03/28/2026
As Scottish Rite Masons in the Cedar Rapids Valley, many of us value the inner, reflective side of our experience as much as the ritual and social aspects. I recently came across the Academy of Reflection (AOR) curriculum hosted by the College of the Consistory, which offers a structured, contemplative path using Scottish Rite symbolism, emblematic meditations, and self‑study courses.
In short, the AOR materials are now made available as public, non‑commercial contemplative studies for individual Masons, and they include:
Foundational mindfulness and meditation practices keyed to Masonic symbols.
Emblematic meditations for the Craft Lodge and each of the Scottish Rite bodies (Lodge of Perfection, Rose Croix, Council of Kadosh, Consistory).
Reflective reading and journaling exercises that can be done privately or in pairs.
I’m curious:
Are others in the T. S. Parvin Scottish Rite Club interested in contemplative or symbolic study alongside our regular meetings and events?
Would anyone be open to exploring these AOR‑style materials either on our own or perhaps as a small, informal study group (e.g., a quarterly “contemplative reflection” evening or a regular email/journal‑share circle)?
If there’s enough interest, we could draft a simple 6–12 month personal‑study plan around the AOR curriculum and share a basic outline for those who want it. No formal organization needed—just a way to deepen our connection to the Rite and to one another.
The Academy of Reflection – Course Groupings Academy of Reflection – Course Groupings Integrating Scottish Rite Freemasonry and Contemplative Practice The Academy of Reflection Curriculum The starting place for coursework is AOR1000. All other courses have prerequisites, which are stated in the ...
