Master's Message Winter 2025

Master’s Message – Silas Shepherd Lodge of Research

A Closing Word of Gratitude

Dear Brethren,

As this Masonic year draws to a close, I want to express my sincere gratitude to every Brother who attended, presented, discussed, questioned, or simply supported the work of Silas Shepherd Lodge of Research. Your curiosity, willingness to explore, and commitment to the Craft have shaped this year in ways that exceeded all expectations.

We began the year with the theme of the Middle Chamber, a symbol that has always represented the heart of Masonic learning. It teaches us to ascend with purpose, to cultivate the Liberal Arts, and to pursue light with humility and discipline. Throughout the year, this theme guided our work and reminded us that education is the goal of Masonry.

Our travels took us across the state, and each stop brought new voices and new energy.We gathered in Waukesha in March, where we opened the year with lively discussion and excellent papers.  We met in Eau Claire in April, graciously hosted at Masonicon, where we shaped many Masons’ views of what Masonic Education can be.  We reconvened in Wausau in June, building on the momentum of the spring with thoughtful research and shared exploration.Finally, we concluded our travels in Mineral Point in September, where the spirit of inquiry was as strong as ever.

At every meeting, Brothers stepped forward with work that was polished, in progress, speculative, or purely exploratory. Each contribution, whether a finished essay or a developing idea, helped strengthen our identity as the predominant Lodge of Research in Wisconsin. Your willingness to grow, to question, and to build on one another’s thoughts is exactly what we need.

The Middle Chamber reminds us that no Mason ascends the stairs alone. We climb together, steady and deliberate, supported by shared learning and mutual improvement. I hope that the Lodge will continue this upward journey long after my term concludes. Our best work is still ahead of us.

Thank you for allowing me the honor of serving as your Master this year. Thank you for your patience, your encouragement, your labor, and your light. I leave this office deeply grateful for what we have accomplished together and confident that Silas Shepherd Lodge of Research will continue to grow, inspire, and lead the pursuit of Masonic knowledge throughout our jurisdiction.

Fraternally and faithfully,

Chris Luedke

Worshipful Master

Silas Shepherd Lodge of Research No. 1843

Master's Message Fall 2025

For this year, I have chosen the Middle Chamber as our theme of study and reflection. Today I want to discuss the 7 Liberal Arts These ancient disciplines; Grammar, Rhetoric, Logic, Arithmetic, Geometry, Music, and Astronomy form the traditional foundation of knowledge upon which Masonry rests. They are not simply historical curiosities. They represent a framework for thinking, communicating, and growing, both as individuals and as a fraternity.

Each of us first encountered these Arts in the Middle Chamber lecture. They were presented as more than academic subjects, they were pathways to self-improvement, tools to shape the mind, and stepping stones leading us closer to wisdom. A Lodge of Research, in many ways, is the Middle Chamber made real. It is where we pause on our Masonic journey to consider, to question, to share, and to refine what we are learning.

With that in mind, I invite you to join us at our next meeting Sept. 13 at Mineral Point Lodge in Mineral Point WI. I encourage you not only to attend but to bring your curiosity with you. Do not feel you must come with a finished essay or polished presentation. Some of our most rewarding conversations happen when a Brother shares something still in progress: a question that needs direction, a fragment of research that could use more context, or even an idea that has yet to take shape.

Let us remember that the Liberal Arts themselves were never meant to be mastered all at once. They are studied in progression, step by step, each one opening new doors of understanding. So too should be our work in this Lodge. Perfection is not required; only the willingness to learn together.

This Lodge thrives not on completed works, but on the spirit of inquiry. Whether you bring a finished piece or a single page of notes, you are contributing to the living pursuit of Masonic light. Come share in the conversation and let us ascend together in both knowledge and brotherhood.

I look forward to seeing you in Mineral Point, and to hearing your thoughts, questions, and discoveries, however formed they may be.

Fraternally and faithfully,

Chris Luedke

Worshipful Master

Silas H. Shepherd Lodge of Research #1843

Master's Message Spring 2025

Master's Message

Spring 2025

Brothers, this year I have chosen the Middle Chamber as my theme for the year. There is a reason for this, I was given my Middle Chamber by Worshipful Brother Jim Fleming of Oconomowoc Lodge back in 2004. While I tried desperately to follow along the power of the Middle Chamber was multiplied by the amazing delivery only Worshipful Brother Fleming was capable of. It left a lasting impact that encouraged me to return to graduate school and very much led me to my career and the life I have today.

I though it only fitting to start this year with a brief explanation of the History and importance of this pivotal degree so I can share some of its magic. The Middle Chamber lecture is a key component of Masonry, rich in symbolism and teachings that guide us on our journey of self-improvement and enlightenment.

The Middle Chamber lecture originates from the allegory of King Solomon's Temple, specifically the Winding Staircase leading to the Middle Chamber. This concept was first formalized in the 18th century, with William Preston adding to its structure and symbolism in the 1770s. Early references, such as in Pritchard's Masonry Dissected (1730), mention the staircase but lack the deep symbolism later developed by Preston and others. Over time, the lecture evolved into an essential part of the ritual, emphasizing intellectual and spiritual growth.

The Middle Chamber represents a metaphorical culmination of moral, intellectual, and spiritual development. Key elements include The Winding Staircase, divided into steps of 3, 5, and 7, symbolizing moral foundations, intellectual refinement, and spiritual understanding. Self-Improvement, the journey teaches perseverance, discipline, and continuous learning. It underscores the importance of ascending step by step to achieve wisdom and virtue. Spiritual growth, the Middle Chamber symbolizes a sacred space where one connects with divine wisdom. Without this connection, aspirations risk falling into chaos. Community responsibility, the lessons extend beyond personal growth to emphasize service to others and ethical conduct in society.

The lecture also serves as a reminder that true understanding comes not just from ritual memorization but from applying Masonic principles daily. It is both a personal and communal guide for living a virtuous life.

The Middle Chamber is, in my view, what encourages the education, research and self-improvement that is the foundation of Silas Shepherd and I hope to see you on March 8th in Waukesha so we can share in our Masonic nerdom and grow both as men and as Masons.

Fraternally yours,

Chris Luedke

Worshipful Master