UPDATE 16 Sept 2009 : The Grand Secretary was interviewd on TVNZ's "The Breakfast Show" regarding Freemasonry in New Zealand and reaction to The Lost Symbol. The video on the show can be found here [see Chapter 4]:  http://tvnz.co.nz/breakfast/daily-overwrite-video-1001746

UPDATE 14 Sept 2009 : Those of you who read today's NZ Herald will have seen the Prologue and First Chapter of Dan Brown's new book, The Lost Symbol, which will be released tomorrow at 11.00am.

The Masonic Society, the Masonic Service Association of North America and the George Washington National Masonic Memorial of USA have collaborated on a new website that will address the references to Freemasonry found in Dan Brown's new novel, The Lost Symbol.

The website is being provided for the use of lodges to provide factual information to the public, and as a central location for common questions and answers that will arise once the book is officially released. The purpose of the site is to inform the public and Freemasons themselves about the references to the fraternity in the book.

The site also contains a link to a recommended reading list.

It should of course be noted that this is a USA site about Freemasonry in the USA.

For immediate release

11 September 2009

Statement from Freemasons New Zealand

Freemasons New Zealand is aware that Dan Brown’s next novel, “The Lost Symbol”, is due for release on Tuesday 15 September.  As the Freemasons’ logo is on the cover of the book it can be assumed that Freemasonry features in the book.

Whilst we will be unable to comment on the contents of this novel until we have had an opportunity to read it ourselves, we can provide comment on Freemasonry and in particular Freemasonry in New Zealand.

Freemasons New Zealand has been in operation since 1890 and has more than 10,000 members in 275 Lodges throughout the country. Freemasons give over $6 million to New Zealand community groups, charities, and ground-breaking medical research every year.

Should you require information on Freemasonry, or have any questions about Freemasonry, we will be happy to speak with you and to answer your questions.

Ends

Fact Sheet follows …

Media contact is: Laurence Milton, Grand Secretary
Freemasons New Zealand.
Phone 04 385-6622 (work); 021 970 117 (mobile)

Issued by: Joanne Ruscoe,
Phone 04 293 4193 (work); 021 925 755 (mobile)

Freemasonry in New Zealand

Freemasonry is:

• One of the world’s oldest and largest fraternal organisations.
• An organisation of men who adopt the fundamental principles of integrity, goodwill and charity as the foundations for an individual’s life and character.
• A non-profit organisation that is widely involved in supporting charity and community service.
• Composed of men of character with high ideals and worthwhile values who strive to make a difference in themselves and their community.

History:

The actual origins of Freemasonry have been lost in time but it is generally accepted that it developed from the stonemasons of medieval Europe.
In New Zealand it began with the early settlers, the first meeting having been recorded at Port Levy in 1837 and the first Lodge founded in 1842.  The Grand Lodge of NZ was established in 1890.

The Myths Dispelled

• It is not a secret society but embraces confidentiality.
• It is not a religion nor is it a substitute for religion.
• It emphasises universal harmony and does not permit discussion of religion or politics.
• It is not a benefit society and networking for personal gain is discouraged.

A Freemason’s Code

• To share a concern and respect for human values, moral standards, the laws of society and the rights of individuals.
• To believe in a Supreme Being.
• To help other people through charity work and community service.
• To promote fellowship and goodwill amongst fellow members.

In New Zealand

• There are more than 10,000 Freemasons.
• There are 275 Lodges in towns and cities throughout the country.
• Annually, Freemasons donate $6 million in the form of: scholarships for university graduates, university research in the fields of gerontology and paediatrics; The Royal Society of New Zealand (Freemasons Big Science Adventures for secondary students), The Arts Foundation of New Zealand (New Generation Awards for up and coming young artists); and supports charities and community organisations.

ends