may_2010

The Newsletter of the Orient of Virginia Scottish Rite

Volume IV, Issue 2 May 2010

Table of Contents

Page 2 - SGIG Message Page 3 - Our Flag …. Page 4 - Scottish Rite Leaders Page 5 - A Fellow article Page 6-9 - Program by Ill. William J. Mollere, 33° 0 - NNSR Golf Tournament Page 11-13 - Fellow article Page 14 - Why a Ritual? Page 15 - A Fellow article Page 16 - 8th Degree Page 17 - Valley Photos Page 18-20 - Valley Infor-mation

Copyright © 2010, The Orient of Virginia under

the auspices of The Supreme Council, 33°, Ancient and Accepted

Scottish Rite, SJ, USA. No part of this publication may

be reproduced without permission of its Editor at

[email protected]

On March 27, 2010, the Orient of Virginia held its annual Spring Workshop at the Richmond Scottish Rite Temple hosted by the Valley of Richmond. Illustrious Brother Steven A. Moss, IGH, Confer-ence President, directed the meeting. Ill. Moss and the seven Confer-ence Vice-Presidents provided greetings from their respective Valleys and introduced their Valley Representatives, Secretaries, Venerable Masters, and members present for the workshop. Ill. Moss then intro-duced our Grand Master, Most Worshipful William E. Rorer, Jr., who introduced the Grand Lodge Officers and Past Grand Masters in attendance. Our Grand Master then gave a short motivating speech reminding us to “Forget Not The Duties.” Brother Jason Van Dyke, 32°, from the House of the Temple presented a program entitled “Using Masonic Education to Stimulate

a n d R e t a i n Membership” which focused on the Master Craftsman Program and utilizing study groups to maintain and grow membership. Illustrious Brother William J. Mollere, 3 3 ° , S G I G i n Louisiana, gave a very interesting talk about t h e h i s t o r y o f Louisiana and the

formation of the Grand Lodge, F. & A.M., of Louisiana (excerpt can be found on pages 7-9.) Illustrious and Most Worshipful James D. Cole, 33°, SGIG in Virginia, started his remarks by thanking the Grand Master and his officers for their continued support of the Scottish Rite. He then informed the Brethren what had been transpiring in the Orient since our Conference last September. He congratulated the new IGHs and KCCHs in the Orient for their received honors and told them much more was expected from them in the future. The workshop then closed with lunch in the Fellowship Hall.

(Left to right) Ill. William J. Mollere, 33°, SGIG in Louisiana, Ill. James D. Cole, 33°, SGIG in Virginia, and Bro. Jason Van Dyke, 32°.

The Virginia Light©

Published monthly for the Brethren of Virginia

Ill. Ronald A. Seale, 33°

Sovereign Grand Commander of the Supreme

Council, 33°, Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite, SJ,

USA

Ill. James D. Cole, 33° Grand Treasurer General

and Sovereign Grand Inspector General in Virginia of the Supreme Council, 33°,

Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite, SJ, USA

Ill. William L. Holliday, IGH Personal Representative to

the SGIG in Virginia

Ill. David A. Burkus, IGH Newsletter Editor

Editorial Staff

Ill. David C. Morris, IGH Ill. William A. Wells, IGH Ill. Orville L. Lindsey, IGH Bro. Richard J. Rawls, 32°

Ill. Paul W. Pennybacker, IGH Ill. W. H. ‘Andy’ Anderson, IGH Ill. Robert W. Carpenter, IGH Bro. Paul D. Sleeper, KCCH

WEBSITE:

Acacia16.org/TheVirginiaLight/

The Eighth Degree In Scottish Rite, the 8th degree is entitled Intendant of the

Building. The ritualistic teachings of this degree remind us that we should strive for perfection by using the great principles of God's “inherent love, charity, morality and kindness.” Many of us may recall that the apron of the 8th Degree is white with red and green, with a balance, a nine-pointed star, and a triangle with the Hebrew letters BETH for Ben-Khurim; YOU for Jakinah; and ALEPH for Achar. The jewel of this Degree is a gold triangle with the same three letters. The duties passed to us from this degree are benevolence and charity.

Upon further reflection, it seems to me that like much of Freemasonry, there are many valuable lessons taught in this degree. Many observe or participate in this degree and walk away thinking that perhaps they need to make a monetary gift to charity. Speaking as one who has been a professional fundraiser, I certainly applaud this perception. However, it misses valuable Masonic lessons.

In the degree, we are directed to contemplate on the “inherent love and charity” of God. Our very Creator, in his dealings with us, “gives,” yes, but the gift is not really in the form of money. In fact, His “gifts” to us are often so “important” to us that we never even think about them. Life, health, a beautiful world in which to live, friends and family. In fact, my religious beliefs assure me that each breath I take is a gift from God.

So, one overlooked implicit lesson of the 8th degree is that all we possess is in fact a gift from God on which we should daily reflect. I also personally believe that the best way that we can show appreciation to our Creator is to emulate His actions toward our fellow human beings.

In the Wilderness, when the children of Israel were fleeing Egypt, they were starving and God gave them water and manna. When Daniel entered the Lion’s den, God protected him from danger. When the Amalekites, Philistines, and other tribes attacked his people, God gave them great military leaders.

What they needed, He gave. Perhaps another lesson we can take from the 8th Degree is

that we should pay attention to the needs of others? Some people, for instance, need us to be kind in our words and not harsh. Some people in fact need for us to stop talking. Some people need us to start talking, since no one in their lives is there for them. Some people need us to leave. Some people need us to come and stay beside them.

You see, the real lesson is to focus on other people’s needs, not on our own desires. After all, after all God puts up with from us, can we not be more aware of our fellow man?

