Secrecy, Wisdom, and Discretion in the Bible

One of the most common accusations leveled against Freemasonry by its Christian critics is that its private or reserved nature is inherently unbiblical. John 18:20 is frequently invoked as a proof text: “I spake openly to the world; I ever taught in the synagogue, and in the temple, whither the Jews always resort; and in secret have I said nothing.” From this verse, critics conclude that any form of secrecy or restricted knowledge must be incompatible with Christianity. This argument, however, rests on a serious misunderstanding of both the immediate context of Christ’s words and the broader biblical theology of knowledge, wisdom, and discretion. This article builds upon an earlier one (Secrecy: What’s the Big Deal?) in which I examined secrecy through sociological and anthropological lenses, addressing longstanding criticisms of Freemasonry’s private nature.

Scripture does not equate secrecy with deception, nor does it present openness as an absolute moral requirement in every domain of life. Rather, the Bible consistently treats the responsible withholding, ordering, and gradual transmission of knowledge as an expression of wisdom and stewardship. When examined in its full canonical context, John 18:20 does not condemn private instruction or reserved knowledge; instead, it affirms the public legitimacy of Christ’s teaching against the charge that He was fomenting sedition or teaching illicit doctrines in hidden corners.

Christ’s statement before the High Priest must be understood juridically and polemically. He is not offering a universal doctrine of disclosure, but defending Himself against an accusation of subversive teaching. His appeal is to the openness of His proclamation in synagogues and the Temple, places where His words could be publicly heard and examined. The passage addresses where and with what authority He taught, not whether all truth must always be disclosed to all people at all times.

Far from opposing discretion, the Old Testament explicitly affirms the selective handling of knowledge. Deuteronomy 29:29 establishes the principle at the outset: “The secret things belong unto the Lord our God: but those things which are revealed belong unto us and to our children forever, that we may do all the words of this law.” Revelation and concealment are not opposites in Scripture; they are complementary aspects of divine wisdom. God Himself withholds certain knowledge while revealing what is fitting for human understanding.

The wisdom literature reinforces this theme repeatedly. “A prudent man concealeth knowledge: but the heart of fools proclaimeth foolishness” (Proverbs 12:23). “Wise men lay up knowledge: but the mouth of the foolish is near destruction” (Proverbs 10:14). “A talebearer revealeth secrets: but he that is of a faithful spirit concealeth the matter” (Proverbs 11:13). In these texts, restraint is not a moral failure but a virtue. Discretion is presented as evidence of faithfulness, maturity, and sound judgment. Scripture does not praise the indiscriminate divulgence of all things; it warns against it.

Christ Himself consistently practiced selective instruction. In Matthew 7:6, He cautions against careless disclosure: “Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you.” This is not elitism; it is discernment. Holiness requires context, preparation, and receptivity. The same principle governs His use of parables. When asked why He spoke in this manner, Jesus explained that the parables were intentionally designed to veil understanding from some while revealing truth to others (Matthew 13:10-13). Later, He explained their meanings privately to His disciples (Matthew 13:36). He states the rationale explicitly: “Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given” (Matthew 13:11).

This pattern did not end with His crucifixion. After the Resurrection, Christ spent 40 days instructing His disciples concerning the kingdom of God (Acts 1:3), yet there is no indication that these teachings were publicly proclaimed in full. The apostolic Church inherited not only the content of Christ’s teaching, but also His pedagogical method: truth communicated according to readiness, capacity, and responsibility.

The apostolic writings confirm this framework. Paul repeatedly refers to divine truth as mystērion, not in the modern sense of something irrational or occult, but as something once hidden and later revealed according to God’s timing (Ephesians 3:3-6; Colossians 1:26). He distinguishes between levels of instruction, reminding the Corinthians: “I have fed you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able” (1 Corinthians 3:2). Knowledge, in this view, is not a weapon to be indiscriminately distributed but nourishment to be given responsibly.

Paul’s exhortation to Timothy reinforces the same ethic: “That good thing which was committed unto thee keep by the Holy Ghost which dwelleth in us.” (2 Timothy 1:14). Truth is something entrusted, preserved, and transmitted with care. Guarding does not imply deception; it implies stewardship.

