Let Us Be Donors: A Masonic Reflection on the Power of Giving Blood

There are things in our daily lives we’ve come to depend on—so familiar, we count on them without a second thought. We use them so often, we don’t even notice them anymore. You walk into a room and flip a switch, and the lights come on. You turn a knob, and water flows from the faucet. You reach for your phone, and the world is at your fingertips. You have a medical emergency or need treatment, and you’re taken to the hospital, trusting that help is waiting.

But what happens when something we’ve always counted on isn’t there?

There are some things we can work around when they fail. If the power goes out, we light a candle or power up the generator. If your phone dies, we borrow one or buy a new one. We improvise, adapt, or find temporary solutions. But some needs run deeper—needs that no machine can manufacture, no shortcut can replace.

In those moments, we’re left to rely on something profoundly human: the charity of others. The quiet, selfless act of giving what only a human being can offer.

And few gifts are more vital—or more irreplaceable—than blood.

I was in the Army, stationed just outside Anchorage, Alaska. Anchorage is a city sure enough, but not one with the same level of medical infrastructure as most.

It was a beautiful summer Saturday night. Our squad was relaxing in the barracks when our leader came storming in, pounding on doors and shouting at us to get into the hallway.

Once we assembled, he barked, “Let me see your dog tags.” He scanned them quickly, then said, “Okay—you five, come with me. The rest of you, follow in another car.”

As we sped down the highway, I leaned forward and asked, “Hey Sarge, where are we going in such a hurry?” He replied, “I’ll explain more when we get there. The hospital’s running out of blood. You want to help… right?”

One of the guys asked, “Why are we riding with you?” Sarge answered, “You’re all Type O—the universal donor.”

When we arrived, there were already a few people gathered, clearly there for the same reason. A hospital staff member came out and explained the dire situation. The blood supply was already strained. Summer always brought more accidents, but that day had been especially rough. A couple of serious car crashes earlier had depleted their reserves. And just an hour before, a police officer had been shot and was now in surgery.

He was bleeding heavily. The hospital’s blood supply was exhausted. A shipment had been ordered from Seattle, but it wouldn’t arrive for another four to five hours.

In the meantime, the hospital staff were preparing for a direct transfusion donor to patient.

We were asked to fill out some paperwork, give a blood sample for typing, and then donate a pint. That blood would go straight into the operating room.

As good soldiers, we lined up single file. As we were standing there and talking among ourselves, more people were arriving. We all wanted to help for someone’s life depended on it.  Some told us they’d heard a public appeal on the local radio station.

Several donors stepped out of the donation area and few of our guys went in. Then, not long after, we got the news: the officer hadn’t made it. He’d died in surgery. Our blood was no longer needed.

That night in Anchorage reminded me of something deeper that resonates with our Masonic values. We often think of charity as money given, meals served, or time volunteered. But sometimes, charity is measured in pints. It’s about stepping up, offering something only human beings can give.

To give blood is to give life. It’s a gift that asks for nothing in return. No recognition, no reward, just the quiet hope that somewhere, someone will live because you showed up. This is the essence of Masonic charity.

Won’t you consider being that silent hero?

As Freemasons, we are called to be builders—not just of temples or traditions, but of hope, healing, and humanity. Charity is one of our cardinal virtues, and blood donation is charity in its most direct form. Its compassion made tangible. Its brotherly love extended beyond our lodge walls, into the veins of a stranger.

We may never know who receives our blood. But we know why we give it: because we are Masons. Because we serve. Because we care.

To further understand the necessity of blood, I had the privilege of conducting an in-depth interview with the distinguished Dr. Claudia Cohn of the University of Minnesota. Her lifelong study has been of “all things blood”. She is the director of the blood bank, Associate Director of Clinical Laboratories, and the Professor of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology.  

The interview with Dr. Cohn takes us inside the University of Minnesota Medical Center, Masonic Cancer Center and the Masonic Children's Hospital, and I think you will see the importance of blood in all those great works.

The first question I asked: Why is human blood still necessary today? Is it not possible to manufacture blood the way we do other medications or treatments?

