The Northern Light - May 2021

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MAY 2021

VOL. 52 | NO. 2

Here we Grow!

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

COMING SUMMER 2021

REVERENCE FOR GOD DEVOTION TO COUNTRY JUSTICE INTEGRITY TOLERANCE SERVICE TO HUMANITY

THE JOURNEY CONTINUES...

THE NORTHERN LIGHT

May 2021

Inside this issue…

4 Leadership Report

Being Fraternal

6 From the Editor’s Desk

Flattening the Curve

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FEATURES

26 Here We Go.

Here We Grow!

30 The Value of Being A Scottish Rite Mason:

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CULTURE 12 Masonic Presidents 16 Digital Collections Highlight:

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Theodore Gleghorn’s 1921 Master Mason Certificate

EDUCATION

A Matter of Justice

18 20th Degree 22 27th Degree

The More Things Change

A Zillennial’s Perspective

32 Valley Sponsors Grant for “Go Baby Go”

7 “Not Just a Man. A Mason.”

Campaign Refresh 8 In Memoriam 10 New Blue Lodge

Recognition Announced 11 Fall Membership Campaign Reminder

21 Southern Jurisdiction Scottish Rite Journal

NEWS

It’s a “Go” at the Valley of Milwaukee

C CHARITIES 34 Children’s Dyslexia Centers 36 Spreading Holiday Cheer to

Masonic Widows

38 Time in the Garden 39 We Zoomed to Arizona & Florida

On the cover These are just a few of the more than 1,000 new faces of the Scottish Rite, NMJ. Through this last year of uncertainty and change, your Scottish Rite has listened to your concerns, adjusted the sails, and found new ways to provide fellowship, education, and joining opportunities.

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MEMBERSHIP The Valley of Cincinnati Goes Live!

Valley of Michigan Reimagined Degree Around the Jurisdiction

The result? Renewed interest, excitement, and even growth.

We hope you enjoy this issue of The Northern Light!

M MASONRY 46 HGA Board Member Elected

to Lead Grand Council of AMD 46 AASR Helps Establish First

DeMolay Chapter for South Africa

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LEADERSHIP REPORT

Being Fraternal

by David A. Glattly, 33˚, Sovereign Grand Commander

Greetings!

I hope this message finds you well as we continue through our pandemic challenges.

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fraternity is defined as a group of people sharing common interests. It is further defined as a state or feeling of friendship and mutual support within a group.

Freemasonry is undoubtedly a fraternity, but it is a fraternity with the highest of callings. As Masons, we are called upon to be a true brotherhood.

Why does any man decide to join Freemasonry? We know many men (of their own free will and accord) join as they follow family tradition or because a friend asks them to join. Men who become Freemasons experience the close ties of brotherhood that exist within our Craft. If that experience does not happen, each of us, as

Masonic Brothers, need to look in the mirror, because it is us who have failed to guide that new member to the same fraternal connection that is so deeply meaningful.

Men who become Freemasons experience the close ties of brotherhood that exist within our Craft.

A new member who receives the degrees of Freemasonry needs to feel welcomed beyond the ritual he has witnessed. He needs to understand the meaning of the words spoken to him and the symbolism presented.

An informal follow-up orientation in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere outside the lodge room will go a long way to create a strong fraternal bond.

Those interactions create the ties that keep this new Brother interested in continuing in the Craft.

It’s really quite simple: A Brother who feels genuine connection and caring will likely remain a Brother for life.

It’s really quite simple: A Brother who feels genuine connection and caring will likely remain a Brother for life.

The issue of fraternal welcoming applies to Scottish Rite Freemasonry too. There is so much more to Scottish Rite beyond witnessing 29 degrees and filling passports. There is much 4

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WELCOME

to be gained by having chat groups to discuss the symbolism and core values within each of our degrees. Asking a knowledgeable Brother in your Valley to lead such a group will result in stronger fraternal ties with those who participate.

The Brethren in a true fraternity know each other, stay in touch with each other, and know they can count on each other in times of need.

Master Masons are seeking membership in Scottish Rite which certainly has me very pleased.

However, the Grand Architect of the Universe reduces our ranks each year with the passing of many of our loyal and beloved Brothers. While we can’t control the number called to the Celestial Lodge, there are things we can do to keep our Brothers happy and fulfilled members.

Please make sure that your Valley has a Brother-to-Brother calling program.

Contact every one of your members at least once or twice per year. A Brother who finds value in our fraternity will not depart our ranks.

Brothers under financial strain need not give up their membership. We can take care of a Brother in need as long as we are aware of the situation. A Brother who wants to stay a member should never be dropped from our ranks regardless of his financial situation.

the request to your state Deputy; a Deputy’s request to the Grand Almoner is acted upon immediately.

Being fraternal starts with taking care of the greatest resource within the Scottish Rite: our members!

Please stay well!

Fraternally,

The Grand Almoner’s Fund is there to assist our Brothers, widows, and families in need at any time. Our Grand Almoner, Illustrious Peter J. Samiec, 33˚, responds quickly to all requests coming in through our state Deputies. If you know of a Masonic Brother or widow in need, make the situation known to your Valley Secretary, Deputy’s Representative, or local Active Member. They will then make

Our Scottish Rite Brother-to-Brother calling program is central to member retention. Since I am sure we agree we are a fraternity first, that begs the question: Why are we not in contact with our Brothers throughout the year? The Brethren in a true fraternity know each other, stay in touch with each other, and know they can count on each other in times of need. As Scottish Rite Masons, we are obligated to connect with our Brothers and serve as the true fraternity we claim to be.

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FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK

T H E

N O RT HERN LI G H T

Flattening the Curve

A magazine of 32˚ Scottish Rite Freemasonry

May 2021 | Vol. 52 | No. 2

by PJ Roup, 33˚, Editor, Active for Pennsylvania

SOVEREIGN GRAND COMMANDER David A. Glattly, 33° EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Michael C. Russell, 32°

Your

Supreme Council was on the cutting edge of that innovation. We pioneered the concept of the Virtual Reunion, came into your homes through Thursday Night at the Rite, and continued to provide resources to our Valleys to help get us all through to the other side of this surreal existence.

Last year, we became all too familiar with the phrase flattening the curve as the Coronavirus pandemic swept across the nation. We were forced to shut down our in-person gatherings and envision new ways of meeting in a world where we could not actually meet.

The result? We are seeing a flattening of the curve. Not a curve that has anything to do with Coronavirus, hospitalizations, or vaccines but rather the membership curve. It is no secret that churches, lodges, and a plethora of other civic organizations have seen their membership decline over the last quarter-century. But for the first time in a long time, we can say that in the Scottish Rite, NMJ, more members have been initiated and restored than have been suspended and demitted.

That, of course, does not take the passing of our Brothers into account, but it is a heartening trend—especially given the current state of the world.

This issue of The Northern Light is dedicated to our membership. “Here We Go. Here We Grow!” (p.26) looks at the benefits of membership as well as some interesting and surprising membership numbers. “The Value of Being a Scottish Rite Mason: A Zillennial’s Perspective” (p.30) highlights some of the reasons younger men are choosing to join.

As we move toward a return to normalcy, may we continue to innovate, inspire, and invigorate so that the curve continues to flatten.

Here we grow!

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EXECUTIVE EDITOR Linda Patch 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° Linda Patch SUPREME COUNCIL, 33° Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite, Northern Masonic Jurisdiction, U.S.A. THE NORTHERN LIGHT (ISSN 1088-4416) is published quarterly in February, May, August, and November 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 ©2021 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

BeAFreemason.org Goes Multilingual

Nearly

one year ago, Scottish Rite, Northern Masonic Jurisdiction, Shriners International, and Scottish Rite, Southern Jurisdiction came together in a first-of-its-kind partnership to launch BeAFreemason.org. The site directs men interested in discovering light through Freemasonry how to learn more about our great Fraternity. It also works to reclaim the narrative of who Masons are and what we do. With that goal in mind, we expanded our outreach this year to make BeAFreemason.org even more accessible.

“Not Just a Man. A Mason.”

Campaign Refresh

We

updated our “Not Just a Man. A Mason.” campaign with four new pieces of creative content. The new visuals are available to all Grand Lodges and local lodges for advertising, social media sharing, website imagery, and more.

We are pleased to announce that BeAFreemason.org is now available in both French and Spanish. Visitors to the site need only click on the globe icon in the upper right-hand corner of the homepage to select their language preference.

BeAFreemason.org

May 2021

To access all downloadable “Not Just a Man. A Mason.” assets, visit NotJustAMan.org

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In Memoriam

Ill. Eric Ginette, 33°

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Ill. John Sharp Wright, 33°

Ill. Royce G. Wheeler, 33°

1946-2019

1928 – 2020

1926-2020

Ill. Eric Ginette, 33°, an Active Emeritus Member of this Supreme Council for the state of Vermont, died on Tuesday, December 31, 2019.

Ill. John Sharp Wright, 33°, an Active Emeritus Member of this Supreme Council for the state of Ohio, died on Tuesday, March 3, 2020.

