Masonic Travel & Living a Masonic Life

By Midnight Freemason Emeritus Contributor

R.H. Johnson

Well, I’m writing this while on the last leg home from a trip to Eugene Oregon, where I was humbled to present and overjoyed to share in fellowship with Eugene Lodge No. 11

I arrived Friday and had dinner with Worshipful Brother Andre Cvitanich. I ate, probably the best burger I’ve had in years— so let’s say the trip would have been amazing even if it were just that conversation over lemonade and burgers. 

As the late Billy Mays always said, “But wait, there’s more!”

After dinner, WB Andre took me on an evening tour of Eugene Lodge No. 11 

The building itself was their third home. The first, a glorious purpose-built giant white mansion of a lodge, was taken by the government under eminent domain laws. Their second home, a smaller, yet still magnificent building, was also eventually taken under the same laws. 

Finally, Eugene Lodge found a permanent home in their third building, all three mind you, were purpose-built for Masonry. 

An amazing artifact the lodge had was a Trestle Board or Carpet made by John Sherer. It had recently needed some TLC, so it was laid out while a new frame was being custom-built by WB. Andre. The carpet itself is a rare item. There’s a lot to, “geek out on” with this item, and I could, but I’ll let Chad Kopenski of OH do that eventually. 

WB. Andre was humble about what he said was their small lodge. It wasn’t small. It was exactly right. A wonderful atmosphere, where care and thought was evident in just about every part of the building. After the tour, I checked into the hotel and went upstairs for some writing before heading to bed. 

The next day started at high noon when we arrived back at the lodge. I met a Past Grand Lodge Historian, Michael. He was a wealth of information and to be honest, a damn inspiration. He’s written a bunch books on local history, biographies on men of Oregon AASR who’ve had honors and high honors, and a bunch more. He was gracious enough to give me a copy of one of his books—autographed of course!

After some great conversation, we had an awesome lunch. As masons, we love to fellowship and that happens over food. But I’ve often wondered why we don’t have more healthy options. WB Andre put out a spread of breads, fruits, lunch meats, and cheeses. I know some of you might think, “Yeah yeah—sandwiches.” But guys, I mean it. It was a welcomed, wholesome, and blessed meal. I rarely eat before doing a talk. I ate. 

After the talk, we all engaged in discourse, and midway through, it was discovered that about an hour away, there was going to be an outdoor EA degree on a ranch owned by a Past Grand Master of OR. And you know what? We went. In my home jurisdiction of IL, I’ve been a part of, and sat on the sidelines of several annual outdoor degrees, but it’s always a Master Mason degree. I’d never seen an Entered Apprentice degree. 

The windshield masonry on the way to the ranch was outstanding. I think WB. Andre and I solved about every problem there is. Notably, I think we solved all the problems related to the Royal Arch system. ;)

Once we arrived, all I can say is, “Wow.” The land was lush. The surrounding forest, yeah I said forest, was green and mysterious. The birds were singing and the wind was blowing. The trees swayed above and the weather was 70 degrees. Perfect? By all accounts, it was as close as I could imagine to perfection. 

The degree was wonderful. Spoiler alert—the Oregonian work is SUPER SIMILAR to Illinoisan work. There are some significant chunks here or there that were added or removed but the work I heard, I could lip sync to. I have to give a shoutout to a Brother I met named Brian Tipsword. He gave the EA lecture and he did it with such care, meaning and intent, that I was able to witness the candidate make connections during the lecture. It’s what we all hope to accomplish when doing these lectures and Bro. Brian did just that. A different Brother, Mike, did the charge to the candidate and again, care and intent led to a meaningful connection by the candidate. 

After the degree, the fellowship began again! Would you believe they grilled everyone's steaks? Yeah. Delightful cuts of choice beef and served with beans, slaws, salads, and watermelon— it was just wholesome. 

After all that, more windshield Freemasonry. WB. Andre and I reflected on intentional and meaningful masonry in our conversations and we also had some great comparisons of rituals. They did this, and we do that. But we figured out that both our dispensation grants for IL and OR came from MO. So is it any wonder why our ritual was so similar? Oh yeah, and if that wasn’t enough - we got a rainbow on the way home :)

I got back to the hotel about 10 PM. No writing to do, so I sat back reflected on the weekend, and went to bed. The next day, I was traveling home. 

