Freemason NSW & ACT – Associated Masonic Orders

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FREEMASON MAGAZINE SUPPLEMENT

v1 – SEPTEMBER 2013

Associated Masonic Orders

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CONTENTS

Associated Masonic Orders Contents Mark and Royal Arch

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York Cross of Honour Order of the Knights of The York Cross of Honour

United Supreme Grand Chapter of Mark and Royal Arch Masons of NSW and the ACT

The Operatives Secret Monitor

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The Order of the Secret Monitor also known as The Brotherhood of David and Jonathan

Scottish Rite – Australia

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The Great Priory of New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory of the United Religious, Military and Masonic Orders of the Temple and of St John of Jerusalem, Palestine, Rhodes and Malta

Red Cross of Constantine

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The Worshipful Society of Free Masons, Rough Masons, Wallers, Slaters, Paviors, Plaisterers and Bricklayers

Order of Athelstan

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The Masonic Order of Athelstan in England, Wales and its Provinces Overseas

Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite for Australia

Knights Templar

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St Thomas of Acon

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The Commemorative Order of St Thomas of Acon

Royal Order of Scotland 12

The Masonic and Military Order of Rome and the Red Cross of Constantine and the Orders of the Holy Sepulchre and of St John the Evangelist

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The Royal Order of Scotland – The Provincial Grand Lodge of New South Wales

Allied Masonic Degrees

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The Allied Masonic Degrees

DeMolay

14 Rectified Scottish Rite

The Order of DeMolay

Amaranth

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Scottish Rite – Scotland

Eastern Star

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Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite Supreme Council for Scotland of the Thirty Third and Last Degree

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Knights Templar – Scottish

Rainbow Girls The International Order of the Rainbow for Girls

Knight Templar Priests The Grand College of the Holy Royal Arch Knight Templar Priests

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Rectified Scottish Rite under the Great Priory of Belgium – Southern Cross Prefecture

The Order of the Amaranth

The Order of the Eastern Star

ASSOCIATED MASONIC ORDERS

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The District Grand Priory of New South Wales The Great Priory of Scotland of the United Religious and Military Orders of the Temple and the Order of St John of Jerusalem, Palestine, Rhodes and Malta

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FOREWORD

Foreword to all Freemasons

MW Bro Derek Robson AM Grand Master

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his publication marks a further milestone in the relationship between the United Grand Lodge and the Associated Masonic Orders.

It is remarkable to think that only a few years ago no relationship of any kind existed and that this Grand Lodge would not consider any acknowledgement of or any useful contribution from the Associated Orders. It was only in 2004 that concepts changed when MW Bro Tony Lauer, Grand Master at the time, set up a small committee under the leadership of RW Bro Dr Frank Radcliff, Past Deputy Grand Master and Carrington Medal of Honour, to negotiate with the various Associated Masonic Orders and establish written Agreements with each of them.

It is now my pleasure to take this developing relationship another step further by supporting distribution of this new and exciting publication in conjunction with the Freemason magazine.

The prime purpose of this publication is to provide information to the Craft Brethren in this Jurisdiction on the existence of the various Orders, an outline of their philosophical teachings, the specific qualifications required to join each one, and the circumstances surrounding membership.

The Masonic journey follows a winding and branching path which offers numerous extensions to a Brother’s understanding of the basic principles and tenets of the Craft. In choosing an ongoing career within Freemasonry, one of the important options is a participation in some of the Associated Masonic Orders according to one’s personal inclinations and interests. This publication provides an oversight of the choices available. A careful study of these may well prove rewarding and fulfilling in providing additional knowledge and understanding to the fundamental teachings of the Craft.

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Learn. Be Valued. Enjoy.

Welcome to the United Supreme Grand Chapter of Mark and Royal Arch Masons of NSW and the ACT (USGC) Congratulations on attaining your Master Mason Certificate! Your study and experience in earning this qualification have no doubt been fascinating and rewarding.

Now we’d encourage you to enrich your understanding of Masonic history and traditions by joining the USGC and becoming a Royal Arch Mason.

In doing so, we open for you a window to the most interesting, philosophical, colourful and exciting series of degrees in Freemasonry.

Join us in our travels through history from Noah’s Ark to Nebuchadnezzar, from Babylon to King Solomon’s Temple, from the Stonemasons of Medieval Europe to the present day.

This is where as a Master Mason, you will complete your journey by participating in further study and ceremonies full of colour and drama that teach many profound life lessons.

You can also visit Pharaoh’s Egypt in our dazzling Egyptian Room.

Stele on the southern wall of the Egyptian Room

WHAT IS THE ROYAL ARCH?

WHY JOIN THE ROYAL ARCH?

The Royal Arch is the culmination of ‘pure Ancient Masonry’ as defined in the constitution of Grand Lodge, and is the continuation of Craft Freemasonry. Our Members, called Companions, meet in Chapters under a Grand Chapter.

What you will gain by joining the Royal Arch is the opportunity to acquire knowledge and understanding of the rich history of ‘pure Ancient Masonry’.

Here in NSW and the ACT, Chapters are grouped in Districts which are formed into seven Areas, Metropolitan and Country.

The Royal Arch will lead you from the practical to the spiritual, opening up a fascinating pathway of self knowledge and self discovery.

One Companion has written that in the Royal Arch, “…my understanding of what life is all about and my feelings for my fellowmen have been greatly enhanced.”

VISIT WWW.USGCNSW.ORG.AU - CONNECT WITH US

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HOW TO JOIN

ABOUT THE ROYAL ARCH DEGREES

To join the Royal Arch, you must be a Master Mason of at least two years standing, in a Lodge under the United Grand Lodge of NSW and the ACT, or a Lodge under a recognised Grand Lodge.

