|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Brethren and Friends,
Please accept my apologies for the delay in delivering this month's newsletter. We briefly hit our monthly limit of 500 free emails, forcing a short pause until the sending quota reset today.
Thank you for your patience and understanding—the newest batch is officially on its way to your inboxes!
|
|
|
Brethren,
As our Lodge transitions out of the summer heat and into a busy autumn, September brings a renewed focus on our core Masonic work. The upcoming month will feature several scheduled degrees alongside dedicated practice sessions to ensure our officers and brethren are sharp and prepared for the busy season ahead. A major highlight for the region, and especially, our Lodge, will be the Grand Master's Reception on Saturday, September 26th, at Meyer's Castle in Dyer, Indiana; please note that registration and ticket sales for this event are now officially closed.
Please also note that due to conflicting individual commitments among many of our brothers, the Lodge will not be entering a unit in this year's Valparaiso Popcorn Fest parade. Instead, our primary energy will be directed toward our degree work, regional gatherings, and strengthening our brotherhood within the Lodge walls. We look forward to seeing everyone on the level as we resume full labor.
|
|
|
|
|
|
✵ BELONG. RESPRESENT. INSPIRE
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
We are excited to unveil the new design of our Lodge shirt - crafted by Masonic Beehive - a fresh and distinguished look that reflects the pride, tradition, and fellowship we share as Brothers of Porter Lodge No. 137. This shirt is more than just apparel; it is a visible symbol of our connection to one another and to the Craft.
We encourage every Brother to place an order and wear it proudly at Lodge events, community activities, and wherever our travels may take us. By wearing our Lodge shirt, we not only represent Porter Lodge, but also demonstrate our unity, commitment, and sense of belonging to something greater than ourselves.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
✵ AT A GLANCE: WHAT HAPPENED IN AUGUST
|
|
|
|
|
August proved to be a quieter month for the Lodge, allowing us to pivot smoothly and focus on fellowship. While we had anticipated and fully prepared for a Fellowcraft Degree, unforeseen circumstances required us to reschedule that work for October. In its place, the brethren gathered for a Mental Health Night at Zao Island, enjoying an evening of lighthearted competition and camaraderie before capping off the night with dinner and libations at Buffalo Wild Wings. Behind the scenes, the Trustees also convened for their regular monthly meeting to map out ongoing facility and operational improvements for the Lodge.
|
|
|
|
|
|
-
08/04/2026 …. July Stated Meeting
-
08/11/2026 …. Mentoring Evening
-
08/28/2026 …. Degree Practice
-
08/25/2026 …. Mental Health Night
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
✵ SEPTEMBER: PLANNED MEETINGS & DEGREES
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
-
09/01/2026
September Stated Meeting
-
09/15/2026
Lodge of Instruction - EA
-
09/29/2026
Fellow Craft Degree
-
09/26/2026 «
*** Grand Master’s Reception***
RESERVE YOUR TICKETS HERE
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
✵ IS ANTI - FREEMASONRY ON THE RISE?
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
A man faces preliminary charges, including intimidation and vandalism, after IMPD says he spray-painted symbols and messages on two Masonic landmarks.
INDIANAPOLIS August 31, 2026, A man has been arrested and is facing preliminary charges of intimidation and vandalism after Masonic building staff say he damaged two downtown landmarks and confronted employees after gaining entry into one of them.
Staff at the Indianapolis Masonic Temple say it started at the Scottish Rite Cathedral on Meridian Street, where a man allegedly spray-painted odd messages, including “You who place brick above all," and symbols across the building’s limestone exterior.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
✵ THE MYTHS THAT HARM FREEMASONRY
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Brent Morris, PM: Albert Pike and Lucifer: The Lie That Will Not Die
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Have you heard the sad story about the dog that someone tried to dry off in a microwave oven? What about the one where a jealous husband poured concrete into a new convertible, not realizing it was a surprise anniversary gift from his wife? Or maybe you've read about Albert Pike's so-called "Luciferian Doctrine," which teaches Masons that Lucifer is God?
These stories have one thing in common: they're all false.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Understanding The Working Tools
|
|
|
|
|
The Plumb: Masonic Symbolism
Discover the intriguing world of the plumb masonic symbolism with our in-depth analysis. Uncover its rich history, moral teachings, and significance in Freemasonry, guiding members on their path to truth, integrity, and justice. Immerse yourself in the captivating power of this symbol that shapes lives within the brotherhood.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Bro. Fernando Rodrigues de Souza: Is a Masonic Tradition Necessary:
|
|
|
|
|
Are we truly honoring Masonic tradition or simply engaging in the unthinking repetition of ritual? This provocative inquiry challenges the customs we take for granted, arguing that the future relevance of Freemasonry depends on its members becoming more contemplative and questioning Masons. Uncover the crucial distinction between mere habit and the Craft's genuine, enduring legacy.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Old Tiler Talks (2) – Shooting the Masonic Gun
The Old Tilers talks first published in 1925, by Carl Claudy, is a series of short anecdotal stories told in the setting of a new member asking an old tiler for his opinion on various masonic topics.
