About the Royal Arch

The Supreme Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of England (often referred to as "Chapter" or  "the Royal Arch") together with Craft Freemasonry constitute ‘pure Antient Masonry’. Joining the Royal Arch completes a freemason's  journey in pure Antient Masonry.

Royal Arch Chapters meet independently of Lodges, and meet 3-4 times a year. The fees are typically considerably less than for Lodges. A Chapter is normally attached to a Lodge and members are called Companions.

A member's regalia is different to that worn in a  Craft Lodge. It consists of an Apron with red and blue surround, a red and blue sash and a special Jewel which Royal Arch Masons should also wear in their Craft Lodges in order to show the bond that exists between Craft and Royal Arch.

As in all Masonic degrees, the ritual of the Royal Arch is an allegory. It helps to focus the minds of the Companions, without conflicting with their religious beliefs, to a contemplation of the nature of, and their relationship with their God which will be appropriate to their own religion.

A Royal Arch Chapter has a number of officers with particular titles but most important are the three Principals who collectively rule the Chapter for one year. Each year there is an Installation meeting for the new team of officers.

In England, the Royal Arch has four ceremonies: the exaltation ceremony to bring in new members and an installation ceremony for each of the three Principals. The exaltation ceremony is in two parts: a rather dramatic presentation of the principles of the Order followed by three Lectures in which the history, symbolism and principles of the Royal Arch are further explained.

More Information (navigates away from this site).