The Virg in ia L ight—May 2010


Our Flag – Our Way of Life By Ill. Lonnie L. Godfrey, IGH

Personal Represenatative of the SGIG in Lynchburg

When we fully realize our American way of life, the flag must bring a tear to the eye. What comes to your mind, when you think of our flag? Is it the country itself? I visualize the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia; an alligator sliding through the everglades in Florida; the sunrise on a South Carolina beach; the faces of great men carved in rock at Stone Mountain, Georgia. I see a lazy noontide in the pines of North Carolina; the spacious rolling blue-grass hills and horse farms of Kentucky; the crystal-clear lakes of western Tennessee; the wonder of the 630-feet-high Gateway Arch at St. Louis, Missouri. I imagine a sea of wheat rippling in a breeze in Kansas; the mighty, mile-wide Mississippi River flowing through the heartland of the nation, and the magnificent structures of our nation's capital, Washington, D.C. Could the love of our flag possibly begin with men and women at work? I visualize men and women performing their jobs every day or night in offices, schools, and factories; farmers on their tractors toiling in the soil to produce the harvest or tending their livestock to produce the food we enjoy. I see those who work the trucks, trains, planes, and boats to deliver products to consumers. I imagine the men and women of our Armed Forces who are responsible for keeping our nation well protected; the housewives who make our houses into homes and look after the future of this country, our children; the doctor caring for the body, the teacher caring for the mind, and the minister caring for the soul. Could the love of our flag be in things remembered of our personal past? The things we all remember are small areas of land with unique houses and special people; a tree on a hill with grass all around and a green valley below; a beach, a farm, or a house where we once lived. These places might not have meant much to others, but to us and our loved ones, they were places of magic simply because of the joys and pains of life experienced there. We remember voices and conversations that brought ease to our hearts and tranquility to our lives. Each remembered mo-ment of the past is a lasting part of what we are all about today. Could the love of our flag be in stories of our heritage? I visualize the Pilgrims struggling through their first dreadful winter in a new and strange land; the Minutemen standing strong for freedom at Concord Bridge; an army in rags, many sick, many freezing, many starving, but stay-ing at Valley Forge. I see men, women, and children moving westward over the Cumberland Gap, floating down a swift and rocky river, or rolling through the Great Plains. I imagine a settler hacking a new life from the great forest and fertile lands, Thoreau at Walden Pond, or Lincoln at Cooper Union, or Lee riding home from Appomattox. I visualize corruption and disgrace, an-swered always by men and women who would not let our flag lie in the dust. They stood up in every generation to fight for ideals and for the old rights we too often take for granted today. Our flag represents a great multitude of ordinary people, charged with the usual human feelings, yet filled with such hope as ever caught the imaginations and the hearts of any other na-tion on earth. Our flag stands for liberty, for justice, and for a place where we can stand straight without fear or rancor. Our land is 50 states, united for a common cause. Our people are of every race, united to make a better place for all. Our American flag is our symbol that somehow brings a lump to the throat and a tear to the eye when we fully realize our way of life. If you cannot feel it or see it, then you need to sit down and begin to put your vision together of what your flag means to you.

(Reprinted from The Scottish Rite Journal, June 2000 issue.)


Virginia’s Scottish Rite Leaders By Bro. Stormy Thorson, KCCH

Director of Education, Valley of Portsmouth The year 1847 was very special for Virginia Scottish Rite Freemasonry. During that year, the first Virginian was made an active member of the Supreme Council of the Scottish Rite. The Virginia Mason named was Ill. John Robin McDaniel, a 33° Mason and Lynchburg native who was, the year before, named Thrice Illustrious Commander-in-Chief of the Virginia Consistory. The 40-year old McDaniel, already an very active Mason, had been serving as High Priest of Eureka Chapter No. 10, Royal Arch Masons, later Lynchburg No. 10 for the past three years and was, this same year, elected Worshipful Master of Marshall Lodge No. 39 (Lynchburg). In addition to his Masonic life, he was an active partner in a wholesale merchant firm and a busi-nessman, being the President of Citizens Savings Bank, the first bank established in Lynchburg. He founded the first insurance company in Lynchburg, founded the Lynchburg Gas Company, and was a member of the incorporation of Montgomery White Sulfur Springs, Inc. Within three years and while still serving on the Supreme Council of the Scottish Rite, as Com-mander-in-Chief of the Virginia Consistory, as High Priest and as Worshipful Master, he became the Eminent Commander of DeMolay Commandery No. 4, Knights Templar. In three more years he would be elected the Grand High Priest of the Grand Royal Arch Chapter of Virginia while continuing his duties as Commander of the Virginia Consistory, High Priest of Eureka Chapter, Worshipful Master of Marshall Lodge, and Eminent Commander of DeMolay Commandery. In addition to being involved in business and Freemasonry, Brother McDaniel was active in com-munity affairs, serving on the Board of Trustees of Lynchburg College for 10 years, was a member of the Lynchburg City Council for 15 years, and he founded the City’s first Volunteer Fire Department. In busi-ness he became the President of the Virginia-Tennessee Railroad Company and during his tenure, the first passenger train made its way to Bristol and regular service began between Petersburg and Lynchburg. The John Robin McDaniel locomotive was named in his honor. In 1859, he was named Grand Master of Masons in Virginia and was the Grand Master at the out-break of the War Between the States. During the war, he used his business connections and opened his home to help clothe and feed destitute soldiers and their families. After his term as Grand Master, he once again served as Worshipful Master and High Priest. He continued as Commander of the Virginia Consis-tory and Commander of DeMolay Commandery during his year in the Grand East. In 1868, he would step down as High Priest and Eminent Commander to serve as Grand Commander of Knights Templar, a posi-tion he would hold for four years, making him the first to lead all three of Virginia’s Grand Masonic Bod-ies. He continued his leadership as Worshipful Master of Marshall Lodge No. 39 during his years as Grand Commander. Brother John R. McDaniel was one of the 13 original members of the Royal Order of Scotland in the United States. In 1870, Brother John Robin McDaniel was made Lieutenant Grand Commander of the Supreme Council of the Scottish Rite, second only to Albert Pike. Two years later, he stepped down as Master of Marshall Lodge after serving 22 of the preceding 25 years, taking time out only to be Grand Master. Il-lustrious and Most Worshipful McDaniel laid down his working tools in 1878 still serving as Lieutenant Grand Commander of the Supreme Council. John Robin McDaniel served as Worshipful Master for 22 years, High Priest for 21 years, Emi-nent Commander for 18 years, Grand High Priest for 2 years, Grand Commander for 4 years, Grand Mas-ter for 2 years, Commander-in-Chief of VA Consistory for 21 years, and member of the Supreme Council for 31 years. At the time of his death, Brother John Robin McDaniel had been a Master Mason for only 35 years. (Editor’s note: Brother Thorson is planning on making this a series for this publication to better inform the Scottish Rite Brethren of their past Leaders.)


A Few Fellows in New Orleans By Bro. Keith Ross Butler, 32°

Valley of Alexandria

Illustrious and Most Worshipful Edmund Cohen, IGH, and I traveled to and stayed in New Or-leans from April 14 - 18, 2010, in order to attend the Scottish Rite Leadership Conference and for me to attend meetings of the 2010 Scottish Rite Fellows. Before and during the flight to New Orleans, Brother Ed and I spoke about the preparations for the trip and what could be expected during the conference. I had never attended a regional Scottish Rite Leadership Conference and was definitely looking forward to the National meeting, as well as to learn more about how I could better contribute my time and skills to the Orient of Virginia and the Valley of Alexandria.

The process of becoming a Scottish Rite Fellow began with a series of phone calls from Illustri-ous Walter Downs, GC, and Illustrious Ed Cohen, IGH. They told me about the program, which I had never heard of before, as well as the importance the selection places upon a Brother who has been cho-sen to represent their Valley. As I found out more about the program and what would be expected of me in the future, I realized that this was not a typical honor in Freemasonry. Indeed, selection as a Fellow increases one’s opportunity to pursue a long-term service to his Valley and Orient.

When we arrived in New Orleans, we received a great amount of information about the confer-ence as well as what the events would be on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. There were about 150 Fel-lows in attendance and you could tell that this was a fun and dedicated group of Brethren from all over the Southern Jurisdiction. As we met with our Sovereign Grand Commander Ronald Seale, and attended various lectures and break-out sessions on Thursday, we began to share ideas and best practices on how to improve the operations of our individual Valleys. As the program ended on Thursday, the Fellows knew they had a lot more to learn during the rest of the national conference and we each started to think about how we could help our respective Valleys.