What sets the USGC apart is our dedication to promoting ‘pure Ancient Masonry’, expressed through the degrees of Mark Master Mason and the Supreme Order of the Holy Royal Arch. As a Royal Arch Mason, you will be richly rewarded by the knowledge gained in these advanced Degrees in Freemasonry.

As in all other Masonic Orders, you will need a proposer and seconder who are Members of the Chapter you seek to join.

Talk to Members of your Lodge who are Royal Arch Masons and they will be happy to assist you in joining the Royal Arch.

ABOUT THE USGC The USGC was formed in 1980 when four Masonic Orders from NSW and the ACT united. These were longstanding Masonic Orders, having constituted between 1863 and 1972.

Our headquarters are in Sydney’s Petersham, which is also home to the world-renowned and heritage listed Egyptian Room.

The Degrees available through the USGC are: The Mark Master Mason Degree follows and expands on the Fellow Craft Degree.

The Excellent Master Degree bridges the time between the destruction of King Solomon’s Temple and the second Temple being built by Zerubbabel.

The Holy Royal Arch Degree is described as the perfection and completion of all Freemasonry; the Degree where the ‘Genuine Secrets of a Master Mason’ are found and the great discoveries of ‘pure Ancient Masonry’ are made.

The Royal Ark Mariner Degree relates the story of Noah and the flood and God’s great covenant with man and the re-establishment of man’s moral values.

The Cryptic Series of Degrees include Select Master, Royal Master, Most Excellent Master and Super Excellent Master covering a vast period in the Masonic story, from events surrounding the Third Degree through to the final destruction of King Solomon’s temple by Nebuchadnezzar.

The Red Cross Knight Series of Degrees include Knight of the East, Knight of the Sword and Knight of the East and West and teach that faithfulness, honour and dignity bear their own rewards.

The Craft

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Mark

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Royal Arch

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‘pure Ancient Masonry’

Complete your journey with USGC CALL US ON 02 9569 5699 OR EMAIL US AT GSE@USGCNSW.ORG.AU

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SECRET MONITOR

The Order of the Secret Monitor also known as The Brotherhood of David and Jonathan

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his order is known as ‘The friendly order’ and is open by invitation only. It is a very interesting order of Freemasonry. The bond of brotherhood is based upon obligations of a kind which go further into human nature than any other, either in the Craft or any of the concomitant orders. He who acts upon his Craft obligations will hold out his hand to help his Brother out of the mire, but he who acts upon that of a Secret Monitor will hold out his hand when he sees his Brother about to fall in. The legend narrated during the admission of candidates is the story of the friendship which existed between David and Jonathan. This friendship was all the more remarkable because King Saul, the father of Jonathan, hated David with almost unequalled intensity, and on more than one occassion sought his life. Meetings of the two friends, therefore, were attended with considerable risk, and it became necessary to devise some form of warning which should convey information to David without necessarily enlightening anyone else.

The bond of brotherhood is based upon obligations of a kind which go further into human nature than any other, either in the Craft or in any of the concomitant orders.

He who acts upon his Craft obligations will hold out his hand to help his Brother out of the mire, but he who acts upon that of a Secret Monitor will hold out his hand when he sees his Brother about to fall in.

The Origins of the Order The whole story can be read in 1 Samuel xx, v.18 et seq.: and in accordance therewith it is the duty of obligation of every Secret Monitor to convey notice of impending danger to his Brother, and even to warn him when he appears to be embarked upon a wrong course of conduct likely to entail disastrous consequences. In saying all this no obligation of secrecy is violated for the ritual is published by authority. The first references to such an association are to be found in a code of rules of government found in Amsterdam in 1770. What the history of the Order was in Holland is not known.

Kloss gives the title of a book published in 1778 at Amsterdam which gives its statutes and formulary of reception.

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It did not become an effective Masonic tie until the period of the Civil War which devastated the United States of America.

Dr I. Zacharie, the first Supreme Ruler of the Order as established in England, had a very adventurous career during the period referred to. In his medical capacity he was constantly in the camps of both parties to the strife, and had frequent opportunities of seeing how Freemasonry could amend the horrors of Civil War, when Brother’s hand was against Brother’s instead of being clasped in it. The degree of Secret Monitor, which had been carried to the New World

by Dutch immigrants, appeared to Dr Zacharie to afford the means of cementing a closer fraternal union reference in a somewhat slipshod manner, with no organisation and with no ceremonies. The new member was simply taken ‘aside’ and the several degrees communicated to him.

The Order in England dates from 1887.

There are now Jurisdictions of the Order, with numerous Conclaves in many countries throughout the world. Their registers contain many distinguished and illustrious names which are quite sufficient to prove the Order is vested in a Grand Council, which is composed of Grand and Past Grand Officers.

Distinctive Officer of the Order Among the officers are those called Visiting Deacons. These are officers peculiar to this Order, and there is nothing exactly corresponding in any branch of Freemasonry. What their duties are is well described in the following circular. The principles therein laid down, go far to prove that quality rather than quantity is sought for every extension of the Order. To this circular we have prefixed the introduction to the Constitutions, and after reading both extracts no one will deny that a Brother who is invited to become a Secret Monitor must have formed and lived up to a very high ideal of Freemasonry.

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SECRET MONITOR

This photo is from our visit to the Grand Installation in Brisbane 2013 and includes a number of members from across the state. Visitation is a key aspect of our order both within our jurisdiction and to sister Grand Bodies.

Back Row (L to R): Stephen Flower (Lismore), Neil Batemen (Central Coast), Bert Gude (Sydney), Peter Binden (Yass), Ted Griffiths (Tamworth), Greg Scott-Pacey (Harrington) Front Row (L to R): Ian Newbery (Nowra), Allan Uner (Sydney), Don Savage (Bathurst), Gregg Nason (Canberra) and Malcolm Sharpe (Sydney)

‘In as much as the peculiar characteristic of the Order consists of giving friendly monition and warning to its members in time of danger, and in affording support and assistance to them in time of sorrow and distress, it is expressly enjoined on the Visiting Deacons as the chief duty of their office is to search or apparent, and to visit those afflicted with sickness or sorrow, or otherwise in need of fraternal help and consolation. A statement that this duty is specially recognised as a distinguishing feature of the Order shall appear in the by-laws of every Conclave; and the officers of every Conclave shall be a fundamental principle of the Order and be practically carried into effect during their term of office.’

