ISBN: Ostalo
Godina izdanja: 2014.
Autor: Domaći
Jezik: Engleski

Freemasonry in Serbia: History and Development / brother Bratislav Bata Stamenković

Izdavač: Regularna velika loža Srbije



Beograd 2014. (6014.). Mek povez, engleski jezik, ilustrovano, veliki format (29,5×21 cm), 60 strana.
Knjiga je veoma dobro očuvana.
T1



Freemasonry in Serbia is founded on the long tradition. As of 1785. when the first known Lodge was consecrated on the territory of today`s Serbia, namely at Petrovaradin near Novi Sad, Freemasonry has been present in Serbia one way or another. It had its highs and lows - great successes and achievements, but also periods of discontinuity that resulted from historical turbulences which occurred quite often in this region of Europe.
In many European countries, but particularly in the Balkans, Freemasonry was passing through similar situations. In the period before the consecration of our Grand Lodge in 1919 there have been many famous Freemasons active in the domains of education, science, arts and politics in those days. They managed to positively influence the society and contributed to national liberation and further progress in Serbia.
The most illuminating period of Freemasonry in Serbia is considered the time between the two World Wars, namely from the foundation of the Grand Lodge in 1919 until the year of 1940. Freemasons were the most respected people from all walks of social life in Serbian society in those days. Their significance has left deep traces and their achievements radiate avant-garde energy and influence even today.
The Second World War and the occupation of the country as well as the regime which followed did not tolerate the spirit of Freemasonry and this situation contributed to the longest discontinuity of the flourishing Brotherhood. Although during this relatively long period Freemasonry did not completely dissolve itself, it did not exist in an organized manner but was continuing on an individual level and with largely reduced activities.
It was only in 1989 that that the conditions in Serbia were somewhat more conducive to the re-establishment of an organized Freemasonry. As those conditions were not real and veritable in its essence the first efforts for the revival of Freemasonry in its fullest form were not easy neither fully successful. However, in 1993. a strong foundation of today`s Freemasonry in Serbia was established - the Regular Grand Lodge `Yugoslavia`. This was only possible thanks to great support from the Grand Lodges of Germany, Italy and Switzerland and individual contributions of many other Brethren. The newly established Grand Lodge was developing in a fast and successful manner and, after the separation of Montenegro from the State Union with Serbia in 2006, it was renamed into the Regular Grand Lodge of Serbia. It is the only regular and recognized Masonic Authority on the whole territory of the Republic of Serbia.
Respecting tradition and the light brought by our predecessors as well as hard work, dedication and genuine efforts of the Brethren towards the real values and ideals of Freemasonry all these have contributed to today`s strong position of the Regular Grand Lodge of Serbia. It is steadily growing and now consists of more than 30 Lodges with over 1,200 Brethren, with their positive influence within the Brotherhood and outside of it, promoting the ideas of harmony, tolerance, charitable activities and understanding among people. The Brethren are very active in contributing to the development of a more humane society and are very successful in these efforts. Today the Regular Grand Lodge of Serbia is internationally respected and enjoys excellent relations, contacts and cooperation with other Grand Lodges all over the world.
The above positive developments are substantiated by the plans of further development of Freemasonry within the Regular Grand Lodge of Serbia that are founded on three pillars: consolidation and strengthening of its own membership; building a bridge towards our community and society at large; and active cooperation internationally. These objectives are being achieved through tireless efforts of our Brethren.
This Booklet is dedicated to all Brethren who would like to make themselves acquainted with history and development of Freemasonry in Serbia. It should contribute to better understanding of dedication and hard work of the Regular Grand Lodge of Serbia in its efforts to continue to be a strong link in the international masonic chain thus contributing to the buildingbuildingof the Temple of Humanity in the world.

Thank you for taking the time to read this.
MW Bro. Ranko Vujačić
Grand Master
Regular Grand Lodge of Serbia
Belgrade, in May 2014