"To preserve the reputation of the Fraternity unsullied must be your constant care."

BE A FREEMASON

Wednesday, May 22, 2013

Dan Brown Knows the Door Is Open for Masonic Membership


Dan Brown was speaking tonight about Freemasonry at the United Grand Lodge of England's Freemason's Hall in London, and revealed that Masons had left the door open for him to join.

From the Independent in the UK:
His best-selling novels illuminate the shadowy organisations that supposedly run the world. But Dan Brown was “honoured” to receive an invitation to join the Freemasons, the arcane fraternity whose tentacles are said to extend into the highest echelons of power.
Tonight the Da Vinci Code author made a rare public appearance, discussing his latest Dante-inspired blockbuster, Inferno, in front of 1,500 fans in London.
The choice of venue, Freemason’s Hall, the headquarters of the United Grand Lodge of England, reflects the author’s fascination with the male-dominated medieval society, founded in London, which has long been the centre of conspiracy theories about its supposed global influence.
“I would be honoured to be a Mason,” Brown told the Independent before the event. “You don’t get ‘invited’ by the Masons but they sent a clear message that the door is open if I ever want to join.”
Brown’s 2009 novel The Lost Symbol suggested that the government in Washington was secretly run by a coven of Freemasons practising sinister rites.
However Brown said: “I’ve nothing but admiration for an organisation that essentially brings people of different religions together, which is what they do."
“Rather than saying ‘we need to name God’, they use symbols such that everybody can stand together.”
Everybody except women, who are refused entry. “I guess it’s a little oxymoronic,” said Brown. “But there are certainly women’s organisations and I think there’s a place for men to be together alone.”
Brown portrayed Opus Dei as a sinister Catholic cult in the Da Vinci Code. Inferno introduces The Consortium, a secretive organisation pulling strings behind the scenes which the book claims is an amalgamation of real groups. Yet Brown sees the Masons as an entirely benign fraternity.
“Freemasonry is not a religion but it is a venue for spiritual people to come together across the boundaries of their specific religions,” he said. “It levels the playing field.”
The author’s only hesitation before undertaking the notorious Masonic initiation ritual is that he would have to take a “vow of secrecy” and would be unable to utilise his masonic insights in future novels.

Friday, May 10, 2013

NY PGM Bidnick Expelled, This Time By Grand Lodge

New York Past Grand Master Neal Bidnick was expelled permanently from Freemasonry on Tuesday, this time by a vote of the Grand Lodge.

From a Brother who was there:

I thought it would be of interest to other Brother that at yesterday’s final day of the annual communication of the Grand Lodge of NY, PGM Neal Bidnick’s case was brought before the Grand Lodge and about 2 hours of debate and accusations ensued. I hope, as interesting as it was, that I never have to witness such and event again.

Personally I found it to be a sad day for Freemasonry. It began with the report from the committee on Jurisprudence delivered by PGM Fitche and PGM Hino, first just laying out the case that the trial commission was in fact correct in finding PGM Bidnick guilty of financial improprieties and disobeying a directive from the then GM Libone. Then went on to openly rebuke the actions of the current GM Sullivan for his actions in restoring PGM Bidnick and lifting his suspension and the letter send by the GM to all Lodges informing them of the reason why.

The motion to accept this report was tabled until the Commission on Appeals was heard. The Commission on Appeals did not find that PGM Bidnick was innocent of the charges, but that the punishment of expulsion was too harsh. Instead they recommended a reprimand.

The GM opened the floor to comments and many Brothers rose to speak to the points that were made, both in favor and against PGM Bidnick. What I found most telling was they many who would see PGM Bidnick expelled most often quoted the obligation. I would ask them if they had forgotten the 5 points of fellowship. I don’t know PGM Bidnick personally, but I know many Brothers that do and the circumstances surrounding his alleged transgressions and subsequent suspension pending trial were highly questionable to say the least. To many this seemed to ‘political’... I don’t know if we will ever really know what happened in this case. What has been released by the Grand Lodge on the details of this have been ambiguous and contradictory at best.

A vote was taken that the Commission on Appeals report be accepted and that passed by a large majority, to the second question which was should the Commission on Appeals recommendation of a reprimand be accepted, the vote was split by only 6% in favor of rejection of this motion to accept. In effect upholding the trial commissions original judgment and sentence of expulsion. PGM Bidnick was then escorted from the Grand Lodge room, head held high.

After this vote the Committee on Jurisprudence amended their report to remove the accusations leveled at GM Sullivan. But to me what was stated cannot be taken back and I feel for GM Sullivan who by all reports is a fair and true Brother of the Craft.

What was most ironic to me was the high note that the session of the first day ended on with the Distinguished Achievement Award going to Br. Howie Damron and after which Br. Damron sang his Masonic Ring ballad for the Brothers assembled. It was almost a kumbaya moment into itself.

In the end I am sure the Grand Lodge will survive and some semblance of normalcy will return after this 2+ year ordeal.

The vote was 54-46. For background on this story, see here and here.

Man Vandalizes GL of New York

A man is in police custody today after vandalizing the Grand Lodge of New York's building at 71 West 23rd Street in Manhattan. He came into the building muttering about wanting to see the Masons and the Illuminati, and then began running through the building, damaging display cases and breaking glass. Police were called by security personnel , and they responded very quickly, arresting him (the fellow with the dreadlocks in the above photo).

Thursday, May 02, 2013

Fire at GL of Philippines

According to Subic Bay News, a fire struck the ground floor of the Grand Lodge of the Philippines building at San Marcelino St., Malate, Manila, particularly the York Rite office.  Over 50 OSM (Order of the Secret Monitor) officers & members, led by Supremo (MW) Avelino Razon, had to orderly move out of the building through smoke-filled halls and stairways.  MW Santiago T. Gabionza, Grand Master of Masons in the Philippines, was on hand along with several other officers, to oversee the successful fire-fighting efforts.

