CHOKMAH - March 2023 | Inaugural Edition

The Orient

At Work

Sovereign Grand Inspector General

CHOKMAH ERIC KONOHIA, 33°

Most Illustrious Commander-in-Chief and Deputy For The Orient Of The District Of Columbia

The Life Of Richard T. Greener

My Journey To The Knight Commander of the Court of Honor

THE SOVEREIGN GRAND INSPECTOR GENERAL

ERIC KONOHIA

And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

(Romans 12:2)

THE STANDARD

Iam excited at the launch of the Orient of the District of Columbia official canon “Chokmah”. This bi-monthly newsletter is produced by the Louis W. Roy, Sr., Eagle’s Club by and for the Fraters of this orient. You should all give yourselves a standing ovation because once again you have set another standard in the Ancient & Accepted Scottish Rite by having a publication produced solely at the hands of 32⁰ masons.

This is part of the projected plan I envisioned when I consecrated the Eagle’s club:

1. Increase education through workshops and published works

2. Encourage fraters to write and publish in order to increase Prince Hall scholarly papers

I have appointed Sublime Prince Matthew Williams, 32⁰ as the editor-in-chief because of the expertise he brings to the encampment.

The excitement and enthusiasm in the Orient has spiked once again after the recent advancement of 20 new fraters of the S.G.I.G. Bert A.G. Overby class. The degree teams: Gallahad Lodge of Perfect, Buddha Chapter Knights Rose Croix, Zoroaster Council Knight Kadosh and members of the LWRSRCOD did an excellent job and left

the new fraters overflowing with pride. It was quite apparent that they knew they were a part of something VERY different.

Knight Commander Mark Fair, 32⁰ continued to increase the momentum from the morning degree work as he presented the newly developed orientation presentation entitled, “Orient 101”. If the degree work left the new fraters with lofty expectations of the further LIGHT they received, “Orient 101” empowered them with the prestige of being a member of the A.A.S.R., and more importantly a member of its birthplace.

I told the new class that the overall lesson of the Scottish Rite Degree is “Tolerance” but our duty is one of the alternate meanings of the sacred initials I.N.R.I. - Igne Natura Renovatur Integra. Its definition is loosely translated as Nature is renewed / rejuvenated by fire. Spiritually this means that it is our DUTY to renew / rejuvenate humanity through the divine spark within us [see John 15:13]. We should all rejoice in this responsibility!!!!!

MESSAGE FROM

LOUIS W. ROY, SR. COUNCIL OF DELIBERATION

OFFICERS

SGIG ERIC KONOHIA, 33° Most Illustrious Command-in-Chief and Deputy for the Orient of the District of Columbia

SGIG MARCUS D. JAMES, SR., 33° Overseer of the Works

GIG MARCUS CROOKS, 33° Illustrious 1st Lt. Commander

GIG ELGIN FUNCHES, 33° Illustrious Grand Treasurer

GIG T.J. JACKSON, 33° Illustrious Grand Master of Ceremonies

GIG JEFFREY ANDERSON, 33° Illustrious 2nd Lt. Commander

SGIG QUINCY G. GANT, 33° Illustrious Grand Secretary/KSA

SP TYRONE HURLEY, 32° Illustrious Grand Standard Bearer

GIG LESLIE WALKER, 33° Illustrious Grand Chancellor

SP JONATHAN PITTS, 32° Illustrious Grand Prior

SP PAUL HAGAN, 32° Illustrious Grand Engineer and Architect

SP LARRY COX, 32° Illustrious Grand Sentinel

GIG RUSSELL HAIRSTON, 33° Illustrious Grand Minister of State

SGIG GLENN N. RUFFIN, 33° Illustrious Grand Hospitaler

GIG ALVIN COLES, 33° Illustrious Grand Captain of the Guard

GIG H. DONOVAN COLDING, 33° Illustrious Asst. Grand Secretary/KSA

The Official Publication of Valley Of Washington

Orient Of The District Of Columbia

Louis W. Roy, Sr. Council Of Deliberation

PHA∴SJ-USA

The Talmud (Shabbat 31a) describes knowledge of the Talmudic order of Kodshim as a high level of wisdom, chokmah. In the Kabbalah, Chokmah is the uppermost of the sephirot of the right line (kav yamin, the “Pillar of Mercy”) in the Tree of Life. It is to the bottom right of Keter, with Binah across from it. Under it are the sephirot of Chesed and Netzach. It commonly has four paths going to Keter, Binah, Tifereth, and Chesed (Some kabbalists such as Rabbi Isaac Luria also attributed a path between Chokmah and Gevurah).

This issue of the CHOKMAH Newsletter is erected on the direction of:

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: SP Matthew Williams, 32°

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: SP Matthew Williams, 32°

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER: SP Tony Mobley, 32°

COPY EDITORS & CONTRIBUTING WRITERS:

SGIG Eric Konohia, 33º

SGIG Marcus D. James, Sr., 33º

SGIG Quincy G. Gant, 33º

KCCH Kevin Moultrie, 32°

KCCH Tryone S. Hurley, Jr. 32°

SP James Morgan, III, 32°

SP Tehuti Evans, 32°

SP Mark Brown, 32°

SP Albert Murray, 32°

CHOKMAH Newsletter is published bi-monthly. Deadline for copy is the 1st of the month, preceding month of issue.

ALL MATTERS FOR PUBLICATION IN THIS NEWSLETTER SHOULD BE ADDRESSED TO:

CHOKMAH Newsletter, Louis W. Roy, Sr. Council of Deliberation 1000 U. St, NW Washington, DC 20001; Email: chockmah@lwrsrcod.org;

SUBMISSIONS:

Submitted articles should be between 500 to 1,500 words. High resolution images are required, when available, with proper permission and credit.

Published articles do not necessarily reflect the policies or opinions of the Louis W. Roy, Sr. Council of Deliberation.

CHOKMAH Newsletter is designed and produced by the Sublime Princes of the Orient of the District of Columbia.

Distributed to all fraters within the Valley of Washington, Orient of the District of Columbia and A∴A∴S∴R∴ PHA∴SJ-USA

Electronic versions of the CHOKMAH Newsletter can be viewed or downloaded at https://lwrsrcod.org and https://issuu.com.

THE

AT WORK

22 TOMB OF THE UNKNOWNS

Four legitimate Supreme Councils of the United States lay wreaths

THE

CLUB

AROUND THE CAMP

RED CAPS?

Introducing the Knight Commanders of the Court of Honor

34 ADVANCED Perpesctives from the Sublime Princes of the winter 2023 SGIG Bert A.G. Overby Class

40 RICHARD T. GREENER

The first black Harvard Graduate and first head of the Halahad Lodge of Perfection

43 CONSISTORY NEWS

News and upcoming events coming from our Consistories

WHAT THEY’RE SAYING

47 FROM THE UNITED SUPREME COUNCIL Congratulatory letters about the Chokmah Newsletter

Left to Right : Dr. F. D. Patterson, Tuskegee ; Dr. H. C. Trenholm, Alabama State College ; Dr. C. H. Wesley, Central Stale College, Ohio; Dr. J. M. Ellison, Virginia Union University.

SGIG Glenn N. Ruffin, 33º GIG Marcus Crooks, 33º

PROVERBS 4:7

WELCOME TO CHOKMAH

Written By SGIG Marcus D. James, Sr., 33°

Proverbs

As masons, we learn that “wisdom dwells in contemplation.” As Scottish rite masons, we learn that wisdom is the beautifully conceived system of rules that regulates the “moral fiber” of the universe. To master that wisdom is to achieve real and lasting success in life. Our Louis W. Roy Sr., Council of Deliberation, Orient of the District of Columbia, was established on the principle of wisdom (CHOKMAH). And over the past few years, under the leadership of our Most Illustrious Commander in Chief, Sovereign Grand Inspector General Eric F. Konohia, our orient has risen from the ashes and raised the bar of excellence to re-establish the Prince Hall Scottish Rite standard. The Louis W. Roy Sr., Council of Deliberation and the Matthew Ellis Jr., State Grand Assembly Golden Circle is the Official Prince Hall Scottish Rite contingent of Washington DC corresponding to the location near the B∴B and under the C∴C of that Zenith, which answers unto 38° 53’ 38.17” N. Latitude; also known as the BIRTHPLACE of the United Supreme Council, 33° of the Ancient & Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, Prince Hall Affiliation, Southern Jurisdiction of the United States of America. Continue to look for great things from the Orient of the District of Columbia as we will continue our birthright of carrying the Scottish rite banner since 1886.

4:7 of the King James Version Bible states the following about wisdom; “Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore, get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.”

