January 2012 Issue #48
The Seven Liberal Arts
Featuring original papers by Brothers:
Over 50 pages of Masonic Education
Todd Creason 33°
Win an autographed copy of John Nagy’s ”Building Perpends”. See page 4
Kyle Ferguson
*
Charles Harper
Get 30% off the Cornerstone Masonic Publishers book of the Month. See page 11
Matt Johnson Lamoni Kitchen John Nagy Scott Schwartzberg
www.twtmag.com
1
This Months Contributors
Scott Schwartzberg Raised in 2007 at USS New Jersey No. 62 in Cherry Hill, NJ, Scott is currently Marshall of Boynton Lodge No. 236, Boynton Beach, FL. He is one of the founding members of Boynton Lodge Esoteric Research Group (B.L.E.R.G.), a member of the SR Bodies at the Valley of Lake Worth, and YR Bodies of Ft. Lauderdale.
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.
Kyle James Ferguson Junior Warden of Kingsbury Lodge No. 466, Olyphant, PA. He is a plural member of Union Lodge No. 291, F. & A.M. and a regular member of Lackawanna Chapter No. 185 RAM, and the Valley of Scranton AASR NMJ, all of Scranton, PA. He is also a member of The Masonic Society and a Level 1 Masonic Scholar in the PA Academy of Masonic Knowledge. He is an avid writer and authors the blog The Philosophical Freemason (http://philosophicalfreemason. blogspot.com). He resides with his wife in Dunmore, PA.
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
Todd Creason 33°
Past Master of Ogden Lodge No. 754 (IL) currently serves as Secretary. Member of Homer Lodge No. 199 (IL) . He is a member of the York Rite , Cryptic Council , Commandery , Knights Templar. He is a member of the Scottish Rite and received the 33rd degree from the Northern Jurisdiction in 2011. He's written several books, his most popular the Famous American Freemasons series available online & at toddcreason.org.
Charles M. Harper Sr. Junior Warden Kankakee Lodge No. 389. GLof Illinois, Member Of: Valley of Chicago SR, Medinah Shriners A.A.O.N.M.S, Kankakee Chapter No. 78 R.A.M, Owisco Council No. 108 Cryptic Masons , Ivanhoe Commandery No. 33 Knights Templar, Illuminati Council No. 495 Allied Masonic Degrees
www.twtmag.com
2
Featured Writers
Columns
John Nagy..........................................16
This Month in Masonry.........................9
Charles Harper...................................21
FreemasonQuotes.com......................10
Todd Creason 33°..............................23
Cornerstone Masonic Book of the Month....................................................11
Matt Johnson.....................................28 One Minute Mason..............................13 Kyle Ferguson...................................29 Grand Lodge Spotlight.......................14 Lamoni Kitchen..................................30 Old Tyler Talks by Carl Claudy..........15 Scott Schwartzberg...…….43 & 49 Book Review........................................18 Word of the Month..............................22 Featured Podcast................................27
Click on the page numbers to quickly jump to that page
Masons in the News............................31 Cover- The Seven Liberal Arts...........37 York Rite News & Information............42 Scottish Rite News & Information.....48 Final Words..........................................53
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
3
TWT CONTEST Win an autographed copy of this book! Contest dates 1/1/12-1/31/12 Go to the Building Series Website link below and send me an email with the FOUR answers to the following: _____ jam-packed Sections filled with over ____ categories and over ____ Uncommon Masonic Oriented Aphorisms with over ____ pages of quality information with footnotes and additional Masonic challenges throughout the book.
http://www.coach.net/BP_review.htm EMAIL TO: TWTMAG@YAHOO.COM SUBJECT- “CONTEST” www.twtmag.com
4
Observing The Craft “The Pursuit of Excellence in Masonic Labor and Observation”
“One of the most important books that all Freemason’s have to read immediately” - Cory Sigler
Available now on Amazon.com http://www.amazon.com/Observing-Craft-Pursuit-ExcellenceObservance/
Advertisement www.twtmag.com
5
WELCOME
Hello Brethren, Welcome to the January 2012 issue of The Working Tools Magazine. Let me start off with wishing you and your family a happy and safe New Years. We are starting this year off with an amazing issue filled with some of the best material ever published in TWT. There are several original articles written specifically for us mixed in with the most interesting articles and news I can find. Last month we had our highest download numbers ever and that is thanks to you for the word of mouth and emailing of your brethren to tell them about the magazine. I have big plan for TWT and its only going to get better.
Cover Story This month we explore The Seven Liberal Arts. It is the cornerstone of the Fellowcraft Degree and the start of our Masonic maturity. The article helps explain what the different subjects are and how they are used Masonically. I really think you’ll enjoy and get something out of reading it. Last Month’s Poll Question
How many Masonic books do you purchase a year?
Until next time...
Cory Sigler
"I don't read" 110 of 282 total votes (39%) "1-2" 79 of 282 total votes (28%) "3-4" 65 of 282 total votes (23%) "5+" 28 of 282 total votes (9.9%)
Cory Sigler, PM
Hawthorne Fortitude #200
Find me on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/corysigler & facebook.com/twtmag
NEW EMAIL - TWTMAG@YAHOO.COM
www.twtmag.com
6
More Services
www.twtmag.com
7
Bro. Cory: Just a note to let you know I enjoyed the December 2011 issue of TWT magazine especially the article "The Attic" by Bro. John Nagy. I'd also like you to ask you to include the Phoenixmasonry Masonic Museum and Library in your new links page.
Mail Bag Cory: This is an excellent edition; you have done a great job. You may want to start charging for a subscription so that you will be able to sustain this high standard.
S&F, Dave Bro Dave, Thank you for reminding me to do that! The link has been added and I urge all the TWT readers to frequently visit your amazing website. S&F Cory
I think that the article on William Preston in particular was excellent. By the way, I was at the formation of the Jose Marti Council, AMD; it was great seeing it covered by the TWT. (Dec 2011 issue) Bob H.
Thanks again for a great magazine which I really enjoy reading each month. Regards from "Downunder" Garry Runge (Melbourne, Australia) Thanks Bro. Garry. It seems like TWT has a nice following down under. I’m thrilled to know how far reaching it has become. Cory
Thank you Bro. Bob. It was indeed an honor to be chosen to join the AMD. I look forward to the enlightenment. Cory
Hey Worshipful Brother Cory, Bro Tom Pagliaro here. I just wanted you to be aware of my correspondence last night & this morning with Worshipful Brother Nagy and how had it not been for you and your magazine I would never have met him or bought his books. Yet again, I thank you for all you do.
Bro. Cory:
Sincerely & Fraternally yours, Thanks for including the One Minute Mason in your most recent magazine. It's nice to be included in such a well-presented publication.
Worshipful Noble & Brother Tom Pagliaro 32°
S&F,
Bro Tom, Steve Bro. Steve the pleasure is all mine!
I couldn’t be happier to connect you and Bro. Nagy together. You are both two excellent Brothers.
S&F Cory
Cory Send all your comments or questions to TWTMAG@yahoo.com www.twtmag.com
8
This Month in Masonry
January Jan 2nd- On this date in 1901, U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt received his 1st degree in Matinecock Lodge #806, Oyster Bay, New York. Jan 7th- On this date in 1785, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart received his 2nd degree. Jan 8th- On this date in 1844 or 1843, the Grand Lodge of Iowa was formed Dec 12th- On this date in 1886 Quatuor Coronati Lodge #2076 was consecrated and constituted in London. It is considered by many to be the premiere Masonic research lodge in the world. Jan 13th- On this date (or January 12) in 1818, the Grand Lodge of Indiana was formed Jan 17th- On this date 1865, the Grand Lodge of Nevada was formed & in 1872 the Grand Lodge of Utah was formed. Jan 26thOn this date in 1887, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle received his 1st degree. On this date in 1866, the Grand Lodge of Montana was formed
www.twtmag.com
9
Freemason Quotes.com
Follow them on Facebook(facebook.com/freemasonquotes) Twitter (@FreemasonQts) "A person who won't read has no advantage over one who can't read." -Mark Twain
George Washington: "To be prepared for war is one of the most effective means of preserving peace."
Norman Vincent Peale: "If you put off everything till you're sure of it, you'll never get anything done."
Benjamin Franklin: "Be slow in choosing a friend, slower in changing."
Winston Churchill: "I never worry about action, but only inaction."
Andrew Jackson: "I've got big shoes to fill. This is my chance to do something. I have to seize the moment." Henry Ford: "Failure is simply the opportunity to begin again, this time more intelligently."
Benjamin Franklin: "Do not squander time, for that is the stuff life is made of."
"Courage is what it takes to stand up and speak. Courage is also what it takes to sit down and listen." Winston Churchill "We should not look back unless it is to derive useful lessons from past errors, and for the purpose of profiting by dearly bought experience." -George Washington www.twtmag.com
10
Cornerstone Masonic Book of the Month
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. Come back monthly to see what Bro. Poll has picked out for us next .
Readers of The Working Tools Masonic Magazine will get a 30% discount off the retail price of this book (plus reg. S&H) all January. 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. NOTE: Do NOT place your order at the Cornerstone site. We can not generate the discount if you order from the Cornerstone website. You must send an e-mail to obtain the discount.
THIS MONTH’S SELECTION
“Our Stations and Places - Masonic Officer's Handbook” by Henry G. Meacham Revised by Michael R. Poll Retail Price: $16.95 ISBN 1-887560-63-7 http://www.cornerstonepublishers.com/stations.html One of the most respected Masonic officer's handbooks has been revised for the 21st century Freemason. The various stations of the lodge are examined and practical suggestions are offered to help each officer best perform his duties. This revised and updated edition has been expanded to include a new section for the various lodge committees. This is an indispensable tool for all Lodge officers. This book is a must have for all Lodge libraries. I truly believe that every Worshipful Master should have a copy, if not EVERY officer of the Lodge. If it is within your means, purchase a copy for yourself and everyone from the Junior Master of Ceremonies to the Senior Warden and everyone in between. The following quote comes from the books forward. I think it beautifully says how this book was intended to be utilized . “Our Stations and Places is a tool. Like any tool, it is only as beneficial as it is used. If you have the desire to be of service to your Lodge and the willingness to apply your creative mind to the improvement of your Lodge, then wonderful things can happen. The sky and your imagination are the limits.”
(Continued on page 12) www.twtmag.com
11
Cornerstone Masonic Book of the Month
(Continued from page 11) Years ago I wrote years a review about this title and I am still singing its praises years later. This is what I wrote "I have to say that this book is wonderful! It details what the officer does, his role in the lodge and to his lodge. Interjecting personal stories through out gives it a human touch that shows you how it can relate to all of us. If it was up to me every lodge should have a collection of these books on hand for every officer to read before the installation so he is well aware of what is expected of him in the upcoming year." In fact, for the last two years when I presented at the NJ Freemason Leadership Conference I have made it a point to show every officer who attended the weekend ;long presentations how to purchase this book and how beneficial it will be to them to re-read it every year as they progress through the chairs . Cory says “BUY THIS BOOK�
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 on-line 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
TWT www.twtmag.com
12
Featured Blog
One Minute Mason Blog http://oneminutemason.blogspot.com/ By Bro Steve Harrison
Ivo Andric (1892–1975), Serbian novelist and short story writer. Nobel Prize for Literature, 1961. Sir Edward Victor Appleton (1892–1965), English physicist who studied the ionosphere and contributed to the development of radar. Nobel Prize for Physics, 1947. Leon Bourgeois (1851–1925), French statesman, Prime Minister, President of the Council of the League of Nations. Nobel Peace Prize, 1920. Giosue Carducci (1835-1907), considered the national poet of modern Italy. Nobel Prize for Literature, 1906. Sir Winston Churchill (1874–1965), British Prime Minister and author. Nobel Prize for Literature, 1953. Elie Ducommun (1833-1906), Swiss founder of the International Bureau of Peace. Nobel Peace Prize, 1902. Jean Henri Dunant (1828-1910), Swiss philanthropist and founder of the Red Cross. Nobel Peace Prize, 1901. Sir Alexander Fleming (1881-1955), British discoverer of penicillin. Nobel Prize for Medicine, 1945.
Rudyard Kipling (1865-1936), English writer. Nobel Prize for Literature, 1907. Henri Lafontaine (1854-1943), Belgian Senator. Nobel Peace Prize, 1913. George Marshall (1880-1959), General of the Army, Secretary of State, author of the post WWII "Marshall Plan." Nobel Peace Prize, 1953. Albert A. Michelson (1852-1931), American scientist who first measured the speed of light. Nobel Prize for Physics, 1907. Carl von Ossietzky (1889-1938), German writer, pacifist and Nazi opponent. Nobel Peace Prize, 1935. Wilhelm Ostwald (1853-1932), Latvian chemist who studied catalysis, chemical equilibria and reaction velocities. Nobel Prize for Chemistry, 1909. Salvatore Quasimodo (1901–1968), Italian author and poet. Nobel Prize for Literature, 1959. Santiago Ramón y Cajal (1852-1934), Spanish physician recognized for his work on the structure of the nervous system. Nobel Prize for Medicine, 1906.
Alfred H. Fried (1864-1921), Austrian pacifist. Nobel Peace Prize, 1941.
Charles Robert Richet (1850-1935) French physiologist who discovered the phenomenon of anaphylaxis. Nobel Prize for Medicine, 1913.
Sir Frederick Gowland Hopkins (1861–1947), English biochemist who discovered essential amino acids and researched vitamins. Nobel Prize for Medicine, 1929.
Theodore Roosevelt (1858-1919) Twenty-Sixth President of the United States. Nobel Peace Prize, 1906.
