Traditional Observance Masonry (TM) is a unique North American approach to Freemasonry, practiced in Traditional Observance Lodges (TM).
TO lodges are governed by the rules and regulations of their respective Grand Lodge, from which they receive their charter.
TO lodges follow the established ritual of their Grand Lodge, with some ceremonial additions and adjustments, only insofar as they may be allowed by their Grand Lodge. TO lodges begin with the North American Masonic lodge model and enrich it with traditional initiatic elements practiced in Continental European and Latin American Freemasonry.
Traditional Observance Masonry is not a Masonic Rite, but rather a philosophical approach to the way Freemasonry is practiced. In many ways, TO Masonry is a response to some of the negative trends experienced by North American Freemasonry in recent years, aimed at reversing those trends and restoring the strength and dignity of the American Craft.
Traditional Observance Masonry is characterized by a solemn approach to holding stated communications and conferring degrees, the use of the Chamber of Reflection as part of the initiation ceremony, and slow and demanding candidate advancement.
TO lodges maintain their high standards by working within guidelines recommended by the Masonic Restoration Foundation and within the context of their respective Grand Lodge regulations.
Traditional Observance lodges have a traditional approach to Freemasonry with an emphasis on the initiatic process. They seek to continuously maintain a Masonic Culture, Initiatic Focus and Traditional Structure.
To find out more about the way Traditional Observance lodges do their Masonic work read “The Traditional Observance Lodge.”
If you think you would like to take the initiative in forming such a lodge in your jurisdiction please download the Traditional Observance Start-Up Guide (200KB, January, 2007) and contact us for more information.
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