Fellow Craft Masonry is the second degree of the Masonic fraternity. It is an intermediate step between Entered Apprentice and Master Mason, and builds upon the lessons learned in the first degree. During this degree, members learn more about the symbolism and teachings of Freemasonry, as well as continuing their journey of self-discovery. The Fellow Craft Mason is expected to live a life of morality, charity and service to others, having taken on additional obligations during this degree.
Fellow Craft Masonry is the second degree of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry. This degree builds upon the fundamental principles and teachings of the Entered Apprentice degree and focuses on furthering a Mason’s knowledge and understanding of Masonic philosophy and symbolism. The Fellow Craft Mason is encouraged to continue learning about Freemasonry and its history, as well as to pursue educational opportunities in order to become a more well-rounded individual. Through this degree, candidates are also introduced to the seven liberal arts and sciences, which are important tools for gaining knowledge in a variety of disciplines. Fellow Craft Masons are expected to be active participants in their lodge, take part in its activities, and contribute to its growth. Additionally, they are encouraged to seek out ways they can use their new knowledge and skills to benefit society.
What is a Fellow Craft Mason?
A Fellow Craft Mason is a member of the second degree in Freemasonry, which is referred to as the Fellowcraft degree. The Fellow Craft Mason is an advanced level of Masonic membership, but is still considered an apprentice. This degree focuses on symbolism related to building and architecture, which are used to teach lessons on morality and ethics.
The Fellow Craft Mason takes part in rituals and ceremonies that involve symbolic representations such as tools, furniture, and clothing. The ritual includes lectures about the history of Freemasonry, as well as moral teachings that are meant to inspire members to improve their lives and those of others. This degree also includes a test of knowledge about the values and principles that are taught in the first two degrees.
The Fellow Craft Mason must demonstrate proficiency in order to pass from this degree to the third-level Master Mason degree. This proficiency includes being able to recall Masonic symbols and their meanings, demonstrate moral character, and conduct themselves according to Masonic principles. Once they have passed this stage they can become full members of the craft with all the rights and privileges associated with it.
Fellow Craft Masons are expected to be active participants in their local lodges, taking part in meetings and other activities that members attend together. They are also expected to help promote Freemasonry in general by participating in community service activities or other outreach programs that will benefit their communities.
Fellow Craft Masons have access to exclusive benefits such as networking opportunities with other Masons around the world, access to special Masonic libraries, discounts on travel services for members only, and more. They also receive special recognition from their peers for their accomplishments within Freemasonry. The fellowship between fellow Masons is an important part of what makes Freemasonry such a rewarding experience for its members.
History & Origins of Fellow Craft Masonry
Fellow Craft Masonry, also known as the Second Degree of Freemasonry, is an ancient and honorable fraternal order that has been in existence for centuries. It is part of the three degrees of Freemasonry and is believed to be the oldest form of organized fraternalism in the world. The exact origins of this organization are unknown, but it is believed to have its roots in medieval stonemasonry and the Knights Templar.
The Fellow Craft degree is the second stage of initiation into Freemasonry and involves a number of symbols, rituals and traditions. The degree focuses on themes such as morality, ethics and self-improvement. It emphasizes on the importance of education and knowledge, which are essential for a successful life journey. In addition to this, it also encourages members to strive for excellence in their personal lives and careers.
The Fellow Craft degree consists of two parts: the Entered Apprentice degree (First Degree) and the Master Mason degree (Third Degree). The Entered Apprentice degree is considered an initiation into Freemasonry while the Master Mason Degree marks the completion of a Mason’s journey in Freemasonry. During these degrees, Masons learn more about their craft through studying philosophy, history and symbolism. They also learn about their Masonic duties towards their brothers as well as their community at large.
The rituals associated with Fellow Craft Masonry are steeped in symbolism that can be traced back centuries ago when Masons used symbols as part of their craft to communicate with one another. For example, at one time Masons employed secret signs to identify each other when traveling between lodges or working on projects together. These secret signs were also used during ritual ceremonies to ensure that only those who had properly been initiated could take part in them.
Today, many Lodges still employ many traditional rituals from this ancient craft including symbolic handshakes, ceremonial dressings and oaths all designed to remind Freemasons about their commitment to uphold certain principles such as honesty, loyalty and charity towards mankind. Furthermore, Masonic Lodges today continue to use many symbols from medieval times such as squares, compasses and tools like mallets which serve as reminders for Masons about their duty towards others and themselves alike.
