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.

Among the Mithraea

A few weeks ago, I embarked on a journey that I had wanted to make for some time: a pilgrimage across the ancient Roman world in search of the remnants of the Mysteries of Mithras. Over the course of nearly two weeks, I traveled from Rome to northern Italy, into Slovenia, and across Austria into Switzerland, tracing the paths once walked by Roman soldiers, merchants, initiates, and priests of one of antiquity’s most fascinating mystery religions.

The journey reminded me that the Cult of Mithras was an international mystery school. It spread wherever Rome spread. From military frontiers to bustling ports, from underground shrines hidden beneath modern churches to isolated sanctuaries preserved in alpine valleys, Mithraism left its imprint across the empire.

Entering the Underworld

On May 4, I landed in Rome and spent the day simply walking the city and absorbing its atmosphere. Rome is overwhelming in the best possible way. Ancient ruins stand beside Renaissance churches, medieval alleys open into imperial forums, and every stone seems layered with history. Before diving into my research, I wanted time to simply orient myself and reconnect with the Eternal City.

The following day, I descended beneath the Basilica of San Clemente to visit one of the most famous Mithraea in the world. Standing underground beneath a medieval basilica, which itself was built atop earlier Roman structures, one experiences the literal layers of Roman history. The Mithraeum of San Clemente is one of the clearest surviving examples of how the cult operated within the hidden spaces of the Roman world.

The sanctuary itself preserves the familiar imagery associated with Mithras: the tauroctony, or bull-slaying scene, benches lining the ritual chamber, and the intimate cave-like setting symbolic of the cosmos itself. Unlike large public temples dedicated to Jupiter or Mars, Mithraea were intentionally enclosed and mysterious, meant to separate initiates from the outside world and immerse them within a sacred space.

Later that day, I visited the Roman National Museum collections housing Mithraic artifacts and reliefs. Seeing these objects in person rather than in photographs was invaluable. The details of the iconography, the craftsmanship, and the regional artistic variations all provide insight into how widely the cult spread and how adaptable it became throughout the empire.

On May 6, I explored Rome further before traveling to the Parco della Caffarella to visit Il Labirinto di Roma, which contains a replica Mithraeum and preserves part of the ancient subterranean environment that once existed around the city.

One of the most fascinating aspects of ancient Rome is that much of it existed below ground. Beneath the bustling imperial capital stretched a vast network of tunnels, quarries, cisterns, catacombs, and passageways. The Romans quarried enormous quantities of volcanic tufa and pozzolana from beneath the city to construct temples, baths, aqueducts, roads, and walls. Over centuries, these excavated spaces formed labyrinthine underground systems.

Some of these tunnels were later reused for religious purposes. Early Christians created catacombs within them. Storage chambers and water systems were carved into them. Some Mithraic sanctuaries may also have utilized these naturally cave-like environments, which aligned perfectly with the cult’s symbolism of the cosmic cave. For initiates descending into these shrines, the journey underground itself became part of the ritual experience - a symbolic movement away from the ordinary world and into the sacred mysteries.

The Gateway to Rome

On May 7, I traveled to Ostia Antica, the ancient port city of Rome. With a guide, I explored multiple Mithraic ruins scattered throughout the site.

Ostia was critically important to ancient Rome. As the empire’s primary harbor city, it served as the commercial lifeline of the capital. Grain from Egypt, olive oil from Hispania, wine, marble, spices, and other goods from across the Mediterranean flowed through Ostia before reaching Rome. Due to this constant movement of merchants, sailors, dockworkers, and soldiers, Ostia became one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the empire.

That cosmopolitan character made it fertile ground for mystery cults like Mithraism. Ostia contains one of the largest concentrations of Mithraea discovered anywhere in the Roman world. The cult thrived particularly among merchants, administrators, and military personnel connected to trade and transportation. Walking through these sanctuaries provided a powerful glimpse into how embedded Mithraism had become within the everyday life of Roman society.

Unlike isolated archaeological fragments in museums, Ostia preserves an entire urban environment. Streets, apartment buildings, baths, taverns, warehouses, and temples still stand in remarkable condition. As I walked those ancient roads, it became easier to envision the world in which Mithraic initiates once lived and worshiped.

The Crossroads of the Empire

On May 8, I traveled north to Aquileia, one of the most important cities of the Roman Empire that many people today have never heard of.

Founded in 181 BC, Aquileia became a major military and commercial center strategically positioned at the head of the Adriatic Sea. It served as a gateway between Italy and the Danubian frontier regions. Troops, merchants, diplomats, and travelers passed constantly through the city, making it one of the empire’s great crossroads.

