Bio:
Matthew W. Parker is an attorney, author, and Freemason of the jurisdictions of Nebraska, Kansas, and Ohio. He is a Past Master of Nebraska Lodge #1, Craftsman Lodge #314, and the Saints John Lodge of Education #331; he is also a Past High Priest of Omaha Chapter #1, and a Past Sovereign Master of Roscoe Pound Council #598 AMD; and a member of the Omaha and Lincoln Valleys of the Scottish Rite. He is a member of numerous research bodies and served as the 2025-2026 President of the Midwest Conference on Masonic Education. His articles have been featured in the Journal of the Philalethes, the Journal of the Masonic Society, and Fraternal Review.
Prepared Topics:
The Essential Jewish Characteristics of Freemasonry – 60 Minutes
An exploration of the Jewish character of Masonic ritual and philosophy, answering questions raised by the Old Testament setting of the ritual.
The Jewish Understanding of the Prophets – 60 Minutes
Judaism and Christianity view prophets and prophecy very differently, which has ramifications for Masonic ritual. This presentation explores that difference to help non-Jewish audiences understand the context of the Prophets in the Old Testament.
Leadership Lessons from the Judges and Kings of Israel – 60 Minutes
The stories of leaders in the Books of Judges, Kings, and Chronicles provide examples for Masonic leaders to both follow and avoid. This presentation takes several of those stories and tailors them into practical wisdom.
The Emperor and the Grandmaster – Stoic Lessons for Masons – 60 Minutes
Meditations by the Emperor Marcus Aurelius is perhaps the most Masonic book ever written by a non-Mason. This presentation explores the way Stoicism and Masonry overlap, and how to better understand our personal journeys in subduing our passions using the lessons of this fascinating historical figure.
An Introduction to Kabbalah for Masons – 60 Minutes
Kabbalah is one of the most misunderstood aspects of the Jewish faith, and one of the most obscure. A basic understanding is useful for Masons to understand some of the symbology in the Craft, as well as understanding the basics of what many Masonic philosophers have viewed as essential to further esoteric knowledge.
Chivalry for Freemasons – 60 Minutes
Many Masonic orders and degrees will make someone a Knight of some kind, but rarely do they stop and explain the historical context of that title. This presentation goes through the important elements of historical chivalry and knighthood to fill in the gaps.
Masonic Lessons in Comparative Religion – 60 Minutes
Masonry primarily draws from the Old Testament, Jewish history, and Christian philosophy. But many of its lessons are universal, and many other religions reflect them in scripture or philosophy.
Using the Ohio Ritualist’s Guide to World Religion – 45 Minutes
This presentation walks through some other faith traditions and the way they describe things very familiar to Masonic ritual.
Note: All of the above are roughly 45-50 minutes of presentation with room for Q&A. They can also be taken down to roughly 30 minutes as needed for scheduling.
Travel Information: I am willing to be flexible in terms of travel. I am happy to present via Zoom anywhere in the world as long as our schedules work. For travel outside of Nebraska, if driving is possible (roughly 6 hours is my max for driving) then the lodge/organization should be willing to cover gas and lodging. If longer, or if we need to fly due to my day job, then the lodge/organization should be willing to cover the flight, lodging, and ride sharing. For the correct engagement or cause, I am willing to cover some of this.