All Unstated Meetings (82 results)

Title Date Details
Masonic Liberators in Latin America 11/01/2025 Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 is pleased to welcome Bro. Jonathan Oliveras with his paper, "Masonic Liberators in Latin America". The Masonic movement was a driving force behind Latin America's struggle for independence, with many prominent leaders emerging from its ranks, including one whose name became synonymous with a nation. Details
The History of Pythagoras Lodge No. 239 A.F. & A.M., Pulaski, Virginia 09/06/2025 Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 is pleased to welcome Wor. Bob Uzzel, who will present "The History of Pythagoras Lodge No. 239 A.F. & A.M., Pulaski, Virginia". Details
The Myth of the Forget Me Not 08/23/2025 Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 is pleased to welcome Wor. Istvan Horvath, Masonic author and lecturer. He will present a paper describing the actual story of the forget-me-not in German Freemasonry which is often incorrectly told. Details
Scottish Freemasonry - Where it all Began 07/19/2025 Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 is pleased to welcome Bro. Brendan Kyne with his paper, "Scottish Freemasonry - Where it all Began". A brief look at the English and Scottish evidence for the origins of Freemasonry and the involvement of Dr. Desaguliers and his visit in 1721 to St Mary's Chapel Lodge, Edinburgh. Details
The Construction, Maintenance, and Projection of Sacred Space within Freemasonry 05/24/2025 Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 is pleased to welcome Wor. John Meek. Freemasonry being a movement that has one foot in the mundane world and one foot in the esoteric world is a reflection of the human being itself - both spiritual and corporeal. It seeks to bring the spiritual reality into the corporeal. But in order to do this, it requires space to work. And this space being the heart of what we do, it is sacred. This lecture discusses how we build, maintain, and bring this sacred space into the world around us. Details
Freemasonry and its Influence on Bulgarian history 04/19/2025 Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 is pleased to welcome Rt. Wor. Dimiter Mandradjiev, Grand Secretary for International Activities and Public Relations, who will speak about Bulgarian Freemasonry. Details
Masonic Protocol, Etiquette and Decorum 02/22/2025 From the earliest days of our Craft, civility has been a cornerstone of Masonic philosophy. It's more than just politeness; it's a way of life that fosters respect, understanding, and harmony among Brethren. Please join us for our Unstated Communication of Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 as Wor. Wes Latchford delves into the origins of this virtue, examining how it's woven into our rituals, symbolism, and daily interactions. Details
Freemasonry and the Allegory of Plato's Cave 01/18/2025 Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 is pleased to welcome back Bro. Matt Parker with his paper entitled, "Freemasonry and the Allegory of Plato's Cave". There will be a short explanation of the allegory of the cave. Then we will discuss the relevance of this famous allegory to Masonry and the three degrees, as well as a discussion of the Hero's Journey. Details
Field Marshal Earl Haig Soldier, Freemason 11/16/2024 Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 is pleased to welcome Wor. Gordon Michie with his paper, "Earl Haig - Soldier, Freemason". The story of Bro. Field Marshal Earl Haig KT and his Masonic journey. Details
Freemasonry and the Civil Rights Movement 11/02/2024 Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 is pleased to welcome back Moises Gomez as our speaker, with his presentation "Freemasonry and the Civil Rights Movement". Wor. Gomez's lecture deals with how Freemasonry aided and assisted on the front lines during the Civil Rights movement of the 1950 & 1960’s. Transcript Details
Unde Venis, Quo Vadis 10/19/2024 Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 is pleased to welcome back Bro. Chad Kopenski with his paper entitled, "Unde Venis, Quo Vadis". The jurisdiction reports from the 2024 Midwest Conference on Masonic Education revealed numerous common issues, innovative solutions, surprising obstacles, and unintended consequences in the State of the Craft. MCME Past President will explore and discuss what was revealed and what the path forward may look like. Details
