Richard George wrote:Gavin - whilst I respect your position, I'd say "reconsider". There's nothing wrong with waiting to join Chapter (or any other progressive order) until you've been through the Chair, but I'd personally recommend you join and then watch and perhaps work through the junior offices at the same time. You'll find that some things in Craft become clearer - and, in the case of Mark, you'll understand something about what happens during the Craft installation (in the inner working) that you cannot possibly understand unless you're a member of Mark. In my case it was like a light suddenly going off and I understood immediately without it having to be explained; something that would never have happened if I hadn't been a member of Mark.
In general, experiencing some of the other orders can definitely help with understanding Craft.
Hi Richard
A very valid and useful point. As I see more content on this forum and discuss more with brethren in my lodge I see there are a number of possibilities:
These of course relate to the many different journeys. Then there are the different times at which to embark on those journeys. Thirdly there is the speed at which the journey is undertaken.
So, I shall spend the period until and after my Raising deciding which journey; at this point I am inclined towards Mark and then Chapter. Then there's the timing at which to join and the speed of progression.
Lots to think about: In my mind I liken it to driving through beautiful scenery on a journey that I'll only make once. I want the satisfaction of enjoying the journey and taking in as much as possible of the view rather then belting through at high speed and remembering little (and understanding less)of what I've experienced.
Thanks again for your advice.
Kind regards
Gavin