August 2023 Trestle Board

Faithful Brethren of Kilwinning Crosse 2-237

Marching forward…ever marching forward…following the path as the sun progresses from season to season, we march forward toward the refreshing coolness of fall, and the biting coldness of winter. No doubt by the time of next month’s writing, we shall have felt breathed wisps of pending fall as cooler breezes begin the inevitable transition towards colder winds, and decreasing daylight turning leaves into a brilliant muti-colored bouquet. It is a time of change. Such are the lessons nature teaches us; such are the lessons Masonry teaches us, albeit allegorically.

I have been reading The Meaning of Masonry, by William Wilhurst. It has rapidly become one of my go-to texts as I continue to improve myself in Masonry. Written in 1922, it calls all Masons to a deeper understanding of an enlightened life, explaining:

The meaning of Masonry, however, is a subject usually left entirely unexpounded, and that accordingly remains largely unrealized by its members save such few as make it their private study; the authorities of what in all other respects is an elaborately organized and admirably controlled community have hitherto made no provision for explaining and teaching the “noble science” which Masonry proclaims itself to be and was certainly designed to impart. It seems taken for granted that reception into the Order will automatically be accompanied by an ability to appreciate forthwith and at its full value all that one there finds. The contrary is the case, for Masonry is a veiled and cryptic expression of the difficult science of spiritual life, and the understanding of it calls for special and informed guidance on the one hand, and on the other a genuine and earnest desire for knowledge, and no small capacity for spiritual perception on the part of those seeking to be instructed.

Spiritual perception…we all strive for it. Is it not embedded in the inherent nature of an allegory? We are constantly reminded of the allegorical foundations of Masonry, challenging us all to think on a deeper level – in effect, to hone the skill of spiritual perception. Yet often it seems to just pass over our heads as a fleeting shadow.

I was recently part of one of the education sessions for our One Day mason conferrals, and the discussion at that moment focused on one of the many statues depicted in the Master Mason lecture. The question posed to the session leader was “what does it mean?”, when we might alternatively ask “what does it mean to me?”. Such is the foundation of spiritual perception.

In another recent example, an educator was discussing Masonry’s ties to ancient mysteries, and in this case, was discussing Masonry’s relationships to Qabbalah. The question posed afterwards was “How do we apply this teaching to the lodge?”, when perhaps a more personally reflective inquiry might be “How do we apply this teaching to myself”. Such is the foundation of spiritual perception.

I have begun changing my thinking resulting from these “aha” moments…times when I recognize the fresh breath of enlightenment. I pray that we might all hone the skill of Spiritual Perception. NOTE: The full text of WB Wilmhurst’s aformentioned book can be read online at https://sacred-texts.com/mas/mom/index.htm.

Lodge Desiderata

At this upcoming stated, WM Andrew Coelho will provide an introduction to the Shriners, and inform us of Eastern Star activities planned for the fall.

I am continually on the search for any opportunities of community involvement. Let’s discuss possibilities for involvement in this year’s Fall Harvest Festival; it could be something as simple as a tent shade placed over the front of the lodge with a meet-and-greet, and an opportunity to provide a tour of the lodge, a discussion on the  history of the lodge, or to introduce ourselves to a potential mason.

The next District Ritual School will be held Tuesday, August 22, 7pm at Fredericksburg Lodge #4. We continue to practice exemplification of the Master Mason degree at the Kinsale Masonic Lodge in the next coming months. The school is a great opportunity to sharpen our ritual skills and build relationships across the many lodges in District 8. Please plan on attending if within the length of your cable tow… even if not part of exemplification team; these sessions are wonderful opportunities to learn the ritual specifics, but also to meet Masters from other lodges.

Also, I have been advised that WB Mike Moses will lead a group of Stafford Lodge members to our stated for a fraternal visit. I am pleased we can host such an event, and we should plan on a reciprocal visit to the excellent Stafford Lodge in the next coming months.

Finally, Brethren, please join us for the evening meal prior to Stated. Dinner meal will consist of a Southern Style Red Beans and Rice, Smoked Sausage, and a selection of side dishes and desert. Come out early for a great evening; dinner starts at 6:30 pm.
And always remember…in your moments of prayer, remember our country, our families, and our sick and distressed.

Upcoming Events:
August 22, 2023, 7:00 PM – District Ritual School; Fredericksburg Lodge #4

August Masonic Birthdays

May the God of peace and love delight to dwell with, and bless you.

Respectfully,
Huey Allen
WM, Kilwinning Crosse 2-237