20-Years in Freemasonry

Today marks 20 years since I was raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason. As I look back on that evening in 2006 and the journey that has followed, I find myself filled with gratitude...gratitude for the Brethren who guided me, the friendships forged across countless miles, the lessons learned through service, and the opportunities afforded to me by the Craft and the many concordant bodies of Freemasonry.

When I first petitioned Oriental Lodge No. 60 in Boise, Idaho, I could not have imagined where this path would lead. What began as a simple curiosity sparked by a glimpse of a Masonic cemetery in New Orleans while preparing for deployment to Iraq eventually grew into a lifelong vocation of service to Freemasonry. During my deployment, I read every book on the fraternity that I could find. Upon returning home, a chance conversation with two coworkers led me to my first Lodge visit. I immediately found something that resonated deeply within me.

I was initiated on May 19, 2006, passed on June 16, and raised on June 23. I progressed through the degrees and then the officer line, eventually serving as Worshipful Master of Oriental Lodge No. 60 in 2009. Those early years taught me one of the most important lessons of Masonry: that no man advances alone. Every success I enjoyed was built upon the encouragement, mentorship, and example of dedicated Brothers who invested their time and wisdom in a young Mason eager to learn.

What followed over the next two decades was a journey far beyond anything I could have anticipated.

Through the York Rite, I found additional opportunities for growth and service. From serving as High Priest of Boise Chapter No. 3, Illustrious Master of Idaho Council No. 1, and Eminent Commander of Idaho Commandery No. 1, to later serving as Most Excellent Grand High Priest of Idaho and Most Illustrious Grand Master of Cryptic Masons in Idaho, I was privileged to work alongside some of the finest men I have ever known.

In 2016, I was elected Worshipful Master of Idaho City Historic Lodge No. 1863. That same year, I joined fellow Fratres in Montana to help establish Montana College of the Societas Rosicruciana in Civitatibus Foederatis, presiding over the conferral of the Zelator Grade. It was also that year I completed my Master of Arts in Political Science at Boise State University, an achievement that reflected another lifelong pursuit encouraged by Freemasonry: the pursuit of knowledge.

The years that followed brought increasing responsibilities in Masonic, Templar, and Rosicrucian circles. In 2018, I was elected Most Excellent Grand High Priest of Royal Arch Masons of Idaho and Pre-Eminent Governor of Tri-Valley College No. 178, York Rite Sovereign College. Yet that same year reminded me that life is not measured solely in accomplishments. My father was diagnosed with cancer, and later that summer I left the Grand Encampment Triennial early to be with him during his final days. His passing was one of the most difficult moments of my life. The support of my family, friends, and Brothers during that period demonstrated the true strength of fraternal bonds.

In March 2019, Idaho College SRICF was formally established, and I was honored to be elected its first Celebrant. Later that year, I was advanced to the Third Order and received the VIII° and IX° of the Society. For a Rosicrucian student, these honors represented not merely advancement, but a reminder that the pursuit of wisdom is a lifelong endeavor and that every attainment carries with it greater responsibilities.

The COVID pandemic brought challenges that none of us anticipated. Lodges closed, meetings were canceled, and many cherished traditions were temporarily interrupted. Yet even amid uncertainty, Freemasonry endured. In April 2020, I was virtually installed as Most Illustrious Grand Master of Cryptic Masons in Idaho and continued serving the Craft in whatever manner circumstances allowed. Later that year, I was appointed Deputy General Grand High Priest for the Northwest Region of the General Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons International, an office that provided opportunities to travel throughout the region and assist Companion Masons across multiple jurisdictions.

As restrictions eased, the years from 2021 onward became some of the busiest of my Masonic career. I presided over numerous bodies, attended conferences and triennials throughout the United States, participated in the conferral of degrees and grades in multiple jurisdictions, and continued my service within the SRICF, Allied Masonic Degrees, Red Cross of Constantine, Holy Royal Arch Knight Templar Priests, and many other organizations. Over the years, I've been privileged to receive honors including the Ephraim A. Kirby Award, Order of the Secret Vault, the Knight Commander of the Temple, the Order of the Purple Cross, and appointment as a Kentucky Colonel. 

My Masonic travels expanded far beyond Idaho. I attended meetings and ceremonies across the United States, Canada, England, Germany, Italy, and Israel. Among the most memorable experiences was my initiation into the Mysteries of Mithras in London in 2024. These experiences reinforced a lesson I have observed repeatedly throughout my travels: while customs, jurisdictions, and traditions may differ, the principles of brotherhood remain universal.

Not all of the significant moments of the past decade were joyful. In addition to losing my father in 2018, I lost my grandfather in 2024 and my grandmother in 2025. Those losses served as poignant reminders of the lessons taught in our ritual regarding mortality, memory, and the enduring influence of those who have gone before us. As Masons, we are constantly reminded that our lives are finite and that our true legacy rests not in titles or honors, but in the lives we touch and the work we leave behind.

