New Edition of Freemasons For Dummies Available in January

The new, revised edition of Freemasons For Dummies hits stores and Amazon.com on Monday, January 29th, 2013. If yours is dog-eared and worn, or has been absconded by a well intentioned brother who fully intended to return it to you, here's a chance to score a new copy, complete with a spiffy new cover, which I took at the Grand Lodge of Washington, D.C.'s headquarters several years ago. Thanks to everyone who has made the book a hit, almost from the start.

Masonic Society at Masonic Week 2013

The Officers and the Board of Directors cordially invite you to attend
The Fifth Annual Dinner and Meeting
of
The Masonic Society
At Masonic Week 2013
The Hyatt Regency Hotel
Reston, Virginia
Friday Evening, February 8, 2013
6:00 PM







Featured Speaker:
Andrew Hammer
Past Master, Alexandria-Washington Lodge No. 22, A.F.& A.M.
Author, Observing the Craft

All Freemasons and Ladies are Welcome!

Please make all reservations through the Masonic Week 2013 Website at http://yorkrite.org/MasonicWeek

PLEASE NOTE:
The Masonic Society will not have tickets for sale.
All tickets MUST be purchased in advance from the Masonic Week organizers.
Tickets will NOT be available at the door.
RESERVATIONS MUST BE MADE AND CHECKS RECEIVED BY THE MASONIC WEEK STAFF BY JANUARY 31, 2013.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 
Masonic Week Hospitality Suite

The Society will once again sponsor a hospitality suite at Masonic Week 2013. Please check at our membership table for the room number.

Message for Arkansas Shriners

Imperial Potentate Alan Madsen's Video Message for Arkansas Shriners

Freemasons Gaining Popularity in Asia

Freemasons are gaining popularity in Asia, according to an article on the Telegraph website.

From "Freemasons grow in popularity in Asia" by Justin Harper:

British-born Australian Nick Jacobs, 41, is an example of the new breed of Freemasons helping to grow the membership. He said: “It definitely has an attraction to expats as you get to meet up with people in a strange city and very quickly they are like brothers to you. And these are people you wouldn’t normally be friends with as they are outside the expat community.” 

He added: “There are many older gentlemen who are active Freemasons in Singapore but we are finding that we are also attracting a much younger demographic of expats and locals.” 

Freemasons in Asia regularly take part in social activities such as inter-lodge paintballing sessions and pub quizzes. 

Singapore has eight English lodges and is part of a district that includes Malaysia and Thailand. Many countries in Asia are seeing a spike in popularity for the Freemasons, especially those nations with colonial roots and established lodges. 

Dennis Heath, a British expat and Freemason in Singapore, added: “We see a lot of expats passing through Singapore who want to come to the lodge where they know they will be welcomed warmly. We also have expats who were previously part of a lodge back in the UK, along with those joining for the first time. The traditions and history of the Freemasons has a strong appeal in the fast-paced, digital world we live in.”

Read more here.

"Builders of Dreams: The California Masonic Experience

A short video, Builders of Dreams: The California Masonic Experience, is available on YouTube.

PGM Stifani Suspended

According to the Romanian Masonic Press Agency, Jean-Pierre Servel, the new Grand Master of Grande Loge Nationale Française decided on December 4, 2012, to suspend Past Grand Master François Stifani.

Stifani was suspended for unethical Masonic conduct, violation of fundamental rules, attempt against the Fundamental Principles of the Craft and attempting against the image and proper functioning of the French National Grand Lodge.
According to this decree, Stifani is forbidden to attend GLNF's Lodge meetings, the Annual Communication and Board of General Purposes. After years of internal struggle, Stifani is temporarily removed from GLNF, which may indicate that Servel wants to show to the United Grand Lodge of England that GLNF can have once again credibility.

Neal Bidnick, PGM of New York, Restored to Membership

James E. Sullivan, Grand Master of New York, has lifted the suspension of Past Grand Master Neal Bidnick (2006-2008) and restored to hime the full rights and privileges of a Master Mason. He has found that Bidnick did not commit an act of "moral turpitude" or "scandal or degradation of the fraternity in the public eye." Further, he says that "no larceny or misappropriation of funds occurred and in fact the notice announcing those findings, sent out by the Grand Secretary's office in April 2012, was misleading and incorrect." "The Masonic misfortune of trials, suspension, and expulsion fell upon our Past Grand Master when he was also suffering under extreme personal distress with respect to a matter which involved his wife. This was a time when brothers should have come to his aid to ease the distress, rather than inflame it."

"The Life Masonic" Podcast

Check out Jason Van Dyke's regular podcast, "The Life Masonic" on the Scottish Rite website. Click here. There are interviews and philosophical discussions, along with practical advice. Twelve episodes so far.

From this month's episode description:

our guest this month is Scott Gillis. He's just a guy. He's like any other guy you'll meet in your Lodge, or your church, or your pub. But Scott has a way of telling a story. And the story is of his life so far. He never seems to find the easy way, but he's turned out pretty well. He has always found a way to triumph over the adversity in his life. And that story, to me, has a kind of casual inspiration. It's not super hero stuff, but its stuff I know I could learn from and do better with in my own life. I hope you think so too.

GM of Florida Expels Wiccans, Gnostics and Others

In a surprising and unprecedented move, the Most Worshipful Grand Master of Masons of the State of Florida, Jorge L. Aladro has effectively expelled from the Craft all Pagans, Wiccans, Gnostics, Agnostics and members of other non-Christian or pre-Christian religious belief systems. In his Ruling and Decision No. 3, dated November 26, 2012, the Grand Master issued an ultimatum to any member of the aforementioned groups: Resign from the Craft, or face trial and expulsion from Florida Freemasonry.

To read the Grand Master’s ruling and decision, click here.

