A plain-English guide
The Orders
Freemasonry has more paths than many people realise. These are the ones currently appearing in my diary, explained without assuming you already know the vocabulary.
The foundationCraft
The best-known part of Freemasonry: friendship, personal development and service to the community, all held together by tradition and the people in the room.
The next chapterRoyal Arch
A colourful continuation of the Craft journey, with its own ceremonies, companionship and a particularly strong sense of shared discovery.
Character and good companyMark
An Order known for warmth, good humour and a memorable ceremony. In Andrew’s diary it also appears to have a healthy relationship with barbecues.
Reflection and fellowshipRose Croix
A Christian Masonic Order centred on reflection, fellowship and a series of thoughtful degrees.
History and ceremonyRed Cross of Constantine
A Christian chivalric Order with distinctive ceremonial traditions, local conclaves and plenty of travelling between them.
Chivalry and fellowshipKnights Templar
A Christian chivalric Order with a strong sense of history, ceremony and companionship, approached here with the same good humour as every other journey in the diary.
A new road aheadAthelstan
A newer chapter in Andrew’s Masonic journey, to be explored as the first meetings, music and friendships begin.
Companionship and traditionRoyal Ark Mariners
An Order associated with the Mark tradition, centred on friendship, service and the enduring story of the Ark.