This Time It's Personal
C. Fred Kleinknecht
A few years ago, the sequel to a popular motion picture film advertized itself with the catch phrase, 
"This time it's personal." Similarly, regarding this message, this time it's personal for me. A personal 
friend of mine developed the plan I wish to describe. I have personally seen the success of his plan. The 
plan itself is personal in its approach. So let's get personal!
I met Bro\ William C. Robinson a few years ago.* At the time he was not a Mason, and ours was 
strictly a business relationship. But because of Bill's contacts with The Supreme Council, 33 , he 
became interested in Freemasonry and petitioned Hay Market Lodge No. 313, Haymarket, Virginia, 
near his home. Upon being raised a Master Mason and then being made a Scottish Rite Mason, his 
enthusiasm for the Craft increased by leaps and bounds. Soon he was serving in the officers' line of his 
Lodge, and in January of this year he became Worshipful Master.
When he was Junior Deacon, he suggested his Lodge start holding "Brother Bring A Friend Night" 
programs modeled after an article in "The Short Talk Bulletin," published and distributed by the 
Masonic Service Association, that was written by Worshipful Richard Friedman of Rochester, New 
York. Bro\ Robinson called his version of this program "Every Brother Bring A Friend Night."
Step by step, he compiled three brisk, interesting Lodge talks with a personal touch. Then, he 
combined these presentations, along with other "need-to-know" materials, into a manual other Lodges 
could use. This presentation, like the programs of the Masonic Renewal Committee, has made a real 
difference in revitalizing Masonic membership today. Why? Because it's personal.
First, every Lodge member is motivated to bring a potential candidate to a specific open Lodge 
program. Brother Bill's system even provides a "memory jogger" work sheet to assist each Brother in 
locating a good candidate for Freemasonry from among his relatives, business associates, social or 
church acquaintances, and neighbors. The work sheet has spaces for names, phone numbers, addresses, 
and three "Action" boxes to fill in with the date and result of each action, each contact with a potential 
Brother.
Once these good men are identified, they are sent a formal invitation spelling out the occasion, 
place, and time of the event. Personal, face-to-face contacts and telephone follow-ups explain the 
invitation to the invitee and answer any questions. Enthusiasm and interest are kept high.
Then, on a special night, every Lodge Brother personally meets his contact at the Lodge or picks 
up his candidate and personally introduces him to the Lodge members during a brief, 15-minute 
reception from 7:15 to 7:30 P.M. A well-planned and briskly paced program follows. It is guaranteed 
to end no later than 8:30 P.M.
The one-hour program starts at 7:30 P.M. in the Lodge Room with a two- or three-minute cordial 
welcome by the Master of the Lodge or Master of Cere
* Bro\ Richard Friedman's "Brother Bring A Friend Night" booklet, published as a Short Talk 
Bulletin, may be obtained for $.40 per copy (postage included) from: Masonic Service Association, 
8120 Fenton Street, Silver Spring, MD 20910-4785.monies. Three speakers address the topics of 
Masonic history, Masonic community service, and what Masonry offers the individual. Each speaker is 
selected because of his good grasp of content and, most of all, his excellent presentation skills. No one 
speaks for more then ten minutes. If he wishes, each speaker may use a clear, concise text offered by 
the "Every Brother Bring A Friend" program manual.
Between the second and third speaker, "Symbol of Pride," an excellent 22-minute video available 
from the Shrine, gives a colorful and inspiring insight into Freemasonry.* [At the bottom of this page 
of the article, preceded by an asterisk*, place this note: Editor's note: To obtain "Symbol of Pride," 
send a check payable to The Imperial Council for $38.00 to International Shrine Headquarters, Public 
Relations Department, P.O. Box 31356, Tampa, FL  33631-3356. Write on your check: "For `Symbol 
of Pride' 1/2 inch V.H.S. video" and be sure to include your return address. Allow four to six weeks for 
delivery.] Following the last speaker, the Master of the Lodge or the Master of Ceremonies answers 
questions for five minutes and then leads the guests and Brethren to the dining hall where light 
refreshments are served. Here, display tables, arranged in an L-shape, feature take-home literature on 
Freemasonry and its many branches.
It is important also to display the Lodge's Working Tools including the Bible, Masonic regalia, and 
open albums or display sheets of news clippings about the activities of that Lodge. A Brother should be 
at each table and offer, enthusiastically, to answer any and all questions. At no time leave the potential 
member standing alone.
Does this sound too simple? It isn't! Its very simplicity is what makes it work!
And there is even better news for all of us who want to pitch in and help Freemasonry, our most 
important charity, grow. Bro\ Robinson's Lodge has now designed a technique that can be used to 
make contact with an almost unlimited number of qualified guests for the "Every Brother Bring A 
Friend Night" events which can be held four times each year. This is done by way of a new community 
service, a blood pressure screening program, his Lodge has implemented for this purpose. The 
necessary equipment is easily obtained from a local drugstore, and the Lodge's community service is 
designed to be put on the meeting agendas of local churches, civic groups, country clubs, soccer 
leagues, men's organizations, AARP chapters, or other centers of influence in your community.
For example, while doing blood pressure tests after a recent Sunday morning church service, the 
Brothers made it their goal enthusiastically to invite each parishioner to the next Friends Night that 
took place the following Thursday. It worked! Even more significantly, this success means we 
Freemasons now have at our disposal the benefits of a highly effective process we can use to increase 
attendance at our Friends Night events and, in all probability, our Fraternity's membership. We are 
limited only by the number of events and community services we decide to do. Only apathy and 
laziness can keep us from success!
Another problem we Freemasons can overcome is our own shyness in knowing what to say to 
invite a qualified prospect to our Friends Night. Brother Robinson field tested a number of approaches. 
What he found out is worth our while. Consider asking your potential guests questions like the 
following. You will be astonished at the results!
oAre you a Mason or Shriner?
oDo you have any family members who are Shriners or Freemasons? Your father, any 
grandfathers, uncles, cousins on your side of the family?
oHow about on your wife's side of the family?
oAny cousins, on your side or your wife's side of the family, who were or are Masons? (Repeat 
each relation over again.)
oDo you work with any Masons or Shriners?
oDo you have any friends who are Shriners or Masons?
oDo you know of any Shriners or Masons who are famous?
oDid you know George Washington, the Father of our Country, and many of America's Founding 
Fathers were Freemasons?
Try this series of questions the next time the opportunity presents itself. More often than not, you 
will get an affirmative reply somewhere along the line. However, regardless of the reply, ask these 
important follow-up questions:
oWould you like to learn more about Freemasonry?
oWould you like to be my personal guest at our "Every Brother Bring A Friend Evening" this 
coming Thursday at 7:30 P.M. [or whenever]? I would be honored to get you an invitation to it. I can 
meet you at the Lodge or we can go together.
Most of all Be positive!
Above all, remember that the more community services your Lodge performs, the greater your 
personal contact with those in the community will be and the better your attendance will become at this 
important open Lodge event. It's as simple and personal as it can be.
And it's up to you. I know of no greater charity a Mason can do for others than to introduce them 
to the principles of Freemasonry at a Friends Night. By getting personal with your friends, neighbors, 
coworkers and fellow parishioners, they will be the better enabled to ask questions about our great 
Fraternity.
So, let's get personal!
For a binder-bound, step-by-step guide to an effective "Every Brother Bring A Friend Night" 
evening, the blood pressure screening program, and a reprint of "Let The Craft Be Set To Work" 
written by Brother Robinson to suggest how the program could be organized at the Grand Jurisdiction 
level, write a check for $19.95 made payable to "Friend to Friend Lodge Program." This covers the 
costs of preparation and mailing. Then mail your check and order to William C. Robinson, 15607 
Berkeley Drive, Haymarket, VA  22069-1825.
Bro\ William C. Robinson, 32 , K\C\C\H\, is a member of Hay Market Lodge No. 313, 
Haymarket, Virginia, and the Scottish Rite Bodies of Washington, DC. He is president of RKI Group 
Plans, which he founded in 1960, and was recently elected WorshipfulMaster of his Lodge.

"I Never Met a Man I Didnt Like"

 A Tribute To Will Rogers, 32 

Actor, philosopher and humorist, Will Rogers was one of the best-loved Americans and Masons of 
all time.

Melville H. Nahin, 33 
1924 San Ysidro Drive
Beverly Hills, California 90210
"I never met a man I didnt like"-and I never heard of a man that didnt like Will Rogers. These two 
statements epitomize our Masonic Brother from Claremore, Oklahoma, who was loved universally and 
who loved universally. In August of 1935, Will Rogers and Wiley Post, one of the nations best-known 
pilots, took off from Point Barrows, Alaska, and shortly thereafter the civilized world was shocked and 
stunned when the news flashed across the airwaves that both men had lost their lives in an airplane 
accident. 
The Oklahoma Mason eulogized Brother Rogers saying "He had reached the heights of earthly 
reputation as an actor, philosopher and humorist, and then, with his friend, made a beautiful and safe 
landing in the green fields where the tree of life blooms for the pure in heart in life. Will Rogers lived a 
beautiful life. He brought laughter into the heart, smiles to the lips and no tears to the eyes. . . ."
As the news spread, almost everyone agreed that this one-quarter Indian boy, who billed himself as 
the "Cherokee Kid," was among the best-loved Americans of his time. Yet he had done none of the 
things that American heroes have usually done-he was never a soldier, or a president, or an 
industrialist. He performed no extraordinary feats of strength or daring or athletic prowess. He founded 
no city, led no cause.
Why then was he so loved and why has he become such a favorite American? Perhaps it was 
because he always remained "just folks." Even after he became rich and famous on the stage, in the 
Ziegfeld Follies, and in the movies, he continued to wear his suits rumpled, his ties pulled over on one 
side, and his shoes unshined. He would rather grab a bowl of chile or a hamburger at a roadside stand 
than sit in the fanciest restaurant in town. 
In many other ways, too, he was typically America-in his restlessness, his craving for speed and 
physical action, his adaptability to new ways of life (like the airplane), and his open-hearted 
sentimentality. He often gave more than he earned to the Red Cross, the Salvation Army, and to the 
poor of Oklahoma and our nation during the Great Depression. He had an aversion to intellectual 
processes, he had an anti-government bias, he was irreverent to important people.
In other ways he was not so typical. He never seemed to care much about money making, although 
he made a lot of it. He never carried a gun, even in his cowboy days, and he boasted that he never killed 
anything. Perhaps his greatest strength was in his unshakable confidence in America and Americans. 
He could criticize his country-and he did so sharply at times-but his optimistic faith never slackened. 
The United States with all its faults was the best of all possible nations, and the people who lived in it 
were the best of all possible people: that was his creed.
Born William Penn Adair Rogers on November 4, 1879, at Oologah, Indian Territory (now 
Oklahoma), Will was the last of seven children. His father, who served as an officer in the Civil War 
for the Confederate Army, was one-eighth Cherokee, and Wills mother was one-fourth. There was 
nothing that Will was more proud of than his Indian heritage.
Will was never one for education, however hard his father tried to give him one, and after the death 
of his dear mother, he, in many ways, became the wild and spoiled child of the family. Money, it 
seemed, was never a problem for the well-to-do family of Clem Rogers.
Married to Betty Blake in November 1908 after an eight-year courtship, Will had three children 
with Betty, two sons and a daughter. Will used to kid audiences, "Im not a real movie star. I still got 
the same wife I started out with."
He enjoyed working in vaudeville, originally with rope tricks. On one occasion, when he tried to 
explain a trick he was doing, the audience, much to his surprise, responded by laughing at what he said. 
Encouraged by his manager to keep the monologue in the act and expand it, his popularity grew by 
leaps and bounds. The height of his vaudeville success came on Broadway with the Ziegfeld Follies 
where he started to include in his act a monologue using the political arena of Washington, DC, and 
politics in general. Presidents and Congressmen were the good-natured butt of his jokes, and they loved 
it. Over the years, Will Rogers poked fun at, but with a ring of warning, many of the political events, 
social concerns, and economic crises that were prevalent during his lifetime. 
Nations around the world learned of his diplomacy when he travelled as an unofficial ambassador 
of America. His easy-going, light-hearted, and humble approach disarmed the most formal heads of 
state. 
Will stayed with the Ziegfeld Follies for years, and then went on to a career in the movies and into 
writing and public appearances. As a youngster I remembered going to the movies and watching In the 
Land of Jubilo, State Fair, The Connecticut Yankee, David Harum, In Old Kentucky and, finally, his 
last movie, Steamboat Round the Bend. Each was a success. Will never was an actor, though. 
Regardless of what character he portrayed, he was always the simple "country boy from Claremore, 
Oklahoma."
An ardent Mason through most of his life, he petitioned Claremore Lodge at the age of 25, 
receiving the Entered Apprentice Degree on February 18, 1905, and, after a lapse of 13 months, his 
Fellowcraft Degree on March 10, 1906. He was heading out of the country on tour and so was given a 
dispensation by the Grand Master to have his Master Mason Degree conferred three days later on 
March 13, 1906. On April 16, 1908, Will received his Scottish Rite Degrees in the Valley of 
McAlester, Oklahoma, and then walked the "hot sands" of the Shrine in Akdar Temple, Tulsa, 
Oklahoma.
He was proud of his Masonic affiliation, talked about it frequently, acted it consistently. He had 
attended a Shrine ceremonial in Fairbanks, Alaska, just prior to his fatal accident.
Monuments to Will Rogers abound. In Claremore, Oklahoma, in a stone rotunda facing toward the 
southeast, stands the statue of a man who a little more than 60 years ago was twirling a rope and 
chewing gum and making the audiences of the Ziegfeld Follies howl at his wisecracks. There is also a 
bronze Will Rogers in the Statuary Hall of the U. S. Capitol in Washington standing in an informal 
slouch and quizzically eyeing the Congressmen whose predecessors were often the focus of his jokes. 
Will Rogers birthday on November 4 is an official statewide holiday in Oklahoma, and the federal 
government in 1948 issued a Will Rogers three-cent stamp, the first time that such an honor had been 
conferred on a comedian.
The legend of "Willie," as his friends called him, lives on, though Will Rogers in body is no more. 
As a Mason, he was one of us, and were proud our Fraternity has a claim on him. By his full and 
friendly life, he reflected both Masonic attitude and Masonic character. He never took himself 
seriously, but his essence is the essence of mankind, and this is the truest and most important 
monument of all.
"I never met a man I didnt like" said he, and we have never heard of a man who didnt like our 
Brother Will Rogers.