During the national conference on April 16 - 17, there were a number of seminars focused on information sharing and best practices in the areas of Valley membership, public affairs, finances, and the general concept of leadership (as interpreted by the book From Good to Great). There was plenty of discussion about the Master Craftsman Program, about adopting free technologies to help connect with distant members, and about new opportunities for Scottish Rite philanthropy. One over-arching issue we focused on during the Fellows meeting, and again during the general national conference on Friday and Saturday, was how to increase membership and participation in the Scottish Rite.

Throughout the conference, the Fellows continued their earlier discussions and began building a large support network. I am confident that many of these contacts between the Fellows will continue, and I know the 2010 class will join with previous classes of Fellows to help position the Scottish Rite to deal effectively with the issues and challenges we face.

As we left New Orleans on April 18, Illustrious Ed and I talked about the ideas discussed at the conference and what the Valley of Alexandria could do to strengthen itself and contribute to our Orient. The one big lesson I learned was that the world of the Scottish Rite is larger than I had imagined and that we enjoy a long and distinguished history. The conference was an amazing experience and allowed me to talk with people who I only previously saw on television or read about in the Scottish Rite Journal or other publications. I learned, however, that these Masonic leaders are very accessible and very helpful – and just a phone call or email away from any one of us. I am convinced that we have a tremendous opportunity to improve the informal connections be-tween individual Brothers, and truly become a "Fraternity of friends" both inside and outside our Val-leys. Friendship in Freemasonry is and should be a natural outcome of the initial step of membership, and I believe that a key to improving our membership is through creating new and enhancing existing friendships within our Valleys and Orients

A BRIEF HISTORY BY WILLIAM J. MOLLERE, PM, TRINITY UNION LODGE No.372, F&AM, LOUISIANA

Louisiana is a unique State, as are all States within our republic called these United States of

America. Louisiana is famous for its foods and flavors – it is the home of gumbo – and Masonry in Louisi-ana is described as just that – a gumbo. Now to a few of the events that make Louisiana Masonry a gumbo and so interesting: Freemasons probably first arrived in Louisiana around 1745 from Bordeaux, France. They arrived in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi and traveled to New Orleans through Lake Pontchartrain, down Bayou St. John to the Basin Street wharf and the edge of the City of New Orleans. Thus all commerce came south to New Orleans on the Mississippi River, was transported off flat boats and keel boats to wagons and across the City to Basin Street where ocean-going vessels were able to dock on Bayou St. John. The early Masons were all mer-chants and practiced their Masonry in private. In 1752, a warrant arrived from France to form La Parfaite Harmonie Loge (Perfect Harmony Lodge) which was French Rite. In 1757, a charter was issued to Perfect Harmony to also work in the Scotch Rite from Bordeaux. In 1763, Loge de Parfaite l'Ecosse (Lodge of Perfection) was opened under Scottish Rite ritual, and in 1765 a second Scottish Rite lodge, La Consolante Maconne, received its charter from Bordeaux. (These dates have recently been confirmed by materials returned to the Grand Orient of France. The materials had been confiscated by the Germans in 1941, recovered by the Russians in 1945

and returned to France in 1999.) In 1793, Parfaite Union (Perfect Union) Lodge was organ-ized by several Masons living in New Orleans and applied to the Grand Lodge of South Carolina for a charter. On March 30, 1794, Loge la Parfaite Union No. 29, having been duly constituted as a York Rite Lodge held the first installation of officers. That same year Masons who practiced using the French Rite petitioned the Grand Orient of France for a charter for Etoile Po-laire Loge (Polar Star). The Grand Orient had suspended all of its op-erations due to the French Revolu-tion. The Grand Orient resumed labor in 1803, took action on the application and issued a charter in

1804 to Polar Star Lodge No. 4263, and deputized Charles Tessier to deliver the document. The Lodge was reconstituted and the new officers were installed on November 11, 1804. When Gen. Andrew Jackson arrived in New Orleans in 1814 and prepared the City against a Brit-ish invasion during the end of the War of 1812, he came as a Freemason with many other Freemasons. He attended Lodge with Governor Claiborne and held Masonic communication with Jean Lafitte and his brother, General Dominique You. Lafitte was considered a pirate, however Jackson was able to have any charges against Lafitte and his men dropped after their participation in winning the Battle of New Orleans in January 1815. It was all a very Masonic affair. In 1824, Gilbert du Motier, the Marquis de Lafayette, arrived in the United States as the guest of a grateful nation and of President Monroe and the Congress. He toured the country and arrived in New

(Continued on Page 7)


Ill. William J. Mollere, 33°, SGIG in Louisiana, giving his talk at the March Scottish Rite Workshop in Richmond with Ill. James D. Cole, 33°, SGIG in Virginia and Mt. Wor. William E. Rorer, Jr., Grand Mas-ter of Masons in Virginia.


A BRIEF HISTORY (Continued from Page 6)

Orleans in 1825 where he was lavishly greeted and entertained. He visited several French Rite lodges and spoke at Scottish Rite events also. He visited Charles Tessier in Baton Rouge and probably visited several lodges in the areas outside of New Orleans. From these reports, it is known that French Rite and Scottish Rite still operated within Louisiana.

Masonry continued to grow outside of New Orleans and most of the lodges were English speak-ing. The official language in Louisiana was still French and all correspondence in the Grand Lodge was in French. While all lodges were encouraged to use their native tongue, official correspondence was in French. Only the true brotherhood of Masonry kept the Latin and Anglo-Saxon races from openly hav-ing disputes. While Louisiana's Grand Lodge was not happy with other Grand Lodges chartering Lodges within its jurisdiction, it happily organized and chartered Lodges outside of Louisiana. With Lodges formed in Alabama, Cuba and Mexico, it also chartered two lodges in Arkansas – Morning Star No. 42 in Arkansas Post and Western Star No. 43 in Little Rock – both helped form the Grand Lodge of Arkansas in 1838. Support was given to Simon Bolivar, the Liberator of South America, and a very avid Freemason and was responsible for forming the Grand Lodge of Venezuela. In 1831, the Grand Lodge was determined to establish a Code of General Regulations. This Code was finalized and adopted in 1832 and was complicated, contradictory and generally over-stated. Among other issues, the Grand Lodge was divided into three chambers – Ancient and Accepted York Rite, Ancient Scotch Rite, and French Rite. It stated that all meetings must be held under the third de-gree (a change from using the EA when members were present who were not MM), candidates had to be twenty-one, be able to read and write, be of good moral character, and hold a respectable position in so-ciety. However, the son of a Mason could be initiated at age eighteen, although he could not become a Master Mason until twenty-one. Three black cubes were required to reject a candidate. One could not be a Master of a lodge unless over twenty-five, and no one could serve as Master of more than one lodge at a time, even if it were in different Rites. A new Code was adopted in 1844 that was less confusing although it retained many of the origi-nal sections without rewording. It generally consolidated the three Rites into one working group and gave the Grand Master increased power. The Grand Lodge would meet using the York Rite, but the lan-guage would be French. The three principal officers had a vote as did all Past Masters at Grand Lodge. This created somewhat of an imbalance in power since Grand Lodge was always held in New Orleans and lodges from outside New Orleans had a hardship attending with large numbers of delegates. (This situation continued for many years until the Grand Lodge in 1977 began moving Grand Lodge sessions around the state.) The War with Mexico in 1846 brought more Northern Masons to New Orleans and further di-vided the French and English speaking population, and many sojourning Masons could not understand the Rule concerning admission and the right to visit a limited number of times. The tragic period in American history referred to as The War of Northern Aggression or The War Between the States, or, more properly, The American Civil War created a challenge for Masonry in Louisiana. Many lodges ceased meeting. One lodge reported to the Grand Lodge that no meetings were held “owing to the Invasion of this section of country by the Federals.” Several Lodges that continued meeting refused to admit Federal soldiers who were Masons. This action prompted the Grand Master to issue the following reprimand: “To object to sit with a Brother who has proved himself such, because he is in the Army or Navy, or comes clothed in the garb of his calling, is highly un-Masonic and will not be permitted in this Jurisdiction. It does not show a proper Masonic spirit, and what is more, tends to de-stroy the universality of Freemasonry.”



