ECHELON

Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry

Supreme Council | Southern Jurisdiction

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Scottish Rite Orient of Georgia

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Valley of Columbus

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Scottish Rite Bodies

Sovereign Grand Commander &

SGIG at-Large

Ill. James D. Cole,

 33°

Principal officer of the Scottish Rite for the Southern Jurisdiction of the United States, which is comprised of 217 Valleys in 35 Orients. Scottish Rite Masons in Japan and Korea, and Taiwan and China are also included within the scope of his authority.

Deputy of the Supreme Council

Orient of Georgia

Ill. Benjamin W. Polston, II,

 33°

Illustrious Brother Benjamin W. “Ben” Polston, II was appointed Deputy of the Supreme Council of the Orient of Georgia, February 12, 2026, by Grand Commander James D. Cole. Ill Brother Polston is a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and lifelong servant-leader whose Masonic journey reflects steady dedication to the Craft, to charitable mission, and to principled leadership in Georgia.

Personal

Representative 

to the SGIG

Ill. Philip E. Harris,

 33°

Illustrious Brother Harris is a Past Master of Rose Hill Lodge No. 484. He is a 50 Year Scottish Rite Mason and Vice President of the Scottish Rite Foundation of Georgia, Inc, and has led the Valley RiteCare program, which sponsors KNR Therapy at the Autism Learning Center in Columbus, Georgia.

General Secretary

Columbus

HB. Bayardo Reyes, 

32°KCCH

Brother Reyes is a Past Master of Fort Benning No. 579 and Columbian No. 7. He currently serves as the lodge Secretary of Fort Benning Lodge and in the same capacity in some appendant bodies. He is a retired Army Veteran. Br Reyes is also serving as the Grand Knight for the Knights of Saint Andrew, Valley of Columbus Chapter.

Scottish Rite Bodies

Our organization is made up of four distinct bodies with separate missions. They are each lead by their own officers.  

Lodge of Perfection 
(4°–14°)

Venerable Master
Ditmar W. Chavez
32° KCCH 

This is the primary governing body of the Scottish Rite. The Lodge of Perfection has the responsibility of the 4°-14°. These degrees investigate and contemplate spirituality, and also amplify the Hiramic Legend and lessons from the biblical era.

Chapter of Rose Croix
(15°–18°)

Wise Master
Jonas E. Barlow
32° KCCH

Rose Croix  has the responsibility of the 15°-18° which are referred to as “historical degrees.” These degrees explore the conflicts and politics in the rebuilding of the Temple of Solomon.

Council of Kadosh 
(19°–30°)

Commander
Torrey Knight 
32°KCCH

Council has the responsibility of the 19°- 30° These degrees demonstrate the challenges of social and moral conflicts.

Consistory 
(31°–32°)

Master of Kadosh
Jacob A. Robideaux
32°

Consistory has the responsibility of the 31° and 32°. These degrees  are referred to as the “philosophical degrees.” Both degrees use the Book of Life to advance the concept of avoiding the mistakes of the past.

European Representative

Honorable Brother Cameron J. Davis, 32° KCCH 

Stuttgart, Germany

Email

The European Representative for the Valley of Columbus, has a crucial role in uniting and supporting the Brethren across Europe. He manages a wide range of secretarial and administrative duties, ensuring seamless communication and efficient management of the Valley’s European affairs.


The European Representative acts as the primary liaison, maintaining essential records, facilitating effective communication, and keeping European members informed about key updates and events. He organizes and coordinates various meetings and gatherings, fostering a strong sense of community and engagement among the Brethren.


In addition to his administrative responsibilities, he provides vital support to members, addressing their concerns and offering guidance. He represents their interests to the Valley of Columbus, ensuring their needs and perspectives are considered in decision-making processes.


A significant aspect of his role is coordinating European reunions with a partner Valley. This involves meticulous planning and collaboration to create meaningful and enriching experiences for the members. Through these reunions, he helps strengthen the bonds between different Masonic communities, promoting mutual support and shared traditions.


Through his dedicated efforts, the European Representative effectively bridges the geographical gap, ensuring that European Brethren remain a vital and connected part of the Masonic community.