Louisiana Scottish Rite Trestleboard

AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2010 ORIENT OF LOUISIANA Volume 12 Issue 4

Scottish Rite FULFILL-BUILD-PROVIDE sented in the previous five parts of the series and hopefully The Symbolic Camp of the 32° - Part VI offer the opportunity for an in-depth understanding of the in- Mysteries of Sacred Geometry and Masonic Astronomy ner secrets at the esoteric core of the Scottish Rite teachings. Previous parts in the series have looked at the Geometrical by Ion Lazar, 32° KCCH and Astrological symbolism of each individual component part of the Camp. We shall now examine the whole of the Camp and its inner meaning. We will show how the overall geometry The Master Keys to The Camp of the Camp relates to both early Christian mysteries and to Are you afraid of dragons? What a silly question! After all, the early Jewish mystical system known as the Kabballah. We everyone knows their modern-day descendants are such mild will also present the mathematical key to the Hebrew alphabet, and useful little creatures, particularly their Komodo cousins as promised in an earlier part, and show how it relates to the who always put a smile on your face as they cheerfully prom- Kabalistic Tree of Life and to the Camp's design. Do you have ise to save you money on car insurance on those TV commer- enough cans of anti-dragon spray handy?... cials… Let's play with the "Rewind" button for a minute. When The first important clue when maps were made in ages past, as the old mapmakers reached looking at the overall design of the far edge of known water or land, they stopped, fearing what the Camp is to realize that the was uncharted, and ominously wrote on the map: "Beyond here geometrical layout remained es- there be dragons". Instead of going forward and daring to dis- sentially unchanged from the cover what was over the horizon, they stopped, fearing the time the Camp was a feature of unknown. Have times changed? Have we conquered our fear the old 25th (and last) Degree of the unknown and of the uncharted, or have we merely sup- under the old nomenclature of pressed it while displaying a smug yet passive and complete the Order of the Royal Secret. reliance on the unerring precision and infallibility of our "new" Decades before the formation of maps? our Supreme Council, this 25th Fear and courage are as intensely relevant to Masonic re- Degree was worked under the search as they are to the very personal process of spiritual de- title of "Knight of the Black and velopment through Initiation. "Know Thyself" captures this so White Eagle, or Royal Secret, or beautifully as to not need any further commentary. Our Ma- Knight of St. Andrew, and Faith- sonic Camp in the 32nd Degree is the perfect example of a ful Guardian of the Sacred Trea- complex puzzle so intricately veiled and so densely packed with sure". This early identity is very esoteric symbolism which spans across multiple fields of study important, particularly when as to simultaneously elicit a little fear from the aspiring stu- considering the arithmetic in- dent and also represent just the type of challenge that often volved in the series of odd inte- breeds courage and perseverance. A serious study of the Camp's gers that make up the polygons of the Camp. Counting the symbolism requires some fairly lengthy forays into Compara- center circle as "one", we have 1 + 3 + 5 +7 + 9 = 25, and 25 tive Religion, Astrology, Sacred Geometry, the Kabballah, the was exactly the number of Degrees under the old system, hence Book of Revelation, and several other topics, not to mention a each of the Degrees actually had a place in the design, includ- thorough knowledge of the symbolism of most, if not all, of ing the Heptagon (7 sides). But then why is the Heptagon now the Degrees preceding the 32nd Degree. As a very brief ex- "empty" under the current system of 32 Degrees, meaning that ample of this latter reference, a complete understanding of the there are neither Tents nor Standards on the Heptagon? This is esoteric symbolism of the ritual scene from the Egyptian Book a key question, the full answer to which can easily fill several of the Dead, which is enacted beautifully in the 31st Degree books. Let's give it a try in brief. ("Inspector Inquisitor, or Initiate of the Egyptian Mysteries") The Heptagon may be "empty" of Tents under the new sys- is an invaluable aid to understanding the trinity and dualism tem, yet it is full of hidden meanings. We are merely dealing concepts presented in the 32nd Degree. with a subtle shift of emphasis following the ritual revisions In this last part of our little series on the 32nd Degree Camp, by Albert Pike. The Kabballah and the Book of Revelation are I can only hope to present in summary fashion to the aspiring integral to the understanding of the Camp as part of the 32nd Adept a series of "master keys" to the entire Camp. These sym- Degree system. Well, in the Book of Revelation we find the bolic interpretive keys will tie together the information pre- Seven Spirits of God about the Throne, and in the Kabballah continued next column continued on page 12 1 Scottish Rite FULFILL-BUILD-PROVIDE Representative and offered to do what I Louisiana Scottish Rite Trestleboard Master Craftsman Program could for the Reunion. He gave me a part Published bimonthly by the to learn, and invited me to come early Louisiana Scottish Rite Foundation and help if I wanted. I was a little scared, P. O. Box 64 Shreveport, LA 71161 but I wanted to do this whole heartedly. The part I was given was the Mysti- Editor cal Ladder. This was not a big part, by Steve Pence 105 Bay Hills Drive The following members have recently comparison to some parts it was quite Benton, LA 71006 completed the first course and have re- small, but it was my part and my last few Tel: H: 318-965-9977 ceived or should shortly recieve their cer- words were to do [your] whole duty in E-mail: [email protected] tificates and lapel pins. the most perfect manner. I felt that as an Shreveport example, I had to do this in a most per- Louisiana Scottish Rite Trestleboard is published bi- fect manner. The next few weeks, were monthly by the Louisiana Scottish Rite Foundation. Any Jonathon D Williams article or views expressed in this publication are those John S Nightengale challenging. I had not learned a ritual only of the writer and do not reflect the official position part in many years, and the last time I of the Louisiana Scottish Rite. The editorial policy of New Orleans Edward Lance Atchison had learned anything that was this im- this publication grants free reign to the Editor, within the portant to me was my Catechism, when I lines of Masonic principles and teachings. Articles and pictures submitted become the property of this publica- Monroe was receiving the first three degrees in tion. Michael A Watts - Level II Masonry. Permission is granted to use contents of this Trestle- Having driven to Baton Rouge on Fri- board for Masonic purposes, as long as credit is given to day evening, I got up early and went to the source. our Consistory. I met some friends that I Editorial Staff had not seen in a long time, and I met a Editor: lot of new brothers. Then I went to work Steven A. Pence, 33° Valley of Baton Rouge: in the kitchen helping to get breakfast Shane C. Crump, 32° ready, get it served and then cleaning up Valley of New Orleans: afterwards. This felt really good, and Ion Lazar, 32° KCCH Valley of Shreveport: while we were working I got to visit with John F. Ayer, 32° KCCH some of the other brothers who were Valley of Lake Charles: Master Craftsman, My Valley working in the kitchen. Along the way Darrell L. Guillory, 32° and Me we transitioned into preparing lunch. I C. Clifford Heath, 32° KCCH Valley of Monroe: I have been a Scottish Rite Mason for got to help one of the brothers make a Beryl C. Franklin, Ph.D., 33° years however; I just felt that I didn't get wonderful jambalaya in a big iron caul- it. Maybe I missed the part where they dron. As we worked, we got to visit. He Allegiance explained all of this mystical stuff. was a member of a lodge that was "down The bodies of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite Maybe I wasn't smart enough