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.

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.

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.

RIP Reese Harrison

I just heard that Bro. Reese Harrison passed away on August 29, 2025. He could be outspoken at times, but always devoted and knowledgeable.

Reese Lenwood Harrison, Jr., of San Antonio, Texas, passed away on August 29, 2025. Born January 5, 1938, he devoted his life to the law, to military service, to his church and community, and above all to Freemasonry, where his record of service and leadership stands among the most distinguished in Texas history.

A graduate of Baylor University and Southern Methodist University School of Law, Reese was admitted to the bar in 1962 and began his career as an Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Texas, appointed by President Lyndon B. Johnson and Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy. He later became a senior partner, CEO, and litigation chair at Oppenheimer, Blend, Harrison & Tate, and practiced with Clark Hill PLC. Board Certified in Civil Trial Law and nationally recognized for his litigation work, he was consistently named among Best Lawyers in America and Texas Super Lawyers.

In addition to his distinguished legal career, Reese served nearly 35 years in the Texas Air National Guard and U.S. Air Force Reserve, retiring as a Colonel and later receiving a brevet promotion to Brigadier General. He was honored with the Major General Paul D. Straw Trophy in 1991 for exemplary military and civic service.

A devoted husband and proud father of two daughters, Reese was also deeply active in civic, charitable, and heritage organizations, including the San Antonio Livestock Exposition, Trinity Baptist Church, the Sons of the Republic of Texas, and Freemasonry, where he held many national and international offices. He will be remembered as a man of service, leadership, and faith who gave tirelessly to his country, profession, and community.

His Masonic career is quite extensive, and it’s almost impossible to sum it up quickly…so I won’t try. Raised in Albert Pike Lodge No. 1169 (1959), Reese went on to serve as Worshipful Master (1969–70) and later Cibolo Lodge No. 151 (2004–05). He served as District Deputy Grand Master (1982), District Education Officer (1997–2000), Grand Orator (1987), and the President of the Masters, Wardens, and Secretaries Association. He received numerous honors, including the Golden Trowel Award, the Henry Price Medal (Massachusetts), and the Pierpoint Edwards Medal (Connecticut). He served as Most Worshipful Grand Master of Masons in Texas in 2004.

Reese was exalted in San Antonio Chapter No. 381 (1959), Royal Arch Masons, where he served as Excellent High Priest and long-time Treasurer. He was District Deputy Grand High Priest (1971) and Most Excellent Grand High Priest of Texas in 2014. In Cryptic Masons, Reese was greeted in San Antonio Council No. 14 (1960), serving as Thrice Illustrious Master. He was District Deputy Grand Master (1971, 1974) and Most Illustrious Grand Master of Texas in 2018. In Templary, he was knighted in San Antonio Commandery No. 7 (1960), where he served as Eminent Commander (1974). He was recognized with the Commander’s Merit Award, the Knight Templar Cross of Honor (2001), and the ranks of Knight Commander of the Temple (1992) and Knight Grand Cross of the Temple (1999) by the Grand Encampment of Knights Templar USA.

Reese received the 32° in 1959, invested a KCCH in 1971, and coroneted 33° Inspector General in 1979. He held multiple presiding offices in the Valley of San Antonio, including Venerable Master and Wise Master, and served as Personal Representative of the SGIG. He was also active in the Scottish Rite Research Society.

Reese was created a Noble of Alzafar Shrine (1959), later serving as Potentate in 1979 and President of the International Past Potentates Association (1985–86). He served as Monarch of Omala Grotto (1979), longtime Zone Director, and national officer. Reese was also active in the Royal Order of Jesters, Order of Quetzalcoatl, and the Cabiri.

Reese held some of the highest offices in Masonry internationally:

• Governor General (1998–2000), Regent, and recipient of the Knight Grand Cross of York in the York Rite Sovereign College of North America
• Grand Master General (2004–2005) and later Grand Treasurer-General in the Knights of the York Cross of Honour
• Sovereign Grand Preceptor (2003–2007) and later Grand Treasurer in the Sovereign Order of Knights Preceptor 
• Most Illustrious Grand Sovereign (2006–2007) in the United Grand Imperial Council of the Red Cross of Constantine of the USA and its Jurisdictions
• Past Chief Adept of Texas College, IX° (1992), and Knight Grand Cross (1999) in the Societas Rosicruciana in Civitatibus Foederatis
• Most Excellent Great Chief of the Grand Council of the USA (1996) in the Knight Masons.
• Most Venerable Sovereign Grand Master of the USA (1999) for the Allied Masonic Degrees.
• Most Worthy Grand Master (USA, 2016–2017) in the Order of St. Thomas of Acon
• Life Member (1967) and Substitute Provincial Grand Master of the USA in the Royal Order of Scotland
• Most Illustrious Grand Chancellor (2007) in the Grand College of Rites
• Most Honorable Commander General (2003–2007) in the Masonic Order of the Bath
• Most Eminent Grand Preceptor of the Grand College of America, Holy Royal Arch Knight Templar Priests 
• Master Councilor, Chevalier, Legion of Honor, Executive Officer for Texas, and Grand Master of DeMolay International (1982–83) in the Order of DeMolay 

He was also a member of the Order of High Priesthood, Silver Trowel, Knights Crusaders of the Cross, National Sojourners, Heroes of ’76, High Twelve International, Order of the Eastern Star, Order of the Amaranth, Order of the White Shrine of Jerusalem, Tall Cedars of Lebanon, Ancient Egyptian Order of Sciots, Texas Lodge of Research, Philalethes Society, Scottish Rite Research Society, and Alabama Confederate Military Lodge of Research

Across more than six decades, Reese rose from Blue Lodge leadership to the highest councils of the Craft worldwide. His dedication, intellect, and unwavering commitment will long be remembered by his brethren in Texas and around the globe.