According to the article:


The Order of the Secret Monitor (OSM) was wrapping-up its conferral and meeting at the 4th floor of the building when the lights went out, followed by fire truck sirens and shortly after, noticed that there wass a fire alarm at the ground floor.

Tuesday, April 30, 2013

Truman Lecture This Weekend in Missouri

Alton G. Roundtree will speak on the history and development of Prince Hall Freemasonry as the Spring 2013 Truman Lecturer on Saturday, May 4th, 2013. His presentation will be followed by a Q&A session. Grand Lodge Complex, Columbia, MO. $20 lunch and lecture.

Alton is, along with Paul M. Bessel, author of the bestseller and internationally acclaimed book, "Out of the Shadows: The Emergence of Prince Hall Freemasonry in America (Over 225 Years of Endurance)." He is also author of The National Grand Lodge and Prince Hall Freemasonry: The Untold Truth. Alton is in the process of completing a book on the history (Prince Hall Freemasonry in the District of Columbia – 1822-2012: History of the Prince Hall Grand Lodge) of Prince Hall Freemasonry in the District of Columbia. He is also in the process of completing a book on the History of the Prince Hall Conference of Grand Masters.

Alton G. Roundtree is the President of KLR Publishing. Alton retired from the United States Air Force after a 20 year career. After retiring from the Air Force, he worked for the Mitre Corporation and Northrup Grumman.

Alton has received accolades from around the world as Editor of the award-winning Prince Hall Masonic Digest, a 48-page quarterly Masonic newspaper, which world-class writer Dr. S. Brent Morris referred to as among the best Masonic publications in the world." He has written many articles for the Prince Hall Masonic Digest. Alton is also the new editor of the Phylaxis Magazine.

Alton began his editorial and publishing career in the United States Air Force where he acquired his skills in editing, publishing and printing. On several Air Force assignments around the country and world he was Chief of the Publishing Division. Alton wrote and edited numerous Air Force publications.

A voracious reader and researcher, Alton has written numerous articles published in local newspapers, among them a Masonic column in the popular Washington-Afro-American newspaper chain. He received his B.A. degree from the University of Minnesota in Duluth; a Masters degree from Howard University in Washington, D.C.; and worked on a Ph.D. at American University in Washington, D.C.

Alton has been invited to speak at a number of conventions and meetings including the Philalethes Society, Phylaxis Society, Blue Friars, and Academy of Masonic Knowledge of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania.

Alton was raised a Master Mason in 1978, and in 1991 he became Worshipful Master of Redemption Lodge No. 24, the largest Lodge in the Washington, D.C. Prince Hall Jurisdiction. His Lodge was named Lodge of the Year under his stewardship. Soon afterward he held several key positions in the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia, among them: Computer Systems Officer, Director of Public Relations, Chairman of the Information Management Committee, Assistant Grand Secretary, Director of the Computer Training Center, Editor of the Masonic Digest, and Vice Chairman of the Prince Hall Recognition Committee. He has received numerous awards from the Grand Lodge including Master Mason of the Year, Journalistic Excellence Award, Perfect Ashlar Award and many superior service awards. In 2010, Alton received the Prince Hall Grand Lodge’s highest award, The S. Matthew Hendershott Award. He is also a member of the Jonathan Davis Consistory No. 1, Mecca Temple No. 10 (Shriners), Mt. Vernon Chapter No. 1 (Holy Royal Arch Masons), Henderson Commandery, and Redemption Chapter No. 14 of the Order of Eastern Star. He is a 33rd Degree Mason.

As vice chairman of the Recognition Committee, Alton has been at the table with District of Columbia mainstream Masons for Prince Hall Recognition on three occasions; the Grand Lodges, Holy Royal Arch Masons, and Cryptic Masons.

Alton was Worshipful Master (2009-2012) of the David A. McWilliams, Sr. Research & Education Lodge of the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia.

Alton is a member of two distinguished Masonic Groups, Society of Blue Friars (2011) and Masonic Brotherhood of the Blue Forget-Me-Not (2008). Other affiliations include the Philalethes Society, Masonic Society (Fellow), and Phylaxis Society (Fellow).

For tickets, click here.

H/T Aaron Shoemaker

Albuquerque Man Stabs Churchgoers Because of Masons


From Yahoo news:

 The Albuquerque man accused of stabbing four churchgoers during Sunday Mass told police he was after the choir leader because he thought the man was a Mason.
According to a criminal complaint, 24-year-old Lawrence Capener said he was going after the choir leader at St. Jude Thaddeus Catholic Church because his "speech was different" and he was 99 percent sure he was a Mason.
He told the investigator that Masons are a group involved "in a conspiracy that is far more reaching than I could or would believe."
Capener says he stabbed others who tried to subdue him because he thought they might be masons, too.
The affidavit says Capener apologized for stabbing the others after he was read his rights and agreed to speak to police.
 The man told police that he tagged the Sandoval No. 76 Masonic Lodge in Rio Rancho with spray paint on Sunday, authorities said. Police later found red and blue spray paint on signs, outside walls and a door. Investigators said he also left the message, "I hope you guess who I am."

