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.