I humbly accepted.

Last night at the stated meeting of my lodge, Triangle #643 the Brethren saw fit to elect me as Worshipful Master for 2010. I humbly accept this honor. The Worshipful Master or WM, is the leader of the lodge. It is through his direction and under his leadership that a Masonic Lodge will succeed or fail during that year.

The term Worshipful Master does not imply any sort of and is not any type of religious title. The honorific title of "Worshipful" simply means the Master of the lodge presides over the meeting of Masons. His duties in the functioning of a lodge is quite similar to that of the President of the local chapter/branch of any other state or provincial organization.

Here is more info. and a description of a Master's duties:
Masters Duties

There are 5 elected officers of a Masonic Lodge and typically 3 elected Trustees. The offices usually serve a term of one year, the trustees serve a term in accordance of the by-laws of the lodge. The 5 elected officers are: Worshipful Master, Senior Warden, Junior Warden, Treasurer and Secretary. The remaining officers, Chaplain, Senior and Junior Deacons, Senior and Junior Stewards, Tyler and Marshall are appointed by the incoming Master. I have my appointed officers selected for 2010.

I am working on my installation date and will have an installation practice. In accordance with the Iowa Masonic Code I have to be installed by the Feb. 2010 stated meeting. I am going to have my installation in Jan. either the 3rd or 4th Saturday. I will be sending invitations out within a month.

I also have a plan/program for Triangle Lodge. I will post more about that later.

I look forward to serving Triangle Lodge #643 and only hope to do half as good a job as the Past Master's before me. I will be drawing on their support, learn from their successes and even their failures. I hope to lead my lodge down the right path in the coming year.

Grand Master's Program.

Every year the Grand Master of Mason's in Iowa has his own program. Since I have been a member, 2005, it has always been focused on improving ourselves, the fraternity and Masonry in Iowa. The Grand Lodge of Iowa Officers are installed every September at the Annual Grand Lodge Communication. Mason's across Iowa and other Grand Lodge jurisdictions are encouraged and invited to attend if they so wish. The most recent Grand Lodge Communication was no different. Craig C. Hummel is the Grand Master of Masons in Iowa for the 2009 - 2010 year. In 2010 I, if the brethren of my lodge, Triangle #643 elect me, will serve as Worshipful Master. The Worshipful Master, Master or WM is the leader of the lodge for the year he is elected for. The local Blue Lodges, such as Triangle, operate under the guidance of and with a Charter issued by the Grand Lodge. I look forward to serving as Worshipful Master of Triangle Lodge #643 in 2010 under Brother Hummels leadership as Grand Master.

Grand Master Hummel's program is titled:
Masonry 2.1 The Journey Continues...

The new incoming Grand Master also designs his own Masonic logo or emblem for the year he serves. Here is the 2009 - 2010 logo:


Grand Master Hummel describes the reason for this emblem as such:
The Bicycle and Masonry
· Requires energy and effort for use
· Moves forward only, not backward
· Continuous guidance necessary
· Coordinated movement and balance essential
· Speed changeable but controlled
· Regular maintenance required
· Improvements possible and probably
· Makes the journey fun

Part of this philosophy is:
Masonry is a Journey, not a Destination
Some days we pedal up the hills, other we coast down;
Make sure we’re going in the right direction;
Focus on progress, not perfection.

The Grand Master also has the belief that Freemasonry:
· It’s the Relationships!
· Fellowship
· Friendship
· Leadership
· Communication
· Education
· Self-Improvement
· Family-Friendly
· Community Involvement
· FUN s Fundamental

As a Freemason and a cyclist I understand and appreciate the similarities and understand why Brother Hummel choose the symbol of the bicycle as part of his logo for the 2009 - 2010 year.

I have been a cyclist for far longer then I have been a Freemason. I have ridden some very challenging rides and experienced some tough challenges in cycling. Everything from fighting for and struggling with the right to use public roadways to dealing with aggressive dogs wanting me for a meal. While a bicycle ride always has an end destination it is the journey and what is experienced along the way that is most important. Often there is no one at the end of a ride to tell me well done, you've accomplished another successful bike ride, and that is ok, I don't need validation because I know what I accomplished and how I feel about it. It is the same way in Freemasonry.

I believe as Freemasonry teaches, it is the journey along the way that is the most important. That journey is the experiences we all encounter through our lives. It has not been, and is not always easy. Life is full of challenges. Freemasonry teaches and provides the tools its members need to live good productive lives and how to deal with challenges. We teach our members through symbolism and allegory. Freemasonry also give its members the choice as to whether or not to use what is taught for the greater good and a greater purpose and teaches if a member does not lead a good and productive life that there are consequences for making bad decisions.

I also believe there is a destination myslef and my Masonic Brethren eventually will obtain. But that destination is not until our earthly remains are all that is left and our work on earth is finished and we are standing before the Great Architect of the Universe and the Supreme Being says to us: "Well done my good and faithful servant, I accept and approve your labors." Only then will we have reached our destination and will fully understand what our work on earth accomplished.

Links to the Grand Lodge of Iowa, Grand Master Craig C. Hummel and his program:
The Grand Lodge of Iowa, A.F. & A.M.
The Grand Master of Iowa Masons A.F. & A.M.
Craig C. Hummel, Grand Master
More about the Grand Master

Funny Masonic joke

This is funny:

A Mason told his wife that he had to go to Lodge that night because the Master had called a special meeting. His wife said:

"I declare! Whenever your Lodge Master snaps his fingers, you're there! I wish I were Master of your Lodge!"

"So do I," said the husband,"as we get a new one each year."

He slept on the couch for a month, but it was worth it.

Cornerstone Laying Ceremony

On Saturday August 29, 2009 there was an Cornerstone Laying Ceremony at the new Mid America Transportation and Aviation Museum in Sioux City, Iowa. The ceremony was performed by the Grand Lodge of Iowa.

Laying of the cornerstone of a building goes back centuries when ancient operative masons would lay the first stone in the NE corner of a new building, that being the cornerstone. From which all other stones of the building would be laid based on its location and quality of construction. If the cornerstone of the new building had any defects it would affect the way the rest of the stones were laid. The ancient operative masons used working tools, a square, level and plumb to ensure the cornerstone was perfect, resulting in the rest of the building being perfectly constructed. The buildings the Grand Lodge of Iowa conducts Cornerstone Ceremonies for include any public building like; a museum, government building, school, church, hospital, library, police dept, fire station etc. and is done by invitation. Usually someone affiliated with the new buildings construction will invite the Grand Lodge to come and conduct the ceremony, typically close to the completion of the building. Cornerstone Laying Ceremony's are public events. The public learns something about Freemasonry and get to witness one of our more beautiful ceremonies.

