- History and Origin of Order of Royal and Select Masters
- The Three Degrees of Royal and Select Masters
- The Council Chamber of the Order of Royal and Select Masters
- Qualifications to Become a Member of the Order
- Symbols and Insignia in the Order
- Rituals in the Order
- In Reflection On Order Of Royal And Select Masters
The Order of Royal and Select Masters is a fraternal organization that was established in the United States in 1817. It is an appendant body of the York Rite of Freemasonry. The Order is dedicated to preserving the ancient landmarks, orders, usages, and customs of the fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons. The Order promotes Christian brotherly love among its members and encourages their moral, intellectual, and spiritual growth. Its members are taught lessons in loyalty, fidelity, and charity that can be applied to their daily lives. The Order of Royal and Select Masters is an appendant Masonic organization that exists within the York Rite system of Freemasonry. It is believed to be descended from the “Cryptic Degrees” of the early 17th century, which were associated with the Royal Arch. The Order of Royal and Select Masters is essentially a refinement and completion of the Master Mason degree. It focuses on teachings about Solomon’s Temple, and it aims to instill in its members a greater understanding of their place in the fraternity. The Order also emphasizes themes relevant to its members’ spiritual growth and development, such as morality, justice, charity, leadership, service, loyalty, brotherhood and faith.
History and Origin of Order of Royal and Select Masters
The Order of Royal and Select Masters is a Masonic organization that has been in existence for over 200 years. The group was originally established in the United States by several members of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish rite in 1817. The Order has since spread to other countries all over the world, with a large presence in Europe, Australia, Canada, South America, and Asia.
The Order’s primary purpose is to promote Masonic education and to provide opportunities for fellowship among members. It also serves as a vehicle for charitable works and other activities related to Masonry.
The core principles of the Order are based on the teachings of King Solomon, who is said to have built the Temple in Jerusalem. The rituals used by the Order are based on the biblical stories associated with Solomon’s Temple.
In order to become a member of this Order, an individual must first become a Master Mason within his local Masonic lodge. Once he has achieved this status, he must then receive an invitation from a current Royal or Select Master before he can be initiated into the Order.
Membership is divided into three distinct degrees: Royal Master, Select Master, and Super Excellent Master. Each degree is accompanied by its own ritual which includes lectures on ancient biblical stories related to King Solomon’s Temple as well as symbolic rituals intended to teach moral lessons about truthfulness, charity, friendship, and faithfulness.
In addition to these three degrees, there are also several honorary positions within the Order that can be bestowed upon deserving members for their service or achievements within Masonry or their community more generally. These honorary positions can include Grand Commander of Knights Templar or Grand Patron of Eastern Star among others which vary depending on location.
As with other Masonic organizations, participation in charitable works plays an important role for members of this Order as well. Throughout its history it has been involved in various philanthropic works such as providing aid during natural disasters or helping people in need through fundraising initiatives or donations of goods or services.
Today there are numerous lodges throughout the world where members can come together to practice their craft while also engaging in meaningful activities such as charity work or social gatherings with other Masons from around the globe. All told, it is clear that the history and origin of this ancient order remains strong today – testament to its enduring importance and relevance within Freemasonry worldwide.
The Three Degrees of Royal and Select Masters
The Three Degrees of Royal and Select Masters is a special Masonic order that serves as an honorary position within the fraternity. It provides an opportunity for members to learn more about the symbolism and history of Freemasonry. The three degrees are:
• Royal Master Degree: This degree is focused on the story of King Solomon, who was said to have been instrumental in building the temple in Jerusalem. It also focuses on faith and loyalty.
• Select Master Degree: This degree focuses on trustworthiness and secrecy, as well as the importance of keeping a promise.
• Super Excellent Master Degree: This degree focuses on spiritual growth and understanding of morality, as well as lessons in humility.
These three degrees were originally known as “high” degrees because they were considered to be more advanced than other Masonic orders. They represent the highest level of Masonic education that a Mason can attain, and provide insight into some of Freemasonry’s most important principles.
The Royal Masters Degree is focused on teaching lessons about loyalty and perseverance in difficult times, while also demonstrating how working together can lead to success. The Select Masters Degree emphasizes trustworthiness, while also teaching members how to keep their word even when it may be difficult to do so. Therefore, the Super Excellent Masters Degree teaches humility and spiritual growth through stories about morality and wisdom.
The Three Degrees of Royal and Select Masters is one of Freemasonry’s most important orders, providing members with insight into some of its most important principles. By completing each degree, Masons gain a greater understanding of Freemasonry’s history, symbolism, and values.