A. E. Waite

Arthur Edward Waite (1857–1942) occupies a unique place in the history of Western esotericism. An American-born poet, mystic, and occult scholar who spent nearly his entire life in England, Waite wrote prolifically on the subjects of mysticism, ceremonial magic, Kabbalah, Rosicrucianism, Freemasonry, and alchemy. He was also the co-creator of the Rider–Waite Tarot deck, the single most influential tarot pack of the modern era. R. A. Gilbert, Waite’s biographer, observed that Waite’s importance lies in the fact that he was “the first to attempt a systematic study of the history of Western occultism.” Waite’s career was marked by his constant search for what he called the “Secret Tradition”, a hidden stream of mystical Christianity preserved within the symbols of esoteric societies and texts.

Early and Personal Life

A. E. Waite was born on October 2, 1857, in Brooklyn, New York, to Charles F. Waite, a Captain in the American merchant marines, and Emma Lovell, daughter of a wealthy London merchant involved in the East India trade. Charles and Emma never married, and Waite and his sister Frederika were thus illegitimate. When Charles died at sea, Emma returned to England with her two children, raising them in poverty on the margins of London society. Rejected by her family, Emma converted to Roman Catholicism when Waite was 6 years old, a decision that would shape his religious outlook for the rest of his life.

Waite, unable to receive a formal education, educated himself and became a voracious reader. He spent two terms at St. Charles’ College at 13 years old before leaving formal schooling. Much of his education came through voracious reading, ranging from cheap novels and romances to medieval and mystical texts. In 1874, the death of his sister deeply shook him, weakening his Catholic faith and setting him on a lifelong quest for spiritual consolation. By age 21, he was studying esotericism in the British Museum Library, exploring Spiritualism, Theosophy, and eventually the works of Éliphas Lévi, whose writings ignited Waite’s enduring fascination with the Hermetic and mystical traditions of the West.

In 1888, Waite married Ada Lakeman, whom he affectionately called “Lucasta,” and they had one daughter, Sybil. Between 1900 and 1909, he supported his family as a manager for the Horlicks company. Lucasta’s death in 1924 was a personal blow; in 1933, he remarried Mary Broadbent Schofield, with whom he spent his final years in Kent.

Writer and Scholar

Waite’s literary output was vast. He authored, translated, or edited works on alchemy, Kabbalah, Rosicrucianism, and ceremonial magic, in addition to devotional poetry and mystical theology. His ‘The Builders’ became a popular Masonic classic, distributed widely in America, and in 1916 he was honored by the Grand Lodge of Iowa with the rank of Past Senior Grand Warden.

His book ‘Devil-Worship in France’ (1896) was particularly influential, as it exposed the notorious Taxil Hoax, which had alleged Masonic involvement in Satanism. Waite’s careful analysis demonstrated the fraudulent nature of the claims and earned him the gratitude of both Masonic and occult leaders like William Wynn Westcott. While non-Masonic reviewers thought Waite had perhaps overstated the case, the work effectively put an end to popular interest in “Masonic Satanism.”

The Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn

Waite joined the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn in 1891, entering the Second Order in 1899. He was involved with the Order until 1914, save for a break between 1893 and 1896 when he became disenfranchised with the activities of some of his superiors in the order. He founded his own branch, the Independent and Rectified Order of the Golden Dawn, in 1903, but dissolved it in 1914.

Waite’s approach to esotericism emphasized mysticism and Christian spirituality, a contrast to figures like Aleister Crowley and W. B. Yeats who favored ceremonial magic and practical occultism. Crowley, in particular, mocked Waite in print, calling him “Dead Waite” and lampooning him in ‘Moonchild.’ Yet Gilbert and other scholars argue that Crowley’s animosity stemmed from Waite’s insistence that true magic pointed beyond occultism toward mystical union with the divine.

“Crowley’s hostility centred on his awareness that Waite had perceived the true nature of magic and pointed to another way — that of the mystic. Unwilling to accept what he knew inwardly to be true; Crowley turned to verbiage and venom, at the same time belittling himself and ensuring that future generations of occultists should know of Waite and be curious.” 

- R.A. Gilbert

Masonic Career

A.E. Waite was initiated as an Entered Apprentice on September 19, 1901, in Runymede Lodge No. 2430 at Wraysbury in Buckinghamshire. As a courtesy to Runymede Lodge, Waite was raised as a Master Mason on February 10, 1902, in St. Marylebone Lodge No. 1305 in London. He would serve as Worshipful Master of Runymede Lodge in 1910. He was admitted to the Grade of Zelator in Metropolitan College of the SRIA on April 10, 1902. He would later serve as Exponent of this College in 1913. He was exalted into the Holy Royal Arch in Metropolitan Chapter No. 1507 on May 1, 1902. A week later, he was installed as a Knight Templar in King Edward VII Preceptory.

His most treasured initiation came in February 1903, when he traveled to Geneva to receive the Rectified Scottish Rite and the grade of Chevalier Bienfaisant de la Cité Sainte (CBCS). Waite regarded the Rectified Scottish Rite as the purest expression of the mystical Christian “Secret Tradition.”

“The ceremony throughout was read or recited, the rituals not being committed to memory as in English Masonry. The effect was in reality much better, but it is possible that the ritual lends itself especially to this kind of delivery as it was more narrative and exhortatory than are the Craft degrees. I wish in any case to record that as regards both grades the rites could have scarcely been simpler, more impressive or worked with more smoothness and dignity.”

