Wielki Wschód Polski

The Grand Orient of Poland

Freemasonic Order
liberal and progressive stream of Freemasonry
of mixed character
(initiates both men and women)

Mission and Objectives

Mission and Objectives set by the Grand Orient of Poland are driven by its philosophical approach and manifest through the work of its Lodges.

Our Mission

The Grand Orient of Poland is a secular initiation Order. In its Constitution and General Regulations Grand Orient of Poland is defined as a philanthropic, philosophical and progressive association.

The Grand Orient of Poland does not participate and get involved in any political matters and does not take a position about political affairs.

The principles espoused by the members of GOP are the following: mutual tolerance, respect for others and for self and complete freedom of conscience.

The motto of Grand Orient of Poland is: Liberty, Equality & Fraternity.

The Objectives of the GOP

The seeking of truth
Advancement of morality
The application of human solidarity, which is the moral doctrine of Freemasonry
Striving to improve the material and moral standing; the intellectual and social betterment of humanity
To extend to all members of humanity the bond of brotherhood that unites Freemasons throughout the world; also to promote its idea by example, in speech and in writing
To help, enlighten and protect other Freemasons, even while risking own lives, and defending them against injustice
Teaching respect for both physical and intellectual work
Promote among its members the following principles - to help the weak, to act justly towards all, to be devoted to Family, Nation and Humanity; to maintain dignity towards self.
To defend the ideals of secularism and the Secular Institutions which are the embodiment of the principles of reason, tolerance and brotherhood

Philosophical Approach

The Grand Orient of Poland is a progressive organisation. Its members are not required to believe in God or to follow any form of dogma. It accepts into its Lodges both believers and atheists - all those whose beliefs allow an objective and rationalistic perception of the reality that surrounds us. Irrespective of the specific rite in which the Lodges work and regardless of whether or not they invoke the Great Architect of the Universe we consider matters of faith or a lack thereof to fall under the exclusive purview of the conscience of every man or woman.

We regard the Great Architect of the Universe with the same respect as the Bible, the Gospel, or other holy books of various religions as historical symbols of non-dogmatic spirituality, naturally needed by an individual for intellectual and emotional development, and the development of social sensitivity necessary to express full humanity and the best virtues of humanism.

Work of the GOP Lodges

The Grand Orient of Poland shall mean an association of Masonic Lodges, comprising Freemasons, with a common constitution and by-laws, and operating through legislative, executive and judical authorities, elected on their basis. The Association is based in Warsaw.

As a masonic Order, the Grand Orient of Poland is composed of Lodges that apply the rites recognised by GOP, none of which shall be deemed to be more important than the others. However, all GOP administrative meetings are held in the French Rite.

The Freemasonic Lodges may have their own set of rules. The autonomy of the lodges is expressed through general elections. They may have disciplinary powers against their members and all Freemasons participating in their work. These rights may not be contrary to the Constitution and general regulations of the Grand Orient of Poland.

With the exception of funerals, Lodges shall refrain from any public demonstrations without the prior consent from the Council of the Order. Lodges are not allowed to participate in any political events.

Origins

The Grand Orient of Poland was founded on February 26, 1784 as a result of a meeting of deputies of all masonic lodges working in the Kingdom of Poland and the Grand Duchy of Lithuania.

The return of masonic Light in 1997, after years of nonexistence, was possible thanks to the help of the Grand Orient of France and Freemasons of Polish origin working there.

Activities

The Grand Orient of Poland is a masonic philosophical association.

GOP internal activities are based on cyclical, ritual meetings of Lodge members. They usually take place once or twice a month except during the holiday period. The topics discussed concern masonic symbolism, allegories, ethics, social and cultural issues. In the Lodges we refrain from discussing politics and faith. Lodges conduct charity activities.

The activity of the Grand Orient of Poland in the international masonic arena is based on joint, solemn meetings with members of other masonic organisations within Poland and abroad, working on common social issues.

Worldwide

Representatives of the Grand Orient of Poland participate in the work of international organisations uniting Orders, Lodges or Freemasons. They take part or are co-organisers of international masonic conferences.

International activities of the Grand Orient of Poland are founded on respect for all masonic bodies and on close cooperation with organisations with which special agreements have been signed. The Grand Orient of Poland is an active member of AME (European Masonic Alliance) and AACEE (progressive Association of Central and Eastern Europe), grouping the region's most liberal obediences.

Freemasons from the GOP also form the Polish National Group of the Universal League of Freemasons, uniting Freemasons of various Orders and rites.

International Relations

The Grand Orient of Poland cooperates with following masonic organisations and Orders on the basis of mutual friendship and official treaties of cooperation: