A Different Kind of Masonry 

While all Freemasonry shares common roots, the “Liberal” or “Continental” tradition emerged as a progressive force during the Enlightenment. Unlike other branches that may require members to follow a specific religious creed, Liberal Masonry prioritizes Absolute Freedom of Conscience. Although we believe in God, this means we respect the private beliefs of every individual—whether they are religious, spiritual, or secular—and focus instead on our shared commitment to human dignity and social progress.

The 1877 Reform 

The defining moment for this tradition occurred in 1877 when the Grand Orient de France (GODF) removed the mandatory requirement for members to profess a belief in a deity. This was not a rejection of faith, but a declaration that a person’s relationship with the Divine is a private matter. This reform allowed Masonry to become a truly universal home for all seekers of truth.

A Mixed Tradition

One of the most significant features of Liberal Masonry is its inclusivity. We believe that the search for truth is not limited to one gender. As a “Mixed” obedience, we welcome both men and women to work together in our lodges as equals, reflecting the reality of a modern and fair society.

The Foundation: Grand Orient de France (GODF)

Our lineage begins with the Grand Orient de France (GODF), which is recognized as the oldest and most influential Masonic body in Continental Europe. Established in its current form in 1773, the GODF was born from a profound reorganization led by the Duke of Luxembourg and the Duke of Chartres (who later became Philippe Égalité). This reorganization was revolutionary for its time, introducing democratic governance where the office of Venerable Master became an elective position rather than a life-long privilege.

During the late 18th century, the GODF became a “laboratory of democracy” and a crucible for Enlightenment thought. Its lodges provided a rare, protected space where philosophers, scientists, and revolutionaries could meet as equals to envision a society built on reason rather than dogma. It was within these candlelit chambers that the motto “Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité” was championed by members like Voltaire and Benjamin Franklin before it became the defining rallying cry of the French Republic.

A pivotal turning point in our history occurred in 1877, when the GODF—at the urging of Pastor Frédéric Desmons—voted to remove the mandatory requirement for members to profess a belief in a deity. This decision was not an act of anti-religion, but a bold affirmation of “absolute freedom of conscience.” It transformed the Grand Orient into an adogmatic institution, allowing believers and non-believers alike to work together toward the shared goal of human progress.

Today, the Grand Orient de France stands as the standard-bearer of Liberal Freemasonry worldwide. It remains deeply committed to the defense of secularism (laïcité), human rights, and the Republic’s ideals. With nearly 1,300 member lodges globally, it continues to propagate the humanism of the Enlightenment, ensuring that Freemasonry remains a vibrant and progressive force in the modern world.

The Regional Bridge: Grande Loge Mixte de l’Océan Indien (GLMOI)

As the spirit of Liberal Masonry expanded beyond Europe, the Grande Loge Mixte de l’Océan Indien (GLMOI) was established in 2017 in the French territory of La Réunion. La Réunion is a French overseas department and volcanic island located in the western Indian Ocean. It is part of the Mascarene Archipelago, situated around 700 km east of Madagascar and 175 km southwest of Mauritius.

Registered under the “loi 1901” as a non-profit association, the GLMOI was created to bring the mixed and adogmatic tradition to the Indian Ocean and the broader Asia-Pacific region. It serves as our regional anchor, bridging the ancient traditions of the West with the diverse cultures of the East.

The GLMOI was founded with a specific aim: to provide a sanctuary where members can deepen their knowledge through philosophical, historical, and scientific investigation. Beyond intellectual labor, the obedience emphasizes the practice of “Mutual Aid” and the organization of private activities that foster deep fraternal bonds. It is an institution that values the strength of character over mere numbers, seeking to elevate every individual who enters its doors.

Central to the work of the GLMOI is the practice of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite (REAA). This rite is celebrated for its deep philosophical inquiry and its structured, 33-degree system of instruction. By utilizing the REAA, the GLMOI offers its members a “university of philosophy” that explores the complexities of ethics, justice, and human rights, preparing them to lead with integrity in their respective communities.

A defining characteristic of the GLMOI is its commitment to inclusivity through “Mixed Masonry.” Unlike other traditions that remain restricted by gender, the GLMOI recognizes that the search for truth and the building of a better world require the equal contribution of both men and women. In our lodges, brothers and sisters labor side-by-side with equal rights, reflecting a modern society based on true equality.

The Philippine Awakening: GLMOI PH

Freemasonry has always been woven into the fabric of the Philippine nation. In the late 19th century, our national heroes — Jose Rizal, Marcelo H. del Pilar, and Graciano Lopez Jaena — found a home in the liberal Masonic lodges of Europe. Notably, Rizal affiliated with the lodge Temple de l’Honneur et de l’Union under the Grand Orient de France on October 14, 1891, a connection that deeply influenced his vision for a free and enlightened Philippines.

For over a century, however, the specific “Continental” tradition of mixed and adogmatic Masonry remained largely absent from our shores. While Masonry flourished in the Philippines after 1912, it was predominantly through male-only, “Regular” jurisdictions that required a specific religious profession. The heritage of the national heroes, who sought a masonry that championed absolute freedom of conscience and intellectual liberty, awaited a modern restoration.

In 2023, that reawakening finally arrived with the formal establishment of the Grande Loge Mixte de l’Océan Indien Philippines (GLMOI PH). This founding marks a historic return to the adogmatic and inclusive roots that once moved the Ilustrados. We have closed the circle, offering a contemporary path for Filipino men and women who wish to engage in the work of character-building and social progress within a community of equals.

As the inheritors of this legacy, GLMOI PH proudly practices the Ancient and Primitive Rite of Memphis-Misraim. Often referred to as “Egyptian Freemasonry,” this rite provides our lodges with an elaborate and esoteric framework for study and belief in God. Unified in 1881 under the legendary patriot Giuseppe Garibaldi, the rite focuses on humanitarian ideals and the search for truth through reason. We invite a new generation of “builders” to join us in this historic journey — setting a high standard in every field for generations to come.