CHARTER DAY

ONE HUNDRED AND THIRTY SIX YEARS LATER

Written By SGIG Eric Konohia, 33°

On January 27, 1887 Letters Patent of Perpetual Constitution were issued by Illustrious SGC James A. Handy, 33⁰ to 12 Sublime Princes of the Royal Secret, constituting them and their successors a JUST AND PERFECT CONSISTORY, 32⁰ of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, Prince Hall Affiliation, Southern Jurisdiction, USA to be known as Jonathan Davis Consistory No.1

This single act and document signified at 38⁰ 53’ 38.17” North Latitude is the birthplace of the United Supreme Council, 33⁰, AASRFM, PHA-SJ, USA.

136 years later as Deputy for the Orient of the District of Columbia I issued a Proclamation declar-

ing January 27, 2023 and every subsequent year as “Charter Day”. Today, 2 Grand Inspector’s General, 5 Knight Commander’s of the Court of Honor and 6 Sublime Princes of the Royal Secret converged at that North Latitude point and laid a wreath next to the Original Patentees memorial which lists the 18 original families who granted land for the establishment of the nation’s new capital city in the late 1700’s.

On January 27, 2023 we established the point where fraters of the USC-SJ and those from all over the world can visit and know where our birthplace is.

Main Picture from L to R: KCCH Mark Fair, 32°, KCCH Walter Ruben, 32°, KCCH Phillip Harrigan, 32°, KCCH Tyrone S. Hurley, Jr., 32°, KCCH Darryl Green, 32°, SP Jeffrey Anderson, 32°, GIG Marcus Crooks, 33°, SGIG Eric Konohia, 33°, SP Matthew Leigh, 32°, SP Melvin Claiborne, 32°, SP Brian Diggs, 32°, SP Sean Alfred, 32°, SP Dgessey Major, 32°, and SP Joseph Yearwood, 32°

Topographical map of the original District of Columbia and environs showing the fortifications around the city of Washington.

Credit: Library of Congress

REFLECTIONS

A JOURNEY INTO THE SCOTTISH RITE

Written By SP Alonzo Tehuti Evans, 32°

Iwas raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason in 2010. My journey into freemasonry was a little different than most brothers I know. Having owned a bookstore and culture shop in addition to teaching history at Howard University I had what I would call today a superficial knowledge of the form of freemasonry but no real specific knowledge of freemasonry’s substance. Many customers at my bookstore asked me to order many books on the subject. And I soon found myself reading many of these books and others recommended to me about esoteric subjects. Manley P. Halls, “Secret Teachings of All Ages” and Albert Pike’s “Morals and Dogma” were two of which had a significant impact on me.

When I became a Master Mason in 2010 I originally thought I would be satisfied with being a good M.M. After all, I was already in my mid 60”s age-wise and I knew to explore additional houses of the craft would be time-consuming and I did not believe I would have the time or passion for more commitment.

Then I was asked to join a Consistory of the Scottish Rite. I agreed, and in 2014 I was advanced to the 32°.

I read all of the material I was issued. I attended most of the Consistory Rendezvous’. I volunteered to assist the Secretary and Keeper of the Seal, later being selected to serve the consistory in that capacity. But found that I was not satisfied. I yearned for more knowledge and though I asked for

lectures or lessons in the substance of the Rite, I was not given the satisfaction I sought.

Then the Sothern Jurisdiction entered a period of “un-readiness.” I was confused and disappointed. In my mind, all was lost. Several of my fellow fraters made decisions that were very difficult to comprehend. After all the foundation of freemasonry is based on men giving their word that they will follow certain precepts. So rather than stay active in the Consistory, I became inactive.

Then alas, changes were made. I had a long discussion with the new Deputy for the Orient. Those conversations assured me that I should return.

I have not been more satisfied, more proud to be a frater in Jonathan Davis Consistory No. 1 than I am now.

The renewal of my faith in the Ancient & Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry PHA Southern Jurisdiction of the United States of America and the Orient of the District of Columbia is because of its leadership, the new fraters, and the lectures and lessons taught. These are what I had always sought.

I have the highest level of respect and admiration for Illustrious SGIG Eric F. Konohia, 33° Deputy For The Orient, and Ill SGIG Marcus James 33° Illustrious Overseer for the Works. Their leadership assures me that the knowledge I have been seeking is now available in the District of Columbia.

SP Alonzo Tehuti Evans, 32°

WHO WAS

JONATHAN DAVIS

Written By SP Alonza T. Evans, 32°

The story of the Scottish Rite within Prince Hall Freemasonry begins in 1850 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Count de Saint-Laurent of the Supreme Council of France conferred the degrees of the Scottish Rite, including the Thirty-third and Last Degree of Scottish Rite Freemasonry, upon David Leary, a prominent member of African Grand Lodge of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

In 1854, after receiving his patent of authority from the Supreme Council of France, investing him with the privileges and prerogatives of a Sovereign Grand Inspector General of the Active grade, he began training and conferring the degrees upon several worthy Brothers and established King David (Darius) Supreme Council with a full complement of elective and appointive officers In January 1856.

Edward M. Thomas of Felix Lodge No. 3, Union Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia petitioned the King David Council of Philadelphia, for the 33rd degree to be conferred on five representative Masons in D.C., and on May 5, 1856, the conferment was made, and a Supreme Council was established in Washington, DC.

By 1879 five Supreme Councils had been established near the eastern United States requiring those brothers to reconsider how they were establishing themselves. They held a series of meetings in New York City of all five (5) Supreme Councils in late 1880/early 1881. They then created a framework for a union.

This framework was responsible for the Articles of Union which established two Supreme Councils, the Supreme Council of the Northern Jurisdiction (PHA) and the United Supreme Council of the Southern Jurisdiction (PHA).

The constitutions for the Southern Jurisdiction were finalized and established in 1887.

Because of these agreements, the Washington DC Supreme Council was reorganized and renamed. The Illustrious Brothers of the District of Columbia bestowed the highest honor of respect for a man and his work in freemasonry and his masonic history on a brother they thought was instrumental to the progress of Freemasonry in Washington, DC. They

named their newly constructed consistory, Jonathan Davis Consistory No. 1, United Supreme Council Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, Prince Hall Affiliation, Southern Jurisdiction, USA

As this consistory has had a consistent existence for the ensuing 135 years, the question of who Jonathan Davis was has been raised without satisfactory answers as to his identity and what prompted the Illustrious brothers of the District of Columbia to name their consistory after him.

In the mid-1950’s noted African American historian, the Illustrious Charles H. Wesley, 330, undertook the task of trying to answer the unknown facts about who Jonathan Davis was. He completed a 15-page biography, The History of Jonathan Davis[1], which has some discrepancies but is still the most comprehensive attempt to unveil the history of the man Jonathan Davis. Illustrious Wesley also used much of this biography in an article published in the Crisis magazine in 1977.[2]

Jonathan Davis was born on April 10, 1820, in Fred

erica, Delaware.[iii] He was known to practice herbal medicine and was listed as a druggist in several Directories published during his life. He was awarded an honorary MD status by the Electic Medical College of Pennsylvania in 1867. He was also known as a “civil activist” in Pennsylvania.

Jonathan Davis was a member of Widows Son Lodge No. 4 , African Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania,

-

Josiah H. Drummond PGM of the Grand Lodge of Maine

“I think that there is so much opposition to the National Grand Lodge that it will not exist for any length of time. Its Grand Secretary, Dr. Jonathan Davis, of Philadelphia, is a very efficient officer, and I judge that it is through his influence that the National Grand Lodge has held together so long.”

serving as its secretary. By 1845 he was appointed to a grand lodge committee that wrote a public rebuke of Hiram Grand Lodge, publishing the rebuke in the Public Ledger newspaper. He was later appointed to the African Grand Lodge committee which met with delegates from Hiram Grand Lodge to resolve the differences between the two bodies and pave the way for their consolidation into the African Grand Lodge in Pennsylvania.

June 18, 1845 Jonathan Davis is one of three men of a special committee of African Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania who signed a notice published in the Public Ledger newspaper of Philadelphia, declaring Hiram Grand Lodge clandestine.[4]

December 10, 1847, Jonathan Davis was appointed one of the five delegates of the African Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania to a joint committee with delegates from Hiram Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania to resolve the differences between the two grand lodges and pave the way for a consolidated Grand Lodge in Pennsylvania.[5]

1. June 29, 1849, Jonathan Davis signs a declaration on the status of the state grand lodge of New York by the National Grand Lodge as N.G.S Pro tem.[6]

2. The 1865 Triennial Session of the National Grand Lodge, Jonathan Davis was duly elected National Grand Secretary.[7]

3. July 1, 1874, PGM Dr. Jonathan Davis, Right Worshipful National Grand Secretary succumbed to his severe medical impairments.