Fellow Craft Masonry provides members with an opportunity for growth through education while promoting strong moral values along with fellowship amongst its members. It embodies much more than just a fraternity; it serves as a symbol for members’ commitment towards helping others improve themselves both mentally and spiritually while learning more about themselves through study and discussion with other Masons who share similar goals in life.
Requirements to Become a Fellow Craft Mason
Becoming a Fellow Craft Mason is an important step in Freemasonry. It is the second of the three degrees which comprise the Blue Lodge and is necessary before progressing to the Master Mason degree. To become a Fellow Craft Mason, there are certain requirements you must meet. These include:
• Being of good moral character – You must have a good moral character and be of sound mind and body. This means you must not have any criminal convictions, and cannot be a member of any other secret societies or organisations that conflict with Freemasonry.
• Being of legal age – You must be aged 18 or over to become a Fellow Craft Mason.
• Belief in a Supreme Being – You must believe in some form of Supreme Being, regardless of what religion or faith you follow. You do not have to be particularly religious, but you must respect other’s beliefs and opinions.
• Acceptance by fellow Masons – In order to become a Fellow Craft Mason, you must first be accepted by fellow Masons who are already members of the lodge. They will evaluate your application as well as interview you to ensure that your intentions are genuine and that your character is suitable for Freemasonry.
• Submission of an application – Once approved by fellow Masons, you will need to submit an official application form for approval by the Grand Lodge (the governing body for Freemasonry). This will include details about yourself such as name and address, as well as why you wish to join Freemasonry.
• Payment of fees – As part of becoming a Fellow Craft Mason, there may be fees associated with joining the lodge such as membership dues or initiation fees. These fees vary from lodge to lodge so it is best to check with your local lodge for more information.
Once these requirements have been met, one may proceed on their journey through Freemasonry by taking part in the rituals and ceremonies associated with becoming a Fellow Craft Mason. The experience can be incredibly rewarding, both spiritually and socially, so if one wishes to take on this challenge they should do so with confidence!
The Benefits of Joining the Fellow Craft Masonic Order
Joining the Fellow Craft Masonic Order brings a range of benefits to its members, both spiritual and psychological. It is a way for like-minded individuals to come together and form a community, while also being part of a larger structured organisation with its own set of traditions and values. Here are some of the key benefits that come with becoming a Fellow Craft Mason:
• A Sense of Belonging: Becoming part of the Fellow Craft Masonic Order provides members with an instant sense of belonging. Being part of this order gives people access to an exclusive group that is focused on creating meaningful friendships and camaraderie among its members. This helps to build a strong bond between all those who join.
• Educational Opportunities: The order provides members with a range of educational opportunities that can help them grow their knowledge in different areas. Members are encouraged to learn more about the history and values associated with Freemasonry, as well as topics such as philosophy, ethics and even science.
• Personal Development: Joining the order gives members access to resources that can help them grow in their personal lives. This includes guidance on how to be better citizens, ways to build meaningful relationships, and how to become more successful in life.
• Charitable Giving: The order also encourages its members to give back by taking part in charitable activities. By doing this, Fellows can help those less fortunate than themselves while also developing their own sense of responsibility towards others.
• Support Network: Last but not least, being part of this order provides its members with an extensive support network that they can turn to when they need it most. From providing emotional support during difficult times, to offering advice on specific matters, the support network is invaluable for any member in need.
Rites and Rituals of the Fellowship
The Fellowship is a close-knit community that follows a few important rites and rituals. From the way they interact with each other to the specific symbols they use, these ancient practices help keep them connected and unified. Here are some of the most prominent rites and rituals of the Fellowship:
• Greeting: Members of the Fellowship greet each other with a handshake, followed by a hug or embrace. This is done to show respect and solidarity to their fellow members.
• Symbols: The Fellowship uses various symbols to represent their beliefs and values. These symbols include a star, a sun, a moon, an owl, and a dove, among others.
• Rituals: The Fellowship has several rituals that are performed throughout the year. These include special feasts, ceremonies for welcoming new members, and celebrations for honoring fallen brothers and sisters.
• Songs: Music plays a huge role in the fellowship’s culture. They have special songs that are sung during ceremonies or used as part of their greeting rituals.
