Deputy's Message
The Supreme Council meets on the first Monday in
October in odd numbered years to conduct business. Last October was no exception! Several important changes were
made to the Statutes of the Supreme Council, which are the rule and guide for Scottish Rite Bodies. Can you do it! I think you can. THAT'S WHAT SCOTTISH RITE MASONS DO! Robert W. Schrader Deputy of the Supreme Council in Wyoming
Probably the one that most concerns Scottish Rite Members who are not yet 33°, is the change in the number
of nominations for Inspector General Honorary. Each Orient will now only receive six (6) nominations for its first
2,500 (or fewer) Masters of the Royal Secret as of the prior December 31, and two for each additional 2,500. [This
is a reduction from 12 in previous years.] In addition, the time frame for making nominations has been changed
from 30 days prior to the regular session to 90 days. That means I will be looking for suggested names much sooner.
This of course, also affects Knight Commander of the Court of Honor (KCCH) nominations, which will be limited to
twelve (12). When that is split between three Valleys in the Orient, it means fewer recipients in each Valley.
Another change that will affect all the bodies is the change in Per Capita Tax. There will be an increase of eighty
cents for the Lodge of Perfection and forty cents for each of the other three bodies each year for five years beginning
on January 1, 2011.
The Grand Commander may waive the Supreme Council's per capita assessment on "Senior Members" (those
who are either 80 years of age or have 50 years or more membership), who are in financial need if the Valley will
also waive their annual dues for that member (which should be voted upon in a regular meeting).
The Valley Treasurer, as well as the Secretary and Almoner, is now required to be appointed by the SGIG or Deputy
of the Orient.