The 50 Year Member - Black Friday

by Midnight Freemason Contributor

Bill Hosler, PM

The 50-year member let out a weary sigh as he pushed his now empty plate which until a few minutes ago contained a large pile of whipped topping on top of a sliver of pumpkin pie. "Every year I say I won’t overeat at Thanksgiving dinner, and every year I break that resolution. I think instead next year I will just resolve to wear stretchy pants to this event."

Today was another successful Thanksgiving dinner the lodge provided to the public. As much work as it is to cook, serve and clean up after one hundred people it also was nourishing for the soul to know you provided a good meal to many homeless, poverty-stricken families or just local people with no family who otherwise would not have eaten or who was able to enjoy a dinner in a family like atmosphere. Not only do many people look forward to this annual feast many rely on it for a decent meal they wouldn’t have gotten anywhere else.

Pudge who was sitting toward the end of the table muttered I’m not really sure if I am ready for a snap because I’m exhausted from all the hard work or from the entire turkey I ate.” “Maybe a little of both” Mike Bailey said with a sarcastic smirk. "What do you all say we finish cleaning up and head for home?" Everyone grunted in approval.

Herb Johnson said as he picked up a trash bag “It was a great day. I hope we get several potions from the dinner today. I passed one out with a Masonic pamphlet to every man who looked to be over eighteen. Between that and with the Grand Lodge’s new program to waive initiation fees and make a new Brothers first-year dues only one dollar we should have a line at the lodge door!” Herb said with a gleam in his eye.

The 50-year member shook his head in disgust. “Sounds like Masonry at bargain basement prices. It’s like we are having a Masonic Black Friday event! Maybe we could sell the rings and a lapel pin at no extra cost!”

Herb laughed "John, I know you are kidding, but I’m serious. I’m tired of constantly going through the chairs and taking turns being Master. We need to get new men in here or we are going to be in trouble!"

The 50-year member replied “I am not joining!! I’m deadly serious. Yes, we are in need of members but selling the Craft like it was a television set at a big box store isn’t the way to do it.” “We have been trying the cheap dues approach for seventy years with little success. So what makes you think this will be the magic pill?”

“Well, we need to try and do something!” Herb said meekly. “There isn’t anything else we can do.” The fifty-year member said “ You are joking aren’t you? There are so many things we can try. First, instead of raising dues, we can make the price of dues worthy of our fraternity. If we charge dues that actually make sense we won’t have lodges selling their buildings because they can no longer afford them. In fact, they might have enough to actually maintain their temple and make improvements. I know what you are going to say, Herbert, we will lose members and we have members on fixed incomes. I might consider this a valid excuse if these same men who refuse to pay dues more than the equivalent of eight dollars a month wouldn’t go on cruises or take their half-million dollar RVs all over the country for golfing trips.”

The old man continued: “If we do have a brother who is actually destitute and cannot afford to pay with higher dues we will have plenty of money to forgive their membership dues and maybe even help his situation to boot! We have been going at this wrong for all this wrong for a long time. Another thing we can do is instead of demanding our dues during the holidays when everyone is trying to buy festive food and presents we break the dues up and pay them over the course of twelve months. We could even automatically take them for their bank or even their paychecks. Men won’t have an issue with it if isn’t something they actually have to write a paper check for each December. It’s silly. In all honesty, the only reason I still have paper checks at home is for the one check a year I write to this lodge.”

Herb was exasperated. All this talk of change has his head spinning. “Well, where do we get all these guys who want this stuff? Why aren’t they here now?” The 50-year member laughed out loud. "They have already been here and you antiques ran them off!"

Herb, Think of all those young fellas Pudge has brought in here. We spent months in degree work for them. So many of the quit coming when we treated them like they were children. Each one of them joined with excitement and was really interested in our lodge. Did we welcome them? Nope! Once they were raised they sat alone at the supper table before lodge. The only time anyone talked to them was to ridicule their new ideas or tell them Grand lodge won’t allow it. We all know that is poppycock. It was a way to shut them up. What is even worse is the way we treat the one-day Masons. We call them “McMasons” or tell them they aren’t real brothers because they had the unmitigated gall to take their degrees in one day instead of over three days. The sad thing is if anyone ever bothered to pick up a history book Many of the men we refer to as “famous Masons”, along with thousands of others who did the same thing over the last few centuries. All these new Brethren sat on the sidelines barely acknowledged. After a few months of being ignored, they finally realized the Masonic education they were promised turns out to be floor work and getting a part in the degrees to keep the degree mill churning out new Masons who will soon leave for the same reason. It’s the circle of Masonic implosion.”

Herb stood frozen like a statue. Looking down at the ground with an ashamed look on his face. “I didn’t realize we ran off the very men we have been trying to recruit. Maybe we need to consider being mentors, not degree salesmen.”

John smiled “I know Brother. It’s hard to embrace change, especially for us old fossils who don’t really understand what’s going on when we turn on the television. I know your heart is in the right place but we all need to learn to work together to make the Masonic order the Fraternity tells these prospective petitioners are told we have and what they are seeking."

