January Socrates Cafe

Socrates Cafe is a monthly discussion group we have that covers various topics of a philosophical nature. The evening starts with a dinner at 7:30 and then we get into our topic.

One of the requirements to join Freemasonry is a belief in a divine being with specific prohibitions against atheists. Beyond that, Freemasonry does not require one to believe in any specific God (or gods), but there are prayers and references to the Divine Architect of the Universe (whoever you believe that to be).

But in today's society the role of religion seems to be fading with the "Nones" being the fastest growing group. So our discussion will focus on two points. First, where does one draw the line between being a "None" and being an atheist? Certainly atheists fall into that group, but so do religious people who just don't care for any specific organized religion. If you don't believe in any specific god, does that really make you an atheist?

Secondly, since Masonry touches on religion, but isn't centered around it exactly, which direction makes sense for the future? Should it be a refuge for the religious in an increasingly secular world? Or should it try to grow by embracing the "Nones" and focusing on the aspects that apply more universally?

Certainly we won't be deciding the future of Masonry here, but we hope the discussion will prove thought-provoking and enhance your understanding of the world.

We officially get started at 7:30 with dinner though usually there are people there by 7. It happens in the lower level of the building (so there are stairs to contend with). There is parking on the street. There is also a parking lot, but it is only accessible from the alley, and due to some road construction, the alley is only accessible from 51st, not 52nd, so keep that in mind. Once there, just come in the front door and head downstairs and bring something if you like.