Rocky J. Squirrel Presents GEMS+H: The Stories That Bind Us
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Scottish Rite: A Journey of Deeper Light and Lifelong Learning
The Blue Lodge made me a Master Mason, but my journey did not end there. It opened the door to a lifetime of continued learning.
The Scottish Rite became the place where I discovered that Masonic education is not simply about learning more ritual—it is about exploring philosophy, history, symbolism, leadership, and the lessons that shape our lives. Through its degrees, educational programs, service opportunities, and fellowship, the Scottish Rite has challenged me to continue growing both as a Mason and as a person.
My journey has included service within the Valley of Dayton, educational opportunities through both the Northern and Southern Jurisdictions, and leadership within the Knights of St. Andrew.
Scottish Rite--Northern Masonic Jurisdiction
Scottish Rite--Southern Masonic Jurisdiction
Knights of
St. Andrew
Scottish Rite Valley of Dayton (NMJ)
When I joined the Valley of Dayton shortly after becoming a Master Mason, I quickly discovered that the Scottish Rite offered far more than additional degrees. Each degree invited me to think more deeply about the principles introduced in the Blue Lodge and challenged me to apply those lessons in everyday life.
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Like many Masons, much of my early Scottish Rite experience unfolded during the COVID-19 pandemic. During that time, the Thursday Night on the Rite program became an important source of education and fellowship, allowing brethren to remain connected even when we could not gather in person.
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Since then, I have continued my journey through the Valley by completing both the standard Scottish Rite Passport and the Gold Passport. I have also had the privilege of portraying characters in the 15°, 18°, and 32° degrees, giving me a deeper appreciation for the lessons those degrees are designed to teach.
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Since 2022, I have also served as the Scottish Rite Ambassador to Washington Lodge #17, helping strengthen the relationship between my lodge and the Valley of Dayton while encouraging brethren to continue their own journeys of Masonic education.
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Education & Service — Valley of Dayton
• Scottish Rite Passport completed
• Gold Passport completed (2025)
• Degree cast member (15°, 18°, & 32°)
• Scottish Rite Ambassador (2022–Present)
Scottish Rite Valley of Covington (SMJ)
My interest in Masonic education eventually led me beyond my own jurisdiction to the Valley of Covington in the Southern Jurisdiction.
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I joined the Valley in 2021 to participate in its educational program and to make use of its outstanding library as I prepared for future work in the Hauts Grades Academy. Although my responsibilities as a Blue Lodge officer required me to place those goals on hold, the experience broadened my appreciation for the Scottish Rite and reminded me that the pursuit of Masonic knowledge extends well beyond any single Valley or jurisdiction.
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In 2024, I demitted from the Valley of Covington so I could focus my time and energy on my responsibilities in Ohio. Even so, the experience remains an important chapter in my Masonic journey and reinforced my commitment to lifelong learning.
Knights of St. Andrew (serving the Valley of Dayton)
While the degrees of the Scottish Rite emphasize education, the Knights of St. Andrew taught me another important lesson: education and service belong together.
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As the service organization of the Valley of Dayton, the Knights assist wherever they are needed—from candidate registration and degree productions to concerts, reunions, and special events. Joining the Knights gave me an opportunity to support the work taking place behind the scenes while building lasting friendships with brethren throughout the Valley.
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After joining as a Sergeant in 2021 and completing the requirements for Knighthood later that year, I was honored to begin serving as an officer. Each office brought new opportunities to serve others and develop as a leader, culminating in my year as Venerable Master while simultaneously serving as Worshipful Master of my Blue Lodge.
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Serving in both positions at the same time was one of the most rewarding experiences of my Masonic journey. It reinforced an important lesson: leadership is not about titles—it is about serving others wherever you are needed.
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Leadership & Service — Knights of St. Andrew
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Sergeant (2021)
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Knight (2021)
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Junior Deacon (2022)
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Senior Deacon (2023)
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Junior Warden (2024)
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Venerable Master (2025)
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Senior Deacon (2026)