Aquileia grew immensely wealthy and influential. At its height, it rivaled some of the largest cities in the Roman world. The city played a crucial role in defending northern Italy against invasions from the Balkans and Central Europe while simultaneously facilitating trade into the provinces.

This environment helped Mithraism flourish. The cult spread rapidly along military and trade networks, and Aquileia’s location made it an ideal center for the transmission of eastern religious traditions into the western empire.

The next day, I visited the museum housing Mithraic relics as well as the Basilica and surrounding ruins. Aquileia’s archaeological remains are extraordinary. Mosaics, columns, roads, foundations, and artifacts still reveal the immense importance the city once possessed. The juxtaposition of Christian basilicas rising amid older Roman remains also reflects the broader religious transformation of the empire during late antiquity.

Mithras on the Frontier

On May 10, I traveled onward to Ptuj, Slovenia (the ancient Roman city of Poetovio). Reaching the city required two buses and three trains, a reminder that even modern travel across Europe can sometimes feel like an expedition.

Ptuj is the oldest town in Slovenia and possesses deep Roman roots. Under the Romans, Poetovio became a major military settlement and administrative center along the Drava River. Legions were stationed there, trade flourished, and the city became an important strategic outpost on the empire’s frontier.

The area also became one of the strongest centers of Mithraic worship in the region. Numerous Mithraea have been discovered in and around Ptuj, reflecting the heavy military presence and the movement of eastern religious traditions through frontier zones.

After arriving, I visited Ptuj Castle and the archaeological park containing Roman ruins. The city carries an atmosphere unlike Rome. Whereas Rome overwhelms with imperial grandeur, Ptuj feels quieter and more intimate; a frontier town shaped by centuries of overlapping civilizations.

On May 11, I visited the preserved Mithraeum at Spodnja Hajdina across the river from Ptuj, where I was fortunate enough to receive a tour from an archaeologist. Experiences like this are invaluable. Speaking directly with specialists working to preserve and interpret these sites provides layers of understanding that books alone cannot offer.

Standing within an actual Mithraic sanctuary, one begins to appreciate the lived reality of the cult. These were not abstract symbols confined to academic discussions. They were active religious spaces where initiates gathered, performed rituals, shared sacred meals, and participated in a spiritual brotherhood that stretched across the Roman world.

That evening, I began the long overnight journey north through Graz and Zurich before finally reaching southwest Switzerland.

Mithras in the Alps

I arrived in Martigny on May 12. Nestled within the Swiss Alps, the town occupies another strategically significant Roman location. Ancient Martigny, known as Forum Claudii Vallensium, sat along important alpine trade and military routes connecting Italy to Gaul and Germania.

On May 13, I explored the museum, amphitheater, baths, domus, and Mithraeum preserved there. The Mithraeum of Martigny is particularly important because it demonstrates the extraordinary geographic spread of the cult. From the heart of Rome to the frontiers of Slovenia and the valleys of Switzerland, Mithraism followed the arteries of the empire.

The Roman remains throughout Martigny are beautifully preserved and offer another reminder that the Roman world was deeply interconnected. Ideas, religions, goods, and people moved constantly across enormous distances. 

Later that day, I returned to Zurich to prepare for my flight home, and on May 14, I departed for the United States.

Returning Home

Research trips are often romanticized, but they can also be exhausting. Long train rides, navigating unfamiliar cities, and operating on limited sleep become part of the experience. Yet every moment was worth it.

This journey gave me something that books and articles alone never could: context. Seeing the geography of the Roman world firsthand changes one’s understanding of how Mithraism spread and why it resonated with so many people. The cult was not isolated. It was woven into the military, commercial, and social fabric of the empire itself.

Now, after following the footprints of Mithras across Italy, Slovenia, and Switzerland, it is time to put my nose to the grindstone and finish my book on the Mysteries of Mithras. The journey may be over, but the work continues.

A Decade in the Rose & Cross

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Humilitas et Caritas

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Colonels & Councils

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Athelstan

Once again, I’ve returned home after another journey across the world. This weekend marked the annual meeting of the Grand Court of the Masonic Order of Athelstan for England, Wales, and its Provinces Overseas, a historic occasion as the Most Worshipful Grand Master, Paul Johnston, retired after nearly 12.5 years of service, passing the mantle to his Deputy Grand Master.

Ratae Corieltauvorum

Last Thursday, I landed in London and made my way up to the Midlands to the city of Leicester. I was part of a larger contingent of American Masons who came to show support to Paul and to the Grand Court of England.