to figure it the bayou" and it fascinating discussing of Freemasonry, sitting in the Orient of Louisiana, ac- knowledge and yield allegiance to the Supreme Council out. It appeared that many of my broth- the differences between life there and life of the Thirty-third degree for the Southern Jurisdiction ers must have "gotten it" because a lot of in the big city. It wasn't fancy, but being of the United States of America (Mother Supreme Coun- them were wearing red or white hats. in the back yard, making a jambalaya cil of the World) whose See is at Charleston in the State Working my way through the Master with my brothers was so "Louisianan"! of South Carolina, and House of the Temple, Washing- ton, D.C., of which Craftsman program, I read the words of Then came the time, all of the mem- Albert Pike instructing us that we should bers of the degree team got into our cos- Ill. Ronald A. Seale, 33° labor for the Order for labor's sake. I continued on page 4 Sovereign Grand Commander finally got it! and I needed to labor for the Valley of Calendar of Events Ill. William J. Mollere, 33°, Baton Rouge, my Valley. Because I live Orient of Louisiana Sovereign Grand Inspector General in Houston the distance had always been Conference of the Orient Orient of Louisiana a convenient reason why I was not able Baton Rouge November 13 Ill. Charles L. McCarty, 33° to attend the meetings - they were dur- Reunions Personal Representative for Valley of New Orleans New Orleans Sept 25 Ill. Ballard Smith, 33°, PGM ing the week. But now I had this "burn- Shreveport Sept 11-12 Personal Representative for Valley of Shreveport ing desire" to do something. Reading Ill. Richard B. Smith, 33° "The Trestleboard", I discovered that Lake Charles Sept 11-12 Personal Representative for Valley of Lake Charles Baton Rouge would be having a Reunion Baton Rouge Oct 23-24 Ill. C. Daniel Smith, Jr., 33° in a few weeks and it would be on Satur- Monroe Oct 23 Personal Representative for Valley of Baton Rouge day. York Rite Ill. Woody D. Bilyeu, 33°, GM Aside from paying my dues, I had not York Rite Mason Day Personal Representative for Valley of Monroe been in contact with my Valley in years; Shreveport Aug 14 M: W: Woody D. Bilyeu, 33° however I got in contact with the Personal South Central Conference and Grand Master of Masons in Louisiana continued next column Shreveport Sept 17-18 2 Scottish Rite FULFILL-BUILD-PROVIDE The Louisiana Scottish Rite Foundation

Scholarship Awards Foundation Officers 2010-2011 Contributions The Louisiana Scottish Rite Founda- S. Bruce Easterly President The Foundation is so very blessed by tion is proud to announce that the fol- William V. King Vice President the continued financial support from lowing Scholarships have been awarded: E. Louis McGee Treasurer within the Fraternity as well as from those Speech & Language Scholarships Robert C. Joyner Secretary from outside. William J. Mollere Chairman It is only fitting that these supporters Louisiana State University-Shreveport Gary L. Gribble Executive Director be recognized. Harry E. Moseley Board Member Paula Pedeaux Louisiana Scottish Rite Foundation Kelli Millet William H. Brown Board Member Kristy Holmes I. C. Turnley, Jr. Board Member In Memory of Robert Riedinger University of Louisiana-Lafayette Charles K. Watts Board Member Jamie Maxwell Neal R. Crane Board Member In Memory of Carl T Fatheree Kaile Stoute John L. Atkinson President Emeritus Beryl C Franklin E L Roberson James Corry Richard D Norman Robert Joyner

In Memory of Kayla Moore Waymon McMillon

In Memory of Allen Stevens George McAnn

Donations Richard B Smith William Lucas James Wiggins George Einham Frank Jensen Ballard Smith Anthony Radosti Ira Pennison Archie Hickman Sid Felps Oliver Whittington Lawrence Tabony Grimball and Associates

3 Scottish Rite FULFILL-BUILD-PROVIDE continued from page 2 Louisiana DeMolay Master Craftsman, My Valley and Me cont’d: The recent meeting of the DeMolay International Supreme tumes, and I must admit I felt pretty silly. Then they gave us Council in Dallas, Texas at the Galleria Center highlighted our mikes - OMG - everyone in the room would be able to hear some Louisiana Scottish Rite Masons. The presiding Interna- me if I messed up! We took our places and in a few minutes, I tional Grand Master of DeMolay was Robert Cockerham, 33 , was up, and I was ready, I had a cue card in my left hand just SGIG of Missouri, and he asked the Sovereign Grand Com- in case. As it were, I had to steady the candidate with my left mander, Ronald Seale, 33 , of Washington, DC formerly of hand, so no cue card for me. I explained that ladder. I ex- Baton Rouge, to be the "Key Note Speaker" during the Open- plained each step. Suddenly I was finished, it was done! ing Ceremony. During the Opening, Louisiana's Executive Driving back to Houston, I was tired and happy. It had Officer for DeMolay, M. W. Chip Borne, 33 , was introduced been a long day but it had been a most rewarding day. I thought and recognized. Louisiana's SGIG, Bill Mollere, 33 , a Past about seeing those friends that I hadn't seen in a long time, Grand Master of DeMolay International was also recognized. and the brothers I had met and gotten to know, not just from During the Opening, Ill. Bro. Seale was given an Honor nor- Baton Rouge, but from all around the area. I thought about the mally presented only to heads of government, he was made an new candidates, and that I had been a part of making the Scot- Honorary Past Grand Master of DeMolay! He has served on tish Rite Masons. I thought about the brethren who had as- the Supreme Council as an Active Member from Louisiana for sembled the day I was initiated, and in a small way, I had re- many years, and formerly served as Chapter Dad of Pelican paid them for their labours. And I knew that I would be sign- Chapter in Baton Rouge. ing up for the next Reunion to do whatever I could. Also attending the DeMolay Supreme Council Session was I don't think that I am the only member who has gotten Nick Auck, 32 KCCH, a Deputy Member of the DeMolay Su- away from regular participation in Valley events and I want to preme Council and Assistant to the Executive Officer. During address these members for a moment. Maybe like me, you just the Session, Bro. Auck was elected an Active Member of the didn't "get it" when you received your degrees, perhaps you Supreme Council. He joins Ill. Seale, Mollere and Borne on live a great distance from the Consistory. Perhaps you feel the Council. Ill. Bro. Ballard Smith, 33 , PGM, is an Emeritus like there is not a place for you, or that you are not needed. Member of the Council having served many years as an Active Let me encourage you, my brother to pick an event and go, it Member. Ill. John L. Belanger, 33 , serves as a Deputy Mem- may be one of the most rewarding days of your life. You can ber of the Council. Louisiana is well represented in the DeMolay visit the Louisiana Orient Express at www.la-scottishrite.org International organization and each man continues to serve which has a list of most events for the Orient and links to the the young men of DeMolay in various positions in Louisiana. local Valleys. Put the event on your calendar, make plans, and Congratulations to Ill. Seale and to Bro. Auck! perhaps reserve a motel room and go. Maybe you don't have the time, ability or desire to learn a part, but you can help. If you can make coffee, wash a pot, lift the lid on the jambalaya cauldron, hand out costumes, whatever you can do, there is a need for you. Why I was taking the Master Craftsman Program is still a Sam and Millie Hilburn Scholarship mystery to me. I was a most unlikely candidate for this. Per- It is a great pleasure to announce to you that Louisiana has haps it was because our S.G.C. is from my Valley and I wanted once again had an individual qualify for the coveted Sam and to support his program, I don't know, but Master Craftsman Millie Hilburn Scholarship of $5,000 for Speech and Language was one of the best things I have ever done. I encourage every Pathology during 2010-11. Scottish Rite Mason who has not signed up for this program to Ms Jennifer T. Pham is enrolled as a first-year student in consider doing so. One of the things that it did for me was to the Master's Degree Program at UL- explain each degree. When I was initiated, I received the man- M in Monroe and is a Magna Cum datory degrees, and there was just a lot missing, but Master Laude Graduate with a Degree in Craftsman explained each degree, and the essentials that one Psychology, a member of several should take from them. Going through the course I was re- honor societies and was awarded minded of many lessons that can be put in our daily lives, to three scholarships while an under- make each of us a better man and Mason. As I said at the graduate. beginning according to Albert Pike, we should labor for the In 2004, her father, Dr. Truong Craft for labor's sake. Fraternally, Pham, underwent surgery for a brain Robert Hagan, 32º tumor and required months of Valley of Baton Rouge therapy. At that point, Ms. Pham decided that her caring for her father was the turning point in wanting to work in the field of Speech and Language Disor- ders. Louisiana is fortunate to have another outstanding, well qualified and worthy recipient of this year's Sam and Millie Hilburn Scholarship. 