Scottish Rite Officers - December 2025

From the Venerable Master (December 2025)

Greetings Brethren,

I hope everyone is in good health and ready to celebrate Christmas or Hanukah.

The Grand Master’s reception for Most Worshipful Garrett S. Chan was held at our Scottish Rite Center, and it was hosted by Liberty Lodge No. 299, SCVMOA. It was a big success and was enjoyed by all.

At our November stated meeting we recognized our Military hosted by Charles Cowden.

I would like to quote an article on the meaning of Loyalty. It is from a book called Masonry Defined. Notwithstanding the calumnies of Barruel, Robinson, and a host of other anti-Masonic writers who assert that Masonry is ever engaged in efforts to uproot the governments within which it may exist, there is nothing more evident than that Freemasonry is a loyal institution, and that it inculcates, in all its public instructions, obedience to government.

Thus, in the Prestonian charge given in the last century to the Entered Apprentice, and continued to this day in the same words in English Lodges, we find the following words: “In the State, you are to be quiet and peaceable subject, true to your sovereign, and just to your country; you are not to countenance disloyalty or rebellion, but patiently submit to legal authority, and conform with cheerfulness to the government under which you live, yielding obedience to the laws which afford you protection, but never forgetting the attachment you owe to the place of your nativity or the allegiance due to the sovereign or protectors of that spot.”

The charge given in America is of the same import, and varies but slightly in its language. “In the State, you are to be quiet and peaceful subject, true to your government, and just to your country; you are not to countenance disloyalty or rebellion, but patiently submit to legal authority and conform with cheerfulness to the government of the country in which you live.”

The charge given in French Lodges, though somewhat differing in form from both of these, is couched in the same spirit and teaches the same lesson. It is to this effect: “Obedience to the laws and submission to the authorities are among the most imperious duties of the Mason, and he is forbidden at all times from engaging in plots and conspiracies.”

Hence it is evident that the true Mason must be a true patriot.

San Jose Lodge of Perfection Richard Rosenberg, 32° KCCH 2024 Venerable Master

From the Wise Master (December 2025)

My Brothers,

As we gather with our families and enjoy the blessings of the holiday season, we also approach the close of the year and, with it, the conclusion of my term in the Scottish Rite. I am deeply humbled and sincerely honored to have served you as Wise Master and as Chief Knight. Your trust, support, and fellowship have meant more to me than I can fully express.

After much reflection, I have decided to step back from serving as Treasurer of my Blue Lodge and to conclude my time as an officer in the Scottish Rite. This is not a step away from the Valley or from the Brotherhood; rather, it is an opportunity for me to focus on my health and to reclaim more time for playing music, another passion that brings balance and joy to my life.

As time permits, I will continue to serve in other ways and remain committed to supporting our membership and the work we do together. The bonds we share do not end with a title or office, and I look forward to contributing wherever I can be of value.

Thank you, my Brothers, for the privilege of serving. May this season bring you peace, strength, and renewed light.

San Jose Chapter of Rose Croix Chris Boyes, 32° KCCH 2024 Wise Master

From the Commander of Kadosh (December 2025)

Greetings my brothers,

We are on our last leg for Scottish Rite. I have to say that Brother Chris Boyes had a wonderful evening for our Veterans Day gathering. It was superb.

With that being said, I would hope that you will all attend our last two meetings and as many Scottish Rite Reunions as you’re able. It has been a pleasure serving you as Commander of Kadosh. Hopefully you will participate in our future endeavors at Scottish Rite. Thank you all for attending.

Don’t forget, we have elections in January 2026. Hope to see you all there.

With that, I bid you all a safe and healthy life.

San Jose Council of Kadosh Max Mora, 32° 2024 Commander of Kadosh

From the Master of Kadosh (December 2025)

In Freemasonry, "light" is a central and profound symbol for knowledge, truth, and moral and spiritual understanding, while "darkness" represents ignorance. The entire process of Masonic initiation and education is framed as a journey from darkness to light, or a search for "further light."

Are you a source of light, or of darkness?

We create our own reality. What we expect from life is what we receive. If we expect and look for trouble, disagreement, and negativity in situations, that is what we are sure to find. If, however, we expect and look for good, cooperative, and positive outcomes in situations, that is what we will experience.

Life cannot and does not always go smoothly. We cannot appreciate the good times and the joys that life brings without the rough times and the sadness that must cross our path on occasion. It is our response to these times that defines who we are.

Brothers, I am guilty of being a source of darkness. That is, seeing and focusing only on the problems in lodge that I perceive need to be corrected, and in being aware of, and a part of, the occasional personality conflicts that are destined to arise in any group.

Yes, there are problems in every lodge. Yes, we do not always agree with or get along with each other. This has always been and always will be. But we cannot be negative about these difficulties. Our negative thoughts are like cancer which spreads and weakens us, and those around us, emotionally, physically, and spiritually.

It is easy to fall into the trap of negativity or darkness. But, with effort on our part, and the assistance of the Supreme Being, we can instead choose to open our eyes to the light. My Brothers, that light is Brotherly love. Love is being positive and expecting the best life has to offer. Love is knowing that, although our human weaknesses will result in disagreement, where there is hope and understanding there can be peace and harmony to work together toward a common goal.

So, for the sake of the Fraternity and your well-being, I urge you to make the commitment to change your life, to become a source of Masonic Light, that, like the Sun in the heavens, all the world can see.

San Jose Consistory Eddie Hermano, 32° 2025 Venerable Master of Kadosh

From the Chief Knight

(December 2025)

My Brethren,

As we approach the end of the year and the conclusion of my term as Chief Knight of the Knights of Saint Andrew, I am humbled by the strong bond we share in this distinguished group of worthy brothers. It has been an honor and a privilege to serve alongside you, supporting the activities of our Blue Lodges and our Scottish Rite.

Whether greeting members and their families for dinner or performing Arches of Steel for Hiram Award ceremonies, installations, and Grand Master receptions, I have truly enjoyed every opportunity to serve with my fellow Knights. Thank you all for your support, I am honored to be part of such an exceptional group of men.

As we enter installation season, please let any of our Knights know if your lodge would like the KSA to perform an Arch of Steel at your upcoming installation. We are always proud to support and participate in these important events.

Finally, I would like to congratulate Chief Knight Alan Porjesz and the officers of the San Jose Chapter of the Knights of Saint Andrew for your loyal and devoted participation. I look forward to seeing the chapter continue to thrive under your leadership. San Jose Knights of St. Andrew Chris Boyes, 32°

2025 Chief Knight, KSA

The Knights of Saint Andrew 2025 Officers

Chief Knight	Bro. Chris Boyes 32º
First Knight	Bro. Alan Porjesz 32º
Knight of the Watch	Bro. Mike Lammer 32º, PCK
Secretary	Bro. Tim Lynch 32º
Monk Knight	Bro. Angelo Encarnacion 32º
Sentinel	Bro. John Absalon 32º