The Valley of Lincoln Scottish Rite celebrated the Feast of Tishri, the annual celebration of Thanksgiving described in the Book of Leviticus (23:39). The Feast, a spiritual re-dedication of King Solomon’s Temple, represents the re-dedication of Masons to one another and their fraternity.

Bob and Jennifer Kruse prepared a fantastic dinner for guests as they enjoyed the Celtic music of the High Street Band, accompanied by Irish dancing. The Chair for the Feast of Tishri was Dennis Hecht, 32° while Edward Bennett, 32° KCCH served as Master of Ceremonies. The traditional toasts were given by members, followed by a talk given by Rev. Oscar Lewis, 32° of the Unitarian Church of Lincoln.

Oscar spoke about the tension between the universal truths of Freemasonry - regardless of what brings us to Masonry, we make the same commitments and take the same journey and sit together “on the level,” regardless of our race, creed, or background. Yet, Oscar warned, we often confuse the particulars for the universals - when we say “this happened to me, so this is how the world works,” for example. It is within this tension that learning occurs, Oscar said.

And the solution to this tension, engraved on the Scottish Rite building is “Know Thyself.” This reflects the genius of Masonry - we need not think alike to remain committed to those universal truths, and we can come together in our differences to be thankful for being part of this great organization. Thus, we join in this celebration of thanks for civic and Masonic life, as well as thanks for our individual lives.