[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 106 (Thursday, July 9, 2015)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1028]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        TRIBUTE TO THE ANCIENT AND ACCEPTED SCOTTISH RITE MASONS

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                         HON. JAMES E. CLYBURN

                           of south carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, July 9, 2015

  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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