4. Josiah H. Drummond, PGM of the Grand Lodge of Maine wrote an article dated July 4, 1874, which appeared in the Pacific Appeal newspaper, praising Jonathan Davis. Drummond stated, “I think that there is so much opposition to the National Grand Lodge that it will not exist for any length of time. Its Grand Secretary, Dr. Jonathan Davis, of Philadelphia, is a very efficient officer, and I judge that it is through his

influence that the National Grand Lodge has held together so long.”[viii]

Jonathan Davis was well known among the brothers of Washington, DC. He was present with other representatives from African Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania at the organizing convention of Union Grand Lodge in the District of Columbia in March 1848. He was also present in the District of Columbia in 1856 helping Illustrious Edward Thomas establish the Supreme Council of Washington DC.

Jonathan Davis was present on June 8th, 1844, when three encampments met at a convention at Masonic Hall, Lombard Street, Philadelphia, Pa., and organized the First African Grand Encampment of North America. Davis was elected the grand encampment’s first Grand Recorder.

Jonathan Davis was present at the convention in the District of Columbia in his capacity of Grand Recorder when Simons Commandery, No. 13, now No. 1, and Henderson Commandery were char-

tered in 1855, by the first African Grand Commandery of the United States of North America. Headquarters at Philadelphia.

He was also present in 1867 when Gethsemane Commandery, No. 16, now No. 3, was chartered. Knights Templars in the District of Columbia by the first African Grand Commandery of the United States of North America. Headquarters at Philadelphia,

When Jonathan Davis transitioned to his heavenly rewards on July 1, 1874, the masons of Washington DC. lost a friend and mentor. And when they helped organized the United Supreme Council of the Southern Jurisdiction (PHA), they named the first consistory of this jurisdiction after this great man, Jonathan Davis.

[1] The History

[2]

[3] Ibid, page 5

[4] The

[5] Ibid, page 53

[6] Ibid, page 51

[7] Ibid, page 66

[8] Pacific Appeal July 4, 1874

of Jonathan Davis, Charles H. Wesley, 1957, Jonathan Davis Consistory No.1, Washington DC

National Grand Lodge and Prince Hall Freemasonry: The Untold Truth, Alton G. Roundtree, KLR publishing, page31.

Sovereign Grand Inspector General Quincy G. Gant was born and raised in Washington DC in 1974 to Yvonne and Keith Gant. He matriculated through the DC School System, until High School when he then moved to Maryland and graduated from High Point High School. SGIG Gant’s Masonic travels began in 1997 when he joined Redemption Lodge #24. Prior to that, he studied and learned from his uncle, the late Wade Singleton, who was a Past Master of St James Lodge #61 in the State of New Jersey, who first told him what Freemasonry was and why he should look into joining. After researching the organization, Brother Gant asked a friend to vouch for him, which he did.

Upon joining the Masonic Fraternity, SGIG Gant immediately latched onto it and began to flourish. He was awarded Master Mason of the year by Worshipful Master Joseph T. Gatling the same year he joined. He then went on to serve the respective seats of the lodge receiving not only various awards from the lodge, but from the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia as well, the first of which was Senior Deacon of the Year in 2003.

After serving as Junior and Senior Warden, Bro. Gant was blessed and honored to serve as Worshipful Master in 2006. As Worshipful Master, he was elected as President of the Master’s and Wardens Council, as well as awarded Worshipful Master of the Year by Most Worshipful Grand Master Robert E. Wheeler.

After serving as Worshipful Master, Past Master Gant was appointed by Most Worshipful Grand Master J. Raymond Murray as his Worshipful Grand Director of Community Affairs. Worshipful Gant held that position for two years. This position was especially important to SGIG Gant because it gave him an opportunity to build relationships with the community and report on and participate in the Jurisdiction’s charitable activities that were being performed. In 2009, Most Worshipful Grand Master David A. McWilliams saw fit to place Past Master Gant in the line as Junior Grand Steward, beginning his path to Most Worshipful Grand Master of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of the Jurisdiction of the District of Columbia. For the next nine

ILLUSTRIOUS GRAND SECRETARY/KSA

SGIG QUINCY G. GANT, 33°

years, Brother Gant worked diligently in the Grand Lodge while moving through the respective seats. He received several awards such as the Grand Lodge Officer of the Year and Master Mason of the year in 2011. He was the first-ever recipient of the Charles W. Sharpe Award for achievement in Masonic Excellence in 2017, a recipient of The Grand Lodges’ second highest award which is the Perfect Ashlar award in 2012, and a recipient of the highest Grand Lodge award (The S. Matthew Hendershott) in 2018.

SGIG Gant’s Scottish Rite travels began in 1998 when he Joined Jonathon Davis Consistory #1 where he holds the 33rd and last degree of Masonry and the rank of Sovereign Grand Inspector General Emeritus. He currently serves as the Illustrious Secretary for the Louis W. Roy Council of Deliberation.

SGIG Gant has worked hard in the other bodies of masonry as well. He served as Excellent High Priest of St. Johns Chapter #7 in 2002 and now holds the title of Honorary Past Most Excellent Grand High Priest. He is an Honorary Past Right Eminent Grand Commander of John W. Freeman Grand Commandry Knights Templar. He served as Illustrious Grand Treasurer of the Prince Hall Grand Council Royal and Select Masters where he now holds the title of Grand Treasurer Emeritus and Honorary Past Thrice Illustrious Grand Master. He is also an Honorary Past Imperial Potentate of Mecca Temple #10 where he proudly serves on its award-winning Drill Team.

SGIG Gant has not only worked on the male side of freemasonry, he joined Redemption Chapter #14 of The Order of the Eastern Star in 1999, serving as Worthy Patron in 2007-08, and as Grand Worthy Patron in 2011-12. On a national level, he served as Associate Grand Patron of the Conference of Grand Matrons and Patrons in 2012.

As Most Worshipful Grand Master, a few of his goals were to build a stronger relationship with the community, bring awareness to the business side of masonry within his jurisdiction, and strengthen the jurisdiction ritualistically, administratively, and financially.

In SGIG Gant’s personal life, his professional trajectory began at TESST Electronics where he received his accreditation in computers and electronics.

In the six years that followed, he worked as a Field Engineer at The Eastman Kodak Co. and studied at the Rochester Institute of Technology. He continued to participate in learning opportunities such as the National Leadership Institute’s “Maximizing Your Leadership Potential,” the Department of Homeland Security’s (FEMA) “National Incident Management System,” and the Department of Transportation’s “Transit Safety and Security” cutting-edge programming. He has been employed with The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority for 23 years where he currently holds the position of Assistant General Superintendent where he oversees fleet performance, service, inspection, and reliability. He has been married to Sophia Osei for twelve years and they have one beautiful daughter Sinae. He is a proud member of Sigma Sigma Sigma Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., the District of Columbia Branch of the NAACP, and a Board Member of WordSmith Rapport, a consulting firm specializing in leadership development, and the PGCU Chapter of the National Association of Parliamentarians. He is an avid horse rider and owner and he has participated in shows, competitions, and rodeos’.

SAVE THE DATE

OCTOBER 6-9, 2023

HUNTSVILLE, ALABAMA

UNITED SUPREME COUNCIL

ANNUAL SESSION

On behalf of all Scottish Rite Masons who owe fealty to the United Supreme Council, 33rd degree, Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, Prince Hall Affiliation, Southern Jurisdiction, U.S.A., it is my distinct honor and pleasure to extend greetings and best wishes to the Louis W. Roy, Sr. Council of Deliberation (Orient of the District of Columbia). Thank you for your loyalty, hard work, aid and assistance in the United Supreme Council’s quest to Rebuild the Rite, Stone by Stone.

Fraternally,

Illustrious Dr. Corey D. Hawkins, Sr., Esq., 33° Sovereign Grand Commander

Pictured from l-r: Dr. Benjamin Talton (Directory of MSRC) and SGIG Eric Konohia, 33° during the charitable donation to the Moorland-Spingarn Research Center.

THE ORIENT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

AT WORK

Written By SGIG Eric Konohia, 33°

On Monday, January 9, 2023 members of the Louis W. Roy, Sr., Council of Deliberation accompanied the Deputy for the Orient to make a charitable donation to Moorland-Spingarn Research Center located in Founders Library on the Campus of Howard University.

This donation was on behalf of the United Supreme Council, 33⁰, AASR, PHA-SJ, USA Charitable Foundation. Moorland-Spingarn Research Center was chosen this year as our recipient to support SGC Corey D. Hawkins, Sr., Esq., 33⁰ vision and aim to help and assist HBCU’s.

