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

July–August 2020 VOL. 68, No. 2

Minnesota Freemason Veteran pin ready for presentation

There’s a new Masonic pin in Minnesota. No, we’re not talking about MW Brother Ethan A. Seaberg’s Grand Master pin, although you’ll soon be seeing those around the state too. The new pin, to which we refer, Grand Master is the Minnesota Freemasons Veteran pin. This Masonic Speech pin was originally created by the of Wisconsin, and through the tireless efforts of W. Brother Bob Selden, we now have a Minnesota version. The pin will be presented by the Grand Grand Lodge Master and Grand Lodge Officers on official News visits to lodges. The Grand Master presented pages 1–3, 8 the first three pins to RW Brother Dayton Berg (Marine Corps), W. Brother Scott Rich (Marine Corps), and W. Brother Andrew Niemyer (Navy) at the July meeting of the Board of Corporate Trustees.

Minnesota Masonic Grand Master Ethan A. Seaberg presenting Minnesota Freemason Veteran pin to W. Brother Scott Rich at Charities the July Corporate Board meeting. Unfortunately, due to COVID-19, the pin had to be placed on the table and sanitized, and there were no handshakes. Standing behind the table is RW Brother Dayton Berg who pages 4–5 also received one of the new pins.

Winona Lodge No. 18 uses of COVID-19 downtime for lodge maintenance projects

Lodge News & Views page 6 Masonic Family News page 7

Winona Lodge No. 18 Brothers were hard at work maintaining their Lodge, while bring careful and Show and Tell Challenge launched staying safe! First time together since March 3rd. The Grand Lodge of Minnesota is proud • Submissions will be uploaded to the Photos by WM Larry Lyman whose reflection is in to announces the Show and Tell Challenge. MN Masonic Show and Tell Website the middle of the group photo! Each lodge will have an opportunity to submit Each Lodge that submits a video will a video for each of the following questions: receive a commemorative certificate from the • What is [in Minnesota]? Grand Lodge of Minnesota. Additionally, Grand • What will your life and legacy say about Updated COVID-19 Meeting Lodge will review submissions looking for Freemasonry? favorite answers to each question. Judged by Compliance Checklist • How will you help others find their way the questions’ respective committee sponsors, to the rewards of the Craft? winning submissions (1st, 2nd, and 3rd place The videos will adhere to the following for each category) will receive a commemora- guidelines: tive plaque from the Grand Lodge of • Submitted in .mov format (which is the Minnesota. native recording format of Zoom) • Minimum 1-minute length, and maximum More information, including examples, is 3-minute length for each question available at http://bythecompass.org/Challenge. More information at answered Submissions will be accepted until midnight www.mn-masons.org/news/covid-19 • Submissions must be appropriate for on December 31, 2020, and winners will be viewing by the general public announced in early 2021. Grand Lodge Masonic Speech of Minnesota M.W.B. Ethan A. Seaberg Grand Master GRAND VIEW

