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SPRING 2022 VOL. 53 | NO. 1
JOURNEY ON
A M A G A Z I N E O F 3 2 ˚ S C O T T I S H R I T E F R E E M A S O N R Y TM
.COM $24.06 White Performance Cap
$41.91 Kelly Green Performance Fine Jacquard Polo
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THE NORTHERN LIGHT
Spring 2022
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NEWS 7 Tompkins Medal Recipients 8 Illustrious Brother Clifton Truman Daniel: Keeping His Family Legacies Alive
Inside this issue… 4 Leadership Report
A Year to Remember
6 From the Editor’s Desk
It’s All About the Journey
10 In Memoriam 10 Retiring Active Members 12 Grand Lieutenant Commander
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Mark C. Roth
CULTURE
14 The Masonic Hall of Fame:
Extraordinary Freemasons in American History 18 Magnificent Architecture: Masonic Building Postcards
11 Southern Jurisdiction
Scottish Rite Journal FEATURES
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20 14th Degree
Whom Virtue Unites... Grand Elect Mason
30 “Journey On” 32 The Path Forward
and “Journey On”
EDUCATION
28 HAUTS GRADES ACADEMY Justice for All
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CHARITIES 23 Seacoast Center Wins
Giving Tuesday Donation Match 24 Giving Tuesday Telethon Photos 26 A Journey of Gratitude
About This Issue This issue of The Northern Light focuses on the journey—specifically, the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction’s newest program, “Journey On.” This campaign was created exclusively for the Scottish Rite, NMJ and is sure to inspire members and entice other worthy Master Masons to see what we’re all about. Beginning with this issue, we are labeling our issues with seasons instead of months. This serves a twofold purpose. First, it allows us to time the issues in a way that we may better deliver the most up-to-date and relevant content to you, our readers. Secondly, it reflects the realities of today where we are forced to navigate supply chain and delivery issues that are beyond our control.
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MEMBERSHIP
34 Our Vision:
Caring for Our Members
36 Painter, Teacher, Mason—
William Forsyth of Indianapolis 38 Around the Jurisdiction 41 Valleys of Excellence
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MASONRY 42 Beyond the Quarry: Labors of Love A Brotherhood Runs Through It 46 Thanking Our Veterans
We hope you enjoy the Spring 2022 issue of The Northern Light.
Spring 2022
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A Year to Remember
by Peter J. Samiec, 33˚, Sovereign Grand Commander
If there is one thing we can all agree on, it’s that 2021 was a year to remember. While the pandemic continued to play a role in our daily lives and Fraternal events, our Brothers remained steadfast in being there for their fellow man. In times of uncertainty and overwhelming despair, we continued to support one another and uphold the Core Values of our Fraternity with dignity and pride.
In 2021, we saw the continuation and evolvement of our signature virtual events like our Virtual Reunions and Thursday Night at the Rite. While these online events were brought forth in the early days of the pandemic to unite us, we quickly realized these activities are so much more than a Fraternal gathering: they are milestones in our Masonic journey. Becoming a Scottish Rite Mason is not just about watching our degrees; it’s about what you take from them— how you store the lessons and ideals of the Craft in your heart and put them into action to help make our world a better place. Being a Scottish Rite Mason requires deeper understanding, reflection, and daily application of the Craft. That is why I am so excited to share with you our new and evolved member programming that will help ensure every member is able to reach their full potential as a man and a Mason.
Becoming a Scottish Rite Mason is not just about watching our degrees; it's about what you take from them. February brings the revival of Thursday Night at the Rite. Our team really put
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The Northern Light
WELCOME
the icing on the cake by not only assessing which degrees were most popular but which degrees were hardest to access and often required travel to witness. In partnership with several host Valleys, we are bringing live degrees right to your doorstep this spring. For the full schedule, see the back cover.
The elements of this extraordinary campaign highlight our six Core Values in ways that touch deep.
When I think about my own journey as your Sovereign Grand Commander these last six months, I cannot express enough just how deeply I care about delivering to you, as a member and as my Brother, a four-star Scottish Rite experience. The years may pass us by, but our team at Supreme Council is committed to providing you with the stellar experience you have come to expect from us.
“Journey On” campaign with other worthy men who may be interested in joining. Give your time or service to our Brethren in need. Most importantly, commit to asking for help yourself should you need it. We are all here for you, my Brothers. This year and always.
As we ease into 2022, I have one favor to ask of you: Will you commit to helping a Brother on his journey? Share our
This issue will introduce you to our exciting new campaign known as “Journey On”—our next logical step in showing our pride in being not just a Mason but a Scottish Rite Mason. The elements of this extraordinary campaign highlight our six Core Values in ways that touch deep. I don’t want to ruin the surprise as you turn the pages and unveil different pieces of content, but they are truly showpieces that will make you want to shout from the rooftops that you are a member of the Scottish Rite, Northern Masonic Jurisdiction. Our “Journey On” campaign also performs double duty by serving as a recruitment tool to help introduce Master Masons to the Scottish Rite.
Spring 2022
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FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK
It’s All About the Journey
T H E
N O RT HERN LI G H T A magazine of 32˚ Scottish Rite Freemasonry
Spring 2022 | Vol. 53 | No. 1 by PJ Roup, 33˚, Editor, Active for Pennsylvania
SOVEREIGN GRAND COMMANDER Peter J. Samiec, 33° EXECUTIVE EDITOR Linda Patch
mind leaving the interstates to take in the unique sights of all the small towns along the way. I am slowly coming around to her way of thinking. While I may shave a few minutes from my travel time on the interstate, I do so at the cost of my inner peace. I rarely get cut off by aggressive drivers or boxed in by slow-moving vehicles as I traverse the back roads. It may have taken me a long time, but I finally realize that life is not about the destination, but rather, the journey.
My wife,
Gail, and I have a
continuing debate between us: how to get where we’re going. When we are taking a trip— whether it is 5 miles or 500 miles— I prefer to take the fastest route. I want to get on the highway, drive fast, stop infrequently, and get to my destination as soon as possible. Truth be told, if I could take a plane to the grocery store, I would do it if it bought me a minute or two. Gail, on the other hand, generally prefers the scenic route. On short trips, she almost always eschews the expressway in favor of the side roads. Also, she doesn’t
The same can be said of Freemasonry. Since the chief aim of the Craft is to know Truth and make us strive for perfection, the destination is really not attainable, is it? There is always room for improvement, after all. It stands to reason, then, that Freemasonry is about the journey. Our journeys through Freemasonry are as different as we are from each other. How you joined, why you sought it, and where it will take you are questions that only you can answer. What we share, though, are the fundamentals of the Blue Lodge, the 29 degrees and six Core Values of the Scottish Rite, and the unspoken truth about where our journeys began. This issue of The Northern Light is dedicated to our new campaign, “Journey On.” I am sure it will resonate with each of you as you reflect on the time you have spent in the Craft. The sights you have seen, the friendships you have forged, and the lessons you have learned along the way have been worth it. It may not be the easiest path, but remember: It’s all about the journey.
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EDITOR PJ Roup, 33° CREATIVE DIRECTOR Rodney E. Boyce, 33° CONTENT MANAGER Joann Williams-Hoxha DIRECTOR OF DESIGN Matt Blaisdell, 32° COMMUNICATIONS COMMITTEE Thomas R. Labagh, 33°, Chairman Richard V. Travis, 33° Donald R. Heldman, 33° Donald G. Duquette, 33° PJ Roup, 33° J. Brian McNaughton, 33° SUPREME COUNCIL, 33° Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite, Northern Masonic Jurisdiction, U.S.A. THE NORTHERN LIGHT (ISSN 1088-4416) is published quarterly in the Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter by the Supreme Council, 33°, Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite, Northern Masonic Jurisdiction, U.S.A., as the official publication. Printed in U.S.A. Periodicals postage paid at Boston, MA, and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER Send address changes to The Northern Light PO Box 519, Lexington, MA 02420-0519 MAILING ADDRESS PO Box 519, Lexington, MA 02420-0519 EDITORIAL OFFICE 33 Marrett Road (Route 2A), Lexington, MA 02421 phone: 781-862-4410 email: editor@srnmj.org WEBSITE: www.ScottishRiteNMJ.org @scottishritenmj @TNLMagazine Copyright ©2022 by Trustees of the Supreme Council of the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry for the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction, U.S.A.
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NEWS
Tompkins Medal Recipients
by Joann Williams-Hoxha, Content Manager
The Daniel D. Tompkins Medal is conferred upon a deserving Masonic or Scottish Rite Brother who has rendered outstanding distinguished and exemplary service to his country or the Masonic Fraternity. These Scottish Rite Brothers received this distinct recognition in 2021.
David Collins, 33°
William M. Sardone, 33°
Illustrious Brother David S. Collins, 33˚, MSA, of the Valley of Concord and Grand Master of New Hampshire, was awarded The Daniel D. Tompkins Medal on Saturday, June 12, 2021, at the Council of Deliberation meeting in Nashua. Brother Collins is the first recipient of this award in New Hampshire. He is active in his community, serving as an Advanced EMT and Fire Fighter. He was named Colebrook, NH’s 2021 Citizen of the Year and in 2020, he received the Jeremy Ladd Cross Award for his longtime efforts for the betterment of Freemasonry in New Hampshire. He is a member of York Rite, Scottish Rite, Order of the Eastern Star, DeMolay, and Shrine.