Journal of the Masonic Society Issue #17 Gone to Press

The latest issue of the Journal of the Masonic Society is at the printers now. Articles include:

• The World’s Freemasonry by Thomas W. Jackson
• Introducing “The Widow’s Son” Cigar by Michael Nemeth
• A Selection of Masonic Acrostic Poetry by Stephen M. Osborn
• Why Hiram? by Leon Zeldis
• The Masonic Conservators by Thomas L. Winter
• The Philadelphia Masonic Temple photos by Michael Stein
• Cover art by Juan Sepulveda

Not a member of the Masonic Society yet? Sign up now at www.themasonicasociety.com

MSA Disaster Relief Appeal for New York and New Jersey

The Masonic Service Association has issued an appeal to help the Masonic victims of Hurricane Sandy:

The entire Atlantic Coast of the United States was buffeted in the last few days of October by the winds and waves of Hurricane Sandy, described by the news media as a "super storm." After crossing the shoreline in New Jersey, the storm continued inland.  Extensive building and property damage, electrical outages, unhealthy conditions cause by flooding, and widespread disruption of normal living conditions have occurred in a multi-state region. 

In particular, New York City and the coastal areas of New Jersey felt the brunt of Sandy.  The Grand Lodges of New York and New Jersey have requested a Disaster Appeal to assist their Masonic families who have been injured or who have received extensive damage to their homes. 

Please forward any donations you feel appropriate to the MSA. When remitting funds, please mark your check that you wish the donation to go to New York or New Jersey.  Unmarked funds will be divided equally between the two Grand Lodges.  

Make checks payable to MSA Disaster Relief Fund and send to: 

Masonic Service Association of North America8120 Fenton Street, Suite 203, Silver Spring, MD 20910-4785. 

MSA is a 501 (c) (3) charitable organization. 

Thank you for your assistance for these stricken jurisdictions.  

Sincerely and fraternally,  

George O. Braatz, P.G.M.Executive Secretary

Hackers Attack Masonic CHIP Sites

From The Hacker News:

A group of computer hackers Anonymous goes by the name xPsych0path has accuse Masonichip for unwillingness to accept the forced chipping of children they are working toward mitigating it by disrupting the chipping operation. They have built their own operation, in opposition to this issue. In #OpMasonChip is designed to express publicly their anger. He had the following to say about this operation;

“We are fighting against putting RFID chips inside children by masons they have plan to put chips in all of us and those who don't want it won't be able to buy and sell. So I down all those site's for them” on pastebin.

"But In actual there is no "chip" in Masonichip as it stands for Masonic Child Identification Program and includes Abduction Awareness and "Safe Kids" Education benefits to all children and parents attend events and participate." Masonichip explained on their site.

Sites attacked were
1. http://masonichip.org/
2. http://mychip.org/
3. http://www.masonichip.ca/
4. http://www.mainemason.org/
5. http://www.illinoisfreemason.org/ilchip.html
6. http://www.keywestmason.com/child_id.htm
7. http://www.mdchip.org/
8. http://www.kschip.org/

International Order of Co-Masonry Recruiting

If you think we're the only ones attempting to recruit new members, catch this article about England's International Order of Co-Masonry in the Independent.

From Freemasons Launch Recruitment Drive For Young Women:

Nikki Roberts is someone a teacher might call a good “all-rounder”: smart, pretty, lots of friends. Aged 31, she is also a far cry from your typical Freemason. But that, if the Federation of the International Order of Co-Freemasonry has its way, is about to change.
Forget secretive circles of white-haired men locking fingers in strange handshakes, they say. A British branch is in the throes of a thoroughly modern recruitment drive. It is using Facebook and Twitter to sign up new members, particularly young women, to its society.
“A lot of people have misconceptions about what Masonry is,” Ms Roberts says. Not surprising, given that for centuries members of this traditionally male club have refused to divulge what goes on behind closed doors in meetings and ceremonies. “I can say that it [the Freemasons] is an association, a fellowship if you like, dictated by a system of morals, with lot of symbols and philosophy...” Roberts explains. She compares it to an “occult”: “You need to believe in a divine intelligence or supreme being.”
Since joining the Freemasons five years ago, Roberts says her life has been transformed. “I gave up a lucrative job in the City and now I work in health and social care, something more rewarding,” she says. While cohorts at her lodge (one of the only mixed gender orders in the world, the British Federation) range from party-planners to nurses – many of them female – there are other common elements among members, she says. “The kind of people it draws are interested in being good people; we have respect for laws, we like giving to charity... we live by certain morals.” It is a “life-long commitment”, she adds.
The biggest misconception, Roberts says, is that women are not suited to joining the club. “People choose the Masons in order to become more aware and to awaken areas of their mind to their true nature; women, being naturally nurturing and intuitive, are particularly responsive to that.” That, however, is a matter of opinion. Ask Ken Kirk, 86, a former policeman and a member of the strictly-male United Grand Lodge of England and the answer is clear: “Mixed gender orders? Absurd.”

Shrine Declared Clandestine in Arkansas

Robert L. Jackson, Grand Master of Masons in Arkansas, has declared the Shrine clandestine and is forbidding Arkansas and affiliated Arkansas Masons from belonging to the Shrine. (Click to enlarge)

Wilmington, Delaware

I'm driving today to Delaware to the Valley of Wilmington where they will be celebrating the 200th Anniversary of AASR-NMJ and the 100th Anniversary of the Valley of Wilmington.

I'll be speaking Saturday morning. Looking forward to being there!

Illus. Bros. Morris & DeHoyos Speaking In DC

The Lodge of Perfection of the Washington DC Scottish Rite invites all Scottish Rite Masons to attend the October 2nd meeting of Mithras Lodge of Perfection. The "Special Guest Speakers" for the evening will be the Managing Editor of the Scottish Rite Journal, Ill. S. Brent Morris, 33° GC, and the Grand Archivist and Grand Historian, Ill. Arturo de Hoyos, 33° GC. These distinguished Masonic Scholars will be discussing their newly released book, "The Most Secret Mysteries of the High Degrees of Masonry Unveiled". Copies of this new book will be available after the meeting. Dinner will be served starting at 6:15 pm, and the program will open at 7:30 pm. This program is only open for Scottish Rite Brethren 14° and higher.