While many stories have been told of heroic deeds, the fact remains that Brotherly Love and Fra-

ternal Friendship gave Louisiana Masonry some wonderful stories during this period of destruction, deso-lation and deprivation. While Union Officers respected Masonic property and generally protected families who had Masonic relatives, the normal Yankee soldiers were conscripts, draftees, lower-class uneducated riff-raff who cared only about booty. Numerous lodges were broken open and robbed and buildings de-stroyed. When a Union soldier broke into St. Joseph Lodge No. 79 in Newellton, on the Louisiana side, south of Vicksburg, and stole the silver officer jewels, his Union Commander inspected the saddlebags and had him arrested and the jewels returned with his personal apology. The jewels are displayed today in a special case. When the Plains Lodge No. 135, west of Port Hudson, had its building destroyed by cannon fire during the siege of Port Hudson, the original Minutes Book was recovered and taken by a New York officer back to his home. He returned it to the Lodge after the War with a note of apology stating that he had entered the Lodge without the permission of the Junior Deacon. That Minutes Book is proudly dis-played today in the Lodge. During the Battle of Baton Rouge, a Union officer posted a guard outside of St. James Lodge No. 47 and allowed no one to enter who was not a Mason. The original surrender documents for Baton Rouge were found in the Minutes Book of the Lodge in 1985.

Perhaps the most amazing story is called today, “The Day The War Stopped”, and on the second Saturday of June each year a reenactment occurs in St. Francisville. St. Francisville, an old and historic city still lies on the banks of the Mississippi River. With the Siege of Port Hudson, St. Francisville just to the north was strategic for the Union. The city was shelled unmercifully by Union gunboats, day and night for days. Then, one morning, under a flag of truce, a boat approached the shore and asked if any Masons were in the St. Francisville area. Feliciana Lodge No. 31's Senior Warden was one of the defending com-manders along the Confederate lines and responded. The gunboat's commander, Lt Commander Hart, a member of St. George's Lodge No. 6 in Schenectady, New York, had died of a fever and had requested a Masonic burial. At the appointed hour, the gunboats pulled to shore and the men assembled in honor guard formation for their commander as his body was brought to shore. Likewise, the Confederate troops assem-bled and the Masons stepped forward to conduct the ceremony. Commander Hart was laid to rest in Grace Episcopal Cemetery with full Masonic rites. The Union troops marched back to shore, reboarded their boats and Confederate troops returned to the lines and the bloody battle resumed. (Each year a parade is held in St. Francisville honoring this event and an officer from the Grand Lodge of New York attends and lays a wreath on Commander Hart's grave.)

Many lodges ceased meeting during the War, and today, Minute Books in many Lodges are blank between 1861 and 1865. Many of the members went to War; and some of the members returned to con-tinue their Masonry. While twenty-five new lodges were chartered between 1864 and 1870, bringing the total number of lodges chartered by the Grand Lodge to almost two hundred, membership did not increase in total numbers. There were almost eighty Royal Arch Chapters and almost fifty Councils and Comman-dries – and there was one Scottish Rite, the Grand Consistory in New Orleans. By 1900, the Grand Lodge had issued charter No.276, although the total number of Masons had actually declined since the Civil War.

While Lodges were organizing and Masonry was enjoying increased popularity and recognition, a number of Lodges also surrendered their charters and closed or they merged with healthier lodges – it was a period of Masonic awareness in areas – Lodges acted as community centers, area schools organized and met in Lodges (many of the first public schools in Louisiana trace their formation to Masons in the com-munity who held the classes in the Lodge buildings), and businesses operated on the ground floor of many Lodges giving the Lodge added income, but also becoming the locational focus in the community. 1900 saw a change in growth – industrial growth – sawmills, paper mills, refineries and oil and gas exploration brought economic advantages to the state. Between 1900 and 1910, Masonic membership doubled. In 1920, a record number of 3,380 Master Mason degrees were conferred. By 1927, membership





reached 35,191 with 267 active Lodges meeting. Following World War I, Freemasonry grew by over 50 new Lodges until 1931. The Depression years saw hardships with members demitting, many being sus-pended for non-payment, and Lodges closing. However the spirit of Masonry prevailed and most of those men who demitted and many who were suspended returned to their Lodges as soon as they had jobs and money to pay Dues again.

After World War II, again a growth in Masonry was unbelievable – over thirty new Lodges were chartered between 1946 and 1960. Since 1960, approximately twenty new Lodges have been chartered. While the Grand Lodge has chartered over 490 Lodges since 1812, there are about 260 Lodges meeting in Louisiana today. While a true Gumbo is composed of anything on the table, in the refrigerator or caught, killed, or stolen that day, one ingredient is missing that always stirs discussion in areas outside Louisiana, and outside of the South: Prince Hall Masonry. Prince Hall Masonry is vibrant and strong in Louisiana. There are any number of African-American Masonic groups in Louisiana, not all Prince Hall – Sons of Solomon, King James Masons, and several claiming to be Prince Hall – New Orleans has six Prince Hall Grand Lodges, Baton Rouge has four. To my knowledge, Prince Hall Masonry has never approached my Grand Lodge and asked for or discussed recognition in Louisiana. While my Grand Lodge may have only a few African-American members, many learned and respected Masons in Louisiana will acknowl-edge that attitudes are changing. As younger men step forward and become the leaders in my state, the inside of a man will become the important factor relating to his membership qualifications. This is men-tioned at the conclusion of this historical discussion only to anticipate questions that are raised concern-ing Louisiana's Masonic mix; Spanish, French, German and Italian lodges are still practicing the Scottish Rite ritual and conferring the first three degrees in the Scottish Rite form. Many years have passed and many changes have been made – we do not call them innovations, we call them improvements. The Grand Master was originally a Right Worshipful, now all are Most Worshipful – and each retains that title for life. Our Grand Wardens were originally Senior and Junior Grand Wardens; now they are Grand Senior and Junior Wardens. Eighteen year olds may join; memory work has finally been placed in a cipher booklet. An annual Wardens Retreat has been in place since 1998, and educational materials are being offered. Lodges are being reminded that they need only “be satisfied” with the proficiency of the candidate rather than requiring letter perfect examinations. Some Lodges are having to face the reality that their membership has an average age of 75–80, and that 90-95% of the members never attend. The idea that the 90% still pay their Dues has yet to be understood by the 5-10% who attend on a regular basis – the 90% still value their membership and perceive value from their membership – those 90% need to be cherished as they pay the bills. Understanding what Masonry really was by “The Greatest Generation” who joined immediately following World War II, is still hard. That generation returned to Lodges that Initiated, Passed and Raised men at every communication; then listened as memory work was repeated – that was the essence of every meeting! Real Masonic education never entered the Outer or Inner doors. The cycle must occur again however for continued existence. Just as Louisiana Masonry had the Anti-Masonic period, Cernauism, the Morgan Affair, the Civil War, the Reconstruction Era, the Great Depression, and now as we witness the departure of The Greatest Gen-eration, during each period Masonry had a rebirth and revival because there were those who regrouped and looked to the true strength of the Institution and the meaning of our Gentle Craft; and it has survived and grown and flourished, as it will again. (Editor’s note: This is a small excerpt from the talk Ill. William J. Mollere, 33°, Second Grand Equerry and Sovereign Grand Inspector General in Louisiana of the Supreme Council, 33°, Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite, SJ, USA, presented at the workshop. The full paper, which presents a short history of the formation of Louisiana and the entire Masonic history of the Grand Lodge, F. & A.M., of Louisiana, can be found on the website where the Virginia Light is posted: http://Acacia16.org/TheVirginiaLight/ )