Ill. Royce G. Wheeler, 33°, an Active Emeritus Member for this Supreme Council for the state of Maine, died on Saturday, October 10, 2020.

Raised a Master Mason in Green Mountain Lodge No. 68, in Cabot, Vermont, on August 27, 1994.

Completed the degrees of the Scottish Rite in the Valley of Montpelier (now Valley of Central Vermont) in 1998. Coroneted a Sovereign Grand Inspector General, 33°, on August 30, 2005. Crowned an Active Member in 2006. Served as an officer in all three bodies of the Valley as well as RW District Deputy Grand Master from 20132014. Recipient of the John Barney Medal for his outstanding service to Vermont Freemasonry in 2016.

Raised a Master Mason in Harper Woods Lodge No. 585, Harper Woods, Michigan, in 1960. Completed the degrees of the Scottish Rite in the Valley of Columbus in 1962.

Coroneted a 33° Mason and Honorary Member of the Supreme Council on September 28, 1983. Elected an Active Member of the Supreme Council in Boston, Massachusetts, on September 1, 1993.

Raised a Master Mason in St. Andrew’s Lodge No. 83, of Bangor, Maine, on February 16, 1950. In the Grand Lodge of Maine, served as District Deputy Grand Master of the Sixth Masonic District in 1967-68.

Received the degrees of the Scottish Rite in the Bangor Valley in 1959 and Maine Consistory in 1960. Coroneted a 33° Mason and Honorary Member of the Supreme Council on September 26, 1979. Crowned an Active Member of the Supreme Council on September 25, 1986 in Cincinnati, Ohio.

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The Northern Light

NEWS

For the complete balustres on the lives of these outstanding Brothers, visit ScottishRiteNMJ.org.

Ill. Warren F. Schueler Sr., 33° Ill. Richard G. Hawk, 33°

Ill. Bill C. Anthis, 33°

1925-2020

1928-2020

1926-2020

Ill. Warren F. Schueler Sr., 33°, an Active Emeritus Member for this Supreme Council for the state of Delaware, died on Friday, December 4, 2020.

Ill. Richard G. Hawk, 33°, an Active Emeritus Member for this Supreme Council for the state of Pennsylvania, died on Thursday, December 24, 2020.

Ill. Bill C. Anthis, 33°, an Active Emeritus Member for this Supreme Council for the state of Indiana, died on Monday, January 25, 2021.

Raised a Master Mason in St. John’s Lodge No. 2, in New Castle, Delaware, on November 20, 1956. Received the degrees of the Scottish Rite in the Delaware Consistory in May 1981. He served as Thrice Potent Master at the Wilmington Lodge of Perfection from 1985-1986. Ill. Bro. Schueler was Coroneted a 33° Mason and Honorary Member of the Supreme Council in Grand Rapids on September 27, 1988. He was Crowned an Active Member of the Supreme Council on September 25, 1990 in Milwaukee.

Raised a Master Mason in Hyde Park Lodge No. 339 in Scranton, Pennsylvania, on March 16, 1971.

Received the degrees of the Scottish Rite in the Valley of Scranton in May 1971, serving as Most Wise Master in 1977-1978 and Commander-InChief in 1986-1987. Coroneted a 33° Mason and Honorary Member of the Supreme Council in Cincinnati, Ohio, on September 24, 1986. He was Crowned an Active Member of the Supreme Council on October 3, 1995 in Milwaukee.

May 2021

Raised a Master Mason in Columbia Lodge No. 450 at Patoka, Indiana, on November 7, 1948. Received the degrees of the Scottish Rite in the Fort Wayne Consistory on November 13, 1965. Coroneted a 33° Mason and Honorary Member of the Supreme Council in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on September 28, 1977. Crowned an Active Member of the Supreme Council in Chicago in September 1992. Awarded the Supreme Council Medal of Honor in 2008.

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New Blue Lodge Recognition Announced Each year, Blue Lodges around the jurisdiction rededicate themselves to the ongoing work of Freemasonry. The Supreme Council Strategic Planning Committee has developed a distinguished recognition, based on a model informally used in Ohio, that Valleys can present to lodges that are celebrating significant milestones.

by David E. Barnes, 33˚, Active for New York

Called

the Benjamin Franklin Award of Distinction, it can be given to any lodge in the NMJ to recognize 50 years of service and 25-year increments thereafter.

Valley Secretaries can submit requests using the form available at: srnmj.us/FranklinAward Once all requisite information is submitted, the plaque will be produced and shipped to the Valley for presentation. Plaques will take approximately six to eight weeks to produce once all information is provided.

The plaque will have a raised design and will feature the image of Brother Benjamin Franklin, the double-headed eagle of the Scottish Rite, the square and compasses, and the following quote in brass lettering:

Masonic labor is purely a labor of love.

The wages of a Mason are earned and paid in their dealings with one another; sympathy that begets sympathy, kindness begets kindness, and these are the wages of a Mason.—Benjamin Franklin

Brother Franklin served as Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania.

This award will provide yet another tool for Valleys to utilize as they work with lodges in their area to promote Masonry throughout the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction.

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NEWS

Fall Membership Campaign Reminder

Jack Jones Humanitarian Award

This year, our fall membership campaign will spotlight our First Responders and Front-Line Heroes.

Valleys are encouraged to take advantage of the newly established Speakers Bureau for suitable programs to accompany their fall reunions. Look for more details on this special membership campaign on the website.

Do you work in one these professions and have a story to tell? Visit ScottishRiteNMJ.org and register for the Speaker’s Bureau today.

John Wm. McNaughton, 33°

The

Masonic Renewal Committee is pleased to announce that Ill. John Wm. McNaughton, Past Sovereign Grand Commander of the Scottish Rite, Northern Masonic Jurisdiction, is the recipient of the 2020 Jack Jones Memorial Humanitarian Award.

Named in honor of Imperial Sir Jack H. Jones, the Humanitarian Award honors distinguished Masons whose accomplishments and contributions emulate the great character and valued principles of Brother Jones.

Commander McNaughton was the driving force behind establishing the Scottish Rite, Northern Masonic Jurisdiction Grand Almoner’s Fund, providing financial assistance to thousands of Masons and their families throughout the United States. He was also instrumental in the groundbreaking Masonic marketing initiative, The Path Forward.

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Masonic Presidents

by Ymelda Rivera Laxton, Assistant Curator, Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library

How Freemasonry relates to United States history is the subject of countless publications (both fiction and non-fiction), exhibitions, and films. One of the most common inquiries we receive at the Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library is, “How many U.S. presidents have been Freemasons?” The answer is 14, meaning that there is conclusive evidence that 14 presidents received the Master Mason degree. Here is an outline of these presidential Masonic affiliations accompanied by a selection of related items from the Museum & Library collection.

George Washington

(1732-1799) 1st President Presidential Term: 1789-1797 George Washington was initiated into Fredericksburg Lodge No. 4, in Fredericksburg, Virginia, in 1752.

In 1788, Alexandria Lodge No. 22 in Virginia, composed largely of Revolutionary War officers, applied for a

charter from the Grand Lodge of Virginia and petitioned Washington to be their founding Master, a position he held for nearly two years, from April 1788 to December 1789. Washington was the first and only United States president to also serve as leader of a lodge while in office.

Washington is arguably the most recognizable and famous Freemason in American history. Many printmakers produced work celebrating Washington's Masonic career; other artists created memorial folk art to commemorate Washington’s legacy.

Cigar Band Plate, 1890-1920.

United States. Gift of Milton and Berry Walter, 2005.006

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Between 1880 and 1910, an unknown artisan fashioned this glass plate into a collage portrait of George Washington as a Mason using paper cigar bands and paper cut-outs of him.

In the early 1900s, individuals started to create folk art using cigar bands and colorful prints. “Cigar band art,” as this craft was described, was used to decorate ceramics, glassware, and jewelry. Washington’s posture and the regalia he wears suggest the print at the center of the plate was modeled after Currier & Ives’s 1868 print, Washington as a Freemason.

James Monroe

(1758-1831) 5th President Presidential Term: 1817-1825 In 1775, James Monroe affiliated with Williamsburg Lodge No. 6 in Williamsburg, Virginia. Tradition relates that Monroe was also affiliated with a military lodge, possibly St. John’s Regimental Lodge No. 1, though evidence of this is unclear.

Andrew Jackson

(1767-1845) 7th President Presidential Term: 1829-1837 Andrew Jackson was a member of Harmony Lodge No. 1 in Nashville, Tennessee. Seven years before he was elected president, Jackson served as the Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Tennessee from 1822 to 1824. He was an Honorary Member of Federal Lodge No. 1, F. & A.M., Washington, D.C., and Jackson Lodge No. 1, F. & A.M., Tallahassee, Florida.

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“I have come in contact with Brother Masons throughout this country, and I have seen the splendid work that Masonry is doing for our fellowmen.”

—Franklin D. Roosevelt, November 7, 1935. Roosevelt expressed this sentiment in a speech to members of Architect Lodge No. 519 on the day his sons, Franklin and James, were raised as Master Masons.