I ask that you please pause, just for a spoken in a tyled Lodge would result in moment, and consider how you’ve con- charges of un-Masonic conduct, then Your Grand Lodge Officers are pleased to announce ducted yourself over the last few months. charges may be considered. In short, if you that we have engaged Grand View Systems to provide An odd beginning I know, and one whose wouldn’t say it to your Brothers in a Lodge, purpose is unfortunate. Not for the first time don’t say it. The Corporate Board will be membership management and communications systems since I assumed this office, I’ve been asked considering some type of update shortly. for our jurisdiction. to respond to criticisms that Minnesota The second is education, as in educating Freemasons are engaging in racist, sexist, our members, reminding our members, about Grand View is a state-of-the-art system that will replace derisively political, or otherwise un-Masonic what it means to be a Mason. About our call our existing databases and allow us to enhance management speech. And I regret to report that those criti- to live differently, more kindly, more nobly and communication at the Grand Lodge, Lodge, and individual cisms are founded. And if you seek citation, than we did before we were raised. To engage unfortunately you need look no further than in the kind of self-improvement that leaves member levels. They have been in business for several years and many members’ recent social media posts. racism, sexism, classism, naked partisanship, are currently serving more than 30 Grand Lodges. And if First Amendment protections just hateful speech, and all the other “–isms” as popped into your head as rebuttal, let me go chaff which the wind driveth away. And As an active member, you will have access to update and on to Masonicly relieve you of that excuse. while I borrowed that last line from Psalms, correct your contact information, set communication preferences, Short of shouting “Fire!” in crowded I’ll borrow now from John Wayland and say and update other personal information, including birth date, place theater, the most well-known exception, our that we must reinforce in each other that as Constitution’s First Amendment affords Masons we will speak always with sincerity of birth, and occupation. Members will also have access to the every American the right to speak their and sympathy, thinking first of the rights and private member portal where you can find lodge meetings mind publicly, and thank goodness it does. feelings of others before our own. throughout the state, get information on lodge events, and access And we’ve decided over more than two Just after lunch at the Grand Lodge’s centuries that those protections must extend Annual Communication in the fall of 1861, educational materials. even to the vile, thoughtless, and hurtful as M.W. Bro. A.T.C. Pierson, Grand Master of This system is designed to distribute access and control of a trade-off for not restricting who’s allowed Masons in Minnesota, made his annual to say what. It’s at this point that address to the Craft. The Civil War had lodge records down to the lodge secretary. Your Lodge Secretary Freemasonry inserts a substantial exception, recently begun, and Freemasons around the will have access to your member record to make changes to his- and its trigger is our Masonic obligation. State both mustered into service and mus- tory and office positions. To engage in race-baiting, or name call- tered support for the war effort at home. ing, or any other objectionable language is Unsurprisingly, conflicts erupted in In addition to the record management features, Grand View likely protected speech. However, to do so Minnesota Lodges around a host of war-time also provides communication abilities for Lodges to create posts on Facebook with a profile photo of the issues. I’ll let MWB Pierson take it from Masonic Heritage Center’s stained-glass here, but know in what follows that he’s talk- and events that are automatically emailed to the members who window picturing God giving light to man is ing to you and to me, too: “A Brother who use email and mail merge letters for those that do not. despicable. To use barroom doggerel to has a proper appreciation of our ancient insti- describe female anatomy is protected though tution, of its beauties, its ties, its requirements, juvenile. To describe anatomy in that vulgar or its privileges, will under no circumstances We hope you are as excited as we are about this new endeavor. manner on a social media post that follows give utterance, even outside the Lodge, to opin- your mention of next Tuesday's meeting at ions or sentiments that will make him obnox- the is fraternal violation. To ious to his Brethren or wound their feelings.” share two tweets, the first lamenting the In the unlikely event you see a nearly untimely death of a Brother and the second a 160-year-old address as too foreign for con- message that channels the KKK, is to ignore temporary consideration, let me borrow from every, single, last, Masonic lesson that’s ever MWB Pierson and leave you to consider this Grand Lodge of Minnesota been taught. Period. Regrettably Masons “new” directive before you make your next have done all these things. So what to do? public comment or social media post: I would submit there are two things. A Brother who has a proper appreciation The first is an update to the Grand GRAND VIEW of our ancient institution, of its beauties, Lodge’s social media policy. Many of our its ties, its requirements, or its privileges, sister Jurisdictions have long since dealt will under no circumstances give utterance, with this objectionable social media / public even outside the Lodge, to opinions or senti- HOW TO REGISTER AS A MEMBER comment issue. In brief, their policies fol- ments that will make him obnoxious to his low this line of logic: speech is protected Brethren or wound their feelings. and shall not be infringed; the minute a man Grand View Procedure becomes a Mason, however, our ancient codes And if you object to this directive, I of conduct shall apply; under the policy, if a would submit that Minnesota Freemasonry Video link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hx-WliihfcM Mason engages in public speech that if is not a good fit for you. Step 1 – Enter the url for your jurisdiction: CHANGE OF ADDRESS FORM The Minnesota MASON https://mn.grandview.systems Name ______July–August 2020 VOL. 68, No. 2 Step 2 – Click on Member Portal Lodge ______The Minnesota MASON (USPS 593- 460) is the only official publication of Old Address ______the Grand Lodge A.F. & A.M. of Step 3 – Click on Member Registration Minnesota. It is published bimonthly in Old City ______January-February, March-April, May- Step 4 – Enter your Lodge Number June, July-August, September- Old State/ZIP ______October, and November-December. Step 5 – Enter your Member ID New Address ______Office of publication of The Minnesota (5-digit Grand Lodge ID number from top left of your 2020 dues card) MASON is the Grand Lodge of New City ______Minnesota, 11501 Masonic Home Drive, Step 6 – Enter your Last Name (case sensitive) New State/ZIP ______Bloomington, Minnesota 55437-3699. Telephone number is 952-948-6700. Step 7 – Click on Check Membership Status New Phone ______Periodicals Postage Paid at Saint Paul, Minnesota, and additional entry offices. Step 8 – Enter your Email Address Effective date of change______POSTMASTER: Please send address Mail: Office of the Grand Secretary corrections to The Minnesota MASON, Step 9 – Enter a Password that you can remember 11501 Masonic Home Drive 11501 Masonic Home Drive, Bloomington, MN 55437-3699 Bloomington, Minnesota 55437-3699. Step 10 – Enter Confirmation by entering password again Design & Layout: Bobbie Lampi Phone: 952-948-6700 or 800-245-6050 RSL desktop publishing services Step 11 – Click on Submit Email: [email protected] [email protected]

2 The Minnesota MASON July–August 2020 Lodge Education Officer = LEO = Masonic Conundrum by Andrew Niemyer, Education Committee