~BH

WB Bill Hosler was made a Master Mason in 2002 in Three Rivers Lodge #733 in Indiana. He served as Worshipful Master in 2007 and became a member of the internet committee for Indiana's Grand Lodge. Bill is currently a member of Roff Lodge No. 169 in Roff Oklahoma and Lebanon Lodge No. 837 in Frisco, Texas. Bill is also a member of the Valley of Fort Wayne Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite in Indiana. A typical active Freemason, Bill also served as the High Priest of Fort Wayne's Chapter of the York Rite No. 19 and was commander of the Fort Wayne Commandery No. 4 of the Knight Templar. During all this, he also served as the webmaster and magazine editor for the Mizpah Shrine in Fort Wayne Indiana.

We’re Not “Making Masons” - We’re Creating Churn

by Midnight Freemason Guest Contributor

Bro. Mark St. Cyr

[Note: As always, please leave the yells and screams for later,  because it may not end how you think. Then - do as you will.]  

Like many of you, as we enter the wonderful seasonality of the year, another “seasonality” aspect arrived: Dues payment. 

What I did this year was far more different than I did last… 

Now, after five years since being raised: I contemplated both solemnly and earnestly about demitting.  

There, I said it.  

The reaction to the above will fall into two camps, more or less.  

The first will be initial recoil and condemnation for publicly stating it. 

Then, the other: initial agreement. And far too many dare not contemplate just how large this cohort may be. But need to. 

And yet, that’s not the real problem - that’s just a symptom. 

The glaring issue with the above is that the latter far outweighs in size, scope, and dollars of the former. Or said differently… 

If we are “Making Masons,” then why are so many leaving (or at the least, considering) in droves within such compacted time frames? e.g., myself ending my fifth year, most others - by their third. 

I have an answer, many are not going to like it, but here it is…

We are not making Masons - we are creating churn and calling it the former. 

Most readers will immediately understand the term “churn.” For those that don’t, it’s not derogatory or pejorative. It’s the term used for subscribers that come then go, needing to be replaced just as quickly, or the business dies in unison.  

We’ve all been part of the “churn” in our lives in one form or another. A quick example would be any subscription you had to some service. e.g., Netflix or others. You signed up, barely used it,  then canceled. Welcome to your turn - as churn. 

Our current state as a fraternity is acting much like this, only calling it something different. e.g., “Making Masons.”  

Sorry, but no we are not. We are creating churn. 

Sticking with the Netflix example for poignancy:  

What we’re now pushing is a forum (aka Lodge) for continual subscriber churn that is sold as offering something far greater than it does.  

Let me explain it this way… 

“Masonic values and fraternity.” Really? In most environments  here’s what is prevalent: 

Masonic parlance and theater signify a dues acceptance. Then  - a poor excuse for a social club.  

That’s about it, and I’m being kind. 

Another point is, as I have interacted with differing aspects pertaining to the fraternity. I am continually and constantly 

amazed at just how many complete and utter dysfunctional aspects I have been exposed to. It’s been horrifically consistent. 

I have been left completely dumbstruck, far too often than not, at the complete disregard or understanding concerning professionalism and more. It’s been sheer bewildering to someone like myself that had such high regard going in. 

Let me not be coy here: Far too many within the fraternity are still pointing to “the high water mark” of decades ago as a point of reference and reverence as if the seas are about to rise at any moment. All while simultaneously, incoherently unaware that the ship has run aground long ago and rusting into oblivion. i.e.,  water is the last thing that’s going to help for it might actually just hasten the rust. 

I know of a Lodge, quite close to me, which is about to suspend over 50 members for N.P.D. I also know that this is around 20%  of their current membership.  

Here’s what I also know - I believe I know why. i.e., They’re not  “making Masons.” They’ve been continually creating churn. I  know because I’ve seen it with my own eyes. e.g., It’s a wanna-be social club parading as a masonic one. And it’s doing both horribly. 

Personally, if I wanted to join a “social club,” I’ve had my pick of all of them over the years. Being fortunate to hold the positions I  have, more often than not, I was sought and chased but never joined. (Some were very exclusive with very high bars just to be considered. Not bragging, it’s just what it is.) 

But here? I sought, joined, and now seem to be inferring at every turn - I’m not wanted (i.e., Doesn’t care about fish frys so obviously doesn’t care about the lodge, so forget him!) because I  dare want what the fraternity offered prior: True Light. 

Again, said differently: Wants more than a Short Talk reading at a  meeting.  

Usual reaction?  

“We don’t need ‘his’ kind here! We’re doing fine without that stuff,  thank you very much. Oh, by the way, do we have a quorum to open? Has anyone counted? Hello? Anyone?”  

It’s maddening. 

So now the obvious question you’re asking is: “Then why did (or  are) you staying if this is the case?”  

(I would also assume many more might also be saying “Don’t let the door hit you…” And that’s fine also.) 