The past several years have brought new service opportunities. I have served as Grand Commander of Knights Templar in Idaho, Grand Secretary of the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of Idaho, Grand Recorder of the Grand Council of Cryptic Masons of Idaho, Grand Recorder of the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of Idaho, Grand Registrar for the Commemorative Order of St. Thomas of Acon USA, and Grand Superintendent of the Pacific Northwest for the Allied Masonic Degrees of the United States.

As I look back over two decades, what stands out most are not the offices held, the honors received, or even the miles traveled. Rather, it is the people. The mentors who challenged me to improve myself. The Brothers who stood beside me during difficult times. Those who have passed. The Companions, Sir Knights, Fratres, and friends whose fellowship enriched my life in countless ways. Freemasonry has given me opportunities to serve, to learn, and to grow, but above all it has introduced me to remarkable men whose friendship I treasure.

Twenty years ago, I knelt at an altar. Today, I remain a student of the Craft. There is still much to learn, much to accomplish, and much work yet to be done. If the past twenty years have taught me anything, it is that the journey itself is among life's greatest blessings.

For that journey, and for every Brother who has walked a portion of it beside me, I am profoundly grateful.

Passing of Bill Miller

I found out today that William R. Miller, a good Mason, passed away. I met Bill when I joined Knight Masons and St. Thomas of Acon in March 2013. Along with Joe and Louis, it was through Bill's generosity that I was able to attend Masonic Week, starting in 2014. I would sleep on the hide-a-bed in the hospitality room that they hosted. Over the next few years, I got to know Bill very well. In 2015, he appointed me as a member of his Hospitality Committee when he presided over the Red Cross of Constantine.

Bill was born on November 2, 1935, in Seattle, WA, but he received his public education in Washington, Kansas, Missouri, and Iowa. He received a B.S. in Industrial Administration from Iowa State University, where he joined the Delta Epsilon fraternity. After nearly 38 years, he retired in July 1994 as a Facilities Resource Manager with Boeing. Bill and his high school sweetheart, the late Maralyn Edwards, a Rainbow girl, were married on October 12, 1957, in Knoxville, TN. 

Bill was a member of the Morningside Chapter of DeMolay, where he was a Representative DeMolay and received the Zerubbabel Key. He was Dean of Tacoma Legion of Honor Preceptory (1983). As an adult, he served on the Advisory Boards of the local DeMolay Chapter and Rainbow Assembly, serving as Dad Advisor and Rainbow Dad, respectively, receiving the DeMolay Guild of the Leather Apron and Grand Cross of Color. He was elected a member of the DeMolay Supreme Council in 1994 and was Grand Orator (2008). He was a Past Patron of Pyramid Chapter No. 257, Order of the Eastern Star. 

Bill was made a Mason in Queen Anne Lodge No. 242 in Seattle on March 12, 1959, later demitted to Thornton F. McElroy Lodge No. 302 in Federal Way, where he served as Worshipful Master in 1966 and again in 2016. He served as the Most Worshipful Grand Master of Masons in Washington (1989-90). He served the Conference of Grand Masters of North America on its Fraternal Relations Committee (1989-93). He was a member of the Board of Directors of the National Masonic Foundation for the Prevention of Drug and Alcohol Abuse Among Children (1988-1994) and its President (1992-94). 

In the Scottish Rite, he served as Venerable Master of Tacoma Scottish Rite 1984, was made a Knight Commander Court of Honor in 1973, coroneted an Inspector General Honorary in 1985, was crowned Sovereign Grand Inspector General of Washington in October 1993 (serving for 20 years) and served as Grand Minister of State of the Supreme Council, 33°, Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, Southern Jurisdiction, U.S.A. 

He was a member and past presiding officer of a Chapter of Royal Arch Masons, Council of Cryptic Masons, Commandery of Knights Templar (recipient of the Illustrious Knights of the Triangle from the Grand Commandery of Washington and the Knight Commander of the Temple from the Grand Encampment of Knights Templar), York Rite College (recipient of the Order of the Purple Cross and Past Deputy Grand Governor of Washington) and SRICF College (IX° - Magus). He was also a member of the Royal Order of Scotland, KYCH, the Holy Royal Arch Knight Templar Priests, and the Afifi Shriners. Bill was Sovereign Master of Pacific Council No. 30 and Most Venerable Sovereign Grand Master of the Grand Council (AMD) in 2006. He was the Excellent Chief of Clontarf Council and served as the Most Excellent Great Chief of the Grand Council of Knight Masons, USA in 2018. Bill was Worthy Master of Tahoma Chapel No. 30, St. Thomas of Acon, and served as Most Worthy Grand Master of the Grand Masters Council, USA in 2017. He joined the Holy Order of Knights Beneficient of the Holy City, Great Priory of America (CBCS) in 2000 and served as the Most Reverend Great Prior. He joined St. Alban Conclave of the Red Cross of Constantine in 1983, served as Puissant Sovereign in 1991, and Most Illustrious Grand Sovereign in 2014-2015. 

Bill was a member of Marine View Presbyterian Church and the Federal Way School Board (1975-1986) (three terms as president) (Washington State School Board of the Year 1980).