4 Scottish Rite FULFILL-BUILD-PROVIDE Valley of New Orleans News The Oldest Scottish Rite Valley in the World - Chartered April 7, 1811 Albert Pike was Grand Commander of Grand Consistory of Louisiana From April 1857-January 1859 Meets on the first Wednesday of every month Recent Valley News 2011 symposium's planning committee. After a few months of holding some The meeting in Gretna featured an in- very successful meetings and Programs depth presentation of the Scottish Rite "on the road" while being hosted by sev- Fellows Program which is administered eral Lodges, our Valley has now returned by our Supreme Council. The presenta- to its home base at the beautiful and tion honored the current recipient of this stately building on Carondelet Street. We most exalted honor, Bro. David R. Mc all have a lot of exciting stories to tell Cann, Jr. 32º, while the remarks were about the recent experiences of our "trav- delivered by our Fellow Alumnus of 2004, eling Valley" - we have seen a lot, were Bro. Ion Lazar 32º KCCH. Our Ladies received warmly and entertained by per- were in attendance throughout the fect hosts who treated us like family and evening, and everyone enjoyed additional New Orleans Scottish Rite Temple like true Brothers. More importantly, we remarks by Ill. Bro. Nicholas Randazzo 619-621 Carondelet Street 33º and by our SGIG's Personal Repre- New Orleans, LA 70130-3503 had the opportunity to once again expe- sentative, Ill. Bro. Charles L. Mc Carty Secretary: Lloyd A. Hebert, 33° rience first-hand the depth of our Frater- Tel: 504-522-3789 Fax: 504-527-5982 nity and the unbreakable, special bond we 33º who brought our members up to date Email: [email protected] all share as Scottish Rite Masons. on the plans for another successful WebSite: www.nolascottishrite.com The recent Valley meetings hosted by Branson group trip. 2010 Membership Fees were due Slidell Lodge #311 and by William D. A multitude of very innovative events and programs is the focus of our Valley's on December 31, 2009 White Lodge #408, respectively, offer excellent examples of the progressive activity in the next few months. The Calendar of Events Knights of St. Andrew are once again Stated Communications 7:30 PM nature of the new Programs which have turned our Valley into a beehive of activ- spearheading the efforts for a memorable Advisory Conference 5:00 PM Wednesday, August 4th ity. The Slidell meeting featured a sur- Family Day on July 11. A most interest- ing Program is also now being planned Bring a Friend Night prise of rather large proportions, as plans to honor our 25-year and 50-year Scot- 50-Year member celebration were unveiled to put together a Scottish tish Rite members, of whom we are very Wednesday, September 1st Rite Bicentennial celebration and Aca- demic Symposium slated for the first part justifiably proud. Research and esoteric Feast of Tishri - Reobligation night of June 2011. This event is projected to instruction are also at the very top of the Fall Reunion September 25th be on a somewhat smaller scale than the list of priorities. These are very, very ex- Wednesday, October 6th ultra-successful National Leadership citing times for our Valley. Please do not Degree exemplification Conference of this last April. However, miss them! We hope to see you all at the Wednesday, November 3rd the organizational and logistic model Valley! Annual Thanksgiving program designed and implemented in April by Fraternally, Branson Trip November 6th our own Ill. Bro. Lloyd Hebert 33º, and Ion Lazar, 32ºKCCH Wednesday, December 1st which ensured the widely-acclaimed suc- Christmas program cess of that larger Conference, was also identified as an initial possible compari- son point and general framework sugges- tion for the Bicentennial effort. A full report of the several modules of the Lead- ership Conference was entertained and continued page 10 showcased the unique and crucial role In Memoriam Jesse R Hodges played by our General Secretary Hebert Ronald J Giroir, Sr. throughout that unforgettable National Jerry D Heyl event as well as in the many months of Elmo A Pellegrin tireless planning which preceded it. Ill. Harold J Butts Bro. Clayton "Chip" Borne III 33º PGM Jeniece D Hunter then offered remarks on behalf of the continued next column Herman Mopsick 5 Scottish Rite FULFILL-BUILD-PROVIDE Valley of Shreveport News Chartered October 26, 1913 Meets on the second Tuesday of every month From the Secretary’s Desk Brethren I would like to take a mo- ment and thank all of you who have been so supportive during my first few months as your Secretary. Many challenges have arisen and with your help we have pre- vailed. There are many new and exciting ideas on the trestleboard which will be Shreveport Scottish Rite Temple implemented in due time. At our July 725 Cotton Street meeting we had a special program given Shreveport, LA 71101-9713 by two musical prodigies from the Suzuki School of Music Catie & Emily Owens. Secretary: Gary L. Gribble, 33° Tel: 318-221-9713 Fax: 318-226-0843 L:R - COL (ret) T. Patrick Dickson, 32° KCCH and They did an excellent job entertaining us Email: [email protected] Cadet Matthew LaRue with Classical Violin music. Commencing in 1998 and approved by Web: www.shreveportscottishrite.com In this issue of the Trestleboard you the Assistant Secretary of will find the new dues structure for The Give a Living Legacy! Donate to Defense, the Supreme Coun- Orient of Louisiana. Our SGIG Ill: Wil- the Shreveport Scottish Rite cil, Southern Jurisdiction, ini- liam J. Mollere put a lot of hard work Foundation tiated a program of recogni- into this decision and we need to thank tion for outstanding Junior CALENDAR OF EVENTS him for his wisdom and foresight. Take a Tuesday, August 10th ROTC students. This initia- few moments to study this, as in all or- tive recognizes high school Regular Meeting 6:30 PM ganizations we must raise our dues to youth enrolled in the Junior FALL REUNION SEPT 11-12 survive. It is very important that each of Reserve Officers Training you take an active role in your Scottish Tuesday, September 14th Corps (JROTC) unit for their Rite. We have plenty of new ideas to Open Meeting 6:30 PM scholastic excellence and pa- implement and need help in doing so. Feast of Tishri triotic Americanism efforts. The award con- Look forward to seeing you at our meet- Tuesday, October 12th sists of a medal, ribbon and a certificate ings. Our office hours are Monday thru suitable for framing. Regular Meeting 6:30 PM Friday 8:00 a.m. till 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, November 9th Fraternally Gary Gribble, 33° Open Meeting 6:30 PM General Secretary Tuesday, December 14th A Cajun in The Kitchen Centurion Club Regular Meeting 6:30 PM You won't want to miss out on the Recently we began a new club at the Election of Officers August Valley meeting. Our Secretary Valley. It is open to all members and Note: Advisory Conference meets at 4:30 pm Gary Gribble was talking to Gerald called the Centurion Club, it's founding before each meeting. Savoie, owner of Gerald Savoie's Res- is based upon the principles of the