When viewed in this light, the blanket condemnation of secrecy as “unchristian” collapses. Scripture does not oppose secrecy as such; it opposes falsehood, manipulation, and the concealment of injustice. Discretion, ordered instruction, and the faithful keeping of entrusted knowledge are not only permitted in the biblical worldview…they are repeatedly commended.

Thus, appeals to John 18:20 as a criticism against Freemasonry’s private or reserved elements fail both exegetically and theologically. They isolate a single verse from its legal context, ignore Christ’s own instructional practice, and disregard the consistent biblical testimony that wisdom often involves knowing when to speak, what to reveal, and to whom. The Christian tradition has never understood truth as something cheapened by indiscriminate exposure, but as something ennobled by reverential handling.

A Decade in the Rose & Cross

On this date 10 years ago, I was initiated into the Societas Rosicruciana in Civitatibus Foederatis and joined Wyoming College. Even now, it is difficult to fully express what that step has meant to me, but I can say without hesitation that membership in this Society remains one of the greatest honors of my Masonic journey.

Alongside one of my closest friends, I traveled hundreds of miles (through severe snowstorms) to attend that first meeting, where I received the I° through IV°. From the beginning, I sensed that this was something rare: a Society devoted not only to scholarship and ritual, but to quiet service and genuine fraternity.

Over the past decade, I have tried to engage as fully as possible in the life and work of the SRICF. In October 2016, I assisted the Chief Adept of Wyoming in initiating several Fratres and establishing Montana College. In May 2017, I delivered a lecture before Wyoming College and was appointed Acolyte, an early encouragement that affirmed my commitment to the work and aims of the Society.

In January 2018, I was advanced to the VII° and later that year attended the inaugural Rocky Mountain SRICF Conference in Salt Lake City. That November, at my first High Council meeting, I joined with another Idaho Frater, who would later become the first Chief Adept of Idaho, in petitioning the then Supreme Magus for permission to form a College in Idaho.

That work came to fruition in 2019. After further initiations in Wyoming and preparation of regalia and paraphernalia, Idaho College officially received its charter in April. I was honored to serve as its founding Celebrant, a role I held until 2024. That summer, at the Rocky Mountain SRICF Conference in Denver, I witnessed a friend receive his IX° from Supreme Magus, Billy Koon. In November of that year, I was myself elevated to the VIII° and, unexpectedly, to the IX°, in recognition of my service in establishing Idaho College and assisting Montana College. I received that degree in the presence of the Supreme Magi of England, Scotland, Portugal, and the United States, during a High Council that also saw the election and enthronement of a new Most Worthy Supreme Magus.

Like so much else, Rosicrucian activity was curtailed in 2020. In 2021, I was grateful to return to active participation at the Southwest RCC and SRICF Conferences, and to witness several Fratres from Mexico receive the I° from Arizona College.

In February 2022, I was appointed Celebrant of the VIII° team. That year included the inaugural Southeast SRICF Conference in Birmingham, AL, and a High Council meeting at which I had the profound honor of presiding over the conferral of the Grade of Magister (VIII°). I was asked to continue in that role and was also appointed Guardian of the Cavern for the triennium. At that same High Council, I gave a presentation on the Roman cult of Mithras, a subject of longstanding interest to me.

In 2023, working with the Chief Adepts of Arizona, Utah, and Colorado, I helped coordinate the Rocky Mountain SRICF Conference in Las Vegas, where several Fratres from Nevada were initiated. That November, I presided over the VIII° for the second time and witnessed the installation of one of my closest friends as Chief Adept of Idaho.

The following year included the inaugural Midwest SRICF Conference in Dayton, OH, in August and my third opportunity to preside over the VIII° at High Council in November. I believe that conferral was our strongest yet.

Last year, I assisted in coordinating the 2025 Rocky Mountain SRICF Conference in Boise. We welcomed new Fratres, shared excellent educational work, and at High Council I again served as Guardian of the Cavern and presided over our largest VIII° class to date. With the election of new Senior and Junior Deputy Supreme Magi, I was also appointed First Ancient of the High Council.

Looking back on these years, I am struck less by offices held than by gratitude...the gratitude for the trust placed in me, for enduring friendships, and for the privilege of service. To preside over the conferral of the Grade of Magister, and to serve both Idaho College and the High Council, has been an honor I do not take lightly.

