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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 E-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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- - - Selected passage from Morals and Dogma - - -
3°, MASTER MASON
Pages 137-138
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"It is through the Mysteries, CICERO says, that we have learned the first principles of life; wherefore the term “initiation” is used with good reason; and they not only teach us to live more happily and agreeably, but they soften the pains of death by the hope of a better life hereafter.
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The Mysteries were a Sacred Drama, exhibiting some legend significant of Nature’s changes, of the visible Universe in which the Divinity is revealed, and whose import in many respects as open to the Pagan as to the Christian. Nature is the great Teacher of man; for it is the Revelation of God.
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It neither dogmatizes nor attempts to tyrannize by compelling to a particular creed or special interpretation. It presents its symbols to us, and adds nothing by way of explanation. It is the text without the commentary; and, as we well know, it is chiefly the commentary and gloss that lead to error and heresy and persecution. The earliest instructors of mankind not only adopted the lessons of Nature, but as far as possible adhered to her method of imparting them. In the Mysteries, beyond the current traditions or sacred and enigmatic recitals of the Temples, few explanations were given to the spectators, who were left, as in the school of Nature, to make inferences for themselves.
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No other method could have suited every degree of cultivation and capacity. To employ Nature’s universal symbolism instead of the technicalities of language, rewards the humblest inquirer, and discloses its secrets to every one in proportion to his preparatory training and his power to comprehend them. If their philosophical meaning was above the comprehensions of some, their moral and political meanings are within the reach of all.
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These mystic shows and performances were not the reading of a lecture, but the opening of a problem. Requiring research, they were calculated to arouse the dormant intellect. They implied no hostility to Philosophy, because Philosophy is the great expounder of symbolism; although its ancient interpretations were often ill-founded and incorrect. The alteration from symbol to dogma is fatal to beauty of expression, and leads to intolerance and assumed infallibility."
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“Life is a culmination of the past, an awareness of the present, an indication of a future beyond knowledge, the quality that gives a touch of divinity to matter... The growing knowledge of science does not refute man’s intuition of the mystical. Whether outwardly or inwardly, whether in space or in time, the farther we penetrate the unknown, the vaster and more marvelous it becomes."
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Excerpt from the 13th Degree – Royal Arch of Solomon
“Whatsoever a man soweth, that also he shall reap”
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The two kings and Hiram are in Masonry the representatives of wisdom, strength, and beauty or harmony, the three columns, on which the Lodge, symbol of the universe, is upheld. Wisdom and strength are attributes of God; but harmony is not. It is the result, in the universe, of the action of His wisdom and power. The wisdom of God is the divine intelligence of which we cannot conceive. The power of God is exerted as the varied forces of nature. It is the divine intellect, which in God before creation was an unexerted potency, not yet manifesting and revealing itself in action. The two kings represent this wisdom and power. Thus they are styled ‘Wise King’’ and "Powerful King."
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Wondrous and Unique Masonic Education Group Study
Shared by Brother Vernon Davidson, 32°
Valley of St. Louis - Orient of Missouri
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The Master Craftsman Program is alive and thriving in the Valley of St. Louis. Thanks to the support and work invested by our Sovereign Grand Inspector General, and the truly magnificent talent of Brothers Phil Cole and Jacob Thompson, we have a wonderful and unique opportunity to expand Masonic Education exponentially throughout the great State of Missouri. Hopefully, many of you have heard by now that we are fortunate enough to have a group study format for the program – one that is unique and wonderful!
Last Fall, Master Craftsman II: Scottish Rite History and Ritual, was launched and I was truly blessed to have had the opportunity to be in the first class. If you love the wonder, mystery and symbolism that is contained within the Scottish Rite Degrees, this course is right up your alley… There’s a cup o’ tea and it is all yours! Master Craftsman II takes you into the historical beginnings of Scottish Rite Masonry and digs deep into the symbolism and hidden mysteries of the degrees. For the newer Brothers, if you enjoyed the post-Degree discussion conducted by Brother Jacob Thompson, it is just a sample of what awaits you in this group study program.
We are currently in the middle of Master Craftsman I: Symbolic Lodge and Esotericka. This study takes us into the foundation of all Freemasonry, the Blue Lodge Degrees. In this study, we look into the symbolism of the three degrees and the historical evolution of the work.
For me personally, this experience has deepened my interest, enjoyment and appreciation for the Blue Lodge and AASR Degrees. Coupled with this, the unique group study is a truly satisfying Fellowship and camaraderie-building experience that makes the material even better because you experience the subject matter from varied perspectives.
Moving forward, the Master Craftsman II will begin again in early Summer of this year, followed by the highly anticipated Master Craftsman III: Scottish Rite Philosophy. This studious undertaking takes us deep into Albert Pike’s massive philosophical work, “Morals and Dogma.”
