Words from the Grand Thrice Illustrious Master

“Therefore thus saith the Lord God, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious cornerstone, a sure foundation: he that believeth shall not make haste.” ISAIAH 28:16 KJV

Greetings:

Welcome to our website.

First, I would like to give honor to God for all of the blessings he has bestowed upon myself, family, Companions and Royal Matrons. 2023-2025 has been a great time for the Royal and Select Masters in Ohio. I am extremely honored for the faith and trust invested in me in the several positions I have held in Cryptic Masonry, ultimately leading to my current position as the Grand Thrice Illustrious Master.

The Most Illustrious Prince Hall Grand Council of Royal and Select Masters of Ohio & Its Jurisdiction (MIPHGCOH) has a rich history. Our Grand Council dates back to August 14, 1916, with the organization of the first three councils (Adoniram Council #1 – Cleveland, Zabud Council #2 – Toledo, and Herald Council #3 – Columbus). The councils quickly came together to form a Grand Council on August 13, 1917. We held our first convention in 1920 and MI Comp. Charles E. Gordon became our first GTIM. We are the mother jurisdiction of all Prince Hall Royal and Select Masters councils throughout the world because we were the first established Grand Council. All other Prince Hall Grand Councils trace their lineage to our Grand Council. This is a fact that we should all be proud of! However, we cannot solely dwell on this past history because we still have a lot of work to do so we can build a glorious history for future generations.

Brotherhood, education, community service, growth and transparency are what I consider the successful hallmarks of our jurisdiction during my administration. I am also grateful for the relationship we have with Ladies of the Circle of Perfection. I thank each companion for their role in bringing this historic Grand Council to higher heights. I know that we can and will continue to do this and much more with God on our side. God bless each of you and your families!

Fraternally,

Roderick Q. Blount, Jr.

MI Comp. Roderick Q. Blount, Jr.

Grand Thrice Illustrious Master

Most Illustrious Prince Hall Grand Council of Royal and Select Masters of Ohio & Its Jurisdiction