James Knox Polk

James Abram Garfield

In 1820, James K. Polk was initiated into Columbia Lodge No. 21 or 31 in Columbia, Tennessee. Polk received the Mark Degree at Lafayette Chapter No. 4, Nashville, in 1825.

In 1861, James Garfield was initiated into Magnolia Lodge No. 20 of Columbus, Ohio. Because of his Civil War service, Garfield did not receive the Master Mason degree until 1864.

It was conferred by Columbus Lodge No. 30 of the same city. Committed to Freemasonry, Garfield also became a member of the Knights Templar, the Royal Arch, and the Scottish Rite. In 1881, only months after being elected, an assassin killed Garfield. Masons across the United States publicly mourned his death.

(1795-1849) 11th President Presidential Term: 1845-1849

James Buchanan

(1791-1868) 15th President Presidential Term: 1857-1861 In 1817, James Buchanan was initiated into Lodge No. 43, in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Buchanan also served as a District Deputy Grand Master in the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania.

Andrew Johnson

(1808-1875) 17th President Presidential Term: 1865-1869

(1831-1881) 20th President Presidential Term: 1881

President Andrew Johnson, 1860-1866.

C.C. Giers, Nashville, Tennessee. Special Acquisitions Fund, 85.38.32.

Grand Master Samuel Crocker Lawrence of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts wrote to Garfield’s widow, Lucretia (1832-1918), asking for a lock of Garfield’s hair, “…to be handed down as a sacred relic to future generations of Masons in this state.”

The Grand Lodge commissioned this gold urn for this relic. The vessel is engraved: “This urn incloses [sic] a lock of the hair of President Garfield presented Feb. 1st 1882 to Lucretia R. Garfield. Brother James Abram Garfield President of the United States Born November 19th 1831 Died September 19th 1881.”

Urn, 1882.

United States.

Grand Lodge of Massachusetts of Masons Collection.

Photograph by David Bohl.

Another Tennessean, Andrew Johnson was initiated into Greeneville Lodge, No. 119 in Greeneville, Tennessee, in 1851. Historians have noted that Johnson was also a Knight Templar, a Royal Arch Mason, and a Scottish Rite Mason. In this hand-colored carte-devisite, Johnson stands for a portrait in his Knights Templar regalia.

The photograph is part of a series of portraits of Tennessee Knights Templar made by photographer and Freemason Carl Casper Giers (1828-1877) in the 1860s. The portraits may have been taken at one of the annual conclave meetings of the Grand Commandery of Tennessee in Nashville.

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C MASONIC PRESIDENTS continued

William McKinley

Theodore Roosevelt

William Howard Taft

William McKinley became a Mason in 1865 while serving as a Union officer during the Civil War at Hiram Lodge No. 21 in Winchester, Virginia. He was a founding member of Eagle Lodge No. 431 in Canton, Ohio. The lodge changed its name to William McKinley Lodge No. 431 after McKinley was assassinated in 1901.

In 1901, Vice President Theodore Roosevelt was initiated into Matinecock Lodge No. 806 in Oyster Bay, New York. A few months later, William McKinley was assassinated, and Roosevelt became president.

Roosevelt continued to attend lodges and Masonic ceremonies throughout his presidency. In this 1907 photograph of a cornerstone laying at Pilgrim Monument in Provincetown, Massachusetts, Roosevelt stands at the center, wearing the apron pictured here.

In 1909, at a special ceremony in Cincinnati, Ohio, the Grand Master of Ohio, Charles S. Hoskinson, made soon-to-be-President William Taft a “Mason at sight.” Taft later affiliated with Kilwinning Lodge No. 356 in Cincinnati, the same lodge that his father had joined.

(1843-1901) 24th President Presidential Term: 1897-1901

(1858-1919) 25th President Presidential Term: 1901-1909

Masonic Apron, 1907. Rose Lipp, Boston, Massachusetts. Grand Lodge of Masons in Massachusetts Collection, GL2004.7560. Photograph

by David Bohl.

(1857-1930) 26th President Presidential Term: 1909-1913

Warren Gamaliel Harding (1865-1923) 28th President Presidential Term: 1921-1923

The fourth president and Freemason from Ohio, Harding was initiated into Marion Lodge No. 70, in Marion, Ohio, in 1901. He became a Master Mason in 1920, one year before being

Theodore Roosevelt at cornerstone laying for Provincetown Pilgrim Monument, 1907. Provincetown, Massachusetts.

Grand Lodge of Masons in Massachusetts Collection, GL2004.7560.

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If you would like to see more examples of the photographic portraits in the museum’s collection, visit our website, srmml.org/collections/online-collections/.

If you have questions about a photograph in your or your lodge’s collection, please drop a line to hstelling@srmml.org.

elected president. In 1921, the Scottish Rite Supreme Council of the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction elected Harding to receive the 33rd Degree at their annual meeting in Cleveland.

Due to illness and his schedule, Harding was unable to attend the meeting. He died in office in 1923, before receiving the degree. The photograph below, highlighted with watercolors, shows a 33rd Degree jewel crafted for Harding by Boston jewelers Frederick T. Widmer (1877-1955) and Kenneth R. Park (1908-2008).

Widmer and Park designed a myriad of awards, commemorative badges, and officer jewels for Masonic and fraternal organizations throughout the United States.

Gerald Ford with Aleppo Temple Shriners, 1973-75.

Boston, Massachusetts. Gift of Richard D. Leggee.

A2008\53\1.

Franklin Delano Roosevelt (1882-1945) 31st President Presidential Term: 1933-1945

In 1911, Franklin Roosevelt was initiated into Holland Lodge No. 8 in New York City. He remained an active Mason throughout his life. His three sons, Elliott (1919-1990), Franklin Jr. (1914-1988), and James (1907-1991) were also Masons and members of Architect Lodge No. 519 in New York City.

Harry S. Truman

(1884-1972) 32nd President Presidential Term: 1945-1952

Jewel Design for Warren G. Harding, 1921-23. Frederick Theodore Widmer and Kenneth Robert Park, Boston, Massachusetts. Grand Lodge of Masons in Massachusetts Collection, GL2004.10961.4.Photograph by David Bohl.

May 2021

Harry Truman was initiated into Belton Lodge, No. 450 in Belton, Missouri, in 1909. Dedicated to Freemasonry, Truman helped to organize Grandview Lodge No. 618, also in Missouri, and filled the role as its first Worshipful Master. He later served as the Grand Master of Masons in Missouri in

1940. Truman was also a member of the Knights Templar, Royal Arch, and Shrine, and was a 33° Scottish Rite Mason. Truman was the first recipient of the Gourgas Medal.

Gerald Rudolph Ford

(1931-2006) 38th President Presidential Term: (1974-1977) In 1949, Gerald Ford was initiated into Malta Lodge No. 465 in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He was raised a Master Mason by Columbia Lodge No. 3 in Washington, D.C. in 1951. Ford continued his lifelong commitment to Freemasonry and joined the Saladin Shriners in Kentwood, Michigan, in 1959. In 1962, he was made a 33° Scottish Rite Mason and Honorary Member of the Supreme Council A.A.S.R., NMJ. Ford is pictured above with Barnett Samuels, Potentate Fred Spencer, and Recorder Harvey B. Leggee (1901-1989), members of Aleppo Temple in Wilmington, Massachusetts, in the 1970s.

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C DIGITAL COLLECTIONS HIGHLIGHT:

Theodore Gleghorn’s 1921 Master Mason Certificate Theodore

Gleghorn’s Master Mason certificate is just one of many documents available in the African American Freemasonry & Fraternalism collection at the Van Gorden-Williams Library & Archives Digital Collections website. Hermon Lodge No. 21 issued this Master Mason certificate to Gleghorn (1890-1978). The certificate is dated October 10, 1921, and signed

by Hermon Lodge’s Worshipful Master, Charles Murdock, and Secretary, P. B. French. Located in Sparta, Illinois, Hermon Lodge No. 21 was chartered in 1875 by the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of the Most Ancient & Honorable Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons of the State of Illinois.

also show that Gleghorn continued to work in the coal mining industry.

Around 1947, Gleghorn moved north to Springfield, Illinois, where he was employed by the State Division of Local Health Services. He worked there for at least 25 years. A 1971 newsletter published by the Illinois Department of Health includes an article and photograph showing that Gleghorn and other long-serving employees had been honored as members of the Illinois Department of Public Health’s “Quarter Century Club.”

Gleghorn was married to Emma L. (Britton) Gleghorn (1907-1980), and they had a son, Emmett D. Gleghorn (1933-1987).

by Jeffrey Croteau, Director of the Van Gorden-Williams Library and Archives

The African American Freemasonry & Fraternalism digital collection brings together a number of documents related to historically black fraternal organizations including many related to Prince Hall Freemasonry. You can access

What makes Gleghorn’s Masonic certificate so different from the many hundreds of Masonic certificates in our collection is that it includes a photograph of the certificate’s owner embossed with Hermon Lodge’s seal.

