Our Valley
About the Scottish Rite
The University of Freemasonry — dedicated to the pursuit of knowledge, truth, and brotherly love.
Our Heritage
What is the Scottish Rite?
The Scottish Rite is one of the two branches of Freemasonry in which a Master Mason may proceed after completing the first three degrees in the Blue Lodge. Often called “The University of Freemasonry,” it offers a rich curriculum of degrees — from the 4th through the 32nd — that explore moral, philosophical, and spiritual themes through dramatic presentations and allegory.
The Ancient & Accepted Scottish Rite, Southern Jurisdiction, U.S.A., is the Mother Supreme Council of the World, founded in 1801 in Charleston, South Carolina. It is the oldest and largest Scottish Rite jurisdiction in the world, and it charters local Valleys — like ours — across its jurisdiction.
A Valley is the local Scottish Rite body where Master Masons continue their Masonic education, confer degree work, and gather for fellowship and charitable service. Valley of the Vines is a Valley of the Orient of California, dedicated to the Masonic principles of brotherly love, relief, and truth, and to the ideals expressed in the Scottish Rite Creed.
Our Valley's Story Is Still Being Written
Valley of the Vines is a young Valley, and we are proud to be building our history one degree, one meeting, and one act of fellowship at a time. Check back as we grow — we look forward to sharing our story here.
The Journey
The Scottish Rite Degrees
Lodge of Perfection
Degrees 4th - 14th
The Ineffable Degrees explore the inner qualities of man. Through allegory and symbolism, candidates learn about duty, integrity, and the search for truth.
Chapter of Rose Croix
Degrees 15th - 18th
These degrees focus on faith, hope, and charity. The 18th Degree, Knight Rose Croix, is one of the most beautiful ceremonies in all of Masonry.
Council of Kadosh
Degrees 19th - 30th
The philosophical and chivalric degrees teach about the soul's journey and the importance of justice, equality, and truth in governance.
Consistory
Degrees 31st - 32nd
The Sublime Degrees culminate in the 32nd Degree, Master of the Royal Secret, which synthesizes the lessons of all preceding degrees into a grand philosophy of life.
What We Stand For
Mission & Values
Education
The Scottish Rite is called the University of Freemasonry. Through degree work, study, and reflection, we offer lifelong learning in Masonic philosophy, history, and symbolism.
Charity
Practical charity to members, their families, and the wider community is a Scottish Rite Mason's daily work — carried out quietly, without expectation of recognition.
Brotherhood
Companions gather on the level and part on the square, building bonds of trust and fellowship that carry well beyond the Valley floor.
Civic Duty
A lasting devotion to constitutional government, the rule of law, and service to community runs through every degree we confer.
"Human progress is our cause, liberty of thought our supreme wish, freedom of conscience our mission, and the guarantee of equal rights to all people everywhere our ultimate goal."
Ready to Begin Your Journey?
If you are a Master Mason in good standing and wish to pursue further light in Masonry, we welcome you to reach out.
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