The Council Chamber of the Order of Royal and Select Masters
The Council Chamber of the Order of Royal and Select Masters is a place where the highest degree of Masonry, known as the Cryptic Rite, is conferred. This degree is significant in that it teaches a deeper understanding of Freemasonry and its symbolism, as well as conferring additional rights and privileges on its members. The Council Chamber is an impressive room, often decorated with Masonic emblems and symbols, where members gather to receive this degree. It is a place steeped in history and tradition—a place where Masons are able to deepen their understanding of the Craft.
At each Council meeting, a Grand Master presides over all proceedings, including the conferral of degrees. In this way, he ensures that all regulations are followed throughout the process. The Grand Master also has other responsibilities such as deciding who may be admitted to the Order and administering oaths to new members. He also has a responsibility to uphold Masonic traditions within the Council.
When entering a Council meeting it is important for all participants to show respect and behave in an appropriate manner. All members must be dressed in full Masonic regalia which includes an appropriate hat or cap for men and a sash for women. All participants must also observe proper protocol such as standing when addressed by higher ranking officers.
The ceremony itself involves various symbolic acts which helps to reinforce its teachings. During this ceremony there will be various officers who will perform different roles such as reading passages from Scripture or delivering lectures about Freemasonry’s teachings. At times there may also be music being played which adds to the solemnity of the occasion.
At the end of each meeting there will be closing prayers which are meant to remind everyone present that Freemasonry is founded on principles of morality, justice, truth, equality and brotherly love. After these prayers are finished everyone will depart knowing that they have been part of something special—a time honored tradition that dates back centuries.
The Council Chamber of Royal and Select Masters can be found in many parts of the world today—a testament to its enduring legacy within Freemasonry. It remains one of Masonry’s most sacred places—a place where brothers gather together to receive additional light into their understanding of Masonry’s mysteries while sharing in fellowship with one another in an atmosphere filled with history and tradition.
Qualifications to Become a Member of the Order
To become a member of the Order, one must meet certain qualifications. These qualifications include:
- A strong moral character and commitment to upholding the values of the Order
- A demonstrated ability to lead, serve, and be a role model for others
- An understanding of the history and purpose of the Order
- An ability to commit to regular participation in activities and events
The Order’s membership is open to individuals from all walks of life, though applicants must be at least 18 years old. The organization seeks individuals who are passionate about service and willing to devote their time and energy towards making a positive difference in their communities. Members should strive for excellence in all they do, both professionally and personally. In addition, members should demonstrate good judgement and maintain high ethical standards in all areas of their life.
Membership in the Order is also a privilege that carries with it certain responsibilities. Members are expected to abide by the principles set forth by the organization’s leadership, contribute positively to their community through charitable service projects, and participate regularly in meetings, events, and other activities.
Therefore, members should strive to promote unity among its members by respecting diversity of opinions while fostering an atmosphere of collaboration. The Order strives to create an environment that encourages teamwork while building relationships grounded in mutual respect.
Symbols and Insignia in the Order
The Order of the Eastern Star is a fraternal organization that uses symbols to signify its members. Each symbol has a special significance for each degree of the Order:
• The five-pointed star is the most recognizable symbol of the Order. It represents the five points of fellowship, which are faith, hope, charity, truth and love. It is also associated with the five heroines of scripture – Adah, Ruth, Esther, Martha and Electa.
• The open Bible is another important symbol used in the Order. It represents faith and truth and reminds members to remain true to their principles.
• The golden triangle is used to represent unity among members. It also stands for charity and unites them in friendship and brotherly love.
• The seven-pointed star has seven points that stand for faith, hope, charity, truth, love, obedience and secrecy. It is a reminder of members’ commitment to these principles.
• The beehive is another important symbol of membership in the Order. It stands for industry and cooperation among members and encourages them to work together for a common goal.
• The anchor is also used as a symbol in the Order. It stands for hope as well as stability among members during times of difficulty or sorrow.
Each degree has its own set of symbols that are used to identify its members and signify their commitment to living by certain virtues and principles outlined by the organization. Symbols are an important part of membership in the Order and serve as reminders for each member to stay true to their beliefs and values.
In addition to these symbols, there are several other insignia worn by members including badges or pins with their rank or degree on them as well as ribbons indicating their position within the organization or any other special honors they may have been awarded by it. These insignia are worn proudly by all members as reminders of their commitment to one another through membership in this fraternal order.
The symbols and insignia used by members of the Order are an integral part of its identity and provide an outward signifier that they have pledged allegiance to certain virtues laid out by this organization.