At the ceremony in Sioux City there was a very nice picnic lunch served and a lot of the Mason's pitched in to help set up for the ceremony. Typically the public events/ceremonies are conducted by the Grand Marshall. He is responsible for elading public events such as this.
Photo's;




In Iowa, when the Grand Lodge conducts this ceremony the Grand Lodge officers are escorted in by the Knights Templar of Iowa who are part of the York Rite Bodies, one of the appendant bodies of Freemasonry. The officers, knights, those that bear the items used in the ceremony and any Freemason that wishes to join enter the ceremony in formal procession lead by a flag or standard bearer, in the United States and in most cases the American Flag.
Photo's of the procession;
















Typically the Grand Master is already in the procession. But for this Cornerstone Ceremony he made a differant entrance to join the procession. He flew in by helicopter as seen here;






After the procession there are opening remarks by the Grand Master, a prayer by the Grand Chaplain and the Grand Tyler was then called to explain about this ceremony and provide some insight about Freemasonry to the public.
Photo's;



Today the Ancient Free and Accepted Masons use the square, level, plumb and trowel to symbolically lay the cornerstone of the public building. This is done by the Grand Master, Grand Senior Warden, Grand Junior Warden and another Grand Lodge officer the Grand Master selects.
Photos;












After it is declared the workmen did a good job at constructing the cornerstone and it is square, level and plumb and the cement ahs been symbolically applied by the Grand Master the stone is then symbolically annointed with corn, oil and wine.
Photo's;








After the corn, wine and oil are used to annoint the cornerstone the books of education are presented in support of public education.
Photo's;


After the books are presented the Grand Stewards are called to symbolically adjorn the stone with flowers.
Photo's;




The Grand Master then presents the working tools used in the laying of the cornerstone to the representative of the architect.
Photo's;






A proclimation is then made by the Grand Marshal to the North, South, East and West that the cornerstone is faithfully laid.
Photo's;






The orator is then called to give his remarks on the new building. A closing prayer is conducted, th eGrand Master declares the ceremony closed and the Grand Lodge officers process out.
Photo's;








Here are photo's of the cornerstone for the museum and the program for the ceremony;





The interesting thing about Cornerstone Ceremonies in Sioux City, Iowa is this is only the 3rd one in 107 years. The first was in 1902, the second in 1987 and now this one in 2009. The last one in the area was 2005, but that was in South Sioux City, Nebraska, thus conducted by the Grand Lodge of Nebraska at the South Sioux Public Library.

Links about this and other cornerstone ceremonies;
Capitol Cornerstone Cermemony
Aviation Museum cornerstone ceremony Saturday
Helicopters Away! Cornerstone in Sioux City
Cornerstones A Masonic Tradition of Dedication

All Iowa Masonic Re-obligation Night

Tonight was the first Masonic Re-obligation Night in Iowa. Iowa Grand Master of Masons, Jack Butler, asked that all Iowa Blue Lodges have an All Iowa Masonic Re-obligation at 7:30 pm. He left it up to the lodges if they wanted to do this on their own or join with other lodges and have one big re-obligation.

In Sioux City all of the 5 area lodges got together at Tyrian Lodge #508 and had our re-obligation. It was held at the Masonic Temple on Nebraska Street near downtown. There were 78 brethren in attendance. Some of the brethren in attendance were from Elk Point Lodge located in Elk Point, SD and Omadi Lodge in South Sioux City, NE. This made the event all that much more special, to have brethren from other Grand Lodge jurisdictions. The 2 rivers that border Iowa, South Dakota and Nebraska are a border, not a boundary and brethren from all 3 states are always welcome to attend functions, such as this, in each others area.

The dinner was at 6 pm, served by the new Abu Bekr Shrine Chef's Unit. The re-obligation started at 7:30. We opened in form on the 3rd Degree, the re-obligation was conducted, lead by Worshipful Brother George Harrison, and lodge was closed in form.

Here is the instructions and ceremony of the re-obligation I was proud to take part in tonight as advised by Grand Master of Iowa Masons, Jack Butler;

Attention: All Master Masons
As previously announced, I am directing every lodge in this Grand Jurisdiction to hold a “Re-Obligation Night” on Monday, March 30, 2009. The purpose of this meeting is to reacquaint, repurpose and especially renew our Masonic Ties.

Both the script and format of the event are described below. Your lodge may conduct other discussions and/or educational programs at this meeting, but only in addition to the ceremony listed below. Please note: this is to be a tiled meeting, Opened in Form and Closed in Harmony on the 3rd Degree.

1. Open lodge in Form on 3rd Degree
2. Recite Pledge of Allegiance
3. WORSHIPFUL MASTER will select one brother to kneel at the Altar. When directed,
SENIOR DEACON will conduct the aforementioned brother to the Altar and place him
in Due Form (minus the hood wink and cable-tow) to receive the Master Mason’s
Obligation.
4. WORSHIPFUL MASTER directs every other brother to assemble West of the Altar in a
single line directly behind the kneeling brother, and curving around the Altar in parallel lines, if necessary (similar to the lines formed when bringing a new brother to light). The brother on the left (the Senior Deacon) of the kneeling brother will place his right hand on the kneeling brother’s left shoulder. The brother on the kneeling brother’s right will place his left hand on the kneeling brother’s right shoulder. Each brother on the left of the kneeling brother will place his right hand on the right shoulder of the brother to his right. Each brother on the left of the kneeling brother will place his left hand on the left shoulder of the brother to his left. (This could get cozy.)
5. When all the brothers are duly assembled in this position, the WORSHIPFUL
MASTER (or his designee) will confer the following re-obligation to the entire lodge at once.
6. At the conclusion of the recital, WORSHIPFUL MASTER returns to the East and
knocks once to dismiss the brothers to their stations, places and seats in the lodge.
SENIOR DEACON conducts the kneeling brother to his seat and returns to his place in
the lodge.
7. Close lodge in Form and enjoy refreshments (suggested).

Notes:
This ceremony is not ritual and does NOT need to be memorized. It is perfectly
acceptable for the WORSHIPFUL MASTER to read it to the lodge, but I would certainly hope he would familiarize himself with it to make the ceremony an impressive one.

I am requesting that everyone bring their original lambskin apron that was worn on his Initiation, Passing and Raising, and wear it during this special meeting. The point is, after all, to re-obligate us to the Fraternity and to our brothers, so what better way to do that than to wear our initiatory aprons? However, if a brother cannot locate his own apron, he should still attend and wear a regular cloth apron provided by the lodge.

This ceremony will be posted on the Grand Lodge web site at: www.gl-iowa.org and on my web site at: www.iagrandmaster.org for further reference.

Re-Obligation Ceremony
WORSHIPFUL MASTER: (after lodge is opened and Pledge of Allegiance has been given). Brother SENIOR DEACON, conduct Brother ______________ ______________ to the Altar and place him in Due Form to receive the Master Mason’s Obligation.

SENIOR DEACON: WORSHIPFUL MASTER (salutes), the Brother is in Due Form.

WORSHIPFUL MASTER: Brethren, you will assemble yourselves behind Brother ____________ as follows: The SENIOR DEACON will place his right hand on Brother _________’s left shoulder. The JD will position himself on the opposite side of Brother __________ and place his left hand on the brother’s right shoulder. Everyone else will line up beside the Senior and Junior Deacons in an approximately equal number. If necessary, curl your line around the Altar to the East and form parallel lines, similar to bringing a brother to light. Each brother to the left of the SENIOR DEACON will place his right hand on the right shoulder of the brother immediately to his right, including the SENIOR DEACON. Each brother to the right of the JD will place his left hand on the left shoulder of the brother immediately to his left, including the JD. In this formation, we will become a part of the Re-Obligation Ceremony.

WORSHIPFUL MASTER: (or other brother appointed by the WORSHIPFUL MASTER to perform the ceremony). You will say I, your name and remain silent, listening carefully to these words.

. . .of my own free will and accord, in the presence of almighty God and this worshipful Lodge, do hereby and hereon most solemnly and sincerely re-obligate myself as an Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft and Master Mason and to the teachings of these degrees.

That I will ever hereafter dedicate my life in accordance with the perfect points of entrance of an Entered Apprentice, which are represented by temperance, fortitude, prudence and justice; and to the tenets of the Fraternity, which are brotherly love, relief and truth.

That I will always endeavor to reflect in my own daily life, the purity represented by the white leather apron that I received and have proudly worn from the first time it was presented to me on that memorable day.

