Exploring the Masonic Family: A Guide to Allied Groups
Freemasonry, at its core, is a journey of self-improvement undertaken within a brotherhood. It begins and is centered in the Blue Lodge, where a man receives the first three degrees, becoming a Master Mason. Yet, for many, this is not the end of their Masonic travels. It is, in fact, the grand beginning. Beyond the Blue Lodge lies a vast and intricate network of organizations, a vibrant tapestry often called the "Masonic family." These groups, known as appendant or allied bodies, extend the lessons, friendships, and charitable work of Freemasonry into new and exciting realms. They offer deeper philosophical exploration, specialized social opportunities, and avenues for family involvement, creating a rich and multifaceted world for the dedicated Mason and his loved ones.
What Are Masonic Allied Organizations?
Masonic allied organizations are a collection of separate, independent groups that require membership in a regular Masonic Blue Lodge as a prerequisite. They are not "higher" degrees in the sense of authority, as no degree is higher than that of a Master Mason, but they offer further degrees, lessons, and experiences that build upon the foundational teachings of the Craft. Think of the Blue Lodge as the essential foundation of a great building. The allied organizations are the magnificent halls, libraries, and towers built upon that solid foundation, each with its own unique architecture and purpose. They provide avenues for Masons to delve deeper into specific interests, whether they be history, philosophy, chivalry, charity, or simply fellowship.
These groups are incredibly diverse, catering to a wide range of pursuits. Some, like the York and Scottish Rites, are primarily focused on further Masonic education through dramatic degree work and philosophical instruction. Others, like the Shrine, are famous for their festive parades and their unparalleled commitment to philanthropy. There are also organizations designed specifically for the wives, daughters, and sons of Masons, extending the values of the fraternity to the entire family unit. Each body operates under its own governance and charter but remains inextricably linked to the core principles of Freemasonry, promoting brotherly love, relief, and truth in its own unique way.
What is the York Rite of Freemasonry?
The York Rite is one of the two primary systems of Masonic appendant bodies in the United States, offering a path of continued enlightenment for Master Masons. It is a collection of distinct yet interwoven bodies that confer a series of degrees, each expanding upon the allegories and symbolism introduced in the Blue Lodge. The name "York Rite" refers to the ancient city of York, England, which holds a legendary place in the history of English Masonry. The Rite is structured as a journey through three main branches, each with its own lessons and character, culminating in a powerful message of faith, hope, and redemption.
A Mason’s journey through the York Rite is sequential. He must complete the degrees of one body before proceeding to the next, creating a cohesive and progressive narrative. This structure allows the candidate to fully absorb the teachings of each stage, which focus on recovering lost knowledge, contemplating mortality and morality, and ultimately defending the Christian faith. The York Rite is often described as more historical and scriptural in its focus compared to its counterpart, the Scottish Rite, offering a direct and powerful continuation of the Blue Lodge narrative.
What is a Royal Arch Chapter?
The Royal Arch Chapter is the first body a Master Mason enters within the York Rite, and it is considered by many to be the completion of the Master Mason degree. Its degrees center on the central story of the destruction and subsequent rebuilding of King Solomon’s Temple. The allegory is rich with symbolism related to loss, recovery, and the discovery of that which was thought to be lost forever, a central theme in Masonic lore. The principal degree, the Royal Arch Mason degree, is a dramatic and moving ceremony that reveals the ultimate truth and sacred name of God, which provides a profound capstone to the lessons of the Blue Lodge.
Membership in a Chapter of Royal Arch Masons is a prerequisite for joining the subsequent York Rite bodies. It is considered the heart of the Rite, as its lessons are foundational to everything that follows. The symbolism of the keystone, the arch, and the sacred vault are central to its teachings, imparting lessons of perseverance, faith, and the importance of one’s spiritual foundation. For many Masons, the Royal Arch is an indispensable part of their Masonic education.
What is a Cryptic Council?
After completing the Royal Arch, a Mason may seek further light in the Cryptic Council, sometimes called the Council of Royal & Select Masters. The degrees of the Council are known as the Cryptic degrees because their lessons are set in the "crypt" or secret vault beneath King Solomon’s Temple, both before and after its construction. These degrees fill in crucial historical and allegorical gaps between the Master Mason degree and the Royal Arch degree, creating a more complete and understandable narrative. They are essential for a full appreciation of the York Rite story.
The primary degrees, Royal Master and Select Master, delve into the themes of duty, fidelity, and the preservation of sacred knowledge. The allegories involve figures like King Solomon and Hiram Abif, exploring their efforts to safeguard the Temple’s most precious secrets for future generations. The Cryptic Rite emphasizes that a Mason’s duty is not just to seek light, but also to guard and preserve the truths he has discovered, ensuring they are passed on to worthy successors.