Frank B. Kellogg (1856-1937), US Secretary of State, Senator, Ambassador to England. Nobel Peace Prize, 1929.
Gustav Stresemann (1878-1929) Chancellor of Germany. Nobel Peace Prize, 1926. In addition, John Steinbeck (1902-1968), who was a DeMolay, but not a Freemason, received the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1962.
www.twtmag.com
13
Grand Lodge Spotlight- Connecticut
http://www.ctfreemasons.net/ History Freemasonry began in Connecticut in 1750. David Wooster was the charter Master of "The Lodge at New Haven", which later became Hiram Lodge No. 1. This lodge was formed under warrant from St. John's Provincial Grand Lodge at Boston. The Grand Lodge of Connecticut was founded on July 8, 1789 with Pierpont Edwards as its first Grand Master. At the founding of the Grand Lodge of Connecticut, it had 14 lodges with five more being chartered in the following two years. The first lodge chartered by the Grand Lodge of Connecticut was Moriah Lodge No. 15 in Brooklyn Connecticut constituted on October 15, 1790. In 1887, Hiram Lodge challenged the authority of the Grand Lodge of Connecticut to dictate the style of ritual it would use.
Prince Hall Freemasonry in Connecticut On October 14, 1989, the Grand Lodge of Connecticut became the first Mainstream Grand Lodge in the United States to formally recognize and maintain the recognition of Prince Hall Freemasonry. Both Grand Lodges allow dual-membership rights for its members.
Notable Connecticut Freemasons Benedict Arnold - Hiram Lodge No. 1, New Haven Samuel Colt - St. John's Lodge, Hartford Pierpont Edwards - Hiram Lodge No. 1, New Haven Israel Putnam Rob Simmons - Coastal Lodge No. 57, Stonington David Wooster
www.twtmag.com
14
Old Tyler Talks
the brother is wealthy or poor, we see what we can do. Most members of the lodge are fairly prosperous citizens, joke about 'sitting up with the able to look after themselves, but even So a sick member sick,'" began the New Brother to is human enough to value the interest the lodge takes. the Old Tiler, "but since I joined Knowing that his mighty brotherhood is anxious about the lodge I do. I used to think it him acts as a tonic. The sick man may be too ill to admit was a pretty idea; that a lodge us to his bedside, but they tell him about it, and it member should sit up with a heartens him. sick brother seemed real brotherhood. Now I find we "I was one visitor and a streetcar motorman was the other don't so I see the joke." on duty last week. We visited an ill banker, president or director in half the companies in town. You never saw a "Do you, now! How keen is your sense of humor?" man more pleased than Mr. Rich Man. He had us shown answered the Old Tiler. "Who told you we didn't sit with to his room and talked lodge and asked questions and our sick friends?" wanted information about the fellows just as if lie was a poor man like the rest of us. He happens to be a real "Why, no one. But if we did, I'd have heard of it, Mason as well as a wealthy man. He wrote a letter to the wouldn't I?" Master and said our visit had done him more good than 'Depends on the length of your cars. Yesterday I tried to his doctor, and wouldn't he please send us or some other brethren again. buy a hat. The salesman showed me one and said it was twenty-five dollars. I asked him where the holes were. "I called on a sick brother too ill to see me. I saw his wife 'What holes?' he asked. I told him I meant the holes for the ears of the jackass who would pay twenty-five dollars and his home and it was easy to see the brother needed for that hat. If your cars are long enough, maybe you can help. He was too proud or his wife didn't know enough to ask for it. So I reported and we sent our own doctor and hear about our sitting up with our sick friends. But I nurse and paid some bills and generally managed until presume you are hard of hearing? the brother got well. He has paid back every cent, little by little, but he says he can never repay the kindness. "In small towns a few decades ago, nurses were few. When a brother was sick we often sat with him, hand him water or medicine, doing what we could. In modern days " 'Sitting up with a sick lodge member' may be a good there is less need for such help. But don't think we never alibi for the poker player; I don't know. I have read it in joke papers. But I never thought it funny, because I know do. Last month the Master called for volunteers to stay how well Masonry does care for her sick, and how much all night in a house where an old lady was dying. Our it means to an ill man to have his brother take an interest brother from that house was out of town. The old lady had a daughter and a nurse, but daughter was afraid to be in him. If you know any sick, tell us. If you hear of any, tell us. And if . . . say, did you ever visit a sick brother?" alone. We had sixteen volunteers, and every night for a week two did their part. All they did was sit there and "I never had the chance," defended the New Brother. read, but who knows what comfort they were to that distracted daughter? The old lady finally died and in the "You mean you never made the chance!" countered the day time. It looks as if what we did was wasted effort but Old Tiler. "Will you go to the sick committee and ask for the old lady might have died in the night. our brethren duty, or will I report your name for that duty to the were there to help if she did. The daughter knew her Master? Or do you want to go on thinking it's a joke?" husband's brethren were within call so she slept secure in "I got an earful, didn't I" responded the New Brother. the protection Masonry threw about her.
I never saw much point in this
"You say 'we don't sit up.' Don't confuse 'sitting up' with "You tell me to whom to go!" actually resting erect in a chair. No brother of Ellis or any other good lodge is reported sick but he receives a TWT call from Master, Warden, chairman of the committee on the sick, or some brother. It makes no difference whether
www.twtmag.com
15
Featured Writer- John
What determines the degrees of separation between the legs of the Compasses?
Compasses The original question is directed toward a Working tool called, “The Compasses.” Looking at the origin of the word “compass” shows a telltale clue behind the intent of its naming. The word comes from the Vulgar Latin, “compassāre” and originally meant to “pace out.” This meaning points to the fact that the Working tool was originally used as a measurement tool which eventually included another function – inscription.
?
This question is atypical and is mostly offered by minds that look beyond the surface. It’s founded in a belief that and that there are reasons behind the of what is put forth. This question is also an indicator that Candidates asking such a question and know there than what appears obvious to the unobservant.
This background is important to know for Masons use the Compasses in two ways. The Compasses as a Even though questions like this one are what Coaches Working Tool is used to perform two primary look for from Candidates, any questions like this functions. The first function is that of drawing or naturally allude to other ones, such as, “What is it inscribing arcs, which is evident by the wide variety of that actually Raises Masons.” It is in the Light of this circles and arcs found within Masonic symbolism. The second question that this writing is put forth to second function of the Compasses, one that echoes in address the first. character the original meaning behind its name, is to measure and determine distances. Both of these Why is understanding the basis behind such questions functions should be understood to continue toward a important? The answer to this is that “sharing Light satisfactory response to the initial question. is a huge responsibility.” As a coach, this responsibility rests upon your shoulders. Your To perform the first function, responsibility is to make sure that the Light you share “inscription”, one point of the and a with other has a Working Tool is placed upon a aspects of the Craft and, more specifically, the Work surface, usually a superficies, at that is involved in that Craft. To respond a point that is the focus of the to the first question requires that you possess a deep arc or the center of a circle. understanding of the interconnections between the actual symbol in question and all that supports that The other point is placed upon symbol. that same superficies a suitable distance from that point. Once positioned, it is What you are about to explore is steeped with moved about that point in a sweep to create an apt connections supporting the Light requested and the arc, usually a circle. After these actions are basis behind that Light. Additionally, further completed, the result is either an arc or an encircled exploration shall reveal to you some critical point called a “Circumpunct.” This “sweeping” interconnections that are equally important. Let’s start connecting the dots to create a picture for you function is performed to establish, denote/illustrate that brings forth focus as to what is involved. and maintain Standards and (Continued on page 17)
www.twtmag.com
16
(Continued from page 16) Boundaries . To perform the second function, “measurement”, the legs of the compasses are spread a known distance from each other, usually guided by a predetermined length as provided by a standardized grid, scale or guide. Once established, the distance between the two legs is used to measure and determine unknown distances. This is accomplished by pacing or walking the compasses from one point to another, counting up the number of steps it took to accomplish this and multiplying the known separation between the points by this number to determine the unknown distance. When a fractional part is involved in the last “pace”, that distance is spanned using the points. Its representation is then carried back” to a standard “known” measurement to determine the remaining distance. This “measurement” function is performed to determine distances and length ratios . As an inscribing Working Tool, they are usually called, “A Pair of Compasses”, “Compass” or “Compasses.” As a measurement Working Tool, they are usually called, “Divider Calipers”, “Dividing Compass” or simply “Dividers.” Both functions are used in the fields of Mathematics, Drafting, Navigation, Metal Craft and many others. The Circumpunct An interesting connection that Masons should immediately draw upon when examining the Compasses’ first function is the result it gives. The result of the Compasses’ application in this direction is an arc or Circumpunct. The latter Circumpunct is Freemasonry’s focus at the Blue Lodge Level. That very Circumpunct is what is considered in Freemasonry to be symbolic of a man and the scope of his actions. The Point is indicative of the man; the circle is the Boundary in which that man should not venture beyond in thought or in deed. There is much more involved though than meets any superficial glance. Let’s explore this further. The circumference of the circle represents a Boundary. It is not simple a Boundary separating a man from other men. It is far more a direct reflection of what exists inside the man than anything else. It is determined by a man’s values and the system of thought that brought them about. It is shown clearly by his outward activities.
These activities are obvious Light. There is no better way to determine a man’s values and beliefs than to examine his actions. His behavior is driven by what he values and believes. These two establish and maintain the Standards that he chooses to live by. From these Standards come specific behaviors and ultimately the consequences that follow them. These actions become a visual display of the limits of operation the man has willfully chosen in his life. This ascribed circle also displays those limits of engagement a man chooses with others. It demonstrates in real time what a man accepts as suitable exchange between him and others and what he rejects as unsuitable exchange between the same. It is also an outward expression of what a man values and believes about both himself and those in which he engages. His manner of respect, honor and appreciation are demonstrated by how he maintains this circumference, as are any manners that are contrary to these.
TWT Email Bro. John Nagy with any questions or comments about this or any other of his articles. (Online browsing only)
Submit www.twtmag.com
17
BOOK REVIEW By Scott Schwartzberg
“BUILDING BOAZ: UNCOMMON CATECHISM FOR UNCOMMON MASONIC EDUCATION, VOLUME 2.” By B Dr. John S. Nagy. 2009, Promethean Genesis Publishing. 180 pages, paperback $18.00 at www.coach.net.
Building Boaz is Dr. John S. Nagy’s second book in his “Building Builders” series. You did not miss a review of the first book in the series last month. I am starting the review of this series with the second book on purpose. This volume deals with the Entered Apprentice Degree. The third book focuses on the Fellow Craft Degree, and the fourth book is on the Master Mason Degree. Once I have covered these three volumes, I will review the first in the series, which has sections on each of the three Degrees. When Dr. Nagy was Initiated into our Fraternity, he felt that there was more to it than just learning to parrot back the catechism to demonstrate that he was proficient. He was correct. He had a lot of questions about the meaning behind the words, as did I. He asked questions, but found that the answers gave him more questions to ask. It seems that merely using the required proficiency for a candidate for each Degree to establish his understanding was making men who were able to sustain the Grand Lodge system of Freemasonry, but was doing little to actually do what we tend to tell people we do – namely, to take good men and make them better. By uncovering meaning in the ritual, Nagy found methods to actually improve the self. This is not the Lodge making the man better, but the man working to make himself better.
Nagy decided to use the question and answer format of the ritual catechism in this series of four books to elicit the answers that he found. While it took a little while for me to get into the rhythm of reading this style of book, it did make sense, and I followed along in the author’s footsteps. Nagy did not use any currently used ritual when creating his catechisms, so as not to draw the ire of any Grand Lodges, while still crafting a useful working tool for the Mason interested in self-improvement. He used older catechisms and rituals, which are still relevant for this purpose. Building Boaz is the work of the Entered Apprentice. Prior to reading this, I thought that I had done the work by proving I memorized a portion of ritual, reciting it in open Lodge. This book opened my mind… no, it blew my mind. The work of this Degree is not merely to gain a partial understanding of the forms of our ritual… but to actually DO THE WORK! The Entered Apprentice is the foundational Degree of Freemasonry. In order to build a sturdy structure, the builder must first create a strong foundation. Failure to do so will be like building a house of cards, which cannot stand against a wind. Failure to build an internal foundation for Freemasonry will also result in a flimsy final
(Continued on page 19) www.twtmag.com
18
BOOK REVIEW (Continued from page 18) structure. The purpose of this Degree is to act upon the brain, preparing the student to learn. Early in the Florida catechism, the Entered Apprentice is asked why he came to our Fraternity. The answer to this question is nearly the entire point of this Degree! As Nagy puts it, “It is to examine and rectify your Morals in the Light of all which you profess to be Sacred. It is to assure that all that can weaken your Stone is removed while you Strengthen your core.” Nagy goes through the meaning behind this in a series of twelve catechisms, which also give an explanation for many of the symbols in the Degree. Each one of these acts as a chapter, with an introduction before the questions and answers. This book does not reveal any great secrets; it is a tool which can be used by the attentive Mason to remove some of the veils which obscure our work. The first catechism, The Contented Container, deals with an exploration of our Fraternity – what it is, what it is meant to do, and how. Others, such as The Threshing-Floor, include a study of metaphor, including why some metaphors were specifically chosen by the creators of the Craft. Nagy delves
deeply into symbolism, and while the explanations given by him in this question and answer form may be his own interpretation, when taken as a whole, they help form a more complete picture of the responsibilities of a Freemason. In this book, the focus is indeed on the work of the Entered Apprentice. The first time I read Dr. Nagy’s series of books, I started with Volume 1, which seemed logical. That book, however, deals mainly with the interconnections between the Degrees. When I re-read the four books, in preparation for Dr. Nagy’s “Building Builders” seminar at our Lodge, I decided to start with Volume 2, Building Boaz, and focus on the Entered Apprentice first, then move on the Fellow Craft, then to Master Mason, and finally to the unified volume, and that is the order in which I will be reviewing these books. I highly recommend this book, along with the others in this series. I have developed deeper insight into the Degrees as a result of doing the work of the Degrees. I am not referring only to that which Dr. Nagy uncovered while doing his research, but also to the thought processes which have been inculcated in me, helping me to do my own research.