Illustrious Brother William M. Sardone, 33˚, of the Valley of New York City and Past Grand Master of Masons in the state of New York was awarded the Daniel D. Tompkins Medal on September 24, 2021. Sovereign Grand Commander Peter J. Samiec presented the award at the New York Council of Deliberation Convocation. Brother Sardone is active in many areas of Masonry, from DeMolay International to five International Grand Lodges. He is a member of Mecca Shrine, Royal Arch, Red Cross of Constantine, Commandery, Cryptic Masons, Tall Cedars of Lebanon, and served as Chairman on several Grand Lodge committees.
Vtyautas “Vyts” Paukstys, 32° Brother Vtyautas “Vyts” Paukstys, 32˚, of the Valley of Chicago, was awarded the Daniel D. Tompkins Medal on September 21, 2021. Brother Paukstys volunteered at the Valley of Chicago’s Children’s Dyslexia Center since 2009, becoming Vice-Chair in 2011 and Chairman from 2016-2021. The Children’s Dyslexia Center was established by the Valley of Chicago in 1999 on the grounds of the Illinois Masonic Children’s Home in La Grange. When the home closed in 2017, Brother Paukstys was instrumental in moving the Children’s Dyslexia Center to its current location in La Grange.
Congratulations to these worthy men for all their hard work and dedication to Scottish Rite! Spring 2022
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N ILLUSTRIOUS BROTHER CLIFTON TRUMAN DANIEL:
Keeping His Family Legacies Alive On December 3, 2011, Most Worshipful Brother Terry L. Seward, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Illinois, made Brother Clifton Truman Daniel a Mason at sight. In August 2021, he was inducted into the class of 33° Honorary Members of the Scottish Rite, NMJ, serving as Exemplar for his class. He has been a Scottish Rite Mason since 2014 and is a member of the Valley of Chicago.
PHOTO COURTESY OF HARRY S. TRUMAN LIBRARY
Illustrious Brother Daniel is the oldest grandson of Most Worshipful Brother and President Harry S. Truman. Brother Daniel served as guest speaker at a Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library event to celebrate the opening of The Masonic Hall of Fame exhibition. His grandfather is among the 10 inductees who grace the walls of the new museum installation—big shoes to fill, Brother Daniel admits. “I was made a Mason at sight 10 years ago because of my grandpa, and I’ve been trying to make up for it ever since,” he confessed.
A family snapshot of a young Clifton, Christmas in Independence, 1961, happily playing the trumpet and wearing his special holiday gift.
“I was made a Mason at sight 10 years ago because of my grandpa, and I’ve been trying to make up for it ever since.”
Combine that with being the son of E. Clifton Daniel, Jr., former New York Times managing editor, and author/ actress Margaret Truman, Brother Daniel said his career choices were heavily influenced by his parents and grandfather—though he didn’t know his grandfather was president until the first grade, when his schoolteacher asked him about it.
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Now in his 60s, Brother Daniel still keeps that advice close to his heart. Approachable and down-to-earth, he is humble about his upbringing. A fan of Mark Twain just like his grandfather Truman, he says he lives by the words of Mark Twain, who said, “Always do right. This will gratify some people and astonish the rest.” In his 20s, Brother Daniel said he wanted to be an actor, partly because he thought it would be a great way to command the same attention that his grandpa Truman received. Brother Daniel recalls walking into a room with his grandfather, who always stole the show, and he’d think to himself, ‘What am I, chopped liver?’ By age 26, he decided he no longer wanted to pursue acting, so he got a job as feature writer and editor for the
At age 6, as they went around the room introducing themselves by name, he respectfully said his name and his teacher prompted him further. “Wasn’t your grandfather president?” At the end of that day, he couldn’t wait to get home and inform his mother.
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“Mom, did you know that Grandpa Truman was President of the United States?” he asked. His mother of course said yes, and further explained to him, “Any little boy’s grandfather can be president. Don’t let it go to your head.”
Ill. Brother Richard Elliot, 33˚, Executive Director of Museum & Library, presents a gift to Ill. Brother Clifton Truman Daniel, 33˚, at the Museum’s Masonic Hall of Fame gala.
The Northern Light
NEWS
Memories with Grandpa
by Joann Williams-Hoxha, Content Manager
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE MIDNIGHT MASON
Brother Clifton Truman Daniel was made a Mason at sight and received his Masonic degrees on December 3, 2011, at Matteson Lodge No. 175 in Joliet, Illinois.
Morning Star and Sunday Star-News in Wilmington, North Carolina. “My dad got me the job; it was owned by the New York Times,” Brother Daniel explained. He stayed at that job for 30 years and as he got older, people started to tell him, ‘You know, you look like your grandpa.’ Those comments about his resemblance to his grandfather sparked an idea. ‘Maybe I’ll go back to acting,’ he thought. Beginning October 2017, Brother Daniel took on the role of his grandfather in “Give ‘Em Hell, Harry,” a biographical and humorous play on the life of President Truman. Brother Daniel’s role as his grandfather marks
Together with Director of Collections and Exhibitions Hilary Anderson Stelling, Illustrious Brother Daniel cuts the ribbon for the new Masonic Hall of Fame exhibition at the Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library.
Spring 2022
the first time in history a U.S. president would be portrayed onstage by a direct descendant, and he certainly doesn’t take that lightly. He says it’s not so much his grandfather’s mannerisms and accent that are challenging as it is memorizing the lines for the one-man play. Many hours were spent going through his lines while mowing the lawn and performing other tasks. Still, he says his one job as a performer is easier than the many responsibilities his wife, Polly, has— she is responsible for the hair, make up, and costumes to transform him into Harry Truman. “I rediscovered my grandpa in my 30s. And I rediscovered him as a human being,” Brother Daniel said. He’s helped to tell his family’s stories ever since. Brother Daniel is the author of the 1995 book Growing Up with My Grandfather: Memories of Harry S. Truman, and in 2011, he released Dear Harry, Love Bess: Bess Truman’s Letters to Harry Truman 1919-1943. When he is not writing or acting, Brother Daniel is available for speaking engagements and lectures. Learn more on his website: ctrumandaniel.com.
Brother Daniel recalls traveling with his grandparents to Key West during spring break. A limo would arrive at their home to take them to the airport. Then a limo to take them to their private plane, followed by a limo to the hotel. He recalls his brother Will saying to his father, “Are we getting richer, Dad?” His father answered simply, “No, we’re traveling with your grandpa.” Having lived in Manhattan at a very young age, Brother Daniel fondly recalls being front and center to watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. He was captivated by the band members’ plumed hats and visors and their magnificent uniforms. Around age 5, Brother Daniel recalls his father asking him what he wanted for Christmas that year. His response: a band uniform, just like those he had seen in the Macy’s parade. His poor father was stumped as to how he could pull off such a feat – where would he find a child-sized band uniform? He called on his father-inlaw, Harry Truman, for help. He was also stumped, but somehow, he made it happen. When little Clifton came downstairs on Christmas morning, he found a pint-sized Marine master sergeant’s dress uniform. To this day, he’s not sure whether it was a uniform custom-made just for him, but it probably didn’t come from the Marines. All he knows is he happily donned the uniform and recalls playing the toy trumpet to his heart’s content that Christmas.
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Retiring Active Members
In Memoriam
The following retiring Actives were inadvertently omitted from the November 2021 issue. At the Annual Session in August, the following changes were made constitutionally by age requirement:
Ill. Thomas W. Jackson, 33°
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Ill. Elmer Hall Palmer, 33°
1934-2021
1926-2021
Ill. Thomas W. Jackson, 33°, laid down his working tools on Thursday, December 30, 2021. Raised a Master Mason in Cumberland Valley Lodge #315 F. & A.M. of Shippensburg, PA on February 21, 1963. Completed the degrees of the Scottish Rite in 1963. Coroneted a 33° Mason and Honorary Member of the Supreme Council in 1980. He served as Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania from 1979 to 1999 and was elected as the first Executive Secretary of the World Conference of Masonic Grand Lodges serving for 16 years. He was a member of over 50 Masonic organizations and held honorary memberships in 111 Grand Lodges around the world. In 2017, he was honored by the country of Brazil with his image on a postage stamp. Readers of The Northern Light will remember him most as the author of his column, “Book Nook” which he wrote from November, 1990 until November, 2015. He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Linda.
Ill. Elmer Hall Palmer, Active Emeritus Member for this Supreme Council for the state of Rhode Island, laid down his working tools on Monday, September 15, 2021. Raised a Master Mason in Harmony Lodge No. 9 in Pawtuxet, Rhode Island on May 25, 1948, and became Worshipful Master in 1977. He was also a member of St. John’s Lodge No. 1P (King Solomon’s Lodge No. 11) and Quatuor Coronati Lodge No. 2076 in England. Received the degrees of the Scottish Rite in the Valley of Providence on December 30, 1954, and served as Sovereign Prince of Rhode Island Council, Princes of Jerusalem from 1973-75. Coroneted a Sovereign Grand Inspector General, 33° Honorary Member of the Supreme Council in Cincinnati, Ohio on September 27, 1978. He was crowned an Active Member on October 3, 1995, in Milwaukee.
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Ill. Keith Hoskins, 33°, retired as Deputy and became an Active Emeritus Member for Indiana.
Ill. David Spencer, 33°, retired as Deputy and became an Active Emeritus Member for New York.
