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What is Rose Croix?

The 'Rose Croix' Degree, as it is commonly known in England, is the 18th Degree of a Christian Rite of Masonry. Over time it has been refered to in different ways but the Order is more properly called the Ancient and Accepted Rite of Freemasonry (AAR).

Formally established in 1801, the Rite comprises 33 Degrees which amplify the teachings of Craft Masonry within a Christian context. As it exists today it originated in the USA, with historical French influences. It is not Scottish, as many believe, even though at one time it was called the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite!

The Rite's unique system of 33 Degrees was developed in stages between 1730 and 1801, with the majority being before 1780. The three Degrees of Craft Masonry are considered to be equivalent to the first three Degrees in the Rite in England. All of the Rite's Degrees, from 4º – 33º, have their own title or name - 'Rose Croix' is specifically the 18º. All are the entire responsibility of the Supreme Council.

Candidates are 'Perfected' in to the Rite in the 18th Degree. Progression beyond this stage, to what are called the higher degrees, happens only after going through the chair of your Chapter. The higher degrees are considered particularly special - in England today there are approximately 150 members of the Rite who hold the 33º. There is no set or maximum number.

The Supreme Council, which administers and governs the Rite, consists of 9 members who hold the 33º.

The regalia for the 18º is both simple and spectacular - it comprises a rose pink collar, edged and embroidered, with various symbols in gold braid. A magnificent jewel is appended to the collar. The import and meaning of the jewel and the collar symbols is explained during the ceremony.

Rose Croix in our District

The District of Northamptonshire and Huntingdonshire comprises fourteen Chapters Rose Croix. Chapters meet three times a year between September and May and evenings are completed with the traditional Masonic form of ‘festive board’. Meetings are very friendly and relaxed, with members sharing a commitment to values of Christian fellowship and an understanding of this very beautiful Masonic Order.

We are governed by The Supreme Council 33º for England Wales and its Districts and Chapters Overseas, which was Constituted in 1845 upon receiving a Patent from the Northern Jurisdiction of the United States of America - who were in turn Constituted in 1801.

The Supreme Council is responsible for all matters pertaining to the Order within its jurisdiction, including Ritual matters, Consecrations and conferring the Higher Degrees of the 30º – 33º.

The headquarters of the Order in London are formally called the Grand East and ceremonies to confer the higher degrees (30º – 33º) are performed there at regular Convocations.

Upcoming meetings

Interested?
By far the most usual way of being introduced to the Order is by invitation from an existing member but, especially if you have not knowingly met a member of the Order, you can express your interest by contacting the District Recorder who will be delighted to introduce you to a Chapter.

Throughout England and Wales and certain Districts and Chapters Overseas the Order is governed by the Supreme Council 33° whose headquarters are known as Grand East and are located at No. 10, Duke Street, St. James's, London SW1Y 6BS.

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