Bill was survived by son Brian, daughter Kathleen Ancel, and grandchildren Jeremy, Kyle, Colin, and Brandon.

A Templar Week

It has been a very busy week for me. I flew home on June 8th from a 2-week-long work trip. I had very little rest as I drove to south-central Idaho on Sunday to attend the Informal Opening of the Grand Chapter of Idaho, Order of the Eastern Star, and represented the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of Idaho. It had been too long since I had attended a Grand Chapter, and catching up with old friends was great.

I stayed the night and the next day traveled to eastern Idaho so I could conduct my Official Visit as Grand Commander to Idaho Falls Commandery No. 6. I was well received and I'd like to thank the Sir Knights for their generosity and hospitality.

Thursday, I attended Idaho Commandery No. 1 for my Official Visit where I installed my Deputy Grand Commander who couldn't be at the installation in April due to personal issues.

The next night was my largest last stated meeting before going dark for the summer. We had a lot of business to conduct and June marks 18 years in Freemasonry for me so the Brethren recognized me for that. Afterward, we closed the meeting, adjourned to the bar, and shared some refreshments.

Yesterday, I presided over the conferring of the Order of Malta and the Order of the Temple. I was supported by members and officers of three different Commanderies as well as Grand Commandery officers, Past Grand Commanders of Oregon and Idaho, the Grand Commander of Oregon, and the Northwest Department Commander. The Order of the Temple is one of the most beautiful rituals in all of Freemasonry. Yesterday was also the 113th anniversary of Salmon Commandery No. 9 and Twin Falls Commandery No. 10.

Today, I am rested and refreshed so I can now concentrate on studying for a certification that I need for work. Today also marks 18 years since I was Passed to the degree of Fellow Craft Mason.

RIP Harry Black

The Masons of Idaho and Freemasonry, in general, lost a great man today. Harry C. Black was born on July 24, 1931, in Northampton, MA, where he lived until August 1, 1951, when he enlisted in the United States Air Force (during the Korean War). He served until July 31, 1954, where he was honorably discharged while stationed at Mountain Home Air Force Base. It was while stationed in Idaho that he met his first wife Frances Jean Diehl with whom he had 3 kids. Frances passed away on March 17, 1981, and Harry married a second time, but it didn't last long. In 1991, he would marry an exceptional woman named Ava Mansell with whom he was still married at his passing.

Harry was initiated (April 19, 1963), passed (November 22, 1963), and raised (March 26, 1964) in Oriental Lodge No.60 in Boise, ID. He would serve that Lodge as its Worshipful Master in 1970. He also had the honor of serving as the Lodge's Tyler from 1976 to 2003 (with exception of one year). Harry was also a member of Silver City Lodge No.13 where he served as Worshipful Master numerous times. He served the Grand Lodge AF&AM of Idaho as District Deputy Grand Master in 1992 and 1993. Bro. Harry then served as the Most Worshipful Grand Master of Masons in Idaho for the 2004-2005 Masonic Year.

Harry was also a member of the Boise Valley of the Scottish Rite, the Boise York Rite, Royal Order of Scotland, El Korah Shriners, Order of the Eastern Star. Harry also worked with the Order of the DeMolay and Job's Daughters International.

Harry was one of the first Masons I ever met and was of the signers of my petition. I have so many fond memories of Harry. I remember back in 2007 and I was Senior Warden of the Lodge, he wondered if he would make it to his 50-Year Anniversary in Freemasonry as that was 7-years away at that time. I looked at him straight in the eyes and said "Harry, you're not allowed to die on me while I'm Master next year." He just laughed and said he'd try. When I came home from my second deployment to Iraq, I hadn't taken two steps into the Lodge room when Harry shot up to me, grabbed me by my shoulders, looked me up and down, and said, "Good! You're in one piece!" Then shook my hand and said, "Welcome home, Brother."

Harry was a fine ritualist, although, he did sometimes like to adlib and add in his own words, especially with the Master Mason Lecture. Harry, though, was a fountain of knowledge and if I needed a prompting, Harry was who I'd look to for a word. He served Freemasonry tirelessly and I'm going to miss him greatly.

Words & Phrases: Chapter

The next article in the Words & Phrases series is on the word "Chapter." This term is used in several concordant and appendant bodies within the Masonic family. The term in Freemasonry often indicates a basic organizational unit, but can also be used within a degree or as a name of a national/international governing body.

The word "chapter" is defined as the main division of a publication, a unit of measure specified period of time ("I opened a new chapter in my life"), or a local branch of an organization. The etymological root of "chapter" is in the Latin word "caput" meaning "head," but could also be "leader, guide, chief, summit, origin, or source."

Within Freemasonry, a Chapter is used to indicate the basic organizational unit for a variety of concordant and appendant bodies such as a Chapter of Royal Arch Masons in the York Rite of Freemasonry, Chapter of Rose Croix (15° - 18°) within the Scottish Rite, Chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star, the Order of DeMolay, and the 7° - 10° in the Swedish Rite. There are some degrees within groups like the Scottish Rite, Ancient Toltec Rite, Holy Royal Arch Knights Templar Priests, Royal Order of Scotland, and Chevaliers Bienfaisants de la Cité Sainte. Within Royal Arch Masonry, the use of Chapter is appropriate as the Capitular or Royal Arch degrees include the keystone which crowned or completed the Royal Arch and the Temple of Solomon.