Los Angeles Scottish Rite Cathedral

The Curbed website in Los Angeles presents a unique article about the abandoned Los Angeles Scottish Rite Cathedral on Wilshire Blvd., written by the architect Millard Sheets.

Have a look here.

The Scottish Rite Masonic Temple on Wilshire is probably the most mysterious Millard Sheets building (and one of the more mysterious in LA). It's been on and off the market for years (currently seems to be off), and seems pretty hard to get inside--when we called to ask about a tour, we were told that we'd need a city permit to visit. According to a 1994 LA Times article, the building "housed National Guard troops during the 1992 riots and has been used for funerals of police officers." Who knows what secrets this place holds? Masons, obviously, are known for being pretty secretive. Either way, the building is super cool; we'll let Sheets tell you the story of what it is and how it got there...

Be sure to look through the photos. It's a magnificent building, with a very uncertain future. It has long been the subject of a battle with the neighborhood over parking, which limits its future use to a potential buyer. It's prime real estate, which probably means a wrecking ball is its fate.

NASCAR Model Benefits Shriners Hospitals

Shriners Hospitals are selling a limited edition model NASCAR as a fund raiser, featuring driver David Ragan's car. The 1/24th scale model is based on his #34 Ford Fusion from the 2012 NASCAR Sprint Cup Sylvania 300 race in New Hampshire. All die-cast cars will be autographed by driver David Ragan. The price is $29.95. See the website for details.

GL of Indiana Trip To Washington DC

For my Indiana brethren:

Four (4) days left to make reservations for the Grand Lodge Bus Trip to the Washington DC area. Depart Thursday Oct 25, 2012 at 8 AM from the Marriott at 21st and Shadeland. We will arrive in Alexandria, VA for dinner near the Court Yard by Marriott across the street from The George Washington Memorial where your room will look out at the GW for your stay Thursday evening Friday, Saturday departing Sunday morning.

Friday we will visit and lay a wreath at George Washington's tomb, tour the Grist Mill and Distillery at Mt. Vernon. That evening is dinner in the George Washington Memorial after which a personal tour and visit the top where we will view the lights of Alexandria and Washington DC.

Saturday we will visit and lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknowns, and visit the National Cathedral before lunch. We will then visit the Mall where we will visit FDR's Memorial, the Vietnam, WWII, and Korean War Memorials. Return to the hotel where we will eat at a restaurant near the hotel.

The cost is $1,000.00 per couple or $750.00 for singles. Included in the price are the following: the bus, snacks, hotel, breakfast each day at the hotel, Friday, Mt. Vernon tours and lunch, George Washington Memorial tours and dinner in the GW. Saturday all tours are included, lunch at the Mall and dinner are at your expense. Questions or reservations: Please contact Irv Bitting by Sunday evening September 23 at 219-789-5231.

Fraternally,

George A. Ingles, Jr.
Grand Master

Veritas Chapter No. 103 R.A.M. Chapter Penny

Veritas Chapter No. 103, the first "Traditional Observance" Chapter of Royal Arch Masons in the state of Oklahoma has minted 100 Chapter pennies. This original run will be the only ones with this specific design (each run shall have a slightly modified design). This was a custom design created by their Chapter -- you won't see these anywhere else. Each one is 4.3 ounces and 2.5" x 2.5" at the widest and tallest points. The Chapter is making these available to the public. Each coin is $20 including shipping & handling (for US addresses only). You may order one (or more) by sending $20 via PayPal to darkdan@aol.com along with your mailing address.

GLNF Elects New GM; UGLE Yanks Recognition

Jean-Pierre Servel was elected on September 10th as the new Grand Master of the Grande Loge Nationale Frainçaise, replacing the embattled François Stifani, but that has not prevented the United Grand Lodge of England two days later from de-recognizing them. Serval is seen by many French Masons as a continuation of the Stifani officer's line.

The GLNF has lost nearly a third of its membership over the Stifani flap, and the majority of the world's grand lodges have yanked recognition of the grand lodge, leaving France without a regular, recognized branch of Masonry for the majority of brethren.

Pennsylvania Academy of Masonic Knowledge 10/27

The 2012 Fall session of the Pennsylvania Academy of Masonic Knowledge will be held on Saturday, October 27th, in the Deike Auditorium of the Masonic Cultural Center on the campus of Masonic Village in Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania. Registration will open at 8:30 AM with the program beginning at 9:30 AM. A lunch (voluntary contribution) will be served at noon and the program will be completed by 3:00 PM. All Masons are welcome to attend. Dress is coat and tie.

The Speakers for the day are:
 • Brother Alton G. Roundtree, Past Master of Redemption Lodge No. 24 PHA (District of Columbia) and coauthor of Out of the Shadows: The Emergence of Prince Hall Freemasonry in America.

 • Brother Andrew Hammer, Past Master of Alexandria-Washington Lodge No. 22 (Virginia) and author of Observing the Craft: The Pursuit of Excellence in Masonic Labour and Observance.

 The great objective in Freemasonry is to gain useful knowledge, and the Academy provides a great opportunity for the Brethren to learn and to understand more about the significance of the Craft. Plan to attend and bring a Brother or two along with you. Pre-registration is required. To pre-register, e-mail Brother Shawn D'Ignazio at dignazio@yahoo.com with your name, address, Lodge number, and telephone.

Grand Lodge of Sweden

The Grand Lodge of Sweden has a new website, with much information in English. Have a look here and read about this very unique Christian-based style of Freemasonry.