H/T Mohamad Yatim



13th California Masonic Symposium


This summer, Masonic scholars will convene in both Northern and Southern California to study a pivotal time in the fraternity’s past at the 13th Annual California Masonic Symposium

Guided by the research of Henry Wilson Coil Lecturer John L. Belton, Masonic scholars will lead a fascinating inquiry into the rise and fall of the Antients and Moderns – rival grand lodges in 18th century England. 
Attendees will learn about the political and social effects caused by this division – and later reunification, including how the effects of the rivalry traveled to the American colonies, profoundly affecting American Freemasonry. 
Belton will be joined by a panel of esteemed Masonic historians, including S. Brent Morris, managing editor of the Scottish Rite Journal; Past Grand Master of California R. Stephen Doan; and Deputy Grand Master John L. Cooper. 
The Symposium will be held in two locations:


June 22, 2013 - Pasadena Scottish Rite Cathedral

June 23 - San Francisco Scottish Rte Masonic Center

Register here

H/T Adam Kendall.

Friday, April 26, 2013

Are the Top Chefs in France Freemasons?

Are the top chefs in France Freemasons? David Adler asks the question in Bon Appetit magazine. Who knew there was a Masonic conspiracy in the kitchens of France?


Amid the whisks, spatulas, and other specialty pastry utensils of MORA, Paris's oldest culinary supply store, founded in 1814, is a door marked "forbidden." And behind that door is the office of MORA's director, chef Christian Millet, who runs the bistro Le Pouilly Reuilly (a favorite of former President Francois Mitterrand) and is himself president of the French Chefs Association.
I have come to MORA, entered that forbidden door, and made my way past glass vitrines containing copper chocolate molds that date back to the Napoleonic era, to ask Millet--sitting behind an imposing desk--an unusual question:
"Are you a freemason?"
The question was less random than it sounds. There have long been whispers inside the French food world that all the top chefs are members of the Freemasons, and that membership can make or break careers. The gossip can, of course, be malicious. 
"Of course I've heard the rumors," a young, Michelin-starred Parisian chef told me, adding that he'd heard an even younger chef running the restaurant of a five-star so-called "palace hotel" is a Freemason "and the affiliation is part of his success."
For those unfamiliar with "the brotherhood," the Freemasons are a semi-secret society founded in London in the 18th century, in part to promote enlightenment values. In the U.S., despite their historical influence (the dollar bill is riddled with masonic symbols), Freemasons today have about as much mystique as the Rotary Club. 
In France, however, it is different. Freemasons may have been behind the French revolution, or so Freemasons claim. Napoleon's brother Joseph was a leading Freemason. The Nazis persecuted Freemasons. Even today masons matter. The number of Freemasons has grown fourfold in the last four years. The Paris publishing cliché is that there are three covers that sell a magazine: how the rich spend it; cures for a headache; and secrets of the Freemasons. The orgies in provincial hotels associated with the Dominique Strauss-Kahn scandal are widely interpreted in France as having masonic overtones.
As Alain Bauer, former Grand Master of the Grand Orient of France, the most important lodge in Europe, explained to me, "One-third of French fear Freemasons. One-third thank them for the creation of the Republic. One-third don't care." 
Likewise, freemasonry has been intertwined with French gastronomy since early on. "Most of the 'founding cooks'"--chefs, who after the French Revolution, created French "haute cuisine"--"were freemasons," says Bauer. 
And food itself has long played a role in masonic ceremonies, a phenomenon explored in great detail by Edmond Outin in his 2005 book, La Cuisine des Francs-Macons. As Outin reveals, masonic ceremonies typically end with a feast, called the "Agape." Even better, he provides the recipes: George Blanc's poulet au vinaigre; Michel Moisan's pain garni à l'auvergnate; Joel Robuchon's le pot-au-feu des compagnons.
In fact, there are enough masonic chefs in France that there is a secret guide to freemason-affiliated restaurants. It's called Le G.I.T.E. (for "Groupement International de Tourisme et d'Entraide"), and it is a sort of Zagat's guide for masons, listing those establishments with a masonic affiliation (including one in New York, the now-closed Rene Pujol). Masons actually enjoy preferential treatment at these restaurants in the form of an amuse bouche or, at the very least, a personal card from the chef. (Acquiring Le G.I.T.E. can be tricky: I tried to buy it at a masonic bookstore but was turned down for lack of masonic credentials. I got mine through...other methods.)
Outside of the food world, however, the relationship between freemasonry and the big French chefs is not widely known. Only a few chefs--including Robuchon and MORA's Millet, who answered my question with "Oui, certainement!"--are public about their membership.
Inside, the subject and its implications are controversial. Francois Simon, the terrifying food critic for Le Figaro and the model for Anton Ego in Ratatouille, who is definitely not a freemason, hints at an actual conspiracy. In his book Freeloader: The End of French Gastronomy (unpublished in English), Simon alleges that Freemasons function as a sort of food-world Mafia, determining the careers of young chefs, "accelerating the success of some and slowing down others." Without explicitly naming Paul Bocuse as a Freemason, he writes that "without having to raise an eyebrow," the great chef could ensure that any competitor who chanced to open a restaurant near him in Lyon would find the market suddenly out of "squab" and "cream," among other essential ingredients.
This conspiratorial discussion is a bit overwrought, but it certainly seems likely there are masonic business "networks" inside the French food world, given how many chefs (and food critics) happen to be Freemasons. 
I discussed these conspiracy rumors with Monsieur Millet. He dismissed them with a grave frown. 
"Freemasonry is traditional in our milieu!" he said. "It is possible even the great Carême"--Marie-Antoine Carême, one of the greatest early 19th-century chefs--"was a freemason."
My audience with Monsieur Millet was clearly drawing to close. Freemasonry remains a sensitive topic in France, and Freemasons are a deeply secretive brotherhood. Monsieur Millet would reveal no more. Besides, it was time for his lunch.
I decided to forgo it, because my destination for dinner was Le Clou de Fourchette, a bistro near Gare St. Lazare whose specialty is wild boar stew. I had a meat-heavy meal of house pate followed by entrecote. The chef, Christian Leclou, is another member of the brotherhood, and his restaurant is one of their favorites. It's worth a visit: what made the experience memorable was the extremely warm welcome from chef Leclou, who will treat you like a mason, even if you aren't one. 
H/T Tim Evans

Thursday, April 25, 2013

Not So Fast... Detroit Makes Deal With Temple

All is not bleak for Detroit after all, it seems. The Temple made a payment to the tax man today, and vows to pay its total bill by June, staving off foreclosure. And there is a potential investor interested in the property.

