The Scottish Rite and the St. Paul Valley
The Scottish Rite Creed
- Human progress is our cause
- Liberty of thought our supreme wish
- Freedom of conscience our mission
- And the guarantee of equal rights to all people everywhere our ultimate goal
Mission Statement
It is the mission of the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, SJ, to improve its members and enhance the communities in which they live by teaching and emulating the principles of Brotherly Love, Tolerance, Charity, and Truth, while actively embracing high social, moral, and spiritual values, including fellowship, compassion, and dedication to God, family, and country.
The Scottish Rite of the Southern Jurisdiction
The Ancient & Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, commonly known as the Scottish Rite, is one of several groups that are part of the worldwide fraternity known as Freemasonry. The Scottish Rite is the largest and most widely practiced Masonic Rite in the world and employs a lodge system.
While there is no Masonic degree more important than that of Master Mason, there is a long tradition—almost as old as Freemasonry—of “high degrees” that expand upon and elaborate the teachings and lessons of the first three degrees. The Scottish Rite degrees teach a series of moral lessons culminating in the 32°, Master of the Royal Secret.
The Valley of St. Paul was established in 1873
Overview and Vision
Our vision for the St. Paul Valley is to be the anchor and leader for Metro East Masonic activities that extend to the lodges and to the other bodies. To be that, the Scottish Rite will be the leader in Masonic education and leadership training within the Rite and to the other groups. Through our activities of education and leadership, we will attract new members that will intern attract other members. We will provide more education. We will add leadership training first to our corps of officers and then extend to the other bodies. The Valley in St. Paul will be a beacon for the Metro East.
Reasons for Being a St. Paul Scottish Rite Member
By Illustrious Brother Jerry Johnson 33° Grand Cross
The overall reason to be a member of the St. Paul Valley of the Scottish Rite is that it provides a unique and enriching path for those seeking deeper personal growth, fellowship, and service. For Master Masons interested in expanding their Masonic journey, joining the Scottish Rite can be both a transformative and rewarding experience. The Scottish Rite helps refine one’s moral compass, encourages philosophical exploration, and fosters a sense of spiritual purpose.
While the first three degrees of symbolic Masonry lays the foundation, the Scottish Rite expands upon these teachings with 29 additional degrees (4°–32°). These degrees explore moral, philosophical, and spiritual themes in greater depth. For those who value lifelong learning and contemplation, the Scottish Rite offers a profound curriculum that addresses justice, tolerance, integrity, and most importantly, the pursuit of truth.
Scottish Rite degrees are rich in allegory and theatrical presentation. They draw on historical, religious, and mythological themes, providing a dramatic and reflective way to engage with moral teachings. The degree work often feels like participating in living theater, making the lessons more memorable and impactful.
Becoming a Scottish Rite Mason opens the door to a broader network of like-minded individuals committed to self-improvement and service. Members often find lifelong friendships and a deeper sense of belonging through active participation in meetings, events, and degree work. The camaraderie and mentorship within the Rite are a major draw for many who regularly attend the conferrals and events.
The Scottish Rite offers numerous ways to become involved beyond attending meetings. Members can participate in ritual work, serve in leadership roles, contribute to charitable initiatives such as Minneapolis-St. Paul RiteCare and the Almoner’s Fund, and assist in the teaching of Scottish Rite philosophy. For those seeking to lead and make an impact, the officer lines of the four Bodies of the Rite provide ample opportunity to grow and serve.
By joining the Scottish Rite, members become part of a global tradition with centuries of history. Its teachings and rituals connect you with men of character across generations and continents. There’s a profound sense of continuity and legacy in being part of a movement that has influenced culture, leadership, and civil society for over two centuries. This is especially evident to anyone attending the Supreme Council Biennial Session.
Being a Scottish Rite Freemason is more than just holding a title—it’s an ongoing journey of enlightenment, service, and fraternity. Whether you’re drawn by the intellectual challenge, the moral teachings, the sense of purpose, or the fellowship, the Scottish Rite offers a rich and meaningful path. For Master Masons ready to go beyond the basics, it’s an invitation to think deeper, live nobler, and serve greater. I hope you will consider being one of the new candidates who seek further light in Masonry by joining the St. Paul Scottish Rite.