What is meant by the Masonic principle of universality?
According to the Preston-Webb ritual used in Masonic jurisdictions such as Indiana, the principle of universality is mentioned by name only twice during the course of the Work and the Lectures. For such a fundamental principle, it receives little coverage beyond this, and seems to be absent, as often by intent as by mere accident, in many Masonic Lodges and gatherings. In other words, the principle of universality is, sadly, not universal in practice among Masons and Lodges. Universality, in Masonic practice, means that Freemasonry is open not only to those of any religion, but also of any race, political affiliation, or social status. It should not be confused with the theology known as “universalism,” which holds that all human beings are “saved” regardless of their religious convictions. Universalists are as welcome in Freemasonry as anyone else, but Freemasonry does not take any position for or against that theology or any other. Symbols of Universality Why is a Lodge said to be of