The short answer to this is: There is no replacement for human blood.

Dr. Cohn walked me through an in-depth look at the research, but I will try to shorten it.

The scientific community has certainly been putting forth a great effort to address this dilemma. There have been three very close studies. The first one led to heart attacks, the second led to lung damage. The third was very promising and was determined safe, but the cost to make one pint of Red Blood cells cost hundreds of millions of dollars. Maybe in 50 years blood will become more affordable-but not today.

Meanwhile, in the U.S. someone needs blood every two seconds.

Dr Cohn says that in the US most blood goes to cancer patients with trauma a close second.

Our University of Minnesota Stem Cell Institute was the first in the country dedicated to Stem cell research. They are finding success with treatments at the Masonic Cancer Center with cancer patients, but blood transfusions play an indispensable role.

For Leukemia, Lymphoma and other cancer patients, Allogeneic Stem Cell therapy has had a wonderful success.

First the patient will undergo Chemotherapy to wipe out the disease and the bone marrows. The patient will then receive stem cells. It’s a small miracle that these foreign Allogeneic Stem Cells know how to home in the patient’s marrow and begin to take up residence, this process is called engrafting. The engraftment process can take weeks to months to take effect.  

During this time the patient body has no marrow to produce red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets or any other marrow elements.

As a result, these patients are completely dependent on transfusions. They usually receive “At Least one red blood cell unit, and one platelet unit per day until the engraftment is complete, and they can produce red, white blood cells on their own. Again, this can take weeks to months.

The University of Minnesota Medical Center and our Masonic Children’s hospital at the University of Minnesota is one of the oldest and most respected and successful in the world.

They provide transplant surgery and care for kidneys, liver, heart and a few other things. They have performed over 13,000 kidney transplants, 400 liver transplants, and average 20-30 heart transplants a year.

For a liver transplant it’s not uncommon to use between 10-100 units of blood, red blood cells, platelets, plasma for a single operation.

Heart and Lung transplants will not need as much but will require a considerable amount.

Kidney transplants will need anywhere from 0-2 units of blood.

I asked Dr. Cohn how much blood and its products were used at the University’s hospitals.

She stated that last year they used 18,000 Red Blood Cells units, 15,000 Platelets units, and 9,000 Plasma units.

Now, keep in mind of my story at the beginning of this talk. I asked Dr. Cohn what life would be like at our university if the blood supply were to be dramatically reduced or exhausted? And how would that affect her research?

Dr. Cohn stated. “If we ran out of blood patients would die. This occurs in other countries around the word, where the second major cause of death is still maternal hemorrhage during childbirth, with women dying, because there isn’t enough blood on the shelves. Here in the US, there are shortages that affect rural areas the most, with many hospitals using air transport to send critical patients to hospitals with good blood availability. That’s for trauma. For Cancer patients, many would die much more quickly if they didn’t have access to regular blood transfusions.

“My research focuses on the best kind of platelet for patients, especially stem cell transplant patients, who usually need at least one unit of red blood cells and one unity of platelets every day. My ability to continue with my academic work would end if we didn’t have enough blood. I think most of my day would be spent on the ethically different matter of deciding who gets the limited amount of blood that is available. We have plans in place for a blood shortage crisis, and we almost had to implement some of these plans during COVID, but we were able to make it through thanks to the many donors willing to risk exposure by coming to blood centers with masks on’.

I asked Dr. Cohn for her advice for and opinion of a person thinking about donating blood.

She stated, “I always tell people there is no other way to use an hour of your day to regularly save lives’. But in terms of giving blood this is an easy message. Our bodies are incredible factories, producing red blood cells, platelets, and plasma on a constant basis. Our bodies also have mechanisms in place to increase production of red blood cells and platelets if we have low levels. But here is something to keep in mind: Normal platelet counts are between 150,000-450,000 platelets per microliter (a microliter is less than one drop of fluid) As a physician, I don’t recommend a platelet transfusion until your platelet count drops below 10,000. This means our bodies make so much extra to keep us safe. As for red blood cells, so long as we have good nutrition (plenty of iron in our diet) we continue to produce high levels of red blood cells our whole lives.  

