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WELCOME BRETHREN!
STAY UPDATED WITH EVERYTHING MISSOURI SCOTTISH RITE
Please share the information and features below with your fellow brethren around the state and encourage them to subscribe to this newsletter for future issues and publications.
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View Past Issues of the Orient Newsletter:
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"Human progress is our cause, liberty of thought our supreme wish, freedom of conscience our mission, and the guarantee of equal rights to all people everywhere our ultimate goal."
-The Scottish Rite Creed
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“The true Masonic Student realizes most of all that taking degrees does not make a man a Mason. He is Evolved and he must realize that the position he holds in the Exoteric Lodge means nothing compared to his position in the spiritual Lodge of Life. The true Masonic Student is known by his Brotherly actions and Common sense.”
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ENCOURAGE vs. CRITICIZE
by Aaron M. Shoemaker, 32° KCCH
The Sixth Degree, known as "Intimate Secretary", has always been one of my favorite degrees. The lesson of "acting the "Peacemaker" is critical to the Freemason interested in making use of trowel and cement.
In Morals & Dogma, Ill. Pike tells us that,
"Masons must be kind an affectionate one to another. ...There needs to be much more of the spirit of ancient fellowship among us; more tenderness for each other's faults, more forgiveness, more solicitude for each other's improvement and good fortune; somewhat of a brotherly feeling, that it be not shame to use the word "brother."
This "tenderness for each other's faults" that Pike speaks of is often sadly missing. During my time in the Craft I have seen many men come and go. The reasons are varied and are unique to each individual. We have each experienced the fact that our personal commitments ebb and flow. We may for a season have copious free-time only to have an unexpected professional or familial need come along. When these things occur in the lives of our Brethren, we should be supportive. Too often, I see individuals in our Fraternity chastise those who are able to commit less time to some aspect of one of our Masonic organizations. In talking to those who are no longer active, many have cited this type of criticism as THE REASON that they stopped participating. Brethren, this sort of critical behavior is wrong! Some of the first lessons taught in Freemasonry include the management of our time and the prioritization of our efforts. There may be periods in a man's life in which his employer demands longer hours in the office. With work taking more time, a man may be forced to decide between seeing his family or attending a Masonic function. Think about this next time you criticize a young father for missing a meeting.
Our fraternity is obviously suffering due to the limited number of active participants - this is a given. This is certainly not limited to any individual Rite, Order or degree, but is a problem throughout the Craft.
While it is frustrating, we should not articulate our frustration in a way that is insulting or derogatory towards others. Often times I see this sort of criticism directed even more strongly towards former officers and committee members. Particularly when referring to men who have committed significant time, energy and money to our fraternity in the past. While many of them are not active at present, they are likely dealing with unique situations in their own lives. We each face personal and dynamic challenges balancing our time with our families, professionally and yes, commitments to other areas of the Craft. Unexpected health issues, financial issues, and many other factors also come into play. There are also some who are burnt out and simply don't "want to" participate at present. Whatever the case may be, the attitudes and critical statements made in meetings and private conversations have a way of working their way back to others. It is simply counter-productive for us to allow this to occur. I hope that each of you knows the ritual well enough to call to mind portions of our ritual which caution us to not engage in this sort of behavior.
I will conclude this brief article with a call to action. Each of us needs to encourage our Brethren to be a part of the solution. To do this, we need to change the culture of our fraternity in regard to how we speak to or about our Brethren. When someone who has been active doesn't show up for a meeting or two, we should take a personal interest in them, call them and make sure that they are okay. When someone hasn't attended for a while and decides to show up, we should not chastise them about not being around or make disingenuous comments like "Wow. You remembered how to find the Lodge / Temple." with a critical or insincere tone. Why not simply (and SINCERELY) say "Hey Brother, it's great to see you. How are you?" If you can't do this with a genuine heart, I would suggest to you that it is YOU who has work to do!
