Why Scottish Rite Masonry?

Why Scottish Rite?

A MATTER OF HONOR

Remember when a man’s word was his bond? When a handshake sealed the deal? When a man’s honor meant more than words on a piece of paper? These virtues are still relevant in modern times.

There are still men who believe in personal honor. Men who believe in principle. Men who believe in moral and ethical behavior, and setting a good example. Men who know that character does matter.

Who are these men? They are “32° Freemasons” associated with the Scottish Rite fraternal organization, and through their membership, make all of our lives richer and more rewarding.

WHAT IS THE SCOTTISH RITE?

The Scottish Rite is one of two branches of Freemasonry in which a master Mason may proceed after he has completed the three (3) Degrees of Symbolic of Blue Lodge Masonry. The other branch, known as the York Rite consisting of the Royal Arch Masons, Cryptic Masons, and the Knights Templar.

The Scottish Rite includes the degrees from the 4° to the 32° inclusive. These Degrees are based upon both Biblical and historical references.

The Scottish Rite was founded in the 17th Century in Bordeaux, one of the oldest and most influential Masonic Centers in France. The membership included both Scottish and English Masons, and was formed by leaders who saw a need for ‘advanced’ degrees which were based upon the fundamental principles of three Masonic Symbolic Degrees.

32° Freemasons meet in Masonic Centers or “Valleys”.

QUALIFICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP

A Master Mason in good standing who possesses high moral and ethical standards, respected character, and personal honor.

SCOTTISH RITE PRIORITIES

Fraternal – The Conferring of Degrees upon new candidates that teach fundamental moral lessons.
Fellowship – Regular Spring and Fall Convocations for new members, active Scottish Rite ‘Clubs” in numerous Florida Counties, Leadership Development opportunities, and active support of Symbolic Lodges and Masonic Youth Groups (DeMolay, Jobs, and Rainbow).
Family – Dramatic plays and musical entertainment, holiday dinners and dances, Halloween and Christmas parties for Children and young adults, and Father/Son, Father/Daughter, and Mother/Daughter Banquets. Monthly entertainment programs for the family.
Civic – The Scottish Rite Valley sponsors, RiteCare Childhood Language Program. In addition, 32° Masons serve on countless volunteer organizations, hold public and elected public offices, assist in Florida Charities, and host numerous civic activities.
Philanthropies – The Valley sponsors the Scottish Rite Foundation which distributes generous annual grants to Masonic and Community organizations, Scholarships to young adults, and Medical Research Grants.

BENEFITS OF MEMBERSHIP

32° Freemasonry makes a real difference in a man’s life, and that of his family.

When a Mason joins the Scottish Rite he experiences:

More Fellowship and Friendships
Continuous Masonic Learning
Personal and Career Development
Enhanced Community Respect and Trust
A Worldwide Family of Men & Women
A Fraternity Dedicated to Assisting Others
Your membership is never taken for granted.
You will be proud to become a 32° Mason!

IN CLOSING

The real value of membership is measured by the way we live our lives everyday exemplifying the attributes of a 32º Mason!

You will make a real difference in the lives of Americans, young and old.

The doors of your Valley, and every Valley around the world, are always open to you and your family.

Through your membership, you become part of the Scottish Rite heritage

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