But again, it’s a great question, and here it is… 

I am a big believer in both serendipity and synchronicity. And I  believe I had a moment of both precisely when I was  contemplating (via contemplative masonic practices) my then  predicament, recalling a line by Joe Strummer of The Clash  “Should I stay or Should I go?” 

The words that came to me during this process (or thought, if you  will) were this: “You need to stay because you’re a keeper of the  Light, which is the All, important.”  

So that was my “serendipity” moment if you will and with that, I  renewed.  

(Believe what you wish, call it full of sh#t also, if you prefer, I  don’t care either way. Now back to the story…)

However, as all well and good as that was. In a way, I was still  left with a bit of “Was I really doing the right thing, or was I just  acting on some internal dialogue of my own creation that was  really nothing more than an echo chamber within my own mind of  what I hoped rather than what I was discerning as direction?” 

That’s when I had my synchronistic moment… 

I received out-of-the-blue a link to a discussion held at William O.  Ware Lodge of Research, now posted at the Rubicon Masonic  Society’s YouTube page. It featured WB Robert G. Davis presenting a keynote at their private dinner event.  

I was riveted by the content and the straight-shooting style he delivered it with. It was both precisely what I needed to hear and when. Hence, the synchronistic aspect. (There’s a link to it here  on the MF’s site posted earlier in November 2022.) 

Everything he pointed out and addressed I had inherently felt and been pondering. The difference for me going in was, I felt I was possibly falling more into isolation with it (i.e., this aspect of the issues) by overanalyzing and/or hoping for too much.  

This talk helped clarify many of these incongruences. In other words, “It’s not you - it’s me. Well, maybe it is you.” 

I am truly sick and tired of the so-called “reverence” and  “importance” regarding the fraternity mouthed by members who are far more concerned about ending meetings early as to get to somewhere else (cough) bar (cough) for a few before disbanding.  Or, have nothing more to offer than “Hey, let’s plan a _________  (fill in your own fish fry, pancake, golf, etc. here) to raise money for another scholarship or charity. Again, it’s all just maddeningly mundane on so many levels to anyone “who’s been around” if you will.

Recently in one jurisdiction, there’s been much fanfare about recent membership numbers and their affiliation to “One Day”  classes. Personally, I can be swung to either side of the argument about why these can be either good or bad. I get it. 

However, what I firmly oppose is the idea that “one day” Masons aren’t being robbed of the initial experience that true initiation practice (when done properly) provides. And the fervor to create more “Masons” via this method is doing nothing (in my estimation) more than creating churn.  

Sure, some numbers may indicate things are going up. But are they really? Especially since “the backdoor” is also quite busy with N.P.D.s.

Let me use another example… 

In a jurisdiction, there was an impending issue where thousands of members were about to be suspended for N.P.D. that year.  However, emergency action was taken to align the dues payment requirement for the suspension to align with one of the other concordant bodies (i.e., Blue Lodge with the others). 

If this had not happened - thousands (yes, not a typo) of members would have been suspended N.P.D. So, the reasoning was, this would be tragic so, if we align our rules so that the dues payments and suspension protocols align with each other - crisis solved! 

I’m going to ask you as you’re sitting here reading this just one question, but before you answer, a caveat. Ready? 

The jurisdiction that did this (changed, as in pushed back, the dates for suspension) was also the same one that was celebrating recent membership numbers.

Now, what do you think? 

I’ll tell you what I was: You read it at the opening. 

Becoming a Mason is not some right of passage that’s available  to any and all “wonderful guys.” It’s an initiatory practice that enables the route for great guy’s to become meaningful men. 

When I heard WB Davis discuss that very point, it was in that moment I knew precisely why I not only joined - but will now remain. i.e., I now know where I probably fit in best and needed the most: Preserving the Light that is, and what Freemasonry stands for, and will always remain.  

The social club aspect and its followers of this model are destined for the dustbin regardless if they know it or not. Sure,  there are positively good and great men within it. However… 

Unless they are practicing Freemasonry with the reverence and dignity it requires - then they are Masons in name only. Sorry, but that’s the cold hard truth, period. And I’m unapologetic in both my saying it, as well as believing it. Again, period, full stop. 

What I have now come to realize, with renewed vigor and focus,  is just how important the now ever-growing assortment of research lodges, masonic societies, podcasts, blogs, cons, and more are to the stability and well-being of the Craft going forward. 

They are where “The Light” is both being preserved, as well as allowed to show brightly with no apology. As a matter of fact,  with a bit of a healthy attitude.  

This is where I now find myself most comfortable. 

I will at some time return back to a Lodge with all the zeal and fortitude that I had when I first petitioned. But only when I feel I’m entering what is considered a Masonic Temple… 

Not a social club. 

As WB Davis argued in his speech - I’m ready for the Rubicon. 

My dues payment allows me to stay in the fight. A fight that is worthy of any and all that truly call and live their lives: as a Mason. 

What say you? 