‘The Grand Visitors point out the fundamental principle underlying all the teachings of the Order, with regard to the duties of Conclaves, may be summed up in an affirmative reply to the old question, ‘Am I my brother’s keeper?’ and that the function imposed upon Visiting Deacons at their appointment is that of officers selected to discharge, on behalf of the Conclave, this duty of keeping in constant touch with the rest of the Brethren and of conveying to the Conclave, at its periodical meetings of their welfare, or should providence so will it, their ill-fare.’

The Structure of the Order The Order of the Secret monitor possesses its own phraseology.

Its Lodges are ‘Conclaves’ and usually meet quarterly. Members are ‘inducted’ in the first degree, ‘admitted’ to the second degree and the Supreme Ruler is ‘commissioned.’ Every Brother is placed in the charge of a Visiting Deacon, of which there are four. It is the duty of the Deacon to contact them at intervals between the meetings, and at each meeting to report to the Conclave. Should any trouble befall a Brother, he should apply for help to his Deacon, who is bound to do all he can for him. It is an admirable scheme, but its success depends almost entirely on the conscientiousness of the Deacons.

History and Structure in NSW & ACT The first Conclave in NSW was the Sydney Conclave, consecrated

by RW Bro G.C. Kingscott PGC, District Grand Supreme Ruler of the Southern jurisdiction of Australia, on 23 June 1945.

The first autonomous jurisdiction in Australia was that of NSW & ACT formed in 1958 with the first Grand Installation held in 1959.

This Grand Council of NSW & ACT celebrated its Golden Jubilee Installation on 10 October 2009 at The Sydney Masonic Centre.

There are currently 30 Conclaves within the jurisdiction, 14 meeting in the metropolitan area, 15 in the country area and one travelling Conclave.

For further general information please access the website www.osm-nsw-act.org

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SCOTTISH RITE – AUSTRALIA

Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite for Australia

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he Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite for Australia:

So that you may know something about the Rite, set out below is a portion of its history.

1 Is a unified Order nationwide, Australia’s only National Masonic Body – One Nation – One Order – Same Ritual 1 Has two streams of Membership; one requiring Trinitarian belief and the other open to Brethren of all faiths 1 Our Meetings are usually held approximately 4 times per year, so the time and financial commitment is not onerous 1 Is governed by the Supreme Council for Australia, every Chapter across Australia works under the one set of Regulations.

One of the important degrees in the Rite, now known as the Rose Croix Degree, is claimed to date from before 1700. Indeed by about 1730 some 12 versions of the degree existed. In its early years the Degree had an interesting history and was an integral part in what were known as ‘The High Grades of Masonry’. The 1762 Constitutions of the Rite of Perfection listed it as the 18th Degree (5th Grade) in the twenty five Degrees of that Rite which rapidly spread throughout the ‘Masonic World’.

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he Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite Worldwide:

1 Is the largest body of Freemasons in the world working under a single constitution. In numbers of members it is second only to Craft Freemasonry 1 Is also known as Rose Croix Freemasonry (18°) 1 Is the only Masonic Order that provides an opportunity for the advancement to the 33° You can become a Rose Croix Mason!

The term Scottish does not imply that the Rite came from Scotland. In fact it was developed in Europe and ‘Scottish’ is the translation of the French word ‘Ecossais’, from their Ecossais degrees.

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Under ‘The Grand Constitutions of 1786’, the Rite of Perfection was reorganised and extended to the 33rd and last Degree of Freemasonry. It was renamed the ‘Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry’, with the Rose Croix Degree continuing as the Eighteenth Degree in the new Rite.

Under ‘The Grand Constitutions of 1786’, the Rite of Perfection was reorganised and extended to the 33rd and last Degree of Freemasonry. It was renamed the ‘Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry’, with the Rose Croix Degree continuing as the Eighteenth Degree in the new Rite.

While the Craft degrees are acknowledged to be the foundation stone of all Freemasonry, the instruction given in the Craft degrees is, however, seldom fully grasped by the candidate. He needs further instruction and enlightenment to understand the great truths which Freemasonry possesses and teaches. The Craft degrees are but the wonderful entrance to the great Temple of Freemasonry. He who would seek more light, more knowledge of the mission and symbolism of Freemasonry, a more complete interpretation of the teachings of the Craft degrees, as well as acceptance into a very special fellowship and Brotherhood, can obtain these within this Rite.

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SCOTTISH RITE – AUSTRALIA

You can become a Rose Croix Mason

18th Degree

30th Degree

31st Degree

32nd Degree

33rd Degree

Australian Constitution Regalia

The Rite is, thus, broadly appealing to Master Masons of good character who are interested in developing their Masonic knowledge and their circle of Masonic friendships. If this is you, then you can be sure of a hearty welcome within a Chapter of the Rite.

The Supreme Council for Australia, which is the sovereign authority for the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite in Australia, is led by a Sovereign Grand Commander, who is supported by the Officers of Supreme Council (the 'Tableau'), comprising the Regional Commanders and the Grand Secretary General. The Chapters and Councils, which are the regular working bodies of the Rite, are aggregated into Districts led by a District Commander, and these into Regions led by a Regional Commander.

To become a member of our Rite you must be a member in good standing of a Craft Lodge owing allegiance to an Australian Grand Lodge or a Grand Lodge in amity with an Australian Grand Lodge. To remain a member of the Rite, you will be required to remain a member of a recognised Craft Lodge. Your three Craft degrees are accepted as equivalent to the first three degrees of this Rite. If you truly seek greater knowledge of Freemasonry, we invite you to apply to join our Order. I am sure that you will find the experience both uplifting and rewarding.