From today's Detroit News:


The world's largest Masonic Temple entered an agreement Thursday with Wayne County officials to get out of tax foreclosure and Temple officials also said downtown titan Dan Gilbert is exploring the idea of investing in the historic neo-Gothic building.
The Masonic Temple Association and the Wayne County Treasurer's Office agreed on a payment plan on the $152,000 tax bill that put the property in the hands of the county treasurer. Because part of the bill dates back to 2010, the building automatically was put in foreclosure earlier this year and slated for the September public auction of tax foreclosure properties. Masonic officials made a $10,000 payment Thursday morning and have vowed to pay the entire amount by June 3.
"Should they make the payments as scheduled there will be no foreclosure," said David Szymanski, chief deputy treasurer for Wayne County. Technically, the 14-story building at 500 Temple is still in foreclosure but the county has agreed not to take any action.
Masonic President Roger Sobran said the unpaid tax bill is due to a brief partnership with a management company last year that left the Masonic $500,000 in debt. That partnership has ended and now there is a lawsuit between the two parties, Sobran said, though he didn't elaborate.
"We are actually doing pretty good, overall," Sobran said. "We have a lot of events coming up. Interest is high," Sobran said.
That interest apparently includes Quicken Loan's founder Dan Gilbert, whose Rock Ventures entity is one of the largest private landowners of downtown buildings. They have grand designs to renovate the area. Sobran said Masonic Temple officials and representatives from Rock Ventures have had discussions about investing in the facility.
"We are open to the idea and they seemed interested," Sobran said. "But I don't know if will result into anything."
Sobran said there are other potential investors in the temple as well.
The building takes up the 500 block of Temple Street just north of downtown. It has 1,037 rooms and multiple theater and entertainment venues. It was placed on the state's Historic Registry in 1964 and the National Register of Historic Places in 1980.
Generations of Metro Detroiters have seen stage productions, concerts, graduations and other events at the facility. Construction began in 1920 and the temple was dedicated in 1926. The temple's Masonic Theatre can seat 4,404 people, and has been a stop for touring Broadway shows, concerts and Detroit visits of the New York City Opera. With its two ballrooms, office space, cafeteria, dining rooms, barber shop and 16 bowling lanes, the temple is rented out for events from high school graduations to weddings and corporate events.
Recent tenants have included the Detroit Derby Girls Roller Team.
The temple schedule includes an upcoming concert and comedy show, as well as a sold-out May 18 concert by Sixto Rodriguez, the Detroit guitarist and singer who toiled in obscurity until the recent Oscar-winning documentary of his career, "Searching for Sugar Man."
In April 2010, the Masonic Temple and the Ilitch-owned Olympia Entertainment ended a two-year deal in which Olympia Entertainment managed the venue.
At the time, Olympia officials said the firm had invested millions in the facility and paid off and restructured the debt of the building's owners.
Last year, there was an effort through a mix of public and private funds to raise $38 million for more renovations to the building and the surrounding Cass Park area. The plan was aided by the Magnet Fund, a super committee of state and city economic officials. It includes such organizations as the Michigan Economic Development Corp. and Invest Detroit, which identifies big projects around the state that need support through tax breaks.
Sobran said that "effort fell by the wayside."

H/T Russ Spice

Detroit Masonic Temple In Foreclosure


From today's The Detroit News: 

Detroit's Masonic Temple, the largest of its kind in the world, is in foreclosure for a $152,000 tax bill and the historic property is in the hands of the Wayne County Treasurer.
The 14-story Gothic structure that takes up the entire 500 block of Temple Street has 1,037 rooms and multiple theater and entertainment venues, and was placed on the state's Historic Registry in 1964 and the National Register of Historic Places in 1980. It's slated to be one of thousands of properties on the block in Wayne County's tax foreclosure auction in September. Bidding would start at $160,000.
"We have not heard from any party about this property, so there is no plan at this point," to work out payments, said David Szymanski, chief deputy treasurer for Wayne County.
The tax foreclosure hasn't resulted in the cancellation of any scheduled events. The Temple, where generations of Metro Detroiters have seen stage productions, concerts, graduations and other events, is still operating and is available for private events. Nor does the foreclosure necessarily mean the end of the building.
The default was triggered by unpaid 2010 property taxes. Under state law, owners have years to catch up, but if they don't, a court orders foreclosure the following April, three years after the originaltaxwas due. While the county owns the temple, it hasn't taken over day-to-day control of the property. That would be the responsibility of any buyer at the tax auction. The former temple owners would be allowed to bid at the tax auction, and could buy it back.
Before the temple goes to auction, state, city and county governments would get a chance to buy it, Szymanski said. If there is no interest from any of the government agencies, the building would go to auction. If it remains unsold, the temple would go to a second auction in October where the starting bid would be $500.
Until the tax forfeiture, the building had been owned by the Masonic Temple Association. Calls to Masonic Temple officials were not returned.
Located in the Cass Corridor neighborhood north of downtown, the temple is home to several masonic organizations.
The building, the largest Masonic Temple in the world, comprises 550,000 square feet, according to the temple website. Construction began in 1920 and the temple was dedicated in 1926. The temple's Masonic Theatre can seat 4,404 people, and has been a stop for generations of touring Broadway shows, concerts and Detroit visits of the New York City Opera.With its two ballrooms, office space, cafeteria, dining rooms, barber shop and 16 bowling lanes, the temple is rented out for events from high school graduations to weddings and corporate events.
Recent tenants have included the Detroit Derby Girls Roller Team.
The temple schedule includes an upcoming concert and comedy show, as well as a sold-out May 18 concert by Sixto Rodriguez, the Detroit guitarist and singer who toiled in obscurity until the recent Oscar-winning documentary of his career, "Searching for Sugar Man."
In April 2010, theMasonicTempleand the Ilitch-owned Olympia Entertainment ended a two-year deal in which Olympia Entertainment managed the venue.
At the time, Olympia officials said the firm had invested millions in the facility and paid off and restructured the debt of the building's owners.
Last year, there was an effort through a mix of public and private funds to raise $38million for more renovations to the building and the surrounding Cass Park area. The plan was aided by the Magnet Fund, a supercommittee of state and city economic officials. It includes such organizations as the Michigan Economic Development Corp. and Invest Detroit, which identifies big projects around the state that need support through tax breaks. That effort appears to have stalled.
One of the challenges the massive facility has faced is its location, in a blighted Cass Corridor neighborhood. But the area is undergoing a surge of investment. Since 2008, at least 28 derelict or vacant parcels have been sold or entered agreements to sell.

