Entered Apprentice

A young brother sent me one of those YouTube videos that spread groundless conspiracy theories against Freemasonry. He asked me for my thoughts.

I like to share my reply to him on our TB. Please let me know if the TB is the best forum.

As you see this is a long video and I skipped through it and did not view all. I did summarize the transcript.

My initial reply

People like him give Freemasonry an undeserved bad reputation.

They spread groundless conspiracy theories around half truths mingled with outright lies.

This man is trying to sell fear or views for clicks.

Best we focus on real Light, not YouTube shadows.

Freemasonry teaches us to seek truth, to subdue our passions, and to practice charity—not to spread fear or suspicion.”

Have you seen any actual evidence of these things in your lodge or our District?

You and I never have experienced anything that remotely supports these claims. NEVER!!!!

These kinds of ideas hurt the public image of the Craft, undermine trust, and confuse good men. We have a duty to protect the reputation of the Order.

Over the years I understand how these kinds of videos or claims can seem persuasive—especially when they quote familiar symbols or terms.

Do you want me to send you a point by point rebuttal. I would be happy to. [26/03, 16:40] Louis: Thanks for bringing to my attention

These things can really hurt our younger brethren at the start of their masonic journey

Can I post this on our education group along with point by point countering this click baiter

[26/03, 16:44] Louis: Bill Schnoebelen’s key claims, specifically as they relate to mainstream, regular Freemasonry such as that practiced under the United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE), the Grand Lodge of Scotland, and the Scottish Rite (Southern and Northern Jurisdictions of the U.S.).

My rebuttal to

His claims this about Mainstream Freemasonry

Claims that Freemasonry is Luciferian, Satanic, or Occult in Nature.

Mainstream Freemasonry is not a religion, nor does it promote any particular theology. It requires belief in a Supreme Being, but does not define who or what that is, respecting the religious diversity of its members.

UGLE and regular Grand Lodges prohibit discussions of religion and politics in Lodge specifically to avoid theological entanglements.

The rituals of Freemasonry use allegory and symbolism drawn from moral lessons and ancient tools of architecture, not occultism. They are ceremonial and educational, not magical or mystical.

The charge of "Luciferianism" stems from misinterpretation or deliberate distortion of writings by 19th-century figures like Albert Pike, who used classical and symbolic language that is often taken out of context.

Claims that Masonic Oaths Are Anti-Christian or Spiritually Dangerous

The obligations taken in Freemasonry are symbolic, not binding in a literal or spiritual sense, and do not override one’s duty to God, country, or conscience.

Mainstream Masonic bodies explicitly reject any interpretation of their obligations that conflicts with moral, religious, or civic duty.

Many committed Christians, Jews, Muslims, Hindus, and Buddhists are active Masons, including Christian clergy from across denominations. The suggestion that Masonic ritual is incompatible with Christianity is inconsistent with the lived experience of countless faithful Masons.

Claims , high-level Freemasonry Engages in Secret Abuse, Rituals, or Worship

Freemasonry’s organizational structure is transparent, especially under UGLE, which publishes its constitutions, rituals, and even meeting minutes in many cases.

There is no credible evidence of any institutional abuse or occult rites in mainstream Freemasonry.

The so-called “higher degrees” (e.g., Scottish Rite, York Rite) are voluntary educational extensions of the three Craft degrees and are fully documented and open for inspection.

The 96th degree of the Rite of Memphis-Misraim, which Schnoebelen claims to have received, is not recognized by UGLE or any mainstream Grand Lodge. It belongs to fringe or irregular bodies, which do not reflect authentic Freemasonry.

Claims that Mormonism and Freemasonry Are Intertwined in a Dangerous Way

While it is historically true that early Mormon leaders were Freemasons, including Joseph Smith, this reflects individual choices, not a systemic link between the institutions.

Mormon temple ceremonies may share structural similarities with Masonic ritual, but that does not mean the two are spiritually or organizationally connected.

Mainstream Freemasonry does not endorse or oppose any religion, including Mormonism.

Claims, Most Masons Are Unaware of the "Real" Secrets

This is a classic conspiracy tactic: claim that the truth is hidden from the majority to justify extreme interpretations.

Freemasonry has no hidden hierarchy beyond what is documented and practiced. Members progress by merit and personal effort.

The "secrets" of Freemasonry are symbolic and moral teachings, not esoteric powers or mystical rites.

His claims reflect either misunderstanding, personal spiritual struggle, or intentional sensationalism aimed at religious audiences. They do not describe regular Freemasonry as practiced by the UGLE, the Grand Lodge of Scotland, or any other recognized body.

Freemasonry, at its core, is a fraternal, charitable, and philosophical society devoted to moral development, brotherly love, truth, and relief (charity). It is not a religion, nor is it anti-religion. It welcomes men of faith and integrity who seek fellowship and self-improvement.