May the next decade be guided by the same Light that has illuminated the first.

Matthew 5 and Masonic Obligations

From time to time, critics of Freemasonry attempt to condemn the taking of Masonic obligations by appealing to Christ’s words in Matthew 5:34-37: “Do not swear an oath at all.” This passage is often quoted in isolation, treated as a universal and absolute prohibition against any form of oath, vow, or solemn obligation. Such readings are not only contextually unsound, but they stand in clear contradiction to the rest of Scripture and the historic understanding of the Christian Church.

Christ’s teaching in the Sermon on the Mount is not a series of disconnected prooftexts. It is a sustained moral discourse aimed at correcting abuses of the Law, not abolishing lawful moral practices rooted in truth, justice, and integrity.

In 1st century Judaism, a complex hierarchy of oaths had developed. People swore by heaven, earth, Jerusalem, or their own heads (anything short of explicitly invoking the name of God) to preserve the appearance of piety while retaining plausible deniability. This casuistry (using clever but unsound reasoning; sophistry) allowed individuals to evade accountability by manipulating the form of their oath rather than honoring its substance.

Christ cut through this hypocrisy and deception. His rebuke is directed at dishonest speech and moral evasion, not at the concept of solemn promises themselves. His command, to let one’s “yes” be yes and “no” be no, is a call to radical truthfulness, not legalistic silence. His point is not a prohibition of all oaths in every circumstance, but the elimination of deceitful systems that undermine moral responsibility.

A blanket ban on all oaths immediately collapses under the weight of the rest of Scripture. The Mosaic Law explicitly affirms the moral seriousness of vows:

“If a man vows a vow to the Lord, or swears an oath to bind himself by a pledge, he shall not break his word.” (Numbers 30:2)

Here, the sin is not vow-making but vow-breaking. The Law condemns false or manipulative oaths, not sincere promises made in good faith.

Scripture further records God Himself swearing oaths (Genesis 22:16), commands lawful oath-taking under the Law (Deuteronomy 6:13), and shows St. Paul invoking God as witness to his truthfulness (2 Corinthians 1:23). If Matthew 5 were an absolute prohibition, Scripture would contradict itself and Christianity would fail to understand Christ, not as contradicting the moral law, but that He came to fulfill it.

The historic Christian consensus overwhelmingly rejects the idea that Christ abolished all oaths. Augustine of Hippo taught that Christ’s words were aimed at correcting dishonesty, not abolishing lawful oaths. In his writings on truth and lying, Augustine explicitly permits oaths when taken truthfully, justly, and for the sake of moral order or charity.

John Chrysostom likewise interpreted Matthew 5 as a rebuke of habitual swearing and moral evasion. He recognized that solemn oaths remained necessary in courts, covenants, and public life precisely because of human unreliability.

Thomas Aquinas, in the Summa Theologiae, teaches that oaths are morally lawful when they meet three conditions: truth, judgment, and justice. Aquinas directly cites Numbers 30:2 to affirm that vows are binding and good when made rightly, and he interprets Matthew 5 as condemning careless or deceitful swearing, not solemn promises made in good faith.

Protestant Reformers like John Calvin rejected the idea that Christ forbade all oaths, arguing instead that Jesus dismantled reliance on verbal formulas used to mask dishonesty. Calvin affirmed judicial oaths, marriage vows, and civic obligations. Martin Luther defended lawful oaths taken in the service of truth, neighbor, and social order, including oaths of office and military service.

Modern New Testament scholarship continues this consensus: Christ is confronting casuistry or systems that preserve the appearance of righteousness while hollowing out integrity. His teaching calls believers to such deep truthfulness that oaths become unnecessary, not unlawful.

It is worth noting that those who condemn Masonic obligations on this basis rarely, if ever, condemn wedding vows, courtroom oaths, or soldiers taking lawful oaths of enlistment. This faux outrage reveals that the objection is not biblical but selective. If Matthew 5 truly prohibited all obligations “at all,” consistency would require the rejection of marriage covenants, civic office, and military service alike. Such absolutism has never been the position of historic Christianity.