Introducing the

Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of

Freemasonry in Australia

Contact: Grand Secretary General Phone: (02) 9267 2089 Email: admin@scottishrite.org.au Website: www.scottishrite.org.au

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KNIGHTS TEMPLAR

The Great Priory of New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory of the United Religious, Military and Masonic Orders of the Temple and of St John of Jerusalem, Palestine, Rhodes and Malta

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he Great Priory of New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory is one of more than 30 Great Priories around the world and is in Fraternal Agreement with The United Grand Lodge of NSW & ACT, forming an integral part of the Masonic Family Circle by way of its important and undisputed contribution to sustaining Freemasonry.

Established on 25 February 1984, by agreement of the Preceptories and Priories operating under the Great Priory of England and Wales, and the Great Priory of Scotland it administers the United, Religious, Military and Masonic Orders of the Temple and of St John of Jerusalem, Palestine, Rhodes and Malta – Christian and chivalric orders of Freemasonry, more commonly referred to as the Knights Templar and Knights of Malta.

Our Preceptories generally meet four times a year with seven metropolitan ones located at Bligh Park (Windsor), Castle Hill, Ambervale, Oatley, Parramatta, Willoughby, and Sydney CBD, and 11 country ones located at Albury, Ballina, Bathurst, Bulli, Canberra, Dubbo, Grafton, Manilla, Moruya, Newcastle, and Wagga Wagga.

The Ceremonies of the Orders are historic and dramatic and are built around the three distinct steps to Knighthood – The Vigil, The Squire, and The Knight, with a further step to Knight of Malta. All ceremonies draw their striking themes and dignity from the Chivalric Orders of the ancient Crusader Knights of the Temple and of St John.

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The Ceremonies of the Orders are historic and dramatic and are built around the three distinct steps to Knighthood – The Vigil, The Squire, and The Knight, with a further step to Knight of Malta.

All ceremonies draw their striking themes and dignity from the Chivalric Orders of the ancient Crusader Knights of the Temple and of St John.

So, how do you go about joining us or finding out more about us? In brief, to be eligible to join our Order and become a Knight Templar and then a Knight of Malta you must be a Master Mason raised at least two years ago, profess and steadfastly maintain the Trinitarian Christian Faith and the principals and ideals of Freemasonry – along with the chivalric standards, military discipline and objectives of the mediaeval Knights of the Crusades.

Naturally, if you decide you would like to go ahead and join our Order you will need to complete an application form. Once accepted you will be advised as to your uniform and regalia requirements and then invited to attend the Preceptory where you will be installed as a Knight of the Temple.

If you know someone who is already a Knight Templar, talk to them and tell them you are interested or you can contact the Great Vice-Chancellor as detailed below, who will put you in touch with a member of a Preceptory near you, or you can email your enquiry and contact details to us by means of the ‘Contact Us’ page on the Great Priory website.

Peter J. Sinden PO Box 8041, Werrington County, NSW 2747 Phone: (02) 9673 5839 Fax: (02) 9673 6685 Email: g.p.ofnsw.act@bigpond.com Web: www.greatpriory.com.au

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KNIGHTS TEMPLAR

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t’s definitely not the da vinci code ... THERE ARE NO STARTLING REVELATIONS, MYSTERIOUS NAVAL FLEETS OR LOST TEMPLAR TREASURES. ... THERE ARE NO TORTURES, EXECUTIONS, BURNINGS AND BLOODLETTINGS. We modern Knights Templar and Knights of Malta are a pretty tame lot compared to our mediaeval brethren. And, regretfully, we no longer have the opportunities and excitement of storming battlements, riding chargers into battle, slaying enemies, guarding pilgrims and rescuing fair maidens.

Even so, our ceremonies are historic, impressive and strikingly dramatic, drawing their themes and dignity from the celebrated ancient Crusader Knights. While our Knight Templarism is different it is faithful to, and an interesting extension of, Freemasonry.

If you’d like to have an inside glimpse of our Order as it is today, send for this obligation-free and post-free booklet. It will give you an insight into the Knights Templar and Knights of Malta members of the Great Priory of New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory, especially over the last 25-years.

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he Vigil The Squire The Knight

BE IT SECULAR OR MONASTIC – LIKE THE TEMPLAR KNIGHTS OF OLD – THERE ARE THREE DISTINCT AND SEPARATE STEPS TO KNIGHTHOOD. % % % %

Our Great Vice-Chancellor, V.Em.Kt Peter J. Sinden will be happy to send you a copy, just write to him with your name and address details, at: Peter J. Sinden PO Box 8041, Werrington County, NSW 2747

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What do you know of these steps?

What do you know of the Vigil?

Or of being a Squire?

Or of eventually, achieving Knighthood?

The modern Knights Templar and Knights of Malta steadfastly maintain the Trinitarian Christian Faith and the principles and ideals of Freemasonry – along with the chivalric standards, military discipline and objectives of the mediaeval Knights of the Crusades.

Or for more speedy service contact him directly by: Phone: 02 9673 5839 Fax: 02 9673 6685 Email: g.p.ofnsw.act@bigpond.com

They do this by way of ancient ritual and ceremonials that are not only meaningful and colourful, but also instructive and enjoyable. We even make intricate and skilful use of swords – which are part of our uniform. And, fortunately, we haven’t yet killed or wounded a member Knight!

The Great Priory of New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory of the United Religious, Military and Masonic Orders of the Temple and of St John of Jerusalem, Palestine, Rhodes and Malta

The Great Priory of NSW & ACT is in Fraternal Agreement with The United Grand Lodge of NSW & ACT, and administers the Order on behalf of member Knights. Surprisingly enough for an Order of Knights, this is done in a very democratic way, although Great Priory can be quite autocratic when it comes to maintaining the standards of ceremony, discipline, and the laws and regulations of the Order.