The check was given to Dr. Benjamin Talton, Director of MSRC who expressed his appreciation for the partnership

and support. Member of the Orient that supported this event today were: SGIG Glenn N. Ruffin, 33⁰, SGIG Quincy G. Gant, 33⁰, GIG Warren R. Whitley, 33⁰, GIG J. Raymond Murray, 33⁰, GIG Elgin Funches, 33⁰, GIG Jeffrey Anderson, 33⁰, KCCH Kevin Moultrie, KCCH Phillip Harrigan, KCCH Dr. Paul Cotton, KCCH Tyrone Hurley & SP James Morgan, 32⁰.

Pictured from l-r: SP James Morgan, III, 32°, KCCH Tyrone S. Hurley, Jr., 32°, KCCH Dr. Paul Cotton, 32°, KCCH Phillip Harrigan, 32°, KCCH Kevin Moultrie, 32°, GIG Jeffrey Anderson, 33°, GIG Elgin Funchess, 33°, Dr. Benjamin Talton (Directory of MSRC), SGIG Eric Konohia, 33°, SGIG Glenn N. Ruffin, 33°, SGIG Quincy G. Gant, 33°, GIG Warren R. Whitley, 33°, and GIG J. Raymond Murray, 33°

TOMB

OF THE UNKNOWNS

April 22, 2022, the 4 legitimate Supreme Councils of the United States lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknowns, Arlington Cemetery for the first time in AASR history. Pictured here front row (L-R) SGIG Eric Konohia, 33⁰ (Deputy for D.C.), SGIG Dr. L. Ken Collins, Sr., 33⁰ (Grand SecGen USC-SJ), SGC Dr. Melvin J. Bazemore, 33⁰ (USC-NJ), SGC Dr. Corey D. Hawkins, Sr., Esq., 33⁰ (USC-SJ), SGC Peter J. Samiec, 33⁰ (SC-NMJ), SGIG Len Proden, 33⁰ (SC-SJ), SGIG X.L. Butler (GMoS USC-SJ) and members of the LWRSRCOD pictured after the wreath laying. Thank you to Chief of Police of Arlington National Cemetery SP William R. Johnson, II (Bert A.G. Overby Class) for making this happen.

IN SHARED ORIENTS UNITY

Written By SGIG Eric Konohia, 33°

Last evening, February 4, 2023 RWDGM/SGIG

Glenn N. Ruffin, 33°, SGIG Marcus James,33°, GIG Marcus Crooks,33° and KC Mark Fair, 32°, and I attended the 2023 Installation of officers of:

Mithras Lodge of Perfection

Evangelist Chapter of Rose Croix

Robert de Bruce Council of Kadosh

Albert Pike Consistory

For the Valley of Washington, Orient of DC, Supreme Council, “Mother. Council”, Southern Jurisdiction, USA.

We had a great time as always. Also, in attendance were. SGIG Daniel Poole, 33°, Grand Recording Secretary and SGIG Charles Bush, 33°, Deputy for the Far East United Supreme Council, 33°, AASRFM, PHA- NJ, USA.

SGIG Len Proden and the Fraters of DC Scottish Rite have always made us feel at home from our previous invitations and countless visitations but I can honestly say that as a result of the Statement of Unity Signing of September 7, 2022 more of the Fraters, who we don’t see on a regular basis, knew who we were.

Main Picture from r-l: GIG Marcus Crooks, 33°, SGIG Marcus James D. James, Sr., 33°, SGIG Eric Konohia, 33°, SGIG Glenn N. Ruffin, 33°, and KCCH Mark Fair, 32°

Below: SGIG Eric Konohia, 33° & SGIG Proden of the DCSR

THE DEPUTY’S TRAVEL SCHEDULE

If you are interested in accompanying me or my representative on any of the upcoming visitations.

March 18, 2023 [VA COD]

Holiday Inn and Conference Center, 5655 Greenwich Rd, Va. Beach, VA, 23452

March 30 – April 2, 2023 [NC COD]

Raleigh, NC

March 31 - April 2, 2023 [AL COD]

Huntsville, AL

May 26 – 30, 2023 [USC 33° AASR NJ, USA]

Denver, CO

July, 28 – 30, 2023 [FL COD Workshop]

Jacksonville, FL

LOOKING

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For greater exposure to your business, please contact our advertising team at chokmah@lwrsrcod.org

THE EAGLE’S CONSECRATION OF THE EAGLE’S CLUB

CLUB

KNIGHT COMMANDER OF THE COURT OF HONOUR & PRESIDENT OF THE EAGLE’S CLUB

Kevin Moultrie, 32°

Pictured from r-l: SP Edmund Lee, 32°, KCCH Tyrone S. Hurley, Jr., 32°, KCCH Kevin Moultrie, 32°, SP Joseph Yearwood, 32°, KCCH Walter Ruben, 32°, and SP Fred N. Smith, Jr., 32° CHOKMAH

THE UNATTENDED

OF THE BUILDING

Written By SGIG Eric Konohia, 33°

In May 2021 when I received official notification that I was appointed as Deputy for this Orient I knew immediately one of the things I wanted to change. As I traveled throughout the Southern Jurisdiction as a Grand Inspector General and the President of the John D. Howard Commanders of the Rite I noticed that there was a prevailing issue in some of the Orients. Sublime Princes were left to their own devices.

At one time I was that Sublime Prince hungry for the further LIGHT I asked for and anticipated. I had heard about all of the stalwart Scottish Rite Masons that had roamed the streets of Washington, D.C. placing its citizenry in awe of their presence. The mystique of these gentlemen that was painted in my mind was what I wanted to experience. “Surely they knew the secrets to unlock the mysteries of life….” These were the King Makers and even

if I was never to be a King Maker, I wanted to know the mysteries if ever called upon.

There were, and still are, no rituals available for new members. I immediately found out that each consistory only had three: Commander-in-Chief, and 1st and 2nd Lieutenant Commanders. The only other read book (Ritual) in the Orient belonged to the Deputy for the Orient. If I couldn’t get a copy of that book I needed to find someone holding the lessons of the A.A.S.R. and sit in front of him to learn. THERE

WAS NO ONE

Just like the symbolic lodge, our Orient was replete with ritualists but no speculative or esoteric Fraters. I immediately went to the well of my studies of the Craft degrees and asked that group of well-informed and learned brothers if they could light the candle of the A.A.S.R. for me. And that is what they did. I immediately learned the names of each of the degrees and slowly committed to

memory the passwords, sacred words, and tokens/grips. I was hell-bent on transitioning from obtainment to attainment.

As time went on, I was opened to a circle of well-informed and extremely bright fraters. These were the King Makers!!!!!!!!! I sipped and gulped liberally from Pierian Spring and started my quest to pass down the lessons. Soon after my elevation to the 33⁰, I was appointed as the President of the John D. Howard Commanders of the Rite which gave me the platform to give back to the Orient and break the cycle – THE WORKSHOPS, and in September 2021 –The Eagle’s Club.

Attached is the directive which consecrated the Eagle’s Club. The cycle is broken. Now it’s up to you.

WHAT’S WITH THOSE

RED CAPS?

Written By KCCH Kevin Moultrie, 32°

Introducing the Knight Commanders of the Court of Honour

Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite Masonry is typically referred to as the College of Freemasonry and the Orient of the District of Columbia has certainly been living up to this moniker. With an established curriculum, Fraters of this Orient have been treated to a masonic educational experience that is unique and exciting. As a result, the Louis W. Roy Sr. Council of Deliberation has been generating a buzz, not only within the walls of 1000 U Street but throughout the entire Southern Jurisdiction. Our presence is being seen as much as it is being felt.

One of the most notable visual changes within our Orient is the appearance of certain Fraters wearing red caps. Many questions have arisen as to what these caps represent. Well, allow me to provide some clarity.

On October 7, 2022, during its

136th Annual Session, The United Supreme Council, 33° of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, Prince Hall Affiliation, Southern Jurisdiction of the USA where the Honorable Corey D. Hawkins Sr., Esq. 33° serves as its Illustrious Sovereign Grand Commander, bestowed upon deserving Fraters, for the first time, the designation of Knight Commander of the Court of Honour (KCCH). KCCH is not a degree; it is not conferred upon a Frater; he is invested with it.[1] It is a distinguished honor presented to Fraters who have demonstrated a work ethic, dedication, and commitment to the Rite that is worthy of distinction. Eight Sublime Princes from our Orient were bestowed with this honor.

As many have noticed, the most distinctive apparel of the KCCH is his red cap “a symbol of the nobility of the soul, which is the

parent of all Knightly virtues”, and it replaces the black cap that he earned upon becoming a 32˚ Mason.[2] The Supreme Council, Southern Jurisdiction, and the United Supreme Council, Southern Jurisdiction is the only Sovereign Grand Bodies that can rightfully bestow the KCCH upon deserving Fraters. So, if this sounds like a big deal, believe me, it is; one cannot ask to become a KCCH, he must be nominated.

