The Northern Light Summer 2022

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N ORTHER N

LIGHT

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SUMMER 2022 VOL. 53 | NO. 2

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

WHETHER YOU'RE A

CHARCOAL GUY OR A

PROPANE GUY,

W E C A N AT L E A S T AG R E E O N O U R

C O O K O U T AT T I R E .

FI ND COOKOUT APPAREL SUCH AS APRONS, POLOS, SHORTS, AND MORE AT

PRODUCTS MAY DIFFER SLIGHTLY FROM WHAT IS DISPLAYED.

THE NORTHERN LIGHT

Summer 2022

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NEWS 8 Supreme Council to Host

Global Leadership Summit

9 New Book Available 10 In Memoriam 10 Philip R. Elliott, 33˚,

Inside this issue…

4 Leadership Report

Building Bridges

6 From the Editor’s Desk

Signposts

to Host The D.C. Brief

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CULTURE

12 Ribbon Badges

Worthy of the Occasion 16 Killian H. Van Rensselaer’s 1845 Petition

11 Southern Jurisdiction

Scottish Rite Journal FEATURE

24 Pathfinder

The Journey of a Lifetime

E

EDUCATION

18 5th Degree

Perfect Master

22 HAUTS GRADES ACADEMY Knight of the East

C

CHARITIES 28 Annual Membership

Education Fund in Full Swing 30 New Castle Center Mourns Loss of Center Director 33 Arizona and Florida Luncheons Return

About This Issue This issue of The Northern Light features our newest member engagement program, Pathfinder. Designed as a companion piece to our newest campaign, “Journey On” (see The Northern Light, Spring 2022), Pathfinder enables each of us to chart our progress as we explore the many facets of Scottish Rite Freemasonry in the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction. You can read all about this innovative and challenging program on page 24.

We hope you enjoy the Summer 2022 issue of The Northern Light.

M

MEMBERSHIP

36 Beyond the Quarry: Labors of Love Preserving Our Past: The Motts Military Museum 40 Around the Jurisdiction 43 Can We Make The Northern Light Even Better?

Take the Survey

M

MASONRY 44 Joint Memorandum 46 Remarkable Freemasons: Arctic Explorers

Summer 2022

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Building Bridges In our last issue, you learned about our new anthemic campaign for Scottish Rite known as “Journey On.” My Brothers, I am pleased to introduce you to a continuation of our “Journey On” theme: Pathfinder. It comes to our members in the form of a guidebook and field book where each Scottish Rite Mason can select the unique paths he would like to take along his Scottish Rite journey. Learn more about this exciting addition to your Scottish Rite member experience on page 24.

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by Peter J. Samiec, 33˚, Sovereign Grand Commander

The spark of inspiration for our Pathfinder initiative came from a

poem by Will Allen Dromgoole called “The Bridge Builder,” where she writes:

An old man going a lone highway, Came, at the evening cold and gray, To a chasm vast and deep and wide.

Through which was flowing a sullen tide The old man crossed in the twilight dim, The sullen stream had no fear for him; But he turned when safe on the other side And built a bridge to span the tide.

“Old man,” said a fellow pilgrim near, “You are wasting your strength with building here; Your journey will end with the ending day, You never again will pass this way; You’ve crossed the chasm, deep and wide, Why build this bridge at evening tide?”

The builder lifted his old gray head; “Good friend, in the path I have come,” he said, “There followed after me to-day A youth whose feet must pass this way.

This chasm that has been as naught to me To that fair-haired youth may a pitfall be; He, too, must cross in the twilight dim; Good friend, I am building this bridge for him!”

The Northern Light

WELCOME

I’ve always found inspiration in this poem. It speaks to the very heart of Freemasonry, building for others.

Weren’t the great and magnificent edifices we often cite as the product of operative masons built for others— just as the bridge cited in this poem?

Pathfinder is that proverbial bridge to help our members, new and old, along their Scottish Rite journey. Those who created the Pathfinder program have indeed built that bridge.

My Brothers, as you forge ahead on your quest for deeper meaning, remember: there can be just as much satisfaction and beauty in the time of reflection spent along the way as there is in reaching your destination.

In other words, find the joy in the journey; it will make the achievement so much more rewarding. Keep that in mind as you venture out on your personal Masonic journey of self-

discovery. And it is exactly that—your very own.

Travel toward the light, my Brothers.

And when you get to that bridge over the chasm, remember those who built it and endeavor to pay it forward so others may benefit from your labors as well.

The key takeaway is that, as traveling men, the paths we choose and the quarries we labor in may differ, but we know in our hearts that we are never alone on our journey to more light.

With every step we take, the Grand Architect of the Universe and our Brothers have left breadcrumbs along the way to guide us, thus revealing the path to further knowledge and enrichment. Each Pathfinder mile marker will provide that additional enlightenment. Each bend in the road will reveal a new adventure. And always remember: the journey needn’t be hasty.

Summer 2022

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Signposts

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

I chose

this path. Or maybe it chose me. One may argue that since I sought out the Lodge, found two men to recommend me, and paid the requisite fees that I surely decided to be a Freemason.

Fair enough. But what if I told you that I wasn’t looking for it? Well, I wasn’t.

Maybe you have a similar story. You weren’t specifically seeking wisdom. You weren’t actively searching for answers.

You just had a longing in your soul, and something about Freemasonry chose you. It could have been the symbols.

Maybe it was the mystique given to us by pop culture.

Or maybe you really did seek Freemasonry. Perhaps you are a second, third, or fourth generation Mason and you wanted to keep the tradition going.

Maybe your coworkers belong, and they convinced you to join. It could be that all the men you admired in your youth were Brothers, and you felt that joining would help you follow in their footsteps.

This article isn’t about why you chose to become a Mason, but rather what happened next. Each of us began this journey in the same way—at an altar.

From there, though, we have followed our own signposts, stopping at every intersection to make a choice. You might have chosen to become an officer right away, or perhaps you decided to delay until your children were older. Maybe you disappeared right after your third degree but found your way back once work settled down.

Take a moment to think about the intricate web of paths that have brought

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The Northern Light

FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK

T H E

N O RT HERN LI G H T A magazine of 32˚ Scottish Rite Freemasonry

Summer 2022 | Vol. 53 | No. 2 SOVEREIGN GRAND COMMANDER Peter J. Samiec, 33° EXECUTIVE EDITOR Linda Patch

more than 93,000 members to the Scottish Rite, NMJ. We are accountants and acupuncturists, preachers and plumbers, engineers and electricians. We are artists, humanitarians, politicians, dreamers, and seekers. We are single, married, divorced, or widowed. We are grandparents, parents, or even childless.

We live in the same world but see it through very different eyes. Somehow, though, Freemasonry has brought us together.

Those fingerposts—one at every crossroad we encounter—have taken each of us on a journey. When we are living our lives in real time, we don’t see them. We aren’t aware that we are standing at an intersection when we turn in our petition, when we take our first obligation, or when we say yes to a leadership role. We can’t see it while we’re there, but in retrospect, there was life before Lodge and life after. A way of being before the Rite, and a very dissimilar one after.

Try to imagine life had you taken a different road at each of those intersections. You stand there staring at the sign. The arrows point in different directions, Freemasonry or The Easy Way. The former is overgrown, rutted, and seems to climb steeply. After all, honest self-evaluation, accountability, and the hard work of character formation aren’t easy. The other path is well-worn, smooth, and level. You have to choose.

What if you had dismissed your father when he handed you a petition? Now’s not a good time, Dad. Where would you be if you had allowed the din of the world to silence the still, small voice inside you that was asking for more?

Summer 2022

If you had let those things happen, the chances are good that you would be living a markedly different life. If you had looked up that challenging path and thought, Nah, it’s not for me, you probably wouldn’t be reading this magazine. You wouldn’t know most of your Masonic friends. After all, there is no other organization that would have allowed you to meet on the level and form those bonds. You would never have had the chance to join the Scottish Rite, to broaden your Masonic connections, or expand your understanding of yourself, your place in the world, and your duty to your fellow man.

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° SUPREME COUNCIL, 33° Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite, Northern Masonic Jurisdiction, U.S.A.

I have a difficult time with that thought exercise. I am glad that when I first learned that my grandfather was a Freemason, I listened to that part of my soul that whispered, Ask him about it.

The work has been difficult, and there is so very much more to do—my rough ashlar still looks like a jagged, round rock—but I would never trade it for the easy way.

THE NORTHERN LIGHT (ISSN 1088-4416) is published quarterly in the Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter 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

In ancient times, it was said that all roads lead to Rome. While not all roads lead to the Rite, all of ours have. Some have been winding and circuitous, others straight. Some have found the road easy, and others have struggled. If viewed from above, our individual paths to this point would be an indecipherable mess, but we have all arrived here—together— and what we have is beautiful. I am grateful for all our signposts and the decisions we made that brought us to where we are.

WEBSITE: www.ScottishRiteNMJ.org @scottishritenmj @TNLMagazine Copyright ©2022 by Trustees of the Supreme Council of the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry for the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction, U.S.A.