TWT
Advertisement
MASONIC WEEK 2012 Feb 8, 2012 - Feb 12, 2012
http://www.yorkrite.org/MasonicWeek/index.html www.twtmag.com
19
www.twtmag.com
20
D
missing the point of the journey. You have not “freed o you wonder sometimes your mind”.
if you have yet to make the ideas and principles of Freemasonry your own? I sometimes witness the push of others to have new members memorize ritual, eager to make them contributors to degree work. But, is this the right impression to be given to a Man who has been a Mason all of five months? He has yet to comprehend the massive amounts of information needed just to understand which aspect of the many definitions of our speculative world he might identify. It seems sometimes that when an individual comes along and does well with the memorization of the catechism, that he will be good at doing ritual work. Well, one day he might. But, until he comprehends the ideas and concepts presented in the ritual and lectures, he can’t perform the ritual with any kind of real feeling that will impress upon the mind of a candidate the importance of our institution. A Freemason is a free-thinking man. To be freethinking, one must go beyond the ritual and previously stated summations of our work and define what it means to him personally. Our Grand Lodge asks the question, “Who are you going to be?” The answer to this question is found when a Mason develops his own Masonic identity. A Masonic identity should develop when discussions about the understanding of ritual causes a Brother to reflect on his own moral and ethical beliefs and an enlightening moment promotes new thoughts of self. Basically, you think of new thoughts about past situations in your life and define what you could’ve done within the scope of Masonic concepts next time. If you have memorized the ritual and are still acting and thinking in the same narrow scope you did before being initiated into the Fraternity, you are definitely
I believe this entire process of making a good man better starts with the intender and his candidate. Are we meeting with the Brother every couple weeks and making him regurgitate words back at us? Or, are we breaking down what the material means to him individually. Our mind set when instructing should always be to produce men that can go out into the world and represent themselves not just as Freemasons, but as a positive individual that inspires others to be better people. This takes time, dedication, patience and the investment of yourself into your new Brother. To me, Freemasonry is not a business in which I‘m a member, it is a everyday, personal journey of improvement in mind and spirit. Every candidate should put on the right path to receive this gift. The only way they will find it is if we help them make Freemasonry personal to them. We are not in the business of building Parrot Masons, we build Freemasons. I pray we are encouraging our new Brothers to be the very best of themselves by giving them time to develop into the Freemasons they are going to be before we put them into positions to teach others.
Humbly submitted,
Brother Charles Harper Kankakee Lodge #389
TWT
www.twtmag.com
21
WORD OF THE MONTH Masonic Symbolism & Words Brought to you by Www.masonicdictionary.com This Month’s Word is: Communication, Masonic The term communication with respect to Freemasonry is often misunderstood. Communication in this sense means a lodge meeting. Therefore the injunction that a Mason is not to hold Masonic Communication with a clandestine mason simply means you are prohibited from sitting in the same lodge room. (See following definitions for support) - Source: MasonicDictionary.com
There is some dispute as to the origin of this word but usually it is held to have come from communis, a Latin term for general, or universal, whence our common, common wealth, communion, communism, communal and many similar words. To communicate is to share something with others so that all may partake of it; a communication is an act, transaction, or deliberation shared in by all present. From this it will be seen how appropriate is our use of the word to designate those official Lodge meetings in which all members have a part or a voice. - Source: 100 Words in Masonry The meeting of a Lodge is so called. There is a peculiar significance in this term. To communicate, which, in the Old English form, was to common, originally meant to share in common with others. The great sacrament of the Christian Church, which denotes a participation in the mysteries of the religion and a fellowship in the church, is called a communion, which is fundamentally the same as a communication, for be who partakes of the communion is said to communicate. Hence the meetings of Masonic Lodges are called communications, to signify that it is not simply the ordinary meeting of a society for the transaction of business, but that such meeting is the fellowship of men engaged in a common pursuit, and governed by a common principle, and that there is therein a communication or participation of those feelings and sentiments that constitute a true brotherhood. The communications of Lodges are regular or stated and special or emergent. Regular communications are held under the provision of the by-laws, but special communications are called by order of the Master. It is a regulation that no special communication can alter, amend, or rescind the proceedings of a regular communication. - Source: Mackey's Encyclopedia of Freemasonry
TWT www.twtmag.com
22
Featured Writer- Bro. Todd Creason 33°
Edited specifically for The Working Tools by
bomb load, he swung low over the
Author Todd Creason.
trees. Then instead of returning to base, he made a turn toward the anti-
On a beautiful summer day, a father took his eight-year-
aircraft guns that had fired at him.
old son to work with him. They were driving to check out a
Flying low and fast, he drew down on
future plumbing job. On the way back home, they drove by
the emplacement. Firing his four twenty-millimeter
a rural airport where an old bi-plane sat in a nearby field.
cannons, he watched as the shells ripped the enemy
The father and son decided to stop and check it out. The
emplacement apart.
pilot, wearing the typical helmet and goggles, was taking
He had only a brief moment of satisfaction as he pulled
people for rides in the plane. The father asked his son if he
up to fly over the emplacement he’d just destroyed.
wanted to go up.
Suddenly, something struck the plane. He started to roll
“You mean it?” the boy replied.
over and down toward the rice patty. He was unable to
The father had wanted to fly ever since he’d seen bi-
climb to altitude, and it took tremendous strength to
planes fighting over the lines during World War I. His
control the badly damaged aircraft. Being so close to the
young son shared his enthusiasm. After the father handed
ground, his first problem was to keep from crashing; his
the pilot a few dollars, they climbed into the back cockpit
second was to avoid more anti-aircraft fire coming from
and sat side by side in the small seat, hooking a strap
the hilltops.
across them both. The engine revved. They bounced
He was able to wrestle the plane back to base. After he
down the runway until suddenly, they were in the air. The
landed safely, he was surprised to find one hole in the
young boy couldn’t believe how high they’d climbed.
Panther’s tail “big enough to put my head and shoulders
When the plane banked, he could look straight down. As
through,” along with another 250 smaller shrapnel holes.
an elderly man, he still remembers that everything on the
That evening, he wrote a poem that, in part, went:
ground looked small, like the buildings and trees on a train
Then off to one side of the tail
set in a store window. From that day forward, the boy was
A tracer stream did pass.
hooked on airplanes.
A thought ran flashing through my mind:
Years later, as a young man, he was flying over North Korea. He was in a steep diving run in his F9F
“They’re shooting at my ass.” Unbelievably, the tail of the Panther was replaced.
Panther, targeting a complex of buildings being used by
She flew again like new—and so would he. A week later, he
the Communist for the staging of equipment and soldiers,
was hit again during a napalm run. As he was gliding to
when he saw off to his right the tracer bullets from a
the target at about 8,000 feet, he felt a tremendous
Communist anti-aircraft emplacement streaming past him.
explosion.
He made a mental note of the location. After dropping his
(Continued on page 24) www.twtmag.com
23
Featured Writer- Bro. Todd Creason 33° proprietor of a plumbing and heating business. John
(Continued from page 23)
Glenn and his sister, Jean, grew up in New Concord, Ohio, His plane tipped over ninety-degrees to the left.
a small college town a few miles from the larger city of
The other pilots radioed him, telling him he’d been hit,
Zanesville. As a teenager, Glenn was active in sports,
“something I was already keenly aware of,” he recalled. He
winning letters in basketball, football, and tennis at New
was able to control the plane and returned to base where
Concord High School. He earned high grades, served as
he was shocked to discover a two-foot hole in the wing
president of his junior class, and played the lead role in his
from a large anti-aircraft shell. In addition to that hole,
senior class play. After graduating in the spring of 1939,
the ground crew counted another three hundred holes
he enrolled at Muskingum College, a Presbyterian liberal
from shrapnel, but the pilot had escaped without a scratch.
arts college in New Concord.
Because of his gift for attracting so much flack from anti-
Glenn played football at Muskingum College and
aircraft fire, his squadron began calling him “Old Magnet
continued to perform well in the classroom, majoring in
Ass.”
chemistry. In 1941, he received his private pilot’s license to He flew sixty-three combat missions during his first
earn course credit in physics. When the United Stated
tour in Korean. He would go on to fly twenty-seven more
entered World War II after the attack at Pearl Harbor,
in an F-86 Sabre during his second tour. In the last nine
Glenn enlisted in the United States Army Air Corp, but
days of the Korean War, he shot down three MiG-15s.
when the Army did not call him up, he enlisted in the
But it was a flight years later—a flight that lasted four
United States Navy as an aviation cadet. He was trained at
hours, fifty-five minutes, and twenty-three seconds—that
Naval Air Station Olathe, where he made his first solo
made this man famous. It was a flight even more
flight in a military aircraft. While receiving advanced
dangerous than any mission he’d flown over Korea, a
training at Naval Air Station Corpus Christi in 1943, he
historic flight that was not even in a plane.
was reassigned to the United States Marine Corp. On
On February 20, 1962, at 9:47 A.M., the roar of a
March 31, 1943, he became a commissioned officer in the
125-ton Atlas rocket broke the silence of Cape Canaveral
U.S. Marine Corps and was promoted to first lieutenant six
and signaled the launch of a mission that would
months later. Lieutenant Glenn married Anna Castor in
demonstrate to the world that America was still in the
April 1943, Later, they had two children, Carolyn and
space race. At a top speed of 17,545 miles per hour, one
David. In February 1944, Glenn received orders to go to
man was rocketed into the history books. As the rocket roared toward space, Scott Carpenter put into words from
the Pacific as part of the Marine Fighter Squadron 155.
mission control what most people were feeling as they
During the next year, he flew fifty-nine missions in the
watched the historic moment
Marshall Islands campaign, attacking anti-aircraft
on televisions all over the
emplacements and making bombing runs in his F4U
world: “Godspeed, John
Corsair. Glenn was transferred back to the States in July
Glenn.” Aboard the
1945, where he became a captain at Naval Air Station
Friendship 7, John Glenn
Patuxent River, Maryland. Glenn remained in the Marines after the war
became the first American astronaut to orbit the Earth. John Herschel Glenn, Jr., was born on July 18,
ended, serving as a member of VMF-218. He flew patrol missions in North Korea until his unit was relocated to Guam.
1921, in Cambridge, Ohio. His father was a railroad conductor who became
(Continued on page 25) www.twtmag.com
24
Featured Writer- Bro. Todd Creason 33° The many Americans and others around the world
(Continued from page 24)
who watched the launch didn’t know there was a very He became a flight instructor at Naval Air Station
serious problem. NASA officials feared that the heat shield
Corpus Christi, Texas, in 1948, and later attended
on Friendship 7 had been damaged during the launch, but
amphibious warfare school. After he was promoted to
there was nothing that could be done to inspect or repair
major, he received the assignment to Korea.
it. There was only hope and prayer that the damage was
After the Korean War ended, Glenn worked as a test pilot, serving as an armament officer. He flew high
not so severe as to cause Glenn to burn up during re-entry. To the relief of NASA, John Glenn splashed down
altitude weapons tests of machine guns and cannons, but
safely. Celebrated as a national hero, he received a ticker
his most remarkable accomplishment came on July 16,
tape parade reminiscent of Charles A. Lindbergh’s parade
1957, when he became the first pilot to complete a
after his completion of the first transcontinental flight
supersonic transcontinental flight. He flew a Vought F8U-
thirty-five years before.
1 Crusader plane from Los Angeles to Floyd Bennett Field
Despite Glenn’s success and celebrity, he didn’t go
in New York in three hours, twenty-three minutes, and
into space again, although he wanted to. It has been long
eight seconds. One story is that as Glenn flew
believed that John F. Kennedy himself may have blocked
over his hometown
Glenn from flying future missions—most notably the
of New Concord, Ohio,
Gemini and Apollo missions—because the loss of a
the tremendous sonic
national hero of John Glenn’s stature could have seriously
boom that followed his jet
harmed the fledgling NASA space program or even ended
shook the town. A
the manned space program altogether.
neighborhood child ran to
Glenn remained close friends with the Kennedy
the Glenn house shouting,
family, but two years after his historic flight, he left the
“Johnny dropped a bomb!
space program and retired from the Marine Corps. After
Johnny dropped a bomb!”
considering a career in politics, he opted instead to accept
The achievement not only
a corporate position as vice-president of Royal Crown Cola
set a new record but also
International Ltd. Still interested in politics, he supported
earned Glenn his fifth
Robert Kennedy's 1968 Presidential run. In fact, he was
Distinguished Flying Cross. Later, he was promoted to lieutenant colonel. In April 1959, John Glenn received word that he
with Robert Kennedy when he was assassinated. Finally, in 1974, John Glenn entered politics. He ran in a bitterly-fought election for Ohio senator and won. It was
had been selected for training as one of the original group
the beginning of Glenn’s career as Ohio State senator that
of Mercury astronauts in the newly formed National
would last twenty-four years.
Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). In May
Glenn made a bid to be vice president with Jimmy
1959, seven astronauts began training at Langley Research
Carter in 1976, but Carter selected Walter Mondale as his
Center. In May and July 1961, Alan Shepard and Virgil
running mate. Glenn ran in the 1984 Presidential election.
