Masonic Life Network

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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.

About San Bernardino Valley

The years 1956 and 1957 saw feverish anticipation as Brethren of the area realized that soon the Valley of San Bernardino would become the 16th Scottish Rite Valley in California. With the election of Henry Christian Clausen, 33°, as Sovereign Grand Inspector General (SGIG) in the Orient of California and active Member of the Supreme Council, AASR of Freemasonry of the SJ of the USA, fresh impetus had been give the idea had been given the idea of a Consistory in this area.

Letters temporary for San Bernardino Lodge of Perfection and a Chapter of Rose Croix were personally presented by Ill. Brother Clasusen, 33rd, to Arthur B. Drake , 32nd, Venerable Master and Walter W. Taylor, 32nd, Wise Master on September 7, 1956.

The first class finished in the spring of 1957, and was named the “John H. Logie, 33rd, Alpha Class”. In December 1957, a two year lease was signed with the Women’s Club of Highland, California and the first meeting held there on December 17, 1957. Letters of Temporary for a Council of Kadosh and a Consistory were issued on December 16, 1957 and received on January 11, 1958.

Ground breaking for our present Center at 4400 Varsity Ave., was Saturday January 14, 1970 with Ill Carl J. Driscoll, 33rd, as Chairman for the event. The first class was started on October 24, 1970, August 13, 1971, saw the cornerstone officially laid by the Most Worshipful Herbert A. Heubner, Grand Master of Masons in California and Hawaii, with Grand Lodge being opened and closed at the San Bernardino Center.

Continuing a tradition which began on February 2, 1974, all four bodies of the Valley continue to hold annual joint Installation of officers in either late January or early February.