Wednesday, April 24, 2013

Stifani Expelled




According to Romania's Masonic Press Agency, France's Past Grand Master François Stifani has been expelled from the Grande Loge Nationale Française today. Grand Master Jean-Pierre Serval issued General Order 1584 on April 24th, expelling the embattled PGM.

For background on this story, see here. Because of Stifani's actions over the last two or three years, relations between the GLNF and numerous jurisdictions have been suspended, leaving France without a regular, recognized Grand Lodge for much of the Masonic world.

Saturday, April 20, 2013

Art De Hoyos in Florida 4/27

Arturo de Hoyos the Scottish Rite Grand Archivist and Grand Historian will be the speaker at the next Boynton Lodge Esoteric Research Group Meeting on April 27, 2013 Registration at 9:00 A.M. Seminar from 10:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M. Tickets are $30. For more information visit http://blerg5.eventbrite.com/# 

Friday, April 19, 2013

The Boston Marathon Bombing

A letter has been issued by M.W. Richard Stewart, Grand Master of Massachusetts, about the Boston Marathon bombing and its aftermath:
Dear Brother
I believe you share my shock and horror at what took place in Boston on Patriots’ Day near the finish line of the 117th Boston Marathon – less than one mile from the front door of the Boston Masonic building and the home of your Grand Lodge. My thoughts and prayers are with the individuals who have been impacted by this event; my deepest appreciation and gratitude go out to those who ran towards the scene to help while others – understandably – ran away. 

It is completely foreign to the values we hold as Freemasons that someone would premeditate so base a crime. Since we may never fully understand why this occurred, it makes sense for us focus our attention and energy on doing something positive. We are taught that relieving the distressed is a duty incumbent on all men. 

We have received a number of inquiries asking what can be done. The first reaction many had was to give blood. Massachusetts Freemasons have a long tradition of supporting the American Red Cross and being one of their largest donors. They have reported sufficient supplies for their immediate needs, but the demand will not end after the dust settles. Their need is ongoing. I encourage you to consider giving blood next week, next month, and next year. 

For those who would prefer to make a financial contribution, Massachusetts’ Governor Deval L. Patrick and Boston’s Mayor Thomas E. Menino announced the formation of The One Fund Boston, Inc. to help the people most affected by the events. To learn more or to make a contribution to The One Fund Boston, visit theonefundboston(dot)org. 

As of this writing, we have not heard any reports of the bombings directly impacting members of our fraternity. I pray this does not change. If you have different information, please contact the Grand Lodge Service Department as a potential resource for assistance. R.W. Ernest A. Pearlstein, Director, 617.426.6040, and Wor. Frank J. Kautz II, Chairman, 781.933.3507 are ready to serve you. May the Great Architect of the Universe bless you and your family; may he continue to bless our men and women who are protecting our great country so that we may enjoy the freedom to practice the Masonry we so dearly love.
Fraternally,
M.W. Richard J. Stewart 
Grand Master

Quarry Project Early Bird Registration

The Masonic Society and the Masonic Library and Museum Association have joined forces to establish The Quarry Project. Phase one of this endeavor will be the Conference on Masonic Research and Preservation to be held in the George Washington Masonic Memorial in Alexandria, VA on September 27–29, 2013. The conference is open to anyone interested in Masonic research and preservation, but will be specifically targeted toward members of Masonic lodges of research as well as authors, writers, and researchers, both published and aspiring, as well as Masonic librarians and museum curators.

The conference will draw from both the Masonic and academic communities to provide detailed instruction on Masonic research and the editing of the results. In addition, the recommendations of a committee created to establish a set of voluntary standards for future Masonic research, writing, and editing will be introduced. Professional librarians, museum curators, and experts on display and preservation will provide practical instruction and advice on maintaining and improving Masonic historical repositories. Multiple concurrent presentations will be offered on all three days. A few success stories that will enthuse and inspire you will be mixed in along the way.

The Quarry Project “Early Bird” registration ends on May 1, 2013. If you are planning on attending this event, you can save some money by registering before then. Go the http://www.thequarryproject.com/registration/ to register today. Also, if you are planning on staying at the conference hotel (Hilton Alexandria Old Town), it would be helpful to register as soon as possible, before our block of rooms is depleted.

