Fort Worth Masonic Lodge #148

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Fort Worth Masonic Lodge #148

Fort Worth Lodge is a fellowship of brothers united in a common pursuit of virtue. Fort Worth Lodge believes that Freemasonry teaches duty and service.

Declaration of Principles

The Lodge is dedicated to the preservation of traditional forms and meaningful human fellowship as a means of transmitting wisdom and improving society. Fort Worth Lodge has an initiatic focus and charges the brethren to ever remember that striving to improve themselves in Masonry and assisting candidates and fellow brethren in doing the same is chief among their duties.

The Lodge performs ritual in a solemn manner and every effort is made to provide the most meaningful initiatic experience for each individual candidate. The Lodge seeks to create an atmosphere that leads to a positive transformation of the individual. Fort Worth Lodge believes that as the stated purpose of Freemasonry is to make good men better, a man should only be made a Freemason if he is good and is capable of being made better. Determining the qualifications of men seeking admission is essential to upholding the integrity of our ancient institution. The investigative procedures assist the brethren of the Lodge in determining the qualifications of candidates and provide the candidates with knowledge about the Lodge that they are seeking admission to. Fort Worth Lodge believes that Masonic Formation is a slow and careful process that requires great care and effort on behalf of both the candidate and the brethren of the Lodge. Each brother advances at his own pace with sufficient time between degrees to engage in intellectual study and contemplation. The candidate must demonstrate notable improvement in his understanding of Freemasonry and should also present a paper before the Lodge, preferably on the lessons and symbols of his current degree, before being advanced to the next degree. Each candidate is provided with assistance as he feels appropriate for his intellectual and spiritual growth. Fort Worth Lodge believes that a candidate should be able to create positive changes within his everyday life prior to becoming a Master Mason. Having to truly work, expend great effort and actually improve oneself is the only way to become deserving of this title. If this is properly observed every newly raised Master Mason will have grown into a better man and the bonds of virtue that tie together the brotherhood of humanity will have been strengthened. Fort Worth Lodge highly values the fellowship and friendship that the Lodge can provide and seeks to further cultivate this by holding an Agape after the meetings. The Agape is a festive board with good food and drink consumed in token of Brotherly Love. Fort Worth Lodge believes that Masonic meetings should promote the understanding of Freemasonry. Brothers present thoughtful and well researched papers before the Lodge as a service to their brethren. Papers usually discuss Masonic symbolism, history and philosophy, and focus on the spiritual path of self-transformation in the pursuit of virtue. Brethren are expected to attend all meetings, and if unable to do so, inform a brother or the Secretary of the Lodge of the reason in advance. Active participation instills duty and is generally rewarding in a number of ways. It keeps all the brethren connected to the Lodge and affirms that their presence is valued, cultivating awareness of their self-worth and potential. Fort Worth Lodge believes that officers of a Masonic lodge should be selected based on their merit. Serving in any office within the Lodge is a privilege and not a right. Brethren are given positions of responsibility only after having demonstrated their good faith, ability to make a serious time commitment and ability to perform the necessary duties. The election of the Master is of great importance and only those brethren are considered for this honor and responsibility who are well versed in Masonic teachings, who have the resourcefulness to lead and whose personal character can serve as an example to be followed. The goal of Fort Worth Lodge is the cementing of brotherhood in support of the inner transformation of each individual on the divine path toward self-mastery. The Lodge views the improvement of the individual as the most fundamental aspect of improving society.

03/17/2025

Shining bright with Irish Masonic Craftsmanship this St. Patrick's Day!🍀🔨

This decorative lamp post outside of Ulster Hall in Belfast, Ireland (cir. 1859-1862) shows some distinctive Masonic carvings of cherubs wearing Masonic aprons, and holding a bible, trowel, ruler, a set of compasses, and what appears to be a replica of Noah's Ark.

These are appreciated as the handiwork of Bro. William J. Barre (1830-1867); member of Union Masonic Lodge # 23 (Newry), and the Royal Institute of Architects.

References:
Ulster Hall Lampstandards: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Ulster_Hall_Lamp_Standards
Ulster Hall Architecture: https://victorianweb.org/art/architecture/barre/2.html
William J. Barre, Dictionary of Irish Architects: https://www.dia.ie/architects/view/251/BARRE%2C+WILLIAM+JOSEPH

02/27/2025

When is a Man a Mason?