I await the rest of the journey.

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N SUPREME COUNCIL TO HOST

Global Leadership Summit The world around us has gone from complicated to complex. As Scottish Rite Masons, we are always looking for ways to get better.

If you are looking for a great place to get inspired, revitalized, and recharged to lead and flourish both personally and professionally, join us this year for the Global Leadership Summit.

The Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library is once again hosting the GLS, providing opportunity for Scottish Rite members to participate at a reduced price. Join others across the jurisdiction on August 4 -5 for this two-day experience which will provide inspiring leadership stories, new ideas, and a fresh perspective. The Global Leadership Summit experience features “a diverse, world-class faculty delivering fresh, actionable, and inspiring leadership insights to a global audience.”

Step into the future by discovering how to voice your vision through the insight from well-known leaders Bob Iger, Andy Stanley, Vanessa Van Edwards, Jon Acuff, and others.

Register now through the Member Center using the Priority Code provided to get the early bird rate before it ends on June 15! Join us in person at the Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library (Host Site #0732) or register for your own personal online experience.

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What’s Included with Your Ticket • In-person or Online Viewing Access LIVE & 7 Days on demand following the event • 12 High-Impact Leadership Talks • Opportunity for Community Connection Locally & Online • Arts & Entertainment

by Richard W. Elliot, 33˚, Executive Director, Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library

Leadership with a Return on Investment

83% OF ATTENDEES

Demonstrate improved teamwork, job satisfaction, and productivity

61% OF ATTENDEES

Say their organization is more effective because of clearer vision

81% OF ATTENDEES

Cite concrete ways their supervisor has become a better leader because of Summit

87% OF ATTENDEES

Feel a greater sense of significance and satisfaction in their personal and professional lives

• Powerful Leadership Stories

Who’s invited Curious, growth-minded, change-driven leaders, aspiring leaders and people who don’t yet realize the value of their influence

When Live, Thursday-Friday, August 4-5, 2022

Where In-person at a local venue near you OR online

Want to host your own private Scottish Rite Group for the Global Leadership Summit?

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Interested in providing this leadership opportunity to associated youth groups such as DeMolay or Rainbow?

Contact us at globablleadershipsummit@srmml.org with your questions or for assistance with setting up your group.

For additional information about the Summit event, go to globalleadership.org

The Northern Light

NEWS

New Book Available Freemasonry by Questions and Answers is Brother Kamel Oussayef’s annotated translation of a French manuscript. The book not only describes the rituals that were used at the conception of the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, but it also includes a groundbreaking ritual in three degrees for a female Masonic Lodge and takes the reader on a journey through the history, philosophy, religion, and social politics of the Enlightenment, presaging revolutions to come.

The manuscript is dated 1761, which may pique the interest of Masonic scholars. Though sources attest to Scottish Rite rituals being practiced in Paris and Bordeaux as early as 1743, it wasn’t until August 27, 1761, that the higher French Masonic authorities granted Brother Stephen Morin—an intercontinental merchant—a patent naming him Grand Inspector General and “authorizing and empowering him to establish perfect and sublime Masonry in all parts of the world.”

Finally, the document includes a regrettably brief, but interesting ritual for a Lodge of Adoption or women’s lodge. At the time of the creation of these lodges in the 1760s, they were all under the control of Masonic Brothers who had to be members of regular lodges. These Brothers presided over their meetings, assisted

by Grand Mistresses and other female officers. These men were like responsible legal guardians watching over minors.

After years of trials, trepidations, and tribulations, these lodges would, in the Summer 2022

Kamel Oussayef, 33˚ Biography

20th century, metamorphose into the present day exclusively female or mixed lodges.

Those familiar with The Francken Manuscript published by the Supreme Council will be familiar with the format.

A high-resolution scan of the original page will be on the left with the typeset translation on the facing page.

Kamel’s work brings a greater understanding of the higher degrees as they were practiced around the world, as well as a furtherance of the understanding of the origins of the degrees practiced by the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite.

Kamel Oussayef, 33˚, is a member of the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite in the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction of the United States of America. He was born in Sétif, Algeria; schooled during his teenage years in Sceaux, near Paris; and resided, studied, and worked in France for many years.

In 2020, he was inducted into the prestigious Society of Blue Friars as its 110th member. The organization was created 1932 to recognize authors for their innovative contributions to Masonic literature.

Freemasonry by Questions and Answers can be ordered at

!

TheMasonicMarketplace. com or Amazon.com

Kamel has worked as a volunteer at the Scottish Rite Masonic Museum and Library in Lexington, Massachusetts since 2003. His books are a contribution to the study of the genesis of the rituals of the Higher Degrees of Freemasonry. Previously published are The Book of Wisdom, The Spirit of Freemasonry, and St. Edouard, a 1748 Masonic Lodge, during the French Enlightenment.

All are annotated translations from the collection of rare French Masonic manuscripts at the Museum.

Kamel and his wife, Mary Park Lenox, live in Winchester, Massachusetts.

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NEWS

Philip R. Elliott, 33˚, to Host The D.C. Brief

In Memoriam

Ill. William E. Holland, 33°

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Ill. Stephen R. Whittaker, 33°, MSA

1948-2022

1946-2022

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our Brother and colleague, William “Bill” Holland, 33°, who was called to the Celestial Lodge on January 24, 2022.

Brother Bill worked at Supreme Council as Director of Operations for 18 years until his retirement in 2020. Prior to his career at Supreme Council, he worked at Stone and Webster as a nuclear engineer for 30 years.

Bill was a dedicated member of Freemasonry. Most notably, he was Past Deputy Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Masons of Massachusetts and received the Henry Price Medal in 2006.

He also served as Commander in Chief of Massachusetts Consistory in the Valley of Boston and was a charter member of the Order of the Thistle. He joined Scottish Rite in 1983 and received the honorary 33° in Philadelphia in 2001. He was a respected member of Norfolk Lodge, always enjoying selling Christmas trees as well as flipping pancakes at the Fourth of July breakfast.

Ever the trickster, some parked cars became the casualty of his flying pancakes. Bill also served as president and treasurer of the Needham Masonic Corporation for many years.

May we emulate the example of our beloved Brother, and may the Grand Architect hold him in His holy keeping.

Ill. Stephen R. Whittaker, Active Emeritus Member for the state of New York, laid down his working tools and passed to the Celestial Lodge on March 10, 2022.

Raised a Master Mason in Seneca Lodge in No. 797 F & A.M. of Webster, New York, where he served as Worshipful Master from 1984-1985 and Deputy District Grand Master from 1990-1991. Member of the Scottish Rite for 42 years, receiving his degrees in the Valleys of Cleveland, Ohio and Rochester, New York. Received the Meritorious Service Award on June 10, 1994. Coroneted a Sovereign Grand Inspector General, 33° Honorary Member of the Supreme Council in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on September 26, 2000. He was crowned an Active Member on August 25, 2009 and made an Active Emeritus Member in 2019.

Ill. Brother Whittaker served our country in the U.S. Army when he was drafted to go to Vietnam in 1968. Upon his return in 1970, he received a Bronze Star for his service. He is survived by his loving wife, Anna (“Ann”) Newton Whittaker and two children, Laura (Arthur) Cogan and Michael (Emily) Whittaker. He cherished his grandchildren: Brooke, Charlie, Jack, Daniel, Elena and Savannah. Steve is also survived by his brothers, Paul (Hannah) and Russ (Judy), as well as many nieces and nephews.

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Our Brothers wear many hats and come from all walks of life. Brother Philip R. Elliott, III, 33°, serves as a Washington correspondent for TIME magazine and contributor for TIME’s flagship politics newsletter, The D.C. Brief.

In the words of his TIME’s Editorin-Chief & CEO, “No one knows the corridors of Washington better than TIME’s Philip Elliott.”

In February, TIME launched a weekend edition of The D.C. Brief, where Ill. Brother Elliott moderates discussions between Washington insiders on each side of the aisle to help provide further insight into these challenging moments in history. You can learn more about Ill. Brother Elliott here: https:// time.com/author/philip-elliott/ Brother Elliott received his 33rd degree in Cleveland last year.

Before joining TIME in early 2015, he spent almost a decade at The Associated Press, where he covered politics, campaign finance, education, and the White House. He is a graduate of the E.W. Scripps School of Journalism at Ohio University.

The Northern Light

HOUSE OF THE TEMPLE MUSEUM HIGHLIGHT

The Grand Tyler’s Sword

O

fficers of Masonic lodges have distinctive emblems of office. The Tyler, posted outside the door to ensure that no one enters who is not qualified and has the permission of the presiding officer, holds a suitable implement of his office—a sword. As the title of his office implies, he “tiles,” or covers, the lodge to ensure its privacy, and his sword is an apt symbol signifying the importance of his duty.