References

1. Chapter. (n.d.). Retrieved from Etymology Online: https://www.etymonline.com/word/chapter 

2. Chapter. (n.d.). Retrieved from Merriam-Webster Dictionary: https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/chapter 

3. Chapter. (n.d.). Retrieved from Masonic Dictionary: http://www.masonicdictionary.com/chapter.htm

RIP James A. Davidson

It is with a heavy heart that I report that Most Worshipful Brother James A. Davidson has dropped his working tools and passed onto that Celestial Lodge Above. Born on August 17th, 1925 in Scotland and died March 30th, 2020 in Idaho.

Jim served Freemasonry as the Grand Master of Masons in Idaho in 1993-1994, Past Grand High Priest of Royal Arch Masons of Idaho in 1973-1974, and Most Illustrious Grand Master of Cryptic Masons of Idaho 1978-1979. He was a Past Prior to Idaho Priory No.13 of the Knights of the York Cross of Honor and recipient of the Knight of the York Grand Cross of Honor (3 Quadrants). He was a Past Sovereign and an Emeritus Member of St. Michael's Conclave of the Red Cross of Constantine. He was a Past Preceptor of Redemption Tabernacle No.XL of the Holy Royal Arch Knight Templar Priests. Jim was also a Shriner, a Scottish Rite Mason, Order of High Priesthood, Order of the Silver Trowel,  a member of the Order of the Eastern Star, and a member of the Royal Order of Scotland.

This is just a preview of what he did for Freemasonry in Idaho. I met Jim early in my Masonic career and he was always a pleasant and happy person. He was in his 80s, but he had a grip like a vice wrench; when he shook your hand, you never forgot it. He was also a great ritualist and one of my most memorable periods of time with him was when he conferred the Order of the Silver Trowel upon me; he played the part of King David and did that part for over 40-years.

Jim was a proud Scotsman and until recent years he always did the Ode to Haggis at Robby Burn's Night or when a Royal Order of Scotland meeting was held.

The last time I saw Jim was when I visited the Payette York Rite when I was Grand High Priest.

Our current Most Worshipful Grand Master held Lodge one month ago so Jim and others who were too elderly could attend. Here is one of the last pictures I have of Jim (on the right).

RIP Brother!

Order of the Eastern Star

Original Signet of the Order

The Order of the Eastern Star is one of the largest fraternal organizations under the Masonic umbrella in which both women with proper Masonic heritage and Master Masons may join. This group should not be confused with Co-Masonry, a form of fringe Freemasonry that don't hold recognition or regularity with mainstream Grand Lodges. The initiatic ritual of this organization centers on the lives of the five Biblical heroines: Adah (Jephthah's daughter, from the Book of Judges), Ruth (the widow of Mahlon), Esther (the wife of the Persian King Ahasuerus or Xerxes I), Martha (sister of Lazarus from the Gospel of John), and Electa (the "elected lady" mentioned in II John). Membership is open to all Master Masons in good standing. Women can join if they share a familial relationship with a Master Mason as defined in the Constitution of the General Grand Chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star. Female members are referred to as "Sister" and Masons keep the moniker "Brother" within the order.

The basic organizational unit is the Chapter which is presided over by a Worthy Matron and Worthy Patron. They are supported by the following officers: 

Associate Matron

Associate Patron

Secretary

Treasurer

Conductress

Associate Conductress

Chaplain

Marshal

Organist

Adah

Ruth

Esther

Martha

Electa

Warder

Sentinel

Only women can serve as the Matrons and men as the Patrons. Only women can serve as Conductress, Associate Conductress, or one of the five star points, but either can serve in the rest of the Chapter officers. With some exceptions, Chapters fall under a Grand Chapter which is presided over by a Worthy Grand Matron and Worthy Grand Patron along with officers that correspond with the Chapter. Grand Chapters fall under the General Grand Chapter which is presided over by the Most Worthy Grand Matron and Most Worthy Grand Patron. One difference from these governing bodies to the local Chapter is that each Grand Officer, or General Grand Officer, is that each officer has a Page and Assistant to help them during their year and during the meetings. The General Grand Chapter is currently headquartered at the Perry-Belmont House in Washington DC. There are Grand Chapters in New York, New Jersey, Australia, and Scotland that are not a part of the General Grand Chapter.