In 1905, he was initiated into Mark Masonry, which he saw as a purer form of Craft Masonry, not the ‘muddled Deism of Anderson's Constitution.’ In 1930, he was still actively promoting the Mark when he became a founder and first Master of Tower Hamlets Mark Lodge No. 892. He was a founding member of Sancta Maria Preceptory of Knights Templar in 1906 and served as Preceptor in 1909 before serving as Registrar from 1910 to 1940. He received the Chevalier-Profès (Professed Knight) and Chevalier-Grand Profès (Grand Professed Knight) by correspondence in 1907; he did not make a second visit to Geneva. He was perfected (initiated) in the Orpheus Chapter Rose Croix No. 79 in 1909, becoming its Sovereign in 1915, and, from 1918 onwards, he was its Recorder.In 1914, Waite resigned from the SRIA after failing in his bid to be elected as Celebrant of Metropolitan College.

After 1920, his association with Craft Masonry faded, although he remained a member of his mother lodge until his death. By this time, he was a member of virtually every rite that was worked in England, and he had played an active role in many of them, including the Holy Royal Arch, the Knights Templar, the Knights of Malta, the Swedenborgian Rite, the Red Cross of Constantine, and the Secret Monitor.

Despite his wide involvement in Masonic bodies, Waite was often critical of mainstream Freemasonry, which he felt had lost its spiritual depth in favor of worldly ceremony and social respectability. By the 1920s, he had largely withdrawn from active Masonic life, though he remained affiliated until his death.

Martinism and Tarot

One of the lesser-known but crucial influences on Waite’s spiritual development was Martinism, the mystical Christian philosophy derived from Louis Claude de Saint-Martin (“the Unknown Philosopher”) and later systematized by Gérard Encausse (“Papus”). Waite encountered Martinism in the late 19th century, shortly after his exposure to Lévi. Whether Waite formally joined Papus’s Martinist Order remains uncertain, but his writings and ritual work demonstrate a deep assimilation of Martinist themes.

At the core of Martinism lies the doctrine of humanity’s fall from divine unity and the possibility of reintegration with God through inner purification and the cultivation of divine wisdom. Waite absorbed this theology and wove it into his broader search for the “Secret Tradition.” His Fellowship of the Rosy Cross reflected Martinist emphases on mystical ascent, Christian esotericism, and the symbolic use of ritual to awaken the soul to divine realities.

Fellowship of the Rosy Cross

In 1914, he resigned from the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn and the SRIA, which coincided with the decline of his Independent & Rectified Rite of the Golden Dawn. He directed all of his energies to the rituals and creation of the Fellowship of the Rosy Cross (FRC), a Christian Order structured in a series of grades that represented a symbolical ascent of the Kabbalistic Tree of Life. The Fellowship of the Rosy Cross was founded on July 9, 1915, with the consecration of Salvator Mundi Temple at De Keyser's Hotel on Victoria Embankment, London. Waite’s Order was supposed to be Christian and mystical, rather than pagan and magical, and it synthesized elements from Freemasonry, Kabbalah, alchemy, Martinism, and Tarot in its rituals. Unlike the Golden Dawn, the FRC rejected magical practices in favor of contemplative mysticism and sacramental ritual. For Waite, the FRC represented the culmination of his lifelong quest to reconstruct the “Secret Tradition” as a living spiritual path.

The Tarot

Waite is best known for his involvement with the Rider–Waite Tarot deck, first published in 1910 and illustrated by his fellow member of the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn, Pamela Colman Smith. He also authored the deck’s companion volume, ‘The Key to the Tarot’, which was republished in expanded form in 1911 as ‘The Pictorial Key to the Tarot’. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Waite viewed the Tarot as a book of spiritual doctrine. The Rider–Waite deck embodies this vision: its imagery is infused with Christian mysticism, Rosicrucian allegory, and echoes of Martinist philosophy. The Fool’s journey, in Waite’s interpretation, is not merely a tale of chance or fate but a spiritual pilgrimage toward divine union. By fully illustrating all 78 cards (when most decks at the time depicted only the 22 Major Arcana), Waite and Smith introduced narrative and symbolic coherence to the entire Tarot, encouraging its use not simply for divination, but as a meditation on the stages of the soul’s return to God. Although Waite authored dozens of works, it is the Rider–Waite Tarot and its companion volume that secured his enduring fame. The deck revolutionized Tarot practice and has since become the foundation upon which nearly every modern Tarot deck is built, ensuring Waite’s lasting influence on the esoteric tradition.

Death and Legacy

Waite spent his final years in Bishopsbourne, Kent, where he died on May 19, 1942, at the age of 84. He was buried in the local churchyard. While often mocked by contemporaries such as Crowley and even caricatured by H. P. Lovecraft, Waite’s reputation has grown steadily among scholars of esotericism. His insistence on the distinction between occultism and mysticism, his rejection of sensationalism, and his quest for the “Secret Tradition” have left a lasting legacy. As Fort Newton remarked in 1916, Waite “warns us against the dark alleys that lead nowhere, and the false lights that lure to ruin.”