Melville H. Nahin is an attorney in Los Angeles, Past Venerable Master of Los Angeles Valley, 
present Chairman of Los Angeles Childhood Language Disorders Clinic, Past Master Ionic Lodge No. 
520 and Southern California Research Lodge, Past Grand Orator of Grand Lodge of California, and 
present Chairman of Grand Lodge of California Committee on Jurisprudence

Friend To Friend

Samuel E. Cowan, 32  K\C\C\H\
5825 Buckley Court
Jacksonville, Florida  32244-1606

A new monument in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, commemorates a unique Civil War example of the 
strong bonds of Masonic Brotherhood.

On August 21, 1993, a historic Masonic event took place in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania-the 
dedication of the Friend to Friend Masonic National Memorial. See inside front cover for pictures of 
the event.
Located on a hill at the entrance to the Gettysburg National Cemetery Annex, the monument stands 
on a polished grey granite base and features two life-size bronze figures. Also, a white marble wall 
behind the monument carries the names of each state that fought in the Civil War. Illuminated at night, 
the memorial is a shining beacon telling the world Freemasons are just and upright men.
The two figures portray the historically verified encounter between Brigadier General Lewis A. 
Armistead and Captain Henry H. Bingham. Captain Bingham was an aide to Union General Winfield 
Scott Hancock during the battle of Cemetery Ridge which, because of Picketts charge of July 3, 1863, 
became known as the "high tide of the Confederacy."
Previous to this battle, both Hancock and Armistead had been friends and fellow officers for many 
years, but their political differences came between them when the Civil War started and the South 
seceded from the Union. Lewis Armistead could not bring himself to fight against his fellow 
Southerners, so he resigned his commission and rode home to Virginia to join the Confederacy. 
Hancock chose to stay in the Union Army and fight for the Army of the Potomac. Twenty-seven 
months later, their paths would cross not as friends but as opposing officers leading their men into a 
fierce battle that changed the course of the Civil War.
On June 30, 1863, Armistead learned from scouts that Hancock was on his way to Gettysburg. 
Lewis Armistead was elated. Finally he would be able to see his friend again and talk about old times. 
He went to General Longstreet to ask permission to cross enemy lines and meet with Hancock as a 
friend and fellow Masonic Brother. Longstreet gladly gave General Armistead permission once he 
found out exactly where General  Hancocks command would be bivouacked. Unfortunately, this 
meeting never took place.  Instead, the two officers were wounded at Gettysburg, one of the bloodiest 
battles in the history of the United States.
When General Hancock arrived in Gettysburg on July 1, 1863, at about 4:00 P. M., he took charge 
of a retreating Union Army and ordered his soldiers to dig in on Cemetery Ridge. General Pickett was 
given orders by General Robert E. Lee to charge and take the hill on July 3,  1863. General Pickett, 
along with other troop commanders,  felt the charge should never take place and asked General Lee to 
reconsider. Lee stood his ground and ordered the attack. General Pickett charged the hill in the face of 
160 Union cannon firing at 12,000 rebel solders. One of the troop commanders under General Pickett 
was General Lewis Armistead.
During Picketts charge on July 3, both Lewis Armistead and Winfield Hancock,  some 300 yards 
apart,  were wounded. General Armistead knew his wounds were fatal and called for help. His call was 
answered by Captain Henry Bingham. General Armistead wanted to speak to his Brother Mason, 
General Hancock. Captain Bingham identified himself as a Mason and asked "How can I be of service 
to you, my Brother." Armistead told of his close relationship with General Hancock and asked Capt. 
Bingham, not as a Union Soldier but as a Brother,  to carry a message to his old friend,  General 
Hancock, along with his personal effects.
Bingham assured the dying man his wish would be carried out. Armisteads message to Hancock 
was to request he deliver his personal effects to his wife. Also, Armistead hoped his message found 
Hancock well. Among Armisteads personal effects were his Masonic Bible and his gold watch,  its 
cover engraved with the Square and Compasses and the letter "G." Brother Armistead was taken to a 
farm where the Union Army had set up a field hospital. On July 5,  1863, Armistead died of wounds 
received during the battle for Cemetery Ridge.
Surviving this battle and the Civil War,  as did Brother Hancock, Brother Bingham was awarded 
the Medal of Honor in 1867, less than a year after his retirement from the Union Army. He went on to 
serve his country in many ways. In 1878, for instance, he was elected from Pennsylvania to the U. S. 
Congress, and he served for 33 consecutive years. He departed this life in 1912 at the age of 70.
Both Hancock and Armistead attended West Point, fought side by side in the same regiment during 
the War with Mexico, and were Brother Masons. They took a solemn and binding obligation at the 
Masonic altar. It is the same obligation every Mason has taken always to nourish the needy, refresh the 
destitute, and bring joy to the hearts of the afflicted. This was evident on that fateful day, July 3, 1863, 
which is celebrated and memorialized in the Friend  to  Friend Masonic  National  Memorial  whose  
base bears emblazoned in gold the Square and Compasses and the words "A Brotherhood Undivided."
Creating a monument at Gettysburg to commemorate the virtues of Freemasonry was the dream of 
Brother Sheldon A. Munn. In January 1990, Bro\  Munn, a jeweler by trade and a licensed battlefield 
guide at Gettysburg, felt the Masons gave so much during this bleak period in the history of our great 
country that a monument should be erected somewhere in the park. The monument honors not just one 
army but all men who wore the blue and the grey.
After many months (almost two years, in fact), the memorial was finally a reality and ready for 
dedication on August 21, 1993. The Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania paid approximately $1 million 
dollars for the monument and allocated $500,000 for the renovation and enhancement of its site in the 
Gettysburg National Cemetery Annex.  In  addition,  Pennsylvania  Masons  provided  a  $25,000 
endowment for the perpetual maintenance of the Friend to Friend memorial as a permanent monument 
demonstrating to the world that Freemasonry is a unique fraternity whose bond of Brotherly love can 
withstand the ultimate test today as it did during the most tragic and decisive period of our nations 
history.
The Fraternity of Freemasonry stood then, as it stands now, and will always stand, "A Brotherhood 
Undivided."
Note:  Historical  details  for  this  article  are  taken  from "Freemasons at Gettysburg" by Brother 
Sheldon A. Munn, pp. 8-23, Thomas Publications, Gettysburg, PA 17325. A copy of this 92-page 
work may be obtained by sending a check for $10.95 (S/H included in price) payable to Thomas 
Publications at the above address. They also have books on the Colonial Era, Revolutionary War, the 
Civil War and other important topics. Send for the list.

Samuel E. Cowan is a member of Woodstock Park Lodge No. 313 and of the Scottish Rite Bodies 
of Jacksonville, Florida. He served the Grand Lodge of Florida as State Chairman for Perpetual 
Membership 1991-92 and is presently State Chairman for Public Education and Citizenship. He has 
been a member of Morocco Shrine Temple since 1967.

The Wisdom of Abraham Lincoln

Fellow citizens, we cannot escape history. We of this Congress and this Administration will be 
remembered in spite of ourselves. No personal significance or insignificance can spare one or another 
of us. The fiery trial through which we pass will light us down, in honor or dishonor, to the latest 
generation.
I am a firm believer in the people. If given the truth, they can be depended upon to meet any 
national crisis. The great point is to bring them the real facts.
Our Hope For The 21st Century 
In California, an initiative for parental choice in education challenges every Mason to improve the 
American public school system.
Bruce A. Dehlin, 32  K\C\C\H\ 
10114 Farmington Drive
Fairfax, Virginia  22030-2049
On November 2, 1993, the voters of California resolved a legislative issue initiative titled "Parental 
Choice in Education Initiative." Under this deceptive title, the backers of this initiative hoped to amend 
the Constitution of the State of California by mandating a voucher program in which each student 
would be allotted a grant, given present spending levels, of $2,600. This is about half of the present 
expenditure per student by the California public schools system. These "scholarships" could be used by 
any private school, sectarian or religious, registered with the state and able to meet minimal standards.
The idea is seductive. Competition is generally good. Just as businesses compete to provide the 
best product, schools, in theory, would compete to produce the best student. Public schools would be 
challenged to compete and, supposedly, improve. Private schools, encouraged by this government 
grant, would be put on their mettle to raise additional funds and provide a quality product, a better 
student.
Most private schools have tuition ranging from $5,000 to $10,000. Parents fleeing the public 
school system have opted to make this financial sacrifice in order to avoid the problems besetting the 
public school. Admittedly, they are legion.
Violence threatens the physical and mental well-being of many students. As many as 135,000 
students bring guns to school every day. Metal detectors, guards, violence counseling, and conflict-
resolution seminars are becoming all too commonplace at every level of secondary and even primary 
education.
Test scores show todays students are not learning as much as those of 20 or 30 years ago. In 
many systems, Scholastic Achievements Scores (SATs) are getting lower every year. The high school 
dropout rate is as high as 30%. Bilingual classes are becoming ends in themselves rather than bridges 
to English competence. Alternative schools are being formed to meet the needs of problem children and 
unwed mothers.
No wonder public confidence is eroding. No wonder voters approve tax cuts that affect education 
and defeat bond issues for the construction of schools.
Americans are success oriented. When schools and teachers do not produce quality students, they 
seek solutions.
True, violence in schools reflects violence in our larger culture.
True, school administrations are top heavy with middle managers, and entrenched unions mirror 
the same atrophy evident in government and industry.
True, the work ethic and personal dedication are virtues becoming as atypical in the workplace as 
in the school.
We must address these problems, but the solution is not to ghettoize public schools by dramatically 
reduced funding. If the school proposal had been passed in California, it would have set a precedent for 
a nationwide system with two tiers. At the first tier would be elitist schools supported by the well-to-do 
with many of these schools devoted to advancing a particular religious philosophy, all subsidized by the 
American taxpayer.
At the second tier would be the public schools attempting to care for all the students the private 
schools would not want-the handicapped, the emotionally disturbed, the poor, children from broken 
families and, among others, the children of immigrant parents whose only opportunity to learn English 
and so escape poverty is to attend quality schools and learn the language of the land.
We would end with an educational system divided by class distinctions and economic means. 
Historically, the public schools system has been the glue keeping our nation together. Patriotism was its 
main lesson. Instead of polarization, there was unity. Instead of separation, there was cooperation. 
Masons and, in particular, Brethren of the Scottish Rite have always supported this vision, for no 
country can remain free without an educated citizenry free of the zealotry that supplants national 
strength with sectarian self-interest. Public education has been the cornerstone of America. Its 
continuance is not a matter of politics but of our survival as a representative democracy.
Thus, the American public school system has served our nation well for over 200 years and still 
serves America well today despite the severe problems eroding its very foundation. Tax subsidies to 
private and sectarian schools weaken this foundation. As in California, they must be rejected. But what 
can Masons do to be part of the solution and not part of the problem?
We can continue or innovate programs to support our schools. We can sponsor an outstanding 
teacher awards meeting.
We can provide scholarships to deserving youths.
We can identify specific local needs and provide cash grants to meet them.
We can create student essay contests on "Why Public Education Is Important" and have the 
winning students share their essays at a well-advertized public meeting of our Lodge or Temple.
We can get publicity in local newspapers relevant to our work and so inform the public regarding 
Masonrys dedication to education.
In the past, despite hectic periods of adjustment, a free public education system has kept the fabric 
of America from being torn apart by class and cultural divisions. Yet today we are at another 
crossroads. Will we survive it? Or will we forsake our children?
I believe we will be true to our Masonic and American heritage. Furthermore, I believe Masons can 
be the key to resolving the present crisis in education by becoming personally involved in its solution as 
school volunteers, as school board members, and as advocates for candidates for public office who put 
Americas youth first. 
Much of the content of this article, I am glad to state, is indebted to M\W\ R. Stephen Doan, 33 , 
Grand Master of California. In responding to the California voucher initiative, M\W\  Doan set forth, 
in the September 1993 California Freemason, a plan for all Masons to follow. It is only fitting, then, 
that I close this personal essay with his words.
Do we choose the easy road by abandoning those public schools whose current failures obscure the 
many successes Californias [and Americas] free public schools have had in the past? The easy road is 
to choose vouchers and a dual school system, but by doing so we forsake the young people most in 
need of education. 
Or do we choose the rough and rugged road by fighting to reform the public school system? The 
fight will not be easy. It is beset with ruffians: an apathetic and at times hostile public, religious groups 
that want government subsidies for their own brand of education, and school personnel more concerned 
with self-preservation and self-promotion than student improvement. . . . At the crossroads we must 
chose the road which history proves has produced our present greatness. We must choose public 
education, our hope for the Twenty-first Century.      s
 Bruce A. Dehlin
is a Senior DeMolay from Bridgeport, CT; a member of St. Johns-Fidelity No. 3 in Fairfield,CT; a 
member of the Valley of Miami with dual membership 
in Hope Singleton Lodge No. 7 in Washington, DC and the Valley of Washington, DC. He was 
educated in public and private schools. 