OES Emblem

The emblem of this order is a five pointed star which is said to represent the Star of Bethlehem. Each point is a different color representing one of the five heroines: blue (Adah), yellow, (Ruth), White (Esther), green (Martha), and red (Electa). The star points downward with the white ray as to demonstrate that the star pointed the way of the Magi to the Savior in His Manger; in the Chapter room, the white ray points towards the West. Each point of the star represents one of the heroines mentioned above and is also emblematically represented by a specific symbol: Adah is represented by the blue point of the star and symbolizes the virtue of Fidelity. She is represented by the sword and veil. The yellow point of the star is the seat of Ruth who is symbolized by a sheaf of barley and represents the virtue Constancy and devotion to that which is righteous. The virtue of Loyalty is exemplified in the story of Esther who stands upon the white point of the star and is symbolized by the crown and scepter. The broken column symbolizes the mortality of man and the perseverance in trials as told in the story of Martha at the green point of the star. The elected lady or commonly known as Electa is placed upon the red point of the star which color is commonly used to represent martyrs as she stood by her faith in the face of persecution and is symbolized by the chalice. This emblem has drawn criticism from religious fanatics and conspiracy theorists alike comparing it to the inverted pentagram co-opted by Satanists, but ignoring the lessons and the fact that this emblem represents Biblical women from the Old and New Testaments.

Rob Morris

The Order of the Eastern Star was founded by Dr. Rob Morris, a Master Mason teachings in Mississippi. In 1850, he became sick and while recuperating at home, he began writing the principles and lessons of the order with the help of his wife, Charlotte. It is said that Dr. Morris wanted to create an order that allowed for the inclusion of women with Freemasonry without violating the Ancient Landmarks that define the fraternity. By 1855, he had organized a "Supreme Constellation" that had chapters throughout the US and was headquartered in New York. In 1867, Robert Macoy organized the order to help it better flourish and established the ritual, and, in the same year, the first Grand Chapter was established in Michigan. The General Grand Chapter was established in 1876.

The current headquarters of the General Grand Chapter is known as the Perry-Belmont House, just northeast of Dupont Circle in Washington DC. The house was originally built as a winter home for Perry Belmont, Congressman of New York, in 1909. The location had formally been a park and cost roughly $500,000 to build (over $14,000,000 today). After the stock market crashed in 1929, he sold the house and the Order of the Eastern Star purchased it in 1935. The Right Worthy Grand Secretary of the General Grand Chapter actually lives and works in this residence during their time in office. There are also rooms available for the Most Worthy Grand Matron, Most Worthy Grand Patron, and the trustees. The General Grand Chapter has started a preservation foundation to help maintain the residence and all are invited to donate to this worthy cause: http://www.perrybelmonthouse.org/preservation

Among the various charities supported by the Eastern Star, one notable venture is the ESTARL program which was established by the General Grand Chapter in October 1952. ESTARL stands for Eastern Star Training Awards for Religious Leadership. It is a scholar fund awarded to those who are going to school for the purpose of religious training. Each Grand Chapter has its own program that they administer.

References

Carter, E. (n.d.). International Temple of the Order of the Eastern Star. Retrieved from Atlas Obscura: https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/international-temple-order-of-the-eastern-star 

Eastern Star Training Awards for Religious Leadership (ESTARL). (2019, July 2). Retrieved from Grand Chapter of Iowa, OES: http://www.iowaeasternstar.org/ESTARL.html 

OES Info. (n.d.). Retrieved from General Grand Chapter, OES: http://www.easternstar.org/ 

Order of the Eastern Star. (n.d.). Retrieved from Masonic Dictionary: http://www.masonicdictionary.com/oes.html 

Order of the Eastern Star. (n.d.). Retrieved from Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Order_of_the_Eastern_Star 

Preserve our Eastern Star Masterpieces. (n.d.). Retrieved from Perry Belmont House Foundation: http://www.perrybelmonthouse.org/preservation

9-years later...

Well another year has come by and today marks the 9th year since I was Raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason in Oriental Lodge No.60, Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of Idaho. It's been an amazing journey through Freemasonry and I've enjoyed every minute of it.

It has been a good year of Masonry for me. I finished off the rest of my term as Master of my Lodge on a high note and handed the reigns over to my Senior Warden who has done a good job as Worshipful Master so far. 2015 has been quiet in regards to Freemasonry for me as I was in Washington DC for 4-months working for the US Senate although I did play the part of sojourner once in a while and visited my East Coast Brothers, and I am grateful for their hospitality. I also advanced in the officer line of the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of Idaho, Grand Council of Cryptic Masons of Idaho, Idaho Priory No.13 of the Knights of the York Cross of Honor, and Tri-Valley No.178 of the York Rite College. I was also appointed as the Grand Representative to Delaware for the Grand Chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star in Idaho I look forward to the next year and some of the upcoming masonic events.

The 2014 Grand Chapter of Idaho, Order of the Eastern Star

The Order of the Eastern Star (OES) is one of the largest fraternal organizations in the Masonic family in which both women with proper Masonic heritage and Master Masons may join. The degrees of this organization centers on the lives of the five Biblical heroines: Adah (Jephthah's daughter, from Judges), Ruth (the widow Mahlon), Esther (the wife of the Persian King Ahasuerus or Xerxes I), Martha (sister of Lazarus from the Gospel of John), and Electa (the "elected lady" mentioned in Second John). Each of these famous women represents one of the five principles of the Order: Fidelity, Constancy, Loyalty, Faith, and Love.

