Well, it has been two months now since stepping into this role….so, how am I doing?

WHAT? What do you mean you haven’t seen me at the last two meetings???? Oh, yeah, about that….

As you may have heard, SGIG Hoover and I had the fabulous opportunity to attend the Statewide meeting of the Florida Prince Hall Scottish Rite in July (which unfortunately fell on our meeting night). It was a very warm and welcoming weekend event full of Masonic education and fellowship, culminating with the Grand Banquet honoring the leader of their ladies’ organization. We met the leadership and Brothers of the Orlando Valley and are discussing times and opportunities to get together for visitations.

Not long afterwards, and thanks to the tenacity of Brother Thomas Norush, a delegation of 14 Orlando Valley Masters of the Royal Secret made the journey to the Valley of Jacksonville and retrieved their new Traveling Sword. It’s a new endeavor, much like the Traveling Gavel, but for the Florida Scottish Rite Valleys. We were the first to invade their Valley and bring it home to Orlando! We need to keep a close eye on our West Gate, as they may try to reclaim it.

The next day, my Bride and I set off for a long-awaited cruise to Iceland, Greenland, and Canada, ending back in Boston. It seemed as though at each stop, one of the first things we saw were Masonic Temples. Sadly, no one was at home at any of them but at least we tried.

Mark your calendar for our next meeting, September 26, 2025, when we will observe our annual Fiest of Tishri. Ill. Marty Schwebel will lead us in the toasts for the evening. Bring a Brother with you and participate in the renewal of your 14th Degree Vows led by Ill. Bert Nelson.

Lastly, shake the trees of your Lodges for any poor brothers who have not yet availed themselves of the rights and benefits of the Scottish Rite ritual lessons. Direct them to our website to submit an online petition and join us for our Fall Reunion on October 11 & 12. It truly is reunion time for all Masters of the Royal Secret to return and refresh your spirit during our time together. I cannot wait to see you there!!