There is an old quote that goes something like this - "Be kinder than necessary, for everyone you meet is fighting some sort of battle." We should each strive to be compassionate in our daily dealings with others. It will not only improve our fraternity, but will improve our individual lives as well!
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“It’s no coincidence that the growth of modern tyrants has in every case been heralded by the growth of prejudice.”
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“You can’t get very far until you start doing
something for somebody else.”
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In the early 1950s, the Scottish Rite initiated a program to help children with speech and language disorders. The results obtained from this program led to the establishment of RiteCare Scottish Rite Childhood Language Program (SRCLP) clinics to provide diagnostic evaluation and treatment of speech and language disorders, as well as learning disabilities. Today, there are SRCLP clinics, centers, and special programs operating or planned for children and therapists located throughout the United States. Each facility is staffed by speech-language pathologists or other trained personnel. Through the support of Scottish Rite members, these clinics, centers, and programs continue to increase. The value of this philanthropy has long been apparent. Tens of thousands of youngsters across the United States have been helped significantly. With the good work of dedicated clinicians and parents, the Scottish Rite has achieved successes that could only be imagined a few years back. Children who might have remained educationally behind for a lifetime can now talk, read, and lead productive lives.
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Check out the latest Missouri Rite Care Activity Below:
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Scottish Rite Valley of Columbia Presents $5,000 Check to the
RG Combs Preschool RiteCare Center at Mizzou
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The Scottish Rite Valley of Columbia presented a check for a $5,000 donation to the RG Combs Preschool at Mizzou on November 29, 2018. The School of Health Professions at Mizzou is currently working on a history project, including a history of each department, which will highlight how important the Scottish Rite has been to the history of the school, the Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences Department, as well as the RG Combs Preschool. Next year is the 20-year anniversary of the founding of the preschool, and is thus revisiting the history of the partnership with the Scottish Rite with an in-depth story that highlights the interconnected missions, and celebrates 20 years of service to kids in mid-Missouri.
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Scottish Rite Valley of Columbia Executive Secretary Philip W. Chisholm, 32°
Presenting the RG Combs Preschool with a $5,000 Donation
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Walker Scottish Rite Clinic Raises over $235,000
at Annual KidTalk Celebration Gala
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The Walker Scottish Rite Clinic at Maryville University in St. Louis, Missouri celebrated its 30th Anniversary at the annual KidTalk Celebration Gala on November 10, 2018 at the Frontenac Hilton. Over 320 guests celebrated with musical entertainment provided by Motown Legends, The Temptations and Four Tops with original member Theo Peoples and featuring the Temptations Revue.
The evening held many magical moments including special, St. Louis Cardinal's Baseball legend Ozzie Smith joining The Temptations on stage! The evening included a stellar auction, a record-breaking Speak Up for Kids donation call, presentation by Clinic Graduate, Kalea Reeves, four distinguished service awards, fabulous dinner, music and dancing and raising $235,000 dollars to support the Walker Scottish Rite Clinic’s free speech-language therapy program for preschool age children in need.
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Ozzie Smith with The Temptations
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The event was emceed by Desiree Coleman, First Vice President Diverse Client Segments at Wells Fargo Advisors and Derrion Henderson of FOX 2 News along with Event Co-Chairs Ersie Harris and Clinic Chairman Scott Denney. Clinic Director Jacob Gutshall presented the KidTalk Honorees with the inaugural awards. Scottish Rite Women, Lucille Kramer and Lillie Niebuhr were honored with the Distinguished Volunteer Award and the Outstanding Woman Award acknowledging their combined 60 years of volunteer service to the Walker Scottish Rite Clinic Program.
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Pictured Above: Lucille Kramer and Lillie Niebuhr receiving the
Distinguished Volunteer and Outstanding Woman Award
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The Scottish Rite Valley of St. Louis was honored that evening by the Walker Scottish Rite Clinic with the Les Denney Leadership and Service Award, in recognition of Altruistic Humanitarianism in helping children communicate for over 30 years.
