The mission of the Freemasons of Minnesota is to engage and inspire The Minnesota good men, who believe in a Supreme Being, to live according to Masonic tenets of Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth. MASON

September–October 2020 VOL. 68, No. 3

Grand Lodge of Minnesota adopts new Social Media Policy On Saturday, September 12th, the Board of Corporate Trustees of the Rather than recapitulate the contemporary words of others, our Grand of Minnesota officially adopted a new social media policy Master, MW Brother Ethan A. Seaberg, prefers the following quote from for our jurisdiction. This policy, the text of which follows, is now in full the Charge at Initiation– “There are three great duties, which, as a effect for Minnesota Masons. Please review the policy and its several Mason, you are charged to inculcate to God, your neighbor, and yourself points, and let it be a rule and guide to your conduct. ... to your neighbor, in acting upon the square, and doing unto him as Grand Master Many articles and edicts have been published by this Grand Lodge you wish he should do unto you.” Masonic Service and others, on the subject of appropriate behavior towards our fellowmen.

Grand Lodge Grand Lodge of Minnesota News pages 1–3, 8 Social Media Policy (Adopted by the Board of Corporate Trustees 12 September 2020)

In your Entered Apprentice Degree, the Worshipful Master for the express purpose of allowing business connections clearly told you, “There you stand a just and upright Mason, and I between Brothers are exempted from this restriction. give it you strictly in charge ever to walk and act as such.” Are you • A Mason may not use social media to contact other Grand doing it? Do your words in Lodge match your actions in society? Jurisdictions unless you are a member of that jurisdiction. When we represent ourselves as members of the Fraternity, Remember that all intra-jurisdictional communication is, by we become someone’s impression of . As such, it is Masonic protocol, conducted by and between Grand Lodge important that we act accordingly and subscribe to the lessons offices. Minnesota we are all taught as Masons in terms of how we communicate • No discussion or other information regarding to an applica- Masonic and interact with Masons and non-Masons. tion, background, investigation, or ballot of an applicant is Charities Your individual postings reflect on the entire Fraternity as ever appropriate or condoned. well as you as an individual. Be mindful that your image online • Nothing may ever be written or discussed relative to the pages 4–5 could be viewed by your colleagues and co-workers, future business of a Lodge or of any discussions/actions which have employers, as well as your Lodge Brothers and their families. If occurred behind Tyled doors, with the exception that official we promote anarchism and chaos, or if we address each other Lodge pages may promote events, raisings, etc. within the with hate and vitriol, some will believe that those ideas come bounds of the Code and other rules set forth herein. from Freemasonry. This may seem to be an extreme perspective, • Information about Lodge or District social activities must but society views us as thought leaders, and many in society want comply with the Grand Lodge regulations already in place to tear us down. Let’s not give them the ammunition to do that by for such events. being careless on social media. • The Grand Lodge of Minnesota AF & AM is the absolute Social Media Policy of the Grand Lodge of Minnesota Masonic authority in this jurisdiction. Only the Grand The Grand Lodge of Minnesota recognizes that social Lodge of Minnesota AF & AM can make authoritative Lodge News media has grown exponentially in recent years and has a goal statements on behalf of Minnesota Masons. of supporting the regular and extensive use of it. We know that & Views • To ensure our fraternity represents itself to the high standards many Brethren regularly connect by Facebook, Twitter, we must regulate our actions by individual restraint and through page 6 LinkedIn and other means. We as Masons must be mindful that Brother-to-Brother intervention. As a Freemason, quietly advise our individual postings not only reflect our own character but a Brother if you feel that what he has posted is improper within Masonic that of Freemasonry across this Grand Jurisdiction. To this end, the framework of our Grand Constitutions, laws, rules, regula- Family News the following policy will apply to all those under the jurisdic- tions, edicts and the general regulations of Freemasonry. page 7 tion of the Grand Lodge of Minnesota, AF & AM: • Actions taken which violate this policy may be construed as Social Media Policy unmasonic behavior and may subject the violator to charges • A Mason must conduct himself with the same courtesy he and discipline as such, conformant to the Minnesota would in front of the general public. As a Mason, he must Masonic Code. be aware that his postings are a permanent record; there- fore, his conduct may influence the world with a positive or Ultimately, your actions as a Mason online should promote the negative opinion about him personally and about the organi- highest standards of morality and integrity. You should always be zations to which he belongs. mindful of the penalties as described in the Grand Constitution • A Mason may never use disparaging comments, profanity, etc. relating to trial, suspension, and/or expulsion for any un-Masonic when posting; including, but not limited to, graphic, video, behavior. Posting a comment related to the Fraternity and then and audio recordings. posting a disparaging comment about a social or political stance • A Mason may never identify any man as a member of the can easily be misconstrued by readers that your stance is represen- Craft unless he has provided his consent or has already identi- tative of Masonry and all Masons. Remember that the public and fied himself as such on that specific social media network. members of the Masonic Fraternity are reading your posts online. • A Mason may not post secret portions of the ritual, nor If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to “tyled” information. contact the Grand Lodge Webmaster or the Grand Secretary. We encourage you to be a positive and proactive force for projecting • Masonic pages are to be supportive of the organization and Freemasonry in the world! its members, promote upcoming events, discuss past events, video sharing, and discussion of times of fellowship and “A Brother who has a proper appreciation of our ancient promotion of . institution, of its beauties, its ties, its requirements, or its privileges, will under no circumstance give utterance, even outside the Lodge, to • A Mason may not use Social media to obtain personal opinions or sentiments that will make him obnoxious to his Brethren advantage in promoting political, religious or business or wound their feelings.” activities by targeting other Masons. Social media pages or MWB A.T.C. Pierson, 1861 groups set up or endorsed by the Grand Lodge of Minnesota As restated by MWB Ethan Seaberg, 2020 Harvest time Lessons from the Leadership Committee by Larry Lyman