Grissom respectively became the first and second
He polled well in the beginning, running a close second to
astronauts actually launched into space. John Glenn’s
Walter Mondale, but because he was hesitant to use his
mission, however, was not only to escape Earth’s
fame as an astronaut and an American hero, his candidacy
atmosphere and return but also to orbit the Earth. On
fizzled. The failed Presidential bid left Glenn with a
February 20, 1962, Friendship 7 was launched into orbit
substantial campaign debt that took him years to pay off.
with Glenn at the controls.
(Continued on page 26) www.twtmag.com
25
Featured Writer- Bro. Todd Creason 33° (Continued from page 25)
Glenn was finally able to finish what he had begun in 1964. At the Chillicothe High School gymnasium with hundreds
In 1998, John Glenn decided to retire, declining to
of Master Masons present, John Glenn received the Master
run for re-election to the United States Senate. At age
Mason degree in a special meeting. After the Master of
seventy-seven, John Glenn deserved the rest, but he wasn’t
Scioto Lodge No. 6 opened the lodge, he turned the
quite ready to be put out to pasture.
meeting over to Grand Master of Ohio, Jerry C. Rasor, who in turn opened the Grand Lodge of Ohio who conferred the
On October 29, 1998, the roar of rocket engines broke
degrees.
the silence of the Kennedy Space Center in Florida as the
On April 11, 1997, Brother Glenn
space shuttle Discovery lifted off for a historic
received further light in Masonry in the
mission. The seven-man crew included the first
Valley of Cincinnati when he received the
Spanish astronaut, Pedro Duque. It also
Scottish Rite Degrees. He later received
included a seventy-seven year old payload
the highest Masonic honor on September
specialist—and recently retired senator from
10, 1998, when he was conferred with the
Ohio—who had been, incidentally, the first
33° of Masonry. Several of his friends
American to orbit the Earth. Thirty-six years
from Washington, D.C., attended the
after his first flight aboard Friendship 7, John
event. Senate colleagues, Brothers
Glenn returned to space for a nine-day mission
Charles Grassley and Conrad Burns, were
for which he’d trained hard, both physically and
present as was a former Ohio
mentally. Glenn was a member of the crew, as
congressman Brother Clarence Brown, Jr.
well as one of the experiments, which tested the effects of
of the Valley of Dayton. It might be interesting to note that
space flight on the aging. He was a perfect subject since
there are two topics deemed inappropriate to discuss in a
his extensive medical records from his days during the
lodge of Freemasons because they are topics that divide
early years of NASA provided a baseline for the testing.
men instead of uniting them—religion and politics. This
Upon returning from his Discovery mission, John
ideal is obviously something John Glenn very much
Glenn received the same national attention and praise he’d
believes in. The three friends that joined Brother Glenn at
received after his historic flight aboard Friendship 7. He is
the conferral of his 33° were Republicans. John Glenn has
the only man to receive two ticker tape parades in his
been a lifelong Democrat.
lifetime. Even so, he remained humbled by the experience, stating, “You know, old folks can have dreams,
If you enjoyed this story, you’ll find this one, and
too, as well as young folks, and then work toward them.
dozens more like it in Todd E. Creason’s Famous
And to have a dream like this come true for me is just a
American Freemasons: Volumes I & II. He also
terrific experience.”
published a collection of entertaining quotes from famous Freemasons entitled A Freemason Said
The Illustrious John Glenn 33° originally petitioned his
That? All of Todd’s books are available from
hometown lodge, Concord Lodge No. 688 of New Concord,
major online booksellers like Amazon.com and
Ohio, in 1964. He was elected to receive the Degrees of
Barnes & Noble. They are also available for
Masonry; however, his increasingly busy life made it
download to your Nook and Kindle. Find more
impossible for him to receive those degrees at the time.
info at
Even so, he continued to desire admission in Concord
http://toddcreason.org/Book_Announcements.html
Lodge. Fourteen years later, on August 19, 1978, John
TWT www.twtmag.com
26
PODCASTS
“The Life Masonic Podcast” http://www.thelifemasonic.libsyn.com “A Monthly web radio show produced by The Supreme Council, 33rd Degree of the Ancient & Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry of the Southern Jurisdiction through the support of The Master Craftsman Program.”
The Host
Podcast Description The Life Masonic is a monthly web-radio show produced by the Supreme Council, 33rd Degree of the Scottish Rite, Southern Jurisdiction, USA. Each month we pick a topic concerning Masonic education and then we present you with stories or insights on that topic from real Masons around the country – some you’ve heard of, and others, we’re excited for you to meet for the first time. Our goal is that when all is said and done, you’ve heard something interesting or thought provoking. And if all goes well, perhaps you’ll have learned something useful and because of that, you’ll feel more connected to our Fraternity then you were previously.
Bro. Jason Van Dyke is a founding officer and the immediate Past Master of The Colonial Lodge, No. 1821 in Washington DC. His mother Lodge is Benjamin B. French, No. 15. Jason is a 32° SR Mason and have been working for the Supreme Council for 6 years
Cory’s Opinion The Life Masonic podcast is exactly what you would expect from a Supreme Council. Professionally sounding and crafted. The host sounds like he has done this for a long time even though there has only been four episodes to date. I strongly recommend subscribing to this show to get all the new updates. You definitely do not have to be part of the Scottish Rite to enjoy this podcast, the information is general enough for ALL masons to learn from. KUDOS!! Topics that have been covered are Ep1- S. Brent Morris, 33°, Grand Cross, the Managing Editor of The Scottish Rite Journal, and all-around well-known Masonic scholar. Brent talks about his early attempts at research and then explains how you can do it, too. Ep2 - Dean Alban, the Scottish Rite, Southern Jurisdiction’s Director of Membership Services about what he sees in terms of membership and the effect of an influx of youth on it. He also shares a story about a recent experience he’s had with a young Mason and how even though he is a very unique individual, the reasons he became a Mason are anything but. Ep3- Cornerstones. Specifically, the cornerstone of the House of the Temple, the headquarters building of the Supreme Council of Scottish Rite of Freemasonry for the Southern Jurisdiction of the United States. On October 18th, 2011, the Grand Lodge of the DC with help from the Grand Lodges of MD and VA re-enacted the Masonic cornerstone ceremony of 1911. Ep4 - Leadership with Ronald Seale, S.G.C. A native of Baton Rouge, LA, Ronald A. Seale has served for 7 years as the 18th Sovereign Grand Commander of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry for the Southern Jurisdiction of the United States, the mother supreme council of the World.
Find in I-Tunes for free http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-life-masonic/id456720178
TWT
www.twtmag.com
27
FEATURED WRITER
“Mystery is a Good Thing” by Matt Johnson I read a lot about Freemasonry. Where it came from, who put together the first degrees for us, where it is headed and everything in between. I think we are headed in the right direction. Little by little, we are getting our mystery back. I have said it before on many occasions: I think our future lies with our more esoteric brothers. The brothers who make no excuse for who we are. They make no apologies. Cliff Porter, Timothy Hogan, Andrew Hammer and many others are leading the way in this direction. Some may say they go to far. I would disagree. When I read their articles on alchemy and other mysterious topics, I am excited to be a Mason! There are those who would say we have no secrets left. I disagree. We have plenty of secrets left. I have recently caught glimpses of symbols and concepts in documentaries on Egypt and Africa that remind me of our craft. I have discovered a few things on my own that I have shared with some of you regarding new clues that lend support to our roots in the Knights Templar or at least some sort of Templar influence. I have also found interesting information on other subjects that lend more weight to the claims of the Old Charges regarding our origin going back many centuries before the Knights Templar to the Egyptians and others. I have also found clues from other brothers such as David Harrison that strongly suggest Desaguliers rewrote not only our Hiramic legend, but also truly did plan on the Royal Arch as the completion of our present system. I have also found reasons to believe that perhaps Desaguliers had universalism in mind when he put his pen in motion. I have also found a striking similarity between the teachings of near death experience survivors and our fundamental Masonic beliefs as well as those of such men as Albert Pike and even Manley Hall. There is tremendous mystery in what we do. Those who practice the Scottish Rite understand such things or at least have been given access to it through Rex Hutchens, Arturo De Hoyos and others. To let go of this is to make Freemasonry into another fraternal organization that does not stress ritual or esoteric philosophies. No offense to these other groups, but Freemasonry is far older and far more important to the past and I would say, future of civilization. The work and dreams of Bacon, Franklin and Washington are far from over. We Generation X’ers and Millenials are the new hope of Freemasonry. By sticking to our ancient landmarks, not only will we preserve Freemasonry, we will become truly good men made better. And as a result of that, society will be blessed. We will shrink in numbers soon as Email Matt with any questions or our older brethren depart for their eternal reward, but I believe our numbers are not important as is our quality. comments (online browsing only) Hold your head high and offer no explanations to the profane. Memorize ritual so that new candidates are taught well and not discouraged by a lackadaisical atmosphere in the lodge. By doing so, we will not only attract more men, we will attract a better quality of man. If the world wants to know what we are about, they can look to our accomplishments…mainly all the best parts of western civilization since 1717. It is an exciting time to be a Freemason.
TWT
Submit www.twtmag.com
28
FEATURED WRITER
By Bro. Kyle Ferguson
http://philosophicalfreemason.blogspot.com
I've been engaging in a lot of different discussions over the past few days with many people about many topics. One thing I've noticed is that, when differing opinions clash, there is usually a comment about one or the other being "Un-Masonic". This started me thinking if we look at individual Masonic principles too narrow-mindedly, is it possible to make them Un-Masonic? For instance, it is our duty to maintain a level of brotherly love with each other. Our obligations bind us to this duty. But, we all know that heated discussions happen between us. If a discussion becomes heated and passionate, does it make the conduct Un-Masonic? This is usually the response of one of the two parties or sometimes of a third party witness chiming in with, "You guys aren't being very Masonic." Or, same scenario, little different circumstances. You express totally opposite viewpoints on an idea or an appendant body that one of your Brothers happens to be very passionate about. The argument starts civilly and logically but eventually one side's logic runs out. Some Brethren, in this situation, tend to hide behind Masonic principles as an illogical defense since they don't have a logical argument to continue with. These Brethren are usually the ones that start quoting every line of ritual they can think of in an attempt to make you feel Un-Masonic simply for logically presenting your opinion. This is a gross manipulation of Masonic Principles and is just as Un-Masonic as the conduct the said principles advocate against. Masonry stands for the free expression of opinion, as long as it is done tactfully. To use Masonic Principles in an attempt to squash someone's opinion is totally opposite of its intended purpose. Here's another example: Charity is one of the most misunderstood terms in Freemasonry. A lot of people attempt to define Masonry as a charitable organization. In these people's eyes, if a lodge is not constantly engaged in the donation of money or other things to the needy, then that lodge is not doing Masonry. This is another example of a manipulation of a Masonic Principle to fit the need of an individual or individuals. Some Brethren have a strong desire to donate to charity all the time. This, in and of itself, is not a bad thing at all. Charity is a duty of a Mason after all. But as soon as we
start aligning our Masonic institutions strictly by the definition of charity, we are letting our true purpose slip away. Through the work of Masonry in the building of an individual, charity is simply an end result. Not a definition of. If a man builds himself into a true Mason, he will undoubtedly be a charitable person. But he will also be many other things as a result of the same work: intelligent, understanding, rational, logical, etc, etc. People who want Masonry to be only a charitable order, and not philosophical or spiritual don't actually want Masonry, they want a charitable order. The Rotarians are charitable, they are not Masonic. This is another example of a narrow-minded definition of a Masonic principle to fit someone's specific needs, not a Masonic example to fit the needs of the Brethren as a whole. Don't get me wrong, you can never go wrong with being charitable, but once you forget everything else that makes Freemasonry what is, then you don't have Freemasonry anymore. You have charity with a square and compasses sticker on it. I can go on and on here (which I may have done already) but I think I made my point. The principles of Freemasonry are the backbone of our philosophy. As soon as we take a narrow-minded and selfish outlook on those principles though, they can no longer support the body just as a backbone of a human supports the body. Be open minded. Realize Masonry is many things to many people and not one definition of its principles or outlook on its philosophies is correct. As soon as we become fundamentalists, we make ourselves no better than the people that this Fraternity was started to stand up against. Here is a great quote by Pope Benedict that I feel really fits what Masonry is: "Be united but not closed Be humble but not fearful. Be simple but not ingenuous. Be thoughtful but not complicated. Enter into dialogue with all, but be yourself."
TWT www.twtmag.com
29
By Bro. Lamoni Kitchen
Most people see Michael Richards, most famously as “Cosmo Kramer,” and think of his classic portrait from “Seinfeld.” Some are more fondly reminded of Stanley Spadowski, the loveable and probably brain-damaged janitor from Weird Al’s movie, UHF. But others, few others, see Michael Richards not as a distant celebrity figure, but as a brother. Michael Richards was made a Mason December 17, 1998, at the Riviera Lodge No. 780 in Pacific Palisades, California. 40 years old when he joined Freemasonry, he was inspired both in comedy and Masonry by Red Skelton. Richards, in an interview for California Freemason in 2003, said “Young people today need a handrail. For some young men, Masonry could give them that support.” Followers of pop culture will remember that this article was written three years before Richards’ now infamous rant in an LA club in which he blew up and spouted racist remarks to a group of hecklers. Seeing as how nothing has been written about Richards recently, one is left to assume that he is both still a Freemason and still a comedian. Much was written about the incident when it first happened, both in the news and in Masonic circles, yet five years later, it would seem it wasn’t nearly as big a deal as was made at the time. Many called for his resignation from the fraternity, being quick to judge and saying that such behavior was not properly becoming a Mason in the public eye. Did he, for all intents and purposes, and pardon my French, “lose his shit?” Yes, he did. Did he make a proper, sincere public apology? Yes, he did. Did he show that it’s okay to even poke fun at the incident by parodying it himself on Larry David’s show, Curb Your Enthusiasm? Yes, he did. And frankly, it’s hilarious. No, seriously; I’m actually going to start watching this show if half the episodes are as funny as that little clip. I started off this article with Michael Richards because he’s the most relatable media-Mason I know. Statistically speaking, the average 20-25 year old won’t know Red Skelton, Gene Autry, Ernest Borgnine, Bud Abbot, Cecil B.