This, in addition to the lodge officers’ signatures and Gleghorn’s own signature, helped prove the document’s authenticity if Gleghorn presented it to a lodge where he was not known.

Seeing Theodore Gleghorn’s portrait on the certificate makes one wonder - who was he? What do we know about him?

According to the WWI registration card that Gleghorn filled out in 1917, he was born in Cutler, Illinois, in 1890. In 1917, the Wilson Bros. Coal Co., in Sparta, Illinois, employed him as a miner. The 1920 and 1930 U.S. Federal Censuses

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Prince Hall Master Mason certificate issued by Hermon Lodge, No. 21, to Theodore Gleghorn, 1921. Collection of the Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library, Lexington, Massachusetts, Museum Purchase, A2019/124/001.

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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.

this material online at https://digitalvgw. omeka.net/collections/show/16.

Theodore Gleghorn’s Master Mason certificate can be viewed here: https:// digitalvgw.omeka.net/items/show/1084.

May 2021

Do you have material related to Prince Hall Freemasonry or other historically black fraternal organizations? We’d love to hear about it.

Have a question or need ? more info? Drop us a line at library@srmml.org or give us a call at 781-457-4109.

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Matter 2 0 T H

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D E G R E E

OF

JUSTICE Benedict Arnold

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E D U C AT I O N

by Roderick M. MacDonald, 32° Valley of Portsmouth-Dover

I have found the 20th degree to be one of the most challenging to

address in short essay form. Not because it is difficult to understand or interpret, but rather there are so many different aspects to this degree that I find it difficult to focus on any particular one. In this essay, I am going to concentrate on the issue of the Core Values addressed in the 20th degree —in particular, one that does not seem to be designated to the degree.

There

are basically three ways to determine the Core Value(s) for any of the 29 degrees of the Scottish Rite: check the script to see if the values are named, look the values up in the NMJ Degrees Core Values 2019 file included in the Hauts Grades Academy resources center, or read the text/script of a degree and determine for one’s self which values are being addressed. Obviously, the first two methods should consistently be in agreement with each other. The third method, however, may result in different values or additional values being added based on the reader’s interpretation of the degree.

Devotion to Country and Integrity are marked as the specific Core Values of the degree.

The 20th degree, Master Ad Vitam (2007 version), is an example of this.

No specific Core Value is addressed by name in the degree’s script, but on the NMJ Degrees Core Values 2019 checklist, Devotion to Country and Integrity are marked as the specific Core Values of the degree. However, in conducting a personal review of the degree’s script, May 2021

it would seem a third Core Value should be included that is not only clearly identifiable but perhaps the most strongly expressed value in the script: Justice.

The importance of Devotion to Country is clearly outlined throughout the degree in the words of George Washington and other historic figures of the American Revolutionary era— Henry Knox, Israel Putnam, and John Sullivan—during the dramatic, albeit fictitious, meeting that is the 20th degree’s setting. To these men, whose integrity was well established during America’s quest for independence, Benedict Arnold, who appears before them pleading for their forgiveness, represents an antithesis of both devotion and integrity forged from his betrayal of the American Revolutionary cause.

And although the tense confrontation that makes up this drama is supposed to be a Masonic meeting and not a courtroom, Washington shifts the meeting’s emphasis more to that of a legal hearing when he puts the lodge “at refreshment” to hear Arnold’s plea.

George Washington notes in his address to those assembled, “However abhorrent his [Arnold’s] offense, it is our duty to let no man go unheard who bases his plea on Masonic justice, toleration and charity.” This line not

only uses the term justice but also reflects the primary definition of justice as found in Black’s Law Dictionary (2nd edition): “[justice is] the constant and perpetual disposition to render every man his due.”

A third Core Value should be included that is not only clearly identifiable but perhaps the most strongly expressed value in the script: Justice.

Arnold himself adds to the idea that Justice is the primary Core Value being addressed and tested in the 20th degree when he notes he is, “seeking justice from those who have pledged themselves to always give justice.”

Although there may be some argument that Arnold was stuck in a position where those judging him were already biased (and not without good reason), Arnold’s own “defense” in this drama is poor at best. He tries to persuade those present by argument and by confrontation with the British officer, ScottishRiteNMJ.org

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A MATTER OF JUSTICE continued Belltower, that he was the victim of a grave injustice. However, no matter how Arnold argues his case or who he accuses of leading him astray, the evidence and testimony presented in the allegory leave the viewer with little room for any conclusion other than Arnold is a victim only of his own conscious actions and decisions. This is summed up by Washington at the end of the allegory when he says, “You yourself have done what has been done, and this is the price to pay—you are a man without a country.”

In the last line of the 20th degree, Washington makes the concluding remark, “Let me say again what never must be forgotten: treason is a crime over which Masonry casts no mantle of charity.” Without doubt, this brings the Core Values of Devotion to Country and Integrity right back to the forefront.

What should not be overlooked, though: it was an act and a test of justice at this Masonic meeting-turned-hearing that allowed that conclusion to be drawn.

Without doubt, Justice is the “working” Core Value in this degree.

George Washington

Henry Knox

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Israel Putnam

John Sullivan

The Northern Light

By the Plumb, Square, and Zoom

I

Potomac Lodge No. 5 Archives

n the summer of 1893, a discussion broke out in Potomac Lodge No. 5, Washington, D.C., over the use of photography. The lodge entertained a proposal by one of its members to photograph the famous gavel first used by Br. and President George Washington to lay the cornerstone of the U.S.

Capitol in 1793. Photography remained a novel technology at this time (at least for Masonic purposes), and the lodge debated the propriety of capturing the relic’s likeness, even if its purpose was to engage the general public on a key moment in American Masonic history.

Weeks have turned into months with the current pandemic, and lodges have become more adept in delivering their virtual communications. Grand bodies have issued guidelines on how to open and close meetings, admit sojourning Masons, and manage ritual. On February 2, 2021, the D.C. Scottish Rite hosted its first virtual officer installation, inaugurating the 2021 “virtual Masonic

year.” Lodge masters whom I have interviewed are considering adding virtual programs, even when conditions permit a return to in-person meetings, as a way to engage with Brothers who are unable to attend regular stated communications.

Like photography more than a century ago, various forms of digital technology can provide Masonic bodies with a new set of tools to engage the membership.

Such innovations should not be seen as a replacement to our traditions but as another tool in an ever-complex and interconnected world.

—B. Chris Ruli, 32º, Valley of Washington, D.C.

EARLY HOUDINI INTEREST IN MASONRY

A

postcard sent from Houdini to a Mr. A. Buckle in 1904 was recently sold by the world famous Potter & Potter auction house in Chicago. The typewritten postcard, which sold for $900, reads: My Dear Buckle, Am very busy, have a very big task Tommorrow [sic], and do not feell [sic] very much like writing. Regarding me being a Mason, I regret to inform you that I am not a Mason, and hope some day to belong to that Order. I do not belong to any secret order, and am a member of the S. of A. Magicians, and an Artist club in Germany.

Regards Houdini

May 2021

The “A. Buckle,” to whom the card was addressed, was twenty-year old Manchester Magician Arthur Buckle, sometimes billed as the Manchester Wizard. Buckle’s career consisted mostly of private performances and writing for magical trade publications. The relationship between

Chicago: National Pr. & Eng. Co., From Library of Congress (https://www.loc.gov/ item/2014636910/)

the then thirty-year old Houdini and the younger conjurer isn’t well documented, but it would not be a stretch to assume that as magicians they would have made each other’s professional acquaintance and become friends. While the postcard only reveals one side of the conversation between the two magicians, from it we can suppose that Arthur Buckle was a Mason and had asked if Houdini was a Mason, perhaps even inviting him to lodge meeting.

—Maynard Edwards, 32°, KCCH Valley of Baltimore, MD

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The More Things Change 2 7 T H

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The Northern Light

E D U C AT I O N

by M. Todd McIntosh, 33˚, Active for Ohio Chairman, Committee on Ritualistic Matters

It has been a while since I worked with the 27th degree, Knight of

Jerusalem. As I am often reminded, our allegories and the Core Values they extol give us timeless lessons which always seem to have meaning when contemplating current affairs, whether personal or social. Not lost on this author was the intrinsic relationship between the message of the 27th degree and the current state of the people of this great country. The more things change, the more they stay the same.

One

may ask to which threealarm fire I refer. There is no pandemic in the degree, and while discussed, there is no implacable war. It does not address world famine, global warming, government spending, what a fair election looks like, borders, or equality. Nor does it speak of the host of global, local, and personal issues that keep many of us up at night.

So how does a 13th century argument between a pope and an emperor shake out as a 21st century concern? The revelation of our conundrum begins with the licentiousness of cavorting with Saracen concubines and the odious actions of the courts of Rome.

Sadly though, resolution is not afforded to us in the virtue signaling of purging divergent thought by burning that “infamous book,” The Three Imposters.