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Walker Scottish Rite Clinic Executive Director Jacob Gutshall (right)
presenting the Les Denney Leadership and Service Award to the Scottish Rite
Valley of St. Louis Personal Representative, Illustrious Brother Kurt D. Witzel, 33° (left)
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“March 26, 1988, was a day that transformed the Valley of St. Louis. It was a day when a dream came true and the St. Louis Scottish Rite Clinic for Childhood Language and Learning Disorders was dedicated. What once was a billiard room of the Scottish Rite Cathedral became, through the efforts of many (Scottish Rite Masons), a source of hope for children with communication disorders.“
~Les Denney, 33° (1988, The New Age Magazine, Volume XCVI, page 22)
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The pinnacle award of the evening was the inaugural Lifetime Achievement Award presented to Illustrious Brother Mark Lyles.
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Illustrious Brother Mark Lyles, 33° receiving the
Walker Scottish Rite Clinic Lifetime Achievement Award
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Below are the remarks shared about Brother Lyles at the KidTalk Celebration:
"Brother Mark Lyles is an inspiration. Mark’s volunteerism and philanthropic spirit are immeasurable. Starting in 1988, Mark Lyles was one of the original Scottish Rite Clinic board members and continued volunteering his vision and leadership for 23 years. Mark was instrumental in the success of the initial fundraising efforts and served on the fundraising committee for many years. In addition to his duties as a board and committee member, Mark and a crew of dedicated volunteers led their own fundraisers to benefit the children - including yearly Entertainment Coupon book sales and raffles at Strassenfest. He was also the driving force behind the Clinic’s partnership with Old News Boys campaigns. Mark is quoted as saying he is, “often the happiest with a phone in one hand and a good cause in the other.”
Mark and his late wife Lorraine attended all of the KidTalk Celebration dinners together, and celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary by sponsoring a large group of friends to attend in 2007. Mark has continued the tradition in honor of his late wife and we don’t believe he has missed a KidTalk Celebration even after moving to Kansas in 2011 at the age of 95. Now a centenarian, the Clinic has been happy to celebrate Mark’s birthday at these events each year thereafter.
In addition to his dedication to the Clinic, Mark Lyles has been a volunteer for other organizations and efforts including more than 60 years volunteering with the Salvation Army. Mark’s tireless dedication and boundless spirit have been an inspiration to many individuals. A Scottish Rite Mason of the highest caliber, Mark Lyles has led a lifetime of friendship, philanthropy, and integrity."
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The evening of celebration hit a high note with 10+ year past Clinic Graduate, Kalea Reeves. Kalea was a client when she was three years old. Kalea so poignantly and articulately shared her story with a wisdom seldom seen even in adults. The transcript of her speech can be read below.
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Pictured Above: Kalea Reeves, former student of the Walker Scottish Rite Clinic,
speaking at the 2018 KidTalk Celebration Gala
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Below is the transcript of Kalea's powerful and heartwarming speech she gave at the KidTalk Celebration:
“ ‘I have hated words and I have loved them and I hope that I have made them right.’ - Markus Zusak, The Book Thief
Hello everyone. As the video said, my name is Kalea Reeves, and I am a freshman at St. Dominic High School. I received voice therapy for a year when I was 3 years old. The Scottish Rite has given me the most powerful tool in the world: Words. Words have helped me in all aspects in my life. Without speech, I would not have been able to communicate well, participate in speech competitions, act in plays, or talk clearly with others. Because of the Scottish Rite, I have participated in eight Bellarmine speech competitions, including two finale meets. I have won a trophy for being in the top of my category and I have also participated in many plays including the Christmas Story currently at my school. There are so many children in this world born with speech problems that do not have the ability to correct them because the cost of speech therapy is often very high and a lot of people do not have access to that kind of money. The average speech therapy cost is $100- $250 per hour. However, the Scottish Rite has provided me and so many other children with the gift of speech therapy for free. And the Scottish Rite does this for free all because of your generous donations and sponsorships. So many kids have the beautiful gift of communication which has shaped the world as we know it. With this marvelous gift, we have been able communicate our ideas and follow our passions.