DeMille, W.C. Fields, Clark Gable, Gary Burghoff, Oliver Hardy, Will Rogers, Peter Sellers, Richard Pryor, or Don Rickles. Why did all these men seek to join a single organization? If you asked the fourteen I listed here, you’d probably get fourteen answers. Some men join because their fathers or brothers or grandfathers were Masons; others joined because they were looking for a social club; At least one on this list joined because he looked up to a Mason and wanted to see what the appeal was. It’s interesting to note, I think, that while all these men were known Freemasons, none of them actually played a Mason onscreen. Instead of taking advantage of their positions in the public limelight, they were just as contented– as are millions of other Freemasons throughout the world– to simply live by example, and should anyone ask what makes them the way they are, quietly point them toward the fraternity, as they themselves were probably led. As a totally unofficial, unscientific survey, I would say that half of the Freemasons I’ve talked with who joined more than a decade ago would say “Well, there was just something special about someone I looked up to…” This ineffable quality of being admirable and quietly supporting all good things is exactly what Freemasonry has sought to support for over 300 years. More recently, however, there has been a strong push in the various Grand Lodges, especially in North America, to be more open and active in the general public– 1/3 of people surveyed recently by a national Masonic organization couldn’t even say what a Freemason was or had even heard the name before. While the middle part of the 20th Century saw men becoming Masons simply because, it was obvious to the fraternity that in the late 90s, that mentality simply wouldn’t hold. Membership all over the world declined rapidly, and when the numbers were analyzed, it was discovered– shockingly, to those involved– that more men were leaving by CHOICE rather than death. The steps taken to try and fix this problem will be covered in my next post.
TWT www.twtmag.com
30
Masons in the News
“30 Year partnership with Freemasons celebrated with new memorandum” The FINANCIAL -- A new Memorandum of Understanding enabling future cooperation and support was signed by The University of Auckland Vice-Chancellor Professor Stuart McCutcheon and the Grand Master of Freemasons New Zealand, Mr Selwyn Cooper, in Auckland on Friday 25 November. The signing ceremony took part as part of a celebration marking the 30-year association between the Freemasons and The University of Auckland. The new memorandum reflecting the significant and ongoing support of the Freemasons to University research. Over the past three decades this support has been used for research into care of the aged and into mitigating the causes and impact of brain diseases effects. The new agreement also signalled future Freemason funding for research in other areas and initiatives. Professor Stuart McCutcheon spoke of the importance of both partnerships and philanthropy to ensuring that The University of Auckland can continue to perform at the forefront of research and scholarship that makes an impact on the communities we serve. To mark the thirty year linkage, a special one-off gift of $100,000 has been made to the University to advance the work of Professor Charles McGhee in the field of age-related macular degeneration, the leading cause of visual impairment in older people in developed nations. This donation will support a PhD scholarship to enable the completion of a pilot study examining the effects of treating sustained inflammation in the blood supply and the role of protein in disease progression and maintenance. It is hoped that the study, which will commence in 2012, will lead to interventions to retard or prevent the process that leads to severe visual impairment. In the same week Freemasons announced a generous donation of $248,000 to enable a Fellowship at The University of Auckland’s Centre for Brain Research (CBR) to develop new drugs for neurodegenerative disorders. The funding will assist translational research by enabling collaboration between medicinal chemists led by Professor Margaret Brimble from the School of Chemical Sciences and neuropharmacologists working in the CBR Biobank. Synthetic chemist Dr Amanda Heapy, the recipient of the Freemasons fellowship, has been creating a unique library of 2000 bioactive natural product derivatives which will be used as novel molecular scaffolds to design new therapeutic agents to treat neurodegenerative disorders.
http://finchannel.com/Main_News/B_Schools/98926_30_Year_partnership_with_Freemasons_celebrated_with_new _memorandum/
www.twtmag.com
31
Masons in the News
“European Union leaders met with leaders of Freemasonry in Europe� Brussels, Belgium. European Union leaders met with the Grand Masters of Europe to discuss about the European future. On 30 November 2011, the European Union held a joint meeting with the Grand Lodges and Grand Orients of Europe to speak about the democracy and prosperity partnership as a form of promotion of democratic rights and freedoms. Romania, France, Spain, Portugal, Belgium, Luxembourg, Italy, Germany and Greece were represented at the different Masonic delegations. Gustavo Raffi has released an interesting proposal, current and consistent with EU's policies. Raffi has proposed "the establishment for youth of the Pantheon of the New Spring in the Mediterranean". http://masonicpressagency.blogspot.com/2011/12/europe an-union-leaders-met-with-leaders.html
The European Union was represented at this meeting by Jose Manuel Barroso (President of the European Commission), Herman Van Rompuy (European Council President), Jerzy Buzek (President of European Parliament) and Laszlo Tokes (Vice President of the European Parliament from Romania).
www.twtmag.com
32
Masons in the News
Carol Stream's Dina Rae releases new book http://www.mysuburbanlife.com/otg/otg_now/x278310194/Carol-Streams-Dina-Rae-releases-new-book
Editors Note- While maybe not the most glowing endorsement for joining Freemasonry, it should be noted that the book synopsis’s found on the next two pages are for works of fiction and therefore I don’t take too much offense to the subject matter. CS
Dina Rae, of Carol Stream, recently celebrated the release of her book "The Last Degree." "The Last Degree" is a fictional account of how the New World Order plays out in modern day, according to a statement announcing the book's release. Freemason Supreme Council members accelerate their plans for a one world government. They believe their ‘Shining One’ will soon emerge as the figurehead of the globalized world. Rory Schanck, the ultimate insider, tries to sabotage the Supreme Council’s progress. Once discovered, he winds up murdered. He leaves his sister, Eileen Schanck, a stolen fortune and information concerning New World Order plans. Feeling threatened, she opts for underground living. Chicago Detective Dan O'Leary gets too close to solving the Schanck homicide. After being set-up, he is forced to resign. Instead of living out a quiet retirement, he begins a new career as a survivalist compound specialist. Like his clients, he prepares for a global takeover. James Martin, an eccentric, wealthy, recovering drug-addict, is reluctantly used as God’s mouthpiece. He and his staff unite with Dan and his other clients to fight off New World Order.
www.twtmag.com
33
Masons in the News
“The Prague Cemetery by Umberto Eco – review” Umberto Eco's picarasque novel about 19th century Jew-haters is a gift for conspiracy theorists Peter Conrad The Observer http://www.guardian.co.uk/b ooks/2011/nov/27/praguecemetery-umberto-eco/print Imagine Dan Brown adorned with a PhD: that's Umberto Eco, who before he took up fiction 30 years ago in The Name of the Rose was a semiotician and a medieval literary scholar. Like Brown's The Da Vinci Code and The Lost Symbol, Eco's sixth novel, The Prague Cemetery, snakes along an underground trail that twists through the enlightened heresies and bigoted gospels respectively propagated by Freemasons and Illuminati, Jesuits and Jewbaiters, before hinting at an ideological conspiracy that underlines the deceits of contemporary politics. The difference is that Brown devises a puzzle and goes on to solve it, whereas Eco's more highbrow pleasure lies in openended mystification. Brown wants us to believe in his cobweb of mystical coincidences and to trust his elucidation of those cryptic codes. Eco, however, is at best whimsically sceptical, at worst deliberately misleading: for him, the purpose of a story is to tell ingenious lies rather than to arrive at a drearily rational truth. Brown's recurrent hero is an academic turned detective, a so-called "symbologist" from Harvard whose special skill is the reassuring decipherment of riddles, while the protagonist of The Prague Cemetery is a professional forger, a malcontent who fakes documents for a living. In this rambling, ramshackle picaresque novel, the bilious Captain Simone Simoni slithers across Europe in the pay of one secret service after another, claiming personal responsibility for the calumnies that provoked most of the political crises of the 19th century. He serves his apprenticeship during Italy's campaign to liberate itself from Austrian rule. Officially he joins the novelist Alexandre Dumas in embellishing the mystique of Garibaldi; secretly he demolishes the patriotic myth, exposing the fabled warrior as a short, bandy-legged mediocrity. Abandoning Sicily for Paris, he stirs up trouble during the Commune, and goes on to concoct the incriminating document that causes Dreyfus to be convicted of treason. Side excursions link him with the Turkish conman Osman Bey and with the Romanovs in their efforts to suppress the bombthrowing nihilists. Simonini's customers and victims are all actual historical characters, which enables Eco to suggest that history is a tissue of fictions, not a tale told by an idiot but a
text slickly pieced together by self-appointed authorities who should never be trusted. Simonini also dabbles in diabolism, and enjoys hoaxing the hoaxer Leo Taxil, who in 1897 staged a perverse and sexually flagrant Black Mass to mock Freemasonry and the Catholic church. His masterpiece is a Gothic fantasy about a nocturnal gathering of rabbis who come together in the cemetery in the Prague ghetto, among upended gravestones that might be the pages of a chaotic, crumbling book, to avenge the humiliations of their race by planning a Jewish coup that will commandeer financial and political power. Elaborating their mad schemes, Simonini the crazed anti-Semite sketches the notorious "Protocols of the Elders of Zion", which Hitler called his "warrant for genocide". Despite the venom, The Prague Cemetery is a literary exercise, a novel that contains a critique of its own artifice. Eco awards himself the capitalised status of Narrator, and tries to elucidate the maunderings of two less reliable narrators, Simonini and a priest who is his alter ego. Wittily self-conscious, Eco discourses on the difference between plot and story, and supplies a diagram of their parallel development to help us through the labyrinth. This is a book made from a garbling of other books, with Victor Hugo, Proust and Zola, among its mob of subsidiary characters. For Eco, the undertaking may be playful, a study of noxious nonsense that is illustrated with some controversially nasty caricatures of greedy Jews. But some of the million copies of The Prague Cemetery already sold in Europe and South America have probably been read by fanatics and fantasists who are eager to be duped by the conspiracy theories that Eco sceptically demolishes. The chief rabbi of Rome has expressed alarm about the violence of Simonini's hatred, and a review in the Vatican newspaper worried about the zest with which the novel revives injurious stereotypes. The world we live in – economically shaky, politically feeble, menaced by zealots, with a fearful populace half-elated by the prospect of catastrophe yet still urgently searching for scapegoats – is only too similar to that described by Eco in his survey of 19thcentury Europe. What may have begun as a learned game, a pseudo-historical farrago in the manner of Dumas and Hugo, at times seems dangerously and reprehensibly close to the truth. Eco has said, a little snottily, that he wants to appeal even to those who have the bad taste "to take Don Brown seriously". Would it bother him if these credulous readers missed his postmodern irony and took The Prague Cemetery a little too seriously? History is a nightmare, and Simonini's enfevered babbling won't help us to awaken from it. Save | Bookmark and Share
www.twtmag.com
34
Masons in the News
Celebrating St. John Holiday event draws revelers to Johnstown JOHNSTOWN - St. John's Day, a day of feasting with ties to both Roman Catholicism and Freemasonry, was a holiday unfamiliar to many before visiting Johnson Hall this weekend. Where better to learn of a bi-yearly holiday Sir William Johnson - a master mason who founded St. Patrick's Lodge in the city - would have celebrated himself? "This was one of the seasonal celebrations he would have engaged in," Johnson Hall Acting Site Manager Wade Wells said, adding that contained with the Johnson Papers are references to invitations to the Albany lodge to celebrate with mason brethren. The masons dedicate two feast days a year that coincide with the winter and summer solstice in honor of St. John the Baptist in June and St. John the Evangelist in December. In Freemasonry, the patron saints are celebrated for moral rather than spiritual significance, according to a brochure distributed at Johnson Hall on Saturday. The celebration could include a public procession, church service or a celebration exclusive to members at a regular meeting place, according to the brochure. Wells said he's happy Johnson Hall opened for the holiday again this year after a two-year hiatus. "Many people say it was an annual tradition for them," Wells said. For others, this year was the start of a new tradition. Surrounded by colonial-revival style 19th century Christmas decor, including fruits and fresh green sprays, Judy Marquette, an East Nassau, Rensselaer County, resident, said she loves visiting historic sites during the holiday season.