In 1756, Carl Fredrik Eckleff together with six Brethren formed the Scottish Lodge L’Innocente in Stockholm, working in so called Scottish St Andrew´s degrees. The next step in the development of Swedish Freemasonry was taken by Eckleff in 1759, when he established a Grand Chapter in Stockholm. Eckleff who was an employee of the Swedish Foreign Office, held a foreign patent authorizing him to form Lodges. It has not been possible to ascertain the date and place of origin of the patent and of the rituals. The Grand Lodge of Sweden was established in 1760.

Eckleff moulded a Freemasonry system on a Christian basis. The moral philosophy of the Swedish Rite was further developed by Duke Carl, later King Carl XIII, who succeeded to Eckleff as the Swedish Masonic leader. By two major ritual revisions in 1780 and 1800 he created a logical Masonic system with ten degrees. The Rite is truly progressive and continuous. Each degree leads to the next and each sums up the contents of the preceding degrees.

Adam Kendall in Burbank

On September 4 at 8:30pm Adam Kendall will be speaking at the Burbank Shrine Club meeting at Mo's Restaurant 4301 West Riverside Drive Burbank, CA 91505

The topic will be, "Building Temples or Hovels? The Importance of Preserving Masonic Material Culture"

NOTE: Shiners are welcome to attend the business meeting from 7.30-8.15pm ALL are welcome for dinner, drinks and lecture starting at 8.30pm. The lecture is FREE and is open to all, and will be Adam's only scheduled SoCAL date for the remainder of 2012.

Adam Kendall is the Curator of Collections for the Henry Wilson Coil Library & Museum of Freemasonry for the Grand Lodge of F. & A.M. of California.

Please contact Simon McIlroy simon.mcilroy@gmail.com or David Williams hotdjdave@yahoo.com for reservations.

Vitruvius and the Master Mason’s Secret

From the Maine Masonic College Facebook page:

On Saturday, September 15th, the Maine Masonic College will offer a class entitled, “Vitruvius and the Master Mason’s Secret.” Who or what, you may ask, is Vitruvius? Vitruvius was an architect—indeed, you may say the architect at the time of Julius Caesar. The class is to be held at HARWOOD Lodge in Machias. It will begin at 10:00 a.m. on September 15th and will end at 2:00 p.m. A light lunch will be served at a cost of $5.00. Please drop a line to gleighton44@gmail.com to insure proper arrangements can be made for lunch. If you have not attended one of the Maine Masonic College’s classes, you will probably find this to be an excellent introduction to the work of the College.

Michael Poll Still in the Dark

Cornerstone Book Publishing's editor and author Michael Poll who lives just outside of New Orleans reports that he is in Day 6 of having no electricity in the wake of Hurricane Issac, and the best estimate is that there will be no power until next Thursday. Keep Michael and all brethren in the Gulf area in your thoughts and prayers while they struggle through the hurricane's aftermath.

Next Saturday in Raleigh, NC

I will be speaking in Raleigh, North Carolina next Saturday, September 8th, 2012 at 7:00 PM at Hiram Lodge No. 40.

Freemasons and non-Freemasons alike are invited to attend this event - this is open to the public. Doors open at 7:00 PM for Refreshments, and talk begins at 7:30 PM in the Auditorium.

Where: 1520 Caswell Street Raleigh NC 27605

Cost: $15 (tickets can be purchased securely online at http://www.hiram40.org/an-evening-with-christopher-hodapp or from Hiram No. 40 members)

Seating is limited so tickets must be reserved in advance.

For more information or to reserve tickets, please contact Josh Lippy by email at info@Hiram40.org or call 919-656-5807

Looking forward to being there!

August Poll Results: Appendant Bodies

August poll results: If you could join only one appendant body besides your Blue Lodge, what would it be?

Royal Arch	230 (15%)
Cryptic Council	33 (2%)
Knights Templar	317 (20%)
Scottish Rite	525 (34%)
Allied Masonic Degrees	49 (3%)
Shriners	177 (11%)
Grotto	31 (2%)
Order of the Eastern Star	40 (2%)
Tall Cedars	10 (0%)
Widows Sons	56 (3%)
Other	63 (4%)

Poll closed. Thanks for voting.

St Bernard de Clairvaux AMD Council Tonight

I'll be speaking tonight at the quarterly meeting of St. Bernard de Clairvaux Allied Masonic Degrees Council in Indianapolis. Dinner begins at 5:30PM at Dawson's On Main at 1464 Main Street in Speedway.

Looking forward to being there.

Lodge Vitruvian Hosts Author Michael Halleran

Lodge Vitruvian No. 767 welcomes author Michael Halleran on Tuesday, October 23rd, 2012. Stated Meeting will be held at the temple of Broad Ripple Lodge, 1716 Broad Ripple Avenue in Indianapolis at 7PM.

Festive Board to follow the meeting at the nearby Capri Restaurant, 2602 Ruth Drive, Indianapolis, Indiana, (off Keystone Avenue between 71st and 75th Streets)

The Festive Board will feature our guest speaker Bro. Michael Halleran. Bro. Halleran is a practicing attorney who has written and lectured on Freemasonry in both the United States and Great Britain. An active Freemason, he is Past Master of several lodges, mostly recently Justice Lodge No. 457; he is also an elected officer in the Grand Lodge of Kansas.

Michael is the author of The Better Angels of Our Nature; Freemasonry in the American Civil War (2010), published by the University of Alabama Press, and more recently, of Bro. Brother's Journal, available from Macoy Publishing.

Dinner will be $30.

For more information see the lodge website at www.vitruvian.org.

My Friend and Brother Nathan Brindle

Congratulations to my friend and true brother Nathan Brindle on being nominated to receive the 33° from the Scottish Rite Northern Masonic Jurisdiction in Washington, D.C. next year.

