Bio:
Bro. Jason B. Rudder is a dedicated student of the Craft, a tireless Masonic researcher, and a compassionate Operating Room Nurse whose life’s work bridges the tangible world of physical healing and the invisible realm of spiritual transformation. His writing is driven by a conviction that the Fraternity’s future lies not in modernizing its surface, but in rediscovering the profound depth of its original design—a restoration of the soul, not a renovation of the façade.
Drawing upon his unique dual perspective as a medical professional and a mystic, Jason’s work often explores the “sacred surgery” of the self—the difficult but necessary process of cutting away the superficial and the necrotic to reveal the divine spark within. Just as he assists in the repair of the human body, he seeks through his writing to assist in the restoration of the Masonic body, diagnosing its ailments with honesty and prescribing the ancient cures of discipline, study, and solemnity.
He is the author of several works that challenge the modern seeker to look beyond the veil. “What Came You Here to Do? A Journey Into Freemasonry,” his first published title, serves as a confronting existential question for every Mason, demanding an examination of motive and intent. In “The Unveiled Heart: A Journey into Christian Mysticism,” he bridges the gap between dogmatic religion and experiential faith, guiding the reader toward the ancient mysteries of union with the Divine. His work “Lifting the Veil on the Dark Side of the Light” fearlessly explores the shadows that accompany the search for illumination, arguing that true light can only be appreciated by those willing to confront their own darkness.
A devout believer in the power of Masonic education, Brother Rudder acts not only as a writer but as a guardian of the Craft’s material heritage. Recognizing the critical importance of preserving Masonic history, he maintains an extensive private library in his home, curated with a multitude of Masonic antiques and ephemera. His collection includes rare antique ritual books and pivotal works on the Craft, serving as a physical repository of the very traditions he seeks to defend and restore.
Brother Rudder’s Masonic journey is grounded in his service to his symbolic lodges, including McKee Lodge No. 144, Lexington Lodge No. 1, and C.D. Ward Lodge No. 961. His broader fraternal involvement includes the Grand College of Rites and the AAONMS Oleika Temple. He is also deeply embedded in the global community of Masonic scholarship and research as a member of the Ted Adams Lodge of Research No. 998 and the Henry Bannister Grant Lodge of Research No. 996 in Kentucky.
Extending his inquiries beyond his home jurisdiction, he is a Lifetime Member of the Ohio Lodge of Research, a member of Goose and Gridiron No. 1717 in Ohio, and sought out a connection to the universal roots of the Craft through Internet Lodge No. 9659 under the constitution of the United Grand Lodge of England.
His commitment to the rigorous standards of the “authentic school” of research is evidenced by his membership in the Quatuor Coronati Lodge No. 2076 Correspondence Circle, the Masonic Book Club, and the Masonic Library and Museum Association. He actively engages with the leading bodies of Masonic thought, holding membership in The Philalethes Society, The Phylaxis Society, the Masonic Philosophical Society, and the Masonic Fiat Lux Society, as well as participating in the yearly meeting of the Midwest Conference on Masonic Education.
When not in the operating room or his home library, Jason resides in London, Kentucky, where he is a dedicated father of two. Through his work, he seeks to challenge the inertia of the modern lodge and inspire his Brethren to take up their working tools with renewed vigor. He writes for the Mason who suspects there is more to the Craft than minutes and meals—the Brother who is ready to undertake the hard, solitary, yet infinitely rewarding labor of rebuilding the temple within.
Brother Rudder has an extensive collection of papers and educational presentations that he has written, and thoroughly enjoys travelling to lodges all around the US to share those works with the craft. He maintains a Facebook group, aptly named “Daily Masonic Introspection with Bro. Rudder,” where he posts thought-provoking ideas which are meant to daily challenge the readers to take a long look at how they practice Freemasonry and how they can improve on that practice.
Prepared Topics:
An Analytical Exploration of Masonic Knowledge
In-depth analysis of the history, symbolism, and various esoteric dimensions of Masonic Light and knowledge.
Echoes of Antiquity, Whispers of the Renaissance
Exploring the philosophical tenets and ritualistic patterns from Antiquity and the Renaissance that shaped Masonry.
From Refreshment to Ritual: Festive Board History
Tracing the historical development and symbolic significance of the Masonic Festive Board in America.
Light from Many Lamps: The Esoteric Ascent
Contemplation on the esoteric meaning and spiritual development symbolized by the ascent to the Middle Chamber.
Masonic Astronomy: Exploring the Celestial Dimensions
The allegorical use of astronomical symbolism in Masonic ritual, philosophy, and the quest for Light.
Masonic Magic and Mystic Masonry
An exploration of “philosophical magic” and Gnostic currents—the transformative power of Masonic symbolism.