The Northern Light
Renowned Masonic Artist Travis Simpkins Joins Chips from the Quarry
“B
r. Travis Simpkins, 33º has been prolific in producing beautiful portraits of Masonic leaders and historical figures,” writes Br. Maynard Edwards, 32º, KCCH in a recent profile of the artist. Ill. Simpkins now brings his artistry in the charcoal medium to the Chips from the Quarry illustrated feature in the Scottish Rite Journal. Chips from the Quarry ties together noteworthy Masons, usually by profession. “The new Chips from the Quarry page maintains some of the same
look it had before,” says Ill. Simpkins, “but with my particular style added to it. The past several months have been a wonderful experience.” During those months, Br. Travis has delighted fans of the Chips series with illustrations to “Christmas Songs and Masons” and “International Best-selling Authors,”
Travis Simpkins, Still Life with Candlestick, after Fernand Leger (1922)
among other topics. He has also presented other works in the Journal, such as the colorful Still Life with Candlestick. The Scottish Rite Journal looks forward to a long and happy association with Ill. Travis Simpkins, 33º, our new artist and “Chip-maker!”
The Goethe Collection at the House of the Temple
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he House of the Temple Library in Washington, D.C. contains a highly specialized collection of 514 volumes called the Goethe Collection, donated by Carl H. Claudy, Grand Master, District of Columbia (1943). Most Worshipful Br. Claudy’s father was a native of Ger-
many and had a marvelous personal library dominated by the writings of Germany’s greatest literary figure as well as Freemason Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749-1832). Many of Goethe’s Masonic-influenced works are represented here, such as Wilhelm Meister’s Apprenticeship, in which Br. Goethe writes: “Life lies before us, as a huge quarry before the architect...” This library-within-a-library also contains many rare and beautifully illustrated versions of Br. Goethe’s masterpiece Faust, a dramatic and philosophical exploration of good and evil in which a
scholar sells his soul to the devil for greater knowledge. One series of rare color 1800’s theatre settings by Gilbert Lehner for Faust give striking examples of 1800’s theatre scenery—similar to Scottish Rite theatre backdrops of the same period. In an age before films, nineteenth-century books often contained detailed and masterful illustrations to help readers visualize plays and stories, and this tradition is well preserved in the Goethe Collection treasure trove of rare books and artwork which the House of the Temple Library is proud to call its own. -Mark Dreisonstok, 32º, KCCH Managing Editor, Scottish Rite Journal
Gilbert Lehner’s set design, Cathedral Interior, Goethe’s Faust Spring 2022
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N GRAND LIEUTENANT COMMANDER
Mark C. Roth Let’s meet our new Grand Lieutenant Commander, Illustrious Brother Mark C. Roth of New Hampshire. In 1998, Illustrious Brother Roth was coroneted a Sovereign Grand Inspector General, 33°, Honorary Member of Supreme Council in Cincinnati as a member of the same class as Sovereign Grand Commander Samiec and several other Active and Active Emeritus members of Supreme Council. He was crowned an Active Member of Supreme Council in Grand Rapids in 2005. He served on several committees of the Supreme Council, including Ritualistic Matters, State of the Rite/ Strategic Planning, and chaired the Masonic Education and Program Development Committee for four
Masonic Background
Brother Roth was raised a Master Mason at Horace Chase Lodge No. 72, Penacook, New Hampshire, on June 24,1982. He served as Master of Horace Chase Lodge No. 72 in 1994 and 1995. He served the Grand Lodge of New Hampshire as District Deputy Grand Master and later as Grand Chaplain. Grand Lodge honored Brother Roth with the Major General John Sullivan Distinguished Service Medal and the Jeremy Ladd Cross Medal. He joined the Scottish Rite in the Valley of Concord and served as Thrice Potent Master of Alpha Lodge of Perfection and Most Wise Master of Acacia Chapter of Rose Croix. Mark is a member of York Rite and Shrine, and has been honored with the DeMolay Legion of Honor and Rainbow Grand Cross of Color.
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years. He also completed 10 years as a member of the Board of Directors of the Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library, including two as Treasurer. He was Deputy for New Hampshire from 2013 – 2021 and elected Grand Lieutenant Commander in Cleveland in 2021.
Family Life
Karla and Mark at a church anniversary, 1975
Mark and Karla on the beach in San Diego
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Mathias Roth and family
Illustrious Brother Roth was born and raised in Northampton County, Pennsylvania. He graduated from Muhlenberg College in 1969 with a B.A. in Psychology and the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia with a Master of Divinity in 1973. He earned a Master of Business Administration in 1984. He married Karla M. Helldorfer in York, PA in 1972. They lived in Philadelphia until moving to Nuremberg in Schuylkill County, PA where Mark was Pastor of the Nuremberg-Mt. Zion Lutheran Parish for five years. Karla was a health science librarian for Temple University and Director of the Hazleton Area Public Library. Mark and Karla moved to New Hampshire where Mark was employed
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A Special Night in Schenectady by the State of New Hampshire, first in Human Resources and later in Financial Data Management. Karla was a librarian for the NH State Library until their son, Mathias, was born in 1980. When Mathias started school, Karla returned to work as Director of Volunteer Services at Concord Hospital. Mark and Karla are now retired and living in Warner, NH.
The stars aligned on December 4th for the Valley of Schenectady. Not only did they celebrate their 100th Anniversary, but they were privileged to welcome their own, Illustrious Brother Peter J. Samiec, 33˚, home as the new Sovereign Grand Commander. MW Richard Kessler, 33°, Grand Master of New York gave the keynote address, and Brother Samiec was presented with his official Sovereign Grand Commander cap. Congratulations to the Valley of Schenectady!
Mark and Karla have one child, Captain Mathias K. Roth, U.S. Navy, and six grandchildren, ages 5 to 18 (five boys and one girl).
At a Glance MUSIC: Rock, several other genres, generally not country BOOKS: Recent U.S. History, historical novels MOVIES: Casablanca, White Christmas, but definitely not The Wizard of Oz. SPORTS: Baseball and Football MAN’S BEST FRIENDS: Tommy and Bailey, Goldendoodles
Tommy and Bailey
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The Masonic Hall of Fame: Extraordinary Freemasons in American Since November, the Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library has been welcoming visitors to the museum to our latest exhibition, “The Masonic Hall of Fame: Extraordinary Freemasons in American History.” This new exhibition showcases inspiring Freemasons and introduces visitors to the history of American Freemasonry. In telling this story, the exhibition draws on the Museum & Library’s rich collection of objects, images, and archival material. Each object in the exhibition is connected to a Mason who helped shape and sustain Freemasonry, in big and small ways. Visitors to the exhibition learn about extraordinary Masons in the Hall of Fame who, through their outsized contributions to Freemasonry, government, the arts, and other pursuits, made a profound impact on their world and ours.
Hall of Fame Ten Masonic Hall of Fame inductees are featured this year and more will be added in coming years. In Hall of Fame kiosks placed throughout the exhibition, visitors can learn more about these inductees: explorers, such as John Glenn and Lewis and Clark, and men who fought for social justice, like John Lewis and Prince Hall. Their stories are presented alongside visionary and compassionate leaders such as Harry Truman and John Lejeune; giants of American arts like Mark Twain and Irving Berlin; and those of two leaders who helped establish the United States in its earliest years, Benjamin Franklin and George Washington. In putting together this exhibition, staff at the Museum & Library hoped that visitors would find inspiration in the Hall of Fame inductees’ personal biographies, accomplishments, and words.
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Notable and Everyday Americans The exhibition looks at the history of Freemasonry in the United States from its beginnings in the 1700s to the present day. In the exhibition, visitors will encounter both remarkable and everyday Freemasons who helped to build communities, establish charitable institutions, and shape American society. Rooted in the Fraternal bonds and connections between members, Freemasonry continues to play an important part in the lives of members and their families. “The Masonic Hall of Fame: Extraordinary Freemasons in American History” illuminates some of the ways that the United States and Freemasonry have grown, thrived, and changed together.
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n History
by Hilary Anderson Stelling, Assistant Curator, Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library
The Constitutions of the Free-Masons, 1734. Acquired through the generosity of Mount Lebanon Lodge, Boston; St. Andrew’s Lodge, Boston; and Kane Lodge Foundation, New York, RARE 31 .A547 1734. In 1734, Benjamin Franklin produced the first book about Freemasonry that was printed in North America. Franklin based his Constitutions—which contained the history, laws, and regulations of Freemasonry—on the English edition published in 1723. Franklin is one of this year’s inductees to the Masonic Hall of Fame.
George Washington, 1794. William Joseph Williams. Alexandria-Washington Lodge No. 22, A.F. & A.M., Alexandria, Virginia. Inaugurated on April 30, 1789, George Washington became the first and only United States President to also serve as Master of his lodge during his term. For over two centuries, Freemasons have taken great pride in Washington's membership in the Fraternity. Washington is one the inductees into the Masonic Hall of Fame.
Certificate, June 23, 1799. Provided by Colonial North America at Harvard Library, Harvard University, Houghton Library. Prince Hall, who was barred from joining American Masonic lodges because of his race, founded the historically Black organization that now bears his name. In 1799, Hall, as Grand Master of the African Lodge in Boston, signed this certificate. Hall is an inductee to the Masonic Hall of Fame.
Apron, 1760-1780. Gift of Dr. Phillip James Jones, 83.45. Photograph by David Bohl. The form of Masonic aprons derives from the protective aprons, often leather, worn by stonemasons and other craftsmen. This apron, likely made in Massachusetts, is an unusual survival from the late 1700s and one of the oldest objects on view in the exhibition.
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C THE MASONIC HALL OF FAME continued
Meriwether Lewis Masonic Certificate, 1799. Accession #3837. Special Collections, University of Virginia Library, Charlottesville, Va. In 1803, President Thomas Jefferson charged Meriwether Lewis and William Clark to lead an expedition to map and explore the land that the United States had gained with the Louisiana Purchase. Both explorers were Freemasons, and Lewis received the Royal Arch degree in 1799, as noted in this certificate. Both Lewis and Clark are inductees into the Masonic Hall of Fame.