The emblem of this order is a five-pointed star which is said to represent the Star of Bethlehem. Each point of the star represents one of the heroines mentioned above and is also emblematically represented by a specific symbol: Adah is represented by the blue point of the star and symbolizes the virtue of Fidelity. She is represented by the sword and veil. The yellow point of the star is the seat of Ruth who is symbolized by a sheaf of barley and represents the virtue of Constancy and devotion to that which is righteous. The virtue of Loyalty is exemplified in the story of Esther who stands upon the white point of the star and is symbolized by the crown and scepter. The broken column symbolizes the mortality of man and the perseverance in trials as told in the story of Martha at the green point of the star. The elected lady or commonly known as Electa is placed upon the red point of the star which color is commonly used to represent martyrs as she stood by her faith in the face of persecution and is symbolized by the chalice.

The governance falls under the jurisdiction of the General Grand Chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star. Then under them are Grand Chapters and Chapters. From April 2013 to April 2014, I served my Chapter as Worthy Patron who serves as an adviser to the Worthy Matron, the presiding officer.

Last Saturday started the annual session Grand Chapter of Idaho, OES. Saturday was primarily for committee meetings, ritual competition (I took 2nd in the Signet Lecture), and membership banquet. The next day was dedicated to the memorial service, tribute to the Golden Stars (50+ year members), and to the Youth organizations. In the evening was the informal opening where I had the honor of carrying the POW/MIA flag during the procession. Monday morning was the start of the formal opening of Grand Chapter and I was asked to serve as Assistant Grand Sentinel which meant that I acted as Grand Sentinel in his absence, assist in proving the Grand Chapter, and guarding the doors into the room.

With Tuesday came the installation of the newly elected and appointed Grand Officers. It was an amazing installation ceremony and I got to see so many old friends that I haven't seen in a while. I'd like to congratulate Jan Brown, Worthy Grand Matron, and Dwain Valez, Worthy Grand Patron, on being chosen to lead the Grand Chapter for the next year. I had the pleasure with Art Shoemaker, Right Worshipful Deputy Grand Master and Secretary for Tri-Valley College No.178, to present Jane Bahr, who was my Worthy Matron, with the York Rite Sovereign College of North America's Diamond Award in recognition for outstanding and faithful service to Freemasonry.

I have been a member for 4.5-years and I have enjoyed the time. I always have a fun time with the Sisters and Brothers within the Order of the Eastern Star.

Installed as Worthy Patron

Well, tonight I had the honor of being installed as Worthy Patron for my Eastern Star Chapter. The evening went very well and the Installing Team did an excellent job, particularly Bro. Jesse who was my Installing Patron. My mother attended and escorted me to the East after I was invested with the badge of my office.

My color is dark blue which is why all the male officers wear a dark blue bow-tie my mascot for the year is the Owl, a favorite animal of mine; my emblem is the lantern; and my scripture verse is 2 Samuel 22:29 wherein it is written, "For thou art my lamp, O Lord: and the Lord will lighten my darkness." As a gift from the officers of the Lodge I received three owl sculptures of different sizes. 

After the installation was done Jesse and I ran to have a quick drink. Now I am packing and getting ready to travel to Idaho Falls for the weekend to attend the Grand Sessions of the Grand York Rite of Idaho. Then it's back up to Boise on Sunday to attend another OES installation. Thank God for caffeine!

The Druze and the Order of the Eastern Star

While reading, during my few days of Winter break, I decided to go back through some old articles I read and came across Worshipful Brother Cliff Porter's article on his time in the Middle East and his discussion about the Druze when something caught my attention. I am only going to highlight key portions of this faith, but I encourage anyone interested to further research this religious practice.

A monotheistic religious community, the Druze can primarily be found in Syria, but can also be found in Lebanon, Israel, and Jordan; there are some communities of expatriated Druze in Europe, North America, and Africa. This faith emerged during the 11th century from Ismailism branch of the Shia Islam and combines aspects of the Abrahamic religions, Gnosticism, Neo-Platonism, and other philosophies.

There are a few theories as to the origin of the name Druze. Some believe it originates from Muhammad bin Ismail Nashtakin ad-Darazi, an early Islamic preacher. Ironically the Druze considers ad-Darazi a heretic for his wild exaggerations that led to his expulsion, but the name is used to identify them for historical purposes. Some hypothesize that it was Shaykh Hussayn ad-Darazi, an early convert that influenced the use of the Druze name. Others believe it derives from the word Darazo which means bliss. The Druze refers to themselves as Ahl al-Tawhid (the People of Monotheism) or al-Muwaḥḥidūn (the Unitarians).

The early Druze faith was preached by Hamza ibn Ali ibn Ahmad, a Persian Ismaili scholar. When he arrived in Egypt in 1014, he assembled a group of scholars and leaders from across the region to form this Unitarian movement. The early meetings were held in secret until 1017 when Hamza finally took the religious movement public.

The Druze are not a separate ethnic group, but rather a religious and social group who has some similarities to the predominately Muslim controlled nations they inhabit. Due to their secretive nature and some fundamental differences from the mainstream Islamic faith, they are sometimes seen as separatist.

