What Are Royal Arch Masons Called
Royal Arch Masons are called Companions in the Freemasonry tradition.
They are a part of the American York Rite system, specifically the Capitular Masonry, which is the first part of the York Rite.
Royal Arch Masons meet as a Chapter and confer four degrees: Mark Master Mason, Past Master, Most Excellent Master, and Royal Arch Mason.
Each state in the United States has a Grand Chapter that performs administrative functions for subordinate Chapters.
The Grand Chapter has officers such as Grand High Priest, Deputy Grand High Priest, Grand King, and Grand Scribe.
Did You Know?
1. Royal Arch Masons are often referred to as “Companions,” emphasizing the spirit of camaraderie and fellowship within their organization.
2. The term “Capitular Masonry” is another commonly used name for Royal Arch Masonry, highlighting its focus on the symbolism and rituals associated with ancient Biblical events.
3. Royal Arch Masons are recognized for their distinctive regalia, which includes a sash worn diagonally across the chest, signifying their commitment to the principles of wisdom, strength, and beauty.
4. Within the Royal Arch degree ceremonies, the members of the Craft Degrees wear white gloves, symbolizing their purity and sincerity in their search for spiritual enlightenment.
5. While the origins of the Royal Arch Masonry date back centuries, the specific term “Royal Arch” was officially incorporated in England in the early 18th century, and the organization has since spread internationally, welcoming members of diverse backgrounds.
Introduction To Royal Arch Masonry And The American York Rite System
Royal Arch Masonry, also known as Capitular Masonry, is an integral part of the American York Rite system of Masonic degrees. This system focuses on knowledge and understanding and consists of four degrees that are conferred by Royal Arch Masons in a Chapter setting.
The Mark Master Mason degree extends the teachings of the Fellowcraft or Second degree in Freemasonry. It places a strong emphasis on craftsmanship and the symbolism of the Mark, imparting valuable lessons in integrity, perseverance, and craftsmanship.
The Past Master degree is specifically conferred upon Past Masters of a Blue Lodge. It aims to deepen their insights into leadership and highlights the importance of wisdom and experience in Masonic work. This degree acknowledges and honors the profound contributions made by individuals who have served as Masters in their respective Lodges.
The Most Excellent Master degree signifies the culmination of the construction of King Solomon’s Temple. It explores the symbolism and principles integral to Masonic tradition, emphasizing the value of maturity, knowledge, and spirituality in one’s Masonic journey.
Regarded as the most exquisite degree in Freemasonry, the Royal Arch Mason degree uncovers the long-lost secrets regarding the recovery of the sacred name of Deity and the significance of the Royal Arch. Through this degree, profound insights into the pursuit of greater enlightenment are offered, encapsulating the core teachings of Royal Arch Masonry.
Degrees Of Royal Arch Masonry: Mark Master Mason, Past Master, Most Excellent Master, And Royal Arch Mason
Royal Arch Masonry consists of four degrees: Mark Master Mason, Past Master, Most Excellent Master, and Royal Arch Mason. Each degree represents an essential stage in the Masonic journey, building upon the knowledge and experiences gained in the previous degree.
The Mark Master Mason degree is directly connected to the Fellowcraft or Second degree in Freemasonry. It explores the importance of craftsmanship and the symbolism of the Mark. This degree teaches valuable lessons about the practical aspects of Masonic work and the significance of dedication and skill.
The Past Master degree is conferred upon those who have actively served as Past Masters of their Blue Lodges. It is a testament to their leadership abilities and signifies their wisdom and experience in Masonic work. This degree imparts a deeper understanding of the responsibilities and challenges faced by Masonic leaders.
The Most Excellent Master degree represents the culmination of the building of King Solomon’s Temple. It delves into the symbolism and principles found within the Masonic tradition. This degree emphasizes the importance of maturity, knowledge, and spirituality in the Masonic journey.
The Royal Arch Mason degree is widely regarded as the most significant degree in Royal Arch Masonry. It reveals long-hidden secrets about the recovery of the sacred name of Deity and the symbolism of the Royal Arch. This degree encapsulates the main teachings of Royal Arch Masonry, offering profound insights into the search for greater enlightenment.
Structure And Organization Of Royal Arch Chapters And Grand Chapters
Royal Arch Chapters are organized bodies that confer the degrees of Royal Arch Masonry. They have officers who hold various important positions and conduct the rituals associated with each degree. The titles of these officers change depending on the degree being conferred.
In the United States, each state has a Grand Chapter that oversees and administers the affairs of its subordinate Chapters. The Grand Chapter functions as the central governing body, ensuring uniformity and adherence to established regulations. It also provides guidance and support to the local Chapters.
The Grand Chapter is led by the Grand High Priest, who serves as the highest-ranking officer. Other important positions include the Deputy Grand High Priest, Grand King, Grand Scribe, and District Deputy Grand High Priests. These officers play crucial roles in maintaining the structure and organization of the Royal Arch Masonry within their respective jurisdictions.
The Grand Chapter also appoints Grand Representatives to foster fraternal relations and maintain contact with counterparts in other jurisdictions. These representatives serve as liaisons, promoting communication and cooperation among different Grand Chapters.
Some Grand Chapters are members of the General Grand Chapter, which serves as an international governing body for Royal Arch Masons. The General Grand Chapter supports charitable initiatives and funds research on Central Auditory Processing Disorder, a condition affecting auditory processing abilities in children.
