Russ Hennings, 32°
Venerable Master
If you were at our Valley Picnic on July 12th, you already know—it was outstanding. The energy, the laughter, the fellowship… it reminded me exactly why we do what we do. A huge thank you goes out to Brother Barry, our resident grill master, who kept the burgers flipping and the crowd smiling. We had over 45 friends and family in attendance, including several visiting Master Masons and prospective Scottish Rite Brothers. It was exactly the kind of gathering that strengthens not only our Valley, but our Masonic family across Orange County.
And now, we keep the momentum going.
This August Stated Meeting marks our Valley’s Open House—an evening designed specifically to welcome and introduce Master Masons from our local Blue Lodges to what we’re all about here at the Scottish Rite. If you’re reading this, you have a role to play.
We’re holding a friendly contest among our members to see who can bring the most Master Masons—or the spouses of Master Masons—to the Open House. Prizes will be awarded, but more importantly, you’ll be helping to grow something that will outlast any award: the future of our Valley.
Why does this matter?
Because every new member brings something irreplaceable to the table—fresh perspectives, new energy, and a new voice in our ongoing work. With more Brothers in our Valley, we can cast fuller degrees, fill committees, revive dormant programs, and support more philanthropic initiatives through the RiteCare Childhood Language Center. Growth doesn’t just benefit the Valley—it benefits everyone involved. A larger, more active membership strengthens the experience for all of us.
Imagine our stage filled with eager new ritualists, our Stated Meetings bustling with ideas, and our events drawing crowds that reflect the strength of Masonry in Orange County. That future starts with a simple invite from you to a Brother in your Lodge.
So, let’s do it. Let’s pack the room this month—not just with our own members, but with those who are ready for the next step in their Masonic journey. Let them see what we’re building. Let them hear our stories, meet our Brothers, and feel the spirit of fellowship that defines this Valley.
Together, we’re not just maintaining a legacy—we’re expanding it.
