I have spent more than thirty years in sales, and during that time I have learned a lot about people. One of the most important lessons I have learned is that you cannot sell someone something until you understand what they are looking for. You can believe completely in what you have to offer, but if you never take the time to understand what the person sitting across from you is truly looking for, you are probably going to lose his interest before you even realize it. I believe this is a lesson we sometimes forget when a man walks through the doors of our Lodge.

Porter Lodge No. 137 invites all Brothers to bring their children and grandchildren, ages 13 and younger, to the Annual Children's Christmas Party on Saturday, December 5. The party begins at 11:00 AM, and Santa is scheduled to arrive at noon.

On Friday, October 23, downtown Valparaiso once again filled with families for the town’s beloved Halloween trick-or-treat tradition, and Porter Lodge #137 was proud to take part.

It was a tremendous day for Freemasonry in Northwest Indiana. On Saturday, October 10, Porter Lodge #137 hosted its third Masonic Education event in Valparaiso, and the results exceeded expectations. Masonic education is an essential part of every Mason's journey, and more opportunities like this throughout the Fraternity would be welcome.

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.

The skirret is an especially interesting subject for Masonic education because it connects the practical work of the operative stonemason with the moral and philosophical lessons of speculative Freemasonry. It also raises a worthwhile historical question: why does this tool appear in the symbolism and ritual of some Masonic traditions, particularly those influenced by British workings, but is generally absent from the standard ritual of American Craft Masonry?

Few images are as closely associated with Freemasonry as the black-and-white chequered floor at the center of the Lodge. It is among the first symbols encountered by the Entered Apprentice, and it is often one of the most recognizable features of a Masonic temple to those outside the Craft. Yet, despite its familiarity, the Mosaic Pavement has a history more complex than its simple appearance might suggest. Its origins have been associated with Moses, the Temple of King Solomon, the practical work of operative stonemasons, the tracing practices of early Lodges, and even the ancient Greek Muses. Its meaning has likewise developed from a practical instrument of construction into one of Freemasonry's most enduring representations of the human condition.

November is a time to reflect on gratitude, and chief among our blessings is the enduring bond we share as Freemasons. This month, Porter Lodge No. 137 proudly honors and celebrates our Brothers marking their birthdays.

Regardless of distance or how often we see one another, you remain an appreciated part of our Lodge family. We send you our fraternal best wishes for a happy, healthy, and fulfilling year ahead.

October edition of Porter Lodge Chronicles as it appeared in your email client.

“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.