I think I have demonstrated the need for blood donation in our community, and I haven’t even talked about the sudden blood lose events that I’m so familiar with like shootings, stabbings, accidents or just routine operations in hospitals.

Only three percent of eligible donors in America provide the nation’s blood supply. In Summertime when these donors go on vacation, and the increase in sudden blood loss events, the blood supply gets low.

As Minnesota Masons our traditional concepts of Masonic charity have generally been to write a check where it contributes to great things that Minnesota Masonic Charities do or working at Salacious or a pancake breakfast to perhaps raise money for a local cause or to give a high school student a scholarship or to just help the Lodge raise money to pay its taxes. Of course, we are quick to throw in a few bucks in the Masters hat when it comes to helping a poor distressed Master Mason. These are noble and needed acts. But they are one step removed from the people they help. Blood is different. It’s immediate. It’s direct. It’s personal.

This may be your first time thinking of donating blood as Masonic charity. But we are not alone.  There are seven Grand Lodges here in the US that have established programs.

The Grand Lodges of Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania and Maine have created the Masonic Blood, Organ, Bone Marrow and Stem Cell Donar Program. Their motto is “Sharing the Gift of Life”

The Grand Lodge of Massachusetts is very proud that they are the largest single donor in the state.

The Grand Lodges of Texas, Virgina, Rhode Island all have programs that promote blood donation.

These programs reflect a broader commitment to what we are used to in the Masonic commitment to charity and public service.

You can rest assured that somewhere, kept cool and ready, a pint of your exact blood type lies in wait—not by coincidence, but because a stranger chose to give, asking for nothing in return. They never knew your name, only believed that their gift might reach someone in need.

Let us be ready—not just when the call comes pounding on our door, but every day. Let us be donors. Let us be lifelines.

Not every Brother can give blood; but every Brother can give encouragement. To inspire another to donate is itself an act of service.

Charity takes many forms, and each one strengthens the bond of humanity.

Let us be known not only by the light we carry, but by the life we help preserve.

For every act of charity, whether it comes from a wallet or a vein-we reaffirm the values that make us Masons.

Won’t you consider being that silent hero?

I am especially grateful to John Schwietz of Minnesota Masonic Charities and to Sandy Majerus of the University of Minnesota Foundation for they opened the door. Their thoughtful introduction led me to Dr. Claudia Cohn whose expert insight brought clarity and depth. It's a reminder that generosity takes many forms; sometimes its knowledge, and sometimes it's simply knowing the right person to call. Thank you all for being part of this journey. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

"Brotherhood and Bar-B-Q: A Summer Tradition Lives On"

 On July 8, 2025, Cataract Lodge #2 and Minnehaha Lodge #165 gathered once again for their beloved annual Joint July Meeting and Bar-B-Q. This tradition, now going strong for over two decades, began 23–24 years ago when Cataract Lodge had to part with its Richfield building to make way for the new Best Buy headquarters. In true Masonic spirit, Minnehaha Lodge welcomed us with open arms and offered a new home where our fellowship could continue to thrive.

The evening was as warm as the summer sun — full of laughter, good conversation, and the mouthwatering aroma of Bar-B-Que ribs and chicken. After a hearty dinner shared among friends and brothers, we moved into a joint stated meeting that reflected the unity and shared history of our lodges.

Adding his own flair to the gathering, the Most Worshipful Grand Master Bob Davis joined us in his favorite Hawaiian Hula shirt — a reminder that Masonic gatherings can be both meaningful and fun.

It was a beautiful summer evening, filled with Brotherly love and the joyful spirit of fraternity — truly, a good time was had by all.

"Two Journeys, One Path: The Parallels Between Biking and Freemasonry"

Image created by Copilot A.I. 

 

I love bicycling. There’s something truly special about those long rides—three or four hours of just me, the open road, and the steady rhythm of pedaling through forests and farmlands. It’s the perfect way to clear my mind and let creativity flow freely.