In the spirit of keeping authenticity in Johnson Hall, the state historic site is raising funds to wallpaper Johnson's bedroom with a special wallpaper made in 18th-century style by Adelphi Paper Hangings in Sharon Springs. "There were no scraps to guide us to what was exactly hung in that room," Wells said, but the paper and style chosen were popular in the 1760s when designers found inspiration in gothic style. The wallpaper will be hand-block painted, Wells explained, meaning that each layer of design is applied to the paper which is not one large roll but several blocks glued together using pearwood blocks for each color application. "It takes a great deal of work," he said, adding that 11 rolls are needed to complete the room. There were several other historical sites to see Saturday including the Drumm House, the home of the first schoolmaster in Johnstown, the Old Fort Johnson Holiday Tea at St. Ann's Church and the Old Fort Johnson "Deck the Doors" at Amsterdam City Hall. At the Drumm House, city historian Noel Levee - dressed as a New York Independent soldier from the French and Indian War - highlighted artifacts in a new exhibit room featuring colonial, Revolutionary Way and War of 1812 artifacts at the Drumm House that includes artifacts found on the grounds of the Battle of Johnstown during the Revolutionary War. Johnstown Historical Society Board member Helen Martin said the site received many visitors who said they'd lived in the area all their lives and never been in the Drumm House. Amanda Whistle covers Gloversville news. She can be reached at gloversville@leaderherald.com
"There are so many authentic touches to it. I like the sense of going back in time. It's charming and enchanting," Marquette said. Gloversville resident Dorothy Holly said she hadn't been inside Johnson Hall in years. "I thought it'd be nice to see the house decorated," she said, adding that she had never heard of St. John's Day before. Her daughter Shannon Cubells, said the visit "gets you into the holiday spirit." U.S. Rep. Paul Tonko visited the site Saturday and said it inspires "such a sense of tradition" and that such sites are the "foundations of community pride."
http://www.leaderherald.com/page/content.detail/id/542687.h tml
www.twtmag.com
35
Masons in the News
Taste of tradition A SCOTTISH delicacy containing the minced heart, liver and lungs of a sheep was enjoyed by more than 100 freemasons on Saturday night.
the so-called 'secrets' that are kept by members. Mr Sharp revealed a sense of humour when asked what freemasons do.
The traditional Christmas with Haggis meeting of Lodge Caledonian number 14, in Ipswich, was an occasion not to be missed.
'We don't ride goats ... as some people seem to think," he joked.
"We've got an altar but we don't kill anyone. On the The haggis may not sound like a meal to savour but try altar is a religious book. In most countries it is a St telling that to Lodge Caledonian member Ted Sharp. James Bible. But if someone is from another religion whether it be Mohammedan, Jewish or Buddhist - they Onion, grain, salt and a sumptuous stock are added to can have their holy book there too. It's open to anyone the delicacy that is traditionally cooked inside the and is not a religious organisation. animal's stomach. "We've given millions of dollars for various things "I've been in the lodge for 52 years and every over the years. For example, during the Queensland Christmas we've had a haggis," the former longfloods, we gave a million dollars. The little athletics at serving Lodge Caledonian secretary said. Goodna got quite a few thousand dollars from us to regroup again." "When I started, they used to get tinned haggis from Scotland but now Margaret Bryant up in Warwick The freemasons in Queensland have also been makes it ... and it's beautiful. It is about 18 inches generous donors to leukemia sufferers in Queensland long, a foot wide and six inches thick. It tastes with donations of more than $1million on several something like a savoury mince with a bit more body occasions. to it." Mr Sharp said freemasonry was designed "to make The Lodge Caledonian has been going since 1866, good men better." with past assistant master Colin Murray the longest serving member with 62 years under his belt. "If you obey the golden rule in the Bible then you can't go wrong," he Mr Sharp said there were originally "three lots" of said. freemasons in Queensland- the Scottish, English and Irish. "It is a charitable organisation and "They all had their own traditions until 1921 when a for hundreds of lot of them joined what was called the Grand Lodge of years, we never Queensland in those days. told anybody what we gave. It "When they were told they had to give up their rites, is only in the last the Caledonian (lodge) and some of the other stronger five to 10 years ones told them where to go. that we have said what we "We have a Scottish ritual. The story is the same but Colin Murray, a past assistant grand give to we put it over in a different way to the others. These master at the Caledonian Lodge, has organisations." been a Freemason for 62 years. The stories have been going for about 400 years." Ipswich lodge enjoyed its annual Freemasonry, described as a fraternal organisation Christmas with Haggis meeting at the with six million members, has had some outlandish weekend. TWT tales associated with it over the years, due mainly to www.twtmag.com
36
Cover- The Seven Liberal Arts
The Seven Liberal Arts Grammar Astronomy Logic Geometry Arithmetic Rhetoric Music
By Cory Sigler
It wasn’t until college that I learned about the “Seven Liberal Arts” and years later again during the Fellowcraft degree. That’s where I actually started to understand what its true meaning was. It is prominently on display as we transform our minds from getting initiated to being passed. The seven smaller spokes in the whole bigger wheel is what makes up the layers of education we strive to master. Provided for you in this article is a basic understanding of what the Seven Liberal Arts are, a definition and then how it is used Masonically in the degrees or in our rituals.
Trivium and Quadrivium Trivium, Latin for “The Three Ways” is the core of the Liberal Arts. These are what we call the “verbal arts” of Grammar, Logic and Rhetoric. They were the first three subjects that were taught to the Romans and Greeks as early as the 5th century. Quadrivium, or “The Four Ways” was added during the Medieval times to include Mathematics, Geometry, Music and Astronomy and make up the numerical arts. Emblematically speaking the Entered Apprentice degree can be viewed as our infancy years whereas the Fellowcraft degree is our maturity into early adulthood. Thus we are introduced to the five human senses and the seven liberal arts needed to make that leap successful.
Grammar In it’s basic definition grammar is the set of structural rules that govern the composition of clauses, phrases, and words in any given natural language. “Grammar teaches us the proper arrangement of words, according to the idiom or dialect of any particular people; and that excellency of pronunciation, which enables us to speak or write a language with accuracy, agreeably to reason and correct usage.” Masonically, we use grammar to keep a tongue of good report. In the Fellow Craft lecture Grammar is explained as the key by which alone the door can be opened to the understanding of speech. It is Grammar which reveals the admirable art of language, and unfold it various constituent parts, its names, definitions and respective offices; it (Continued on page 38) www.twtmag.com
37
Cover- The Seven Liberal Arts (Continued from page 37) unravels, as it were, the thread of which the web of speech is composed. These reflections seldom occur to anyone before their acquaintance with the art; yet it is most certain, that, without a knowledge of Grammar, it is very difficult to speak with propriety, precision and purity.
Logic In philosophy, Logic (from the Greek λογική logikē) is the formal systematic study of the principles of valid inference and correct reasoning. Logic teaches us to guide our reason discretionarily in the general knowledge of things, and directs our inquiries after truth. It consists of a regular train of argument, whence we infer, deduce, and conclude, according to certain premises laid down, admitted, or granted; and in it are employed the faculties of conceiving, judging, reasoning, and disposing; all of which are naturally led on from one gradation to another, till the point. in question is finally determined.’
Plato
Masonically we say “Logic directs us how to form clear and distinct ideas of things, and thereby prevents us from being misled by their similitude or resemblance. Of all the human sciences, that concerning man is certainly most worthy of the human mind, and the proper manner of conducting its several powers in the attainment of truth and knowledge. This science ought to be cultivated as the foundation or ground-work of our inquires; particularly, in the pursuit of those sublime principles which claim our attention as Masons.”
Rhetoric The art of speaking or writing effectively or with persuasion. As Freemasons, we must master the skill of Rhetoric while presenting our ritual to impress upon the candidate the seriousness and eloquence found within the words. To merely speak these words with no heart or feeling would not only do the ritual a disservice and dishonor our forefathers but it would lessen the importance of what makes Freemasonry so different from other fraternal organizations. A Fellowcraft learns that Rhetoric is the art of embellishing language with the ornaments of construction, so as to enable the speaker to persuade or affect his hearers. It supposes and requires a proper acquaintance with the rest of the liberal arts; for the first step toward adorning a discourse is for the speaker to become thoroughly acquainted with its subject, and hence the ancient rule that that the orator should be acquainted with all the arts and sciences. Its importance as a branch of liberal education is recommended to the Freemason in the Fellow Craft's Degree. It is one of the seven liberal arts and sciences, the second in order, and is described in the ancient Constitutions as "retoricke that teacheth a man to speake faire and in subtill terms."
Arithmetic Arithmetic is the art of numbering, or that part of the mathematics which considers the properties of numbers in general. We have but a very imperfect idea of things without quantity, and (Continued on page 39) www.twtmag.com
38
Cover- The Seven Liberal Arts (Continued from page 38) as imperfect of quantity itself, without the help of Arithmetic. All of the works of the Almighty are made in number, weight and measure; therefore, to understand them rightly, we ought to understand arithmetical calculations; and the greater advancement we make in the mathematical sciences, the more capable we shall be of considering such things as are the ordinary objects of our conceptions, and be thereby led to a more comprehensive knowledge of our great Creator, and the works of the creation. A number of Masonic writers have handed down a useful moral lesson: For the Freemason, the application of this science is to: Add to your knowledge Never subtract from the character of your neighbor Multiple your benevolence to your fellow creatures & Divide your means with those in need. Arithmetic offers a structured system. In has rules, order, and operates in terms of equations. Balance and equality are principles learned in arithmetic that should remind us to act on the level. The importance of this to Masons is learning how to train the mind to think in smaller steps, working out details abstractly and to figure out the meanings of something without knowing all the facts upfront.
Geometry Among mathematical sciences, Geometry is the one which has the most especial reference to architecture, and we can, therefore, under the name of Geometry, understand the whole art of Freemasonry. In Anderson's book of constitutions, Freemasonry is frequently called Geometry, and of the latter he said of the whole being of the Order is comprehended in it. Freemasons therefore ought to make themselves intimately acquainted with Geometry. It is not absolutely necessary to be able to deduce all our actions, works, or resolutions from Geometrical principles. — ( 1 Corinthians 3:9-17 ) By this science the architect is enabled to construct his plans, and execute his designs; the general, to arrange his soldiers; the engineer, to mark out grounds for encampments; the geographer, to give us the dimensions of the world, and all things therein contained; to delineate the extent of seas, and specify the divisions of empires, kingdoms and provinces. By it, also, the astronomer is enabled to make his observations, and to fix the duration of times and seasons, years and cycles. In fine, Geometry is the foundation of architecture, and the root of the mathematics. Geometry concatenates geo and metric, or earth measurement, within it. Geometry discovers unmeasured areas by comparing them to areas already measured. Geometry is synonymous with self-knowledge, the understanding of the basic substance of our being. Freemasonry places special emphasis on geometry. The tools of geometry are plumbs, squares, and levels. They are the basic tools of operative Masons. We use them in speculative Masonry to teach lessons of right-behavior, rectitude, and (Continued on page 40) www.twtmag.com
39
Cover- The Seven Liberal Arts (Continued from page 39) truthfulness. Our conductor in the FC degree leads us much like the apprentice is led by a Master of his trade.
Music Music is an art form whose medium is sound and silence. Its common elements are pitch (which governs melody and harmony), rhythm (and its associated concepts tempo, meter, and articulation), dynamics, and the sonic qualities of timbre and texture. The word derives from Greek μουσική (mousike; "art of the Muses") One of the seven liberal arts and sciences, whose beauties are inculcated in the Fellow Craft's Degree. Music is recommended to the attention of Freemasons, because as the "concord of sweet sounds" elevates the generous sentiments of the soul, so should the concord of good feeling reign among the Brethren, that by the union of friendship and brotherly love the boisterous passions may be lulled and harmony exist throughout the Craft. The Fellow Craft lecture explains Music as that elevated science which affects the passions by sound. There are few who have not felt its charms, and acknowledged its expressions to be intelligible to the heart. It is a language of delightful sensations, far more eloquent than words; it breathes to the ear the clearest intimations; it touches and gently agitates the agreeable and sublime passions; it wraps us in melancholy, and elevates us in joy; it dissolves and inflames; it melts us in tenderness, and excites us to war. This science is truly congenial to the nature of man; for by its powerful charms the most discordant passions may be harmonized and brought into perfect unison; but it never sounds with such seraphic harmony as when employed in singing hymns of gratitude to the Creator of the universe. Music is part of us. Our heartbeat is the basic pattern, with sounds ranging from the first cry of a newborn baby to our last gasp for breath. The sense of hearing is improved, so that we recognize ditties and rhythms and syncopation. Clapping and singing are part of who were are as humans. Vibrations cause sounds. Pitch is determined by the frequency of the vibrations. We learn to hear major, minor, and chromatic scales. We attempt to match the pitch of the lead singer. It takes discipline, but we achieve harmony. Many have sought to hear the sounds of the universe in radio frequency. Whole pieces of music have been dedicated to the music of the spheres. The Senior Warden is sometimes associated with this Science, as the Warden asks for harmony in the Lodge.
Astronomy Astronomy is a natural science that deals with the study of celestial objects (such as stars, planets, comets, nebulae, star clusters and galaxies) and phenomena that originate outside the atmosphere of Earth (such as the cosmic background radiation). It is concerned with the evolution, physics, chemistry, meteorology, and motion of celestial objects, as well as the formation and development of the universe. (Continued on page 41) www.twtmag.com
40
Cover- The Seven Liberal Arts (Continued from page 40) Astronomy is that sublime science which inspires the contemplative mind to soar aloft, and read the wisdom, strength, and beauty of the great Creator in the heavens. How nobly eloquent of the Deity is the celestial hemisphere! – spangled with the most magnificent heralds of his infinite glory! They speak to the whole universe; for there is no speech so barbarous, but their language is understood; nor nation so distant, but their voices are heard among them. The heavens proclaim the glory of God; The firmament declareth the works of his hands. Assisted by Astronomy, we ascertain the laws which govern the heavenly bodies, and by which their motions are directed; investigate the power by which they circulate in their orbs, discover their size, determine their distance, explain their various phenomena, and correct the fallacy of the senses by the light of truth.