Oh! How I Hate to Get Up in the Morning, 1918. Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library. Composer and lyricist Irving Berlin is one of America’s most beloved songwriters. Berlin was a devoted Mason. He was a member of New York City’s Munn Lodge No. 190, a 32° Scottish Rite Mason, and an inductee into the Masonic Hall of Fame.
Past Master's Jewel, ca. 1806. Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library, 86.10. Julia Featheringill Photography. A member of St. John’s Lodge No. 1 in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, Lyman Spalding, received this jewel after his term as Master of his lodge. Silversmith Timothy Gerrish, a member of St. John’s Lodge, made this jewel— one of at least six he crafted for his lodge Brethren.
Pennant, 1950. Grand Lodge of Masons in Massachusetts, GL2004.3395. Julia Featheringill Photography. On August 13, 1950, members of African American Masonic groups across the country gathered in Boston, Massachusetts, to celebrate the 175th anniversary of the founding of African Lodge No. 459. Souvenirs, like this pennant, helped commemorate the event.
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For more information about the exhibition and the Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library, visit srmml.org.
A view of “The Masonic Hall of Fame: Extraordinary Freemasons in American History” at the Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library. Oklahoma Masonic Indian Degree Team, A.F. & A.M., Tulsa, Oklahoma, ca. 1955. Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library, A96/066/4333. In 1948, Native American Freemasons formed the Oklahoma Masonic Indian Degree team. This team traveled to lodges across the United States staging the Master Mason degree. Members wore regalia from their respective tribes while staging parts of the degree.
Museum objects on display in “The Masonic Hall of Fame: Extraordinary Freemasons in American History.”
Tyler, 1865-1875. Photograph by R. I. Smith, Austin, Minnesota. Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library, 88.42.38. Wearing an apron with an emblem of two crossed swords on it and carrying a sword, this Minnesota Freemason likely served as the Tyler of his lodge.
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Visitors to the exhibition are invited to send us pictures of events at their lodge or Valley for our “Masons Today” slide show.
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Magnificent Architecture: Masonic Building Postcards In
the late 1800s, as cities and towns grew, many Masonic organizations made their mark on communities by constructing grand buildings. Practical concerns spurred much of this construction. From 1870 through the 1920s, the numbers of Freemasons and Masonic lodges increased. In New York state, for example, the number of lodges almost doubled—from 650 in 1870 to 1,011 in 1930. Following the Civil War, Prince Hall Freemasonry in the United States also grew by leaps and bounds. By 1896, Prince Hall Masons had established lodges in 32 states.
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Increasing membership helped Masonic organizations prosper. A rapidly growing membership also meant that Masonic groups needed buildings that could accommodate large numbers of people and their different activities. The growing popularity of the higher degrees, such as the York Rite and the Scottish Rite, also spurred the construction of new buildings designed to accommodate these groups’ specific needs, such as Knights Templar drill teams and marching units or the staged presentation of Scottish Rite degrees
by Jeffrey Croteau, Director of the Van Gorden-Williams Library and Archives
in theater settings. Another Masonic group, the Shrine, founded in 1872, began building structures for their ceremonies, banquets, and social events in the early 1910s. Together, all of these Masons shaped their communities, both socially—with their myriad activities— and physically, with their ambitious building projects. The growing popularity of postcards coincided with this Masonic building boom. Postcards of Masonic buildings depicted not only towering Masonic
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The Van Gorden-Williams Library & Archives is located in Lexington, Massachusetts, at the Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library and is open to the public.
edifices in cities, but also modest structures in small towns. The Van Gorden-Williams Library & Archives at the Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library is home to a collection of thousands of postcards related to Freemasonry and other Fraternal groups. Hundreds of these postcards depict Masonic buildings from across the United States. A selection
of these images projected on a large screen welcomes visitors to the recentlyopened exhibition, “The Masonic Hall of Fame: Extraordinary Freemasons
in American History” and allows them to appreciate the wonderful variety of architectural styles used in Masonic buildings in many parts of the country. These illustrations also underscore the contribution that Freemasons made to the architectural richness of many communities.
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Have a question or need more info? Drop us a line at library@srmml.org or give us a call at 781-457-4109.
Selection of postcards from the Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library Collection, MM 025
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Whom Virtue Unites... 1 4 T H
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GRAND ELECT MASON
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by M. Todd McIntosh, 33°, Chairman Committee on Ritualistic Matters
There is no degree in the pantheon of Scottish Rite Masonry like the
degree of Grand Elect Mason. While the overall body of our labor comes in the form of moral allegory, the 14th degree is unique. Instead of learning how others confront the evils of the world, this is the lesson born of introspection and devotion—not in a public expression of devotion to our Core Values but as a silent, very personal discussion with ourselves in sole company with the Grand Architect of the Universe. This personal evaluation within the rubric of the only non-allegorical degree has existed without significant modification since Illustrious Brother Francken, 33°, penned it in 1783. He based it on many of the ancient French rituals from decades past, and it is generally considered one of, if not the most, ancient and traditional of our degrees. Over the years, our degrees have changed in order to remain relevant to the moral challenges of the day and in somewhat sad deference to the time we see fit to commit to communicating them. Yet, if we step back in time, we find that the 14th degree was a significant punctuation at the end of a sentence of degrees, beginning with the 4th and concluding with the 13th, presented in an intentional succession. At that time, we followed the challenges and successes that resulted in the personal development and professional rise of a young man who began as a guard and came to succeed the Grand Master Hiram Abiff at the completion of the Temple. We also learned that in that day, each of the degrees in the Lodge of Spring 2022
Perfection was adorned with a sacred word or name—each being a name or attribute of God. The first letter of the nine sacred words given in the 4th through the 12th degrees were symbolically emblazoned upon three interlaced triangles forming nine beams with a blazing red star in the center of an equilateral triangle. In the corners of the extant nine-pointed star were the letters: E.A.J.J.Y.A.O.A.H. In the 13th degree, the sacred Hebrew word, the tetragrammaton, was discovered. The four-letter word, which is not pronounced aloud, is historically interpreted by scholars as “God the speaker.”
Instead of learning how others confront the evils of the world, this is the lesson born of introspection and devotion. Set in a secret vault somewhere in the Temple, the lodge’s officers, representing the members of King Solomon’s court, asseverate the series of sacred words that culminate in
the revelation of the Ineffable. The lesson tells us that the ideal of the Mason on the journey to perfection was characterized as “He that walketh uprightly and worketh righteousness and speaketh the truth in his heart. He that slandereth naught with his tongue nor doeth evil to his neighbor.” Perfection may be achieved by “he that hath clean hands who hath not lifted thy soul to vanity, nor sworn deceitfully.” Thus, we were admonished to “keep thy tongue from evil and thy lips from guile. Depart from evil and do good; seek peace and preserve it.” The Covenant of a Grand Elect Mason taken by each of us is as impressive as it is meaningful, binding our hearts and souls at the very altar of Freemasonry where we profess our Ancient Aroba. Illustrious Brother Albert Mackey, 33°, in his revised Encyclopedia of Freemasonry tells us that the word Aroba comes from Hebrew Arab which is the root of the word Arubbah. The root, Arab, one of the oldest in the Hebrew language, means to interweave but may be interpreted as the strongest bond that can be given, “pledging even life of one person to another or the strongest pledge that can be given.” ScottishRiteNMJ.org
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WHOM VIRTUE UNITES... continued In years past and in some Valleys to this day, the Grand Elect Mason is presented, in evidence of the Ancient Aroba, a ring of gold. Aside from the ring of a 33° Sovereign Grand Inspector General, the ring of a Grand Elect Mason is the only official ring of the Rite attributable to any office or degree. A ring of gold or sterling silver having an engraved or enameled equilateral triangle on the outside thereof, and within the same the first letter of the Ineffable Name in Hebrew and engraved within the ring the motto of the degree, “Whom virtue unites death cannot separate” or the Latin, Virtus junxit mors non separabit (Art 1208). We learn the ring itself is the emblem of eternity, symbolizing the nature of our covenant to each other.
The Covenant of a Grand Elect Mason taken by each of us is as impressive as it is meaningful. As well, there exists an interlocution for the Masonic funeral ritual (at least in Ohio) which those Grand Elect Masons who have gone to that Celestial Lodge receive. In it, the presenter opines: “Our own labor of love and duty will soon be ended; for as the lightning writes its fiery path across the dark cloud and then expires, so the race of man, wandering through the surrounding shades of mortality, glitters for a moment with all the brilliancy of its achievement, and then
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vanishes from mortal sight forever. Death reigns supreme in all portions of our time. It meets us everywhere and all human science and skill combined cannot finally triumph over death of the mortal part of man. Death summons many a Brother in the midst of his day of usefulness and promise – when we behold his sun at meridian height, and rejoice in its splendor. But, alas, the sun soon sets beneath the horizon and the evening shades of mortal existence close about him forever. Such has been the fate of man throughout the ages, and, so far as we know, will continue to be his fate throughout all time to come. May we be granted the strength to say, ‘The will of God is accomplished, and the end is peace.’ “The inscription within the ring, ‘Whom Virtue Unites, Death Cannot Separate’, and the ring itself, are emblems of Eternity. They symbolize that eternal nature of truth and virtue with which our Brother was irrevocably allied. “It was a profound occasion, during the solemn and impressive ceremonies of the Sublime Degree of Perfection, and while kneeling at the Altar of Freemasonry, that our Brother received this ring from the hands of our venerable Thrice Potent Master and then promised never to part with it while he had life nor at his death, except to leave it to his eldest son, his wife, or his dearest friend, not to be worn by such person except he be a Grand Elect Mason, but kept as a memorial.
