Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, Northern Masonic Jurisdiction

The Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, Northern Masonic Jurisdiction (NMJ) is a branch of the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry in the United States. It operates in fifteen states: Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey, New Hampshire, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Wisconsin, and Vermont.

History

The Northern Masonic Jurisdiction was formed in 1813 as the second Supreme Council of the Scottish Rite within the United States. Its creation followed the founding of the Mother Supreme Council in Charleston, South Carolina, in 1801. Initially, it faced rivalries, notably from the Cerneau Supreme Council, and experienced periods of inactivity due to external pressures like the Morgan Affair. The jurisdiction was formally re-established following the "Union of 1867," when it merged with the Hays-Raymond Cerneau Supreme Council, solidifying its current structure.

Organization and Degrees

The NMJ is headquartered in Lexington, Massachusetts, and organizes its local bodies into "Valleys." Each Valley typically consists of four subordinate bodies:

• Lodge of Perfection: Confers degrees 4 through 14.
• Council of Princes of Jerusalem: Confers degrees 15 and 16.
• Chapter of Rose Croix: Confers degrees 17 and 18.
• Consistory: Confers degrees 19 through 32.

The Supreme Council confers the 33rd degree, that of Sovereign Grand Inspector General, which is not considered a higher rank but rather a degree of further instruction and honor.

Mission and Activities

The Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, NMJ, focuses on promoting brotherly love, moral instruction, and fellowship among its members. It supports various charitable initiatives and educational programs, enhancing the Masonic journey for its Brethren. The organization encourages interaction with other Masonic bodies, fostering a sense of unity and shared values across jurisdictions.

International and Inter-Jurisdictional Collaboration

While the NMJ operates independently as a sovereign body, it maintains strong ties with other Masonic organizations globally and within the United States, particularly with the Southern Jurisdiction. This collaborative spirit allows members to participate in events and share experiences across different Valleys and jurisdictions, promoting Masonic ideals of unity and reciprocity.