69th General Assembly

This past weekend, I had the pleasure of traveling to Des Moines, Iowa, for the 69th General Assembly of the York Rite Sovereign College of North America. As with so many gatherings in Masonry, the weekend was about much more than meetings and honors. It was an opportunity to see old friends, make new ones, and enjoy the fellowship that binds our fraternity together.

Des Moines is certainly not unfamiliar territory for me. I have visited the city a number of times over the years for work, so after arriving, I had the opportunity to take some friends out to the Iowa Taproom (if you like beer, I highly recommend it). Good food, good beer, and, most importantly, good company made for an excellent beginning to the weekend. Some of the best moments at any Masonic gathering happen away from the formal meetings, when Brothers and Companions have the opportunity to sit together, share stories, laugh, and enjoy each other’s company.

The following day was largely spent roaming around the hotel as Companion Knights arrived and registered for the General Assembly. It gave me plenty of opportunities to stop, talk, shake hands, and catch up with friends. That evening, a few of us ventured out again, this time to a local martini bar and restaurant, where the fellowship continued over dinner and drinks.

Saturday brought the more formal events of the General Assembly. I had the particular pleasure of attending the outgoing meeting of Most Preeminently Distinguished Brother Bryce Hildreth. I have known Bryce for 13 years, which made being present for the conclusion of his term especially meaningful. One of the privileges of remaining active in Masonry over many years is watching friends and Brothers progress through leadership, serve the Craft and its various bodies, and eventually complete important chapters in their own Masonic journeys.

I also had the opportunity to witness a new class receive the Order of the Purple Cross and become Associate Regents. The Purple Cross is among the highest honors conferred by the York Rite Sovereign College, recognizing distinguished service to York Rite Masonry. Watching another class receive that distinction was an impressive reminder of the dedication that so many Companion Knights have given to the fraternity.

The weekend also marked the beginning of a new chapter for another friend, Stan Brown, as I had the pleasure of watching him be installed as Governor General of the York Rite Sovereign College of North America. Seeing a friend assume such an important responsibility is always a special occasion.

The General Assembly also brought an unexpected personal honor. I was installed as a Grand Herald of the York Rite Sovereign College of North America, an office I will have the privilege of holding for the next two years. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve the Sovereign College and look forward to doing my part during the coming biennium.

I even had an opportunity for another reunion over the weekend. I briefly spoke with the Grand Master of Masons in Iowa, with whom I traveled to Israel in 2022. It had been some time since we had seen one another, and although our conversation was brief, it was good to reconnect and remember another journey shared through the bonds of the fraternity.

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.

Grand York Rite of Idaho 2026

Over the past few days, I had the privilege of attending the 2026 Sessions of the Grand York Rite of Idaho. 

On Thursday, I attended the annual meeting of Syringa Order No. 121 of the Order of the Sword of Bunker Hill, where we initiated the Most Worshipful Grand Master of Idaho. I was also elected as the Honorable Grand Commander-in-Chief for the ensuing year. I then presided over the Idaho Chapter of the Sovereign Order of Knights Preceptor as Eminent Preceptor, initiating two candidates into that Order. 

I later attended Tri-Valley College No. 178 of the York Rite Sovereign College of North America, where we elected and installed a new corps of officers. From there, I attended the annual stated meeting of Idaho Priory No. 13 of the Knights of the York Cross of Honor, where we initiated a new member, and I had the honor of delivering the Chapter Lecture. The day concluded with the Templar Honors Dinner, where two Sir Knights were created Knight Commanders of the Temple. 

Friday morning opened with the Public Opening, where I served as Distinguished Guest Chairman and introduced the dignitaries. I then took my place as Grand Secretary for the 22nd Joint Business Session of the Grand York Rite Bodies of Idaho. Following the Joint Session, we exemplified the Order of the High Priesthood. 

After lunch, I served as Right Excellent Grand Secretary for the 118th Annual Convocation of the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of Idaho, where I was re-elected to that position. After the Memorial Service that evening, I called it an early night and went to bed. Concluding my first year as Grand Secretary/Recorder has been both rewarding and instructive, and I have learned a great deal. I want to sincerely thank everyone who supported and assisted me throughout the year. 

This morning, I attended a short (but hopefully productive) meeting of Intermountain Chapel No. 27 of the Commemorative Order of St. Thomas of Acon. I have since returned home and am preparing for my next adventure.

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.

Order of the Purple Cross

This weekend marked a milestone in my Masonic career as I attended the 68th General Assembly of the York Rite Sovereign College of North America in Raleigh, NC.

