VOL. 3, Issue 11

November 2024

Scottish Rite

The Ashlar

Valley of Columbus, Orient of Georgia

Serving Scottish Rite Masons in the Chattahoochee Valley

Personal Representative's Message

Philip E. Harris Sr., 33° 

colpr@gascottishrite.org

Personal Representative 

to the SGIG


Brethren,


100 Years in the Valley


On November 3rd, 2024, I had the honor and privilege to represent the Valley of Columbus, as the Personal Representative of the S.G.I.G., of the Orient of Georgia, Most Worshipful and Illustrious, Ted C. Collins 33°, at the 100th Anniversary and Rededication Ceremony of Fort Benning Lodge No. 579, F.&A.M.


It was a beautiful Sunday afternoon where a large gathering of Brothers, Ladies and guest including most of the Grand Line and their Ladies, were present to celebrate the occasion. I had the Honor to present the sitting Master, Worshipful Brother Richard Luna, 32°, KSA, with a Declaration [see button in this article or click here] from the Valley recognizing the support and leadership that Fort Benning Lodge Members have contributed to this Valley over the past 100 years.


I was reminded of several other 100th Year Celebrations we have recently honored in the Valley including the Columbus Chapter, Order of DeMolay; Rose Hill Lodge No. 484 as well as the most memorable Centennial Masquerade Ball for the Valley of Columbus. 


One of those 100th Year Celebrations escaped our attention. The following is an excerpt from a book published by the Educational and Historical Commission of the Grand Lodge of Georgia F. & A. M., First Edition, 1983:


Masonic Home Messenger (Masonic Messenger)


“Brother Joe Bowdoin, while Grand Master in 1923, requested the Lodges of the state to make loans to the Masonic Home in order to purchase equipment to establish a print shop. The home then could repay its loans with discounts on printing for the lodges and provide vocational training for the older boys.” 


Thus, was born the Masonic Messenger, 100 years ago, which today is distributed digitally on Grand View.


After World War One officially ends in 1920, and the “Roaring Twenties” begin. Freemasonry was alive and well and its membership was growing throughout the country. At the beginning of 1923, there were 685, F. & A. M. Lodges in the state of Georgia with 67,433 members. Three of those Lodges were Columbian No. 7, Chartered in 1829; Midland No. 144, Chartered in 1851; and Mount Hermon No. 304, Chartered in 1875. All of these Lodges were instrumental in founding the afore mentioned Lodges and Appendant Bodies founded during this period of growth of the Fraternity.


One hundred years ago, per capita income was about $74 per year. Rose Hill Lodge, Chartered October 31, 1923, set its fees for the Degrees at; $20 for Entered Apprentice; $10 for Fellow Craft; and, $20 for Master Mason. The Annual Dues were $4 per year. Quite an expense for an average per capita income of $74. In 2023, as reported by the World Bank Group, the US per capita income of $81,695. While I know many families have struggled financially recently, I believe our current fees and dues today are very low, comparatively. 


We must address the fact that the value a candidate receives from joining our knowledge of the mystic ties, he begins to learn and live the life of a Mason. We should all lead by example and work to turnaround the disturbing decline in membership of our great Fraternity.


RiteCare


In October, your RiteCare Development Trustees, Honorable Brother Rossi Ross, 32° KCCH; Brother Jim Davis, 32° KSA; and I met with several members of the faculty at Columbus State University (CSU) to further our goal of forming a relationship with the University. Those in attendance were Dr. Deniz Peker, Professor and Department Chair of Teacher Education, Leadership & Counseling Department; Jill Carroll, Development Officer, University Advancement; and, Kalynn Pistorio, Associate Professor of Special Education.


It was a very productive meeting with an opportunity for the Trustees to review our goal of building a relationship with CSU in order to give large local donors the opportunity to donate through RiteCare for the benefit of their donations going to CSU for Scholarships to further Registered Behavioral Technicians (RBT) Certificates; Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) Degrees; and, Board Certified Behavioral Analyst (BCBA) Accreditation, by increasing the number of graduates in the disciplines that are so critical to ABA Autism Therapy. 


We expect to have some plan of action before yearend.


Lodge of Perfection


My hope is that you will consider joining your Brothers at our next Lodge of Perfection meeting to be held on November 15, 2024.  We plan to hold nominations for Officers for the 2025 Scottish Rite year.  If you are interested in serving, please contact me, our General Secretary, Illustrious Joseph Oelgoetz, 33° or our acting Venerable Master, Honorable Brother Rossi Ross, 32° KCCH.  We will also have a guest speaker.  Dinner is planned for 6:00pm with the Lodge opening at 7:00pm.  Hope to see you there.