It is in and of itself one of the greatest honors to hear the Sovereign Grand Commander say at the investiture’s culmination, “I Dub and Create Thee, a Knight Commander of the Court of Honor, and may our Father in Heaven make thee a good Knight in the service of our fellow men”.[3]

Phoenixmasonry.org Knight Commander Court of Honour

Knight Commander of the Court of Honor by Midnight Freemason Contributor Steven L Harrison, 33˚, FMLR

Scottishrite-stjo.org Knight Commanders Court of Honor Conduct Investiture October 2019 by Budd Gilfillen

Above: Inaugural KCCH at the 136th Annual Session of the United Supreme Council, Southern Jurisdiction

KCCH

Written By KCCH Tyrone S. Hurley, Jr., 32°

To tell this story of my journey to this prestigious honor, we must return for a moment to September 25th, 2021. On this day, at 5:30 am, I arose from my sleep, got on my knees and prayed to the Almighty with one request: Like footprints in the sand, I needed Him to carry me through today.

This day weighed heavily on my heart as it became the epicenter of some very significant milestones in my life. The day marked my first venture from ancient craft masonry in my Lodge into the vast expanse of masonry. I had been a Master Mason for 10 years at that point, recently acknowledging the milestone 8 days prior. However, it had only been 2 years since I returned to my lodge to perform our good work. I had been on hiatus for about 5 years, taking time away to become a husband, a father, and a better provider for my family. Once I found that balance, I returned because I felt I owed it to my lodge to come back and aid in the great work it performed. However, as it pertains to seeking more light in masonry, I was ready to continue my travels and the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite was my next destination. However, with this excitement also brought sadness and turmoil for me as the day also marked the anniversary of my mother’s passing. She was my rock in this world, and the pain of losing her never truly goes away. It plagued me to the point where I was uncertain if I would even make it out of the door that day to the temple to advance and have the degrees conferred. In that moment of prayer, I heard my mother’s voice. And in her strong Bajan accent, she told me, “Get up off the floor son, get yourself together and go. Life goes on,

and so does my love for you. “As I rose from my prayer position, I dressed in the masonic standard attire and departed for the temple to advance...

And I am so glad that I did. I was unaware, but the experience of becoming a Sublime Prince of the Royal Secret awoke a fire in me. As the degrees were conferred, it felt as if I was finally given the code to unlock the rest of an ancient book bestowed upon me a decade prior. Where it just sat there, patiently awaiting my return, until I was brave enough to dust it off and finally delve into its lost pages and learn the unabridged story that was only partially revealed to me as a Master Mason. With that fire, I began to commit to the tasks and duties when received.

Whether called upon by our President of the Eagles Club, Knight Commander Kevin Moultrie, 32° (a Sublime Prince at the time); our Illustrious Overseer of

the Works, Sovereign Grand Inspector General Marcus D. James, Sr., 33°; or our Illustrious Deputy for the Orient of Washington, D.C., Sovereign Grand Inspector General Eric F. Konohia, 33°; I felt it necessary to be present an accounted for as well use whatever skills I possessed to move the mission of the Orient forward. As a young Sublime Prince, I wanted to know everything. Rehearsals, I was present; Workshops, I was among the Fraters eager to learn; Ritualistic work, I study and practice. As long as I could be a part and give back for the honor of receiving this rank, I was ready to contribute. This included my attributes in the field of Information Technology and my passion for camera and video production, which I was honored to utilize during my first Annual Session for the Orient in April of 2022, where I was fortunate to be tasked with filming the wreath laying ceremony at the Tomb of

WORDS MEAN EVERYTHING!

See synonyms for:

/ inculcation on Thesaurus.com Verb (used with object), in·cul·cat·ed, in·cul·cat·ing.

1. To implant by repeated statement or admonition; teach persistently and earnestly (usually followed by upon or in): to inculcate virtue in theyoung.

2. to cause or influence (someone) to accept an idea or feeling (usually followed by with): Socratesinculcatedhispupilswiththeloveoftruth.

KCCH Tyrone S. Hurley, Jr., 32°

KNIGHT COMMANDER OF THE COURT OF HONOR

INAUGURAL CLASS

Congratulations to these Illustrious brothers on being bestowed the honor of becoming apart of the inaugural class of the Knight Commanders Of The Court Of Honor at the 136th Annual Session of the United Supreme Council, Southern Jurisdiction.

l-r back: KCCH Darryl Green, KCCH Shaun Alfred, KCCH Walther Reuben, KCCH Mark Fair, KCCH Kevin Moultrie, KCCH Tyrone Hurley, front: KCCH Paul Cotton, SGIG Eric Konohia, KCCH Phillip Harrigan

the Unknown Soldier at Arlington Cemetery.

Shortly after the session, I was approached by our Illustrious Deputy, who informed me that, in recognition of my diligent work within the Orient, he was recommending me for the investiture of Knight Commander of the Court of Honour. I humbly accepted and was honored, but I didn’t understand in that moment what the investiture was and the magnitude of what he bestowed upon me. However, trusting my Deputy, I soon learned that my time in Scottish Rite would never be the same.

In October of 2022, I departed for Jacksonville, Florida for the 136th Annual Session of the United Supreme Council, Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, Prince Hall Affiliation, Southern Jurisdiction, U.S.A., Inc. This was my first Annual Session and a milestone as well for many Sublime Princes as it was the first time in history that Sublime Princes were granted permission to attend. The investiture aside, I couldn’t afford to miss this opportunity to get a glimpse at just how Scottish Rite Masonry conducts business on a national scale. However, during this Annual Session, I would learn the meaning of this investiture, the history being made on that fateful ceremonial day, and why it is one of the greatest moments for me as a Mason.

The investiture of Knight Commander of the Court of Honour was established at the insistence of Grand Commander, Albert Pike on May 5th, 1870. It was created to recognize deserving members for their great and dedicated service to the Scottish Rite. At the 135th Annual Session, Sovereign Grand Commander for the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite, Southern Jurisdiction, Illustrious James D. Cole, 33°; bestowed the honor upon Sovereign Grand Commander for the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite, Southern Jurisdiction, Prince Hall Affiliation, Illustrious Corey D. Hawkins, Sr., Esq., 33°. This investiture not only marked the first time in history that a Prince Hall Mason received

the honor, but it also granted our Sovereign Grand Commander the authority to bestow it to worthy Scottish Rite Prince Hall Affiliation Masons within the Southern Jurisdiction.

Walking into the ceremonial area and being present to receive this honor was a humbling experience. To see the precision and diligent efforts of our leadership as they performed the ritualistic work of the investiture gave me a sense of pride to be a part of this great institution…and that fire that awoke when I first advanced on that fateful day burned brightly once again and fueled me to continue this great work. At the completion of the ceremony, where we received our red caps, jewels, pins and certificates of Knight Commander of the Court of Honour; I realized, when directed to sign the archival logbook that I, along with my fellow invested Knight Commanders, were also making history that day. We became the inaugural class of Knight Commanders. The first ever to receive that honor in the history of Scottish Rite Prince Hall Affiliation Masonry. As incredible as that feeling is, it should also be known that to whom much is given, much is required.

Being a Knight Commander in the Orient of D.C. is not an easy task and is not to be taken lightly. This is an investiture, not a promotion in rank. You will still hold the thirty-second degree (32°). However, if you are fortunate to be given the opportunity to receive this great honor; understand that while you are being recognized for your outstanding efforts in the goal of advancing the mission of Scottish Rite Masonry in this Orient, you are also expected to continue that great work and face the disparate challenges that are presented to you. More is being asked and expected of you because you have already set the stage by contributing more of your time and talent, which is how we tithe in Masonry. Being the birthplace of Scottish Rite Masonry (38° 53’ 53.17” North Latitude), we are also expected to conduct ourselves at a certain standard. This standard requires constant vigilance to not only set it and meet it, but also

maintain it. I am glad that I did not stay home that fateful day. I am proud to be a Scottish Rite Mason. I am grateful for being given the chance to serve this Orient and show my value by contributing to its success...

And I am honored to stand shoulder to shoulder with the other 7 Knight Commanders of the Court of Honour, proudly behind our leaders and alongside our members of the Louis W. Roy, Sr. Council of Deliberation, Orient of the District Of Columbia, Prince Hall Affiliation, Southern Jurisdiction.