• Clothing: Members of the fellowship wear specific clothing during rituals or ceremonies to show respect for their traditions. Often times this includes robes or tunics with special symbols embroidered on them as well as hats or head coverings.
The rites and rituals of the fellowship help bond its members together while also expressing their shared beliefs and values through symbolic gestures. By taking part in these traditions, members demonstrate their commitment to one another while also ensuring that their unique culture is preserved for future generations.
Symbols & Emblems of the Fellowship
The symbols and emblems of the Fellowship play an important role in its culture and identity. They are used to communicate values, express solidarity, and signify shared beliefs. Here are some of the symbols and emblems commonly used in the Fellowship:
• The Torch: The torch is a symbol of hope and illumination. It is often used to represent the guiding light that leads people to knowledge, truth, and understanding.
• The Cross: The cross is a symbol of faith, service, and commitment. It is often used to signify a dedication to helping others and living one’s life according to Christian values.
• The Dove: The dove is a symbol of peace, love, and harmony. It is often used to represent the fellowship’s commitment to non-violence and compassion for all people.
• The Anchor: The anchor is a symbol of strength, stability, and perseverance. It is often used to express the fellowship’s unwavering commitment to its mission despite any challenges or difficulties it may face.
• The Star: The star is a symbol of guidance, protection, and hope. It is often used to represent the fellowship’s commitment to leading people on their spiritual journey towards enlightenment.
Through these symbols and emblems, members of the Fellowship can express their shared values while also connecting with each other on a deeper level. They serve as reminders that even though we all have different paths in life, we can come together in our shared commitment to serve others with compassion and love.
Fellowship Degrees
The fellowship program is an opportunity for members to advance in their field and gain valuable skillset. It is a program designed to enhance the knowledge base of members and allow them to become more successful. The following are some of the main degrees offered by the fellowship program:
• Bachelor’s Degree: This degree is designed for members who wish to increase their knowledge base in a particular field or area. The degree requires four years of full-time study, which can be done either online or at a traditional university.
• Master’s Degree: This degree is designed for members who wish to specialize in a particular area. The degree requires two years of full-time study, which can be done either online or at a traditional university.
• Doctorate Degree: This degree is designed for members who wish to pursue advanced research in their field. It requires three years of full-time study, which can be done either online or at a traditional university.
• Certificate Program: This program is designed for members who wish to gain additional skills that will help them become more successful in their chosen field. The certificate program consists of short courses that focus on specific topics related to the field in question.
• Professional Development Courses: These courses are designed for members who wish to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and developments in their field. Courses typically include lectures, seminars, workshops, and other activities that provide insight into current trends and technology within the chosen field.
In addition to these degrees and certificate programs, there are also other opportunities available through the fellowship program including internships, research projects, and mentorship programs. Members are encouraged to explore all available options when considering what type of fellowship program would best suit their needs and goals.
In Reflection on Fellow Craft Mason
Fellow Craft Masonry is an important part of the Masonic tradition. It is a way to keep the craft alive and vibrant in a modern world. It is a place where Lodge members can continue to grow and develop their skills and knowledge in Freemasonry. Through its teachings, members can find friendship, guidance, and support.
Fellow Craft Masonry has a rich history that dates back centuries and serves to remind us of the values and principles that Freemasonry stands for. It is also an opportunity to come together with other Masons who share similar beliefs and values in order to achieve something greater than ourselves.
Fellow Craft Masonry is an important part of our Masonic heritage, which we should strive to protect and preserve for future generations. It provides us with invaluable experience that will help us become better Masons and better citizens of the world.
In reflection, Fellow Craft Masonry is an important part of Freemasonry that should be cherished by all who partake in it. By learning from our history, we can continue to build upon what was established centuries ago, while also developing our own unique understanding of what it means to be a Mason today.
Once these requirements have been met, one may proceed on their journey through Freemasonry by taking part in the rituals and ceremonies associated with becoming a Fellow Craft Mason. The experience can be incredibly rewarding, both spiritually and socially, so if one wishes to take on this challenge they should do so with confidence!
The Benefits of Joining the Fellow Craft Masonic Order
• Belief in a Supreme Being – You must believe in some form of Supreme Being, regardless of what religion or faith you follow. You do not have to be particularly religious, but you must respect other’s beliefs and opinions.