December 2011 Issue #47
Now Including Individual Sections of News and Information for Scottish Rite and York Rite Masons
Special offer inside from Cornerstone Masonic Publishers
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Scott Schwartzberg
Raised in 2007 at USS New Jersey No. 62 in Cherry Hill, NJ, Bro. Scott Schwartzberg is currently Junior Deacon of Boynton Lodge No. 236, Boynton Beach, FL, Grand Lodge of Florida.
Matt Johnson
Matt is a member of Pioneer Lodge #82 in Peoria, Arizona. He has taught college history courses and comes from a family of Freemasons dating back to the 1700s.
He is one of the founding members of Boynton Lodge Esoteric Research Group (B.L.E.R.G.),
Dr. John S. Nagy
is a Master Mason and author of the “Building Series” of Masonic Education books. His books and his workshops cover aspects of Masonry designed to Build Better Builders. You can find out more about him, his books and his workshops through his website at: http://www.coach.net
a member of the Scottish Rite Bodies at the Valley of Lake Worth, and York Rite Bodies of Ft. Lauderdale.
Jason Bryce
is a Master Mason and author of the “Building Series” of Masonic Education books. His books and his workshops cover aspects of Masonry designed to Build Better Builders. You can find out more about him, his books and his workshops through his website at: http://www.coach.net
John J. Petrolino III became a Mason in 2006. His mother lodge is Monmouth Lodge No. 172 in Atlantic Highlands NJ. John currently is seated as the Junior Warden. Also a member of the Central Valley of NJ and Freehold High Twelve. You can visit John on the Web at www.johnpetrolino.com
"Special thanks to Right Venerable Mohamad A. Yatim, Grand Superintendent of the Allied Masonic Degrees of the United States of America, for the State of New Jersey".
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Contents
This Month’s Issue Includes:
Pg. 10 Cornerstone Masonic Publishers Book of the Month Selection
Featured Writers:
Pg 46 York Rite News and Information
John Joseph Petrolina III - Pg. 26 John Nagy - Pg. 27 Matt Johnson- Pg. 33 & 51 Scott Schwartzberg - Pg. 35 Mohamad A. Yatim - Pg. 47 Jason Brice - pg. 54
Pg 55 Scottish Rite News and Information
Featured Sections:
One Minute Mason- Pg. 13 Grand Lodge Spotlight - pg. 15 Old Tyler Talks - Pg. 19 Biography - Pg. 21 Word of the Month- Pg.24 Podcasts- Pg. 25 Masons in the News - Pg. 36 PhoenixMasonry- Pg. 43
The Working Tools is published monthly by Corsig Publishing & Cory Sigler, It is not affiliated with any Grand Lodge. Letters or inquiries should be directed to Cory Sigler, Editor, at E-mail: Corsig3@yahoo.com All letters become the property of the Working Tools. Photographs and articles should be sent to the attention of the Editor. Every effort will be made to return photographs but this cannot be guaranteed. Please include a selfaddressed stamped envelope. The Editor reserves the right to edit all materials received. www.twtmag.com
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Welcome
Hello Brethren, Welcome to the December 2011 issue of The Working Tools Magazine. As a year end issue I wanted to concentrate on putting in as much original content as possible. I send out a message looking for contributors and wow did they answer. Also something new in this issue I’m trying out. Seperate sections for articles/news/information for the appendant bodies. Not to seperate them from the pack but to make it easier for these groups to share the info with others. I think 2012 promises to be a great year for TWT. I am commited to improving the magazine, website and Facebook page as much as my cabletow permits. With the current group of brothers helping and more on the way it should be an enlightening time for Freemasonry. My Brethren, I end this message with wishes of a great holiday season for you no matter what you celebrate. A safe New Years and hopes for a prosperous and happy 2012 Yours Truly
Cory Sigler Until next time... Cory Sigler, PM Hawthorne Fortitude #200 Find me on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/corysigler & facebook.com/twtmag
Last Months Poll Question “How Do You Read TWT” Download PDF and read on computer screen 108 out of 187 (57.8%) Download PDF and print for offline reading 42 out of 187 (22.5%) Read on Ipad or other tablet 37 out of 187 (19.8%)
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MAIL BAG
LETTER OF THE MONTH
CORRECTION
Dear Bro. Cory Many thanks for your email. I have just read your magazine online and was most impressed. Although there are three or four Masonic magazines in the UK none have the same approach as yours and I think that is very refreshing. I would be delighted if you would care to mention my book in your Magazine. Please tell me how you would like to do this. I am happy to make myself available. The book is doing very well in the UK but I do regard the USA as the major market as Freemasonry is so much larger than here and also I think there is a greater degree of interest in understanding what the Craft is about. My book is the first attempt to put together a full length book about Kipling's interest in the Craft and I found a lot of new material that has not been seen before. From a US perspective he had strong links with your country and nearly settled in New England permanently.
Regarding the Masons in the News article titled ‘Freemasons in Utah” found in the Nov 2011 issue of TWT. Provo has never had 3 Lodges like the article states. Story and Damascus have always been the only 2 in that building. The only building that has more than 2 Lodges meet in it is the Salt Lake Grand Lodge building, which has 6. The only other one that has had more than 2 was the building in Ogden which had 3 until two of them merged about 5 years back. I was also wondering why they were called chapters in the article. http://www.utahgrandlodge.org/utahcounty-masonic-lodges.html
Last week I had the privilege of giving a lecture to the Rudyard Kipling Lodge in Sussex which was established by his friends and neighbours. I am quite keen to seek opportunities to give talks or lectures in the USA.
Utah had the largest growth in Scottish Rite in the Southern Jurisdiction last year and was one of only 6 to have positive growth.
I look forward to hearing from you further
We only have Lodge numbers that go up to 34 and only 29 Lodges.
Fraternal best wishes Richard Jaffa PJGD (UGLE) and P Asst Prov. GM
See pg. 41 for an article on Bro. Jaffa’s Book “Man and Mason - Rudyard Kipling”
Being the smallest Jurisdiction in the lower 48, it is easy to keep track of these things. S&F Bro. Reed Fanning, Utah
Send all your comments and questions to Corsig3@yahoo.com
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This Month in History
December Dec 4th- On this date in 1807, Most Worshipful Brother Prince Hall, the first African American known to have received the Masonic degrees in America, died. Dec 5th- On this date in 1730, Benjamin Franklin’s Pennsylvania Gazette included news about several Lodges of Free-Masons meeting in that “province.” Franklin was not yet a Freemason when his newspaper printed this item. Dec 15th- On this date in 1779, American Union Lodge, a traveling lodge under the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, met and proposed that George Washington become the General Grand Master of Masons in the United States. There is no evidence that Washington ever heard about this, and no evidence that he ever held any Masonic position other than Master of a lodge (and no evidence that he attended this lodge while he was Master, or possibly ever). Dec 18th- On this date in 1786, the Grand Lodge of New Jersey was organized Dec 18th- On this date in 1799, George Washington’s funeral was conducted in Masonic fashion, at Mount Vernon, Virginia. Dec 22nd- On this date in 1753, the Royal Arch degree was conferred in Fredericksburg Lodge in Virginia. This is the first unquestioned evidence of the conferral of this degree. Dec 26th- On this date in 1972, Harry S. Truman, former President of the United States, Past Grand Master of Missouri, and a very active Freemason, died. He had requested a Masonic funeral, but instead the government, which handled the details, permitted a short Masonic ceremony during the funeral service. Dec 27th- On this date in 1813, Grand Officers and Brethren of the United Grand Lodge of England consummated the union of the Moderns and Ancients into the UGLE
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WEOFM.org December 2011 Lectures “The Worldwide Exemplification of Freemasonry”
12-03-11 God and Geometry, Howard Coop, PM 12-10-11 An Historical Outline of Freemasons on the Internet, Trevor W. McKeown, PM 12-17-11 The Birth of Internet Lodge No. 9659, Dr. Victor Sereno, PM 12-25-11 Freemasonry & its Holiday Gift to the World 12-31-11 Portrait of a Mason, Roger L. Terry, PM
weofm.org
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Publisher/Editor/Brother Michael Poll has agreed to showcase a specific title from his vast collection of available books from the online Cornerstone Publishers website found at http://www.cornerstonepublishers.com. As an added bonus the readers of TWT will get a 30% off discount (see below for details). Come back monthly to see what Bro. Poll has picked out for us next .
THIS MONTH
“History of the Secret Societies of the Army” “History of the Secret Societies of the Army” by Charles Nodier 6 x 9 Softcover 260 pages Retail Price: $16.95 ISBN 1-934935-24-7 Published by Cornerstone Book Publishers. www.cornerstonepublishers.com Before "Da Vinci Code" or "Holy Blood, Holy Grail" was the Book by a Reported Grand Master of the Priory of Sion ... Charles Nodier was the Librarian of the Bibliotheque de l'Arsenal in Paris when the archives of the Vatican was placed in his charge by Napoleon. Nodier and his assistants would have access to secret Vatican documents and records, long hidden from the world. His assistants would soon take on the pen names "Paul Christian" and "Eliphis Lévi" to write some of the leading esoteric books of the 19th century. But who was Charles Nodier? Continued on next page
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Was he a Grand Master of the secretive order known as the Priory of Sion? Was this amazing 1815 work purely innocent fiction as some claim? Or, was he trying to tell us something much more? Facsimile reproduction of the 1815 English translation. A great article that speaks about this book and Charles Nodier can be found here http://quintessentialpublications.com/ twyman/?page_id=23 About Cornerstone Book Publishers In 1995, Michael R. Poll created Michael Poll Publishing as a Masonic reprint book publisher. Soon after, the publishing company evolved into a used book seller and provided a popular rare book search service. In 1997, Michael Poll Publishing launched its first website. The demand for quality used Masonic books grew and requests began coming for Masonic gift items and supplies. In 1998, Lost Word was created to serve as both the on-line retail outlet for Michael Poll Publishing, and as a supplier of unique Masonic gift items. As one of the very first online Masonic supply stores, Lost Word quickly rose in popularity, but always remained a small family store. Today, Michael Poll Publishing publishes mainly under its imprint, Cornerstone Book Publishers, and is active in the publishing of Masonic reprints (print versions as well as e-books) and the publishing of new Masonic and esoteric books as well as contemporary
literature and pulp fiction. While Cornerstone Book Publishers remain a small publisher, it continues to provide quality books to its readers. Our free search service is our hallmark and we are happy to search for any hard to find book. Cornerstone Book Publishers is owned and operated by The New York Times Bestselling writer and publisher, Michael R. Poll, a Past Master in Etoile Polaire Lodge #1, Cervantes Lodge #5, Germania Lodge #46 (New Orleans, Louisiana) and Hiram-Takoma Lodge #10 (Washington, D.C.). He is a Masonic author and historian, a Founding Fellow and President of The Masonic Society, a Fellow of the Philalethes Society, a Fellow of the Maine Lodge of Research and a contributor to Heredom, the publication of the Scottish Rite Research Society as well as many other Masonic and non-Masonic publications. Cornerstone Book Publishers PO Box 24652 New Orleans, LA 70184 info@cornerstonepublishers.com
Readers of The Working Tools Masonic Magazine will get a 30% discount off the retail price of this book (plus reg. S&H) all this month. To obtain your discount, send an e-mail to: info@cornerstonepublishers. com and mention that you saw this book in TWT and would like your discount. Cornerstone will total your order and send you a PayPal invoice. www.twtmag.com
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Around The Net Fun Things Found Around The Internet This Month
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Blogs - “One Minute Mason”
One Minute Mason Blog http://oneminutemason.blogspot.com/
The Lodge That Stayed Open For 50 Years Hiram Lodge 40, Raleigh North Carolina, was in session when news of President Lincoln’s assassination arrived. Presiding Master John Nichols did not wait to close the Lodge as Brothers rushed to return to their homes. The Lodge remained open for 50 years! In a special ceremony on the 50th anniversary of the opening, April 17, 1915, WB John Nichols himself presided over the official closing.
William Wirt William Wirt, first presidential candidate of the Anti-Masonic party was, in fact, a Freemason. He even defended the order in his acceptance speech at the convention.
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Blogs - “One Minute Mason�
Baal's Bridge Square In 1830, Brother James Pain, while overseeing the rebuilding of Baal's Bridge in Limerick, Ireland discovered a brass square dated 1507, and bearing the inscription, "I will strive to live with love & care upon the level by the square." The relic is now located at Ancient Union Lodge #13 at the North Munster Masonic Centre in Limerick.
Jimmy McClure Brother James H. "Jimmy" McClure (1916 - 2005), member of Indianapolis' Oriental Lodge 500 (Now EvergreenOriental 500) is regarded as the greatest US table tennis player. In various divisions, "The Babe Ruth of Table Tennis" won six US and five world championships, and is the only American in the International Table Tennis Federation Hall of Fame.
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Grand Lodge Spotlight- Colorado
Grand Lodge A.F&A.M. of Colorado http://www.coloradofreemasons.org/
Grand Lodge of Colorado A.F. & A.M. 1130 Panorama Drive, Colorado Springs, Colorado. 80904
Local Telephone Access Numbers: (719) 471-9587 (303) 872-6120 (970) 372-1901 (720) 204-3380 Fax Number: (303) 557-9780 gloffice@coloradofreemasons.org M.W.Bro. John V. Egan III, G.M. Most Worshipful Grand Master of Masons in Colorado The basis of all Masonry in Colorado comes from each local 'Blue Lodge' that together form the Grand Lodge of Colorado. There are 131 of these local constituent 'Blue Lodges' located from Holyoke to Cortez, Fort Collins to Trinidad, Meeker to Granada and everywhere in between. We are proud to be part of these communities throughout our State.