On Thursday, I toured the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences in downtown Raleigh. The museum spans two buildings, with exhibits covering coastal ecosystems, prehistoric life, and statewide natural habitats. It combines immersive natural history displays, live animal encounters, hands-on learning, and cutting-edge scientific research. The rest of the day was spent catching up with old friends and making new ones.

Friday morning, I visited the Duke University Chapel, known for its soaring tower, Gothic interior, and exquisite stained-glass windows. Located on the highest ridge of Duke’s West Campus, it was the university’s first planned and last constructed major building, intended by benefactor James B. Duke to “dominate all of the surrounding buildings” and deeply influence the spiritual life of the campus community. The chapel stands as one of the final great collegiate Gothic projects in the United States and was built using locally sourced stone from a quarry near Hillsborough.

The chapel tower rises 210 feet, making it one of Durham's tallest structures. Inside, the sanctuary spans approximately 291 by 63 feet and seats around 1,500 visitors. Its 77 stained-glass windows depict biblical scenes from both the Old and New Testaments.

Between the chancel and the south transept lies the Memorial Chapel, which houses the Carrara marble sarcophagi of the university’s namesakes—Washington Duke, James B. Duke, and Benjamin N. Duke.

From there, it was a short bus ride to the Sarah P. Duke Gardens. Established in the early 1930s, the gardens began as a memorial inspired by the generosity of Sarah P. Duke. The 55-acre site features four distinct areas: the Historic Terraces (including the Mary Duke Biddle Rose Garden and Roney Fountain), the H.L. Blomquist Garden of Native Plants, the W.L. Culberson Asiatic Arboretum, and the Doris Duke Center Gardens. These areas are connected by roughly five miles of winding pathways.

After returning to the hotel, I attended candidate orientation. Later that evening, I joined my Grand Governor and his wife at the Associate Regents Dinner, where a friend presided over the Council of Associate Regents.

Saturday morning began with the opening of the General Assembly and the introduction of distinguished guests. I then moved to another room for preparations to receive the Order of the Purple Cross. This is not an actual degree within the traditional York Rite system, but rather a prestigious honorary distinction conferred within the York Rite College of North America, an appendant body of the York Rite.

The Order of the Purple Cross is awarded to Companion Knights of a local York Rite College who have rendered outstanding service to York Rite Masonry and the York Rite College. It is considered one of the highest honors a York Rite Mason can receive in North America (often compared to the 33° in the Scottish Rite).

The ceremony was conducted with great dignity and solemnity by a skilled team of ritualists. I was deeply honored to be invested with my ring by my Grand Governor and to receive my patent of membership in this order. With this honor, I now hold the title of Associate Regent of the York Rite Sovereign College of North America.

My class included approximately 115 candidates and was dedicated to W. Berry Rigdon, a living legend in the York Rite, particularly in North Carolina. In attendance were several sitting Most Excellent Grand High Priests, Most Illustrious Grand Masters, and Right Eminent Grand Commanders, as well as both Sovereign Grand Commanders of the Supreme Councils of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite, Southern Jurisdiction and Northern Masonic Jurisdiction.

2025 Grand York Rite of Idaho

I participated this past week in the Annual Sessions of the Grand York Rite Bodies of Idaho, a capstone event marking both the culmination of my journey through the Grand York Rite leadership and a new chapter of service. We began Thursday with the annual meeting of the Syringa Order of the Sword of Bunker Hill, where I was elected and installed as the Honorable Grand Commander of the Right Wing. Later that morning, I performed my usual part in the Order of the Silver Trowel, continuing a cherished tradition. The afternoon was filled with fellowship and ritual as Tri-Valley College No. 178 of the York Rite Sovereign College of North America held its annual meeting, during which I portrayed King Athelstan and delivered the Rose Lecture for three new Companion Knights. Our busy day concluded with a brief business meeting of the Idaho Priory of the Knights of the York Cross of Honor, where we were privileged to have two Personal Representatives and distinguished officers from the Convent General in attendance. The evening closed with the Honors Dinner, recognizing the accomplishments of those awarded the Knight Templar Cross of Honor, Knight Commander of the Temple, and Companion of the Temple.

Friday opened with a Public Session where we welcomed and introduced the leaders of Idaho's concordant bodies and youth groups, as well as visiting dignitaries from the General Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons International, the General Grand Council of Cryptic Masons International, the Grand Encampment of Knights Templar USA, and the Most Worshipful Grand Master of Masons in Idaho. Following the introductions, we held a quick Joint Session, which I had the privilege of presiding over. Later in the morning, the Idaho Chapter of Knights Preceptor held its annual meeting, where we initiated new members, and I was elected Eminent Preceptor. That afternoon, I presided over the 122nd Annual Conclave of the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of Idaho, an especially meaningful moment, as it represented the culmination of my servant-leadership within the Idaho York Rite, having already served previously as Most Excellent Grand High Priest and Most Illustrious Grand Master. It has been a year marked by both joy and sorrow, filled with moments of triumph and difficult decisions. I am deeply grateful to everyone who supported me throughout these years, and wish my successor every success in his upcoming term. In their "infinite wisdom," the Sir Knights decided they were not done with me yet, electing and installing me as the Eminent Grand Recorder for the ensuing year.