Leadership, Education, Oratory Andrew Niemyer, GLEO Masonic Conundrums Capitol. They were designed and modeled If you have an idea for a Masonic by the American sculptor, Thomas A Sprig of Acacia Conundrum, we are always looking for Crawford, in Rome in 1855–1857. After Those four simple words hold deep new puzzlers to put before Minnesota Crawford's death in 1857, William H. and abiding meaning for all Masons. A Masons. Please send your Conundrum Rinehart was commissioned to complete key factor in our public and private ritu- idea, along with the correct answer and at the work and the models were shipped to als, it also bears great symbolic meaning least one reference to that answer to America in 1864. They were cast by for every Mason to consider. Yet, if asked [email protected]. James T. Ames at his foundry in Chicopee, to identify an actual sprig, many would be Conundrum 81 Massachusetts, in 1864–1868, and placed hard put to pick any sprig out from a Conundrum 81 involved one of the late in 1868. grouping of greenery, more especially a most storied Brothers in United States The following sent answers to this sprig that would emanate from the species Conundrum. The answers were numbered Acacia Raddiana Flowers, image by Amram Masonic history, President George of acacia that has grown in the region of and then a random number generator was Eshel Washington. Somewhere in the U.S. the Middle East from where its most sto- Capitol Building is a scene portraying our used to select six winners. Those winners ried Masonic use is said to have occurred. The acacia has given the world one of its first U.S. President in his Masonic apron are indicated by an asterisk. They will A Most Prolific Genus earliest adhesives, Gum Arabic; tannin, used laying the cornerstone of the building in receive a prize from Grand Lodge: Acacia (genus Acacia) is a huge genus as one of the earliest dyes and a very early 1793. The Conundrum asked where that Harold Holt, Otter Tail Lodge No. 284 of about 160 species of trees and shrubs pharmaceutical; it serves as a replenisher of depiction is, what it is part of and when it Jerry Chartrand, Arcana Lodge No. 187 in the pea family (Fabaceae). Acacias are land, and its dense and durable wood was was installed in the Capitol Building. Steve Bernu, Anoka Lodge No. 30 native to tropical and subtropical regions and is used for buildings, furnishings and The Conundrum received a very great Conundrum 82 of the world, particularly Australia (where other objects as alluded to above. It’s earliest many answers that discussed a beautiful In the late 1700s, as revolution swept they are called wattles) and Africa, where reference as an object of sacred considera- mural of George Washington laying the across France, the monarchy forcibly and they are well-known landmarks on the tions comes from the ancient Egyptians. In cornerstone of the U.S. Capitol, by Allyn bloodily deposed, and the former North veld and savanna. The varieties that grow the legend as told, Osiris, god of the dead, Cox, and is in the Hall of Capitols in the American British colonies who had suc- in northeastern Africa and into the Middle resurrection and life, is tricked into a box north-south corridor of the House of cessfully rebelled having established a East are known for their thorny stems, that is thrown into the Nile. It eventually Representatives wing of the Capitol. It representative republican form of govern- leaves that grow almost like pine needles washed ashore near an acacia tree which was completed in 1974. ment, clandestine groups in Ireland, around a central stem. rapidly grew around the box. The tree was However, the answer, based on the fact Scotland and England formed, with simi- turned into a column by a local king, which that it happened over a century before lar aspirations. Finally, the British govern- Isis, his wife, was eventually given. She Cox’s more publicly-known depiction, ment acted against these and other so- extracted him and he then goes on to rule was taken from “Solomon’s Builders” by called “secret societies.” What did the the Egyptian Underworld for eternity. Christopher Hodapp, 2007, Ulysses Press government do, when did they do it, and Its ancient uses afforded it frequent men- and also from the website of The Architect what did the then-Grand Lodges of tion in the Hebrew sacred texts (and thus the of the Capitol http://www.aoc.gov: A England (The “Moderns” and the accepted Christian “Old Testament”). Livne bronze relief depicting Washington clearly “Ancients”) and Scotland agree to do in writes that “Shittim wood” (Acacia) is men- wearing his apron is on the upper panel of order to be exempted from the move by tioned twelve times in the Bible. They were the left door to the Senate. The Senate the British government? the trees from which the Tabernacle and bronze doors were created for the east por- Send your answer in an email by some of its utensils were made: “And they tico of the new Senate wing during the August 25, 2020, to masonicconun- shall make an ark of shittim wood … And mid-19th-century expansion of the U.S. [email protected]. A lone acacia tree growing in the Negev Desert thou shalt make staves of shittim wood, and of the Sinai Peninsula overlay them with gold” (Exodus 25: 10, 13); “And thou shalt make boards for the Most likely, based on the observations of Mackey goes on to address what he word of the Grand Master of the legions of field biologists who have traveled tabernacle of shittim wood standing up” (Exodus 16: 15); “And thou shalt make an feels are its other, worthy symbolic mean- Universe, to a blissful immortality. the region over time, the variety of acacia ings: Innocence and Initiation. Innocence he Combine with this the recollection of the that figures in our Masonic teachings is altar of shittim wood” (Exodus 27: 1); “And derived from the Greek word for the acacia, place where the sprig of acacia was plant- most likely the Acacia Raddiana which is a he made the incense altar of shittim wood” pointing