Maine Valleys Partner for Unique Event

On Saturday, August 5th, the Valleys of Augusta and The Androscoggin partnered for a one-of-a-kind presentation of the fourth degree, Builder. Brothers Brian Ellis, 32°, HGA, from the Valley of The Androscoggin, and Scott Christiansen, 32°, HGA, from the Valley of Augusta were the masterminds of this roundtable event.

The Brethren were all smiles at the conclusion of the class.

They began the discussion with an overview of the history of the fourth degree from its recorded beginning to its present form. While discussing the current version of the degree, Brian led the group in a deeper examination of the dialogue, such as when Master Hiram is asked, “But Grand Master, how do you determine what goes where, what everything should look like, and how it all fits together?”

Participants in the roundtable discussion of Builder

The roundtable format sparked amazing conversation, reflection, and insight. Scott Christiansen described the afternoon as follows: “Hosting this class was an amazing experience. Brian and I were able to spark a lively discussion about the history and depth of the fourth degree. The Brothers present were very engaged, and each offered ideas and individual viewpoints that kept everyone talking and left no one able to just sit on the sidelines.”

The event lasted three hours, and at the conclusion, one Brother stated, “This is what I have been looking for!”