The Knights of St Andrew in Syracuse is patterned after the chapter in Indianapolis, which was the first in the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction, AASR. To the best of our knowledge we are the second chapter in the NMJ. The order is active throughout the Southern Masonic Jurisdiction.

Our purpose is two-fold: first and foremost, to serve the Valley by stepping in and doing whatever needs to be done and second, and just as important, we train 32° Masons in the structure and philosophy of the Syracuse Scottish Rite bodies. We especially want to enlist the new member soon after receiving the Scottish Rite degrees. We will quickly expose him to as many opportunities in conjunction with his interests and where he wants to concentrate his efforts. We will help new members get a better “feel” for what the Scottish Rite is all about. It won't be all work. We plan family-style outings because we are keenly aware that the younger Scottish Rite Mason wants family programs. We will adopt Scottish Regalia such as a particular tartan for the chapter and possibly in the future, kilts for those who would be interested in participating in an Honor Guard, parades or other “public appearances”.

Only 32° Masons may join. If a member is singled out for higher distinction such as an MSA or 33°, he must pass the baton in active membership. We fall under the direct supervision of the Executive Committee so we will be at the forefront of what is happening around the Valley. This provides the Executive Committee with yet another tool to get the work done. We feel everybody needs to be involved in something to whatever extent is appropriate for their needs and abilities. The educated Mason is an active and happy Mason.

We meet several times during the year and around Reunion time with stated meetings as called. Some of the meetings will be formal, but others may be called to handle some important item of business in a timely fashion.

Initiation Ceremonies will be open to the public because we want the candidate's family to observe and take part in his initiation.

The Central City Bodies Chapter of the Order of the Knights of St. Andrew was officially chartered on January 22, 2005. It is the Premier Masonic organization to belong to. If you are new to the Scottish Rite, please join us and learn the “ins & outs” of the Valley of Syracuse.

For more information, or to take part in this new, exciting group, contact the Scottish Rite office (452-7976)

2006-2007 Knights Of St. Andrew Officers

Venerable Master - Robert M. Tyrrell, 32º, DSA

Senior Warden - Rolf Schwedes, 32º

Junior Warden - Charles Patchin, 32º

Secretary - Richard J. Powell, 32º

Treasurer - Adam Ferguson, 32º

Senior Deacon - Charles Patchin, 32°

Junior Deacon - Norm Kruth, 32°

Sentinel - Joe Stevens, 32°

Chaplain - James McNeal, 32°