Mark St.Cyr 

Freemason

From the archives: Black Friday - A Chance to Exercise the Art

by Midnight Freemason Contributor

RW Robert H. Johnson

Amidst the debates on whether or not stores and businesses should close for the Thanksgiving holiday, there are those underlying thoughts about the day after Thanksgiving -- Black Friday. Black Friday is a day for retailers nation wide, to throw open their doors and deliver savings so big, so amazing, so insane, that the public will be motivated to get up and go to those retailers at 12:01 am.

The days following Black Friday seemed to echo the sombre and sickening pathos normally attributed to that shroud, that color we typify with the color Black. We watch news clips on television, YouTube and cell phone videos of human beings, reverting to ferocious animal states as they battle one another over monetary savings.

Kids trampled to death, men and women alike suffocating in the thick of herds of what can now only be some distant cousin, some untamed, ungoverned, rapacious beast. But alas, it is us. It is human, although unrecognizable.

This year, stores did close and then decided to stave of some of the anarchy by opening later in the evening on Thanksgiving. I decided that for the first time since the last and only other time I had gone Black Friday Shopping, to go out to see what I could see.

What I saw did not disappoint. I don't mean that in any way to suggest I was looking for disorder, rather, I was hoping to see people being people. People caring and being courteous. Amid the sea of winter coats and red Starbucks cups, were the voices of happy people, saying "Excuse me", and complementing each other and of course, complaining about the long lines.

The moral fabric of humanity is a weave of altruistic principals, something we practice as Freemasons. It is something we are charged to do. To be courteous, kind, friendly, humble, to be the example. In the coming weeks we will be tried, Brethren. We will be taken to the edge and back again. Our patience, our affability will be put in the spot light. Use the stresses of the season to exercise our art of Friendship, Morality and Brotherly Love.

I know it can be hard, but the stakes are as high as they've ever been, and the world is watching. Be Freemasons.

~RHJ

Bro. Robert Johnson, PM is the Managing Editor of the Midnight Freemasons blog. He is a Freemason out of the 1st N.E. District of Illinois. He currently serves as the Secretary of Waukegan Lodge No. 78 where he is a Past Master. He also serves as the District Deputy for the 1st N.E. District of Illinois. Brother Johnson currently produces and hosts weekly Podcasts (internet radio programs) Whence Came You? & Masonic Radio Theatre which focus on topics relating to Freemasonry. He is also a co-host of The Masonic Roundtable, a Masonic talk show. He is a husband and father of four, works full time in the executive medical industry and is also an avid home brewer. He is currently working on a book of Masonic essays and one on Occult Anatomy to be released soon.

From the Archives: The 50 Year Member: Thanksgiving

by Midnight Freemason Contributor

Bro. Bill Hosler, PM

Thanksgiving morning was always a special time for the lodge. For many decades the members of the lodge opened the building on Thanksgiving Day and served the members of the community a free Thanksgiving dinner. It was a lot of work for the members, especially since they were advancing in age but it was a labor of love and everyone looked forward to it.

The smell from the lodge kitchen was amazing. Turkeys slowly roasting in the oven while some of the Brethren mixed together their home made stuffing. “The ole pie Master” Charlie Robertson was creating his traditional pies like he did every year. Charlie took pride in his pumpkin pies. There was a legend in the lodge, every year he made 10 from scratch for the big event. 

Elmer Geiger and Larry Herendeen had been sitting outside the backdoor of the temple smoking a dozen hams talking and enjoying good conversation. The two had come to the temple last night and prepared the hams with their special rub and honey and placed them on the smoker and stayed awake all night to applying apple juice to keep the ham moist and keep the fire going.

The men were having a great time as they did every year laughing and talking as the pans rattled. Most people wouldn’t be in such a good mood at six in the morning but this was a labor of love for the members of the lodge.

The 50 year member was making his famous “Shriner corn”. For years people raved about his corn. No one could ever figure out why it tasted so good. People would ask him his secret and he would just smile and say “It’s a Masonic secret” which would always bring a laugh. Many years before the old man had attended a Shriners dinner and people would eat their corn before they finished their steaks. One year he got the courage to ask the cook what he did to make the corn so good. The cooked just laughed and pointed at the propane cooker he was standing next to “Most people boil their corn in water. I boil it in butter.” the cook said as he pointed at the cauldron. Since then the 50 year member made his corn and just smiled as he watched it disappear.

Pudge was chopping onions which would be added to the dressing. Pudge wasn’t talking much. The old man smiled because he could tell Pudge wasn’t a morning person.

“Hey Pudge” the old man said. “Do you need me to get you some coffee?” “Yeah about a gallon of it” Pudge said as he concentrated on chopping onions. It’s bad enough to be up so early he didn’t want to lose a finger too. “I don’t get why we do this” Pudge said “Thanksgiving doesn’t have anything to do with Masonry.”

The old man stopped in his tracks. “Well it certainly does have a lot to do with Masonry!” the old man said. “I can’t believe you don’t see it Pudge.” “It’s a holiday about overeating and watching football, I can’t see anything Masonic about that.” 

The old man shook his head “Sadly that is all Thanksgiving is about these days” The 50 year member said. “The origins of Thanksgiving just as important today as they were then, maybe even more so.” “What the Pilgrims?” Pudge asked. “Partly the old man replied, but I am talking about the symbolism of the day.”

