A Guide Book To The Additional Masonic Degrees In Freemasonry
W. Bro Ron Selby PPrSGW SLGR, is a Middlesex Mason and member of Temple of Athene Lodge No 9542 as well as a member of Author’s Lodge No 3456 in Metropolitan Grand Lodge. He has written an extremely enlightening book, which will provide a masonic horizon to newer freemasons who having been raised to degree of Master Mason are prompted by Brethren to consider joining other Orders in Freemasonry. How would the younger mason know which path to take? Of course, the next regular step in freemasonry is the Royal Arch, but certain of the other masonic orders may have their own appeal.
However, there is always a word of caution that should be given to the enthusiastic newcomer and that he must be certain that he is able to give full commitment without detriment to his self or connections. That said there is no doubt that the onward journey in freemasonry will hold much of interest and provides the opportunity to expand the bonds of masonic friendship with others who have similar interests.
Browsing this book is in itself highly informative. Ron Selby has said in his Author’s Introduction that the book is not designed to be read from cover to cover but is more an initial reference point for those who will continue their masonic journey. Certainly, there are some Orders that are relatively obscure and some which are exclusive and require certain religious beliefs before you can be admitted. For example, there is The August Order of Light which is aimed at those who might look for a more spiritual and esoteric experience of their masonic road ahead. Others require that you must be a member of other Orders before you would qualify. One of the better known is Royal and Select Masters and you have to be a member of the Mark Degree and also the Royal Arch. Those who join often comment that the degrees in this Order illustrate some important historical events in the biblical timeline and add to a greater understanding of the Royal Arch. Another, the Royal Order of the Knights of Eri, requires membership of the Societas Rosicruciana in Anglia and you must have attained a certain grade before being invited to join.
Many of the more popular “progressive orders”, that is the Mark Degree, Royal Ark Mariner, Royal and Select Masters, Allied Masonic Degrees, Secret Monitor, Scarlet and the Red Cross of Constantine, to name a few, are administered from Mark Masons’ Hall. The Ancient and Accepted Rite of England and Wales is administered from No 10 Duke Street St James which a short walk away.
Of course, some freemasons are happy to remain within the Craft and Royal Arch and belong to one or two Lodge/ Chapters within their respective home province or further experience their freemasonry within other provinces.
Ron’s book is highly readable and will provide a broad base of masonic knowledge. Each individuals experience will differ as will his aspirations within the broader spectrum of freemasonry.
What Next is published by Lewis Masonic and can be ordered online at https://www.lewismasonic.co.uk/what-next-htm
Also, the author has some copies available for sale and may be contacted by email at irselby@virginmedia.com
First published in 2020.