Ro- taurant. Gerald stated that he wanted man Centurion, where-in he commanded The KCCH Club meets during the same to Cater a meal to the members of the 100 soldiers. The purpose is to recog- monthas District Lodge at 5:30 pm. Shreveport Scottish Rite. Now, Gerald nize those that give a gift of $100.00 or is a true Cajun, and being so, is going more to the Valley. The members will be to bring us those great Southern Creole recognized for their contributions. Also, August Prospect Night Classics. So, get your taste buds ready, continued page 14 Our August meeting will be a Pros- bring with you that appetite, and bring IN MEMORIAM pect Night. So, get out there in the Blue the ladies too!. All we ask, is that you Lodges and let's recruit some members. call in to the office, and let us know how Overton Barteet A fine meal will be prepared, and the 29th many will be coming! We've got to plan Edman L James, Jr. Degree will be presented by the Knights and all for the great attendance Gerald's James J Katz of St. Andrews. If you need applications, Cooking is sure to bring! Thanks Pat L Miller you can get them in the office. Gerald! Johnnie E Moore 6 Scottish Rite FULFILL-BUILD-PROVIDE Valley of Lake Charles News Chartered October 16, 1923 Meets on the third Wednesday of every month

2010 Officers Lake Charles Lodge of Perfection: people. These are the same principles Venerable Master: Noland R Gamble, 32° KCCH taught in our Scottish Rite degrees. Our Senior Warden: Daryl G Johnson, 32º KCCH degrees have roots extending from over Junior Warden: Harry C Northrop, 32º, KCCH 200 years ago. While there have been Lake Charles Chapter Rose Croix: some periodic modernizations, through Wise Master: Harry C Northrop, 32° KCCH the years, the underlying principles re- Senior Warden: Ricky A Venable, 32º KCCH Junior Warden: Donald R Verret, 32° KCCH main the same. Lake Charles Council of Kadosh: The time is Rite for us to exemplify Commander: William B Powell, 32° KCCH these principles in our daily lives to honor 1st Lt. Commander: Daryl G Johnson, 32° KCCH the memory of the members of the Great- Lake Charles Masonic Temple 2nd Lt. Commander: Richard D Morgan, 32º KCCH est Generation that came before us, and 717 Hodges Street Lake Charles Consistory: to leave the legacy of solid citizenship, Lake Charles, LA 70601 Master of Kadosh: Murray C “Bo” House, 33° valor, courtesy, honesty, and integrity for Secretary: Donald Blake Ford, 32° Prior: Herrin J Ducote, 33º the next generation of young men to fol- Tel: 337-436-1676 Fax: 337-436-1673 Prreceptor: Ricky A Venable, 32º KCCH Treasurer All Bodies: low. We have the Rite stuff; it is the Rite Email: [email protected] Clarence L Callihan, 32° KCCH time; let us do the Rite thing; and spread Secretary All Bodies: the Rite to all worthy men throughout the 2010 Membership fees were due Donald Blake Ford, 32° world. December 31, 2009 Director of Work Fraternally, Gregory L Bruce, 32° KCCH CALENDAR OF EVENTS Richard B Smith, 33° Personal Representative Wednesday, August 18th On the Road Meeting Personally Speaking Aurora Lodge #193 New Iberia Several years ago, Tom Brokaw wrote Fall Reunion Sept 11-12 a book entitled "The Greatest Genera- Wednesday, September 15th tion." This book was a collection of short Honoring Past Venerable Masters & 50 biographies of the men and women that Year members worked, served, and fought for our na- Wednesday, October 20th tion in World War II. Each story revealed Feast of Tishri a glimpse of a person's life. These were, Wednesday, November 17th for the most part, common everyday citi- Annual Thanksgiving Dinner zens, after living through the Great De- Wednesday, December 15th pression, were called together out of the Secretary Reminders Election of 2011 Officers need to preserve the American ideal of Reserve your spot on the bus trip from freedom and democracy. Brokaw did a Lake Charles to New Iberia for the Au- Back Door Lunch: Last Friday of ev- masterful job in recognizing this genera- gust meeting. Bus will depart the Ma- ery month.(Except November & Decem- tion of Americans for saving not only the sonic Temple in Lake Charles at 4:30 ber) United States, but the world, from tyranny p.m. with scheduled stops in Iowa at and oppression. His inspiration for the Vanity Fair, Jennings at the old Holiday story was that members of that genera- Inn, Crowley at the Rice Palace, and tion were nearing the end of their natural Lafayette at the Home Depot on lives and passing away at an alarming Evangeline Thruway. Call the office for rate. Blake or Becky at 337-436-1676 or email The Greatest Generation also included [email protected]. the largest number of Masons in the his- Don’t forget that our Fall Reunion is tory of the fraternity. These men under- September 11-12. Start gathering peti- stood that freedom is not free, hard work tions! comes before success even in the dictio- nary, and that the Supreme Being is on IN MEMORIAM the side of the faithful defenders of the Warren G Cox, 32° continued next column Jeff Edward Townsend, 32° 7 Scottish Rite FULFILL-BUILD-PROVIDE Valley of Baton Rouge News Chartered October 20, 1955 Meets on the second Monday of every month

Excellence Award Acacia Fraternity is a Greek social fraternity originally based out of Ma- sonic tradition. At its founding in 1904, membership was originally restricted to Baton Rouge Scottish Rite Temple those who had taken the Masonic obli- 14598 Florida Boulevard gations, and the organization was built Baton Rouge, LA 70819 on those ideals and principles. Within one year, four other Masonic clubs re- Secretary: Beverly J. Guillot, 33° DGM Tel: 225-275-0668 Fax: 225-273-0750 ceived Acacia charters, which led to a Email: [email protected] rapid expansion in the following years. Today the bonds with the Free and Ac- 2010 MEMBERSHIP FEES ARE Representative Notes cepted Masons vary amongst Acacia NOW PAST DUE How time flies! We are half way chapters, for some the tie is more dis- tant and informal while others work CALENDAR OF EVENTS through 2010 and it feels like we just cel- Dinner 6:30 Meeting 7:30 ebrated New Years Day, but with the heat closely with their local Masonic Lodges. Monday, August 9th we all know summer is here. I hope all Acacia's fundamental principles are A Rose Upon the Altar performed by the of you are enjoying the year and you and scholarship, leadership, brotherhood and Monroe Valley Cast your family are doing well. The Baton human service/philanthropy. The LSU Chapter began in the early Saturday, August 21st Rouge Valley recently completed its 1950's with a group of 25 DeMolays at- Honoring our Widows Night Spring Reunion with a fine class of 14 new Masters of the Royal Secret. We are tending LSU as the first Pledge Class and Monday, September 13th some prominent Masons, one being Presentation on 27th Degree looking forward to an active remainder of the year. On Saturday, August 21 at Charles Lenton Sartain, Jr., 33°. Judge Joe A Stroud, 33° Sartain, aka Chief is one of the founders Monday, October 11th 6:30 P.M., the Baton Rouge Valley will be holding its annual Widows Night. of the LSU Chapter and a former national On the Road - Feast of Tishri Fraternity Judge Advocate. Fall Reunion Oct 23-24 This event is open to all Masonic wid- ows, Scottish Rite or not, and proves to During the Greek Excellence Gala, Monday, November 8th be a fun event each year. Plan on com- Chief Sartain was honored as the recipi- Annual Thanksgiving program ing out and volunteering; it will help ent of the Greek Excellence Award. Advisory Conference meets at 5:30 prior to bring a little joy into the lives of our wid- regular meetings. ows. Our attendance at regularly scheduled meetings, second Monday of each month, has been a little light the last few meet- ings. These meetings give you a chance to renew old friendships and enjoy the wonderful programs the Venerable Mas- ter has scheduled. As stated in the last message, we are preparing an e-mail list for the Valley so we can inform the brethren in a more ef- ficient manner about upcoming events. Chief Sartain and Venerable Dean Rob Barrios If you would like to place your address on the list, please contact Bro Keith Ber- In Memoriam nard at [email protected] and Charles W Beard give him your information. Robert S Leake Danny Smith, 33° William H Lebo Personal Representative James H Morgan, 33° 8 Scottish Rite FULFILL-BUILD-PROVIDE Valley of Monroe News Chartered November 13, 1971 Meets on the first Thursday of every month