“It is in pursuance of that vow and of his wish that I now perform the last ceremony associated with this ring by presenting it to you [the eldest son, his wife, or his dearest friend]. “Prize and cherish this ring as a gift of inestimable value, for it comes to you, as it were, from the very gates of Eternity, hallowed by his love and sanctified by his blessing. May it ever remind you of his many good and noble qualities, and may it keep his memory ever green in your heart. May the sight of it in times of trial and difficulty give cheer and hope to your spirit; give you strength and presence of mind and courage. May it also remind you of the Fraternity of which he was an honored member; the Fraternity which deems it a sacred privilege to now tender to you and to yours their heartfelt sympathy in the loss of one whose death they deeply mourn and whose memory they will ever fondly cherish.” Whom Virtue unites, death cannot separate.
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CHARITIES
Seacoast Center Wins Giving Tuesday Donation Match
Congratulations
to the Seacoast Learning Center for receiving the most individual donations for the 2021 Giving Tuesday Telethon! As part of a challenge issued to all local Children’s Dyslexia Centers by the Scottish Rite Benevolent Foundation, the Seacoast Learning Center will receive a dollarfor-dollar match toward every donation made on its behalf during our Giving Tuesday telethon for a total of $7,506. This funding will directly benefit the Center’s afterschool tutorial reading program for children with dyslexia, a learning difference that makes it difficult to read, write, and spell.
by Jocelyn K. Wallace, Grant Writer and Coordinator, Children’s Dyslexia Centers, Inc.
Center Director Brenda Peters expressed her gratitude for all of those who tuned in and helped to support the Center: “Thank you Seacoast Learning Center parents, dyslexia practitioners, Board, and Masons for calling during the telethon and showing your support for our beloved Center. We are winners of the 2021 telethon because of you. The difference you make to the Seacoast Learning Center is profound. Keep on doing this noble work of changing lives through literacy.”
November 30, 2021
Lights. Camera. Telethon!
left to right – Becky Beal-Supervisor, Karyn Hubbard-Associate Director, Brenda Peters – Director, Karen Halliday - Tutor
Back by popular demand, Scottish Rite Charities hosted our 4th Annual Giving Tuesday Telethon on November 30th. Those who tuned in got to hear stories of the incredible impact that your Scottish Rite Charities continue to have on our communities. The inspiring event featured many whose lives have been changed because of the incredibly caring generosity of donors like you, as well as interviews from some of the key players who make the charitable work of the Scottish Rite a reality. This year, we raised $323,244 to continue the work of our beloved Scottish Rite Charities. Turn the page to see some highlights of this year’s Giving Tuesday telethon.
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A Journey of Gratitude It’s been close to three decades since Sebastian Napolitano first set foot in the Newton Masonic Building in Newtonville, Massachusetts. He had been having problems in school for some time, and after attending several appointments, he was diagnosed with dyslexia. “I don’t remember much, but what I do remember was just a struggle. Being dyslexic and going through school was very difficult,” he recalled. During one of these appointments, his family was introduced to a brandnew tutoring program through Massachusetts General Hospital. “It was just starting. One of the clinicians there told us about it, and that’s how we got the connection,” his father Stephen said.
Brother Sebastian Napolitano (left) with fellow Dalhousie Lodge members Larry Bethune (center) and Stanley Chu (right). Brother Larry Bethune also serves as the Chair for the Greater Boston Children’s Dyslexia Center Board of Governors.
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Sebastian was just nine years old when he began attending the Center. “Obviously, the program has evolved since then, but the tutors were very compassionate. They strived to help you to keep moving forward and never give up. That philosophy still holds true today,” he said.
Sebastian and his family’s involvement at the Newton Masonic Building didn’t stop when he completed his tutoring at the Center. Stephen called the program “Godsent” and said that from the time Sebastian began attending the Center, the changes were evident in his son. Besides improved progress reports, he gained confidence and began to believe that he could accomplish anything if he worked hard enough. He went on to be one of the first graduates of the very first Children’s Dyslexia Center in 1995. Sebastian and his family’s involvement at the Newton Masonic Building didn’t stop when he completed his tutoring at the Center. While attending a Christmas party there, his father was introduced to
members of Dalhousie Lodge which was also housed in the building. After asking some questions about Freemasonry, he decided to join the Fraternity. “The Center was how I found Freemasonry,” Stephen said. “It was a wonderful thing that I did find Freemasonry, as it has made me a better man—it really has made me a better man.” Sebastian also remained connected to the building, volunteering at lodge events with his father. “I remember thinking, ‘maybe this is one way to give back and to pay it forward for what was given to me,’” he said. While volunteering at one of these events, he was approached about joining the Fraternity. “I still remember vividly sitting down at a blood drive with a Brother at Dalhousie, Bernie Goulding, who gave me my application. I filled it out, and the rest is history. It’s going back almost 13 years that I’ve been involved.” Since joining Freemasonry, Sebastian especially enjoys participating in ritual and has become skilled at reading his Masonic cipher book. “It’s not easy to read. So for someone with my background, being able to read it and then being able to memorize it shocks some people,” he said. “It's unbelievable the way he understands the cipher and reads the cipher when he had such a struggle with reading itself. To see him now at different lodge meetings, the way he can read it, understand it, memorize The Northern Light
CHARITIES
by Bridget Steele Assistant Director of Charities
it, and just go right through all kinds of floor work. It blows my mind the way he can do it, and he can do it better than I can. I go to him for help sometimes just to better understand it,” his father said. Sebastian also appreciates the camaraderie he has experienced through the Fraternity. “The Brothers that I meet that I never would have met if I hadn’t joined Freemasonry: that’s what keeps me involved—that Brotherhood, that fellowship,” he said. Since joining in 2008, he has made his way through the officer line and has served as Worshipful Master of Dalhousie Lodge for two consecutive terms. The family has also remained heavily involved with the work of the Greater Boston Center. Both Sebastian and Stephen are members of the Center’s Board of Governors and have volunteered at many fundraising events over the years to help ensure the program’s important work continues. Since attending the Center, Sebastian went on to graduate from college, and today he works as an electrical designer. Stephen said that he and his wife, Rose, are so proud of how far their son has come and will always be grateful for the help he received at the Greater Boston Center so many years ago. “Rose really holds the Center in her heart as a savior for our son. He has succeeded, where without the Center, he would not have been successful. He has done extremely well in trying to give back Spring 2022
not only to the Center but to the lodge and the Masons. It’s been a long road, but it’s been a fulfilling road for us, very fulfilling.” Sebastian joined Scottish Rite in 2018 and is thankful for the Scottish Rite Masons who founded the Children’s Dyslexia Centers and continue to serve as major backers of the program. It’s not lost on him that he has come full circle since his first experience with Freemasonry. “It’s important to keep paying it forward, because it’s a never-ending journey,” he said. “I was that child so long ago. If I wasn’t given the tools to become who I am today, to sit in the east of my lodge, to run my lodge for two consecutive years - I wouldn’t be the person I am today if it wasn’t for the Center.”
Sebastian’s father Stephen Napolitano (left) and Sebastian recently took part in a video shoot promoting the Children’s Dyslexia Centers.
Sebastian was one of the first graduates of the first Children’s Dyslexia Center in Newtonville, MA. Here he is in one of the program’s early brochures.
Left to Right: Greater Boston Center Director Linda Pinaud, Sebastian, his mother Rose Napolitano, and his brother Stephen in the early days of the Center. Linda Pinaud continues to serve as the Center’s Director more than 25 years later.
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HAUTS GRADES ACADEMY
Justice for All 28
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by Scott Mark, 32° Valley of Pittsburgh
The 21st degree, Patriarch Noachite, focuses on the Core Value of Justice. It is one of only two degrees (along with the 30th degree) that focus solely on this Core Value. Although the degree focuses on justice, it reflects several core behaviors which are important for every Mason to demonstrate. Despite our best intentions, human interactions sometimes result in disputes and conflict. As a result, men are forced to seek relief and enlightenment through established tribunal boards. The drama in this degree demonstrates cases brought before the Grand Chapter of the Patriarch Noachites—a secret society conducting a Vehmic court. This drama is based on the actual “secret” court system that formed in Westphalia, Germany in the Middle Ages. Interestingly, while these courts were considered “proto-vigilante” with respect to the formal judicial system, they were officially granted jurisdiction from the Holy Roman Emperor which included the capacity to pronounce capital punishment. Although this is peripheral to the primary learning in the degree, the background deals with the same concept of separation of church and state which is introduced in the 27th degree. Here, the message is centered on the concept of equal justice under the law. The drama reminds us to “Let Justice be done though the Heavens should fall.” The drama depicts an esteemed Mason, the Count Reinfred, who is found to have behaved dishonorably in a business dealing. The issue is brought to the Noachite tribunal for redress and justice. A key point that is being stressed is that no one is Spring 2022
above the law. The drama points out that Count Reinfred is known to be a noble person with a “distinguished service to the Order.” He is a knight who is “fearless and without reproach.” Great diligence is taken to clarify that the Count represents a person of the highest esteem. This is to emphasize the clear point that is made at the end of the drama which is that “in the sight of God, all men are equal.” No one is so high or mighty that he shall plunder or oppress the weak with impunity. It is also important to note that the Count is a Mason. The obvious point being that “Freemasonry is not a shield for evildoing,” and that “the pillar of Justice is one of the chief supports of our Fraternity.”