There is a Lodge meeting in Colorado every night of the week except Sunday so participation in a Masonic communication is very easy. If you are a regular at your local Lodge, we thank you for your dedication to the Craft. If you haven't been in a while, consider re-connecting with your Brethren. For those seeking information or wishing to find out more about membership in our Fraternity, click on the 'contact us' link on this page. The Mission of Freemasonry in Colorado is to create an observable way of life through Education, Moral Standards, Charity, and Community Involvement. By following this guideline, our members hope to be better fathers, better husbands, and better citizens as we make our individual contributions to the improvement of life in this great land of ours. . . America. Continued on next page
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Grand Lodge Spotlight- Colorado Grand Lodge Website Overall I would say that the GL or CO website is a good resource for members and non members alike. It is very easy to navigate and find the information that you need. Importantly, the information presented is current and updated. The website features the sections you would expect to see such as: “About us”, “History”, and “How to Join”. I was happy to see a robust “Lodge Finder” that actually works and is updated with pertinent information. I did notice, however that they forgot to mention TWT in the Links section but that must have been just an oversight. I am quite impressed with their use of PDF’s throughout the site. It’s a great way to give the Colorado members quick access to an abundance of information.
Kudos to the webmaster for doing a good job.
History of the Grand Lodge Late in the year 1858 a number of gold-seekers had gathered at the junction of Cherry Creek and the Platte River, on land which was then a part of the Territory of Kansas, but which now is within the State of Colorado. This settlement was known as Auraria, and by the first of November a number of cabins had been erected there. On the evening of November 3, 1858, seven Masons, including William M. Slaughter, held an informal meeting in one of those cabins; and throughout the following winter these brethren and others continued to meet from time to time, having in mind the formation of a new Masonic Lodge at Auraria, provided the proper authorization could be obtained from some Grand Lodge. Gold was discovered in May, 1859, in what is now
Gilpin County, Colorado; and within a month thereafter several thousand men had rushed to the Gregory Diggings in that section of the country, and were engaged there or in the vicinity in a search for the precious metal. Among them were many Masons (including some who had become acquainted by having participated in the Masonic meetings that had been held throughout the preceding winter at Auraria), a number of whom, after discussing the matter, reached the conclusion that it would be desirable to have a meeting place at the Gregory Diggings for members of the Masonic fraternity. Accordingly, on June 12, 1859, a committee of three brethren preempted, as shown by an entry in Book A, page 59 of the records of the Gregory Mining District (now a part of the records of Gilpin County), a block of ground on which to erect a "Masonic Temple." Within a few days thereafter the building, which was of logs, "chinked and plastered with mud inside and out," and about thirty feet square, was completed; and about the 20th of June, 1859, an informal, though tiled, meeting of more than two hundred Masons, known to the committee in charge to be such by information or examination, was held in what was probably the first "Masonic Temple" erected in the vast territory between the Missouri River and the Pacific Coast. Some of those who participated in this meeting took prominent parts in the organization a few months later of the first Masonic Lodge in Colorado. In 1929 the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of Colorado appointed a committee to investigate a proposal that the Grand Lodge erect a monument to mark the site of the first Masonic Temple (that is to say, a building used exclusively for Masonic purposes) in the State of Colorado. Later the Grand Lodge appropriated funds for the creation of such a monument, and appointed a committee to take charge of the work. Some delay was encountered in perfecting the title to the land, but the monument has been completed and it will be unveiled and dedicated on June 17, 1933.
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Grand Lodge Spotlight- Colorado
Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Colorado http://mwphglco.com
History
Rocky Mountain Lodge #1 F .& A.M., the first of several lodges in Colorado , was organized in 1867 by a warrant from the National Compact System of Kansas, on November 17. On January 10 1876 Western Lodge #2 was organized and on January 11�, 1876 Mount Olive Lodge #3 came into existence from the same source. Rocky Mountain Lodge #1 worked under the National Compact System of Kansas from 1867 until 1876. On January 17, 1876 in accordance with a previous call, the delegates from Rocky Mountain Lodge #1, Western #2, and Mountain Lodge #3 met in convention in the hall of Rocky Mountain #1 of Denver for the purpose of organizing a Grand Lodge in the then Territory of Colorado. In later years, Colorado Jurisdiction consisted of lodges in Colorado, Wyoming, Utah, Montana, New Mexico, and Arizona but because of the formation of Grand Lodges in New Mexico and Arizona, most of the lodges in these states were lost due to the lack of good eligible members in Montana, Idaho and Wyoming some of these lodges ceased to survive. Having come from Kansas , let us see where the Kansas Jurisdiction got its right to propagate Masonry. The first lodge chartered in this state was Western Star Lodge #1, located in Lawrence , in 1865 with David G. Lett as Worshipful Master. Shortly afterward Euclid Lodge #2, located at Topeka , and Mount Oliver Lodge #3, located at Leavenworth were established and chartered by the Grand Lodge of Ohio, of which John Jones was Most Worshipful Grand Master. These lodges remained under the jurisdiction of Ohio until the year 1875, when a convention of the craft was called to meet at the Masonic Hall in Lawrence , Kansas . On March 7, 1875 a Grand Lodge was organized and its efforts consummated with the election of David G. Lett, as M. W. G. M. and the official roster of other Grand Officers were installed. The
title being Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of the Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, State of Kansas . The Jurisdiction of Ohio, which was as a state, is recognized as the mother State of more presidents of the United States than any other in the union, so in Negro Masonry, Ohio is the mother of more Masonic Jurisdictions, than any of the other states. This was done mostly through the efforts of Bro. Richard H. Gleaves, the father of Negro Masonry in the state of Ohio . Corinthian Lodge #17, the first lodge in the state was organized January 16, 1847 and chartered by African Grand Lodge of North America located in Philadelphia , Pa. On March 18, 1847, True American Lodge # 26, was organized and chartered by the same authority and on May 20, 1848, Saint Johns Lodge #27 was constituted by the same Grand Lodge. All these lodges were organized by Bro. Richard H. Gleaves under the authority of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania and all were located in Cincinnati . On May 3, 1849 a general assembly of the craft was held for the purpose of organizing a Grand Lodge for Ohio , which was accomplished by the election of Bro. Thomas W. Stringer as M. W. G.M; Bro. Richard H. Gleaves as R. W. D. G.M. and the other and received new ones under the Grand Lodge. Bro. Gleaves was elected M. W. G. M. in 1850 and his lodges in Ohio were very favorably looked upon by the white Masons who often visited their meetings and helped them in their work. Rev. Absalom Jones, the first Master of African Lodge in Philadelphia, was born in Sussex, Del. on November 6, 1746, and during the yellow fever epidemic in Philadelphia in 1793, which was mostly among the white citizens he, with Richard Allen and numerous other colored citizens, distinguished themselves to the highest by carrying for the sick and burying
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Grand Lodge Spotlight- Colorado the dead as they seemed to be immune to the disease. They were sighted by the Mayor and the City Council for their brave deeds, and they held among their friends Prince Hall of Boston, who had visited them in Philadelphia . After lengthy correspondence (March 2, 1797) Rev. Absalom Jones and other leading citizens of Philadelphia petitioned African Lodge of Boston for a charter to establish Masonry in Philadelphia , Pa. A dispensation was granted on March 29, 1797 by Provincial Grand Master Hall, at the same time he informed them that the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts was willing to set them to work under a copy of their charter granted from London to their lodge African #459. Under that authority and by the name of African Lodge #459 of Philadelphia , Pa. : “we hereby and hereon give you license to assemble and work as aforesaid, under the denomination as in the sight and fear of God.� At a meeting held June 24, 1797 the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts granted a warrant to Rev. Absalom Jones, W.M., Peter Mantore, S.W., William Harding, J.W. and other to establish a lodge of Master Masons in the city of Philadelphia, giving them a copy of the warrant which they had received from London, England (granted in 1784 but not received until 1787). the officers were duly installed by Grand Master Prince Hall assisted by Cyrus Forbes, Senior Grand Warden and George Middleton Junior Grand Warden. On June 8, 1810, George Middleton, Grand Master of Massachusetts at Boston granted a warrant to establish Union Lodge #2 now #1. This was the second lodge in Pennsylvania . In 1811, Peter Lew, Past Grand Master of Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Boston, granted a warrant to open Laurel Lodge #5 now #2 and Phoenix
lodge #6, now #3 in 1814. On St. Johns Day December 27, A.D. 1815, a convention of the craft was held for the purpose of organizing a Grand Lodge of Philadelphia. The Grand Lodge was perfected under the name the First African Independent Grand Lodge of F. & A.M. of North America for the State of Pennsylvania . The lodges were now all chartered and numbered as follows Union #1, Laurel #2, and Phoenix #3. This Grand Lodge is therefore a descendant from Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Massachusetts and the second colored Grand Lodge in the United States . It numbered among its member, master minds, historians, scholars, lawyers, doctors, preacher, and Masonic jurists, who made their lives work the up building of the Masonic Craft in America . On July 8, 1818 a number of the brothers of Union Lodge #1 were suspended for 99 years 9 months 9 weeks and 9 days, for unmasonic conduct and on January 4, 1819 the warrant of Union Lodge #1 was demanded by the Grand Lodge and the lodge expelled for 99 years 9 months 9 weeks and 9 days. This led to the formation of another Grand Lodge and there existed great amenity between the two until St. Johns Day December 27, 1882, when they got together and united as the United Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons (of color) in the State of Pennsylvania .
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Old Tyler Talks
“Inviolable”
by Carl H. Claudy
ballot is one of the great guardians of the Masonic fraternity. Every brother has a right to vote as his conscience tells him he should. None has the right to tell others either how he will vote or how he has voted. Whoever does so tears down the fraternity to some extent. If every Mason told how he would or had balloted there would be no secret ballot. If the ballot is controlled by outside influence, Masonry is no longer under the guidance of the hearts of its members. “If I know you will vote against my candidate, I argue with you. I plead with you. I remind you of the favor I did you. I work upon your feelings and perhaps, for my sake, you let into the lodge a man I like but whom you believe unfit for membership. If I don’t know how you will vote, I cannot argue with you, and your vote is dictated, as it should be, entirely by your conscience.”
J
“ ones didn’t get through, I knew he wouldn’t,” said the New Brother, sitting down in the anteroom. The Old Tiler hitched his sword to be more comfortable. “Some of you young Masons sure do know a lot.” “I knew he wouldn’t get through because I know two brethren who were going to blackball him,” defended the New Brother. “I have heard that before, too. Don’t tell me who your friends were. Perhaps they try, once in a while, to be good Masons. But they don’t succeed very well.” “What do you mean? They are splendid fellows, both of them. They know this fellow Jones ought not to be made a member and so they kept him out. One of them is...” “Wait a minute son, wait a minute. The secrecy of the
“But...” “Never mind the ‘but’ just yet. After my candidate gets in because of your affection for me, in spite of your knowledge of his unfitness, then what? Isn’t the lodge weaker than it was? Even if you are mistaken and a good man thus gets in, isn’t your telling that he isn’t a good man a weakening influence? Are you not apt to value it a little less because you weakened it? The harm, once done, may persist for years- and all because you opened your mouth and let out a few words of your intentions before you balloted.” “Suppose I want advice as to how to ballot? How can I ask your advice without telling you why I want it?” “You can’t. But there is a remedy provided for such cases. Masonry demands that every application be investigated by a committee a month prior to the ballot. You have ample time to go to the committee. If you
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Old Tyler Talks know anything against a petitioner it is your duty to tell the committee. If you heard something against the applicant, tell the committee. Let the committee find the facts. If what you heard is an idle rumor, the committee will learn it. If there is a foundation to the gossip, they will learn that, too. Then you can be guided by what the committee reports.” “Isn’t that to say that all balloting should be done by the committee?” “Not at all!” answered the Old Tiler. “The committee decides for you as to the foundation of the rumor or the malice behind the gossip. If you know anything which in your mind justifies a blackball your course and your conscience are clear. You asked me what you should do when you needed advice.”
“Humph! ‘All this.’ Boy, there are thousands of books written about Masonry. Do you expect someone to teach you the contents of them all? The shoe is on the other foot.” “How do you mean, other foot?” “When you first came into this lodge, why didn’t you ask?” responded the Old Tiler, as he rose to answer raps on the door.
“But committees are often perfunctory.” “That’s your fault!” was the sharp answer. “My fault? How do you make that out?” “If you think a committee has made a perfunctory investigation, tell the Master you want a new committee appointed. If you think a committee isn’t doing its duty, ask its members what they have done. If they won’t tell you, notify the Master that you wish more time. He won’t refuse it; he knows such a request means a blackball if it is refused. No Master wants any good man kept out, or any unfit man in. Finally, get yourself on a few committees- the Master will be happy to have your request for such work. Then by example show the other committees what a real committee can do.” “I see!” said the New Brother. “I wonder why all this isn’t told to us when we first come into lodge?”
Vistit The Masonic Trowel at http://www.themasonictrowel.com for more Masonic Talks.