Nathan is the Secretary/Treasurer of the Masonic Society. He is a Past Master and Past Secretary of Broad Ripple Lodge No. 643, Past Master of the Dwight L. Smith Lodge of Research, the current Secretary of Lodge Vitruvian No. 767, the Secretary/Treasurer of the Indianapolis Masonic Temple Association, and he served last year as Thrice Potent Master (the greatest title in all of Freemasonry) of the Scottish Rite Valley of Indianapolis. He has been my friend since high school, and I couldn't be prouder than right now. His honor is well earned, and I intend to be in DC next August to see it conferred.

Huzzahs and congratulations to Nathan, and to all of my Indiana brethren who were nominated for the 33rd degree in Cleveland yesterday!

And congratulations as well to the 174 Illustrious Brothers of the Class of 2012, who were coronetted Sovereign Grand Inspectors General, 33rd Degree, honorary members of this Supreme Council in Cleveland this week.

Dwight L. Smith Lodge of Research This Saturday 9/1

Dwight L. Smith was the Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Indiana F.& A.M. in 1945, and served as Grand Secretary from 1947 until 1979, He was well-known for his longtime position as editor of the Indiana Freemason Magazine, and his history of Indiana Freemasonry, Goodly Heritage.

The Dwight L. Smith Lodge of Research is a special purpose Lodge under Dispensation, created by the Grand Lodge of Indiana, F. & A. M., for the purpose of furthering research and interest in the history, customs, and societal impact of the Masonic Fraternity. Our mandate is to study these areas from a worldwide perspective, but with a particular emphasis on how they have impacted the lives of Masons, their families, and the general public in the State of Indiana.

The Lodge meets three to four times each year, at its home in Indianapolis at Indiana Freemasons' Hall.

The Lodge is also responsible for oversight of the Grand Lodge Speakers' Bureau and its Orator's Pin program. From time to time, the Lodge publishes Perlustration, a compendium of its proceedings.

We welcome all Indiana Freemasons with an interest in research to join the Lodge and to submit papers for its consideration.

The Dwight L. Smith Lodge of Research will hold its next meeting this Saturday, September 1st at Indiana Freemasons' Hall, 525 N Illinois St, Indianapolis, Indiana 46204. We will open at 1PM, with refreshments to follow.

Interested in joining? Membership is $15 per year. Download the application here.

For more information, see the lodge website at www.indianalodgeofresearch.com , and be sure to sign up for the lodge Facebook page here.

Grand Lodge of Montana

Most Worshipful Grand Master Thomas Chisholm, the newly installed Grand Master of Montana, has publicly posted an explanation of the recent events leading to the removal of PGM Thomas Duffy. Grand Secretary Reid Gardiner has been reinstated as GS.

The official documents can be read here. They include a synopsis of the events and the portions of Montana's code that apply to this case.

2013 MRF Symposium

It has just been announced that the 4th Masonic Restoration Foundation Symposium will be at Manchester, New Hampshire Aug 16-18, 2013, organized by Phoenix Lodge.

Ernest Borgnine Memorial Service

"Please be aware that there will be a Masonic Memorial Service for our Brother Ernest Borgnine at the Long Beach Scottish Rite (in their Ernest Borgnine Theatre named in his honor recently), on Saturday, September 1st, starting at 11:00 A.M. He belonged to Hollywood Lodge No. 355 and was a 63 year Mason, having been raised in Virginia back in 1949.

"Illus. Borgnine belonged to both the Los Angeles Scottish Rite and the Long Beach Scottish Rite Bodies. He received “33° Inspector General Honorary” and “Grand Cross” recognitions in the Scottish Rite organization."

Sherm Ostrom
Executive Secretary
Los Angeles Masonic Service Bureau

H/T David Williams

Ft. Clinch, Florida Outdoor Degree

Every October, the members of Amelia Lodge No. 47 perform a Master Mason Outdoor degree at Fort Clinch State Park, in honor of George W. Call, first Worshipful Master of Amelia Lodge No. 47, F&AM 1859-1862. The degree is performed at Ft Clinch , Fernandina Beach, Florida with a 'Civil War' atmosphere. All Master Masons are welcome to attend this degree this year on October 20, 2012. There will be a dinner prior to the degree at Amelia Lodge, 1101 South 14th Street, Fernandina Beach. The dinner will start at 3 pm, for a donation of $10.00. For details please e-mail jhwiggeruscgret@bellsouth.net by the 15th of October with a head count of Brothers attending for meal planning and preparations.

H/T Mike O'Kelley

3rd Annual Tri-Jurisdictional Outdoor Lodge in Saskatchewan

The 3rd Annual Tri-Jurisdictional Outdoor Lodge rotated between Alberta, Saskatchewan and Montana, will be held on Sept 28-29, in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan. Registration Forms need to be received by the Grand Lodge of Saskatchewan by September 15th.

Friday, September 28 - Check in at the Moose Jaw Masonic Temple for registration, cocktails, and conversation at 5:30 with dinner following.

Saturday, September 29 - The program will feature the Entered Apprentice degree using Canadian Rite with the Grand Master in King Solomon’s Chair. Lunch will be provided by Mizpah OES and will feature soup, sandwiches, and desserts. Saturday evening’s banquet will feature roast beef with all the trimmings with entertainment to follow.

Detroit Masonic Temple In Trouble Again

The Detroit Masonic Temple is up against the wall again, financially. According to an article in the Detroit Free Press, the world's largest Masonic temple is in danger of having its electricity turned off this weekend.

A shutoff notice is taped to the front door of the historic building for failure to pay its bills. The DTE Energy posting says electric and natural-gas service will be disconnected on or after Sunday unless the account is made current.

“We’re not not paying bills. It’s trying to be timely with the bills,” said Jimmy Romeo, the Masonic’s director of events. “The bill will be paid in the allotted time.”