We are continually challenged to fight against systemic injustice to ensure equality for all. On a personal level, I selected this degree for review as I strongly support the Core Value of Justice. We are continually challenged to fight against systemic injustice to ensure equality for all. This includes not only equal justice under the law but also access to justice. Both imperatives were
demonstrated in this degree. Not only did the plaintiff, Adolph, receive relief for the injustice, it is important to note that the existence of the tribunal represented an opportunity for equal access. The tribunal itself was established in response to unequal access and application of justice in the community. This degree, therefore, reflects equal justice in each respect. In his Letter from Birmingham Jail (New York: Penguin Classics 2018), Martin Luther King, Jr. said, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” Therefore, it is justice that is an unalienable human right which must be protected. This is especially true with respect to the marginalized and vulnerable within society. Recent high-profile court cases have forced me to introspect on the meaning of justice and the different perspectives of justice within society. The degree has encouraged me to reflect on whether my perspectives are accurate and to challenge any bias I may hold regarding my framework for what is just. As a Mason, this degree resonates with me not only as a Core Value, but a core expectation.
! To learn more about HGA and sign up for the waitlist, visit
ScottishRiteNMJ.org/ hauts-grades-academy
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“Journey On”
by Linda Patch, Director of Marketing and Communications
“Journey On” is the new, inspiring platform for messaging and programming exclusively for the Scottish Rite, Northern Masonic Jurisdiction. “Journey On” is about continuing one’s growth as a man and as a Mason. In the Blue Lodge, the profound secrets and lessons of Freemasonry are learned. For most, it is a life-changing experience driven by selfrealization, self-improvement, and spiritual awakening. Men of the Scottish Rite journey on through 29 degrees that expand Masonic teachings to help good men become the most noble versions of themselves. “Journey On” Inspired by You
“Journey On” was created to capture what you clearly expressed in our most recent member survey. Your input made it evident that the time was right to create a campaign exclusively for the Scottish Rite, NMJ— a campaign that breaks through the noise and articulates the iconic values to our members and to worthy Master Masons looking to join us.
“Journey On” is also a moving and comprehensive review of what we can provide in the way of additional member programming to add richness and value to your membership. Our plan is to have “Journey On” positively impact all aspects of your Scottish Rite experience.
You Told Us and We Listened
Results from the 2021 member survey were clear. The men of Scottish Rite are bound by their love and commitment to the Craft. There is a profound desire to go deeper—“journey on” if you will—into Freemasonry’s tenets and teachings. Here are some of the findings that directed and galvanized the “Journey On” campaign:
89% 81% 82% 60%
of members agreed they joined the Scottish Rite to continue their journey in Freemasonry.
of members agreed that they joined to continue their personal journey of self-improvement.
of respondents were drawn to the Scottish Rite to experience additional degrees.
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of respondents were inspired to join by the educational opportunities we make available.
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“Journey On” Objectives:
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Inspire Scottish Rite Masons to reconnect with the power and fulfillment that comes with seeking more light. We hope all Scottish Rite Masons will reawaken to their singularity as men committed to journeying deeper into the highest principles and ideals of the Masonic Craft while bound in Brotherhood to other worthy, like-minded men.
2.
Introduce Blue Lodge Masons to the Scottish Rite. This campaign will work to explain who we are and inspire more men to continue their journey to a deeper sense of purpose through our degrees, Core Values, and sharing Fraternal Brotherhood with other Scottish Rite Masons.
! You can download the campaign to share on social media, enhance your website, or create customized signage for Valley events at: ScottishRiteNMJ.org/journey-on-assets
And that’s just the start. Stay tuned for additional programming and events coming in 2022.
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Challenge Scottish Rite leadership to respond to member needs and desires and create an even more gratifying Fraternal experience. “Journey On” is much more than videos and ads. Thursday Night at the Rite will continue this winter and spring. Virtual Reunions will be deployed as needed to service our Brethren who enjoy receiving additional degrees and to welcome Master Masons who want to join. On our new website this spring, look forward to a dedicated area featuring resources to help you go deeper into our degrees.
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The Path Forward and “Journey On”
by Linda Patch, Director of Marketing and Communications
Why Create “Journey On” Now?
We developed the “Not Just a Man. A Mason.” campaign to attract worthy men to Freemasonry. And it’s working. Now with “Journey On,” we are inviting all Master Masons to continue answering the call to journey deeper into the Craft. Although there is no degree higher than that of a Master Mason, the degrees of Scottish Rite Freemasonry enrich and expand the teachings of the symbolic lodge. “Journey On” celebrates the Master Masons who are committed to continued self-improvement, deeper Brotherhood, and extended learning of the ethical teachings and philosophies of Freemasonry.
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What’s the Difference Between “Not Just a Man. A Mason.” and “Journey On”? “Not Just A Man. A Mason.” focuses on helping men take the first step to becoming a Freemason.
“Journey On” reminds Master Masons that there is always more to answering the call; there is no last step in our journey through the Craft.
What does the Campaign Include?
Currently, the campaign consists of seven videos (a major anthemic piece and six videos which highlight our Core Values in everyday life), accompanying print ads, and other promotional materials. The entire campaign is available to all Valleys throughout the NMJ at ScottishRiteNMJ.org/journey-on-assets.
On the website, you can find the videos and the assets sized for signage, social, and websites. If you want any of these assets customized with call-to-action or your Valley’s information, you can order at ScottishRiteNMJ.org/journey-onassets-orders.
Website refresh
Have you visited our newly refreshed website? Our “Journey On” campaign touches every part of the Scottish Rite experience—one we hope to make richer, more connected, and meaningful for our Brethren. On the website, be sure to link your Master Mason friends to our new easy-tofollow join area, access important resources in the leadership center, and download the campaign to use in your Valleys!
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The “Journey On” Manifesto The journey begins in the heart. Always in the heart. It starts as a feeling. The inspiration that your path is different. The path not just of a man, but of a Mason. For hundreds of years, Masons have been traveling men. The path of the ancient stonemasons is marked by the world’s great cathedrals and other monuments in stone. Today, Masons continue the path of the ancient traveling men, our path to the East, marked by the degrees of our Craft. Entered Apprentice. Fellowcraft. Master Mason. At each step, more secrets are revealed; more lessons learned. Skills are gained. For some, even as a Master Mason, the heart of the traveler is not yet still. The road still calls. We are the men of Scottish Rite Freemasonry. Select, worthy, and deeply bound by our Core Values: Integrity, Justice, Service, Tolerance, Devotion to Country, and Reverence for God. As Scottish Rite Freemasons, we continue to push to the East and for more light. We journey on, answering the call to grow as noble craftsman. We journey on, striving to be a Fraternity that fulfills our Masonic obligation to care for our members. We journey on, knowing that as Scottish Rite Masons, there is always more to feel, to share, to strive for. Do you feel the call of Scottish Rite Freemasonry? Look inside for the answer. The journey begins in the heart. Always in the heart. Scottish Rite Freemasonry. Journey On.
! You can download this manifesto, suitable for framing, at scottishritenmj.org/journey-on-assets
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Caring for Our Members A vision statement is utilized to describe an organization’s long-term goals, and it encapsulates the emotional context of what an organization wishes to become. In Masonic terms, a vision statement represents an organization’s desired transition from a rough to perfect ashlar. In 2010, the Scottish Rite, NMJ, adopted the following vision statement:
“We will strive to be a Fraternity that fulfills our Masonic obligation to care for our members.”
We will care for our members. But, what does it mean to care? This seemingly innocuous word is at the very heart of our vision statement and one that we, as Masons, have obligated ourselves upon. Interestingly, its deeper complexity is the very key to our future and something we should all take a moment to reflect upon. During a recent roundtable discussion, the question was raised of whether this vision statement was still applicable to our organization. In effect, it was acknowledged that we as a Fraternity have deep esteem (care) for our members, and so our work, according to our vision statement, is therefore complete. Right? Not exactly. With esteem and emotional care, we have just begun to scratch the surface. The term “care” is a wonderfully multifaceted word that bears with it three distinct applications:
• Emotional Care • Supportive Care • Nurturing Care Emotional care, or Brotherly love and affection, is a basic tenet of our Fraternity. It is with this level of care that the Worshipful Master greeted each of us at the altar of Freemasonry, and we further obligated ourselves to two additional levels of care for one another. Emotional care is frequently demonstrated through our Brother-toBrother calling outreach.
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MEMBERSHIP
by John Brian McNaughton, 33˚, Active for Indiana
By supportive care, we refer to those efforts currently underway with our Grand Almoner’s Fund in our constant efforts to help, aid, and assist our Brothers and families in times of dire financial distress. It is through the addition of nurturing care that the multi-faceted definition of care becomes complete. Our obligation to help, aid, and assist extends beyond emotional and supportive care. It is also our duty
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to assume the mantle of teacher and gardener to help our members grow. The youngest Entered Apprentice is reminded of this by the Worshipful Master; he should seek out and learn from more experienced Brothers in the Fraternity so that he might improve in Masonry. Nurturing care is equally vital for growth, education, and development in both our personal and organizational journey from rough to perfect ashlar.
Our vision statement is an evolving goal of fulfilling the emotional, supportive, and nurturing care of our members and is one that we must all continually strive to achieve. “We will strive to be a Fraternity that fulfills our Masonic obligation to care for our members.”
