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Brethren,
As the leaves turn and our Lodge settles into the heart of autumn, October is a time to reflect on a September full of meaningful Masonic work and to carry that momentum forward. Our Stated Meeting on September 1st opened the season with a strong turnout, and the Lodge of Instruction on September 15th gave our officers and brethren the focused practice that keeps our ritual work sharp and our labors well executed.
A true highlight of the month was the Grand Master's Reception on Saturday, September 26th, at Meyer's Castle in Dyer, Indiana. It was a privilege to gather with brethren from across the state, and we thank everyone who attended and helped make the evening a credit to our Lodge. On September 29th, we conferred the Fellow Craft degree, and we extend my congratulations to the Aiden on his progress, along with the gratitude to all the brethren who contributed to a well-delivered degree.
With the busy season now fully underway, I encourage every brother to stay engaged in the work ahead. Please watch for upcoming announcements regarding our degree work, and further practice sessions, as well as the several fun events we have planned. Our strength lies in our attendance, our preparation, and our fellowship within the Lodge walls. I look forward to seeing everyone on the level.
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✵ BELONG. RESPRESENT. INSPIRE
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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.
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✵ AT A GLANCE: WHAT HAPPENED IN SEPTEMBER
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09/01/2026 …. September Stated Meeting
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09/15/2026 …. Lodge of Instruction
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09/26/2026 …. Grand Master’s Reception
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09/29/2026 …. Fellow Craft Degree
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10/01/2026 .…. Trustees Meeting
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✵ OCTOBER: PLANNED MEETINGS & DEGREES
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✵ GRAND MASTER’S RECEPTION
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On Saturday, September 26th, Meyer's Castle in Dyer, Indiana, hosted the Grand Master's Reception, a statewide gathering that drew Masons and guests from across Indiana. Among those in attendance were 14 Past Grand Masters, a distinguished showing that underscored the significance of the evening.
Several brethren from the Lodge were honored to take part. Events like this remind us that Freemasonry extends far beyond our own Lodge walls, and sharing in fellowship with brethren from every corner of the state strengthens the bonds that unite us as a fraternity.
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The historic setting of Meyer's Castle added to the occasion, and the warmth and conversation among those present made it an evening to remember.
Our thanks go to the Grand Master and all who worked to make the reception a success. As autumn continues, may we carry the spirit of that evening back into our own Lodge: engaged, prepared, and united in purpose.
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On Tuesday, September 29th, Porter Lodge No. 137 held a degree night at which Brother Aiden Trajkoski was passed to the degree of Fellow Craft. The evening was a great success, with the work delivered smoothly and with the care and dignity the degree deserves. Brother Aiden is to be congratulated on his progress as he continues his journey in Freemasonry, and sincere thanks go to all the officers and brethren whose preparation and participation made the night such a success. Strong attendance and well-practiced ritual work reflect the commitment of the Lodge and set a high standard for the degree work ahead.
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✵ BANNER OF THE GRAND MASTERS OF INDIANA
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At the Lodge's degree night on September 29th, Worshipful Brother Ian Christiansen unveiled the Banner of the Grand Masters of Indiana, which has been entrusted to Porter Lodge No. 137 for the duration of Most Worshipful Brother John Bridegroom's term as Grand Master.
The banner is passed down from the Lodge of the immediate Past Grand Master to the Lodge of the current Grand Master, a tradition that links Lodges across the state through the men who have led the Craft in Indiana. On the back of the banner are the signatures of the Illustrious Brothers who have served as Grand Master, making it both a symbol of continuity and a lasting record of the fraternity's leadership.
The Lodge is proud to display the banner above the West gate, where it will be seen by all who enter. It is an honor to serve as its steward during this time, and a reminder of the history and heritage we share as Indiana Masons.
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Understanding The Working Tools
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The Trowel - The Working Tool of a Master Mason
The Masonic trowel – the symbolic Masonic trowel – is no mere brick‑laying implement; within Freemasonry it embodies the spiritual mortar that binds brethren in unshakeable unity. This working‑tool of the Master Mason illustrates how, having tested the Craftsmen’s work, the Master uses the trowel to spread the cement of brotherly love, sealing harmony.
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WB J.P. Flemming, PM: Obligations
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“Your regular and punctual attendance is requested”
“The Duties you have to perform are as such….”
“Furthermore! I will answer all due signs and summonses..”
“Furthermore! I will aid and assist all worthy Brothers…”
Obligations, we take them at the altar during our degrees. We take them when we stand up and volunteer for an officer position. They are the foundation of our fraternity. Some of us have endured to take them in front of God, our friends, and loved ones when we entered the perilous journey of Holy Matrimony.
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Old Tiler Talks (3) – Book on The Altar
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.
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(*Wisdom from the Old Books)
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We call upon all Knights Templar from the local York Rite bodies to congregate at the Asylum of Valparaiso Commandery No. 28 on October 12 at 6:30 PM to witness the Knighting Ceremony of Sir Mike Stills. This solemn occasion will be conducted in period dress, adding an authentic and dignified atmosphere to the ceremony and further magnifying the importance of the occasion. All Sir Knights are encouraged to attend in support of our newest Knight and to share in this memorable evening of Templar tradition, fellowship, and brotherhood.
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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 Empress, the symbol of creation, abundance, fertility, beauty, nurturing, and the divine principle through which hidden potential becomes manifested form.
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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.
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October brings with it the changing of the season, but there is always something worth celebrating - and this month, it is our Brothers who mark another year of life. Porter Lodge No. 137 sends its sincere birthday greetings to each of you. May the year ahead bring new opportunities, good memories, and plenty of reasons to smile. We hope you enjoy the day surrounded by those who matter most and look forward to another year of friendship, fellowship, and shared experiences. From your Brothers at Porter Lodge No. 137, Happy Birthday, and may the best of the year ahead be yet to come!
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✵ FROM THE SECRETARY’S DESK
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Greetings, Brethren!
As we approach the close of another year at Porter Lodge No. 137, it is time to begin looking ahead to the new Masonic year, and that includes taking care of your Lodge dues for 2027. Our dues are still $110.00. Paying your dues on time helps the Lodge begin the year on solid footing and allows us to continue supporting our Lodge, our Brothers, and the many activities and programs we enjoy throughout the year. There are several convenient ways to take care of your dues: you may pay online, send a check, or make payment by cash. Whichever method you choose, please take a moment to handle your dues promptly. Taking care of this small responsibility early helps the Lodge tremendously and allows us to devote our attention to what matters most—strengthening our Lodge and enjoying the fellowship of our Brothers. Thank you for your continued support of Porter Lodge No. 137, and I look forward to another great year together.
We look forward to seeing everyone at Lodge soon!
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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.
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