Valley of Newport News is sponsoring their 9th Annual “Illustrious William M. Johnson, IGH, Memorial Golf Tournament” on June 10, 2010. Tee-off time is 1:00 PM with a request that all sign-in by 12:30 PM. The proceeds from this golf tournament will help support the Tidewater Scottish Rite Foundation and, in particular, the Childhood Language and Disability Clinic at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, VA. This year’s golf tournament will be held in Williamsburg, VA at the Fords Colony Country Club’s “Blue Heron” course. This is the third year at this location and the first time on this specific course. (Link to the golf course: www.fordscolony.com/Williamsburg/Golf/BlueHeron.cfm). The cost is $80 per player or $320 per team. There will be trophies for the 1st Flight winner and the 2nd Flight winner. This tournament will be a captain’s choice style of play. They are cur-rently in need for more golfers and sponsors. The holes can be sponsored for: Bronze - $150, Silver is $250, and Gold is $350. For being a benefactor of $500, your team can golf for free!! Also if your business or employer sponsors a hole, you might be able to golf free! For further details in this area, please contact Ill. George F. Black, IGH, at either 757.851.3191 (home phone) or email at [email protected]. You can also contact Bro. Jim Freeman, KCCH, at 757.850.4366 (home phone) or email at [email protected]. The $80 cost will include a golf cart, drive balls, and a BBQ buffet dinner after everyone is done golfing. There will be many prizes given away also at the dinner. If you cannot get a hold of Ill. Black or Bro. Freeman, please call the Valley of Newport News office between 9:00 AM till Noon on Monday thru Wednesday and Friday. The office’s number is 757.599.6617 or can be reached by email at [email protected].

Highlights from last year’s Golf Tournament

(Cartoon is an edited version of a B.C. cartoon strip by Mason Mastroianni and Johnny Hart.)

YEAR!


2010 Scottish Rite Fellows Conference and 2010 Scottish Rite National Leadership Conference

By Bro. Jonathan Mark Mills, KCCH, Valley of Roanoke

In 2005, the world witnessed the carnage and destruction of Hurricane Katrina as it devastated New Orleans, LA and the gulf coast of Mississippi and Alabama. I’m certain that all of us remember the waters of Lake Ponchartrain slipping past breaks in the levees and flooding New Orleans and the terrible wind damage to the Super Dome. Flash forward to New Orleans in April of 2010. The “Who Dat?” nation and the resilient folks of the Big Easy have cleaned up and repaired much of the damage and even won the Super Bowl! Our Sovereign Grand Commander, Ill. Ronald Seale, 33°, is from Louisiana and I’m sure that had some impact in choosing the revitalized downtown area of New Orleans for the National Leadership Conference. The conference was held at the New Orleans Sheraton located on Canal Street just a couple of blocks from Bourbon Street and the French Quarter. Several Scottish Rite Conferences were held in succession: The RiteCare® Conference, the Sentinel Users Conference, the Scottish Rite Fellows Conference, and the National Scottish Rite Leadership Conference. I was chosen to be the Scottish Rite Fellow for the Valley of Roanoke and the representative for our Valley at the Leadership Conference. I hope you enjoy this report on my experiences. You may ask, “Just what is a Scottish Rite Fellow?” The Scottish Rite Fellows program was developed by our Grand Commander to pull together “young” Scottish Rite Masons from all areas of the Southern Jurisdiction for meetings and group sessions to garner new ideas and implement them to better facilitate the growth of our organization. When the Grand Commander uses the word “young”, he doesn’t necessarily mean young in age, but young as in being a Scottish Rite Mason for less than ten years. Typically, this would be a Master of the Royal Secret with four to six years of Scottish Rite experience. These Brethren generally have not been led down the path of “that’s the way it’s always been”, as so often happens in Freemasonry. New, fresh ideas from these Fellows helps the Grand Commander get a feel for what is happening and what is needed throughout the Jurisdiction. The Fellows Conference began with registration on April 15, 2010 at 8:00 AM. Coffee and snacks were provided to get us ready for the long and busy day ahead. I met several folks I already knew and made some new friends right away. The meeting opened with a session from 9:00 till 10:00 AM with our Grand Commander. Ill. Ronald Seale, 33°, is a great speaker and motivator. I had met him briefly back in February at the House of the Temple, but I had no idea I would be so impressed with his knowledge, compassion, and dedication to our Scottish Rite that I witnessed during this ses-sion. A few introductions of the Supreme Council Staff, a few jokes and stories about his youth and growing up in Louisiana, and a brief introduction to what our purpose was for the day got us charged up and ready to proceed. The 10:00 AM session had us broken down into smaller groups by region and we were tasked with the discussion of “What would your ‘dream’ Scottish Rite Valley be like?” We had about an hour to hold a round table discussion of this topic and everyone got to provide a few ideas. Prominent