References

1. A.E. Waite. (n.d.). Retrieved from Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A._E._Waite 

2. Arthur Edward Waite. (n.d.). Retrieved from The Province of Greater London for the Societas Rosicruciana in Anglia: https://srialondon.org/arthur-edward-waite/ 

3. Arthur Edward Waite. (n.d.). Retrieved from Grand Lodge of British Columbia & Yukon: https://freemasonry.bcy.ca/biography/esoterica/waite_a/waite_a.html 

4. Arthur Edward Waite — The Man Behind the Modern Tarot. (n.d.). Retrieved from Mister Tarot: https://www.mistertarot.com/arthur-edward-waite%E2%80%94designer-of-the-modern-tarot/ 

5. Gilbert, R. A. (1986). The Masonic Career of A. E. Waite. Retrieved from Skirrit: https://skirret.com/papers/waite/masonic_career.html 

6. Higgins, S. (2013, December 11). A. E. Waite and the Occult. Retrieved from The Oddest Inkling: https://theoddestinkling.wordpress.com/2013/12/11/a-e-waite-and-the-occult/ 

7. Steele, E. C. (2015, October 2). Arthur Edward Waite is Born. Retrieved from MasonryToday: https://www.masonrytoday.com/index.php?new_month=10&new_day=2&new_year=2015

Annual December Meetings

After a busy week of work in Virginia, I made it back home yesterday so I could prepare for today's Masonic meetings. This morning started with Tri-Valley College No. 178 of the York Rite Sovereign College of North America. In the afternoon, Redemption Tabernacle No. XL of the Holy Royal Arch Knights Templar Priests met and I was elected Deputy Preceptor for the ensuing year. Congratulations to Bud on being elected and installed as Very Eminent Preceptor, who also serves as Grand High Priest of Idaho. The last group to meet was St. Michael Conclave of the Red Cross of Constantine, and I was elected Recorder [queue dramatic music]. After this meeting, we traveled to a local steakhouse for an excellent dinner. Now to get ready for work in the morning.

RIP Bruce Wethered

It is with a heavy heart that I announce the death of Sir Knight Bruce A. Wethered, the Junior Past Grand Commander of Idaho. Bruce was born on October 12, 1950, in Vancouver, Washington. He grew up in Washington but in 1965 his family moved to Nampa. As a teenager, he was involved with the Boy Scouts and DeMolay where he earned the Eagle Scout award and the Representative DeMolay award. Bruce graduated from Nampa High School in 1969, earned a BBA in Business from Boise State University in 1974, and an MBA from Pacific Lutheran University in 1984. Bruce worked for Physio-Control Corporation from 1981 to 1991 in planning, transportation, and logistics in Redmond, WA. He then moved back to Nampa where you worked for the MPC Corporation until 2006. 

Bruce was Initiated, Passed, and Raised in Ashlar Lodge No. 90 in Nampa, ID, in 1972. He served as Worshipful Master in 1978, 2003 and 2014, and is currently serving as Secretary. For the Grand Lodge AF&AM of Idaho, he served as a District Deputy Grand Master and Right Worshipful Grand Treasurer. He was very active in the York Rite where he was a Most Excellent Past Grand High Priest of Royal Arch Masons of Idaho (2016-2017), a Most Illustrious Past Grand Master of Cryptic Masons of Idaho (2021-2022), and a Right Eminent Past Grand Commander of Knights Templar of Idaho. He was a also a Past President of the Order Of High Priesthood in Idaho, Past Thrice Illustrious Master of the order of the Silver Trowel in Idaho, and a member of Idaho Chapter No. 13 of the Sovereign Order of Knights Preceptor, Past Sovereign and current Treasurer of St. Michaels Conclave of the Red Cross of Constantine, Junior Warden of Star Garnet No. 560 of the Allied Masonic Degrees, Deputy Preceptor of Redemption No. XL of the Holy Royal Arch Knights Templar Priests, Junior Knight of Knights of Tara No. 122 of the Order of Knight Masons, Past Prior of Idaho Priory No. 13 of the Knights of the York Cross of Honor, and Past Governor of Tri-Valley College No. 178 of the York Rite Sovereign College of North America.

In 2010, Bruce started taking dance lessons and competed in Waltz, Tango, Foxtrot, Cha Cha, Rumba and East Coast Swing. He even demonstrated some dances at a Grand York Rite banquet. Bruce was a good friend, Mason, and Templar. I followed him through the officer line of Idaho Commandery No. 1 and the Grand Commandery line. He was genuinely one of the nicest guys I had ever met and I will dearly miss him.

Thurman C. Pace

I'm saddened to learn of the death of Brother Thurman C. Pace, Jr. of New Jersey. He was 99 years old (next week he would have turned 100). While I had only met him a few times, I learned how dedicated he was to Freemasonry.

Thurman was a World War II Veteran who was present when the Dachau Death Camp was liberated. After the end of the war, he returned to the States and earned a Bachelors degree from Auburn University. He retired in 1987 as Financial Executive of the corporation and President of the United States Mutual Liability Insurance Company. In 1950 he married his wife Betty and they had three children: Donna, Arthur, and Susan. They were married for 74 years.

As another Mason said, "Sir Knight Thurman's Masonic record is an enviable one. He's presided over more than 30 Masonic organizations during his life. Again, space does not permit their listing. It would be far easier to list what Thurman hasn't done!"

Thurman was a 33° and former Deputy of New Jersey for the Ancient & Accepted Scottish Rite, Northern Masonic Jurisdiction of the USA; Past Commander of the Legion of Honor Preceptory for New Jersey DeMolay; a Most Illustrious Past Grand Chancellor and Knight Grand Cross in the Grand College of Rites; Past Grand Commander and Past Grand Recorder of the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of New Jersey, Past Department Commander of the Northeastern Department (1982-1985), recipient of the Knight Commander of the Temple, and an Honorary Most Eminent Past Grand Master of the Grand Encampment of Knights Templar USA; a Most Excellent Past Great Chief of the Grand Council of Knight Masons USA; an Honorary Most Venerable Past Sovereign Grand Master of the Grand Council of the Allied Masonic Degrees of the USA; a Most Illustrious Past Grand Sovereign of the United Grand Imperial Council of the Red Cross of Constantine; the founder and first Grand Preceptor of the Sovereign Order of Knights Preceptor (he served for over 25-years as Grand Preceptor); and a Most Worthy Past Supreme Magus and a Knight Grand Cross of the Societas Rosicruciana in Civitatibus Foederatis where, in 2002, he also chaired the proclamation ceremony for the formation of the Societas Rosicruciana in Lusitania (Portugal) and the investiture of the Supreme Magus for the newly formed High Council.

