TRADITIONAL GRAND LODGE OF SCOTLAND
JOHANNESBURG
WORSHIPFUL LODGE “NELSON MANDELA”
Orient of Johannesburg
Emulation Ritual
The South African representation of the Traditional Grand Lodge of Scotland brings together Lodges in South Africa that have chosen to join the TGLS and to share its principles, values and initiatic ideal.
South Africa is a land of many peoples, languages, cultures and traditions. Its history reminds us both of the divisions that can separate human beings and of their capacity to overcome them through courage, dialogue and mutual understanding.
In this spirit, the South African representation places freedom of conscience, human dignity, tolerance, respect and fraternity at the heart of its approach.
Through initiatic work, study and transmission, it encourages each person to deepen their understanding, to exercise independent judgement and to encounter others beyond differences of origin, culture or belief.
The search for Light cannot be separated from our relationship with others. Knowledge acquires its deepest meaning when it leads to understanding; understanding becomes fruitful when it gives rise to respect; and fraternity reaches its highest expression when human beings learn to recognise in one another a shared humanity.
Beyond borders and differences, the path towards Light is also a path towards one another.
Through Patience and Hope, toward the Light.
NELSON MANDELA
1918 – 2013
Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela was born on 18 July 1918 in Mvezo, South Africa. Trained in law, he became deeply involved in the struggle against apartheid and in the political transformation of his country.
His commitment led to imprisonment for more than twenty-seven years. Released in 1990, he subsequently played a central role in the negotiations that accompanied South Africa’s transition towards democracy.
In 1993, Nelson Mandela and F. W. de Klerk were jointly awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. The following year, Mandela became South Africa’s first democratically elected President. He served one term and stepped down in 1999.
His life remains closely associated with one of the great challenges faced by human societies: how people profoundly divided by history can nevertheless seek dialogue, reconciliation and a common future.
Choosing Nelson Mandela as the figure of reference for this Lodge invites us to reflect upon the strength required not only to defend one’s convictions, but also to listen, to understand and ultimately to recognise the humanity of the other.
For the search for Light is also a search for what can unite human beings beyond their differences.