Masters Message September 2026

Brethren,

Have you ever heard a piece of music that instantly brought back a memory or reminded you of a friendship?

Music has a remarkable ability to connect us. Within Freemasonry, it can serve as a bond that strengthens brotherhood and creates harmony. Two Brothers may not always share the same thoughts, opinions, or perspectives, but give them a piece of music they both appreciate, and suddenly there is common ground. Music has a way of bringing people together.

There is music written for nearly every aspect of our Masonic experience, from the opening and closing of Lodge to our degree work. Music can fill a room that otherwise feels empty, adding color, life, emotion, and meaning to the moment.

Is your Lodge using music? If so, what kind of music are you using? If not, why?

Here is an interesting piece of Masonic history: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was a Brother Freemason. He wrote at least eight compositions specifically for Freemasonry.

Music has been a part of Masonic ceremonies and social gatherings for centuries, particularly in connection with the opening and closing of Lodge. It can add emotional depth to our ritual and to significant Masonic occasions, including degree work and the installation of officers.

But music can offer us something beyond simply enhancing our ceremonies. It can help express the values at the heart of our fraternity: Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth.

When we incorporate music into our Masonic experience, we also create a bridge between the past and the present. The Brothers who came before us understood the power of music. A melody can cross generations, cultures, languages, and borders..

Perhaps that is one of the greatest lessons music can offer Freemasonry. Harmony does not require every voice to be the same. In fact, true harmony exists because different voices come together, each contributing something of its own while becoming part of something greater.

Sincerely & Fraternally,

Brother Corey Nowak

Worshipful Master

Silas H. Shepherd Lodge of Research #1843

Master's Message June 2026

Summer 2026 Masters Message

Brethren,

As summer works its way to Wisconsin, I hope the brothers have had time to reflect on this year's theme of Music and Harmony. We are reminded that Masonic knowledge is built much like a great composition, with each Brother contributing his own insight to a larger understanding of our Craft. Through research, discussion, and fellowship, we continue to strengthen the harmony that connects us as brothers within our Fraternity and preserve the rich traditions and teachings entrusted to our care. I look forward to seeing you all in Superior this summer for our next Stated Communication.

Sincerely & Fraternally,

Br Corey J.P. Nowak

Worshipful Master

Silas H. Shepherd Lodge of Research #1843

Master's Message Spring 2026

Spring 2026 Masters Message

Brethren,

As we continue our year under the theme of Music and Harmony, I find myself reflecting on how fitting that metaphor is for our Craft.

Though music is not made by a single instrument and the most gifted soloist eventually needs a compliment from others. While harmony exists when different notes, distinct in tone and pitch, are brought together with intentional balance. No note loses its identity. Instead, it becomes part of something far richer.

In our Fraternity it is much the same.

Within our Lodge of Research, we have scholars, ritualists, historians, philosophers, of many different backgrounds and experiences. Some speak boldly, others contribute quietly, while some focus on symbolism and others on history. We as Freemasons can be considered separate notes and when we listen to one another and work in unity, we create harmony.

As a Lodge of Research we have a particular responsibility in this regard. We are not merely preserving knowledge; we are tuning the intellectual and philosophical instruments of the Craft. Our labor should elevate discourse, deepen understanding, and encourage thoughtful inquiry. When conducted properly, this work strengthens not only our Lodge, but the Fraternity.

There is another element to music that deserves reflection: rhythm. Rhythm gives structure and forward motion. Without it, even beautiful notes feel scattered. In our Lodge, rhythm is found in consistency. Regular meetings, prepared papers, meaningful discussion, and faithful attendance in lodge create a steady cadence that sustains momentum. When we commit to that rhythm, progress becomes natural rather than forced.

Finally, music requires attentive listening. A musician who refuses to listen to the ensemble cannot remain in harmony for long. As Masons we must cultivate the discipline of listening. Listening to history. Listening to symbolism. Listening to one another even when perspectives differ.

Brethren, harmony is not accidental. It is intentional. It requires discipline, humility, and shared purpose. As we continue to move through the year, I encourage each of us to consider how we contribute to our own Lodge of research and the Fraternity. Whether that is by writing a paper or having open discussion about a paper brought forward by a brother bringing the deeper meaning to why we are here. 

Sincerely & Fraternally,

Br Corey Nowak

Worshipful Master

Silas H. Shepherd Lodge of Research #1843