PERSPECTIVES AND RESPONSES

First of All, Ignore the Facts

Apparently believing the end justifies the means, many anti-Masons twist facts in order to condemn 
Freemasonry.

Jim Tresner, 33 , 
P.O. Box 70, Guthrie, Oklahoma  73044-0070

This series of articles deals with the most common charges of those who  make themselves the 
enemies of Freemasonry. They represent the thoughts of the writer, not the "Official Pronouncements" 
of Masonry. But I do hope that those Brethren and non-Masons who may have wondered if there isnt 
"just a little fire somewhere producing all that anti-Masonic smoke," will find that smoke is sometimes 
produced not by a fire but by a smoke bomb.
OURE feeling a little "poorly," and telephone to your physician.
"Doctor, this is Jim. I feel unwell."
"Youve got the measles; Ill phone in a prescription.
"But I dont have a fever."
"Its the measles."
"But I dont have any little red spots."
"They just havent shown up yet. Youve got the measles."
"But the problem is that I have a sharp pain in my chest, and I cant breathe."
"Say, that may be one for the books! Measles dont usually do that. Youve got a special case of 
measles."
"But I had the measles when I was a kid."
"Well, youve got them again."
Time to get a different doctor.
The point is, of course, that no doctor would start by announcing a diagnosis and then trying to 
make every symptom fit. Hed look at reality, consider the symptoms as they exist, draw a tentative 
diagnosis-always keeping in mind that he might be wrong-and then test to make sure he was right. 
What he would NEVER do is ignore facts which didnt fit with the diagnosis, or invent symptoms just 
so they supported his diagnosis.
The great majority of the writings of the anti-Masons show the thinking of the doctor who makes 
the diagnosis first and then makes the symptoms fit.
Brother Art DeHoyos, in The Cloud of Prejudice: A Study in Anti-Masonry, and DeHoyos and 
Brent Morris in Is It True What They Say About Freemasonry? (both books I highly recommend)* 
have given many examples of "quotations" which have been altered, falsified, or taken out of context. 
But I cant resist adding one of my own. 
It comes from photocopy sent out by the Southern Baptist Convention to those who wrote 
protesting that denominations anti-Masonic tendencies. The material was entitled "Masonic Doctrine 
Versus Christian Doctrine," and it is sad to think that some tree gave its life that this sort of thing could 
be printed. The author insists (wrongly, of course) that Masonry teaches only the ignorant take the 
Bible literally. To "prove" his point, the author quotes ". . . the literal meaning (of the Bible) is for the 
vulgar only. (Albert Pike, Digest of Morals and Dogma, page 166)." Why is this a smoke bomb? First 
of all, Digest of Morals and Dogma is not a book, it is the name of the index printed in the back of 
Morals and Dogma. Secondly, Pike did not write the Digest, it was compiled much later by T. W. 
Hugo. Third, the entry does not read " . . . the literal meaning (of the Bible) is for the vulgar only." It 
reads "Scriptures, the literal meaning for the vulgar only. . . . 250-1" That means, of course, that if you 
want to see what Pike said, you need to turn to page 250 in Morals and Dogma, the lower part of the 
page.
If you turn to that passage, here is what Pike actually wrote: "Philo, who lived a century after him 
[Aristobulus], following the same theory, endeavored to show that the Hebrew writings, by their system 
of allegories, were the true source of all religions and philosophic doctrines. According to him, the 
literal meaning is for the vulgar alone." Pike is not talking about what Masonry teaches or what 
Masons believe. He is talking about what Philo of Alexandria taught. As perfect an example of smoke 
without fire as I know-taking an index entry, adding words to it, assigning it to the wrong writer, and 
then using it to say something it doesnt say at all!     
It is typical of the so-called "research" done by most anti-Masons.
They first of all decide to hate us, and then seek out materials which can be taken out of context or 
simply fabricated, in order to prove their "diagnosis." Or they quote passages from some writers 
opinions and speculations and announce it as "official doctrine" of the Fraternity.
Remember-when you encounter their writings, check out everything they say. If the doctor is going 
to ignore your symptoms, youd better learn a little medicine yourself. It can save you a fortune in 
snake oil.
*The Cloud of Prejudice: A Study in Anti-Masonry, by Art DeHoyos. Paperbound, 188 pp., 
Kessinger Publishing, P.O. Box 160, Kila, MT 59920, Tel. 406 756-0167, $14.95. S/H $4.50 first 
book, each additional book add $.50. Is It True What They Say About Freemasonry?, by S. Brent 
Morris and Art DeHoyos, Center for Masonic Information, 8120 Fenton Street, Silver Spring, MD 
20910, Tel. 301 588-4010, $4.30 per copy  (S/H included). Quantity purchase discount of 40% for 50 
copies or more (plus shipping cost).
Editors Note: Following up on Gary Leasers article "Opportunities for the Future" in the January 
Scottish Rite Journal, this is the second of a series of articles on the theme of "Freemasonry and 
Religion" which will appear in this magazine, at least one article per month. The articles are part of a 
continuing response for our Brethren and to the general public regarding this important subject.
We have just enough religion to make us hate, but not enough to make us love one another.
Joanthan Swift, Miscellanies, 1711
Religion cannot be kept within the bounds of sermons and scriptures. It is a force in itself and it 
calls for the integration of lands and peoples in harmonious unity.
Vine Victor Deloria, Jr., God Is Red, 1973
 (The author is a Sioux Indian.)
The various religions are like different roads converging on the same point. What difference does it 
make if we follow different routes, provided we arrive at the same destination?
Mahatma Gandhi, Autobiography, 1924
Jim Tresner
is the Director of the Masonic Leadership Institute and editor of The Oklahoma Mason. A 
volunteer writer for The Oklahoma Scottish Rite Mason and a video script consultant for the National 
Masonic Renewal Committee, he is also Director of the Thirty-third Degree Conferral Team and 
Director of the Work at the Guthrie Scottish Rite Temple in Guthrie, Oklahoma.

To Your Health

Forgetfulness

Contrary to popular belief, memory problems are treatable and reversible.

Sally J. Clasen
Vim and Vigor Magazine, Winter 1991
Submitted and condensed by
Scott Johnson RN, Master Mason
P.O. Box 233
Roebuck, South Carolina  29376

Memory loss can occur at any age and may cause us to think we have Alzheimers disease which is 
a debilitating progressive dementia. More than likely those frequent memory problems are treatable and 
reversible. Depression often mimics the symptoms of Alzheimers disease. Those suffering from 
Alzheimers experience depression in the early stages, but once the disease progresses, the depression 
lifts because the patient loses awareness of the problem.
Memory loss rooted in depression is a psychological condition, and the patient is very aware of it. 
In contrast to Alzheimers, depressions onset is fairly quick. Depression causes symptoms of memory 
loss because patients have difficulty with attention. Depressed people do not care to remember. If you 
think you have Alzheimers, you probably do not since Alzheimers patients are often unaware of their 
loss of 
function. 
Some memory loss may be due to medication interaction and dosage. If you suspect memory loss 
due to prescription interaction, consult your physician.     
Also, poor nutrition and problems with food absorption, diets that lack B-complex, vitamins such 
as thiamine, niacin and Bl2 can trigger dementing symptoms. Be sure to eat properly. Thiamine 
deficiencies are a result of diets that lack pork, whole grain, brewers yeast, organ meats, green 
vegetables, and dairy products. Electrolyte concentrations-especially sodium, potassium, calcium and 
magnesium-will be affected by too much or too little water intake. Chronic lung and heart disease 
contribute greatly to memory dysfunction. The brain needs high-quality nutrition and oxygen. 
When the cause of a memory disorder is irreversible dementia, many techniques to improve the 
quality of life can be employed. Reminiscence focuses on recalling experiences from the past to build 
self-esteem and confidence and takes patients back to a time when life was better for them. Sedatives 
may be used to control hostility, frustration, or anger. A person may lose up to 70 percent of 
neurological functions before developing symptoms which merit an Alzheimers diagnosis.
While the cases of untreatable dementias such as Alzheimers remain high, the odds are favorable 
for many of those suffering from other forms of memory loss. Remember self-diagnosis is dangerous. 
A medical exam for those unsure of the etiologies of memory loss is still the best place to start.
Reprint permission requested from Vim and Vigor Magazine, Fred Petrovsky, Editor.
Health Articles Wanted
If you are a health professional or just an interested Brother and wish to share with the readers of 
the Scottish Rite Journal some subject you feel is relevant to their health interests, please send your 
essay (from 500 to 700 words in length) to The Supreme Council, 33 , 1733 Sixteenth Street, NW, 
Washington DC 20009-3199. Please include a portrait photograph and biography and address your 
letter 
Attention: Scottish Rite Journal.
The health of nations is more important than the wealth of nations.
Will Durant, The Story of Civilization

