Sunday, March 21, 2010

Remembrance and Renewal

The Scottish Rite bodies have a very touching tradition of gathering to remember their brothers who have transferred their membership to the Celestial Lodge above, and to renew their commitment to honor those departed brothers by continuing to strive to live the Masonic ideals.

Saturday evening, the Minneapolis Valley of the Scottish Rite performed that duty. We started with a sumptuous meal. Then we adjourned to the auditorium for the service. It was a most impressive ceremony, honoring 83 Scottish Rite Masons from the Minneapolis Valley that failed to answer to call of the roll in 2009.

MWB Terry Tilton delivered a wonderful and thought-provoking address. The names of the 83 deceased brothers was read, including my friend, David Caufman of LeSueur. A rose was laid on the altar and a candle lit, reminding us to carry their light with us as we perform our labors.

This was the last Masonic event for Patty and me before Grand Lodge. What a fitting way to end the Masonic year.