Friday evening was a time of reflection and fraternity, beginning with the Memorial Service honoring our departed Companions and Sir Knights, followed by the Knights Templar Holy Land Pilgrimage Benefit Dinner. Afterward, I spent time at the Hospitality Suite enjoying wonderful conversations with dear friends and fellow York Rite Masons. 

Saturday morning began with the 92nd Annual Assembly of the Grand Council of Cryptic Masons of Idaho, where I performed my regular duties as Distinguished Guests Chairman and was honored to be elected and installed as Right Illustrious Grand Recorder for the coming year. In the afternoon, we gathered for the 117th Annual Convocation of the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of Idaho. There, I once again served as Distinguished Guests Chairman and was subsequently elected and installed as Right Excellent Grand Secretary. Our Annual Sessions concluded with the Grand Banquet on Saturday night, where I had the pleasure of serving as Master of Ceremonies and assisting with the awards ceremony. 

It was a truly remarkable week, a fitting close to one chapter of leadership and the beginning of new opportunities to continue serving the York Rite of Idaho.

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.

2025 Masonic Week Schedule

The preliminary schedule of the 2025 Masonic Week has been released. It will be held from February 6-9, 2025, at the Hyatt Regency Crystal City near the Reagan National Airport. You can find the registration here.

  

  

Thursday, February 6, 2025

8:00 AM - Trinity Chapel No.2, Ye Commemorative Order of St. Thomas of Acon

10:00 AM - Grand Master's Council, Ye Commemorative Order of St. Thomas of Acon

Terry Plemons - Grand Master

Stanton Brown - Grand Prior

Jeremy Vaughn - Grand Secretary

12:00 PM - St. Thomas of Acon Festive Board

1:15 PM - Sovereign Order of Knights Preceptor 

Aaron White - Grand Preceptor

Larry Tucker - Grand Recorder

1:15 PM - Order of Holy Wisdom, Holy Royal Arch Knight Templar Priests

3:00 PM - Potomac Court No.107, Masonic Order of Athelstan

4:30 PM - Provincial Grand Court, Masonic Order of Athelstan

Bryce Hildreth - Provincial Grand Master

David Cashion - Provincial Grand Secretary

7:00 PM - Athelstan Banquet

9:00 PM Masonic Order of the Bath

Charles Schubert - Commander-General

Bill Snyder - Keeper of the Bath Records

9:00 PM - Masonic Order of Pilgrim Preceptors

Jonathan Roberts - Grand Master

George Haynes - Regional Governor 

Alan Beidel - Regional Secretary 

   

    

Friday, February 7, 2025

7:00 AM - York Rite Sovereign College Breakfast

8:00 AM - Installed Sovereign Master, Allied Masonic Degrees

8:45 AM - Knight Commander, Royal Order of the Red Branch of Eri

9:00 AM - Ladies Breakfast 

9:00 AM - Grand Council of Knights Masons of the United States of America

Robert Officer - Great Chief

David Cashion - Grand Scribe

12:00 PM - Knights Masons Luncheon

1:00 PM - Grand College of America, Holy Royal Arch Knight Templar Priests

Duane Vaught - Grand Preceptor

Larry Tucker - Grand Registrar

3:00 PM - Grand College of Rites

Travis Normand - Grand Chancellor

Rick Patton - Grand Registrar

4:30 PM Society of Blue Friars

Arturo de Hoyos - Grand Abbot

Mark Tabbert - Deputy Grand Abbot

Richard Fletcher - Secretary-General

5:30 PM - Worshipful Commander Noah, Allied Masonic Degrees

6:00 PM - Installed Supreme Ruler, Allied Masonic Degrees

6:00 PM - Ark & Dove, Allied Masonic Degrees

7:00 PM - The Philalethes Banquet

Guest Speaker: Billy Hamilton, Jr.