It was in the midst of an adrenaline rush—somewhere between pushing up a tough hill and feeling the freedom of the ride—that inspiration struck. I started thinking about how bicycling shares some surprising similarities with being a Freemason. The balance, the perseverance, the sense of brotherhood—all of it came together in a way that made perfect sense.

And so, I put together a lighthearted comparison between the two. Hope you enjoy the ride! 

 

1.  Balance is key: Just as a bicycle needs balance to move forward, Freemasons value harmony in their brotherhood.

2.  Continuous motion: To stay upright on a bike, you need to keep pedaling; similarly, Freemasonry thrives on active participation and growth.

3. A shared journey: Cycling often involves group rides, and Freemasons cherish companionship and shared experiences.

4. Guidance matters: A map or mentor helps navigate new terrain; Freemasons offer guidance to their members on life's journey.

5.  Built on principles: Bikes rely on strong frameworks, and Freemasonry is built on principles like Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth.

6. Freedom and exploration: Cycling offers liberation, as does the quest for self-improvement and knowledge in Freemasonry.

7. Symbols abound: Cyclists have gears and chains; Freemasons have tools like compasses and squares—symbols guiding their paths.

8.  Requires dedication: Whether mastering cycling or understanding Freemasonry, both demand commitment and perseverance.

9.  Adapting to challenges: Cyclists face hills and headwinds; Freemasons address life's struggles with resilience and support.

10. A sense of community: Bicycling fosters camaraderie among riders, just as Freemasons cultivate fraternity within their Lodges and the Masonic Community.

While bicycling and Freemasonry may seem worlds apart, they share more common ground than one might expect.  Each requires dedication, balance, and an openness to growth.  Whether on two wheels or in a Masonic Lodge, the pursuit of self-improvement, community, and resilience remains at the heart of the experience. 

As I continue my long rides through forests and farmland, I find that the lessons of Freemasonry accompany me, just as the steady rhythm of my cycling guides my thoughts forward. It is, after all, the journey—not just the destination—that shapes us.

 

Happy St. Johns Day

 

Illustration created by A.I. 

Freemasons around the world celebrate the Holy Saints John—St. John the Baptist and St. John the Evangelist—as enduring symbols of moral integrity, balance, and Light. Their feast days, closely tied to the summer and winter solstices, reflect nature’s rhythms and the eternal cycle of renewal. This year, St. John’s Day falls on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, honoring  St. John the Baptist, a figure of bold conviction and spiritual preparation. St. John the Evangelist, celebrated in December, embodies thoughtful wisdom and spiritual insight.

Together, these two Saints stand as a pair of guiding lights—mirroring the parallel lines in Masonic symbolism that frame the individual Mason's journey toward truth and self-mastery. Lodges mark the occasion with joyful fellowship: festive meals, toasts to Light and Brotherhood, and reflections on Masonic teachings. Some communities include public ceremonies or attend services in honor of the Saints. Others hold solemn lodge gatherings that reconnect Brothers to the ancient values we’ve each vowed to uphold.

It’s a celebration rooted in our ancient history but renewed each year through personal meaning and shared tradition. The Holy Saints John remind us why we walk this path—together, in pursuit of wisdom, compassion, and the Light.

I wish you a Happy St. John’s Day.

Lessons in Candlelight

 I’m a Traveling Mason at heart. There’s something truly special about visiting different Masonic Lodges, near and far, and experiencing the Brotherhood in its fullest. The great lodge meals, renewing old friendships, and making new friends, sharing their rich traditions, they all make each visit meaningful.

I have a deep appreciation for the Lodge buildings themselves, each one carrying their own history and character. I love seeing how a Lodge was constructed, how it’s laid out, and the thoughtful details in its decorations and memorabilia. Every Lodge has a story to tell, and I enjoy taking it all in.

My journey as a Traveling Mason began during my time serving in the Grand Lodge and as Grand Master of Minnesota. Those years gave me the opportunity to visit numerous Lodges, each one leaving a lasting impression.

