Orator

Mythology and Belief Systems in a Stable Society

by

Mythology and Belief Systems in a Stable Society
Delivered to the Novus Veteris Lodge, UD
March 18, 2017 By Alan Gatlin, Orator

Today’s presentation is the beginning of a series of lectures for 2017. These lectures will seek to expand our knowledge, show us some alternative ways of thinking, and challenge us on how we view the Society(s) from which we function within. A key thought to consider when reviewing this lecture is how our belief system is tied to a stable society, Freemasonry, and to our personal growth.

Read more

What Is a Master Mason

by

Short Talk
The Master Mason
December 18, 2016

“The seeker embarks on a journey to find what he wants and discovers, along the way what he needs” Wally Lamb

Tonight’s Short Talk is a reading taken from Chapter 5 of Manley P Hall’s “The Lost Keys of Freemasonry” written in 1938. This material is his perspective of who a Master Mason is and what he aspires to be. I must admit that each time I read this chapter I am humbled, inspired and a bit overwhelmed as to the person he sees we are called to be and what our work truly is. As we each look to a new year’s “journey” let us take inventory and be inspired to renew our commitment and strengthen our steps to boldly move forward. Let us then enter into this worldview and continue on our path of spiritual growth, maturity and change. I encourage each of you to make note of the symbols he alludes to and mark these for future consideration and study. So let us then begin:

Read more

Inaugural Short Talk – Truth

by

Inaugural Short Talk
Truth
Bro.˙. Alan Gatlin
20 November 2016

The real object of Freemasonry, in a philosophical and religious sense, is the search for truth. This truth is, therefore, symbolized by the Master’s Word. From the first entrance of the Apprentice into the Lodge, until after his reception of the highest degree, this search is continued. If it is not  found and a substitute must sometimes be provided. Yet whatever  the labors he performs, whatever the ceremonies through which he passes, whatever the symbols in which he may be instructed, whatever the final reward he may obtain, the true end of all is the attainment of Truth.

This idea of truth is not the same as that expressed in the lecture of the First Degree, where Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth are there said to be the “three great tenets of a Mason’s profession.” In that connection, Truth, which is called a “Divine Attribute, the foundation of every virtue,” is synonymous with Sincerity, honesty of expression, and plain dealing. The higher idea of truth which pervades the whole Masonic system, and which is symbolized by the Word, is that which is properly expressed to knowledge of God according to Mackey.

Read more