Scottish Rite Panel 09/28/2024 Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 held a panel discussion during the 2024 Scottish Rite Conference in Richmond. The participants answered several questions about the craft, it was a very lively discussion. Here are the questions: • Is an observant Lodge similar to a Research Lodge and in what way? • What can Lodges do to increase retention of new members? • Andrew Hammer in his book, "Observing the Craft", suggests that appendant bodies draw member's focus away from the Blue Lodge. Is this true, and if the Blue Lodges offered more Masonic Education, would members still want to join appendant bodies? • Andrew Hammer also said Masonic youth groups are a distraction, that Masonic Lodges should be solely focused on improving Masons, not helping youth. Agree or disagree? • Should we require a mandatory delay before a candidate may submit a petition, to ensure he is a suitable candidate for membership? • Should a Lodge determine what a candidate is seeking from your Lodge, and if it is not a good match, should we make every effort to find a different Lodge for him that is a better fit? • How can Lodges and Grand Lodges recruit new members without actually recruiting? • Should Lodges require a dress code for attending meetings? Details
The Book of Ruth and its Relevance to Freemasonry 09/14/2024 Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 is pleased to welcome Wor. Lee Eccleston with his paper, "The Book of Ruth and its Relevance to Freemasonry". We are all familiar with the chapter of Ruth in the Old Testament. But you may not know how many references our Masonic ritual has to her story. Join us as our guest speaker provides deeper insights into how it applies to us as Masons. Details
Enoch: His Vaults and the Secrets Within 08/24/2024 Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 is pleased to welcome back Wor. Joe Martinez who will present "Enoch: His Vaults and the Secrets Within". This presentation delivers a comparative analysis on Enoch, from a religious, historiographical, symbolic, and allegorical perspective by detailing his references in canonical works of Scripture, works outside of religious sources, and 2000+ year old legends that detail why Enoch is a Masonic forefather and so important to modern Freemasonic ritual and mythos. Details
Network and Pomegranates 08/10/2024 Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 is pleased to welcome Bro. Taylor Kleineick with his paper, "Network and Pomegranates". This is a lecture on the topology of the social network of Freemasonry. It introduces network topology and looks at the social network that comprises the institution of Freemasonry and how understanding this network can provide insight into issues we face today. Details
John Dove 07/20/2024 Our own Wor. Chris Douglas presented a paper, "John Dove", written by Mt. Ex. Robert Stanley Hughes, Jr.A well-researched biography of the life, work, and Masonic career of one of the most famous Virginia Masons, John Dove. He served as Grand Secretary/Recorder of the Grand Lodge, Grand Royal Arch Chapter, and Grand Commandery. Details
Origins of the Swedish Rite 07/06/2024 Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 is pleased to welcome back Bro. Erik Larsson as our guest speaker. He will expand on his previous talk about the lodges in the Swedish Rite of Freemasonry and explore their origins. We will examine the historical systems that influenced and created today's Swedish Rite. Details
Introduction to Spagyric Alchemy 06/08/2024 Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 is pleased to welcome Wor. Rodney McGillvary as he gives an intriguing presentation on Spagyric alchemy - an ancient practice that combines elements of alchemy, herbal medicine, and spiritual transmutation. He will delve into the fascinating world of Spagyrics, exploring its principles and uncovering the transformative power it holds for mind, body, and spirit. Details
Discrimination 05/25/2024 Our own Wor. Chris Douglas presented a paper, "Discrimination", written by Mt. Wor. Marvin E. Fowler. This paper addresses the topic of discrimination, not in the negative sense of racial discrimination, but in the positive sense of how Masons must be discriminating in the quality of men we let join the Fraternity and be discriminating in our behavior. Details
