Draft:The Grand Lodges of the Mediterranean (GLM)
Grand Lodge of the Mediterranean
The Grand Lodge of the Mediterranean (GLM) is an international Masonic federation established in 2024 with the goal of promoting cooperation and dialogue among Masonic lodges across the Mediterranean region. Inspired by the historical and cultural heritage of the Mediterranean, the GLM embraces values of fraternity, liberty, and tolerance, fostering intercultural understanding among its members.
History
The GLM was officially founded on September 14, 2024, in Rome during a meeting attended by representatives from various Masonic obediences in the region. The key founding lodges include:
Grand Lodge of Jerusalem of Malta (GLJM): Founded in 1966, the GLJM has played a significant role in promoting Masonic values within the Mediterranean region. Grand Lodge of Europe and the Mediterranean (GLEM): This organization contributed to the creation of the GLM, fostering unity among various lodges in the region. Grand Lodge of Free Masons (GLML): Actively involved in the GLM’s foundation, the GLML brings its extensive Masonic experience and traditions. Mission and Objectives The GLM aims to strengthen Masonic bonds across Europe, the East, and Africa, viewing the Mediterranean as a crossroads of different cultures and traditions. The organization’s primary goals include:
Promoting universal fraternity: Establishing spaces for intercultural dialogue where members can share experiences and common values. Developing educational and cultural programs: Initiatives such as the MEDUNIEX Program, inspired by the Erasmus project, are designed to encourage academic and cultural exchanges in the region. Supporting emerging lodges: Offering organizational assistance, media support, and an environment that respects the cultural identities of younger lodges. Creating a Mediterranean Digital Passport: A symbolic tool for Mediterranean identity, designed to facilitate the free exchange of ideas and strengthen cultural bonds within the federation. Principles and Commitments The GLM is committed to adhering to the principles of Masonic regularity, inclusiveness, and respect for the cultural specifics of each affiliated lodge. The federation rejects any form of neo-colonialism, promoting collaboration based on equality and reciprocity. Through digital platforms and social media, the GLM facilitates communication among members, disseminating Masonic values and promoting knowledge sharing across an international network.
Organizational Structure and Governance The GLM operates under a collaborative governance model inspired by the principles of the United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE). Its main governing bodies include:
Council of Founding Lodges: Proposes candidates for the position of Grand Master, ensuring adherence to Masonic principles. General Assembly: The supreme decision-making body, composed of representatives from all affiliated lodges, responsible for electing the Grand Master. Executive Committee: Executes the decisions of the General Assembly and the Council of Founding Lodges, ensuring that all initiatives align with Masonic regularity. Committees on Ethics, International Relations, and Communication: These bodies oversee ethical compliance, manage diplomatic relations, and promote the visibility of the GLM through a multilingual communication platform. Recent Lodge Affiliations (2024) In 2024, several lodges joined the GLM, further expanding its presence in the Mediterranean region. These lodges include:
Loggia di Sant'Antonio (Spain) Campo Dei Fiori Lodge No. 66 (Italy) Grand Orient of Lebanon 1930 (Lebanon) Grand Lodge of the Masonic High Council of Serbia (Serbia) Traditional Grand Lodge of Italy (Italy) Grande Loge Ecossaise de France (France) Early Achievements and Initiatives
Since its inception, the GLM has achieved several key milestones:
Logo Design: The GLM’s logo, featuring colorful hands and a map of the Mediterranean, symbolizes unity, openness, and transparency. New Membership Charter: A guide for the integration of new lodges, establishing criteria for regularity, political neutrality, and commitment to universal fraternity. Multilingual Communication Platform: A digital network enabling affiliated lodges to coordinate activities and share initiatives, with a presence on social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. Educational Program (MEDUNIEX) and Collaboration with the Unitelematica Leonardo da Vinci University: An initiative that promotes educational exchanges and supports Masonic academic formation.