“Thanksgiving is a day set aside to give thanks to the Supreme Architect Of the Universe for the blessings we received during the last year. Something everyone, especially Masons should do everyday not just one day a year. 

It is also about charity. The Indians helped their fellow man and taught the Pilgrims how to survive in the new world. Without that charity we wouldn’t be here now. Masons are taught to help out their fellow man, especially a Brother Mason in their time of need.

It is also and fellowship. Friends, getting together, enjoying a good meal having a good time. That is spreading of cement of Brotherly love. Not only does it nourish the body but it also helps nourish the soul.

Pudge, we could have this celebration for lodge members and our families but why not spread our blessings with our community? Many of the people who come don’t have families nearby or are elderly and have no families. Not only do they get to talk with other people but they get a nice meal. A holiday spent among people instead of a day alone. 

Out of all the things we do to get our lodge’s name in the paper this is the one thing we do that is truly a benefit to our fellow man without any strings attached. Just to make ourselves feel good.”

Pudge laid his knife on the cutting board. “You know. I am always amazed how you can find Freemasonry in any situation.” as he started laughing. The old man smiled and looked at Pudge “My Brother Freemasonry is all around us. If you look you can see it. It’s all part of chipping away that ashlar of yours.”

~BH

WB Bill Hosler was made a Master Mason in 2002 in Three Rivers Lodge #733 in Indiana. He served as Worshipful Master in 2007 and became a member of the internet committee for Indiana's Grand Lodge. Bill is currently a member of Roff Lodge No. 169 in Roff Oklahoma and Lebanon Lodge No. 837 in Frisco,Texas. Bill is also a member of the Valley of Fort Wayne Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite in Indiana. A typical active Freemason, Bill also served as the High Priest of Fort Wayne's Chapter of the York Rite No. 19 and was commander of of the Fort Wayne Commandery No. 4 of the Knight Templar. During all this he also served as the webmaster and magazine editor for the Mizpah Shrine in Fort Wayne Indiana.

From the Archives: The Real "First Thanksgiving"

by Midnight Freemason Contributor

Bro. Steven L Harrison, PM, FMLR 33°

We all know the story of the "Pilgrims and Indians" celebrating the "First Thanksgiving." First in the "New World" it may have been, but it was not the first United States Thanksgiving. Brother George Washington proclaimed that first official Thanksgiving celebration in 1789, when he declared November 26 to be set aside not to be thankful for the nation's bounty but to give thanks for the newly adopted Constitution. Washington also enjoined people to "...unite in most humbly offering our prayers and supplications... beseeching [God] to pardon our national and other transgressions.” Although celebrated off-and-on, usually unofficially, from that time forward, Thanksgiving did not become a permanent official US holiday until Brother Franklin D. Roosevelt proclaimed it so in 1939.

~SLH

Steve Harrison, 33° KCCH, is a Past Master of Liberty Lodge #31, Liberty, Missouri. He is the editor of the Missouri Freemason magazine, author of the book Freemasonry Crosses the Mississippi, a Fellow of the Missouri Lodge of Research and also its Senior Warden. He is a dual member of Kearney Lodge #311, St. Joseph Missouri Valley of the Scottish Rite, Liberty York Rite, Moila Shrine and is a member of the DeMolay Legion of Honor.

From the Archives: The 50 Year Member - Part Eight : Just and Upright

by Midnight Freemason Contributor

Bro. Bill Hosler, PM

“Please pass the all-purpose flour, Amy”, Dianne said, as she started to whisk the contents of her bowl.  “As soon as the flour is mixed in I'm going to add the chocolate.”  It was a cold, wintery day and the ladies of the house thought it would be the perfect day for baking. 

Martha, the wife of the 50 Year member, along with her son’s wives were all making their family's favorite desserts. It was a wonderful time of sharing and getting to know each other. With each sharing their favorite recipe as well as their baking secrets and then of course gossip. There were baked goods of every kind; cakes, bread, cupcakes and other desserts for every taste and sweet tooth imaginable. It was a mountain of food, but Martha knew as soon as the kids came inside from playing in the snow it would be gone in a matter of minutes.

Out of the corner of her eye Martha noticed the girlfriend of her youngest son, Katie, sitting in the dining room alone. Martha frowned because from her vantage point it appeared that Katie was all alone and crying. Quietly Martha slipped out of the kitchen and took a seat next to Katie.

“Are you Okay, Katie?” Martha asked. Katie dabbed her eyes with a tissue and in a weak voice she said, “Not really, Rick and I had a fight on the way over here.” Martha smiled. “I understand. Every young couple argues. We did when we were young.  It’s just part of starting out in a relationship.”

“Not like this!” Katie exclaimed. “I don't know if we can stay together after this.” Martha frowned. “Goodness! What in the world would cause such a drastic change?”  The tears rolled down Katie's face as she tried to steady her voice. “Rick said he was going to become a Freemason! I told him I didn't think it was a good idea. He was adamant about it. He said it was something he had always wanted to do and nothing would stop him. He wouldn't even listen to me!”

