ABOUT THE PHILALETHES SOCIETY

    This is the only International Masonic Research Society in
the world. It is composed of members and Fellows who seek more
knowledge of Freemasonry than may be found it its rituals. Among
its members are the majority of the leading Masonic writers and
authors of today. The Society acts as a clearing house for
Masonic knowledge, information and research. Its membership is
open to any Master Mason in good standing in a recognized
jurisdiction. Individuals and organizations may subscribe to its
award-winning publication, The Philalethes magazine. There are
Chapters of The Philalethes Society in many jurisdictions and
more are being formed annually. These Chapters perform no ritual,
their members assume no vows or obligations, but they must be
members of the International Society, and therefore, Master
Masons. These Chapters pay no per capita or other fees are paid
to the International Society. These Chapters usually meet
quarterly around a dinner table, and have excellent speakers and
programs.

    Fellows are selected from members who are dedicated to the
principles of Freemasonry and who take the time to work in the
quarries of Freemasonry. An annual Assembly-Feast-Forum is held
in Washington, D.C., each February and has been acclaimed even by
Grand Secretaries as the most interesting Masonic meeting held
during "Masonic week." It is patterned after 18th century Table
Lodges with good food, appropriate toasts, fellowship, and an
outstanding Philalethes Lecture. The Forum brings out information
that lives forever. Its semi-annual meetings are held in various
jurisdictions and follow the same format. An Executive Board
composed of the officers and Past Presidents of the Society
manage the Society's affairs. A life time membership is $200;
regular membership is $15 a year. There is a joining fee of
$5.00, (on September 1, 1989 this will increase to $10) making
the dues for the first year, or part thereof, $20 ($25 after
September 1). It is easy to join The Philalethes Society. Simply
send your name, address, Lodge, and $20 (or $200 for a life
membership) to: The Executive Secretary, P.O. Box 70, Highland
Springs, VA 23075. This entitles the member to receive the
bimonthly magazine, The Philalethes, join a Chapter if one is
available in his area, and participate in all the functions of
the Society. It is claimed membership in the Society develops
one's leadership ability because of the opportunity for
self-expression in writing and speaking. Perhaps the best feature
of all is the opportunity to become truly involved in
Freemasonry. Today the prevailing cry is for better leadership.
The Philalethes magazine gives its readers the basics for
improving and building the leadership Freemasonry must have to
survive. The majority of the better Masonic leaders are members
of The Philalethes Society.