Mystery Plays and the Hiramic Legend 05/11/2024 Mystery Plays - Isn't that some kind of medieval churchy thing? Biblical scenes played for the illiterate masses in and around the churches? Some kind of drama that later was banned in Elizabethan England? All that is true. But there is more to it. Join us as Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 welcomes Bro. Istvan Horvath, who will delve into his book and explore how the Master Mason's degree is an example of a Mystery Play. Details
The Allied Masonic Degrees and the Grand College of Rites 04/27/2024 Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 is pleased to welcome Bro. Austin Shifrin with his research paper, "The Allied Masonic Degrees and the Grand College of Rites". Bro. Shifrin will be speaking on these two little-known Masonic bodies, and their importance to Masonic Research and the preservation of many "side degrees" that originated in England and Europe. Unlike the degrees in the Royal Arch and the Scottish Rite, where a number of degrees were brought together into a cohesive structure, there are many degrees in our craft that were orphaned, and only conferred in some locations if they were conferred at all. Details
Masonic Geography 03/30/2024 Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 is pleased to welcome Rt. Wor. Tom Varner with his research paper, "Masonic Geography". Where are Succoth and Zeredatha? Where did the ruffians hide? From where did the materials for King Solomon's Temple come? Who were the Ephraimites? Join us on March 23 when we explore the geography of our Masonic ritual! Details
Great Pyramid: Tomb, Temple, Textbook or Something Else 03/09/2024 Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 is pleased to welcome Bro. Parvez Tehrani with his research paper, "Great Pyramid: Tomb, Temple, Textbook or Something Else?" We will explore the great pyramid's structure and design and the popular theories regarding its function in this talk. Details
An Esoteric Interpretation of the Entered Apprentice Degree 02/24/2024 You have been told that Freemasonry is veiled in allegory. Have you thought about what this means? Have you any ideas regarding what it is that is veiled? Are you in search of the Light in Masonry? This lecture will reveal some of what is hidden in our ritual, its allegories and symbols, and will put you on a path to further enlightenment. Understand the links between Freemasonry and the ancient mystery schools that have taught secret knowledge for millennia. If you are a seeker of Truth and Light, do not miss this lecture by Wor. Robert Lund, author of The Hidden Code in Freemasonry, Mystic Masonry, Esoteric Handbooks for EA, FC, and MM. Hosted by Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777. Details
Modern Physics and Ancient Philosophy 01/13/2024 Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 is pleased to welcome Wor. Christopher S. Tripp, who will speak on "Modern Physics and Ancient Philosophy: Freemasonry's Worldview from a Modern Scientific Perspective". Freemasonry, with its ancient philosophical roots in traditions such as Kabbalah and Hermeticism, is an Enlightenment-era philosophy contrasted with the current dominant trend of scientific materialism. We will show how the apparent conflict resulted from the old Newtonian worldview and how our teachings align with modern cosmology and quantum physics. Details
A Qabalistic Interpretation of Freemasonry 08/05/2023 Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 is pleased to welcome Bro. Rodney McGillvary, who will speak on "A Qabalistic Interpretation of Freemasonry". We have all heard of the Qabalah, or Kabbalah. It is an ancient Jewish mystical tradition based on an esoteric interpretation of the Old Testament. It is referenced several times in the Scottish Rite degrees. But how does it relate to Masonry? Join us as we explore the topic. Details
The Grange Ritual - A Masonic Harvest 06/10/2023 Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 welcomes you to our next Unstated Meeting, where we will present "The Grange Ritual - A Masonic Harvest", originally delivered by Rt. Wor. Douglas L. Jordan in 2001. The Patrons of Husbandry (The Grange) is a fraternal organization for farmers established by Oliver Hudson Kelley, a farmer and Mason. This paper explores how the lessons of our Fraternity could be redone using farm implements instead of stonemason tools. Details
Rosicrucianism and Freemasonry 05/27/2023 So what are Freemasons and where do they come from? So what are Rosicrucians and where do they come from? Are these two bodies related in their origins, and how? Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 is pleased to welcome Bro. Alistair Lees, who will answer these questions, and more, in his presentation, "Rosicrucianism and Freemasonry". Details
