The Shriners are a distinctive and vibrant group within the Masonic fraternity, known for their unique blend of brotherhood, philanthropy, and lively spirit. With their distinctive red fezzes, Shriners have captured the imagination of many. In this article, we delve into the world of the Shriners, exploring their history, purpose, and the remarkable impact they have made through their philanthropic endeavors.

A Brief History of the Shriners

The Shriners, formally known as Shriners International, were established in 1870 in New York City. The organization evolved from a desire to add a sense of fun and camaraderie to Freemasonry. Inspired by Middle Eastern culture and mystique, Shriners incorporated various elements into their rituals and symbols, which remain a hallmark of their identity to this day.

Purpose and Values

The primary purpose of the Shriners is philanthropy and service. Shriners International operates a network of 22 specialized pediatric hospitals across North America, known as Shriners Hospitals for Children. These hospitals provide expert medical care, regardless of a family's ability to pay, to children with orthopedic conditions, burns, spinal cord injuries, and cleft lip and palate.

Shriners embrace the values of brotherhood, unity, and compassion. They believe in the importance of fostering lifelong friendships, supporting one another, and making a positive difference in the lives of children and their families. The organization's motto, "No man stands so tall as when he stoops to help a child," reflects the Shriners' commitment to philanthropy and their unwavering dedication to the well-being of children in need.

Unique Traditions and Events

The Shriners are known for their vibrant parades, festive events, and unique traditions that showcase their spirit and camaraderie. These include the Shrine Circus, Shrine Bowl football games, Shrine Golf tournaments, and Shrine Temple activities. The Shrine Circus, in particular, is a beloved tradition where Shriners come together to provide an entertaining spectacle while raising funds for their philanthropic endeavors.

The Fez and the Fun

The iconic red fez is perhaps the most recognizable symbol of the Shriners. Each fez is emblazoned with the symbol of the organization and represents a brother's membership within the fraternity. Beyond its aesthetic significance, the fez serves as a reminder of the Shriners' commitment to charitable work and the joy they bring to children and families through their philanthropy.

While the Shriners are serious about their philanthropic mission, they also embrace a spirit of fun and camaraderie. Their events and gatherings are filled with laughter, lightheartedness, and an infectious enthusiasm for life. Shriners cherish the bonds of brotherhood and the joy that comes from building lifelong friendships while making a positive impact on the world.

Impact and Philanthropic Achievements

Shriners International has had a profound impact through its philanthropic efforts. The network of Shriners Hospitals for Children provides specialized medical care to thousands of children annually, regardless of their families' ability to pay. These hospitals offer a range of treatments, therapies, and support services, helping children overcome medical challenges and lead fulfilling lives.

Moreover, Shriners contribute to their communities through various charitable activities and initiatives. They organize fundraisers, blood drives, and awareness campaigns to support local causes and charitable organizations. Shriners actively engage in community service, embodying the principles of Freemasonry and spreading goodwill wherever they go.

The Shriners exemplify the transformative power of brotherhood, compassion, and service. With their iconic red fezzes, they bring joy and hope to children in need, fostering a legacy of philanthropy that spans generations. Through their Shriners Hospitals for Children and countless community service efforts, the Shriners demonstrate their unwavering commitment to improving the lives of others. As they continue to embody the spirit of camaraderie and compassion, the Shriners leave an indelible mark on both the Masonic fraternity and the communities they serve.

Scottish Rite Freemasonry, a branch of Freemasonry that explores the philosophical and esoteric dimensions of the craft, has found a significant following in the United States. With its deep-rooted traditions, symbolic rituals, and intellectual pursuits, Scottish Rite Freemasonry has expanded its presence across the nation. In this article, we explore the spread and influence of Scottish Rite Freemasonry throughout the United States.

Early History and Development

Scottish Rite Freemasonry made its way to the United States in the late 18th century, with its earliest recorded presence in the country documented in Charleston, South Carolina. In 1801, the Supreme Council, Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite, Southern Jurisdiction, was established in Charleston, becoming the first governing body of Scottish Rite Freemasonry in the United States. The Scottish Rite's teachings and rituals quickly gained traction among Freemasons in America.

Expansion and Growth

As Scottish Rite Freemasonry took hold in the United States, the establishment of additional Supreme Councils further facilitated its growth. Notably, the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction, also known as the Supreme Council, 33°, was formed in 1813 in the city of New York. This jurisdiction now encompasses the northeastern and central regions of the United States.

Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, Scottish Rite Freemasonry continued to expand its presence across the country. The establishment of local Scottish Rite Valleys, where members gather and engage in the degrees, rituals, and educational activities, contributed to the spread of Scottish Rite Masonry. Today, there are numerous Scottish Rite Valleys located in cities and towns across the United States, providing a platform for Freemasons to explore the deeper teachings of the craft.

