Learn more about the host of Masters of the Rite, our new degree enrichment program, and what inspired him to help Brothers seek more light.
The Scottish Rite, NMJ’s newest member program, Masters of the Rite, is already off to a roaring start. Its inaugural episode on January 23, 2025, saw over 300 Brothers from across the jurisdiction come together to discuss the lessons of the 26°, Friend and Brother Eternal, deepen their understanding of the Craft, and grow their fraternal bonds!
The program’s success couldn’t be achieved without our dedicated host, Illustrious Brother Sandy Karstens, 33°.
Brother Sandy Karstens, 33°A long-time professor, Illustrious Brother Karstens is passionate about education. Combined with his dedication to Freemasonry and the Scottish Rite, his experience makes him the perfect man to host Masters of the Rite.
We sat down with Brother Karstens to discuss his career, Masonic life, and the inspiration behind Masters of the Rite. Enjoy our Q + A below!
Can you tell us about your journey in Freemasonry and how you got involved with the Scottish Rite?
For all of us, it starts in the Blue Lodge - I was raised a Master Mason in February 2004. From the start, I was eager to dive in and quickly petitioned to join both the York Rite and Scottish Rite.
Conveniently, the Valley of Burlington, which is just a mile from where I live, also housed the York Rite and my Blue Lodge so it was very easy for me to get involved. It was quite a hotbed of Masonic activity! I was so eager to learn and quickly gained my 32° in the Scottish Rite by April of that year. I was also coroneted with the 33° in 2010.
I was fascinated by everything, and I couldn’t help but jump right in.
You’re hosting our newest member program, Masters of the Rite (MOTR). Can you tell us more about it and the inspiration behind it?
The inspiration is simple – to bring more degree education to members.
Growing one’s understanding of Scottish Rite degrees can benefit from discussion. Since the start of Thursday Night at the Rite, we’ve talked about how to continue expanding the degree experience and offer Brothers more ways to delve deeper. This year, through teamwork and dedication at Supreme Council, Masters of the Rite became a reality.
Once it was in the making, I was more than happy to volunteer as a host - teaching is my profession and passion!
How has your Masonic experience shaped your approach as MOTR host?
Education has always been in my blood. Even before Thursday Night at the Rite came to fruition, I’d always wanted to do something like this.
When doing degrees at my own Valley, I once got to a point where I was craving an educational component that could enrich my understanding of the Craft. I took it upon myself to host a small talk before degree presentations that delve into their symbols and meaning – and my Brothers liked it! We’re all looking for ways to expand our knowledge of Freemasonry.
That’s why we’ve joined the Scottish Rite– it’s all about continuing to educate yourself and others on Freemasonry and the world around us.
What makes MOTR different than other Scottish Rite, NMJ programming?
Most of the Scottish Rite programs, while wonderful, are more self-directive. For example, Hauts Grades Academy (HGA), Passport, or Pathfinder involve individual action or study with little to no interaction or discussion with Brothers.
Masters of the Rite is different. It fosters conversation, allowing Brothers to explore the Craft’s lessons together. They may also walk away with new friends as well!
Not only does it complement Thursday Night at the Rite, but it also provides the perfect opportunity for Brothers to collaborate and discuss the work they do on their own, whether it be degrees they’ve marked off their Passport or the essay they’ve written for HGA.
What excites you the most about MOTR?
Education is what the Scottish Rite is all about – providing opportunities to enrich members’ lives and become better men.
What excites me about Masters of the Rite is the ability to show Valleys what’s possible. As an educator, I love watching people become passionate about what they’re learning. I hope that my Brothers attend MOTR with an open mind and realize that this is something that can be immensely valuable at a Valley level as well.
Most of all, I’m excited to have a fun experience with my Scottish Rite Brothers.
Interested in learning more about Masters of the Rite? Click here for this year’s schedule and how you can attend.