Quite the opposite. The trading of barbs based on incendiary information received from others, leads the 177th Vicar of Christ to assume that one he could previously trust—one who he himself tutored as a youth—could and would burn the word of God. In his misinformed rage, the pope set aside May 2021

a deeply personal and professional relationship and immediately moved to excommunicate the very man he crowned Holy Roman Emperor. In turn, based on a mistaken perspective founded upon errant mistrust forged by other’s characterizations, the emperor professes great disdain for the Holy See and ultimately draws his sword, fully prepared to cut down any representative of the church.

We regularly are told that our country is divided as never before.

Do we find this paradigm today?

We do. We regularly are told that our country is divided as never before.

The political aisle is no longer a threefoot space between sides of Congress where policy and law could be worked through for the good of the country.

To even compliment a good idea from the wrong party is met with implacable haranguing. We see anger and fear-driven expression of frothed discontent overflow its banks, resulting in public disobedience, censorship,

and riot. We see the quiet creep of mistrust among close associates.

News of families divided along lines of political perceptions peers through the veneer of social media. Regardless of one’s political perspective, one cannot evade the toxic name calling or partisan slant to issues of the day.

Pundits, “influencers,” and trolls on both sides of the internet relentlessly attack with unprincipled vigor. Too often our communities are cast as us versus them. Problems in our lives are caused by them. Differences of opinion are affronts to us.

Such a rift in the firmament of our society is, by any logical assessment, dangerous. Combined with human nature, it is volatile. We, as humans, are gifted with incredible imaginations and ingenuity. When applied for the common good, humankind is capable of peace and prosperity, of defeating dangerous diseases, and of slipping the surly bonds of Earth and exploring the cosmos. When twisted by selfish motives, partisan politics, or social control, our greatest gift feeds dark thoughts of our fellow man and is a virus far more contagious and deadlier than our current nemesis, Covid-19.

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THE MORE THINGS CHANGE continued In our degree, the divisions perceived between our two protagonists bring them to the brink of conflict.

Wait a moment… I remember my literature classes. In a story, there is a protagonist and an antagonist. Surely, between Pope Honorius and Emperor Frederick, one must be one and one must be the other.

Too often our communities are cast as us versus them.

In this allegory, the antagonist is actually the insidious error of relying on other people to tell you what to think about your neighbor, what your fellow man believes, or that what he believes represents a direct and present danger to you. To allow another to categorize for you the nature of others based upon broad sweeping generalizations or pointed rumor should be avoided at all cost, lest we find ourselves on the brink of our own conflict.

We, as humans, are gifted with incredible imaginations and ingenuity.

Enter our hero, the voice of reason embodied in the Grand Master of Teutonic Knights, Hermann von Salsa.

In life, the fourth Grand Master of the Teutonic Knights was close friends

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Statue of Hermann von Salsa

of both Honorius and Frederick and is thus able to bring them together by pointing out that both men have come to the point of no return due to their acquiescence to the maligned characterizations of others.

Thus, my Brother, we learn this degree’s expression of our Core Values of Justice and Tolerance. We are called by Honorius to exercise that justice which “when being advised of

discomforting information regarding each other, to fully discuss the allegations with the other.” Not only does Honorius express the nature of that justice we owe to and are owed by our fellow man, he also provides a key to unlock the cage of intolerance forged by the insinuations of others.

We are reminded, very simply, to meet upon the square.

The Northern Light

ANNUAL SESSION 2021 CLEVELAND, OHIO

AUGUST 28-31, 2021

For those about to Rock WE INVITE YOU! Join us in Cleveland, Ohio this year as we Rock & Rite our way through our 2021 Annual Session.

Whether you’re a 32° or 33°, go to ScottishRiteNMJ.org/Annual-Session to learn more about this year’s Session and how to register.

Here we Go. Here we Grow!

For years, Masons have been hearing about the slow decline of membership in Blue Lodge and in the Scottish Rite. Since the launch of The Path Forward program, we’ve seen the tide begin to turn for both. The result of this growth and energy can be seen most vividly in our own Northern Masonic Jurisdiction.

Thanks

to innovations such as Thursday Night at the Rite and our Virtual Reunions, we have continued to initiate new members during the pandemic. These programs have also provided a spike in our restorations as members sought meaningful Masonic connections during quarantine. In fact, 10 states have seen an increase in percentage of Scottish Rite membership vs. Masonic membership per state. Additionally, 46 of our Valleys have seen an increase in initiates over the previous year.

TOP10

Increase In Scottish Rite to Blue Lodge Membership—2020 1. Rhode Island.......... 2.04% 2. Massachusetts......... 1.61% 3. New Jersey............. 0.95% 4. Connecticut............ 0.88% 5. Delaware.................. 0.75% 6. Ohio.......................... 0.33% 7. Pennsylvania.......... 0.32% 8. New York.................. 0.18% 9. Vermont................... 0.08% 10. Indiana..................... 0.04%

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This is trend-defying and something we haven’t seen in a while.

This membership section examines the reinvigoration of our membership program. We’ll take a look at how we are bringing new members into our ranks, and how we continue to service and care for Brothers who have been with us for decades. From membership benefits, to education, to Valley success stories, there’s lots to tell.

It All Started in 2017 In 2017, the NMJ compiled the most complete survey of the state of Freemasonry and the Scottish Rite that had been done in more than 20 years.

The results from our own members prompted the Supreme Council to take a look at the member experience from top to bottom. We listened and worked diligently to create new ways for Brothers to connect and to add value to their experience.

The paradox is that the dry, sterile numbers of the survey led us to create rich programming and outreach opportunities for the Brethen.

by Linda Patch, Director of Marketing and Communications

Sovereign Grand Commander David A. Glattly explains the initiative that came to be known as “The Path Forward” this way: “Caring for each other is one of the most important of our Masonic values.

When we examined the survey results, we knew it was imperative that we heed the words and wishes of our members—our very existence as an organization depends on doing so.

It would have been a considerable misstep not to follow the very clear directions given by our Brethren about what would enrich and enliven their membership experience.

“Members wanted us to focus on compassion, the fraternal bond, and education—the deep rewards Freemasonry promised to all of us when we first joined. Through Supreme Council and Valley programming, the increased use of technology, and many nights on the road traveling throughout the jurisdiction, we’re creating a deeper and more personal connection with our members.

“The job is far from done. In fact, working to energize and revitalize our fraternity is extremely gratifying for me and my staff. It’s work that should never end.”

And it hasn’t.

The Northern Light

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What We Learned: Members Want MORE! Scottish Rite member feedback was clear. In summary, we gained these primary insights: 1. Members of the Scottish Rite want more of everything:

• More interaction with leadership

• More engagement with one another • More education to dive deeper into the Craft 2. Members of the Scottish Rite want modern communication tools.

Though they do not see technology as a replacement for gathering together in person, they do see it as a way to enhance and augment the member experience.

You Asked. We Acted.

Connection with Scottish Rite Leadership Connection with leadership is more open and frequent. The Sovereign Grand Commander and Lady Monica spent many weeks on the road in 2019-20 meeting and connecting with members throughout the jurisdiction in Valleys large and small. Here are some of the other ways we fostered those relationships:

Commander Glattly visits with members of the Valley of Toledo in November of 2019

May 2021

Nearly 40 participants take part in the Valley of the Hudson’s new member orientation following the Virtual Reunion.

State of the Rite A regular series of “State of the Rite” broadcasts brings you up to date on Supreme Council activities, offerings, and future plans.

Membership Team A dedicated membership department was established at Supreme Council.

George T. Taylor, IV, Director of Valley Relations and Brennan P. Parken, Director of Membership serve full-time, working with members and Valleys directly to continue to transform the member experience and expand outreach.

Leadership Resource Center A new leadership resource area for all members is now live in the Member Center on the NMJ website. The Supreme Council constitutions, handbooks, ready-made leadership presentations, and talking points for Valley presentations are all there for you to access and use.

Scan to visit the Leadership Resource Center

More Technology, Please You made clear that the use of technology is no replacement for gathering together in fraternity and fellowship. BUT…it was clear the membership is very open to the idea of online programming as a way to enhance and augment the member experience. The use of technology has allowed us to create greater connection between Brothers throughout the NMJ as well as make it easier for Master Masons to join.

Rite on the Road Designed to bring the Scottish Rite experience closer to home, Rite on the Road provides Valley officers with the tools necessary to initiate members anytime and almost anywhere in a meaningful way, all while ensuring proper protocols are followed. Learn more about the Rite on the Road program in the Leadership Resource Center on the website.

Thursday Night at the Rite Each broadcast of Thursday Night at the Rite attracts, literally, thousands of members for degrees and conversation.

By adding a 4th degree joining

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opportunity this past season, we were able to welcome new Master Masons into our ranks when it was convenient for them. These new members started their Scottish Rite journey in a truly unique way, yet rich in connection, degrees, and learning.

Virtual Reunions The outstanding quality of our Virtual Reunions give us another opportunity to welcome select, worthy Master Masons into our ranks in a full and gorgeously produced reunion experience.

Social Media Our very active Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn presence bring our Brethren together from far and wide. If you’re not following us on social media, we welcome you to the conversation any time!