I'm sure I missed an accomplishment of this truly amazing Mason and his death will be felt around the world of Freemasonry. Requiesce in pace.

Farewell 2023

Another year has come and gone. 2022 had been a fantastic year and I was looking forward to what 2023 had to bring. The year started with work trips to Iowa and South Dakota (you know...the good times to visit the Midwest). In Iowa, I had a chance to visit with my Masonic Brothers.

February brought Masonic Week and it was a busy one. I received the rank of Past Grand Herald from the outgoing Grand Master. I was also elected as Commander-General of the Masonic Order of the Bath for the USA after we initiated 85 candidates into the order. I also received the Knight Commander of Zerubbabel in the Knight Masons.

In April, the annual sessions of the Grand York Rite of Idaho were held. I was elected and installed as Honorable Grand Commander of the Left Wing for Syringa Order No.121 of the Order of the Sword of Bunker Hill, the Master of Templars for Idaho Chapter of the Sovereign Order of Knights Preceptor, and the Very Eminent Deputy Grand Commander of the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of Idaho.

After attending the Grand York Rite of Montana at the beginning of June, I spent the rest of the month on the road for work. 

In July, I attended the Rocky Mountain SRICF Conference in Las Vegas. Fratres from Idaho, Utah, Colorado, Arizona, New Mexico, and New Jersey were present. We conferred the four Grades of the First Order to four candidates from Nevada. I then flew from there straight to another work trip.

I attended the 72nd Triennial Convocation of the General Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons International and the 48th Triennial Assembly of the General Grand Council of Cryptic Masons International in August. It was my final duty as a Deputy General Grand High Priest to attend and turn over my collar and apron to my successor.

At the beginning of September, I attended the 88th Annual Conclave of the Convent General of the Knights of the York Cross of Honor where I watched a good friend installed as the Deputy Grand Master-General. A few weeks later I attended the 156th Annual Communication of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of Idaho (first time since 2019). September was busy in general because I also attended two meetings for my Lodge, one meeting of my Commandery, and one meeting for the Masonic Order of Athelstan.

In October, I had more work trips, but then attended the first Joint Southwest-Northwest York Rite Conference in Salt Lake City which also included a meeting for the Northwest Province of the Commemorative Order of St. Thomas of Acon. October ended with me attending the conferral of the Knight Commander of the Court of Honor.

November was a busy month. I went to Massachusetts for work, but was also able to get in a lot of sightseeing. I then attended the annual meeting of the High Council of the SRICF. I spent Thanksgiving in Hawaii with several members of my family.

In December, I attended the meetings of Tri-Valley College of the York Rite Sovereign College, St. Michael Conclave of the Red Cross of Constantine, Redemption Tabernacle of the Holy Royal Arch Knight Templar Priests, and Salish Court of the Masonic Order of Athelstan. I spent Christmas with my family and I couldn't have asked for a better day. 

2024 is going to be a big year for me and I look forward to it all.

The College, the Tabernacle, and the Conclave

Well, this weekend was one for the books. Saturday morning, Tri-Valley College No.178 of the York Rite Sovereign College of North America met and we had the Most Eminently Distinguished Governor General in attendance. This is the first time our College has been graced by the Governor General of our order. We also had the Grand Governors of both Idaho and Washington as well as the General Grand Scribe of the General Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons International in attendance.

After lunch, Redemption Tabernacle No.XL of the Holy Royal Arch Knight Templar Priests held an Ingathering and initiated a new member. The Governor General also serves as the Most Eminent Grand Preceptor of the Grand College of America for the Holy Royal Arch Knight Templar Priests. We also held elections and I was appointed as the VI Pillar for the Tabernacle.

Following the Tabernacle, St. Michael Conclave of the Red Cross of Constantine met where I presided. We had Knights Companion from three other Conclaves in attendance to include the Most Worshipful Grand Master of Masons in Idaho. My successor was elected and installed by the Intendant General of the Division of Idaho. Afterward, we adjourned to a restaurant where great food and fellowship was had by all. I thank to the Knights Companion for electing me and I wish my successor all of the best in his tenure.

William Wynn Westcott

Born on December 17, 1848, in Leamington, Warwickshire, England, William Wynn Westcott was the only child of Dr. Peter Westcott, but would be raised by his half-uncle (who was also a doctor) after his parents died before William was 10 years old. William was educated and attended University College in London where he earned a Bachelor of Medicine. After his education left London and worked with his half-uncle at his medical practice.

William was involved with his community and served in many capacities and appointments such as Factory Surgeon, Public Vaccinator, Medical Officer of Health, and Quartermaster to a Battalion of Volunteers.

On February 18, 1873, he was married to Elizabeth Burnett. Together they had four children and moved back to London in 1879. From 1879 to 1881, he seemed to have taken a sabbatical where he studied Kabalistic, Hermetic, Alchemical, and Rosicrucian philosophy and teachings.

In 1881, he was appointed Deputy Coroner for Central Middlesex and Central London. In 1894, he was appointed Coroner for Northeast London; he served in this position until 1918. In 1918, he moved to South Africa.