August Meeting is the 9-year-old daughter of Pat and The Monroe Scottish Rite Bodies will Kathy Regan of West Monroe. She is hold its August meeting at the Monroe schooled at home and is an active mem- Scottish Rite Temple on August 5, 2010. ber of the Northeast Louisiana Christian As usual we will have a nice meal pre- Home School Association and Brownie pared by our culinary experts on the Troop 45. First West Baptist is her church Kitchen Crew. Remember that the ladies home. She has invested an untold num- are invited to join us for the refreshments ber of hours serving her community by Monroe Scottish Rite Temple as well as the program that follows. In presenting concerts to civic clubs, church 205 University Avenue the past, we have endeavored to tell you groups, nursing homes, and numerous Monroe, LA 71203-3701 exactly what the program was to be. But, other venues, offering her rendition of the Secretary: Robert C. Joyner, 33° this time, we are going to keep you in "Star Spangled Banner" at sporting Tel: 318-343-6388 Fax: 318-343-5492 suspense as to the exact nature of this events, rodeos, and more. She has a strong Email: [email protected] program. It will be one that you will en- voice and is exceptionally talented. Her 2010 Membership fees were due by joy and learn something that will stay parents and music instructors guide her, December 31, 2009 with you for years to come! You will be but credit her talent as a gift from God. glad you heard it! Your entertainment for the October CALENDAR OF EVENTS meeting will be Blue Grass music brought Dinner with Ladies 6:00 PM to us by the Sandy Hill Bunch. This band Program 7:00 PM Venerable Master’s Messsage consists of six members led by Dewey Thursday, August 5th Attendance at the stated meetings of Fondren and equipped with all the instru- ments you would expect to see in a Blue guest speaker any Masonic body rarely exceeds 10 - Grass band. Thursday, September 2nd 15% of the membership of that Masonic Brethren, you will not want to miss Feast of Tishri body. That, unfortunately, is true in our these programs. Bring your family, Rev. Jeffery Smart-Guest Speaker beloved Scottish Rite. It can be attrib- uted to a number of factors - some over friends and prospective members with Thursday, October 7th you. Remember, we serve a meal at 6:00 guest speaker which we have little control. There are, however, things that we can do to im- p.m. prior to all of our meetings. Fall Reunion October 23 Fraternally, Thursday, November 4th prove attendance. We can do things dif- Joe Baker, 33° ferently and provide programs that are Venerable Master 25 & 50 year members recognized interesting, informative and entertaining. Thanksgiving program Fall Reunion October 23rd From "time immemorial" (masonic Thursday, December 2nd Even though we have upper for a long time) we have opened the bod- Annual Christmas program 90°weather and school is out; it is not too ies of the Consistory by proclamation. Election & Installation of Officers early to be thinking about getting peti- We began this year opening the Lodge of tions from your Blue Lodge Brethren for Perfection in ritualistic form. Ritual is the fall reunion. Remember the lessons part of our identity as Masons. We will learned when you received the Scottish continue to open the other bodies of the Rite Degrees leading up to your being Monroe Valley by proclamation. named a Master of the Royal Secret! We have incorporated the Knights of Coupled with this additional "Light" was St. Andrew in the opening procedure. the privilege of the Fellowship and ex- Words to Live By They post the Flag and their banners to pressions of Brotherly Love you have ex- Always keep your words sweet, just in case you the accompaniment of bagpipe music, have to eat them. perienced at the Regular meetings where and lead the members in the Pledge of continued page 10 Allegiance to the Flag. It is their duty Drive carefully: It is not only cars that can be IN MEMORIAM recalled by their maker. then to collect the alms. Carl Thomas Fatheree, 33 We are working hard to include en- ° Verley Oray Ray Floyd, 32 KCCH If you lend someone $20.00 and never see that tertainment in our programs. Ms Baylee ° person again, it was probably worth it. Claud Dexter Hughes, 32 Regan will provide a musical program ° Wilmer Rozell Roper, 32° Birthdays are good for you, the more you have, at our regular meeting in August. Baylee Charles Edward Ward, 32 the longer you live. continued next column ° 9 Scottish Rite FULFILL-BUILD-PROVIDE continued from page 5 continued from page 9 New Orleans Valley News: Monroe Valley News-Fall Reunion: your wife or girl friend (but not both) could share a very nice Personal Representative’s Message meal and enjoy the interesting program as well as you. Some My Brothers, I want to tell you about a Tradition that can of these programs were also appropriate for the older kids as change your life. For those of you who seek a deeper under- well. Why not start a little friendly contest with a Scottish Rite standing of Freemasonry, the Scottish Rite Research Society Brother to see who can get the greater number of petitions. (SRRS) has much to offer. We need Programs that provide us Now you have some time to do this so, don't miss it. Rewards with a better understanding of Masonry and Programs that Await! develop Leadership. Our Craft needs well-educated and will- ing Brothers in leadership roles for the survival of our Ma- sonic Fraternity. We must, in a traditional way, interest our membership in September at The Monroe the esotericism of Freemasonry, whether it be in our Blue Scottish Rite Bodies Lodges or in our beloved Scottish Rite. We must strive to change our Fraternity by being innovative, offering workshops that On September 2, 2010 at the Monroe Scottish Rite Temple, excite our membership in Programs that strive to meet the needs the members and their Ladies will be able to participate in the of those of us who did not have this opportunity. Masonry pro- Annual Celebration of "Feast of Tishri" (or "The Feast of Tab- vides many opportunities such as leadership skills, personal ernacles"). For the newer Masters of the Royal Secret, this ref- development that translates into one's daily actions and makes erence may provoke the question, "What is the Feast of Tishri?" each of us a better person. This is an obligation Feast Day and the Master of the Royal Please call the Valley at (504)522-3789 or email us at Secret heard reference to it in the Fourteenth Degree (The Per- [email protected] if you would like additional information fect Elu). As you may have surmised, this Feast is known by about our Programs. We would love to hear from you. many names; "The Feast of Ingathering: "The feast of The First Fraternally Yours, Fruits", as well as "The Feast of Salvation". The ancient He- Charles L. Mc Carty 33º brews followed a lunar calendar of thirteen months of twenty- SGIG's Personal Representative eight days each. Since this Feast was celebrated in the month Valley of New Orleans, LA of Tishri, (last of September or first of October) we have used this title more frequently. This is the time of harvest and thus you can see the relevance to the various names used for it. It was really the first government-sanctioned "Thanksgiving Feast". While our ancient Jewish brethren used it as a period of Thanksgiving for their deliverance from captivity in Egypt, we could easily use it as a period of remembrance and thanks- giving for the many blessings we have enjoyed from our Found- ing Forefathers, from our first Declaration of Independence, through the many wars that have been fought up to the present that allow us to celebrate our many blessings. We should re- member and be extremely grateful for those men and women who have fought, bled, and even paid the ultimate price that we may live in this Country and enjoy the contributions they made possible. Let us remember and be humbly and prayer- fully grateful at our "Feast of Tishri".