Truly, there is nothing better than getting out there and visiting other lodges for fellowship and education. It feeds the soul. It reinvigorates your call to the Craft. You just feel good. This trip to Eugene was wonderful. May the Brothers of Eugene No. 11 continue to grow, to teach, to lead by example. Eugene No. 11 wasn’t the only lodge in the area making waves that will lead to this Fraternity becoming better. Pearl Lodge and McKenzie River are all making strides. Thank you, Brothers!!  

~RHJ

RWB Johnson is an Emeritus Managing Editor of the Midnight Freemasons blog. He is a Freemason out of the 2nd N.E. District of Illinois. He currently serves as the Worshipful Master of Spes Novum Lodge No. 1183. He is a Past Master of Waukegan Lodge 78 (and sitting Secretary) and a Past District Deputy Grand Master for the 1st N.E. District of Illinois. He is the current V:. Sovereign Grand Inspector for the AMD in IL. Brother Johnson currently produces and hosts weekly Podcasts (internet radio programs) Whence Came You? & Masonic Radio Theatre which focuses 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. He is the co-author of "It's Business Time - Adapting a Corporate Path for Freemasonry", "The Master's Word: A Short Treatise on the Word, the Light, and the Self - Annotated Edition" and author of "How to Charter a Lodge: A No-Nonsense, Unsanctioned Guide. More books are on the way.

An Outstretched Hand

by Midnight Freemason Contributor

Jim Stapleton

Before submitting my petition, I had no personal connection to Freemasonry. No one in my family was a member. I also didn’t have a friend at work or in my neighborhood who was a member of the Fraternity. I found the Grand Lodge of New Jersey’s website and filled out the contact form, saying that I was interested in joining. Then they put me in contact with a local Lodge.

The Secretary of the Lodge said that I should show up at the building on a certain date and time to pick up a petition. So, that particular day I left work and went straight over to the Lodge at the specified time. I was nervous as I pulled up to the building and saw quite a few cars in the parking lot. I walked into the building wearing business casual clothes, and was surprised when I walked into a room packed with men wearing tuxedos. I knew the name of the Secretary but didn’t know how to pick him out of the crowd. I walked up to someone in the room to inquire about the Secretary, and they said that he was upstairs but should be down soon.

Since I am an introvert, I felt extremely uncomfortable. I was out of place and stuck out amongst the crowd. I was the only person not dressed in formal wear and didn’t know a single person in the room. Part of me wanted to turn around and head home. At that moment, a voice rose from the crowd saying, “I don’t think I’ve met this person before.” I looked up and an older gentleman was approaching me with his hand extended to shake my hand. While he wasn’t the Secretary, he was the first Mason to welcome me. That was my initial interaction with RW Brother Al Hann.

RW Hann was sadly called from Labor recently after many years of working in the Quarries of Freemasonry. He was a treasured member of the 18th Masonic District in New Jersey and throughout our Jurisdiction. He served as Worshipful Master of Laurel Lodge No. 237 in Laurel Springs, NJ in 1966. Eventually, he served as a Junior Grand Deacon. RW Hann was the Installing Marshall for the Lodges in our District for many, many, many years. As a result, he was an honorary member of my Lodge, and I am sure other Lodges also bestowed that honor on him.

Several years ago (when he was in his 90s), RW Hann “retired” from being the District’s resident Installing Marshall. However, when the spirit moved him, he would still sometimes help out with the installation of a Marshall. In fact, during USS New Jersey Lodge No. 62’s most recent installation (when I was installed as Worshipful Master), RW Hann stood up and helped to install our Lodge’s Marshall. He did so with skill and precision. That was the last time I saw him perform that role.

I was inspired to write this piece after attending a meeting at his Mother Lodge last night. The Brothers of Laurel Lodge had his usual chair saved for him - a very touching tribute. His memory will live on with many members of the Fraternity. I know that I will always recall that he was the first Mason to welcome me as I took the initial steps of my Masonic journey.

~JS

Jim Stapleton is the Worshipful Master of USS New Jersey Lodge No. 62. He is also a member of the New Jersey Lodge of Masonic Research and Education No. 1786. Jim received the Distinguished White Apron Award from the Grand Lodge of New Jersey. He was awarded the Daniel Carter Beard Masonic Scouter Award. Jim is also a member of the Society of King Solomon.