What is a Commandery of Knights Templar?
The Commandery of Knights Templar is the final body in the York Rite journey and is unique among all Masonic organizations. To join, a Mason must be a member of the preceding Chapter and Council, and he must also profess a belief in the Christian religion. The Commandery is modeled on the historical chivalric orders of knighthood, and its ceremonies, known as "Orders," are based on Christian traditions and virtues. Members are known as Sir Knights, and the organization’s structure and regalia reflect its martial and chivalric character.
The Orders of the Commandery, such as the Order of the Red Cross, the Order of Malta, and the Order of the Temple, are not Masonic degrees in the traditional sense but are instead a series of dramatic presentations designed to instill lessons of Christian faith, charity, and service. The central theme is the journey of a faithful Christian warrior who seeks truth and is willing to defend his faith. The Commandery offers a unique blend of Masonic principles and Christian chivalry, providing a profound spiritual path for its members.
What is the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry?
The Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry is the other major system of Masonic appendant bodies, offering a rich and deeply philosophical path for Master Masons. Unlike the sequential structure of the York Rite, the Scottish Rite presents a series of 33 degrees, though most members only witness a selection of them. The degrees, numbered from 4 to 32, are elaborate theatrical presentations that explore a vast array of historical, religious, and philosophical themes, all aimed at reinforcing the core virtues taught in the Blue Lodge. The 33rd degree is an honorary title bestowed upon members who have given distinguished service to the Rite or to humanity.
The Scottish Rite is divided into two jurisdictions in the United States, the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction and the Southern Jurisdiction, each with its own customs and degree presentations. The Rite’s purpose is to take a good man and provide him with tools to become an even better man, a more enlightened citizen, and a more dedicated Mason. It seeks to strengthen a member’s character, broaden his understanding of the world, and inspire him to be a force for good in his community.
What are the Degrees of the Scottish Rite?
The degrees of the Scottish Rite are a series of moral and philosophical plays, each designed to teach a specific lesson. They are not "higher" than the Master Mason degree but are a form of continuing education. The degrees are grouped into four distinct bodies, the Lodge of Perfection (4-14), the Council of Princes of Jerusalem (15-16), the Chapter of Rose Croix (17-18), and the Consistory (19-32). Each body has its own presiding officer and focuses on a particular set of virtues and philosophies.
The degrees draw from a wide range of sources, including biblical history, chivalric legends, and ancient philosophies from around the world. For example, some degrees might explore the meaning of justice, while others contemplate the nature of duty, patriotism, or religious liberty. The 18th degree, Knight Rose Croix, is particularly poignant, focusing on the concepts of love, tolerance, and the "new law" of love. The 32nd degree, Master of the Royal Secret, serves as a powerful culmination, tying together all the preceding lessons and challenging the Mason to apply these great principles in his own life.
What is the Philosophy of the Scottish Rite?
The core philosophy of the Scottish Rite is one of universalism, tolerance, and intellectual freedom. It champions the cause of the common man, opposes tyranny in all its forms, whether spiritual or political, and advocates for the right of every individual to seek truth according to the dictates of their own conscience. The Rite’s motto, ‘Spes mea in Deo est,’ which means ‘My hope is in God,’ reflects its theistic foundation, yet it embraces men of all faiths who believe in a Supreme Being.
This philosophy is woven through its degree work, which consistently promotes virtues like justice, compassion, integrity, and service to humanity. The Scottish Rite teaches that a Mason’s duty extends beyond the lodge room and into the world at large. It encourages its members to be active and engaged citizens, to stand for what is right, and to work towards building a better world for all people. The Rite’s extensive charitable activities, particularly its support for childhood language disorder clinics, are a direct and practical application of this profound philosophy.
Are There Fun and Social Masonic Groups?
Yes, absolutely. While many appendant bodies focus on deep philosophical instruction, others are primarily dedicated to fellowship, fun, and philanthropy, creating a lighter, more social atmosphere for Masons and their families. These groups provide an essential outlet for camaraderie and community service, often becoming the most publicly visible face of the Masonic family. They prove that while Masonry is serious in its purpose, it does not have to be solemn in its practice.
Organizations like the Shrine, the Grotto, and the Tall Cedars of Lebanon offer Masons a chance to relax, share a laugh, and work together on charitable projects in a less formal setting. They are famous for their colorful parades, distinctive headwear, and unwavering dedication to helping others. These bodies play a crucial role in the Masonic ecosystem, strengthening the bonds of brotherhood through shared fun and a common commitment to making a positive impact on the world.
