Last Chance! "Hunting The Lost Symbol" on Discovery Channel, Today

The documentary "Hunting The Lost Symbol" will be broadcast today, Sunday, November 1, on Discovery Channel, from 4 pm to 6 pm (Eastern time; check your local listings).


Of course, this documentary focuses on Dan Brown's new novel, The Lost Symbol. There are prominent segments about George Washington, the missing cornerstone to the U.S. Capitol building, Freemasonry, noetic science, Aleister Crowley (mentioned in the novel as an inspiration for the villain), and other topics related to the novel.

Prominent Masons were interviewed for this program, including Brothers Christopher Hodapp (author of Freemasons For Dummies and other books on the Templars and secret societies), S. Brent Morris (author of The Complete Idiot's Guide to Freemasonry and other books on the Fraternity), and Mark A. Tabbert (author of American Freemasons, and a prominent figure at the George Washington Masonic Memorial). One very obscure Mason was also interviewed; that would be me.

One thing I feel I should emphasize to this audience. This was my first experience as an interview subject on a documentary. I have learned much through this experience, including the fact that the interviewee does not necessarily know what will be shown visually over the sound of his voice. Sometimes what is shown will be something of which one might approve; sometimes it will not. For the record, I was not informed that a re-enactment of ritual would be shown over my voice; I did not suggest this, I did not assist in presenting this re-enactment in any way, and I did not approve it.

Aside from that particular brief portion of the show, Masons should find much to like in this documentary. Enjoy.

Br. Koltko-Rivera to Appear on Discovery Channel Special, "Hunting The Lost Symbol"

The Discovery Channel will broadcast a documentary special, "Hunting For The Lost Symbol," on Sunday, October 25, 8-10 pm Eastern time, with a rebroadcast beginning at 11 pm. The special, of course, will focus on Dan Brown's novel, The Lost Symbol. I appear in it, as do other, much more well-known Freemasons, such as Brother Christopher Hodapp, and some brethren from the House of the Temple.

I bring this to your attention a little early because it occurred to me that some readers may wish to mention this at the Stated Communications of their Lodges, and so forth.

Rumor has it that I figure nicely into the show. (Then again, they could edit me all out tomorrow.) I did address all sorts of things in two taping sessions, one before the novel's publication, one after. I look forward to seeing how the show deals with the novel myself.

And, for those of you who know me well: Yes, I have lost some weight. Thank you for noticing.

(Text Copyright 2009 Mark E. Koltko-Rivera. All Rights Reserved.)

[The photo is by Ms. Katherine Finkelstein. Her work and contact information may be viewed at katherinefinkelstein.com .]