As Summer wanes and Autumn their position for several days, unassisted, Masonic Service arrives, this is a great time to review where until relief troops could arrive. Though we’ve been, assess where we are and plan they were outnumbered and outgunned, M.W.B. Ethan A. Seaberg for the future! We have been challenged to they survived, held their position and as a work in an environment that none of us result many of the survivors were awarded Grand Master had seen coming a year ago. Some Lodges the Silver Star. These heroes could have have continued to thrive, though certainly bemoaned the loss of comrades, the fact in a different way than originally intended, that they had not been able to complete I hope you’ll forgive this step away and though I’d never met him he certainly while others are struggling. As always, the fortifications before engaging an enemy from columns about policy and strategic seemed someone worth meeting. Then, at Leadership Committee wants to assure you and their supplies had almost entirely goals and dread viruses, and give license the end of the remarks, rose from the back that we will respond to any request for been exhausted. I know one of these brave for a more personal message. Had tradition of the room a man who was soon to cement assistance to the best of our ability. You, soldiers, a survivor of an unbelievable prevailed and we met in Grand Session in my perception. Brother, are the heart of Masonry, and we challenge. What does he talk about? The are here for you. great camaraderie, the fact that they never April, a number of people from my home- I unfortunately do not recall the man’s As you look back, how well had you lost heart, and today they still have a bond town planned to attend our installation. name, so for the sake of this narrative I’ll planned for 2020? Were your goals, and the of brotherhood that he cherishes! May we None are Masons, but supportive to a per- call him John. And to say he rose from the plans to reach those goals, carefully thought all look back and celebrate the great and son and kind enough to spend part of a back of the room is hardly accurate. out, written down and ready to be imple- good things accomplished during this perfectly good Saturday afternoon honor- Struggled mightily to stand might be more mented? Or, were you counting on things challenging year, and may the memories ing a friend. A charmed existence, this one. apt. I am no physician, but I am certain that simply running on automatic, as they have of difficulty fade with time. Share a sense In my remarks that afternoon, one of John suffered from some neuromuscular for a few years? Have you been able to of hope with your Brothers in Lodge and my hopes was to answer a persistent disorder making each step to the front of accomplish goals laid out over a year ago, or let that hope shine as you go forward. question from those visitors, “So, why are the Lodge room labored. He grabbed the did the COVID-19 pandemic stop all that As you assess where your Lodge is now, you a Mason?” More truthfully put, with- podium to steady himself, and spoke. had been successful in the past? It is impor- what changes have you implemented to out the sharp edges cut off by social con- Some years ago John decided to build tant, as you look to the past, to list not only overcome the challenges we face in today’s vention, their question might be, “Why do a house near where Don and Elsie lived. those projects that failed, but also to celebrate reality? How do we show respect for author- you spend all that time, driving all over His physical affliction would make it a those accomplishments which did come to ity, while also holding firm to the tenets of the place, wearing bedazzled aprons, and challenge, but he was determined to do so fruition, despite the challenges posed! the Fraternity? Look to the East, and to your hanging out in musty old buildings?” This notwithstanding. He began to work, and as Brothers, take heart in the story of the fellow Masons when you are unsure. Listen would have been the answer, and as good you unfortunately might imagine, it did not Night of the Silver Stars, the story of an with the attentive ear to the words of the a one as I’ve found. take long for neighbors to chuckle under Army unit tasked to simply support and Grand Master…we are blessed to have such I was the Secretary of my Lodge a their breath. Make fun of him is what they assist local villagers in Vietnam in the a great and good leader! Take advantage of number of years ago when I took a call did, and shameful remarks about things early days of the U.S. buildup in the late the Grand Lodge committees for your guid- from Gary Charleston about the death of like what kind of square corners could 1960s. The unit was the first unit to ance—whether it is the Leadership his father Don. Bro. Donald Charleston come from a man whose hands won’t stop encounter North Vietnamese enemy troops Committee or any of the others, all are here had been a 50-year member of shaking fell like acid from their lips. John and was nearly overrun. They had to hold as tools for your benefit, so use them! Lodge No. 237, and in retirement split his heard tell of those comments, but in a time with his wife Elsie between warmer testament to his being a wholly better man spots down south and a home along the than they, he pressed on. As it turned out Mississippi River across from Red Wing. Don Charleston heard those comments, “Gold in them thar hills” … in Mentoring Gary said his father spoke often about his too, and Don’s next step spoke volumes. Pretty sure that’s a line from an old west- competency that can be used to challenge desire for a Masonic funeral and wondered John went on to say that one day while ern movie of my childhood; there even is a the newly admitted on their quest. We have if our Lodge could help. I said we certainly framing up a closet he heard a car pull on whole genre of movies based on it. For some created a system for training mentors by could and asked if our usual but brief serv- to the construction site. He wasn’t expect- reason, it has always stuck with me, not so having teaching tools available to them. ice would be best held at the funeral home ing anyone and guessed it must be the much for the content, but opportunistic vision Currently, there are even plans for adding or graveside. It became evident that what building inspector doing a random check. achievement. Gold is the standard, as they progress tracking within the new Don had hoped for was a Masonic service He walked out to the front of the unfin- say, what all value is based on, yet a top Grandview Lodge program. only, and while I paused wondering what ished house and saw in his yard a man financial investor called gold a waste of time Having a Lodge LEO program that to do—not for the first time in my life—W. he’d never met before. “Hello, my name is and resources as its production provides no continues in the sharing of Masonic Bro. Bill Callister of Cannon Falls fame Don Charleston,” the man said, “and I real product. We dig it out of the ground only knowledge and research will not just came to the rescue. With assistance from heard you’re building a house. Need a to bury it again in vaults. I believe many of strengthen the new candidate, it builds a Albert Pike members, we all worked with hand?” John said the two of them became us look at gold as the measure of worth, from better understanding of Masonry within the family to create a proper service with fast friends and worked together until the a product, achievement to an individual, and the Brothers of your Lodge. Through Bill as our Master, music, the usual house was finished. They remained close that’s the key I wish to discuss. Mentoring and Education, lets help dig out Masonic Rites, and remembrances from to the very end of Don’s life, and he was Let’s take a moment to touch on the of the good of a man to lock in the vault friends and family. It’s in those remem- there that funeral day to lift up in memory gold standard for Mentoring. Included are of their breast all those secrets of Masonry brances where the meat of this story lies. his friend and his wonderful act of kind- some fundamental items such as a mentor he discovered. The “Gold map” can be Charleston children and grandchildren, ness. As John left the podium to slowly for every candidate, a tracking system for found at the Grand Lodge Mentoring site along with lifelong friends, made up the return to his seat, I noticed I was not the that candidate’s progress, and measuring on our Grand Lodge web. Also, open a majority of the speakers that day. Each had only one struggling to maintain my com- tools for improvement. Let’s take a step dialog with the Grand Lodge Mentoring an opportunity to share what a wonderful posure. “Alas, my Brother” followed, and further in the gold level; your Grand Lodge Team for an LEO presentation and discuss friend, father, and grandfather Don was, W. Bro. Bill called the service to a close. Mentoring team put together a presentation your desires to help your Lodge with its binder for that first year mentoring that leadership. Its time to stake your claim. helps in authenticating the experiences to a [email protected] newly admitted. We have built a system of 612-564-0583 CHANGE OF ADDRESS FORM The Minnesota MASON Name ______September–October 2020 VOL. 68, No. 3 In sharing this very Masonic story, am I by it as a lesson to be learned. Men who Lodge ______The Minnesota MASON (USPS 593- 460) is the only official publication of suggesting it was Masonry that made Don will hear what Don did and will remem- Old Address ______the Grand Lodge A.F. & A.M. of Charleston give of himself to a stranger in ber, remember it and so many others like Minnesota. It is published bimonthly in such a profound way? No, I am not. Do I it as a rule and guide to how they should Old City ______January-February, March-April, May- mean to imply that our Ritual, codes of speak and act and think. Men who want to June, July-August, September- Old State/ZIP ______conduct, and reverence of faith, hope, and be kind. Men who want to be better. Men October, and November-December. charity drove Don to grab a hammer rather put simply, who are just like you. New Address ______Office of publication of The Minnesota than pile on hurtful comments with the I hope my Red Wing friends would MASON is the Grand Lodge of crowd? No, I don’t. Did our consistent have returned home that April afternoon New City ______Minnesota, 11501 Masonic Home Drive, mention of soothing the unhappy and with a little better understanding of who New State/ZIP ______Bloomington, Minnesota 55437-3699. restoring peace to troubled minds move Masons are and why we spend all this Telephone number is 952-948-6700. Don to action? No, I can’t say so. Rather, time together. I know I would at mini- Periodicals Postage Paid at Saint Paul, New Phone ______the magic is what that story did to me that mum have added, as I guess I just did Minnesota, and additional entry offices. Effective date of change______day and what I hope it just did to you. here, another very Masonic tale to our POSTMASTER: Please send address My answer to the question about why overflowing library of them. And if I was Mail: Office of the Grand Secretary corrections to The Minnesota MASON, a man becomes a Mason is that in a stroke really lucky, the next time you heard of a 11501 Masonic Home Drive, 11501 Masonic Home Drive of centuries old genius, the Fraternity was guy like John you would remember to Bloomington, Minnesota 55437-3699. Bloomington, MN 55437-3699 framed and constructed in a way that pick up your Don Charleston tool belt and Design & Layout: Bobbie Lampi attracts men like Don Charleston to its get to work. Phone: 952-948-6700 or 800-245-6050 RSL desktop publishing services ranks. Men who not only live out his story Email: [email protected] [email protected] every day, but as importantly are moved Fraternally.