That in accordance with the Right of Destitution, which was to remind me that as children of the same God, we owe to our fellows such relief as we can afford to give without injury to ourselves.

That I will, as a Mason, strive to serve my God, my country, my family and my neighbor with the same Freedom, Fervency and Zeal shown by the Entered Apprentice of old, ever remembering that time when I was received into the Lodge on the point of a sharp instrument applied to my naked left breast.

I furthermore promise and vow that I will make suitable application of the Square of virtue as a rule and guide to my conduct in all my transactions with God and man, and that I will not cheat, wrong or defraud a Masonic lodge or a Masonic brother.

That I will make a good, true and constant Masonic application of the plumb, and thereby keep myself upright before God and man, always remembering that I am traveling on the level of time to that undiscovered country, from whose borne no traveler returns.

That I will strive to apply the teachings of the journey to the Middle Chamber in my daily life. That I will always remember the two brazen pillars – Jachin and Boaz, which denote strength and establishment, which remind me to be strong in the establishment and maintenance of my character as a Mason.

That, like the checkered pavement, life is a pattern of light and darkness; good and evil; prosperity and adversity.

That the three steps represent the three attributes of God, the three principle officers of the Lodge, and the three supports of the Lodge: Wisdom, Strength and Beauty.

To remember the lessons of the five orders of architecture which taught me to strive to apply order to my life; and that a study of the seven liberal arts and sciences will bring me closer to my God.

I furthermore promise and vow that I will never forget that at my entrance into a Master Mason’s Lodge, I was received on the two points of the compass and that the most excellent tenets of our Fraternity – Friendship, Morality and Brotherly Love – are continued within those same two points.

That I will endeavor to emulate the life of our Grand Master Hiram Abiff, who would rather give up his life than loss his integrity.

That in accordance with the five points of fellowship; I will never hesitate to go on foot and out of my way to aid and succor a needy brother.

That I will ever remember a Brother’s welfare as well as my own in all my applications to Deity.

That I will ever keep a brother’s secrets, when communicated to me as such, excluding
murder and treason--and these at my own election.

That I will ever be ready to stretch forth my hands to assist and support a falling Brother.

That I will ever whisper good council in the ear of a Brother, and in the most friendly manner remind him of his errors, and endeavor to aid his reformation and will give him due and timely notice that he may ward off all approaching danger.

You will now repeat after me…

All this I most solemnly and sincerely promise and vow, asking no more reward than the emblematic corn of nourishment, wine of refreshment, and the oil of joy; the respect of my brethren; to be remembered as a worthwhile Master Mason; and the blessing of almighty God. Amen.

It was an enjoyable and worthwhile event to attend. I hope Masons all across Iowa attended a re-obligation ceremony in their Blue Lodge area. I hope this happens again in the future.

Update; Spring Reunion.

I was unable to attend the final weekend of the Scottish Rite Spring Reunion. Had obligations at work. From what I understand it ended with good success. I look forward to the Fall Reunion. That will be the 209th Class and will be called the Directors Reunion and is going to be in honor of Darrell "Truck" Hunt. I look forward to helping with it.

Spring Reunion is well underway.

The Spring Reunion for the Sioux City Scottish Rite is well underway. It is the 208th class. This class is called the Templars Class and is in honor and memory of Lyle C. Johnson, Past Grand Commander of Iowa.

I am helping as a Class Director with this class of 9 new members. As of tonight we have completed the 18th Degree, Chapter of Rose Croix. The reunion concludes next Sat., 03/21 with the banquet.

The Journey, Not the Goal

Brother Robert M. Wolfarth wrote an article found on page 23 of the March/April edition of The Scottish Rite Journal. It is about the journey we go through in life, not the goal.

Bro. Wolfarth starts out by saying after his birthday he received some good news at a conference he was at. He called his boss, who spread the good news around the office. He also called his wife who was very proud of him. Bro. Wolfarth was 2,000 miles away from home at the conference when this happened.

He then realized that particular moment was a pinnacle in his life. His boss was elated and his wife proud. Bro. Wolfarth had and hopefully still has a happy healthy wife and children and a stable career. He was doing good work for his lodge and church and hopefully still is. He exclaimed in the article;

"Life is fine, indeed!"

Later that evening Bro. Wolfarth then realized his predominate feeling was loneliness. His wife and children were across the country and his friends and brethren were also far away. He craved for someone to be standing by his side to share the moment of earlier that day.

Bro. Wolfarth then thought;

"But how dare I be lonely! How dare I spoil this, the ecstasy of success that all humans want most, by wishing for even more! My elation is not pure!; I longed for more."

He then goes on to explain he longed for someone to share it with. He felt that in the midst of this apex of human happiness he longed to be home.

Bro. Wolfarth then asked himself;

"Is this evidence that I will simply never be satisfied? Is impurity of elation the source of my passion? What would I do if I were truly satisfied with myself - even for a moment?"

At that moment Bro. Wolfarth had an image come to mind; On his left a rough ashlar and on his right a true and square ashlar. At that instant it was all so clear, laid out for him, quietly in the East.

He saw the rough ashlar as his life stood at that moment. It did not matter whether he was in the midst of joy or sorrow. It was his life's work. The smooth, true, squared or what we call a perfect ashlar is his life's goal. What he hopes to become through the journey of his life. The rough ashlar is no smoother as a result of his joys and sorrows; it only becomes more square as he works.

Bro. Wolfarth sees the simple truth that became apparent to him that night that while there may be peaks and valleys in his life, he can not berate himself for craving more. The craving is what drives him to smooth the rough edges of his ashlar. Without it he would stop working and be satisfied. And it would be on that day that for all useful purposes he would cease to exist.

Bro. Wolfarth then explains when he is happy he wants the happiness to continue so he puts on his apron and goes to work. When he is sad he wants to change that to happiness so he puts on the apron and goes to work.

His final message is this;

"Do not expect pure elation. that is not for us, at least not in this realm. But do expect joy from time to time. And when it comes, enjoy it. Celebrate it. Alone, or with those you love. And then...get back to work. And when the depths of sorrow cast their dark shadow upon you, grieve. Mourn. And then, get up off your knees...and get back to work."

It is the journey, my brothers, not the goal. The journey."

Now that I have written my narration of the article here are my thoughts on it and the message Bro. Wolfarth is conveying to us all;

I have had as I am sure all of us has had peaks and valleys in our lives. Whether it be at our vocation, recreation or in our spiritual lives. When things are going well we want it to continue, thus we put our aprons and get to work so it can continue. When we are in a state of sorrow we want to improve the situation and return to the state of joy we crave so much, thus we put on our aprons and get to work to make it happen. Being in a state of joy is an addicting thing and it is not wrong to want more joy. It is what we do with and during that joyful state that is important. I have learned in the course of my life to share it with others, usually those closest to me, but I also like to share it on some level, no matter how small with my community. I use the energy I get from being joyous to improve my community. In other words I put my apron on and do as much volunteer work as I can to make the place I live better. In return I ask nothing, but I receive plenty of reward. I have worked with the local police department on volunteer projects, thus making this community safer to live. I have worked, through different organizations to improve the city infrastructure, thus making it better for everyone. Yes there have been set backs and times of sorrow in the course of my life and I have had to take time to make things better and put the larger things on hold until that happens. I have had to help myself to make things better for me and my direct family. Though that may sound selfish I do so, when needed because I believe until I can help myself I am unable to share my joy and help others.

Brethren my ashlar is very rough right now, but with every moment of joy I am able to share with others it becomes a little smoother as my life progresses. Sometimes it happens quickly, at times so quick I have to slow down a bit. Other times it happens rather slow when am at a low point in life. But I keep my apron on and set about my work as I encourage all to do in their lives.