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Biography Preston Grand-William Lodge Spot Light
William Preston ILLUSTRATIONS OF MASONRY William Preston was a Scottish author, born in Edinburgh, on the 7 August 1742. He died on April 1, 1818. With the death of his father, Preston left college and found a job as a secretary to Thomas Ruddiman, with whom he carried out extensive research, required by the same in his classical and linguistic studies. With the death of Ruddiman, Preston became a printer for Walter Ruddiman, Thomas' brother, to whom he had been apprenticed. After working in the printing office for about a year, he set out for London in 1760, intent upon making a name for himself as an author. One of his references was addressed to William Stranhan, the King's Printer, with whom Preston secured a position, which he retained for many years. The exact date of Preston's initiation into Freemasonry is not known, but is thought to have been between 1762 and 1763, in London. His experiences from this point on made a deep impression upon him, inducing Preston to undertake a major study of Freemasonry, its origin and its teachings, and this effort was intensified when he was elected a Worshipful Master. He discovered a vast body of traditional and historical lore in the old documents of the Craft, and begun modernizing the format of group meetings in such a way as to make ritual accessible, bringing a rudimentary knowledge of the arts and sciences to members of the Fraternity. Preston embarked upon detailed communication with Masons worldwide, so developing extensive knowledge of the Craft, and collecting the material which was to become his best known book, Illustrations of Masonry published in 1772.
He delved into the most obscure places in search of Masonic lore, and became a frequent visitor to many different Lodges. On 15 June, 1774, he visited the Lodge of Antiquity No. 1, (one of the four Lodges that formed the Premier Grand Lodge of England in 1717), and was subsequently elected a member and Worshipful Master at the same meeting. He became an active member of the Grand Lodge, and was later appointed Deputy Grand Secretary under James Heseline. After a brief period of expulsion from the fraternity for his support of a factional disagreement between the Grand Lodge of Moderns and the society over public use of ritual paraphernalia he was reinstated in 1787, all his honours and dignities restored, whereupon he resumed his Masonic activities. From 1765 to 1772, Preston engaged in personal research and correspondence with Freemasons at home and abroad, absorbing all he could about Freemasonry and the arts it encouraged. He had taken the works of Freemasonry, and revised them in such form as to receive the approval of the leading members of the Craft. New editions of his book were regularly demanded, and up to the present time it has gone through 20 editions in England, 6 in America, and several more in other European languages. "He was one of the first men to influence a change in the social standards prevalent in the old lodges.
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Biography -William Preston From a position as the youngest Entered Apprentice standing in the North East corner of his lodge, he progressed until he was recognized as the foremost Masonic Scholar of his generation, the name of William Preston is still pre-eminent in the annals of Freemasonry". (Wikipedia) Initiated : 1763, Lodge No. 111 “Ancients” Caledonian Lodge No. 325 (now No. 134), meeting at the Great Eastern Hotel, London Worshipful Master : June 1774 Lodge of Antiquity Deputy Grand Secretary Ancient Grand Lodge of England (Lodge info- GL of BC & Yukon)
Preface of “Illustrations of Masonry” “ The favourable reception this Treatise has met within the several Editions through which it has passed, encourages the Author to hope that its appearance on a still more enlarged scale, will not render it less deserving the countenance of his Brethren. He would be wanting in gratitude to his friends, not to acknowledge his obligations to several gentlemen for many curious extracts, and the perusal of some valuable manuscripts, which have enabled him to illustrate his subject with greater accuracy and precision. This Tract is divided into Four Books. In the First Book, the excellency of Masonry is displayed. In the Second Book the Lectures of the different degrees are illustrated, with occasional remarks; and a brief description is given of the ancient ceremonies of the Order. This part of the Treatise, which the Author considers most essential for the instruction and improvement of his Brethren, is considerably extended in the present edition. The Third Book contains the copy of a curious old Manuscript, with annotations, the better to explain this authentic document of antiquity. The Fourth Book is restricted to the history of Masonry, from its first appearance in England to the present time, in the course of which are introduced the most remarkable occurrences of the Society, both at home and abroad, with some account
of the principal patrons and protectors of the fraternity at different periods. The progress of the Society on the Continent, as well as in India and America, is also traced, while the proceedings of the Brethren of Scotland particularly claim attention. throughout the whole are interspersed several explanatory notes, containing a variety of interesting and well authenticated particulars. At the end is given a collection of Anthems and Songs; some of which have never appeared in any of the former editions. These being occasionally introduced in our assemblies, must tend to greatly enliven the proceedings. Thus having endeavoured to put the finishing stroke to his Treatise, the success of which has far exceeded the its merit, the author can only observe, that should the additions be considered real improvements, he will be amply gratified for any pains he may have taken. Dean-fleet, Fetter Lane, Dec 1 1795”
introduction of “Illustrations of Masonry” Whoever, attentively considers the nature and tendency of the masonic institution, must readily perceive its general utility. (Mr Arnold, in his Dutch Dictionary, under the word Freemasonry, says, that it www.twtmag.com
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Biography -William Preston is “A Moral Order, instituted by virtuous men, with the praiseworthy, design of recalling to our remembrance the most sublime truths, in the midst of the most innocent and social pleasures, founded on liberality, brotherly live and charity.�) From an anxious desire to display its value, I have been induced to offer the following sheets to the Public. Many reasons might have with-held me from the attempt; my inexperience as a writer, my attention to the duties of a labourious profession, and the many abler hands who have treated the subject before me; yet, under all these disadvantages, the persuasion of friends, added to a warm zeal in the cause, have stimulated me to risk my reputation on the fate of my performance. When I first had the honour to be elected Master of a lodge, I thought it proper to inform myself fully of the general rules of the Society, that I might be able to fulfill my own duty, and officially enforce a due obedience in others. The methods which I adopted with this view, excited in some of superficial knowledge, an absolute dislike of what they considered as innovations; and in other, who were better informed, a jealousy of pre-eminence which the principles of Masonry ought to have checked. Notwithstanding these discouragements, however, I persevered in my intention of supporting the dignity of the Society, and discharging with fidelity the trust reposed in me. As condour and integrity, uninfluenced by interest and favour, will ever support a good cause, many of my opponents (pardon the expression) began to discover their error, and not only applauded, but cheerfully concurred in the execution of my measures; while others, of less liberality, tacitly approved of what their former declared opinions forbad then publicly to adopt. This success exceeding my most sanguine wishes, I was encouraged to examine with more attention the contents of our various lectures. The rude and imperfect state in which I found them, the variety of modes established in our lodges, and the difficulties which I encountered in my researches, rather discouraged me first attempt; preserving, however, in the design, I continued, I continued the pursuit; and assisted by a few friends, who had carefully preserved what ignorance and degeneracy had rejected as unintelligible and absurd, I diligently sought for, and at length happily acquired, some ancient and venerable landmarks of the Order.
Fully determined to pursue the design of the effecting a general reformation, and fortunate in the acquisition of the friends which I had made, I continued my industry till I had prevailed on a sufficient number to join in an attempt to correct the irregularities which had crept into our assemblies, and to exemplify the beauty and utility of the masonic system. We commenced our plan by enforcing the value of the ancient charges and regulations of the Order, which inattention had suffered to sink into oblivion, and we established those charges as the basis of our work. To imprint on the memory of a faithful discharge of our duty, we reduced the more material parts of our system into practice; and to encourage others in promoting the plan, we observed a general rule of reading one or more of these charges at every regular meeting, and of elucidating such passages as seemed obscure. The useful hints afforded by these means enabled us gradually to improve our plan, till we at last succeeded in bringing into a connected form the sections which now compose the three lectures of Masonry. The progress daily made by our system pointed out the necessity of obtaining the sanction of our patrons; hence several brethren of acknowledged honour and integrity united in an application to eh most respectable members of the Society for countenance and protection and so far happily succeeded, as not only to obtain the wished for sanction, but to secure the promise of future support, Since that time the plan has been universally admitted as the basis of our Moral Lectures; and to that circumstance the present publication owes its success. Having thus ventured to appear in vindication of the ceremonies, and in support of the privileges, of Masonry, I shall be happy to be considered a feeble instrument in promoting its propriety. If I am honoured with a continuance of the approbation of my brethren, and succeed in giving the world a favourable idea of the institution, I shall have attained the full completion of my wish; and if my hopes are frustrated, I shall still indulge the not unpleasant reflection, of having exerted my best endeavours in a good cause. January 18, 1788
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Word of the Month - Ruffians
Masonic Symbolism & Words Brought to you by Www.masonicdictionary.com This Month’s Word is
“Deism�
James Madison
Thomas Paine
In an abstract sense, Deism, or Theism, is the belief in God, but the word is generally used to designate those who, believing in God, reject a belief in the Scriptures as a revelation. The sect of Deists which, in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, enrolled among its followers many great intellects, such as Toland, Collins, Lord Herbert of Cherbury, Fume, Gibbon, and Voltaire-is said by Findel (History of Freemasonry, page 126) to have "necessarily exercised an important influence on the Fraternity of Masons"; and, he adds, that "we cannot doubt that it contributed essentially to its final transformation from an Operative to a universal Speculative Society." The refutation of this remarkable assertion is best found in the first of the Charges adopted at the revival in 1717, and which was published in the Constitutions of 1793. A Mason is obliged, by his tenure, obey the moral law; and if he rightly understands the art, he will never be a stupid atheist nor an irreligious libertine," where the words irreligious libertine refer to the Freethinkers or Deists of that period. It is evident, then, that the Deists could have had no influence at that time in molding the Masonic organization. There is still better evidence to be found in the old records of Freemasonry during several preceding centuries, when the Operative was its dominant character, and when the dogmas of Christianity were fully recognized, which must necessarily have been the case, since Freemasonry during that period was under the patronage of the Church. There is, in fact, no evidence to sustain Findel's theory, that in the transition stage from the Operative to the Speculative, when such men as the deeply religious Ashmole were among its members, the Deists could have infused any If their principles into its organization or exercised any influence in changing its character. Freemasonry, at that time sectarian, demanded almost a Christian belief-at all events, a Christian allegiance-from its disciples. It is now more tolerant, and Deism presents no disqualification for initiation. An atheist would be rejected, but none would now be refused admission on religious grounds who subscribed to the dogmas of a belief in God and a resurrection to eternal life.
- Source: Mackey's Encyclopedia of Freemasonry Benjamin Farnklin
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PODCAST- ‘WHENCE CAME YOU”
The “Whence Came You” Podcast http://wcypodcast.blogspot.com/
A couple of weeks ago I decided to take a long train ride into NYC. Knowing that I can’t sit still for longer than five minutes without going stir crazy I decided to download some new podcasts to keep me occupied. It’s been a couple of months since I’ve looked into what new shows are available. I was dismayed to see some of the shows I have downloaded frequently in the past were no longer being updated (The Digital Freemason for one). Thankfully there were also a couple of newer ones I wasn’t familiar with. One of these newer shows I thought was a very good new addition to the mix and kept me interested throughout my long journey. Currently up to 19 podcasts which are available for free on I-tunes and the Android marketplace. The “Whence Came You” podcast is a weekly show from Illinois Brother Robert Johnson. A member of the Royal Arch, Cryptic Council and Knight Templar. The show is quickly find its feet and showing consistency in segments and format. I think if Brother Robert continues with it he can really make a really good show for all Masons to enjoy. Some of the topics that he talked about that stood out were lengthy descriptions of the Royal Arch degrees. Reading about it on websites is one thing but hearing someone talk about it with more descriptive terms and adding personal touches makes a big difference. Currently the segments include among others; short stories or talks, famous Masons, news and education. One day I hope the host is able to add guests to the show for a interview or discuss. That would make it more well rounded and a great listening experience. Price: Free On the web: http://wcypodcast.blogspot.com & http://www.facebook.com/pages/Whence-CameYou/189886497732490 Where to download: http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/whence-came-you/id449451010?uo=4 http://www.amazon.com/Wizzard-Media-WCY-Whence-Came/dp/B006552FMA/ ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=mobile-apps&qid=1320979725&sr=1-1
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Featured Writer - Bro. John Joseph Petrolino III
BY Bro. John Joseph Petrolino III Walking down a street in Philadelphia I saw the two Franciscan priests, though they look like monks, they’ll be the first to admit that one cannot tell the difference between the monks and priests without interrogation. Father David was the priest presiding over my friend Michael’s wedding and Father Matthew was just along for the ride. David would stop and talk to all the homeless people and when I stopped him, even more of the homeless and some addicts would approach him. I never actually saw a man of the cloth in the community practicing what was preached and this was refreshing. On the corner we talked... I asked David about receiving communion the next day at Michael’s wedding, a full Catholic ceremony, an old style, where the groom and bride would walk in together down the isle. Holding up my hand and showing him my cufflink I said “Being a Catholic Freemason, I wanted to extend to you a dialogue about communion before tomorrow...I did not want to put you in an uncomfortable position.” Matthew out right asked “How can you be a Catholic Freemason? You have to believe in Christ to be a Catholic.”
found anything against any religion...how we have universal prayers before, during and after meetings and meals. “But hold on a second my son” said Matthew, David was talking to some addict, “...you must believe that Christ is your savior, that he died for your sins and that he was resurrected....” At that point, in that conversation, I figured out Freemasonry clearly had nothing to do with all of this...this was about misinformation. David segued towards another topic and told me about his time in Brooklyn and his spiritual consul to a high profile known gangster, probably a murderer as well, who was imprisoned. He told me about the phone calls and presenting the prisoner with spiritual advice. I remembered seeing David in a short film Fishers of Men, a compelling documentary about the call to God. We chatted more in this fashion about faith and how I should read St. Thomas Aquinas, Matthew’s recommendation, because I’m an engineer and Aquinas uses logic to prove his points. I did eventually read On Politics and Ethics, which was full of contradictions, I digress. David finally addressed my question with a question, “When was the lat time you had confession?”
