"The true master builds his inner temple one day at a time."
Freemasonry is not a religion.
It teaches moral lessons and uses religious language and symbolism, but it leaves members free in matters of individual faith.
An Encyclopedia of Freemasonry
Biography of Albert G. Mackey, M.D.
Albert Gallatin Mackey (1807–1881) stands among the most influential figures in the history of Freemasonry. Born in Charleston, South Carolina, Mackey's early life was shaped by the intellectual spirit of the early 19th century. He pursued a rigorous education and graduated from the Charleston Medical College, eventually establishing a successful career as a physician. However, Mackey’s interests extended far beyond medicine. Early in his life, he developed a profound fascination with the esoteric, historical, and philosophical underpinnings of Freemasonry.
Biography of Charles T. McClenachan
Charles Thompson McClenachan (1829–1896) was a noted Masonic scholar, lawyer, and author who made significant contributions to the documentation and preservation of Masonic history and rituals. Born in New York City, McClenachan grew up amid the bustling, dynamic atmosphere of 19th-century America. His early education reflected a blend of classical studies and contemporary thought, preparing him for a lifetime of professional success and intellectual exploration.