Brothers Down Under 04/28/2023 A panel discussion among Masons from Australia, contrasting and comparing to American Lodges. Panelists: Graeme Cameron Brendan Kyne Jimmy Lacey Lins O'Riley Potential: Bill Turner David W Shearer Drew Sim Emmet Christie John Khoury Julian Ochoa Lachlan Rowe Mickey Cole Walid Abou Dehn Andrew McIntyre Benjamin Small Joe Williams Details
Right Sizing Our Lodge Geometry 04/15/2023 Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 is pleased to welcome Wor. Taylor Kleineick, whose topic is "Right Sizing Our Lodge Geometry". This lecture explores the impact that the physical characteristics of meeting rooms have on the social bonds of a Lodge and the historic adaptations Lodges have made to their social landscape. Using this knowledge, we can adapt to our current circumstances and maintain the high level of connectedness that has made Freemasonry legendary. Details
Masonic Brotherhood in the Face of War 04/01/2023 Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 welcomes Bro. Vincent Carden as our guest speaker. His talk will encompass both Hancock's and Armistead's career, Masonic history and their relationship. Also the treatment that both men received and the instances of Masonic relief of Brothers on both sides during the American Civil War. https://fb.me/e/2G4I0k97f Details
Interjurisdictional Masonry: A Practical Approach 03/18/2023 Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 welcomes Rt. Wor. John Meek as our guest speaker. When we think of Inter-Jurisdictional Masonry, the first thing that comes to mind is the "cool factor" of visiting a lodge in another state or country. But, there's much more to it than that. True Inter-Jurisdictional Masonry begins in how we live our Masonic tenets on a daily basis in our home Jurisdiction: Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth. Details
The Chamber of Reflection: Mortality, Morphology, and Meaning 03/04/2023 Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 is pleased to welcome Wor. Austin R. Shifrin, author of "More Light: Collected Masonic Writings 2017-2021". He will explore the symbolism and significance of the Chamber of Reflection. Drawing on vintage sources such as Paracelsus, Pike, and Percy Bysshe Shelley, and modern sources such as the "Whence Came You" podcast, we will explore how contemplation of death can enrich and inspire our lives. Paper starts: 9:16 Paper ends: 41:45 (33 minutes) Q&A ends: 1:05:08 (56 minutes) Details
J. Raymond Shute, The Innovator of Modern Masonry 02/18/2023 Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 welcomes Wor. Jason Hicks, who will speak on the prolific North Carolina Mason, J. Raymond Shute. In 1930, he and a group of North Carolina brethren founded North Carolina Lodge of Research No. 666, AF&AM, believed to be the first American lodge of that type to be formed. He also founded or co-founded a number of Masonic bodies, including Allied Masonic Degrees, Knight Masons of Ireland, and Knights of the York Cross of Honour. Paper starts: 14:43 Paper ends: 51:25 (37 minutes) Q&A ends: 1:21:09 (107 minutes) Details
Freemasonry in the Colony of Victoria in the 1800s 02/04/2023 Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 welcomes Bro. Brendan Kyne, whose topic is "Freemasonry in the Colony of Victoria in the 1800s". The Lecture will present an overview of the development of Freemasonry in Australia (Colony of NSW), and more specifically the Colony of Victoria, from the perspective of the more unusual and quirky events. Hopefully an engaging, entertaining and educational presentation that through the lens of those instances and events that show the human foibles of Freemasons in the 1800s, we will find a group of English Masonic chaps behaving badly. Paper starts: 17:11 Paper ends: 1:02:00 (45 minutes) Q&A ends: 1:46:55 (90 minutes) Details
Ego and the False Self: Finding the True Self Through Masonry 01/21/2023 Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 is pleased to welcome Wor. Matt Parker with his presentation "Ego and the False Self: Finding the True Self Through Masonry". What are the symbols and allegories of our degrees and rituals telling us about ourselves? We ll explore our inner temple to find the path to the True Self. Bro. Matt Parker is the Worshipful Master of Wendell Lodge 565 in Wendell, NC, founder of the North Carolina Masonic Research Society, founder and co-organizer of Masonic Con South, member of the Grand Lodge Committee on Public Relations, member of the Scottish Rite, York Rite, and other appendant bodies, an international speaker, and author contributing to various Masonic publications. Paper starts: 16:01 Paper ends: 59:47 (43 minutes) Q&A ends: 1:28:43 (72 minutes) Details