“I don't know much about what they do, but what I have read on the internet about it they are very secretive. They do weird ceremonies and worship Satan! Some sites say they even sacrifice animals! I don't want to married to a man who belongs to a cult. It scares me to think what he would do to me. What if we were to have children? How can I think of raising kids with someone who goes off to god knows where and does weird things? I want a man who I know I can trust; a man who will be a good father and husband.” 

Martha hugged Katie and held her as she began to cry uncontrollably. “I understand Katie,” Martha said as she dried away her tears. “Many years ago when John and I were dating I was faced with the same thing.  John's Grandfather and father were both Freemasons. John told me he planned on joining too. I was scared to death! My mother was shocked how I could even consider marrying a man like that. Our pastor even told me that John was going to Hell and he would drag me there with him. But in all honesty Katie, Rick becoming a Freemason is the best thing that can happen to you and your marriage.”

Katie looked up in amazement with tears streaming down her face “How in the world can Rick becoming a Mason be a good thing for me?”  Martha smiled and took Katie’s hand. Sweetie, you love Rick for the man he is. I would like to think I had a lot to do with how he turned out. But a boy looks up to his father. It is the dad that teaches his son how to become a man. 

My John was raised with Masonic principals and he passed them down to his sons. Masons take an oath to live a certain way; to take care of each other if in distress even their families. And if, God forbid, he passes away, they are honor bound to take care of the man’s widow and orphans. I can think of many times if we had a problem we couldn't handle, John would call a member of his lodge and somehow the problem would be taken care of.

I remember once a few years ago one of the more elderly widows of the lodge had a problem.  She was housebound.  Her health was failing and her family had all passed away. She was alone in the world. She needed help with her day to day tasks; getting to the doctor, getting groceries. Those things that become more difficult as you get older. She contacted the lodge and several members visited her. When they arrived, one of the members nearly fell through her front step. The wood was rotted; as it turned out the house was in very bad repair. She explained that she didn't have a lot of money and since her husband had passed away she didn't have any way of getting the house fixed. 

After seeing all the issues the woman was going through, the Master of the lodge organized a group of members to help do some needed maintenance on the house.  They arranged transportation to get her to the store and to her doctor. The woman was extremely grateful. She came to realize she couldn't continue to live on her own any longer.  In response to this, the lodge sponsored her to live at the states Masonic retirement center. Now she was able to receive regular meals, a warm home and the medical care she desperately needed; not to mention she isn't alone anymore. She now has friends who are retired Masons or even a widow of a Mason themselves.  God knows what would have happened to her if her husband had not been a Mason!

Even though the aide is usually for the members of the lodge and their families it usually expands outside the lodge. Masons tend to be giving men. They have big hearts and hate to see anyone suffering. You will find many of them giving back to their communities. It is usually an individual contribution, but sometimes it is support from the entire Fraternity.  Masons have come together to build hospitals and even create centers for children with learning disabilities.  They have raised money to help research cures for many of the worst diseases! Just think how much worse the world would have been if these good men had not banded together!

All of these things I’ve mentioned are great things, but they are not the lodge's main objective. I have been told their main objective is to teach men to become better. I do not understand all of it, but John tells me that Masons are given tools that are used to make men think about their actions and try to rid themselves of their bad habits and actions. They strive to enable a good man to become a better husband, father, son and member of society. How can striving to become a good man be evil?

I will tell you something else that only a Mason's wife will tell you. I doubt if the men have even thought about it, but you will understand it. Your husband being a Mason will give YOU piece of mind too. Men being men are sometimes like boys. They like to have a good time, get together with their friends and have fun. 

A man who isn't a member will usually end up at a bar, or someplace worse. They might drink too much and get into a lot of trouble through the years. You may have no idea where he is or who he is with and your mind will start to wonder if he is doing something he shouldn't be doing. Things like that can cause a lot of stress to a relationship. It can cause a wedge between two people and end a relationship. But when your husband goes to lodge, you will know where he is and that whatever he is doing.  You can think of it as he is trying to help make the world a better place. He won't be out with women or drinking too much. If he does go out with his friends to have a drink, he will have Brothers around him who are great men.  They won't allow him to and drive home or be around people who will lead him down the wrong path.

Martha looked into Katie’s eyes and smiled, “I know this is a lot to take in and you may not believe me, but I can tell you I can't imagine what the last 50 years of marriage would have been like if John had not been a Mason. I just know our life has been better for it. If you don't believe me ask any one of those women in that kitchen. All of Rick's brothers have followed in their Dad and Granddad's footsteps and joined lodge. I think they will tell you the same thing as I am telling you.”

Martha continued, “Masonry isn't some cult that sacrifices babies or anything silly like that. The goal of Masonry is to take a good man and make him better along with making the world a little better place to live in.”

