James Huey My apologies as it seems my comments re Masons and an "anti-Catholic" perspective would appear to have been hurtful or badly misinformed! It was certainly the impression implanted as I was a growing child in working class Melbourne in Australia. In fact, it was my understanding that an Australian association called the Knights of the Southern Cross (the stars on the Aussie flag are the Southern Cross) were an alternative to Masonic options.  I don't think I've heard of the Knights for a long time. But I've always believed that Catholics weren't welcome at Masonic Lodges. So Len Swindley's information is intriguing because it sounds like it was a papal ruling that precluded Masonic membership and perhaps set up a Catholic resistance, rather than a non-welcoming perspective from the Masons! How embarassing! I must find some time to do a bit of research on the ruling and the Knights to improve my education! Regards Chris Owen Sent with Spark