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Brethren,
As the Lodge returns from its summer refreshment, we look forward to an active and productive August. The month began with our August Stated Meeting on Tuesday, August 4th, where the brethren gathered to resume the labors of the Lodge. Our annual Lodge Picnic will take place on Saturday, August 8th, at Rodgers Lakewood Park in Valparaiso. Brothers and their families are encouraged to attend and bring a dish to share as we enjoy a day of fellowship and camaraderie. The remainder of the month will likely be dedicated to degree practices and preparations as we anticipate a busy fall season filled with degree work.
We encourage all brothers to participate whenever possible and help ensure we are well prepared for the important labors ahead.
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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 JULY
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July was intentionally a quieter month for the lodge, providing an opportunity for rest, reflection, and renewal following the many labors of the first half of the year. While no major meetings or degree conferrals were scheduled, the brethren remained engaged through weekly Tuesday gatherings dedicated to fellowship and the mentoring of candidates progressing through the degrees. These informal sessions strengthened fraternal bonds, reinforced Masonic instruction, and ensured that those advancing in their journey continued to receive guidance and encouragement.
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07/07/2026 …. July Stated Meeting
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07/14/2026 …. Mentoring Evening
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07/21/2026 …. Mentoring Evening
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07/28/2026 …. Mentoring Evening
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✵ AUGUST: PLANNED MEETINGS & DEGREES
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Hey, Brother, we added a new item!
The new commemorative T-shirts, available in a variety of classic colors and several sizes (3XL is not available), serve as both a vital fundraiser and a meaningful keepsake for our upcoming milestone. They celebrate a remarkable legacy as we prepare for the 175-year rededication of Porter Lodge #137 on May 8, 2027. Featuring the iconic Square and Compasses alongside specialized anniversary honors, each shirt is a token of the enduring principles that have guided us since our founding. By wearing these, members and supporters alike can visibly share in our pride and help ensure that this historic celebration truly honors the generations of brothers who built our foundation. Only $25. Pre-Orders accepted now!
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✵ BRINGING FREEMASONRY TO THE COMMUNITY
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This year, Porter Lodge No. 137 was proud to sponsor one of the grazing tables at the Porter County Fair. More than just providing a place for visitors to relax, we saw it as an opportunity to share a little about who we are and what Freemasonry is all about.
The sign displayed at the table featured a QR code linking directly to our "What is Freemasonry?" webpage, inviting curious fairgoers to learn more about our Craft and our Lodge. Throughout the duration of the Fair, the page received 103 QR code scans, with total page visits increasing from 1,331 to 1,434.
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Every scan represents someone who took a moment to satisfy their curiosity, discover our history, and learn about the principles that have guided Porter Lodge since 1852. While not every visitor will become a Mason, each conversation started—and every misconception replaced with understanding—is a meaningful success.
Thank you to everyone who helped make this outreach effort possible. By simply planting seeds of curiosity, we continue to fulfill one of Freemasonry's greatest purposes: making ourselves known through our actions, our service, and our commitment to the community we proudly call home.
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✵ PORTER 137: A LODGE OF GRAND MASTERS
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The banners of our Past Grand Masters now grace the upper West wall of the Lodge, proudly displayed above the entrance as a lasting tribute to their distinguished service. These banners honor two exceptional brethren who rose from the ranks of our own Lodge to serve the Craft throughout Indiana: Most Worshipful Brother William “Bill” Blasingame and Most Worshipful Brother John A. Bridegroom.
Their leadership, dedication, and commitment to the principles of Freemasonry stand as an inspiration to all who pass beneath these banners. May their example remind us that faithful labor in the quarries of Masonry can leave a legacy that extends far beyond the walls of our Lodge, enriching the fraternity for generations to come.
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✵ A SMALL LETER, A LASTING THANK YOU
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Valparaiso - Porter Lodge No. 137 was honored to support the Honor Flight Network by signing more than 100 letters of appreciation for our nation's veterans. These heartfelt messages will be delivered during their Honor Flight journey to Washington, D.C., where veterans are flown—at no cost to them—to visit the memorials dedicated to their service and sacrifice. For many, these letters become one of the most meaningful parts of the trip, serving as a reminder that their courage, dedication, and sacrifices are remembered and deeply appreciated. It was a privilege for our Brothers to express their gratitude in such a personal way and to play a small part in honoring those who have given so much for our country.