So, when I heard that Forest Lake Lodge #34 was hosting a Master Mason degree by candlelight—with a fried chicken dinner, no less—I didn’t hesitate to send in my RSVP. Not only does Forest Lake Lodge have a fine reputation for its degree work, but the combination of candlelight and fellowship promised to make for an unforgettable evening. I knew I was in for something truly special.

I had visited this Lodge many years ago and had the privilege of assisting in raising a new Brother, so I was eager to see how the lodge had changed. As I stepped into the lodge room, I was immediately drawn to the glow of candlelight, setting the stage for the degree ahead.

On the North wall, I noticed a series of nine beautifully handcrafted Masonic symbols. I quickly recognized them as the symbols displayed on a trestle board for the Master Mason degree. They were created by Worshipful Brother Dick Anderson of Forest Lake Lodge. 

At first, they appeared to be simply decorative, but during the third lecture, they transformed into a powerful visual teaching tool. As Shannon, the lecturer, explained their deeper meanings, both he and the candidate gazed upon them, bringing the lessons to life in a profound way. 

Our Masonic Trestle boards, or also known as Tracing Boards, have evolved significantly over the ages. For those of you that are unfamiliar Ill try to provide a short history.

Trestle boards originally were used by operative stonemasons to outline construction plans. They became in use by Speculative Masons to hold the symbolic blueprints for a Mason’s personal and spiritual development. In speculative Freemasonry, they represent the divine plan and moral law, guiding members in their journey. While some jurisdictions use "tracing board" and "trestle board" interchangeably, they have distinct historical and symbolic meanings.

 In the 18th century, lodges often met in private rooms above taverns, where symbolic designs were drawn using chalk or charcoal directly onto the floor or a table. These drawings were temporary, erased after each meeting to maintain secrecy. Over time, removable floor cloths or known as the Masters Carpet were introduced, allowing lodges to just roll them up after use and reuse the symbolic designs without redrawing them each time

By the 19th century, beautifully painted tracing boards had become a staple in Masonic lodges. These boards, often framed and proudly displayed, played an important role in teaching Masonic degrees. Some were designed like roller shades, easily pulled down for use and neatly retracted when not needed—a practical and elegant way to share knowledge.

The early 20^th century Masonic Lodges used a Magic Lantern (an early light projector) with hand painted glass slides of Masonic symbols that were projected onto a screen or wall. To help members understand Masonic teaching and meanings. Sometimes creating sound effects such thunder and lightning to add a dramatic effect.

Today, tracing boards and trestle boards remain essential tools in Masonic education, with modern versions incorporating digital formats such as Power Point and artistic reinterpretations. Their evolution reflects the fraternity’s adaptability while preserving its rich traditions.

Occasionally, you’ll find a lodge that’s home to an incredible craftsman, like Dick Anderson, who generously gave his time and talent, transforming raw wood into exquisite masterpieces.

Though Worshipful Brother Dick passed away in 2019 and is no longer with us on this earth, his legacy continues to live on through his extraordinary craftsmanship. Each piece he created tells a story, guiding those who seek to understand the profound meanings of the Third Degree. Through his artistry, Worshipful Dick brought symbols to life, transforming wood into lessons that resonate far beyond their physical form.

His dedication to the craft was never just about creating beautiful works of art; it was about passing down knowledge, inspiring reflection, and helping brethren grasp the deeper truths of Masonry. His work remains a testament to his generosity, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to his fellow Masons.

While his hands may no longer create, the impact of his work endures—touching the hearts and minds of those who learn from it. His legacy will forever be a guiding light, ensuring that his lessons and artistry continue to enrich the Masonic journey for generations to come. 

If you would like to see more detailed photos-continue to scroll down

Pot of Incense

Beehive

Book of Constitutions Guarded by the Tylers Sword

Sword Pointed to a Naked Heart

Euclid's 47th Problem

Hourglass

Scythe

Spade, Sprig of Acacia, Setting Maul, Coffin

Forest Lake Lodge #344

Thank you my Brothers for such a great experience.