out it meant both the tree and the ed…in this little and apparently insignifi- sub-species of Acacia Tortilis. The Acacia (Exodus 37: 25). “moral quality of innocence or purity of cant symbol, but which is really and truly Raddiana, more popularly known as the “Acacia is awarded a place of honor alongside the cedar in the consolation life.” In this case, he alludes to the Masonic the most important and significant one in “Twisted Acacia” grows in Israel and is masonic science, we have a beautiful sug- prophecies: “I will plant in the wilderness story involving the story of King Solomon’s believed to be the wood that was used to gestion of all the mysteries of life and the cedar, the shittah tree, and the myrtle, architect, . Mackey sees Abiff build a variety of sacred items for the taber- death, of time and eternity, of the present and the oil tree” (Isaiah 41: 19). Acacia trees as the representative of virtuous conduct nacle. At least one of those items is believed and of the future.” were given preferential treatment: “God will “whose integrity of life and fidelity to his to be the storied Ark of the Covenant. Thus, it can be seen that in four simple return any Acacia (shittah) tree that gentiles trusts, have ever been presented as patterns Mike Livne, writing in “The Wildflowers words we are first introduced to the took from Jerusalem” (Babylonian Talmud, to the craft, and consequently to all Master of Israel,” has noted, “The tree grows deep greater deeper meanings associated with Rosh Hashanah 23: 1).” Masons, who, by this interpretation of the roots. It grows in places where there is water one of the oldest and heartiest plants on Further, it was an often-used custom symbol, are invited to emulate his example.” at great depths and utilizes water stores that the planet and can see that its place in our that when a member of the Hebrew faith He also ties these first two, very impor- other plants cannot compete take advantage compendium of moral, ethical and allegor- was laid to rest, a sprig of acacia was tant meanings to the reason why we, as of. It is found mostly in the beds of seasonal ical teachings is both rich and complex. streams in the desert. It grows in the Negev planted near the head, so that it might Masons, always bear a piece of acacia or grow and thrive, encompassing the other, similar evergreen at every Masonic Desert and has also penetrated less dry and “Every Mason can be an Educator.” warm areas. It is prevalent in the suitable departed with its roots and serve to shade funeral service we either conduct or take With fraternity and in light, places, is prominent in the landscape and their final place of repose as well as serv- part in. It is our own way, both individually ing as a perpetual reminder of their hav- and collectively to recognize our departed WB Andrew Niemyer, Grand Lodge LEO holds a dominant position in its ecosystem. [email protected] “Acacia Raddiana is very thorny. The ing been born, lived and passed. Brother’s innocence and symbolic immortal- thorns originate from stipules, and are sharp Our Masonic Acacia ity in the world he has left and the new place “Quarite plus lucem – Seek More Light” and rigid. Indeed, its young leaves need all Mackey’s chapter on the Sprig of Acacia in the Celestial Lodge he has gone on to. possible protection in an environment where from The Symbolism of Freemasonry, 1882, Finally, Mackey addresses the use of every green sprout is in great demand. … naturally focuses on the multiple layers of the acacia as emblematic of Initiation. In The tree belongs to the Mimosaceae family, allegory the acacia represents to Masons. the chapter, he addresses his postulation Leguminosae. The young leaves and branch- First, by its hearty nature and ability to lose that almost all ancient initiation cere- es are glabrous. The leaves are alternate, bipin- branches and parts, yet rejuvenate it monies involved one or more plants, dedi- Grand Lodge nate. There are several nectaries on the leaf axis. becomes a natural embodiment of the cated to esoteric meanings and that were “Acacia Raddiana blooms mainly from immortality of the soul. He states, “The central to the experience the initiate of Minnesota October to December, also in March-April. sprig of acacia, then, in its most ordinary undergoes. After reviewing other plants’ The flowers are light yellow, arranged densely signification, presents itself to the Master roles in other ceremonies in order to place in small globules, like other members of the Mason as a symbol of the immortality of the the acacia’s role in our own, he finally genus. The filaments are long, protrude from soul, being intended to remind him, by its summarizes, “…we find that it is capable Annual the corolla and determine the color of the evergreen and unchanging nature, of that of three explanations. It is a symbol of inflorescence. The fruit is a curled legumin.” better and spiritual part within us, which, as immortality, of innocence, and of initia- Communications an emanation from the Grand Architect of tion. But these three significations are the Universe, can never die. And as this is closely connected, and that connection If you would like to contribute an April 9–10, 2021 the most ordinary, the most generally accept- must be observed, if we desire to obtain a essay of any length to share with Bloomington, Minnesota your Brethren, please feel free to ed signification, so also is it the most impor- just interpretation of the symbol. Thus, in reach out to me at my email tant; for thus, as the peculiar symbol of this one symbol, we are taught that in the [email protected]. immortality, it becomes the most appropriate initiation of life, of which the initiation in April 8–9, 2022 Your submissions are to an order all of whose teachings are the third-degree is simply emblematic, St. Cloud, Minnesota warmly encouraged. intended to inculcate the great lesson that innocence must for a time lie in the grave, “life rises out of the grave.”” at length, however, to be called, by the