Brethren let's put on our aprons and build the temple of our lives making our rough ashlar smooth as we journey through it.

Here is a copy of the article by Bro. Wolfarth;

So Mote It Be

On page 17 of the March/April issue of The Scottish Rite Journal is an explaination of the term So Mote It Be.

I already knew So Mote It Be was said in response to Amen, after a prayer. I also knew it is old English or what is called an archaic term that is a form of saying So Be It. And I knew So Mote It Be means the same as So May It Be. What I did not know is Amen literally means So Be It, which is the same as So May It Be. With this logic saying So Mote It Be is the same as saying Amen.

Here is the article from the magazine;

The Length of My Cable Tow.

In the most recent copy of The Scottish Rite Journal there is an article called "How Long Is My Cable Tow", written by Brother W. Howard Coop, 32 Degree, KCCH.

Bro. Coop was introduced to a cable tow for the first time in 1952 when he was made a Mason He admits his first thought about it was;

"another piece of rope."

He soon learned a cable tow is much more then a rope. It is one of the first symbols of introduced to new Masons and has both a simple and sublime meaning.

Here is the definition of a cable tow, according to An Encyclopedia of Freemasonry, written by Albert G. Mackey;

CABLE TOW

The word tow signifies, properly, a line wherewith to draw. Richardson (Dictionary) defines it as " The word is purely Masonic, and in some writings of the early part of the eighteenth century we find the expression cable rope. Prichard so uses it in 1730. The German word for a cable or rope is kabeltauw, and thence our cable tow is probably derived.

In its first inception, the cable tow seems to have been used only as a physical means of controlling the canidate, and such an interpretation is still given in the Entered Apprentice's Degree. But in the Second and Third Degrees a more modern symbolism has been introduced, and the cable tow is in these grades supposed to symbolize the covenant by which all Freemasons are tied, thus reminding us of the passage in Hosea (xi, 4), "1 drew them with cords of a man, with bands of love."

CABLE TOW'S LENGTH

Gädieke says that, "according to the ancient laws of Freemasonry, every brother must attend his Lodge if he is within the length of his cable tow." The old writers define the length of a cable tow, which they sometimes called a cable's length, to be three miles for an Entered Apprentice. But the expression is really symbolic, and as it was defined by the Baltimore Convention in 1842, means the scope of a man's reasonable ability.

Brother Mackey's definition got Bro. Coop thinking about how long is a cable tow and is there a limit to its lenght?

Bro. Coop admits there have been times in the past when these questions hounded him. It was at those times he face demanging situations that required a response from him and he needed to know what was his responsibility to those situations. He asked himself;

What is the length of my cable tow?

Bro. Coop goes on to write about a phone call he received from from whom he had never met. The person who contacted Bro. Coop spoke in a gentle voice and was very polite. Bro. Coop thought at first that it was a solicitor because they often call and are very polite when someone answers the phone.

He soon realized this was not a solicitor and that he was wrong for thinking the caller was one. The person calling soon identified himself in was that Bro. Coop understood that he was talking to a Brother Mason as the caller had said things that identified him as such. The Bro. calling stated he was on the U.S. Virgin Islands in the West Indies. He then asked Bro. Coop for help and assitance.

It was at this moment again that Bro. Copo started thinking about the length of his cable tow. His thoughts were;

"Does my cable tow reach all the way from Lancaster, Kentuckey, to one of the U.S. Virgin Islands in the West Indies to help a man about whom I had never heard?"

Bro. Coop accepted the valid identification he gave and on the basis of what he said Bro. Coop recognized him to be a Brother Mason and gave the help he asked for.

Bro. Coop took away from this experience that his cable tow has no and knows no limits. The length of a cable tow is not measured by distance or even geographical location. Rather by the need of a Brother Mason, where ever he is and another Brother's ability to respond to that need.

Bro. Coop is absolutley correct. For it is during one of the 3 obligations every Mason takes that we agree to fly to the aid of a Brother Mason if within the length of my cable tow, when and if a Brother Mason is in need and asks for help.

I took my obligation's at the end of 2004/beginning of 2005 and I have, when ever and where ever I could aided, assisted and helped a Brother Mason when called upon and asked.

I hope every Mason would do or has done the same.

Here is a copy of the article;

Turn The Key

Here is a video of Masonic photo's frmo the internet, digital scans and photo's I took set to the Masonic Song Turn The Key. Freemason's should know and understand the symbols and the words to the song. If they have forgotten because they have been away from Lodge for too long then perhaps they should go back to their Lodge to remind themselves. The song, Turn The Key is from the CD The Temple of Humanity by the group Freestone. It is the only true Masonic music I have come across.

Masonic Re-Obligation Night.

The Grand Master of Iowa has declared/decided that Monday March 30, 2009 will be the All Iowa Masonic Re-Obligation Night. All Iowa Mason's are to check with their local Blue Lodge for more details which will be forth coming by the Grand Lodge of Iowa.

Sioux City, Iowa has 5 area Blue Lodges. We are trying to organize a get together of all the Mason's from these Blue Lodges to come together at one time in one place on March 30 for the re-obligation. We are likely going to hold it at the Masonic Temple on Nebraska Street or the Scottish Rite Temple on Douglas. There will more then likely be a dinner and reception for the event as well.

I am looking forward to this and hope to help in some way to help organize it.

The Traitor

Tonight at the Sioux City Scottish Rite Temple my wife and I had the pleasure of seeing a live Masonic Drama called The Traitor. The Traitor is a fictional Masonic play about what happened with Benedict Arnold following the American Revolution, before George Washington was made President. The main part of the play takes place in a Masonic Lodge in Virginia. Benedict Arnold comes back to the United States from England to plead his case before a Masonic Tribunal for entry back into the country and the Masonic Fraternity.

The play opens with Arnold in his home in England reading a book. He puts the book down and starts to express his regret for betraying the Continental Army during the war when he was caught trying to hand over West Point to the British. He states he is going to write a letter to George Washington asking to be heard on his side of the story. He then falls asleep. The next scene is the lodge open with Washington as Worshipful Master. General Lafayette is in attendance at the meeting as well. It is being discussed that Lafayette is visiting and that he and Washington are going to Mount Vernon in the morning before Lafayette returns to France.

During the meeting British General Sir Francis Cranston and British Colonial Beltower ask to join the meeting, to which they are allowed. It is then discussed a summary of the events of the recent war. Among other things what is discussed is the betrayel of Benedict Arnold. Arnold then shows up at the meeting to ask for admission escorted by a Brother of the lodge that Washington sent to Arnold's ship to safely conduct him to the meeting. Arnold is allowed entrance to be heard. At this point the meeting turns into the Masonic Tribunal because the very Mason's who were also in soldiers in the war are enough to hear what Arnold has to say.

Certain events happen during the discussion with Arnold. Including something really interesting involving Colonel Beltower. I am not going to say what because it would give the climax of the play away. People will just have to see it for themselves to find out. I will say that Beltower is asked to leave the meeting and he will suffer certain consequences for his bad conduct. It is then the judgement of the Masonic Tribunal that Arnold not be allowed back into the Masonic Fraternity or the United States and he is even told he has no country, not even England he can call home, nor any flag in which he can defend.

Arnold is then asked to leave and a presentation of one of the first flags of the United States is then brought in and the National Anthem is played. One ironic thing I find with this is the National Anthem was not written until the War of 1812 and The Traitor takes place just after the American Revolution, before 1800.

The last scene shows Arnold asleep in his home in England and he wakes up goes to a chest with his old uniform and a small U.S. flag. He continues his regret and prays to God about it and asks that he is taken home. Again I am not going to spoil a part of the last scene of the play, people will have to see it for themselves to figure it out.