If you are seeking a better understanding of the Degrees, what it means to be a Mason, or if you are hungry for Further Light – this course is for you.
For more information, contact Headmaster Brother Jacob Thompson or read more by clicking the image link below.
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Seen right: Another fantastic evening of Light, at the Valley of St. Louis Master Craftsman Fellowship group study. The Brothers seen to the right are completing their 5th Quiz for Master Craftsman I after studying the symbolism of the Square and Compasses, and the Weapons and Blows of the Assassins.
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“The right of each individual in any relation to secure to himself the full benefits of his intelligence, his capacity, his industry and skill are among the inalienable inheritances of humanity.”
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Excerpt from the 14th Degree – Perfect Elu
“The Glory of God is to Conceal the Word”
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The Degree of Perfection is both a celebration of the revelation received in the Thirteenth Degree, as well as an examination of your worthiness to possess it. Knowledge without its application is of little or no value. With knowledge comes responsibility, and one must prove oneself worthy to possess it. The mere possession of knowledge is not a virtue. Yet knowledge, properly applied, results in wisdom, which the Biblical Proverbs say was coexistent with creation. The ancient initiate could not have arrived at the hidden vault of Enoch had he not also mastered all the requisite lessons, and mastered practical application in his personal life of the lessons taught.
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The reward of the practice of virtue and upright living is what was discovered. What remains for you, as an inheritor of this ancient system, is to learn how to apply what you have discovered. The Temple, the abode of the Living Presence of God (represented by the Ark of the Covenant placed in the Sanctum Sanctorum), has been built. Its most obscure recesses have been discovered, and that which was discovered has been secured.
Paul said, in his letter to the Christians at Rome, speaking of the Gentiles: “For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them. Ever since the creation of the world, His invisible nature, namely, His eternal power and deity, has been clearly perceived in the things that have been made.”
The Word, that which has been discovered, represents the limited utterance of the Grand Architect of the Universe. Here we arrive at the Perfection of the Master’s degree of the Symbolic Lodge with the discovery that Knowledge of God is of His invisible nature, revealed to us in the Created Order of the Natural World. Hence we say, “The Glory of God is to conceal the Word.”
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Each May, Better Hearing & Speech Month (BHSM) provides an opportunity to raise awareness about communication disorders and the roles our clinicians and speech pathologists have in providing life-altering treatment. Please consider helping us celebrate all the great, life-changing work done across our RiteCare Clinics in Missouri by making a meaningful contribution to the cause of helping children communicate.
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Today, there are Scottish Rite Childhood Language 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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A Valley of Joplin RiteCare Impact Story
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There are several professional Scottish Rite RiteCare affiliated programs in Missouri that all provide free and accessible services to children in need of speech, language and learning therapy:
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- Walker Scottish Rite Clinic at Maryville University (St. Louis)
- Robert G. Combs Childhood Language PreSchool at University of MO (Columbia)
- Scottish Rite RiteCare Early Language Literacy Lab at University of Central Missouri (Warrensburg)
- RiteCare Early Literacy Lab at Truman State University (Kirksville)
- United Cerebral Palsy of Northwest Missouri (St. Joseph)
- RiteCare Clinic in Kansas City affiliated with Children’s Mercy Hospital
- Scottish Rite RiteCare services provided in partnership with the Children’s Miracle Network (Joplin/Springfield).
- Hannibal Regional Hospital’s speech therapy assistance program (Hannibal)
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Nearly 1 in 10 Children need Speech, Language, or Learning Therapy.
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“We can continue to try and clean up the gutters all over the world and spend all 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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“There are three classes of people: Those who see, those who see when they are shown, and those who do not see.”
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Excerpt from the 24th Degree – Prince of the Tabernacle
“Reason, Knowledge and Faith”
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The initiate is he who possesses the Lamp of Trismegistus, the Cloak of Apollonius, and the Staff of the Patriarchs. The lamp is reason, by which light he traverses the fields of science; the cloak is liberty, or self-control, the full and entire possession of one’s self, which defends him against the blind forces of instinct; and the staff is faith, the profound conviction of spiritual truths. Reason, knowledge, and faith are the three sides of an equilateral triangle. Faith is the greatest of the spiritual and intellectual forces. Reason is a ray of the divine intellect. It is not withheld from any man, but its possessors too often do not know how to make use of it. It is a science that must be learned.
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Liberty is offered to all, but few have the power to be free. It is a right, which one must conquer. These are to us, in this degree, the three great lights on the east, west, and south of the altar.
To attain the Holy Empire, that is to say, the science and power of the Magi, four things are indispensable: an intellect enlightened by study; an audacity which nothing checks; a will that nothing can conquer; and a discretion that nothing can corrupt or intoxicate. To know, to dare, to will, to be silent; these are the four words written in the symbolic forms of the sphinx.