July–August 2020 The Minnesota MASON 3 Sharing stories of MASONIC SUPPORT

Minnesota Masonry has long healthcare practitioners can impact a supported the efforts of the University child’s trajectory. of Minnesota to advance research and It is impact, after all, that lies at the healthcare. Masons and members of the heart of the Masonic investment in the Order of the Eastern Star made possible University. The capacity of Minnesota the Masonic Memorial Cancer Hospital Masonic Charities combined with the in 1955, marking the begining of a long expertise of the University researchers partnership between the Fraternity and and doctors has resulted in advances that UMN. have changed the course of medicine and Since then, that partnership has many, many patients’ lives. expanded to include a number of sig- Some of those patient stories, as nificant initiatives that have culminated well as research initiatives, may be in extraordinary outcomes in cancer found on a website designed just for research and treatment, children’s supporters of Minnesota Masonic health, and access to clinical trials. Charities. Designed and hosted by the Most recently, Minnesota Masonic University, masons.umn.edu offers up- Charities pledged $35 million to the to-date information on how Masonic University to establish and name the donations have furthered outcomes at Masonic Institute for the Developing the University of Minnesota Masonic Brain. The first-of-its-kind institute will Children’s Hospital, Masonic Cancer more. Visit today and read uplifting sto- ship to improve the lives of people in explore how healthy brains can get off Center, the 10,000 Families initiative, ries of courage, determination, and the Minnesota and around the world. track in the first years of life and how the Masonic Clinic Trials Network, and power of a strong and lasting partner- VISIT MASONS.UMN.EDU