Warmest Fraternal Regards,

Key Notes from the Valley

Scottish Rite Valley of Columbus - 2024 Officers 

Lodge of Perfection

Chapter Knights Rose Croix

Council of Kadosh

Consistory

Joseph F. Oelgoetz, III 33°

Scan here for our online petition(https://scottishrite.jotform.com/222923700194957)

General Secretary

Comments

Greetings Brethren,

I first want to thank all who kept me in your prayers during my recent health issue with my liver.  Fortunately, and through the Grace of God I am progressing in the right direction.  I still get tired at times, but I do feel I will be turning the corner soon.

My hope is that you and your family are having a great fall.  With children and grandchildren donning their costumes to receive sweet treats during Halloween.  Soon to celebrate Thanksgiving around your family table with a turkey feast.  I wish you all a wonderful Thanksgiving with your family.  I for one, have a lot to be thankful for.  My recovery, my wife, Karen, my son Eric, my Faith, and I am thankful for the Craft, and the brothers that make up our Devine Craft.

TIME FOR 2025 DUES

You should have received your dues notice from Supreme Council by now.  Even though they include your dues card with this notice does not mean that your dues are paid.  It is dues that provides the existence of the Valley of Columbus.  Dues allows us to pay for operations, Reunions, Programs of the Valley.  

Thus, if you have not yet paid your annual 2025 dues of $150 you can make payment via Debit Card or Credit Card on either the Supreme Council’s website (scottishrite.org) or the Valley of Columbus’ website (scottishritecolsga.com).  Alternatively, you can send a check or Money Order to the following address:

Scottish Rite Center of Columbus
P.O. Box 727
Columbus, GA 31902-0727

Dues are the financial backbone of our Valley.  They enable us to continue offering valuable experiences to our membership.  If you are having difficulty paying your dues, please do not hesitate to contact me.  We can set up a payment plan that works for you.  Just call the office and leave me a message at 706-322-3091 or send me a confidential email at colsec@gascottishrite.org.

50 YEAR RECOGNITION

At our next (November 2024) Lodge of Perfection meeting we will have the joy and privilege to bestow 50 years of service to the Scottish Rite to Honorable Brother William (Bill) J. Buffton, 32°, KCCH.  Make plans to celebrate this important landmark in Bill’s Masonic Journey by attending our Lodge of Perfection meeting on November 15th.

BYLAWS – POSSIBLE CHANGES

Life Membership: Currently all Life Membership monies are in a separate fund for this purpose.  Currently the by-laws require that this fund pays the per-capita of these life members to Supreme Council.  However, no funds (the remainder of normal dues of $150 less per-capita) is provided in support of the operations of the Valley.  Thus, it is estimated that only 20-30% of the membership (non-life member) is supporting the Valley in its daily operations, programs, etc.  

At our last Lodge of Perfection meeting a committee was set up to explore ways we can increase the return of the Life Membership fund so that per capita and operational support can be provided.  This committee is composed of Honorable Brother Torrey Knight, 32°, KCCH, Brother Rob Grant, 32°, Brother Jacob Robideaux, 32° and Brother Raine “Chance” Miller, 32°.  Please feel free to commit to either myself or our Personal Representative, Illustrious Brother Phil Harris, 33°.

REUNION TIMING

An additional by-law change is being considered.  Our current by-laws state specific months that our Reunions take place.  The proposed change will state “in Spring” for a Spring Reunion and “in Fall” for a Fall Reunion.  This gives the Valley more flexibility in case unexpected events forces us to not be able to conduct a Reunion in the month(s) currently outlined in or by-laws.  Please feel free to comment to either myself or our Personal Representative, Illustrious Brother Phil Harris, 33°.

Additional discussion was made at our October Lodge of Perfection on minimum number of candidates to hold a Reunion.  As most of you know who have participated in a Reunion it takes a high level of effort.  It was agreed, informally, that there should be five or more candidates to hold a Reunion.

LOP REMINDER PHONE CALL

Brethren, I want to remind you that prior to each Lodge of Perfection (Friday or Monday before the LOP) a phone call will be made to the phone number that is in your Scottish Rite records.  This will simply be a reminder of the date, time and place of the upcoming Lodge of Perfection.  We have also been asking for reservations for dinner at our Lodge of Perfection.