When he can look out over the rivers, the hills and the far horizon with a profound sense of his own littleness in the vast scheme of things, and yet have faith, hope and courage, which is the root of every virtue.

When he knows that down in his heart every man is as noble, as vile, as divine, as diabolic and as lonely as himself; and seeks to know, to forgive and to love his fellow man. When he knows how to sympathize with men in their sorrows, yea even in their sins - knowing that each man fights a hard fight against many odds.

When he has learned how to make friends and to keep them and above all, how to keep friends with himself. When he loves flowers, can hunt birds without a gun and feels the thrill of an old forgotten joy when he hears the laugh of a little child.

When he can be happy and high-minded amid the meaner drudgeries of life. When star crowned trees and the glint of sunlight on flowing waters subdue him like the thought of one much loved and long dead. When no voice of distress reaches his ears in vain, and no hand seeks his aid without response.

When he finds good in every faith that helps any man to lay hold of divine things and see majestic meanings in life, whatever the name of that faith may be. When he can look into a wayside puddle and sees something beyond mud, and into the face of the most forlorn fellow mortal and see something beyond sin.

When he knows how to pray, how to love, how to hope. When he has kept faith with himself, with his God; in his hand a sword for evil, in his heart a bit of a song; glad to live, but not afraid to die! Such a man has found the only secret of Freemasonry, and the one which it is trying to give to all the world.

~ From "The Builders" by Joseph Fort Newton (1915)

Image credit: "Rock of Masonry". Lithograph by Bencke & Scott, 1871

02/20/2025

02/17/2025

FC Proficiency tonight 2/17/2025!

02/11/2025

On November 14-15, 2025, the doors of the Fort Worth Masonic Temple will open for an event unlike any other. Seekers of truth, explorers of the mysteries, and students of our ancient craft—this is your call!

🔑 Texas Masonic Con 2025: A gathering of knowledge, symbols, and hidden connections waiting to be revealed.

Dare to join us?
🌐 Unlock the details: www.texasmasonicon.com

Texas MasoniCon Fort Worth Masonic Lodge #148

🚨 Texas MasoniCon 2025 will be here before you know it! 🛡️📜

Join us on November 14-15, 2025, in Fort Worth, TX, for a weekend packed with Masonic education, history, and fellowship! Whether you're a curious seeker or a seasoned Mason, this is your chance to connect, learn, and explore the deeper meanings of Freemasonry.

🔑New for 2025, Texas MasoniCon will be open to ALL MASONS, from Entered Apprentice, Fellowcraft, and Master Masons. and any brothers from Jurisdictions recognized by the Grand Lodge of Texas.

🔹 Engaging Speakers
🔹 Workshops & Panels
🔹 Exclusive Vendors
🔹 Networking Opportunities

📍 Location: Fort Worth Masonic Temple
🌐 Visit www.texasmasonicon.com for tickets and full event details.

Don't miss it! Reserve your spot today. 🏛️

Fort Worth Masonic Lodge #148

02/08/2025

"Masonry does not fail men. Men fail Masonry. Masonry has the teachings, the thought, the ennobling influence, the example to set, the vision to show those who have eyes to see. If they close their hearts to the ennobling influence, will not profit by the example and shut their eyes to the vision, is that the fault of Masonry?" ~ From Old Tiler Talks by Carl Claudy (1925).

Image is of the Tyler's seat (marble), with that ancient axiom "Know Thyself" inscribed upon it, as seen facing the doors to the Temple Room inside the House of the Temple (AASR, SJ), located in Washington D.C. Reference "House of the Temple": http://www.phoenixmasonry.org/masonicmuseum/sr_house_of_the_temple.htm

01/18/2025

Our Lodge has a long and beautiful history with Masonic Home and School. In the late 1890’s the members of Fort Worth Lodge 148 donated the 200 acres and a significant portion of the start up capital for the Home in School. Even though the brick and mortar school is now gone the members of 148 still take great pride in our forefathers accomplishments and the continued good the Home and School funds allow for the Masons of Texas to contribute to the betterment of society. Which is why we are very excited our very own Past Master Greg Wright was elected to serve on the board of the Home and School. Congratulations Brother from all of us at 148 and God speed.

