X-Oriente

Never before has Freemasonry had such a huge generational spread actively working in the Fraternity. And becasue of the accelerating pace of change, the generations are more diverse in terms of style, values and outlook. In this episode we begin to explore the characteristics of each generational style, and how they relate to each other, as well as where the friction points might be. As the French say, a warned man is worth two, so by understanding these differences in outlook and approach we can avoid problems and misunderstandings as we work toward common purposes in the Craft. In Part I, we explore the Veterans (those born before 1943) and the Boomer (1943-1960).

Much of my data came from the excellent book, Generations at Work, by Ron Zemke, Bob Fitzpatrick and Claire Raines.

The show has returned. In this episode, I revisit the rationale of the show, what is changed and what to expect in the new season. It's going to be an interesting season, full of thought provoking ideas, critical analysis and new ideas.

Please tell your brothers, and subscribe, if you are not alredy a subscriber. To those who've written, thanks, and keep the converesation going.

Fiat Vox!

What is going on with the GLNF in France? Last summer, the UGLE suspended relations with them. Now, following recommendations by a committee of COGMINA, other Grand Lodges around the USA are also suspending relations with the French Grand Lodge. Why? What is all the fuss about? I've been trying to follow the story, but it hasn't been easy. In this episode I try and unravel the story.

As always, I speak only for myself and my opinions do not reflect any official position of any body or group in Freemasonry.

How do you make Masonic Education more compelling? Today we talk a little about how to make education more compelling and useful for both your candidates and your lodge.

St. Bernard Commandery No. 35 is selling some of their Masonic treasures and it's raised some interesing discussions. In this episode we talk to the Eminent Commander of St. Bernard No. 35 to find out what's up.

We're also experimenting with the format ofthe show, now that it's back. What do you think?

Music:

"Nothing At All," by 3 Minute Pop Songs

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We have a new co-host! Jason van Dyke, the Director of Media Projects (I probably got that wrongly worded, but you get the idea) at the House of the Temple in Washington DC joins me on the show. The audio is a little rough, and the show is completely unscripted, but we are in the field during Masonic Week. This episode is a discussion that continues a national discussion on the idea of civility and what the hell happened to it. We'll talk about how to disagree as Freemasons and still preserve harmony.

Let me know how you like the change. We'll be fine-tuning as we go, and the show may indeed morph some more, but this is an exciting episode for me and the show.

Also, if you are here in DC for Masonic Week, come find me on Facebook or drop me an email.

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The first in a series of shorter episodes on topical Masonic subjects, I'm calling "X-Oriente Dispatches." In this Dispatch, I comment on the recent verdict in the Frank Hass vs. the Grand Lodge of West Virginia case.

Just remember the disclaimer: I speak only for myself and not for any Lodge, Grand Lodge or any other Masonic body!

We conclude our tour or the Sephirot from a Masonic perspective. In this episode we cover Chesed, Gevurah, Da'at, Tifaret, Netzach Hod, Yesod and Malkhut

We continue the discussion of Kabbalah. In this episode we begin to focus on creation, the beginnings of light and how Kabbalaistic ideas intersect with Masonic ones.

Let me know your feedback, and please share this with your brothers!

We are back! In this episode, we'll begin a multi-episode look at the basics of Kabbalah and how it intersects with Freemasonry. This is the real deal...we'll be looking at it from a very traditional perspective, with lots of Hebrew and lots of context. WARNING: We're getting a little bit into discussion of religion and spirituality if only to set context.