Appendant Bodies of Freemasonry are organizations affiliated with, but independent of, Freemasonry which provide additional opportunities for their members to explore Masonic principles and further extend the teachings of the Craft. These bodies typically have ritualistic practices and ceremonies that parallel those of Freemasonry, and often require members to first become Freemasons before joining. Examples of Appendant Bodies include the Scottish Rite, York Rite, Grotto, Red Cross of Constantine, and Order of the Eastern Star.
The history of Appendant Bodies of Freemasonry dates back to the 18th century. Appendant Bodies are Masonic organizations that are related to Freemasonry but are independent from it. These organizations include, but are not limited to, the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite, the York Rite, the Royal Arch Masons, and the Order of the Eastern Star. Each of these organizations has its own rituals and principles, which are distinct from those of Freemasonry.
The first Appendant Body of Freemasonry was established in 1737 in Paris, France. This was the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite (AASR), which was created by Baron Karl Gotthelf von Hund as an alternative to traditional Craft Masonry. Since then, other Appendant Bodies have been formed around the world, each with their own unique rituals and beliefs.
In the United States, some of these Appendant Bodies have become highly influential and powerful forces within Freemasonry. The York Rite consists of several bodies that meet regularly with their own lodges, councils and chapters. The Royal Arch Masons is a fraternity that administers degrees beyond those found in craft Masonry. The Order of the Eastern Star is an all-female organization whose members must be related to a Master Mason in good standing.
Today, many Grand Lodges recognize these Appendant Bodies as part of regular Freemasonry, although some still do not recognize them as such. Regardless, these organizations continue to benefit members by providing fellowship and education in addition to traditional craft Masonry activities.
History
The Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite is one of the two branches of Freemasonry that a Master Mason may join for further exposure to the principles of Freemasonry. It is commonly known as the Scottish Rite, though some consider this a misnomer since it was developed in France during the eighteenth century. The origin of the Rite is uncertain, though it probably began in Scotland and Ireland in the 1600s. It was first introduced into North America in 1783 by Stephen Morin, a French emissary who brought with him a patent authorizing him to establish lodges of Perfection throughout what would become the United States and its territories.
Organization
The Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite consists of 33 degrees, although some jurisdictions recognize an additional degree, the 34th degree. The first three degrees are those conferred by Symbolic or Blue Lodges, which are traditionally termed the “Craft” degrees. The remaining 30 degrees are referred to as “philosophical” or “chivalric” degrees.
The Supreme Council is the governing body for most countries where the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite exists. It is made up of 33 members who have been elected from among those who have been elected to receive the 33rd degree. The Supreme Council meets annually to discuss issues related to its members and their activities throughout different parts of the world.
Philosophy
The philosophy that underpins membership in this branch of Freemasonry is that all men should strive to achieve personal excellence through self-improvement and service to others. This philosophy has been described as “building a better world within ourselves so we can build a better world without”.
The teachings contained within this branch aim to develop moral character through study, contemplation, meditation and discussion on philosophical topics such as ethics, morality, religion and history. Members are encouraged to live out their daily lives according to these teachings so that they can be true examples for others.
Membership in this branch also requires members to strive for justice & equality for all people regardless of race or creed & encourage tolerance & understanding between people from different faiths & backgrounds. Members are also expected to support charitable causes & contribute towards making their communities better places for everyone.
Symbols
There are various symbols associated with membership in this branch including swords, lions, eagles & globes which represent power & strength; stars which represent knowledge; olive branches which represent peace; columns which represent stability; compasses which represent accuracy; stars & moons which represent eternity; roses which represent beauty; suns which represent glory; serpents which represent wisdom; pyramids which symbolize eternity; urns which signify death & resurrection;
York Rite
The York Rite is a branch of Freemasonry that has been around for centuries. It is comprised of three distinct organizations: the Chapter, Council, and Commandery. Each organization is dedicated to the furtherance of Masonic teachings and principles, as well as providing a sense of fellowship among its members.
In the Chapter, members learn more about the symbolism and history of Freemasonry. The Council focuses on the moral duties of a Mason, while the Commandery teaches members about chivalric orders and ceremonies.
The York Rite is known for its elaborate ritual ceremonies that are steeped in tradition. These rituals are designed to teach lessons about morality and ethics through symbolic language and actions. Many ceremonies involve reciting long passages from scripture or other religious texts, while others involve passing an object from one person to another or performing physical tasks such as bowing or kneeling.
Membership in the York Rite requires a commitment to upholding Masonic values such as honesty, integrity, service to others, charity work, and respect for all people regardless of their race or religion. Members also must demonstrate knowledge of Masonic teachings and symbols by passing tests related to these topics.