10 Scottish Rite FULFILL-BUILD-PROVIDE CENTER NEWS Shreveport Scottish Rite Admiral E. A. Barham, 33° Childhood Learning Center Scottish Rite Childhood Learning Center The Mollie E Webb Speech and Hearing Center, of the De- partment of Rehabilitation Sciences-LSU School of Allied Health Professionals, held their annual continuing education and honors program at the Shreveport Valley. Dr. Ghali Ghali, a highly recognized surgeon specializing in oral and maxillofacial field, was a featured presenter on palatoschisis (cleft palate). Dr. Mary Pannbacker, profes- sor Communication Disorders and Dr. David Irwin, Head of Clinical Services were presenters on Ethics and Implications for clinical practice and research when dealing with cleft palate Robert Joyner, 33° General Secretary presents scholarship awards to (L:R) patients. The powerful emotions Tera Dozier, Andrea Parks and Tiffany Nobles these patients bring with them argue for caution in medical de- Southwestern Regional cision making. The relationship Childhood Learning Center between patient and surgeon is particularly charged and is an Dr. Ghali E Ghali, MD important source of support, in- formation, hope and advice. The honors portion of the program was a source of pride for the Louisiana Scottish Rite Foundation and its members. Dr. Gina Easterly-Taylor, As- sistant Professor-LSU Health Sciences Center Baton Rouge and daughter of Ill. S Bruce Kaile Stoute Jamie Maxwell Easterly, 33° President of the Kaile Romero Stoute is from Delcambre, Louisiana, where SR Foundation, was honored Drs. David Irwin and Mary Pannbacker (seated) she graduated fifth in her high school class as an honors stu- as Alumni of The Year Award. dent. After starting college at UL Lafayette as a nursing ma- jor, she transferred her desire for a career helping people to speech pathology and audiology. While completing her under- graduate degree, she was active in the National Student Speech Language and Hearing Association and the CODI Honor Soci- ety. She would like to eventually operate a private practice working with autistic children. She is married to TJ Stoute who is currently deployed with the 256th. Jamie Maxwell is currently a graduate student at the Uni- versity of Louisiana at Lafayette, pursuing a career as a Speech Language Pathologist. She received her undergraduate degree in Communication Disorders at Florida State University. Origi- nally from Vero Beach, Florida, Jamie recently moved here with Dr.Gina Easterly and Dr. Thomas Powell, Executive her husband of one year. She plans to work in the school sys- Director off Mollie E Webb tems and is especially interested in language and literacy in- tervention. Holly L Damico, Coordinator Southeast Regional Scottish Rite Southwestern Regional Scottish Rite Childhood Learning Center Childhood Learning Center Clinic Director-Communicative Disorders ULL Baton Rouge Scottish Rite Childhood Learning Center 11 Scottish Rite FULFILL-BUILD-PROVIDE tified in the 4th Degree as Wisdom, Strength, and Beauty, thus continued from front page The Master Keys to The Camp: giving the esoteric key to much of the Blue Lodge symbolism. we find 10 spheres or Sephiroth arranged in such a way as to Each of the 10 Sephiroth has a Planet associated with it (in- form a total of 22 connecting paths between them, for a total of cluding the Moon), and each of the 22 connecting paths is 32. Incidentally, there are 22 main letters in the Hebrew al- associated with one of the 22 Hebrew letters, each of which in phabet, and each of them has a place on the 22 connecting turn has a numerical value. This constitutes one of the main paths, respectively, as seen in the diagram above. Furthermore, esoteric keys to our Camp. In addition, the planetary attribu- in the Kabballah the 3rd sphere or emanation of the initial tions, particularly as they relate to the Standards on the Penta- trinity contains within itself the following 7 Sephiroth. These gon, as well as the mystical significance of the odd integers 1, are the same 7 sephirothic emanations of which we are specifi- 3, 5, 7, and 9, have already been discussed at length in previ- cally informed in the 32nd Degree ritual ("Voices" section) that ous parts of this series. A further connection will become ap- they were "four male and three female" - this exact correspon- parent when the mathematical key to the Hebrew alphabet is dence of polarities is also to be found on the same Kabalistic revealed below. Tree of Life! We have thus elucidated the "emptiness" of the We need to pause here briefly in order to make a crucial Heptagon following the new Degree nomenclature, suffice it point. Anytime you attempt to unlock the meaning of any Ma- to say that it is most definitely not empty of meaning. As for sonic symbol or ritual, remember the most important axiom of the Kabballah and Book of Revelation we only briefly men- Hermetic Philosophy: "As Above, So Below", which is also tioned, have no fear if the above sketch lacked sufficient intro- the meaning of the two interlaced triangles, one pointing up, ductory material, we will explain things more fully below as the other pointing down. The geometry of the Kabbalah does we present further keys to the Camp's structure. not only describe the nature Speaking of introductory material, let us touch briefly upon of GOD, it also describes the the subject of study pre-requisites necessary to understand the structure of Man as a model Camp. First, I beg the reader to understand that a certain of human consciousness. This amount of "pain" and confusion is somewhat inevitable when one aspect is about as impor- one first approaches subjects as complex and as abstruse as the tant to understand as the fact Kabalistic keys to the 32nd Degree Camp. Private study of that Hiram represents both multiple reference sources, as well as participation in the eso- the Sun and the Soul of Man. teric classes offered at the Valley can ease this initial shock I have searched long and hard substantially. All other things being equal, there is no substi- for a way to express to the stu- tute for a good primer. Of the two hundred or so books on the dent as painlessly as possible Kabballah strewn about my esoteric library, I would probably just how the Kabballah de- recommend no more than three. One of these is particularly scribes in coded geometrical awesome, a true gem from which I have selected a couple of form a process of creation, not pictures below: "Kabbalah: Tradition of Hidden Knowledge" a static thing. Once again, the by Z'Ev Ben Shimon Halevi. In addition, as you will see below, book referenced above came an understanding of the Book of Revelation is crucial to grasp- to the rescue and provided an ing the inner meaning of the Camp. Read it patiently, with excellent practical example particular emphasis on Chapter 4. through which the student Now that we've covered the preparatory resources, let us can immediately grasp the continue unveiling the "keys". Here's a very important ques- essence of the doctrine: tion: Why does the Kabballah figure so prominently in so many The patient student who will pair off the names and the Degrees of the Scottish Rite? Entire Degrees are built around meanings of the Sephiroths by "superimposing" both pictures it, starting with the 4th - why? The answer has to do with the given above, and in addition fill in the planetary attributions fact that Masonry in general, and the Scottish Rite in particu- and the letters on each of the 22 paths, will be well on his way lar, explore the nature of the relationship between Man and toward understanding the deeper mysteries of the Scottish Rite the Creator, and the Kabballah very aptly offers an expression Degrees. By now you should have a very clear idea of the key of this eternal quest, and it does so within a format where sym- role of the Kabballah in interpreting the 32nd Degree Camp. bols are encoded geometrically and also through the numeri- There are actually plenty of direct references to the Kabballah cal values of letters. So what exactly, pray tell, is the Kabballah, within the text of the Degree ritual itself. Also, please con- more precisely? It is a school of thought connected historically sider the fact that no less than two of the Passwords of the to the mystical aspect of Rabbinic Judaism. It comprises a set 32nd Degree are actually the exact names of Sephiroths on the of esoteric teachings meant to explain the complex relation- Tree of Life! ship between an infinite GOD and a finite Universe as GOD's It is now proper to fulfill a promise made in an earlier part creation. The various levels of creation, or of manifestation, of this series to reveal the Kabalistic and Geometrical keys to are portrayed in a geometrical model (known as the Tree of the Hebrew alphabet. You will find this to be quite unique, I Life) of ten spheres or Sephiroths, seen as outward emanations assure you. There are a total of 24 positive integers which di- of GOD, and arranged around 3 Columns so as to form a