William Wynn Westcott was initiated into Parret and Axe Lodge No. 814 in Crewkerne (England) on October 24, 1871. Little is known about his advancement, but he served as the Lodge's Master in 1877. He was also a member of Quatuor Coronati Lodge No. 2076, the premier Lodge of Research in the world, and served as its Worshipful Master in 1893. He would also serve as Provincial Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies in Somerset and be awarded the rank of Past Junior Grand Deacon by the United Grand Lodge of England. 

In Capitular Masonry, he was exalted into the Chapter of Brotherly Love No. 329 on April 30, 1873, and served as the First Principal (equivalent to Excellent High Priest in the United States) in 1889. He would go on to be a Past Grand Standard Bearer of the Supreme Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of England.

Unlike the US, Mark Masonry is a separate body in England. Westcott was advanced to Mark Masonry in William de Irwin Lodge No. 162 and served as its Master in 1887. He would serve as the Provincial Grand Senior Warden of the Mark Province of Somerset.

He is said to have joined the Order of the Temple or Knights Templar, but the dates are not known nor what offices he held, if any. This claim is disputed.

He joined the Ancient & Accepted Rite in 1875 and was promoted to the 30° in 1878.

He was a member of Rose and Lily Conclave No. 10 of the Red Cross of Constantine.

He was a member of the Royal Order of the Red Branch of Eri where he was instrumental in reviving and reorganizing the order, and served as its Grand Master and its senior Knight Grand Cross.

He was admitted to the Swedenborg Rite in 1876 where he served as Worshipful Master of Emanuel Lodge No. 1 and Junior Warden of Hermes Lodge No. 8 in 1886, District Senior Grand Warden and Supreme Grand Senior Deacon in 1877, Worshipful Master of Pythagorean Lodge of Instruction in 1887, and Supreme Grand Junior Warden and Supreme Grand Secretary in 1891.

Westcott joined the Societas Rosicruciana in Anglia (SRIA) on April 15, 1880, at Metropolitan College. He was admitted to the Grades of the Second Order on December 12, 1881. In 1883 he served as Secretary General of the Society. In 1889, he served as Celebrant of Metropolitan College, and in 1891 he was enthroned as Most Worthy Supreme Magus of the SRIA.

Westcott was targeted by anti-Masons of the age. In 1896, he was listed as the “Chief of English Luciferians” in a French anti-Mason publication called “Mémoires d'une Ex-Palladiste”. This was supposedly written by Ms. Diana Vaughan which of course was a pseudonym used by the hoaxer Leo Taxil.

Westcott was also a member of several non-Masonic esoteric societies like the Hermetic Society and Theosophical Society. The latter organization he advanced to the “inner circle.” But it was with another group that Westcott is highly remembered, the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn.

In 1887 Westcott acquired a ciphered manuscript that proved to be a series of initiatory rituals. In working with his fellow Rosicrucian Frater, Samuel Liddell MacGregor Mathers worked the rituals into a workable form. He, Mathers, and Dr. William Robert Woodman (the then Supreme Magus of the SRIA) established the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn in February 1888.

Being a public official (the Coroner), he was pressured into retiring from his public life as a member of the Golden Dawn and stepped down from his officer roles. There also seems to have been an internal dispute between him and Mathers who accused Westcott of being a forger and liar. Some speculate that it was Mathers who had informed Westcott's superiors of his involvement in the Golden Dawn to force him out of power. Mathers accuses Westcott of fabricating the documents authenticating the origins of the Golden Dawn. 

William Westcott died of Brights Disease (a kidney disease) on July 30, 1925, in Durban, South Africa. He was predeceased by his wife in 1921, both of his sons (1906 and 1907), and both of his daughters (1918 and 1924). While some of his life may be left in controversy, he was clearly a revered and respected Mason in his time and left a legacy with the Golden Dawn as well. While unknown to most Masons in the US, he was a contemporary of men like AE Waite, John Yarker, Theodore Reuss, and Albert Pike.

References

1. Dr. William Wynn Westcott. (n.d.). Retrieved from The Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn: https://hermeticgoldendawn.org/biography-dr-william-wynn-westcott/ 

2. Gilbert, R. A. (1987, February 19). William Wynn Westcott and the Esoteric School of Masonic Research. Retrieved from ARS QUATUOR CORONATORUM: https://freemasonry.bcy.ca/aqc/westcott/westcott.html 

3. Parsell, H. V. (n.d.). Dr. William Wynn Westcott: An Appreciation. Retrieved from Societas Rosicruciana in America: https://sria.org/dr-william-wynn-westcott-an-appreciation/ 

4. Westcott, William Wynn. (n.d.). Retrieved from Occult World: https://occult-world.com/westcott-william-wynn/ 

5. William Wynn Westcott. (2016, August 14). Retrieved from Geni: https://www.geni.com/people/William-Westcott/6000000009428109687 

6. William Wynn Westcott and the Esoteric School of Masonic Research: Appendix A. (n.d.). Retrieved from MasterMason: http://www.mastermason.com/luxocculta/appendix4.htm

Presiding Over the Red Cross

Today was a great day in Masonry. We held a meeting of Idaho College of the Societas Rosicruciana in Civitatibus Foederatis, Star Garnet Council No. 560 of the Allied Masonic Degrees, Idaho Priory No. 13 of the Knights of the York Cross of Honor, and St. Michael Conclave of the Red Cross of Constantine.

We initiated one Zelator (I°) and two Theorici (II°) at Idaho College. I am so thankful for the officers that I serve with.

