What is Royal Arch Masonry?

The Royal Arch represents an extension of Craft Freemasonry. Its affiliates, known as Companions, convene in Chapters that fall under a Grand Chapter. Each Chapter is governed by three Principals who jointly preside, while the Grand Chapter is overseen by three Grand Principals, with a Pro First Grand Principal serving in the absence of the First Grand Principal, especially if he is a Royal Prince.

Domestically, Chapters are organised into Metropolitan areas or Provinces reflecting historical county lines, whereas international Chapters are arranged into Districts. These Metropolitan, Provincial, and District Grand Chapters are administered by a Grand Superintendent, appointed by the First Grand Principal to act as his regional delegate.

In England, the Royal Arch conducts four ceremonies: the exaltation ceremony for admitting new members and an installation ceremony for each of the three Principals. The exaltation ceremony comprises a vivid portrayal of the Order’s tenets, followed by three Lectures that delve into the Royal Arch’s history, symbolism, and ethos. The Royal Arch welcomes men of various faiths, akin to Craft Freemasonry.

The narrative of the exaltation ceremony draws from the Old Testament, recounting the return from Babylonian exile to reconstruct Jerusalem and its temple. As the candidate excavates the site of the original temple to lay the new foundation, he uncovers several artifacts that underscore the pivotal role of the Divine in human life and existence, prompting introspection about the Divine nature and one’s personal connection with the Divine, irrespective of religious affiliation.

In England, the Royal Arch is deemed the culmination of “pure ancient Masonry.” Within the Craft, the aspirant is introduced to a set of profoundly practical ethical guidelines and principles which, when adhered to, are believed to enable a life that is both pleasing to the Divine and beneficial to one’s peers.