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✵ VINTAGE BASEBALL FOR A GREAT CAUSE
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Hobart - On August 2, several Brothers of Porter Lodge No. 137 traded their aprons for vintage baseball uniforms as they took the field in the annual Grinders vs. Shriners Charity Baseball Game at Deep River County Park in Hobart. Played under authentic early 20th-century baseball rules and attire, the game combined history, fellowship, and friendly competition while raising more than $2,000 for Shriners Children's Hospitals, helping provide life-changing care for children and their families.
Representing the Shriners on the field were Brothers Bren, Ross, Nick, Ryan, and Jim, while many other Brothers from Porter Lodge were there to cheer them on from the sidelines. It was a wonderful afternoon of fellowship, sportsmanship, and charity, proving once again that whether in the Lodge or on the ball field, our Brothers are always ready to support a worthy cause.
If you missed this year's game, make plans to join us next year! Whether you take the field in a vintage uniform or cheer from the stands, it's a fun-filled afternoon supporting an incredible cause that truly makes a difference.
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Understanding The Working Tools
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The Square and Compasses: More Than Just a Symbol
It can be found on the pediments of Masonic temples, as well as on aprons, jewellery, rings, gloves and, occasionally, watches and pins. In the collective imagination, the Square and Compasses have become the most recognisable emblems of Freemasonry. Their crossed silhouette is a visual signature, but their true significance is often obscured, even among initiates.
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Past Master's Thoughts:
A Book, a Quiet House, and an Uncomfortable Question
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Last night I glanced over at my nightstand and realized something: my "need to read" pile has quietly become a small mountain. To make matters worse, I have another couple of books arriving this weekend.
My wife is out of town for a couple of days, so I have a choice. I can clean the house or I can start working through that growing stack of books.
Take a guess which one I'm doing.
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Old Tiler Talks – Judge Not!
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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✵ You Talked the Talk - Now, Walk the Walk
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For questions or to RSVP, please contact Brother Izzy De Jesus at 219-406-7970 or via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
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Call to Action for the Brethren
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Brethren,
Let’s demonstrate the true heart of Freemasonry and make a tangible impact right here in our community! On Friday, September 18, 2026, starting at 9:00 AM CST, Scottish Rite Freemasons will be coming together at the Hilltop Neighborhood House (460 College Ave, Valparaiso, IN) for a day of service focused on fence painting and property maintenance. All tools, water, snacks, and potentially lunch will be provided—all that’s needed is your time and willing hands. This is a wonderful opportunity to live our values of brotherhood and service while helping strengthen an organization that does so much for local families. Please mark your calendars, step forward to join the crew, and let’s show everyone what Scottish Rite Freemasons are truly made of!
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Don’t forget to save the date for our annual Lodge Picnic on August 8, 2026! We’ll be gathering at our usual spot - the pavilion right by the entrance of Roger-Lakewood Park in Valparaiso. Keep an eye out for next month’s update, where we’ll share the park entry code. We can’t wait to catch up and enjoy a great day of fun and fellowship together!
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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 Magician, the archetype of will, potential, and the conscious power to shape our path.
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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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Happy Birthday to Our August Brothers!
Let’s gather as a Lodge and extend our warmest Fraternal Congratulations to all of our Brothers celebrating birthdays this August!
Each of you contributes to the strength and spirit of our Lodge through your friendship, dedication, and commitment to the Craft. Your presence helps build the bonds of Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth that unite us and keep our Lodge strong.
May your special day be filled with happiness, fellowship, and the company of family and friends. We wish you another year of good health, continued success, and many blessings along your Masonic journey.
Join us in celebrating these Brothers—send them your greetings, share a kind word, and help us honor those who make our Lodge a true Brotherhood.
Happy Birthday, Brothers!
May your year ahead be filled with Light, Joy, and Prosperity.
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✵ FROM THE SECRETARY’S DESK
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Greetings, Brethren!
We warmly invite all brothers to join us for our annual Lodge Picnic at Rogers-Lakewood Park in Valparaiso on August 8th. If you haven't dropped by the Lodge recently, we especially encourage you to come up and take a look—there have been many great improvements and changes made that we would love to show off.
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As an early reminder, it is time to start preparing for your 2027 membership dues, which remain at just $110. While dues will likely see a modest increase for 2028, we are pleased to hold them at the current rate for the upcoming year.
Looking ahead, we are expecting a lively and eventful Fall season filled with degrees and Lodge activities. Your presence and support mean the world to our Lodge, so please come out and be a part of the fellowship.
Additionally, mark your calendars for the Grand Master’s Reception on September 26th at Meyer’s Castle in Dyer, Indiana, beginning at 6:00 PM. Masons from across the state will be gathering for this wonderful evening. Tickets are now on sale for $75 per person, or $600 for a full table of ten.
We look forward to seeing everyone 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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