Friday, I walked around the city center and checked out the Jewry Walls. Leicester began as Ratae Corieltauvorum, a Roman town on the River Soar, laid out along the Fosse Way, a major Roman road in Britain that connected the southwest to the northeast, linking Exeter (Isca Dumnoniorum) and Lincoln (Lindum Colonia). Its most spectacular surviving feature is the Jewry Wall (a massive 2nd-century masonry wall that formed part of the public bath complex), which was originally thought to be a forum when first discovered. Excavations by Dame Kathleen Kenyon in the 1930s confirmed the wall’s relationship to the adjacent Roman baths, whose foundations are still visible beside the wall and interpreted by the adjacent museum. The structure (c. AD 160) is one of the largest pieces of standing Roman masonry in Britain. 

After the collapse of the Roman Empire, an Anglo-Saxon town grew among the ruins. The oldest standing church is St Nicholas, incorporating Roman brick and stone; it is among Leicester’s five surviving medieval churches and has pre-Conquest origins (in use since at least the 9th century). It stands immediately beside the Jewry Wall, a vivid reminder of the city’s continuity from Rome through Saxon and Norman times.

Within the castle’s bailey rose St Mary de Castro (which I visited last year), founded as a collegiate chapel in 1107 by Robert de Beaumont, Earl of Leicester. Its long history ties Leicester to national figures: local tradition connects it to early royal ceremonies (including the child-knighting of Henry VI) and even to Geoffrey Chaucer’s life. Architecturally speaking, it retains Norman fabric with later Gothic additions. 

The timber-framed Guildhall (c. 1390) began as a meeting place for the Guild of Corpus Christi and later served as the town hall. Over the centuries, it hosted council meetings, courts, feasts, theatrical performances, and even debates during the Civil War, which makes it the best-preserved window into municipal life before modernity. 

Leicester’s religious landscape was transformed by the Dissolution of Henry VIII. Leicester Abbey, a wealthy Augustinian house, was suppressed in 1538; just years earlier, Cardinal Thomas Wolsey, Henry VIII’s fallen minister, died there in 1530 en route to face treason charges. His burial at the abbey and the subsequent loss of his tomb became one of Tudor England’s lingering mysteries; despite modern excavations, his remains have never been found. The abbey ruins now lie within Abbey Park. 

Another focal point was the Greyfriars (Franciscan) friary. After Bosworth (1485), King Richard III was buried here. The friary was later dissolved, the site built over, and the king’s grave vanished from memory until the 21st century; now it's a museum dedicated to Richard III.

Through the 18th century, Leicester expanded as a regional market town. Framework-knitting and hosiery trades thrived, and civic governance continued in and around the old Guildhall, while parishes maintained medieval churches like St Nicholas, St Mary de Castro, and the future cathedral. Though less architecturally showy than the Victorian age to come, this period laid the economic groundwork for industrial growth and urban improvement. Industry, railways, and municipal pride spurred new buildings in the 19th century, while older landmarks like the Guildhall survived as cherished symbols of civic heritage. 

Leicester’s most famous modern chapter is the rediscovery and reburial of King Richard III. In 2012, archaeologists located his grave beneath a city-center car park on the site of the lost Greyfriars church; DNA and osteological analysis confirmed the identity. The city created the King Richard III Visitor Center opposite the cathedral, and in March 2015, the last Plantagenet king was reinterred with honor in Leicester Cathedral beneath a Swaledale fossil-stone tomb. The find sparked national debate (including legal challenges over the reburial site) and placed Leicester at the center of global heritage headlines. 

Retirement of Paul

While the stones of Leicester speak of millennia of history, this weekend’s events marked the beginning of a new chapter in the living history of our Order. This past summer, Bro. Paul Johnston, Most Worshipful Grand Master, announced his intention to retire.

I first met Paul more than a decade ago during Masonic Week, and I found him to be both a warm friend and an exceptional leader - a man deeply devoted to the Craft. Over the course of his 12.5 years as Grand Master, he guided the Masonic Order of Athelstan from its infancy into its formative years. Under his steady hand, the Order expanded to the far corners of the globe, establishing Grand Courts in nations that had grown strong enough to govern themselves, including the United States.

Paul had joined the Order shortly after its founding and went on to serve as Grand Secretary before assuming the mantle of leadership following the untimely passing of his predecessor. One of his personal goals, he said, was to install his own successor. Yesterday, he fulfilled that wish by installing the Fourth Grand Master of the Order and concluded his tenure with grace and humility, a fitting close to a remarkable chapter in the Order’s history.