Yet the Supreme Council of the Southern Jurisdiction long has not had an official Grand Tyler’s sword—until now. Under the direction of Sovereign Grand Commander James D. Cole, 33°, the Supreme Council commissioned an official Grand Tyler’s sword, sponsored by the Orient of Florida.

Manufactured by New London Regalia (with more than one-hundred years of Masonic sword-making experience), the majestic sword includes a straight, double-sided blade. On one side is etched “Grand Tyler’s Sword A.A.S.R., S.J. U.S.A.” The other side notes this was a gift of the Orient of Florida. The faux ivory grip bears the double-headed eagle of the Thirty-third Degree on one side and a cross potent on the other.

The gilded pommel and cross guard (connected by a chain) depict emblems of mortality—a skull and crossbones, the latter displaying a red-enameled triangle with the numerals 33. The

scabbard’s upper suspension rings are attached to a locket bearing the double-headed eagle, beneath which is a red-enameled cross potent.

The mid locket has a rayed triangle and 33. Finally, the scabbard’s decorative shoe and chape bear a Calvary cross and triangle.

Since such a magnificent symbol of protection should be stored and safeguarded Grand Tyler’s Sword Photography: properly in its own right, the Elizabeth A.W. McCarthy Orient of Missouri sponsored a beautiful display case befitting the new sword.

These beautiful gifts from the Orients of Florida and Missouri will serve the Supreme Council for generations, and they will be on display in the House of the Temple for visitors to enjoy in the near future.

-Arturo de Hoyos, 33°, GC, Grand Archivist and Grand Historian

C H I P S F R O M T H E Q U A R RY

The Wizard of Oz

W

e’re off to see the Wizard! Many of those associated with the classic 1939 film The Wizard of Oz had intriguing Masonic connections. Chips from the Quarry, the Scottish Rite Journal’s illustrated feature, recently learned Judy Garland (Dorothy) was a Job’s Daughter, Bert Lahr (Cowardly Lion) was a Mason, Ray Bolger (Scarecrow) sang a song on Broadway about being a Mason for roughly 200 performances, and Buddy Ebsen (the original Tin Man) was a DeMolay. The Wizard of Oz tribute included a beautiful portrait of Judy Garland and a pastiche of an early Emerald City of Oz book cover illustration, both created lovingly by Chips artist Travis Simpkins, 33º.

-Mark Dreisonstok, 32º, KCCH

Summer 2022

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Ribbon Badges Worthy of the Occasion In 1910, Whitehead and Hoag of Newark, New Jersey, one of the country’s largest manufacturers of novelty advertising items, proclaimed that “there is practically no event for which we cannot make an appropriate badge.” The firm, founded in 1892, created ribbons and badges for promoting products and for political campaigns, labor unions, and fairs. As seen in an illustration from an 1894 catalog, the company produced a wonderful variety of ornate ribbon badges. The ribbons made by Whitehead and Hoag and other concerns were worn by thousands of Masons and members of fraternal groups at parades, meetings, and other gatherings.

Marchers wearing ribbons on clothing and hats at processions to identify them as members of a group is long-standing tradition. Often printed on silk and

Patriarchs Militant Member, ca. 1890. Museum Purchase, 2016.003

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pinned to garments, ribbons worn at processions were intended to be used just once or only a handful of times.

Few ribbons from the early 1800s survive to the present day. The oldest ribbon in the collection of the Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library is engraved with an image of George Washington and commemorated the 1832 centennial of his birth. The owner likely wore this simple ribbon pinned to his coat at a gathering observing this anniversary. A portrait of Zachary Taylor, the twelfth President of the United States, was printed on a ribbon for a different reason.

The black outline surrounding the portrait, along with the 1850 date, suggest that this ribbon was

intended to be displayed at an event commemorating Taylor’s sudden death.

Incorporating a square and compasses, the design on this ribbon reflects the mistaken belief, held by many in Taylor’s lifetime, that the former hero of the Mexican War was a Freemason.

Over time, event organizers have used ribbon badges of different colors and designs to distinguish members of a group and to sometimes signify a wearer’s role—such as a guest at or organizer of a meeting. Ribbon badges also served as souvenirs of special occasions. The member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows portrayed in this photograph, dressed in Patriarchs Militant regalia, wears a ribbon that declares his status as a representative of the I.O.O.F. Grand Lodge of Iowa, letting others know his role even if they did not know him personally. The light-colored ribbons attached to the coats of men gathered for an 1886 meeting of the General Masonic Relief Association of the United States and Canada held in St. Louis helped identify them as members of the group. A boldly striped ribbon topped by a button showed the wearer was an attendee at a 1920 Shrine ceremonial event and parade organized

by Ziyara Temple of Syracuse, New York. Created for a one-time occasion, this badge was also a souvenir of what was doubtless a memorable parade of 3,500 Shriners.

In the late 1800s, ribbons printed specifically for particular gatherings enjoyed huge popularity. The many Knights Templar Commanderies which organized pilgrimages and

The Northern Light

C U LT U R E

by Hilary Anderson Stelling, Director of Exhibitions and Collections, Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library

Quilt, 1888-1900. Gift of William C. Roseboom, 82.6. Photograph by David Bohl

Summer 2022

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C RIBBON BADGES... continued

excursions to different locations often commissioned ribbons for these events.

In 1901, members of the Honolulu Commandery on Oahu brought bright yellow ribbons decorated with a picture of a statue of King Kamehameha I, the first ruler of Hawaii, to exchange with the other Knights Templar they met in Louisville, Kentucky. Attendees to these large meetings could collect dozens of ribbons. Seeking an enduring way to display these souvenirs, a quilter used printed ribbons on several blocks of this pieced and embroidered quilt.

This quilt features ribbons that were amassed at the Grand Encampment of Knights Templar held in New Orleans in 1874 that came from Commanderies in many states. Completed several years after 1874, this quilt is a lasting

Washington Centennial Ribbon, 1832.

Gift of Dr. William L. and Mary B. Guyton Collection, 91.046.13

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record of one member’s participation in Knights Templar activities.

The fad for exchanging printed ribbons waned over the first decades of the 1900s, but Masonic organizations continued to use ribbon badges—called convention badges by manufacturers— at meetings and special events. In 1900, guests to a Ladies’ Night at St. John’s Lodge in Boston wore white ribbon badges that functioned as tickets to the reception and as handsome souvenirs of the evening. Decades later, in 1961, Amos Carter of Marshall, Missouri, wore a ribbon badge that served as both his name tag and a souvenir of the 95th Grand Session of the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Missouri that was preserved decades after the gathering.

Honolulu Commandery No. 1 Ribbon, 1901. Grand Lodge of Masons in Massachusetts, GL2004.6062

Badge manufacturers Whitehead and Hoag, advertising their products in the 1930s, noted of these products that “the badge is often the only tangible souvenir that remains...a pleasant reminder of all the…good times experienced.” Based on the many examples in the collection of the Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library, it seems that many attendees to special Masonic events did, indeed, cherish their ribbon badges as souvenirs. In making their case for ribbons, Whitehead and Hoag also recommended that organizing committees not let “a few cents to stand in the way of obtaining a suitable badge.” They encouraged organizers to “give special attention to the selection of a badge” to be sure to make a selection that was “worthy of the occasion.”

Ziyara Temple Visitor Ribbon Badge, 1920. Bastian Brothers Co., Rochester, New York. Gift of Captain and Mrs. Sidney Helliwell, SC78.25.3c

95th Grand Session, Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Missouri Ribbon Badge, 1961.

Museum Purchase, 2021.005.1

The Northern Light

C U LT U R E

For more information about the exhibition and the Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library, visit srmml.org.

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Interested in seeing more ribbon badges? The Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library has hundreds in its collection. To explore more, visit our online collections at https:// www.srmml.org/ collections/.

Members of the General Masonic Relief Association of the United States and Canada, 1886. John Moore, St. Louis, Missouri. Gift of J.F. Smith, 80.48

Back Cover The Whitehead & Hoag Co. Manufacturers of Metal Celluloid and Ribbon Badges, 1894. Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library, A2002/5/1

St. John's Lodge Ladies' Night Ribbon Badge, 1900. Grand Lodge of Masons in Massachusetts, GL2004.4700.

Photograph by David Bohl

Summer 2022

Taylor Mourning Ribbon, 1850.

Museum Purchase, 98.008

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Killian H. Van Rensselaer’s 1845 Petition

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

“I

most humbly beg leave to offer myself as a candidate for admission into your Illustrious and Puissant Council...” reads this petition addressed to the Supreme Council, 33°, Northern Masonic Jurisdiction, and signed by Killian Henry Van Rensselaer (1800-1881), a 44-year-old Mason from New York, in 1845. This petition was the first step toward Van Rensselaer becoming an Active Member of the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction’s Supreme Council. In less than 20 years, Van Rensselaer would become its sixth Sovereign Grand Commander, serving from 1861-67.

The process by which Van Rensselaer received the 33rd degree is very different from how it works today.

