The Broken Square: the Square, containing four equal sides and four equal angles, is the most perfect figure in geometry. Hence in Masonry it is the universally acknowledged symbol of perfection. And as that condition of perfection was so pre-eminently exhibited in the mystical union of our three Grand Masters, whose Wisdom, Strength, and Beauty devised, erected, and adorned the temple, so the Broken Square, by the dismemberment of the perfect figure, is emblematic of that imperfection and loss which ensued upon the untimely death of one of the three. If, therefore, the Triple Triangle is peculiarly appropriate to the Royal Arch, as symbolic of the perfect union of the Illustrious Three, so is the Broken Square equally appropriate to the Royal Master, as symbolic of the unhappy dissolution of that union by death. The Broken Square is preeminently the symbol of this degree.
How High is the Water, It’s Four Feet High and Rising By now you have heard or watched the news about the flooding in the area in and around Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The Baton Rouge Scottish Rite had over four feet of water. Most of the masonic lodges in the area have suffered flooding. They have brothers who are without homes, cars, clothes, food, work places, churches and do not know what today or tomorrow will bring - many have lost almost everything. As the water begins to go down slowly, we need to remember who we are as masons. Caring for each other, offering assistance and stretching forth that hand of charity. The Supreme Council is placing an appeal nation-wide that will very likely result in financial contributions and offers to assist in many ways. This is an appeal from me to our members in California to help, aid and assist. All donations (small or large) should be made payable and sent to the Louisiana Scottish Rite Foundation, PO Box 64 in Shreveport, LA 71161 and that it is noted for "Flood Relief. If you know of any brothers living in the Baton Rouge area that may need assistance - let me know and I will pass the name(s) to them. Thanks in advance for your assistance. Frank Loui Sovereign Grand Inspector General in California Supreme Council, 33º | Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, SJ, USA 2850 19th Avenue San Francisco, CA 94132-1602 (415) 664-6401 office (415) 664-6402 fax (415) 609-8839 mobile frankloui@aol.com
Sword & Trowel
September 2016
Volume 4 No. 04
Page 9