The First King of England

King Athelstan (c. 894 - 939 AD), grandson of Alfred the Great and son of King Edward the Elder, stands as one of the most significant yet often underappreciated monarchs in English history. Known variously as Athelstane, Athelstone, Athelston, Aldiston, Adelstan, Adelston, and Ethelstan, he is celebrated as the first true King of all England, as he was the ruler who transformed a patchwork of Anglo-Saxon and Viking kingdoms into a unified realm.

Athelstan was raised partly in Mercia under the care of his aunt, Æthelflæd, the “Lady of the Mercians,” where he absorbed both Mercian and West Saxon traditions of governance and warfare. Upon the death of his father in 924, a brief succession dispute arose between Athelstan and his half-brother Ælfweard, but the latter’s sudden death soon after cleared the way for Athelstan’s accession. He was crowned in 925 AD at Kingston-upon-Thames, a symbolic site straddling the ancient borders of Wessex and Mercia, embodying the unity he would soon achieve across England.

From the outset, Athelstan proved to be an exceptional military leader and statesman. In 927, he captured York from the Danes and compelled the submission of Constantine II of Scotland and other northern rulers at the Treaty of Eamont Bridge. By doing so, he brought Northumbria firmly under English control and became the first monarch to rule over all of England. 

His greatest test came a decade later at the legendary Battle of Brunanburh in 937 AD. Facing a formidable alliance of Scots, Strathclyde Britons, and Dublin Norse under Constantine II, Owain of Strathclyde, and Olaf Guthfrithson, Athelstan’s forces won a decisive but bloody victory. Chroniclers hailed the battle as a defining moment in forging the English nation, preserving its unity and independence for generations to come.

Athelstan’s reign was not defined by warfare alone. His government introduced innovative reforms that strengthened royal authority and improved national cohesion. He issued extensive law codes to ensure justice and order, regulated coinage to prevent fraud, and centralized trade within burghs to encourage urban development. He reorganized the Midlands and former Danelaw into shires, consolidating administration across England. Abroad, he forged alliances through the marriages of his half-sisters to European princes and cultivated cultural and ecclesiastical ties with the Continent.

A patron of learning and the Church, Athelstan gathered relics and illuminated manuscripts, many of which he gifted to monasteries and churches. His generosity toward the clergy ensured their support, while his endowments enriched England’s spiritual life. Upon his death in 939 at Gloucester, Athelstan was buried in Malmesbury Abbey, a monastery he had long favored and supported. Though his tomb now lies empty, his legacy as England’s first unified monarch endures.

Commemorating 1100 Years of Legacy

In Masonic tradition, King Athelstan occupies a place of profound honor. According to early manuscripts, including the Halliwell (Regius) Poem, the Cooke Manuscript, the Landsdowne Manuscript, and the lesser-known Roberts Manuscript, a great assembly of stonemasons was convened at York in 926 AD by Athelstan’s half-brother, Prince Edwin, at the king’s command. There, the traditions of symbolic and operative Masonry were codified and the Craft’s ancient charges were reaffirmed.

The Masonic Order of Athelstan was founded to honor this spirit of enlightenment and fraternity embodied by the king. It seeks to celebrate his unifying vision, his devotion to law and learning, and his legendary association with the early organization of masonry in England.

As the world marks the 1100th anniversary of Athelstan’s coronation in 2025, the Order and its charitable arm (the King Athelstan Memorial Foundation) have undertaken a series of meaningful projects to preserve and promote his memory. Established in 2020, the Foundation has already realized numerous initiatives:

• In 2021, it presented a magnificent King Athelstan tapestry to All Saints Church in Kingston-upon-Thames, the site of his coronation.
• In 2022, it donated a replica Saxon sword crafted by renowned smiths Hector Cole, M.B.E., and Tim Blades, along with an audio-visual system and documentary for the Athelstan Museum in Malmesbury.
• In 2024, the Foundation contributed money to support the exhibition of ancient Saxon papers on loan from Cambridge University and funded educational installations and the Guide to Athelstan & Malmesbury Trail for the town’s upcoming 1100 celebrations.
• The same year saw the launch of the ambitious “York 1100 Project,” which raised £100,000 to sponsor a stonemason’s accommodation unit at York Minster and commission a carved grotesque of King Athelstan to adorn the cathedral’s South Quire.

By June 2025, the project reached fruition: the Most Worshipful Grand Master and a distinguished delegation presented both the accommodation unit and the completed grotesque to York Minster, honoring Athelstan’s enduring legacy as patron and protector of the Craft.

Further commemorations followed on September 4, 2025, when All Saints Church in Kingston-upon-Thames unveiled all seven embroidered tapestries from their Seven Saxon Kings Project. Looking ahead to 2026 and beyond, additional projects are planned to continue celebrating the life and legacy of this remarkable monarch.

