind the veil. Without dismissing accepted knowledge out of hand, we doggedly pursue an ongoing search for more Light.
Ormus Lodge is nonsectarian. By this we mean that our lodge is not limited to any one particular worldview, spiritual path, religious creed or magical tradition. We affirm the right of all peoples of good will and sincere intent to join with us in pursuit of the Great Work.
Ormus Lodge is principled. By this we mean that our lodge values honor, respect, individuality, creativity, compassion and diversity. Without being uptight or prudish, we do not tolerate narrow mindedness, bigotry, racism, sexism or any unethical behavior within our lodge or within the extended communities we are part of. We affirm and celebrate the life and liberty of each individual skilfully balanced with an awareness of our impact on each other, nature and society as a whole.
Taken together, I hope that the above six points will aid those who have an interest in Ormus Lodge towards understanding our basic orientation, as well as serving as a reminder for those who are already part of this community of seekers.
If you are in or around the Atlanta area, and you feel this might be a good match for you, we welcome your contact. If you click the link below it will provide our email address.
Peace and well-being to all.
areudirty
snowghoul
yousharknotpass
gamechangershow
stormborns
vaporwave