total vide the 360 degrees of a circle into whole numbers. Two of of 22 connecting paths between them. These Columns are iden- these 24 divisors are the numbers 1 and 360, respectively. We continued next column continued page 13 12 Scottish Rite FULFILL-BUILD-PROVIDE purpose in the 32nd Degree. The throne seen "in the spirit" by continued from page 12 The Master Keys to The Camp: the mysterious author "John" has a rainbow around it (seven may safely eliminate them from the discussion because any colors in one). In the 32nd Degree, the seven-pointed star dis- positive integer above 1 is always divisible by 1 and by itself, playing the colors of the rainbow is set behind the Master's by definition. We are left with 22 integers that divide the 360 chair in the East. Around the throne are 24 seats with 24 degrees of a circle: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 12, 15, 18, 20, 24, 30, elders. In our Camp, outside of the Circle the values of the 36, 40, 45, 60, 72, 90, 120, 180. Notice anything special about Triangle, Pentagon, Heptagon, and Nonagon add up to 24 (3 + this series? Well, the numbers over 10 are obviously factorial 5 + 7 + 9 =24). Seven lamps are burning around the throne as composites of the first 7 numbers in the series, but it is more the Seven Spirits, while the Camp features the Heptagon. There important to notice that 360 is divisible by every single posi- are "voices" coming from the throne, as there are also "voices" tive integer from 1 to 10 except the number 7! This is another featured in the Degree, seven, no less. There are also four mys- reason why the Heptagon is "empty" - the Heptagon cannot terious "beasts" guarding the throne. We find that the center form whole-number arcs on the circle, therefore cannot be con- of our Camp has a cross of four points, and at each point is sidered "perfect" or "regular" within the symbolism presented. symbolically identified a Grand Marshall. In the Book of Rev- This leads us to the truly important revelation concerning the elation, the four creatures have the face of a lion, a bull, a Camp: just as the 10 Sephiroth progressively emanate from man, and an eagle, respectively. In the Camp we find these the initial ONE, the entire Camp is itself a symbol of ONE, featured on the Standards around the Pentagon. They are actu- and this is why all the figures of it are concentric, as if ema- ally symbolic representations of the 4 signs of the Zodiac that nating from the one central point at the intersection of the form the Celestial Cross, as has been fully unveiled in an ear- Cross's bars, the place symbolically occupied by the Sovereign lier part of this series: the lion represents Leo, the Bull is Tau- Grand Commander. The numerical attributions of the 22 He- rus, the Man stands for Aquarius, and the Eagle is the symbol brew letters, much like the 22 divisors of the circle, express a always used to denote Scorpio. The Cross thus formed further similar concept when properly arranged along the 22 paths of relates, as previously explained, to the equinoxes and solstices the Tree of Life. The Adept needs no further clues here. Sancta which are key to the interpretation of several Scottish Rite Sanctis! Degrees and teachings. We may conveniently choose to stop Much has been revealed our analysis here knowing that the Book of Revelation is much here. However, much more more than a mere description of a vision - some researchers remains hidden within the claim it is a complete, yet ciphered path to spiritual Initiation text of the 32nd Degree - and also that we have not by any means exhausted the rich ritual. It is hoped that the treasure of symbolism in the 32nd Degree. sincere student would un- As we reach the end of our series of brief incursions into dertake a serious study of the mysterious Camp of the 32nd Degree, I can't help but pon- the text at the earliest op- der briefly, albeit a bit nostalgically, the delicate balance of portunity. Also, having ac- factors and of choices involved in the somewhat subjective cess to the source material process of selecting esoteric interpretations in Masonic re- cited above is a must in or- search. In a beautiful 1920 poem, the immortal Robert Frost der to examine the full-size wrote: illustrations where all the "Two roads diverged in a wood, and I- attributions ("labels") on I took the one less traveled by, the Tree are legible, which And that has made all the difference." cannot be accomplished here at full size due to space Masonic Initiation is intensely personal. It should leave an limitations. At this point the indelible mark upon your Soul. We present our timeless mys- student possesses all the teries to you as the Aspirant, and yet we can never see the esoteric keys to the Camp, world through your eyes. In the final analysis, the one inter- except one. Let us look be- pretation that "works" to trigger in you the transformative pro- yond the horizon, shake off cess of spiritual Initiation is the one which you instinctively the fear of the unknown, and dare to complete the map / puzzle. recognize as capable of giving you wings and of inspiring you The Book of Revelation supplies the final key to the Camp. to dream and to create. It is a path you must choose yourself. Again, there are pre-requisites strongly recommended here in Salve Frater! order to achieve a comprehensive view of the many connec- Ion Lazar, 32ºKCCH tions with other Scottish Rite Degrees. I would particularly suggest a thorough study of the themes and symbolism of the 17th Degree (Knight of the East and West) - one will find a multitude of Kabalistic connections there along with very rel- evant teachings built around the symbolism of the Seven Seals. Chapter 4 of the Book of Revelation offers us some unmis- takable clues as to the design of the Camp and to its overall continued next column 13 Scottish Rite FULFILL-BUILD-PROVIDE HE INAL ORD continued from page 6 T F W Valley of Shreveport News Centurion Club cont’d: they can give more than once! If you would like to become a member, simply make a $100.00 contribution to the Valley. Come join and be recognized! A Legacy in Perpetuity I met a wonderful man recently and thought that I would share a little about him. He was the quiet type, and was al- ways thinking about the future. He had that gift of not looking at just the present, but was always thinking about what a dif- ference he could make to those that depended upon him. He was always planning things, and thinking: What can I do to make that difference?" He told me that he didn't want to be just like everybody else, to blend in, to be a name on a list, or forgotten after a short period of time. He said, "I want to leave a Legacy. I want to do something that will mean a lot to Ill. William J. Mollere, 33° others long after I am gone. I want to be remembered as one Sovereign Grand Inspector General that gave when others quit giving." He looked at me, and with a gleam in his eyes told me that he had thought of what he “A Quarter, A Nickel and Two Pennies” would do. He had thought of what that special gift that would be. He had realized what his Legacy for all time would say. In my last message to you in the June / July issue of this Through forethought, he gave the gift that keeps on giving. TRESTLEBOARD, the facts of higher Dues and Fees were He realized that paying dues once each year would end with explained for the coming year. Over the last two months, sev- him. His Legacy he found would be realized if he would pay eral Brothers have talked to me about the figures mentioned. dues that keep paying beyond the present and continue long Remember that the suggested range was a $1 each year in- into the future. He could help keep alive that gift of giving crease to $1 per day Dues - an interesting range of $76 to $365 and being a charitable man. Friends, this wonderful man will per year. One very good, dear friend and Brother asked me in forever be known as "Perpetual". Church one Sunday what the decision would be. He is retired, a faithful Member for many years, and on a fixed income. He explained that he wanted to maintain his membership and un- derstood that expenses were increasing, as in all other areas, but he hoped that the increase would not "price him out" of the range of being able to continue to pay his Dues. Another Feast of Tishri Brother sadly explained that he knew several who would De- Our September meeting immediately follows the weekend mit or just quit if Dues went up even $1. Another Brother of the Fall Reunion. The September 14th Meeting will have asked me if I understood the value of Membership to Brothers our cast presenting the Feast of Tishri. Now, for those that who joined and were not able to regularly attend. Still another don't know, the Feast of Tishri is derived from the Israelite Brother complained that I appeared to dictate and not listen to Festival of Sukkoth also known as the Feast of the Tabernacles. Members or even seek advice on the method of increases. All This is a play