Through these works, the Masonic Order of Athelstan and its Foundation have ensured that the spirit of England’s first king, and the legendary assembly of York in 926 AD, remains alive in both history and fraternity, a thousand years on.

International Athelstan

It’s been a busy couple of days that I won’t forget anytime soon.

Thursday, I made my way up to Vancouver, BC, to attend a very special gathering of the Masonic Order of Athelstan. The morning started with the initiation of about 56 new candidates; quite a sight to see that many Brethren welcomed into the Order all at once. After that, the Grand Master and several Grand Officers from England advanced the necessary brothers to the rank of Past Master before consecrating the brand-new Court of St. Lawrence No. 197 under the Grand Court of England, Wales, and Provinces Overseas.

I’ve never seen a Court consecration before, and I have to say, it was done with an impressive ease and dignity. The British Grand Officers really do have a way of carrying out these ceremonies with practiced grace, and it was a privilege to witness it. A few of us from Salish Court No. 6 (under the Grand Court of the USA) were there as well, which made it even more special.

As soon as the ceremony wrapped up, though, I had to dash straight to the Vancouver airport to catch a flight back to Seattle, WA. No rest for the weary! Salish Court No. 6 was holding its election meeting that same evening, and I wasn’t about to miss it. I made it in time thanks to a local Brother picking me up, and I’m honored to share that I was appointed Senior Deacon for the coming year.

Now, after all the travel and ritual, I’m finally heading home to relax and enjoy the Labor Day weekend. It’s been a whirlwind, but that’s part of what I love about being involved in the Craft: the chance to travel, meet new Brethren, and be a part of history in the making.

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.

History, Mystery, and Majesty

The last couple of days have been a whirlwind of activity. I flew out Wednesday evening and landed in London around noon on Thursday. That afternoon, I attended a meeting of Britannia Legion No. 1 of the Mysteries of Mithras and received the II°. I also assisted in conferring the I°. The evening concluded with a fantastic Festive Board.

Friday morning, I made my way into central London and took a bus to Stonehenge. Located on the windswept Salisbury Plain in Wiltshire, Stonehenge is one of the most iconic and mysterious monuments of the ancient world. Comprised of a circular layout of massive upright stones, it stands as a testament to Neolithic engineering, religious devotion, and social organization. The most prominent stones (each weighing up to 25 tons) are made of dense sandstone sourced from the Marlborough Downs, about 20 miles north. Interspersed among them are smaller bluestones, weighing 2 to 5 tons, transported from the Preseli Hills in southwest Wales (over 150 miles away). This feat of transportation and construction remains astonishing.

Construction began around 3100 BC and unfolded over 1,500 years in several major phases. The earliest stage featured a circular ditch and bank enclosure (the "henge") dug with antler picks, along with a raised inner bank and a wide entrance aligned with the midsummer sunrise. Within this circle, timber or early stone uprights may have been erected. Soon after, 56 pits (now called Aubrey Holes) were dug, possibly for posts, stones, or cremated remains.

By 2900 BC, timber structures dominated the site, which likely served as a sacred burial and ceremonial space. Around 2600 BC, the most dramatic transformation occurred: the arrival of the bluestones and the beginning of the iconic stone circle. Their transportation likely involved sledges, rollers, and possibly river or sea routes.

Around 2500 BC, massive sandstone blocks from the Marlborough Downs were added to form the outer circle and the inner horseshoe of trilithons (two upright stones with a horizontal lintel). These stones are aligned with solstice events, suggesting a deeply spiritual, astronomical purpose. Builders used sophisticated joinery techniques such as mortise-and-tenon joints and tongue-and-groove fittings, indicating advanced woodworking knowledge applied to megalithic construction.

Later generations rearranged the bluestones, added ceremonial avenues, and constructed surrounding barrows and mounds. By 1600 BC, construction ceased, though the site remained a place of pilgrimage for centuries. Even into the Iron Age and Roman periods, Stonehenge saw sporadic activity before gradually falling into ruin.

After visiting Stonehenge, the bus took me to Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world. Originally built by William the Conqueror in the 11th century after his victory in 1066, Windsor Castle has been continuously inhabited for nearly 1,000 years. The castle’s site was chosen for its strategic military advantages as well as its proximity to London. 

Initially, a motte-and-bailey structure with a wooden keep, the castle evolved significantly over time. Under King Henry II, stone replaced wood, and by King Henry III’s reign, a royal chapel and improved living quarters had elevated it to a major royal residence.

