I have no dislike for the order.

I have a dislike for the qualities it brings out in its' members. As evidenced by the initial reply to my post. The original question was why the order is not discussed more in craft lodges. I offered a suggestion on one possible explanation. I was then attacked. And yes, it was an attack. So I responded in kind. Obviously you are a Rosicrucian. So you know more about what non-Rosicrucians think of the order than a non-Rosicrucian? I am very aware of your order as are many of the brethren I discuss appendant bodies with. I know how I view it and I know how they view it. And do you think we would openly discuss with a Rsicrucian our dislikes? Of course not. Because we would, no doubt, see a similar response to the one I got here.

Respect and disrespect go both ways. Brother. If you wish for non-Rosicrucians to respect your order, you and your fellows need to act accordingly.

I am happy for you that you do truly enjoy it. I really am. Not every masonic related body is of interest to every mason. If you can find one that you like (outside of your craft lodge of course) is a good thing.

The original question is why the order is relatively unknown and not discussed more.

There are a number of Brethren that are aware of the order and choose not to discuss it. I offered a suggestion as to one possibility why it is not discussed.

I still hold to that as one possibility. Of course it is not the only reason.

The SRIA/SRIC/SRICF are relatively small in the grand scheme of things. So of course that would indicate lesser knowledge of such an order. There are other "invite only" orders within Masonry that are equally unknown to the average Mason.

Perhaps Rosicrucian fellows should open more dialogue with non-Rosicrucians. This includes educating those unaware, as well as clarifying and correcting any misinformation held by those aware of the order.

The reality is, the order is not referenced by the typical masonic bodies, as such is going to "fly below the radar" of the average mason.

But now ask yourselves, do you wish to be a large group? If the order is content being a niche body under the masonic umbrella, then open dialogue with the average mason isn't realistic.

In terms of recruitment (for lack of better term) I'm sure the fellows of your order already have a small number of potential candidates in mind already. Which means discussions would be of a personal nature, not an open discussion with the average mason.

Please play nicely or priviledges may be withdrawn.

I certainly don't think that the SRIA is elitist - after all not only did they accept me into 2 Colleges, but somehow my Mother College has made me Secretary - definitely not elitist!

I must say that I have loved my time in SRIA, and hope for many more years to come as an active member. The major problem that i have noticed is that most people don't know what the SRIA is. Several confuse it with Rose Croix, which is a completely different Order.

I like the fact that it is relatively small, but think it would be nice to have a few new faces every now and then, in fact if all goes to plan, we will be admitting a new member at our next meeting.

Best wishes
Eldmar.

Pontypridd Lodge 9001.
Caerleon college, 72, Brangwyn college 75, SRIA.
Dunraven Lodge MMM 950, Dunraven RAM Lodge 950.
Ystradyfodwg Chapter 7638.
Merthyr Tydfil Council N0 120 R&SM