By joining the York Rite, members become part of an international network of Masons dedicated to making a positive difference in their communities. Through their involvement in Masonic activities such as charity events and various service projects, Masons help to strengthen their local communities as well as promote fellowship between Freemasons around the globe.
In addition to its charitable work, the York Rite promotes education through its various academic programs such as leadership workshops and lectures on Masonic history. The York Rite also has programs geared towards youth development such as summer camps where young people can learn about leadership skills and teamwork.
The York Rite’s commitment to education also extends beyond Masonic teachings; many chapters offer scholarships or grants for college students who demonstrate excellence in academics or service projects within their community.
The York Rite provides a unique opportunity for men who are interested in Freemasonry to become part of an international fraternity that values integrity and service above all else. By joining this organization, members can gain a deeper understanding of Masonic principles while helping others through charitable work and educational initiatives.
What is Cryptic Masonry?
Cryptic Masonry is a branch of Freemasonry, a fraternal organization that traces its origins back to the late 1600s. It is one of the largest and oldest fraternal organizations in the world, with millions of members across more than 200 countries. Cryptic Masonry is specifically devoted to exploring the symbolism and spiritual teachings of Freemasonry at a deeper level.
Principles:
Cryptic Masonry has three core principles: brotherly love, relief, and truth. Brotherly love encourages members to treat each other with respect and kindness, while relief promotes support for charitable causes. The principle of truth emphasizes integrity and adherence to high moral standards.
Symbolism:
Cryptic Masonry uses numerous symbols to represent its principles and teachings. These symbols, often referred to as “emblems” or “jewels”, are used to illustrate lessons about morality, faith, duty, and brotherhood. Common Cryptic Masonic symbols include the all-seeing eye, the compass and square, the sun and moon, and various motifs related to architecture.
Rituals:
Like other branches of Freemasonry, Cryptic Masons use rituals as part of their practice. These rituals involve symbolic gestures such as kneeling before an altar or passing through a symbolic gateway. They also involve spoken words that are meant to convey teachings about morality or spirituality in a meaningful way.
Organization
Cryptic Masonry is made up of three distinct bodies: the Council of Royal and Select Masters (also known as the Cryptic Council), the Chapter of Royal Arch Masons (also known as the Royal Arch Chapter) ,and the Commanderies of Knights Templar (also known as Knights Templar Commandery). Each body has its own officers, rituals, symbols ,and teachings that reflect different aspects of Freemasonry’s teachings on morality and spiritual growth.
Overall, Cryptic Masonry provides an opportunity for members to explore the deeper symbolism behind Freemasonry’s teachings on morality and spirituality in a meaningful way. Through its principles ,symbols ,rituals ,and organization it offers an enriching experience for those who seek it out.
Shrine of North America
Shrines of North America are places of worship, reverence, and celebration for many different religions and belief systems. The most common shrines are dedicated to Hinduism, Buddhism, Christianity, and other indigenous spiritual practices. These shrines are often quite ornate and beautiful, and they serve as a source of inspiration and reflection for locals.
Shrines can be found in public parks or on private property. They come in all shapes and sizes, from large ornate temples to small roadside shrines. Some are dedicated to specific deities or figures while others are open to anyone who wishes to stop by and pay homage.
The most famous shrines in North America include the Great Smoky Mountains Shrine in Tennessee, the Chichen Itza Mayan Temple in Mexico, the Black Hills Shrine in South Dakota, the Enchantment Lake Shrine in Idaho, the Lake Tahoe Shrine in California, and the El Santuario de Chimayo in New Mexico. Each shrine offers something unique to visitors; some offer spiritual guidance or blessings while others offer educational opportunities or a chance to explore history.
Shrines often feature artwork depicting religious figures or scenes from local lore. Statues of gods or goddesses may stand guard over sacred sites or serve as reminders of ancient rituals that were once performed there. Many shrines also feature offerings such as incense, fruit, flowers, candles or other items left by visitors as a sign of respect.
Each shrine has its own unique customs associated with it; for example at El Santuario de Chimayo visitors must walk around the site three times while praying before entering the church itself. Other shrines may have more relaxed rules regarding visitation but still emphasize cultural traditions like leaving offerings at special sites within the grounds.
No matter what religion you practice or what part of North America you live in there is likely a shrine nearby where you can go to pay your respects and find peace of mind. Shrines provide a place to honor those who have gone before us while also giving us an opportunity to pause for reflection on our own lives and beliefs.
History of Masonic Grotto
Masonic Grotto, also known as Mystic Order of Veiled Prophets of the Enchanted Realm, is a club for Freemasons. It was founded in 1888 in Cincinnati, Ohio by a group of Masons who were looking for an avenue to express their creativity and fellowship. This organization has grown to become one of the largest and most respected fraternal organizations in the world. The organization is based on the principles of brotherhood, charity, and service.