Masonic obligations are moral commitments. They do not replace Scripture, supersede civil law, or demand immoral action. They are precisely the kind of solemn promises that presume honesty and accountability, not deceit.

If one’s word is truthful and one’s life upright, the form of the promise is secondary. Christ condemns deception, not honor; duplicity, not fidelity; hypocrisy, not moral accountability.

Reducing Matthew 5:34-37 to a blanket ban on all obligations ignores biblical context, contradicts Scripture, and stands outside the historic Christian tradition. Christ’s teaching condemns dishonest speech and manipulative oath-taking, and not solemn promises made in good faith. To claim otherwise is not a defense of biblical Christianity, but a distortion of it.

Looking Back on 2025

This past year proved to be an unusually full chapter in my Masonic journey. It unfolded much like life itself: marked by moments of honor and advancement, tempered by loss and reflection, and enriched by new experiences that challenged and renewed me. Within the Masonic family, the year brought historic milestones, unexpected responsibilities, and opportunities at every level.

At Masonic Week in February, I was appointed Grand Registrar for the Commemorative Order of St. Thomas of Acon USA. During that same gathering, I witnessed a truly historic moment: the inauguration and constitution of the Grand Court of the Masonic Order of Athelstan in the United States of America.

That momentum carried into my attendance at the Grand York Rite of Washington DC, in March, followed by the Easter Sunrise Service in the nation’s capital in April. Welcoming the dawn in that setting was a moment of quiet renewal, both spiritually and fraternally.

Soon after, I had the honor of presiding over the Grand Commandery of Idaho, and was elected to serve as Grand Secretary of the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of Idaho, Grand Recorder of the Grand Council of Cryptic Masons of Idaho, and Grand Recorder of the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of Idaho. I accepted them with a clear understanding of the trust they represent.

In May, the rhythm of the year shifted in a far more personal way with the loss of my grandmother. Her passing brought with it a season of reflection, and her loss added a deeper gravity to the remainder of the year and gave new meaning to the idea of stewardship, both within and beyond the fraternity.

In June, alongside my travel to England for the Mysteries of Mithras, I was also appointed Escort to the Grand Electa for the Order of the Eastern Star in Idaho, a role that allows me to support my mother as a Grand officer.

In July, I coordinated the 2025 Rocky Mountain SRICF Conference, an undertaking that demanded careful planning and broad cooperation. A few weeks later, I was deeply honored to receive the Order of the Purple Cross.

The year continued with international fraternity. I attended the constitution of a new Court of the Masonic Order of Athelstan in Canada and was appointed Senior Deacon of my own Court in Washington. In October, I attended Knights of the York Cross of Honor (KYCH), where I also assisted in the constitution of the Gulf Coast Province for the Commemorative Order of St. Thomas of Acon. This same month, I also served as Eminent Commander for the knighting of several new Knights Templar, a responsibility that never loses its weight or its beauty.

My travels returned me again to England at the end of October for the annual meeting of the Grand Court of the Masonic Order of Athelstan UK in Leicester, where a new Grand Master was installed by his predecessor.

In November, I went to Louisville, KY, for the annual meeting of the High Council of the SRICF. There, I was unexpectedly commissioned as a Kentucky Colonel, presided over the conferral of the VIII° (Magister), and was appointed First Ancient of the High Council for the 2025-2028 Triennial. Sunday, I attended the formation of the Great Lakes Province of the Commemorative Order of St. Thomas of Acon.

A few days after that, I traveled to Baden-Baden, Germany, for a Joint Conference of the Cryptic Masons and Knights Templar, experiencing firsthand how fraternity transcends language, borders, and culture.

In December, I was elected and installed as Very Eminent Preceptor of my Tabernacle, closing the year grounded once again in local leadership. Most recently, I returned from attending the Grand Council of the United Kingdom for the Commemorative Order of St. Thomas of Acon.

Looking back, this was not a year measured merely by offices held, but by trust received. It was a year of standing on ancient stones, welcoming new institutions into being, honoring those we have lost, and ensuring that what has been entrusted to us is preserved and strengthened for those who will follow.

As the year comes to a close, I remain grateful for the opportunities, friendships, and the reminder that service and leadership, when undertaken with sincerity, become a legacy of their own.