(Continued from Page 11)

among the discussion was the idea that more Masonic education and more emphasis on putting on all 29 degrees in the year were proposed. Too often, we are driven by membership numbers rather than utilizing the philosophies and tenets of Scottish Rite Masonry to keep the members we have already. We took a short break and reconvened with the Grand Commander to discuss “What did we conclude?” which was an opportunity for the group leaders and individuals to share with the Grand Commander our thoughts and ideas. We had a “working lunch”, where we ate lunch while still net-working and sharing ideas with each other. We then had an opportunity to sit down and pick the mind of one of our greatest treasures, Ill. Arturo de Hoyos, 33°, GC. Each Fellow was given a 3x5 card to write down a question for Bro. Art and he then took them, read them, and answered them in front of us. This was a fantastic opportunity to pick the mind of one of the best Masonic scholars of our time and was greatly enjoyed by all. At 2:00 PM, we broke out into our regional groups once again and had group discussions on the following topic, “What do we want to do as Scottish Rite Fellows for 2010-2011?” We held dis-cussions for about an hour and several ideas and programs were recommended and then we met again with the Grand Commander to present our findings. The Grand Commander informed us that we would be given a Commission, signed by him, empowering us as Scottish Rite Fellows for a two-year term. He emphasized this program would take time and dedication and asked us to dig deep down into our hearts and minds to determine if we were up to the task as hand. The Commission and a Scottish Rite Fellows pin representing the jewel of the fourth degree were presented to each Fellow by our own SGIG, Ill. James Dean Cole, 33°. Bro. Cole spoke to each of us individually, and as a group, and congratulated us on our accep-tance of this high honor. In the past, the National Leadership Conferences were held in varying regions at separate times and the information was collected and distributed to the membership at a later date. This year, the Grand Commander and staff decided to hold one national conference in New Orleans, where everyone in the Jurisdiction could gather and learn together. I’m sure there are proponents of both methods, but it was nice to meet and work with Brethren from as far away as Hawaii and Puerto Rico and network and share ideas. Registration for the conference was held between 10:00 AM and 7:00 PM on April 16. We had a group session at 3:00 PM to get the ball rolling for the conference on the following day and discussed “Membership through Leadership,” which was the theme for this year’s conference. We then had a cocktail reception with fantastic food and fellowship. I went to the reception with Ill. and Mt. Wor. Edmund Cohen and Bro. Keith Butler, 32°, both from the Valley of Alexandria. One inter-esting side note…the New Orleans Sheraton has 49 floors, I believe. I was told that we had over 600 Brethren from all over the Southern Jurisdiction in attendance. My room was on the 20th floor of the hotel (room 2028). Guess who was in the room right across from mine (2027), yep, it was Ill. Ed and Bro. Keith! Here I made a twelve-hour drive to New Orleans, stayed in a massive hotel with hundreds and hundreds of rooms, and I end up right across the hall from two good friends from the Orient of Virginia! Good company and I was thrilled to spend a lot of time with these two fine men and Brothers. Mt. Wor. Cohen was Grand Master the year I was Master of my Lodge and we had spoken many times in the years that we were both going through the chairs as counterparts. I am a





(Continued from Page 12)

Postmaster in a small, rural town, and Bro. Keith works for the Postal Service in Washington, DC, so we had lots and lots to talk about! After the reception, the three of us walked several blocks to the Valley of New Orleans to witness the exemplification of the Scottish Rite Entered Apprentice Degree. The Valley of New Or-leans has the distinguished honor of being the oldest continuously meeting Scottish Rite Valley in the Americas. Ill. S. Brent Morris, 33°, GC, was the “candidate” for the degree and it was one of my favorite nights during my entire stay in New Orleans. The 16th Masonic District of Louisiana has been granted a dispensation from the Grand Lodge of Louisiana to conduct the first three degrees in Masonry utilizing the Scottish Rite Ritual. To say that is was a completely different experience from Ancient York Masonry would be the understatement of the year! To quote the SGIG from Louisi-ana, Ill. William J. Mollere, 33°, “It’s something everyone in Scottish Rite should witness, at least once.” Day two of the Leadership Conference was informative and fast paced. We began with the Grand Opening and once again broke into several smaller groups for the breakout sessions. Each speaker rotated among the groups to give their presentations. I won’t go into deep detail, but will provide you with a short synopsis of each session. Mr. Kenn Kington was the keynote speaker. He is a professional stand-up comedian and elaborated his ties to the Scottish Rite and set the tone for what we wanted to accomplish for the rest of the day. Mr. Kington in not a Mason, but his young daughter was diagnosed with cancer and she was treated at the Scottish Rite Hospital in Atlanta. His ties to the Scottish Rite were deeply moving and personal and he let us know that what we stand for and what we do has a significant impact upon individuals and society as a whole. Ill. Dean Alban, 33°, presented the program on “Membership through Leadership” where he discussed how membership is the most important aspect of our fraternity and how leadership di-rectly affects it. Ill. James Dean Cole, 33°, SGIG in Virginia and Grand Treasurer General, presented his topic on “Managing Masonic Fiduciary Responsibilities”. Wow…with a title like that, you would think people would be nodding off! Not so…this was one of the most well received presentations of the conference. Several Brothers came up to me afterwards and said how much the appreciated the honest and sincere delivery of the information. Illustrious Brother Cole made it a point to let the members present know that this was “our money” and he was going to keep us informed on how it was utilized. Illustrious Brother Stan Dodd, 33°, gave a presentation on the “Brother to Brother” program which is an attempt to bring back brethren that have demitted or have been suspended for non-payment of dues. He also joined Brother Jay Patterson, 32°, KCCH, in a presentation on “Public Relations”. Brother Jason Van Dyke, 32° presented a program entitled “Using Masonic Education to Stimulate and Retain Membership” which focused on the Master Craftsman Program and utilizing study groups to maintain and grow membership. I was quite surprised when he singled out our Val-ley’s efforts in taking Reunions on the road and creating new and exciting developments in



Why A Ritual? By Bro. Herbert G. Turner, Jr., KCCH

Valley of Richmond

Repetition is the essence of ritualism; and since nothing can soon grow more stale or inept then repetition, we find many persons think of ritual as meaningless stage play. To go through the performance over and over, saying the words in the same way and often not even know the meaning of those words and actions may seem to some to be a meaningless act.

This attitude is especially noticed in America, for we prize individuality, novelty, and origi-nality. What is ritual? What does it do for us and why should we frankly and intelligently uphold it as having a just and right place in the functioning of our Lodges?

Consider ritual in our world and in our individual lives. Ritual is everywhere in the world. Night and day, the four seasons, the stars move in their fixed orbits, tides rise and fall, and even the comet once deemed by the ancients to be a fleeting blaze of light is now known to return years later upon its own path.

Ritual and ceremony exist in all phases of our life. The birth of a child, a wedding, and the opening of public assemblies are all causes for celebration. In acts of ceremony, we forget ourselves and become a part of a greater whole.

Ritual in the Lodge is of utmost importance. Consider your experience with organizations other than the Lodge that are wholly dependent on the leader or president to the exclusion of estab-lished ritual. Many have changed since their inception because they have been left to each new leader to shape things to his own liking. A succession of private interpretations has overlaid the original message, intent, and purpose of the organization. It would be so with the Masonic Lodge were it not for our ritual.