Van Rensselaer’s petition documents the activities of the Supreme Council at the time. Viewed in a broader context, this slip of paper shows the work of John James Joseph Gourgas (17771865), the NMJ’s Sovereign Grand Commander from 1832 through 1851, and helps tell the story of the rebirth of the NMJ in the 1840s.

Gourgas, living in New York City, along with Schenectady-based Giles Fonda Yates (1798-1859), had essentially kept the Scottish Rite’s NMJ alive from 1826 through the early 1840s.

During this time, a social and political movement now known as the AntiMasonic Movement, curtailed much Masonic activity in the Northeast of the United States and brought the Supreme Council’s official activities to a

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standstill. During these years, Gourgas and Yates were effectively a Supreme Council of two people, preserving the organization’s records and corresponding with one another about the plight of American Freemasonry from the late 1820s through the early 1840s. When the social climate changed and members began to rebuild Scottish Rite Freemasonry in the early 1840s, Gourgas and Yates sought to find Brothers, like Van Rensselaer, who could help revive the Council, starting in 1844. Van Rensselaer’s petition is part of that story. With the exception of Van Rensselaer’s signature, the petition is entirely in the handwriting of John James Joseph Gourgas (1777-1865).

Gourgas wrote out this petition—Van Rensselaer needed only to sign it.

Becoming a 33rd Degree Member Today, no one petitions to become a 33rd degree member or to join the Supreme Council. Sublime Princes of the Royal Secret (i.e., 32nd degree members) are nominated, elected, and then created Sovereign Grand Inspectors General of the 33rd degree.

Most 33rd degree Scottish Rite Masons are non-voting Honorary Members, a rank of 33° that the Supreme Council created in 1865. The Supreme Council itself is comprised of Active Members who serve on various committees and have voting privileges within the Council. When a seat opens on the Supreme Council, an Honorary Member is elevated to the rank of Active Member to fill it.

Killian H. Van Rensselaer in Proceedings of the Supreme Council, 1883. Collection of the Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library, 17.9735 Un58 1882.

Photograph by David Bohl.

In 1845, the category of 33rd degree Honorary Member did not exist, so any Sublime Prince who was crowned a 33° was automatically an Active Member of the Supreme Council. Van Rensselaer was among the seven new members who Gourgas and Yates selected to expand the Supreme Council in 1844 and 1845. These additions turned the Supreme Council into a nine member group, as prescribed by the Constitutions. If not for Gourgas and Yates, it is unlikely that the NMJ’s Supreme Council would have survived.

Not only did they keep safe the documents of the Supreme Council, NMJ, during the Council’s inactivity, but when Freemasonry came back to life in the 1840s, they recruited enthusiastic Masons like Van Rensselaer to help rebuild the Scottish Rite Fraternity in the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction.

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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.

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If you’d like to take a closer look at Van Rensselaer’s petition, visit the Van Gorden-Williams Library & Archives Digital Collections site: https:// digitalvgw.omeka.net/ items/show/1169.

Have questions? Drop us a line at library@srmml. org or give us a call at 781-457-4109.

Handwritten petition for Killian H. Van Rensselaer, 1845.

Gift of the Supreme Council of the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction of the Scottish Rite, SC 300.002.

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Perfect Master 5 T H

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by Mark C. Roth, 33°, Grand Lieutenant Commander and Active for New Hampshire

Perfect Master, the 5th degree, fits nicely into the repertoire of degrees of the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction. A candidate witnesses Builder, the 4th degree, to begin his Scottish Rite journey. The 4th degree is not a cliffhanger. We know how it ends. But there is anticipation of what comes next! In the degree lineup, it is Perfect Master. But what we see today as the 5th degree was not always the 5th degree. In the historical notes of the 5th degree, we read this paragraph: “The [Rituals and Ritualistic Matters] Committee had deemed it appropriate to transfer the Old Testament lessons, as exemplified in the 1930 Ritual of the 23°, to the 5°. Accordingly, this degree now teaches that impure thoughts and selfish, unworthy ambitions are corruptive and destructive, and that a man who forgets his duty to family, country and God will be morally and spiritually destroyed.”

Today we are less concerned with the chronological order of degrees than our Brothers of previous centuries. They experienced Scottish Rite in a different way. As originally intended, the 4th through 14th degrees of the Lodge of Perfection were conferred in order so that each degree prepared the candidate for the full unveiling of the Name of God in the 14th Degree (see “Whom Virtue Unites” McIntosh, M. T. The Northern Light, Spring 2022). If this order would be observed in today’s Northern Masonic Jurisdiction, the 5th degree would be seen after the 4th and followed by the 6th and so on. While a Valley may choose to follow this order, it is not a requirement. But the 4th degree is required to be the first degree Summer 2022

witnessed by a candidate, and the road to the 32nd degree runs through a minimum of three other degrees of the NMJ. Just as your GPS will give you alternative routes to reach your destination, so does the Scottish Rite.

That is, the three degrees leading to the 32nd can be any of the degrees in any order. The next degree on your Scottish Rite journey may not be Perfect Master.

In fact, analysis of passports reveals that the 5th degree is one of the least viewed degrees. For those who have not seen it, I encourage you to check the schedule of degrees on scottishritenmj. org/degree-dates and make plans to witness it.

Just as your GPS will give you alternative routes to reach your destination, so does the Scottish Rite.

The story that is told in the 5th degree is biblical and conveys the Core Values of Reverence for God, Justice, and Integrity. The degree exemplifies diligent labor, wisdom, skill, and love as faithful service and true worship which is rewarded. In contrast, jealousy,

deceit, and self-service result in death.

A discussion of this degree leads to a consideration of leadership values.

The degree is placed in the early period of Israel’s wandering in the wilderness after the exodus from Egypt. The construction of the Tabernacle and all its furnishings are complete according to specifications directed by God. The precise building of the Tabernacle and the construction of its furnishings are evidence of the deep respect and awe for the Lord held by Bezaleel and Aholiab. When Moses and Aaron come to consecrate the Tabernacle and its Sacred Furniture, they are impressed with their workmanship that demonstrates the wisdom, understanding, and skill given to them by the Lord. Their faithful service to God is honorable and worthy of praise and is seen as a form of worship. Who could create so great and beautiful a sanctuary other than those who truly love the Lord? Moses is so excited that he proclaims a new order—The Order of Perfect Master. Moses lifts up Aholiab and Bezaleel as examples to be emulated, because their diligent work and service is an expression of their Reverence for God. ScottishRiteNMJ.org

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PERFECT MASTER... continued

The scene is now set. Bezaleel and Aholiab are consecrated Perfect Masters, charged to guard the sacred place. Nadab and Abihu, sons of Aaron the Priest, witness the glory given to workers who are not of their own priestly tribe. Jealousy and greed consume them. Nadab and Abihu cannot subdue the dishonorable passions that well up within them.

They covet personal power and believe that it is their right to be King and High Priest simply because they are the sons of Aaron. They are certain that “…all the powers of Heaven shall not prevail against us.”

Nadab and Abihu may hold the title of Priest but fail to grasp the meaning of their work—their service to God. They are so consumed with arrogance, greed, and ambition that they ignore their duty in spite of the repeated warnings to watch the Sacred Fire. They allow the Sacred Fire, the presence of the Lord, to slowly diminish and finally go out. To make matters worse, when they realize what they have done, they try to fool Moses and Aaron. They use “strange fire” to rekindle the flame just as they would use “Egyptian magic” to trick the people! But they are wrong.

God cannot be fooled. Lying and deception are not tolerated. Nadab and Abihu pay the penalty! Justice is served.

hand, are just the opposite. They lack integrity and serve only themselves.

They dream of ruling with an iron hand. They deceive and cajole to gain power and riches. They have no problem lying to Moses and Aaron and disrespect their service to God.

We do not need to search far to find the lesson of Integrity in the 5th degree.

Perfect Master clearly illustrates the Core Value of Reverence for God. We find it in the superior skill and intellect that led to noble work in the construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings, in the devotion of the priestly duties of worship and prayer, and in keeping the presence of God alive. The 5th degree makes clear that justice will be rendered to those whose greed and self-centeredness cause them to think only of serving themselves thereby turning away from God. It condemns those who fail to live by the principles of truth, honesty, and service.

After viewing the degree, ask yourself, “Who are the leaders in this degree?”

Are the leaders Moses and Aaron who come in official capacity to consecrate the Tabernacle? Are the leaders Bezaleel and Aholiab who use their skill and labor in love to serve the Lord? Are the leaders Nadab and Abihu who plot and plan to use their positions against their people for their own glory and power? Who are the servant leaders in the 5th degree?

Who are the leaders who illustrate Reverence for God, Justice, and Integrity?

In writing this review of Perfect Master, I thought of the following passage from the Ceremonial of Open Installation of Officers of Subordinate Bodies.

“The possession of a title indicates no superiority unless accompanied by superior knowledge and greater capacity for doing good. Only that which one learns and does in Masonry makes him superior to his brethren and that superiority can be one of intellect and moral character only.”

Watch the Sacred Fire, my Brothers!

We do not need to search far to find the lesson of Integrity in the 5th degree.