Reflections from the 2025 Midwest Conference on Masonic Education

 

 The 2025 Midwest Conference on Masonic Education, Hosted by The Grand Lodge of Indiana was held May 2-4, 2025, in Indianapolis, Indiana.

The Midwest Conference is a great gathering of Masonic educators and enthusiasts from various Grand Lodge jurisdictions across the Midwest. Since its founding in 1949, the conference has served as a place to come together to exchange ideas, learn from each other, foster discussions, provide valuable networking opportunities and strengthen Masonic education.

The conference accommodation was at the Embassy Suites in downtown Indianapolis, which was centrally located within easy walking distance to the Masonic Temple and Restaurant.

Registration for our conference was in the hotel lobby. The lobby and atrium area were alive and buzzing with people. Because there were 20,000 people in town that had registered for the IU Health 500 festival Mini Marathon that was going to take place one block from our hotel Saturday morning.

The Friday evening was a dinner and program at the Rathskeller German Restaurant which has been serving authentic cuisine since 1894. The restaurant is in the historic Athenaeum building which was built in the German Renaissance Revival style. This old-world classic charm set the stage for our lively and meaningful discussions.  

The conference attendees were directed to a private room on the second floor. Upon arrival I found the room buzzing with energy as 95 Brothers gathered from 17 different jurisdictions, many having traveled great distances to be there. I had the pleasure of meeting Brothers from as far as Winnipeg Canada, Florida, Alabama, and Montana. Though we were tightly packed at our tables, and the warmth of the room was undeniable, the conversations were nothing short of electric engaging, thought provoking and full of brotherly love.

After a hearty German dinner. President James Buckhorn made a welcoming statement and introduced the program for the evening. “An Idiot and a Dummy” Brent Morris and Chris Hodapp.

It was good to see my two old friends, and their names and faces were known by most in the audience. There was some gentle joking from the audience as they took to the stage.

For those of you unfamiliar with Morris and Hodapp they are both authors of two best-selling books about our fraternity.

“The Complete Idiots Guide to Freemasonry” by Brent Morris

“Freemasons for Dummies” By Chris Hodapp

Neither author had known each other at the time of writing, and they both had separate publishers. They both were writing their books at the same time.

Chrises book “Freemasons for Dummies” was published July 2005 and Brents book “The complete Idiots Guide to Freemasonry” was published four months later.

They both met at Masonic Week in Washington DC to promote their book. They both have been good friends since.

The focus of their talk was how their books came about, and the methods they used for researching and writing, and their toils and tribulations of producing a book.  Which was perfect for the audience, which was made up of Masonic scholars, writers and educators. Giving us a different perspective.

On Saturday the conference itself was held in the heart of the city at the Indianapolis Masonic Temple. It is an eight-story building in the shape of a cube fashioned in Classical Revival Architecture. It is made of Indiana limestone and is adorned with rows of Ionic columns. The building was completed in 1909 and is a testament to early 20^th century design and craftsmanship.

As I stood before the building, seeing it for the first time looking at its sheer size and the architectural beauty stirs a quiet respect for the craftmanship an vision in its construction.

When you first step inside the main lobby entrance. You are struck by the classical elegance of Masonic Architecture. This space is more than just a building-it is a treasure chest that holds the jewels of history, tradition and knowledge.

Stepping into the elevator was like stepping back in time to my childhood. The journey upward to the fifth floor was slow and deliberate. Then without warning it jerked to a sudden stop. The old elevator had some character. It was a breathtaking experience.

After stepping off the elevator and walking into the reception area of the museum-library I was met and greeted by the Most Worshipful Grand Master of Indiana David G. Morgan. I enjoyed our time together and had a chance to get to know him.

The conference itself was held in the Lodge room across the hall. When stepping into such a grand and historic lodge room is like entering into a world suspended in time-where craftsmanship and tradition whisper from every corner. Seeing the pipe organ with its golden pipes hints at the past ceremonies and melodies that fill the air of mystery and solemnity. I was informed that there are seven such pipe organs in the building and six of them are fully functional.

Later I looked behind the gold curtain behind the Senior Wardens chair and saw a backdrop to aid the dramatic effect in the Third Degree.