We initiated two new members in Star Garnet Council and exemplified the Master of Tyre degree. Our Sovereign Master was also elected to receive the Knight Commander of the Royal Order of the Red Branch of Eri.

We had a quick business meeting for Idaho Priory and made some nominations that will be initiated at our annual meeting.

I had the pleasure of presiding over a joint meeting of St. Michael Conclave and St. Charles Conclave along with their Puissant Sovereign. We also had the Intendant General of Idaho and a Past Grand Sovereign in attendance. After the meeting, we had an excellent dinner overlooking the Snake River. Now, it’s time for bed before the long drive home in the morning.

What a Year!

While I've seen a few memes saying that 2022 sucked, this year was great for me. I did start it off still recovering from a partially torn ligament, but I was on the mend and the year kicked off with work trips to Wyoming, Alaska, and Oregon. During the Wyoming trip, this site crashed and it took weeks to get it back up. I came really close to shutting it all down for good.

With February came Masonic Week where, among other meetings, I received the Fourth Grade (Councillor) of the Royal Order of the Masonic Knights of the Scarlet Cord. The rest of the month I spent in California for work.

I attended the Grand York Rite of Alaska during the first weekend of March. The next weekend was the Special Conclave for the Grand Encampment of Knights Templar in Indiana where Sir Knight Michael Johnson was removed as Grand Master. While what was done was necessary, I still consider this one of the lowest points of my Masonic career.

April, May, and June were filled with work trips as well as attending the Grand York Rite of Oregon, Grand York Rite of Idaho, Grand York Rite of Washington, Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of Saskatchewan, Grand York Rite of Montana, and the College of Montana, SRICF.

After working most of the month of July in Louisiana and California, I took the last weekend off and attended the SE SRICF Regional Conference in Birmingham, AL.

The last two weekends of August were filled with York Rite appendant bodies in Idaho and the Convent General of the Knights of the York Cross of Honor in Salt Lake City.

I attended the Grand York Rite of Colorado and the Grand York Rite of Wyoming in the first half of September. Wyoming was a bit tense as the Grand Master that was removed back in March is from Wyoming and was present at the Grand Commandery of Wyoming, as was his right.

With October came the annual Northwest York Rite Conference in Boise where I presided over the Chapter portion. I'd like to thank Chad Burks, General Grand Scribe for his assistance and educational presentation.

I along with three other Fratres flew out to Kentucky to attend the annual meeting of the High Council of the Societas Rosicruciana in Civitatibus Foederatis where I presided over the conferral of the VIII° (or Magister) on several worthy candidates on Friday, presented a paper on the Mithraic Mysteries on Saturday, and was appointed Guardian of the Caverns for the 2022-2025 Triennium. Following this meeting, I spent the night in Manhattan before flying out to Israel where I spent 9-days touring the Holy Land.

On the first Friday in December, I was asked to give the Staircase Lecture in the Fellow Craft degree. I did pretty well considering that I had not given it in 14 years. The next day was the first weekend in December which brought the meetings of Tri-Valley College No.178 of the York Rite Sovereign College of North America, Redemption Tabernacle No.XL of the Holy Royal Arch Knights Templar Priest where I was appointed V Pillar, and St. Michael Conclave of the Red Cross of Constantine where I was elected Puissant Sovereign.

I spent 211 days on the road, 5,694 miles driven (not counting drives into work or around town), and 78,426 SkyMiles flown.

I hope you all have a wonderful New Years' Eve and New Years' Day! I'll be spending the evening with some old Army buddies who always throw a New Years' Eve Party.

My Top Posts from 2022

The Rite of Baldwyn: https://www.travelingtemplar.com/2022/06/the-rite-of-baldwyn.html

Templar Titles and Terms: https://www.travelingtemplar.com/2022/05/templar-titles-and-terms.html

Temple Church: https://www.travelingtemplar.com/2022/07/temple-church.html

What is Monasticism? https://www.travelingtemplar.com/2022/02/what-is-monasticism.html

RIP Rex Hutchens

Tonight I was informed that Bro. Rex Hutchens has passed away. Many know him as a 33° Grand Cross, the author of "A Bridge to Light," and the quintessential Masonic scholar. The first time I met Rex was in 2007 and I had no idea who he was. I was in Arizona for training at Fort Huachuca when I found out that the Grand Lodge was going to do a cornerstone dedication in Rio Rico. The dedication was well attended even though it was over 100°F. As an out-of-state visitor, I was introduced to Rex, the Most Worshipful Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Arizona. We chatted a bit and even played a bit of chess to which he beat me pretty spectacularly. It was after I got back to Idaho that I discovered who he was.

Rex was a very active Mason, to say the least. He was a Past Grand Master of Masons of Arizona (2006-2007), Deputy for Arizona of the Supreme Council of the Ancient & Accepted Scottish Rite, Southern Jurisdiction, USA, Past Grand High Priest of Royal Arch Masons of Arizona (1997), Past Grand Master of Royal & Select Masters of Arizona (2004), and Past Grand Commander of Knights Templar of Arizona (2007). He was in the Knights of the York Cross of Honor and recipient of the Knight of the York Grand Cross of Honor (Four Quadrants), a Knight Companion of the Red Cross of Constantine, a Board Member for the Scottish Rite Research Society, a Fellow of the Philalethes Society, a Founding Fellow of the Masonic Society, a Friar of the Society of Blue Friars, and recipient of the Knight Grand Cross in the Grand College of Rites.

I'm sure he was a member of more groups, but I couldn't find anything more. I did find, however, that there is a Lodge named after him, the Rex R Hutchens Research Lodge No.5 in Arizona.