Masonry in the Movies 01/07/2023 Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 welcomes Wor. Eric Fierst, with his presentation "Masonry in the Movies: Does it help or hurt our craft?" He references recent movies and series that make mention of Freemasonry and/or use Masonic symbolism and whether the information creates interest in Freemasonry or spreads false or misleading information with negative effects. Paper starts: 35:06 Paper ends: 1:15:18 (40 minutes) Q&A ends: 1:28:48 (53 minutes) Details
Sherer's Masonic Carpets: The Importance of Fascination 12/03/2022 Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 is pleased to host Chad Kopenski presenting "Sherer's Masonic Carpets: The Importance of Fascination." How a passing glance under the Secretary s desk led to a still-unfolding mystery, deeper connections, and greater appreciation of Freemasonry. Paper starts: 19:54 Paper ends: 43:224 (23 minutes) Q&A ends: 1:27:40 (67 minutes) Details
The Immediate Past Master and the 47th Proposition of Euclid 11/19/2022 In this talk, Wor. Lee Eccleston will discuss the 47th Proposition of Euclid, commonly known as Pythagoras' Theorem. He will explore its ancient origins, its connection to Freemasonry, and why it is particularly associated with the Past Master. In the spirit of the Second Degree, this talk will be both a speculative and an operative overview - there will be some real, though, quite simple mathematics, and it is hoped that those who attend will develop a fuller understanding, not only of the esoteric aspects of the theorem, but of the actual geometry itself. Paper starts: 14:48 Paper ends: 43:03 (29 minutes) Q&A ends: 1:21:01 (67 minutes) Details
Alfred Douglas Smith Jr. 11/05/2022 Wor. Chris Douglas presented a paper on Alfred Douglas Smith Jr. This was the first paper presented in A. Douglas Smith Jr. Lodge of Research No. 1949, in honor of the Mason it was named for. Paper starts: 16:00 Paper ends: 28:30 (12 minutes) Q&A ends: 46:47 (30 minutes) Details
The Secret Secret of Freemasonry - Hidden Expectations 10/29/2022 Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 is pleased to host Most Illustrious Companion Dale Imbleau, Most Illustrious Grand Master of Oregon 2022-2023. He will explore the concept that half of our failings are in not identifying expectations. Paper starts: 19:37 Paper ends: 41:17 (22 minutes) Q&A ends: 1:55:51 (96 minutes) Details
An Examination of the Common Gavel 10/15/2022 Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 is pleased to host Wor. Andy Vellenga who will speak about the first working tool Entered Apprentices are introduced to, the Common Gavel. Paper starts: 19:01 Paper ends: 57:24 (38 minutes) Q&A ends: 1:17:12 (58 minutes) Details
The Osirian Mythos and its Connections to Freemasonry 09/10/2022 Wor. Joe Martinez will speak on the Egyptian God Osiris. This presentation details known research on the life, death, and rebirth of the God-King Osiris, the mystical Trinity inherent to the Legend, and the allegories of the story itself. It also displays some similarities or connections between this ancient myth and more contemporary Initiatic systems, most notably Craft Masonry. Paper starts: 16:56 Paper ends: 1:02:16 (45 minutes) Q&A ends: 1:30:04 (73 minutes) Details
Another Look at the Trestleboard 08/27/2022 Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 is pleased to host our own Wor. Christopher Douglas who will present, "Another Look at the Trestleboard", written by Mt. Wor. Ralph L. Haltquist, Past Grand Master of Minnesota. This paper covers using the Trestleboard to build Solomon's Temple, to form the Grand Lodge of England, and in our Lodges today. Also enumerating the Ancient Landmarks, whether they should be enumerated or still considered Landmarks at all. Paper starts: 22:47 Paper ends: 49:32 (27 minutes) Q&A ends: 1:00:07 (38 minutes) Details