Troward:The Hidden Power - Part 1

by Midnight Freemason Guest Contributor

Bro. Mark St. Cyr

The following is my attempt to apply contemporary verbiage to one of the most unsung heroes of this modern age, Thomas Troward. (1846 -1916)  If the name sounds vaguely familiar, there’s a reason. Freemasons might recall his thoughts as a Masonic scholar, along with Albert G. Mackey, William Harvey,  H.L. Haywood, W.L. Fawcette from the book “The Two Great Pillars of Boaz and  Jachin”. 

Whether or not Judge Troward was a Freemason, I am not sure, for the more I researched the more I found works of his relating to the topic, but none showing initiation or affiliation.  

However, his name and work go far beyond the Craft and are foundational for many ideas practiced today, such as… 

AA (e.g., Alcoholics Anonymous), New Thought Movement (e.g., accumulated wisdom and philosophy from a variety of origins, such as Ancient Greek,  Roman, Egyptian, Chinese, Taoist, Hindu, and Buddhist cultures), right through to today’s “Positive Thinking” movement. (e.g., Bob Proctor of “The Secret”  fame credits Troward’s work in much of his own. This is just a sampling, it’s far deeper and far more consuming than one may judge at first glance. But, his influence is everywhere, it’s just most have no idea.  

I’d like to change that. 

So what I’m offering starting with this sample below is to take chapter by chapter, point by point while keeping his original intent and examples in tact i.e.,  not adding or changing things into what I think, but what he said directly as succinctly as possible with more contemporary verbiage and phrasing.  

I will footnote the book using the APA 7th edition method or similar. The heading titles are not changed unless noted, for those that want to see read the original text. You can find it across the web, for free (for it is all in the Public  Domain), or, you can easily download a digital version on services like Kindle®  (for a cost) or others, or simply get a hardcopy at many booksellers. 

Now, when it comes to this subject matter, it’s not as if I’m some wide-eyed “Holy Moly! I’ve found the holy grail!” type. I’ve been at this, and doing this, for a very long time. I have many first editions, first printings from the likes of Andrew Carnegie (Empire of Business 1902) through Napoleon Hill’s “Think and Grow Rich” and more. So it’s not like I’m not literally invested in such topics or I don’t know what is being professed and its intent, or the profound meanings encapsulated that so many are looking for today but just can’t seem to find. 

Everywhere you turn today, someone’s coming up with ancient wisdom is some  “new and improved” version, taking the original expressions, and trying to turn them into some soundbite or quote on social media with no understanding of what truly is at the root and why. 

This project I’m starting here on the Midnight Freemasons is to try and alleviate just that making it understandable, relatable, and more importantly - applicable to one’s daily life. 

I hope you agree. 

Now let’s begin…

The Hidden Power: Chapter 1, Section 1  

To truly understand how much of our daily lives are influenced by symbols, we need to answer the age-old question: What is Truth? As we start to recognize this, we begin to approach Truth. Realizing Truth means being able to interpret symbols, whether they are natural or conventional, and not just dismissing them as meaningless. The main responsibility of those who have attained this knowledge is to help others understand this connection. 

Everything has an inner and outer aspect; a superficial mind fails to grasp the deeper truth because it only focuses on the outer appearance. As long as this is the case, a person cannot comprehend their connection to the universal, and thus cannot make progress in understanding. Denying the principle of "Growth,"  which is fundamental to all aspects of life, whether spiritual, intellectual, or material, leads to stagnation. 

Growth and expansion from within, in alignment with the natural order, is the  Law of Life. This principle unlocks the mysteries of existence. Without this  understanding, we cannot move from the superficial to the deeper aspects of life. Recognizing this inner truth allows us to see that life is richer and more meaningful when we look beyond the surface.

In a broad sense, everything is a symbol of the deeper truth within it, and Nature is a gallery of hidden meanings for those who can interpret them. Our lives are shaped by how we understand these symbols, especially in relation to the  Divine. A person's beliefs about the Divine influence their entire life, not just their formal adherence to a specific creed. 

Has a person's mind truly reached a point where they know God or understand the knowledge they possess about the Divine? Without inner clarity, one's mind remains in chaos, with elements of being disordered and conflicting. Progressing further means realizing that there is a governing power within, even if initially obscured. Otherwise, life becomes a constant struggle to reconcile inner chaos. Every step towards understanding, from the lowest levels of ignorance to the highest peaks of intelligence, must reflect the deeper realization of one's connection to the Divine. This realization dissolves old limitations and leads to freedom, power, and light. True understanding is not merely theoretical but involves a deep, conscious experience of life within ourselves. 