10/10/2024

"It is known that Medieval Craft Guilds set and maintained strict standards of excellence in all work produced by their craftsmen. Usually within a craft the same wages were paid to all, so only the best workmen came to be employed. These facts must be set in the wider atmosphere of the belief of the time that man in his creation of works must be like God who in his Creation made all things good. Even if the work was hidden it was meant to last and was to be pleasing to its creator and to God, since both man and what he made would have to face a final reckoning at the last Judgement." ~ From "The Craftsmen and the Character of their Work". Reference "A Handbook of Medieval Misericords" by William James Shadwell: https://content.yellowgrey.com/ms/a_handbook_of_medieval_misericords.php
Image is of a misericord (and choir stall) at Chester Cathedral, England: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Choir2.jpg

09/12/2024

"There are two kinds of truth: the truth that lights the way and the truth that warms the heart. The first of these is science, and the second is art. Neither is independent of the other or more important than the other.

Without art, science would be as useless as a pair of high forceps in the hands of a plumber. Without science, art would become a crude mess of folklore and emotional quackery. The truth of art keeps science from becoming inhuman, and the truth of science keeps art from becoming ridiculous." ~ From "Great Thought" by Raymond Chandler (1938).

"Capella's allegorical Marriage of Philology and Mercury became one of the most highly regarded foundations for study of the seven liberal arts.

Four liberal arts, the quadrivium, were mathematical sciences, beginning with arithmetic and geometry; then music, a branch of arithmetic; and astronomy, a branch of geometry.

Arithmetic and music each explored the relations between numbers (discrete), while geometry and astronomy each considered the relations between magnitudes (continuous).

Music applied arithmetical ratios over time; astronomy put geometrical figures into motion; in this way music and astronomy were sister sciences."

Reference Martianus Capella's The Marriage of Philology and Mercury: http://kvmagruder.net/hsci/06-Roman/source/capella.html

09/03/2024

The whole principle of Freemasonry is that "Brotherhood of Man begins with the Manhood of the Brother." It seeks to build men, and then to make them Brothers and Builders. Any other kind of brotherhood is weak, if not futile, either a flabby sentimentalism or a calculating selfishness. Masonry is made up of strong men, picked men – they cannot be picked too carefully – sworn and trained to make righteousness and good will prevail. By that very fact a great responsibility rests upon us, which we cannot escape even if we desired to do so. Whatever needs to be done in any community the Masons ought to be the leaders in doing it, because they are Builders. Every Masonic lodge ought to be a social and civic center, where designs are drawn upon the Trestleboard for the common good, regardless of sect or party. ~ From "The Good of the Order" by Joseph Fort Newton (1923).

Image is of the "From Darkness To Light" Lithograph (Pettibone Bros. Mfg. Co.; 1887). Reference Library of Congress: https://www.loc.gov/item/2018696022/

08/27/2024

Mark your calendars and come join us for the largest gathering of Masons in Texas!

When: Saturday, October 12th: 10am - 4pm

Admission is FREE
Parking is FREE
Fun is FREE

https://yourtmrc.org/family-day/

08/14/2024

A few of the Brothers Traveled to Acacia XLII F&AM of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Arizona to watch the Father of our Worshipful Master Raised to the Masters Degree. Great Travels in the Quarries Friendship and Brotherly Love.

07/28/2024

The lodge had a group outing night of fellowship tonight to Billy Bob's Texas to see Stoney LaRue. Great times had by all!!

07/15/2024

Discover the Secrets of Freemasonry: A Special Podcast Episode with Adam Kendall

Brethren, join us for an enlightening experience as cohosts Gabriel Jagush and Billy Hamilton welcome a distinguished guest, W. Bro. Adam Kendall, on their latest podcast episode. As the editor of Heredom for the Scottish Rite Research Society, Junior Warden of Quatuor Coronati Lodge in London, and President of the Philalethes Society, Adam brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. This episode is a must-listen for any Freemason eager to deepen their understanding of our ancient and honorable fraternity.