What is the Shrine?
The Shrine, formally known as the Ancient Arabic Order of the Nobles of the Mystic Shrine (A.A.O.N.M.S.), is arguably the most famous Masonic-related organization in the world. Shriners are immediately recognizable by their iconic red fezzes. To become a Shriner, a man must first be a Master Mason. The organization was founded in 1870 by a group of Masons who wanted to create a fraternity that stressed fun and fellowship, with an exotic Arabian theme providing the backdrop for its rituals and events.
While Shriners are known for their circuses, parades, and tiny cars, their true purpose is far more profound. Their official philanthropy is the Shriners Hospitals for Children, a network of world-class medical facilities that provide expert pediatric care for orthopedic conditions, burns, spinal cord injuries, and cleft lip and palate, completely free of charge to patients and their families. The motto "No man stands so tall as when he stoops to help a child" perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the Shrine.
What is the Grotto?
The Mystic Order of Veiled Prophets of the Enchanted Realm, more commonly known as the Grotto, is another Masonic appendant body dedicated to fun and fellowship. Its members, called Prophets, are Master Masons who enjoy a more lighthearted and informal brand of camaraderie. The Grotto’s philosophy is "Good Fellowship," and its meetings and events are designed to be entertaining and stress-free, providing a welcome respite from the pressures of daily life.
Like the Shrine, the Grotto has a serious charitable mission beneath its fun-loving exterior. Their official philanthropy is supporting dental care for children with special needs, such as those with cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, and intellectual disabilities. Through their "Doctor of Smiles" program, Grottoes across the country help fund dental services for children whose families could not otherwise afford the specialized care required.
Who are the Tall Cedars of Lebanon?
The Tall Cedars of Lebanon of North America is a social appendant body of Freemasonry that emphasizes fun, frolic, and fellowship among Master Masons. Members are known for their pyramid-shaped hats and their motto, "Fun, Frolic, and Fellowship for a Purpose." The organization’s theme is based on the Cedars of Lebanon that were used to build King Solomon’s Temple, symbolizing those Masons who have provided exceptional service to the Craft.
The primary charitable focus of the Tall Cedars is the support of research into neuromuscular diseases, particularly Muscular Dystrophy (MD). Through the Tall Cedars Foundation, members raise significant funds to help find cures and treatments for these debilitating conditions. Their efforts provide hope for countless families, demonstrating that even the most fun-loving groups within the Masonic family can have a powerful and lasting impact through organized charity.
Are There Masonic Organizations for Women?
Yes, there are several prominent organizations for women that are closely connected to the Masonic fraternity. While Freemasonry itself is a fraternity for men, these allied bodies were created to include female relatives of Masons, allowing them to participate in the broader Masonic community and share in its values of charity, truth, and loving kindness. These groups are not "female Masonry" but are independent organizations with their own unique rituals, traditions, and charitable projects.
These orders provide a welcoming space for women to form strong bonds of sisterhood, engage in personal and spiritual development, and work together for charitable causes. They operate in parallel with the Masonic Lodge, often sharing building space and collaborating on community events. The existence of these groups enriches the entire Masonic family, creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for everyone involved.
What is the Order of the Eastern Star?
The Order of the Eastern Star is the largest fraternal organization in the world to which both men and women can belong. Its membership is open to women who have specific Masonic relatives (such as wives, daughters, mothers, and sisters of Master Masons) as well as to Master Masons themselves. The order’s teachings are based on five heroic female characters from the Bible, each of whom exemplifies a particular virtue, such as fidelity, obedience, loyalty, faith, and love.
The lessons are communicated through beautiful and inspiring ceremonies. The central symbol of the order is the five-pointed star, with each point representing one of the heroines and her corresponding virtue. Chapters of the Eastern Star are deeply involved in charitable work, supporting a wide range of causes from cancer research and scholarships to local community service projects. It provides a vital framework for women to live lives of purpose and service, guided by high moral principles.
What is the Order of the Amaranth?
The Order of the Amaranth is another Masonic-affiliated organization for women and Master Masons, founded on the principles of truth, faith, wisdom, and charity. The order takes its name from the amaranth flower, which was chosen as a symbol of immortality and undying friendship because it never fades. The central lesson of the order is based on the life of Queen Christina of Sweden and emphasizes the virtues of a righteous and honorable life.
Membership in the Order of the Eastern Star is often a prerequisite for joining the Amaranth, though this can vary by jurisdiction. The Amaranth is deeply committed to philanthropy, with its primary charity being the Amaranth Diabetes Foundation. Through the dedicated fundraising efforts of its members, the order contributes significantly to research aimed at preventing, controlling, and ultimately curing diabetes.