Humilitas et Caritas

I just finished a journey that marked my final Masonic event of the year and there could not have been a more meaningful way to conclude it. I arrived in London on St. John’s Day, a date of deep symbolic importance within Freemasonry, and immediately made my way north to Derby (pronounced Darby). My purpose was to attend the Grand Council of England, Wales, and its Provinces Overseas for the Commemorative Order of St. Thomas of Acon.

The Commemorative Order of St. Thomas of Acon exists to reaffirm the vows of a Knight Templar and to raise funds for the care and maintenance of Canterbury Cathedral. Membership in this Order is invitation-only and requires that a candidate already be a member of a recognized Commandery or Preceptory of Knights Templar. It is an Order rooted in duty and service, values that resonated deeply throughout the entire visit.

That first evening, I had the pleasure of dining with the Grand Master of the United States, whom I was accompanying to the meeting, and setting the tone for what would be several days of fellowship, history, and exceptional hospitality.

Sunday was devoted to exploring some of England’s historic sites, each offering a different window into the nation’s layered past.

Perched dramatically above the surrounding countryside, Bolsover Castle is less a medieval fortress and more a statement of aristocratic ambition. Built in the 17th century by Sir Charles Cavendish, the “Little Castle” was designed for lavish entertainments rather than warfare.

Originally founded as an Augustinian priory, Newstead Abbey later became the ancestral home of the poet, Lord Byron. The site blends monastic ruins with a stately home and beautifully landscaped gardens.

Overlooking the city from its rocky promontory, Nottingham Castle stands as a symbol of royal authority, rebellion, and legend. Though rebuilt many times over the centuries, it remains inseparable from the stories of medieval England and the enduring mythos of Robin Hood.

That evening, I was graciously hosted for dinner by several Knights of the Order from around the UK; an evening marked by warm conversation, shared purpose, and genuine fraternity.

On Monday, the Grand Master of the USA and I attended the meeting of the Grand Council of England, Wales, and its Provinces Overseas. We were formally received and warmly welcomed by the Grand Master in England, an honor that underscored the strength of the bonds shared between our jurisdictions.

The hospitality and generosity extended to me throughout the entire visit were truly second to none. The meeting concluded with a traditional festive board. Afterward, I made my way south to a hotel near Heathrow, preparing for an early morning departure. I have now made it safely back to my home.

As journeys go, this one was rich in symbolism, history, and fraternity - a fitting close to the Masonic year and a reminder of the enduring ties that bind us across time and space.

Merry Christmas

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all of my family, friends, Brothers, Companions, Sir Knights, Companion Knights, Fellows, Knights Companion, Cousins, Knights, Knight Priests, and Fratres around the world.

A Full Day in the Quarries

Today was one of those rare and memorable days where nearly every hour was spent in the company of Companions and Sir Knights, moving from one appendant body of the York Rite of Freemasonry to another. It was busy, but also deeply fulfilling; a reminder of how rich our Masonic journey becomes when we labor together in unity.

The morning began with Tri-Valley College No. 178 of the York Rite Sovereign College of North America, where we convened to confer the Order of the Knight of York upon two candidates. I had the privilege of portraying King Athelstan and delivering the Rose Lecture (one of my favorite lectures).

In the afternoon, Redemption Tabernacle No. XL of the Holy Royal Arch Knights Templar Priests assembled, and I had the honor of being elected and installed as the Very Eminent Preceptor for the ensuing year. It is always a profound moment to assume new responsibilities in such a venerable and spiritually rich order, and I look forward to serving the Tabernacle.

The day concluded with a meeting of St. Michael Conclave of the Red Cross of Constantine, where we welcomed two new Knights Companions into the Conclave. Following the ritual, we held our annual elections (I’m still Recorder) and then shared a wonderful dinner together. Few things match the warmth of good fellowship and good food at the end of a long day of Masonic labor.

Happy Thanksgiving

From the Vault to the Cross

This past week was truly remarkable. I spent several days in Baden-Baden attending the Joint Regional Conference for Council and Commandery. I landed in Frankfurt on Wednesday and, along with several other American Masons, made my way to Baden-Baden by train.