More Education The call for Masonic education and the chance to go deeper into our 29 degrees was clearly heard. You requested tools to help you delve more deeply into the lessons, values, and teachings of the Scottish Rite.

Hauts Grades Academy Hauts Grades Academy (HGA) is our premiere educational offering, and the program was established in direct response to what you told us. HGA’s challenging program fosters a deep learning of and engagement in our 29 degrees.

Hauts Grades Academy Scholarship An entire section of the website features the scholarship from each HGA graduate. Each issue of The Northern Light features a paper as well (p.18).

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The scholarship reveals how our Brothers are affected by the Scottish Rite lessons and values and how they exemplify them in their own lives.

The Ritual Committee Each issue of The Northern Light also presents an in-depth piece on one of the degrees written by a member of the Ritual Committee (p.22). We hope these articles will inspire personal reflection but also spur friendly and fraternal discussion between Brethren.

Valley Events During the trying times, Valleys picked up the pace, offering a number of quality educational programs online for members. See the facing page for some great examples.

Blog The blog is extremely rich with content: news announcements from Supreme Council, scholarly articles, Masonic travel tips, and book reviews.

On average, more than 10,000 unique visitors read the blog on our website each month! Be sure to check it out if you haven’t already.

Educational Livestreams Video discussions also bring our tenets and teachings alive through a series of livestreams enjoyed by thousands.

Here are a few topics, with more to come: • How Fraternalism Transforms Character • Do Nice Guys Really Finish Last?

You can find these and other topical videos on our YouTube and Vimeo channels.

Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library From online exhibitions to scholarly and informative blog posts, the Museum & Library website is rich in Masonic and fraternal educational resources. You can also find historical and academic articles by Museum & Library staff in each issue of The Northern Light (p.12).

The Adventure Has Only Just Begun Circling back to Commander Glattly’s words: The work to energize and reinvigorate our fraternity should never end. And it won’t. Stay tuned for the next phase—it’s big and bold—coming to the Scottish Rite, NMJ in summer 2021.

COM ING SUM MER 202 1

RE VE RE NC E FO R GO D DE VOTIO N TO CO UN TRY JU ST IC E IN TE GR ITY TO LE RA NC E

SE RV IC E TO HU MA NI TY

THE JOURNEY C O N T IN U E S .. .

• Masonry Through the Generations

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Valley Events Here is just a small sample of the educational and entertainment opportunities that Valleys have offered to enrich your Scottish Rite membership experience.

VALLEY OF NORTHERN NEW JERSEY On February 9, Commander Glattly was the special guest for a Q&A following the meeting of the Rose Croix line. He addressed questions encompassing his life, Masonic Journey, and of course, the Rite.

VALLEY OF LANCASTER In February, the Valley of Lancaster hosted a “fireside chat” with Commander Glattly for their officers and members. All in attendance enjoyed a great small group discussion of the Rite.

VALLEY OF MICHIGAN Valley of Michigan brought education and entertainment together when they hosted “An Evening with Brother George Washington” with a George Washington reenactor.

VALLEY OF ROCHESTER The Valley of Rochester has embraced the virtual landscape by planning educational events, joining opportunities, and even degrees online!

VALLEY OF DAYTON Starting in the summer of 2020, the Valley of Dayton has been hosting virtual speakers on a regular basis. This helps to not only bring Brothers together but also offer an outlet for Masonic education. These events are open to all Master Masons.

May 2021

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THE VALUE OF BEING A SCOTTISH RITE MASON:

A Zillennial’s Perspective In Freemasonry

and the Scottish Rite, we commonly ask ourselves: “How do we recruit new members and engage current members from the younger generations?” At times, we can fall into the trap of overthinking this question and assume that recruiting younger members is nearly impossible. However, this is far from the case. Younger generations prioritize experiences that provide value. There are many values to being a Scottish Rite member that align with younger generations’ wants and needs.

I am 24 years old. In 2013, I took my

first steps into the Masonic world through DeMolay International and became a Mason seven years ago. Currently, I serve as Director of Membership for the Scottish Rite, NMJ where I work with our Valleys in membership recruitment and engagement. I am a Zillennial.

Now, you are probably asking yourself: “Brennan, what in the world is a Zillennial?”

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When it comes to generations, we commonly hear about Baby Boomers, Generation X, Millennials, and Generation Z. I was born in the year 1996 which, depending on who you talk to or which article you read, falls in an awkward place where we are considered a Millennial in some sources and a Gen Z in other sources. Some researchers have named this specific group “Zillennials”—a microgeneration of people born between 1994 and 2000

by Brennan Parken, 32˚, Director of Membership

that exhibit both Millennial and Gen Z qualities.

Based on my experience as a Scottish Rite member and a Zillennial, I will share four areas where the Scottish Rite can offer value to younger generations.

Networking. Younger generations

are at that pivotal time in their lives when they aspire to achieve their career and social goals. As a result, they seek groups that can help them accomplish these goals. The Scottish Rite offers a rich network of Brothers of all ages and professions that can provide career advice, experience, and even potential connections for jobs and internships.

Take advantage of this and discover what kind of network you have in your Valley to support your membership. Make this network a way for members and potential new members to engage with the Scottish Rite while also helping them achieve their professional goals. Host networking events or build a “networking

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Technology.

Brother Brennan Parken, 32°, poses with then-Grand Master of Oklahoma, Ridge Smith, and DeMolay Chapter advisor Kenneth Allsen at his raising.

directory” of the members in your Valley.

This network is something already available in your Valleys—you just have to utilize it!

“Zillennials”— a microgeneration of people born between 1994 and 2000 that exhibit both Millennial and Gen Z qualities.

Making a Difference. Studies show that younger generations are socially focused. They are passionate about making a difference in the world and are all about committing themselves to missions that they care about.

The Scottish Rite offers many diverse opportunities for service and charity— both nationally and locally. Many Master Masons who aren’t members of the Scottish Rite already believe in the importance of service and charity, so make sure these opportunities are communicated!

May 2021

It’s no surprise that technology is a huge factor.

Younger generations grew up in a time when computers and smartphones became everyday tools. We also witnessed the expansion of the Internet and the growth of online social channels. Our fraternity and our Valleys have adapted to this, providing information on channels such as social media and e-mail to engage members and recruit new ones.

Now more than ever, we see our fraternity utilize technology to engage with its membership. Members have the opportunity to take part in watching degrees online with fellow Brothers at productions such as our Thursday Night at the Rite. Master Masons have even had the chance to take their first steps into the Scottish Rite through our Virtual Reunions. The combination of our traditional fraternal experiences and the technology available to us today creates unique opportunities for younger members to engage with the fraternity in a familiar way. This helps these members feel more comfortable in connecting to the fraternity and their fellow Brothers in the Valley which helps with retaining those members. Take advantage of this and look for ways you can engage your members using technology. It can be as big as a Virtual Reunion or as small as a Brother check-in Zoom call. The sky is the limit!

Fraternity. The Scottish Rite, at its

heart, is a fraternity of Brothers that seeks to support each other. Younger generations seek to foster relationships and look for groups that provide a stable support network for them. We can all

Out of the

1010

new members who joined in our Fall 2020 Scottish Rite Virtual Reunions,

327 (32.7%) 40. new members

were under the age of

give testimony to what our Brothers have done for us. Share this passion to support your Brothers. Show it in everything your Valley does, such as programs, events, and even Brother to Brother calling. This fraternal connection is the ultimate benefit to being a member of the Scottish Rite.

As you can see, being a Scottish Rite member has many benefits that would interest the younger, upcoming generations of Masons. All generations of Scottish Rite Masons bring unique experiences and perspectives that serve to make the Scottish Rite experience even richer. This is why it is important to embrace these generational differences in our Valleys which in turn will attract Master Masons of ALL ages to join the Scottish Rite and create a strong bond of fellowship in our Valleys. Remember the wise words: “Learn from the past, live for the present, hope for the future.”

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VALLEY SPONSORS GRANT FOR “GO BABY GO”

It’s a “Go” at the Valley of Milwaukee

by PJ Roup, 33˚, Editor, Active for Pennsylvania

As

a way to celebrate the thousands of members it has conferred the 32nd degree upon during its 166 years, the Valley of Milwaukee has approved a four-year grant totaling $32,000 to the Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin for its “Go Baby Go” program.

“This grant demonstrates to our community just how much Scottish Rite Masons care about our families, friends, and neighbors,” says Gary Beier, 33°, MSA, Valley Secretary.

“Go Baby Go” is a national program that started at the University of Delaware several years ago. They are committed to a single, urgent vision: “All people exploring their world via independent mobility!” The program began through an idea to modify ride-on, electric toy cars so that they can be utilized by children with limited mobility and motor control.

Self-initiated mobility is important for overall development, and infants, toddlers, and young children are in a critical window where—when provided the opportunity—they learn quickly and well. Sadly, wheelchairs for this young population are often not covered by insurance, and when they are covered, insurance companies often will not consider paying for a new wheelchair until five years have passed. This is not always appropriate for young patients. The modified cars provide a safe, cost-effective, ageappropriate alternative to a power wheelchair.