Bezaleel and Aholiab serve as examples of sincerity and honesty—men of integrity. They labored with love to fulfill the law of the Lord. They praise each other for the respective jobs well done. Nadab and Abihu, on the other 20

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TOLERANCE DEVOTION TO COUNTRY REVERENCE FOR GOD JUSTICE SERVICE TO HUMANITY INTEGRITY Just one of the six Core Values that makes a Scottish Rite Mason a Scottish Rite Mason.

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by Scott Muller, 33°, MSA, HGA Valley of Scranton

What does it mean to keep an obligation or a promise? This question is

at the heart of the 15th degree, Knight of the East. The Core Value of the degree is Integrity.

What is integrity? What would you have done if you were put in a case similar to Zerubbabel?

Are there other examples of integrity in this degree? I think these are all questions that must be examined when looking at the 15th degree.

Integrity is the adherence to ethical or moral principles. An obligation is an action to which someone is morally or legally bound. These two things come together with the character Zerubbabel.

He has taken the obligation of the ancient Craft of Masonry and is unwilling to freely reveal its secrets for any price. The price is a great one, too: the freedom of his people. If you place the two choices upon a scale, you might think that the scale would tip toward freedom. What would be the consequences if Zerubbabel revealed the secrets thereby setting his people free?

From a practical standpoint, if Cyrus was given the secrets, Zerubbabel would receive the freedom of his people, gold, the holy vessels, and the Ark of the Covenant. On the other hand, he would have lost his integrity, not only to his people but also to Cyrus. The consequences would have a cumulative effect. His fellow Masons would have known that he had broken his obligation. If he did this, what other obligations and promises would he renege on? The people would also know and would question if he could be trusted to lead them. Cyrus would also question whether Zerubbabel is a man who could be trusted to be his neighbor and ally.

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Who else shows integrity in this degree? The easiest to see is Daniel.

His integrity is based on his ability as a prophet and interpreter of dreams.

His integrity may also be the hardest with which to live. It is easy being a prophet when you interpret a dream the way the dreamer wishes, but what about when it is not what they want to hear? People like to hear good things; they do not like bad news and that is what Daniel sometimes has to give. In addition, Daniel is in exile with the Jewish people. When he interprets Cyrus’ dream, is he doing it just to help his people or is it the true interpretation? Daniel walks on a tightrope. His explanations of dreams may not be to the liking of his people.

They may not be to the liking of Cyrus.

But if he maintains his integrity, he will continue to be respected.

How about Cyrus, does he show integrity? From a quick reading one would think that Cyrus is only out to gain something for himself. Does he really desire the secrets of Ancient Craft Masonry, or does this demand have a different purpose? We know that Cyrus does not like to hear things that are not favorable to him. This is quite apparent in Daniel’s interpretation of his dream.

He does, though, want to know if the exiles want freedom and will be successful if they are given it. That is

perhaps the reason he puts Zerubbabel to the challenge of the ransom. Cyrus does not ask for the mysteries freely, but as a ransom. There is a difference.

Cyrus is a great king. His integrity is based on how he rules, how he treats his subjects, how he deals with his enemies and many other things. If he is a good ruler, he will want to deal with people of similar integrity. So, although it may appear that Cyrus is trying to get something which he does not deserve, he might just be seeing if Zerubbabel is deserving of his desire.

Integrity is a fine line. Each of us has to make decisions that affect our integrity. Do you choose what people want to hear, or do you give them a truth that they may not want to hear?

We can only answer that for ourselves.

How you answer is important, because no matter how small the issue may seem, you must live with your response for the rest of your life. Every action has a reaction, and like ripples in a pond, they spread out and even affect things on the shoreline. Integrity is a lesson to be learned.

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To learn more about HGA and sign up for the waitlist, visit

ScottishRiteNMJ.org/ hauts-grades-academy

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Pathfinder The Journey of a Lifetime In February 2022, we announced “Journey On,” the inspiring new campaign for Scottish Rite. At that time, we promised the membership of the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction that the campaign was just the beginning of additional, rich programming designed to enhance your Scottish Rite experience.

It is now the distinct pleasure of your Supreme Council to present Pathfinder, The Journey of a Lifetime.

By now you should have received the Pathfinder kit, which was mailed to each of you at the address on record at the Supreme Council. While the package contains all the detailed information you need to get started and complete the program, let’s take a deeper dive into what the program is all about.

Pathfinder and You

Your journey and search for Masonic light began in the Blue Lodge. After being raised to the Sublime Degree of a Master Mason, the world of Freemasonry opened wide. When you chose to join the Scottish Rite, NMJ, our 29 degrees offered the journey of a lifetime in your pursuit of further light in Masonry. The Pathfinder program is designed help continue your quest for selfimprovement.

Said John Brian McNaughton, Director of Program Management and architect of the Pathfinder initiative,

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“Whether you are a newly initiated 32° Scottish Rite Mason or have been a member for decades, there are many paths forward—a myriad of ways to seek greater wisdom and to evolve as a man and a Mason.

Let Pathfinder help you find yours.”

Pathfinder, Member Inspired

In our most recent survey of the Scottish Rite membership, the top “reasons to join” formed the foundation of the Journey On campaign. Pathfinder also responds to and builds upon those findings.

There is a widespread call from members for more opportunities to extend their Masonic and personal journeys. Your call for more Masonic education and ways to go deeper into our values did not go unheeded.

by Linda Patch, Director of Marketing and Communications

Top Reasons to Join the Scottish Rite

89% 81% 78% 60% Continuing the Masonic journey

Continuing my personal journey

Expanding my Fraternal circle

Educational opportunities

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THE JOURNEY OF A LIFETIME... continued

How Does Pathfinder Work?

By participating in various activities and exploring the resources of the Scottish Rite, Pathfinder serves as a guide for 32° Masons to uncover the road that leads to the most personally fulfilling membership experience possible.

Waypoints

Mile Markers

Within each Waypoint there is a list of 15-20 objectives/tasks called Mile Markers from which you can choose.

Each Mile Marker activity guides you to further discovery, knowledge, and Fraternal connection that help you become the best version of the man you know you can be.

Pathfinder is divided into five separate categories called Waypoints. These areas allow you to explore facets of the NMJ you might have never encountered. You chart your own personal journey through these separate areas that help define your unique Scottish Rite experience:

To explore the Scottish Rite fully, you will engage in five areas significant to a rewarding Scottish Rite member experience: • Organization • Self-Improvement • Valley Life • Enrichment Programs • Service & Philanthropy

“As with any journey or adventure, there will always be some paths that are easier than others,” advises Brother McNaughton.

Organization

Self-Improvement

Valley Life

Enrichment Programs

Service & Philanthropy

“You are encouraged to challenge yourself and select Mile Markers that push yourself to grow and learn through this experience.”

The Guidebook (Digital Only)

The Pathfinder Guidebook clearly explains what is required to complete each Mile Marker. Inside the cover of the Field Book you received is a QR code leading to the digital Guidebook, which provides an overview of the entire Pathfinder program.

The guidelines and resources to complete the program and sections detailing each of the Waypoints and Mile Markers are outlined in detail.

You can also find the Guidebook at ScottishRiteNMJ.org/Pathfinder.

Said Brother McNaughton, “The resources provided in the Guidebook also work to point you to the information you need to have to create the most impactful personal experience possible.

The work of Pathfinder reminds us that in our personal journey of life, we do not have all the answers and should humbly seek wisdom and guidance from above and support from our fellow travelers.” !

Scan to visit the digital Guidebook

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F E AT U R E

Keeping Track of Your Progress

Can Pathfinder Be Completed More Than Once?

The Field Book We know how much our members enjoy the degree passport program.

Your Pathfinder Field Book is designed similarly and allows you to record your Mile Marker accomplishments as well as personal notes and highlights of the experience.

Absolutely! Pathfinder can be completed multiple times without duplicating the experience.

For those who complete the Pathfinder Program, advanced content in a future release with more complex and challenging Mile Markers is forthcoming. We will keep you updated on the website, through social media, and email.

When you complete the requirements of a Mile Marker to the best of your ability, you may then sign and date your Field Book entry as being complete. Your progress in this program rests entirely upon your word and honor as a man and a Mason.

Charting Pathfinder Progress in the Member Center You can also update your Pathfinder progress in the Member Center within your personal profile. Be sure to create a Member Center account if you do not already have one. The Pathfinder link is on your dashboard.

Keeping your entries up to date in the Member Center safeguards your progress should your Field Book be lost or misplaced.

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Scan to visit the Pathfinder website

Questions?

If you have read through the Guidebook and need additional procedural assistance/support for the Pathfinder Program, please submit a Pathfinder help ticket.

For general questions, you can reach out through Live Chat on the Scottish Rite, NMJ website or you can contact us at pathfinder@srnmj.org.

Completing the Program

To successfully complete the Pathfinder program, you will need to complete 32 Mile Markers—six within each of the five Waypoints and two additional Mile Markers of your choice.