As if I were Arlo Guthrie, sans eight by ten color glossy photos, I began to tell him about how Freemasonry has no anti-Catholic sentiments and further, to even advance in one of the Rites, one must profess an allegiance to Christianity. I continued on, as succinctly as possible, to explain the genesis of a few of the remaining points of contention the Catholic Church openly has towards the Fraternity, diving into the Propangada Due scandal, what it meant then and what it means today and also about the church demanding copies and translations of rituals, which, consequently following that, an anti Catholic sentiment surfaced for a brief period of time...but in modern Masonry in The United States, there is no anti-anything, above all, politics and religion are prohibited topics in a Masonic Lodge because they may break the harmony of the friendly environment.
“The last time the church made me...” and then I pictured staying up all night with this young priest and old priest, conveying all of what they consider sins, of which I would not repent and all of which I would not be able to promise to not re-commit, so in theory, waste everyone’s time over an exchange neither party would gain anything from. I always felt that my personal confession to my creator and the guilt associated with any transgressions far outweighed spewing hours of “sins” to a stranger and then be caused to patter to my self for hours in penance. Learning and change always seemed a more reputable penance.
“But hold on a second my son, I thought you can’t be Catholic and a Freemason...” Matthew trailed off, so I went on again a bit deeper this time, that one must have a belief in a God and it does not matter what creed...and I explained in all my thirty-two degrees of Freemasonry, I have never
I said “Thank you,” it started to rain and we parted ways, pivoting into opposite directions. I did not really get an answer to my question...I ambled down the street in my suit, thought about metaphor, the metaphors of existence in general and concluded that I am merely catholic.
“Okay, since you have not confessed, it’s not a good idea to take in the Lord when in a state of sin. If you like my son, you may come up in line during communion, cross your arms across your chest and I’ll bless you.” David proposed.
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Featured Writer Bro. John Nagy
By Bro. John Nagy The Attic[1] Ask any Mason what significance Athens has to Masonry and there is a high probability that you’ll be met with a blank stare and a possible grunted “huh?” I would be tempted to say that this response is most unfortunate but reality tells me this is for the best. If the connection between Athens and Masonry became common knowledge, Masonry would transform before our very eyes. However, least I get ahead of myself in revealing too much too soon, let me first share with you some trivial background and set the stage for such a quick transformation. Foundation Classical Athens had a rich background and long record of accomplishment. It was a powerful city-state. Athens was a center for the arts, learning and philosophy. It was home to Plato's Academy and Aristotle's Lyceum. Classical Athens is currently referred to as “the cradle of Western civilization” since its cultural achievements laid the civil foundations of the West. It is also considered “the Birthplace of Democracy.” What’s more is Athens, as a city, has been continuously inhabited for at least 7000 years – a very long time in terms of human history. In all these statements about Athens, there lay seeds of some important Masonic connections. One of these connections is the practice of Civility. Civility is the core of Civilization. Civilizations are complex societies or culture groups characterized by interdependence upon agriculture, long-distance trade, state form of government, occupational specialization, urbanism, and class stratification[2]. None of these can exist without Civility.
Another connection is Democracy. Democracy is either Direct or Representative. A Direct Democracy is a political government carried out by the people; a Representative Democracy is where the power to govern is granted to elected representatives. Interestingly, the word “Democracy” is derived from the Greek word “dēmokratía,” which means “the power to the people.” It was coined from “demos” which means "people" and “krátos” which means "power." The Athenian connection? The word “Democracy” was coined in the middle of the fifth century BCE to denote the political systems then existing in some Greek city-states, notably Athens following a popular uprising in 508 BCE. There are two principles that characterize any form of Democracy: equality and freedom. They are most often reflected as all citizens being equal before the law, having equal access to power with freedom secured by legitimized rights and liberties. These are generally protected by a ratified Constitution. It is useful right now for us to delve a bit into what constitutes a ratified Constitution. A Constitution is a set of rules for government—often codified as a written document—that enumerates the powers and functions of a political entity. Ratification occurs by the approval of the principal for an act of its agent where the agent originally lacked authority to legally bind the principal[3]. Simply put: To ratify is to legally empower others to act as agents to execute specific functions. Such ratification occurs of one’s own freewill and accord.
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Featured “The Masonic Writer Bro. Map” John DVD Nagy Constitutions are not a new idea. People were creating Constitutions very early on in recorded history. Excavations in Iraq around 1877 found evidence of the earliest known code of justice, issued by the Sumerian king Urukagina of Lagash around 2300 BCE that allowed for some citizen rights. Some of these rights provided tax relief for widows and orphans. Other rights protected the poor from the usury of the rich. Early on, Constitutions became entwined in civil support. This leads us to a very important Constitution that occurred in Athens. In 621 BCE, a scribe named Draco wrote the laws of the city-state of Athens. Its codes had one unique prescribed solution – a death penalty for any offense. This was changed 27 years later when, in about 594 BCE, Solon, the ruler of Athens, created the new Solonian Constitution. The new Constitution eased worker Burden. It also made the ruling class wealth based and not birth based, as in a “Plutocracy” rather than an “Aristocracy.” About 508 BCE, Cleisthenes reformed the Athenian Constitution and set Athens on a Democratic footing as an ancient Participant Democracy. For this action, he is referred to as “the father of Athenian Democracy.” Later on around 350 BCE, Aristotle, made a formal distinction between Ordinary Law and Constitutional Law. He established ideas of Constitution and Constitutionalism. He also attempted to classify different forms of Constitutional government. His efforts further clarified the relationships between men, their government and the world. The clarification process within Athens continued for some time. All who lived within it stirred the pool of shared information. Ultimately, the foundation laid by Athenians has provided Masons with much to be grateful. Tyranny Gratitude though sometimes comes in mixed measures. There was another very important, albeit disturbing, heritage established in Athens to which Masons should take notice. It was the establishment of tyrannicide; the killing or assassination of tyrants for the common good. This began in Athens in 514 BCE. The group establishing this act was referred to as the “Athenian Tyrannicide Cult.” They showed outright contempt for tyranny.
Tyranny was not always looked at in disfavor though. At that time and before, tyranny simply meant anyone who obtained executive power in a polis by unconventional means. In fact, the word derives from the Latin word “tyrannus”, meaning "illegitimate ruler", and this word in turn came from the Greek “týrannos”, meaning "sovereign, master." In Classical Athens tyranny occurred regularly. Support for tyrants came from the growing middle class and from peasants who had no land or were in debt to wealthy landowners. The populous preferred them to kings and aristocracy. Unfortunately tyrants once positioned, used mercenary soldiers from outside of their respective city-states to maintain their power. During the growth of the Athenian Democracy[4], the word “tyrant” took on its negative connotations. What has come to be known as “tyranny” is antithetical to Masonic practice. Masons should note how such tyrants come into being and how they maintain their power base. Athena There is further significance for Masons in knowing Athenian history. Athens was named after Athena, their city’s patron. She was known as the goddess of Wisdom, war, strategy, industry, Justice and skill, of which the metalwork of weapons fell under her patronage. Athena was also known as a shrewd companion of heroes and the goddess of heroic endeavors. Although known as a goddess of war, she disliked fighting without a purpose. Athena preferred using Wisdom to settle disputes, using war only as a last resort and for good and reasonable cause. Like all of Masonry and its symbol of Solomon, Athena’s underlying character is Wisdom based. Interestingly enough, this focus on Wisdom is also echoed in the Volume of Sacred Law. One scripture: Wisdom had Built her house; she has set up in it Seven Pillars[5]; becomes even more important to Masons once some connections are known. Let’s review some now. The classic Symbolic interpretation of the word “Seven” denotes “completion or sufficiency.” The meaning is rooted in the phase changes of the moon where every seven days reveals a completed phase change. The classic Symbolic interpretation of the word “Pillar” denotes three possibilities — “a supportive structure,” “a commemoration of a significant event,” and when it is accompanied by an orb placed on top, it denotes “a person of importance.” When these two word meanings are placed within the
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Featured Writer Bro. John Nagy context of Wisdom’s house, we see that it is always a significant event when an important person comes to support Wisdom’s house completely or sufficiently. Masons should know how this is immortalized in Ritual.
phy. Please keep in mind that Philosophy for ancient Greeks had a much broader connotation than what is applied to it today. Back then, it applied to all those domains of reality reflecting rational thought.
Those Seven Pillars have much to do with regard to Masonic endeavors. They provide a sound and firm understanding of what supports Masonic Wisdom. They represent the “complete or sufficient” study of Wisdom as provided by the Seven Liberal Arts and Sciences. The Masonic connection to these Liberal Arts and Sciences may not be clearly apparent at first. Let’s explore elsewhere a bit before I share this connection.
Philosophy The story of Greek Philosophy starts sooner than Plato’s Academy though. It began in the seventh century BCE with an Ionian named Thales. He was one of the first recorded “thinkers” to reflect rationally on the makeup of the primary substance of the universe. Thales’ primary interests were Ethics, Metaphysics, Mathematics and Astronomy. Aristotle regarded him as the first Philosopher in the Greek tradition.
Properly Aimed Study The term “Liberal Arts” derives from the Medieval Latin phrase “artes liberals.[6]” The root meaning of “artes” is “subjects of study,” and the root meaning of “liberals” is “proper to free persons.” Science is Knowledge supported by an integrated system of rational thought. The “Seven Liberal Arts and Sciences” are book studies that are proper and sufficient for persons who are free. Their aim is to properly prepare students for the serious pursuit of Science in the strict sense of the term. Students schooled in the Seven Liberal Arts and Sciences prepare themselves for serious study of Scholasticism, which is the combination of Philosophy and Theology. “Scholasticism” is a word derived from the Latin word “scholasticus” which means “that which belongs to school.” It was a method or tool of learning taught by academics of medieval universities circa 1100 CE to 1500 CE. Originally, its purpose was to reconcile ancient classical Philosophy with medieval Christian Theology. By placing emphasis on Dialectical reasoning, it was believed that one could find answers and resolve contradictions. This leads us back to the point of this communication. The foundation of the Seven Liberal Arts and Sciences was first established in Ancient Greece and more specifically Athens. Socrates, Plato and Aristotle were Athenians partially responsible for helping to establish the foundation for the study of subjects we now know as the Seven Liberal Arts and Sciences. Plato was a Classical Greek philosopher, mathematician, writer of philosophical dialogues, and founder of the Academy in Athens. The Academy was the first higher learning institution in the Western world. Academy teachers were known for laying the foundations of Science, Natural Philosophy, and Western Philoso-
Other “thinkers” followed Thales’ example. They were Anaximenes, Heraclitus, Parmenides and Democritus – Philosophers all. Their collective method of reasoning was Dialectic and involved the use of Rhetorical thought and discourse. This method caught on fast. Within two centuries of introduction of this specific thought process, sophists were making money in Athens instructing young men in Rhetoric. Such instruction was considered at that time the art of persuading an audience. The Sophist’s Philosophy though espoused a type of skepticism with respect to religious beliefs and philosophical knowledge. They embraced a relativistic approach to Ethics. Their view of the universe was summed up by the sophist Protagoras, who claimed that “man is the measure of all things.” Plato characterize sophists in his “Sophist” dialogue the following way: Sophistry is a productive art, human, of the imitation kind, copy-making, of the appearancemaking kind, uninformed and insincere in the form of a contrary-speech-producing art.[7] Plato’s mentor, Socrates, was a man who firmly and fiercely disagreed with sophist ideals and methods. He was an Athenian Citizen and Philosopher who lived between 469 BCE to 399 BCE. Socrates is sometimes referred to as the “Father of Philosophy.” The development and use of the “Socratic method” was his legacy
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FeaturedFeatured Writer Writer Bro. John Bro. NagyJohn“The NagyAttic” to Philosophy. His method uses a series of Inquiries and Responses in the form of questions and answers to refute groundless opinions and to lay the foundation for the discovery of true Knowledge. Socrates was known for many things, of which two facts about his life should stand out for Masons. The first fact was that his father, Sophroniscus, was a stonemason who is believed to have died by the year 424 BCE, before Socrates’ 46th year. The second was that Socrates’ execution, about his 70th year, profoundly changed ideas about what it meant to be heroic since he died only because this Widow’s Son steadfastly refused to abandon his principles. City-state Governance Plato was tremendously influenced by Socrates, along with Pythagoras, Aristophanes, Protagoras, Homer, Hesiod, Parmenides, Aesop, Heraclitus, and Orphism. He used the Socratic dialogues in his Academy. They were written by Plato as thirty-five dialogues and thirteen letters. These dialogues were used to teach a range of subjects, including but not limited to Philosophy, Logic, Rhetoric and Mathematics. Plato though is best known for writing, the “Republic”, originally titled “Politeía.” The title “Politeía” literally means “the order or character of a political community” that is “its constitution or regime type” and is a guide to "city-state governance.” It has profoundly influenced Philosophy and political theory since its writing. In it, the characters discuss the meaning of Justice and examine whether the just man is happier than the unjust man. It accomplishes this by imagining a society ruled by Philosopher-Kings and supported by Guardians. The dialogues also discuss the role of the Philosopher, Plato's Theory of Forms, the place of poetry, and the immortality of the soul.[8] The Guardians Masons would do well to inform themselves about Guardians and their training. Guardians were those persons educated[9] to be
gentle toward their own citizens and fierce toward their enemies. This education was accomplished by totally training each Guardian’s character toward producing a morally mature individual. It strived continuously to connect Ethics with Aesthetics, thus cultivating Guardians attracted to good and repulsed by evil. The training combined the proper balance of intellectual and physical training and cultivation so neither overrode the other. Part of the discipline required to do this was to discourage Guardians from questioning the accepted belief system, leaving this to those who have been properly schooled to do such things. What is most striking about Guardian education is the strict emphasis on all Guardian educational material reflecting good Morals, personal balance and encouraging development of Virtues. Masons should recognize this as the focus of education toward which the First Degree Ritual points us. The Philosopher-Kings This leads us toward the Masonic connection involving the Seven Liberal Arts and Sciences. PhilosopherKings were those persons educated in what is now known as the Seven Liberal Arts and Sciences, with particular emphasis on Dialectic and the Quadrivium. [10] The study of Dialectic focused upon Logical discourse and it was supported by knowledge and proper practice of Grammar and Rhetoric. Masons recognize these as the Trivium.[11] Education in the Trivium and Quadrivium have a profound effect upon those who study them. Plato had his concerns regarding improperly guided Dialectic though. He believed that without proper Philosophical guidance Dialectic could destroy a person’s belief in religious myths, its traditions and conventional norms. This very concern is characterized and conveyed in present day Masonic Ritual as “Irreligious Libertines and Stupid Atheists. [12]” They are two www.twtmag.com
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Featured Writer Bro. John Nagy characters denoted in Masonry who destroy Faithful belief through irreverent use of Dialectic, usually because of their poorly guided study. Philosophers avoid cultivating these possibilities in their students by refocusing Dialectic toward the Eternal Forms and to the form of the Good. Masons must keep in mind though that myths represent forms of Good about as well as shadows represent the things that cast them. [13] This is why the Seven Liberal Arts and Sciences were studied. Studying them allowed future Philosopher-Kings to look through the illusions cast by myths and see clearly the truth behind them. The Masonic degree that best reviews and espouses the education of Philosopher-Kings is the Fellow Craft Degree. Blueprint Entered Apprentice and Fellow Craft Masons partake in a specific study as they travel Eastward. These studies echo the ones put forth in Plato’s Republic for those characters within called “Guardians” and “Philosopher-Kings” respectively. For Fellow Craft Masons, that study is best exemplified by what is now referred to as “The Seven Liberal Arts and Sciences.” The protagonist of Plato’s Republic is Socrates, the Widow’s Son and the “Father of Philosophy.” He is noted for inspiring new ideas as to how to go about thinking and what it is to be heroic. When men follow his example, their awareness, merits, rewards and contributions are profoundly Raised. I’ll now delightfully revoke my earlier statement about Masonry transforming if the aforementioned connection were to become common knowledge. It wouldn’t transform, but you may. Let me now share with you no more trivial background. If I have done my job, your stage is now set for some cavernous contemplation, intense investigation and some titanic transformation. Perpending Section: 1. Review the benefits reaped by Masonry through its connection with Classical Athens. 2. How does tyranny occur and continue and what was one Athenian solution to it? 3. Describe an undesired outcome that might occur when studying Dialectic and how to prevent it. 4. What is the significance behind the education of Guardians and Philosopher-Kings and its ramifications? 5.Explain the significance Socrates, Plato and Aristotle have to Masonry.