SCOTTISH RITE CENTER NEEDS

Our building is quite old.  We have had two firms look into the foundation (mainly in the front part of the building where the offices and library are.  Both firms have confirmed that work needs to happen to shore up the pylons and cross beams that support the floor in these areas.  There is a team (committee) looking at our options and how we go about generating funds to support any work.  Stay tuned.

As stated before, I wish you and your family a wonderful November with the capstone of a great Thanksgiving celebration with your loved ones.


Warmest Fraternal Regards,

Cameron J. Davis, 32° KCCH

Fraternally,

Cameron J. Davis, 32° KCCH
European Representative
Valley of Columbus, Ga.
colkm@gascottishrite.org

President
AMSRB-NATO e.V.
Valley of Washington, DC
cameron.davis@amsrb-nato.com

Supreme Council has developed a New Master Craftsman program "Ivory Key" designed to help our new Scottish Rite Brothers make the most of the reunion experience. The course remains free for Scottish Rite candidates and Brothers who have received their 32° within the 60 day window. I highly encourage our new Masters of the Royal Secret to enroll immediately.

European Representative

Comments

A Weekend of Fellowship and Fun: Emirat Shriners Fall Ceremonial 2024

Dear Brethren,

The Emirat Shriners Fall Ceremonial took place over the weekend of November 8-9, 2024, at the luxurious Pullman Stuttgart Fontana in Stuttgart-Vaihingen, Germany. This much-anticipated event brought together Nobles, family, and friends from across Europe and beyond for a weekend filled with fellowship, festivities, and fraternal achievements.

European Brethren Lead the Charge

The success of this year’s Fall Ceremonial was a testament to the dedication and hard work of our European Brethren. As the Temple Oriental Guide, I had the honor of organizing and managing the registration desk alongside Bro. Tarik Eker, 32°, who also serves as the Shrine Center Treasurer. Together, we welcomed 84 attendees, including 27 new Nobles, ensuring everyone felt at home.

Past Potentate Bro. Frank Ullmann, 32°, was ever-present, working tirelessly behind the scenes and managing our Temple’s public relations by coordinating vibrant social media coverage. Meanwhile, Past Potentate Bro. Arda Çilingir, 32°, spearheaded the Charity Raffle Delivery Team carried out by our Nobility children; a raffle that ultimately raised an impressive amount greater than 6,000€ for our philanthropic endeavors.

This Ceremonial also marked a new chapter for Bro. Mirel Tolca, 32°, as he assumed the role of President of the Stuttgart Shrine Club, attending his first Temple meeting in this capacity. As you can see, the Brethren were busy ensuring the weekend’s success.

A Special Guest: Dorka’s Inspiring Journey

A heartwarming highlight of the weekend was the presence of one of our Shrine Kids, 10-year-old Dorka from Romania, accompanied by her father, Robert. Dorka, one of 14 Emirat Shriners Kids currently supported across Europe, proudly showcased her new prosthetic leg on the dance floor, which has profoundly enhanced her mobility and quality of life.

During a stroll through the park, her determination and energy were inspiring—so much so that some of our Nobles found themselves struggling to keep her pace! Her story serves as a reminder of the life-changing work Shriners do every day.

A Weekend of Festivities

The weekend commenced on Friday night with a no-host meet-and-greet dinner at the Vaihinger Wirtshaus. Over 70 Nobles and guests gathered to kick off the celebrations, sharing stories, laughter, and camaraderie.

Saturday began with Candidate classes, where the 27 new Nobles were inducted into Shrinedom through the traditional fun-filled manner. Meanwhile, the rest of the Nobility attended the Stated Business Meeting to discuss Temple matters. By mid-day, the Noblility transition to the fun part of the day where our new Nobles had the opportunity to embark upon the Shrine journey across the hot sands.  

The crowning event of the weekend was the Potentate’s Ball on Saturday evening. Over 130 Nobles, Brothers, friends, and family from around the world filled the grand ballroom. The Potentate had the honor of Chartering two new Clubs, a milestone for Emirat Shriners.

The ball also featured the traditional “Fezzing” Ceremony, where the Ladies donned our new Nobles with their Fezzes for the first time. As the live band struck up a tune, tuxedos and ball gowns were quickly found swirled on the dance floor. Then, to really kick off the fun activities, the newly minted Nobles led the crowd in the festive Camel Walk followed by a spirted display of the “Cupid Shuffle”. The evening was a perfect blend of elegance and exuberance, embodying the essence of Shrinedom.

The Emirat Shriners Fall Ceremonial 2024 was a memorable event that strengthened our bonds of brotherhood and renewed our commitment to the Shriners’ mission of fellowship, family, and philanthropy.