What Masonic Groups Exist for Young People?
The Masonic family extends its values and support to the next generation through a trio of outstanding youth organizations. These groups provide young men and women with a safe and supportive environment to learn leadership skills, practice public speaking, plan and execute their own activities, and engage in community service. While sponsored by Masonic bodies, these youth groups are not about recruiting future Masons or Eastern Star members, but about building character and preparing young people for responsible adulthood.
Each organization is tailored to a specific age group and gender, but all three share a common goal: to instill timeless values like reverence for God, love of country, and respect for parents. They offer a positive alternative to the pressures of modern youth culture, fostering friendships and self-confidence that last a lifetime.
What is DeMolay International?
DeMolay International is a premier leadership organization for young men between the ages of 12 and 21. It was founded in 1919 and named for Jacques DeMolay, the last Grand Master of the historical Knights Templar. The organization is sponsored by Masonic bodies, and its advisors, known as "Dads," are often Masons who volunteer their time to mentor the young men. DeMolay is built on seven cardinal virtues: filial love, reverence for sacred things, courtesy, comradeship, fidelity, cleanness, and patriotism.
DeMolay chapters are run by the members themselves, giving them hands-on experience in planning events, managing budgets, and leading their peers. They participate in a wide range of activities, from sports and social events to community service projects and fundraising. The experience helps build confidence, character, and a strong sense of civic duty.
Who are Job’s Daughters?
Job’s Daughters International is a leadership organization for girls and young women between the ages of 10 and 20 who have a Masonic relationship. The group takes its name and its lessons from the Book of Job in the Bible, specifically focusing on the story of Job’s three daughters, who were said to be the fairest in all the land and were granted an inheritance alongside their brothers. The central theme of the order is that faith and perseverance through trials lead to greater wisdom and reward.
Members of Job’s Daughters, or "Jobies," learn about leadership, teamwork, and respect for democracy by running their own meetings and planning their own activities according to established rules. The organization places a strong emphasis on charity, with its official philanthropy being the Hearing Impaired Kids Endowment (HIKE) Fund, which provides hearing devices for children in need.
What is the International Order of the Rainbow for Girls?
The International Order of the Rainbow for Girls is a youth organization for girls between the ages of 11 and 20. It was founded in 1922 by a Master Mason, and its membership is open to all girls in the correct age range, regardless of Masonic affiliation, although it is sponsored by Masonic and Eastern Star bodies. The order’s teachings are based on lessons drawn from the Bible, with a focus on the seven colors of the rainbow, each of which represents a specific virtue: love, religion, nature, immortality, fidelity, patriotism, and service.
Rainbow Girls learn valuable life skills by holding leadership positions within their local "Assembly" and participating in community service. The organization is dedicated to service, and local assemblies and the state-level Grand Assemblies regularly support a wide variety of charities. The core mission is to help girls grow into confident, kind, and responsible young women who are dedicated to serving others.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to join these groups to be a “real” Mason?
No, you do not. A Master Mason is a full and complete Mason in every sense of the word, and the Blue Lodge is the heart and soul of the fraternity. The allied organizations are entirely optional and are available for those who wish to expand their Masonic knowledge, pursue specific interests, or engage in different forms of fellowship and charity. Many Masons are perfectly content with their Blue Lodge experience alone, while others find immense value in exploring the wider Masonic family.
Can a person join more than one allied organization?
Yes, a Master Mason can join as many appendant bodies as he wishes and is eligible for, provided he can meet the time and financial commitments for each. It is quite common for a dedicated Mason to be a member of both the York and Scottish Rites, as well as the Shrine or another social body. This allows him to experience the full spectrum of what the Masonic world has to offer, from deep philosophical study to lighthearted fun and philanthropy.
Is there a required order for joining these bodies?
For some, yes. The York Rite, for example, has a required sequence: one must complete the Chapter degrees before entering the Council, and the Council degrees before petitioning the Commandery. However, there is no required order between the major Rites. A Master Mason can choose to join the Scottish Rite first, the York Rite first, or even pursue them concurrently. Social bodies like the Shrine or Grotto can typically be joined at any time after a man becomes a Master Mason.
The journey through the Masonic family is vast and deeply rewarding. To truly understand the symbolic threads that connect these diverse bodies, from the Royal Arch to the Eastern Star, you must look deeper. Esoteric Freemasons is your guide to the profound philosophy and authentic history within the Craft and its allied orders. We go beyond the surface to reveal the true light of Masonic knowledge. Begin your journey of genuine illumination today.