The Scottish Rite helped me and so many other kids forge the sword of language, but now it is up to us to wield it for good. It is so easy to make someone’s day with a few words, or completely destroy their lives. This is where our parents come in. Our parents guide us to use the right words. Our parents help shape our vocabulary to communicate our exact thoughts and ideas. Our parents teach us kind words to lift up, rather than deceitful or evil words to tear down. With the combination of the Scottish Rite and our own parental units by our side and always behind us, the thousands of kids in the St. Louis area, myself included, can speak our minds and help people in a world constantly trying to silence us. Thank you for helping children like me. Thank you.”
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The five Scottish Rite Valleys in the Orient of Missouri support the 14 Scottish Rite “RiteCare” Programs with affiliated professional partners - all providing free speech-language services for children. Collectively, we call these programs “Missouri RiteCare” which represent the Missouri Valleys of Columbia, Joplin, Kansas City, St. Joseph and St. Louis and the partner programs at the University of Missouri Columbia, Hannibal Regional Hospital, Truman University, University Central Missouri, Children’s Miracle Network, Children’s Mercy Hospital (KC), United Cerebral Palsy Northwest (St. Joe) and seven clinical sites through Walker Scottish Rite Clinic at Maryville University. Starting in Fall 2018, a new website was created, underwritten by The LIGHT Foundation, to launch a new era of public information, family resources and donor giving to the further the Scottish Rite’s mission to help children communicate. Please review the website, see the stories, news, events and more about your Missouri RiteCare programs.
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“We can continue to try and clean up the gutters all over the world and spend all of our resources looking at just the dirty spots and trying to make them clean. Or we can lift our eyes up and look into the skies and move forward in an evolutionary way.”
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“The right of each individual in any relation to secure to himself the full benefits of his intelligence, his industry, and skill are among the inalienable inheritances of humanity.”
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The rituals of the Ancient & Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry in the Southern Jurisdiction of the United States of America provide a wonderful overview of the various philosophies and religions of the world. That said, they can be incredibly difficult to digest for those not well versed in these topics. We are therefore extremely fortunate to have numerous resources available to assist us in this effort!
During the past 15-20 years, the phrase "University of Freemasonry" has been used by numerous individuals to describe the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry. The origin of this phrase and the reasons for its use are beyond the scope of this article. Whether that phrase is justified, or not, is up to you. Regardless of your opinion on the use of that descriptor, it is beyond question that our Supreme Council has invested extensively in Masonic Education.
Scottish Rite Master Craftsman Program
The Scottish Rite Master Craftsman (SRMC) program is the flagship Masonic education program created and sponsored by the Supreme Council, 33°, SJ. It currently consists of three, by-mail correspondence courses, and the Group Studies program. You can learn more by visiting https://scottishrite.org/members/masonic-education/srmc/.
Scottish Rite Research Society
The Scottish Rite Research Society (SRRS) formed in 1991, is one of the most dynamic forces in contemporary Masonic research, pursuing a publication program that emphasizes quality—both in content and in physical form. (You can learn more at the SRRS’ website at http://scottishriteresearch.com/).
The Supreme Council has also compiled a suggested reading list at the following website: https://scottishrite.org/members/masonic-education/suggested-reading/.
They also make a number of books available directly from their online store at: https://www.scottishritestore.org/books.html?product_list_limit=50.
The Valley of Guthrie created the College of the Consistory and it has a presence in the Valley of Kansas City. Additional information is available online at https://guthriescottishrite.org/index.php/college-of-the-consistory/ and at https://scottishrite.org/about/media-publications/journal/article/the-college-of-the-consistory-a-journey-of-self-study-and-knowledge-through-the-degrees-of-the-rite/
The Northern Masonic Jurisdiction has recently published a number of books which are available from their online store at https://themasonicmarketplace.merchorders.com/.