Historical Origins Of Royal Arch Masonry And Its Relation To Freemasonry Tradition
The origins of Royal Arch Masonry can be traced back to the early days of Freemasonry. The Mark Degree, a fundamental part of Royal Arch Masonry, is believed to have originated from England and reached America through Scottish and Palestinian immigrants.
The Excellent Master Degree, representing the completion of King Solomon’s Temple, is believed to have American origins but may have roots in the Irish Constitution. It further enriches the Masonic journey by exploring the deeper symbolism and lessons associated with the temple’s construction.
The Royal Arch Mason degree, often considered the pinnacle of Royal Arch Masonry, is widely known and discussed within the Masonic system. Its significance and beauty have made it a subject of great interest and fascination for many Freemasons worldwide.
In England, the Royal Arch degree is recognized as a separate order by the United Grand Lodge of England. Master Masons were allowed to join Holy Royal Arch Chapters in 1823 without having previously served as the master of a Craft lodge. This expanded the accessibility of Royal Arch Masonry for many Freemasons.
The Premier Grand Lodge of England and the Antient Grand Lodge of England, which later merged to form the United Grand Lodge of England, played significant roles in shaping the development and recognition of Royal Arch Masonry within the Masonic system.
Royal Arch Masonry In Different Regions: United States, England, Canada
Royal Arch Masonry has distinct characteristics and variations in different regions, including the United States, England, and Canada.
In the United States, Royal Arch Masonry is an integral part of the American York Rite system. It has a well-established structure with Grand Chapters overseeing the Chapters within each state. The oldest known Royal Arch Chapter in the Western Hemisphere is St. Andrew’s Royal Arch Chapter in Massachusetts, officially constituted in 1769.
In the southern states of the U.S., Royal Arch Chapters were established relatively late, with the first Chapter being constituted in 1855. The Grand Chapter of the Northern States later formed the General Grand Chapter, Royal Arch Masons International, which serves as an international governing body for Royal Arch Masons.
In England, the Holy Royal Arch is recognized as a separate order by the United Grand Lodge of England. It holds great significance and is considered an essential part of the Masonic journey.
Royal Arch Masonry in Canada is closely tied to its origins in the United Kingdom. The Holy Royal Arch degree in Canada is considered the completion of the Master Mason’s degree in Lodge. The titles of the Officers in Canadian Royal Arch Mason Chapters may vary slightly from those used in the United States.
Regardless of the region, Royal Arch Masons refer to each other as “Companions,” emphasizing the bond of companionship that is fostered through shared experiences and the pursuit of Masonic knowledge within the Royal Arch Masonry.
- Royal Arch Masonry is distinct in different regions, including the United States, England, and Canada.
- In the United States, it is an integral part of the American York Rite system.
- The oldest known Royal Arch Chapter in the Western Hemisphere is St. Andrew’s Royal Arch Chapter in Massachusetts, established in 1769.
- Southern states of the U.S. established Royal Arch Chapters later, with the first Chapter in 1855.
- The General Grand Chapter, Royal Arch Masons International, serves as an international governing body.
- In England, the Holy Royal Arch is recognized as a separate order.
- In Canada, the Holy Royal Arch degree is considered the completion of the Master Mason’s degree in Lodge.
- Titles of Officers in Canadian Royal Arch Mason Chapters may vary slightly.
- Royal Arch Masons refer to each other as “Companions.”
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the highest mason called?
Although Master Mason holds the highest rank in Freemasonry, individuals seeking further knowledge and growth in the craft often opt to join affiliated groups such as The Scottish Rite (32° Freemasonry), The York Rite, and The Shrine. These organizations provide opportunities for additional training and exploration within the Masonic tradition. While each of these bodies offers distinct teachings and perspectives, the title of “highest mason” remains with the esteemed position of Master Mason.
Why are Royal Arch Masons called companions?
The term “Companions” in Royal Arch Masonry is derived from the idea of traveling together and sharing experiences. This concept can be traced back to its military origins, where companions were soldiers who shared bread and formed a bond. In the context of the Royal Arch, Companions symbolize the journey of exploration and discovery that they undertake together, supporting and learning from one another along the way. The term reflects the camaraderie and unity within the order, emphasizing the importance of companionship and shared experiences in their Masonic journey.
What are the three types of Masons?
Within Freemasonry, members are classified into three distinct types known as degrees. The first degree is the Entered Apprentice, where individuals are introduced to the foundational principles and teachings of Freemasonry. This degree serves as an initiation into the fraternity, opening the doors for further intellectual and spiritual growth.
Upon completing the Entered Apprentice degree, Freemasons progress to the Fellow of the Craft degree. Here, members deepen their understanding of the principles and symbolism of Freemasonry. They are encouraged to apply these teachings in their daily lives, striving to become more virtuous and honorable individuals.
The final degree within the Freemasonry structure is that of the Master Mason. This degree represents the pinnacle of Masonic knowledge and practices. Members who have achieved the Master Mason degree are considered to have attained the highest level of understanding and proficiency within the fraternity. It is within this degree that the greatest secrets and mysteries of Freemasonry are revealed to the deserving members.
What is a Grand Master Mason?
A Grand Master Mason is an esteemed role within Freemasonry, holding both a title of honor and a position of leadership. This title is bestowed upon a respected freemason who is elected to oversee and govern a Masonic jurisdiction. Derived from the tradition of Grand Masters in chivalric orders, the Grand Master Mason is entrusted with presiding over a Grand Lodge and upholding certain rights within the constituent Lodges that make up their jurisdiction. With deep knowledge and experience in Freemasonry, the Grand Master Mason plays a pivotal role in maintaining the principles, rituals, and guidance of the fraternity.