2 The Minnesota MASON September–October 2020 Lodge Education Officer = LEO = Masonic Conundrum by Andrew Niemyer, Education Committee Andrew Niemyer, GLEO Leadership, Education, Oratory Masonic Conundrums 1967. (From “Masonic Papers: The If you have an idea for a Masonic Unlawful Societies Act of 1799” by Dr. As Time Goes By early days of the Grand Lodge of England, Conundrum, we are always looking for Andrew Prescott, first published by M. D. Like most members of the Craft, this when they started using Anno Lucis it was new puzzlers to put before Minnesota J. Scanlon, ed., The Societal Impact of time of year seems to always inspire me sometimes referred to as in the year of Masons. Please send your Conundrum Freemasonry on the Modern Western to reflect on so much that relates to our Masonry. But, how did they know precisely idea, along with the correct answer and at World, The Canonbury Papers I [London: temporal cycles. Lodges return to meeting when God created light in the world? least one reference to that answer to Canonbury Masonic Research Centre, again, ritual work recommences in many In the 18th and 19th century it was [email protected]. 2002], pp. 116-134.) Lodges, Senior Wardens are putting their accepted and common knowledge by most Conundrum 82 The following sent answers to this finishing touches on the trestle boards people of the English-speaking world that In our last Conundrum, we asked Conundrum. The answers were numbered that, tradition prevailing, they will execute God created the world at nightfall on what the British government did in the and then a random number generator was in their upcoming year in the East. October 22, 4004 B.C. They knew that, for late 1700s against any and all so-called used to select six winners. Those winners Further, Lodge Secretaries begin to it was printed in the Bible. The two men “secret societies” in order to suppress the are indicated by an asterisk. They will gather the information they will need to responsible for that were the Archbishop of wave of anti-Monarchy and anti-govern- receive a prize from Grand Lodge: provide to Grand Lodge, upcoming events Ireland James Ussher and publisher mental opposition that had arisen in the 1. Keith Williams, Minneapolis Lodge No. 19* 2. Carl L. Oberg, Arcana Lodge No. 187 begin to loom. In fellowship and reflection Thomas Guy. Now for the rest of the story. wake of the American and French revolu- 3. David Saranen many of us already note the summer that James Ussher (1581-1656) was a highly tions and further, what did the then-Grand has already begun to pass, note the leaves 4. Dennis Rafson, Delta Lodge No. 119* regarded scholar in the 17th century and Lodges of England (The “Moderns” and 5. Chuck Weisbrod, Pleasant Grove No. 22 beginning to turn, the changes in the represented “the best of scholarship” of that the “Ancients”) and Scotland agree to do 6. H.V. Casey Wolford, North Star Lodge No. 23* wildlife that may frequent our environs. Of time. He was regarded as one of the most in order to be exempted from the move by 7. Robert Evans, Stewartville Lodge No. 203* course, in this most unusual of years, many important biblical scholars, plus he had a the British government? 8. Clay Anderson, St. Paul Lodge No. 3* of us are wishing that this year of chal- remarkable gift of languages; being ANSWER: The Unlawful Societies 9. Stephen Bernu, Anoka Lodge No. 30* lenges, changes and human loss will be polylingual, he spoke five languages. He Act of 1799, enacted by Parliament on the 10. Karl J. Hnatko, Mesaba Lodge No. 255 quickly behind us! certainly had all the knowledge, skills, and insistence of Prime Minister William Pitt Conundrum 83 Yet, as set in motion by the Grand abilities to take on such a herculean task of the Younger, was intended to quell the rise Most brethren are familiar with their Architect of the Universe, the earth’s rota- integrating and combining recorded history. of what was considered seditious secret own Lodge’s Charter, or Warrant, the date tion and revolution remains a constant, James Ussher was a key figure in the societies and groups throughout Ireland, it was granted from Grand Lodge, etc. and no matter how quickly or slowly we religious debates of the 16th century and Scotland and Britain. The wording of the Some are even familiar with the interesting seek to mark the calendar’s passage, the he led a remarkably interesting life. He Act sufficiently alarmed the three Grand situation when, in an area that is about to year, decade, centuries and millennia all was born in Dublin, Ireland in 1581. He Masters that, before it was enacted, their establish its own Grand Lodge, the dates pass at their constant pace. How we meas- was taught to read by his two aunts who representatives and they met with the that area Lodges received their charters ure those years has always been a source were blind from infancy. He went on to be Prime Minister. In return for taking cer- from distant Grand Lodges may very well for inquiry, observation and study. For one of the first students admitted to Trinity tain actions to ensure that Lodges any- determine the Lodge’s sequential number Masonry we have come, through traditions College in Dublin, where he flourished and where could not be used for the activities in the newly established jurisdiction. long-established, to measure our origins in continued for advanced degrees. He had a the Act sought to suppress and requiring But, there’s another kind of Lodge, interesting ways to note them officially. library of over 10,000 books, which can be that the Secretary of each and every besides a chartered Lodge, that also can The theme of the measurement of time seen today at Trinity College as a monu- Lodge to annually return a certificate list- exist in a jurisdiction. Thus, our within Freemasonry is addressed here in a ment to wisdom and learning. ing the name of each and every Lodge Conundrum #83 is this: What is a fascinating essay from Most Worshipful Ussher was ordained into the Anglican member to the local Magistrate, the “Inchoate Lodge” and what is its status in Brother Thomas Hendrickson, who served Church in 1601 and eventually was appointed Masons were exempted from the much a jurisdiction? How long can a Lodge as our Grand Master 2011-2012. I trust Archbishop of Armagh and Primate from all more onerous provisions of the Act. remain as an Inchoate Lodge? you’ll find it as fascinating as I have myself: of Ireland in 1625. Ussher was present in Lodges complied with these provisions, Send your answer in an email by 1649, when King Charles I was led to the October 25, 2020, to masonicconun- Anno Lucis-The Masonic Era with decreasing regularity over the ensu- scaffolding and to the execution block. He ing decades, until the Act was repealed in [email protected]. by