FAQs about the Royal Arch
Anyone who has been a Master Mason for four weeks can join—and should aspire to join the Royal Arch, because becoming a Companion of the Order continues their voyage of discovery.
No, it is just as natural as an Initiate being passed to the 2nd Degree. Simply ask your Lodge Royal Arch Representative.
Royal Arch has four ceremonies: the exaltation ceremony to bring in new members and an installation ceremony for each of the three Principals.
It used to be, but when the union of the two Original Grand Lodges occurred in 1813, it was decided that the Holy Royal Arch was of such a profound nature and that so much of the layout of a lodge room needed to be changed before the ceremony could take place, that it would be better to confer this Supreme Degree separately.
The layout of a Chapter room is very different but some things and officers are the same. The Volume of the Sacred Law lies open, as do the Square and Compasses. There is a Secretary (called a Scribe E), Treasurer, Director of Ceremonies, Almoner and Charity Steward, but most of the other titles such as; Worshipful Master, Wardens, Deacons Inner Guard have gone.
The members are called Companion rather than Brother. The word Companion comes from the Latin, meaning one with whom you share bread. This term implies an even stronger bond of brotherhood and is highly prized by the members.
Convocation is the term Royal Arch Chapters use for their meetings. It has a similar meaning.
Usually four times per year; three regular meetings and one Installation meeting.
Yes. During the exaltation ceremony, a Companion is invested with the apron, jewel and sash of a Royal Arch Mason. You will be guided as to what is required.
They will be proudly wearing their Royal Arch Jewel, close to the centre line of the body. Those with a white ribbon are companions, those with a red ribbon are the same as Masters or Past Masters and those with three colours, blue, purple and red, are Provincial or Grand Officers.
As at your Initiation, it is best if you know as little as possible so the impact of what will happen is not diminished. The ceremony is very different from anything you will have experienced before. It is dramatic, colourful and carries a profound message.