He said that the private event, which is next on the Masonic calendar, will go on as scheduled tonight.

It takes $3,000 a day to run the Masonic, he added.

According to Romeo, the Detroit Masonic Theater Company who runs the entertainment venue for the Masons inherited the outstanding bills when it took over management of the landmark.

Olympia Entertainment oversaw the Masonic until 2010.

A representative for the Ilitch-owned firm would not comment but said the company would release a statement today.

DTE Energy said in a written statement that the Masonic Temple has “accrued a substantial unpaid balance and attempts to reach a workable payment arrangement with the facility’s management have been unsuccessful … Facility management has not complied with a recent agreement for partial payment that would prevent shutoff. We continue to talk with the management team.”

The utility also acknowledged the important role the theater plays in Detroit and the surrounding region.

“We recognize the iconic status that the Masonic Temple holds in the community and we regret that a shutoff may be necessary, but in fairness to all of our customers we cannot continue to provide utility services without payment.”

Standing near the nearly-vacant entrance to the theater, Romeo listed some of the famous acts who’ve performed at the masonic over the years, including Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, The Who and the Rolling Stones.

The Masonic Temple has two major theaters seating 4,300 and 1,500 respectively and ballrooms for up to 1,000 people.

New Past Master's Jewel

My friend John Bridegroom is a true artist who does magnificent work. His latest creation is a Past Master's jewel that is unlike any you've seen. Called the Wilmshurst, it is available on Ebay from the Master's Craft for a paltry $40, and has two bars for engraving.

Help Needed From Toronto

A Brother is in need of some help from a Mason living in the Toronto area. He needs a product purchased locally and shipped to him in the US - the company refuses to do mail order. If you can assist, please contact me at hodapp@aol.com. Many thanks.

New Malta Jewels for Raper Commandery No. 1

New Malta jewels from Toye, Kenning and Spencer for Indianapolis' Raper Commandery No. 1 arrived with a largish UPS thud on my doorstep last week. We haven't had these available for several decades and members have resorted to cadging them off of Ebay. We're fully stocked now, and the workmanship is outstanding.

Masonic Calendar Website

 An updated calendar of Masonic Conferences, Speeches, Symposia & Gatherings is now a new part of the Masonic Society web page. main website. Click here for the direct link.

If you have an event that would be of interest to a regional, national or international audience, help us keep the listings up to date by sending dates, locations and details of your Masonic gatherings, speeches, education programs, etc. to articles@themasonicsociety.com

Many thanks to our intrepid Secretary/Treasurer WBro. Nathan Brindle for doggedly tinkering with Joomlah to make this work.

Tri-State Masonic Degree Celebration in Oklahoma 10/19-21

Many Brethren do not realize that there are differences in the Masonic Ritual from state to state. It’s always interesting to see how a degree is done in another jurisdiction. Oklahoma Masons are going to have that chance. On October 19, 20, and 21, teams from New Mexico and South Carolina will travel to the Guthrie, OK Scottish Rite Temple along with brethren from those states. They will perform the Entered Apprentice and Fellow Craft Degrees, each according to their own ritual. Then the Oklahoma Masonic Indian Degree Team will perform the Master Mason Degree.

Keep checking at http://www.gloklahoma.com/GrandLodge/GMmessage.html for more details.

H/T to Bill Hosler

Yabba Dabba Doo

A classic PSA from the 1980s featuring Fred Flintstone speaking for Shriner's Hospitals.

H/T to John McAloon

Bumper Sticker

This bumper sticker is available by mailing a check and your mailing address to CP Communications 6440 Pitchfork Drive, Colorado Springs, CO 80922. Shipping is free the stickers are $5 a piece.

H/T Cliff Porter

Journal of the Masonic Society #16

The new issue of the Journal of the Masonic Society goes to press this week. Articles include:

The Art of Manliness by Brett McKay

A Journey From the Tavern to the Temple: Part I ‘Drinking in Due Form’ by R. Brad Bunn

Creating and Using a Personal Sacred Space: Why, Where and How by William S. Burkle

Nebraska Expeditionary Masonry in Afghanistan by Patrick Barger

Jo Daveiss: Frontiersman, Attorney, Soldier, Freemason by Christopher Kimmel

The Masonic Society is the fastest growing international Masonic research organization.

GLNF: Stifani Won't Seek Second Term

In a July 20th blog entry, L'Express reporter Francois Koch reported that François Stifani, Grand Master of the Grande Loge Nationale Française, will not be seeking a second term as Grand Master. The embattled Stifani has been at the center of a turmoil over the last two years that has resulted in thousands of members demitting or being suspended, along with his own actions that have caused most of the recognized Masonic world to yank recognition of the GLNF.

A rough translation of Koch's article, courtesy Google:

It's official, speaking through Jean-Michel Grand Orator Baloup, the Grand Master of the French National Grand Lodge (GLNF) Francois Stifani decided not to seek a second term. The dignitary, the center of an unprecedented crisis for thirty-one months, made ​​the pledge after a meeting of Provincial Grand Masters and members of the Grand Council, which started this morning in Nice. The appointment of the new candidate of Grand Master will be made ​​at a meeting of the Sovereign Grand Committee (SGC) by Francois Stifani convened from 31 August 2012.  Why that date? "We wanted the CMS to meet before September, says Baloup. We hope indeed that UGLE [United Grand Lodge of England] would reconsider its proposed withdrawal of recognition of the GLNF. "Francois Stifani has been affected by the announcement of withdrawal of recognition of UGLE for September 12, 2012.  Why did Francois Stifani make this decision not to run? "He did not want to be accused of harming the GLNF while there is a fierce defender, says Jean-Michel Baloup. He therefore sacrifices his personal interest to the public interest, emphasizing that it has not failed in its task. "Francois Stifani reacts positively to the argument developed by Mr Monique Legrand, administrator temporary that it must draw the consequences of refusal to ratify two of the GLNF AG. The argument was first developed by opponents, but he had not heard.  Does Francois Stifani support a candidate?"According to tradition, he will present a successor in the person of Deputy Grand Master he will appoint very soon", says Baloup.Alain Cano, the last incumbent, who resigned July 7.  To Jean-Pierre and Jean Murat Servel, Jean-Michel Baloup announced, not without a touch of humor: "I will write to them telling them that, given the decision of Grand Master Francis Stifani, it would make sense that they does not represent either. Exits to turn the page, let it be done completely. This will prevent them from suffering another setback. "  It is indeed a page should look. But the crisis is it finished so far? Because evidence is to be obvious:CMS responsible for appointing the Grand Master candidate is not representative of the obedience. So will he choose this time a candidate likely to be ratified by the GA of Vénès 1st and supervisors?  Following the decision of François Stifani, the provisional administrator Monique Legrand issued a statement  In my capacity as director pro tem of the French National Grand Lodge, I have read the decisions taken by Sir Francis Stifani, following the meeting of Provincial Grand Masters of the GLNF, held TODAY 'Today, in Nice, at its option, under the "crisis". Mr. Stifani inter alia, decided that he would not run for election of the Sovereign Grand Committee, under the designation of a new candidate to the Grand Master.  Noting that decision, moreover, in accordance with the "customary logic", as restated in Note No. 10 entitled "what is the method of appointment of the Grand Master? (...) "It is imperative to respect, to carry out my mission as assigned following order on motion dated June 28, 2012, I will convene after the summer break, members of law General Meeting of the GLNF, otherwise known as the Sovereign Grand Committee, for the appointment of a new candidate for the Grand Master, according to the rules applicable to the process of electing the Grand Master of the GLNF.  Written and signed in Paris on 20 July 2012. By Master Monique LEGRAND, Judicial Administrator  On this reading, we feel that the standoff is not completely finished. Each intends to call the SGC.I Legrand does not specify the date. They will agree in calling the same institution the same day under two different names, one secular the other Masonic? Me and especially Legrand is based on the famous footnote 10 which advocates the appointment of a candidate with an absolute majority. The conflict on this issue between the two parties would be pending before the Court of Cassation. 

Grand Encampment 2012 Triennial

Congratulations to Sir Knight David D. Goodwin, Most Eminent Grand Master of the Grand Encampment of Knights Templar of the United States on his installation this past week at the Triennial in Alexandria, Virginia.

David Dixon Goodwin was born on August 15, 1949, in Johnson City, New York and graduated from Union University, Albany (NY) College of Pharmacy in 1972 with a B.S. in Pharmacy. He married Marci Lynn Sternberg on July 15, 1979. They have two daughters, Jennifer and Samantha.

Brother Goodwin was raised a Master Mason in Binghamton Lodge #177, F&AM, Binghamton, NY, in September of 1977. He served through the line and was elected Master in 1982. He served as a director and president of the Masonic Youth Foundation of New York. He was commissioned as the Grand Representative of the Grand Lodge of Austria near the Grand Lodge of New York in September of 2000.

I really wanted to be there this year, but it wasn't in the budget for me this time.

The Grand Priory of the Reformed and Rectified Rite of the United States of America (CBCS), a body of the Grand Encampment of Knights Templar of the USA, initiated 27 new members as Perfect Masters of St. Andrews, while visiting dignitaries Christian Bindewald and Pierre Noel of Belgium, and Bill Koon and Piers Vaughan looked on. Following the conferral, David Goodwin was installed as National Grand Master.

One of the first items of business was a resolution declaring those who take membership in un-recognized orders after the date of adoption, upon their membership being known would be issued a letter giving them 30 days to submit a letter of withdrawal from the Order, or they would be issued a permanent demit from Templary under the Grand Encampment. It passed with only two negative votes out of 364. A second resolution adopted the Grand Priory as an official appendant order of the Grand Encampment. It passed with only 10-12 negative votes. Pierre Noel in his remarks pointed out that he was here to honor the good relationship his Priory had with the GEKT.

On Tuesday evening, Christian, Pierre, and John Palmer (Editor of the Knights Templar Magazine) were presented with the Knights Grand Cross, and it was announced that Michael Buckley would receive it in England.

Sir Knight Michael Johnson, the Department Commander for the Northwest, was elected Grand Captain General.

Huzzahs to David and his entire line of officers, as well as to Sir Knight William H. Koon for his extended term as Grand Master. I personally want to thank Billy for the kindness he has shown me over the last year and a half while I wrestled with my own personal health challenges. He has much from his term to be proud of.

I look forward to great things happening under Sir Knight David's leadership and his officers.
Note: I don't know the results of the drill team competition. If anyone wants to forward them to me at hodapp@aol.com I will be happy to update this entry with them.

Missouri Lodge of Research Website

The Missouri Lodge of Research has officially launched its new website today at http://www.molor.org. The Missouri Masonic license plate fees officially go to support the Lodge of Research. Membership is a paltry $20 and includes a bonus book every year.

The 2012 Truman Lecturer will be Clifton Truman Daniel, author, lecturer and grandson of Most Worshipful brother Harry S Truman. The lecture will be September 25th at the Holiday Inn Executive center in Columbia, MO, and costs just $20, which includes breakfast. Brethren, ladies and guests are welcome.

Shred and Dump Day

I just got done dumping 16 TVs and computers, along with two dozen boxes of eminently shreddable paperwork from our old apartment complex business. That episode of my life is now officially gone. It was a community shred and toxic dump day sponsored by Geist Chapel, a local church. Took me three trips, but I've reclaimed the garage. This would be a terrific community event for a Masonic lodge to sponsor. It was very popular, and everybody has TVs, computers, old stereo equipment and paperwork we can't get rid of easily. I've been waiting over a year for one of these days.