The Fraternity will continue through the ages as our new Brothers learn the ancient work. The degrees are conferred following the ritual, and delivering the lectures using the time honored words. From the Valley of Lynchburg: The Valley of Lynchburg is celebrating its 5th year in the Partners in Education Program with the Lynchburg School System. Our Project Tallk Program (teaching age appropriate language skills through kits) has become quite successful. We are working with teachers in fourteen daycares, several private homes and four homeless shelters. The premise of the program is being considered as a model for a statewide language program. We are looking forward to many more years of partner-ship with the Lynchburg School System. I would also like to mention that the annual Knights of St. Andrew golf tournament has been rescheduled for September. If you would like anymore information related to this please contact me at [email protected] or Lynchburg Scottish Rite P.O. Box 521 Lynchburg, Va. 24505…..Bob Eckenrode, Secretary From the Valley of Norfolk: 9/18/10 - Teacher of the Year Award Ceremony 10/2/10 - Friends Dinner w/Valleys of Newport News and Portsmouth (Newport News) 10/21/10 - Stated: Feast of Tishri 10/29-30/10 - Valley of Norfolk’s Fall Reunion


A Fellow’s Experience By Bro. Michael Johnstone 32°

Valley of Nofolk

During the 2009 Orient of Virginia Scottish Rite Conference, I was approached by the leaders of my Valley and was asked to attend a leadership convention in New Orleans as our Fellow. After proper consideration and discussion with my girlfriend I agreed. I was told that I would be represent-ing the Valley of Norfolk at this venue. This convention is different from prior years in that there will be one convention for the jurisdiction rather than regional conventions. This made me feel a little un-easy, and a bit nervous. Then I starting thinking, here I am the VNG (Valley New Guy), that’s what I call myself, and I will be representing my Valley. I wondered why I was picked and how I could pos-sibly share what our Valley has to offer. I was excited about returning to New Orleans. My last visit was just prior to the hurricane that everyone refers to as Katrina. It was also the year I became a Ma-son. As the months ran past and the convention got closer, I continued to read books and other publications on Freemasonry, as I wanted to be an informed brother. I began preparing myself to meet the House of the Temple staff. Several of whom I have spoken with on the telephone. Then the notice came. It was from Heather Calloway at the House of the Temple. You have been selected as a Scottish Rite Fellow for 2010 for a special reason. You have already demonstrated leadership skills in your Valley and have been identified by your Brethren as one of your Valley’s more dynamic and upcoming members. This really started me questioning if I was the right person for this job. Our meeting was lead by our Grand Commander, Illustrious Ronald A. Seale, 33°, who is im-pressive and held the attention of everyone present. There were several key points discussed both during the breakout sessions and with the Temple staff which I would like to share.

• We should establish study/research groups for such programs as Master Craftsman. • Establish a telephone committee to check on our Brethren, provide event information, and

in general improve communication. • We set goals and evaluate our efforts with measurable outcomes. • We should mentor younger members and provide a program that has value.

Interest in Freemasonry is growing and our Lodges have gained new members, which in turn will increase membership in the Appendant bodies. What does this mean?

• We must maintain the members we have. • Attract new members. • Make Freemasonry valuable.

In closing, remember back to your first night in lodge you were asked “What do you most de-sire?” Remember your answer? Have you found it? From the Valley of Danville: BLUE LODGE FELLOWSHIP NIGHT. All Master Masons are cordially invited to the Blue Lodge Fellowship Night, hosted by the Danville Scottish Rite Bodies in the Danville Scottish Rite Temple, 134 Tunstall Road, beginning at 5: 00 P.M. July 24, 2010. Morotock Lodge #210, is hosting this year’s event with Worshipful Master Danny Yeatts heading up the work. EMERITUS HONORS. The Danville Scottish Rite Bodies voted to grant Ill. James Robert Denny,Jr., 33º, retired treasurer, and Ill. Jesse M. Hutcherson, Jr., 33º, retired secretary, with the hon-orary title emeritus, for their many yeas of faithful service. Brother Denny served as treasurer for 30 years and Brother Hutcherson served as secretary for 32 years.


EIGHTH DEGREE Indentant of the Building

By Ill. Jim Tresner, 33°, Grand Cross

Purity, zeal, hope for the future. White, red and green. Those themes and colors resonate throughout the Scottish Rite. PURITY is of many kinds--personal integrity, a fo-cus on things of the spirit rather than the flesh, a moral re-fusal to exploit others. ZEAL can be the earnest dedication of the cloistered scholar determined to find the truth no matter where it lies or the unswerving opposition of the lover of freedom to all forms of intolerance. HOPE FOR THE FUTURE may be the individual’s hope of the afterlife, the belief that this world can be made better and more compassionate, or a commitment to leave for future generations at least as much as was left to us. The colors of the 8th Degree apron (pictured above) represent purity (white), bordered by hope or regeneration (green), and lined with zeal (red). On the apron is a nine-pointed star, which symbolizes the Divine truth God re-vealed to the first men. This is the first appearance in the Scottish Rite Degrees of the symbol which will become the Triple Interlaced Triangle of the 32nd Degree. Above the star is the balance, again symbolizing both equilibrium and justice, major keys in understanding the path to Divine truth. On the flap is an equi-lateral triangle, symbol of Deity, containing at each of its corners Phoenician letters which mean, apex letter, S for the Hebrew words shekinah, the divine presence; left, the letter B for Ben-Khurim, meaning son of nobles or freeborn; and, right, the letter A for Ahad, meaning The One, our only God. The cordon is red or crimson, and the jewel hangs from it by a green ribbon. The jewel is a triangle or delta of gold. One side contains the Phoenician word for “nobles” or “freeborn” which Pike tells us is intended to indicate the sons of Hiram. The other side has Samaritan letters which are interpreted to mean “One God, Source of all things.” Thus the jewel reinforces the theme of the De-gree, for Hiram was a worker, and his sons, noble and freeborn, work not because they are forced to, but from zeal, from a love of accomplishment. Work is central to the Degree. One lesson is that a man cannot make real progress in Ma-sonry without study. The Degree further teaches us that great undertakings are cooperative efforts. The Degree also teaches the valuable lesson that knowledge is easily lost unless it is carefully pre-served and passed on to future generations. We have an obligation to teach, just as surely as we have an obligation to learn. And all of us have something of value to teach. For information on obtaining color photographic prints of all the Scottish Rite Degree paintings by Bro. Robert H. White, 32, (8th Degree pictured above) contact Bro. Bruce A. Dehlin, K. D. Enterprises, 10114 Farmington Drive, Fairfax, VA 22030-2049. Fax 703-591-6026 Tel 703-591-5318. For a color poster of all the Degree paintings ($20.00 unframed), send checks payable to The Supreme Council, 33, S.J., USA to: Grand Executive Director’s Office, 1733 16th St., NW, Washington, DC 20009-3103.

(Reprinted from The Scottish Rite Journal, August 1997 issue.)