The closer we get to this inner understanding, the clearer our perception of symbols becomes. However, this journey is not easy, as each step involves convincing ourselves that the symbols are not the truth itself but representations of a deeper reality. The difficulty lies in moving beyond mere symbols to grasp the Truth they point to. 

Many may fear the changes that this deeper understanding brings, preferring the familiar over the unknown. Yet, the true power of the universe continually pushes forward, encouraging growth and overcoming limitations. Realizing the hidden power within leads to ultimate Truth, beyond any superficial understanding. True inner Truth is not an excuse for inaction or fear. Those lacking the energy to seek deeper meaning remain in the superficial aspects of life. True realization involves pushing forward with confidence, trusting that the inner power of the universe will guide us to greater understanding and fulfillment.

Mark St. Cyr - Freemason

Pause for thought and Congratulations!

by Midnight Freemason Guest Contributor

Jack Heide

The recent announcement by Universal Co-Masonry through social media of their work of a beautiful new archives building in Larkspur, Colorado is an inspiring development that highlights the continued growth and vitality within certain sectors of Freemasonry. Universal Co-Masonry, which admits both men and women, has seen steady expansion in recent years even as many “mainstream” Grand Lodges have struggled with declining membership, lodge closures, and consolidation.

The fact that Universal Co-Masonry is investing in new infrastructure and has the resources to build a dedicated archives facility is a testament to the health of their organization. It demonstrates that there remains an eager population seeking out the fellowship, ritual, and teachings that Freemasonry provides.

Moreover, while the archives building represents physical growth, it is also indicative of broader success across various facets of the organization. The ability to undertake such a project suggests financial stability, effective leadership, and an engaged membership base. It prompts one to consider when “mainstream” Freemasonry last experienced growth driven by genuine increases in membership, rather than focusing on retention or trying to get more people in the door regardless of their suitability or commitment to Masonic principles.

However, most “mainstream” Grand Lodges would consider Universal Co-Masonry to be "clandestine" since it does not conform to their standards of recognition and ancient landmarks, particularly in its inclusion of female members. This raises thought-provoking questions about the future trajectory of Freemasonry.

As overall interest in joining fraternal organizations has waned in recent decades, many “mainstream” Lodges have struggled to attract new members, especially younger ones. Aging member bases, lack of public awareness, and failure to adapt to changing social norms and expectations have contributed to this decline. If these trends continue unabated, Freemasonry as practiced by “mainstream” Grand Lodges risks fading into obscurity.

So what lessons can be drawn from the comparative success of Universal Co-Masonry?

Inclusivity seems to play a key role. By welcoming female members, Universal Co-Masonry expands its potential pool of recruits and projects a more modern, equitable image that aligns with contemporary social values. This approach not only boosts numbers but also infuses the organization with fresh perspectives and talent. However, admitting women would be a seismic shift for “mainstream” Freemasonry, challenging centuries of tradition and potentially causing significant internal dissent. “Mainstream” Lodges might consider more incremental steps, such as partnering with women's auxiliaries or sponsoring inclusive community events, to signal openness without radically altering their core structure. Or even, going out on limb here, maybe recognize women-only masonic lodges and grand lodges, so there is modern parity and status with male lodges and grand lodges. 

Flexibility and openness to change appear to be important factors. While “mainstream” Lodges often strictly adhere to long-standing traditions and membership requirements, Universal Co-Masonry seems more willing to innovate and adapt. Reexamining entrenched practices and restrictions could help “mainstream” Lodges remove barriers to growth and relevance. Yet too much change risks diluting the unique identity and heritage of Freemasonry. A balanced approach might involve carefully evaluating which traditions are essential to preserve and which could be modified to better serve current needs and aspirations.

Proactive outreach and public engagement can make a significant difference. Many “mainstream” Lodges have struggled with a lack of public awareness and understanding about Freemasonry, allowing misconceptions to proliferate. Universal Co-Masonry likely benefits from more effective communication strategies that raise its profile and transmit a positive message to potential members. However, excessive publicity or aggressive recruitment tactics could undermine the mystique and selectivity associated with Masonry. “mainstream” Lodges might focus on targeted outreach emphasizing their charitable works, community involvement, and personal development opportunities, while still maintaining a degree of discretion.