Two Crafts One Mission

Jack Allen, 32 
3214 Maygreen Avenue
Forestville, MD  20747

I am a barber and I am a Mason. One has given me sustenance, the other guideposts and 
inspiration for living.
Both have grown and developed to meet changing times although barbering remained an operative 
craft while masonry became both an operative and a speculative one. As we know, masonry as an 
operative craft began in the Stone Age when men first used primitive tools to build. It was not until the 
17th century that we had our origins as a Speculative Craft in England.
As the need for master builders decreased with the decline in the age of building great cathedrals, 
the operative lodges which had grown up began to decline and disappear. Then, men who were not 
active builders were taken into membership, often only for the social pleasure and philanthropic dimen-
sion of the organization. From that humble beginning grew the magnificent moral and humanitarian or-
ganization we have come to know as Freemasonry.
How much the principles of our Fraternity have influenced history can never be known. We do 
know, however, that Brothers of the Craft had a dynamic influence in shaping the Declaration of 
Independence and our greatest treasure as a Nation, the Constitution.
Barbering, like the operative origins of Masonry, can also be traced back to mans earliest times. 
In fact, polished stone and shaving implements made of horn have been excavated from earth stratums 
as old as the Stone Age.
As a craft, barbering dates from the days of earliest civilization in Egypt about 4,000 B.C. The 
Pyramids reveal not only many tonsorial tools but also plenty of hieroglyphics on their walls explaining 
how these tools were used.
At the time of Plato in ancient Greece, when the god of medicine, Aesculapius, was worshiped, the 
barber-surgeon cult was born,  then spread to Europe, where it flourished until George II of England 
ordered a final separation of the two orders, barbers and surgeons, in the middle of the 18th Century.
For all these years to the present, head, face and body hair has been trimmed, cut, eliminated, and 
ministered to by barbers according to expedience, changing styles, and religious beliefs.
Barbering is referred to by the biblical prophet when he says, "And thou, son of man, take thee a 
barbers razor and cause it to pass upon thine head and upon thy beard."(Ezekiel 5:1) Whatever the 
case, the tonsorial art grew out of the common urge for cleanliness or the human frailty of vanity.
For instance, most of the men in Americas colonial days were smooth-shaven, and many of the 
rich wore wigs. There is no doubt that the barber, when in service to the common man, took his place 
alongside that of the blacksmith and candlestick maker, while more and more wealthy persons shifted 
this responsibility to servants. Thus, from the high social level enjoyed in earlier years, particularly in 
England, the barbers prestige slipped to its lowest ebb. As people moved westward in America, there 
was little time for wigs and such personal embellishments. The pioneer life was hard. The men let their 
hair grow as well as their beards. This provided protection from the cold or heat and eliminated the 
need for a barber. The Civil War, which closely followed the westward movement, brought more 
changes to America, including the reestablishment of the barbershop as an accepted institution on Main 
Street.
The usual barbershop at that time cost approximately $20 to equip and was 10 or 12 feet square in 
size. The shop had a straight-back chair and a headpiece resembling a crutch, a basin of water, a piece 
of common soap for softening the beard, shaving cup and brush, a few "sitting chairs," enough towels 
to last the week-probably six- and one towel for each ten to twelve customers. Here the patron could 
get his hair cut for five to ten cents. His beard was shaved off in a 
couple of swipes, and his face wiped-all for three cents-leaving the customer to wash his face when 
and where he could.
Around the turn of the century, many German and Italian barbers migrated to America and opened 
barbershops which were better equipped. But this did not ensure prosperity. The journeyman barber 
still made less than $10 per week and worked seven days a week, generally running from 7 A.M. to mid-
night on Saturdays and at least a half-day on Sunday so that patrons could get shaved before going to 
church.
At first, barbering was taught solely by the apprenticeship method, at the chair in the barbershops. 
The apprentice began by cleaning the shop, emptying spittoons, and applying the initial lather. He then 
advanced to neck shaving and childrens haircutting, until eventually he could perform all operations. 
Barber schooling was informal at the outset, the only requirement being the ability to pay tuition. Some 
students stayed only a few days or weeks, others for a few months.
Today, the curriculum of the modern barber school has been broadened to meet high standards. 
The teaching of sanitation, body structure, facial and scalp treatment, and related subjects now com-
prise a major curriculum. 
In 1897, Minnesota became the first state to pass a license law, and the "Uniform License Act" 
was drawn up in 1909 at a convention of the state Boards of Barber Examiners held in Indianapolis, 
Indiana.
When I was growing up in Curtisville, Pennsylvania, the man I most admired, other than my father, 
was a very active Mason, and I often wondered if I could be a member, but I did not petition a Lodge. 
First I finished high school, spent four years in the Navy, and attended barber school for a year.
Then I moved to Washington, DC, in 1959, and I have worked as a barber here ever since. In 
1963, I became a Master Mason, and for two years I was Worshipful Master of Centennial Lodge No. 
174 in Upper Marlboro, Maryland.
There have been few influences in my life as lasting as the lessons I have learned in Freemasonry. I 
treasure those lessons and the friendships I have gained over the years from that association.
One of my regular customers during my career was Robert Haldemann, who was Chief of Staff for 
then President Nixon. He offered me the opportunity to work at the White House one day a week, and 
that was an exciting period for some years. 
I must admit that I kept hoping that the Presidents barber would be off one day and that I would 
get a chance to cut the Presidents hair, but although I saw and spoke to the President, I never had the 
opportunity to serve him professionally.
Barbers get a chance to become friends with many of their customers. I have always felt that one of 
the prime obligations of a persons barber is to have a listening ear and a closed mouth. A certain trust 
can be gained, and I have been privileged to know many of the great and near-great men during my 
time in Washington through the opportunities which my craft has given me. Two of the truly great men 
and Masons I have come in contact with are the late Florida Congressman William V. Chappell, Jr., 
32 , K\C\C\H\, and President Gerald Ford, 33 . If there is one statement about our Craft that I 
treasure the most, it was one made by former Congressman Don Fuqua, 33 , of Florida, now President 
of the Aerospace Industries of America. He is my friend, and I have been his barber for many years. He 
said to me one day, "You know, Jack, this country was built by persons like those who became bar-
bers. They responded to a need, they adapted to changes brought on by shifts in style, but they have re-
mained essentially what they have been for centuries. Their work cannot be done by machines."
There are thousands of my fellow barbers who are Masons. We are part of something much larger 
than ourselves, something enriching and inspiring. And for that, I am humbly grateful.    s

Jack Allen is a Navy veteran and has worked as a Capitol Hill barber for 35 years. He served twice 
as Worshipful Master of Centennial Lodge No. 174 in Upper Marlboro, MD, and is a member of the 
Scottish Rite Bodies in Alexandria, VA. He is also a member of Kena Temple of the Shrine, Fairfax, 
VA.

Facing The Challenge:Freemasonry in Portugal Today

The recent reconsecration of the regular Supreme Council, 33 , of Portugal marks a turning point 
in world Freemasonry.

Jos Eduardo Pisani Burnay, 33 
Sovereign Grand Commander
The Supreme Council, 33 
of Portugal
Ave. Duque de Avila 20-4 
1000 Lisboa, Portugal

ON behalf of all the Portuguese Masons who recently received the Sublime Thirty-Third and Last 
Degree of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite from the hands of our American Brethren, I would 
like to express our gratitude and pride in such a meaningful event.
This was indeed a moment of special significance: once again, American Freemasonry makes 
history for America and for the world.
In a magnificent ceremony, in a place so full of tradition and symbolism as the House of the 
Temple in Washington, DC, we had the honor to contribute to the closing of a cycle and the beginning 
of a new chapter in the history of the Portuguese Freemasonry.
We come from a small country, situated just across the Atlantic, in the part of the European coast 
which, significantly, is closest to America. Our nation is one of the oldest in Europe, and our ancestors 
opened new sea routes and spread the western culture and the Christian religion in many distant lands 
all over the world.
We have inherited much of the spirit of the "Order of the Temple" as many of its members were 
integrated in the Portuguese society as the Knights of Christ who had an important role in our history. 
In addition, our heritage as Portuguese Masons consists also in the churches, cathedrals, monasteries, 
fortifications, and all the other buildings where the Masonic Masters left their symbolic marks and 
significant teachings. The tolerant and peaceful nature of our people has been recognized wherever the 
Portuguese have settled.
With all these assets, it would only be natural that Freemasonry should have harmoniously 
flourished among us. Unfortunately, it hasnt been so. The development of the Craft in the south of 
Europe was often hindered by the effects of the lone struggle against political tyranny and religious 
intolerance.
In modern times, the first Lodge on Portuguese soil was founded by English traders, in 1727, and 
recognized by the Grand Lodge of London in 1735. Others followed, mainly for foreign diplomats and 
officers. The first Lodges to admit Portuguese members were created through French Masonry, and 
they were deeply influenced by the rebellious spirit of French intellectuals actively involved in the 
political fight for freedom and civil rights.
In the last two hundred years, which have been hard times of social and political unrest, the 
Portuguese Lodges joined openly the fight against oppression and obscurantism. The price to pay, as 
also happened in France, was that many Brethren were persecuted, tortured, killed or exiled, and 
regularity was lost.
When democracy was finally reestablished, about twenty years ago, the Craft could be revitalized 
and expanded. Then, a few devoted Masons (four of them here present at the reconsecration of the 
Supreme Council, 33 , of Portugal on October 19, 1993, in Washington, DC), nurtured the dream of 
getting back to regularity. With the help of the Grande Loge Nationale Franaise, the regular Grand 
Lodge of Portugal was created and immediately recognized by all regular Masonic groups in the world. 
Now it keeps spreading and maturing.
It hasnt been easy, however, to change traditional attitudes and return to true Masonic ways. 
While American Masonry could develop naturally in all the fields of human action, and its great 
achievements are there for everyone to see, we have been confined for too long to the labyrinth of 
political conspiracy, and the lessons of our past do not point out in all the directions we presently seek. 
But we are ready to face up to the challenge, and with the help of American Freemasonry, we will work 
for the improvement of ourselves and our society.
It is now our honor and our responsibility to institute the Supreme Coun-cil, 33 , for Portugal and to act in conformity with the high expectations of 
Freemasonry everywhere. May the Supreme Architect of the Universe help us with our new duties and show us the light in our work for the progress of 
Masonry and of mankind!

Jos Eduardo Pisani Burnay
was one of the foun-ders of the Grand Lodge Regular of Portaugal and the first Master of Europa 
Lodge No. 3, Past Senior Warden and Past Grand Inspector. He has an important collection of 
Masonic objects and books.

Editor's note: On October 19, 1993, the Supreme Council, 33 , of Portugal, as headed by Sov\ Gr\ 
Cmdr\ Jos Eduardo Pisani Burnay, 33 , was reconsecrated in Washington, DC. This article represents  
Ill\ Burnay's response to this great occasion in the history of Scottish Rite Freemasonry.
What Is Your Investment in Masonry?
A Masonic scholar once said, "The greatest honor we could bestow upon our Masonic forefathers 
would be to live for those things for which they died."
Through our dedication to God, our families, our country and our fellowman, we can assure the 
doors of our Masonic Lodges will always remain open. We must pledge ourselves ever to walk and act 
as Masons. If we do, this Fraternity will survive and prosper.
Will you work hard and make that commitment? If you do, that will be your investment in 
Masonry.
Ill\ John C. Alexander, 33 
Tulsa, Oklahoma, Scottish Rite Bodies

Current Interest

Ill\ Gary W. West Appointed Deputy in Idaho

Ill\ Gary W. West, 33 , was appointed Deputy of this Supreme Council in the Orient of Idaho 
effective November 15, 1993, succeeding Ill\ Lowell C. Jensen, 33 , S\G\I\G\ in Idaho, who 
passed away unexpectedly on November 6, 1993.
Ill\ West was raised a Master Mason in Pine Lodge No. 149 in Halfway, Oregon, on April 4, 
1957, and became a Thirty-second Degree Mason in the Baker, Oregon, Scottish Rite Bodies, on 
November 2, 1957. Since then, he has served Freemasonry in a number of outstanding ways including 
the following: President, Idaho Scottish Rite Foundation, Inc., 1985-present; Reunion Class Leader; 
Presiding Officer of all four Bodies, Boise Scottish Rite; High Priest and Prophet, El Korah Shrine 
Temple Divan, 1993; Associate Guardian, Jobs Daughters, Bethel No. 52, Boise; Parliamentarian, 
member of Committees on Finance and Education Loans, Grand Council of Jobs Daughters. He was 
instrumental in the organization and startup of Idahos first Scottish Rite Childhood Language 
Disorders Center, located in Twin Falls, Idaho, which began operation in April 1991, and a second 
clinic was opened in Boise in July 1993.
For these and other services to the Craft, he was invested with the Rank and Decoration of Knight 
Commander Court of Honour in 1985 and coroneted an Inspector General Honorary in 1989.
Professionally an Engineering Project Manager with Morrison Knudsen 
Corporation of Boise, Ill\ West has been active in a number of civic organizations. For instance, he 
held three three-year terms on the Meridian, Idaho, School Board and served on all the Boards 
committees as well as several terms as Chairman of the Board. Meridian is the second largest school 
district in Idaho, serving about 17,000 students and handling an annual budget of over $40 million. 
Ill\ West also served on the State Advisory Committee on Consolidation of School Districts, the State 
Department of Education/Legislative Advisory Committee, and the Governors Committee on 
Excellence in Education. He was President of the Idaho School Boards Association in 1983.
The Supreme Council, 33 , is pleased to welcome so able and outstanding a Brother as Ill\ Gary 
W. West, 33 , to the position of Deputy in Idaho.