Michael D. Kugler, 32°, MSA, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Scottish Rite Valley of Milwaukee said, “We are delighted to again partner with our friends at Variety—the Children’s Charity of Wisconsin, Children’s Wisconsin, and The Orthopaedic & Rehabilitation Engineering Center at Marquette University in this truly remarkable effort.”

“We recognize our responsibility to be good community citizens particularly where it benefits our most precious asset—our children,” Kugler said.

“While we know the families are grateful to receive these custom-built electric vehicles at no cost to them,

the real joy is watching the children having some fun at a critical time in their development. Their smiles and laughter are our greatest reward.”

“We recognize our responsibility to be good community citizens particularly where it benefits our most precious asset— our children,” Kugler said.

The Valley first became aware of the program when one of their Valley officers sought assistance for his son.

“In late 2020, I reached out to my fellow Scottish Rite Brethren from the Valley of Milwaukee to see if there was any assistance that could be provided to my four-year-old son, Mason, who had recently been confined to a wheelchair due to a rare, undiagnosed

Mason Falkner, son of Valley officer Eric Falkner, 32°, pictured here with his custom car provided by a similar program operated by the Shriners Hospital for Children—Chicago.

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condition,” said Erik Falkner, 32°.

Falkner currently serves as Junior Warden on the Rose Croix line. “In less than 24 hours, I was connected to resources at Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin and Shriners HospitalChicago, called the “Go Baby Go” program. A short month and a half later, my son was presented with a FREE electric jeep, custom fitted and adapted to his disability.”

Children’s Wisconsin partnered with Drs. Gerald Harris and Ben McHenry, from Marquette University’s Biomedical Engineering Department, to modify and build a custom car for each patient. Physical and occupational therapists from Children’s will refer children into the program. They will assess the child’s needs and write a prescription

May 2021

“A simple phone call and a lot of help have made all the difference in my son’s life.” for the modification to the car, meeting the patient’s physical needs and rehabilitation. An engineer at Marquette meets with the family and does a “fitting” for the child and car.

The car is then modified and given to the family at no cost. Children’s Wisconsin intends to provide between 40 and 50 youngsters with these unique cars in the near future, with an annual goal of 200 over the next year. The grant made by the Valley of Milwaukee will provide 40 of these unique cars each year over the next four years.

Back row (l to r): Marquette Engineering student; Mike Kugler, 32°, MSA, Chairman of Valley Trustees; Mike Consiglio, 32°, Sovereign Prince; Napoleon Janczak, 32°, Thrice Potent Master; Gary Beier, 33˚, Valley Secretary; Charles Korankye, 32°, Most Wise Master; Elizabeth Conrath, Children’s Wisconsin Front row (l to r): Eric Falkner with Mason; Variety Club recipient and family

“[His car has] allowed him to participate more independently with our family while we are outside and has given him a renewed sense of joy and happiness,” Falkner said. “A simple phone call and a lot of help have made all the difference in my son’s life. I encourage my Scottish Rite Brethren across the country and globe to reach out to each other if you need help. The Masons that make up the Valley of Milwaukee and Scottish Rite as a whole are men of action and live the very tenets of the degrees we hold so dear. I am honored to call you Brothers.”

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In celebration of the nearly 15,000 children served by our Children’s Dyslexia Centers, we are excited to announce our newest online fundraising campaign launching this summer – A Kid Like Me!

I AM THANKFUL FOR THE CENTERS BECAUSE THEY HELP KIDS LIKE ME LEARN TO READ AND HELP ME KNOW THAT I CAN DO ANYTHING THAT I WANT TO DO WHEN I GROW UP. KAYLEE

Find A Kid Like Me and Children’s Dyslexia Center information and resources at ChildrensDyslexiaCenters.org 34

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CHARITIES

Throughout the month of June, Scottish Rite, NMJ will be featuring the inspiring stories of kids just like Kaylee whose lives have been transformed by our Children’s Dyslexia Centers and who are now one step closer to reaching their full potential. You can find these stories and more on the Scottish Rite Facebook page and blog.

As our Centers continue to recover from fundraising losses due to COVID-19, please help us continue this life-changing work by making a contribution to your local Center.

For more information or to support our Children’s Dyslexia Centers, please visit:

ChildrensDyslexiaCenters.org/resources/AKidLikeMe

May 2021

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Masonic Widows

by Joann Williams-Hoxha, Content Manager

From Valentine’s Day to Christmas, the holidays can be a difficult time for those who have lost a loved one. That’s why it’s important to the members of the Valley of George Rogers Clark in Indiana to ensure their Masonic widows know that they are thinking of them all year long.

In February of this year, Brother Gary Bridgwater, 32°, delivered cards and flowers to several widows for Valentine’s Day, including Dorothy Survant, who lost her husband, Brother Earl Survant, 32°, 10 years ago.

“It doesn’t take that much time; it just takes attention,” said Brother Bridgwater.

Brother Archie Smallwood, 32˚, presents a Thanksgiving holiday basket to Mary Jo Fentress, wife of the late Brother Ill. Gary Fentress, 33˚, of the Valley of George Rogers Clark

For Thanksgiving and Christmas last year, Deputy’s Representative Carl Whitman, 33°, and additional Brothers delivered flowers and treats to Masonic widows who live in the Corydon, Indiana area. The baskets and personal outreach were very much appreciated and put a smile on each of their faces.

Mary Jane, the wife of late Brother Carl C. Reed, Jr., 32˚, was thrilled to receive a Christmas stocking and poinsettia for the holidays from the Brothers within the Valley of George Rogers Clark.

“I like the time I spend with the widows—one of them is my mother,” said Brother Bridgwater. His mother is one of two widows who have been confined to their senior living residence since March 2020 per COVID restrictions.

“The idea is not to bother them but to let them see we’re here,” he added.

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Dorothy Survant (wife of the late Brother Earl Survant, 32˚) received a poinsettia and stocking from Brethren at the Valley of George Rogers Clark.

The Northern Light

CHARITIES

Brother Gary Bridgwater keeps busy filling stockings to deliver to Masonic widows in the Cordyn, Indiana area.

Deputy’s Representative Carl Whitman, 33˚, brings a special delivery to Carolyn Miller, the wife of the late Brother Roy Miller Jr., 32˚.

The Valley of George Rogers Clark sends thoughtful holiday cards to their Masonic widows.

May 2021

Members of the Valley of George Rogers Clark deliver Christmas poinsettias to their Masonic widows.

Betty Monroe was all smiles as she received her Valentine’s Day flowers from a safe distance.

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CHARITIES

Time in the Garden

by PJ Roup, 33˚, Editor, Active for Pennsylvania

When

her husband Joe passed away in July of 2019, Mildred Carberry felt like she had lost her whole world. Joe was a long-time active member at the Valley of Altoona, and Millie, as her friends called her, grew up in the Masonic family. She was a Rainbow girl and Past Worthy Matron in Eastern Star.

Faced with mounting medical bills from Joe’s illness, Millie was worried. “Joe was my life. He and I shared everything,” she said. “And now he’s gone.” Millie’s family reached out to the Valley of Altoona who in turn contacted the Grand Almoner.

I received a White Flower Society check from our Grand Almoner and made the trip across the state to meet Millie for the first time. When I called her to confirm the trip, I assured her that I wouldn’t stay long—just a quick visit to check in on her so that I could report back to the Valley. Three hours after I arrived, I finally took my leave when her dinner was brought to the room.

During our time together, I learned how she met Joe, looked at pictures of her family (she was so proud of all of them), and reminisced about her Masonic connections. It turns out that despite our age and geographical differences, we had several mutual friends—both inside and outside of Masonry.

Commander Glattly and First Lady Monica. She called me to tell me just how much that meant to her. On my next visit (just weeks before the lockdown), she showed me the card that came with the flowers and told me with a smile that she had received a call from Monica.

“For her to take the time to call and check on me just blows me away,” she said. “It’s great to feel like I matter even though Joe is gone.”

“It is so rewarding to reach out to our widows,” Monica said. “They each have such great stories about their husbands, their families, and their lives. They are an integral part of our Masonic family.”

The last time Millie and I spoke was over Christmas. We caught up on life, complained about the lockdown, and agreed we couldn’t wait to get back to normal. I never got the chance to visit her again. Millie passed away in early January, and I have no doubt that she is reunited with Joe. I so enjoyed my time in the garden with one of our White Flowers.

Following my initial visit, Millie received flowers from P.J. Roup, 33˚, Active for Pennsylvania, presents donation check to Millie Carberry.

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The Northern Light

CHARITIES

&

In January and March, Sovereign Grand Commander, David A. Glattly, 33º; Executive Director, Michael C. Russell, 32º; and other Supreme Council staff hopped on Zoom with several members from Arizona and Flordia to share updates on the incredible work of Scottish Rite, NMJ. Below are some screenshots of our first two Virtual Luncheons!

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The Valley of Cincinnati Goes Live!

