About | SF Scottish Rite

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History of Scottish Rite

The Scottish Rite is one of the most prominent branches of Freemasonry, known for its rich history and intricate rituals. It originated in the 18th century, building upon the foundational degrees of Freemasonry. The Rite is
often associated with the "high degrees," which extend beyond the initial three degrees of Craft Masonry.

The term "Scottish" in its name does not necessarily indicate a direct connection to Scotland but rather reflects the influence of early Masonic traditions and degrees that were popularized in France and other parts of Europe. The Rite was formalized in the early 19th century, with the
establishment of Supreme Councils to oversee its degrees, which range from the 4th to the 33rd.

The Scottish Rite emphasizes moral and philosophical teachings, often conveyed through dramatic presentations of its degrees. It has become a global institution, with variations in its structure and practices depending on
the region.

Key milestones in the history of the Scottish Rite

Early 18th Century: The roots of the Scottish Rite trace back to France, where "high degrees" of Freemasonry began to emerge. These degrees expanded upon the foundational three degrees of Craft Masonry.

1754: The Chevalier de Bonneville established a chapter of 25 "high degrees" at the College of Clermont in Paris. This system is considered a precursor to the Scottish Rite.

1761: Étienne (Stephen) Morin received a patent from the Grand Lodge of France to propagate these "high degrees" in the New World. This marked the beginning of the Rite's spread to the Americas.

1801: The first Supreme Council of the Scottish Rite was established in Charleston, South Carolina. This event formalized the structure of the Rite and its degrees.

19th Century: The Scottish Rite expanded globally, adapting to regional traditions while maintaining its core philosophical and moral teachings.

The Scottish Rite: Origins, Evolution, and Influence
https://nextmasonic.com/the-scottish-rite-origins-evolution-and-influence/

History of Scottish Rite in Freemasonry
https://bismanmasons.com/the-history-of-the-scottish-rite-in-freemasonry/

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."

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San Francisco Scottish Rite operates under the jurisdiction of the Supreme Council 33° of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, Southern Jurisdiction.

James D. Cole, 33°
Sovereign Grand Commander

Frank Loui, 33°
Sovereign Grand Inspector General

(S.G.I.G.) for California Mario L. Balbiani, 33°
Personal Representative to the S.G.I.G.

Charity

Charity is an important value for Masons. The Scottish Rite sponsors RiteCare Childhood Language Centers throughout the U.S., which provide free treatment, regardless of race, religion, economic status, or Masonic affiliation, to children challenged by speech and reading disorders or dyslexia.

To learn more about our local Center, visit the website of the San Francisco Scottish Rite Childhood Language Center.

To locate RiteCare Centers in other locations, consult the RiteCare Center Directory.