Katie dried her eyes and forced a smile, “I believe what you said. I have looked at Rick's dad and his brothers and I see they are good husbands and fathers and I think those traits are what made me fall love with him. If he is a good man now I know he will be even better once he joins.  Thank you, Mrs. Johnson for talking to me and helping put my mind to rest. I am going to tell Rick I stand behind his decision.”

Martha gave Katie a big hug. “It was my pleasure sweetie. I'm glad I could help put your mind at ease. Just one thing; don't call me Mrs. Johnson. Call me Mom. You already feel like a daughter to me and I am sure soon Rick will make it official. I am so glad to have you in my family.”

~BH

WB Bill Hosler was made a Master Mason in 2002 in Three Rivers Lodge #733 in Indiana. He served as Worshipful Master in 2007 and became a member of the internet committee for Indiana's Grand Lodge. Bill is currently a member of Roff Lodge No. 169 in Roff Oklahoma and Lebanon Lodge No. 837 in Frisco,Texas. Bill is also a member of the Valley of Fort Wayne Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite in Indiana. A typical active Freemason, Bill also served as the High Priest of Fort Wayne's Chapter of the York Rite No. 19 and was commander of of the Fort Wayne Commandery No. 4 of the Knight Templar. During all this he also served as the webmaster and magazine editor for the Mizpah Shrine in Fort Wayne Indiana.

Changing of the Seasons

by Senior Midnight Freemason Contributor
Gregory J. Knott 33° 

One of the great things about living in the Midwest of the United States is watching the seasons change from one to another.   As I write this, we are in the middle of autumn.  The leaves have changed colors and many have begun dropping gently to the ground.  It was just a few weeks ago that summer was wrapping up and yet winter is shortly on the horizon. The quick changing of the seasons should be a reminder of how quickly time passes through our lives.  

We learn through Freemasonry about the importance of the passing of time and we see it illustrated through the hour-glass. We learn more in the third degree lecture:

The Hour-Glass is an emblem of human life. Behold! how swiftly the sands run, and how rapidly our lives are drawing to a close. We cannot without astonishment behold the little particles which are contained in this machine, how they pass away almost imperceptibly, and yet, to our surprise, in the short space of an hour they are all exhausted. Thus wastes man! To-day he puts forth the tender leaves of hope; to-morrow blossoms, and bears his blushing honors thick upon him, the next day comes a frost, which nips the shoot, and, when he thinks his greatness still aspiring, he falls, like autumn leaves, to enrich oar mother earth. (Duncan’s Ritual)

By studying the lessons of Freemasonry we can understand how fast time flies by us. I encourage you to enjoy your life, embrace your family and friends and remember that tomorrow is never promised!

~GJK

Gregory J. Knott, 33° is a founding member and Senior Contributor of the Midnight Freemasons blog. He is a Past Master of St. Joseph Lodge No. 970 in St. Joseph (IL) and a plural member of Ogden Lodge No. 754 (IL), Homer Lodge No. 199 (IL) and Naval Lodge No. 4 in Washington, DC. He’s a member of the Scottish Rite, the York Rite, Eastern Star and is the Charter Secretary of the Illini High Twelve Club No. 768 in Champaign-Urbana. He is also a member of ANSAR Shrine (IL) and the Eastern Illinois Council No. 356 Allied Masonic Degrees. Greg serves on the Board of Directors of The Masonic Society and is a member of the Scottish Rite Research Society and The Philathes Society. He is a charter member of a new Illinois Royal Arch Chapter, Admiration Chapter U.D., and serves as its Secretary. Greg is very involved in Boy Scouts—an Eagle Scout himself, he is a member of the National Association of Masonic Scouters.

From the Archives: The 50 Year Member: Part Seven - The Table Lodge

by Midnight Freemason Contributor

Bro. Bill Hosler, PM

It was a bitter cold December evening as Pudge walked through the door of the Masonic temple. As he opened the door, the smell of good food cooking filled the vestibule. He could almost taste the steaks as he walked down the hallway. Just the thought of the feast made his stomach growl.

Pudge walked into the cloakroom to remove his trench coat revealing his brand new suit. “The old man was right. I do feel like a million bucks when I dress up!” He placed his coat and hat on a peg and walked into the temple.

As he walked through the building he stopped and looked into the dining room. He could not believe what he saw. The lights in the room were turned down and the candles on the tables gave the room illumination.  The tables in the dinging room were placed in the shaped of a “U”. They were covered with real white linen table cloths instead of the white butcher paper that usually covered them. An altar was placed in the middle of the table arrangement with the Volume of Sacred law resting on top.

Real silver cutlery replaced the usual plastic tableware.  There were china settings instead of paper plates. As Pudge gazed upon this unusual scene, waiters and waitresses scurried to get ready for the meal. He thought how strange it will be to have someone serve the lodge meal instead of going through the normal cafeteria style that lodge meals are usually served in.

The social room was filled with laughter as he walked in. Men were standing around in little groups, talking and laughing. Pudge could tell by the conversations, as he passed the groups, that this was a joyous occasion filled with happiness in the air. The 50 year member was sitting in a leather chair in the corner talking with several other members. As he approached the group, Pudge could tell the conversation was about an event from years ago.