Valley of Alexandria Valley of Danville

Valley of Lynchburg Valley of Newport News

Valley of Norfolk Valley of Portsmouth

Valley of Richmond Valley of Roanoke


Valley of Alexandria

Stated Meetings on the 2nd Friday @ 7:30PM

Chartered October 1911

Ill. Edmund Cohen, IGH

Personal Representative of SGIG

Ill. David C. Morris, IGH Secretary

Ill. Roy M. Heaster, IGH

Treasurer

Bro. Brian W. Galusha, 32° Almoner

Masters of the Four Bodies

Bro. Michael A. Riley, KCCH

Venerable Master

Bro. Sheldon B. Richman, KCCH Wise Master

Bro. Jay E. Patterson, KCCH

Commander

Ill. Herbert C. Willis, IGH Master of Kadosh

Building Address:

1430 West Braddock Road Alexandria, VA 22302

Mailing: P.0. Box 175 Alexandria 22313 Office: 703.998.9904

Fax: 703.778.2804

E-mail: [email protected]

Office Hours Monday through Friday

10AM till 4PM


Valley of Danville

Stated Meetings on the 2nd Tuesday @ 7:30PM

Chartered May 1923

Ill. Ronny L. Lewis, IGH

Personal Representative of SGIG

Ill. Steven A. Moss, IGH Secretary

Bro. Johnnie C. Dodson, KCCH

Treasurer

ll. Jesse M. Hutcherson, Jr, IGH Ill. J. Robert Denny, Jr, IGH

Almoner


Bro. Thomas W. Self, III, 32° Venerable Master

Bro. Bruce L. Hutcheson, Jr., KCCH

Wise Master

Bro. Edgar Leroy Little, Jr., 32º Commander

Bro. Ted Keith Rice, KCCH

Master of Kadosh

Building Address: 134 Tunstall Road

Danville, VA 23601 Office: 434.793.9805

Fax: 434.793.9805 Mailing Address:

P.O. Box 2418 Danville, VA 24541-0418


Valley of Lynchburg

Stated Meetings on the 2nd Friday @ 7:30PM

Chartered

October 1920

Ill. Lonnie L. Godfrey, IGH Personal Representative of

SGIG

Ill. Orville L. Lindsey, IGH Secretary

Bro. Jimmy P. Carter, 32° Treasurer

Bro. Robert E. Eckenrode, KCCH

Almoner


Bro. Obediah A. Martin, 32° Venerable Master

Bro. Mark L. MacKizer, KCCH Wise Master

Bro. William A. Robertson, Jr., KCCH

Commander

Bro. A. Alvin Hatter, KCCH

Master of Kadosh

Knights of St. Andrew

Matthew V. Gibson, 32° Commander

Building Address: 214 Lemon Drive Lynchburg, VA

Office: 434.385.4103

Mailing Address: P.O. Box 521

Lynchburg, VA 24505



Valley of Newport News

Stated Meetings on the

4th Wednesday @ 7:30PM

Chartered October 1912

Ill. Clifford A. Parker, IGH Personal Representative of

SGIG

Ill. Adrian “Pete” Eure, IGH Secretary

Ill. Gerald E. Burks, IGH

Treasurer

Bro. Harold C. Joyner, KCCH Almoner


Bro. George A. Hollingsworth, III,

KCCH Venerable Master

Ill. Danny O. Belott, IGH

Wise Master

Bro. John E. Mattison, Jr., KCCH Commander

Bro. George A. Hollingsworth, III,

KCCH Master of Kadosh

Building Address: 65 Saunders Road

Newport News, VA 23601 Office: 757.599.6617

Fax: 757.599.0021


Office Hours Monday thru Wednesday and

Friday between 9AM and Noon

Valley of Norfolk

Stated Meetings on the

3rd Thursday @ 7:30PM

Chartered December 1874

Ill. Carlton L. Gill, Jr., IGH Personal Representative of

SGIG

Ill. T. Dudley Myers, IGH Secretary

Ill. Donnie E. Baines, IGH

Treasurer

Bro. Shepherd W. McClenny, KCCH Almoner


Ill. Richard E. Carlson, IGH

Venerable Master

Bro. Berkley B. Bristow, Jr., KCCH Wise Master

Bro. Raiford L. Whitfield, 32°

Commander

Bro. Frederick R. Dixon, KCCH Master of Kadosh

Building Address: 7001 Granby Street

Norfolk, VA Office: 757.489.1076

Fax: 757.489.1742


Office Hours Monday thru Friday

9AM till Noon

Valley of Portsmouth

Stated Meetings on the 1st Monday @ 7:30PM

Chartered

1955

Ill. J. R. “Jack” Goodwin, IGH Personal Representative of

SGIG

Ill. W.H. ‘Andy’ Anderson, IGH Secretary

Bro. Franklin D. Edmondson, KCCH

Treasurer

Ill. Franklin D. Peters, IGH Almoner


Ill. Terry L. Wilburn, IGH

Venerable Master

Bro. William P. Burke, KCCH Wise Master

Ill. Frank A. Bonnewell, IGH

Commander

Bro. Eugene R. Daniels, KCCH Master of Kadosh

Building Address: 3401 Cedar Lane P.O. Box 7276

Portsmouth, VA 23707 Office: 757.484.2930


Office Hours

Monday thru Friday 9AM till 1PM

Valley of Richmond

Stated Meetings on the 4th Monday @ 7:30PM

Chartered

October 1878

Ill. John R. Quinley, IGH Personal Representative of SGIG

Ill. L. Aubrey Stratton, IGH

Personal Representative Emeritus

Ill. Robert W. Carpenter, Jr., IGH Secretary

Ill. Mack T. Ruffin, III, IGH

Treasurer

Ill. Clarence E. Whitley, IGH Almoner


Bro. Gray W. Bradford, KCCH Venerable Master

Bro. Dale E. Wright, 32°

Wise Master

Bro. Don G. Price, 32° Commander

Bro. William R. Heltzel, 32°

Master of Kadosh

Building Address: 4204 Hermitage Road

PO Box 9136 Richmond, VA 23227 Office: 804.264.2050

Fax: 804.261.0071


Office Hours 9:00 A.M. – 3:30 P.M. on M-Th

Valley of Roanoke

Stated Meetings on the 2nd Tuesday @ 6:00 PM

Chartered

October 1911

Ill. Louis K. Campbell, IGH Personal Representative of SGIG

Ill. Leonard A. Rowe, IGH

Assistant Personal Representative

Ill. James Campbell Bay, IGH Secretary

Bro. Robert J. Rohrback, 32°

Treasurer

Ill. Warren M. Cratch, IGH Almoner


Bro. William A. Parks, Jr., KCCH Venerable Master

Bro. Thomas E. Purves, KCCH

Wise Master

Bro. Melvin L. Crowder, KCCH Commander

Ill. David I. Bower, IGH

Master of Kadosh

Building Address: 622 Campbell Avenue, S.W. Roanoke, VA 24016-3597

Office: 540.343.6666 Fax: 866.266.4990


Office Hours Monday thru Thursday 9:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M.

Scottish Rite Conference Notes By Ill. Steven A. Moss, IGH

Dates: September 24 and 25

Hotel: Holiday Inn Lynchburg Downtown (601 Main Street)

Golf Outing: Thursday PM

September 23 (Location TBA)

Lunch Friday by Danville

Letter will be provided to the Valley Secretaries soon with hotel information and other

required details.

Looking forward to seeing you!

(FROM PAGE 13)

Southwest Virginia! I had sev-eral brothers from all over the country approach me and “bend my ear” to get ideas on what worked for us and how we were going to implement new ideas in the near future. All in all, the confer-ences were a whirlwind of ac-tivity and greatly beneficial and informative. I met many new friends and brothers and took away tons of useful information to make our Valley better and more prosperous. You’ll be see-ing me and hearing form me quite a bit for the next two years as I attempt to take the informa-tion gleaned from this experi-ence and apply it to our Valley. I’d like to thank Ill. James Cole and my Personal Representative, Ill. Kerry Campbell for providing me with the opportunity to attend these conferences.


may_2010

Documents

scottish rite leaders

degree page

sgig message page

fellow article page

valley photos page

brethren of virginia

virginia light

table of contents page