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M PAINTER, TEACHER, MASON—
William Forsyth of Indianapolis Some of our Masonic Brothers are quite famous and almost everyone knows their names, such as patriots George Washington and Benjamin Franklin, medical pioneer Dr. Charles Mayo, and astronauts Gus Grissom and John Glenn. Of course, the vast majority of Masons are men who go to work, support their families, and strive to improve their communities in the spirit of Masonic service. They are not famous, but they are the kind of people who make our world a better place.
One such Mason was the painter and teacher William Forsyth. He was an Indiana Freemason and member of the Scottish Rite Valley of Indianapolis. As a painter, he is best remembered for his portrait work and impressionistic landscapes. He was also a determined and beloved teacher, ambassador for fine arts, civic leader, and completely devoted family man. He was generous in donating both his time and his artistic talents to make his community a more vibrant and attractive place. Forsyth’s membership card at the Indianapolis Scottish Rite shows he was born in California in 1854. This is accurate but a little misleading. California in this case refers to a small town near Cincinnati which has since disappeared from the map, having been annexed into the city years ago. When he was 10 years old, the Forsyth family moved to Versailles, Indiana. The boy showed an aptitude for art, sketching scenes around his home. But the family was not wealthy, and it wasn’t possible for him to study art. He did not take formal instruction until he was 23 years old, studying in the short-lived Indiana School of Art in Indianapolis. This was enough for him to develop competence in basic skills and demonstrate his considerable talent; with so little actual training, it is remarkable that he was awarded admission to the Royal Academy of the Arts in Munich, Germany. While in Europe, he traveled in Germany and France. Mostly he painted landscapes with the newly developed method of working
Self-portrait by William Forsyth
PRODUCTS MAY DIFFER SLIGHTLY FROM WHAT IS DISPLAYED.
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by Jim Keating, 33˚, Valley of Indianapolis
impressionistically en plein air, that is, painting outdoors. A few years later, when he returned to Indiana, Forsyth set aside time annually to travel with friends and paint in the countryside, mostly in the south central part of the state and along the Ohio River. Forsyth taught art in Fort Wayne, Muncie, and Indianapolis, partnering with other Indiana artists such as T.C. Steele and Otis Adams. He was one of the leading figures in the Bohe Club, an Indianapolis society that tried to boost fine arts. The group initially wanted to be known as the Bohemian Club, a reference to the free-wheeling artistic and literary movement in Europe at the time, but the sign painter could only find space on the door for the first four letters of the word, so the club was known by its jaunty abbreviation. The organization was an exciting place. He and several other members became known as the Society of Western Artists, and later they were known internationally as The Hoosier Group. From 1907 to 1933, Forsyth taught at the Heron School of Art in Indianapolis, a very highly regarded
institution both then and now. He was beloved by his students who knew he genuinely cared about them. These were the years of Forsyth’s greatest and most energetic community outreach. It was during this time that his concern for public service and Masonic Brotherhood led him to the Irvington Lodge near his home on the east side of Indianapolis. There, he was initiated October 11, 1907, passed October 25, 1907, and raised the same year on November 8. He was very active in his community, a tireless letter writer, and known as an assertive advocate for the arts in Indianapolis. In 1924, he joined the Indianapolis Valley of the Scottish Rite. He received the 32˚ on March 20, 1924. He was devoted to Masonic activity and tried to make his work and teaching a reflection of the values he learned in the Fraternity. Forsyth made a habit of donating pictures to the schools his children attended, resulting in several donations to the Indianapolis Public Schools and Butler University where his daughter studied. One of his most poignant works is a portrait of Hilton U. Brown Jr., a Butler student whose father was President of the Butler Board of Trustees. The young man left college early to take a military commission in World War I. He served in France and was killed in battle only a few days before the armistice ended the war. The painting hangs in
Portrait of Hilton U. Brown, Jr., by William Forsyth
Robertson Hall on the Butler campus in Indianapolis and still reminds us, even after a century, of the honor and selfless patriotism shown by those who served. The Great Depression brought trouble to the Forsyth family as it did to so many others. In 1933, after almost three decades, Forsyth was laid off from his teaching position at the Heron School. It is probably more accurate to say he was fired, because there was no chance he would ever be called back. This was a terrible blow. It was a job he loved and a job he needed. Friends helped arrange some work for him with the Works Progress Administration (WPA), where he served as a mural painter. Other friends and former students sent commissions his way and that helped some. Even so, the strain was awful, and his health suffered as a result. He died March 29, 1935 and was buried along with many other notable Indiana citizens in Crown Hill Cemetery in Indianapolis.
Scottish Rite membership record for William Forsyth
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Around the Jurisdiction The Valley of Southern Illinois welcomed nine new Scottish Rite Masons and six additional Brothers who continued their journey to the 32˚ during their 233rd Fall Reunion. Congratulations Brothers!
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The Valley of Nashua performed a live cast of the 15˚ at their Fall Reunion.
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It was mostly business for Brothers from the Valley of Dayton at their recent Fall Reunion, while the ladies had fun making customized creations.
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Ladies from the Valley of Dayton hold up their completed door mats.
OH Officers and members pose with the newest class at the Valley of Rockville Centre.
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NJ At their veterans night, Peter Maris, 32˚, MSA, MWM of the Valley of Northern New Jersey, presents certificates of appreciation to Major Robert Madlinger, 32˚, an Army trauma surgeon (left) and Brother Kevin Flannery (right), an active military veteran now serving in the National Guard.
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MI The Valley of Michigan’s Leadership Team were on the House Floor at the State Capitol to receive a special State Tribute honoring Scottish Rite Freemasonry and their Valley on its nearly 160 years of service to Michigan. Pictured with them is State Representative John DeMoose.
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Brothers Colonel Bartley, 32˚, and Chris Jena, 32˚, of the Valley of Terre Haute donated 720 “decodeable” books to the Vigo County School Corp. to be used with students who have been screened for dyslexia to help with remediation. Brother Bartley said he struggled as a child with dyslexia, and credits a second-grade teacher who helped him read.
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The Valley of Lower Delaware supplied meals to Milton Police, Fire, & EMTs to show their gratitude for first responders.
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The Valley of Nashua honored first responders and local heroes in a special November program.
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Ill. Brother Frank Winans, 33°, MSA, holds Chicago’s Valley of Excellence award at the Annual Meeting in Cleveland.
IL In November, Venango Lodge of Perfection delivered sandwiches to the local fire and police departments to celebrate our first responders.
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During a November Reunion, members of the Valley of The Merrimack collected and packaged over 3,000 diapers to donate to Anchor of Hope Diaper Bank, a nonprofit that distributes diapers to families in need. Here are some Brothers hard at work!
The Valley of Evansville enjoyed a lovely Christmas dinner with their Brethren.
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Around the Jurisdiction
continued
The fall reunion is in the books for the Valley of Eau Claire where they enjoyed a banquet and karaoke.
Members of the Valley of Wilmington participated in Newport, Delaware’s Pearl Harbor observance on December 7th, 2021.
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Members of Nashua Fire Rescue, American Medical Response, and Southern New Hampshire Hospital were in attendance and each received a Supreme Council Challenge Coin. Illustrious Brothers Kenneth Clay, Jr., 33˚, and David Collins, 33˚, Grand Master, were in attendance help present the awards.
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NY Santa pays a visit to the George Clinton Chapter of Rose Croix (Valley of The Hudson) Christmas party.
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More than 30 fully-decorated trees were raffled at the Portland CDC’s Festival of Trees fundraiser.
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If you would like to have your Valley featured in Around the Jurisdiction, be sure to submit photographs and descriptions to
Communications@SRNMJ.org
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Valleys ofExcellence
by Joann Williams-Hoxha, Content Manager
Q&A Pete Saunders, Valley Secretary for the Valley of Central Jersey
TNL: How did your Valley work to
achieve the Valley of Excellence? PS: We looked at each category
as a whole then broke them down into individual tasks. Some were things that we do as a matter of course under normal circumstances, and we were able to just mark them off as they occurred. When looked at as a whole, the tasks themselves were not difficult. We are, at the heart of our organization, all about contact with our members and making sure their needs are met. We are also very lucky in our Valley; we have a tremendous team of leaders that will step up to any challenge. I am very happy to say that when presented with the idea of this Valley of Excellence program it quickly became a part of our weekly routine... ‘How can this be used towards our VOE challenge?’ was a question we had floating around at all times.
TNL: Obviously the pandemic put
a strain on meeting your Valley of Excellence goals, but what else would you say was the biggest challenge?
members as they had the opportunity to look around the building as they waited for their time to donate blood. That alone would make the efforts worth it.
PS: I think the biggest challenge
TNL: Which Valley of Excellence
we had was the realization that we could not use our ability to host social events successfully to promote a cause. We had to come up with a way of using our building under the constraints we were faced with and still manage to get the job done. In the end, the one thing we realized was we could use the building as a Red Cross blood bank, because all of the buildings in our area were far too small in square footage to host them under the CDC guidelines for available floor space. This allowed us to show our community we were truly a part of it. If nothing else comes from all that effort, we may have turned a few heads of potential
category was the most difficult to achieve? PS: To be honest I don’t think
that we found any of the categories difficult as such. We typically do most of the things on there in our normal course of business. It was just a matter of keeping track of them and then marking them down on the list. In and of itself, that was not very taxing either, just another detail to take care of.
don’t look at it like a task or a chore. It is something you should be doing for your members as a Valley to begin with. It is a great method of inspiring your own members to take a task upon themselves and make it their own. You can make this a building experience, we certainly found it to be one.
