Volume 44, Issue 06 JUNE 2024
Venerable Master, Director of Education
James McCallion
6th Moon Cycle: Storyteller & The Prince Adept
In last month’s issue, we learned about discernment and introspection, particularly addressing our heart’s (inner) voice, honoring the hearts of others, and embracing the voice of Truth and reason. By this practice, we discovered the art of listening with our hearts and attuning to the unspoken words within others' hearts. We were charged with showing compassion, and responding with grace, dignity, and patience, leading us on the path towards
spiritual maturity.
In June 2024, during the 6th Moon Cycle, we direct our attention towards the wisdom of “Storyteller,” who guides us in keeping our innocence intact.
It is here that we are taught the ways of speaking the truth and doing so without adding unwanted advice, without projections of self-righteousness or petty
judgements. Speaking the truth in this respect means “speaking with our hearts, always saying what we mean, in a truthful, clear, and concise manner.” I find a beautiful similarity with the lessons of Psalms 15:2, “He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart.”
Storytelling has been an oral tradition passed down throughout the ages.
Fundamentally, it was a way to share life experiences in the hopes that listeners would learn and gain perspectives on their own Rites of passage. We see this tradition prevalent even today among certain religious orders and mystery schools, and especially in Scottish Rite Masonry. As you know,
Hermeticism
Within the antiquity of Hermeticism lies the axiom “As above, so below, as within, so without.” It suggests that there is a relationship between the physical and spiritual realms, and that we can learn about this principle of correspondence through the Book of Nature.
In Shamanism, when one is in balance with Nature, their hearts speak with this wisdom, and they can cherish the interconnectedness between themselves and the Divine. In the teachings of the 27th degree, the Knight of the Sun, or Prince Adept, we are instructed on the nature of symbolism. We are taught what symbols are, and how to read them. It is explained to us that by using symbols, we are better enabled to understand the otherwise “abstract philosophical and profound truths and realizations that cannot be expressed by words alone.”
Further, we learn that the nature of symbolism is to both “conceal and reveal” information. We are taught to emulate Nature, with all living forms following a great cycle and that after fulfilling the measure of their creation, return to the Earth only to be reborn as a new form of life. It is here that we learn of the alchemical process of “analyze & synthesize” – taking apart that what you have learned and putting it together in new and useful ways.
When we are in communion with Nature through the principle of correspondence, our hearts speak the truths of ancient wisdom. We both exemplify the micro and macrocosmic, the voice of G-d, the speech of our hearts.
I ask that in the month of June, you meditate on how you can work towards speaking the truth through the voice of your hearts, by analysis & synthesis.
I would (once again) like to welcome our newly initiated Masters of the Royal Secret.
It was truly a pleasure to share with you the philosophical gems of the Scottish Rite within the classroom setting. If you have any questions about the Master Craftsman education program, or the Academy of Reflection, please feel free to contact me.
Aho,
Hon. James McCallion, 32° KCCH
Venerable Master, Director of Education
The Orange County Valley Scottish Rite Bodies (Lodge of
Perfection, Chapter Rose Croix, Council of Kadosh, and
Consistory) now meet on the 2nd Monday of each month at
6:30 pm in our new home, the Orange Masonic Center,
located at 71 Plaza Square, Orange, California.
Wise Master,
Russ Hennings, 32°
Knight of the Rose Croix
As I think back to our reunion this month, I am filled with a profound sense of fulfillment. It was an honor and privilege to confer the 18th degree upon our new candidates as the sitting Wise Master. This experience held special significance for me, offering deeper insights into the teachings and symbolism of the 18th degree of Scottish Rite Masonry in the Southern Jurisdiction.
The 18th degree, often referred to as the "Knight of the Rose Croix," encompasses themes of enlightenment, self-reflection, and spiritual transformation. Through its narratives and symbolism, it encourages us to seek truth, strive for personal growth, and embody the virtues of wisdom, courage, and compassion.
During our degree work, I witnessed the dedication and commitment of our brothers, Honorable James Olivier and Venerable James McCallion, who played integral roles in organizing and executing the ritual with precision and excellence. Their tireless efforts ensured that the degree ceremonies were conducted with reverence and authenticity, allowing our candidates to experience the full depth and meaning of the 5 degrees we conferred.