Providing a clear value proposition is critical in an era of countless competing demands on people's time and attention. Universal Co-Masonry seems to be successfully conveying the tangible benefits of membership, whether through fulfilling social connections, personal development programs, meaningful charitable work, or esoteric education. “mainstream” Lodges must ensure they are offering similarly compelling reasons to join and remain involved. At the same time, they should be wary of trend-chasing or diluting their core identity in an attempt to appeal to every possible audience. Striking a balance may involve focusing on the unique transformative aspects of Masonic ritual and teachings while finding fresh ways to apply them to contemporary challenges and interests.

In navigating these considerations, “mainstream” Freemasonry might benefit from adopting a "Resist-Accept-Direct" framework. The concept of Resist-Accept-Direct, as applied to organizational change and strategic planning, appears to have originated within the field of future studies and foresight. It has been used by various futurists, strategists, and consultants as a framework for helping organizations navigate complex, uncertain, and rapidly changing environments. The framework involves asking three key questions: What do we preserve? What do we allow to change? And what do we purposefully change?

The first question, "What do we preserve?" calls for clear identification and fierce protection of the core elements of Masonic tradition, ritual, and teachings that define the Craft's distinct identity. These might include the essential initiatic experiences, the use of symbols and allegory to convey moral and spiritual lessons, and the emphasis on personal growth and brotherly love. By resisting any dilution or alteration of these fundamental aspects, Lodges ensures that Freemasonry remains a unique and transformative path for those who seek it out.

The second question, "What do we allow to change?" recognizes that some degree of organic evolution is natural and even necessary for Freemasonry to remain relevant in changing times. This might encompass gradual shifts in the demographics of membership, the incorporation of new technologies in Lodge operations and communications, or the updating of certain ceremonial elements to reflect contemporary language and sensibilities. The key is to accept these changes gracefully when they arise from within the Craft while ensuring they do not compromise the essential nature and purpose of Masonry.

The third question, "What do we purposefully change?" advocates for proactive, intentional initiatives to address areas where Freemasonry has struggled to adapt. For example, Lodges might choose to purposefully change their public outreach strategies, developing a more engaging online presence, participating in community events, and collaborating with local organizations to showcase the positive impact of Masonry. They might purposefully change their membership processes, streamline application procedures, offer flexible dues structures, and create mentorship programs to better integrate and retain new brothers. Or they might purposefully change their leadership development approach, providing training in modern management techniques and encouraging younger members to take on progressive roles and responsibilities.

“Mainstream” Freemasonry could begin to address these questions through a thoughtful and inclusive process of self-assessment and strategic planning. This might involve surveying members to gather insights on what they value most about the Craft and where they see opportunities for improvement. It could include forming study groups or task forces to examine specific issues and propose recommendations for change. It would certainly require open and honest dialogue among Lodge leaders and members, as well as a willingness to experiment with new approaches and learn from the successes and challenges of other jurisdictions.

Importantly, this process should be guided by a shared commitment to preserving the timeless essence of Freemasonry while also ensuring its continued vitality and relevance. By striking a balance between resistance and acceptance, tradition and innovation, “mainstream” Lodges can chart a purposeful course toward a stronger, more vibrant future.

By identifying the core elements of Masonic tradition, ritual, and teachings that must be zealously guarded, Lodges can ensure they maintain a distinct identity rooted in centuries of history and wisdom. At the same time, acknowledging areas where flexibility and organic evolution can be accommodated allows for gradual adaptation to changing social contexts without forcing the issue. Finally, proactively initiating certain changes, such as in the areas of public outreach, membership processes, or leadership development, affords Lodges greater control over their future direction.

Ultimately, the path forward for “mainstream” Grand Lodges is not an easy one, but it may require taking inspiration from the success stories in Masonry, even if they come from unfamiliar or unrecognized quarters. The Universal Co-Masonry archives project is a reminder that Freemasonry still holds appeal and relevance for many. The question is whether “mainstream” Lodges can adapt to tap into that potential before it is too late. By carefully weighing the pros and cons of different approaches, seeking a middle path between tradition and innovation, and applying a framework of purposeful change balanced with preservation of core identity, “mainstream” Freemasonry may yet find a way to thrive in the 21st century.

No matter the current direction of any Masonic organization, I give hearty congratulations to Universal Co-Masonry and all their current and future endeavors!

~JH

Jack Heide is Junior Deacon of Beverly-Riverside Lodge No. 107 in Riverside, New Jersey. He holds a Masters of Community and Regional Planning degree from the University of Oregon, and Masters in Homeland Security and Defense from the Naval Postgraduate School. He works in the field of emergency management in the New York, New Jersey Region, where he resides with wife and daughter.