4 The Minnesota MASON July–August 2020 Certainty in a world of UNCERTAINTY

Open for business Uncertainty stinks. concerned about making a gift that Minnesota Masonic Heritage Center hours: Monday–Friday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; The variety of challenges and could impact my ability to fulfill my has been given the green light to re-open Museum hours are Tuesday – Friday, uncertainty that we have experienced personal financial obligations. (e.g. to the public with some restrictions. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. in the first half of 2020 is unprece- feed my family, pay my bills, etc.) Following Minnesota’s Stay Safe Plan, For information about upcoming dented. (Are you tired of hearing that The answer to this question, based on the center began accepting visitors mid- events, rental inquiries, or more on our word yet?) this situation is also simple… June, limiting capacity to 25 percent. COVID-19 safety protocols, visit our Too, the center has adopted temporary website at: MasonicHeritageCenter.org. People have been asking a seem- PLANNED GIVING. ingly very simple question, “How can Planned giving is a way for you I help?” A closer look at that ques- to personally help advance our com- tion requires perspective. munity’s charitable needs while also “How can I help?” when asked by achieving your current financial obli- a person who is less financially gations, your retirement objectives impacted by the current situation, is a and estate planning goals. Most statement of philanthropic intention. importantly, it is completely flexible In other words, “I would like to help and revocable. It is your way of Minnesota Masonic Charities provide expressing your desire to support an for the needs of my community.” organization for which you care, There are a variety of answers to this without giving up control of your question depending on your interests. assets. If circumstances change, your “How can I help?” when asked by plan can also change. a person who has been financially We will work with you to find a impacted by the current situation, can flexible charitable plan that lets you be a statement of hesitancy due to provide for your family and support financial uncertainty. In other words, Minnesota Masonic Charities. Please I would like to help Minnesota call John Schwietz at 651-210-5240 Masonic Charities provide for the to discuss the gifting options available needs of my community, BUT I am to you.

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]

July–August 2020 The Minnesota MASON 5 News & Views from the Lodges Forest Lake Masons BBQ Drive-Thru in review

Thank you to all the people who on Sunday, June 8th, supported the Forest Lake Masons BBQ Drive-Thru! This wonderful event was held to support the lodge and its continued community involvement. The Dragon Divas, a women’s support group for breast cancer survivors, were sponsored by the Masons. Your donations that day were matched by the Masons for a total of $2,000. The Masons also provided free food to the staff of Cherrywood Pointe and Birchwood nursing home as a thank you for all that they are doing during the COVID-19 pandemic. There was a constant line of cars and bikes getting their Pulled Pork Sandwiches (over 450) cooked by the Fire Fightin’ Cookin’ Crew. Sometimes the The Forest Lake Lodge was the location for a BBQ Drive-Thru event in June. line extended two blocks!

Two donations by Social Lodge No. 48 in Owatonna

Social Lodge No. 48, Owatonna, had a successful Vidalia onion sales campaign this spring. As a result, we were able to donate $900 (matched by an expected grant from Minnesota Masonic Charities for a total of $1,800) to Ruth’s House, a women and children’s’ emergency shelter in WM Sebastian Burset, SW Armando Zubia, SD Grant Lillevold and Secretary Richard DeBeau pre- Faribault. WM Sebastian Burset, presented Suzzanne Fox, executive director of Ruth’s House, a sented a check for $21,200 (including Minnesota Masonic Charities matching grant) to the check for $1,800. The brothers of Social Lodge wish to express our deep appreciation to our loyal Northfield, Community Action Center Food Shelf. customers who made this seventh gift (and largest to date) possible.

Fidelity Lodge No. 39 presents two scholarships Due to COVID-19, Fidelity Lodge No. 39, Austin, was unable to present scholarships at the normal time, which would have been May 5th at a dinner meeting. Instead we recently had the honor of presenting three scholarships in the amount of $2,000.00 each, which included a matching grant from Minnesota Masonic Charities. The students receiving scholarships are Emily Bollum, Nicole Justice and Grace Mayer.

Pictured with the scholarship committee consisting of Brooks Holton, Neil Hanson and Gary Brolsma are Grace Mayer, left, and Emily Bollum, right. Not pictured is Nicole Justice.

