A JOURNEY INTO THE SCOTTISH RITE REFLECTIONS

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.