Looking Ahead

As we move into December, our European Brethren will continue their fraternal journey. Holiday festivities include Lodge Holiday Parties and the Scottish Rite AMSRB-NATO Club’s Annual Communication and Elections on December 9, 2024. The season culminates with the Christmas Banquet at Hotel Schwarzes Roß in Hörblach, Germany, on December 14, 2024.

College of Freemasonry

Supplemental Reading to Masonic Learning: Beyond Surface Understanding (below) by Cameron J. Davis, 32° KCCH, 13 November 2024

3-5-7 Minute Talks on Freemasonry: Tapping the Outside of Freemasonry
Elbert Bede, 33°, K.T., 1945
Macoy Publishing and Masonic Supply Co., Inc.

We, as Masons, speak proudly, and justifiably so, of the Great Teachings of our Fraternity. We make loudly applauded speeches (at least, we hope they'll be loudly applauded) about the Sublime and Eternal Truths contained within our Symbols. We sometimes speak of Freemasonry as a liberal education, which it is. We sometimes speak of Freemasonry as a religion, which it isn’t. But, despite all the splendid things we say about Freemasonry, and justifiably so, isn't it true that very few of us gives any considerable time to a study of the Lessons and Teachings which we vocally hold in such high esteem? Isn't it true that at every exemplification of a degree we see and hear many things which we but partially understand, yet our curiosity is not aroused to such an extent that we make any serious effort to dis-cover the meanings of the things we do not comprehend. 

I am reminded of the faithful railway employee, who spent fifty years of his life tapping the wheels of trains that stopped at a certain division point. The superintendent of the road had heard of the faithful employee. One day he got off his special train for the purpose of complimenting the old man. When the superintendent alighted, the old employee already was tapping the wheels. He went down one side and up the other. When the task had been completed, the superintendent stepped up and introduced himself.

Isn't our Masonry a great deal like the service of the faithful old railway employee. Don't the greater number of us merely tap the outside, the surface, without having much idea of what it is all about. Aren't the greater number of us so lacking in curiosity that we don't try to find out why we do this, or why we do that, or what this means, or what that means? Let’s develop a little curiosity.

Masonic Learning: Beyond Surface Understanding

by Cameron J. Davis, 32° KCCH,  digitally published 13 November 2024Art by Chris Röhrich,  32°

Introduction


Freemasonry, an ancient and esteemed fraternal order, offers its members a rich tapestry of symbols, rituals, and allegories designed to impart timeless moral and philosophical lessons. It is a system of education aimed at improving the individual and, by extension, society. Yet, despite its profound teachings, many members risk engaging with the Craft on a superficial level, focusing on the outward mechanics of ritual rather than the transformative wisdom embedded within. This is a critical issue, as Freemasonry is not merely about performing ceremonies but about understanding and living by the principles they teach.


In 3-5-7 Minute Talks on Freemasonry: Tapping the Outside of Freemasonry, Elbert Bede (1945) offers a striking analogy that illustrates this point. He recounts the story of a railway worker who spent fifty years dutifully tapping the wheels of passing trains but never understood the purpose of his task. The railway worker’s story is a poignant reminder of how easy it is to fall into routine without seeking deeper understanding. Bede draws a parallel to Freemasonry, warning that many Masons "merely tap the outside" of the Craft, failing to grasp its deeper meanings and lessons.


The Power of Understanding Why


Simon Sinek’s Start with Why provides a framework that perfectly complements this message. Sinek (2009) asserts that understanding the purpose behind one’s actions—the why—is the foundation of meaningful engagement. He argues, “People don’t buy what you do; they buy why you do it” (p. 41). Applying this to Freemasonry, it is clear that understanding the why behind Masonic rituals and symbols is crucial for members to fully appreciate the Craft’s teachings. Without this understanding, the rituals risk becoming rote performances rather than meaningful acts of self-improvement.


Freemasonry teaches that every symbol, from the square and compasses to the working tools, carries layers of meaning. These are not just relics of the past but guides for living a virtuous life. Yet, as Bede (1945) points out, many Masons participate in degree work without taking the time to explore the symbolism or ask why these tools are significant. The result is a disconnect between the actions performed in the lodge and their application in everyday life.


The Risk of Surface-Level Engagement


Rituals are the lifeblood of Freemasonry, serving as vehicles for imparting moral lessons and encouraging introspection. However, when members engage only at the surface level, they miss the profound truths these rituals convey. This issue is not unique to Freemasonry; it reflects a broader human tendency to prioritize form over substance. In many organizations, individuals focus on compliance and performance, neglecting to question the purpose behind their actions.