As we continue our Masonic journey, let us carry the lessons of the degrees with us, embracing their teachings of enlightenment and self-discovery. My personal goal is to embody the noble ideals of the Rose Croix, and may our Valley continue to be a beacon of light and inspiration for all who seek to walk the path of Freemasonry. We are putting in the work, walking the walk, and I feel we are really seeing that value reflect in our membership experience.
Commander of Kadosh
Alejo Velarde, 32°
Solidarity
We move as one as we share our love and compassion to help others in the world. Together, accomplishing all
things as we build together, lead together, and even suffer together. But because we're together, we share the
same vision, the same passion, and the same love for what we do as a brotherhood and helping the community.
Solidarity is the best nature of humanity.
Solidarity is an important value that must be present in society and in every community around the world.
According to the Oxford Dictionary, solidarity means a unity of actions or feelings that's based around a group of
people with shared interests.
But solidarity also goes further than just unifying us together. It also means that we notice and accept other
people as our neighbors, and we remain committed and determined to work toward the greater good while remembering that we are all responsible for each other. We are all one big family.
There are many acts of solidarity we can do, such as attend charity events, volunteer, donate money or other goods, and so on. However, there are other acts we can make habits in our everyday lives that will also lead to solidarity.
The truth is that change doesn't happen with one person fighting for it. It takes a community working together to make the world a better place.
Taking the time to communicate with each other and listen to what every person has to say is one step closer to solidarity. So, the next time you have a Brother, friend or relative in need, be sure they know they can count on you to help them through.
Finally, we all need to show a bit more gratitude. The act of being grateful for the people and possessions you have not only has a positive effect on you but also on those around you. So, to practice solidarity, we all need to remember to show gratitude.
In the end, solidarity almost boils down to simply being a better person. Regardless of how busy our everyday lives are, we’re never too busy to help others around us. And if you doubt this, just ask yourself, when everything is said and done, how will you be remembered?
Here is a quote by Marcus Aurelius:
“Death smiles at us all; all we can do is smile back.”
ORANGE COUNTY SCOTTISH RITE
UPCOMING EVENTS
Master of Kadosh
Barry McKinley, 32°
Growing Strength and Unity in the Valley
Dear Brothers of the Orange County Scottish Rite, I am thrilled to begin this month by extending a heartfelt congratulations and warm welcome to our newest members. It was truly inspiring to see such a full and vibrant meeting, reflecting the growing strength and unity of our valley. Your commitment and enthusiasm bring fresh energy to our fraternity, and we are excited to have you join us on this Masonic journey. Additionally, I would like to congratulate our new Knights of St. Andrew. Your dedication and achievements are commendable, and we are proud to see you take on this role. The presence and participation of our members, both new and longstanding, are what make our meetings so enriching and fulfilling.
We were also honored to have our Deputy Grand Master, Right Worshipful Art Salazar, visit us in an official capacity. His presence and the inspiring message he delivered on the importance of uplifting and motivating one another were highlights of the evening. Right Worshipful Salazar's words served as a powerful reminder of the
positive impact we can have on each other's lives, both within and beyond our Masonic activities.
As we continue to grow and evolve as a valley, let us keep these moments of fellowship and inspiration close to our hearts. Together, we can achieve great things and continue to uphold the values and traditions of our beloved Scottish Rite.
Visit Your Valley Online! |
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A Message From...
General Secretary
Jamie Hopkins, 32° KCCH
Brethren: Welcome to June and Summer 2024. May was a busy month in the Valley of Orange County. On May
10th & 11th, we held a very successful Spring Reunion at our new location at the Orange Grove Lodge. We initiated 7 new Brothers as Masters of the Royal Secret 32° Masons. OCSR members turned up to participate in degree casts, help out with setting up & tearing down, and to show support for our newest Brothers. We appreciate every Brother who attended the Reunion. The summer is a good time to remember that the Ancient & Accepted Scottish Rite is a concordant Masonic organization. Membership is a privilege. Our 29 Scottish Rite degrees reinforce and expand the teachings of the 3 degrees of the Craft Lodge. You will receive information soon about a Masonic education event organized by our Valley. Please try to attend and broaden your Masonic knowledge.
On May 13th, we held our second Stated Meeting at our new location in Orange. It was well attended. The Deputy Grand Master for the Grand Lodge of California, Illustrious Art Salazar 33°, was in attendance. After an outstanding Italian dinner, Illustrious Salazar 33° gave us a sublime talk on how Masons can positively impact our
Brothers, families and our communities. We thank Brother Salazar 33° for his ongoing involvement in our Valley. OCSR is fortunate to have a number of Grand Lodge officers as members of our Valley. Our June Stated Meeting will be held on June 10th at 6:30 pm at the Orange Grove Lodge. We look forward to seeing you there!
Reunions and Reunions
Hon. James Olivier, 32° KCCH
Prelate, Director of The Work
Brethren,
After every reunion, I always take a little time to (fall asleep for three days) reflect on everything that went into the
event. I make a mental list of what we did great and what needs work, and most importantly, I take time to
consider the efforts of others who helped make it all happen. For those who attend the events, you’re familiar by now with seeing me in a whirlwind of madness like a puppet master trying to make 15-20 marionettes dance all at
once. But what isn’t seen is the hard work and dedication of others. The guys like Hon. Mike Gowder, who has
been a stalwart by my side from the start. Hon. Jamie Hopkins, who, while balancing his responsibilities as Secretary of the Valley, is always there in the 14th and 30th degrees. Hon. James McCallion and his masterful orchestration of the classroom lectures by which I can almost set my clocks to the minute. Bro. Cris DeDios has come into his own as a fellow fan of doing rituals. Hon. David Soliven, despite a very busy schedule, always
makes time to show up and participate and puts on a wonderful presence during the degrees.
I know I’m missing people as well. But to every single Brother who showed up to help with degrees and set up the degrees, thank you.
I could get into all the aspects of what it takes to run a Valley, all important in their own ways. The reunions are of special importance because without you, our Brothers, taking that next step in your Masonic journey, the Scottish Rite is nothing but a name. We are the bees in the hive that keep everything moving and running for the benefit of our Brothers and society at large. It’s a time for us to gather together and renew our own vows to the Rite and to each other.
Our next reunion will take place on October 10th and 11th, 2024 at Orange Grove Lodge. We’re also planning on helping the Valley of Pasadena on August 10th with an additional degree as they work through the process of putting on all 29 Degrees of the Scottish Rite this year. This will be a process of partnership I intend to continue to
build up as we work toward the statewide reunion in 2026. So do please consider joining one of our degree teams; we’re always on the lookout for new leadership to take roles as cast members and leaders for individual degrees. Please feel free to reach out to me for more details.
An Update From...
RiteCare® Childhood Language Center of Orange County
Laurie Lennon Thompson, M.S., CCC-SLP
LMay is a month of celebration at the Orange County RiteCare
Childhood Language Center. Daily, we celebrate the small and large successes of the children we provide services to. For some, it’s the production of the /r/ sound in a word (a notoriously challenging speech skill), the use of first words, the understanding of new concepts, or an emerging ability to re-tell a story. Our Chapman University Graduate Interns share their excitement of these successes with clients and caregivers alike. Their excitement provides a fun learning environment and encourages our young clients to continue to make progress in the development of their speech and language skills.
This weekend, we celebrate our graduate student interns as they participate in their graduation ceremony at Chapman University. We celebrate their achievements and are thankful to have known each intern who walked through the door of the Childhood Language Center this past year. They have worked hard and gained valuable clinical skills and knowledge that they can share with others in their chosen communities. It has been a pleasure to watch them grow and to learn from each of them as we hope that they have also learned from us. We wish each of them much success and are pleased to refer to them as our new colleagues in the field
of speech and language pathology.
"May, the month of sunshine, blooming flowers, and endless possibilities." - Unknown
RiteCare® Childhood Language Center of Orange County |
A Community Program of the Scottish Rite Foundation for Children with Speech and Language Challenges |
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Speech Language Pathologists• Leah Beekman, Ph.D. CCC-SLP • Chris Switzer, MA CCC-SLP• Laurie Lennon-Thompson, MS CCC-SLP• Francine Wenhardt, MS CCC-SLP How To SupportPlease support your RiteCare Childhood Language Center by making an individual, group, or company donation.
Support our Center by becoming a member: President’s Circle: A donation of $500 or more each year supports one child at the center for a year 365 Club: A donation of $365 each year Center Club: A donation of $100 each year This Year's Supporters of the RiteCare Childhood Language CenterPresident’s Circle Members ($500 or more)Ted Segerstrom, 32° KCCH ● Ill. Donald Tapia, 33° ● Ill. Art Salazar, 33° ● Jim Andronaco, Sidepath ● Nick Villasenor, 32° ● Ill. James D. Nyfeler, 33° ● Ill. David Kussman, 33° ● Ill. Frankie Rosario, 33° ● Cristi Shinn ● David & Deni Frias ● Joe Manning, Manning Law ● Chase May, 32° ● Dr. Mary Kennedy ● Daniel Dunn ● Andrew and Palmera Todd ● Jeff Tran 365 Club Members ($365 each year)Cliff Carpenter, 32° Center Club Members ($100 each year)Thomas Mathisen ● Deanna K Zawistowski ● David W. Lockwood, 32° ● Frederick R. McCuistion, Jr ● Nathan Fay ● Richard Christy ● Muthurangam Balasubramaniam ● Russ Hennings, 32°
For information please contact: Chairman Jack Hennings, Jr., 32° (949) 683-4747 |
Ill. Ralph C. Shelton II, 33°
Personal Representative of the SGIG Orient of California
Spring is rapidly passing as summer looms before us, and with the change of seasons, we happily report positive
change in our Valley. In May, we participated in the Orient-wide Reunion, where all 29 degrees were presented theatrically. This biennial event includes more than three days of degrees - we gather to dine and enjoy fellowship with our Scottish Rite brothers from all over California. The next biennial reunion will be at Pasadena, and I'm sure our Valley will attend in numbers.
Our engagement continues to increase along with our membership. We welcomed another seven members to our Valley this past weekend, and the following Monday had increased attendance - not just a 10% increase over average member attendance, but our partner group has grown even more.
Ten months have now passed since my appointment, and it seems a good time to look back as well as forward. We have experienced an increase in membership, an increase in attendance and engagement, more partner support, and presented two excellent reunions. We have held two successful Super Breakfasts - this last the most
successful in many years. We have moved to our new home, Orange Masonic Center, which is more centrally located, and presents a more Masonic environment, where we can hold public facing events as well as our meetings, reunions and social activities. We have successfully completed another year of the Valley Membership Achievement Program, and our Knights of St. Andrew are up and running, ready to welcome our new Masters of the Royal Secret. These are all outstanding, and you can be proud of your Valley Leaders for their hard work making OC Valley a success.
Looking forward, we have commenced supporting efforts of the Orange County blue lodges in outreach to those inquiring about Freemasonry, and in July we will host our first Setting Maul Dinner. This event welcomes the new Master Masons of Orange County, along with their significant others, and the Masters (and significant others) of
the Orange County lodges.
I hope you will excuse me for an article that is longer than usual, but the time has come for some special recognition. Hon. James McCallion, 32°, KCCH, our Venerable Master, has been leading our Valley education program in all its forms for quite some time. He remains our classroom chair, and is now assembling classroom presenters for
reunions as well as rolling out the Academy of Reflection program and overseeing our participation in the VMAP program, mentioned above. He has worked tirelessly to hold his part of our Valley together during challenging times, and we have benefitted from his efforts.
Another challenging role is that of Director of the Work, and Hon. James Olivier, 32°, KCCH, has been juggling that role along with a few other hats - he has been the degree master of all five compulsory degrees, a key cast member, primary stagecraft person, Prelate, fill in Chaplain and a Scottish Rite Fellow. As we move forward, he
now has cast members from which to draw a team of degree masters, allowing him to focus on the primary role of DOTW, and we are welcoming stagecraft members again.
Bro. James Segerstrom, 32°, has been a faithful officer and a dedicated Knight of St. Andrew. When those ahead of him stepped aside, he was thrust into the role of First Knight, and has taken on the challenge with gusto. The OC Valley was the birthplace of many of the Orient's KSA programs, including Pasadena's, and it was Pasadena
that recently conferred the degree on several of our OC members, bringing that full circle, and enabling our chapter to become fully functional again. Bro. James has worked diligently to resurrect the KSA in our Valley, and I am sure it will be the backbone of future Valley leadership. Keep in mind that, while serving our Valley in this capacity, he has also served in leadership roles in other Masonic organizations, and is next in line to be Potentate of El Bekal Shrine, where I have no doubt he will bring a youthful perspective to that Temple.
All of your leaders are deserving of recognition, of course. All of the members who take part in the various aspects of the Valley also. Truly, if someone's name or image appears in this publication, they deserve applause, but I wanted to highlight these three, who have stepped up during a time of uncertainty and transition and acquitted
themselves admirably. I know they must have looked askance at the coming change, but they have stayed the course. Their trust and support has been invaluable.
Read this newsletter carefully, so you don't miss any of the exciting upcoming Valley events, and we look forward to seeing you on June 10.
Congratulations and Welcome to the New Knights of
St. Andrew, Orange County Chapter
Shawn Bell, 32°
Brethren,
With great joy and pride, I extend heartfelt congratulations and the warmest of welcomes to the newest Knights of St. Andrew: Joshua Price, James Cates, Scot Trodick, Raul Sayno, Ryan Gonzalez, and Cris DeDios. Your induction into this esteemed body marks a significant milestone in your Masonic journey, and we are truly honored to have you join our ranks.
The Knights of St. Andrew is a prestigious group within the Scottish Rite dedicated to upholding the highest standards of Masonic principles, brotherhood, and community service. As newly inducted Knights, you are now part of a storied tradition that dates back decades and values integrity, honor, and the relentless pursuit of knowledge and self-improvement.
As we approach our 25th Anniversary next year, it is essential to remember our history. Originally chartered as the Scottish Rite Knights of St. Andrew of Santa Ana, California, our chapter has a storied history that dates back to the turn of the millennium. This chapter, the eighth in the United States, received its charter on April 4, 2000. The establishment of this chapter marked a significant milestone in the expansion of the Knights of St. Andrew, a prestigious body within the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry. The Knights of St. Andrew is an honorary service organization comprised of 32nd-degree Scottish Rite Masons.
Its mission is to support the Scottish Rite by providing dedicated service and enhancing the experience of its members through fellowship, education, support, and Valley involvement. The Santa Ana chapter, like its counterparts, focuses on assisting in various capacities during Scottish Rite events, ceremonies, and charitable
endeavors. From its inception, the Santa Ana chapter has been committed to upholding the principles and traditions of the Scottish Rite. The initial years saw a concerted effort to attract dedicated members who shared a passion for Freemasonry and a commitment to service. The chapter quickly grew in membership and stature, becoming an integral part of the Scottish Rite community in Southern California.
As you don the tartan and take up the mantle of a Knight of St. Andrew, remember that this honor comes with great responsibility. We encourage you to actively participate in our meetings, events, and charitable activities.
Your involvement is crucial in helping us maintain our Valley's vibrant and dynamic spirit. Once again, congratulations and welcome to Joshua Price, James Cates, Scot Trodick, Raul Sayno, Ryan Gonzalez, and Cris DeDios. Through your unwavering commitment to service and fellowship, you will continue to uphold the noble ideals of the Orange County Chapter of the Knights of St. Andrew. May your journey with us be fulfilling, inspiring, and filled with brotherly love and camaraderie.
A Message From...
Editor
Andrew Todd
Calling all writers!
You don’t have to be a head of body or a member of the line to contribute to this
newsletter. If you have something to say from a masonic perspective — perhaps
insights into your masonic ruminations, scholarly endeavors you’d like to share,
or general news for the brethren — this newsletter is your conduit for those
ideas. I encourage any and all brothers who’d like to contribute something to this
newsletter to send their ideas to: editor@ocscottishrite.org
Fraternally,
Shawn E. Bell, 32° Editor
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