Tom Hendrickson, Past Grand Master fainted when King Charles I was beheaded, Grand Lodge of Minnesota and he had to be carried off to recover. Have you ever looked at a Masonic Ussher was a very prolific writer during Cornerstone or a formal Grand Lodge his lifetime with forty published works in in creating this chronology was that all the seeing in black and white that God created document and noticed that there are two English and Latin. The work that he is most various countries had different calendars the world in 4004 B.C., and that Adam and different years on it? known for today was twenty years in the and differing methods of recording time. Eve were driven out of paradise in 4004 One year should be easy to recognize making, written in Latin, and published in Ussher died in 1656 before the English B.C. was immense. Noah’s Flood took as it is the calendar year and following the London in 1650 titled “Annales Veteris version of his book was published. His place in 2948 B.C., King Solomon died in year is A.D. (e.g. 2020 A.D.) which is Latin Testamenti.” The book was 1,300 pages book sold well enough, at the time, but the 975 B.C. and the destruction of Jerusalem for which means ‘in year of with 14,000 footnotes with each paragraph dates of his chronology would have drifted and the beginning of the Jews in Babylon our Lord.” Normally we write the year, and numbered and indexed for easy referencing. off into obscurity and died a natural death, captivity took place in 586 B.C. All the very rarely add the A.D. Now, there may be An English version was published in 1658 except for an opportunistic publisher. other events in the Bible from the Creation times when you will see C.E., but that is titled “Annals of the Old Testament.” Ussher was not alone in calculating the up to 70 A.D had a date in history and, as another discussion… It was James Ussher’s intent to arrange creation of the universe and subsequent such, Ussher’s dates had the very strong The other year will look quite differ- the historical events in the order in which chronology. Many other great minds appearance of having Biblical Authority. ent, with a year such as 6020 and will be they took place of the Jews, Persians, calculated their own Biblical time lines It may be hard to imagine now, but at followed by the initials A.L. which is Babylonians, Egyptians, Greeks, and and there was a major effort in the 16th the time when people saw dates, in black Latin for Anno Lucis. Anno Lucis means Romans into a singular chronology or time- Century, by scholars across Europe to and white printed within the Bible, they “in year of Light.” The Anno Lucis date is line, and thus merge the histories. The his- establish a full chronological history. Isaac believed that those dates were God’s own used for Masonic dating or the Masonic tories of China and other eastern countries Newton tried his hand at it and compiled truth. calendar. This year is usually used for our had not yet become well known into an 87,000-word composition, to support In 1701 the Church of England also ceremonial or commemorative occasions. Europe yet, so those were not included. his date of 3998 B.C. Martin Luther, a adopted Ussher’s dates in their official Converting the year from Anno Ussher’s objective for this book was to theologian and important figure in the Bibles, and Ussher’s dates would continue Domini to Anno Lucis is quite easy. write a world history covering every known Protestant Reformation, conducted his own to be included in most versions of the King Simply take the year (i.e. 2020 A.D.) and major event from the creation to 70 A.D, study, determining the date as 3961 B.C. James Bibles until the 1900s. Interestingly, add 4,000 and it becomes 6020 A.L. using the Bible as his framework. He This was an extremely popular area of his dates were printed in the Gideon Bible If you have been a Mason for some believed that the Bible was the only reliable study for the scholastic community. At until the 1970s. time, this should be common knowledge for source of chronological information. least two hundred different dates were In 1721, James Anderson was com- you, but I would like to go a bit deeper and Ussher and most of society, at the time, proposed by scholars for the time of cre- missioned to write the history of the explain an interesting aspect of Masonic held a literal belief of the Bible. ation, ranging from 3483 to 6934 B.C. Freemasons for the newly formed Premier history that has been largely forgotten and Ussher went to great lengths to collect Thomas Guy was a London publisher Grand Lodge. His work became known as the meaning behind the Anno Lucis year. all the available historical knowledge to and book seller. In 1675, Guy began “The Constitutions of the Freemasons, Anno Lucis, or “in the year of Light,” help him. He had access to the libraries of printing the King James Bible including Containing the History, Charges, represents the symbolic moment that light Oxford, Cambridge, London, and Trinity Ussher’s dates in the margins alongside Regulations, &c. of the most Ancient and came into the world at its creation. As found College in Dublin. the corresponding scripture text. With the Right Worshipful Fraternity, For Use of in Genesis 1:3 KJV, “And God Said,” Let His reference material included vari- inclusion of Ussher’s dates in the Bible, the Lodges.” It was published in 1723 and there be light: and there was light.” In the ous ancient Old Testament Bibles: they became generally accepted across was greatly expanded in 1738. Samaritan, Pentateuch, Syriac as well as society. The King James Bible was the most Anderson may have exaggerated just a texts and histories of Egyptian, Greek, accepted Bible of the English-speaking little bit when he created a mythological If you would like to contribute an chronology of the Craft. Like Ussher, essay of any length to share with Roman and Hebrew all in their original nations so by publishing Ussher’s dates, Anderson starts his 48-page history using your Brethren, please feel free to ancient languages, although most of the they were accepted fact and the first reach out to me at my email material he used was secular in nature. He chronology to be widely accepted. the Bible as the initial framework of the story. [email protected]. analyzed how ancient calendars were cal- At the time, a large portion of society He begins with Adam, who was created with that special knowledge of geometry which Your submissions are culated and consulted with astronomers believed that the Bible is the actual word of warmly encouraged. and used their planetary observation God, and it was interpreted very literally. was passed on to his descendants. He tables. One of the challenges to overcome The powerful combination of the reader GLEO, continued on page 8