6.Identify and discuss both the overt and covert Masonic connections communicated herein. ---------About the Article: This article is based on the published Masonic writings, “The Attic” and “The Attic Catechism” written by Dr. John S. Nagy. They are found in the book “Building Athens – Uncommon Catechism for Uncommon Masonic Education - Volume 3” by the same author. The book was published by PG Publishing in June 2010. About the Author: Dr. John S. Nagy is a Master Mason, a perpetual member of Tampa Bay Lodge No. 252 in Tampa Bay Florida and a Life Member of the Florida Lodge of Research. He is the Lodge Musician for both Lodges and occasional Masonic Education provider. [1]“Attic” refers to the plain of Attica, home of Athens; it also refers to the upper most story of a Building. [2]Civilization, Wikipedia [3]Ratification, Wikipedia [4]Tyrant, Wikipedia [5]Proverbs 9:1 [6]Counter to this educational focus was “artes illiberales”, which are pursued for economic purposes, the aim of which is to prepare the student for gaining a livelihood. [7]Sophist (dialogue) - Plato, Wikipedia [8]The Republic - Plato, Wikapedia [9]Republic, Book 2 (375a-383d); Book 3 (386a412b) [10]Republic, Book 7 (521c-541b) [11]Source of the word “Trivial” [12]Libertines, Encyclopedia of Masonry; Charges of 1722 [13]Republic, Book 7 (514a-521b)
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Featured Writer
Bro. Matt Johnson
(The following is commonly found in King James Bibles given to new Master Masons in the United States of America) Freemasonry teaches the universal principle of unselfish friendship and promotes those moral precepts which are in keeping with all great faiths. In pursuing this doctrine, the following, though not exclusive, is considered to be basic:
Masonic Beliefs
Mankind was created by one God. This one God is the author of all life. God’s existence is revealed to man through faith and the Book of Holy Scriptures. The Book of Holy Scriptures is the Ultimate Authority or Great Light of Freemasonry. The soul of man is immortal. Man’s commitment to Divine Providence determines his destiny. Man’s reverence to God is best exemplified by his actions toward his fellow man. Considering the universality of Freemasonry, its teachings cannot be defined in any single statement or established profile. The following is considered to be representative of its fundamental precepts and constitutes basic:
Masonic Teachings
Man’s first duty is to love and revere God, implore His aid in all laudable undertakings, and to seek his guidance in prayer, embrace and practice the tenets of religion, extend charity and sympathy to all mankind, shield and support the widow and orphan, defend virtue, respect the aged, honor the bonds of friendship, protect the helpless, lift up the oppressed, comfort the downcast, restore dignity to the rejected, respect the laws of government, promote morality, and add to the common stock of knowledge and understanding. E. Dean Osborn, PGM Grand Lodge of Kansas A.F. & A.M.
Commentary by Matt Johnson
Some questions may arise when reading this classic statement on Freemasonry by E. Dean Osborn. I will Continued on next page
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Featured Writer
Bro. Matt Johnson
give my view. Keep in my mind that no one Freemason is a central authority on Freemasonry, not Mr. Osborn or myself. I will give only what I have read that I believe is common to all regular Freemasons worldwide. What does man’s commitment to Divine Providence entail? That depends on what religion you are. It may be accepting Christ as your Lord and Savior. It may be adhering to Islam. It is different for us all. Freemasonry acknowledges basic religious truth…the Fatherhood of God, the brotherhood of Man and the immortality of the human soul. To us, these are facts just like the law of gravity. They fascinate us and we have taken a vow to not divide or comment on which path is right or wrong in the arena of our lodge. We are a fraternity, not a religion. Making definite statements on faith is the right of religion, not a fraternity. We respect that tremendously. What is the Book of the Holy Scriptures? Historically, Masons have used the King James version of the Christian Bible. Most of us are Christians of every type of denomination. Freemasonry is believed to either come from Catholic stonemasonry, the Knights Templar or perhaps a combination of the two along with principles of the Enlightenment. All of these have a basis in Christianity. However, we do not tell non-Christians that their holy book of choice is inferior. The Book of Holy Scriptures could just as easily be the Koran, the Torah or the holy books of any other religion. We do not dogmatize because, again, while we are convinced there is a God and an afterlife we will all go to, we do NOT claim to be a religion nor do we advise on how to approach such subjects. I am personally quite enthralled by the study of near death experiences, intelligent design and quantum physics. I believe the study of these subjects, like the study of Freemasonry, is not religious at all. However, studying these subjects will help to build your faith of choice and make you a stronger and more loving person. My personal favorites are “My Descent into Death” by Howard Storm and the articles at near-death.com. I pray you find this article to be a blessing as we celebrate the holidays and the New Year. Peace.
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Featured Writer
Bro. Scott Schwartzberg
By Bro. Scott Schwartzberg According to W\ Andrew Hammer, in his book, Observing the Craft, the essence of membership in our Fraternity is that it must be sought, not given freely. This is an argument that I can agree with. We do not solicit others to become fellow travelers on our path towards Light. They must approach us. Off the top of my head, I can visualize over a dozen times that a man is asked to affirm that he is seeking to join the Freemasons, from the act of petitioning through his Raising as a Master Mason.
to do charitable works. Is that a bad thing? I say it is not, but it is not the aim of our Fraternity. We often hear that we are an organization that takes good men, and makes them better. First of all, this limits us to not accepting as members those men whose lives have made them less than good. Aren’t the teachings of the Freemasons applicable for everyone? It is my belief that they are not. A Profane is not going to do any soulsearching and transformation if he is not ready to do so.
In petitioning to obtain the three symbolic Degrees of Freemasonry, the applicant affirms that his approach to the West Gate is something that he is undertaking of his own volition, unbiased by friends, and uninfluenced by mercenary motives, which question is again asked prior to Initiation.
Someone who joins the Fraternity to improve his social standing, to increase his business proceeds, etc., is concerned more with outward appearances, not the inner makings of a man, and has no place within our Order. A worthy man, who works hard in the quarries of Freemasonry, will possibly improve his social standing and have increased business, but it will be because he has improved himself, not due to belonging to a secret society.
It is at this time that an allusion to Matthew 7:7 is made, as in the King James’ Bible, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” The Candidate has been seeking knowledge, and was eventually motivated to ask for entry into the Order. The following verse informs us that “For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened,” We are here to assist our Brethren on our shared quest for Light. As the Candidate progresses through the Degrees, he is again asked, several times, whether his desire to advance in Masonry is indeed his own wish, and not that he was talked into joining. My question to this is simple. Why? If Freemasonry is merely going through the motions, does it matter why someone joins? Maybe they want
The work of Freemasonry is to transform the self. We start as a rough ashlar, and using the tools of the trade, become the perfect ashlar hidden within. We then continue working, taking our place within that spiritual building – that house not made by hand. If a man comes to us for reasons that are not what we require, he will not be ready to do this work upon himself. If he is not ready to transform himself, he is not able to do what he gave as his reason for becoming a Mason. When a good man is ready to become a Mason, he will seek us out, learn from us, and we will learn from him as well.
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In The News
“Masons make no secret of a desire for new members” By Jordan E. Otero The Washington Times http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2011/nov/3/masons-make-no-secret-of-a-desire-for-new-members The Freemasons, the venerable “secret society” featured in blockbuster films “The Da Vinci Code” and “National Treasure,” is back in the limelight — by choice this time — with a new attitude and a new marketing campaign to attract a new generation of members. The group, one of the world’s oldest and largest secular fraternities, has been making an effort in recent years to “energize Masonry” and revitalize an aging membership using 21st-century media techniques — new concepts for the nearly 700-year-old group. Maryland’s Grand Lodge this year debuted a radio spot encouraging men “ready to put your mark on this world” to visit the new group’s website, Askafreemason.org. Maryland Masons said the marketing push followed a similar membership drive in Massachusetts, which included television ads featuring an actor playing famous Mason Benjamin Franklin. “We wanted to make an opportunity available for people to visit lodges and to find out more about what we are and what we do,” said Tom Foster, director of communications for the Grand Lodge of Maryland. The fraternity has been shrouded in mystery for centuries. No solid facts are available about how or when the Masonic fraternity was formed, but historians generally believe that it arose from the stonemasons’ guilds formed during the Middle Ages. After the first recorded Grand Lodge formed in London in 1717, Freemasonry became popular in Colonial America, with Franklin, George Washington, Paul Revere and John Hancock among its more famous members. Masons describe themselves as a fraternal organization dedicated to “making good men better.” The public image of the group includes a number of imposing architectural shrines in cities around the world and a tradition of public service and philanthropy that includes Shriners Hospitals for Children at 22 locations in North America alone.
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In The News
But the murkiness of its origins, membership and rituals has given rise to critics, who have accused the organization of secret political and financial conspiracies and charges that the group is anti-Christian. In the age of the book “Bowling Alone,” Masons have experienced the sharp membership declines that other civic and fraternal groups have endured in recent decades. A survey by the Masonic Service Association found that U.S. membership in the group was at its lowest point in 80 years — and was just half of the totals of the 1920s. Maryland’s Masonic chapter began its public-awareness campaign last spring, following the lead of other grand lodges across the country that responded to a report released in late 2005 by a task force formed by the Steering Committee of the Masonic Information Center. “Change is the one constant and Freemasons have done little to keep pace with change,” the task force concluded. Members said one problem in reversing the decline was the organization’s traditionally passive approach to recruiting. Launching a public-awareness campaign is a way to communicate “the need to focus on making Masonry relevant to our changing communities and our 21st century lives,” the report said. “The charms of Freemasonry are its age, ritual, customs, habits and traditions,” said Richard E. Fletcher, executive secretary of the Masonic Information Center and a member of the task force. “We’re not trying to change that. We’re simply responding to the public interest and making sure to take advantage of the technology that’s available to talk about the fraternity.” Masons also hope the campaign will help dispel conspiracy theories and misconceptions about the fraternity that “plague the country,” Mr. Fletcher said. “We’re not a secret society,” said Mr. Fletcher. “We’re a fraternity that keeps part of our ritual secret.” Mr. Foster said that any initial concerns about the changes from some of the members were easily overcome by the positive feedback from the public. “There’s been a significant increase in petitions to join,” he said. “We’re at nearly double the petitions we had last year to date.” He added that running advertisements and hosting open houses have made “a positive step in the right direction.” Mr. Foster said there might not be a secret Masonic gold hoard hidden beneath New York City, as portrayed in “National Treasure,” but there is a “national treasure of Masons” that comes with Freemason membership. “We have a saying that says, ‘Find your inner greatness,’” said Mr. Foster. “You can do that through Masonry.”