Conclusion As a Fellow Craft you were charged to “study this branch of education which tends so effectually to polish and adorn the mind.” In my earnest opinion, you can not master masonry unless you completely open your mind to all that these subjects have to teach us. One cannot become a better man unless he has bettered his mind first. You might be a "Master Mason", but you cannot master Masonry until you master the Seven Liberal Arts. Open your mind to learn all that is offered.
(1) “A Stroll Through The Seven Liberal Arts and Sciences” By Richard D. Marcus (2) “The Craftsman and Freemason Guide”. Cornelius Moore, 1854 (3) Merriam-Webster dictionary (4) Wikipedia (5) “The Seven Liberal Arts and Sciences- Our Journey Begins” http://www.bluecob.com/FFTM/?page_id=209
TWT
www.twtmag.com
41
York Rite News & Information
www.twtmag.com
42
York Rite News & Information
The purpose of this article is to explore two versions of the Entered Apprentice Degree of Freemasonry with which I am familiar, the Preston-Webb derived version which most Grand Lodges in the United States work, and that of the Scottish Rite, primarily worked in the Caribbean and in continental Europe. There are many other versions of this Degree, in other rites, though since I am not as acquainted with these, I will not discuss them here. I was Initiated, Passed and Raised in New Jersey. I visited several other Lodges there and witnessed Degrees before moving to Florida. I became heavily involved with my Lodge here, as well as visiting other Lodges to observe Degrees, and I have observed Degrees when visiting my brother (also my Brother) in Massachusetts. That is the extent of my Masonic traveling so far. While each of these states has their own ritual, it was similar enough for me to feel comfortable that I was seeing basically the same Degrees in each state. There were some different words used, and variations in the floor work, but overall not a lot of major differences. Online, I encountered someone from another state who had moved to New Jersey and was commenting on how vastly different the ritual was from his home state. He asked the members of his new Lodge, and was told that “New Jersey is a Scottish Rite state” and accepted this, repeating it online (please read the other part of this article in the Scottish Rite section of the magazine for comment on that on page 49). It is a common conception that in the United States, the symbolic Lodge is a part of York Rite Masonry, which is the reason that I asked that this article go under the York Rite section of the magazine.
true, in a sense, that the York Rite system of degrees, especially the Capitular degrees (the Chapter of Royal Arch Masons) DOES build upon the foundation of the Degrees in the craft Lodge, especially the Mark Master and most especially the Royal Arch, but these degrees did come later. Fifty of the Grand Lodges in the United States use Masonic ritual in the Preston-Webb tradition. There are a handful of Lodges in Louisiana that use a Scottish Rite version of the Symbolic Degrees (see my article in the Scottish Rite section for more on those), and many in Kentucky use the Conservators Ritual developed by Rob Morris, who was trying to form a United States Grand Lodge in the late 1850s. Lodges in the District of Columbia work under a number of different rituals, and in a number of different languages. The Grand Lodge there seems to have taken the attitude that “if it is not prohibited, then it is permitted” in William Preston allowing much leeway for the 41 Lodges that meet in that 10-square mile city. The major exception to the Preston-Webb work is that in the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania. The ritual there is derived from the “Antients” Grand Lodge in England. What is Preston-Webb?
William Preston, born in Scotland, was Brothers, this is both false and true. It is false to state that the Degrees we practice are a part of initiated into Freemasonry around 1762 or 1763 in London. He became interested in studying the the York Rite, because the Degrees were in use history of the Fraternity, (Continued on page 44) prior to the existence of the York Rite. It is also www.twtmag.com
43
York Rite News & Information (Continued from page 43) which intensified when he became Worshipful
would be a place of refuge, where cooler heads prevailed, and other topics could be discussed and learned.
Master of his Lodge. In 1772, he published the first edition of Illustrations of Masonry. He wrote extensively on the Degrees, revising his book multiple times. The lectures used in the current ritual in Florida have much of the same wording used in this book.
Sources Preston, William. Ilustrations of Masonry. The Ninth Edition: with Considerable Additions. 1796. Gale ECCO print edition.
Thomas Smith Webb was an American Freemason, initiated sometime prior to 1793, who loved the writings of Preston, but realized that they were too long for the style of the American Lodges. He published the first edition of Freemason’s Monitor or Illustrations of Masonry in 1797. The material in this book, which has also undergone many editions, retained Preston’s prose in a significantly shorter form. The original lecture for the Master Mason Degree, for example, is said to have taken half a day to deliver. The purpose of the Entered Apprentice Degree is to initiate a profane person into our ways. We open his mind to the teachings of our Fraternity, and are charged with helping him to learn our ways and help him improve himself. We are taught not to discuss sectarian politics or religion in the Lodge, so as not to cause division among the Brethren. I remember one suggested reason for this, although I cannot remember where I first read it, but it did seem to make sense. The English Civil War (1642-1651) was still recent during the period before the first Grand Lodge was formed in 1717. There was (and still is, in some parts) an intense hatred among some Protestants and Catholics, and vice versa. The same could also be said for those who wanted a strong monarchy as opposed to those who wanted a stronger Parliament. By avoiding discussion on these topics, the Lodge
Webb, Thomas Smith. The Freemason’s Monitor, or Illustrations of Masonry: In Two Parts. 1797. Gale ECCO print edition. Cross, Jeremy Ladd. The True Masonic Chart: or Hieroglyphic Monitor; Containing All the Emblems Explained in the Degrees of Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft, Master Mason, Mark Master, Past Master, Most Excellent Master, Royal Arch, Royal Master and Select Master, Fourth Edition. 1826. Nabu Public Domain Reprint. The Grand Lodge of the Most Ancient and Honorable Society of Free and Accepted Masons for the State of New Jersey. Ritual Cipher. 1967, reprinted 2006. The Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Florida. Florida Masonic Code; Containing Instruction in the Entered Apprentice Degree, the Fellow Craft Degree, and the Master Mason Degree. First Edition 1995, correction 4 2008. Duncan, Malcolm C. Duncan’s Masonic Ritual and Monitor. 1866. Bessel, Paul. Web site of Masonic Information, http://bessel.org. Accessed on December 8, 2011. See Part 2 in the Scottish Rite section of this issue
T WT
www.twtmag.com
44
York Rite News & Information
http://www.grandcollegeofrites.org/
Following some correspondence between Brothers Shute and Parsell, and talks with a few other interested brethren, it was decided and agreed to revive this Rite The Grand College of Rites is a "regular" Masonic and thus gain control of it, together with its rituals and body, dedicated to preserving the history and rituals of archives. The purpose of such action was to give a body defunct and inactive Masonic orders. (Click on "History to be subsequently formed—a Grand College Rites— of the GCR" and "Story of the Innovators" above for some material to publish, namely rituals. The idea of more information on the history of the Grand College forming of a Grand Body to print rituals of dormant of Rites.) Masonic bodies having been already planned by Brother Shute and a few brethren interested in such a Preamble project. The Grand College of Rites has for its major objects: The minutes and details of this procedure follow: Ÿ The study of the history and ritual of all Rites, PROCEEDINGS HELD IN THE MATTER OF THE Systems and Orders of Freemasonry not under the ORGANIZATION OF THE SOVEREIGN control, jurisdiction and/or stewardship or regularly SANCTUARY OF THE UNITED STATES OF existing and recognized Masonic bodies. AMERICA, ITS DEPENDENCIES AND Ÿ The elimination of sporadic efforts to resuscitate TERRITORIES OF THE EGYPTIAN MASONIC RITE OF MEMPHIS. or perpetuate Rites, Systems and Orders of Freemasonry in the United States, except to bring Brother Hemy V. A. Parsell of New York, N.Y., them under control of the Grand College of Rites. holding of 95th Degree, dated April 24, 1906, signed by Harvey Goodale, 96°, M.I. Sov. Grand Master General, Ÿ The collection and preservation of rituals of various Rites, Systems and Orders of Freemasonry John S. Phillips, 95°, Grand Chancellor General and Edgar F. Stewart, 95°, Grand Secretary General, acting ordinarily not available to Masonic students. as GRAND HIEROPHANT, 96° of the Sovereign Sanctuary for the United States of America, etc., conferred the 45° on J. Raymond Shute, II, of Monroe, G.C.R. HISTORICAL SUMMARY North Carolina, Feb. 10, 1931. Constitution of the Grand College of Rites of the United States of America
(Extracted from Collectanea Vol. 9 Part 2 (1970), pp. 97–115) SUMMARY OF MATTERS CONCERNING THE FORMATION OF THE GRAND COLLEGE OF RITES OF THE U.S.A. In 1931, J. Raymond Shute II, of Monroe, North Carolina, obtained information from Harold V. B. Voorhis, of Red Bank, New Jersey, that the Right Reverend Henry V. A. Parsell of New York, New York, was a surviving member of the defunct Egyptian Rite of Memphis in the United States
On October 2, 1931, the said Henry V. A. Parsell elevated Bro. George Winslow Plummer of New York, N.Y. to 95°. On October 3, 1931, the said Henry V. A. Parsell issued a Dispensation to Bro. J. Raymond Shute; II, to invest Brothers W. C. Crowd, Monroe, N.C.; Michael
(Continued on page 46) www.twtmag.com
45
York Rite News & Information (Continued from page 45) Saliba, Wilson, N.C.; Kennon W. Parham, Raleigh, N.C.; and J. Edward Allen, Warrenton, N.C., and such others as eligible, with the 18° and 45°. The four Brethren named in the Dispensation were so invested in the City of Durham, N.C., on October 9, 1931, the said J. Raymond Shute, II, acting as Most Wise of the Chapter, 18° and Commander of the Senate, 45°, Valley of New York, Orient of New York, Sanctuary of America, etc. A meeting was held at Washington, D.C. on October 22, 1931, being called to order at 11 o’clock A.M. for the purpose of reviving the Sovereign Sanctuary of the Egyptian Masonic Rite of Memphis. Brother H. V. A. Parsell, having called said meeting, acted as Chairman. Brother Parsell exhibited his letters patent, and duly and solemnly conferred the 90° of the E. M. R. of M. on Brother J. Raymond Shute; 11, and 5. Edward Alien. Brothers Shute and Allen then exhibited proxies from Brothers M. Saliba, K. W. Parham and W. C. Crowell, all of the 45°. Brother Parsell thereupon invested each of the above named brethren with the rank arid dignity of the 95° of the E. M. R. of M., and the members present then proceeded to organize a Sovereign Sanctuary, as an act of reviving the same.
On November 14, 1931, the said Henry V. A. Parsell, Grand Hierophant, 96° elevated and invested Brother Harold V. B. Voorhis of Red Bank, N.J., with 18°, 45°, 90° and 95°. On November 2, 1931, the said Henry V. A. Parsell Grand Hierophant, 96°, issued a Dispensation to J. Raymond Shute, 95°, to convoke the Sovereign Sanctuary in the Valley of Charlotte, North Carolina on December 18, 1931, and to invest Brothers Frank M. Pinnix, Luther T. Hartsell, Jr., William B. Hodge and John A. Anderson, all of North Carolina with the 18°, 45° and 90° and to further invest them with the rank and dignity of the Degrees of the Sovereign Sanctuary, 95°, together with such other brothers of the 90° elevated since the last meeting of the Sovereign Sanctuary. Accordingly, on December 18, 1931, the Sovereign Sanctuary was opened in the City of Charlotte, North Carolina, when the following brethren were invested with the 18°, 45°, 90° and 90°, to wit: Frank M. Pinnix, Oxford, N.C. Luther T. Hartsell, Jr., Concord, N.C. William B. Hodge, Charlotte, N.C. John B. Anderson, Raleigh, N.C.
Brother Henry V. A. Parsell was thereupon duly and J. Hugo Tatsch, New York, N.Y. unanimously elected Grand Hierophant. Brother J. Edward Allen was duly elected Sublime Scribe. Brother The Sovereign Sanctuary was then duly closed by Rt. Worthy Brother J. Raymond Shute, II, 95°, acting as 5. Raymond Shute, II, was duly elected Grand Grand Hierophant. Chancellor. It was resolved that the remaining officers be appointed On May 12, 1932, the Sovereign Sanctuary of the E.M.R. of M. was opened at 2,400-16th Street, N.W., at by the Grand Hierophant and installed later by him. Washington, D.C.— 9:25 P.M. Brother K. W. Parham was appointed Committee on The Grand Hierophant, Henry V. A. Parsell, 96°, Finance; Brother J. Raymond Shute was appointed presided and the following other members of the Committee on Foreign Affairs; Brother George W. Sovereign Sanctuary were present: Plummer was appointed Committee on Ritual and Brother J. Edward Allen was appointed Committee on It was regularly moved and carried unanimously that General Purposes. The Sovereign Sanctuary then adopted temporary by-laws to control its activities until the Sovereign Sanctuary surrender the Sovereignty of its three Rites for the purpose of being absorbed by the permanent by-laws and activities were defined. It was Grand College of Rites for the United States of resolved that the members present shall at the next America about to be formed.Every Master Mason meeting draft a constitution and by-laws for this aspires to attain the summit of Ancient Craft Masonry. Sovereign Sanctuary. The Sovereign Sanctuary was then duly closed. (Signed) J. Edward Allen, 95°, Sublime Scribe
T WT www.twtmag.com
46
York Rite News & Information
Many feel with regret that it is not practicable for them to share in all the light shed by the several bodies, but all wish most earnestly to receive all the light and instruction which pertains to the Ancient Craft-the origin and foundation of the Institution. In the life of every Master Mason, moreover, there comes a time when he realizes that he has not yet attained that goal, that he Is not yet in possession of all the rights and light of a Master Mason, as these were known and understood by his ancient brethren.
passages of the first three Degrees incomprehensible to the Master Mason. Without a knowledge of these the Masonic character cannot be complete. It has been said that "The Royal Arch stands as the rainbow of promise in the Ritual; it stands as the promise of the resurrection; of that which was lost and that which shall be recovered."
