TexasJohn
SENIOR MEMBER
- Joined
- May 13, 2006
- Messages
- 1,474
- Reaction score
- 0
- Country
- Location
Oh and I missed the Christian part. The Scottish rite does not need you to be a Christian. I could Google up another bunch of groups who also call themselves "Knights" who won't even ask you for a religious affiliation. I at least know of one group that calls itself the Jewish (open to Jews) Knights Templar. Seems like they are too poor to have a website.
Scottish Rite / About Scottish Rite / FAQ
ARE THERE ANY RELIGIOUS DISQUALIFICATIONS?
The Scottish Rite does not intrude on the religious beliefs of its members, but it does require that its adherents profess a belief in a Supreme Being, and urges its members to be active in their respective houses of worship. It does not attempt to teach any creed nor pretend to be a religion nor a substitute for religion. Scottish Rite practices universality.
Anyway, my claim is that unless you can either 1) Prove that you are somehow related to the original Knights and are a rebel group or 2) Get a papal authority to be a Knight (or one from British Queen, head of Anglican church), you are not really a Knight. You are just a bunch of guys using an old name to make yourselves sound cool.
You have your facts wrong again. It is true there is no direct connection between the Knights of old and us - I don't remember making that claim.
The Scottish Rite is a different branch of the Masons from the York Rite ( the degrees I mentioned)
The Scottish right does not specify being a Christian - I know Shriners that are Jewish and muslim.
The York Rite on the other hand DOES require you to declare Christianity as your faith.
Atheists are not allowed in Freemasonry.
You are confusing the Knights of Columbus with Knights Templar. KoC have the blessing of the Vatican, The Knights Templar do not! They had the blessings of the Crown and Church of England.
I have never even heard of Jewish "Knights", certainly they are not a part of us.
Masonry has three pillars ,Faith, Hope and Charity. Charity is the main thing.
Have you ever heard of the Scottish Rite Hospitals for Children? they are worldwide. We never charge a single red cent for treatment, it's free, and it's for the kids.
They also have the Shriners Circus which is to raise money for Charity.
The differences between York and Scottish rites are best explained by this link.
The York And Scottish Rites Compared
Feel free to become the Amir of "Hash...whatever it is".
You can also believe what you like about the Masons. Your knowledge in their activities is somewhat limited, I can tell..
It's all about wanting to give a little back to humanity and those less fortunate.. like saying thanks to the almighty ( as you know him)