The spa city of Baden-Baden, nestled at the edge of Germany’s Black Forest, played host this year to a remarkable gathering of Cryptic Masons and Knights Templar from across Europe, Africa, and the Americas. The multi-day Joint Conference brought together Companions and Sir Knights from a wide range of jurisdictions, united by a shared commitment to strengthening and growing the York Rite of Freemasonry. As the Department Commander for Europe observed, “We are at a turning point in Europe for the York Rite of Freemasonry.” The events of the weekend proved him right.

Opening Sessions and a German First Degree

The Joint Conference opened Thursday morning with warm remarks from the Right Puissant Deputy General Grand Master for Europe and the Right Puissant Deputy General Grand Master. They were followed by the Right Eminent Department Commander for Europe and Africa and the Right Eminent Deputy Grand Master, who conveyed greetings on behalf of the Grand Encampment of Knights Templar, U.S.A., and the Most Eminent Grand Master.

The Right Puissant Deputy General Grand Master for Europe then led an open forum that quickly became one of the most energizing portions of the day. Companions and Sir Knights expressed an enthusiastic desire to expand both the Cryptic Rite and Templary throughout Germany and the wider European jurisdictions. The questions reflected a spirit of optimism and hope for real, sustainable growth.

On Thursday afternoon, attendees visited Lodge Badenia for Progress (Freimaurerloge Badenia zum Fortschritt), working under the Grand Lodge of the Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of Germany within the United Grand Lodges of Germany. The Lodge conferred the Entered Apprentice degree, providing American visitors with an opportunity to witness firsthand the nuanced differences of German Craft Masonry. I found it particularly interesting how the Wardens and Master take a notably active role in the floor work, especially during the opening and the conferral itself. Many aspects of the ritual bore a striking resemblance to Craft degrees found in the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, Strict Observance Masonry, Martinism, and Rosicrucianism. The experience proved both educational and deeply fraternal.

The evening concluded with hearty fellowship over dinner at the historic Löwenbräu restaurant, a traditional Bavarian-style establishment located in the heart of the city.

A Day for the Cryptic Rite

Friday was devoted to the Cryptic Masons. The Lady of the Council Award was presented to the wife of a Past Grand Master (Cryptic Masons) from Brazil. Delegates also received information about the upcoming 2026 Triennial in Washington, D.C., followed by an open session for questions and concerns. These ranged across several practical issues unique to non-U.S. jurisdictions.

That afternoon, Northern Lights (Nordlicht) Council conferred the  Cryptic degrees (Royal Master and Select Master) in German upon several worthy candidates. The Council’s new officers were then installed, and the General Grand Council formally instituted Harmony Council U.D. of Slovenia. The day concluded with dinner at the elegant Casino Baden-Baden.

The Department Conference

Saturday marked the Templar portion of the weekend. The Right Eminent Department Commander presided over the Department Conference for Europe and Africa. The Deputy Grand Master offered an opening prayer, roll call was taken, and, remarkably, every Grand Commander within the Department was present.

The central theme of the session was educational: providing European leaders with a clearer understanding of the structure and operations of the Grand Encampment. The Conference culminated in two important milestones: the presentation of a charter to the newly formed Grand Commandery of Serbia, and the granting of a dispensation to form a new Commandery in Germany, to be known as Nordstern (North Star).

While Grand Encampment officers delivered their presentations, the Orders of the Illustrious Order of the Red Cross and the Order of Malta were conferred upon fifteen candidates. Before lunch, the Chamber of Reflection was conducted, after which the candidates reassembled. One candidate, soon to be a Sir Knight, was presented with the Companion of the Temple (COT) in recognition of his outstanding service at the Conference and to Masonry at large.

After lunch, the Order of the Temple was conferred with a full cast. The Right Eminent Deputy Grand Master served as Eminent Commander; the Right Eminent Grand Captain General as Generalissimo; the Right Eminent Grand Recorder as Captain General; and a Most Eminent Past Grand Master as Prelate. The remaining offices were filled by Department Commanders and Past Grand Commanders. The ritual was executed beautifully and stood out as one of the highlights of the entire Conference for me.

Fellowship on the Mountain

On Sunday morning, several attendees enjoyed a hike up Mount Merkur, where we shared a well-earned meal accompanied by panoramic views of the Black Forest and the Rhine Valley. The mountain takes its name from the Roman god Mercury and reflects the region’s ancient heritage, as Roman settlers once used the area for its healing springs.