These must be updated in your Field Book and in the Pathfinder section of the Member Center to then receive the much-deserved recognition package from the Supreme Council.

Journey On, Brethren.

Journey On. ScottishRiteNMJ.org/Pathfinder

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Annual Membership Education Fund in Full Swing What is the Membership Education Fund?

Our newest Scottish Rite charity, the Membership Education Fund, provides Brothers with the tools they need to build a better tomorrow for the Scottish Rite, Northern Masonic Jurisdiction. Each initiative supported by the Membership Education Fund works to carry out our Fraternity’s vision to care for our members and enhance the Scottish Rite experience through education.

So, what does this charity help make possible?

Beginning the Journey:

From the moment a Brother joins the Scottish Rite, NMJ, the Membership Education Fund is there to help him expand his knowledge and understanding along his path. Each new Scottish Rite member is gifted with an informative New Member Kit. It is filled with introductory information to help him get up to speed on the many programs Scottish Rite offers.

The Scottish Rite, NMJ, is committed to being a leader in Freemasonry, offering an experience like no other appendant body. New member kits kick off this experience.

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Enhancing the Experience:

Many of the educational programs introduced in the last few years were formed to break down the barriers that have kept Brothers from experiencing all that Scottish Rite has to offer. Our Rite on the Road kits do just that, giving Brothers the chance to witness degrees closer to home.

Rite on the Road provides Valley officers with the tools necessary

to initiate members anytime and anywhere while ensuring proper protocols are still followed.

When the COVID-19 pandemic halted the regular performance of degrees at our Valleys, the Supreme Council was determined to find a way for these experiences of connection and education to continue. That’s where the idea for Thursday Night at the Rite was born. Just wrapping up its third season, Thursday Night at the Rite has allowed Brothers to enjoy the full Scottish Rite experience from the comfort of their homes.

More than 1,500 new Scottish Rite Masons were initiated through our Virtual Reunions.

These efforts grew to include the Scottish Rite, NMJ’s Virtual Reunions, where members were given the opportunity to gather virtually through one-day events to further their quest for light. More than 1,500 new Scottish Rite Masons were initiated through our Virtual Reunions, joined by thousands of current members who tuned in to view the degrees and lend their support to their new Brethren.

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CHARITIES

by Bridget Steele Associate Director, Charities

Seeking Further Light:

The Hauts Grades Academy (HGA) was designed to promote the education, knowledge, and engagement of members in the Scottish Rite, NMJ. Operating under the motto Sapere Aude, or “Dare to Know,” the HGA is a multilevel program for members looking to delve deeper into the lessons of the Scottish Rite’s 29 degrees. Through research, reflection, and writing, members learn more about the Scottish Rite, NMJ degrees and how to apply their Core Values in everyday life. More than 70 Brothers have completed this enriching experience, earning the honor of becoming a Scottish Rite Hauts Grades Academic.

Exploring New Paths:

Our newest educational initiative, the Pathfinder Program, seeks to answer the question: “What’s next for Brothers once they receive the 32nd degree?”

Using a multitude of activities called “Mile Markers,” the program leads members to discover the experiences, knowledge, and objectives that speak to them while taking the time to engage in personal reflection to get the most out of their Scottish Rite journey.

When members donate $50 or more to the Membership Education Fund, they receive a limited-edition coin highlighting one of the Scottish Rite’s six Core Values.

This year’s coin features the Core Value of Integrity, a guiding force along every Scottish Rite Mason’s journey.

Visit DonateRite.org to

More than 70 Brothers have completed this enriching experience, earning the honor of becoming a Scottish Rite Hauts Grades Academic.

secure your coin today!

These important efforts are only possible because of your support of the Scottish Rite Membership Education Fund. Thank You!

Summer 2022

Support Incentive

Support the Membership Education Fund at DonateRite.org

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New Castle Center Mourns Loss of Center Director For more than 15 years, Melissa Merritt served as the Director of the Children’s Dyslexia Center of Western Pennsylvania in New Castle, Pennsylvania. There, she dedicated her life to helping students with dyslexia discover their passions for reading and writing, and to training dozens of educators throughout her community.

As Director, Melissa was known for her compassion and unfailing dedication to those she served at the Center.

“We always knew that she was in our corner and would do anything she could to help us,” said Elise Orazem,

the current Director of the Western Pennsylvania Center, who had spent the last two years as Co-Director with Merritt. “She really made us into a family.” Adding, “She never met a stranger. She was likeable and approachable.”

Melissa was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2016. Even as it eventually metastasized to her bones, requiring her to undergo multiple procedures and leading to painful breaks, it never kept her out of the Center for long.

“I can’t even tell you how many surgeries she had Melissa in Maine

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over the past four years. Maybe 20?

Her leg would break, her shoulder would break, her neck broke. The crazy thing was that she would have surgery and three days later she would be like, ‘Okay, I’m going to the bank and then I’ll be in the Center.’

And she’d be in here with crutches and a wheelchair, a cast, and braces— all kinds of things. She was just unstoppable,” Orazem said.

She loved being here.

She loved seeing the families, seeing the students and being in touch with the tutors.

She was so positive this fall.

One of Melissa’s most ambitious projects focused on the development of new and improved student notebooks that would allow for greater consistency and guidance across lessons. Even as she struggled through multiple surgeries and hospitalizations, she continued to research and improve on these notebooks so that every student could have access to the same quality of materials.

Unfortunately, the project stalled at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and remained unfinished throughout.

“It frustrated her, and she frequently mentioned that when we were back in-person, this project needed to be

The Northern Light

CHARITIES

by Jocelyn Wallace Grant Writer and Coordinator

finished. I think that's why it sticks in our minds so strongly—she always worked so hard to meet needs, and this one was unfinished.”

She never met a stranger. She was likeable and approachable.

The Center eventually reopened in the Fall of 2021, and no one was happier about it than Melissa. “It was wonderful being back in the Center. She loved being here. She loved seeing the families, seeing the students and being in touch with the tutors. She was so positive this fall.

She was just very happy to be back here.”

Melissa passed away January 8th, 2022, after her seven-and-a-half year battle with cancer. She was 54.

“They [the students and staff] were devastated when she passed away.

They were just totally distraught. At her memorial service, our whole staff showed up, people from the Valley came, former tutors who haven’t worked here in years came, parents of students came. There was just a very, very strong showing, obviously, of the impact that she had in our Center and through the Center.”

slowing down at all. We are holding a training class in June. We had 12 people interested in the last six weeks and we haven’t even sent out an ad or anything about it. It was really encouraging. We are moving forward,” she said.

“We want to continue to be that kind of organization that is supportive of our families, and our community, and the students that we serve. We want to continue to educate, to train educators and any other adult who is willing to be a part of our program.”

We always knew that she was in our corner and would do anything she could to help us.

Melissa sharing a smile with her niece

The Center will be hosting an event on May 19th at the Scottish Rite Cathedral in New Castle, Pennsylvania to celebrate the success of students and tutors graduating from the program and to honor Merritt’s memory and years of service.

To learn more about the Children’s Dyslexia Center of Western Pennsylvania, or how you can get involved, please visit: www.childrensdyslexiacenters.org

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Melissa Merritt

With Merritt’s passing, Orazem and the rest of the Center are focused on honoring her legacy. “We’re not

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TOLERANCE SERVICE TO HUMANITY DEVOTION TO COUNTRY JUSTICE REVERENCE FOR GOD INTEGRITY Just one of the six Core Values that makes a Scottish Rite Mason a Scottish Rite Mason.

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CHARITIES

Arizona and Florida Luncheons Return

This year,

Sovereign Grand Commander Peter J. Samiec returned to in-person luncheons in Arizona and Florida. The receptions are a great way to reconnect with Scottish Rite Brothers, meet Commander Samiec, and learn about the great ways our Scottish Rite Charities are helping those who need it most.

On the Arizona trip in February, the team visited Sun City West and Mesa. The Florida trip in March included luncheons in The Villages, Tampa, Bradenton, and Bonita Springs.

Keep an eye on coming issues of The Northern Light for next year’s dates. You won’t want to miss it.

AZ Summer 2022

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M Beyond the Quarry: Labors of Love

Preserving Our Past: The Motts Military Museum At the Scottish Rite, NMJ, our Core Values of Tolerance, Integrity, Justice, Reverence for God, Devotion to Country, and Service to Humanity represent the essence of our Brotherhood. As such, we strive to recognize Brothers who go above and beyond in their commitment to the Craft and our Core Values.

Described as one of Ohio’s “hidden gems” and a “must-see” by visitors, Motts Military Museum is an incredible preservation of U.S. history and serves as a reminder of the heroic sacrifice that our country’s veterans and first responders make every day.

Brother Warren Motts, 32˚

We spoke with Brother Warren Motts, 32˚, and we discussed Brother Motts’ Masonic journey and how he honors U.S. military and first responders through the founding of the Motts Military Museum with artifacts from his private collection. Brother Motts has dedicated much of his life to educating the public on the history of the U.S military and its significance in preserving our American freedom.

