Tribute To The Ancient And Accepted Scottish Rite Masons

Floor Speech

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Mr. CLYBURN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to offer my congratulations to the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite Masons as they celebrate their 151 years of service.

The Scottish Rite Masons is a national organization of individuals that strive to enrich the lives of their members and enhance the communities in which they live. The Scottish Rites' first Supreme Council was founded in Charleston, South Carolina in 1801, and a second Supreme Council was created in New York in 1806.
The Scottish Rite Masons' mission proclaims that they ``emulate 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.''

They also produce a strategic plan that displays five objectives, including offering Masonic knowledge, establishing a public relations department, supporting philanthropic activities, providing a framework for effective leadership and providing financial stability for a long-term success of the Fraternity.

The Scottish Rite Masons have been instrumental in assisting youth in their academic pursuits and have made generous contributions to the American Heart Association, American Cancer Foundation, YMCA, NAACP and a myriad of other non-profit entities.

Mr. Speaker, The Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite Masons have improved the lives of many and continue to make outstanding and a wide-range of contributions to our society. I ask that you and my colleagues join me in congratulating them on this celebration.

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