The Scottish Rite, a branch of Freemasonry, offers a rich tapestry of philosophical and moral teachings through its system of degrees. For new members, attending a Scottish Rite Reunion is a pivotal moment in their Masonic journey. This guide aims to demystify the reunion experience, providing valuable insights and practical advice for those embarking on this transformative path.

Understanding the Scottish Rite

Before delving into the specifics of a reunion, it’s essential to grasp the fundamentals of the Scottish Rite itself. The Scottish Rite is one of several appendant bodies of Freemasonry, offering additional degrees beyond the three craft degrees of Blue Lodge Masonry (Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft, and Master Mason).

The Scottish Rite in the Southern Jurisdiction of the United States confers 29 degrees, numbered from the 4th to the 32nd, with an additional honorary 33rd degree. These degrees are grouped into four bodies:

1. Lodge of Perfection (4°-14°)
2. Chapter of Rose Croix (15°-18°)
3. Council of Kadosh (19°-30°)
4. Consistory (31°-32°)

Each degree builds upon the lessons of the previous ones, creating a comprehensive system of moral and philosophical instruction. The degrees are not considered “higher” than those of Blue Lodge Masonry but rather expand upon their teachings.

What is a Scottish Rite Reunion?

A Scottish Rite Reunion is a special event where new members, often called “candidates,” receive their Scottish Rite degrees. It’s also an opportunity for existing members to witness degrees they may have missed previously or to refresh their understanding of the teachings.

Key aspects of a reunion include:

• Frequency: Typically held once or twice a year, often in spring and fall
• Duration: Can span from one to three days, usually over a weekend
• Content: Multiple Scottish Rite degrees are conferred or communicated
• Fellowship: Provides an opportunity for members to connect and socialize

The term “reunion” might seem odd for an event where new members are joining, but it reflects the coming together of Scottish Rite Masons from various lodges and sometimes different states or jurisdictions.

Preparing for the Reunion

Proper preparation can enhance your experience at the reunion. Here are some essential steps to take:

1. Confirm your registration: Ensure you’ve completed all necessary paperwork and paid any required fees.
2. Review the schedule: Familiarize yourself with the event timeline, including start times and expected duration each day.
3. Arrange transportation and accommodation: If the reunion is held in a different city or spans multiple days, plan your travel and lodging accordingly.
4. Gather necessary items:
   • Blue Lodge dues card
   • Pen and notebook for taking notes (if desired)
   • Comfortable dress shoes (you’ll be sitting for extended periods)
5. Mental preparation: Approach the reunion with an open mind and a readiness to absorb new information.

What to Expect at the Reunion

Registration and Welcome

Upon arrival, you’ll typically go through a registration process. This is where you’ll:

• Present your Blue Lodge dues card
• Receive a name badge or reunion card
• Get any event-specific materials or instructions

There’s often a welcome session for new candidates, providing an overview of what to expect during the reunion.

Degree Conferrals

The heart of the reunion is the conferral of degrees. For new members, this will include the mandatory degrees:

• 4° (Secret Master)
• 14° (Perfect Elu)
• 18° (Knight Rose Croix)
• 30° (Knight Kadosh)
• 32° (Master of the Royal Secret)

Additional degrees may be conferred or communicated, depending on the reunion’s schedule and the Valley’s traditions.

Degree presentations typically include:

• Dramatic performances of the degree’s story or legend
• Explanations of the degree’s symbols and teachings
• Ritualistic elements specific to each degree

It’s important to note that while the degrees are rich in symbolism and meaning, no memorization is required of candidates. Your role is primarily to observe and reflect on the lessons presented.

Schedule and Pacing

Reunions can be intense experiences, often with long days filled with multiple degree presentations. A typical day might look like this:

This schedule can vary significantly between Valleys and specific reunions. Some may have more condensed schedules, while others might spread the degrees over more days.

Attire and Decorum

The dress code for Scottish Rite reunions is typically business attire. This usually means:

• Suit or sport coat with dress slacks
• Dress shirt and tie
• Dress shoes

Some Valleys may have specific dress requirements, so it’s always best to check with your local Scottish Rite office if you’re unsure.

Throughout the reunion, maintain a respectful and attentive demeanor. While there will be opportunities for socializing during breaks, the degree presentations themselves require quiet attention.

Meals and Breaks

Most reunions include meals as part of the event. These might be:

• Continental breakfasts
• Buffet lunches
• Formal dinners

These meal times, along with scheduled breaks, provide excellent opportunities to:

• Reflect on the degrees you’ve witnessed
• Discuss the teachings with fellow candidates and members
• Build relationships within the Scottish Rite community

Special Presentations and Recognitions

In addition to degree conferrals, reunions often include:

• Talks by Scottish Rite leaders or guest speakers
• Recognition of members receiving honors or milestones
• Presentations about Scottish Rite charities or initiatives

These elements help to provide a broader context for the Scottish Rite’s work and your place within the organization.