What would you say to a Valley that didn’t meet their Valley of Excellence goals—any words of wisdom? TNL:
PS: The best we could offer as
Ill. Mark Megee, 33˚, MSA, HGA, displays their Valley of Excelence Award.
TNL: Obviously the pandemic
challenging for us in that health considerations made it hard to reach out to our whole Valley family in a meaningful way.
“Words of Wisdom” would be,
Q&A Gary Beier, 33°, MSA, Valley of Milwaukee TNL: How did the Valley of
Milwaukee achieve the Valley of Excellence? GB: The Valley of Milwaukee used
a combination of tradition and innovation to overcome the COVID challenge. Normal stated meeting schedule continued virtually, and our committees used either Zoom or email as necessary to conduct their ongoing business. We didn’t miss a beat with outreach to members and widows during the year. New members were initiated using Rite on the Road tools, either on location or at the Valley itself. The Thursday Night at the Rite series was
Spring 2022
a big draw for both current and incoming members. Our degree team and officers came up with a new concept early in the year—the Radio Degree. We actually performed two public presentations as Radio Degrees. December’s Rose had a final audience that totaled just under 200, and our Paschal Lamb presentation drew over 100 views. The Valley also participated in some new philanthropic programs that helped needy and disabled children and brought new light to what the Scottish Rite is all about.
put a strain on meeting Valley of Excellence goals, but what would you say was the second biggest challenge? GB: A big challenge is providing
a sense of value to our overall membership. Their time and talents are a valuable resource, and I believe that the pandemic taught us to use new technical tools to create a lasting impact on them. TNL: Which Valley of Excellence
category was the most difficult to achieve? GB: The Family Life events
TNL: Any advice to other Valleys? GB: For Valleys that didn’t meet
their goals: Dig a little deeper during this coming year. You will find that the effort involved in attaining VOE status is worth it, because it will drive you and your fellow officers to try new ideas that have the potential to produce a strong impact on your Valley and its future. That’s what we discovered here in Milwaukee. Good Luck!
category was the most
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Beyond the Quarry: Labors of Love
A Brotherhood Runs Through It
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MASONRY
by PJ Roup, 33˚, Editor, Active for Pennsylvania
I MET Brothers Teddy Sizemore, 33°, and Mark Nord, 33°, in the fall of 2006. The three of us had been appointed as District Deputy Grand Masters and were attending our training session. We were all in our 30s (those were the days) and considerably younger than the other new District Deputies, so we “Young Guns,” as the Grand Master called us, became fast friends. It didn’t take us long to realize that we had more in common than just our youth. We were all golfers, and all three of us loved the outdoors in general, and flyfishing in particular. In the early days of our friendship, we managed to golf together quite a few times despite our geographical dispersion across Pennsylvania. During those outings, we talked about how we ought to schedule a flyfishing weekend, but it took us a few years until our hectic schedules allowed it to become a reality.
the struggles and the triumphs— while we sipped whiskey. These were weekends that, despite the cold, the rain, or the rocks that poked you through the bottom of the tent as you tried (usually unsuccessfully) to sleep, left you energized, refreshed, and alive.
Our first several trips were to Poe Paddy State Park which is nestled in the Allegheny Mountains east of State College, Pennsylvania. The campground at Poe Paddy sits on the bank of Penns Creek, a destination known to fly fishermen all over for its legendary Green Drake hatch. Mark always planned far enough in advance to coordinate our trip to coincide with the hatch which typically takes place in late May.
Sadly, as can so often happen, the demands of life put a temporary halt to our annual outings—until the pandemic forced all outside again. I hadn’t wet a line in several years, but standing in the middle of a stream far from other humans was one of the few things that we were allowed to do in 2020 that was deemed safe. I dusted off my waders and reacquainted myself with the joys and frustrations of flyfishing for trout.
Some years, the fishing (and the weather) was better than others, but around the evening fire, we always had the chance to tell lies about the day’s fish and catch up with each other’s lives—the joys and sorrows,
I sent a few pictures of my first outing to Ted who called me almost immediately. “You know what,” he said, “We need get the band back together.”
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WE knew that the best way to be better men was to surround ourselves with better men.
“That’s a great idea,” I replied.
“I’ll call Mark and see if we can make it happen. Let’s stay at my new place,” he said. Ted’s new place was MVL, a 231-acre private hunting and fishing lodge he owns with his wife, Jennifer, nestled into a horseshoe curve in the west branch of the Susquehanna River. We had to look deep into our calendars to find a time that worked for all three of us, but finally, last October, the band got back together. Using the lodge as base camp, we booked a guide and two days of fishing—one on Spring Creek and one on the legendary Spruce Creek. Both streams are fed by limestone springs, giving them two advantages for holding trophy trout: steady temperatures year-round and an abundant food supply. Spruce Creek attracts anglers from around the world and was a favorite of Presidents Eisenhower and Carter. It’s no wonder that the three of us were nearly breathless with anticipation as we walked toward its banks still blanketed by a morning mist. Our guide, Eric Norman of Making Memories Fly Fishing, suggested that we begin fishing one at a time. Mark drew the honors and had the first fish on within minutes of hitting the water. It was a portent of things to come. We netted just north of twenty fish—all brag-worthy—between us in the four
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M C A BROTHERHOOD RUNS THROUGH IT continued hours we spent on the water that day including a personal best brown trout for me measuring nearly 22 inches (and that is not a "fish story”). Of the three of us, Ted is the most experienced flyfisherman. I cannot prove it, but I believe his baby shoes were actually waders. We all caught fish that day, and though each of us is fiercely competitive, we rejoiced in each other’s success—delighting in the childlike joy on the face of our Brother as he brought a trout to the shore.
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We returned to the lodge, ate deer tenderloin harvested right there on the grounds, and relived the excitement of the day. We went to bed tired but invigorated and full of excitement and hope for the next day’s adventure.
trout on my first cast, and that set the tone for the day. We fished non-stop, working our way along nearly half a mile of stream, searching for—and finding—the monster trout hiding in the riffles and runs.
Spring Creek is a slightly larger creek than Spruce and is a catch and release fishery for its entire 16 mile run through Centre County, PA. Because of its larger size, we were able to fish at the same time. We chose our spots and waded in. I caught a respectable brown
When our stomachs told us it was time to take a break, we sat on the bank eating sandwiches and watching the trout rise to pluck caddis flies from the surface. Ted began to talk about the day we first met. “We were so young. It seems like a lifetime ago,” he said. His
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face told me he was recalling the day in his head. “You know, I never would have met you knuckleheads if it wasn’t for Freemasonry,” Mark noted with a smirk. The conversation continued. It was true. We had different professions. Mark was a nursing home administrator, Ted worked in IT for a government contractor, and I owned a video production company. Our paths never would have crossed occupationally. And we lived in different parts of the state, so a chance meeting of the three of us would have been next to impossible. What we had in common was a deep and abiding love for the Craft. We all understood the tenets of Freemasonry and recognized that flame in each other. We knew that the best way to be better men was to surround ourselves with better men. We realized that over the last 15 years we had rejoiced with each other, encouraged each other when we were struggling, and lifted each other up. We celebrated triumphs and consoled in loss. It became clear to us as we packed up our rods that October day that despite the miles or time that has insinuated itself between us, we will always be the best of friends. The search for trout may be why we get together, but Freemasonry is the thread—as invisible to us as the leader at the end of our fly line is to the trout—binding us together as Brothers.
! top: The author brings a trophy rainbow to net. above: Ted proudly displays a Spruce Creek rainbow. left: PJ, Mark, and Ted pose with Mark’s Spring Creek brown.
Spring 2022
Beyond the Quarry: Labors of Love is a new recurring column that will feature Masons outside of the Lodge. Do you have an interesting hobby, event, or recreational activity that you would like to share with us? If so, contact editor@srnmj.org and let us know about it. You just might find yourself featured in a coming issue.
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MASONRY
Thanking Our Veterans The military has played a very important part in the history of America. The citizens of the early colonies defended its existence and guaranteed its freedoms. Two decades after the War for Independence, our nation faced more military action from the British in the War of 1812. The 1860s brought us the Civil War, and in 1898, America entered into a war with Spain. The new century changed the nature of wars to a worldwide scope with World War I, and less than two decades later, World War II. Since the end of World War II, the United States has taken on a larger role as a keeper of the peace and a protector of smaller nations. We have sent our troops to Korea, Vietnam, the Persian Gulf, and Afghanistan. America owes a great debt of gratitude to its veterans. In all our wars, veterans have played the most important role. They were there to do what was necessary to preserve our way of life. It is easy to take for granted the freedoms guaranteed in our Constitution. The freedom from tyranny and oppression, and the freedom to voice our opinions and to meet in private were fought for
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by the American veterans who gave of their time, and sometimes their lives, to guarantee our way of life. We, as Scottish Rite Freemasons, recognize the service and sacrifices the members of our armed services have made and are making. It is with heartfelt gratitude we acknowledge and support these brave men and women. It is for this reason the Supreme Council Veterans Committee is asking every Valley in the Scottish Rite Northern Masonic Jurisdiction to form a Veterans Committee to care for those within our ranks who have served. So, let us all reflect on those freedoms we enjoy and thank all veterans for their service to our country. Let’s ask them, “Can we be of service to you?”
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This March, look for your Membership Education Fund Appeal in the mail for your chance to secure the second in a series of limited-edition collectible coins highlighting our Scottish Rite Core Values. For a donation of $50 or more to the Membership Education Fund, you’ll receive the Integrity coin showcased here and help the Scottish Rite continue to provide first-class educational resources to our members.
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