Membership to Masonic Grotto is open to any Master Mason who has been a member in good standing with a recognized Masonic lodge for at least one year. The members are expected to follow a set of rules and regulations that govern their behavior and activities within the organization.
Rituals & Customs
Masonic Grotto has its own distinctive rituals and customs which are unique to the organization and set it apart from other Freemasonry organizations. One of these rituals involves the initiation ceremony which is conducted in private by members known as Mystics or Grand Masters. This ritual includes an oath-taking ceremony where new members swear an oath to uphold the values and traditions of the organization.
The main purpose of these rituals is to promote fellowship among members, encourage them to remain loyal to their Masonic obligations, and ensure that they continue to develop spiritually and morally. The rituals also serve as reminders that all Masons should adhere to high standards both inside and outside their lodges.
Philanthropy
Masonic Grotto encourages its members to engage in philanthropic activities aimed at helping those less fortunate than themselves. This could involve providing financial support for charitable causes or volunteering their time at local community events such as soup kitchens or homeless shelters. Members also have access to a range of scholarships which can help fund educational pursuits or entrepreneurial endeavors for those who wish to pursue them.
The organization also provides its members with opportunities for spiritual growth through its various ritual ceremonies and meetings that are held throughout each year. These meetings provide an opportunity for members to come together in fellowship while also engaging in meaningful conversations about topics related to Freemasonry such as morality, self-improvement, leadership, history, philosophy, etc.
In addition to these activities, Masonic Grotto also sponsors various social events throughout each year such as dances, dinners, golf tournaments etc., which provide opportunities for members from different lodges across the globe to come together in order strengthen ties between them while having fun at the same time!
The Order Of The Eastern Star
The Order of the Eastern Star is a fraternal organization that is open to both men and women. It is based on teachings from the Bible and was established in 1850 by lawyer and educator Rob Morris. Members of the Order are dedicated to charity, truth, and loving kindness. They strive to promote these values through their activities within their local chapters.
The Order of the Eastern Star has five points which serve as its core values:
- Charity
- Truth
- Loving Kindness
- Integrity
- Faithfulness
Each point has its own symbol associated with it, such as a star for charity or a beehive for industry. Members learn about these symbols through ritualistic ceremonies that involve dramatic representations of Bible stories. This helps members to learn more about their faith and understand how it can be applied in their lives.
The Order also places emphasis on charitable work and service within its chapters. Chapters may host events such as dinners or fundraisers in order to raise money for various causes. They may also volunteer their time at community centers or create educational programs to benefit those in need. Through these activities, members are able to demonstrate their commitment to living out the values of the Order of the Eastern Star.
Membership in the Order is open to anyone who believes in a Supreme Being and meets certain qualifications such as being over 18 years old and having two sponsors who are current members of the order. There are also special qualifications for those wishing to become officers within an Order chapter. The qualifications vary by chapter but usually include having been a member for a certain amount of time and taking part in leadership roles within the organization.
The Order of the Eastern Star provides an opportunity for men and women alike to come together, learn more about their faith, serve others, and promote positive values in their communities. Through its commitment to charity, truth, loving kindness, integrity, and faithfulness it has become one of the largest fraternal organizations in existence today with chapters all over the world.
National Sojourners Inc.
National Sojourners Inc. is an organization of United States military veterans who are also members of Masonic lodges. The organization was founded in 1897 and is open to members of all branches of the United States Armed Forces. The organization’s stated purpose is to foster patriotism, perpetuate the memory of those who have served in defense of this country, and to promote fraternal relations among its members.
Membership in National Sojourners Inc. is open to any veteran who is a member in good standing with a Masonic Lodge and has served honorably in the United States Armed Forces. Each applicant must also submit two character references from Masons, one of whom must be a member of National Sojourners Inc., and have been a Mason for at least one year prior to application.
The organization holds regular meetings throughout the year, including an annual convention which brings together members from around the country for fellowship and patriotic activities. Additionally, National Sojourners Inc. also offers scholarships and educational programs for its members and their families, as well as providing support for veterans’ organizations such as the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Disabled American Veterans, Paralyzed Veterans of America, etc.
National Sojourners Inc. also works closely with local and state governments to help provide services for veterans in need. Through its charitable programs, the organization has provided assistance with housing needs, medical care, transportation costs and more to former military personnel who are struggling financially or have special needs due to their service.
As part of its mission to foster patriotism within its membership base, National Sojourners Inc. promotes American values through a variety of activities such as visits to historic sites across the nation. The organization also hosts special events throughout the year such as Memorial Day ceremonies honoring fallen service members from all branches of the military as well as patriotic parades celebrating our nation’s rich history.