The Degrees: A Brief Overview

While we can’t delve into the specific content of the degrees (as that’s part of the experience you’ll have at the reunion), we can provide a general overview of what to expect:

Lodge of Perfection (4°-14°)

These degrees expand on the lessons of the Blue Lodge, emphasizing:

• The importance of secrecy and fidelity
• The pursuit of truth and knowledge
• The concept of perfect justice

Chapter of Rose Croix (15°-18°)

These degrees focus on:

• Spiritual enlightenment
• The importance of faith, hope, and charity
• The symbolism of the rose and the cross

Council of Kadosh (19°-30°)

These degrees explore:

• Chivalric traditions
• Philosophical and esoteric concepts
• The balance between spiritual and temporal duties

Consistory (31°-32°)

The final two degrees synthesize the teachings of the previous degrees and emphasize:

• The ongoing quest for truth
• The responsibility of a Scottish Rite Mason to society
• The application of Masonic principles in daily life

After the Degrees: Wrapping Up the Reunion

As the reunion concludes, there are typically several important elements:

Receiving Your Scottish Rite Materials

New members usually receive:

• A Scottish Rite ring
• A patent (certificate of membership)
• A cap (in some jurisdictions)
• Educational materials about the degrees

Closing Ceremony

Many reunions end with a formal closing ceremony, which might include:

• Reflections on the reunion experience
• Charge to the new Scottish Rite Masons
• Final words from Scottish Rite leaders

Next Steps

You’ll likely receive information about:

• Upcoming stated meetings of your local Scottish Rite bodies
• Opportunities for further involvement
• Additional educational resources

Processing Your Experience

The Scottish Rite reunion can be an overwhelming experience, with a wealth of information and symbolism presented in a short time. Here are some tips for processing and reflecting on your experience:

1. Take time to reflect: In the days following the reunion, set aside time to think about what you’ve learned and experienced.
2. Review any notes: If you took notes during the reunion, review them while the experience is still fresh in your mind.
3. Discuss with others: Talk with fellow candidates or experienced Scottish Rite Masons about your thoughts and questions.
4. Explore further reading: The Scottish Rite offers numerous books and resources to deepen your understanding of the degrees.
5. Attend follow-up education sessions: Many Valleys offer classes or discussion groups to explore the degrees in more depth.

Continuing Your Scottish Rite Journey

Receiving your degrees at a reunion is just the beginning of your Scottish Rite experience. To make the most of your membership:

• Attend stated meetings: Regular meetings of your local Scottish Rite bodies provide opportunities for further learning and fellowship.
• Participate in degree work: Consider taking a role in future degree presentations. This can deepen your understanding of the degrees and contribute to the experience of new members.
• Engage in Scottish Rite education: Take advantage of educational programs, reading lists, and discussion groups offered by your Valley or the Supreme Council.
• Support Scottish Rite charities: Learn about and contribute to the philanthropic efforts of the Scottish Rite, such as the RiteCare Childhood Language Program.
• Attend future reunions: Even after receiving your degrees, attending future reunions can provide new insights and a chance to support new members.

Common Questions and Concerns

New members often have questions about the reunion experience. Here are answers to some common queries:

Q: Do I need to memorize anything? 

A: No, as a candidate, your role is to observe and reflect on the degrees. No memorization is required.

Q: Can I take notes during the degrees? 

A: Yes, note-taking is generally allowed and even encouraged. However, be mindful not to let it distract from your experience of the degrees.

Q: What if I can’t attend all days of a multi-day reunion? 

A: While it’s ideal to attend the full reunion, many Valleys can accommodate partial attendance. Communicate with your local Scottish Rite office about your situation.

Q: Are there physical challenges involved in receiving the degrees? 

A: The degrees primarily involve sitting and observing. If you have specific physical limitations, discuss them with your Valley beforehand to ensure appropriate accommodations.

Q: Can I discuss the content of the degrees with non-members? 

A: While you can discuss general themes and your personal reflections, the specific details of the degrees should be kept confidential among Scottish Rite Masons.

Embracing the Scottish Rite Experience

As you prepare for and participate in your Scottish Rite reunion, remember that this is a deeply personal journey of moral and philosophical exploration. Each person may take away different insights from the degrees, and that’s part of the beauty of the Scottish Rite tradition.

Approach the reunion with an open mind and heart. Be prepared to be challenged intellectually and emotionally. The degrees are designed not just to impart information, but to inspire reflection and personal growth.

Your Scottish Rite reunion is a significant milestone in your Masonic journey. It’s an opportunity to deepen your understanding of Masonic principles, forge new friendships, and commit yourself to a path of ongoing moral and intellectual development.

As you stand on the threshold of this experience, know that you’re joining a long line of seekers who have found value, meaning, and brotherhood in the Scottish Rite. Welcome to this new chapter in your Masonic life, and may your reunion experience be the beginning of a rewarding and enlightening journey in the Scottish Rite.