Bishop Howard Zebulun Plummer 07/09/2022 Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 is pleased to host Bro. Bob Uzzel who will speak about Bishop Howard Zebulun Plummer. Mt. Wor. Plummer served as Grand Master of the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Virginia and was the Imperial Lecturer of the Prince Hall Shriners. Paper starts: 13:26 Paper ends: 27:45 (14 minutes) Q&A ends: 1:06:00 (53 minutes) Details
The Manitoba legislative building: A sacred temple at the heart of North America 06/25/2022 The Manitoba legislative building: A sacred temple at the heart of North America by Parvez Tehrani Paper starts: 14:04 Paper ends: 1:28:45 (74 minutes) Q&A ends: 1:29:45 (75 minutes) Details
Conspiracy Theories 06/11/2022 Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 is pleased to welcome Bro. Dan Huffman as our guest speaker. His paper examines the prevalence and psychology of conspiracy theories throughout history and how we as Masons can use our tools to not fall victim to them. Paper starts: 15:05 Paper ends: 32:05 (17 minutes) Q&A ends: 1:02:12 (47 minutes) Details
The Hidden Kabbalah in the Offices of the Blue Lodge 05/28/2022 Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 is pleased to welcome Bro. Roy Bradburn as our guest speaker. His paper is about the hidden symbolism found in the 7 officers of the Blue Lodge. Paper starts: 17:42 Paper ends: 1:00:32 (43 minutes) Q&A ends: 1:23:33 (66 minutes) Details
Secrecy, Experience, and Virtue 05/07/2022 Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 is pleased to welcome Bro. M. David Allen as our guest speaker. His research paper was an assignment by the College of Consistory in Guthrie, Oklahoma: Write a research paper, using at least three references, exploring the nature of secrecy as a virtue and social force. Paper starts: 30:41 Paper ends: 1:14:25 (44 minutes) Q&A ends: 1:27:43 (57 minutes) Details
Swedish Masonry - Then and Now 04/23/2022 Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 is pleased to welcome Bro. Erik Larsson as our guest speaker. He will speak on his experiences in the Swedish Rite, which differs somewhat from how Masonry is practiced in other parts of the world. Paper starts: 29:19 Paper ends: 2:12:50 (103 minutes) Q&A ends: 2:14:00 (104 minutes) Details
How the Masons and Knights of the Golden Horn Saved the Ark of the Companions 04/09/2022 Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 was pleased to welcome Bro. Owen Snowdon as our guest speaker for our Unstated Meeting. His presentation described how brothers of both orders came together bring back a dead order called the Ark of the Companions. He showed examples of jewels that are now on display in the United Grand Lodge of England Museum. We also discussed other Masonic bodies such as the Order of the Buffalo and even Fred Flintstone's Order of the Water Buffalo. Paper starts: 20:41 Paper ends: 35:15 (15 minutes) Q&A ends: 1:04:17 (44 minutes) Details
Research Lodges of the Commonwealth of Virginia 03/26/2022 Panel discussion with 2 members of each Research Lodge: A. Douglas Smith, Jr. Lodge of Research No. 1949 Civil War Lodge of Research No. 1865 George Washington Lodge of Research No. 1732 Peyton Randolph Lodge of Research No. 1774 Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 Paper starts: 11:13 Paper ends: 2:06:00 (115 minutes) Q&A ends: 2:06:00 (115 minutes) Spin off video: Should your State and Prince Hall Grand Lodges Merge? 15 minutes Details
COVID-19 and it's Impact on the Craft 03/12/2022 Jonathan Oliveras will speak about how the pandemic has affected Masonry. Paper starts: 22:40 Paper ends: 52:14 (30 minutes) Q&A ends: 1:18:54 (56 minutes) Details
Should Your State and Prince Hall Grand Lodges Merge 03/12/2022 During a recent Unstated Meeting of Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777, where Brother​ Jonathan Oliveras spoke about COVID-19 and it's Impact on the Craft, we had a question posed to all participants: Should Your State and Prince Hall Grand Lodges Merge? Details
American Military Lodges Through the Ages 02/26/2022 Brother Steven Teeft will speak on Military Lodges. Details
How Should We Initiate Multiple Candidates 02/26/2022 Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 had an Unstated Meeting on American Military Lodges Through the Ages. At the beginning of the meeting we asked a question of all the members present, and this clip is just that portion of the meeting. Question: When a Lodge has multiple candidates to initiate, should they (a) confer the degree on all candidates in one night to save time, or (b) spread them out over multiple degree nights so each candidate is the center of attention? Details