King Edward III, born at Windsor, began a sweeping Gothic transformation and founded the Order of the Garter in 1348, using St. George’s Chapel as its spiritual home. This chapel remains a masterpiece of late medieval architecture and a key site of royal worship.

The Tudor monarchs made minor alterations. King Henry VIII used Windsor for hunting and security, while Queen Elizabeth I sought refuge there during political and religious unrest. During the English Civil War, Parliamentary forces seized the castle and used it as a prison. Restoration came under King Charles II, who refurnished the interiors in Baroque splendor.

Subsequent monarchs, notably King George IV, transformed Windsor into the Gothic revival palace seen today. Queen Victoria made it her principal residence and established it as both a family home and a national symbol. Following the devastating 1992 fire, the castle was meticulously restored, funded in part by the first-ever public tours of Buckingham Palace.

Today, Windsor Castle remains a functioning royal residence, hosting state events, serving as the home of the Order of the Garter, and housing the tombs of monarchs, including King Henry VIII, King Charles I, King George VI, Prince Philip, and Queen Elizabeth II.

On Saturday, I set out to explore parts of London I had missed on my previous visit. In the early morning, I visited the Museum of the Order of St. John. Formally known as The Most Venerable Order of the Hospital of Saint John of Jerusalem, this royal order of chivalry traces its lineage to the medieval Knights Hospitaller.

Suppressed in England by King Henry VIII in 1540 during the Dissolution of the Monasteries, the order's lands were seized, and its presence faded until a Victorian revival in the 19th century. Inspired by Crusader ideals and driven by the need for organized medical aid, philanthropists founded the St. John Ambulance Association in 1877. A uniformed Brigade followed in 1887, and, in 1888, Queen Victoria granted a royal charter, re-establishing the order under the Crown.

Today, the order operates worldwide through charitable institutions like St. John Ambulance and the St. John Eye Hospital in Jerusalem, serving all regardless of background.

I then made my way to St. Bartholomew the Great, London’s oldest surviving church. Founded in 1123 by Rahere, a courtier-turned-cleric who experienced a vision of St. Bartholomew during a pilgrimage to Rome, the church began as part of a priory and hospital complex. Built in the Norman Romanesque style, it features thick walls, rounded arches, and massive columns. The chancel, transept, and ambulatory still survive, while the nave was destroyed during the Dissolution of the Monasteries under King Henry VIII.

Despite this, the choir was preserved as a parish church, and the Lady Chapel was finally restored in the 19th century. The church escaped both the Great Fire of 1666 and the World War II bombings. Today, it is a vibrant Anglo-Catholic parish in the Diocese of London and a living relic of England’s medieval past.

From there, I navigated the growing crowds to the National Gallery in Trafalgar Square. Founded in 1824 with the acquisition of banker John Julius Angerstein’s collection, the gallery was intended as a public institution - open to all, not just the elite. Its neoclassical building, completed in 1838, now houses over 2,300 works spanning the 13th to early 20th centuries.

The National Gallery is especially strong in the Italian Renaissance, Dutch Golden Age, and British schools. It stands out not only for its masterworks by Da Vinci, Rembrandt, Turner, and Monet, but also for its commitment to public access and conservation leadership.

My final stop was the Churchill War Rooms, located beneath the Treasury building in Whitehall. These underground chambers served as the nerve center of Britain’s wartime leadership during WWII. Constructed in 1939 just before war broke out, the rooms were operational by late August and remained active throughout the conflict.

Here, Churchill and his cabinet met, military movements were tracked in the Map Room, and decisions were made amid the Luftwaffe’s aerial attacks. After the war, the site was mothballed and largely forgotten until the 1970s. The Imperial War Museum opened it to the public in 1984, preserving it as a powerful reminder of Britain’s darkest and finest hours.

It was a quick trip, but an eventful one. From ancient stones to sacred churches, royal halls to wartime bunkers, I walked through centuries of history in just a few days. England remains a land where the mythic, the majestic, and the meaningful still converge.

The Italian Job

Another great trip is in the books. I was pleased to accompany officers from the General Grand Council of Cryptic Masons International to the Annual Assembly of the Gran Concilio dei Massoni Criptici d'Italia (Grand Council of Cryptic Masons of Italy).

I flew into Milan on Wednesday and arrived shortly before the Right Puissant Deputy General Grand Master of Cryptic Masons International. After a lovely taxi ride from the airport, we got into our hotel and relaxed for the rest of the day. We were both exhausted from our long plane rides from the Western Hemisphere; he came in from Brazil.