As I said The Traitor is fictional. How ever there are some very real aspects to it. Here are a list of historical facts about the American Revolution used in The Traitor;
1. The American Revolution did happen.
2. George Washington, General Lafayette, Benedict Arnold, Cononel Randolph, General Green, General Knox, General Gist, Cononel Hamilton, Sir Francis Cranston, Colonel Beltower, Brother Gerry, Colonel Crisp and General Mercer were all known Mason's and were all soldiers during the American Revolution.
3. Benedict Arnold did really arrange the surrender of West Point to the British while he was in command of the Point. For which he was caught and court marshalled and was then made a Brigadier General in the British Army.
4. Arnold did go to England after the war.

What we do not know is if Arnold was actually expelled from the Masonic Fraternity or if he ever tried to petition to be allowed back in or whether or not he tried to return to the United States.


The Sioux City Scottish Rite puts the play on every other year, on the odd year. The next time they will do so is in 2011.

I highly recommend that anyone see this play if they get the chance if it is every put on in your area.

Here is the programme from this years play;

Grand Lodge of Iowa announces new scholarship program

The Grand Lodge of Iowa, AF&AM, has announced a new scholarship program for Iowa high school graduates who plan to enroll in a mechanical or trade course of study at an accredited Iowa community college.

Fifteen "Mark Earl and Esther Ruth Spencer Scholarships" of $1,000 each will be awarded. The scholarships may be used for tuition, fees, books and tools.

Applications may be obtained through the guidance department of any public high school or from the Grand Lodge of Iowa's Web site at www.gl-iowa.org. Deadline for applications is Feb. 28.

The Voice of Albert Pike

The only question for us to ask, as true men and Masons, is, what does duty require; and not what will be the result and our reward if we do our duty. The hope of success, and not the hope of reward, should be our stimulating and sustaining power.

Duty is the moral magnetism which controls and guides the true Mason's course over the tumultous seas of life. He follows its silent bidding, as the mariner, when land for many days is no in sight, and the ocean with-out path or landmarks spreads out all around him, follows the bidding of the needle, never doubting that it points truly to the north. To perform that duty, whether the performance be rewarded or unrewarded, is his sole course.

The composer is unknown. It is printed on page 74 of the book; Ten Decades of Light the Sioux City Scottish Rite 1906 to 2006, authored by Brother George Harrison 33rd Degree.

Splendid Truth

The Scottish Rite of Freemasonry teaches the splendid truths of its twenty-nine Degrees, not abstractly, nor in a dry-as-dust fashion, but with splendor. It brings drama to the service of philosophy, leading the seeker through starlit chambers of imagery, revealing constellations of truth - truth that makes us men and sets us free from fear - fear of life, fear of death, fear engendered by "those blind throughts we know not nor can name." The Scottish Rite is for the man who is not afraid to think, who is willing to confront the greatest problems of faith and philosophy, and the fundamental issues of life, and to think them through to a candid and courageous conclusion. If other branches of Masonry assume tolerance of differant religous opinions, drawing men together upon a common basis by common bond, the Scottish Rite emphasizes, not only toleration, but freedom of thought, inspiring men to be courageous of opinion founded on intelligence and mental honesty. It reveres God without superstition and makes a powerful plea for government without political or religous tyranny. It exhalts religion, not as a dim puff of stardust lost in haze of the Milky Way, but as an everyday working program of life. to the man who loves mental honesty, it offers a congenial field of activity, the inspiration of a great host of choice men, consecrated to the highest ideals of private conduct and public virtue.

Composer unknown, composed for the Scottish Rite Herald, used for the Fall Program, 1955. Currently printed on page 71 of the book; Ten Decades of Light the Sioux City Scottish Rite 1906 to 2006, authored by Brother George Harrison 33rd Degree.

Who was Albert Pike?

Albert Pike 33rd Degree, one of the greatest and most influential of Masonic scholars and writers of all time, was born in Boston in 1809. He became a lawyer in the Territory of Arkansas. In the Civil War he was a General in the Confederate Army. He was elected Sovereign Grand Commander of the Scottish Rite in the Southern Jurisdiction in 1859, and died n Washington D. C., in 1891. He was a linguist, could speak many languages and we was adept in esoteric Freemasonry. He reconstructed the Scottish Rite, revised or rewrote the Degrees, and edited "Morals and Dogma," an amazing compilation of transitions and original writing on the philosphy and secret work of Freemasonry. A copy of "Morals and Dogma" is presented to each member of the Class.

Dr. Joseph Fort Newton, 33rd Degree, another Famous Masonic scholar, says of him: "ALbert Pike found Freemasonry in a log cabin and left it in a temple. He was the master genius of Masonry in America, both as scholar and artist. no other mind of equal power ever toiled so long in the service of the Craft in th eNEw World. no one has left a nobler fame in our annals."

The composer is unknown. It was used for the Sioux City Scottish Rite Fall Program, 1955. It is currently printed on page 71 of the book; Ten Decades of Light the Sioux City Scottish Rite 1906 to 2006, authored by Brother George Harrison 33rd Degree.

NOBILITY

True worth is in being, not seeming;
In doing, each day that goes by,

Some little good - not in the dreaming,
Of great things to do by and by.

For whatever men say in blindness,
And spite of the fancies of youth.

There's nothing so kingly as kindness,
And nothing so royal as truth.

We get back our mete as we measure;
We cannot do wrong and feel right;

Nor can we give pain and gain pleasure,
For justice avenges each slight.

The air for the wing of the sparrow,
The bush for the robin and wren,

But always the path that is narrow,
And straight for the children of men.

We cannot make bargains for blisses,
Nor catch them like fishes in nets,

And sometimes the thing ou rlife misses
Helps more than the thing which it gets.

For good lieth not in pursuing,
Nor gaining of great or of small;

But in just in the doing - and doing,
As we would be done by, is all.

Through envy, through malice, through hating
Against the world early and late,

No jot of our courage abating,
Our part is to work and to wait.

And slight is the sting of his trouble,
Whose winnings are less than his worth;

For he who is honest is noble,
Whatever his fortunes or birth.

Composer unknown. Used for the Sioux City Scottish Rite Spring Program, 1955. Currently printed on page 70 of the book; Ten Decades of Light the Sioux City Scottish Rite 1906 to 2006, authored by Brother George Harrison 33rd Degree.

SCOTTISH RITE MASONRY

S-omewhere in this State, perhaps in your
C-ommunity, there is a man, or men,
O-f sterling worth and character, whose
T-houghts have often dwelt upon the
T-ime when they would seek further light
I-n Masonry; and, joininghands with us
S-trive to lighten Life's burdens, and
H-elp Mankind renew its faith in Humanity

R-ight at this time and place
I-s where your influence is needed
T-o introduce such worthy Master Masons to
E-nlist in our glorious cause.

M-asonry stand forth today
A-s the champion of Peace and Progress
S-o that to th eman of broad vision, it
O-pens up the possibilities in the future,
N-ever before offered, in which
R-eligion, Faith and Creed,
Y-outh, Manhood and Old Age can meet on th elevel of equality and

Fraternity.

Composer is unknown. However I believe it was first composed for the Scottish Rite Programme in San Jose, Ca. It was used in the Sioux City Scottish Rite Fall Program, 1954. It can currently be found printed on page 69 of the book; Ten Decades of Light the Sioux City Scottish Rite 1906 to 2006, authored by Brother George Harrison 33rd Degree.

