What time is it? 

When you check your phone to see what time it is in another country, when airlines synchronize international flight schedules, when financial markets trade across continents—all of this traces back to a long night spent in a rural railway station by a Brother Mason, who refused to accept that the world's approach to timekeeping was good enough.

“Every year is getting shorter, never seem to find the time.” Did Roger Waters know who Sandford Fleming was? It’s Minnesota Masonic Histories & Mysteries. 

To celebrate 100 episodes, we break down one of the biggest insights we’ve learned so far: the foundation of Blue Lodge is built on authentic relationships, everything else sits on top. 

Lodges today are facing the same challenges seen across society: men are struggling, often silently. These struggles affect the emotional and relational health of Lodges. We say the word “brotherhood,” but men want deeper connection than many currently experience. Ritual and fellowship are strong, but authentic connection is often missing. 

In 2026, Grand Lodge and Masonic Charities will be partnering with the Face It Foundation in a meaningful pilot program that will meet modern needs while honoring tradition. This won’t replace Masonic practices or alter Lodge identity; it will add to it and amplify the core essence of Freemasonry. 

“I think that's the exciting opportunity you have, to take this built-in network of Brothers and go to another level to create deeper connections, deeper bonds, and unburden yourself of the things you’re carrying.” -Mark Meier and Bill Dehkes

If you’re interested in bringing more connection, meaning, and support into your lodge, contact [email protected] for more info on this pilot program. 

www.faceitfoundation.org 

How do we set up the Masonic journey to be a success?

“We say it, but do we actually do it?” 

Former Army Intelligence Analyst and Minnesota transplant via Texas and Tennessee: it’s Marc Lovin. Newport No. 118's Senior Warden weighs in on planning for the year ahead, overcoming internal communication struggles, and the underrated value of Masonic travel. 

“What is your lodge doing today that will be of benefit in a decade?” 

It’s a podcast, folks…and “it doesn’t even have a first name, it just says McLovin!”  

Our incredibly insightful Grand Lodge Education Officer Brad Phelps asks the tough questions and shares several thoughts worth pondering. 

Transformation takes time, along with a willingness to do the important work.  

“How do you know yourself to be one?” It’s an all new Minnesota Masonic Histories & Mysteries. 

Check out www.bythecompass.org for more from Brad.  

“What am I going to do today to make myself a better Mason?” 

Retired U.S. Army combat Veteran, recipient of the Combat Infantryman’s Badge, and dedicated servant leader Lloyd Cheney joins us in studio. From a lengthy deployment to acclimating back to civilian life, Lloyd takes us on his journey. 

“You’re never going to be the same, and you have to accept that.” 

Do we underestimate the impact of the mentor / mentee relationship? Put on your Kevlar, soldier…we’re talking civic causes, Masonic missions, and serving the Craft. 

Lloyd is a Past Master of Accacia No. 51 (Cottage Grove) and active member within the greater Masonic family. 

“The heart of charity is the love we extend to each other.” Get your Cipher out: it’s Brian Beermann. 

Applying the lessons, collaboration, training your successor, and knowing that consistency is essential to lodge success. 

“The important piece of Masonic ritual is the application of the ideals of Masonic ritual and how we apply them to our daily lives.” 

Brian Beermann is a Past Master of Mizpah No. 191 (St. Paul Park) and Past Grand Master of Masons in Minnesota (2012-2013). 

As important as the square and compass are to us as Masons, they are not our primary symbols. This week we take a closer look at what is an outward and visible symbol of an inward and spiritual grace.

Back by popular demand, we delve into the writings of John L. Cooper III and examine the symbolic work it takes for each of us to contribute to a stable and useful society…on an all-new Minnesota Masonic Histories & Mysteries. 

This week it’s some of the greats: Jonathan Ruiz, Anna McCleary, Stacey Brown, and Alex Lee from our Masonic Home. Compassionate, quality care is our mission, but what does it take to maintain such a highly rated care facility? 

Hear more about authentic relationships with residents, genuine passion for excellence, and expanded volunteer opportunities at your Masonic Home. 

More info: mnmasonichomes.org or call 952-948-7000

How do you show up every day? Marine Corps Veteran and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu enthusiast Justin Ortega digs into the challenges of integrity, purpose, and doing the right thing.

“Personal improvement is hard, and it takes a lot of discipline and dedication. True happiness comes from the hard work.”

With a modern take on our 24-inch gauge, we take a step back and examine “happiness” in today’s world, and what really brings us meaning, balance, and lasting satisfaction. 

Justin was raised in 2022 at Surfside Lodge No. 112 under the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of California. He is a plural member of Hector Lodge No. 158 (St. Paul) and Accacia Lodge No. 51 (Cottage Grove). 

This week we break down the vital importance of authentic friendship, re-thinking lodge education, and identifying our “cause” or purpose as Freemasons. How do all these things impact the overall “member experience” in your lodge? 

Also, we have an underused passage that serves as a reminder that our obligations extend beyond the walls of the lodge to our communities and the world at large. Grab your Manual…it’s an all new Minnesota Masonic Histories & Mysteries.