September–October 2020 The Minnesota MASON 3 Follow us on our newly designed website: MNMASONICCHARITIES.ORG

Seven years is a long time in dog to find out more “About Us,” visit the Masons & Stars Donations and More years...and in the digital realm! Constant “Masons & Stars” section, “Donate” or Fraternal members can navigate Interested in donating to Minnesota changes in search engine optimization, “Contact Us.” directly to a section of the site devoted Masonic Charities or contemplating a planned gift? Donate buttons are web development platforms and media About Us specifically to supporting Masons and production make it necessary to frequent- Stars. There, information and online featured prominently throughout the Since Minnesota Masonic Charities is ly update websites in order to stay rele- forms for Minnesota Masonic Charities’ site, as well as the ability to sign up something of a hybrid nonprofit, its new vant. As it has been seven years since we Matching Grants, Community for our monthly eNewsletter, or follow website breaks down the “About Us” sec- launched the latest version of Scholarships and Fraternal Scholarships us on social media. tion into “Services,”“ Philanthropy”and Please take a test drive of the MnMasonicCharities.org, on August 25, programs may be readily found. There is “Scholarships.” Visitors can explore the new MMC website and let us know 2020, MMC went “live” with a newly also a section devoted to “Marketing services MMC provides through its her- what you think! You are welcome to constructed site to enhance user experi- Resources” for Lodges and Chapters, itage charities, Minnesota Masonic provide your feedback and any ence, garner more visits through searches featuring materials that may be down- Home, Minnesota Masonic Heritage suggestions for improvement at and speed up the download process. loaded and used to help Fraternal mem- Center and Minnesota Masonic [email protected]. bers promote MMC and its good works. Better UX Children’s Clinic for Communication The new Minnesota Masonic Disorders. Those interested in MMC’s News & Stories Charities website serves two audiences: meaningful contributions in the name of In order to remain relevant, we’ll be Don’t forget to follow us on those who want to learn more about the Minnesota Masonry may peruse the consistently adding new material to the organization and those who are part of “Philanthropy” section. And of course, website, including fresh blog posts weekly. the Masonic Family of Fraternities. Both we make it easy to access the Blog items are catagorized by “News,” “users” will find the new site easier to “Scholarships” area, one of MMC’s “Stories,” “Events” and “Why I Give” navigate, with an introductory home page fastest growing programs and an posts that highlight benefactors of featuring the latest blog posts, and a sim- extremely popular destination on our Minnesota Masonic Charities and their /MinnesotaMasonicCharities plified top navigation that offers visitors website. perspectives.

