October 2012 = Craziest Month for all things Masonic

October has become a very busy month for me, Masonically speaking.  Every weekend has been full of something new for me in Freemasonry.  On the 8th and 9th of October we had Grand Chapter and Grand Council here in Texas.  This was my first "Grand" event, as I have never been to Grand Lodge during my time as a Freemason (mainly because I have yet to be elected as a Warden).  During this I received the following two chair degrees:

The Order of High Priesthood:  This degree is a side or "chair" degree, and is conferred upon present or part High Priests, which is done during the Grand Chapter's annual grand convocation.  It tells the story of Abraham returning from the slaughter of kings, and his encounter with Melchizedek, High Priest of Salem.  the degree was interesting to behold, and I would say anyone that meets the qualifications can and should take it.  Another interesting note is that this degree is really despised by Evangelical Christians as being a mockery of Christ, I didn't see it when going through the degree, still some will always see what the want to see.

The Order of the Silver Trowel:  This degree is also a side or "chair" degree and is conferred on past and present Illustrious Masters.  This degree when performed properly is excellent to behold, in this degree the candidate is made to represent the young King Solomon in both sections.  In the first section, the candidate learned of the conspiracy by his half-brother Adonijah, to wrest the throne from Solomon.  He also learns of his mother (Bathsheba) interceding with the elder King David to precent this.  After securing David's approval, Solomon is symbolically conducted to Gihon by Benaiah where he is duly obligated  anointed and hailed as King by Nathan the prophet and Zadok, the High Priest.  The second section when done properly (which was excellent when I received it), Solomon is brought before his dying father David and instructed.  It was touching in the sense that every man who has faced an elder patriarch figure passing, knows the scene too well.  Honestly, if you in your Masonic travels have the opportunity to receive this degree, you should.

On the 13th of October I was invited and initiated into the Order of St. Thomas of Acon, which is an honor I hold dearly.  While there are those that believe that defined religious (Christian in all cases) orders within Freemasonry has no place, I would disagree.  I found the oath within the Order of St. Thomas of Acon beautiful, and honestly one of the most touching oaths I have taken in my time in Freemasonry.  I am greatly honored to be a part of this order.

On the  26th of October I will be initiated in the Order of Knight Masons, also referred to as the Green Degrees.

These degrees have really inspired me through further light in Freemasonry, I am very grateful for the companions and Sir Knights that performed them, my mind is still spinning trying to take it all in.

S&F,

-Bro Vick