6 The Minnesota MASON July–August 2020 News from the Masonic Family Daniel Carter Beard Scouting Sherburne Lodge donates Award applications available to local food shelves

When Past Grand Master Terry Tilton arrived back from Pennsylvania in 2002, he brought with him the Masonic Daniel Carter Beard Scouting Award. This award is presented to a Mason who has been active in the Scouting program. For a Mason to receive the award, he must be nominated by a Brother Mason. Once nominated, the candidate writes a biogra- phy of his accomplishments in Scouting and the application goes to the Master of the Lodge. The Master will review the information, affix his signature, and for- ward the application to a Scout Executive for review. When the Executive signs off, the entire application packet it sent to the Daniel Carter Beard Grand Secretary for final review. He will The Brethren of Sherburne Lodge No. 95, Osseo, then send the application packet to the in conjunction with the members of Whittemore Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania for consid- Chapter #283, Order of the Eastern Star, held a eration. Finalized awards are typically from the Grand Lodge office. For more COVID-19 Food Drive to raise food and money presented at the Grand Lodge of information, please contact W. Brother for their local food shelves—a much needed Minnesota Annual Communication in Tom Ewing (phone 612-913-6547 or contribution during this Pandemic in which they April. email [email protected]), or the have become extremely short of materials. The application can be found on the Grand Lodge office (952-948-6700). Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation’s Minnesota has nearly sixty members who WM of Sherburne Lodge No. 95, Phil Johnson, website (https://pmyf.org/). Physical have received this honorary award since left, and Worthy Patron Dennis Niles of copies of the application are available its introduction in 2002. Whittemore Chapter #283. Public goodwill and repute and Freemasonry civility [This article was first published in the e-Mason in September 2018.]

As our collective “Lodge Life” begins Further, in Subsection 2, Anderson Enlightenment that our very foundational ciate with any particular political entity again for many, if not most Lodges in warns, in part, after Lodge is closed that philosophy is one that has promoted and or religious body. In the outside world, Minnesota, as we approach the Fall we refrain engendered political change, no evidence however, the position is different and, Equinox and annual harvests this month, so “…from any Quarrels about Religion, exists to demonstrate the Craft’s overt or politically, brethren may espouse any do we begin again to consider the various or Nations, or State Policy, we being covert involvement as a body to such events political cause and may be members of bounties and harvests we, as speculative only, as Masons, of the Universal past or present. Indeed, many marvel and and, indeed, very dedicated adherents of Masons, bring into our own lives. One such Religion above mention’d, we are also respect our basic charge to refrain from any political group which, to them, “harvest” we can consider is that which we of all Nations, Tongues, Kindreds, and such behavior within the confines of our appears to offer the best and most equi- reap in public goodwill and repute, both Languages, and are resolv’d against Lodge or when assembled outside, either. table and effective means of facing up to personally and as identified members of the all Politics…” In the on-line Masonic lecture series and solving the various social and other found in “Pietre-Stones: Review of Fraternity in the eyes of the public. We reap Our Brethren have wrestled with problems besetting mankind.” Freemasonry,” the piece on Religion and that bounty by our conduct and words as public comportment, our lives in the Politics in Relation to Freemasonry, We recognize and celebrate our seen by those in the general populace. body politic and the moral imperatives developed by W.B. Kent Henderson, respectful differences, especially within Anderson’s Constitutions of 1723, or, of living our lives in a just and upright PGD, AF&AM Victoria, Australia, has the four points of the compass as defined more formally, “The Constitutions of the manner since our fraternity first came this to thoughtful consideration: by the inner walls of the Lodge. But vigi- Free-Masons, Containing the History, into being. Over 88 years ago, SHORT “…no candidate is refused entry on lance must be the by-word should we fall Charges, Regulations, &c. of that most TALK BULLETIN - Vol. VIII April, account of his political beliefs. Because into the issues discussed since the days of Ancient and Right Worshipful Fraternity, 1930, No. 4 was entitled “The of this, many religious denominations Anderson and thus fail to adhere to the For the Use of the Lodges,” was itself Reputation of the Fraternity.” Within the and political parties are represented in considered by scholars of the Craft to have piece, which gives us all, to this day, a call to moderate our words and actions. the world Masonic membership. This is been derived from the so-called “Old wonderful analysis of the core tenents of Therefore, while we all recognize and a healthy situation and Freemasons can ” (also called “Gothic each of the first three degrees of appreciate that as Brothers we share much feel proud that their organisation is, Constitutions”) and on the General Freemasonry, and addresses many of the more in common with each other than indeed, a fraternal fellowship which Regulations which had been compiled first obligations that we adhere to both inside those things upon which we differ, we can bring together men with quite by George Payne in 1720. Within the docu- and outside of the Lodge, it says: should also recognize the same in others differing viewpoints in these two funda- ment, is Article VI “Of Behaviour.” “It is one thing to fail in any Masonic outside the Craft as well. And while the mental aspects of life. To quote from the Subsection 4, entitled “BEHAVIOR in pres- duty; it is another to fail so publicly gavel may have fallen and the lights extin- Ancient Charges, Freemasonry is said ence of Strangers NOT MASONS,” states: that the reputation of the Fraternity is guished, whenever we are in public gath- to be able to represent ‘the centre of “You shall be cautious in your Words hurt—that reputation of which we are ered as the outside manifestation of our good men and true, and the happy and Carriage, that the most penetrating taught that its preservation is of vital Masonic Brotherhood, it behooves us all means of conciliating friendship Stranger shall not be able to discover importance.” to understand that the general public amongst those who must otherwise or find out what is not proper to be doesn’t see the difference between “Inside All of these thoughts were meant to have remained at a perpetual distance.’ intimated, and sometimes you shall the Lodge” and “Outside the Lodge.” To not only protect the Craft, and by extension divert a Discourse, and manage it “But politics, as well as religion, are its many beautiful appendant bodies, from them, we are all simply “Freemasons,” prudently for the Honour of the matters which can divide if enthusiasm being seen in a negative light by those out- and we should always strive to conduct worshipful Fraternity.” and keenness are allowed to develop side its meets and bounds. By extension, ourselves guided by the ancient wisdom into fanaticism and permitted to While an argument can be made that both direct and implied, each Brother is which Anderson, those he built his works override prudence and temperance. Anderson is clearly discussing how we entreated to also speak and act in such a upon, and those who have followed after, Therefore, it is wise and sensible that should behave so as to keep our private manner as to bring credit not only upon have taken the time to impart and share our order, in seeking to foster and matters private, the first clause, “you shall himself but to the Craft in general. As the with the Fraternity. maintain a spirit of harmony of the be cautious in your Words and Carriage,” Masonic saying goes “As within the highest possible order, should proscribe can also be argued to apply to all things we Lodge, so without.” “Every Mason can be an Educator.” discussion in such sensitive areas in say and do, especially when we endeavor Few matters engender greater passion With fraternity and in light, our Masonic gatherings. to project to the world without that we are in our modern age than those pertaining to WB Andrew Niemyer indeed Freemasons and can be readily so the local, state and national body politic. “The founders of our order also deemed Grand Lodge LEO – identified as members of the Blue Lodge While it has been capably argued by stu- it vital that Freemasonry, as an organi- “Quaerere plus lucis – or any appendant body. dents of political philosophy and the Age of sation, should not seek formally to asso- Seek More Light”