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In The News “NIU's Masonic Order's success in recruitment may lead to orders in more Ill. college towns”
NIU's Masonic Order upholds values like freedom, philanthropy, community service and brotherhood while providing a moral center for members. Erik Calmeyer, senior OMIS major, founded the organization in the Spring of 2010. Calmeyer said his goal was to spread awareness of freemasonry and its rich history while recruiting for the DeKalb Masonic Lodge. The NIU Masonic Order has been so successful in recruiting individuals into DeKalb's Masonic Lodge that there are plans to found similar student organizations in other state schools. Terry Seward, Most Worshipful Grand Master of the Illinois Masonic Lodge, confirmed plans for other state schools like University of Illinois at UrbanaChampaign and Illinois State University at Bloomington-Normal to begin Masonic organizations on campus. This is directly related to the success of NIU's Masonic Order. "I would like to see us have one at every university," Seward said. "We offer a feeling of belonging and trust with other men which is unsurpassed in any other organization I know of." Current NIU Masonic Order president Seth Peritz said NIU's Masonic Order is a student organization which teaches about freemasonry and encourages them to pursue membership in the DeKalb Lodge. The Freemasons date back to the late 1500s and are a brotherhood which accepts all ages, races and religions. DeKalb's lodge donates money, or at least time, once a week to people in need. These volunteer events range from funding local high school academic competitions to fundraising for the recently widowed or orphaned.
"Freemasonry is about brotherhood, morality, becoming a better person, helping people in need, making your friends and brothers better and helping the community to become the best community it can [be]," Peritz said. Seward also said the U.S. boasted 1.5 million Freemasons in 2009. Illinois membership accounts for 67,000 Freemasons. Peritz said the average age of men in the DeKalb Masonic Lodge is 60. "That's not good for an organization that wants to stick around." Peritz said, "I believe that bringing in students is important for both the students and the lodges." One student who began in the NIU Masonic Order and moved into the DeKalb Lodge was Cameron Lythberg, junior political science major. Lythberg said the organization's philanthropy appealed to him because he is an avid volunteer, but he stayed for the brotherhood. "I can learn from 90-year-old men; call them my equal. No other organization in the world can do that," Lythberg said. "One day, I'll be that 90-year-old man telling 20-year-olds, ‘Hey, if you ever need anything, let me know.'" Peritz said membership for both the NIU Masonic Order and the DeKalb Masonic Lodge continues to grow. He attributes this to the ideologies taught through the organization. "That's how I know I'm back in DeKalb, when I go to lodge," Peritz said. "I'm home. I'm safe. I can count on these people." http://northernstar.info www.twtmag.com
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In The News
“United Grand Lodge of England pulls out of benevolent funds hearing” http://thirdsector.co.uk/Channels/Governance/Article/1101992/United-Grand-Lodge-England-pulls-benevolent-fundshearing
Governing body for Freemasonry groups will not comment on why it has been removed from the list of 'interveners' in the hearing on charitable status of benevolent funds The United Grand Lodge of England, the governing body for Freemasonry groups, has pulled out of its role in a landmark legal hearing on the charitable status of benevolent funds. The UGLE had been asked to submit evidence to the forthcoming hearing, in which the Upper Tribunal will consider whether charities that help only those people linked to a certain individual or organisation meet the public benefit requirement for charitable status. But papers published yesterday by the tribunal say that the UGLE "is on its own application hereby removed from the list of interveners". Figures from the Charity Commission show that 1,368 registered charities are likely to be affected by the tribunal’s ruling, of which 1,204 are masonic groups. A spokeswoman for the UGLE was unable to comment on why the organisation had chosen to withdraw from the case, which is due to be heard in the Rolls Building, London, from 15 to 17 November. The case is being heard because the Attorney-General, Dominic Grieve, referred the issue to the tribunal, saying it was an area in which the law was unclear. The Charity Commission had asked him to refer the case in this way. If the tribunal rules that groups are not charitable if they help only those people linked to a certain organisation or individual, they will have to change their objects in order to support more people, or risk losing their charitable status. To meet the public benefit test set out in the Charities Act 2006, charities must show that they support a significant section of the public. The Professional Footballers’ Association Benevolent Fund, the Chartered Accountants’ Benevolent Association and the British Airways Welfare and Benevolent Fund are among the 10 charitable funds that A stained glass window have become formal parties to the case. in the Freemasons' Hall, London The Grand Stewards Lodge 250th Anniversary Benevolent Fund, which includes among its objects the funding of "poor and distressed brother masons or their poor and distressed widows and children" is also a party to the case. www.twtmag.com 39
In The News
“Parishioners, public oppose Freemason hall� Staff Reporter
Activities of a Freemason hall near the Thumboli St. Thomas Church had to be carried out under police protection despite a High Court order here on Sunday after local public and parishioners objected to the hall in their locality. Mild tension prevailed in the area in the morning, with parishioners alleging that Satanic worship was being conducted inside the Neroth Mathew and Joseph Masonic Hall, situated a few metres away from the historical Thumboli church. The tension between the Freemasons who own the hall and the parishioners has been on since the theft of sacraments from the St. Francis Assisi Church at Vellapally late last year. Though the Freemasons denied any connection with the incident, people alleged that black mass was being conducted in Masonic halls here and the police too, following complaints, had conducted inspections in various areas where black mass was suspected to have been conducted. The tension led to the Freemasons moving the High Court, following which they recently got an order from the court, permitting them to continue their activities in the Masonic hall at Thumboly. The members arrived along with the police on Sunday and even as they were engaged in their activities in the hall, a large crowd gathered outside. The police had to toil for nearly an hour to convince the crowd that there was a court order that had to be adhered to, following which the crowd dispersed. The parishioners, meanwhile, said they had noticed a spurt in suspicious activities, allegedly black mass, in the region and that the Church too had cautioned them to be alert, which was why they were opposing the Masonic hall where no one else was allowed. Pastoral letters too were read out recently in the church, warning the parishioners against an increase in incidents of black mass in the region. http://www.thehindu.com/news/states/kerala/article2644051.ece?css=print
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InInThe TheNews News
“UK Author Richard Jaffa Releases New Book on Rudyard Kipling and His Involvement with the Freemasons” The new book, Man and Mason - Rudyard Kipling, by Richard Jaffa is not just a biographical account of the life of Rudyard Kipling, but centers around his Masonic background. Washington, DC, November 20, 2011 --(PR.com)-- New Book Release Focuses on the Freemasons and Rudyard Kipling The new book, Man and Mason - Rudyard Kipling, by Richard Jaffa is not just a biographical account of the life of Rudyard Kipling, but centers around his Masonic background. Rudyard Kipling remains one of the most intriguing and elusive personalities in English literature. As a 20 year old he became a Freemason and this is the first book that analyses the influence that made on his writing for the rest of his life. It affected the young Kipling and his early stories and also his darker stories that he wrote after the First World War. The book has been praised by the Kipling Society and welcomed on both sides of the Atlantic. It looks at his life history and examines the individual works where Freemasonry has played a major influence. Book Information: Man and Mason - Rudyard Kipling Author: Richard Jaffa Publisher: AuthorHouse ISBN: 978-1456781347 Pages: 260 Published: May 2011 About The Author Richard Jaffa worked as journalist after leaving University but later qualified as a lawyer. He has held senior rank as a Freemason and has lectured on Masonic history. Apart from writing he is a regular book reviewer and travels widely. For more information, review copies, or interviews please contact the author at: Richard Jaffa Email: rjaffa3266@aol.com Website: http://www.richardjaffa.com Man and Mason - Rudyard Kipling is available for purchase online through the author’s website, from the publisher, Amazon.com, BN.com and other online retailers. Bookstores should contact Ingram for wholesale orders.
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In The News
“Man of a thousand funerals lives for his work” http://borderzine.com/2011/11/man-of-a-thousandfunerals-lives-for-his-work EL PASO – Most people go to only a few funerals in their lifetime, so it is hard to imagine going to hundreds, but Norman Miller says he has performed 1,000 Masonic funeral services. The 93-year-old Freemason has been conducting funeral services for the Freemasons for 48 years. “The military and Masonry have been my life,” Miller said proudly as he sat just feet away from a chapel-like room where Masonic paraphernalia is displayed in the Scottish Rite building in downtown El Paso. “I came in to the Masons in 1958… In December of 1963, I did my first Masonic funeral on an old gentleman, Mr. Pandelities.” Freemasons refer to the funeral ceremony they conduct as an orientation. The ceremony itself is very similar to non-denomination funeral services in large part because of the Freemason’s ambiguous belief in a supreme being. Miller is the Master of the ceremony, the person who speaks at the service, much like a priest would at a funeral. The memory of the men he has helped commemorate obviously weighs heavily on Miller, but he takes it all in stride. “And I have continued and continued up to this time. I never kept track of how many, but I know it is over a thousand,” Miller smiles. He pointed out that this is not a job for the fainthearted. “We never know when we will get a call. The last funeral lasted six to eight hours. I had to get everybody together.” This means he had to find six other available members and make sure all the materials for the ceremony where ready. “We made it to the funeral,” he said proudly.
Miller explained the process this way: “We get word from the families or the funeral director that the family desires to have a Masonic gravesite service. We don our Masonic aprons, our paraphernalia… some of the lodge officers (have) their jewels on. We form the group and I do the Masonic orientation.” The Freemasons is a fraternity that has a long and sometimes mysterious history that stretches back to the 16th century and across the Atlantic Ocean to the British Isles. This has earned them the reputation of being a secret society. In recent years the Masons have grown into a fraternity that is more open and focused on charitable works. Their history, however, still has a strong presence in their culture. One of the places where this is strongly felt is in their funeral traditions, where a special service for a deceased Mason is performed by other fellow Masons. The ceremony is riddled with symbolism only understood by Masons. “Most of the services I’ve done have been at Fort Bliss National Cemetery for members of the Masonic order that have been military in the past.” There is no Freemason rule that states you must have served to be a Mason but almost all Masons have a military background. Ironically, this spirited senior Mason credits his long life to his funeral work with the Freemasons. “I think that I owe my longevity to just staying active all my life.“ Despite all the death in his work or maybe because of it, Miller has a positive outlook on life, “All I can say is that it has been a beautiful life.“
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Phoenixmasonry.org Online Museum
Statues of “Faith, Hope & Charity� at the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania
Faith - In the theological ladder, the explanation of which forms a part of the instruction of the First Degree of Masonry, faith is said to typify the lowest round. Faith, here, is synonymous with confidence or trust, and hence we find merely a repetition of the lesson which had been previously taught that the first, the essential qualification of a candidate for initiation, is that he should trust in God. In the lecture of the same Degree, it is said that "Faith may be lost in sight; Hope ends in fruition; but Charity extends beyond the grave, through the boundless realms of eternity." And this is said, because as faith is "the evidence of things not seen," when we see we no longer believe by faith but through demonstration; and as hope lives only in the expectation of possession, it ceases to exist when the object once hoped for is at length enjoyed, but charity, exercised on earth in acts of mutual kindness and forbearance, is still found in the world to come, in the sublimer form of mercy from God to his erring creatures. Continued on next page
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Hope - The second round in the theological and Masonic ladder, and symbolic of a hope in immortality. It is appropriately placed there, for, having attained the first, or faith in God, we are led by a belief in His wisdom and goodness to the hope of immortality. This is but a reasonable expectation; without it, virtue would lose its necessary stimulus and vice its salutary fear; life would be devoid of joy, and the grave but a scene of desolation. The ancients represented Hope by a Nymph or maiden holding in her hand a bouquet of opening flowers, indicative of the coming fruit; but in modern and Masonic iconology, the science of Craft illustrations and likenesses, it is represented by a virgin leaning on an anchor, the anchor itself being a symbol of hope.
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Charity - "Though I speak with the tongues of men and angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing" (First Corinthians xiii, 1-2). Such was the language of an eminent apostle of the Christian church, and such is the sentiment that constitutes the cementing bond of Freemasonry. The apostle, in comparing it with faith and hope, calls it the greatest of the three, and hence in Freemasonry it is made the topmost round of its mystic ladder. We must not fall into the too common error that charity is only that sentiment of commiseration which leads us to assist the poor with pecuniary donations. Its Masonic, as well as its Christian application, is more noble and more extensive. The word used by the apostle is, in the original translation, love, a word denoting that kindly state of mind which renders a person full of good-will and affectionate regard toward others. John Wesley expressed his regret that the Greek had not been correctly translated as love instead of charity, so that the apostolic triad of virtues would have been, not "faith, hope, and charity," but "faith, hope, and love." Then would we have understood the comparison made by Saint Paul, when he said, "Though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not love, it profiteth me nothing." Guided by this sentiment, the true Freemason will "suffer long and be kind." He will be slow to anger and easy to forgive. He will stay his falling Brother by gentle admonition, and warn him with kindness of approaching danger. He will not open his ear to the slanderers, and will close his lips against all reproach. His faults and his follies will be locked in his breast, and the prayer for mercy will ascend to Jehovah for his Brother's sins. Nor will these sentiments of benevolence be confined to those who are bound to him by ties of kindred or worldly friendship alone; but, extending them throughout the globe, he will love and cherish all who sit beneath the broad canopy of our universal Lodge. For it is the boast of our Institution, that a Freemason, destitute and worthy, may find in every clime a Brother, and in every land a home.