4 The Minnesota MASON September–October 2020 Business as USUAL

Chapel Rededication

Save the date for the rededication of recently installed “rose window,” com- Despite the many challenges posed Minnesota Masonic Home’s OES missioned by the Order of the Eastern by the pandemic, Minnesota Masonic Memorial Chapel on Sunday, November Star and a beautiful focal point to the Charities has remained open and con- 22. Please check our website for details building. The window complements the tinues to do business! Those interested as the date draws near. original stained glass windows that will in taking advantage of our wide array Meanwhile, here’s a sneak peak at the continue to line the walls of the Chapel. of programs in support of the Fraternity are welcome to visit our website to download necessary forms, or call us for more information. Matching Grant requests are accepted throughout the year; the forms for which may be found in our “Masons and Stars” section of the website, or by calling our office at 952-948-6200. MMC may provide matching funds up to a maximum of to apply next April to double your $25,000 per Lodge or Chapter in any scholarship funds! one calendar year. Finally, Fraternity members like The deadline for sending in Student Gabriella DiMatteo (pictured above) Certification Forms for MMC’s can take advantage of the MMC Community Scholarships program was Fraternal Scholarships offered all September 1. MMC annually matches year long. Members in good standing scholarship funds that Lodges and who are interested in furthering their Chapters award to local students. In educations may apply by visiting the 2019, MMC awarded $170,000 to MMC website and clicking on participating Lodges and Chapters to “Masons & Stars”: total $340,000 in awards.Don’t forget MnMasonicCharities.org

Eric Neetenbeek Sue Mork Deb Cutsinger Kelly Johns President/CEO CFO Executive Assistant Director, Marketing & Communications [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Kim Ramaker John Schwietz Funds Development Acctg Manager Director of Institutional Advancement [email protected] [email protected]

September–October 2020 The Minnesota MASON 5 News & Views from the Lodges Sherburne Lodge and Whittemore Chapter hold social event

The members of Sherburne Lodge No. 95 and their families, along with members of Whittemore Chapter #283 held a "Socially Distant" gathering at a park to share a beautiful summer night of fellowship!

Corinthian Lodge officers meet to follow the Grand Lodge of Minnesota – COVID-19 Preparedness Plan

Corinthian Lodge officers in the photo from left are David Orsi – SS, WB Phil Simpson – Master, Aaron Boltjes – JD, Bruce Jensen – Treasurer, WB Jim Henderson – Building Committee, WB Joe Kivens – Sec, Zach Bohlman – JW, Ross Johnson – SD, and WB Clint Christensen DR. Photo by WB Rick Vance.

Corinthian Lodge No. 67 of lodge capacity at 50%, points of congestion ue to bring good men toward the lodge for all just happy to see each other again and Farmington officers met July 25th to plan such as doorways that need to be kept clear membership at a time when we cannot per- talk about “Masonic” things again with to be in compliance with the Grand Lodge to maintain six foot distancing, how appen- form degree work. our brothers and friends. Corinthian of Minnesota – COVID-19 Preparedness dant bodies meeting times would be sched- The officers had some great ideas for Lodge may be dark in the summer and we Plan and start meetings again in September. uled based on the two days need to pass how we can meet and get business done in are all affected by a global pandemic, but Areas discussed included determining our between meetings, and how we can contin- these challenging times. Mainly we were we can still meet and do lodge business!

6 The Minnesota MASON September–October 2020 News from the Masonic Family

…laid up among the archives The Constitutions of the Free-Masons also known as “Anderson’s Constitutions”