Brother Michael Poll has also made a series of books on the Scottish Rite available through at http://cornerstonepublishers.com/scottish-rite-books/.
Each Valley in the Orient of Missouri maintains a Masonic Library open to each member. Several of the Valleys have educational material compiled by Valley leaders and members available for study. They also have also encouraged and supported discussion groups on the Scottish Rite’s history and degrees. If this is not occurring in your Valley, and you have an interest in organizing either materials or study groups, talk to your Personal Representative or Executive Secretary. You will likely find strong support, particularly if you are able to help facilitate the effort.
The resources provided within the Scottish Rite are extensive. One could spend decades studying what is currently available. With additional material released regularly, it is safe to say that there is more material available than could possibly be exhausted by the Masonic student.
If one has an interest in learning more about the Scottish Rite's history and/or philosophy but is uncertain as to where to begin, simply ask around at the next Valley function! There are numerous members of each Valley who have been engaged in research, study, and personal development for many, many years. They would be happy to assist!
Sincerely and fraternally,
Aaron M. Shoemaker 32°, KCCH
Member, Board of Directors, Scottish Rite Research Society
Past Venerable Master, Kansas City Lodge of Perfection, Valley of Kansas City, Orient of Missouri
Director of Communications, Orient of Missouri
The website of the Supreme Council, 33°, A. & A.S.R. of Freemasonry, S.J., USA provides the following information on the topic --
"The Scottish Rite of Freemasonry has The Supreme Council, 33°, SJ, USA, firmly believes that an educated Mason gets the most out of his fraternity. An educated Mason not only enjoys his Masonic experience more but also receives the Craft better. With that in mind, the Scottish Rite, SJ, offers several opportunities for its members to expand their Masonic knowledge.
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“Knowing is not enough; we must apply.
Willing is not enough; we must do.”
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THIS MONTH'S SUGGESTED READING
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THE WAY OF THE CRAFTSMAN
A Search for the Spiritual Essence of Craft Freemasonry
by Brother W. Kirk MacNulty
In this new Deluxe Edition of an enduring Masonic classic, W. Kirk MacNulty takes the reader on a quest deep into the heart of Craft Freemasonry in search of its spiritual core. Drawing upon Renaissance philosophy, kabbalistic mysticism, and Jungian psychology, The Way of the Craftsman explores the symbolism and ceremony of the Masonic lodge in a profound and effective manner. With new illustrations, amended annotations, and a special Foreword by Masonic scholar Shawn Eyer, this new edition is designed to bring fresh insight to a new generation of Freemasons and those curious about Freemasonry.
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“In seeking wisdom thou art wise; in imagining that
thou hast attained it – thou art a fool.”
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Please submit your Valley events to news@moscottishrite.org for inclusion in future issues
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MASONIC EDUCATION & PHILOSOPHY
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“Each person must discover his own philosophy of life, and it is not fair or right to impose our codes upon others. It is also our responsibility, however, to share, one with another, such experiences as may have common value.”
-Manly P. Hall
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Ancient & Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry
Master Craftsman Program
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The Scottish Rite Master Craftsman (SRMC) program is an exciting, by-mail correspondence course designed and administered by staff at the House of the Temple in Washington, D.C., under the guidance and leadership of the Supreme Council, 33° of the A&A Scottish Rite, Southern Jurisdiction, USA. Currently, three courses and a Group Studies program constitute the SRMC. |
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CLICK HERE for Full Information about the Scottish Rite Master Craftsman Program.
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The Scottish Rite Research Society
"Studying our past to illuminate our future"
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Since its formation in 1991, the Scottish Rite Research Society (SRRS) has become one of the most dynamic forces in contemporary Masonic research, pursuing a publication program that emphasizes quality—both in content and in physical form. The Society has grown to over 4,000 members worldwide since inception. Its publications have redefined the standards of Masonic scholarship. Anyone who is interested in deepening his or her understanding of Freemasonry would benefit from Society membership.
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Whence Came You?