Creed for Freedom

I vow on the altar of God that I will, to the utmost of ability, maintain, support, and defend the constitution, laws and landmarks of my country.
That I will, in truth and justice, give more to my country than I shall receive from her.
That I will not cheat, wrong, or defraud my country, nor do any other thing that might endanger the freedom of her people.
That I will make my country ever stronger and more virtuous, that her light may so shine among nations that men may see her good freedoms and fashion after them;
That I will, to the ultimate of my power, oppose every form of tyranny over the lives of men, that freedom "of the people, by the people, for the people shall not perish from the earth."

Composed by Milford E. Shields, 32nd Degree, for the Fall Program, 1953. Currently printed on page 62 of the book; Ten Decades of Light the Sioux City Scottish Rite 1906 to 2006, authored by Brother George Harrison 33rd Degree.

The American's Creed

I BELIEVE in the United States of America as a Government of the people, by the people, for the people, whose just powers are derived from the consent of the governed; a democracy in a republic; a soverign Nation of many soverign States; a perfect union, one and inseperable, established upon those principles fo freedom, equality, justice, and humanity for which American patriots sacrificed their lives and fortunes. I therefore believe it is my duty to my country to love it; to support its Constitution; obey its laws, to respect its flag, and to defend against all enemies.

Composed by William Tyler Page. Printed in the Scottish Rite Fall Program, 1953 booklet. Now printed on page 62 of the book; Ten Decades of Light the Sioux City Scottish Rite 1906 to 2006, authored by Brother George Harrison 33rd Degree.

Why the Scottish Rite?

1. The Scottish Rite offers an unsurpassed field for the study of Masonry; it presents and interprets the systems of worship, philosophy and morals of mankind in all ages of the world.

2. It is the mightiest exponent of freedom in thought, religion and purity in government that the world has ever known.

3. Its teachings are presented in a series of beautiful allegories staged with striking scenic effects, gorgous costumes and respplendent musical backgrounds, unsurpassed elsewhere.

4. It wars against vice, ignorance and bigotry and is the staunch advocate of political freedom and human liberty.

5. It affords your Mast mason friends the oppurtunity of establishing new contacts in a great fraternal organization and attaining an understanding of the great truths of Scottish Rite Freemasonry.

6. It bases all its teachings upon the fundamentals of truth and reason; it enlarges upon and develops a deeper appreciation and understanding of the Blue Lodge Degrees.

7. It is an advanced and liberal education and strives to establish faith in Liberty and Hope through Equality and Love in Fraternity.

8. It gives you a fellowship in its literature with the deepest minds and greatest characters of Freemasonry; it develops a greater lover for God, humanity and Country.

9. It directs the search light of truth upon th ehistory and knowledge of departed ages and reveals much buried treasures.

The composer is unknown but it is from the Fall Program, 1953. It can be found on page 61 of the book; Ten Decades of Light the Sioux City Scottish Rite 1906 to 2006, authored by Brother George Harrison 33rd Degree.

Education in Masonry

EDUCATION, the basic factor in a democratic society, does not reside in a public school system, nor in institutions of higher learning. These are but instruments. They are not ends in themselves. Masonry goes a long way in supplying the deficiencies of the public school, especially in the field of adult education. It teaches the importance of knowledge, but it also asserts that the development of character is of greater importance.

TRUE EDUCATION is a two-fold process:

Filling in useful knowledge.

Drawing out latent faculties and qualities.

This is far more then an intellectual process. Gaining knowledge, training the memory, employing reason and logic is not enough. The intellectual mind cannot go beyond thinking, remembering and imagining.

Education must also be applied to the physical, the emotional and spiritual and the volitional elements that are inherent in every normal person, to the end that a fully developed personality may emerge.

Through training the intellect we aquire ability.

Through training the emotions we aquire reliability.

Through observing physical laws of health, we gain endurance.

Through training and directing the will, we get action.

The end of all education is achievement, and man's greatest achievement is character. A man of character is the consience of his community.

This composed work has no official title. I called Education in Masonry because this is what I think it is. The composer is also unknown. However it can be found on pages 51 and 52 of the book authored by Brother George Harrison 33rd Degree, Ten Decades of Light the Sioux City Scottish Rite 1906 to 2006

I could not agree more with it. Prior to joining Freemasonry I thought what I needed to know was what I learned in school. I came to find out, with the help of Brother George Harrison, my friend and mentor, that I really needed to expand my mind and go beyond what little was taught to me in school. Sure school gave me a base knowledge, this includes college. I am a college graduate. But as I have come to find out what I really needed to know has never been and likely never will be taught in public education institutions of any level. I received what I can now call a base line knowledge but it is woefully under taught.

One example of this is about the early history of the United States. I have learned so much, at the encouragement of Bro. George that I never knew. He flat out told me I really need to get my mind off of the high school history lessons and expand my mind and open it up to what should be taught in public school. I did just that and have learned so much as a result. I have chosen to fill in th eblanks of my mind with the useful knowledge I need. I have also figured out it is a never ending lesson. When I learn something new I did not know before that is where I get a sense of achievement, especially when I learn the real truth.

Masonry prides itself on being and educational institution to it's members. If nothing else all men of character should join so they too can learn what they really need to know to continue to build their character and achieve what it is I have learned along the way.

Wide Walls

Give me wide walls to build my house of Life -
The north shall be of Love, against the winds of fate;
The south of Tolerance, that I may outreach hate;
The east of Faith, that rises clear and new each day;
The west of Hope, that e'en dies a glorious way.
The threshold 'neath my feet shall be Humility;
The roof-the very sky itself-Infinity.
Give me wide walls to build my house of Life.

Composer of the poem us unknown. It is printed on page 49 in the book Ten Decades of Light the Sioux City Scottish Rite 1906 to 2006, authored by Brother George Harrison 33rd Degree.

If We're Real Masons

The test of a man is in the fight he makes,
The strength that he daily shows,
The way he stands before the world and takes
Life's numerous bumps and blows.
The coward can smile when there is naught to fear,
When nothing his pathway bars;
But it takes a fellow with character to cheer
While some other fellow stars.
It isn't the victory after all
But it's the fights that a fellow makes.
With back against the wall
He stands head erect and takes
Life's numerous bumps and blows -
Bleeding and bruised and pale.
It's the fellow who'll win in the bye and bye
For he isn't afraid to fail.

It's the bumps we get, and the blows we get,
It's the shocks that our courage stands -
The hours of sorrow and vain regret
When success escapes our hands,
That test our mettle and proves our worth.
It's not the blows we deal.
It's the blows we take on this good old earth
That tells if we're "Masons" real.

Composer of the poem us unknown. It is printed on pages 39 and 40 in the book Ten Decades of Light the Sioux City Scottish Rite 1906 to 2006. The book is authored by George Harrison 33rd Degree.

How did Washington take his oath of office on a Masonic Bible?

Freemasons everywhere know the first President of the United States was George Washington. Most know he was sworn in on a Masonic Bible. Some know the bible came from St. Johns Lodge No. 1 in New York City. Few know the lodge met at the "Old Coffee House" at the corner of Water and Wall Streets. Fewer probably know someone had to walk 3 blocks to get the bible because one had been forgotten. While I bet even fewer know what the words were that George Washington added and what he did after being sworn in and stating these words.

Here is a piece of history from The Scottish Rite Journal January/February, 2009 Current Interest section page 17, Q & A:

FREEMASONRY
How did Washington come to take his oath of office on a Masonic Bible?
George Washington was inaugerated as the first president of the United States of America on April 30, 1789. He went to Federal Hall on Wall Street and was joined by John Adams, his Vice President, Frederick A.C. Muhlenberg, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Chancellor Robert Livingston, the highest-ranking judicial officer of New York; and Generals Frederick William von Steuban, "Light Horse Harry" Lee, Henry Knox, and Arthur St. Clair (all Masons except for Adams).