To our Illustrious Deputy, Illustrious Overseer of the Works, Sovereign Grand Inspectors General, Grand Inspectors General, Knight Commanders of the Court of Honour, Sublime Princes of the Royal Secret, Scottish Rite Masons all for the Orient of the District of Columbia, I salute you. May the Supreme Architect bless you all for He created the Blueprints to our life’s architectural design, and may this Orient continue to shine its Masonic Light as a beacon to all who answer the call to serve.

I look forward with great anticipation on whom will be chosen to join us and serve as a Knight Commander of the Court of Honour. Put in the work and perform your duties as a Scottish Rite Mason and you may discover that you may be traveling on that enriching journey to the Court.

Fraternally submitted, KCCH Tyrone S. Hurley, Jr., 32° Jonathan Davis Consistory No. 1 Louis W. Roy, Sr. Council of Deliberation

A∴A∴S∴R∴ PHA∴SJ-USA.

WINTER 2023

SGIG BERT A.G. OVERBY CLASS

Congratulations to our new class - 2023 SGIG Bert A.G. Overby Class that was “advanced” on Saturday, January 28, 2023

Mark Anthony Brown, 32°

Michael Burroughs, 32°

Mark Dickens, 32°

Michael Victor Ennis, 32°

Promise Prazier, 32°

Asad Rumont Harris, 32°

Milton Lewis Hopkins, 32°

William Russell Johnson II, 32°

Christopher Anthony Johnson Sr., 32°

Eric Francis Johnson, 32°

Lerenzo Johnson, 32°

William H. Joyner Jr. 32°

Jason Christopher McCall, 32°

Anthony Gregory Mobley, 32°

Albert Henry Murray III, 32°

Jonathan A. Norman, 32°

Jerome Daniel Pyuzza, 32°

Joey Antonio Roundtree, 32°

Joseph W. Webster III, 32°

Matthew Charles Williams, 32°

ADVANCED

PERSPECTIVES FROM THE NEW SUBLIME PRINCES

Degrees. And I must say, it was a lot of information. What was more impressive, was after the Degree Ceremonies, we had class! A working lunch, with a PowerPoint presentation, broke down the basics of the organization that we just obligated ourselves to. At that point, I know then that these Illustrious brothers were serious!

I’m extremely excited about continuing my Masonic journey in the Scottish Rite and I look forward to working hard for Jonathan Davis Consistory No. 1 and the Orient of the District of Columbia!

I saw a lot and learned different lessons. I also learned the reason why everything is not presented at the beginning of a Masonic journey. I learned that Tolerance is the key to this part of Masonry. That the camp of Kadosh is an armed man who is also armed with steel but also with love and faith for God and his Fellow man.

I also learned that each camp has its focus such as truth, reason, and tolerance, and that Masonry is timeless and will remain the same. I feel an even greater responsibility to conduct myself in a manner that is in line with being a Sublime Prince of the Orient.

Since being raised off the floor from a dead level to a living perpendicular in September 2014, I have dedicated an extensive amount of time to understanding Craft Masonry. I thought that the story ended at that Sublime Degree until about 2018 when I learned that there were opportunities to further my knowledge. When the Deputy for the Orient of the District of Columbia, Sovereign Grand Inspector General Eric Konohia, told me that they were having a class this year, I could not turn down the opportunity to submit my petition. I didn’t know what to expect. With the Deputy, being a friend of mine, I knew he was a serious guy and his Masonic knowledge is expansive, so I knew that I could trust him in providing me with the Masonic Light that I have been searching for!

On Saturday, January 28, 2023, the Illustrious brothers of this Orient performed the degrees at the highest level. I was extremely impressed how the degree teams were able to impress upon our class the most important information from the 4th thru the 32nd

The only expectations from my perspective were twofold, first to achieve more light in Masonry and second to receive the 32nd Degree. I was recommended for the Scottish Rite by a 32nd Degree Mason, and I was not informed of anything but took a leap of faith in joining, which is the same faith that I had when joining the Blue House. The invitation to fill out the petition was a big deal for me and I was honored to be recommended by such a dedicated member of Masonry.

To be totally transparent I expected a partial re-enactment of the 3rd Degree with parts that may have been excluded from the ceremony with minimal explanation simply reciting of the work. Although lines are also very important, I left my raising with more questions and in need of extrapolation.

The ceremony exceeded my expectations, every introduction was carefully crafted and offered insight into each degree while

SP MATTHEW WILLIAMS, 32°

SP ERIC JOHNSON, 32°

SP ASADA HARRIS, 32°

highlighting the properties that birth the outcomes. Seeing the pentagon while having each section broken down and delineated to outline the construction of the lodges still blows my mind (3,5,7,9).

It still seems surreal, but becoming a sublime prince is a great privilege and honor and not to be taken lightly; this new journey is that of a lifetime. Knowing that expectations are high and there is always a brother close by that is consistently aiming to be better today and tomorrow than yesterday is priceless. My motto is Steele sharpens Steele and we will only be as strong as our weakest link so continuing to force ourselves out of our comfort zones and away from the norm breads true growth and Tolerance. Consistency and dedication to the craft will allow me to uphold our standard of setting the bar and keeping it high.

inquired whether I thought about seeking further light in the Consistory or something to that extent. The question amazed me because, for ten years, I knew nothing outside of my Mother Lodge, and I didn’t, at least I assumed I didn’t, know any Consistory members; nevertheless, I immediately replied “yes sir.” From there, I was directed to another man I knew and respected, who provided me with detailed instructions, and it was at that moment that my process began.

The Orient was always intriguing to me. As soon as I became a Mason, I instantaneously retrieved and read the files for two of my great-uncles and found out they were Jonathan Davis No. 1 Consistory members. Although I didn’t know what a 32nd-degree Mason was, I knew If I ever traveled that path, I wanted to be part of the organization they joined. I also learned, from talking to other men in my lodge, that Jonathan Davis No. 1 was the trajectory for our members. Since my big brothers and my uncles, who were wise men, joined this Consistory, I understood their expectations, of me, would be high and so my expectations of the Consistory were high.

clearer to me and I look forward to traveling that brick road once it illuminates, but until then I am walking toward and responding to the voices of those men of the Orient I respect.

Before coming to the Orient and receiving further light, I subconsciously transfigured into a comfortable being who was neglectfully and lackadaisically stagnated. I was so complacent with Freemasonry that I totally forgot the Temple had other opportunities, for me, to become better. I was also distracted by personal obligations that I started to convince myself I had no more time for anything outside of the Mother Lodge.

I remember, at the jurisdictional cookout, I was approached by a man whom I have a lot of respect for in the jurisdiction and he

Even though I had my mind made up, the negative comments about Scottish Rite Freemasonry concerned me. I heard comments like “Scottish Rite Freemasonry gives you a bunch of degrees all at once, but they desert their members and do not teach them.” There were strong recommendations to travel the York Rite path instead. At the same time, I heard rumors about confusion and disharmony within the Consistory, which, of course, disturbed my spirit, but after speaking with the Most Illustrious Commander-in-Chief & Deputy for the Orient of D.C. Eric F. Konohia, I calmed down.

I am glad I followed my heart because I feel blessed to be included as a member of the Orient. After joining, I quickly realized I know more Consistory members than I thought, and those rumors about Scottish Rite Freemasonry just giving you degrees and abandoning you were untrue. The forecast that was once cloudy is becoming

Throughout my journey in Masonry, I have always searched for more Light. Striving to understand and comprehend the esoteric meanings behind lectures and when observing edifices in towns and cities. I witnessed that the hands of the Initiated are definitely hidden in plain sight as a constant reminder of our Oaths. I always wanted to understand the context in which they were created.

As I searched for more Light, I endeavored to complete the Capitular Degrees in York Rite Masonry before I became a Worshipful Master of my Lodge. I felt that maybe in those degrees I would find the mysteries that I sought. Enabling me to better understand the mysteries of Masonry, hence making me a better man, a better Brother, and a better leader.

I found myself deconstructing every lecture that I heard, to find the crux of its allusions. In an attempt to ferret out the knowledge and truth, to share that Light with my Brethren.

But alas, the focus in York Rite Masonry, as practiced in our Lodges, is not predicated at all on sharing and spreading Light. It is so tied up in procedures and dogma that the propagation of Light is usually a tertiary activity. Even when we are Initiating, Passing,

SP ALBERT MURRAY, 32°

SP MARK A. BROWN, 32°

and Raising candidates, the focus is on passing the “test” and not fully understanding the meaning and lessons of the Degree itself!!

We skip over so much potential understanding just to say we achieved some accomplishment. My enthusiasm for York Rite Masonry has indeed waned.