These short articles are still very relevant, 100 years on, and hopefully provide some insight to new members today.
A perfectly articulated story by Claudy that reminds us of a lesson from the Second Degree Charge; in the decision of every trespass against our rules, judge with candor, admonish with friendship, and reprehend with mercy.
|
|
|
|
|
|
(*Wisdom from the Old Books)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
✵ You Talked the Talk - Now, Walk the Walk
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For questions or to RSVP, please contact Brother Izzy De Jesus at 219-406-7970 or via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
|
|
|
|
Call to Action for the Brethren
|
|
|
Brethren,
Let’s demonstrate the true heart of Freemasonry and make a tangible impact right here in our community! On Friday, September 18, 2026, starting at 9:00 AM CST, Scottish Rite Freemasons will be coming together at the Hilltop Neighborhood House (460 College Ave, Valparaiso, IN) for a day of service focused on fence painting and property maintenance. All tools, water, snacks, and potentially lunch will be provided—all that’s needed is your time and willing hands. This is a wonderful opportunity to live our values of brotherhood and service while helping strengthen an organization that does so much for local families. Please mark your calendars, step forward to join the crew, and let’s show everyone what Scottish Rite Freemasons are truly made of!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
✵ SOLE-SEARCHERS: An Un-Pair-ed Parody
|
|
|
|
|
Pair-anoia: Putting the Rite Foot Forward
Fraternal Greetings Brothers,
As many of you know I have been recently appointed as the Supreme Honorable Treasurer of the Grand Stocking and Hosiery Reserve. It is my great pleasure to assume this role and carry on this time-honored tradition of our fraternity. This position holds a sacred duty that I will not take lightly, and I will not fail you in the charge you have bestowed upon me to maintain the highest standards and most secretive methods in executing our greatest mission.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
On Friday, August 28, 2026, Crowned Martys Lodge No. 771 convened for its regular meeting, featuring a guest presentation by Illustrious Brother Robert Lee Franks III. His talk, titled Rosicrucian Dreamscapes: Dreamwork & the Inner Alchemy of the Great Work, proved to be exceptionally engaging and insightful. Following the discourse, Brother Franks led an interactive question-and-answer session with the attendees. The memorable evening concluded with a shared dinner hosted in the Lodge’s dining room.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Discover the symbolic universe of Tarot in our upcoming series, where we’ll explore the deck card by card. Tarot is a powerful mirror for self-reflection and the human experience, using symbols and archetypes to illuminate our journey rather than simply predict the future.
Over the next few months, we’ll explore the meanings and imagery of the Major Arcana, continuing now with The High Priestess the symbol of intuition, the subconscious mind, sacred hidden knowledge, and the divine feminine.
|
|
|
|
|
|
The Time Capsule Exhibit is part of Porter Lodge No. 137’s celebration of its 175th Anniversary Re-Dedication. Over the coming year, Brothers are invited to contribute meaningful artifacts, photographs, documents, and other items that reflect the history, spirit, and life of the Lodge. As each contribution is received, it will be placed on display for all to enjoy.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
To all of our Brothers celebrating a birthday in September, Porter Lodge No. 137 extends its warmest wishes for a very Happy Birthday! May this new year around the sun bring you good health, happiness, prosperity, and success in all that you undertake. May you continue to enjoy the fellowship of your Brothers, the love of family and friends, and the many blessings life has to offer. From all of us at Porter Lodge No. 137, we wish each of you health, wealth, happiness, and many more wonderful years ahead!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
✵ FROM THE SECRETARY’S DESK
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Greetings, Brethren!
September is here, and we look forward to gathering with our Brothers for the Grand Master’s Reception on September 26th at Meyer’s Castle in Dyer, Indiana. The evening begins at 6:00 PM and promises to be a memorable occasion as Masons from across the state come together in fellowship and celebration. Ticket sales for the reception are now closed.
As we move into another Masonic year, we want to thank all of our Brothers for their continued support of Porter Lodge. Your membership, participation, and timely payment of dues are essential to keeping our Lodge strong and allowing us to continue our Masonic work and service to the community. We are grateful for your continued commitment and look forward to another year filled with fellowship, service, and brotherhood.
We look forward to seeing everyone at Lodge soon!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
If you have not activated your account but would still like to pay online, please contact me and I will provide you with a personalized payment link that allows you to complete your payment in just a few clicks.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|