July–August 2020 The Minnesota MASON 7 ADJUSTING TO THE NEW ‘NORMAL’ DURING COVID-19 By Keith Reierson, Grand Secretary As we mark the start of the fifth around—that’s exactly how I joined (peti- month since the Grand Lodge office tioned in July and wasn’t initiated until the closed to the public due to COVID-19, I following March). In fact, it can be a bene- wanted to take a minute to acknowledge ficial opportunity to start build those long- the many challenges Freemasonry in lasting relationships I mentioned earlier. Minnesota is having to navigate, and try While the situation seems to change to provide some context and insight into every few weeks, we’re honestly not sure our present situation. when lodges will again be able to confer By now, you should have all seen the degrees. To help bridge the gap, the board latest Grand Master’s edict, dated June 30th, of custodians is working on plans for which allows lodges to begin using the presentational degrees conducted by ‘places of worship, religious services, designated teams, with screened cast weddings, and funerals’ setting in the Stay members, exemplar candidates, and PPE. Safe MN plan for determining gathering We anticipate plans being firmed up in the limits on in-person lodge activities. Just so coming weeks, with degrees to start this there’s no confusion, lodges must still satisfy fall. Whether conferred by individual the additional requirements in the official lodges, or in larger scale events by the Grand Lodge of Minnesota COVID-19 Grand Lodge, our hope is to provide suf- Preparedness Plan and accompanying ficient opportunities for every Minnesota Grand Lodge of Minnesota’s Corporate Board meeting under the rules set forth by June 30th meeting checklist. lodge to start clearing their candidate Grand Master’s Edict and the Grand Lodge of Minnesota COVID-19 Preparedness Plan. I mention the Grand Master’s edict pipeline by the end of the year. because we’ve had more than a few data and recommendations from medical Mason. For those of you who may be wor- All that being said, this isn’t and questions from lodges about whether this doctors, attorneys, and other professionals. ried about the future of Freemasonry as shouldn’t be a race for numbers. The key specific activity or that particular nuance is There’s always going to be a little bit of result of the current pandemic, we don’t is engagement and communication. I permissible under current rules. It has been nuance and variance from lodge to lodge seem to be lacking for interest from young think we would rather see lodges keep a somewhat frustrating process for lodges; and those subtleties can be dealt with as men (the average age of petitioners and candidates engaged and part of the fabric we understand that and appreciate your they arise. If you have a specific something candidates in Minnesota is just shy of 40). of the lodge than race them through the patience. Creating a one-size-fits-all policy you’d like to discuss, please touch base Cultivating that interest into a long-lasting degrees. Lodges should work at the candi- to cover every possible scenario at the 130 with your District Representative, Area relationship, however, is a bigger challenge, date’s pace whenever possible and not try constituent lodges across Minnesota is an Deputy, or the Grand Lodge office. and a topic for a different day. to push things along too quickly. impossible undertaking. What we get with Another question we’ve been asked a Lodges are encouraged to meet with The introduction of our new member the Grand Master’s latest edict is a very lot recently is how lodges should handle and start getting to know prospective management and communications system, effective blanket policy that covers the prospective candidates. One surprise Masons (with all the COVID-19 distanc- Grand View, should help Lodges stay con- majority of situations, while taking strong through all this mayhem has been an ing and masking recommendations, of nected with members. There are a host of steps to protect the health and well-being increase in men contacting the Grand course). If meeting in-person isn’t an communication tools within Grand View, of members, based on the best available Lodge office with an interest in becoming a option due to higher risk or other factors, and I strongly encourage Lodge connecting over the phone and/or elec- Secretaries, Officers, and members to tronic meeting platforms can be a good register their accounts and begin exploring substitute in the early stages. the member portal of Grand View Balloting is once again allowed at tyled (instructions are on page 2 of this edition Looking ahead meetings, provided lodges follow the and the May-June edition of the protocols in the Grand Lodge’s Covid-19 Minnesota Mason). Lessons from the Leadership Committee by Larry Lyman Preparedness Plan. Dispensation from the We are certainly in unprecedented Grand Master is available for lodges that times, at least for my lifetime. Perhaps Summer is here, and we are slowly good discussion points for each Lodge to would like to conduct business at special instead of focusing on the bad news that seeing what the new normal will bring. consider. Throughout history, Masons have meetings this summer (if they go dark) to incessantly permeates our daily lives, we While many Lodges have adapted—using been leaders during times of turmoil. catch up on some of these business items. ought to refocus and rededicate ourselves Zoom, Hangouts or other methods—we Supporting food shelves, providing aid and If your lodge isn’t planning to meet, due to to living according to the principles and would still love to be back in our Lodges, comfort to those in need, and demonstrating COVID-19 concerns, I would suggest tenets of Freemasonry, with the ultimate holding Stated Communications with the the patience, kindness and understanding that being up-front with the prospect and let hope that through our words and actions, proper cautions and examinations to enter, brings healing to the injured are examples of him know it may take several months we will improve the lives of those around and with all the traditions, customs and Masons acting as leaders, and we are proud before he can get started on is Masonic us and make this crazy world a slightly rituals once again being observed. While of the many examples of positive Masonic journey. If you’re honest about the time- better place in which to live. we aren’t yet able to join together in the behaviors that we have been told about! line, he is serious about wanting to be a traditional way, hopefully you find your- During these months, many Lodges Mason, and you keep him engaged in the Fraternally, selves learning just how resilient you are! traditionally go dark for the summer. This goings on of the Lodge, he’ll stick Keith Reierson Masons lead in a myriad of ways, and is a great time for the elected officers to most importantly we serve each other as visit and review their Lodge Recognition Brothers. We encourage you to continue to Program(LRP) with their District check in on each other, making sure to be Representative. Masters should be asking attentive to the needs of those who may themselves whether they have been staying Relationships are the key to Mentoring need a little help these days. Brothers who on track through these tough times, and While sorting my mail a few weeks There is a very special group that may be alone need not feel alone, if you are Senior Wardens might use the LRP to help ago, I came across an envelope marked deserves top honors and greatest concern. staying in touch. Brothers in distress should as they look toward planning for the future. Membership Renewal across the front. This Most importantly to the future of not hesitate to let their Brothers know of Junior Wardens can help in the planning group is one I have belonged to since 1991. Masonry, your candidates holding in their distress, and, if you are aware of and learn from those with experience, so Originally, I joined this group because of a limbo and our newest Brothers. Mentors, another’s difficult situation, remember our that, tradition prevailing, they will be ready common interest and the high rate of activity first line signers, Masters, Wardens reach obligation to each other and respond to lead their Lodge successfully. in the area. I realized that all I cherished out, extend the hand of Brotherly love, accordingly. Stay strong, Brothers, and be Finally, if you need help in trying to with the group has long past—the members and keep those relationships alive. the Light to each other and the world. understand how your Lodge can move I had known, the great get-togethers and The Grand Lodge Mentoring Team has We have seen difficulties and trials in our forward, feel free to call on the committees friendships built. I tossed it into my recycle been building on Mentoring of Mentor civil structure as summer has come on. As of the Grand Lodge. Whether your concern bin. As it drifted to the bottom, I thought, training. The core of which is based upon Masons, how do we lead in our communities? centers on Membership, Mentorship or “Could this happen to Masonry?” building those early relationships through While politics are to be avoided, we must Leadership, there are Brothers on each of That questioned lingered with me a mentoring. Hopefully you were lucky stand for decency. Are we showing support these committees who are ready and willing couple days until I received a surprise enough to catch the first glimpse at our for our Brethren? Are we assist- to listen and help you develop solutions to visit from a Brother. He just wanted to webinar of what I am sharing. By the time ing those innocents who may need help in those challenges you are encountering. We say hi and dropped off a goodie package. you read this the updated to Section 9 these challenging times? What is our role as are here for you and look forward to He didn’t stay long but we connected Mentoring in the presentation binder will leaders within our communities? These are watching your Lodge grow! once again as Brothers and what brought be available for download: Helpful steps us together Masonry. to take, check off lists and building your As I reflected those thoughts, it mentoring teams. became very clear what a daunting task The golden key to so many successes Updated COVID-19 Meeting lies ahead for Masters and Wardens as the is in the relationships we build. Are we Compliance Checklist dark clouds begin to clear. What can they not the builders? After writing this article do? What should every Brother be doing, I pulled from the recycling the renewal. reaching out reaffirming those relation- Yes, that club is still important to me. The More information at ships, just saying hi, miss your bad jokes, real question is What have I done for it? www.mn-masons.org/news/covid-19 your great ritual works, your friendship, [email protected] and our Fraternity. 612-564-0583

8 The Minnesota MASON May–June 2020