Adam Kendall is not just a prominent figure in Freemasonry; he is also one of the esteemed speakers at this year's Texas MasoniCon, taking place on August 2nd and 3rd in Fort Worth. His insights into Masonic history, rituals, and research are unparalleled. In this special episode, you will get a preview of the thought-provoking topics and discussions that await you at Texas MasoniCon. Whether you are a seasoned Mason or new to the craft, Adam’s perspectives will inspire and educate.

Texas MasoniCon is more than just an event; it is a celebration of Masonic knowledge and brotherhood. This year’s conference promises to be exceptional, with an array of educational speakers and engaging sessions. It is an opportunity to connect with fellow Freemasons, share ideas, and grow in your Masonic journey.

Don’t miss out on the chance to participate in this extraordinary event. Secure your ticket today at www.texasmasonicon.com and join us for two days of learning, fellowship, and inspiration. Remember, the journey of knowledge is best shared among Brothers. See you there!

https://fortworth148.libsyn.com/s7-e7-with-adam-kendall-editor-of-heredom

Discover the Secrets of Freemasonry: A Special Podcast Episode with Adam Kendall Join Us for an Exclusive Conversation Brethren, join us for an enlightening experience as cohosts Gabriel Jagush and Billy Hamilton welcome a distinguished guest, W. Bro. Adam Kendall, on their latest podcast episode. A...

07/02/2024

"...in every man there is an eye of the soul which, when by other pursuits lost and dimmed, is by these purified and re-illumined; and is more precious far than ten thousand bodily eyes, for by it alone is truth seen." ~ From The Republic by Plato (cir. 380 BCE).

"The eyes of the Lord are in every place, beholding the evil and the good." ~ Proverbs 15:3 (KJV)

Image is of the "Eye of Providence" (All-Seeing Eye) as seen on the gate of Aachen Cathedral in Germany (cir. 786 CE). Reference: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Allsehendes_Auge_am_Tor_des_Aachener_Dom.JPG

06/30/2024

A new Fort Worth 148 podcast episode is available! Join us for an enlightening conversation as co-host Billy Hamilton and guest Chris Ruli, the esteemed author of "The White House and the Freemasons," delve into the intricate world of Freemasonry. Together, they will explore the nuances and variations in Masonic rituals across different jurisdictions, shedding light on the challenges that arise when traveling between them.

Discover the fascinating story of Sam Houston's Knights Templar initiation and his connections with notable figures such as Benjamin B. French and Albert Pike. Our hosts will also share some unexpected and intriguing discoveries from their Masonic research, offering fresh insights into our rich history.

Billy and Chris will discuss essential tools and techniques for crafting compelling and well-researched papers for those aspiring to contribute to the Texas Lodge of Research and other Masonic organizations.

And don't forget, Texas MasoniCon is just around the corner! Secure your ticket today at www.texasmasonicon.com and join us for this extraordinary event.

https://fortworth148.libsyn.com/s7-e6-road-trip-with-chris-ruli-pt-2

Join us for an enlightening conversation as co-host Billy Hamilton and guest Chris Ruli, the esteemed author of "The White House and the Freemasons," delve into the intricate world of Freemasonry. Together, they will explore the nuances and variations in Masonic rituals across different jurisdiction...

06/24/2024

New podcast episode! Join me on a road trip with Bro. Chris B. Ruli, author of "The White House & the Freemasons" and 2024 Anson Jones Lecturer for Texas Lodge of Research. Sit in the car with us as we drive down I-35 and discuss research and forgotten stories. This is part one of a two-part series.

Remember, Texas MasoniCon is coming up soon! Join us on August 3rd, when MW Bro. Robert G. Davis will be our keynote speaker. Adam Kendall - Fraternal Historian, Erickson Ybarra, David Rogers, and Chuck Springer will also be presenting. Tickets are still available for both the main event and the festive board on the evening of August 2nd. You will not want to miss it!

Join co-host Billy Hamilton on a road trip with Bro. Chris Ruli, author of "The White House & the Freemasons" and 2024 Anson Jones Lecturer for Texas Lodge of Research. Sit in the car with us as we drive down I-35 and discuss research and forgotten stories. This is part one of a two-part series.

Address

1100 Henderson Street
Fort Worth, TX
76102

Website

https://fortworthlodge.com/

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