GREETINGS TO ONE AND ALL:
I hope this issue of the Rite News finds everyone well and ready for the holidays and winter months ahead.
The 2026 Year has been a great one for Maryland Scottish Rite, filled with many memorable activities and accomplishments. Our Spring Reunion was one of the largest we have experienced in quite some time. Seventy-Four new men received their 32° and witnessed some fine degree work presented by our many dedicated members and support staff. Their commitment and hard work continue to make our reunions something of which we can be proud.
I want to say congratulations to each of our new brothers, and I sincerely hope that each of you will return as often as possible. Meet new brothers and families, get involved in the many activities in any one
of the Seven Valleys in Maryland. I also want to say thank you to all who participated in the degree work, property, robing, lighting, and the many other activities, and for all the work you did to make this class a great success.
On September 11th a solemn ceremony commemorating the attacks on our Country was held in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our Sovereign Grand Commander, The Illustrious James D. Cole, 33°, joined three Grand Commanders from jurisdictions across the United States for this important occasion. During the ceremony, a check was presented to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, in recognition of the tremendous work they do for our military and law enforcement officers who defend and protect this great nation. The campaign raised a total of $200,100!
The Tunnel to Towers Foundation has made an extraordinary difference in the lives of families who have sacrificed much. Among their many efforts, they have paid off the mortgages of two families of service members who were killed in the Iran conflict and established scholarships for each of their children. Their work is a powerful reminder of the difference that charitable organizations can make in the lives of others.
I want to extend a sincere thank-you to all of our Almoners, across the country, and especially to our own almoners here in Maryland. Their generosity helped provide assistance to two of our Scottish Rite members who lost their homes, automobiles, and virtually all of their personal belongings in the devasting wildfires in the Pacific Northwest.
And, of course, I cannot forget you – the members. Your generous donations, your attendance at our fundraising events, and your continued support are what make these charitable efforts possible. Without you, we simply could not accomplish the good work we do
As we look ahead, please remember our famous Chocolate Soiree which will be held on December 13, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. There will be chocolate of every kind, delicious snacks, a train garden, Nativity, and Santa’s workshop full of games for the young ones. Ill. Brother Bob England and Brother Charlie Sheats have been hard at work completely renovating the train garden for the enjoyment of children and train enthusiasts alike. Santa and Mrs. Claus will also be paying a special visit. A raffle will be held for two bicycles – one for a boy and one for a girl. It promises to be a wonderful afternoon for the entire family, so please plan to join us.
I also hope you have marked your calendars for Reunion Day on November 7th being held in Memory of Illustrious Kenneth R. Sebra, 33°. Please make every effort to attend. Ring Ceremony for the new members will be on Sunday, November 8, 2026 at 2:00 p.m.
In closing, I want to thank each and every one of you for your continued support of Maryland Scottish Rite Masonry. Your dedication, generosity, and fellowship are what keep our organization strong and allow us to continue our traditions of service and charity. May you and your families have a wonderful Thanksgiving, a Very Merry Christmas, and a healthy, happy, and prosperous New Year. May Our Supreme Architect of the Universe Bless you, and your families, in the coming year and for many years to come.
Sincerely and Fraternally