As the time came for Washington to step out on the balcony and take his oath of office before an estimated crowd of 10,000, it was realized that no one had brought a Bible! Chancellor Livingston was also Grand Master of Masons in New York and ordered Maj. Jacob Morton, parade Marshal, Grand Secretary and Master of St. John's Lodge No.1, to get the Bible from St. John's Lodge. The lodge met at the "Old Coffee House" at the corner of Water and Wall Streets, about three blocks away. Morton returend with the Bible, Chancellor Livingston administered the oath, and George Washington added the words "So help me God!" and kissed the Bible when finished. Thus began the first term of the first President of the United States.

St. John's Lodge carefully preserves the "Washington Bible" and uses it at its meetings. The Grand Master of New York takes his oath of office on the Bible as have presidents Warren G. Harding, Dwight D. Eisenhower, James E. Carter, and George H.W. Bush. The Bible was scheduled to be used for the inaugeration of President George W. Bush, but rain kept the fragile book inside.

There you have it. A piece of American and Masonic history.

Consistory Research Network

On the Siouxland Freemasonry web site can be found what is called the Consistory Research Network, or CRN. The CRN is a resource for anyone who are interested in the esoteric, philosophical and symbolic teachings of Masonry among the Craft. As far as I know anyone who has access to it may post articles to the CRN site. For access to most of the articles one has to have a log in. Requirements for a log in cna be inquired about at this email address: Consistory@CableOne.net, or phone number: 712-258-7511, or snail mail address: Consistory Research Network 801 Douglas Street Sioux City, Iowa 51102-0896 , or, P.O. Box 896 Sioux City, Iowa 51102-0896.

Here is a list of book reviews available to anyone to read with out a log in to the CRN: Masonic Book Reviews brought to you by the CRN This should give a good example of what can be found for those who wish to join the CRN.

As far as I know any Mason's can join from anywhere I do not think it is limited to just the SIoux City area. Mason's can join as an individual or as a lodge.To find out how to join please contact the Sioux City Scottish Rite. I also believe members of the CRN can submit articles, reviews, etc. to be posted about anything that is related, remotely or otherwise to Freemasonry.

I encourage anyone who is a Freemason and any Masonic Lodge to join the CRN.

The letter G

I have been asked by many non-Masons what does the letter G stand for that is seen with the Square and Compass. It is seen on virtually every Masonic building in the United States that is used for Blue Lodge functions. Well simply put the letter G is in referance to geometry and/or a deity, typically a mono-theistic God. There is nothing secretive or esoteric about it.

The letter G is referance to Geometry because it was the center of the Masons life. One school of thought holds that today's Freemasonry came from the early Stone Mason Guilds. They used geometry on a daily basis when building the grand structures such as the cathedrals of Europe many of which still stand today.

The letter G is in referance to a deity or God because it is the center of the Freemasons life. Freemasonry does not dictate who that God is for the individual. It is left up to the individual Brother on how he chooses to believe in his Supreme Being or what Freemasons refere to as the Grand Architect of the Universe. We emphasize freedom of religion and would never tell anyone how we think they should worship or believe in God.

When you see the letter G centered in between the Square and Compass on a Masonic building you will know what it means and why it is there. It is to remind everyone, more especially Freemasons that we believe in freedom of religion and it should be left to the individual on how they choose to believe in a Supreme Being.

The Holy Saints John

Freemasons are familiar with the phrase

Erected to God and dedicated to the Holy Saints John

. All Blue Lodges are dedicated to these 2 saints. But we never hear any other information regarding these 2 important figures in Freemasonry or anything else to explain why they are so important to us as Freemasons.

When a new candidate joins a Blue Lodge and is made an Entered Apprentice he is first introduced to and there is referance made to the Holy Saints John. They are referanced as the

perfect paralles of Freemasonry as well as in Christianity

. All of the other brethren are also reminded of these 2 saints. But who are they? Why are they so important to Freemasonry? Why are all Blue Lodges dedicated to them?

In the very early years fo Freemasonry the feast day of St. John the Baptist was always celebrated by the Craft. The first public Grand Lodge, the Grand Lodge of England was born on St. John the Baptist Day. June 24, 1717 in London. After which the Grand Lodge of England sponsored great annual celebrations for many years. Over time the feast of St John the Evangelist became important as well and many lodges moved the beginning of their Masonic year from June 24 to December 27. It is assumed the proximity of Dec. 27 to the beginning of the calendar year made it expedient to do so.

The festival days were of central importance to early American lodges. Both feast days were always celebrated by all well governed early lodges. Records indicate that Brothers George Washington and Benjamin Franklin always made it a point to attend their Lodges respective pbservances of St. Johns Days.

Elections and installation used to be planned on or around these important days of the year. This tradition has fallen by the wayside, as has so many others, but we do retain the vestiges of it. There is always the danger of old traditions becoming habits and the original reason for the tradition being lost.

So who was St. John the Baptist?

The 4 Gospels, Matthew, Mark Luke and John as found in the Bible's New Testament all describe him in almost the exact same language. The Baptist, who was a cousin to Jesus Christ, is spoken of as

A voice crying in the wilderness,

whos purpose was to,

Prepare the way of the Lord and make his path straight.

He was indeed important otherwise he would not have been refered to in all 4 Gospels with exactly the same language. It is extremely rare to see this in the Bible. In the Gospel of Luke, Jesus himself says John is

Among them that are born of women, there has not risen any greater the John the Baptist.

Very high praise from the Bible indeed. It becomes more clear why we as Freemasons should hold him in such high regard. He was named the Baptist because as he preached he baptized people in the River Jordan, live a simple yet powerful and devout life. He preached single minded righteous living and change of character. His message was one that taught people to live in a holy manner and that deviation from that manner is unacceptable.

Because of his beliefs, his devotion to Jesus and his refusal to change himself despite being told to by those who thought themselves of higher authority he was eventually imprisoned and beheaded by King Herod. His heroism, fidelity and integrity are echoed in the legends of Jacques DeMolay and Hiram Abif. This give us more insight as to why John the Baptist was chosen as one of the Patron Saints of Freemasonry.

That explains a little about St. John the Baptist, but who was St. John the Evangelist?

St. John the Evangelist is very important to Masons and Freemasonry as well. While we do have a relatively concrete biography on John the Baptist, who theology and teachings were straightforward and rigid, the story of the Evangelist is more difficult to relate and requires more study. Saint John the Evangelist is thought to be the amalgamation of several New Testament John's. Including John the Disciple of Christ, John the Epistle and John the Divine of Patmos, the author of the Book of Revelation. There are many reasons why Freemasons would choose St. John the Evangelist as one of our Patron Saints. One of the most important being is his writings read almost like Masonic Ritual.

The Gospel of John begins:

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God and the Word was God. The same was with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that that was made. In him was life; and the life was the light of men. And the light shineth in the darkness; and darkness comprehended it not.

Nowhere else in the Bible since the beginning of Genesis familiar to all Freemasons is the concept of light so enixtricably entwined with the idea of the devine spirit. As the progression is made to the higher degrees the concept of the Word, Light and Devine as inseperable parts of the whole of Creation becomes of primary importance. St. John the Evangelist leads is in that direction.

In his Epistles, he continues to work from the theme that the Word and the Light are inevitably linked and goes on to bring us the Turh and Love in as links of the same chain. The idea and practice of Brotherly Love, one of the Priniciple Tenants fo Freemasonry, and Fellowship is explored more thoroughly by the Evangelist then by any other New Testament writer. The Book of Revelations is full of disturbing images and is considered the source of of many esoteric schools of thought and many writers have made convincing arguments that this is what influence Freemasonry.