Degrees and Educational Pursuits

Scottish Rite Freemasonry in the United States follows a system of 32 degrees, each of which offers unique lessons and insights. These degrees build upon the foundational principles of Freemasonry and provide a framework for moral, philosophical, and spiritual exploration. Members engage in rituals, ceremonies, and discussions that encourage personal growth, critical thinking, and self-reflection.

Scottish Rite Masons in the United States are also known for their commitment to intellectual pursuits. Many Scottish Rite bodies offer educational programs, lectures, and forums where members can deepen their understanding of various subjects, including history, philosophy, symbolism, and the arts. These educational endeavors foster a culture of intellectual curiosity and contribute to the personal and intellectual development of Freemasons.

Philanthropy and Charitable Initiatives

Like Freemasonry as a whole, Scottish Rite Freemasonry in the United States places a strong emphasis on philanthropy and charitable endeavors. Scottish Rite bodies often establish charitable foundations or organizations to support causes such as scholarships, medical research, community outreach programs, and assistance for those in need.

One notable philanthropic endeavor of Scottish Rite Freemasonry is the support for Scottish Rite Masonic Children's Learning Centers and Scottish Rite Hospitals for Children. These institutions provide specialized care, educational support, and medical services to children with various challenges, such as learning disabilities and speech disorders. Scottish Rite Freemasons' dedication to improving the lives of children and their families through charitable efforts demonstrates their commitment to humanitarian values.

Scottish Rite Freemasonry has made a significant impact in the United States, spreading wisdom, fostering brotherhood, and contributing to society through its philanthropic endeavors. From its early roots in Charleston to its presence in numerous Scottish Rite Valleys across the country, Scottish Rite Freemasonry has found resonance among Freemasons seeking intellectual exploration, personal growth, and the camaraderie of like-minded individuals.

As Scottish Rite Freemasonry continues to thrive and evolve in the United States, it stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of Freemasonry's teachings and the power of brotherhood in shaping individuals and communities. Through its degrees, educational pursuits, and philanthropic activities, Scottish Rite Freemasonry enriches the lives of its members and extends its influence in promoting a better world.

While there is no Masonic degree more important than that of Master Mason, there is a long tradition - almost as old as Freemasonry of “high degrees” that expand upon and elaborate the teachings and lessons of the first three degrees. The Scottish Rite degrees teach a series of moral lessons culminating in the 32°, Master of the Royal Secret. 

The York Rite, or more correctly, the American Rite, is based on the early remnants of Craft Masonry that were practiced in the early 1700’s. The formation of the first Grand Lodge of England in 1717 specified that the lodges were to confer only the degrees of Entered Apprentice, Fellowcraft, and Master Mason, all other degrees being considered spurious. However, many lodges had been conferring other degrees that they considered an integral part of Masonry, in particular that of the Royal Arch, and formed their own Grand Lodge in 1751, terming themselves the “Antients” and the other Grand Lodge members the “Moderns.” With the merger of the two Grand Lodges in 1813 into the United Grand Lodge of England, the lodges agreed that only the three accepted degrees of Masonry would be used by the lodges, but the degree of the Royal Arch would be attached to Chapters allied directly to these lodges and bearing the same number as the lodge, though as a separate body. Thus, unlike the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite, which claims to hold the power of conferring the first three degrees of Masonry in addition to those under its jurisdiction, those found in the York Rite have rightfully acknowledged the fact that they are considered appendant to those of Ancient Craft Masonry. It is still the practice in English Masonry that a Masonic member is not considered to be in possession of all the degrees of Ancient Craft Masonry until he has been exalted to the Royal Arch.
Early American Lodges operated in a similar manner until the establishment of the General Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons. For a period in US history, the Cryptic degrees were controlled by various state Grand Chapter jurisdictions, until the establishment of the General Grand Council. The Chivalric Orders have been controlled by the Grand Encampment since the early 19th century in the United States.

The Knights Templar is the final order joined in the York Rite. Unlike other Masonic bodies which only require a belief in a Supreme Being regardless of religion, membership in the Knights Templar is open only to Christian Masons who have completed their Royal Arch and in some jurisdictions their Cryptic Degrees. This body is modeled on the historical Knights Templar to carry on the spirit of their organization. Throughout history it has been claimed that Freemasonry itself was founded by the Knights Templar or that the Knights Templar took refuge in Freemasonry after their persecution. The Grand Encampment of the United States acknowledges the existence of these theories but states that there is no proof to justify such claims.

A local Knights Templar division is called a Commandery and operates under a state level Grand Commandery as well as The Grand Encampment of the United States. This is unique among Masonic bodies as most report to the state level alone. The Knights Templar confer three orders, and one passing order as opposed to the standard degree system found elsewhere in Freemasonry:

• The Illustrious Order of the Red Cross
• The Order of the Knights of Malta (or simply Order of Malta)
• The Order of the Temple

All three bodies are technically autonomous Masonic entities, only the requirement of membership in the Royal Arch connecting the Cryptic degrees and Chivalric Orders together.

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