French National Grand Lodge (GLNF) Grand Officers
French National Grand Lodge (GLNF) : History, Evolution, and Recognition
Introduction
The French National Grand Lodge (GLNF) is one of the main Masonic obediences in France, known for its adherence to tradition and Masonic regularity. Founded in 1913, it distinguishes itself through its commitment to the principles of traditional Freemasonry, including belief in a Supreme Being, and its exclusively male practice.
History
Foundation
The GLNF was established in 1913, by Masons eager to practice Freemasonry respectful of ancient landmarks and regularity as defined by the United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE). Its initial aim was to unite French lodges wishing to work according to these principles, at a time when French Freemasonry was marked by a diversity of practices and spiritual orientations.
Development and Recognition
The GLNF experienced steady growth, establishing lodges not only in metropolitan France but also in overseas territories and internationally. In 1917, it obtained recognition from the United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE), an important endorsement of its regularity and adherence to traditional Masonic standards.
Evolution
Expansion and Crises
Throughout the 20th century, the GLNF expanded significantly, becoming one of the most important Masonic obediences in France. However, it was not without internal crises, including disagreements over governance and international recognition. Despite this, it has remained a major force in the French and international Masonic landscape.
Adaptation and Modernization
Facing societal changes, the GLNF undertook efforts to adapt and modernize while retaining its fundamental principles. It strives to meet the expectations of its members through a rich and varied initiatory offering and engagement in philanthropic works.
Recognition
Criteria of Regularity
The GLNF is recognized for its strict adherence to Masonic regularity criteria, including belief in the Supreme Being, prohibition of political and religious discussions in the lodge, and adherence to ritual work. This rigor allows it to maintain close ties with numerous regular grand lodges worldwide.
International Relations
Thanks to its recognition by the UGLE and other regular grand lodges, the GLNF maintains an international network of Masonic exchanges and cooperation. It actively participates in various international Masonic bodies and meetings, thus contributing to the promotion of French Freemasonry worldwide.
Conclusion
The French National Grand Lodge stands out in the Masonic landscape for its adherence to tradition and regularity. Despite challenges and crises, it has evolved and adapted to modern times while remaining faithful to the founding principles of Freemasonry. Its history and evolution testify to its significant place in international Masonic dialogue and French social fabric.
Histoire de la GLNF
Fondation
Créée en 1913, la GLNF rassemble dès l’origine des loges désireuses de pratiquer une maçonnerie conforme aux standards établis par la Grande Loge Unie d’Angleterre (UGLE). Dans un paysage maçonnique alors fragmenté, elle ambitionne de proposer une voie claire, respectueuse de la tradition initiatique.
Reconnaissance par l’UGLE
En 1917, la GLNF obtient la reconnaissance officielle de l’UGLE, ce qui lui confère un statut unique parmi les obédiences françaises. Cette reconnaissance témoigne de son engagement à respecter les fondements de la régularité maçonnique.
Développement et évolution de la GLNF
Expansion nationale et internationale
La GLNF connaît un développement rapide, avec l’ouverture de nombreuses loges en France et dans les DOM-TOM. Elle s’implante également à l’étranger, renforçant son rayonnement par un maillage international cohérent.
Crises et réaffirmation
Comme toute institution centenaire, la GLNF traverse certaines crises internes, notamment de gouvernance. Mais elle a su se réorganiser, renforcer ses structures, et réaffirmer ses valeurs fondamentales.
Principes fondamentaux de la Grande Loge Nationale Française (GLNF)
Regularity
The GLNF strictly respects the criteria of Masonic regularity: belief in a Supreme Being, absence of political or religious debates in the lodge, initiatory work according to specific rituals.
Rites practiced by the lodges of the GLNF
The lodges of the GLNF practice mainly the Rectified Scottish Rite (RSR), the Emulation Working, the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite (AASR) and the Traditional French Rite, as well as to a lesser extent the Rite of York and the Royal Standard of Scotland, all in accordance with the Obedience’s principles.
Décors maçonniques compatibles avec la GLNF
Nos Colonnes propose une gamme sélectionnée de décors maçonniques conformes aux usages et aux rites de la GLNF. Ces modèles ont été conçus pour s’adapter aux exigences symboliques et esthétiques de l’obédience.