St. John the Evangelist is described as one of the most loyal Disciples of Jesus Christ and the one closest to Jesus. At his death Jesus trusted the care of his mother, Mary, to John. In many ways John was Jesus's best friend on earth.

There is the description of who these 2 important figures in Freemasonry are. This has described them as parallel figures in Masonry. Both have an unimpeachable character and have strong influence on the Western Mind. One is dogmatic and rigid and the other is intellectual and esoteric. In both is found the integrity and inflexible fidelity so common to Masonic teaching and that the manner in which it is taught varies between the 2.

Now the question is why? Why St. John the Baptist and St. John the Evangelist? Why have they always been linked to Freemasonry? We know Masonry is not extant in the early Christian era, yet there is no period in Masonry when they do not appear.

Masonic research on the topic of the Saints John can be sure of one thing. It will show the concept of dedication of Lodges to them is indeed

time immemorial.

Some of the earliest Masonic documents speak of the

Saints and of The Lodge of the Holy Saints John at Jerusalem.

In fact at the opening and closing of the First Degree or Entered Apprentice Degree the Worshipful Master asks the Senior Warden,

Brother Senior Warden as an Entered Apprentice from when came you?

The response from the Senior Warden is,

From the Lodge of the Holy Saints John at Jerusalem.

From there they continue with opening or closing on the First Degree.

Craft Masonry and Blue Lodges as they are called have received the care of the Saints John as Patron Saints as something of an heirloom from previous centuries. Lodges of

Saints John

Masonry did exist before 1717. THis leads to our question as to from whence did our Masonry or our Masonic Beliefs come from? Interstingly all 3 traditions of the most common theories of time immemorial Masonic origins have their own relationship with the Saints John.

One theory is there is a school of Masonic research holding that the Fraternity is descended from the Druids and other truly ancient Celtic priesthoods of the sun. Implausible as this theory is, it has a direct correlation to the veneration of the Saints John. Although entirely pagan and pre-Christian, these sun priests claimed as their holiest days the summer and winter solstices ­ the day when the sun shines the most and the day when it shines the least. As this was common among many pagan theologies, the early and medieval Christian Church adopted the solstices as important feast days and simply renamed them for two of the most important saints. The summer solstice was officially fixed to June 24 and dedicated to St. John the Baptist and the winter solstice was fixed to December 27 and dedicated to St. John the Evangelist. This is not the only time Christianity has take a pagan belief and adopted/adapted it for their use.

Some say the old pagan traditions live on in Masonry’s celebration of these days. If there is truth in that statement, it is because we celebrate the solstices as an
embodiment of the Masonic ideals of regularity, constancy and order. As Freemasons we naturally work toward order and against irregularity and chaos. Only when a Masonic Lodge conforms to basic orderly usages and customs do we term it a

regular

Lodge and consider it worthy of communication. What better example of order and regularity than these diurnal solstices when the sun inevitably

dies

and is

reborn?

As the early Church saw wisdom in adopting these pagan symbols, perhaps it is not such a leap of faith to see them as Masonic Symbols as well.

Another theory is that modern Masonry evolved from Medieval Stonemason Guilds has come under much questioning. Regardless of these questions, we find a relationship with the Saints John from this theory as well. Of course, all medieval guilds adopted Patron Saints and used their feast days as central gatherings for celebration and also for choosing leaders and other necessary business matters. Stonemason Guilds, most notably in northern England and Scotland, often chose one or both of the Saints Johns as their Patrons. This was not necessarily true on the European continent or in Norman-dominated southern England. The Freemasonry we practice here today, however, came primarily from northern England and Scotland ­ where the Saints John were common among the Stonemason Guilds.

The third theory is that is slowly gaining momentum is that Freemasonry came from knightly orders of the Crusades. Specifically named are the Knights Templar and to a lesser extent the Knights Hospitaller. It is important to note here that the Hospitallers were (and are still today) more properly known as the Knights of St. John. The Saints John are also commonly referred to in Templar records and we know their festival days were of importance to the Templars. When the Templars were suppressed in 1307 most of their property, especially in England, became the property of the Hospitallers. Many Knights Templar in that area joined the Hospitallers following the suppression as well.

Also important in this inquiry is that one of the charges of

heresy

brought against the Templars was that they had become followers of Gnostic Christianity and had in many ways left behind the more traditional Roman Catholic interpretations. This is important in a discussion of the Saints John because the basis of much Gnostic thought is the Gospel and Epistles of John the Evangelist. In effect, the

crimes

of the Templars may have been that they venerated the theology of our Patron Saint John the Evangelist more than that of Saint Paul or Saint Peter.

The tradition of the Saints John carries on to this day in the several British non-Masonic knightly orders.

The Lodges of St. John

existed in London and southern England from the Crusades through the entrance of Freemasonry and even exist today. There can be little doubt that these Lodges had at least some influence on the development of Freemasonry, if they were not indeed Freemasons themselves.

We see that while we can find no real answers to the question of why the Saints John are our Patrons, the lineage of the dedication is clear.

Plato taught that for every thing in creation, including people and organizations, there exists in a non-physical, ethereal subconscious otherworld a perfect form or ideal of that thing. As Freemasons perhaps we should view the Saints John in that context. According to the Book of the Law, as men we are bound to certain frailties and failures. This keeps us all from becoming ideal men and Masons, no matter how
we may try. We should hold for ourselves as the perfect form or ideal of Masons the Holy Saints John. Although we know they were not Freemasons, what we know of them shows them to be perfect examples of what a Freemason should be­ kind, righteous, loving and above all faithful unto death to the trust reposed in him. They are the Platonic Form of the Freemason ­ never to be achieved, but always to be emulated.

Further extrapolated, we can see the mythical Lodge of the Saints John at Jerusalem as the Platonic Form of a Masonic Lodge. It can and should exist as our ideal of what a Lodge of Masons would be if all its members achieved the ideal Masonic state of Saint John the Baptist and Saint John the Evangelist. Perhaps the Christian Mason can even see in that deal Lodge Jesus Christ as Master and the Saints John as Wardens, composing the perfect Lodge. While we have now no more answers on this subject than when we started, we have hopefully shed a little more light­ or truth, as the Evangelist would see it ­ on our practice of dedicating Lodges to the Holy Saints John.

Always in Masonry, every revealment is also a reveilment and we must always in new knowledge meet new intellectual frustrations. Freemasonry is, after all, the legend of the search for the Lost Word and we are charged to be the searchers.

I hope this ignites some increase interest in the Holy Saints John and causes some further research from anyone who reads this. I also hope it make the observance of Saint Johns Day more poignant for Masons. I know it has for me.

Here is the web site much of this material came from:
The Holy Saints John
At the bottom of the page on this site is the list of referances for the matieral posted.

At the Sioux City Scottish Rite is a portrait of the Holy Saints John on display for anyone to enjoy viewing. Here is a photo of it:

A good resource of information.

I was recently introduced to a web site that is a very good resource of information for the Masonic Fraternity. It is Phoenix Masonry. This site has a lot of books and materials that have been scanned or transcribed into the web site format. 2 of which are Morals and Dogma and The Encyclopedia of Freemasonry. I have a copy of Morals and Dogma and have started reading it. The print can be difficult to follow, the book was printed in the 1950's. I am going to continue reading it on the Phoenix Masonry web site. Much easier on the eyes to read the text.

I encourage anyone to visit the site, it truly is a good source of info.