representing the exodus from Egypt by the Jews, comments have been received with my thanks, even the nega- the end of the fall harvest, a celebration of thanksgiving and tive ones, and all truly understood. I too am retired and on a the dedication of King Solomon's Temple. The audience par- fixed income. I have asked every Valley to talk, listen and ticipates with the players, in toasting throughout the play. If give me the thoughts, ideas and suggestions from the member- you haven't seen the play, you can correct that by planning to ship. Every September and October when Dues notices begin attend and enjoy a great meal too! arriving for the various organizations, especially Masonic, I shutter and wonder how I got myself into so many organiza- tions and why I have continued to belong to those in which I rarely participate. Then the checks get written, stamps affixed Shreveport Scottish Rite Building Foundation and the mail goes off, and the Dues cards eventually arrive ensuring that my membership is secure for another year. Mostly, Built of the finest Italian marbles, emblazoned with inlaid I believe in these organizations, enjoy the membership func- gold leaf; bereft with Tiffany glass Chandeliers, and English tions and most importantly, the organizations support some tufted carpet. Our is the finest Temple in the South. Help us worthwhile cause or charity, and it is my way of participating keep it standing strong and beautiful. Give to the Building and supporting them vicariously. Foundation by sending your tax-deductible contributions to: True membership is always defined by those who want to Shreveport Scottish Rite Foundation, Inc. (SSRFI) P. O. Box belong and want to support and participate in the organiza- 64 Shreveport. LA 71161. continued page 15 14 Scottish Rite FULFILL-BUILD-PROVIDE suggestions and forethought. I do not like to make decisions continued from page 14 that will make Brothers chose to continue to belong or chose The Final Word-How Much is Your Membership Worth: to leave because of money; but some Brothers will leave. Hope- tion. As mentioned last issue, some Brothers once joined Scot- fully, many will redouble their activity level wanting to know tish Rite in order to become Shriners - that is no longer a pre- where their Dues are going, how the money is being spent, requisite. Some joined to be able to boast that they were 32nd what is going on down at the Scottish Rite, and become active Degree Masons - worthy, but being a Master Mason in Free- and involved. Recruiting new Brothers may become more of a masonry is really as high as anyone could hope to attain - be- challenge too, but sense of value of membership is the answer ing a Master of the Royal Secret, 32nd Degree, means a Brother - do you value your membership and do you participate in this wanted "More Light" by traveling further down the road of wonderful Craft of Brotherhood? Is the fellowship, the Broth- Freemasonry and joined the fellowship of Scottish Rite - new erhood, the lessons offered, the tangibles and intangibles of lessons, new challenges, new friends and Brothers - all worthy Scottish Rite worth a quarter, a nickel and two pennies a day? of Masons seeking to be better than themselves, helping oth- I hope so; and thank you for continuing to be a practicing, ers, improving their lives through lessons inculcated, and hope- participating, involved and Dues-paying Scottish Rite Mason fully regularly practicing the lessons exemplified in the De- Bill Mollere, 33° S.G.I.G. grees. So, today being a Master of the Royal Secret in Louisiana costs $75 per year in Dues. Yet we have many Members who are quitting - the money is not the real reason they quit, and each has his own reason. Our neighboring states have higher Dues, but that is not an excuse to raise Louisiana's Dues and Fees. Our Dues and Fees have long been so low that one won- ders how the organization paid its bills previously, especially when a building, employees and services are provided in each of our five Valleys. My Dues in professional organizations and other civic clubs compared to Masonic fees have always been much, much higher - and no one seemed to complain. Yet, when my Lodge attempted to raise its Dues several years ago, there was a general uprising - $35 per year with a $5 increase was open war! $40 per year? Rotary was $240 per year plus lunch at $7.50 each week - and you had better not miss a week - and the room was full! Masons trying to in- crease fees have always faced a challenge when compared to every other group or organization in the world. Well - here is the news, my Brothers, Masters of the Royal Secret, 32nd Degree Masons - about 32 cents a day in 2011 - $10 per month - $120 per year. Can you afford to pay that? Is Scottish Rite worth about 32 cents a day to you - a quarter, a nickel and two pennies? Do you still want to support the five RiteCare Clinics helping hundreds of children every year in Louisiana? Do you want to support the thousands of dollars in scholarships awarded to Speech Pathology and to Engineering Students each year? Do you want to support the ROTC and Americanism awards given to over 500 Louisiana students each year? Do you want to receive a magazine each month from Scottish Rite? Do you want to attend and participate in monthly meetings, events, semi-annual Reunions and know that you are a part of a progressive, active arm of Freemasonry? With the Dues increase there is a caveat - if you are a 50-year Scot- tish Rite Mason, your dues will be $80 per year. Fees to join the Scottish Rite are increasing January 1, 2011 to $400, which includes the first year Dues. For petitioners between the ages of 18-29 and those over 65 the fee will be $300 with the first year Dues included. Fees for petitioners in the Clergy and Ac- tive Servicement are waived, but the Dues must be paid. Per- petual or Endowed Membership will be $2,500. Attempting to arrive at a reasonable Dues & Fee structure has not been easy, but it has been made with many comments, continued next column 15 Louisiana Scottish Rite Foundation Non-Profit Org. Louisiana Scottish Rite Trestleboard U.S. Postage Post Office Box 64 Paid Shreveport, LA 71161 Baton Rouge, LA Tel: 318-221-9713 Permit No. 2408

August - September 2010 Issue 10-04

Scottish Rite FULFILL-BUILD-PROVIDE Mission Statement Did You Know? Baton Rouge Scottish Rite Childhood Learning Center It is the mission of the Scottish Riteof We have a procedure for balloting: Freemasonry, SJ, to improve its members Article XVII, Section 9: P.O. Box 15766 Baton Rouge, LA 70895-5766 and enhance the communities in which When, upon a ballot being taken, one Telephone: (225) 275-0668 they live by teaching and emulating the black ball appears, further action shall Admiral E. A. Barham, 33 Scottish principles of Brotherly Love, Tolerance, be postponed until the nest regular meet- ° Rite Childhood Learning Center Charity, and Truth while actively embrac- ing of the Body. In the meantime the 205 University Avenue ing high social, moral, and spiritual val- objector may make known to the presid- Monroe, LA 71203-3701 ues including fellowship, compassion, ing officer in secret his objection to the Telephone: (318) 343-6388 and dedication to God, family and coun- candidate, which objection the presiding Southeastern Louisiana Regional try. officer may, in his discretion, make Scottish Rite Childhood Learning STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES known to the Body, if the identity of the Center ← Fulfill the promise of additional Ma- objecting Brother be not revealed thereby. Southeastern Louisiana University sonic knowledge through education and The presiding officer may also make Scottish Rite Temple training. known to the Body his opinion as to 619 Carondelet Street ← Build a Positive Public Image of Free- whether or not the reasons which have New Orleans, LA 70130 masonry and the Scottish Rite. been communicated to him are sufficient Telephone: (504) 522-3789 ← Support and expand our philanthropic to justify rejection. At the next regular Shreveport Scottish Rite Childhood activities. meeting, whether the reasons have been Learning Center ← Provide a framework for effective lead- communicated to the presiding officer or Scottish Rite Temple ership to ensure the stability and long- not, a second ballot shall be taken, and if 725 Cotton Street term success of the Fraternity. there then be one or more negative votes, Shreveport, LA 71101 ← Provide a financial process to ensure the candidate will be declared rejected. Telephone: (318) 221-9713 the stability and long-term success of the Section 10; When there are two or Fraternity. more black balls cast on the question of Southwestern LouisianaRegional initiation or affiliation, the candidate will Scottish Rite Childhood Learning be declared rejected. Note: There is no Center rejection declared on the first ballot un- University of Louisiana-Lafayette der section 9. Lake Charles Masonic Temple 717 Hodges Street Lake Charles, LA 70601 16