Rest in Peace Brother

Puissant Sovereign

Tonight I was elected and installed as Puissant Sovereign of St. Michael's Conclave of the Red Cross of Constantine. I'd like to thank my Knights Companion for the faith they have placed in me to preside over this august body and I have some big shoes to fill. I'd also like to thank G. Arthur Shoemaker, Intendent General of Idaho, for installing me and my officers. Art has played a major part in my Masonic career: I served as Senior Warden while he was Worshipful Master, he knighted me into the Knights Templar, I served as his Grand Orator when he was Most Worshipful Grand Master of Idaho, I helped install him as Most Excellent Grand High Priest of Idaho, and his wife is a second mother to me.

For those who are not members of the Red Cross of Constantine, the Puissant Sovereign is the presiding officer of a Conclave and corresponds to the Worshipful Master of a Blue Lodge. As the Worshipful Master represents King Solomon, the Puissant Sovereign represents the Roman Emperor Constantine.

Quite the Day

Today was an extremely busy day for me as my AMD Council, Knight Mason's Council, and Red Cross of Constantine Conclave met. Luckily for me, it met only 40-minutes away so the drive wasn't too bad compared to some others. Star Garnet Council No.560 of the Allied Masonic Degrees met and it was the first time I sat in Council as a Past Master and a happy sideliner. I had the pleasure to assist in investing the then-sitting Sovereign Master with the Knight Commander of the Royal Order of the Red Branch of Eri. After the elections and the closing of the business meeting, I assisted in the conferral of the Installed Sovereign Master degree and then served as Marshall for the installation of officers for the ensuing year.

Next, the Knights of Tara Council No.122, Order of Knights Masons, met. Aside from the usual business, I was elected and installed as Excellent Chief which is the presiding officer of the Council. I'm the fourth Excellent Chief of this Council and I hope I can fill the shoes of my predecessor.

In the afternoon, St. Michael Conclave of the Red Cross of Constantine met. Many of our members had never received the Order of the Holy Sepulchre or the Order of St. John the Evangelist so the Puissant Sovereign along with the Intendant General planned and put on these two appendant orders as well as the College of Viceroys and Senate of Sovereigns degrees, the latter I needed to receive before I serve as Sovereign next year...if elected.

As we had met in a rural Lodge and due to the extreme heat, we did not wear our traditional tuxedos, but instead wore pants with Hawaiian shirts. After the meetings were completed, we retired to a nearby park where we had a BBQ dinner.

Now I have to get ready as I am going on a work trip next week, attending the Convent General of the Knights of the York Cross of Honor next weekend, going on another work trip the week after that, and then attending the session of the Grand York Rites of Colorado and Wyoming after that (essentially I'm going to be traveling from now until midway through next month).

Grand York Rite of Montana and SRICF

This past Wednesday the wife of the Northwest Department Commander picked me up and took me to their house so I could leave my car back home. Thursday, the three of us drove all day to Montana. We had to take a detour to Missoula to pick up the Right Eminent Grand Generalissimo of the Grand Encampment and then it was onto Great Falls, MT.

Friday morning started with the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of Montana where I represented the Most Excellent General Grand High Priest of the General Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons International. In the afternoon, the Grand Council of Cryptic Masons of Montana met. Friday night was the Grand York Rite Banquet where I had the pleasure of presenting several awards along with my predecessor Deputy General Grand High Priest. After the dinner, the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of Montana held a special ceremony for all Sir Knights present, called the "Passing the Cup" which was a ceremony that was about renewing the Vows of Knighthood.

Saturday morning brought the annual Conclave of the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of Montana. In the afternoon, the Montana College, SRICF, conferred the Grades of the Second Order (V° - VII°) on some of the Montana officers followed by the II° (Theoricus). The Chief Adept of Montana allowed me to confer the V° (Adeptus Minor) and VI° (Adeptus Major) while I assisted with the VII° (Adeptus Exemptus). After conferring Adeptship, we opened the College on the II° (Theoricus) and conferred that grade. Saturday night, Montana College held a dinner for members and candidates that would receive the Grade of Zelator (I°) on Sunday morning. The College did a great job conferring the Grades and I thank them for their hospitality.

Now, I'm at the Great Falls airport picking up a rental car, and I will be on my way to two back-to-back work trips in two different states.

Grand Chapter of Saskatchewan

Au revoir to my Canadian Companions who have hosted me for the last 2-days. Thursday afternoon I flew as far as Calgary and then on Friday made it to Saskatoon to attend the Annual Convocation of the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of Saskatchewan. This jurisdiction falls under the North Central Region, but that Deputy couldn't make it so I was asked to attend.

Friday afternoon kicked off with the Order of High Priesthood conferral, followed by the Ceremonial Opening and Memorial Service of the Grand Chapter. I was honored with introductions along with so many other distinguished guests and for being allowed to take part in the Memorial Service. Friday night was the Grand Banquet where I sat at the head table with the Grand Z (Grand First Principal), Grand H (Grand Second Principal) and his wife, Grand J (Grand 3rd Principal who will be Grand Z during their Centennial), and the Most Worshipful Grand Master of Saskatchewan and his wife. After a delicious meal, I was asked to present the Bronze Medal.

Saturday morning I attended a Red Cross of Constantine Breakfast before the Grand Chapter reopened at 9am and received distinguished guests from sister jurisdictions and concordant bodies. I was honored to represent the General Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons International and I gave some comments that were well received. After lunch, the newly elected officers were installed.

The rest of the day I explored Saskatoon, or rather the Paris of the Prairie. It's a nice town and was beautiful to see in late Springtime. Now I'm getting to bed for an early flight home.