Ill\ Tommy F. H. Weng Appointed Deputy of Taiwan and China

Ill\ Tommy F. H. Weng, 33 , was appointed Deputy of this Supreme Council in the Orient of 
Taiwan and China effective on November 15, 1993, succeeding Ill\ Ian Lin, 33 , who passed away on 
November 11, 1993, after a long illness.
Ill\ Weng was born in Shanghai, China, and raised a Master Mason in Sun Lodge No. 6, Taipei, 
Taiwan, ROC, on September 4, 1970, and served his Lodge as Worshipful 
Master, 1975-76. He became a Thirty-second Degree Mason in the Taipei 
Scottish Rite Bodies on September 28, 1974. Senior Grand Steward in 1977 of the Grand Lodge of 
China (GLOC), he progressed through most of the chairs of the Grand Lodge, served on various 
committees, and chaired the Committees on Publicity, Audit, and Credentials. Also, he was Chairman 
of the Committee on the occasion of the 40th anniversary of the GLOC during which he was Deputy 
Grand Master. As Grand Master of the Grand Lodge  of F\&A\M\ of China in 1989-91, he had 
led a delegation to Hong Kong where the Grand Lodge of China was recognized by the English and 
Irish Grand Lodges.
Ill\ Weng has been a member since 1974 of Afifi Shrine Temple, and, he has served the Taipei 
Scottish Rite Bodies as Wise Master, Chapter of Rose Croix (1978) and Venerable Master, Lodge of 
Perfection (1981).
For these and many other services to Freemasonry and his community, Bro\ Weng was invested 
with the Rank and Decoration of Knight Commander Court of Honour in 1983 and coroneted an 
Inspector General Honorary in 1989.
Regarding his business career, Ill\ Weng was cofounder in 1963 of Willington Engineering Co., 
Ltd., a distributor of "Link 51" U.K. for "Handy Angle" and Boltless System for 10 years. 
Incidentally, the other cofounder was R\W\ Bro\ Samson Hsin, Past Deputy Grand Master of 
GLOC, also a 32  Scottish Rite Mason in the Taipei Bodies. Several years later, a subsidiary 
company, Willington Fabrications Co., Ltd., was founded. During the last decade, this company has 
gained a high reputation in the areas of industrial storage, material handling equipment, library book 
stacks, and related storage cabinets. In September 1993, this company was appointed by Hytrol 
Conveyor Co., Inc., of Jonesboro, Arkansas, to be their distributor. The Scottish Rite welcomes this 
competent and accomplished Brother to the post of Deputy in the Orient of Taiwan and China.

Gen. Boomer Speaks at Richmond Investiture

On November 20, 1993, General Walter E. Boomer, USMC, 33 , was the main speaker at the 
Richmond, Virginia, Scottish Rite Temple for the ceremony of investing with the Rank and Decoration 
of Knight Commander Court of Honour 48 newly elected Brethren in the Orient of Virginia. Ill\ 
Boomer, Assistant Commandant, U. S. Marine Corps, spoke of his personal Masonic experiences and 
how they have paralleled his career in the Marine Corps. Both great institutions, he noted, are linked 
philosophically in history and in their purpose of building better men.
General Boomer was accompanied to the investiture by Brig. Gen. Thomas L. Wilkerson, 33 , and 
both men were warmly welcomed by Ill\ David Kruger, 33 , S\G\I\G\ in Virginia, who also 
eloquently addressed the assemblage of newly honored Brethren as did M\W\ Werner H. Morlock, 
32 , K\C\C\H\, Grand Master of Masons in Virginia, who was the Active Candidate for the 
class. Also present to congratulate the new Knight Commanders were Ill\ John W. Boettjer, 33 , 
G\C\, Managing Editor, Scottish Rite Journal, and Judge James B. Wilkinson, 33 , Orient Personal 
Representative of the S\G\I\G\ in Virginia. 
In addition to the inspiring words of Bros\ Boomer, Kruger and Morlock, other highlights of the 
memorable day were the performance of the K\C\C\H\ Ritual by an expert joint team made up of 
Brethren from Portsmouth and Newport News. The team was ably led by Ill\ William M. Benson, Sr., 
33 , who fulfilled the role of Sovereign Grand Commander. A delightful reception followed the 
investiture program, and everyone was invited to tour the Richmond Temples beautiful new Childhood 
Language Disorders Center located in the Earl H. Wicker Building adjoining the Temple.

Morgan Affair Papers

The Livingston Masonic Library recently added to its archives a series of 32 manuscripts dating 
from 1827 to 1831 which shed light upon the prosecution of Freemasons following the disappearance 
of William Morgan. These important documents were originally the property of Victory Birdseye, the 
Special Counsel employed by New York State to investigate the Morgan Affair, and they include 
transcriptions of witness testimonies, discussions of legal aspects of the Morgan affair, and significant 
information concerning the environment in which the anti-Masonic movement fluorished. These papers 
descended through the Birdseye family before coming to rest at the Livingston Masonic Library. They 
are now available to Masonic researchers for the first time in generations. The Livingston Masonic 
Library is a non-profit center for the collection, study, and preservation of the Masonic heritage.
For further information concerning the Victory Birdseye papers, or to arrange an appointment to 
see them, please contact Kathleen M. Haley, Librarian, Livingston Masonic Library, 71 West 23rd 
Street, New York, New York, 10010-4171, or call (212) 741-4505.

Architects Meet To Discuss Temple Addition

On November 13, 1993, Ill\ W. Gene Sizemore, 33 , G\C\, Grand Executive Director, met at 
the House of the Temple with two architects and three architectural students, as well as others (see 
photo, facing page), involved in developing plans for the proposed Library/Museum addition to the 
House of the Temple.
Architect and Bro\ Donald H. Misner, 32 , K\C\C\H\, who designed the original plans for 
the proposed addition, was pleased to share ideas for the intended building with Bro\ Samir Youns, 
Professor of Classical Architecture, University of Notre Dame, and three of Professor Youns Notre 
Dame School of Architecture graduate students. Each student had developed plans for the addition as a 
doctoral thesis project.
Nebojsa L. Savic, Noah A. Waldman, and Steven T. Chrisman all presented several detailed 
architectural drawings of differing approaches to the addition. Each proposal included such features as 
an elevated plaza connecting the House of the Temple to the addition, reading rooms and book stacks, 
gallery space and a theater, archives and administrative offices, underground parking and landscaping. 
These diverse, thorough, and creative proposals will be used in formulating final plans for the 
addition which will go forward as funds become available through the generosity of the Brethren.

Without Roots We Wither Away

The lessons of our Masonic Degrees are good seeds, but are we allowing them to wither? 

James B. White, 32 
District Deputy Grand Master North Carolina 42nd District
Box 488 
Pineville, North Carolina  28134

Some weeks ago my Pastor used as his sermons text Matthew 13: 1-9. This passage reveals a 
parable of Jesus concerning a sower who went forth to sow. Some seeds fell by the wayside and were 
eaten by fowls; some fell upon stony places and sprung up with no roots, withering away when the sun 
was up to scorch them because they had no foundation; some fell upon thorns and were choked; others 
fell upon good ground and brought forth abundant fruit.
From this sermon I drew a comparison to Masonry. Throughout the several Degrees of Masonry, 
the teachings are provided to develop a strong Masonic foundation with a deep root system. Sadly to 
say, not all of our Brethren develop the depth of understanding that builds a base which will withstand 
attacks from the uninitiated on our beloved Fraternity.
Beginning with the First Degree, we learn that a Masons tenets are Brotherly Love, Relief and 
Truth. All of us are one family with one Almighty Parent, and we are to aid, support, and protect each 
other. It is our duty to relieve the distressed, soothe the unhappy, mitigate their miseries, and restore 
peace to their troubled minds. Truth is the first lesson we are taught in Masonry. We are to regulate 
our conduct in such a manner that we will deal fairly and sincerely with ourselves, our God, our 
neighbors, and our government.
We are charged to support our Blue Lodge, but our primary allegiances are to God, our family, 
and our livelihood; for these are to be neglected on no occasion. We are taught further to study 
Masonry and to converse with well-informed Brethren who will be as ready to give as we are to receive 
the seeds that build firm foundations.
As we continue our Masonic journey, we are taught the symbolism of the Square and that it is a 
rule and guide to our conduct. We are reminded that God is supreme and that the internal qualities of a 
man are of prime importance. We should be careful in our judgment of others, and we should 
personally persevere in the practice of every commendable virtue.
And then, in the final teachings of the symbolic Lodge, we learn of the solemnity of the ceremonies, 
the wisdom and profoundness of the lessons, and the symbolism of its great doctrines. Our belief in the 
resurrection of the body and the immortality of the soul are also reinforced in the Masonic teachings; 
"Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth. . . . [for] the dust shall return to the earth as it 
was, and the spirit unto God Who gave it."
If any of our Brethren come into our Fraternity without developing this firm foundation and depth 
of Masonic understanding, I ask you, who is at fault? Certainly not the candidate and new Brother! I 
submit that, somewhere, those of us who fill the several responsible positions in the Blue Lodges have 
failed in our duty to convey the great Masonic teachings to these Brothers.
Each of us should take a long look at our own Masonic root system. Is it shallow or deep? What 
can we do about ourselves? Are we allowing our Fraternity to wither away and become less than it 
ought and must be, or will we do what is necessary in our own lives to ensure a firm Masonic 
foundation in our Blue Lodges?
The answer lies within you and within me!

THE LAST REUNION REVISITED

A participant recalls incidents of the 1938 last reunion of army veterans of the battle of 
Gettysburg.

Eugene C. Jacobs, 32 
4695 Pebble Bay Circle
Vero Beach, Florida  32963-1118

I read "The Last Reunion" by Brother Robert A. Rich, 32 , in the July 1991 the Scottish Rite 
Journal with great interest. It described how in 1938, 75 years after the event, veterans of the battle of 
Gettysburg revisited the historic site for a "Last Reunion."
As a young Captain in the Army Medical Corps, and a recent graduate of the Army Medical 
School in Washington, DC (spring of 1938), I was ordered to take a medical team to Gettysburg, 
Pennsylvania.
Our team was composed of several medical officers and personnel sufficient to operate a field 
hospital. We were to set up an aid station to care for the needs of the nearly 2000 Civil War veterans 
(well in their nineties) coming to the 75th Reunion of the Battle of Gettysburg.
These old soldiers were invited by the Governor of Pennsylvania and Uncle Sam; each veteran was 
to have an escort to care for his every need. Metropolitan Life Insurance Company announced, "At 
least six of the veterans would die each day."
We chose the gully between Big Round-Top and Little Round-Top  Mountains as a central location 
for our aid station with easy access to all areas. On June 29, 1938, these old soldiers with their escorts 
began to arrive by train from every section of the country. They were housed in a tent city. Many 
supporting troops were also arriving to care for the veterans.
During this "Last Reunion," I got to visit with many of the old soldiers. We heard fascinating 
stories as each old veteran told the part he had played during these three days which have been labeled 
"the most crucial days in American history."
Every evening each old soldier received a hot toddy to help relax him for the long night. On 
Sunday, chaplains from the North and South held religious services for the various faiths. And most 
exciting, the supporting troops actually refought the battles around Gettysburg in the same sequence as 
of 75 years previously.
Hoping to force President Lincoln to seek peace, General Robert E. Lees forces, marching up the 
Blue Ridge Mountains, arrived at Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, on July 1, 1862, and achieved an early 
advantage over the Union Army. General Meades Armies, selected to stop the rebels, arrived the same 
day. Hand-to-hand fighting became fierce, and the casualties were in the thousands. By July 4, the tide 
had turned, and Lees Armies were driven back across the Potomac. The climax of the reenactment was 
President Lincolns "double" giving the famous address, "Four score and seven years ago. . . ."
During the eight days of activity, which passed very quickly, we didnt have a single death. It 
seemed these old veterans were all "hyped" for this special occasion of their final days, though many 
died on their trains going home.
These were exciting days for a young medical officer, just beginning a 31-year, worldwide medical 
career.
Eugene Jacobs is a member of the Scottish Rite Bodies, District of Columbia. He retired with the 
rank of Colonel from the United States Medical Corps in 1965. His impressive achievements 
include three tours of service at the prestigious Walter Reed Hospital, two in the Office of the 
Surgeon General, one each inthe Department of Defense, the War Claims Commission, and the 
Office of the Secretary of the Army.
Entirely too many meetings start at 7:30 sharp and end at 10:30 dull.
Don't take life too seriously; its not permanent.

Charlies Return

Broken in spirit and body, Charlie found under-
standing and acceptance through Freemasonry.

Dr. Bobby J. Demott, 33 
3501 Equestrian Way, Knoxville, Tennessee  37921

HE became a Mason when in his early twenties, but, giving  priority to his family and professional 
obligations, he seldom attended a Lodge meeting. At age 45 Charlie had a heart attack.  In his 
weakened condition, he lost control of his family, and it collapsed. Charlie was helpless, alone, 
desolate, forlorn, broken in spirit as well as in body. 
Numerous conferences with his pastor and with his fellow workers were unproductive.  No one 
seemed to want to become involved. In this hopeless condition, failing to find understanding, 
compassion, help or com- fort, Charlie returned to Masonry. The Blue Lodge Ritual was indeed 
beautiful to Charlie; here were wonderful words of Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth which sometimes 
tightened his throat. Charlie was accepted for what he  was, no more and no less, a man and a Mason, 
no better and no worse than any person in the Lodge. At last he had found persons who cared about 
him.  A friendly pat on the back and words like "never mind your heartaches, we understand" were  
indeed wonderful therapy.  
Charlies return to normalcy was enhanced when he took the Scottish Rite Degrees.  In subsequent 
months, through encouragement from the Brethren, he was revived, pulled from the depths of 
depression and despair, and made to realize that he had Brotherly Love here on earth and that his life 
here was to have a purpose, an objective, an aim. He realized very wholeheartedly the great value of 
the teachings and aims of Masonry. He benefitted immensely from the fact that Masons are instructed 
to soothe the unhappy, to sympathize with their misfortunes, to feel compassion for their miseries, to 
restore peace to their troubled minds, and to offer a helping hand that might keep a Brother from 
sinking.  
Masonry, in essence, saved Charlies life, saved him from a mere meaningless existence, and 
enabled him again to function normally, productively, and happily.     s

Bobby J. Demott retired in 1990. Prior to his retirement Bro\ Demott spent over 33 years on the 
faculty at The University of Tennessee where he taught and conducted research in the area of dairy 
products. Bro\ Demott is a member of Cherokee Lodge No. 728, Knoxville, and the Knoxville Scottish 
Rite Bodies.