All of which indicates that we’re a relatively unique and interesting group with a lot to offer.

What’s more, our Great Vice-Chancellor is more than happy to run down our stocks of publications and literature by sending some to you! If you are a Master Mason of two or more years standing, and you’d like to know more about us, simply write, fax, call or email our Great

A Masonic Order supporting Freemasonry and the United Grand Lodge of NSW & ACT Vice-Chancellor with your name and address details and mention this advertisement:

Peter J. Sinden PO Box 8041, Werrington County, NSW 2747 Phone: 02 9673 5839 % Fax: 02 9673 6685 % Email: g.p.ofnsw.act@bigpond.com

The Great Priory of New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory of the United Religious, Military and Masonic Orders of the Temple and of St John of Jerusalem, Palestine, Rhodes and Malta

A Masonic Order supporting Freemasonry and the United Grand Lodge of NSW & ACT

ious Knights? or plundering Pirates?

SOME FREEMASONS BELIEVE THAT THREE TEMPLARS SEARCHING FOR JACQUES DE MOLAY’S BODY, FOUND ONLY HIS SKULL AND FEMURS. IT IS SAID THAT THEY TOOK THESE AND THAT HIS BONES LED TO THE CREATION OF THE FIRST JOLLY ROGER FLAG OF PIRACY. FACT OR FABLE? We don’t know, but it fits in with the acts of piracy ascribed to disenchanted Knights Templar.

We’re told that after the dissolution of the Knights Templar in the 14th century, many with technical skills became masons and craftsmen. Others, especially of high birth, often had little option but to become brigands and pirates as the only feasible ways to make a living. And for them the Jolly Roger flag communicated their ruthlessness with regard to victims who would not surrender.

WHILE IT’S VERY INTERESTING, MUCH OF THIS IS CONJECTURE. But it provides some of the thousands of Knight Templar tales that can be researched and explored.

The Great Priory of NSW & ACT is in Fraternal Agreement with The United Grand Lodge of NSW & ACT, and administers the Order on behalf of member Knights. In keeping with today’s high standards, we don’t have any ships, Jolly Rogers or pirates. But we do have an interesting, demanding and entertaining Order. And you won’t need to own a black eye-patch!

Our Great Vice-Chancellor has some publications he’d be happy to send you. If you are a Master Mason of two or more years standing, and you’d like to know more about us, write, fax, call or email your name and address details to him and mention this advertisement: Peter J. Sinden PO Box 8041, Werrington County, NSW 2747 Phone: 02 9673 5839 % Fax: 02 9673 6685 % Email: g.p.ofnsw.act@bigpond.com

The Great Priory of New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory of the United Religious, Military and Masonic Orders of the Temple and of St John of Jerusalem, Palestine, Rhodes and Malta

A Masonic Order supporting Freemasonry and the United Grand Lodge of NSW & ACT

Vatican File Shows Pope Pardoned Massacred Knights DOCUMENTS FOUND IN THE VATICAN, including a long-lost parchment, show that the wholesale massacre of the Knights Templar in the Middle Ages for alleged ‘heresy, idolatry and sexual perversion’ — an episode still shrouded in mystery — took place even though the Pope had exonerated them in a secret trial.

The Pope wrote: ‘We hereby decree that they are absolved by the church and may again receive Christian sacraments.’ The Pope failed to make this absolution public because the scandal of the Templars had aroused extreme passions and he feared a church schism. Philip IV had de Molay and other Templar leaders put to death before the Pope’s verdict could be published, and it was subsequently lost.

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RED CROSS OF CONSTANTINE

The Masonic and Military Order of Rome and the

Red Cross of Constantine and the Orders of the Holy Sepulchre and of St John the Evangelist

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hroughout the ages, the great philosophers of the day have sought to explain the reasons behind man’s, existence – ie. the word, the truth, the teacher, the NE PLUS ULTRA, with varied success.

With the development of the lodge concept in the Middle Ages, and the expansion of the Holy Bible in written form, there is ample evidence that ceremonies incorporating features of the Holy Royal Arch were in existence to assist in conveying the meanings of the ‘philosophic thinking’ of the day. From 1717 on, with the restructure of Craft Masonic ceremonies with universal attributes, the Holy Royal Arch developed as we know it today.

Christian in nature and is of international importance. It encourages you, as a companion, to seek a greater understanding of Masonry through your enjoyment of the Constantine experience.

The Knight of St John the Evangelist is founded on a great discovery made at the ruins of the Temple at Jerusalem and the subsequent foundation of the Knights of St John. The Order of the Red Cross of Constantine is considered by many, throughout Freemasonry worldwide, to be the highest.

From the 1750s, new Christian related ceremonies were developed which enabled man to understand his existence; the Order of the Red Cross of Constantine is one of those.

For those seeking a career path in their Masonry, the symbolism within the Craft, followed by the philosophic depth of the Holy Royal Arch ceremony will lead you into the Red Cross of Constantine Order. This is where a more comprehensive understanding of the hidden mysteries of Nature and Science in the Craft degrees will be found; your new journey of discovery and enlightenment will begin. This Masonic Order is chivalric and

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The historical setting of the Order is the time of Constantine the Great, Emperor of Rome, and features his well known vision of a cross in the heavens which led to his victory at the battle of the Milvian Bridge (Oct. AD 312). After his consequent acceptance of the Christian Faith he ordered Maximinus II Daia to cease his repression of the Christians.

The full title of the order is The Masonic and Military Order of Rome and the Red Cross of Constantine and the Orders of the Holy Sepulchre and of St John the Evangelist.

The candidate, who must be a Royal Arch Mason and profess his belief in the Holy Trinity, is first admitted as a Knight of Rome and then in a ceremony based on Constantine’s vision is installed as a Knight Companion of the Red Cross of Constantine.

