Contemplative Masonry: Basic Applications of Mindfulness, Meditation, and Imagery for the Craft

by C.R. Dunning Jr., Jim Tresner (Foreword), Kevin Main (Editor)

Part of the work that has become Contemplative Masonry first appeared on the internet in 2000 as an anonymously authored guide to the exploration of Freemasonry through contemplative practices like prayer, meditation, breath work, chanting, and visualization. Sixteen years later, the original author of that material, C.R. “Chuck” Dunning, Jr., has come forward with a substantially expanded edition for those seeking to utilize Masonic symbolism and teachings in a way that is practical, accessible, inspiring, and profoundly transformative. Contemplative Masonry is a much-needed resource for Masons seeking to undertake the challenging and rewarding work of deep self-knowledge and self-improvement. Brother Dunning provides Freemasons with a unique system of practices derived directly from the Degrees of Craft Masonry, without reliance upon other religious, spiritual, or esoteric traditions. He also shares the valuable wisdom and insights that come from decades of personal experience with contemplative practices.

"I would heartily recommend this book to any Mason who has wondered how he might engage more deeply with the Craft and enhance his quest for light. Brother Dunning has mapped out a practical approach to what he terms contemplative Masonry, which can be practiced by any brother, regardless of his religion or spiritual beliefs. I know of few Masons better qualified to serve as a guide to a specifically Masonic path of spiritual growth." — Jay Kinney, 33° , author of The Masonic Myth and editor of The Inner West

"Chuck Dunning takes us on a wonderful and enlightening journey of what has to occur in a man's body, mind, and spirit for him to actually improve himself in Masonry. He discusses the nature of inner work in Freemasonry, and he is eminently qualified to do so. He enlightens us with his wisdom and offers us a number of exercises which can lead us to the true treasure of manhood. This book is a must read for anyone wanting to know what is hidden in the language of Freemasonry." — Robert G. Davis, 33° G.C. , author of The Mason's Words and Understanding Manhood in America

232 pages, Paperback

Published November 1, 2016

About the author

C.R. "Chuck" Dunning is an advocate, facilitator, trainer, and consultant in contemplative practice, with more than 30 years in the professional fields of higher education and mental health, as well as in Masonry, Rosicrucianism, and other currents in the Western esoteric traditions. Chuck’s consistent commitment is to the actual practice of contemplative disciplines to facilitate and enhance experiences of personal growth, social wellbeing, and spiritual initiation and transformation.

With that aim, he has authored A Rose Croix Oratory: Rosicrucian Reflections and Resources from a Knight of the Eagle and Pelican (2023), The Contemplative Lodge: A Manual for Masons Doing Inner Work Together (2021), and Contemplative Masonry: Basic Applications of Mindfulness, Meditation, and Imagery for the Craft (2016). Chuck was also a contributing author in The Art and Science of Initiation (2019). He is the founding Superintendent of the Academy of Reflection, which is a chartered organization for Scottish Rite Masons wanting to integrate contemplative practice with their Masonic experience. Chuck is also a co-founder, trainer, and facilitator for the Masonic Legacy Society, which freely introduces the inner work of Masonry through online documents and facilitated activities and training.

In 2021, Contemplative Masonry was recognized as third in the "Top 10 Masonic Books of the New Millennium (so far)" by the readers of Fraternal Review magazine. In 2019, the College of Freemasonry in Rochester, New York presented Chuck with the Thomas W. Jackson Masonic Education Award for fraternal leadership in Masonic research and esoteric study. In 2018, the Southern California Research Lodge recognized him as being among the Top Ten Esoteric Masonic Authors.

Chuck’s Masonic Craft Lodge memberships include Haltom City-Riverside #1331 (Texas), and Albert Pike #162 (Oklahoma). He is also an honorary member of Sophia #767 (North Carolina) and Ancient York #89 (New Hampshire). Chuck’s Scottish Rite memberships are in the Valleys of Fort Worth, Texas and Guthrie, Oklahoma, and his York Rite memberships are in Texas Chapter #362 and Texas Council #321, both in Fort Worth. He is also a Full Member of the Texas Lodge of Research, a member of the Allied Masonic Degrees, the Philalethes Society, the Masonic Society, and the Scottish Rite Research Society.

As a professional, Chuck recently retired from serving as a student affairs administrator and adjunct faculty member at Texas Christian University (TCU). His student affairs work at TCU focused on student development in leadership, mentoring, and holistic wellbeing. As an adjunct faculty member, he taught and supervised in the master’s program in counselor education. In 2017, Chuck’s work in dialogue training at TCU was honored with the prestigious Michael R. Ferrari Award for Distinguished University Service and Leadership. He currently works part-time as a counselor and psychotherapist in private practice. Chuck also still serves on the advisory committee for CALM (TCU Contemplative Studies), and is a member of the Association for Contemplative Mind in Higher Education. He holds a master’s degree in counseling and a bachelor’s in psychology, both from the University of North Texas.

Reviews

[Angel Millar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Probably an essential read for any Freemason interested in meditation and spiritual self-development -- or for any meditator and spiritual seeker interested in Freemasonry, C.R. Dunning Jr. explores "the psychology of Masonry," the spiritual development of the individual, health, contemplative or speculative thinking, and mindful behavior.

[Tim Roberson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Delving into the mystic mind

Only for the true deep thinker looking to explore his inner psyche. If you aren’t into meditative aspects of introspection, this probably isn’t for you.

[Eric Lieb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book on opening oneself to further teachings, and connecting with higher forces. Loved how the simple instructions lead to great results!