awards competition
Awards Competition Announced by Pythagoras Lodge of Research I-REAP is a graded competition, administered by the PLoR, which will accept Masonic work in three award classes: Research, Education and Illumination. I. Award Classes
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he Pythagoras Lodge of Research (PLoR) is pleased to announce an awards competition for producing literary works of Masonic interest, education and research; and invites all Masons in the District of Columbia to transcribe their thoughts into meaningful written expressions. Taking the obligation of a Mason is a journey into the unknown, and a mere first step into the investigation of the self and the relationship of man to the G.A.O.T.U. The exploration of the hidden meaning of the legends and symbols removes the veils of secrecy, ignorance and apathy to create an understanding of ancient practices and esoteric rites from which the moral and philosophical lessons of Freemasonry are taken, and how they may be applied in this life “to make a good man better”. An examination of the historical traditions and evidence illustrate the context of Masonic teaching through mankind’s spiritual quest to connect with the Divine, and how this impetus has and continues to shape the world. Institutional wisdom and experience help a Mason understand how the Fraternity is governed, why it has survived when so many other organizations fail, and offers important opportunities to develop leadership and demonstrate personal reliability, responsibility and trust. Pythagoras Lodge of Research was chartered 45 years ago for such purposes, and remains committed to supporting these kinds of philosophical, historical, and institutional studies by inviting Masons throughout the District of Columbia to participate in the Illuminated Research & Education Award Program (I-REAP). While studying Masonic symbolism, archives, and governance is interesting and exciting on its own, the goal of I-REAP is to more fully open the minds and hearts of Freemasons by recognizing and sharing their perspectives, experiences and research of the Fraternity with all who share in the tenets and traditions of our ancient and noble Craft.
The Voice of Freemasonry
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ILLUMINATION AWARD The Illumination Award is a highly interpretative paper and based almost entirely on personal opinion, expectation and/or experience of the Craft. Because of its very personal nature, the Illumination Award is reserved for Entered Apprentice, Fellowcraft, and/or Master Masons who have been raised not more than one (1) year prior to the date of submission. Work prepared in written commentary necessary to the advancement in a Symbolic Lodge is encouraged, however, there is no restriction the EA, FC or MM must submit a paper in their Lodge to be eligible for participation in I-REAP. Therefore, any EA, FC or MM (as defined above) may submit a paper directly to PLoR. The Master of a Lodge may also submit papers on behalf of advancing candidates should the Lodge determine the work worthy of such consideration. EDUCATION AWARD Important to encompass a broad spectrum of interests, the I-REAP Education Award may address any Masonic topic or perspective related to the good of Freemasonry. It is designed for Master Masons with a higher level of knowledge and expertise using more thorough investigative analysis techniques, but does not adopt the same stringent documentation criteria required for the Research Award. As such, the Education Award should incorporate some established Masonic references/resources which better allows the author to focus on: 1) different interpretations of traditional perspectives; 2) presentation of new Masonic information; and/or
