The Trowel and the Three Virtues: Building Faith, Hope, and Charity for a Modern World
Download MP3What do the Masonic virtues of faith, hope, and charity ask of us today? This episode re-examines these foundational values through a modern lens, asking whether their original symbolic meanings are sufficient—or if the demands of the present require a deeper, more courageous application. As we stretch the trowel toward new forms of connection and care, we find that true charity may be less about giving, and more about building.
🔑 Key Takeaways
- Faith, hope, and charity evolve depending on context—but always point toward behavioral transformation.
- Charity, misunderstood as sentiment, is reframed as a discipline of care and investment.
- Masons must challenge shallow interpretations and operationalize virtue through conscious labor.
💬 Featured Quotes
For our purposes today though I want to talk about faith, hope, and charity. — [00:00:29]
When we talk about faith we're really talking about the understanding of the divine mechanic that there is an order to things in the way the world works. — [00:00:56]
Suffice it to say faith is the internalized emotional trust in a future outcome. — [00:02:57]
Hope on the other hand is probably less useful if it's not coupled with action. — [00:03:07]
🔗 Explore Related Episodes
- The Trowel and the Limits of Patience
Examines emotional restraint and when care must yield to boundaries. - The Level and the Long View
Explores time, mortality, and how our efforts are shaped by impermanence. - One of the Twelve: An Invitation to the Real Work of the Craft
A call to Masonic responsibility, identity, and transformation beyond the ritual.
Creators and Guests
Host
Brian Mattocks
Host and Founder of A Mason's Work - a podcast designed to help you use symbolism to grow. He's been working in the craft for over a decade and served as WM, trustee, and sat in every appointed chair in a lodge - at least once :D