reemasons know about (or at least History with the generally accepted methods and This note is made for the Master’s have heard of) the book of which the Forty-eight of the 91 pages in beliefs about “how one conducts Masonic Song: “To be sung with a chorus, when Ftitle page is pictured below. Anderson’s compendium are about the business.” Charge number one, as written the Master shall give leave (no brother “history” of the Craft. Of the 48 pages, by Anderson, caused the most controversy being present to whom singing is dis- there is an equivalent of approximately because it no longer required a member to agreeable) either one part only, or all twenty pages of footnotes, which are be a Trinitarian Christian. In hindsight we together, as he pleases.” One can only primarily “asides.” Rev. Dr. Anderson can see that it was the proper move, but at imagine just when this was sung, as it’s in regularly makes lengthy commentary on the time of issue it was quite questionable five sections, with five or six verses in or about a situation or historical event, and polarizing. each section. (Your narrator today, though unlike what we consider footnotes or end- A wrap-up to the Charges states that a a musician and gifted with patience, notes today—noting a reference or source. Mason’s actions overall should be done in would find it unbearable.) The history itself is a product of the and to preserve Brotherly Love. The Warden’s Song is a shorter histo- Age of Enlightenment (or Neoclassical ry, but it still has 13 verses. The lead-in Period), when there was a resurgence of Payne’s (General) Regulations note states: “To be sung and play’d at the interest in Classical literature. So it was not First compiled by George Payne, the 39 Quarterly Communication.” The Fellow- much of a jump for Anderson to wax poetic topics were simply re-written by Anderson Craft’s Song is a narrative of the wonders about figures in ancient Asia Minor, for his book. Much of the regulations’ and glories of the individual Mason, and Greece, and Rome. He continued in the substance is familiar to us today, containing the Craft as a whole. Instruction for it is established fashion of fanciful, imaginative information about Officers and their duties, “To be Sung and Play’d at the Grand tales with a mythical lineage, using famous protocols and regulations for the Grand and Feast.” The Enter’d ‘Prentice’s Song names (stating they were Masons), and Subordinate Lodges, and so on. directs Masons: “To be sung when all drawing a series of connections to The English Grand Lodge calendar is grave business is over, and with the Masonry in order to tie the fable to the constructed around quarterly meetings / Master’s leave.” In other words, this jaun- present day. Of course, most of his story Communications. Accordingly, the ty tune may be sung at the close of a or those unfamiliar with some of the has no foundation or proof. Although a Regulations specify in some detail about Lodge Communication. older type characters, the modern century too early, Anderson’s “History” what and when business is conducted, and FEnglish script for the above says: would be right at home in the Romantic the procedures to do so. Surprisingly, a Conclusion The CONSTITUTIONS OF THE FREE- Period. Nevertheless, it helped sell books! great amount of detail is set forth about So culminates our brief overview of MASONS. Containing the History, preparations for a Feast at the Annual Anderson’s Constitutions of the Free- Charges, Regulations, etc. of that most The Charges Communication. Masons. It may not seem much to us Ancient and Right Worshipful FRATERNI- A synopsis/condensation of each is today, but when first produced, it was TY. For the Use of the LODGES. To para- listed below. I would be remiss if I didn’t mention monumental. Up until that that time, there phrase a Legendary Anchorman, “for 1. Of God and Religion* an unintentionally humorous passage was no single tool for guidance in the Masons, it’s kind of a big deal.” It’s extra 2. Of the Civil Magistrate, supreme and from Section 38, which has an excellent NEW society of Speculative Freemasons. special for Minnesota Masons, because we subordinate. (Obey the laws of your example of how the English language In a modern-day sports term, own an original printing…one of fewer land.) changes over time. It’s regarding the clos- Constitutions was the “playbook” for how than twenty known to exist. You may know 3. Of Lodges. (Attend! It is a harmo- ing moments of an Annual lodges were to meet, act, and transact quite a bit about this seminal work; like- nious society of good men.) Communication, just after the Feast. To business. We owe a debt of gratitude to wise, you may not know anything about it 4. Of Masters, Wardens, Fellows, and quote, in part: “The Grand Master or his that Scots Presbyterian minister, for help- at all. Whatever the case may be, we hope Apprentices. (Chosen on merit.) Deputy, or some other Brother appointed ing us Masons to work and act decently, you enjoy reading about the topic, and that 5. Of Management of the Craft in by him, shall harangue all the Brethren, and in order. you learn something from this post. Working. (Honest work receives and give them good advice…” Today, we Written by Scots Presbyterian minister A digital reproduction of this influen- honest pay.) think of a harangue as something nega- Rev. Dr. James Anderson in 1723, the vol- tial work may be found at 6. Of Behavior, when: tive; however, in the speech and lexicon ume is most regularly thought of as the first https://archive.org/details/the_constitu- 1. In the Lodge while constituted. of Payne’s day, it simply referred to a compilation and counsel for the rules of tions_of_the_free_masons_1723/mode/2up (Act appropriately and with public speech or an oration! conduct by which Freemasons should respect. Work out disagreements abide. It was created at the request of the amongst yourselves.) Fiat Lux, Duke of Wharton, for presentation to the The Manner of Constituting a 2. After the Lodge is over and the Mark Anderson (no relation) Duke of Montagu (the second and third New Lodge. Brethren not gone. (Enjoy your- Grand Masters of the Grand Lodge of A postscript to the General self, but not to excess. Maintain England, respectively). To clarify: at that Regulations, this defines the procedure for harmony, especially no arguments, Sources: The Constitutions of the time, the Grand Lodge of England consist- how the Grand Master constitutes the no talk about religion or politics.) Free-Masons, by James Anderson: ed of the Lodges in the City of Westminster Lodge, and appoints/installs the new London, England, 1723. Anderson’s 3. When Brethren meet without and London only; those outside of London Master. Upon acceptance of the Charges, Constitutions of 1723, by Lionel Vibert: strangers, but not in a Lodge. (Act would and did have other ideas! he presents the new Master with the The Builder Vol. 9, No. 8, August 1923. as a gentleman, take care to not The structure and components of Constitutions, the Lodge Book (presum- Dr. Anderson of the Constitutions, by disclose Lodge business around Constitutions are: ably the roster and bylaws) and Alfred F. Robbins: Ars Quatuor others, respect his honor as is due Instruments of Office. Then the new Dedication Coronatorum, Vol. 23, 1910. any man, even if he is not a Master chooses the Wardens, who are pre- History of the Craft Mason, avoid ill manners.) sented with their Instruments of Office, Special thanks to MWB R. Stephen 4. In the presence of strangers, not Charges (six, with sub-points ) and installed. Doan, for his counsel. Masons. (Be on your guard not to Payne’s Regulations disclose any information about the The author is the Library and Museum The manner of constituting a Fraternity.) Songs for the Master, Coordinator at the Minnesota Masonic new Lodge 5. At Home, and in the Wardens, Fellow-Crafts, and Heritage Center, a Past Master of Cataract Songs for the Master, Wardens, Neighborhood. (Act as a moral Entered Apprentices. Lodge No. 2, and Past Grand Pursuivant Fellow Crafts, and Entered and wise man. Don’t discuss Being a convivial group (remember, of the Grand Lodge A.F.& A.M. of Apprentice. Lodge business. Don’t neglect they often met in taverns), it wasn’t Minnesota. Any opinions expressed in this your family.) unusual to enjoy celebratory songs while piece are the author’s alone, and do not As noted previously, the work was 6. Towards a Strange Brother. (Use having eat and drink at the Festive Board. reflect the official position of the Grand dedicated to the third Grand Master of the caution until you determine he’s The first two were penned by the Lodge of Minnesota. Grand Lodge of England, by then current not an imposter. If a Brother, help Constitutions’ author, James Anderson, Deputy Grand Master, J.T. Desaguliers. him to the best of your ability.) and recount his history of Masonry. The As was common at the time, the author(s) Fellow-Craft’s Song and the Entered would often inscribe a volume to a Person *Upon review of the Charges, it ‘Prentice’s Song were written by Charles of Importance as a gesture of deference to became evident to Anderson’s contempo- Delafaye and Bro. Matthew Birkhead, their position and to curry favor. raries that he had taken some liberties respectively.

