The Anchor of Society

2023 Scottish Rite Supreme Council Biennial Session

It has been four years since we were able to gather in full form without restrictions. In that time the world has changed, and just like the rest of the world, our membership has been through a lot and continues to adjust to life after the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we have lost family, friends, businesses, and members, we were encouraged by the leadership of the Supreme Council and our Sovereign Grand Commander James D. Cole, 33°. Th is Biennial Session’s commemorative coin features the phrase “Freemasonry – The Anchor of Society.” It serves as a reminder that Masonic work is important for us to feel grounded in turbulent times and for our communities that rely on the practice of our virtues.

The 2023 Biennial Session of the Scottish Rite, Southern Jurisdiction, USA was held in Washington D.C. from August 19-23 and attendees included members from Taiwan, Costa Rica, and Grand Master M.W.B. Craig A. Sipp, who was selected to receive the Degree of Knight Commander Court of Honor, an invitational Scottish Rite Degree created by the fi rst Sovereign Grand Commander Albert Pike. The event featured lectures and meetings attended by Scottish Rite Masons from all over the world. The Session culminated with the Public Session followed by the Honors Banquet. The Orient of Oregon also had the opportunity to host a private dinner attended by Grand Master Craig A. Sipp, his wife Sherri, and the Costa Rica delegation. Oregon was well represented at this year’s Biennial Session, and we all left recharged in our mission, with new memories and greater bonds of Brotherhood.

Fraternally,
Richard C. Komraus, P.G.S. Deputy of the Supreme Council for the Orient of Oregon and Richard S. Nowacki District Deputy No. 5 Western Region Donor Officer for the Supreme Council

Scottish Rite Creed

Human progress is our cause, liberty of thought our supreme wish, freedom of conscience our mission, and the guarantee of equal rights to all people everywhere our ultimate goal.