7:00 PM - Great Priory of America, CBCS, Dinner

9:00 PM - Ye Antiente Order of Corks

Marion Humphreys - Grand Bung of the Americas

 

   

Saturday, February 8, 2025

7:00 AM - All Masonic Breakfast

8:00 AM - 1° - 3°, Royal Order of the Masonic Knights of the Scarlet Cord

9:45 AM - 4°, Royal Order of the Masonic Knights of the Scarlet Cord

10:30 AM - Philalethes Society

12:00 PM - All Masonic Luncheon

1:15 PM - Council of the Nine Muses No. 13, AMD

2:00 PM - Ladies Tea 

2:30 PM - Grand Council of the Allied Masonic Degrees

John Elkinton - Sovereign Grand Master

Seth Anthony - Grand Secretary

6:00 PM - All Masonic Social Hour 

7:00 PM - All Masonic Banquet

Guest Speaker: Chris Ruli

9:00 PM - Grand Architect, Allied Masonic Degrees

9:45 PM - Royal Ark Mariner, Allied Masonic Degrees

Sunday, February 9, 2025

8:30 AM - Washington Monument Assemblage

Deputy Master Mason - Wayne Faupel VI°

Clerk - Alan Beidel VIº

9:00 AM - Lodge of Menatzchim, V°

10:30 AM - Lodge of Harodim, VI°

12:30 PM - The Operatives Brunch

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.

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.

Masonic Week 2024

The preliminary schedule of the 2024 Masonic Week has been released. It will be held from February 8-11, 2024, at the Hyatt Regency Crystal City near the Reagan National Airport.

     

Thursday, February 8, 2024

8:00 AM - Trinity Chapel No.2, Ye Commemorative Order of St. Thomas of Acon

10:00 AM - Grand Master's Council, Ye Commemorative Order of St. Thomas of Acon

Terry Plemons - Grand Master

John Elkinton - Grand Prior

Jeremy Vaughn - Grand Secretary

12:00 PM - St. Thomas of Acon Festive Board

1:15 PM - Sovereign Order of Knights Preceptor 

D. Allen Surratt - Grand Preceptor

Larry Tucker - Grand Recorder

1:30 PM - Order of Holy Wisdom, Holy Royal Arch Knight Templar Priests

3:00 PM - Potomac Court No.107, Masonic Order of Athelstan

4:30 PM - Provincial Grand Court, Masonic Order of Athelstan

Bryce Hildreth - Provincial Grand Master

David Cashion - Provincial Grand Secretary

7:00 PM - Athelstan Banquet

9:00 PM Masonic Order of the Bath

Barry Newell - Commander-General

Bill Snyder - Keeper of the Bath Records

9:00 PM - Masonic Order of Pilgrim Preceptors

Jonathan Roberts - Grand Master

George Haynes - Regional Governor 

Alan Beidel - Regional Secretary 

   

  

Friday, February 9, 2024

7:00 AM - York Rite Sovereign College Breakfast

8:00 AM - Allied Masonic Degrees: Installed Sovereign Master

8:45 AM - Royal Order of the Red Branch of Eri: Knight Commander

9:00 AM - Ladies Breakfast 

9:00 AM - Grand Council of Knights Masons of the United States of America

James Winzenreid - Great Chief

David Cashion - Grand Scribe

12:00 PM - Knights Masons Luncheon

1:00 PM - Grand College of America, Holy Royal Arch Knight Templar Priests

Bill Riggs - Grand Preceptor

Larry Tucker - Grand Registrar

3:00 PM - Grand College of Rites

Russell Bridges - Grand Chancellor

Chris Gamblin - Grand Registrar

4:30 PM Society of Blue Friars

Arturo de Hoyos - Grand Abbot

Mark Tabbert - Deputy Grand Abbot

Richard Fletcher - Secretary-General

5:30 PM - Allied Masonic Degrees: Worshipful Commander Noah 

6:00 PM - Allied Masonic Degrees: Installed Supreme Ruler 

7:00 PM - The Masonic Society Dinner

7:00 PM - CBCS Dinner

9:00 PM - Ye Antiente Order of Corks

Marion Humphreys - Grand Bung of the Americas

  

Saturday, February 10, 2024

7:00 AM - All Masonic Breakfast

8:00 AM - Royal Order of the Masonic Knights of the Scarlet Cord: First, Second, and Third Grades

9:45 AM - Royal Order of the Masonic Knights of the Scarlet Cord: Fourth Grade

10:30 AM - Philalethes Society

12:00 PM - Philalethes Society Luncheon

1:15 PM - Council of the Nine Muses No. 13, AMD

2:30 PM - Grand Council of the Allied Masonic Degrees

W. Berry Rigdon - Sovereign Grand Master

Seth Anthony - Grand Secretary

2:00 PM - Ladies Tea 

6:00 PM - All Masonic Social Hour 

7:00 PM - All Masonic Banquet 

Sunday, February 11

8:30 AM - Washington Monument Assemblage

9:00 AM - Lodge of Menatzchim, V 

10:30 AM - Lodge of Harodim, VI 

12:30 PM - The Operatives Brunch