Masonic Ring Inspires Confidence

The Scottish Rite Journal sometimes carries stories about Masonic rings. Here is one from a trip 
my wife and I took to England a few years ago.
We were standing in line waiting for a security check before entering the Tower of London to view 
the crown jewels of England. My wife was ahead of me in line, and as the guard was about to open her 
handbag, he asked her if she was with me. After an affirmative reply, he handed her bag back to her 
and, pointing to the Masonic ring on my finger, he commented that anyone wearing that ring had to be 
OK. He then beckoned for the two of us to proceed. Needless to say, I was extremely proud of my 
membership in our great Fraternity!
Bro\ Linwood W. Cherry, 32 
Norfolk, Virginia, Scottish Rite Bodies 

EDITORS NOTE: For information on a new Scottish Rite 32  ring, pictured above right, see the 
back inside cover of this issue.

From Astronomy to Zoology

Charleston, West Virginia, Scottish Rite supports the 
National Youth Science Camp.

Howard G. Johe, 33 
406 Capitol Street, Suite 300
Charleston, West Virginia  25301-1717

The National Youth Science Camp, held annually in the remote hills of West 
Virginia, honors the nations most outstanding science students with four weeks of programs that 
encourage scientific creativity and challenge delegates to evaluate their goals and social responsibilities. 
Two delegates from each state and the District of Columbia, 102 in all, participate for four weeks in 
forums, unique lecture series, and hands-on research opportunities featuring recognized leaders from 
diverse scientific disciplines- medicine, biology, zoology, astronomy, genetics, statistics, and 
mathematics.
For thirty years, sponsorship by the State of West Virginia, especially industries and foundations 
related to the state, has paid for all expenses of this month-long camp. Senators John D. Rockefeller 
IV, and Robert C. Byrd, 33 , G\C\, are very vocal and active personally in support of the camp. In 
that thirty years, over 2,900 young men and women have come to the mountains of West Virginia to 
participate in not only the scientific activities but also to hike, kayak, cave, and climb the cliffs of 
Seneca Rocks. Their musical talents are also encouraged. A jazz band, chorus, and various soloists are 
formed from each years delegates to entertain the camp and develop the performing arts.     
All the 1993 delegates have distinguished themselves academically as valedictorians, salutatorians, 
national merit scholars, Robert C. Byrd scholars, and as members of Girls State and Boys State 
programs. Fifty-eight are listed in Whos Who Among American High School Students. They also 
participate in community activities including Special Olympics and tutoring or environmental 
programs. Six of the young men in 1993 have received the Eagle Scout Award and one of the women 
the Gold Award. They write prose and poetry; they play basketball, tennis, baseball, run track and 
wrestle. They are truly the cream of our American youth!
Friendships kindled around campfires in the West Virginia wilderness will last a lifetime. These 
young people have just graduated from high school, and all are committed to some of the finest colleges 
and universities in the nation-many on scholarships. Of the delegates to the camp in 1993, five will 
attend Harvard, five are enrolled at M.I.T., and five are headed to Stanford. The other delegates list of 
colleges reads like the honor roll of our educational system-Michigan, Wisconsin, Purdue, Cal Tech 
Carnegie Mellon, Duke, Case Western, John Hopkins, Wake Forest, Rice, and others.
The Scottish Rite Valley of Charleston, West Virginia, is a strong supporter and contributor to the 
National Youth Science Camp. Every year, the delegates arrive in Charleston on a Sunday evening, and 
the Rite hosts their farewell banquet and all-night party at the Scottish Rite Temple and aboard a river 
steam wheeler. Then we serve them breakfast before they leave for the airport to fly home.
After four weeks in our beautiful hills with some day trips to the U.S. Senate and the National 
Space Museum in Washington, DC, in addition to a visit to the Baltimore Aquarium, they spend the 
last evening in our Temple reflecting and discussing with each other their achievements and their newly 
made friendships. We set up microphones in our auditorium, and the students cast aside their 
inhibitions long enough to talk about their ambitions and feelings for each other and the months 
memories of sharing each others lives.
The West Virginia Youth Science Camp is a unique, ambitious, and gratifying experience for the 
delegates, their counselors, their study leaders, and everyone related to their activities. The Scottish 
Rite Valley of Charleston, West Virginia, is proud of the small part we are able to play in nurturing 
these young citizens. 

Howard G. Johe is Personal Representative in the Valley of Charleston for Ill\ C.B. Hall, 33 , 
S\G\I\G\ in West Virginia. A member of Kanawah Lodge No. 20 in Charleston, Brother Johe 
is a retired architect and is very active in advancing a variety of Masonic and Scottish Rite 
programs.

SQUARING OFF

Our Readers Respond
vPOINT/COUNTERPOINT

The Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Washington requests permission to reprint 
Grand Commander Kleinknechts entire article entitled "Quality Food for the Mind and Heart of 
Freemasons" from the November issue of the Scottish Rite Journal.
A major theme of our Masonic program this year is the requirement to recognize that changes are 
necessary to bring Freemasonry into the 21st century. To this end we are actively involved in the 
Masonic Renewal program and other programs to interest inactive members and non-Masons in our 
Craft. I believe the Grand Commanders message in this issue is the kind of presentation that every 
Mason in our Jurisdiction should see and hear.

M\W\ Kenneth S. Robinson, 32 
Grand Master, Washington

I was appalled with the seeming acceptance of the District of Columbia action by Grand 
Commander C. Fred Kleinknecht in his November message "Quality Food for the Mind and Heart of 
Freemasons."
As Editor-in-Chief of the Scottish Rite Journal, Ill\ Kleinknecht should read and understand the 
very fine article, "Education, the Spirit of Freemasonry," by Dr. Rex R. Hutchens in the same issue.
It is inconceivable to me that ANYONE can consider someone to be a Master Mason when he has 
received all three Degrees in two weekends with apparently no proficiences at all. "McMason" is 
probably a good classification for these candidates. Masonry can only suffer irreparable damage if this 
type of action is condoned.

Bro\ John M. Moore, 32 
Beaumont, California
 Scottish Rite Bodies

Addendum: Putting these two essays in the same issue of the Journal was deliberate. Among the 
magazines several roles, the Journal is intended as a forum for the Fraternity. If it did not broach 
issues and spur discussions, it would lose a good portion of its benefit as a catalyst for needed change 
in our Order.
The two articles referred to above assert differing attitudes. By spurring Brethren to consider 
alternatives, the Journal promotes a fruitful dialogue that will at least air important issues and, one 
hopes, lead to proper resolutions. Without discussion and subsequent considered action, apathy and 
inaction remain supreme, and Freemasonry receives no benefit.

Ill\  John W. Boettjer, 33 , G\C\  
Managing Editor
Scottish Rite Journal
v"JIMMY" DOOLITTLE 

I have a few comments on the obituary on General James H. Doolittle that appeared in the 
December 1993 issue. His actual military rank was full General. About six years ago, he was promoted 
from Lieutenant General to General on the retired list.
You also might have mentioned that he had an earned Doctor of Science degree from MIT. The 
main point here is that one can be both an educated man and a full-fledged hero. Unfortunately, too 
many Americans today seem to think those two concepts are mutually exclusive.

Lt. Col. David T. Zabecki, 32 
Editor, Encyclopedia of
World War II in Europe
American Military 
Scottish Rite Bodies (NATO)

Editors Note: Another Brother wrote in some time ago to observe the color of General Doolittles 
eyes in the Architects Hall of Honor portrait of the General here in the House of the Temple was not 
the same vivid blue of Ill\ Bro\ Doolittles actual eyes. The portrait was repainted to reflect this fact.
I wish to report that the framed copy of The Supreme Council print "George Washington Laying 
the Cornerstone of the U. S. Capitol, Sept. 18, 1793" [see back cover of this issue] arrived in excellent 
shape. It was superbly packaged.
I have the picture hung in a place of honor in my living room, and I intend for my Lodge, Sun City, 
Arizona, No. 72, to receive it after Im gone. 
Again, thank you for the picture and frame. Im immensely satisfied.

Charles K. Jackson III, 32 
Phoenix, Arizona, S.R. Bodies

Editor's Note: Initially, some framed prints were damaged in preparation or shipping. These 
problems have now been remedied. All faulty orders have been replaced or repaired at no cost to the 
Brother. A limited reserve of prints in this collectors edition, signed and numbered by the artist, are 
still available for a donation of $100 to the Scottish Rite Foundation, S\J\, USA. Donations are 
deductible as charitable contributions to the full extent of the law. Also, framed, double-matted, glazed 
limited edition prints are available for $195 shipped by UPS within the contiguous United States. Send 
requests for this historic bicentennial print to: The Supreme Council, 33 , 1733 Sixteenth Street, NW, 
Washington, DC 20009-3199. Make checks payable to: The Scottish Rite Foundation, S\J\, USA.

 TO YOUR HEALTH!

Still Smoking? - I congratulate the Scottish RiteJournal on its regular "To Your Health" column 
which carries articles relevant to the health concerns of our Brethren. May I suggest another article on 
smoking and its dangers? I am half past 88 years of age, and my doctor has forbidden me to attend any 
public function characterized by environmental (secondhand) tobacco smoke.
Thus, though I still send a donation to cover each events expenses, I can no longer attend my 
Lodges stated meetings. Not only do members smoke in the halls, but smoking is permitted during and 
after the meal that traditionally follows each meeting. My wife and I used to enjoy stated meeting 
nights. They are wonderful events for fellowship among the Brethren and their wives. The ladies feel 
part of each occasion since they socialize during the Masonic portion of the evening, and each lady 
brings a salad or dessert to supplement the main meal, which is provided. In addition, the ladies are 
welcome at an interesting program that follows each meal.
I wonder how many other Brethren and their wives are prevented from attending Blue Lodge and 
Scottish Rite meetings because of the proved harmful effects of secondhand smoke?

Bro\ T. Earle Hamilton, 32 
Austin, Texas, Scottish Rite Bodies

Prostate Cancer - The regular series of "To Your Health" articles in the Journal is of real 
assistance to the Brethren. You have discussed, for instance, prostate cancer two or three times. I have 
just been through a big learning experience regarding this matter, and I want to share it with others so 
they might "take due notice thereof and be guided accordingly." 
I am 58 years old and have been having annual physical exams for several years. About two years 
ago, after a digital examination, my physician said my prostate was enlarged but not to worry as that 
was normal for many men my age. I then mentioned frequent nocturnal visits to the bathroom, and he 
made note of that.
This year, my physician again commented on the enlargement of the prostate, but that it seemed 
OK. I told him about my wife having seen information in the Journal about a blood test for prostate 
cancer.
My physician did not put much value on the test, but at my insistence, he ordered it. My Prostate 
Specific Antigen test (PSA) was quite high, which led to several biopsies which proved the presence of 
cancer. Just a month ago, I had my prostate surgically removed. Actually, not too soon as while the 
cancer had not spread to other parts of my body, it appeared on the verge of doing so.
With this story I wish to make two points. One is that all males age 50 and over should have the 
PSA test annually as a part of a regular physical exam. Those with a history of prostate cancer in the 
family should start testing at age 45.
The second point is that the patient should be informed of options and the availability of various 
tests, and then be able to make informed decisions regardless of the personally held views of his 
physician.
Prostate cancer is the slowest growing of the cancers and, as such, among the most successfully 
treatable. It is, therefore, most important early detection take place.

William R. Houdek, 32 
San Fernando, CA, S. R. Bodies

Editors Note: It should be stressed that some prostate operations are not necessary, even if at first 
medically advised. One wife of a Brother wrote in to detail the dire consequences to her husband of a 
misdiagnosis and subsequent needless operation. The moral here is to be well informed and, perhaps, to 
get a diagnosis from more than one medical expert. 

