On this occasion, we celebrate the release of our new website with high hopes that it will bring our visitors many interesting experiences, of which this article will hopefully be the first.
Whence Come You?
The history of Freemasonry in Berlin reflects the resilience of the fraternity itself. In Germany in particular, Masonry experienced a time of flourishing in the early 20th century, followed by persecution during Nazi rule and an eventual revival. These events had a direct influence on the naming of our lodge and so with our birth, a part of Freemasonry was reborn, much like our patron animal, the Phoenix.
German Freemasonry faced its darkest hours during the Nazi regime, where they viewed Freemasonry as a threat, associating it with Jews, international conspiracies, and Enlightenment ideals that clashed with their ideology.
By 1935, Freemasonry was banned in Germany completely. Lodges in Berlin were forced to close, and their assets were confiscated. Many members went underground, fled the country, or faced imprisonment. It was during this time that the “forget-me-not” flower became a secret symbol for Freemasons, allowing them to recognize one another while avoiding detection. If you have a keen eye, you might still see the tiny flower on the lapels of random men today. Should you catch a glimpse, you might be looking at a brother of “the craft”. Or you might be looking at someone who just enjoys flower pins on their lapel.
The end of World War II opened a new chapter for Freemasonry in Berlin, though the city’s division into East and West continued to prove a detriment. In West Berlin, lodges revived quickly under Allied occupation, aided by British and American soldiers who brought with them their Masonic traditions. Meanwhile in the East, still under communism, Freemasonry continued to be banned, forcing members to suspend activities or operate covertly. It was during this time, in 1957 West Berlin, that Phoenix Lodge was born.
The reunification of Germany in 1990 brought with it a reunification of Freemasonry in Berlin as well. Lodges in East Berlin reconnected with those in the West, and new lodges emerged to reflect the city’s growing diversity.
Phoenix 847 is proud of its history and its name. The tale of the mythical bird is well known to many cultures around the world and its significance has made its way into all manner of legends. From its origins as the Bennu bird of ancient Egypt, to its symbolism as a representation of Christ, to interpretations in esoteric thought around topics such as alchemy and the philosopher’s stone. We as Freemasons love our symbols and few symbols are as powerful as that of the Phoenix.
This is our story. We would love to hear yours.
