WHY JOIN?
In a strict sense there is no Masonic Body higher than the Symbolic Lodge and no Masonic symbol more significant than the apron of the Master Mason. But the search for Masonic Light is unlimited. Scottish Rite of Freemasonry amplifies and clarifies the teachings of the Blue Lodge. The Degrees of the Scottish Rite answer many questions raised in the Blue Lodge Degrees, and give a larger conception of the meaning of Freemasonry.
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The Scottish Rite Degrees appeal to the mind and heart through the eye as well as through the ear. Instruction is given by drama, allegory and symbolism in the great lessons to be learned in history, music, the arts and sciences, Masonic philosophy, morality and various religions. The atmosphere of the sanctuary is not that of a school room but rather that of a gracious fellowship of learners who sit at the feet of the prophets and sages of all times and imbibe inspiration from their words of wisdom.
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The Scottish Rite is Masonry, constructively in action. This is a perilous time in the history of our beloved country. These are days when every man must rally to the cause of freedom and loyalty, when love of country is sorely needed. There is no organization that builds freedom more dear or patriotism more of an ideal than the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry. Patriotic men to well to ally themselves with such an Order that they may lend their strength, their talents, and their influence to the preservation of the principles upon which our great democracy was founded.
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“Freemasonry is engaged in building a temple, a temple not made with hands, but made of dreams, the aspirations, the hopes, the inspired visions of humanity; a temple dedicated to the sincere worship of the Most High God, whose name is love. Scottish Rite Masons are builders of that temple. Their prayers, their purposes, their efforts are intelligently directed toward that end; to create in the minds of men a sacred place from which shall flow the light of toleration, humility, love of righteousness, devotion of truth and justice; which shall illumine the world that is to be. This Rite of Freemasonry is committed to no particular social system; it fosters no political or intellectual propaganda. Rather, its mission is to create and stimulate in human hearts that pure sentiment that springs from a literal and wholehearted acceptance of the truth of the Fatherhood of God and the Brotherhood of Man.”
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The Valley of Scranton Bodies confer all Degrees – 4th to 32nd – in full form and ceremony with dramatic pageantry, stage scenery, electrical effects, beautiful robes, and musical accompaniment. To accomplish this, hundreds of Scottish Rite Masons in every walk of life all selected fort their dramatic ability and for their qualifications to serve on the various Degree Teams and Committees, spend months and years in study and rehearsals. Much time, effort, and talent are put forth by these faithful and enthusiastic Brethren in preparation of the Degrees.
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Every Master Mason should accept the opportunity to receive the “Further Light” these Degrees afford.