Russ Hennings, 32°
Wise Master
In the heart of Masonry, there exists a concept that transcends words and rituals—a concept known as “Agape.” It’s a term that encapsulates the very essence of our fraternity, nurturing the bonds of brotherhood and unity that define us as Scottish Rite Masons.
Agape, often described as love, is not a mere sentiment. It’s a profound and selfless love, a love that extends beyond the boundaries of family and friends to encompass all humanity. In our valley, Agape is not just a word; it’s a way of life. At the core of Agape is the value of Brotherly Love. It’s the foundation upon which our fraternity stands, a commitment to treating every Mason as a brother and extending our love and support to one another. Through Agape, we create an environment where every Mason feels valued, respected, and welcomed.
Tolerance, another cornerstone of Agape, teaches us to embrace diversity and differences of opinion. It’s a reminder that in unity, there is strength. Through Agape, we cultivate an atmosphere of understanding, where diverse perspectives enrich our discussions and broaden our horizons.
Charity, a fundamental aspect of Agape, extends our love and compassion to those in need. Whether through philanthropic initiatives, community service, or support for the CASRF, we channel our Agape into actions that make a positive impact on society. Our commitment to Charity is a testament to our dedication to improving the lives of others.
Truth, the final pillar of Agape, encourages us to be honest and sincere in our interactions. It’s a commitment to open and transparent communication, ensuring that our bonds of brotherhood are built on a foundation of trust and integrity.
Agape is not confined to our rituals and meetings; it’s a way of life that extends beyond the walls of our Valleys. It’s the warm handshake, the supportive embrace, and the genuine concern for the well-being of our fellow Masons. It’s the spirit of fraternity that unites us, transcending age, background, and circumstance.
In our Masonic journey, Agape is the thread that weaves through every degree, every lecture, and every conversation. It’s the force that binds us as brothers and fuels our commitment to self-improvement, community service, and the pursuit of knowledge.
As Masons, we understand that Agape is not a destination but a continuous journey—a journey where we strive to embody the principles of Brotherly Love, Tolerance, Charity, and Truth in our daily lives. It’s a journey of growth, unity, and unwavering brotherhood.
Agape is the living embodiment of our Masonic ideals. It’s a commitment to love, tolerance, charity, and truth that extends beyond the boundaries of our fraternity and enriches the world around us. As Scottish Rite Masons, we embrace Agape as a guiding light on our journey of self-improvement and service to others, knowing that through our actions, we nourish the bonds of brotherhood that define us.