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York Rite News & Information
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York Rite
New “Allied Masonic Degrees” Council Constituted in New Jersey By R:.V:. Mohamad A. Yatim, KGCRORBE Grand Superintendent of the State of New Jersey Thursday November 3rd, 2011 was a historic day for Masonry in New Jersey and for the Allied Masonic Degrees in specific. José Marti Council No. 512 A.M.D. was constituted at the Masonic Temple in Secaucus, NJ, becoming the 12th AMD Council to actively meet in the state. José Marti Council has a very unique characteristic. Its members were given the green light to present and discuss Masonic research papers in Spanish. The opening, closing, and degree work will all, however, be conducted in English. The Sovereign Grand Master of the Grand Council of the Allied Masonic Degrees of the United States of America, M:.V:. Douglas L. Jordan, chartered the said council out of his strong belief that language should not be a barrier when it comes to transmitting and exchanging Masonic knowledge among members. The constituting ceremony was conducted under dispensation granted to Right Venerable Mohamad A. Yatim, the Grand Superintendent of the Allied Masonic Degrees in New Jersey to act as the Sovereign Grand Master. Most Venerable Thurman C. Pace Jr. and Bro. Moises I. Gomez were appointed to help in the ceremony as Acting Grand Chaplain and Acting Grand Marshal respectively. The constituting ceremony of the new council was followed by the installation ceremony of the new officers. Venerable
Nirio Garcia, who was installed as the Charter Sovereign Master, then delivered a research paper on the biography of the revolutionist, Cuban national hero, and famous Freemason, Bro. José Marti. His presentation was followed by a spirited discussion and words of excitement about the forming of the new council. Around 9:00 p.m., the brethren of José Marti Council No. 512 and their visitors retired to the collation room for refreshments and hearty celebrations.
What is the Allied Masonic Degrees? The Allied Masonic Degrees is an invitational and honorary organization dedicated to 1) Masonic research and education and 2) to the preservation of ancient detached Masonic degrees some of which, many years ago, were conferred under Craft warrants and formed part of the then loosely governed Freemasonry of the period. Invitation to membership is extended exclusively to Royal Arch Masons in good standing with a sincere interest in Masonic knowledge and research. Each council is limited to 27 regular member, but can have multiple dual and honorary members. www.twtmag.com
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York Rite When and How was “the Allied Masonic Degrees” Founded? During the 18th and 19th centuries, a number of various side degrees, or grades, were conferred upon Masons by other brethren in possession of the degrees. However, we do not know where or how the degrees originated. Generally, they were conferred in lodge halls or lodge meeting places. In 1880 a group of English Masons established a Grand Council of the Allied Masonic Degrees for England, Wales, and territories overseas, which in turn assumed complete control of these various degrees and determined their official ritual, prerequisites, and manner of conferral. This plan proved successful and continues to this day in England. The presiding officer's title was Most Worshipful Grand Master until 1890, when it was changed to Most Venerable Sovereign Grand Master. Eventually, some of these degrees came to the United States through the Reverend Doctor Hartley Carmichael in the late 1890’s who founded “the Sovereign College of Allied Masonic and Christian Degrees in America". On April 16, 1932 the present Grand Council of Allied Masonic Degrees of the U.S.A. was organized at Salisbury, North Carolina by Brothers William Mosely Brown and J. Raymond Shute, two of the leading Masonic authorities and scholars of their time in the U.S.A. In 1933 Brother Brown and Brother Shute traveled to Norway, Maine, where they entered into articles of union with “the Sovereign College of Masonic and Christian Degrees” under the name "Grand Council of Allied Masonic Degrees of the U.S.A."
What are the Degrees conferred / preserved by the A.M.D. - Royal Ark Mariner - Secret Monitor - Brotherhood of David and Jonathan. Induction Brotherhood of David and Jonathan Admission of a Prince - Installed Supreme Ruler - Saint Lawrence the Martyr
- Grand Tilers of Solomon - Knight of Constantinople - Architect - Grand Architect - Superintendent - Master of Tyre _ Excellent Master - Installed Sovereign Master - Installed Commander Noah - Royal Order of Royal Order of the Red Branch of Eri and Appendant Orders including Man-at-arms, Esquire, and Knight - Ye Ancient Order of Corks
What are the requirements of Membership in an AMD Council? Invitation to membership is extended exclusively to Royal Arch Masons in good standing with a sincere interest in Masonic knowledge and research. Since each council is limited to 27 regular member, the selection process is expected to be diligent and invitations are only extended to candidates who are willing to conduct research and who are genuinely interested in discussing papers.
What type of research papers are presented at an AMD Council meeting? AMD Councils generally meet 3-5 times a year depending on the council. At each meeting, at least one research paper is presented and discussed by the members. All topics should be of Masonic nature or directly related to Freemasonry. A wide range of topics including historic, philosophical, and esoteric papers are discussed. The purpose is to improve Masonic knowledge and share Light with the brethren.
Where can I find more information on the Allied Masonic Degrees? For information on the Allied Masonic Degrees in New Jersey, you can visit: http://www.njamd.com/ For information on the Grand Council of the Allied Masonic Degrees of the United States you can visit: http://www.allied-masonicdegrees.org/
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York Rite
“An Explanation of the AMD Emblem� By Pat King, PSM
A cursory glance at the emblem of the Allied Masonic Degrees usually
yields theremark "very striking, but what does it mean ?" Heretofore, the average member has had to respond "I don't know." This monograph will attempt to answer that perplexing question. As the Allied Masonic Degrees sprang from the fertile mind of J.Ray Shute II, it would be wise to assume that the emblem had its genesis with that worthy Mason also. It was Brother Shute who discovered the various degrees then in existence in foreign countries and decided to bring them to America for the enjoyment and edification of US Masons. He organized the three initial Lodges of Royal Ark Mariner and Councils of the Red Cross, composing them of his friends and acquaintances. He called them together in April of 1932 to found the Grand Council of the Allied Masonic Degrees of the United States of America. It was at that founding meeting that the emblem as we now know it was adopted without debate. In designing a symbol to represent the AMD, Shute was faced with two choices. He could create something that had representations of a symbol of each degree as is done in England, or he could create an emblem to represent all the degrees simultaneously in one symbol. Shute chose to do the latter. The degrees of the yet to be born Grand Council AMD consisted of; Royal Ark Mariner, Secret Monitor, Knight of Constantinople, Saint Lawrence the Martyr, Grand Tyler of Solomon, and Excellent Master. The degrees of Master of Tyre, Architect, Grand Architect, and Superintendent were added at the Grand Council meeting in 1933, while those of the Red Branch of Erie were added by way of Grand Steward's Council B which was created in 1937. The emblem consists of four separate symbols combined into one; the Triangles, the Compasses, the Crown and the Cross. The four symbols represent the epochs of Masonry covered by the various rituals of the Allied Degrees. The first symbol, the Triangles, stands for Noachite Masonry and the timesurrounding the building of the Ark. It encompasses the degree of Royal Ark Mariner in the AMD system. The second symbol, the Compasses, stands for Solomonic Masonry and the time surrounding the building and rebuilding of the Temple at Jerusalem. Itencompasses the degrees of Excellent Master and Grand Tyler of Solomon. The third symbol, the Crown, stands for Royal Masonry and the instances where royalty has had an influence on Masonry or Masonic characters. It encompasses the degrees of Secret Monitor (David/Saul) and Knight of Constantinople (Constantine). www.twtmag.com
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York Rite The fourth symbol, the Cross, stands for Christian Masonry and the instances where Christianity has had an influence on Masonry or Masonic characters. It encompasses the degree of St.Lawrence the Martyr. The degrees added in 1933 fit neatly into the Solomonic Epoch and thus are also represented by the Compasses. The Red Branch of Erie degrees can be considered a part of the Royal Epoch, even though it has a well known emblem of its own. The "chair" degrees also fit into this emblem; the Installed Sovereign Master degree in the Solomonic Epoch and the Installed Commander Noah degree in the Noachite Epoch. The only exception to this symbolic representation is Ye Antient and Olde Order of Corks. In as much as the "Order of Corks" started out as a separate organization which later merged with Grand Master's Council A and subsequently established its own governing body under the AMD "umbrella" with an emblem of its own, it is not really necessary to include it in the "general" AMD emblem. Each local Council (with a RAM Lodge attached) can confer the degrees represented by the AMD emblem, but cannot (without permission) confer the "Order of Corks". Therefore it is acceptable to exclude this one degree from the general symbolic emblem without damaging the logical arrangement of the epochs. While certainty could only be secured by an interview with the late Brother Shute, this seems a plausible explanation of the AMD emblem given his style and knowledge. The Epochs of Masonry covered by the various degrees can be represented by each symbol individually while the Triangles, Compasses, Crown and Cross together represent the Allied Masonic Degrees as a whole. It is a worthy and symbolic emblem indeed.
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York Rite Featured Writer Bro. Matt
“Ne Plus Ultra Part Two: A Christmas Gift for Royal Arch Masons by Matt Johnson” The Royal Arch has had some bad press lately. In 2004, the United Grand Lodge of England said effectively that their original statement of “Pure Ancient Freemasonry consists of but three degrees, viz. that of Entered Apprentice, Fellow craft, and Master Mason, including the Supreme Order of the Holy Royal Arch” was no longer valid. I gave the Royal Arch a hard time in my previous article “Ne Plus Ultra” (TWT Nov 2011) as being a sequel to the third degree written by Masons who just didn’t “get” the lesson of the third degree. Well, I may have been wrong! I have since read some VERY interesting things in “Knight Templar Magazine” articles from 2010 and 2011 regarding John Desaguliers and his creation of not only the third degree…but also of the Royal Arch! If this is truly the case, then it may very well be the Royal Arch enthusiasts were right all along. And perhaps the “compromise” between the Ancients and Moderns was not a compromise at all, but truly part of the original plan. David Harrison makes a very powerful case in these articles and I believe all of the information in those articles is to be found in his books “The Genesis of Freemasonry” and “The Transformation of Freemasonry”. It would seem he has answered the long standing questions as to where the third degree and the Royal Arch originated. I am hoping to see both books under my Christmas tree this year. So a big “Merry Christmas” to Royal Arch Masons everywhere. A little bit of “see I told you so” may be in order. The Knights Templar have had “Born in Blood” by Robinson all these years and now the Royal Arch Masons seem to have their man in Dr. David Harrison. I know I am looking at the Royal Arch in a whole new light because of him and will be signing up very soon. Peace!
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York Rite “ROYAL ARCH MASONS PRESENT AUTISM SPEAKS WITH $100,000 GRANT” On Thursday, November 10, representatives from the General Chapter of Royal Arch Masons International presented Autism Speaks with a $100,000 Royal Arch Research Assistance (RARA) grant. The generous contribution will help support the Autism Speaks early diagnosis and early intervention initiative to investigate auditory processing disorders in children with autism. Many of the precursor symptoms of auditory processing disorders are seen in some children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). These symptoms include trouble paying attention and remembering information; poor listening skills; difficulty in processing information; behavioral problems; difficulty with comprehending language; and anxiety or confusion in social situations. Young children on the autism spectrum who exhibit precursor symptoms may be diagnosed with a central auditory processing disorder (CAPD) at a later age. The RARA grant will enable Autism Speaks to address precursor symptoms of auditory processing disorders in an effort to create better outcomes for children who are at risk for developing both ASD and CAPD. In addition, the grant will go towards funding Autism Speaks’ efforts to educate healthcare providers and parents about the role of auditory processing disorders in a child’s autism diagnosis as well as encourage further evaluation for young children who demonstrate auditory processing difficult. Autism Speaks will also disseminate and share information developed in this effort with caregivers and clinicians including methods to treat auditory processing problems associated with ASD. We would like to thank our friends at the Royal Arch Masons for this wonderful grant. Their support will help clinicians gain a better understanding of the early signs of auditory processing disorder in children with autism, allowing for treat-
ment of this disorder to begin as early as possible.
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ScottishRite News & Information
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Scottish Rite
Featured Writer Bro. Jason Bryce
When you first entered Freemasonry, you sought out and petitioned a lodge. You were then interviewed by an investigating committee, and your petition was voted on by the members of that lodge. When your petition was accepted, you returned and went through the degrees. You were initiated an Entered Apprentice, passed to the degree of Fellowcraft, and finally raised to the sublime degree of a Master Mason. As a Master Mason you are entitled to a lifetime of benefits, such as; attending business meetings and other lodge functions, bonding with brothers both in your lodge and across the globe, learning the rituals, going through the officer line, and so much more. The Blue Lodge provides enough fellowship and education for many brothers. However, for others like myself, the search for knowledge and growth expands through a vast number of appendant bodies. There are many bodies a Master Mason may join after completing the blue lodge degrees. The most well-known are the York and Scottish Rites and The Shrine. Others, such as The Tall Cedars of Lebanon and The Royal Order of Jesters, remain almost unknown. The reasons a brother might join one or more of these bodies are as diverse as the reasons he may have joined his blue lodge. Perhaps he desires to continue to better himself through experiencing additional degrees, which are a part of Scottish and York Rites. Perhaps he wants to expand his Masonic education, which he would also have the opportunity to do through the added degree work of the Rites. He might want to fulfill a desire for additional philanthropy and charitable work through the Shriners. Or, maybe he simply desires further fellowship, which he might find at The Grotto.