Masonic Podcast
"Providing Light for Freemasons and People Interested in Freemasonry."
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"Whence Came You was born out of a need for Masonic Education world wide. When lodges fell short explaining symbolism and the deeper aspects of our craft, it became apparent that something needed to be done. Bro. Robert Johnson began to record the papers he read and the response was tremendous. Reading a few pieces each week, and regularly releasing them to thirsty minds everywhere, the show began to take off and quickly became a staple for Masons, new and old."
"Join us each week, Sundays at 9:30 PM Central time for new episodes.
Always on and always on the level."
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X-Oriente
A Podcast for the Thinking Freemason
"The New Voice of Brotherhood"
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"The purpose of X-Oriente is to help unite Masons who feel that Masonry should be more than just a nice meal with friends. It is a 20-40 minute Podcast that revolves around ideas that might be of interest to Freemasons, exploring the whys and wherefores of Masonry.
Each show will explore an idea or topic. Sometimes the topics will extend from Masonic practice into civics, philosophy, social sciences, literature and art. X-Oriente also is a passionate advocate for critical thinking skills. We'll never stop asking why, and we'll always look for evidence to back up our assertions."
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The Ancient & Accepted
Scottish Rite of Freemasonry
Orient of Missouri Degree Passport
- - - In Development - - -
Coming Soon to a Valley near you
- Track Your Progress
- Earn Rewards
- Enhance Masonic Education
- Build Connections
- Improve Degree Work
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The Freemason Network is a social networking site that connects you to thousands of other Masons around the U.S. and 147 countries around the World! It’s simple to use, gives you the latest news and opinions about Masonic topics and connects you to your Brothers near and far.
Free membership includes:
- Masonic news and events from all over the U.S.
- Share the Light in discussion forums, create your blog
- See Masonic pictures and videos
- Join the Group for YOUR Grand Lodge!
The Freemason Network is hosted by The Supreme Council, 33° in Washington. You must be a Mason to join the Freemason Network.
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SCOTTISH RITE CONNECTIONS
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CONNECT WITH YOUR ORIENT COMMITTEES BELOW
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CONNECT WITH THE SCOTTISH RITE FOUNDATION OF MISSOURI
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FOUNDATION MISSION STATEMENT
It is the mission of the Scottish Rite Foundation of Missouri, Inc. to enhance the lives of the children of Missouri by actively embracing high social, moral and spiritual value through the RiteCare Childhood Language Program, Youth Programs, Scholarships and Disaster Relief.
FOUNDATION HISTORY AND PURPOSE
The Scottish Rite Foundation of Missouri, Inc. was originally incorporated in 1946 as the Scottish Rite Endowment, Philanthropic, and Educational Foundation, Inc. Its purpose was to provide the public charities of the Order and go beyond that given by the Almoner to needy brethren.
The Foundation concentrates on four principal charities:
- To provide financial support of the Orient RiteCare Clinics;
- To grant undergraduate scholarships to deserving individuals attending an accredited college or university and pursuing a bachelor’s degree;
- To give financial assistance for medical, dental, and personal needs to children who would otherwise have to do without the treatment or benefit; and
- To give financial assistance to Missouri DeMolays to offset their expenses related to leadership training and education.
It has been a matter of custom and precedent to urge those financially able Scottish Rite members who are 32° to give $32, those who are KCCH to give $32.50 and 33° brethren to give $33 annually to the Foundation. There is also an Albert Pike Society which is composed of members who give $10,000 to the Foundation. The contribution may be made in lump sum or over a period of ten years. Donors receive recognition by having their names inscribed on a plaque which lists every member and which is displayed in each of the Valleys.
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CONNECT WITH THE SUPREME COUNCIL, 33°
SOUTHERN JURISDICTION, U.S.A.
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CONNECT WITH THE SUPREME COUNCIL, 33°
NORTHERN MASONIC JURISDICTION, U.S.A.
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MISSOURI RAINBOW FOR GIRLS
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