Thursday morning I left before dawn and walked around. I then made my way to the Museum of the Last Supper next to the Basilica di Santa Maria delle Grazie. As I waited for my tour to start I noticed a lot of Carabinieri assembling in their dress uniforms. My tour started, and my guide took us through the museum to see Leonardo DaVinci's 'Last Supper.'

Housed in the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan, this painting is one of the most celebrated masterpieces of the Italian Renaissance. Painted between 1495 and 1498 (nearly 4 years total), this mural depicts the dramatic moment when Christ announced that He would be betrayed. The composition is a masterful study of human emotion, with each of the twelve apostles reacting uniquely, their gestures and expressions conveying shock, disbelief, and confusion. 

The apostles are arranged in four groups of three (two groups on each side of the Savior), each cluster showcasing a distinct emotional reaction to Jesus’ revelation. To Jesus’ immediate left are John the Beloved, Judas, and Peter. John, the youngest and closest to Jesus, leans toward him with a serene, almost resigned demeanor; this character has played a prominent role in Dan Brown's 'The DaVinci Code.' Judas, darker and more shadowed, clutches a money bag (a subtle allusion to his betrayal) while recoiling slightly in guilt and secrecy. Peter, ever impulsive, leans forward aggressively, gripping a knife and appearing ready to act. To Jesus' right are James the Greater, Doubting Thomas, and Philip. James throws his arms open in disbelief, while Thomas points upward which symbolizes his later doubts about the resurrection. Philip, embodying youthful innocence, clasps his hands to his chest as if seeking reassurance. Bartholomew, James the Lesser, and Andrew are on the table's far left. Bartholomew stands poised on his toes, almost leaping from his seat in astonishment. James the Lesser appears calm but contemplative, while Andrew raises his hands in a gesture of shock. Lastly, on the far right, Thaddeus, Simon, and Matthew form the last trio. Thaddeus and Matthew seem to confer with Simon, the elder statesman of the group, whose calm demeanor contrasts with the agitation around him.

Leonardo employed groundbreaking techniques to create depth and perspective, emphasizing the central figure of Christ. However, his experimental method of painting on dry plaster, rather than traditional fresco techniques (wet plaster), has led to significant deterioration over the centuries. Despite extensive restoration efforts, The Last Supper remains a fragile testament to Leonardo's genius and a powerful symbol of faith and artistry.

'The Last Supper' has faced significant challenges over the centuries due to natural deterioration and external damage, including the destruction caused by World War II bombings. Leonardo da Vinci’s experimental technique of painting on dry plaster, rather than traditional fresco methods, made the work particularly vulnerable to flaking and decay. Within a few decades of its completion, the mural began to deteriorate due to environmental conditions and the inherent instability of the materials. Over the centuries, various restoration attempts contributed further to its degradation. During World War II, the convent housing the painting was struck by Allied bombs in 1943. While much of the structure was destroyed, protective sandbags placed around the mural miraculously preserved it from total ruin. In the latter half of the 20th century, a major restoration effort spanning over two decades sought to stabilize the artwork and recover as much of Leonardo’s original vision as possible. Using advanced technology, restorers painstakingly removed layers of overpainting from earlier restorations, filling in missing sections with subtle, non-intrusive watercolor techniques to avoid misrepresenting the original. Though the mural remains fragile and incomplete, these efforts have ensured its survival as a testament to Leonardo’s genius and enduring cultural significance.

After the tour ended, the Piazza was filled with more Carabinieri and I found out that November 21 is their holy day for the Virgin Mary who is the Patroness of the Carabinieri.

The Carabinieri, Italy’s national gendarmerie (a military force that performs law enforcement duties that is a bridge between military and civilian police), was established in 1814 by King Victor Emmanuel I of Savoy to serve as a policing force with military responsibilities. Initially tasked with maintaining public order and enforcing laws in the Kingdom of Sardinia, the Carabinieri gained prominence for their discipline and effectiveness. Following the unification of Italy in the mid-19th century, they became a vital part of the new nation’s law enforcement and defense framework, operating under the Ministry of Defense. Over time, the Carabinieri expanded their roles, handling both civil policing duties and military operations. They are recognized for their distinctive uniform and their dual status as both a military and civilian force, allowing them to operate across a wide range of missions, from counterterrorism and organized crime to international peacekeeping. Today, the Carabinieri continue to be a symbol of Italian law and order, balancing their historical traditions with modern responsibilities to serve both Italy and international communities.