Before proceeding into the Scottish Rite Masonry rituals, I had a perception that it was going to be more of the same. I assumed that I might learn a little more about the common allegories in Masonry and hopefully make some new associations with Brothers. But, as a new Sublime Prince, my eyes have been opened to a whole new way of approaching Masonry. The aspects and emphasis are on “Thinking” and not just performing dogmatic activities. This was extremely refreshing for me. While going through the rituals of the Scottish Rite, the context by which was clearly explained. I realized quickly that there was so much Light that it would take some time to even grasp it all. I felt as if my lamp was being refilled with oil. My enthusiasm for Masonry was restored. My search of more Light

in Masonry returned. I am renewed and am looking forward to the journey and continual learning.

SOVEREIGN GRAND INSPECTOR GENERAL

Before becoming a member of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rites, Jonathan Davis Consistory #1, I really didn’t know what to expect before the advancement ceremony at the temple as I wanted to keep an open mind and trust the process. What I came to witness and experience through the advance-

ment of the various degrees really impressed me. Each individual “house” was so organized and professional as I sat in awe of the wisdom, discipline, and floor work that they bestowed that day. The leadership, coordination, and execution were something to behold. I remember commenting to a couple of brothers seated next to me that “this is next level”.

As we concluded and gathered for a group photo, looking around the lodge and seeing the fraters I felt very honored and privileged to be a part of such a historic and proud fraternity of men. I’m truly looking forward to learning and growing in Scottish Rites and continuing the great legacy that this fraternity has become since its inception.

SP ANTHONY MOBLEY, 32°

BERT A.G. OVERBY, 33°

“PEOPLE DON’T CARE ABOUT WHAT YOU BELIEVE. THEY ONLY CARE ABOUT WHAT YOU KNOW.”

THRICE POTENT MASTER

GIG MARCUS CROOKS, 33°

The lodge of perfection is that of the teaching of the inevitable degrees and contains the investigation of the true name and pronunciation of the name of Deity. We are taught to practice silence, obedience, and fidelity live a virtuous life, Be Zealous with benevolence, and act as the peacemaker. Judge not lest you yourself be judged, be the teacher of benevolence and charity let not your ignorance be the principal enemy of human freedom. with liberty comes truth be true to yourself and your God.

Written By SP James Morgan, III, 32°

Richard T. Greener Statue at the University of South Carolina

Credit: Photo by Christian K. Anderson) (2023, February 1). In Wikipedia.

Richard Theodore Greener was born on January 30, 1844, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. In his youth, Greener moved with his family to the city of Boston, where he briefly attended private school, but later had to drop out due to family responsibilities. Greener experienced racism and discrimination concerning his academic pursuits. Even though he had been born legally free, he was still a young, black man in slave-holding America. Greener enrolled at Oberlin College in Ohio and then attended Philips Academy in Andover, Massachusetts. After impressing the faculty at Philips, Greener was given the opportunity of a lifetime when he was selected to transfer to Harvard University as their first student of African descent.

Greener’s time at Harvard was difficult as he was not widely accepted by his fellow students, however, he successfully completed his program and won the prestigious Bowdoin Prize for elocution. Richard T. Greener graduated from Harvard as a member of the class of 1870. Richard T. Greener made history as the first African American to graduate from Harvard University. In the following two years, Greener took a job as the principal of the Institute for Colored Youth which was in the city of his birth, Philadelphia. It should be noted that he assumed the vacancy on account of the murder of abolitionist and activist Octavius Catto, who was himself a Prince Hall Freemason. Later, in 1873, Greener took the helm of Sumner High School in Washington, D.C., where he again distinguished himself for his leadership skills. Following his time at the Sumner High School, Greener worked as an associate editor with The New National Era newspaper, working as an assistant to the legendary Frederick Douglass.

Richard T. Greener’s life changed when he accepted the position of Professor of Mental and Moral Philosophy at the University of South Carolina, where he served as the first African American on the faculty. One can only imagine what he must

have heard and felt working as a university professor in a state that only a decade prior had practiced human bondage. It is during this period that Greener is believed to have entered into the ranks of Freemasonry, becoming an early member of Shekinah Lodge which was at that time operating under the auspices of what is today the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania. Following a major split between the National Grand Lodge and the Independent State Grand Lodges, Shekinah Lodge would choose to remain loyal to the National Grand Lodge.

Greener’s legal career continued as he was hired as the trial attorney to defend Cadet Johnson Whitaker, the first West Point cadet of African descent from charges that he fraudulently faked a kidnapping and beating so that he could escape from taking final examinations. This case was so insulting to human intelligence that Whitaker was even accused of tying himself up. Although Greener did a remarkable job of defending Whitaker, this case was lost, with justice only arriving in the 1990s when President Bill Clinton overturned the ruling and reinstated Whitaker posthumously. Greener returned to Washington, D.C., where he be-

Above: Drawing of Richard T. Greener

Credit: University of South Carolina Website sc.edu/greener/

Below: Richard T. Greener’s Harvard Diploma

Credit: Image courtesy of Leslie Hindman Auctioneers | BostonMagazine.com

came the Dean of Howard University Law School from 1878 to 1880.

Richard T. Greener’s life and career also touched what is today the Louis W. Roy Council of Deliberation. According to the May 22, 1879, issue of The Evening Star, on the prior evening, Galahad Lodge of Perfection had been organized by Thornton A. Jackson, Sovereign Grand Commander. Sovereign Grand Commander Jackson installed Professor Greener as the first Thrice Potent Master of Galahad Lodge of Perfection thus cementing his ties to our Orient. Richard T. Greener’s life continued to be one of great victories and immense losses. He took a post as one of America’s first African American diplomats, serving a tour as Grand Consul in Bombay, India, and then in Vladivosock, Russia. Greener served as the primary American diplomat during the Russo-Japanese War.

Sadly, due to his activism and frequent travels, his marriage to Ms. Genevieve Ida Fleet crumbled and his first wife and their six children changed their name to Greene to disassociate from this outspoken activist. His most famous daughter Bella de Costa Greene later passed for white and served as the librarian and mistress of banking magnate J.P. Morgan. Richard T. Greener’s life and masonic legacy were largely forgotten following his death in

1922, even though he had written much and given many lectures in his final decades living in Chicago. Greener’s personal papers were discovered in a home in Chicago in 2009 by construction crewmen and modern scholars began to rediscover the importance of this fascinating man. Two of the most interesting things discovered were Greener’s diploma from Harvard University and a patent declaring him a Grand Inspector General.

What makes this patent very fascinating is the fact that it was signed by fellow Chicago lawyer, John G. Jones, the Father of Clandestine Freemasonry in African American communities. Research conducted by this writer has shown that Greener was present at the formation of the United Supreme Council Southern Jurisdiction and named as our first Grand Herald by Sovereign Grand Commander James A. Handy on September 14, 1886. It appears that Greener may have been tricked by Jones, whom he trusted as a friend, and for a time worked with Jones in his irregular Scottish Rite organization until the facts were made known to him. Once Greener was made aware of how he had been misled, he corrected his error and returned to the true United Supreme Council in 1904.

NEWS

FROM THE CONSISTERIES

HENRY A. DOVE CONSISTORY #15

Just a noticeably short few weeks into becoming Commander-in-Chief for Henry Dove#15 Consistory in the Orient of the District of Columbia, a “Meet and Greet” type of meeting was conducted. A Haitian proverb states, “The dog has four feet, but he does not walk them on four roads.” When moving toward goals for Henry Dove#15 Consistory the initial meeting was to move us toward the goals where we would do well to concentrate our efforts. The meeting focused on efforts that are most important. The meeting centered on the overview of our proposals. For example (1) Brotherhood Priorities,(2) Social Responsibilities Priorities, and (3) Community Relations will be the driving forces of our effects. Henry A. Dove#15 plans to demonstrate Brotherhood Priorities by donating (gifting) bottles of water for Johnnie L. Doctor Consistory#18 Fisher House Drive, February 11, 2023.

JOHNNY L. DOCTOR CONSISTORY #18

HELPING THE DC VETERANS AFFAIRS (VA) MEDICAL CENTER FISHER HOUSE

The Officers and Members of Johnnie L. Doctor Consistory No. 18, will help the DC Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center Fisher House. Fisher House, Inc. is a non-profit corporation organized and functioning under the IRS Code Section 501 (c) (3). Their mission is to support our military members, veterans, and their families staying at the DC Fisher Houses and those who are eligible to utilize Fisher Houses but are staying at other appropriate points of care venues while they receive medical treatment, care, or support. We collected items donated to the Fisher House on February 11.