The value of Royal Arch Masonry will be justly appreciated by all who are Exalted to that Most Sublime Degree, particularly by those who are But he does not realize that the goal of his aspirations seeking 路to complete their Masonic education. It reveals the full light of Ancient Craft masonry, is near at hand-In the Royal Arch Degree. presents it as a complete system in accordance with All Symbolic Masonry has its source in the Grand the original plan and confers at last the rights and light Lodge of England. Section I of the Constitution of the of a Master Mason in fact as well as in name. It truly United Grand Lodge of England declares that "pure, leads to a fuller understanding of the purposes and ancient Masonry consists of three Degrees and no spirit of Freemasonry, for standing upon this towering more, Viz., those of the Entered Apprentice, the summit we are able for the first time to perceive the Fellow Craft, and the Master Mason including the completeness of the Ancient Craft and to understand Supreme Order of the Holy Royal Arch." how all its forms and ceremonies, from the Entered Apprentice to the Master Mason's Degree, are the The Degree of Royal Arch Mason is founded upon the preparation for the final goal, the Most Sublime destruction of the first and the building of the second Degree of Royal Arch Mason. Temple. The ceremonies of the Degree have an interesting and graphic historical setting, and a Our membership consists only of those who have profound and reverential moral significance. The been regularly initiated, passed and raised to the Royal Arch Degree is the complement of the Master's Sublime Degree of Master Mason in a just and duly Degree, the unfolding into a second volume of the constituted Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons who history of that which was lost to its final recovery. are properly vouched for, in good standing in their Without the Royal Arch, the Master's Degree is like a respective Lodges and in the community in which song half sung, a tale partly told, or a promise they reside. unfulfilled. We would have all such receive the light and The preparatory Degrees conferred in the Chapter are instruction which can be communicated only in the those of Mark Master Mason, Past Master and Most Royal Arch Degree. Any Royal Arch Mason can give Excellent Master. All are beautiful, all are interesting, full information on how to proceed to that end. all teach valuable lessons, but the Most Sublime Degree of Royal Arch Mason is more august, sublime and important than all that precedes it. It brings to light many essentials of the Craft contained ONLY in TWT this Most Sublime Degree and explains many cryptic www.twtmag.com
47
Scottish Rite News & Information
www.twtmag.com
48
Scottish Rite News & Information
The purpose of this article is to explore the Entered Apprentice Degree of Freemasonry of the Scottish Rite, primarily worked in the Caribbean and in continental Europe. Earlier in this issue of the magazine (see page 43) , there is an exploration of the Degree as worked in most of the mainstream Grand Lodges in the United States. There are many other versions of this Degree, in other rites, though since I am not as acquainted with these, I will not be discussing them. I first became aware of the Craft Degrees of the Scottish Rite, soon after I joined the Southern Jurisdiction, and began reading more. As an American Mason, the Scottish Rite system of degrees in this country begins with the 4th and continues through the 32nd, which also holds true throughout much of the Anglophone Masonic community, at least that which is in the mainstream. I remembered that Morals and Dogma – Albert Pike’s collection of essays, thoughts, and collected writings of selected philosophies that he encountered in his reading – began with the 1st degree and continued through the 32nd, although it had not been at the forefront of my mind, it being about 25 years since my first encounter with that weighty tome, and probably 5 since my last perusal of it. While taking the Master Craftsman II class, offered by the Supreme Council (SJ), I read that “For those who have received their initial Masonic instruction in Symbolic Lodge where the assassins are executed in the 3rd Degree, the drama … may be confusing. The Scottish Rite degrees differ markedly from those of the York Rite Symbolic Lodge with respect to this portion of the allegory.” 1 This, along with a discussion I had with a Lodge Brother who had recently returned from a trip to the Dominican Republic, where he had observed a Scottish Rite Entered Apprentice Degree attracted
my curiosity. I picked up a reprint edition of The Porch and The Middle Chamber, and read that “This Ritual is intended for instruction only, in the States of the Southern Jurisdiction, where there are not Lodges working in the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite; to be studied and understood before investiture with the Fourth Degree. For, without it, the system of that Rite is incomplete, and even like a fabric without foundation.” 2 I approached the Secretary of my Scottish Rite Valley, and we received permission from the Deputy for the State, and the Grand Master of Masons in Florida to exemplify these Degrees for the education of all Master Masons. It was my assumption that the Degrees that Pike had written in The Porch and The Middle Chamber were those that were used in the Scottish Rite Blue Lodges in the state of Louisiana. I was wrong. The ritual used there came from the Grand Consistory of Louisiana, formed in 1807 3, while Pike’s versions were written after he received the degrees of the Scottish Rite in 1853. The ritual used in Louisiana was similar to that which my Lodge Brothers had used in their home country of Haiti, and when I was able to read the Degrees which were given to Pike, which he translated, before writing his own version, was able to see that these were all similar to each other, and while being very different from the ritual I was familiar with in my Lodge, it was still recognizable, and related. These Degrees passed down from the French, or Continental tradition of Freemasonry (Continued on page 50)
www.twtmag.com
49
Scottish Rite News & Information (Continued from page 49) had a more esoteric feel to them than those currently practiced in the states. The candidate is received, prior to the Degree ceremony, into the Chamber of Reflection. Here, surrounded by symbols of mortality, he is to reflect on his life, and to fill out a questionnaire which will be read by the Venerable Master to the assembled Brethren. I also noticed that the Lodge was laid out differently than my Symbolic Lodge, with both Wardens being in the West (north west for the Senior Warden and south west for the Junior Warden), much as in the Lodge of Perfection I was familiar with in the Scottish Rite. The candidate in this Degree is to undergo various trials, based on the alchemical elements of air, earth, fire, and water. The candidate is also asked the reason for his belief in God, as well as his views on virtue and vice. This first question caused me to re-read the page the first time that I encountered it, as in “my” Lodge, we are concerned that a Brother has a belief in God, but not in any detail about that belief. I remembered that in French Lodges (under Grand Lodges, not the Grand Orient), religion and politics are encouraged to be discussed, again, unlike what I am familiar with from my Lodge. In reading more about the Scottish Rite, these topics are encouraged as topics of discussion. The Scottish Rite Mason is charged with fighting for Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity, and any government or religion opposing this is to be fought against.
Hutchens, Rex R., 33°, G C . A Bridge to Light, 3rd Edition, 2006. Washington, DC. The Supreme Council, 33° Pike, Albert. The Porch and the Middle Chamber: Book of the Lodge. 1872. De Hoyos, Arturo, 33°, G C . Masonic Formulas and Rituals Transcribed by Albert Pike in 1854 and 1855. 2010. Ritual of the Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft and Master Mason Degrees for Exclusive Use of the Scottish Rite Blue Lodges Working Under the Jurisdiction of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of the State of Louisiana. Revised 1963. Blaisdell, W Ron. The Rituals of American Freemasonry. 2001.
TWT Email Bro. Scott with any questions or comments about this or any other of his articles. (Online browsing only)
Footnotes 1
A Bridge to Light, p. 58 P. 14 3 This Consistory, which worked all 33 degrees, was formed by Sovereign Grand Inspectors General from Kingston, Jamaica. 2
Sources De Hoyos, Art, 33°, G C . Scottish Rite Monitor and Guide, 2nd Edition – Revised and Enlarged, 2009.
Submit www.twtmag.com
50
Scottish Rite News & Information
Some Reasons why Master Masons join the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry To every Master Mason who is desirous of more light and a better understanding of Freemasonry, the Scottish Rite appeals, Because: To every Master Mason who is desirous of more light and a better understanding of Freemasonry, the Scottish Rite appeals, Because:
· IT offers an unsurpassed field for the study of Masonry.
· IT enlarges upon and explains and applies the symbols of Masonry.
· IT exemplifies and makes clear the truths and allegory of the Blue Lodge.
· IT presents an unequaled opportunity for the practical demonstration of the teachings of Freemasonry.
· IT enjoins on every Brother the support of the American Public School, non-partisan, non-sectarian, efficient, democratic; for all the children of the people; equal educational opportunities for all.
· IT inculcates patriotism, love of the flag, respect for law and order and undying loyalty to constitutional government.
· IT carries out the sublime principles of Masonry by cooperating in every way with the Blue Lodge, by maintaining an ever-increasing interest in Masonry.
· IT brings the Brethren from various Lodges together at frequent intervals whereby the spirit of Brotherhood and Fraternity is reflected in everyday living.
· IT gives you a fellowship in its literature, with the deepest minds and purest character of Freemasonry. · To those who are interested in securing a broader understanding of Freemasonry and desirous of enlisting in a campaign as a militant champion of the · IT allows you to participate in the glorious work American Public School and upholding and fostering of of spreading the propaganda of the Fatherhood of God the American Way of Life, the Scottish Rite is an and the Brotherhood of Man. effective instrument for the promotion and maintenance of these objectives. · IT gives you a greater incentive to higher thoughts and nobler deeds, because of a greater knowledge of your responsibilities and the history of the institutions of the Scottish Rite. · IT creates within you a greater love for chivalry; a greater respect for philosophy, and a never-ending love for your mother Lodge.
TWT
www.twtmag.com
51
Scottish Rite News & Information
By Robert G. Davis, 33°, Grand Cross. Originally published in The Scottish Rite Journal I will never forget my first real impression of the Scottish Rite. I was sitting in the third row of the beautiful auditorium in the great temple in Guthrie as one of 100 candidates in my class. I had longed for this day for three years. Many of the Masons in my small town were active in the Scottish Rite. They performed as one of the Valley’s degree teams and their stories about Guthrie, the temple, and the Rite had made a deep impression on me. As I was in college at the time, three years would elapse between my Master Mason Degree and my journey through the Degrees of the Rite. It was May 1971. And I was ready to begin what I always knew would be the college course in Freemasonry. One might think it presumptuous of a young man who had only witnessed three Masonic degrees in the three years he had been a Mason (those being his own) to assume there was more to Masonry. But my father had only one book in his Masonic library. And that book was Albert Pike’s Morals & Dogma. He had received it himself as a candidate of the Rite years earlier. By the time I was in the 8th grade, I had read M&D in its entirety. It was a book that was important to my father; therefore, it was important to me. Of course, I didn’t understand 70% of its content at the time, but I intuitively felt it was the most important book I had ever read. So, at age 23, I was beginning a journey that I had already dreamed of taking for at least a decade. And, to my delight, I was blown away by something that was said in the very first degree of the Rite I saw. In the old ritual being used in Guthrie at that time, the Senior Warden, at the beginning of the 4° ceremony, says, “I have passed from the square to the compasses.” Then, the Venerable Master removes the square from the candidate and says: Walk uprightly and turn not aside into the inviting paths of error. You now have passed from the square to the compasses, as the Geometrician passes from the straight lines and angles by which he measures the surface of the earth, to the great curves and circles by which he calculates the movements of the stars. Begin now to climb the skies of spiritual knowledge, for there are Truth and the Lost Word to be found.
The presiding officer was, in effect, encouraging the candidate to soar from his own earthly preoccupations toward the higher spheres of spiritual knowledge. I was literally transformed as a Mason at that very moment. I could immediately envision what the future would be like for me. So moved was I by the above words that I wrote on the first page in my own copy of M&D the following: “Begin now to climb the skies of spiritual knowledge.” I had not only made a psychological break from my experience as a young man, but I took on a new understanding of the journey through the degrees of Masonry. The early degrees reminded me of the characteristics needed in a man to lead a moral and ethical life. But I already had good examples of such men in my life. The rituals of the Blue Lodge served only as confirmation that the respected men I knew in my community also understood the moral tenets of Freemasonry. But the Scottish Rite was urging me to go deep inside myself to that place where the real mysteries are concealed. I was given the Clavis ad Mysterium, or the Key to the Mystery, and was told it was the key to self knowledge. It would eventually unlock for me the true nature of myself, which was also the true nature of Freemasonry. At once, I knew what the middle chamber meant; that I had already made the flight of winding stairs which was my profane, or exoteric, life. In the journey I was about to take, I would walk the ancient path of consciousness with a key that could unlock the holiest place on earth—the divine core of my being. It was the inner way. t is an incredible epiphany when one discovers that he must first descend in order to climb the slope of the Mountain of Truth! One May 23, 1971, I intuitively realized I had “passed from the square to the compasses.” All that was left for me was to affect a discipline in my performance of the duties required to make the journey to the Holy of Holies. And it was essential that I do so. For such a journey is the ultimate undertaking of any man’s lifetime.
TWT www.twtmag.com
52
Final Words
A
friend once described the danger, in Masonic practice, of what he called
‘displacement activity’, that is, engaging in activities that divert us from the true aim. Concentrating on the appearance of Masonic practice – rank, precedence, minor detail, hierarchy and structure – may cause us to lose sight of what real Freemasonry is, what Freemasonry can do, what it surely must do in each one of us, in order to be effective. Some will say that this is too serious, that it takes the
fun out of Freemasonry, but I promise you, the rewards are immense, and they ensure that we will never again need any constructs in our lives. It can ensure that, in amongst the wood, we will begin to see real trees, and chart our progress by the way we interpret each one of them. We should not be fooled. We should mind the gap, stop it becoming wider, try to bridge it, to give our Craft a greater sense of its true aim, and through that to find our own path to Truth. W. Bro. Julian Rees is a PM of Kirby Lodge No. 2818, London Past Junior Grand Deacon, United Grand Lodge of England
www.twtmag.com
53
www.twtmag.com
54