Rituals in the Order
The Order of the Knights of the Round Table is an ancient organization with its own unique set of rituals and practices. The meetings and gatherings held by this organization are no exception, as members of the order engage in specific activities to honor their sacred traditions. Here is a look at some of the rituals practiced during meetings of the Order:
• Prayer: Before each meeting, a prayer is said to honor and thank God for all that he has done for the members of the Order. This prayer is usually led by a designated member who speaks on behalf of everyone present.
• Initiation: When new members join the Order, they must go through an initiation process in which they are formally welcomed into the group and given a chance to learn more about its customs and traditions. This includes taking part in various rituals that are meant to help them become better acquainted with their fellow knights.
• Vows & Oaths: As part of their initiation process, new knights are asked to take oaths and make promises that they intend to uphold throughout their membership in the Order. These vows and oaths are meant to serve as reminders to each knight about his duty to his fellow knights and his commitment to helping those in need.
• Salute: During meetings, members salute one another as a sign of respect for one another’s service within the Order. This salute may consist of a handshake or an embrace depending on how close two members are. It is also a way for fellow knights to show solidarity with each other’s efforts within the order.
• Toast: At some point during their meetings, members will raise their glasses in a toast honoring those who have gone before them or those who have made contributions to bettering the lives of others through their service within the order. This toast serves as an important reminder that no man is greater than any other when it comes to helping others through acts of charity or mercy.
These rituals have been practiced by members of this ancient organization for centuries, providing an important sense of unity and solidarity amongst its ranks while also paying homage to its past leaders and contributors. Whether you’re new or old member, participating in these rituals helps create an atmosphere where everyone feels respected and appreciated for their efforts within the order.
Grand Councils and their Role in the Order
Grand Councils play an important role in the Order. They are responsible for setting policy, setting goals and providing guidance to the members. They also handle disputes between members and provide a forum for discussions of important matters. The Grand Council is made up of representatives from each region or state, elected by the members within that region or state.
The Grand Council is responsible for creating and enforcing rules and regulations for the Order. This includes determining membership requirements, setting fees, approving new chapters, and establishing a code of conduct for all members of the Order. All decisions made by the Grand Council must be approved by a majority vote of its members.
The Grand Council also serves as a liaison between the Order’s leadership and its regional chapters. This allows them to ensure that all member chapters are adhering to established policies and procedures. It also gives them an opportunity to discuss any issues or concerns that may arise among the chapters, as well as provide support when needed.
One of the most important roles of the Grand Council is to maintain unity among all members of the Order. This includes promoting collaboration between different regions or states, encouraging communication between members, and ensuring that all members are working together towards common goals and objectives. The Grand Council also serves as a mediator in cases where two or more parties cannot come to an agreement on certain matters.
In addition to its role in policy-making, the Grand Council acts as a source of support for its members in times of need. For example, if a local chapter needs assistance with fundraising efforts or if there is a dispute between two or more members that needs resolution, then they can turn to their regional representatives on the Grand Council for help.
The Grand Council also serves an important role in determining which projects or initiatives will be undertaken by the Order as a whole. This includes deciding which projects will gain priority over others based on their potential benefits for all members of the Order. In addition, they can use their influence to get funding from other organizations for specific projects or initiatives that may benefit everyone involved with the Order overall.
Grand Councils are essential components in maintaining unity within an organization like The Order, while providing guidance and support when needed most!
In Reflection On Order Of Royal And Select Masters
The Order of Royal and Select Masters is a fraternity that has been providing men with guidance, fellowship, and camaraderie for many years. It is an organization that offers its members the chance to grow spiritually, mentally, and emotionally. The Order has also been involved in many charitable activities to help make the world a better place.
The Order of Royal and Select Masters provides members with the opportunity to learn more about the craft of Freemasonry. It is a great way for men to connect with other like-minded individuals who share similar beliefs and values. The fraternity also provides its members with the opportunity to develop a strong sense of brotherhood and unity.
The Order also has a rich history that goes back centuries, which provides members with a sense of pride in their heritage. The organization offers its members the chance to take part in various rituals that have been passed down through generations. These rituals are important to many members as they provide them with an understanding of their past and how it can be used to shape their future.
Being a part of this organization can be very rewarding for those who choose to do so. It can provide them with structure, fellowship, and growth opportunities that are not found elsewhere. For many men, this fraternity is a source of inspiration, camaraderie, and guidance throughout life’s journey.
Overall, the Order of Royal and Select Masters is an excellent way for men to come together as brothers in unity and brotherhood while learning more about Freemasonry as well as growing spiritually, mentally, and emotionally through the various rituals it performs. With this organization’s rich history spanning centuries it provides an excellent opportunity for those who choose to become part of its membership base.