The two Appendant degrees, which are included in the workings of the Order, are Knight of the Holy Sepulchre and Knight of Saint John the Evangelist. These degrees are taken on another night after the candidate is installed as a Knight of Rome.

The Knight of the Holy Sepulchre originated after the discovery of the True Cross by St Helena and draws its content from the three days which intervened between the Crucifixion and the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. The Knight of St John the Evangelist is founded on a great discovery made at the ruins of the Temple at Jerusalem and the subsequent foundation of the Knights of St John. The Order of the Red Cross of Constantine is considered by many, throughout Freemasonry worldwide, to be the highest.

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RED CROSS OF CONSTANTINE

Your Constantine experience is but one step beyond your exaltation in the Holy Royal Arch

Statue of Constantine, York, England

The Most Illustrious Grand Sovereign, M.Ill. Knight Keith Spencer GCC would like to extend to you an invitation to take your Masonic knowledge to another level and enjoy the teachings that this wonderful and colourful Order has to offer.

Please direct your inquiries to our Grand Recorder at the Registry of the Order.

Email: grandrecorder@constantine-masons-nsw-act.org.au Website: www.constantine-nsw-act.org.au

FAITH – UNITY – ZEAL

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DEMOLAY

The Order of DeMolay

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eMolay is an organisation dedicated to preparing young men to lead successful, happy, and productive lives. Basing its approach on timeless principles and practical, hands-on experience, DeMolay opens doors for young men aged 12 to 21 by developing the civic awareness, personal responsibility and leadership skills so vitally needed in society today, DeMolay combines this serious mission with a fun approach that builds important bonds of friendship among members in more than 1,000 chapters worldwide.

DeMolay alumni include Walt Disney, John Wayne, Walter Cronkite, Buddy Ebson, Mel Blanc, Burl Ives and many others. Each spoke eloquently of the life changing benefit gained from their involvement in DeMolay.

DeMolay was the brainchild of Frank S Land, a 33 degree Mason. Frank saw the need for an organisation to act as a father figure for young men who had lost their own fathers as the result of the war. In 1919 Louis Gordon Lower at the age of 17 was introduced to Frank Land. At that time, Louis was merely looking for a job to help out with family finances, but his demeanour piqued Land’s interest. Land soon suggested that Lower could help him organise a young men’s club – an organisation to encourage and give direction to young men like Louis Lower.

The namesake of the Order of DeMolay was born in Vitrey, Department of Haute Saone, France in the year 1244. At the age of 21, Jacques DeMolay joined the Order of Knights Templar.

Of any 100 young men who join DeMolay, five of those will become Master Councillor of their DeMolay chapters. And at least one of them will later say that he valued that experience above his college degree.

Eighty or more of the 100 will go on to complete some form of post-high school education.

Within a few weeks, the first unofficial meeting of the Order of DeMolay took place at the Scottish Rite Temple in Kansas City.

Lower was the first DeMolay – his patent, issued by Mother Chapter of Kansas City, Missouri is dated 5 October 1919 and bears the signature of Frank S Land. Louis was also the first member of the Legion of Honour.

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The Knights Templar was an organisation sanctioned by the Roman Catholic Church in 1128 to guard the road between Jerusalem and Acre, an important port on the Mediterranean Sea. The Order of Knights Templar participated in the crusades and earned a name for valour and heroism. With many nobles and princes sending their sons to join the Knights Templar, the Order became very wealthy and popular throughout Europe.

Of any 100 young men who join DeMolay, five of those will become Master Councillor of their DeMolay chapters. And at least one of them will later say that he valued that experience above his college degree. Eighty or more of the 100 will go on to complete some form of post-high school education.

Many of the 100 will find their vocation through other DeMolay involvement, such as Merit Bar work. DeMolay has produced a good number of men, who after serving as chaplain of their local chapters, went on to become ministers or pastors. Along the same lines, several of the 100 DeMolay will first be introduced to some form of organised religion by attending some church or temple through a chapter function.

Of any 100 young men who become a DeMolay, thirty will drop out in their first year. Perhaps this may be regarded as a failure.

But in later life, most of them will remember they were in DeMolay and speak well of the program and its lessons.

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DEMOLAY

Jacques DeMolay

Making young men better

When Brother Marshall was so often asked ‘How did you happen to write the DeMolay ritual?’ his reasons are too many to list in this article. What stands out is that when Frank Land explained what he wanted to do it seemed so obvious. With Jacques DeMolay his idol and Freemasonry foremost in his mind, especially The Scottish Rite, it necessarily followed it would be based on that ritual. Many meetings with Land followed before the final draft was approved. It is interesting to note that this Ritual has never been changed since 1919.

Only rarely will one ever appear before a juvenile court judge or be in any trouble with the law. In fact, DeMolay produces a great many lawyers. And, although the percentages are not known, many of the 100 will join the military. Each of the 100 will learn something from DeMolay and benefit from their association with the fraternity. Again the percentages are not known, but a considerable number of the 100 will also go into the Masonic Lodge in later life. Of the 100 who join Masonry, many will serve as a head of one of the Masonic organisations.

The beautiful ritual of DeMolay was written by Frank A Marshall of Kansas City, Missouri and the circumstances surrounding the writing of this marvellous work are very interesting, especially to those who have seen the exemplification of the Ritual. Brother Marshall was an energetic, loyal and sincere member of the Fraternity and a pleasure to meet. He had been active in and received all of the official honours of both the York and Scottish Rites.

Brother Marshall and his wife were frequent visitors in St Louis, spending time while there with their daughter, Mrs Mamie Ocker, High Priest of Sprig of Acacia Conclave, U.D and wife of W Bro Erwin L Ocker, WM of Magnolia Lodge No 626.