Since its inception in 1987, the museum has grown significantly and is now home to hundreds of U.S. military artifacts, as well as the second largest collection of artifacts from 9/11.

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Read on as we chat with Brother Motts about his museum, his military experience, the importance of our country’s military and first responders, and how the Core Values of the Scottish Rite play an everyday role in his life and career.

TNL: When did you first become

interested in the history of the U.S. military?

WM: When I was a little kid, I used to play soldiers. But I also wanted to be a photographer. In 1959, I joined the National Guard while I was still in high school, and when I graduated, I went to Fort Knox in Kentucky for basic training. I then went on to Fort Monmouth in New Jersey where I was trained as a combat photographer.

I never made it to combat, but with the education I received in the military, I ended up owning my own photography business, Motts Photographic Center, for 25 years. I even ended up photographing events

such as the riots in the 60s.

The reason I moved from photography into history and ended up with this museum is because I enjoyed learning about the Civil War as a hobby. I decided to do a photographic recreation of the Battle of Gettysburg; it took three years of research and an additional three years to put it together. I made a 53-minute documentary about it—my re-creation was the first time that it had ever been done. From that experience, I realized I have to collect this stuff.

TNL: Your museum’s mission is

to “educate the public on the importance of America’s military past through the documentation, collection, interpretation, and preservation of tangible artifacts and personal stories of the men and women who served and are serving in the United States Armed Forces.”

Why is this mission so important to you?

WM: It’s important because I’ve found that much of the younger generation does not understand all that our military personnel have gone through,

Warren poses with Paul Tibbets, advisory board member and pilot of the Enola Gay

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by Joann Williams-Hoxha, Content Manager

especially those that died defending the great freedom that we have. A lot of these young people think that our freedom is just there—but freedom is a precious thing.When I started, I thought that if I’m going to create a museum, it has to include everything.

The museum is unique, because most of the artifacts here have a documented story. To me, the stories are just as important as the artifacts, because that’s what makes them alive for the kids that visit.

A lot of these young people think that our freedom is just there— but freedom is a precious thing.

The veterans are also very appreciative.

Usually, veterans don’t get many kudos, but when they come to the museum, they realize that someone really did care about what they went through.

My minister told me this museum would be a “healing museum” and I didn’t understand that until I saw these veterans come in, and it really is.

Paul Tibbets aboard the Enola Gay

Summer 2022

A look inside Motts Military Museum

TNL: Motts Military Museum has

the second largest collection of artifacts from the attacks on 9/11.

Have you discovered anything surprising or new since building this collection?

WM: While collecting artifacts for the museum, I have learned everything you could possibly learn. When someone gives me something, I always aim to learn all about its story.

I have become good friends with five New York firemen who were at Ground Zero and come to the museum every year on September the 11th for a memorial ceremony I host.

They have since given me artifacts for the museum. One of these I had previously known nothing about. In New York when the Twin Towers went down, there was something called a stokes basket. First responders would put the remains of a victim in and

cover it with an American flag to carry them off-site. Most of those victims were policemen or firemen. One of the volunteers gave me the stokes basket that they used at Ground Zero.

Another gave me the American flag that they covered the bodies with.

Curating the museum is a constant learning process. There is so much to learn; when I give a tour, I always ask visitors, “How long do you have?”

TNL: What is the biggest takeaway

from your experience running the museum?

WM: The greatest takeaway from running this museum is the people I have met throughout it all. I have met some incredible people, and they have become my very good friends.

Ron Rosser, who got the Medal of Honor in Korea, he has passed away, but he became one of my great

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friends. We sat and talked for hours.

You take a normal person and wonder how they can do things that are far beyond what a human could do.

When I got to talking to Ron and other combat veterans, they said that when something goes wrong in combat and you have to react, you just have to do it without thought. When it boils down to it and there’s fighting all around you, you adopt the mindset of “you have to save your friends and defend America before anything else.”

He also wrote a book about Lewis Armstead, who was a Mason (Trust in God and Fear Nothing: Lewis A. Armistead, CSA by Wayne E. Motts).

He was a Confederate in the Civil War and was a very good friend of Winfield Scott Hancock, a Union general. At the Battle of Gettysburg, Armstead was severely wounded. When that happened, he handed his Masonic items to his aide and told him to give the items to Hancock. From this research, my son decided to become a Freemason and is now the historian for Good Samaritan Lodge No. 336 in Gettysburg. It all started with what I was collecting here.

TNL: What is the most unusual

Warren with a Port Authority vehicle salvaged from Ground Zero

Another takeaway is that my son became interested in history through my work. I started taking him to Gettysburg when he was one year old. At 15, he taught a class at Ohio State University to master’s degree students on the history of the Battle of Gettysburg. He later went to Ohio State, graduated, and told me he wanted to be a guide. He went to Gettysburg, took the test to be a guide there, and became the youngest battlefield guide at Gettysburg at that time. He is now the CEO and President of the Gettysburg Foundation.

artifact you’ve collected?

WM: The flag of the 17th Pennsylvania Cavalry- that’s really a rare piece.

There is not another flag in existence today of the 17th Pennsylvania Cavalry. I have the only one.

I also just had someone bring in a Colt-Vickers machine gun, which is a 1918 machine gun—the type that was mounted on Captain Eddie Rickenbacker’s airplane in WWI. I had never seen one before!

Someone also brought me a diary that had written in it a story about the owner of the diary’s ship finding Rickenbacker floating on a raft in the water during WWI. Rickenbacker had spent 25 days floating in the ocean before they found him.

I get all these unusual things, and they end up tying into other things I have, too.

TNL: Do you have any artifacts

connected to Masonry?

WM: I have miniature Masonic emblems that were working tools used in the American Civil War battlefield. I also have the pins that Civil War Freemason soldiers wore to indicate that they were a part of Freemasonry—in some cases this would save their life. Masons were both North and South, so if one Mason saw another on the opposing side, they would have a tendency to take care of each other.

TNL: When did you first hear about

Masonry and why did it appeal to you?

WM: It was when I was the official photographer for the American Freedom Train. I travelled on the

Volunteers restore a C-47 at the museum

PRODUCTS MAY DIFFER SLIGHTLY FROM WHAT IS DISPLAYED.

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!

Beyond the Quarry: Labors of Love is a new recurring column that will feature Masons outside of the Lodge. Do you have an interesting hobby, event, or recreational activity that you would like to share with us? If so, contact editor@srnmj. org and let us know about it. You just might find yourself featured in a coming issue.

train all over the country for the bicentennial in 1975 and 1976, and I documented all the artifacts onboard.

That is where I decided to become a Mason. When I was on this train, I noticed that one of the men aboard, Bill Sprinkle, always had a lot of people coming up to talk to him. I asked him, “How do you know all these people?” and he said, “Well, they are all my Brothers.” I started asking questions, and I ended up deciding that becoming a Freemason would be a great idea. I went back home and when I was raised, Bill and a few other men I met on the train came to watch.

My Masonic life has been fabulous.

I always wear my Masonic pin and ring when I’m traveling, because I get to meet really interesting, nice

people and connect with my Masonic Brothers. While traveling in Mexico, a photographer saw my Shriner pin on my suit. He gave me a Masonic handshake, and we talked. He invited me to a Masonic meeting. We were there for an hour, and then he said we were all going to meet with the Grand Master! I said, “Are you kidding me?!”

I got to sit in on a meeting and meet the Grand Master—it was the thrill of a lifetime.

If everybody in this world were Masons, it would be a wonderful world we would be living in.

TNL: Why did you decide to become

a member of the Scottish Rite?

WM: When I get involved in things, I like to really get involved. I wanted to get all the degrees of Freemasonry that I could possibly get; I felt it was important. That’s why I joined the Scottish Rite. I appreciated what Freemasonry was all about, and what a great group it really is, and wanted to be more involved.

Warren poses with Silver Star Recipient Norm Lambert

American way—to respect the flag and everything that comes with it.

The Scottish Rite was a drawing card for me because of their Core Values, including Devotion to Country—it allowed me to continue to inspire people.

I’m proud to be a Freemason. If everybody in this world were Masons, it would be a wonderful world we would be living in.

TNL: At the Scottish Rite, one of

our six Core Values is Devotion to Country. Do you find that the principles of Freemasonry and Scottish Rite impact your work at the museum?

WM: Freemasonry and the Scottish Rite are a very big part of my life. I also believe that America is always number one; I am a patriot beyond belief.

I want to inspire people in the

Summer 2022

One of the many outdoor displays at the Motts Military Museum

Motts Military Museum is located in Groveport, Ohio and is open Tuesday through Sunday. To learn more and plan your visit, visit the museum’s website: mottsmilitarymuseuminc. com.

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Around the Jurisdiction Valley of Chicago members enjoyed a viewing of Casablanca with a live soundtrack by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra.