Thursday, April 18, 2013

Cliff Porter in Massachusetts 5/18

Brother Cliff Porter, author of The Secret Psychology of Freemasonry, will tackle some of Masonry's sacred cows and urban legends that have become the rallying cry of those who decree "That's not the way we've always done it," at the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts' Leadership Summit, on May 18th.

Register by sending an email to joeturner07@gmail.com

AASR Accepting Donations For Devastated Texas Town

The Waco Scotttish Rite Bodies Almoner is accepting financial donations for the community of West, TX. Please mail checks to :

WSRB Almoner

P.O. Box 32508

Waco, Texas 76703

Hat Tip to Br. Bill Hosler

Wednesday, April 17, 2013

Sean Astin To Star In ‘The Freemason'


A new film about a Freemason is about to begin filming in Utah, according to The Salt Lake Tribune:

A former Hobbit is coming to Utah next week to solve a murder.Actor Sean Astin — best known probably for portraying the loyal Samwise Gamgee in "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy — will be filming a murder mystery, "The Freemason," starting Monday in the Salt Lake City area.Astin plays Leon Weed, a detective investigating a ritualistic killing of an elder Mason, according to a press release from the film’s producers.The movie’s executive producer, Joseph James, is a Master Mason, and aims to quench the public’s appetite for the secret society’s mysteries. James calls "The Freemason" "the first film of its kind to highlight actual initiation practices."Sohrab Mirmontazeri, an Iranian-born filmmaker, will direct the film. He previously made a thriller, "Blue Door," in Utah.It’s the second time Astin has filmed a movie in Utah. He previously appeared in Ryan Little’s well-made 2009 rugby drama "Forever Strong."

Arson Suspected in New Zealand Lodge Fire


The Masonic lodge in Te Awamutu, New Zealand was destroyed by a suspected arson fire this morning.

From the New Zealand Herald:

A fire that destroyed a building in Te Awamutu early this morning is believed to have been deliberately lit. 
A hall at the Masonic Lodge was destroyed by fire at 2.15am. 
"The building was well-involved in fire when we first arrived," Fire Service shift manager Jaron Phillips said. 
"Firefighters searched the building [but] it was totally smoke-logged. The building next door was smoke-logged as well. 
"We have two fire investigators ... at the scene now. They'll be investigating the cause [and] it's being treated as suspicious." 
Firefighters managed to save a larger neighbouring building by dampening down hot spots on its roof. 
Mr Phillips said there was no early indication of what started the blaze.

Bethlehem Masonic Temple Employee Steals $225,000


A former employee of the Bethlehem, Pennsylvania Masonic Temple has been charged with stealing $225,000 from the lodge's catering facility.

From today's Morning Call:

A former employee at the Bethlehem Masonic Lodge facing charges of stealing more than $225,000 from the organization has admitted to the thefts and plans restitution, his attorney said at a hearing Wednesday.
John D. Lindemuth, 48, faces the charges in Northampton County Court after giving up his right to a preliminary hearing before District Judge Nancy Matos Gonzalez. His attorney, Norman E. Blatt Jr., said Lindemuth has "candidly" admitted to the thefts and is working on a plea bargain with prosecutors that will include restitution.
After the hearing, Lindemuth declined to comment. He remains free on $150,000 unsecured bail on charges of theft and receiving stolen property.
Authorities say Lindemuth, of the 1400 block of Holland Avenue in Bethlehem, had confessed a total of three times to taking money from the lodge. In the most recent thefts, police said the total amount taken was more than $225,000.
According to court records:Lindemuth began working at the lodge in 2008 and a year later, took over as supervisor for the banquet facility.
Court records say he took petty cash in 2009, but returned it before anyone noticed.The following year, Lindemuth also started skimming money and Masonic officials discovered it during an audit. The lodge determined $55,000 was missing and Lindemuth admitted taking the money. He was permitted to stay as long as he paid back the funds. 
But, authorities say in 2010, Lindemuth started playing the lottery and again began skimming money. Police said he booked banquets in 2011 and 2012, but did not schedule the events and kept the money. 
In 2011, Lindemuth again admitted the thefts, but was allowed to stay on and repay the funds. 
This past August, lodge officials suspended Lindemuth when he was confronted with a third set of thefts.

Thursday, April 04, 2013

Santa Anna's Masonic Membership Confirmed

From today's Sacramento Bee:


The Texas Scottish Rite of Freemasonry has confirmed that Mexican General Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna, Commander at the battle of the Alamo and the Battle of San Jacinto, was a Scottish Rite Mason in Mexico. His original Scottish Rite membership certificate is located in the Livingston Masonic Library of the Masonic Grand Lodge of New York.

According to M. Douglas Adkins, the top Scottish Rite official in Texas and a member of the Supreme Council of the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry in the Southern Jurisdiction, a person must be a Master Mason to be eligible for Scottish Rite membership in Mexico, as in the United States. Today's announcement resolves arguments by Texas historians who have contended there has been no proof of General Santa Anna's membership.

The significance of this announcement in terms of Texas history stems from numerous reports that General Santa Anna saved himself from execution after being captured at the battle of San Jacinto in 1836 by giving secret Masonic signs to Texas soldiers and later to General Sam Houston, a well-known Mason. The Texas critics of these reports have said that General Santa Anna would not have known of such secret signs unless he actually was a Mason, for which no proof had previously been provided.

