Est. 1856
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.
The Valley of Santa Rosa, in the Orient of California, has been a center of Scottish Rite Masonry since 1856. We are dedicated to the Masonic principles of brotherly love, relief, and truth, and to the ideals expressed in the Scottish Rite Creed.
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
Through the Master Craftsman program, study groups, and degree work, we provide lifelong learning opportunities in Masonic philosophy, history, and symbolism.
Philanthropy
The RiteCare Scottish Rite Childhood Language Program is our flagship charity, providing speech and language therapy to children regardless of the family's ability to pay.
Scholarships
Through the Scottish Rite Foundation, we offer national scholarships to deserving students pursuing higher education, investing in future generations.
Community
We believe in civic engagement, patriotism, and service to our local communities. Our members volunteer, donate, and lead in Santa Rosa and beyond.
"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 your petition.
Apply for Membership