September–October 2020 The Minnesota MASON 7 GLEO, continued from page 3

includes Noah, Abraham, Moses, Solomon, Ussher’s book survives to this day as Hiram Abif, and Nebuchadnezzar. it continues to be printed today and can Grand Lodge Anderson’s story winds thru the history be easily found in bookstores as “The of ancient Egypt, Greece, and the Roman Annals of the World.” Today, his work is Empire. Freemasonry passes thru France to associated with Young Earth Creationism. of Minnesota Britain to the year 1723 showing the very In today’s modern world where we can long and ancient pedigree of the Grand use radiocarbon dating to determine that Lodge. Anderson devoted quite a bit of the earth is 4.5 billion years old (give or GRAND VIEW space to King Solomon’s Temple. Anderson, take a few million years), James Ussher it could be argued, wrote probably the most dates may seem overly simplistic. However, important Masonic work ever published. both men used their scholarship to make a Your Grand Lodge Officers are pleased to announce What unites Anderson and Ussher is careful study of all documents and tradi- that Anderson uses Ussher’s dates for the tions available and using the most accepted that we have engaged Grand View Systems to provide biblical events throughout his Masonic scientific method of their time. I believe we membership management and communications systems historical story. The need to judge these ideas, not by our modern for our jurisdiction. was explained by defining the Masonic concepts, knowledge or technology, but Era while using a Masonic Calendar based judge them by the intents and thoughts of Grand View is a state-of-the-art system that will replace upon Ussher’s dates. Thus, the Masonic their time. Perhaps 500 years from now our our existing databases and allow us to enhance management calendar is based on the calculations of modern technology, science, and medicines James Ussher and the date that starts the will seem out of date as well. and communication at the Grand Lodge, Lodge, and individual Because James Anderson collected member levels. They have been in business for several years and Masonic era is 4004 B, C., Anno Lucis “in the year of Light.” and captured and preserved so much of are currently serving more than 30 Grand Lodges. There were other terms used to define the Masonic symbolism and lore that were anchored in the ancient Craft, we can con- the Masonic Era before Anno Lucis As an active member, you will have access to update and tinue to experience those teachings today. became more popular after the formation By Anderson creating or re-enforcing the correct your contact information, set communication preferences, of the United Grand Lodge in 1813. James concept of the Masonic Era using James and update other personal information, including birth date, place Anderson uses “Year in Masonry” in both Ussher’s date of 4004 B.C. as the day our his first and second editions of his of birth, and occupation. Members will also have access to the Supreme Architect of the universe brought Constitutions. There are many others; here private member portal where you can find lodge meetings light into this word, it provides us with a are a few examples: Anno Masonry, Anno throughout the state, get information on lodge events, and access symbol that unites all Freemasons across Latomorum – “In year of Freemasons,” the world. educational materials. Anno Lapidariorum – “In year of the Free Masonry’s continued use of Anno Stone Cutters.” This system is designed to distribute access and control of Lucis on our Cornerstones, ceremonial The 1723 edition of Anderson’s lodge records down to the lodge secretary. Your Lodge Secretary documents, and lodge minute books may Constitutions eventually arrived in America not be accurate to today’s scientific stan- will have access to your member record to make changes to his- where it was edited and reprinted in dards, but I think it’s a loving tribute and tory and office positions. Philadelphia in 1734 by Benjamin Franklin. part of the mystic tie that continues to bond It was the first Masonic book to be printed In addition to the record management features, Grand View us with our Brothers of the Ancient Craft in America. from so long ago. also provides communication abilities for Lodges to create posts Anderson created a mythic origin that “Every Mason can be an Educator.” and events that are automatically emailed to the members who continues today. Most of the Grand Lodges With fraternity and in light, use email and mail merge letters for those that do not. eventually rounded the date to an even 4000, for easy addition, however the Grand Lodge WB Andrew Niemyer, Grand Lodge LEO of Scotland continues to use the original date [email protected] We hope you are as excited as we are about this new endeavor. of 4004 B.C. “Quarite plus lucem – Seek More Light”

Statement of Ownership, Grand Lodge of Minnesota Management, and Circulation GRAND VIEW HOW TO REGISTER AS A MEMBER

Grand View Procedure

Video link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hx-WliihfcM

Step 1 – Enter the url for your jurisdiction: https://mn.grandview.systems Step 2 – Click on Member Portal Step 3 – Click on Member Registration Step 4 – Enter your Lodge Number Step 5 – Enter your Member ID (5-digit Grand Lodge ID number from top left of your 2020 dues card) Grand Lodge Step 6 – Enter your Last Name (case sensitive) of Minnesota Step 7 – Click on Check Membership Status Step 8 – Enter your Email Address Annual Step 9 – Enter a Password that you can remember Communications

Step 10 – Enter Confirmation by entering password again April 9–10, 2021 Step 11 – Click on Submit Bloomington, Minnesota April 8–9, 2022 St. Cloud, Minnesota

8 The Minnesota MASON September–October 2020