Sometimes called Royal Arch, sometimes simply “Chapter” but what is the Holy Royal Arch?
Well it is often referred to as an extension of the 3rd Degree, but does that explain enough? Not really!
One thing for sure is that you cannot join the Holy Royal Arch unless you are a subscribing member of a “Craft” Lodge
Within the English Constitution, a Freemason is entitled to join the Holy Royal Arch of Jerusalem, more familiarly known since 1890 as the Holy Royal Arch, after one month as a Master Mason. The Holy Royal Arch, while being an integral part of basic Freemasonry, is organised as a separate Order. It has been variously described as the “essence of Freemasonry”; the “foundation and keystone of the whole Masonic structure”; and “the root, heart and marrow of Freemasonry”. Every Master Mason has, and should take, the opportunity of discovering these qualities for himself by joining the Holy Royal Arch.
As with other Masonic Degrees, the ritual takes the form of allegory, but the Holy Royal Arch is concerned with encouraging the spiritual aspects of life without compromising or encroaching on an individual’s belief or religion.
The ceremony in the Holy Royal Arch is colourful, thought-provoking and uplifting. It is based on the legend of the rebuilding of King Solomon’s Temple and invokes sensations of humility and of our dependence on our unseen Creator.
The Members meet in Chapters and the meetings are known as Convocations. Members are known as Companions. (from the Latin – com panis: breaking bread with) As with Craft Masonry, each Chapter is organised individually and is normally attached to a specific Craft Lodge, but some Chapters have members from several different Lodges.
While the Holy Royal Arch is similar in some respects to Craft Masonry, it is different in many aspects and indeed its differences are marked and fascinating. For example, we wear an apron of a different design and colours, using crimson and dark blue, together with a sash and a Jewel. The Jewel should always be worn by Companions at Craft Meetings to emphasise the connection between the Craft and the Holy Royal Arch.
Three Principals preside over a Chapter. They, and other Officers, are elected annually and installed at the Installation Convocation.
It is not a requirement that the Principals should be Past Masters in Craft Masonry before they can advance in the Royal Arch. Whilst advancement does not reflect ability in the Craft; it does enhance your ability to understand and appreciate the Craft ritual.
A Holy Royal Arch Representative will be appointed in each Craft Lodge in the Metropolitan Area of London. He will be there to give guidance and provide Brethren with information on the Holy Royal Arch.
The Royal Arch is the final step and thus the climax of pure, ancient Freemasonry, having virtue for its aim and the glory of God for its object.
It can truly be said that Royal Arch complements your Masonic journey.
ROYAL ARCH AWARENESS EVENING GRAND TEMPLE 5:30pm
Mark Masons’Hall Friday 5th June 2020