Dad Frank S Land passed away on 8 November 1959 and was buried with honoured ceremonies at Mt Moriah Cemetery. In the fall of 1960, a Memorial Committee was appointed to set up a memorial in his honour. This committee recommended that Dad Land’s office should remain as he left it, to be forever a shrine to his memory and his work. They further recommended that the room adjoining his office should be converted into a museum or exhibit room to house the jewels, Masonic regalia, his paintings, and the bronze head that was presented at his testimonial dinner. The idea for a stained glass window came from H. Malvern Marks. He had it taken from a drawing that was part of the Members Record Book. This record book was sent to all new members beginning in 1925.

The window was placed in the memorial room so it could be seen from the street. It was also lit so that it would be visible at night. The window is in beautiful colours and shows a DeMolay young man robed and kneeling at the DeMolay altar, on which is the Crown of Youth, the Bible, and the school books. The bottom of the window reads, ‘I do so promise and vow…’ The ideals of Frank S. Land continue today with the devoted members in Australia working tirelessly to keep his dream alive. To instil Filial Love, Reverence, Courtesy, Comradeship, Fidelity, Cleanness and Patriotism.

There is not one DeMolay who is ashamed to say ‘I am a DeMolay’.

More information can be obtained from Dad Terry Stock H.L.O.H. NSW Grand Master Ph: 0402 272 396 Email: terrystock@optusnet.com.au Dad John Robb L.O.H. Ph: (02) 9625 8924 Email: johnfrobb@westnet.com.au

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AMARANTH

The Order of the Amaranth

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nder the direction of the Supreme Council Order of the Amaranth Inc., based in the United States of America, the Order in Australia has been established in the states of New South Wales (7 Courts), Victoria (2 Courts), Tasmania (1 Court) all under the control of the Grand Court of New South Wales, Inc and in Queensland (3 Courts) under the control of the Grand Court of Queensland. Each Court has a Royal Matron and a Royal Patron to govern the affairs of each Court, each having their own particular set of Rules and Regulations with meetings held on a monthly basis. The Grand Court is governed by a Grand Royal Matron and Grand Royal Patron and having their own particular set of By-Laws with the Supreme Council governed by a Supreme Royal Matron and Supreme Royal Patron and covered by the Supreme Constitution which also contains rules for the Grand and Subordinate Courts. All officers are elected into office annually in each of the three bodies. Other countries that the Order currently exists in are: United States of America, Canada, England, Scotland and the Philippines. No Regalia is required.

The joining fee is $10 and annual from $15 to $25.

more nearly a Masonic ‘Family’ meeting ground of Masons and their families than is found in the Order of the Amaranth.

That is why one finds in the Amaranth Courts so many husbands and wives serving, attending and enjoying a fuller and richer Masonic heritage together than is possible anywhere else in the world.

What is our structure?

Supreme Council Order of The Amaranth Inc In USA Supreme Royal Matron Supreme Royal Patron

Grand Court Grand Royal Matron Grand Royal Patron

Subordinate Royal Matron Royal Patron

Who do we admit?

The Order welcomes all Master Masons (which also includes Royal Arch Masons) and their respective female relations i.e. wives, mothers, daughters, granddaughters, stepdaughters, legally adopted daughters, widows, half sisters, aunts, nieces, great-granddaughters and grandmothers to be members of the Order to enjoy fulfilling fraternal gatherings together as part of the Masonic family. Also, any member of the International Order of Rainbow for Girls and/or Job’s Daughters who have had active service within their Orders. There exists no

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What is our history?

The Order is based on the Court of Queen Christina of Sweden, where it was supported by Royal pomp, dignity and the magnificence of the Ladies and Knights of her Royal Court. She created the Order of the Amaranth for Ladies and Knights building it around the character of Lady Amarantha, who was portrayed as being a beautiful, virtuous and talented Lady of the Court. The Order was perpetuated and today the Order of the Amaranth is one of Sweden’s oldest chivalric orders. It had no Masonic connections when first established.

In 1860 James B Taylor a prominent mason in New Jersey, using the Order of the Amaranth as existing in Sweden, adopted and altered its ceremonies and language so as to make it appropriate to Masonic purposes, which with some revisions are in universal use today.

In 1873 the Supreme Council was formally organised in New York City by Robert MaCoy 33˚ Vicar General of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Southern Jurisdiction. Robert MaCoy’s intention was to make three degrees, ‘Eastern Star’, ‘Queen of the South’ and ‘Amaranth’ as pictured in the Amaranth ritual. His plan was to have three degrees given separately but under the control of one body. In 1921 the Order voted that we remove the ‘Eastern Star’ as a basis for membership of our Order and now our membership is taken from Master Masons and their female relations.

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AMARANTH

Order of the Amaranth court room

Bible Ceremony

Grand Royal Matron and Grand Royal Patron presenting a cheque for $17,400 to the Royal Flying Doctor Service in 2012

Symbols and ritual: We are recognized by the symbol of the Crown and sword, emblems of Royalty and Power surrounded by the Amaranthine wreath with its everlasting leaves of green reminding us of our belief in immortality joined together with a bow of red on which is emblazoned the initials O of A. The Order of the Amaranth is a gem of Masonry, for its structure, its ritual, its principles being of Masonic Family origin, are all a beautiful expansion of the basic structure, rituals and principles of our ancient and wonderful Masonic Orders, which have existed for centuries. The Order of the Amaranth is a means by which it is permitted to practice the principles of Masonry. It is one of the vehicles and conveyances by which we carry on friendship, love of humanity, patriotism and service to our country and fellowmen.

What does all this mean?

The Order of the Amaranth means many things to many people.

To its early members it meant the opportunity to build a strong foundation of Truth, Faith, Wisdom and Charity. A Fraternal Order, having for its purpose service to humanity, set to the music of Fraternal Love. To its present members the Order of the Amaranth means a challenge to build upon these foundations of Fraternal Love and Service. It means the Hand of Fraternal Friendship to those in distress for whatever reason, the opportunity to serve others, to enrich our lives with strength and courage to achieve higher and nobler things. Benevolence and charity – truly Masonic characteristics we all want to cherish and practice in every facet of our lives as an example of the worth of being a member of the Order of the Amaranth.