Whatever the reason or reasons, joining one or more of these bodies can only benefit a brother. I am personally a proud member of the Scottish Rite Valley of Detroit, and York Rite Washtenaw #6 Chapter. While not currently very active in my YR chapter, I am becoming increasingly involved with my work in the SR Valley. I have found so many excellent opportunities in Scottish Rite, not only to make new friendships with brothers from other lodges in the area, but also to grow as both a Mason and a man. In upcoming issues of The Working Tools, I will be discussing various aspects of the Scottish Rite, covering everything from the degrees and rituals, history and events, to different characters involved in shaping the organization. I may even throw in a book review or two. If you are currently a member of a Valley, with any luck my musings will inspire you to take on a larger role, which might mean a small part in a degree or an officer position. If you are not yet a member, I am hoping the articles will encourage you to seek out your local Valley and put in a petition. Step outside of your Blue Lodge and see what more Masonry has to offer. Please feel free to e-mail me at jasondbryce@ gmail.com with suggestions for future articles, questions, or comments. S & F.
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Scottish Rite THE DOUBLE HEADED EAGLE OF LAGASH By Ill. Bro. John V. Lawer, 33째, PSGC Copied from his article on the Symbols of the Scottish Rite as printed in the 2011 Edition of the Clarion
The double headed eagle has an ancient lineage. Known then as the storm bird, it was the symbol of power of the great Sumerian city of Lagash on the Tigris River five thousand years ago. It has been said that no heraldic bearing, no emblematic device anywhere today can boast such antiquity. As empires rose and fell the symbol followed the conquerors north and west through Mesopotamia to the men of Akkad and to Babylon, and, with the Hittites into Anatolia, where it became the standard of the Seljuk Turks with the crowning of Tugrul Beg at Mosul in 1058 as King of the East and the West. In the Roman Empire the consul Marius, shortly before the birth of Christ, consecrated the eagle to be the sole standard at the head of every legion, and thus it became the symbol of Roman imperial power. The single eagle remained the symbol of the Empire for several centuries after the de facto division of the Empire into an eastern and western Roman Empire following the dedication, on May 11, 330, of its eastern capital named in honour of its founder, the Emperor Constantine the Great, and the later defeat of the last of the Emperors in the West, Romulus Augustulus at Ravenna in 476.
Indeed, it remained so even after the Papacy claimed to revive the Western Empire when Pope Leo III crowned Charlemagne, King of the Franks, as Emperor, at Rome, on Christmas Day in the year 800. In the Eastern Empire it was the Emperor Isaacius Comnenus, who was born in Paphlagonia in Asia Minor, who first adopted the double headed eagle as the symbol of empire, and it is interesting to note that he did so at almost the same time as the Seljuk Turks adopted it at Mosul. It was the conquest of Palestine by the Seljuk Turks and their harassment of Christian pilgrims to the Holy Land which led to the Crusades. It has been said that it was the Crusaders who introduced the double headed eagle into Western Europe. If they did not see it in battle with the Turks they certainly would have seen it with their complicity in the Venetian-Papal scheme which diverted the Fourth Crusade to the sack of Constantinople in 1204.
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Scottish Rite After the recapture of Constantinople in 1261 by the Emperor Michael VIII Paliologos, with the aid of the Genoese, the double headed eagle was restored as the symbol of the Byzantine royal family and state until the City and Empire fell to the Ottoman Turks under Sultan Mohammed II in 1453. From 1472, when Ivan III, Grand Duke of Moscow, married Sophia Paliologo, niece of the last Byzantine Emperor, the double headed eagle became the symbol of the “Third Rome,” and subsequently of the Russian Empire from 1721 to 1917. Today it is the Coat of Arms of the Russian Federation. In the West a claim to the right to display the double headed eagle of Byzantium was made as early as 972 upon the marriage of the Emperor Otto 1 with the niece of the Byzantine Emperor Ionnis Tzimiskes. From about the middle of the thirteenth century it became the arms of the Holy Roman Empire of the German Nation. Following the dissolution of the Empire by Napoleon in 1806 its use was perpetuated by Austria.
Despite the fact that the Prussian eagle was a single eagle facing left and that Frederick II did not have it in his power to confer the double headed eagle, - indeed, he had spent most of his life fighting the two empires - Austria and Russia, both of which claimed the double headed eagle as their own, and that some Supreme Councils, - such as England and Wales, - simply refer to it as a Crown, the Supreme Council of Canada has seen fit to retain the reference to the double headed eagle and the Golden Prussian Crown, content to recognize Frederick the Great as the traditional patron of the Scottish Rite. The Symbol of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry of Canada is a double headed eagle, its wings displayed, ensigned of a Prussian crown, perched on a sword fessway Argent, hilt and pommel to the dexter. From the sword is draped a scroll bearing the motto “Deus Meumque Jus.” http://scottishritemasons-can.org/eagle.htm
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The double headed eagle was probably first introduced into Freemasonry in 1763 when a Body calling itself the Council of the Emperors of the East West was established in Paris. The appendix to the traditional history of the Scottish Rite, as set forth in the Grand Constitutions of 1786, by whomsoever and wherever they were written, said to have been promulgated in the name and in the presence of Frederick II (the Great), King of Prussia, on May 1 of that year, describes the Standard of the Order as bearing a double headed eagle surmounted by the Golden Crown of Prussia.
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Scottish Rite
Perspectives on American Freemasonry and Fraternalism The National Heritage Museum announces a call for papers for its biannual symposium, “Perspectives on American Freemasonry and Fraternalism,” to be held on Saturday, April 7, 2012, at the Museum in Lexington, Massachusetts.
criticism, gender studies, political science, African-American studies, art history, economics, or any combination of disciplines. Perspectives on and interpretations of all time periods are welcome.
The National Heritage Museum is an American history museum founded and supported by Scottish Rite Freemasons in the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction of the United States. As the repository of one of the largest collections of American Masonic and fraternal objects, books and manuscripts in theUnited States, the Museum aims to foster new research on American fraternalism and to encourage the use of its scholarly resources.
*Comparative studies of American fraternalism and European or other international forms of fraternalism.
The symposium seeks to present the newest research on American fraternal groups from the past through the present day. By 1900, over 250 American fraternal groups existed, numbering six million members. The study of their activities and influence in theUnited States, past and present, offers the potential for new interpretations of American society and culture. Diverse perspectives on this topic are sought; proposals are invited from a broad range of research areas, including history, material and visual culture, anthropology, sociology, literary studies and
*Role of fraternal groups in social movements
Possible topics include:
*Prince Hall Freemasonry and other African-American fraternal groups *Ethnically- and religiouslybased fraternal groups *Fraternal groups for women or teens
*The material culture of Freemasonry and fraternalism *Anti-Masonry and anti-fraternal movements, issues and groups
ology of the study of American fraternalism Proposals should be for 30 minute research papers; the day’s schedule will allow for audience questions and feedback. Proposal Format: Submit an abstract of 400 words or less with a resume or c.v. that is no more than two pages. Be sure to include full contact information (name, address, email, phone, affiliation). Send proposals to: Aimee E. Newell, Ph.D., Director of Collections, NationalHeritageMuseum, by email at anewell@monh. org or by mail to33 Marrett Road,Lexington,MA 02421. Deadline for proposals to be received is December 15, 2011. For more information about the National Heritage Museum, see www.nationalheritagemuseum. org. For questions, contact Aimee E. Newell as above, or call 781-457-4144.
*Fraternal symbolism and ritual *The expression of Freemasonry and fraternalism through art, music, and literature *Approaches to Freemasonry – from disciplinary, interdisciplinary, or transnational perspectives; the historiography and method-
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“Historic treasures in jeopardy” http://www.winonapost.com/stock/functions/VDG_Pub/detail.php?choice=45052&home_page=1&archives=
Masonic Temple drops face long winter, no new roof The sun-rippled, blue sky looming over a magnificent turquoise river is beginning to dim.
delicate condition within the same temple where they were used a century ago – the Winona Masonic Temple. The hand-painted, theatrical drops now hang in the balance. Constructed with painted fabric, gauze and netting, several drops are utilized for each scene, creating a layered effect which brings a threedimensional feel to the settings. Together, the drops create 59 scenes.
A precious piece of history is slowly fading away, as threads linking theatrical artistry to a Masonic past weaken and colorful pigments fade and crumble into dust. A 'secret society' The Masonic Temple in Winona contains the treasures of a once flourishing organization whose rituals blended the arts with a moral hierarchy. Shortly after the turn of the century, the Masons’ fraternal society met regularly inside the stately temple on Main Street in Winona. The Masons followed the Scottish Rite which was based upon a male hierarchy comprised of knights, chiefs, princes, masters and other exalted titles within the society – positions attained through a system of 30 steps or moral degrees. As a Mason ascended a step, a ceremony was held demonstrating the moral learned. During the 1880s, Mason rituals were brought into fullcolor drama across the nation with theatrical scenery and brilliant costumes accompanied by effective lighting and performances. As the settings grew more visually appealing, membership blossomed as well. Nearly 600,000 men were estimated to belong to the rite in 1930. Historical art Today, 98 exquisite, large-as-life paintings or “drops” – with many spanning about 19 feet by 36 feet – exist in
The drops were used from the early 1900s until the 1970s for the Scottish Rite, according to Theatre du Mississippi (TdM) board member Margaret Johnson. “They were primarily religious themes,” she said. “At the time, it might have been to illustrate a Bible scene.” The drops are especially rare because they are housed at their original location, Winona Community Services Director Chad Ubl explained. “They are certainly unique,” he said. “These are centuryold drops that are original to the building. The set pieces are still intact - all of the side theatrical pieces that accompany the drops... There is certainly not a collection like this nationwide.” The city purchased the temple building from the Masons in 1979 to use, in part, for a senior citizens’ center. The TdM theater group rents space in the building and has used several of the drops in its productions with the city’s permission. And the Masons continue to use a portion of the space on a monthly basis. The theater group used a forest or garden scene drop as well as a woodland scene drop set in a cemetery for its recent October production.
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Scottish Rite “It is so beautiful,” Johnson said. “The set is just gorgeous.” The scenes use three to five layers of cut drops and backdrops to create a realistic visual result. “It gives it great dimension and a wonderful opportunity for lighting effects as you can silhouette different areas and you can make it look like dawn or twilight,” she said. “It is much more dramatic than just a single drop.” In need of repair “The fabric is deteriorating,” Johnson said. “They are pretty fragile.” Water intrusion from leaks in the ceiling has damaged many of the drops. Historical consultant and artist Wendy Waszut-Barrett, of Bella Scena, LLC, was brought in to assess the drops and provide an estimate for their restoration. In May 2010, she estimated the cost to restore the drops to cost $433,062 to $512,540, not including scenic profile pieces. Volunteers would be needed to assist with the restoration. “It is a very time-consuming, painstaking process,” Johnson said of the restoration. In addition to the water damage, some of the drops are torn, in need of meticulous cleaning, contain cracking paint, curling edges or need other repairs. Many of the drops are beginning to sag and will need to be re-rigged. Their importance “The collection is truly a time-capsule from Winona’s artistic heritage and desperately needs to be preserved for future generations,” Waszut-Barrett stated in a letter to the city. The restored space and scenery could also be used by local artists, musicians and art groups as well as for civic and community functions, according to Ubl. “[The drops] could be a very big draw for the city,” Johnson said. “When people see them they are very impressed... They just add so much... [to] a performance.”
What’s next? Restoration would include restoring the netting, cleaning, stabilizing, repairing and rehanging the drops. Restoring the drops comes at a high price tag – with an estimated cost of about $550,000 to $600,000, according to Ubl. A campaign to solicit donations is anticipated. The city has received a $10,000 donation from Coca Cola Bottling Company for the project. At its last meeting, the Winona City Council unanimously reaffirmed their commitment and support for the restoration of the theatrical drops. “We have another interested potential donor who came forward anonymously,” Ubl explained, “and that was the impetus for the council action Monday night – to reaffirm the city’s commitment to the restoration of the drops and to continue to seek additional funding for the restoration as well.” Roof repair for the temple is slated for spring, according to Ubl. The city originally had planned to fix the roof this fall. “We have additional work to be done to the building related to the roof,” he said. “Crown molding needs to be fixed to properly adhere roof material to the roof line.” The roof is currently not leaking, according to Ubl. A leak in the structure was fixed this summer. “I believe the drops, the roof and the building will survive the winter,” he said. The city is in the process of obtaining estimates for the crown molding repair and other additional costs. To help Donations are being held in a fund at the Winona Community Foundation to be used after the temple roof is repaired. Donations to the project may be tax deductible. For more information, contact Chad Ubl at (507) 457-8258.
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I hope you enjoy reading “ The Working Tools” and find enlightenment in each and every new issue. Please spread the word about us to all your Lodge Brothers and let them know how to find TWT on the web. TWTMAG.COM www.twtmag.com
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