The summit and restaurant were accessible via the Merkur Funicular Railway, a 1,200-meter-long railway that climbs gradients of up to 54%.

International Representation

The General Grand Council of Cryptic Masons International and the Grand Encampment of Knights Templar, U.S.A., were represented by officers and members from Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey, Idaho, Minnesota, Oklahoma, Alabama, Montana, Texas, Louisiana, North Dakota, Georgia, and Hawaii. International attendees included Companions and Sir Knights from Germany, Portugal, Romania, Togo, Gabon, Italy, Slovenia, Croatia, Cyprus, Brazil, Austria, France, and Serbia.

A Turning Point

The Baden-Baden Joint Conference demonstrated a clear truth: York Rite Freemasonry in Europe is entering a new era. With renewed enthusiasm, emerging leadership, and expanding jurisdictions, the foundations are being laid for sustained and meaningful growth of the Order. The conversations, ritual exemplifications, and international cooperation of the weekend will undoubtedly influence the future of the Cryptic Rite and Templary across Europe and beyond. Baden-Baden may well be remembered as the place where this new chapter began.

Colonels & Councils

Another weekend immersed in Rosicrucianism and chivalry has come to a close, and once again, I find myself grateful for the fraternal bonds, the shared wisdom, and the unforgettable experiences that these gatherings always bring.

On Wednesday, several of us from Idaho converged on Louisville, KY, joining Fratres from across the world for the annual convocation of the High Council of the Societas Rosicruciana in Civitatibus Foederatis. That evening set the tone for the days ahead: a night of warm reunions, long conversations, and reconnecting with friends and Fratres I rarely get to see in person. In many ways, these informal moments are the true heart of our gatherings.

Thursday began with an unexpected and humbling moment. Before heading to the distillery, our group stopped by the headquarters of the Honorable Order of Kentucky Colonels. Two of my friends had suggested we visit, and since they had done the same the year prior, I thought little of it. To my complete surprise, the Executive Director announced my name and commissioned me as a Kentucky Colonel. It was an honor I did not see coming, and one that left me both grateful and deeply touched.

From there, 10 of us from Idaho, Washington, Colorado, and Texas out into the Kentucky countryside to tour the Woodford Distillery in Versailles, KY. Walking among the rickhouses, learning about the craft, and enjoying the company of Fratres made for a perfect day. That evening, we returned to Louisville and dined together at the Repeal Oak-Fired Steakhouse, a meal as rich and satisfying as the fellowship surrounding the table.

Late Friday morning brought the Opening Procession of the High Council, always an inspiring and dignified moment. I spent the afternoon preparing for the VIII°, which I presided over that evening for an impressive class of 64 candidates. Once the VIII° concluded, we conferred the IX° upon several worthy Fratres before turning to the business of elections.

This year was particularly unusual. A contested election, stirred up by a Frater intent on creating division, cast a shadow over the proceedings. Yet, in the end, the Fratres stood firm. They voted with their conscience, not with fear, demonstrating the strength and integrity of our Society. Elections carried on well past midnight, and by the time we finally concluded, I was more than ready to find my bed.

Saturday offered a full schedule of excellent presentations, each adding new layers of insight to our Rosicrucian studies and fraternal work. We were honored to hear remarks from the visiting Supreme Magi of Lusitania (Portugal), Scotia (Scotland), and Anglia (England). Their presence and their words reinforced the international brotherhood that binds us together across oceans and borders.

After concluding a small slate of business, we adjourned to the hospitality suites and then tot the dining hall for our annual banquet. During the festivities, three Fratres were elevated to the rank and distinction of Knight Grand Cross. I spent the remainder of the night enjoying the company of the Fratres in the hospitality suites, savoring these last hours of fellowship.

Sunday morning brought one final engagement before departure. The Grand Master’s Council of the Commemorative Order of St. Thomas of Acon convened to establish the new Great Lakes Province, install its officers, and hold a Festive Board. It was a fitting conclusion to a weekend dedicated to tradition, service, and the bonds of chivalry.

Now, midway through my flights home, I find myself energized by the Society and eager to prepare for my next adventure.