The Rosicrucians, then and now

On Thursday evening January 27th, 2011 at 8:00 p.m. host Poke Runyon will offer a discussion on the history, philosophy and structure of the Rosicrucian tradition and its offshoots. We will trace its roots from the Italian renaissance Hermetic movement, through the German Reformation, citing the contributions of Agrippa, Paracelsus and others, including its founder Johann Valentin Andreae. We will cite the original Rosicrucian documents, and the legend of Christian Rosenkreuz and his Tomb. The Masonic Rosicrucian revival in 18th century Germany will be considered, with its subsequent influence on the Order of the Golden Dawn. Early German Rosicrucian groups in America, and P. B. Randolph's contribution will be mentioned, along with the origins of various American groups, including A.M.O.R.C. We will try to define just what a "Rosicrucian" is, and how much Christianity is involved in what is otherwise a Hermetic system. We will discuss the differences between the Golden Dawn's R.R. et A.C., and Arthur Edward Waite's more devotional revision -- which may be the best example of the problem. Are Rosicrucians like some Red Hat Tibetan Buddhists? (Bon-pos with Buddha in a nominal position.) Recalling the old occult joke: "Last year I couldn't spell Rosicrucian, and this year I is one!", tune in and we'll give you the history of the mystery.