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Initiation preserves us from the false lights of mysticism. It gives to human reason its relative value, for it receives as from a mirror a portion of the reflection of divine reason.
The initiate has, therefore, neither doubting hopes nor irrational fears because he has no unreasoning beliefs. He knows to what he is equal, and it costs him nothing to dare; wherefore, for him to dare is to be able. He knows the weaknesses of the human heart; he dares to make use of them in order to do his work; and he is silent as to his plans.
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He knows the reasons of all symbols and all worships; he dares practice them or abstain from them without hypocrisy and without impiety; and he is silent as to the single dogma of the high initiation. Harmony consists in equilibrium, which subsists by the analogy of contraries. For this, there must be separation and union: separation by the poles, union by the center.
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“Life is like a landscape. You live in the midst of it but can describe it only from the vantage point of distance... Man must feel the earth to know himself and recognize his values… God made life simple. It is man who complicates it.”
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The Kansas City Scottish Rite of Freemasonry Temple, located in midtown Kansas City on the corner of Linwood and Paseo originally opened its doors in 1930. You may have driven past the impressive exterior and wondered what lay inside. Previously only accessible to members of the fraternity, The Temple is now here to serve Kansas City as a premier concert and event center!
On May 18, 2019, The Temple will open its doors to the public to show off its magnificence. The general public is invited to attend this Open House Event to see, hear and experience the new additions to the theater space, banquet ball room and meeting areas. A historic gem of Kansas City, the building’s architecture, is a classic Greek design; the entrance vestibules are adorned with bronze grille work set in Pavonazzo marble. Boasting a grand 114,303 total square footage and housing an auditorium which measures 102' x 112' and seats 1,400 people.
The Scottish Rite Temple has served not only as a home to the educational branch to the Masonic fraternity but also as a concert and event venue for symphony orchestras, dance competitions, music concerts, awards events, graduations and various conferences. Over the years the building has also been featured in several motion pictures and pay per view cable television sports events.
The Temple is partnering with Cumulus Radio home of 101 The Fox, Magic 107.3 and KCMO 94.9 for this special event. The Temple will host its Open House between Noon to 4:00 pm on Saturday May 18th. Join us for the food fun and celebration.
Special charitable music event at 5:00pm
Ray for the Kids (A Ray Charles Experience) Featuring Lonnie McFadden, Mish D. Right, Sean Mc Donnell & More
Tickets available online through Eventbrite.com and at the door
VIP Floor Seating: $40 - General Admission: $25
Ray for the Kids In affiliation with Rite Care (housed at The Temple) and Children’s Mercy Hospital
Donations can be made to SRKC Giving
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RAY FOR THE KIDS
Saturday, May 18th, 2019
Kansas City Scottish Rite Temple
4:30pm-7:30pm
Click banner below for event details
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Join us as we experience the music of Ray Charles and raise money to help kids with childhood language disorders.
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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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“Wisdom fears no thing, but still bows humbly to its own source, with its deeper understanding, loves all things, for it has seen the beauty, the tenderness, and the sweetness which underlie Life's mystery.”
-Brother Manly Palmer Hall
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THIS MONTH'S SUGGESTED READING
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WHAT THE ANCIENT WISDOM EXPECTS OF ITS DISCIPLES
Manly Palmer Hall
Subtitled "A Study Concerning the Mystery Schools," this is a practical guide for those who wish to avoid the many pitfalls that can occur on the path of discipleship. It also shows how enlightenment is earned by personal dedication to a spiritual code of conduct.
"To Know, to Dare, to Will, to be Silent..."
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A short excerpt from the book:
The Egyptian Sphynx is supposed to have pointed out the initiate's code of conduct by the symbolic interpretation of the four creatures composing it. The body of the bull with its great strength was interpreted to mean the process of labor, "to do." The legs and tail of the lion speak of courage and are interpreted as meaning "to dare." The wings of the eagle bespeak of loftier things, so they are interpreted as "to aspire." The human head, with its sealed lips, means "to be silent." Of all these rules, the last is the most important. One of the ancient philosophical axioms was, "If ye know it, be silent."
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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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In Kabbalah Revealed, an enlightening 16 episode series, Anthony Kosinec introduces “what Kabbalah is” and “what Kabbalah isn’t,” in this overview of some of its basic concepts, and the difference between authentic Kabbalah and how Kabbalah is popularly viewed. He speaks from the perspective of “practical Kabbalah,” as taught today by Rav Michael Laitman, PhD. Essentially, this is the process of how to reveal Kabbalah’s hidden aspect: the Upper Worlds—what is hidden behind our five senses.
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The Ancient & Accepted
Scottish Rite of Freemasonry
Orient of Missouri Degree Passport
- - - In Development - - -
- 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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