York Rite Masonry

Saint Paul, Minnesota

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Master's Wages

By William C. Blaine, 33⁰

St. Paul, Minnesota

1973

Again and again we are reminded that to receive Master's wages we must so live and so act that the wages are not a means to an end but the very Alpha and Omega of life itself.  Master's wages are something wee talk about a great deal and ask about only occasionally.

The question asked; "What have I received in return for all the monies spent, the time involved, the services rendered?", brings the entire matter into focus.  Yes, what have I received?  Where are the words, as the Bible tells us, to properly say, "What have I received?"

The most precious thing that a Master Mason can search for, and hope to find-- Master's wages-- must be constantly sought for, and lived for.  Our days would be altogether empty and vain if, to the greater glory of our fraternity, we did not dedicate ourselves daily, anew, to all that is true and right and just as the Grand Artificer of the Universe gives us the sense to understand these things.

To labor, unceasingly, in our great Masonic Vineyard all the days allotted to us is the finest reward-- if such a thing is necessary-- the a Master Mason can hope for.  For in the very act of doing those Masonic Courtesies and Commandments we find our true selves.  The dross and the selfish side of life is put aside, and the true, upright man and Free Mason stands revealed.

What more beautiful reward; what more beautiful and fruitful life can one envision: to walk, in love, with one's brethren and fellow man; to stand up and be counted for all that Free Masonry itself stands for-- is to live a full and rewarding life.

Provided by,

Todd Jovonovich

HISTORY BEHIND "MASTER'S WAGES"

"MASTER'S WAGES" was originally a letter written to me by Brother William Blaine in response to an editorial, which I, as Master of the Lodge, Shekinah, had written in my monthly newsletter concerning the oft-mentioned Masonic wages.  I had often heard or read about Masonic wages but previously considered that "wages" was strictly symbolic to justify the time and money spent in the fraternity.

I finally realized that such wages do exist but not in a material way while reflecting on my then 25th anniversary as a Mason.  I fondly remembered my initiation as an Entered Apprentice.  Upon being brought to light during that occasion, I discovered that my father, in collusion with my lodge, had taken time off from his work and traveled over 100 miles to be my guide that evening.  This singular circumstance greatly strengthened the existing bond between my dad and me.  My father being there with me was certainly Masonic wages received.  The hand that held my hand and guided me from infancy to manhood and then held my hand and guided me through the EA perambulations was a bonus.

Al Bohne, PM