In the context of Freemasonry, this superficial engagement undermines the very essence of the Craft. The purpose of the rituals and symbols is to challenge members to reflect deeply on their character, their relationships, and their responsibilities to society. When members fail to ask "Why do we perform this ritual?" or "What does this symbol teach me?", they forfeit the opportunity for personal growth and enlightenment.

Cultivating a Culture of Inquiry


To combat this tendency, Freemasonry must foster a culture of inquiry and learning within its lodges. Members should be encouraged to move beyond passive participation and actively seek to understand the deeper meanings of their rituals and symbols. Here are some strategies to achieve this:



From Ritual to Transformation


Freemasonry is ultimately about transformation—turning good men into better men. This transformation requires more than performing rituals; it demands understanding and internalizing the lessons those rituals teach. The working tools of Freemasonry, for example, are more than symbolic artifacts; they are practical guides for self-improvement. The square teaches us to act justly, while the compasses remind us to maintain balance and self-restraint. However, these lessons can only be fully realized when members engage with them on a deeper level.


Sinek’s emphasis on starting with why resonates deeply here. When Masons understand the purpose behind their rituals and symbols, their actions take on new meaning. They become not just participants in a tradition but active practitioners of a philosophy that seeks to improve both the individual and society.


Conclusion: The Eternal Pursuit of Light


Freemasonry offers a pathway to enlightenment, but only for those willing to look beyond the surface. By embracing the principles of inquiry and purpose, as advocated by both Bede (1945) and Sinek (2009), Masons can unlock the full potential of the Craft. They can transform their experience from one of ritual participation to a journey of lifelong growth and fulfillment.


Understanding the why breathes life into Freemasonry, ensuring that its lessons are not only learned but lived. For the Mason who seeks light, the pursuit of knowledge and understanding is not a destination but an ongoing journey—a journey that begins with a single, powerful question: Why?

References

Bede, E. (1945). 3-5-7 minute talks on Freemasonry: Tapping the Outside of Freemasonry. Macoy Publishing and Masonic Supply Co., Inc.

Sinek, S. (2009). Start with why: How great leaders inspire everyone to take action. Penguin Group.

Upcoming Events & Programs

Columbus Chapter Order of DeMolay

"I am asking all the Brothers of the Valley to search your knowledge of young men within the age limitations of DeMolay or Squires that are within your orbit, be they family or friends, and invite them and their parents to come along and enjoy the day with us. Just call an Advisor listed and we will welcome them to this event."

Fraternally,
Phil Harris, Chairmen

Paver Program

The Valley of Columbus is establishing a paver garden in front of the Scottish Rite Center. It will start at the bottom of the steps on both sides of the front porch and extend to the end of each side of the building. It will be similar to the pavers at the Masonic Children's Home in Macon. This is a great opportunity to support the Valley of Columbus Building Fund by purchasing a paver, and to honor those people or organizations that have a special meaning to you (to include yourself!). Complete the order form in this issues of The Ashlar or open in a new window HERE.

300th Celebration Silver Coin

300th Anniversary Coin commemorating the first constituted Grand Lodge from 1717-2017. 1 oz .999 Fine Silver Masonic coin. [One side stamped with Square and Compass and Genesis 1-3. Other Side with Appendant Bodies of masonry and coin sequence Number]. Each are serial number stamped 1-150. Can ask for specific number and availability but requires coordination with Bayardo Reyes at colsm@gascottishrite.org. 

Committee Reports

RiteCare

As a result of our Power of 3 Program plan to raise $3M in 3 years to provide low- or no-cost intervention to help Georgia children with communication disorders find their ‘voice,’ I asked Ryan Gilliam, the Chief Operating Officer of KNR Therapy, how potential RiteCare donations could be used by KNR Therapy at the Autism Learning Center in Columbus. Below is his response:

“Thank you for considering us for your continued generous support. Below, I have provided detailed information regarding our staff, client numbers, the impact of various donation amounts, and our future growth plans.

Current and Projected Staff and Client Numbers:

Projected Numbers in the Next Few Months:

Impact of Donation Amounts:

Potential Funding Utilization Ideas:

We are committed to using donated funds to make the most significant possible impact on our clients and staff. We appreciate your interest in supporting KNR Therapy. Thank you for your consideration and support.”

I believe the biggest impact that increased RiteCare donations can have is to help get more BCBAs and RBTs certified. There is no shortage of children who need help. Let’s make it happen!

Phil Harris, 33°
Chairman, RiteCare
Valley of Columbus


Vol. 3, No. 14 November 2024