“Hey Pudge! Glad you could make it! Have a seat.” The old man stood and shook his hand. “That new suit looks good on you!  You know the rest of the guys.” Pudge shook everyone’s hand and took a seat with the group. “I know this is old hat to you guys, but I am excited. This is my first Feast of Saint John. I don’t know what to expect.” All the men started to smile “You can expect a good meal and great fellowship. I look forward to this event every year. It’s like my Masonic Christmas.” Robert Davies exclaimed, “I never miss it. I was thinking about it this week. This is my sixty-fifth feast. I never miss one!” The 50 year member said in a laughing tone, “Robert you never miss it because you can’t say no to a free meal!” The whole group laughed. 

“I mean it.” Robert said “I really look forward to this feast. Don’t get me wrong I enjoy the regular meals we have but there is something special about this night. I don’t know if it is the meal or the toasts or the fellowship but the feast is always magical to me. I wish we could have it more often.”

Pudge thought for a second, “Why can’t we have it more often? We don’t need a special holiday to have a feast and celebrate Freemasonry.” Everyone got quiet for a second to think about this idea. Herb Walker broke the silence, “The idea sounds good, but the meal we have is pretty good. I don’t see why we need to change it.” Mark Miller quickly jumped in, “The food we normally have is good but there is nothing wrong with the idea of making our lodge meals more special. Instead of just feeding our bodies we could also feed our souls.” Herb replied, “I can see that but we can’t afford a steak dinner at every lodge meeting.” 

 

Robert thought for a second, “It doesn’t have to be an expensive meal at every meeting. I am talking about how we do it. Right now we just serve food hoping it will entice members to attend our meetings. If we were to make our meals a celebration of Brotherhood instead of a gimmick to get guys to come we might have more Brethren show up.”

Pudge replied, “I think you have something there Robert. It is the quality of a lodge experience men are looking for. It isn’t about a quick meal and then sitting through a boring meeting. Men want to be inspired when they come to lodge.”

The 50 year member was listening to the discussion that the Brethren were having. When I visited lodges in England, Brethren would close lodge and enter the dining room to conduct what they call the festive board. They have it after ever meeting and degree night. Basically a festive board is exactly what we are talking about. The Brethren sit down and have a restaurant quality meal served to them by waiters. There was laughter and the telling of stories, just like we have at our meal. Once the meal is finished, the Brethren sing and have a series of toasts where several men would make remarks. It is a beautiful ceremony. Once the ceremony is complete they all shake hands and go to their homes. They leave their temple with a feeling of peace and fellowship. Each one arrives home with a warm glow of fraternity and they feel closer to the Craft and the Brethren who make it up.

The money we spend on the meal shouldn’t, in my opinion, be a factor. Can you put a price on Freemasonry? Sometimes you need to spend a little extra on something special. There isn’t a man here who would scrimp on a special meal with their family. Would you take your wife to a fast food joint on Valentine’s Day or your wedding anniversary? Of course not! Why should a night with your Masonic Brethren be any different? Nearly all of us have been to a Grand Lodge dinner. Do they eat baloney sandwiches and potato chips on paper plates? NO! They have a special banquet with the finest foods. We all have to ask ourselves a question.  Did you join Freemasonry to be mediocre or to become great?” 

The group became silent. “I sometimes think about staying home and not come to a meeting. I think about the meal being served and think I could be home eating a better meal at. Some of the Brethren are good cooks but I want my lodge time to be special like John was talking about. I think it is something we should think about, Robert said in a low voice. I don’t want mediocre. I want my Masonry to be special.”

Pudge looked at the group and stated, A Past Grand Master from Indiana, Dwight L Smith once said, “The Festive Board is not the wolfing of ham sandwiches, pie and coffee at the conclusion of a degree. It is the Hour of Refreshment in all its beauty and dignity; an occasion for inspiration and fellowship; a time when the noble old traditions of the Craft are preserved.” This is what a lot of the younger guys are saying. When we joined we wanted the Freemasonry we seen in the movies. We came to learn. We wanted to become better men. We wanted Freemasonry! If we want to keep the Craft growing we need to look at some of these traditions and bring them back. If we continue on the path we have been traveling we will soon cease to be the great fraternity our forefathers built.”

~BH

WB Bill Hosler was made a Master Mason in 2002 in Three Rivers Lodge #733 in Indiana. He served as Worshipful Master in 2007 and became a member of the internet committee for Indiana's Grand Lodge. Bill is currently a member of Roff Lodge No. 169 in Roff Oklahoma and Lebanon Lodge No. 837 in Frisco,Texas. Bill is also a member of the Valley of Fort Wayne Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite in Indiana. A typical active Freemason, Bill also served as the High Priest of Fort Wayne's Chapter of the York Rite No. 19 and was commander of of the Fort Wayne Commandery No. 4 of the Knight Templar. During all this he also served as the webmaster and magazine editor for the Mizpah Shrine in Fort Wayne Indiana.