To the Druze, God transcends the attributes that may be placed on Him by other faiths as they believe this leads to polytheism. God is incomprehensible so many of the questions concerning the "how", "when", and "where" of God are fruitless. They believe in the concept of Tajalli or theophany. Theophany taken in its literal translation means "appearance of God", but can also be defined as a "divine disclosure." From everything I have read the Druze follow the latter definition since it is less a concept of a physical incarnation (which would contradict their scriptures), but rather to the Light of God experienced by those who have reached a high enough level of spirituality.

The Druze have several books that comprise their sacred texts which are known as Kitab Al Hikma (Book of Wisdom). Some of the teachings are symbolic or allegorical and some divine. Due to these understandings the books and their teachings are divided into three layers which are the zahir (the exoteric), the batin (the esoteric), and the anagoge (the hidden of the hidden). The zahir is available to anyone who can read and hear. The batin is available to those who have the willingness to learn and study through the concept of exegesis or critical interpretation of religious texts. The anagoge is only accessible to a select few who have reached a certain level of enlightenment. Unlike other movements, the Druze do not believe that the esoteric meanings void the exoteric meanings, and actually complement one another.

Druze meet in sanctuaries called khalwa (or khalwat) which act as their prayer-houses instead of mosques. The main sanctuary is called the Khalwat al-Bayada which is located near Hasbaya (Southeastern Lebanon).

The Druze follow seven precepts that are considered to be the core of the Druze faith, which are similar to the pillars of Islam. These precepts are:

Veracity in speech and the truthfulness of the tongue.
Protection and mutual aid to the brethren in faith.
Renunciation of all forms of former worship (specifically, invalid creeds) and false belief.
Repudiation of the Devil, and all forces of evil (or despotism).
Confession of God's unity.
Acquiescence in God's acts no matter what they are.
Absolute submission and resignation to God's divine will in both secret and public.

The moral system of the Druze religion consists of seven principles:

Truthfulness
Fellowship
Abandoning false beliefs
Avoidance of confusion (evil)
Acceptance of divine unity in humanity
Acceptance of all the Lords acts
Submission to the Will of God

In the Druze faith there is a belief of reincarnation similar to that seen in the Eastern religion of Hinduism. As man is imperfect he must be reborn many times to unite with God and reach Heaven where he saved from rebirth. Good people are more fortunate in their reincarnations than bad people. Those who have the misfortune of finding themselves in Hell are tortured by the distance, separation, and deprivation from God. Keeping in common with the Eastern religions, they believe the transmigration of the soul where the soul is instantaneously reincarnated into a new life.

The Druze recognize the major Prophets such as Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, Jesus, and Muhammad. These major Prophets had 7 minor prophets who in turn had 12 disciples which include figures from the Abrahamic faiths as well as Greek history. Prophets are not worshiped but are considered special people who are free of sin.

Avoiding most uses of icons, the Druze use five colors to represent a metaphysical power which is called Haad. Haad translates to mean limit and by limitation they refer the limits that separate man from the animals of this Earth. The five colors of each of the five Haad are as follows:

Green for Aql or the Universal Mind which gives consciousness and is necessary to understand the truth
Red for Nafs or the Universal Soul embodies the mind and is responsible for one's character
Yellow for Kalima or the Word/Logos which is the mediator between the divine and the material and communicates the qualia (conscious experience) between humans
Blue for Sabiq or the Cause or Precedent and is the mental power of the will which manifested will lead to the Tali
White for Tali or the Future, taken with the Sabiq, one learns from the past, plan for the future, and predict what may come

These colors can be combined into vertical stripes or a five-pointed star which embodies the golden ratio, or Phi, as a symbol of temperance and moderation. The latter design reminds me of the emblem of the Order of the Eastern Star. 

The Order of the Eastern Star is one of the largest fraternal organizations under the Masonic umbrella in which both women with proper Masonic heritage and Master Masons may join. The fine degrees of this organization center on the lives of the five Biblical heroines: Adah (Jephthah's daughter, from Judges), Ruth (the widow Mahlon), Esther (the wife of the Persian King Ahasuerus or Xerxes I), Martha (sister of Lazarus from the Gospel of John), and Electa (the "elected lady" mentioned in II John). Each of these famous women represents one of the five principles of the Order: Fidelity, Constancy, Loyalty, Faith, and Love.

The emblem of this order is a five pointed star which is said to represent the Star of Bethlehem. By this symbol we see a dualist interpretation where the star represents the descent of spirit into matter, the divine in man, or the presence of God on Earth. Each point of the star represents one of the heroines mentioned above and is also emblematically represented by a specific symbol:

Adah is represented by the blue point of the star and symbolizes the virtue of Fidelity. She is represented by the sword and veil.

The yellow point of the star is the seat of Ruth who is symbolized by a sheaf of barley and represents the virtue Constancy and devotion to that which is righteous.

The virtue of Loyalty is exemplified in the story of Esther who stands upon the white point of the star and is symbolized by the crown and scepter.