Navigating the Labyrinth: Contemporary Controversies
Analysis of modern challenges and contentious issues facing American Freemasonry (e.g., politics, religion).
Occultism in Freemasonry: Examination of Degrees
Defining historical “occultism” and its philosophical currents in the context of the first three degrees.
Our Living Ritual: American Perspective
Examination of the historical evolution and dynamic adaptation of Blue Lodge ceremonies in America.
The Alchemical Resonance in the Hiramic Legend of Freemasonry
Comparing the Hiramic Legend with the spiritual goals of Alchemy: inner transformation and perfection.
The Alchemical Secret of Hiram Abiff
Explores the Hiramic Legend through the lens of spiritual Alchemy, including concepts like Solve et Coagula.
The Enduring Emblem: Significance and History of the Apron
The history, symbolic value, and moral significance of the Masonic Apron as the “badge of a Mason.”
The Elusive Chalice in the Lodge: Masonic Grail
Examination of the Holy Grail legend and its potential symbolic or philosophical ties to Masonic themes.
The Genesis and Evolution of Masonic Legend
Discusses Masonic legends as allegorical vessels for philosophical truths, not literal historical accounts.
The Veiled System: Exoteric and Esoteric Analysis
Comparative analysis of the public (exoteric) and inner (esoteric) dimensions of the Masonic system.
What is the Purpose of Lodge?
Defining the purpose of a Lodge as a physical location, a gathering of Masons, and a source of personal purpose.
A Scholarly Examination of Defunct Masonic Rites
The historical context and purpose of the Grand College of Rites in preserving defunct ritualistic systems.
Jachin and Boaz: The Pillar Guards of the West Gate
In-depth study of the scriptural origins, etymology, and dualistic symbolism of the two pillars.
The Architect’s Enigma: Rubik’s Cube Symbolism
Uses the Rubik’s Cube as a contemporary metaphor for the Masonic journey from Darkness to Light.
Preserving Masonic Artifacts and Heritage
The importance of actively collecting and meticulously preserving tangible remnants of Masonic history.
Dickens’ A Christmas Carol: Initiatic Reflection
An analysis of Ebenezer Scrooge’s transformation through the structural parallels of an initiatic experience.
Tubalcain: The Masonic Significance of the First Smith
Explores Tubalcain’s biblical origins and his symbolic role in the Craft’s traditions as the first metalsmith.
John Sherer’s Master’s Carpet and the Evolution of Tracing Boards
Focuses on the significance of John Sherer’s contributions to the visual aids (Tracing Boards/Master’s Carpets).
The Indispensable Light: Masonic Research
The vital role of dedicated Masonic research beyond ritual, encompassing history, philosophy, and symbolism.
Threads of Enlightenment: Parallels with Western Esotericism
Examination of the connections between Freemasonry and broader Western Esoteric Traditions (e.g., Hermeticism).
Masonic Knowledge and Its Impact
Discusses the different types of Masonic knowledge and their role in personal and fraternal growth.
The Ruffians Among Us: Hiram Abiff Legend
A study of the symbolic lessons imparted by the three ruffians in the cornerstone allegory of the Master Mason degree.
Lux ex Tenebris: A Contemplation on the Masonic Quest
A philosophical contemplation on the state of the “profane” and the Masonic quest for “Light” using Plato’s Cave. Explores Masonic Light’s deep connection to spiritual and esoteric traditions and its function as knowledge. Includes a ceremony where the light is physically passed from the WM to the brothers.
When is a Man a Mason?
A reflection on the idea that true Masonry is a continuous journey of internal cultivation and external action.
The Historical Establishment of Freemasonry’s Working Tools
Tracing the evolution of the working tools from operative instruments to speculative, philosophical symbols.
The Enduring Legacy: Exploring the Noachite Legend
Discusses the historical importance of the Noachite legend in establishing Masonry’s universal and ancient identity.
Most of these presentations take anywhere from 15-60 minutes, but the content can be adjusted based on the needs of the lodge requesting.
Travel: Willing to travel within a reasonable driving distance of London, Ky, for reimbursement for gas. I am willing to travel all over the continental US if the lodge wishes to cover flight/hotel for those distances that couldn’t be reasonably driven.
Books: Brother Rudder has several books on Amazon.
“What Came You Here to Do?”
“The Unveiled Heart: A Journey Into Christian Mysticism”
“Lifting the Veil on the Dark Side of the Light”
“Rekindling the Flame: Restoring the Soul and Substance of Freemasonry”
“Rekindling the Flame: The Trestleboard Edition”
Websites:
https://www.facebook.com/share/g/16yXke6LsS/ – Daily Masonic Introspections
To book Jason, contact him direct with the link below.