Chartres Cathedral and the Preservation of Sacred Knowledge 02/12/2022 Parvez Tehrani will be our guest speaker. In this presentation we will uncover the mysteries of Chartres Cathedral, it s history, myths and connection to Freemasonry and the templars. We will explore its connection to the ark of the covenant, Pythagorean thought and ancient Egypt and examine it not only as a revered place of worship but also as a repository of sacred knowledge. Details
Creating Sacred Spaces 01/29/2022 Wor. Randy Sanders is our guest speaker. This presentation gives consideration into the who, what, where, when, why, and how of sacred spaces. We explore what a sacred space means to you and begin to explore ways to create your own sacred spaces in and outside of the lodge. Paper starts: 13:35 Paper ends: 51:47 (38 minutes) Q&A ends: 1:28:54 (75 minutes) Details
Whence Came You 01/15/2022 This is the latest in our series of panel discussions with Masons from other countries, to contrast and compare with Virginia and other U.S. Grand Lodges. All members of our panel belong to a Lodge under the United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE). Part I: 86 Part II: 80 Paper starts: 15:26 Part I Paper ends: 1:16:40 Part II (147 minutes) Q&A ends: 1:16:40 Part II (147 minutes) Details
Social Media and Masonry 10/16/2021 Wor. Chris Douglas will speak on how Lodges can use social media to communicate with their members. Paper starts: 28:40 Paper ends: 1:00:28 (32 minutes) Q&A ends: 1:28:25 (60 minutes) Details
Freemasonry and the Victoria Cross 06/12/2021 Wor. Gordon Michie will speak on "Freemasonry and the Victoria Cross". https://www.facebook.com/messages/t/534474041 Paper starts: 21:15 Paper ends: 1:16:35 (55 minutes) Q&A ends: 1:28:08 (67 minutes) Details
Solemn Strikes the Funeral Chime: Brother David Vinton 05/29/2021 Brother Wes Latchford will be our guest speaker. To tens of thousands of Masons, Brother David Vinton will forever be a star in the annals of Freemasonry. His simple, poetic dirge has earned him the respect of every Brother who has marched the march of Solomon or prayed the soliloquy over a fallen Brother. In this presentation, discover the sad irony of the man who wrote these words, sung in Lodge rooms and at gravesides by thousands of Freemasons in America, who was himself buried without Masonic honors. https://www.facebook.com/messages/t/1669865772 Paper starts: 20:20 Paper ends: 45:40 (25 minutes) Q&A ends: 54:50 (35 minutes) Details
The Art of Masonic Tracing Boards 05/08/2021 Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 was pleased to welcome Brother Scott Watson who spoke on the origins of Tracing Boards used in Masonic Lodges. Details
Brief History of Freemasonry in Bulgaria 05/01/2021 Rt. Wor. Dimiter Mandradjiev, Grand Secretary for International Activities and Public Relations, will speak on the history of the Grand Lodge of Bulgaria. Details
The History of the Knight Templar Apron 04/10/2021 Sir Knight Carson C. Smith, PC, KCT, KTCH Captain General Prather Commandery No. 62 Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 welcomed Wor. Carson Smith as our guest lecturer. He spoke about the Knight Templar Apron, which was worn in the past by members of the Commandery and is no longer part of the uniform, but is enjoying a renewed interest within the Craft. Paper starts: 25:55 Paper ends: 1:07:17 (41 minutes) Q&A ends: 1:26:25 (60 minutes) Details
Michel Bellon - Freemasonry and the French Resistance 04/03/2021 Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 was pleased to have Wor. Shelby Chandler as our guest speaker. He present a program, based on personal interviews with Brother Michel Bellon, about WWII and Masons involved with the resistance against the Nazis. Paper starts: 24:32 Paper ends: 1:09:35 (45 minutes) Q&A ends: 1:32:40 (68 minutes) Details
Brothers in Kilts: Masonry in Scotland 03/27/2021 A panel discussion with Brothers who belong to Scottish Lodges. This is a panel discussion. Details
Fire and Light: Jewish Alchemy and Alchemists 03/21/2021 Dr. Justin Sledge, a Professor of Religion and Philosophy, was our guest speaker who presented a program on the history of Alchemy beginning and ending with the Jewish people. Paper starts: 14:02 Paper ends: 1:12:15 (58 minutes) Q&A ends: 1:36:40 (82 minutes) Details
