Alejo Velarde, 32°
Wise Master
The Chapter of Rose Croix, one of the central bodies in the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, carries profound philosophical and spiritual symbolism. Degrees 17 and 18—the Knight of the East and West and the Knight Rose Croix—are conferred in this chapter, emphasizing themes of faith, hope, charity, and the triumph of truth over ignorance. Among its most significant observances is the Ceremony of Remembrance and Renewal, held annually around the time of the vernal equinox, symbolizing the transition from darkness to light, death to life, and despair to hope.
The Ceremony of Remembrance and Renewal is a solemn and deeply reflective ritual. It honors the memory of departed brethren, while also reaffirming the living Masons’ commitment to Masonic ideals. Candles are lit in memory of those who have passed, and prayers, readings, and symbolic acts call upon participants to renew their personal dedication to truth, virtue, and brotherly love. The ceremony, often conducted in a beautifully adorned setting, draws parallels to both nature’s rebirth in spring and the soul’s eternal journey beyond this earthly life.
Beyond remembrance, this ceremony is an opportunity for personal introspection and recommitment. It reminds us that while life is fleeting, the values we uphold—integrity, compassion, and service—have enduring power. In renewing our vows, we draw strength not only from tradition but from one another, reinforcing the unbreakable bond that links all Freemasons. The Ceremony of Remembrance and Renewal serves as both a tribute to the past and a light guiding the path forward.