Leadership,
Freemasonry, And You

"Let George do it!" is no way to run a Lodge. Leadership is everyones job.

Wilfoch L. Warren, 33 
6613 Syringa Lane, 
Jacksonville, Florida  32211-4055

Suppose you are appointed to a lower office in your organization, and you are in a quandary as to 
what the next few years will bring. Do you start making plans then, or do you wait to see what others 
may develop along the way and try to add to them? Almost every organization today seems to be 
suffering from the same old problems, attendance and leadership. But do they have to exist, or can 
something be done to solve these problems?
As Scottish Rite Masons, we are naturally interested in the Masonic Fraternity and its problems. 
Therefore, we need to develop ideas which will activate our thought processes and lead us to develop 
programs of mutual benefit to our great Fraternity.
As asked in the beginning of this article, suppose you were appointed? These questions must occur 
to you, "Who is responsible for the leadership and management of the Lodge? What would I do, if 
appointed? Who will be the future leaders and what is expected of them?" Who is responsible? Of 
course we know the Worshipful Master is the top leader and is responsible for the operation of the 
Lodge, but is he alone in this responsibility? No! Every elected and appointed officer has a position of 
leadership and should develop possible programs for the months and years ahead.
When elected Junior Warden of his Lodge, every Brother should have a basic plan ready. He also 
has the privilege to observe the attendance, conduct, and performance of all appointive officers in his 
Lodge and to encourage all below him to learn their work well and plan for the time when they will be 
one of the top leaders of the Lodge. Those failing to live up to their responsibilities should not be 
considered for election to higher positions, for they have not shown a quality for top leadership.
When a member is appointed to any office in his Lodge, he should make a commitment to the Craft 
and to himself that he will perform all duties to the best of his ability. Anything less is not worthy of 
note.
To the Brethren on the sidelines, it is their duty to expect the leaders in the Lodge to manage and 
direct the affairs of the Lodge with dignity. It is also their duty to assist the officers of their Lodge and 
encourage them to be the very best  they can be. Many members have said, "Theres nothing I wouldnt 
do for the Craft." And so many times that is exactly what they do-nothing!
Leadership is everyones job, whether it be in an elected, appointed or supportive position. 
Potentially, any member of the Lodge can be placed in a position of responsibility on a committee other 
assignment, or appointed to the officers line. Our great Fraternity may fall in and out of popularity 
with public sentiment, but we, who are members, must maintain the courage of our convictions and a 
firm belief that we are honored by our association with other good men and Brothers. If we are 
persistent and persevere in our beliefs, then others will notice and become interested in what we have to 
offer. We must show to the world that the love and toleration Masonry extends to other people and 
their beliefs form just a small part of the Crafts beneficial teachings.
The time for leadership is now, the hour is nearly spent, and the emergence of the great principles 
of Freemasonry must clearly be seen by those who will observe. So let us all be the sowers and planters 
in the fields and vineyards of Freemasonry.
Let us as Freemasons prove to the world that we are leaders, men who can elevate and strengthen 
the dignity of mankind!
Wilfoch L. Warren
is now retired but was a long-time employee of the City of Jacksonville, FL. He became a 
Scottish Rite Mason in 1949 and was Secretary of the Jacksonville Bodies from 1972-82. He also 
served as Personal Representative in Jacksonville from 1987 to 1994. A member of Temple Lodge 
No. 23, in Jacksonville since 1948, Ill\  Warren has served on many Grand Lodge committees and 
is active in all York Rite Bodies and Morocco Shrine Temple, Jacksonville, where he is Director of 
the Ritual cast.
Where Do You Do Your Shopping?

Part XI

Thomas M. Boles, 33 
Director of Development
1761 East Woodcrest Avenue
La Habra, California  90631-3260

See pages 21 of Aug., 26 of Nov. 1992, 25 of Jun., 53 of Jul., 18 of Aug., 31 of Sept., 45 of Oct.,  
53 of Nov., 11 of Dec.,  1993, and 19 of Jan. 1994 Scottish Rite Journal for Parts I-X of  this "Where 
Do You Do Your Shopping?" series.

THAT a great last two months! We have had more shoppers than any previous period since we 
opened the store. Of course, last month we featured all of our wonderful items included in our Donor 
Recognition Program. And some of the nicest things that happened during the last two months were the 
comments and requests I received. The responses to the inquiries are going out as fast as I can pound 
the ole key board, and I would like to try and answer some of your questions in this issue.
While we have the best "tools" in our "Store of Happiness" for saving unnecessary taxes and 
earning more money with your assets than anyplace I know, coupled with making you feel better than 
most anytime in your life, and helping the children of our great nation, it is my responsibility to suggest 
which is the proper "tool" you should pick from our shelves to accomplish your goals.    
First, there is no asset too small to invest properly for improvement. From a dollar bill to a million 
dollar bills, we have a "tool" that will: (1) make you feel like a millionaire; and/or (2) put you on the 
road to becoming wiser and wealthier than when you started. Naturally, a lot of thought must go into 
the process of choosing the right "tool," and that is where I (and my many friends in the 
legal/tax/accounting profession) come to the counter and help you make a selection.
Because you are a special individual, you require special, individual attention, and we are willing 
and qualified to help you individually. Therefore, it is much more expedient when you come shopping, 
that you give me as many details about your goals as possible. (Incidentally, you can be assured that 
any and all information you share with me, will be held in the strictest confidence, excepting for only 
those professionals that I might have to call upon for advice.) Some of the ingredients that I will need to 
select your product should include: (1) the relative value of your asset; (2) what kind of asset is it, i.e. 
cash, securities, residential property, income property, farmland etc.; (3) do you want a life income for 
just you and your spouse, and/or do you want that income to pass along to your family, your church, 
your clinic, your Lodge, the postal clerk or whomever; (4) reduce various taxes, i.e. income tax, estate 
tax, capital gains tax, death tax, etc.?
We are not suggesting, ever, that you abandon your existing legal and accounting advisors or your 
estate planner, nor take business away from those professionals you personally know; however, if you 
want to proceed with an Estate Plan and want professional assistance, we are willing to help and to 
make suggestions.
We can, and will, give you help and suggestions on all of the above; however, we also request that 
you take  our suggestions to your own legal council and/or accountant for their professional approval. 
It's very important to know that we never want to be accused of "undo influence" in your making a 
decision, for that would be unlawful.
Well, now that the new year has arrived (and April 15 is coming up fast), why not take the 
opportunity to again look over our shelves. I'm positive we have just what you need! Which leaves my 
"ad" for the month to read:
It isn't what we intend, but what we do, that makes us wiser and wealthier.     s
Thomas M. Boles
has worked extensively in fundraising for childrens programs throughout our Fraternity. For more 
information, call Tom at 310-691-4227 (FAX 310-691-5327) or the Scottish Rite Foundation at 202-
232-3579, ext. 22.

The Phone Call

Getting back into Freemasonry can be no more than a phone call away.

Chestney D. Faulkenberry, 32 
2558 East Cardella Road, 
Merced, California  95340-9348

Ed sat in his easy chair about eight feet from the six oclock news-his newspaper, junk mail, bills, 
and the latest Trestleboard lying within easy reach of his right hand.  It was time to relax, just as it was 
each day about this hour.  
"At 10:10 this morning," the newscaster began as Ed reached to his right and, without looking, 
plucked the first piece of paper from his pile. It was his Trestleboard. He gave it a brief glance, as 
always, and started to put it on his left when the newscaster interrupted, "and the superintendent said 
this was the first cornerstone laying in our city since . . . ."
"Geez," Ed mumbled, "I attended one of those one time."
How long ago had it been?  Just after joining. Close to twenty years. He hadnt even been to Lodge 
in, in half that time, anyway. He remembered how thrilled he had been when initiated. And, then, how 
he and George had struggled with the proficiencies. Old Chaining, their coach, had really pushed them. 
George was quicker and smoother, and Ed would have been jealous, but George was funny and 
friendly, and he helped him when he got behind and couldnt meet with Chaining.
"The Public Workers Union is at impasse in its negotiations with the city . . . ."
Wonder where George is now.  George had been a public employee?  He had moved to another city 
shortly after they got their Third Degrees, so they had never attended Lodge together as Master 
Masons. But he did see George at a Scottish Rite gathering a few years later.  It had been nice recalling 
the old times.
"The senior citizens have finally reached an agreement with the city to use the old City Library 
building  . . . " continued the newscaster.
Eds thoughts turned to Old Chaining. He was probably involved in that somehow. He was always 
involved in something. Hed heard that he was still coaching candidates.  It was funny how he had 
always thought of Chaining as old. He probably wasnt over ten years older than himself.  Maybe it 
was because of all the history he had taught Ed. Chaining would probably be the only Brother he would 
know, now, if he attended Lodge.  What a scary thought. Just go to Lodge and know no one. An 
intruder.  "I wonder if I can still do all the signs?"  he mumbled to himself.
"And we will see you again this time tomorrow" the newscaster was saying as the phone started 
ringing.
Ed pushed himself forward, and the recliner back followed him; the chair rocked a little as it 
always did when he got out of it.  He skirted the kitchen counter and took the phone off the wall.
"Hello," he said.
"Hello, Brother Williams?"
Ed was so startled, he barely managed to utter, "Yes." It had been a while since he had been 
addressed as "Brother."
"This is Jesse Wright, and the other night at officers practice we were looking at the Lodge bylaws 
and roster to see if we recognized anyone.  Guess what, I think I was in school with your daughter. 
Anyway, I would like to go to Lodge with you, and maybe we can talk about it.  How about it?"
"Well, I dont know. I dont know if I even remember how to get in."
"Oh, dont worry about that. Its the fun, fellowship, and that great and good feeling of being 
among those who care. Thats the important thing.  May I pick you up about seven?"
Ed hesitated. How odd he should get the call just at that moment, the moment when he needed his 
spirits lifted, just when he was remembering the good times. It was fun back then.  It could be again.  
"Yes," was all he could say.
With springing steps, he strode to the TV and switched it off. He wasback.   s

AUTHOR' S NOTE: Under the leadership of Worshipful Master Bill Stockard, Yosemite Lodge 
No. 99, F\ & A\ M\, Merced, California, the Brethren, beginning in 1989,  have had success in 
returning to the Lodge those Brethren who have not been seen for some time. They have increased 
attendance by over 150 percent: first, by finding a relationship to the Brother; second, by using the 
phone to contact him, mentioning the relationship and, then, inviting him to attend Lodge. The above 
article shows why and how this plan is working. The idea for the article was generated from 
discussions I have had with some of the returning Brethren.

Chestney Faulkenberry is a Past Master, of Yosemite Lodge No. 99, F\&A\M\, Merced California, 
a Hiram Award recipient, the Associate Bethel Guardian of Job's Daughters Bethel No. 65, a DeMolay 
Dad, and a member of the Fresno, California, Scottish Rite Bodies.

A Helping Hand
Recently, five non-Masons and I took a road trip from Van Alstyne, Texas, to San Francisco, 
California. We traveled in a big motor home until we got to a small town called Pleasantville, 
approximately 60 miles outside of San Francisco. There we expected to rent a car and continue our 
journey, as the RV was too big to maneuver around the narrow streets in San Francisco.
Unfortunately, no one had a credit card, and the car rental companies would not accept a cash 
deposit. Knowing I could find some help, I called the Masonic Lodge, and Bro\ Don England answered 
the phone. After explaining our predicament to him, he said, "Take my Olds, its big enough to fit you 
all!"
He told us we could have it for the day-or however long we needed it! Not only did he give us his 
car, he wouldnt even take a dime for its use. He said, "Whats Masonry all about if you cant help a 
Brother in need?" Ill never forget it.
Later, on our way back to Texas, one of the non-Masons asked me, "Joe, if a Mason came through 
Van Alstyne, would you loan him one of your cars?"
I said, "Of course!"
He said, "Which one, the truck or the car?"
I said, "Whichever one he wanted!"

Joe Hendricks, 32 
 Dallas, Texas, Scottish Rite Bodies

Why I Became A Mason

Strange how small things, like a childhood glimpse of a Masonic orphanage, can change one's life.