The broken column symbolizes the mortality of man and the perseverance in trials as told in the story of Martha at the green point of the star.

The elected lady or commonly known as Electa is placed upon the red point of the star which color is commonly used to represent martyrs as she stood by her faith in the face of persecution and is symbolized by the chalice.

One reading through the history and teachings of the Druze, one can see similarities not just between the Eastern Star, but Freemasonry in general. According to Cliff Porter:

I had heard of the Druze only in passing when I learned that the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry Southern Jurisdiction and Mother Council of the World had removed the Druze from their 25th degree. Masonic scholar Rex Hutchens believed the degree should be a Sufi degree. I am assuming that is because the Sufi’s seemed a likely candidate because their rituals are so similar to Masonry and so little is known of the Druze. I am no longer certain the correct decision was made here and I shall elaborate.

I am going to continue researching such groups like this with possible influence on our great organization.

References

1. About. (n.d.). Retrieved from General Grand Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star: http://www.easternstar.org/about_oes.html

2. Druze. (n.d.). Retrieved from Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Druze

3. Eastern Star. (n.d.). Retrieved from Symbolic Dictionary: http://symboldictionary.net/?p=3184

4. Mowahhidoon . (n.d.). Retrieved from Australian Druze Community: http://www.druze.org.au/religion/index.htm

5. Order of the Eastern Star. (n.d.). Retrieved from Masonic Dictionary: http://www.masonicdictionary.com/oes.html

6. Order of the Eastern Star. (n.d.). Retrieved from Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Order_of_the_Eastern_Star

7. Order of the Eastern Star. (n.d.). Retrieved from Freemasons of New Zealand: http://www.freemasons.co.nz/cms/other-masonic-bodies/order-of-the-eastern-star/

8. Porter, C. (n.d.). The Missing Link Between Egypt and Freemasonry. Retrieved from Living Stones magazine: http://www.livingstonesmagazine.com/PDF/Cliff.pdf

9. The Druze Star. (n.d.). Retrieved from Symbolic Dictionary: http://symboldictionary.net/?p=1810

Last Few Weeks

Well, I need to catch my breath. This has been quite a busy couple of weeks for me, Masonic and school-wise.

Thursday was the meeting of some of the appendant bodies of the York Rite. I was able to attend the annual meeting of the Order of High Priesthood and Order of the Silver Trowel. The Knights Preceptor and Knights of the York Cross of Honor also met, but I am not a member and I had plenty of other things to be doing to ensure the Grand Sessions would go as smoothly as I could make it.

Friday started off with the official public opening of the Joint Sessions of the Grand York Rite Bodies of Idaho with John Zeller, Most Excellent Grand High Priest, presiding. There were a great many visiting guests from the various appendant bodies of Masonry, including one from Queensland, Australia. In the afternoon the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons met where Ron Berto was elected as the Most Excellent Grand High Priest and he appointed me as the Grand Master of the 1st Veil. We were installed shortly after.

Friday evening was filled with the Necrology ceremony of the Grand Council and Grand Commandery, Holy Land Pilgrimage Benefit Dinner, and York Rite College meeting. Prior to the Necrology, we heard a small speech from the Minister we sent over to the Holy Land this last March, and he seems to have had an amazing time there. The Rainbow Girls cooked and served us a great pork dinner. After all that was said and done, it was time for the York Rite College to meet. This was just a business meeting where balloted on some proposed new members and also where we held our elections. Although I was not elected to any position, I stood in as acting-Chancellor (3rd down the line) for the meeting. At the end of the meeting, the newly elected officers were then installed by the Grand Governor, Right Pre-Eminently Distinguished Brother, Ron Berto.

Saturday morning I had to attend my monthly National Guard drill, but in the afternoon I was able to attend the Grand Council meeting as an Illustrious Master. I helped the installation by assisting the Installing Grand Marshall. Then it was time for the Grand Banquet. After a few drinks from the bar, the meals came out and the Prime Rib was amazing. The banquet was MC'd by James C Herndon, Past Grand Sovereign of the United Grand Imperial Council of the Red Cross of Constantine, and he did a fantastic job. Each of the bodies handed out awards to those Companions and Sir Knights who very easily deserved them for all of their hard work. We also had a few speeches given by each of the representatives from the General Grand Chapter, General Grand Council, and Grand Encampment

Monday, the 16th, a mentor of mine, particularly in the York Rite, received his 50-year pin in his Lodge. Wednesday night was an eventful day as I was installed as Associate Patron for my Eastern Star Chapter.

I spent the rest of the week studying as today my Commandery put on the Chivalric Orders in Boise. The Sir Knights did a fantastic job. I enjoyed being the High Priest for the Illustrious Order of the Red Cross, the Marshall for the Order of Malta, and Generalissimo for the Order of the Temple.

After the Orders were done we were served a very nice dinner by the young men of the Treasure Valley Chapter of the Order of DeMolay. I'd also like to thank the Job's Daughter for serving us our lunch that day.

Now it's time to catch up on some homework and start studying for Finals.