The first speaker was Author Steven L. Harrison, who shared the fascinating journey of writing his book, The Perfect Storm. His work delves into the stolen secrets of the Freemasons, the most infamous cold case of the 19th century, and a modern-day key to unraveling the mysteries of the baffling crime known as the Morgan Affair.

The William Morgan Affair remains one of the greatest unsolved mysteries in American history. It fueled enduring conspiracy theories and historical intrigue—much like the cases of organized crime figure Jimmy Hoffa or the daring airplane hijacker D.B. Cooper in more recent history.

But the Morgan Affair was more than just a local scandal. It reshaped American politics, sparking the rise of the Anti-Masonic Party—the very first third party in U.S. history. It transformed public attitudes toward Freemasonry and left an indelible mark on the nation's political landscape.

Over the past 200 years, the Morgan Affair has inspired countless books, articles, and pamphlets, each attempting to shed new light on the story. Steven L. Harrison approached writing his book much like a detective working a cold case—carefully piecing together fragments of information, uncovering hidden truths, and following leads until the full story took shape. His meticulous process took over three years, driven by patience, persistence, and deep investigative work to ensure every detail contributed to the final narrative.

As someone who has worked on cold cases myself, I was particularly intrigued by Steven's relentless pursuit of original documents. What stood out most was his discovery of corroborating testimony from a living descendant of William Morgan—an incredible breakthrough in unraveling this historical puzzle.

I enjoyed his presentation so much that I bought the book and plan to prepare a Lodge Education Program based on his research.

 The second speaker was Dr. Heather K. Calloway of the Indiana University Fraternal Center. The title of her talk was Hands-on History; Volunteer to Save Our Fraternal Heritage.

She provided a historical overview of the role of fraternal organizations in America. The Golden Fraternal Era was from 1870-1930. It was estimated that there were approx. 600-850 different fraternal organizations in America during that time, and how the role of the fraternal lodges were the centers of social life, civic service and mutual aid.

Dr. Calloway emphasized how important it was for us to preserve our history. One important hint was to make sure our records stay safe through changing technology is key. The files we once stored on floppy disks, and CD are already difficult to retrieve, and memory cards and flash drives might not be reliable either in the near future. Thinking ahead can help us protect what matters.

She informed us as Lodge Educators that we are the Guardians of our history. She encouraged us to build a culture of preservation, by including our Masonic history into our lodge education programs.

After lunch Daniel Gardiner presented “Research for Anyone”. His talk began with various examples of just ordinary Masons who had the desire to make significant discoveries in their research.

He also provided several online resources that could be valuable aids to one’s research.

The final Speaker of the day was Adam Kendell. His presentation was “Historical Content and the Fraternal Experience”

Brother Kendall’s busy schedule kept him from being present with us. He appeared to us from his Oakland California home via a live Zoom Video.

After the scheduled speakers wrapped up, we headed to the second floor for the evening program and dinner, where the election of officers for the upcoming 2025-2026 year took place.

Our dinner speaker was the esteemed Brent Morris, who delivered his thought-provoking talk, “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to Lodge.” He shared valuable insights into his work with the Scottish Rite, discussing membership trends, retention challenges, and the ever-evolving dynamics of our organization.

One of the evening’s standout moments was the recognition of Grand Lodge Education Officer Bradley Phelps, who received the prestigious Edward Rund Memorial Masonic Education Award for 2025. This honor celebrates his dedication to promoting Masonic learning and leadership, reinforcing the vital role education plays within Freemasonry. His contributions have enriched the fraternity, and the heartfelt applause he received spoke volumes about his impact.

The night concluded with an exciting announcement: The 2026 Midwest Conference on Masonic Education will be hosted by the Grand Lodge of Nebraska A.F. & A.M.,
taking place April 24-26 at the stunning Scottish Rite Temple in downtown Omaha, Nebraska.

Looking back on the weekend, I found that the conference truly embodied the fraternity’s unwavering commitment to lifelong learning and personal growth among its members. And of course—A Good Time Was Had by All!

The Minnesota Delegation