The Virgin Mary holds a special place as the Patroness of the Carabinieri, symbolizing their dedication to service, sacrifice, and the protection of others. Her role as their spiritual guide and protector reflects the values of compassion, faith, and commitment that the Carabinieri strive to embody in their duties. Pope Pius XII officially declared the Blessed Virgin Mary the "Heavenly Patroness of the Carabinieri." Her feast day, celebrated on November 21, the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, holds special significance. On this day, the Carabinieri honor her protection through prayers, processions, and commemorative ceremonies

I then rented a bike and made my way to the Duomo di Milano. I always found Italian driving habits to be...interesting...to say the least and that was magnified being on a bike where you have to drive in and out of traffic. I was able to get tickets that allowed me to view the cathedral, the Crypt of San Carlo, the archaeological site, and the cathedral's terrace.

The Duomo di Milano (Milan Cathedral) is one of the largest churches in the world. Its construction began in 1386 under the direction of the Duke of Milan who envisioned a grand cathedral to symbolize the power and devotion of his city. Over the centuries, the cathedral evolved through the efforts of countless architects, sculptors, and craftsmen, blending Gothic elements with later styles as work continued. I walked around just taking in the awe-inspiring views and then sat for a time.

Once it was opened, I made way down to the Crypt of San Carlo which is located beneath the altar. This sacred space is dedicated to Saint Charles Borromeo (1538-1584), one of Milan’s most revered figures and a key leader of the Catholic Reformation. Saint Charles served as the Archbishop of Milan in the 16th century, renowned for his piety, reform efforts, and tireless work during the plague that devastated the city. After he died in 1584, his body was interred in this crypt to honor his legacy and devotion to the Church.

The crypt, designed in Baroque style, was constructed to house his relics and remains a significant site for pilgrims and visitors. It features an elaborate silver and crystal sarcophagus that displays the embalmed body of Saint Charles, dressed in full archbishop regalia. Surrounding the sarcophagus are intricate decorations and religious motifs, reflecting the reverence held for the saint.

The pass that I purchased allowed me to walk through the archaeological site under the Duomo. This subterranean area showcases the remnants of earlier religious structures that once stood where the cathedral is today. Among the most significant discoveries are the ruins of the early Christian Basilica of Santa Tecla and the Baptistery of San Giovanni alle Fonti, both dating back to the 4th century AD. The Basilica of Santa Tecla was one of Milan's largest churches during the late Roman Empire but was partially demolished to make way for the construction of the Duomo. 

Walking around the site, you see foundations, fragments of walls, and sections of mosaic flooring that hint at the basilica's former grandeur. Next to it is the Baptistery of San Giovanni alle Fonti, renowned as one of the oldest known octagonal baptisteries in Christianity. It holds historical significance as the site where Saint Ambrose baptized Saint Augustine in 387 AD, marking a pivotal moment in Christian history.

The exterior, adorned with an intricate array of spires, statues, and gargoyles, features the iconic Madonnina, a golden statue of the Virgin Mary, perched atop the highest spire. Inside, the vast nave, stained glass windows, and towering columns evoke awe and reverence. My pass allowed me to walk around the terrace and have a view of the city and a closer look at the intricate architecture.

The Duomo has witnessed significant moments in history, serving as a center for religious, cultural, and political events in Milan. It was here that Napoleon Bonaparte crowned himself King of Italy in 1805, accelerating efforts to complete the façade. However, the cathedral was not officially finished until 1965, after centuries of intermittent work.

Leaving the cathedral, I met up with the Deputy General Grand Master and we walked around the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II and grabbed a snack. The rest of my trip was meeting with Companions from all over Europe. We had a great dinner at a local restaurant with the General Grand Council's Ambassador for Germany.  

Friday morning involved meeting with Companions from all over Europe along with the Deputy General Grand Master and the Regional Deputy General Grand Master for Europe. Friday afternoon there were some meetings including a book reading and meeting with the authors (one of whom helped bring the American York Rite system to Italy) and the conferral of the Order of the Silver Trowel which was fascinating to see done in Italian. I could follow along understanding the ritual and floorwork. The rest of the night included a dinner and fraternalizing with Companions and their wives.

Saturday brought the annual assembly of the Grand Council where I ran into a Brother Mason that I had not seen since we met in Venice back in 2011 when I was on my mid-tour leave during Operation New Dawn in Iraq. I was introduced and honored and given a chance to address the Companions (with the help of an interpreter). The meetings and various ceremonies took all morning and most of the early afternoon. Once all of the business was dispensed with, several of us had lunch near the hotel and then I took a needed nap. The evening was filled with food...food...and more food - the Italians love to eat and very late in comparison to the US, but their generosity is second to none and I had an amazing time.

Now, I'm sitting in Charles de Gaulle Airport in France waiting for my flight back to the United States.