I still have an old video edit system to get rid of, with 25 pieces of electronics. It looks like a Bond super villain lair in our spare bedroom. That'll be next year.

 Now, if I could only figure out how to get rid of a lawn tractor.

Emblems of Innocence and Honor: The Masonic Apron

Pat Craddock (The Craftsman's Apron, Franklin, TN) is an artist who creates beautiful hand-painted Masonic aprons in the style of the 18th century. This video is part of a new, upcoming exhibit at the Henry Wilson Coil Library & Museum of Freemasonry in San Francisco that will also feature the Museum's Adam Kendall, along with Aimee Newell (National Heritage Museum in Lexington, MA).

Adam Kendall in Burbank 9/4

On September 4 at 8:30pm Brother Adam Kendall will be speaking at the Burbank Shrine Club meeting at Mo's Restaurant 4301 West Riverside Drive Burbank, CA 91505
The topic will be, "Building Temples or Hovels? The Importance of Preserving Masonic Material Culture"

Adam is the Curator of Collections of the Henry Wilson Coil Masonic Library & Museum at the Grand Lodge of California in San Francisco.

NOTE: Shriners are welcome to attend the business meeting from 7.30-8.15pm ALL are welcome for dinner, drinks and lecture starting at 8.30pm. The lecture is FREE and is open to all.
Please contact Simon McIlroy simon.mcilroy@gmail.com or David Williams hotdjdave@yahoo.com for reservations.

House of the Temple Vandalized

The Scottish Rite Southern Jurisdiction's Supreme Council headquarters, the House of the Temple in Washington, D.C. was vandalized over the weekend. The little creeps pelted one of the iconic sphinxes in front of the building with pink paint.

The House of the Temple plays a starring role in Dan Brown's novel The Lost Symbol.

H/T Borderstan. Photo by Luis Gomez.

Freemason Boogeymen

A gunman in Tulsa, Oklahoma is on trial for opening fire and wounding two people earlier this year. Andrew Dennehy wounded a sheriff's deputy and a bystander before being shot by police outside of a Tulsa courthouse. At least one psychologist's report says Dennehy is incompetent, and remarks made before and during the trial seem to back that up. He thinks the Freemasons and the Illuminati are out to get him.

 From NewsOn6.com:

Family members say in the weeks before the courthouse shooting, Dennehy was paranoid, delusional, and having hallucinations.

The report says Dennehy does understand the charges, but can't assist in his defense.

It says he repeatedly said that he's not crazy, but did say the Illuminati and Freemasons work for Satan and are after him.
He said he tried to have police kill him, so the Illuminati and Freemasons would leave his parents alone.

He said he was worried his trial wouldn't be fair, because the judge might be a Freemason or some of the jurors.

The psychologist recommended Dennehy get treatment and said he could possibly regain competency to stand trial at a later date.
Prosecutors plan to call witnesses to show Dennehy is competent to stand trial.

The judge said the competency trial could take two or three days.

Quatuor Coronati's New Education Initiative

Quatuor Coronati Lodge in London announces a new education initiative, with three programs and a lineup of top Masonic scholars. All seminars will take place at Freemasons Hall in Great Queen Street.

THE PROGRAM FOR THE THREE SESSIONS

MONDAY 5th November 2012 6.00 pm for 6.15 start

(Committee Room C)

6.15 Welcome & Introduction by the Chairman: Yasha Beresiner

6.30  The Essence of Research Dr James Campbell 

6.50 Discussion 

7.30 Guidelines and Directives to Students Dr Trevor Stewart 

7.50 Discussion 

8.30-8.45 Close, but coffee & time for more discussion available.

MONDAY 7th January 2013 6.00 pm for 6.15 start.

(Committee Room C)

6.15 Welcome by the Chairman:6.30 Selecting a Subject Prof Roger Burt 

6.50 Discussion and Questions 

7.15 Presentation of a Written Paper Dr John Wade 

7.35 Presentation of a Verbal Paper Robert Cooper 

7.55 Discussion

8.30-8.45 Close, but coffee & time for more discussion available

8.30-8.45 Close, but coffee & time for more discussion available

MONDAY 18th March 2013 6.00 pm for 6.15 start.

(Library & Museum)

6.15 Welcome by Diane Clements

         6.20         Behind the Headlines: Masonic Newspapers and other Library resources;

                   Martin Cherry

         6.45   Veiled in allegory but illustrated by objects: studying freemasonry using

                   Museum collections: Mark Dennis

         7.10-7.20 Break

         7.20   Inside the Archive Susan Snell

         7.45 – 8.30 Discussion etc

THE SELECTED SPEAKERS

Yasha Beresiner, LLB Past Master QC Lodge 2076 (Chair)

Prof Roger Burt, BSc (Econ), PhD, FRHistS, FGS, FIMMM QC Lodge 2076

Dr James W.P. Campbell MA DipArch PhD FSA RIBA IHBC, Fellow in

         Architecture and History of Art, Cambridge Prestonian Lecturer (2011), 

Martin Cherry, Librarian Library & Museum of Freemasonry

Diane Clements, Director Library and Museum of Freemasonry

Robert L D Cooper, Librarian & Curator Grand Lodge of Scotland Library &

         Museum, Senior Warden QC Lodge 2076

Mark Dennis, Curator Library & Museum of Freemasonry

Dr Trevor Stewart, MLitt, PhD Past Master QC Lodge 2076, Prestonian

         Lecturer (2004)

Dr John Wade, BA, MA, PhD Past Master QC Lodge 2076, Prestonian

         Lecturer (2009)

Susan Snell, Archivist and Records Manager Library & Museum of Freemasonry

TO REGISTER: Contact Secretary Gordon Davie gdavie@lansdale.demon.co.uk  T: 0208 460 2975