In addition to its traditional activities, National Sojourners Inc. has recently launched an online presence that allows members from across the country to connect with each other via social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter as well as through email forums where they can exchange ideas about current events affecting veterans or share stories about their time in service.
Overall, National Sojourners Inc is an organization dedicated to promoting patriotism through various activities that bring together both current and former military personnel while providing support services for veterans in need.
Final Thoughts On Appendant Bodies Of Freemasonry
Appendant Bodies of Freemasonry provide an enriching experience for its members. These groups offer a unique way to explore a range of Masonic traditions and teachings. The various organizations have different structures, but all emphasize the importance of brotherhood and fellowship, while providing meaningful ways to gain knowledge and understanding.
Appendant Bodies can be a great way for Masons to deepen their connection with the Craft. The traditions, rituals, teachings, and activities can provide an opportunity for meaningful growth and discovery. As members progress in their Masonic journey, they may find that new perspectives and insights come to light as they explore the various organizations that exist within Freemasonry.
Ultimately, Appendant Bodies of Freemasonry can be a powerful source of learning and personal development. Through connection, exploration, and study, those who are part of the fraternity can gain valuable insight into ancient wisdom and practices that have been passed down through generations. As Masons continue on their journey through the Craft, these organizations offer them the chance to deepen their understanding and appreciation of its teachings.
Shrines can be found in public parks or on private property. They come in all shapes and sizes, from large ornate temples to small roadside shrines. Some are dedicated to specific deities or figures while others are open to anyone who wishes to stop by and pay homage.
Appendant Bodies of Freemasonry are organizations affiliated with, but independent of, Freemasonry which provide additional opportunities for their members to explore Masonic principles and further extend the teachings of the Craft. These bodies typically have ritualistic practices and ceremonies that parallel those of Freemasonry, and often require members to first become Freemasons before joining. Examples of Appendant Bodies include the Scottish Rite, York Rite, Grotto, Red Cross of Constantine, and Order of the Eastern Star.The history of Appendant Bodies of Freemasonry dates back to the 18th century. Appendant Bodies are Masonic organizations that are related to Freemasonry but are independent from it. These organizations include, but are not limited to, the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite, the York Rite, the Royal Arch Masons, and the Order of the Eastern Star. Each of these organizations has its own rituals and principles, which are distinct from those of Freemasonry.
The first Appendant Body of Freemasonry was established in 1737 in Paris, France. This was the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite (AASR), which was created by Baron Karl Gotthelf von Hund as an alternative to traditional Craft Masonry. Since then, other Appendant Bodies have been formed around the world, each with their own unique rituals and beliefs.
In the United States, some of these Appendant Bodies have become highly influential and powerful forces within Freemasonry. The York Rite consists of several bodies that meet regularly with their own lodges, councils and chapters. The Royal Arch Masons is a fraternity that administers degrees beyond those found in craft Masonry. The Order of the Eastern Star is an all-female organization whose members must be related to a Master Mason in good standing.
Today, many Grand Lodges recognize these Appendant Bodies as part of regular Freemasonry, although some still do not recognize them as such. Regardless, these organizations continue to benefit members by providing fellowship and education in addition to traditional craft Masonry activities.
History
The Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite is one of the two branches of Freemasonry that a Master Mason may join for further exposure to the principles of Freemasonry. It is commonly known as the Scottish Rite, though some consider this a misnomer since it was developed in France during the eighteenth century. The origin of the Rite is uncertain, though it probably began in Scotland and Ireland in the 1600s. It was first introduced into North America in 1783 by Stephen Morin, a French emissary who brought with him a patent authorizing him to establish lodges of Perfection throughout what would become the United States and its territories.
Organization
The Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite consists of 33 degrees, although some jurisdictions recognize an additional degree, the 34th degree. The first three degrees are those conferred by Symbolic or Blue Lodges, which are traditionally termed the “Craft†degrees. The remaining 30 degrees are referred to as “philosophical†or “chivalric†degrees.
The Supreme Council is the governing body for most countries where the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite exists. It is made up of 33 members who have been elected from among those who have been elected to receive the 33rd degree. The Supreme Council meets annually to discuss issues related to its members and their activities throughout different parts of the world.
Philosophy
The philosophy that underpins membership in this branch of Freemasonry is that all men should strive to achieve personal excellence through self-improvement and service to others. This philosophy has been described as “building a better world within ourselves so we can build a better world withoutâ€.
The teachings contained within this branch aim to develop moral character through study, contemplation, meditation and discussion on philosophical topics such as ethics, morality, religion and history. Members are encouraged to live out their daily lives according to these teachings so that they can be true examples for others.
Membership in this branch also requires members to strive for justice & equality for all people regardless of race or creed & encourage tolerance &