Bryan W. Speed, 32 , K\C\C\H\
821 Commerce Street
Earls, Arkansas  72331-1420

BMy desire to become a Mason evolved out of a childhood experience that left a lasting impression 
on my mind. Through that experience, I saw at an early age one thing that Masonry did, long before I 
learned what Masonry was.
My father, who was responsible for that experience, was not a Mason, nor do I recall him ever 
expressing an interest in becoming one. However, I can truthfully say that he exemplified in his life and 
actions many of those qualities and habits that characterize the best of what Masonry teaches.
At an early stage in my life, my father pointed out to me a Masonic landmark near our home and, 
in so doing, explained that it was a home financed by Masons for orphan children in that area. This 
was the Masonic Orphanage in Columbus, Mississippi. Even at the age of ten, I viewed the site as an 
impressive structure. The grounds were always well-kept, and the buildings gave an appearance of 
comfort and a style of living better than what I knew and daily experienced.
The realization that there were people, other than my parents, who cared this much for homeless 
and unknown children awoke within me a new concept about life. The fact that these people cared 
enough to provide such a home, plus some form of parental care, love and supervision, convinced me 
that there was something good and worthwhile about Masonry.
Several years later while I was still a teenager, my father died. I would never again pass the 
Masonic Orphanage in Columbia without recalling it was through him I first learned of Masonry. Over 
the years, my life and travels provided many occasions for me to catch another passing view of that 
home, and at some point in time, the idea of becoming a Mason began to nag at my better self, but was 
always set aside as a future possibility.
Time passed quickly, and many important events happened as I busied myself with trying to live a 
respectable life and earn an honest living. During this time, the Masonic issue became a desirable goal 
in my life, and I found myself hoping that somewhere along the way, I would be considered a worthy 
candidate for Masonry and be asked to join. No such luck. Some years later, with renewed 
determination, I purposely sought out a Mason whom I knew and greatly respected and inquired as to 
why I had never been asked to join the Lodge. His answer was plain and simple. "You have never 
asked."
In retrospect, Im truly thankful for a father who unknowingly pointed out the way, for a Masonic 
structure that provided the inspiration, and for a worthy Mason who provided an answer and a petition.
All of this leaves me with one major contention that we should be more visible in our communities, 
wherever they are, for the Light of Masonry sheds too warm a glow to be "hidden under a bushel."
Bryan Wilson Speed
is a retired school administrator and teacher and is presently director of the Crittenden County 
Museum. He is a Past Master of Crittenden Lodge No. 607, presently treasurer of the Lodge, a 
certified lecturer and has served as D\D\G\M\ of the 17th Masonic District in Arkansas. He is a 
member of the Eastern Arkansas Scottish Rite Bodies, Degree Master of the 10th Degree, and Director 
of the Scottish Rite Choir.

Visitors Welcome

It is always a pleasure to welcome visitors to the House of the Temple, 1733 Sixteenth Street, 
NW, Washington, DC, 20009-3199. Located on Sixteenth Street between R and S Streets, seven 
blocks NE of the Dupont Circle Metro stop, Red Line, the Temple is open to Brothers, guests, and the 
general public for tours from 8 A.M. to 2 P.M. on weekdays. The Temple is also open  on weekends and 
holidays for groups of 25 or more, provided special arrangements are made in advance with the Grand 
Executive Director's office (202) 232-3579. Visitors are requested
to register at  the door.

English Is Alive & Well

Edward Ude, 32 
1030 Hall Street
Kingsville, Texas  78363-6460

In response to Ill\ Bro\ Barry Goldwater, 33 , I assert the English language is not threatened. 
English is, in fact, rapidly becoming the common language of the world. And, as Brother Roy A. 
Harrell, Jr., 32 , pointed out, most countries of the world insist that their students learn English. (See 
the June 1993 Scottish Rite Journal for both of the above- referenced articles.) The Japanese, for 
example, expose their students to six years of English learning and, along with other countries, send 
their business executives to America for intensive English training or hire English as a Second 
Language (E.S.L.) instructors from America to work in their home countries.
I remember being given a pamphlet at my Thirty-second Degree ceremony. It was written by the 
late Brother Henry C. Clausen, 33 , Past Sovereign Grand Commander, S\J\, and was entitled 
"Bilingual Education, The Cruel Hoax." No doubt the best of intentions for America were on the 
Illustrious Brothers mind at the time he wrote it, but I believe we, as a Fraternity, have progressed to a 
more tolerant attitude, as Masonry posits we should.
To begin with, in Texas, the goal of bilingual education is dictated by the state. By law we 
recognize English as the principal language of instruction, and the school system must assure its 
mastery by all students. There are several avenues of instruction in Bilingual Education. A one-way 
model carries the Limited in English Proficiency (L.E.P.) student from his native language into the 
target language. No thought is given to the culture shock that the student must endure.
In a two-way model of Bilingual Education, the L.E.P. student is instructed in bilingual methods 
using the students  mother tongue to assure cognitive advancement and successful second-language 
acquisition, in our case, E.S.L. or, as some prefer to call it, English as a new first language.
Let us keep in mind that we are talking about children of early elementary school age. Therefore, 
as time goes by, their mastery of E.S.L. will transform to E.C.L., my acronym for English as a Chosen 
Language, which, in turn, will produce self-sufficient and contributing U. S. citizens and taxpayers.
We in the U. S. borderlands recognize that along with the benefits of E.S.L. mastery in a two-way 
model of bilingual education, there is a bounty of wealth in an "Enrichment Model of Bilingual 
Education." In this model, non-Spanish speaking borderland students are educated along with limited 
English proficiency students whereby both can learn about each others language and culture. It does 
not take great vision to see the benefits of such an educational atmosphere. It does, however, take true 
understanding of multi-culturalism and, as earlier stated, the tolerance Masonry teaches us to use. In 
closing, I quote from a previous work of mine entitled "A Perspective of Bilingual Education and 
E.S.L."
 We use Bilingual Educational techniques and E.S.L. methods as tools in performing the goals set 
by the state of Texas. We are not subversive to the American way of life nor are we the same to the 
federal government of the United States of America. We are in fact, however, proponents of the 
American Dream, striving for a better way of life and believing in the Constitution of the United 
States of America.
Fear not, Brothers, when you hear the words bilingual education, English as a second language, 
and multi-ethnic sensitivity. These words are simply the vernacular of people trying to be and to make 
better American citizens.

Edward Ude is medically retired from Exxon Corp. and is currently a senior at Texas College of 
Arts and Industries at Kingsville, Texas, where he is majoring in Bilingual Education and English as a 
Second Language. Bro\ Ude, who is a volunteer E.S.L. tutor for the Kleberg County Adult Literacy 
Council, is a member of the San Antonio Scottish Rite Valley, Al Amin Shrine Temple  in Corpus 
Christi, and Chamberlain Lodge No. 913 in Kingsville, Texas.

Something For The Specialists
Dr. S. Brent Morris, 33 

BOOK REVIEWS EDITOR FOR
THE SCOTTISH RITE JOURNAL

Not all books are for general audiences, and not all volumes reviewed here are for everyone. The 
books this month are definitely for specialists-those with special interests in or dedication to 
Freemasonry. One volume is for officers who are looking forward to a year in the East. Another is for 
the dedicated historian of the Scottish Rite, and the final is a detailed study of early European 
Freemasonry. While these books dont belong on every Masons bookshelf, they should be on the 
shelves of our Masonic libraries.
101+ Ways to Improve Interest & Attendance in Your Masonic Lodge, Masonic Renewal 
Committee of North America, 1993. Paperbound, 62 pp., $10, Masonic Renewal Committee of North 
America, 2108 N. Charles St., Baltimore, MD 21218, (410) 727-3188.
The December 1993 book review column was devoted to books to help prepare officers for their 
year in the East. If 101+ Ways had been published earlier, it would have headed the list of December 
books. This is more than just a good, solid book filled with useful information for Lodges. It is a great 
book-an indispensable book-a must for every officer of every Lodge in the United States.
And whats surprising, theres almost nothing in the book that is new or original. Its all common 
sense, presented in easy-to-read format that makes you want to serve your year as Master all over 
again. (Well, almost makes you want to serve again!) Of course, if it were really such common sense, 
then there would be no need for a Masonic Renewal Committee
This committee of North America is one of the most innovative efforts of American Freemasonry. 
The committees purpose is simple: establish and sustain a renewal process for our Fraternity. The 
Supreme Council, 33 , S\J\, started the committee under the leadership of Ill\ John D. Blankinship, 
33 . It has since grown to include support from the northern Supreme Council, the Shrine, the York 
Rite and, most importantly, many of the Grand Lodges of North America.
101+ Ways is a compendium of what to do to get the spark back into your Lodge. Perhaps its most 
important chapter is "How Are You Using Time?" The committee has conducted extensive, detailed 
surveys of men-Masons and non-Masons-to find out what is important to them in an organization. One 
of the critical results is that time is very valuable to men of the 1990s, and any organization that 
doesnt realize this is doomed to failure. This shouldnt be surprising, but far too few Lodges are acting 
on this information.
The other chapters are "Focus on Fellowship," "Plan for a Perfect Evening," "Get the Ladies on 
Your Side," "Communicate With Your Members," "Buddy-Up and Connect," "Put the Phones to 
Work," "How Food Can Work for You," "Making Involvement Pay Off," and "Creating Fellowship." 
Any Lodge that starts putting these ideas to work is a Lodge that will see an increasing enthusiasm 
among its members.
This is such a good book that it shouldnt be left up to a harried Master or Warden to think to 
order it. Grand Lodges (or Consistories or Commanderies or Shrine Temples) should buy copies in 
bulk and present them to every Warden and Master in their districts. The cost is small compared to the 
payoff: a renewed Masonic Fraternity ready to enter the twenty-first century!
Speculative Freemasonry and the Enlightenment: A Study of the Craft in London, Paris, Prague, 
and Vienna, William Weisberger, 1993. Hardbound, 243 pp., $45.00, Eastern European Monographs, 
distributed by Columbia University Press, 562 W. 113th St., New York, NY 10025.
Bro\ William Weisberger is one of the most knowledgeable historians of early European 
Freemasonry today. He is a full member and Past High Priest of the prestigious Ohio Chapter of 
Research. His doctoral dissertation in history from the University of Pittsburgh was entitled The 
Cultural and Organizational Functions of Speculative Freemasonry During the Enlightenment. This 
current volume is an updating and polishing of his dissertation, and it gives deep insights into the 
evolution of Freemasonry into the organization we know today.
Freemasonry was not a monolithic organization with mindlessly parroted Ritual during its first 
years. It grew and flourished in the European centers of the Enlightenment, and it took on as well as 
influenced the culture of the cities. Bro\ Weisberger focuses his study on four cities-London, Paris, 
Prague, and Vienna-and shows how Masonry was different and yet the same in each town.
The True Harmony Lodge in Vienna was a center of scientific discovery in geology. Nine Sisters 
Lodge in Paris had scientists and authors, the latter of whom adapted their plays for the Lodge. The 
immortal Voltaire was a member of Nine Sisters Lodge. The intellectual superiority of these early 
European Masons is astounding and points to the exciting quality of their meetings.
Speculative Freemasonry and the Enlightenment also looks into the differing factions of ritualists 
and their influence on Lodges. The Scottish Rite was preeminent in Paris, the Strict Observance in 
Prague, and the Zinnendorf Rite in Vienna. The exciting swirl of scientific discovery, literary advances, 
and rivalries in Ritual is all brought to life by Bro\ Weisberger. His book is not for everyone, just 
those who are willing to do some serious and productive study to learn more about our Fraternity.
The Sharp Documents: Vol. 1, Les Elus Parfaits, The Mother Ecossais Lodge of Bordeaux; Vol. 
2, The Lodge of La Parfaite Union on the Isle of Martinique; Vol. 3, The Ecossais Lodges in the Isles 
of Domingo; reprint 1993. Paperbound, Vol. 1, 85 pp., Vol. 2, 79 pp., Vol. 3, 67 pp., $40.00 each, 
postpaid. The Latomia Society, c/o H. Prinsen, 16151 Longmeadow, Dearborn, MI 48120.
This collection of books could just be the best source of primary source documents available to 
Scottish Rite researchers today. During World War I, Bro\ Alfred Sharp of London frequently visited 
Bordeaux. After the war, he joined Lodge lAnglaise No. 204 and served as its Master. During his stay 
in Bordeaux, he received a number of documents from the librarian of the Lodge, and these documents 
are known today as the "Sharp Collection." In 1952 the Supreme Council, 33 , N\M\J\, acquired 
this collection. The Sharp Collection contains some 700 handwritten pages of correspondence dealing 
with the very earliest days of Ecossais Masonry, which eventually evolved into the Ancient and 
Accepted Scottish Rite. Correspondents include Stephen Morin and others. Each volume has a brief 
introduction explaining the letters followed by a facsimile of each page with a French transcript and an 
English translation.

* Editors note: To obtain "Symbol of Pride," send a check payable to The Imperial Council for 
$38 to International Shrine Headquarters, Public Relations Department, P.O. Box 31356, Tampa, FL  
33631-3356. Write on your check: "For Symbol of Pride 1/2 inch V.H.S. video" and be sure to 
include your return address. Allow four to six weeks for delivery.

