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Royal Arch Masons
Royal Arch Masonry is the first order a Master Mason
joins in the York Rite. The Chapter works the following degrees: |
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The Mark Master Mason degree is in
some respects an extension of the Fellow Crafts' second degree. In
some jurisdictions the degree is conferred in a Fellow Craft Lodge,
that is, the second degree of the Blue Lodge.
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The Past Master (Virtual) degree is
conferred because of the traditional requirement that only Past
Masters of a Blue Lodge may be admitted to Holy Royal Arch. Because
there are so many applicants for this degree, Virtual Past Master is
required to qualify them for it. Much of the work is the same given to
install the Worshipful Master of a Blue Lodge. There is no such
requirement or procedure outside the USA.
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In the Most Excellent Master degree
the building of King Solomon's Temple, which figures so prominently in
Blue Lodge, has been completed. In England the degree is conferred by
Cryptic Councils, along with three other degrees below.
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The Royal Arch Mason degree is said
by many to be the most beautiful degree in all of Freemasonry.
Following the convocation of Supreme Grand Chapter in England on
November 10, 2004, there are significant ritual differences from that
worked in the USA, fraternal inter-relations remain as before.
Freemasons who reach this degree may continue to Cryptic Masonry or go
straight to Knights Templar (where permitted—requirements vary in
different jurisdictions). |
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