Mr. Adkins explained that this confirmation of Masonic membership does not provide proof of the story that Masonic membership saved General Santa Anna's life, but rather only refutes the arguments that General Santa Anna was not a Mason. Some Masons have said that General Houston and many other Masons at San Jacinto would have known that General Santa Anna had disowned Masonry and that his offenses in Mexico, the Alamo and Goliad would have forfeited any rights for protection he may have had as a Mason. Sources in Mexico have confirmed that he was kicked out of Masonry.

Mr. Adkins emphasized that the Texas Scottish Rite is taking no position in this historical controversy, and is only confirming General Santa Anna's Masonic membership.

Mr. Adkins said Masonry always has celebrated its history and the lives of many of its members, including George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, William B. Travis, James Bowie and Davy Crockett. The Texas Scottish Rite is pleased to provide this information for the use of present and future Texas historians.An enlarged and enhanced graphic image of Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna's Scottish Rite Masonic Membership certificate, as well as his Masonic Apron, his spurs, items from his tent at San Jacinto, Davy Crockett's pistol from the Alamo, and other Texas history artifacts will be on display before and after the presentation of the new play, "Leaving San Jacinto," on April 23, 2013, in Dallas.

For more information, please visit http://www.leavingsanjacinto.com or call 214-748-9196.For further information, please contact M. Douglas Adkins at (214) 999-4444 ordadkins@gardere.com.

Tuesday, April 02, 2013

Harrison, Porter and Hammer Speak in New Jersey 5/16

On Thursday, May 16th at Peninsula Masonic Temple in Bayonne, NJ, Sons of Liberty No.301 is proud to present three world renowned speakers on Masonic enlightenment and education. Dr. David Harrison, WB Cliff Porter and WB Andrew hammer will speak at the lodge beginning at 7:00PM, followed by a Festive Board dinner. Cost of the evening will be $20 per person, and is open to Master Masons only.

Peninsula Lodge is located at 888 Ave C Bayonne, NJ 07002.

Click to enlarge flyer.

Monday, April 01, 2013

Santa Fe, NM Scottish Rite Center To Be Sold

The distinctive pink Scottish Rite Center in Santa Fe, New Mexico will go on the block this summer, according to  The Santa Fe, New Mexican today:
Another Santa Fe landmark could be on the real estate market this summer. Officials with the Scottish Rite Masonic Center will soon formally inform members about their “serious consideration” of putting the century-old building north of downtown up for sale.
“It is a wonderful old building, but we simply can’t afford to keep it up with our declining membership,” said Tom Payne, Scottish Rite head for the Orient of New Mexico. “It is like every other fraternal organization, with the dip claiming membership and the rising costs, we simply cannot make a cash flow. So we need to go to a more efficient building that costs a lot less to maintain.”
The “pink cathedral” at the corner of Paseo de Peralta and Washington Avenue is a hulking edifice with a footprint of nearly 45,000 square feet. A standout amid Territorial and Pueblo-style buildings still standing downtown, it was erected in 1912 in the Moorish architectural style, with some features patterned from the Alhambra castle in Granada, Spain.
Masonic organizations like Scottish Rite peaked in popularity here after World War II, when more than 4,000 men were members. Today, that number is in the range of 1,400 to 1,800, Payne said.
Building owners with the local Valley of Santa Fe chapter aren’t sure how much they might ask for the property, he said, but plan to make a decision about its fate before June 1.










Wednesday, March 27, 2013

Boston.com is reporting that the Scottish Rite Northern Jurisdiction is selling its headquarters compound to the city of Lexington, Massachusetts for approximately $11 million. The Rite will move into space at the adjacent National Heritage Museum (which is NOT being sold).


Lexington officials announced last week that the town is purchasing the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry organization’s headquarters, after the fraternal group accepted its offer of almost $11 million. 
The Marrett Road property will be used for a community center. The agreement on the sale price was announced Tuesday night after months of negotiations, and after Town Meeting voted Monday night to appropriate the money. 
Selectman Peter Kelley said in an announcement on the purchase that it is a historic moment for Lexington, as the town’s 300th anniversary approaches at the end of this month. 
In a roll call vote of 173 to 2, with 6 abstentions, Town Meeting approved appropriating about $11 million and authorized the Board of Selectmen to purchase the property.Selectwoman Deb Mauger told Town Meeting that the Scottish Rite’s governing body would decide the next day whether to accept the town’s offer of $10,950,000 . 
“This is a wonderful opportunity for our future,” Mauger said. 
The Supreme Council of the Scottish Rite plans to move into space at its National Heritage Museum, which is next to the 33 Marrett Road headquarters property and is not being sold. The Supreme Council governs the Scottish Rite’s Northern Masonic Jurisdiction, which covers 15 states from New England to Wisconsin and Delaware. 
Representatives from the Scottish Rite could not be reached for comment. 
The 10-acre property the town is buying includes the headquarters building, a mansion built in 1905, and a carriage house. Lexington is considering using the property as a community center that would offer services for the town’s senior citizens and its youth. 
Mauger told Town Meeting members Monday that the town first offered $8 million for the property, but increased the amount twice because of competition from other bidders.

H/T Matt Johnson

Friday, March 22, 2013

Grand Master of UGLE Suffers Stroke

The Grand Master of the United Grand Lodge of England, the Duke of Kent, has suffered a mild stroke after being struck by an illness. The 77-year-old royal was taken to an undisclosed hospital in London on Monday. A Buckingham Palace spokesman said, "He's still being assessed and it's not thought to be serious. My understanding is he's feeling well and looking forward to resuming official engagements as soon as possible."

Prince Edward George Nicholas Paul Patrick was born in 1935, and educated at Eton and Le Rosey, Switzerland. He is a cousin both of the Queen and of the Duke of Edinburgh. His father, who was Grand Master from 1939 until 1942, was the fourth son of King George V, and his mother, Princess Marina, was the daughter of Prince Nicholas of Greece. He has been the Grand Master of the United Grand Lodge of England since he was first elected in 1967.

