The synergy between the Craft and the Royal Arch has probably never been stronger since the Act of Union and the formation of The United Grand Lodge of England in 1813. Two hundred and thirteen years later much has changed in the world and Freemasonry has adapted accordingly to meet the challenges of the 21st Century, however our core principles and our traditions remain timeless. The preliminary declaration in our Book of Constitution remains as it always has been firmly cementing that Freemasonry, as practiced in accordance of with the Constitution of UGLE, includes the Craft and the Royal Arch in equal measure, inextricably linked then and forever onward. The Craft and the Royal Arch really is one journey and combines the practical moral lessons of the Craft with the more profound spiritual exploration of the Royal Arch. The Royal Arch in particular provides a “colourful and rich canvas” which gives the candidate new insight, new experiences, and a greater understanding of his masonic journey.
As 21st Century Freemasons we are the watchmen of our Order, maintaining our principles and tenets but at the same time adopting the “yes if” approach necessary to make our Lodges and Chapters appealing to the “modern member”.
So, what else has the Royal Arch got to offer as the next masonic step for Master Masons?
To start, the Royal Arch Exaltation ceremony is one of the most beautiful and thought provoking in Freemasonry. It is a continuation of all that has been taught in the three Craft Degrees and provides you with the necessary tools to complete your journey of self-knowledge and of self-discovery.
The Craft and the Royal Arch are very much two sides of the same coin. The Square and Compass on one side and the Royal Arch jewel on the other, perhaps with the words Integrity, Respect, Friendship and Service etched around the edge and not to become a Royal Arch Companion is to miss out on big part of the whole masonic story and if you take the preliminary declaration at face value then, you could say that, the Royal Arch is hugely important to The Craft because without it, the journey of a Master Mason is, by design, unfinished – and none of us like unfinished business.
There are 50 Royal Arch Chapters to consider joining around the Province. Each is individual in its own way and each has something slightly different to offer. Which Chapter to join is personal choice, you may want to join a Chapter affiliated to your Lodge, or you may chose to broaden your friendship circle. You may want to join a Chapter based on the day that they meet and your available “free time” or you may want to consider the Ritual that they use. Some Chapters work very traditional ceremony, some use permissive variants and some work very different ritual.
Also, you may want to join with friends. Multiple candidate ceremonies are very much a part of the Royal Arch and shared experience is a fantastic way to improve on what may already be very special bonds.
As examples, Elms Huyshe Chapter in Plympton, who are a very traditional Chapter are well known for their TRIPLE Exaltations. Brilliantly done and a great experience for their Candidates who come from several different Plymouth Lodges.
The Chapter of Obedience work “permissive” Ceremony and they regulatory have DOUBLE Exaltations, the most recent being a father and son from Unity Lodge.
Pleiades Chapter in Totnes is well known for showcasing “Savage Ritual” which is s lightly different take on the Royal Arch Exaltation Ceremony.
Without a doubt, interest in Royal Arch Masonry in our Province is on a high so, if you are not yet a Royal Arch Companion, reach and take your next step. You discover freemasonry in the Craft but you Discover More in the Royal Arch.