SUBORDINATE CONSISTORIES

JONATHAN DAVIS CONSISTORY NO. 1

Rendezvous: 4th Monday of the month @ 7:30pm

February, May, October, December

Illustrious Commander-In-Chief

Vincent F. Fadis, 33°

JAMES W. BANYARD CONSISTORY NO. 11

Rendezvous: 2nd Monday of the month @ 7:00pm

February, May, September, December

Illustrious Commander-In-Chief

HENRY A. DOVE CONSISTORY NO. 15

Rendezvous: 1st Tuesday of the month @ 7:00pm

March, June, September, December

Illustrious Commander-In-Chief

Guy Borden, 32°

JOHNNIE L. DOCTOR CONSISTORY NO. 18

Rendezvous: 4th Tuesday of the month @ 7:00pm

January, April, July, October

Illustrious Commander-In-Chief

UPCOMING EVENTS FROM WITHIN AND WITHOUT THE ORIENT

Sr. Council of Delibration & The Mathew Ellis, Jr. State Grand Assembly

GAME NIGHT

March 17, 2023 @ 6:30 PM | Masonic Temple 1000 U. Street, NW Washington, DC 20001

This event is only open to members of LWRSCOD and MEJSGA. Must RSVP to LL Katrina Dixon-Patterson by March 10, 2023, at kdix0429@yahoo.com

Louis W. Roy, Sr. Council of Delibration ANNUAL SESSION

April 21-22, 2023 | Masonic Temple 1000 U. Street, NW Washington, DC 20001

The Sovereign Grand Inspector General Eric F. Konohia, 33°, hereby call to appear: All Scottish Rite Masons of the Louis W. Roy Sr., Council of Deliberation and All Loyal Ladies of it’s Auxillary, The Matthew Ellis Jr., State Grand Assembly, Order of the Golden Circle to attend. For registration information, please contact Grand Inspector General Elgin Funches at: 202-294-3822

MEET & GREET

Louis W. Roy,

MOST WISE AND PERFECT MASTER

SP DGESSAY MAJOR, 32°

DID YOU KNOW?

Did you know that not only does the USC, 33⁰, AASRFM, PHA, SJ-USA have STRONG ties to Liberia but so does our Orient.

President William V. S. Tubman (33⁰) and MWPGM

President Tubman, 33⁰ presenting s document to members of the USC-SJ. Pictured wearing baldric is SGC John G. Lewis

SQUARE

WORSHIPFUL WARDEN

TOKEN SPECULATIVE RITUAL REFRESHMENT

PROFANE

OPERATIVE OBLIGATION

MYSTERY LIBERTINE

LEGEND INITIATION

GEOMETRY

ESOTERIC

EAVESDROPPER

DOTAGE

DISPENSATION

DEGREE

DEMIT

DEACON CONSECRATION

COMMUNICATION

CLANDESTINE CIRCUMAMBULATION

CHARITY

CEREMONY

CARDINAL

ASHLAR

ALLEGORY

ALARM

ANCIENTANDACCEPTED

Jonathan Davis Consistory No. 1

Elections December 4, 2017. Newly elected and installed CIC Jeffrey Anderson.

Morals & Dogma

By Albert Pike

This is Albert Pikes’ 861 page volume of ‘lectures’ on the esoteric roots of Freemasonry, specifically the 32-degree Scottish Rite. Until 1964, this book was given to every Mason completing the 14th degree in the Southern jurisdiction of the US Scottish Rite Freemasons.

Esoterika - Symbolism of the Blue Degrees

By Albert Pike

Contains the complete text of Albert Pikes never-before-published esoteric study of the symbols of Blue Lodge Degrees. Subjects include “The Compasses and the Square,” “The Weapons and Blows of the Assassins,” “The Three Grips,” “The Substitute for the Masters Word,” “The 47th Problem of Euclid,” “The Truth,” “Is the Cable-tow a Symbol?,” “Corner Stones,” “The Ladder of Jacob,” “Tubal Cain,” “Shibboleth,” and “Solomon and Hiram.”

A TRAINING PROGRAM FOR THE SUBLIME PRINCE OF THE ROYAL SECRET (SJ - PRINCE HALL AFFILIATION)

By Patrick Worlds, 32°

The Program provides a structural course of instruction for the candidate seeking advancement to the 32nd degree of Scottish Rite Freemasonry. Contained within this course of study are assessment tools for each of the lower houses as well as a short synopsis of each of the high degrees. The course length spans 26 weeks in which numerous sources of Scottish Rite material is referenced from freemasonry’s leading scholars! The Scottish Rite is commonly referred to as the College of Freemasonry and upon completion of this gentleman’s course, the candidate will be better suited to assume his title, Sublime Prince of the Royal Secret.

Suggested Reading: Chokmah welcomes book submissions for suggested readings. The only requirement is that the book has a connection with Freemasonry and the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite. To submit a book, send an email to chokmah@lwrsrcod.org. The suggested book must have an ISBN and be available for purchase by the general public (printed book, e-book, audiobook).

WORDS MEAN EVERYTHING!

CIRCUMAMBULATE [ sur-kuhm-am-byuh-leyt ]

Verb (used with or without object), cir·cum·am·bu·lat·ed, cir·cum·am·bu·lat·ing.

1. to walk or go about or around, especially ceremoniously.

WHAT THEY’RE SAYING

ABOUT THE CHOKMAH NEWSLETTER

SGIG P. Cardell Worlds, Sr., 33° Co-Chair, Ritual and Ritualistic Affairs Committee

United Supreme Council (PHA – SJ)

“Congratulations to the Deputy for the Orient of the District of Columbia, Sovereign Grand Inspector General Eric Konohia, 33°, and the Louis W. Roy, Sr., Council of Deliberation’s Eagles Club on releasing the first issue of their journal titled simply, “Chokmah!” The title alone speaks volumes of your Orient’s eager fraters and their un-matched enthusiasm. It is my sincerest hope and desire that this spark will ignite a flame throughout the Southern Jurisdiction, from which purification comes producing in man, a physical representation of the essence of the word...Chokmah! Again, congratulations Eagles...keep holding your ground and soar on!”

GIG MARLON S. HONEYWELL, 33°

United Supreme Council (PHA – SJ)

“Congratulations to Sovereign Grand Inspector General (Deputy) Eric Konohia, 33°, and the Louis W. Roy, Sr., Council of Deliberation’s Eagles Club on publishing the first issue of Chokmah. I am proud and honored to read profound and enlightening manuscripts authored by your membership. Keep up the excellent work! I look forward to reading more of your insightful articles in the future.“

1. SGIG and Deputy for Washington DC, Eric F. Konohia, conferring the 33rd and last degree of the ancient and accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry during the 136th Annual Session of the United Supreme Council held in Memphis, Tennessee (2021).

2. GIG H. Donovan Colding as the Lieutenant Grand Commander during the conferral of the 33rd and last degree of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry during the 134th Annual Session of the United Supreme Council held in Birmingham, Alabama (2019).

3. SGIG and Deputy for the Orient of the District of Columbia, Louis W. Roy Sr.

4. The four Legitimate Supreme Councils converge at Arlington National Cemetery to lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier(s). The Louis W. Roy Sr., Council of Deliberation, hosted the event as a part of their 60th Annual Session in Washington, D.C.

5. SGC Corey Hawkins presented SGIG Konohia with an original minute book from Jonathan Davis No. 1 from the late 1800s.

6. Flag presentation by the Sentinels from the Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers to SGC Hawkins, Deputy Konohia, and SGIG Danny West (MD).

7. Check the presentation of $1000 from John D. Howard Commanders of the Rite to Bread for the City Charity (April 22, 2022).

8. Deputy Konohia escorting SGC Corey Hawkins to the throne to preside during the 60th Louis W. Roy Sr., Council of Deliberation.

9. SGC Hawkins presenting GIG (MWPGM) J. Raymond Murray with his 33rd Degree Jewel.

10. VIP dinner at Sauciety hosted by Deputy Konohia in April of 2022.

11. SGIG Thurgood Marshal

12. WM Burt A.G. Overby after the raising of Mayor Marion Barry. WM Overby later became SGIG Overby and Deputy for Washington, DC.

13. SGIG/Honorable John Lewis at 133rd Annual Session of the United Supreme Council held in Washington DC (2009).

14. Annual Session of the United Supreme Council held in Louisville, KY, October 15-17, 1950.

15. Delegation of United Supreme Council Southern Juris-

We are always seeking well informed brothers to submit an editory, story idea, a article from the history and archives, a poem, or photos.

If you have those desires, please email SP Matthew Williams, 32° at chokmah@lwrsrcoddc.org.

HUMBLED

AND HONORED TO BE APPOINTED AND SERVE AS THE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Matthew Williams

“SYMBOLICALLY MOST OF THE MASTER MASONS IN YOUR LODGE ARE STILL IN THE NORTHEAST CORNER. IT IS YOUR DUTY TO GO BACK THERE AND LEAD THEM TO THE LIGHT OF THE RITE.”