Brethren from Maine participating in the Thursday Night at the Rite discussion panel shoot in Lexington. Shown (l to r) are Jim Dill, 33°, director; Justin Wesley 32°; Brian Ellis, 32°, HGA; Jeff Simonton, 33°, Deputy for Maine; and Wayne Leonard, 32°.

IL The Valleys of Ft. Wayne and Toledo held a joint reunion in Lima, OH, on April 2.

OH IN

ME

OH IN The Valley of Danville’s cast of the 18th degree Knight of the Rose Croix of H.R.D.M. at their spring reunion.

IL

OH A family affair: Brothers Carl Pomaranski, 32˚, and son Lucas, 32˚, received their Gold Passports on the same evening from the Valley of Steubenville's Deputy's Representative, Edsel Emery, 33˚.

NH MI Brothers gathered at the Nashua Masonic Temple for Thursday Night at the Rite, where they witnessed the 30th degree, presented by New Hampshire Consistory.

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The Northern Light

MEMBERSHIP

Brethren, family, and friends of the Valley of Concord gathered to share in fellowship during a recent monthly Feast of the Valley event.

Jeff Simonton, 33°, Deputy for Maine, hosts a hybrid officer training seminar.

ME IN

NH

Ill. Brother and Active for Michigan Jacob Hayrynen, 33˚, stands with four new Scottish Rite Members from the Valley of Michigan’s Upper Region Rite on the Road event.

MA MI

Lawrence Chapter of Rose Croix in the Valley of Worcester performed their biennial observance of the Feast of the Paschal Lamb honoring over 50 Brethren.

PA

MA

The Valley of Harrisburg hosted a Valentine's Day dinner dance for their members.

Summer 2022

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Around the Jurisdiction

continued

Jerusalem Lodge No. 506 held a Rite on the Road event and welcomed four new Scottish Rite Masons to the Valley of Philadelphia. Shown (l to r) are Timothy Curran, 32˚, PMWM; new initiates Brothers Mark Kratochvil; Sam D’Urso; Scott Maglieri; and Belzie Houston, Jr.

Congratulations to the Valley of Waterbury’s newest members: Brothers Frank Pisani, Patrick Donnelly, Jason Gadue, and Mark Poulin.

Welcome Brothers on your journey!

PA CT

NJ

NY

Brother Charlie Jackson, 32˚, receives his certificate for successfully completing the Hauts Grades Academy.

IN The Valley of Evansville hosted a Rite on the Road event in Princeton, IN and welcomed their newest 4th degree member, Brother Dawson McIntosh.

NY

NY

The Syracuse Knights of St. Andrew hosted a Burns Supper with all the trapping including pipers, haggis, and poetry readings.

!

If you would like to have your Valley featured in Around the Jurisdiction, be sure to submit photographs and descriptions to

Communications@SRNMJ.org

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The Northern Light magazine has seen many changes in the past two years.

The design was updated, and we continue to add new content and memberfocused stories. Just as importantly, we retired several features you told us were outdated and no longer useful.

The editorial team wants to continue to refine the magazine to serve the NMJ in the best ways possible.

That's where you come in.

Please participate in our survey and tell us what you like, what you don't, and changes you would like to see. It will take about 10-15 minutes. All answers are completely anonymous. The survey closes at 11:59 pm (ET), Tuesday, June 10, 2022.

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M C

My Brothers All, Sovereign Grand Commander James D. Cole of the Southern Jurisdiction and I released a joint statement encouraging visitation between the jurisdictions. Together, we wish to encourage all of our members, wherever so dispersed and no matter where your Scottish Rite roots are planted, to continually enhance your personal Masonic journey by seeking Masonic light from wherever it shines. Therefore, we strongly promote and encourage the sharing of Masonic Fellowship between our Valleys and their members. While there are some differences, much between our jurisdictions is the same. Feel free to make your own comparisons and draw your own conclusions. But above all, enjoy the fellowship of Scottish Rite Freemasonry with your cross-jurisdictional Brothers. And as always, Journey On.

Sincerely and Fraternally, Peter J. Samiec Sovereign Grand Commander

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The Northern Light

MASONRY

JOINT MEMORANDU M

From the Offices of the Sove

reign Grand Commanders of

Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, NMJ 33 Marrett Road, Lexington, MA 02421

To All Scottish Rite Masons of Greetings!

the Supreme Councils, 33°, U.S .A.

Ancient & Accepted Scottish Rit e of Freemasonry, SJ 1733 16th Street NW, Washingto n, DC 20009

Monday, April 4, 2022 the Northern and Southern Jur

isdictions, USA:

For more than two centuries, our members have benefited from the close ties enjoyed between Councils. Our Brethren, during our Supreme the past two years, have often bee n constrained by the restriction pandemic and unable to fully enj s of the oy the benefits of our in-person meetings and fraternal events.

As Sovereign Grand Command ers, we stand united in strongly encouraging our members, wh dispersed, to once again partak eresoever e of opportunities to meet with the ir Brethren. We emphasize that every Valley in both of our jurisd the doors of ictions are open to Scottish Rit e members in good standing, reg jurisdictional affiliation. ardless of the

ir

Therefore, members of any Sou thern Jurisdiction Valley are enc ouraged to enjoy the fellowship offered by any Valley event in the and programs Northern Masonic Jurisdiction.

Likewise, members of any Valley within the Northern Masonic Jur isdiction are encouraged to enj fellowship and programs offered oy the by any Valley event in the Southe rn Jurisdiction.

Should you receive an invitation from a Valley outside your jurisd iction, feel free to accept it and If you’re traveling in an area wh enjoy the visit. ere a Scottish Rite Valley is loc ate d, feel free to take advantage of to attend an upcoming meeting any opportunity or program.

Our Fraternity thrives on a lon gstanding tradition of reciproca l travel and visitation. We think for the Brethren of the Scottish the time is right Rite to take full advantage of any inter-jurisdictional opportunities Brotherly love and affection we to share the cherish.

Enjoy some time with your Bre thren with our blessing. Regard less of where your Masonic jou remember, we are all fellow trav rney began, elers upon the same level of tim e. Enrich your journey by enjoyi from another source whenever ng Masonic light you can.

Sincerely and fraternally,

Summer 2022

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MASONRY

REMARKABLE FREEMASONS:

Arctic Explorers

Elisha Kent Kane (1820-1857)

Robert Edwin Peary (1856-1920) and Matthew Alexander Henson (1866-1955)

In

In

1853, physician Elisha Kent Kane, a medical officer in the United States Navy, led the Second Grinnell Expedition from London, England, to Rensselaer Harbor, Greenland. Kane, an experienced Arctic explorer and member of the First Grinnell Expedition in 1850, charted the coasts of Smith Sound and the Kane Basin in Greenland. American merchant Henry Grinnell (1799-1874) financed both tours, launched as search expeditions for the 1845 lost Franklin Polar Expedition. While most

46

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

ScottishRiteNMJ.org

well-known for his voyages to the Arctic, Kane was also a member of several medical assignments in China and Africa. In April of 1853, just one month before setting off on his second expedition to the Arctic, Kane took the Masonic degrees in Franklin Lodge No. 134 in Philadelphia. His father, John K. Kane (1795-1858), had been Master of the Lodge in 1825. Kane Lodge No. 454 in New York City, chartered in 1859, was dedicated to Kane, who died in Havana, Cuba, in 1857.

April of 1909, American explorers Robert Edwin Peary and Matthew Alexander Henson, with four Inuit companions, reached what they determined to be the North Pole. This expedition was the eighth and final Arctic expedition that Peary and Henson would embark upon together. Robert Peary, a U.S. Naval civil engineer, made his first trip into the Arctic in 1886. Henson, an African American sailor from Maryland, met Peary in Washington D.C. in 1887 and joined him the same year on a trip to Nicaragua as his personal assistant.

In 1891, he was part of Peary’s second arctic

voyage as a partner. Peary and Henson spent 18 years traveling on Arctic expeditions together.

Both Peary and Henson were Freemasons and highly regarded by their Masonic Brethren.

In May of 1895, Peary presented a Masonic flag that had been displayed at Independence Bay, Greenland to Kane Lodge No. 454. Peary received his degrees at Kane Lodge No. 454 in February and March of 1896. Henson joined Celestial Lodge No. 3 in New York in November of 1904, five years before his historic voyage to the North Pole with Peary.

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TOLERANCE DEVOTION TO COUNTRY INTEGRITY REVERENCE FOR GOD JUSTICE SERVICE TO HUMANITY Just one of the six Core Values that makes a Scottish Rite Mason a Scottish Rite Mason.

Visit ScottishRiteNMJ.org

Use the Journey On campaign at Reunions, events, or to spruce up your personal social media profile. Customize the videos and ads with your Valley url or call-to-action. All resources and images for are free, downloadable, and customizable. Go to ScottishRiteNMJ.org/Journey-On-Assets to learn more.

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Go to TNR.ScottishRiteNMJ.org for the full list of dates and degrees.

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EAC H THU RSDAY N IGHT AT THE RI TE PRESENTATI O N WI LL I NCLUDE THE 4 °

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