Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, Northern Masonic Jurisdiction

The Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, Northern Masonic Jurisdiction (NMJ), is a prominent nonprofit organization within the broader context of Freemasonry in the United States. This organization belongs to one of the most widely practiced rites in Freemasonry globally.

History

The history of the 32° Scottish Rite Freemasonry extends over two centuries. In 1813, the foundation for the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction was laid, marking a significant milestone in its development. On May 1, 1813, an officer from the Supreme Council at Charleston initiated several New York Masons into the Thirty-third Degree and organized a Supreme Council for the "Northern Masonic District and Jurisdiction." The Northern Jurisdiction officially dates back to May 15, 1867, following the "Union of 1867," where it merged with the competing Cerneau "Supreme Council" in New York[2][3].

Structure

The Supreme Council, Scottish Rite, Northern Jurisdiction, oversees the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry in fifteen states: Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey, New Hampshire, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Wisconsin, and Vermont. The jurisdiction is divided into several "Valleys," each comprising up to four subordinate bodies responsible for conferring degrees from 4 to 32[5].

Subordinate Bodies

Each Valley contains four main 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 from 19 to 32[5].

Mission and Teachings

The Scottish Rite expands upon the fundamental principles of Freemasonry, exploring deeper philosophical and ethical teachings. Its mission includes aiding mankind's search for identity and destiny, promoting personal growth, and fostering a wiser and more compassionate society[4].

Nonprofit Status

The Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, NMJ, operates as a nonprofit organization with the EIN 316029368. As part of its activities, it engages in charitable and fraternal endeavors promoting Masonic ideals and community support.