An Exploration of the Cryptic Degrees 03/20/2021 Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 visits Virginia Research Royal Arch Chapter No. 1753, bringing together Brothers and Companions from around the globe. Companion C. Winston Douglas presented a paper entitled, "An Exploration of the Cryptic Degrees". Paper starts: 33:35 Paper ends: 58:13 (25 minutes) Q&A ends: 1:12:18 (39 minutes) Details
Freemasonry in Cuba - Revolution, Independence, and Democracy 03/06/2021 Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 was pleased to welcome Moises Gomez as our speaker, with the topic of Freemasonry in Cuba - Revolution, Independence, and Democracy . He spoke at length about the history of Cuba, the various insurrections and revolutions, and the role Freemasonry played in that history. He ended with details about his recent visit to Cuba and his warm reception from the Brothers he met there. https://www.facebook.com/messages/t/100001459664593 Paper starts: 29:30 Paper ends: 1:46:45 (77 minutes) Q&A ends: 2:08:15 (99 minutes) Details
Brothers in Barongs 02/27/2021 A panel discussion with Masons who belong to Lodges in the Philippines. This was a panel discussion. Details
Sam Houston 02/20/2021 Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 welcomes Wor. Jason Hicks who presents a paper on Brother Sam Houston. Details
Masonic Mania I 02/13/2021 Everyone attending will be asked the same questions. This was a panel discussion of sorts, no actual paper. Paper starts: 4:32 Paper ends: 1:07:00 (63 minutes) Q&A ends: 1:07:00 (63 minutes) Details
A Holistic Approach to Masonry 02/06/2021 Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 was pleased to welcome Rt. Wor. John Meek from Bulgaria as our speaker. His paper, "A Holistic Approach to Masonry", explores the idea that we need to see the big picture of Freemasonry in order to improve the overall experience. https://www.facebook.com/messages/t/100015426855957 Paper starts: 26:28 Paper ends: 1:18:16 (52 minutes) Q&A ends: 1:50:07 (84 minutes) Details
Traditional Observance Masonry 01/30/2021 A panel discussion with Masons who are members of a Traditional Observance Lodge. Greg McCarney Jon Ruark Neily Dolson Brad Drew James Buckhorn Matt Parker Daniel J. Di Natale Joe Martinez https://www.facebook.com/messages/t/1447871024https://www.facebook.com/messages/t/5647433068615861 This was a panel discussion, so Q&A was part of it. Paper starts: 7:00 Paper ends: 2:11:00 (124 minutes) Q&A ends: 2:11:00 (124 minutes) Details
The Old Charges and Anderson's Constitutions 01/23/2021 Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 was pleased to welcome Wor. Joe Martinez as our guest speaker. This presentation provides a summary of documents comprising what we call the "Old Charges" and some of the symbolic aspects of Anderson's Constitutions, specifically the timeline of the craft from the Creation of the World to the formation of the Premier Grand Lodge. Paper starts: 21:10 Paper ends: 1:10:42 (49 minutes) Q&A ends: 1:32:20 (71 minutes) Details
The Need for Esoteric Education in Freemasonry 01/16/2021 Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 welcomes Wor. Robert Lund for his presentation on "The Need for Esoteric Education in Freemasonry". Paper starts: 18:20 Paper ends: 47:55 (30 minutes) Q&A ends: 1:39:10 (51 minutes) Details
The Death and Resurrection Show 01/09/2021 Virginia Research Lodge No. 1777 welcomes Brother Rodney McGillvary, who speaks about Alchemy, Masonry, the Acacia plant, and Immortality. Paper starts: 28:43 Paper ends: 42:48 (14 minutes) Q&A ends: 50:00 (22 minutes) Details
Virtual Tour of Windsor Masonic Temple 01/02/2021 Wor. Cameron Adamson presented a Virtual Tour of Windsor Masonic Temple. Paper starts: 22:54 Paper ends: 1:03:50 (41 minutes) Q&A ends: 1:27:30 (63 minutes) Details
Selected History of Widow's Sons' Lodge 12/12/2020 The Annual UnStated Meeting of Virginia Research Lodge. We had several new attendees from the UK. Wor. Chris Douglas read a paper, "Selected History of Widow's Sons' Lodge", first presented in 1999 by Rt. Wor. Robert E. Simpson, who was in attendance for this meeting! Paper starts: 54:02 Paper ends: 1:32:00 (38 minutes) Q&A ends: 1:43:00 (49 minutes) Details
The Diverse Grand Lodges of France 08/15/2020 August Unstated Meeting of Virginia Research Lodge. Wor. Christopher W. Douglas gave a presentation on the Diverse Grand Lodges of France. Paper starts: 10:42 Paper ends: 41:03 (31 minutes) Q&A ends: 56:00 (46 minutes) Five minutes of blank space at end of video! Details
The Brothers From Brazil 08/08/2020 A panel discussion with three Brothers from Brazilian Grand Lodges. Presented in three parts. Details