Thursday, March 21, 2013

German Masonic Home of Tappan, New York

The ScoutingNY.com website tours the abandoned German Masonic Home of Tappan, New York. Built between 1906 and 1909, and abandoned since the 1990s, it was once a beautiful place. Be sure to check out the stained glass in the lodge room.
H/T Bill Hosler

Wednesday, March 20, 2013

Anti-Masonic Sentiment in Middle East

The Middle East continues to be rife with anti-Masonic sentiment. King Abdullah of Jordan was interviewed this week in The Atlantic and referred to the Muslim Brotherhood as a "Masonic cult".

And just ahead of President Obama's visit to Israel and Jordan, the official Palestinian Authority daily printed a pro-Hitler article that had the following quote:

"Our history is replete with lies [incliuding] the lie about Al-Qaeda and the September 11 events, which asserted that Muslim terrorists committed it, and that it was not an internal American action by the Freemasons."

And so it goes.

H/T to Eoghan Ballard

Friday, March 08, 2013

Queen's Nurse

When Queen Elizabeth II left the hospital this week, she was escorted by a helpful nurse who had an interesting belt buckle on. Is she a female Mason?

UPDATE: According to a post this morning by Arturo DeHoyos in the Oklahoma Scottish Rite group, that buckle is presented to nurses as they graduate from nurses' training at the Royal Masonic Hospital in London.  Thanks to Bill Hosler.

Australian Lodge Vandalized Repeatedly


Mooroopna Lodge in Shepparton, Victoria, Australia has been vandalized for the fourth time since September, and this time the miscreants tried to set fire to the place.

From todays Shepparton News:
Callous vandals struck Shepparton’s Masonic Centre on Wednesday night for the fourth time since September, causing extensive internal damage before allegedly setting fire to the building.
The attack occurred between 5pm and 7pm, which Masonic Lodge Mooroopna master Alan McCormick has described as ‘‘violent anger, like a frenzy’’.
The representative said the words ‘‘f*** you’’ were scrawled on the internal walls of the building.
Mr McCormick said most of the items destroyed held historical value that could not be replaced.
‘‘It’s absolutely shocking, it breaks your heart to see it,’’ he said.
‘‘We arrived at 10 past seven and well you should have seen it. You could smell smoke, it must have been smoldering for a while, they’ve used some sort of accelerant.
‘‘Everything that was there that could be damaged was; old photographs of former members pulled down and smashed and you could see they had trodden on them.’’
Shepparton police Detective Senior Constable Tom Young said this was the fourth incident since September last year.
During the most recent incident a Molotov cocktail was thrown at the front door.
Det Sen Const Young said at this stage police believed the four attacks were linked.
‘‘Unknown offenders have forced their way into the Masonic hall and committed a large amount of vandalism inside the premises, including writing f*** you on the inside of the building,’’ Det Sen Const Young said.
‘‘They’ve also smashed a number of crockery sets and plates and caused a fair bit of damage, smashing lights and other things of sentimental value to the Masonic hall, before setting the place on fire in the main temple itself, which measures about 50cm by 50cm.’’
Det Sen Const Young said police were investigating the incident and a forensic team was on site.
‘‘Inquiries are continuing, it is being managed and we’re doing what we can to try to work out who is responsible for this,’’ he said.
No-one was injured in the blaze.
Mr McKenzie believed this could be a misguided racially-motivated attack.
‘‘We really are a charitable organisation, why are they targeting us?’’ he said.
‘‘It’s the same with any Christian religion, we use the Bible.’’
Masonic Centres house Freemasonary, a fraternal organisation.
Locally, the organisation has provided scholarships to school youths, raised thousands of dollars for bushfire and flood-relief funds and donated almost $200000 to the Goulburn Valley Health oncology unit in Shepparton.
Members of the Shepparton Masonic Centre — more than 100 people from four different groups — will have to relocate to Numurkah Masonic Centre in the interim.
Anyone with information about the fire or who may have witnessed anything suspicious in the area is urged to phone Detective Senior Constable Tom Young on 58205777 or Crime Stoppers on 1800333000 or visit www.crimestoppers.com.au
H/T Mark Shemwell

Tuesday, March 05, 2013

Speaking in NY and NJ Next Week

New York and New Jersey brethren, I'll be in your neck of the woods all next week. On March 11, 2013 I'll be speaking at Suffolk Lodge No. 60 in Port Jefferson, NY. On Wednesday I'll be in Bayonne, NJ at Sons of Liberty Lodge No. 301. On Thursday, March 14, 2013 I'll be speaking at Ocean Lodge No. 89 in Spring Heights, NJ. And Saturday, March 16, 2013, I'll be speaking at Central New Jersey Council of Deliberation in Bordentown, NJ.

Looking forward to a great week of meeting brothers!



Woman Embezzles From OES Chapter

A southwest Indiana woman has pleaded guilty to embezzling $290,000 from her Order of the Eastern Star chapter.

From the WLFI Channel 8 website today:

The Evansville Courier & Press reports 37-year-old Susan Hilgeman pleaded guilty Monday to felony charges of forgery and conspiracy to commit theft. Her sentencing is scheduled for April 24, when she could receive up to 11 years in prison for the combined charges.

Hilgeman's mother, 80-year-old Marilee Garrison, is also charged with conspiracy to commit theft in the case and faces a July trial. Both Susan and her mother were officers in Order of the Eastern Star, a Masonic women's organization.

Indiana State Police arrested the women last April after a yearlong investigation prompted by other officers in the chapter who contacted police.