Originally scheduled to open season two of Thursday Night at the Rite, the live performance of the 27th degree, Knight of Jerusalem, had to be rescheduled when COVID forced key personnel to quarantine just days before the curtain rose. Finally, on February 18th, the lights came up and the cameras rolled.

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Thanks to all who worked so hard to make it a memorable experience for the more than 1,800 Brothers who tuned in.

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Valley of Michigan Rehearses Reimagined Degree For more pictures and a detailed list of cast and crew, visit our Facebook page at facebook.com/TNLMagazine.

The Valley of Michigan Southeastern Region recorded a reimagined version of the 16th degree for future broadcast. Fondly referred to as the “Gangster Degree” by the cast and crew, it is sure to be an entertaining and original take on our teachings. No release date has been scheduled yet, but keep an eye on social media for more details as they become available.

Cast and crew of the Valley of Michigan Southeastern Region rehearse the “Gangster Degree.”

Cast and crew of the Valley of Cincinnati perform the 27th degree, Knight of Jerusalem—live—for more than 1,800 Brothers.

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Around the Jurisdiction The Valley of Michigan presented a fun virtual evening with George Washington (professional reenactor Michael Grillo) on February 9.

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New Hampshire Consistory rehearses for the Thursday Night at the Rite 30th degree. (top) John Lobdell, 33˚, Ed Waible, 32˚, and Guy Martineau, 32˚ make their point. (bottom) It’s not all work for Brothers Dennis Webster, 33˚, MSA, and Tref Sage, 33˚, MSA.

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This year, the Valley of Reading recorded the Feast of the Paschal Lamb to safely remember and honor those Brothers who have passed. (left) Most Wise Master Seth Anthony, 32˚, HGA is filmed

by Brother L. Kenneth Bray III, 32˚. (right) Reverend Dr. and Brother Mik Ludwig, 32˚, HGA, records the spiritual message.

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MI Nearly 40 Scottish Rite members were in attendance to see whether George Washington chopped down the cherry tree.

Spoiler alert: he did not!

VT MI In early March, the Valley of Burlington presented Legacy pocket jewels. Pictured (l to r) are Sandy Karstens, IV, 33˚, Active; David Schuler, 32˚, jewel recipient; John Oleszkiewicz, 32˚, MSA, Secretary; Barry Duquette, 32˚, MSA, Deputy's Representative, Central Valley; Bill Brown, 33˚, Secretary of Central Valley and jewel recipient; and Donald Duquette, 33˚, Deputy for Vermont.

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The Northern Light

MEMBERSHIP

Members of the Rhode Island Consistory display their banner in front of the Scottish Rite Masonic Center, Valley of Providence. (l to r) Richard L. Ault, 33˚; Peter Iacobucci, 33˚; Thomas R. Yeaw, 33˚

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Steven E. Smith, 33˚, Deputy for Rhode Island, and Dennis Pothier, 33˚, Active for Rhode Island, pose with the Scottish Rite banner at the Rhode Island Veterans Cemetery in Exeter.

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Instead of canceling their annual KSA Burns Supper, members of the Valley of Syracuse went virtual and had a Zoom call with almost 70 Brothers from all corners of New York state.

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The Valley of Central New Jersey opened their facility to host their eighth blood drive since the start of the pandemic. So far, nearly 1,200 people have donated blood through their efforts.

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PA The charter members of Knights of St. Andrew, Valley of Allentown Chapter, pose with the installing team from Knights of St. Andrew, Valley of Altoona Chapter. The Allentown Chapter is the third chapter to be chartered in Pennsylvania.

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Around the Jurisdiction Constans socially distances in Delaware’s all-state Degree Day.

Brothers from the Valley of George Rogers Clark after a Sunday church service.

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Couples enjoy the Valley of Springfield’s Valentine Party.

Brother Craig Kennedy, 33˚, MSA, and his wife, Julie

WI MA The Valley of Boston held a family life holiday dinner as a drive-up, non-contact event. All guests received a fully-catered holiday dinner.

MA A festive Minuteman greets the guests at Boston’s family life dinner.

In January, Tom Ewald, 32˚, of the Valley of Milwaukee visited Supreme Council and received a full tour of the offices and Masonic Library & Museum from the Commander. He poses here with the Commander in front of the Lexington Battle monument in town. Brother Tom will receive his 33rd degree in Cleveland in August.

IL Sweethearts Sarah Pickett and Brother E. Lee Picket Jr., 32˚

IL Brother Bob Kennedy, 32°, and his wife, Linda

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Brothers Joe Joity and Jerry Guess of the Valley of Dayton receive their MSA caps and jewels at a special ceremony in February.

Pictured (l to r) are Doug Kaylor, 33˚, Deputy for Ohio; Joe Joity, 32˚, MSA; Jerry Guess, 32˚, MSA; and Terry W. Posey, 33˚, Chairman of the Executive Committee.

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MEMBERSHIP

Scottish Rite Masons from the Valley of Bridgeport, Connecticut, joined forces with Brothers from Corinthian Lodge No. 104 and Pyramid Shriners to conduct a food, toy, and clothing drive for needy people in the southern Connecticut area.

Scottish Rite Masons Pedro Garcia II, 32˚, and Donald M. Casey Jr., 32˚

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Pedro Garcia II, 32˚; Hall Neighborhood House Director Robert Dzurenda; and Travis Gerald, 32˚

Nearly 110 Brothers turned out for Indiana’s Council of Deliberation Winter Cabinet Meeting on January 23

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IN MA

On March 1, the Valley of Worcester hosted a virtual talk entitled “The Ego and the False Self” by Brother Matthew N. Parker of the Grand Lodge of North Carolina.

IL (Left) Brother Joe Geiter, 33˚, of the Valley of Freeport, is recognized by IL State Senator Brian Stewart (right) for his more than 20 years of service to the community as Chairman of the Stephenson County Emergency Telephone System Board.

CT The Valley of Hartford held an after-degree discussion following the January 7 Thursday Night at the Rite.

ME Calling members throughout Maine during this time of inactivity are (l to r) Tom Pulkkinen, 33˚; Jeff Simonton, 33˚, Deputy for Maine; A. Paul Williams, 32˚, Valley of Portland; and A. James Ross, 33˚, Active.

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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

May 2021

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MASONRY

HGA Board Member Elected to Lead Grand Council of AMD In February, Mohamad Yatim, 33°, MSA, was elected Sovereign Grand Master of the Grand Council of Allied Masonic Degrees (AMD) of the United States. The AMD is an invitational Masonic organization with two main purposes.

The first is to preserve detached degrees—some of which, historically, were conferred under Craft warrants and formed part of the then loosely governed Freemasonry of the period. The second purpose is to promote Masonic research and education amongst its membership.

“As

Sovereign Grand Master, I look forward to building on the successes of my predecessors, while bringing new ideas that focus on engaging the members of the local councils, to not only study Masonry, but also to apply its lessons and core values into their daily lives,”

“Thurman has been an inspiration to many Masons in the country, having presided over a plethora of groups and organizations within the fraternity,” Yatim said. “He has been a personal mentor to me from my

earliest days in Freemasonry.”

Brother Yatim currently serves on the Advisory Board of the Hauts Grades Academy, so he is the perfect man for the job. Supreme Council wishes him well.

Sovereign Grand Master Mohamad Yatim

Mohamad Yatim and Thurman Pace, Active Emeritus

Yatim said.

Immediately following his installation, Brother Yatim’s first official visit was to Illustrious Thurman Pace, 33°, Active Emeritus member from New Jersey. Pace is also an Honorary Past Sovereign Grand Master of AMD.

AASR Helps Establish First DeMolay Chapter for South Africa The first chapter of DeMolay International is being introduced in South Africa thanks to the work of MP Brother Boet du Plessis, Sovereign Grand Commander of South Africa and his AASR team. DeMolay is an international leadershipbuilding platform for young men.

The Supreme Council for South Africa received authorization from DeMolay International Grand Master, Marc B. Bohn, to establish

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DeMolay chapters throughout South Africa. The first established chapter will be the Ben Lindeque Chapter in Johannesburg.

Sovereign Grand Commander du Plessis is proud and honored to have played the role of initiator and be a part of this historic initiative. He has no doubt that it will bring much credit to our Supreme Council and be to the benefit of South African Freemasonry in general.

The first DeMolay Advisory Council for South Africa: Brandon Topham, 33°, Deputy Grand Master of the GLSA; SGC of South Africa Boet du Plessis; and Brother Martin Kotze, 33°, GLSA Grand Lodge Officer hold up the DeMolay certification for South Africa.

The Northern Light

Tune in on May 22nd at 10 AM ET for this special premiere of the 32° or May 27th at 8 PM ET for an encore performance!

Be one of the first to witness the 32° as never seen before, including a symbolic dubbing of our new Sublime Princes of the Royal Secret. Mark your calendars for this extraordinary virtual event.

Learn more & register at

Reunion.SRNMJ.org/32

The Northern Light P.O. Box 519 Lexington, MA 02420-0519

With your support, the Membership Education Fund continues to support programs like Thursday Night at the Rite, Virtual Reunions and more!