Many charities e.g. Royal Flying Doctor Service, Care Flight, Cure for Life, Heart Foundation, have benefited from the generous donations, work and gifts that are made on behalf of the Order through each Court and Grand Court with the Supreme Body supporting Diabetes Research as their philanthropic project each year. Not only do members give to charities but they provide their time free to assist wherever they are needed or whenever there is a need.

Want to join? – is there a court near you?

Ring the Grand Secretary, Mr Allan Almond on (02) 4392 3465 or email: annalmo55@gmail.com or the Grand Court of New South Wales Inc website www.amaranth.go123connect.com

Supreme Royal Matron with Grand Royal Matron and Royal Matron and Royal Patron

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EASTERN STAR

The Order of the Eastern Star

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he Order of the Eastern Star is the largest fraternal organisation in the world to which both women and Master Masons may belong. The Order was developed in 1850 by MW Bro Dr Robert Morris, a lawyer, Masonic Lecturer and Poet Laureate of Freemasonry. The Order was established in Australia in Queensland in 1912, in New South Wales in 1913 and then progressively through other States.

There are three governing bodies: The United Grand Chapter of Australia established in 1985 administers Chapters in all States and Australian Capital Territory; The Supreme Grand Chapter of Scotland and General Grand Chapter in the United States of America.

Membership Although originally created for female relatives of Freemasons, the Order is open to any woman over the age of 18 who has a belief in the existence of a ‘supreme being’ and men who are Master Masons.

Seeking a future for our Order

The symbols of the Order Each of the five Points of the Star represents a significant female role in our lives – wife, widow, mother, sister, daughter – and has been allocated not only a colour and a symbol but also a guiding virtue – fidelity, constancy, loyalty, faith and love.

The lessons are designed to make a profound and lasting impression upon all to whom they are addressed. The Holy Book in the centre of the Star reminds us of the existence of a Supreme Being. The Order of the Eastern Star is non-denominational and non-sectarian.

Vision To encourage members to work for the benefit of the community, extend generous support for charitable purposes; extend fraternal regard; friendship to others; support in the practicalities of day to day living and promote the ideals of the Order.

What does the Order have to offer?

The Order offers opportunities for women and men to meet new friends and enjoy the special fellowship a fraternal order provides.

Our virtues inspire members to be better family members, friends and contribute to the community.

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To get the most out of membership in the Order you need to enjoy being part of an historic and inspiring organisation and have a desire to help others. Meetings are designed to reinforce the lessons of the Order, and social functions, aside from raising charity money, re-confirm friendships old and new.

What do members wear to meetings?

• For women: long white outfit, not including slacks.

• For men: black dinner suit or kilt and white long sleeve shirt. Regalia is supplied.

• Fees: The joining fee is $35 and yearly fees vary from $30–100.

Charitable support In addition to fulfilling the aims and objectives for which the Order was established, the members support local, state, national and international charitable appeals. From 1997 to 2010 the Order has donated over $5m to national charitable causes.

Members of the Order, particularly in NSW and Queensland, proudly support aged care facilities which they have established and operate. Support is also given to Government and Community Aged Care facilities.

For Further information contact: Mrs Narelle Ober, OAM. Publicity Officer, Order of the Eastern Star, Grand Chapter of NSW & ACT Inc. PO Box 742, Ulladulla NSW 2539. Tel: (02) 4455 3245 Website: www.mastermason.com/oes-ugcofa

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RAINBOW GIRLS

The International Order of the Rainbow for Girls

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ainbow is a non-profit organisation that strives to give girls the tools, training, and encouragement to let their individual spirits shine bright. It provides members with a safe, fun and caring environment where responsible, older girls can interact and mentor younger girls through family involvement.

When and why did Rainbow begin?

In 1922, Rainbow was created for young women whose fathers were members of a Masonic Lodge, and their friends. Although a Christian minister named W Mark Sexson founded the organisation, today the leaders of Rainbow Girls respect and welcome all girls from every religion. Their main focus is more on the spiritual principles of being a kind and caring person. While the Rainbow practices and programs continue to evolve, the basic teachings of faith, hope, and charity remain a cornerstone of this dynamic girl’s youth group.

Coming to Australia Mrs Frances Livermore learnt of the Order and the first Assembly, Sydney No 1 was opened in 1930. Australia continued as one jurisdiction until it was split into New South Wales and Queensland. When Assemblies opened in Victoria and South Australia they became part of the jurisdiction of New South Wales. Western Australia even had an Assembly in the 1950s. Today there are the two jurisdictions of New South Wales/South Australia and Queensland.

These members report to the Assembly and the petition goes to ballot. If it is clear the girl will be initiated at the next meeting of the Assembly.

There is a joining fee which covers the cost of a copy of the ritual, the Rainbow jewel which is presented after her initiation and the certificate she receives on her initiation. It also covers the amount which is due to Supreme Assembly.

At each meeting a girl is asked to pay dues which assist to cover associated costs such as rent, postage. Each Assembly sets its own amount to cover these costs.

Structure of the Order The International Order of the Rainbow is governed by the Supreme Assembly whose seat is in McAlester Oklahoma, USA (the home of the Order and where W Mark Sexson lived). Each jurisdiction has an adult leader known as the Supreme Inspector or Deputy.

As it is a girls’ organisation, the leader in each jurisdiction is known as the Grand Worthy Advisor who has a team of officers who visit each Assembly during the jurisdictional term.

Who can be a Rainbow A Rainbow girl is a girl between the ages of 11–21.

Meetings Assembly meetings are conducted by the Worthy Advisor. Each Assembly meets formally at least once a month which includes ritual work and a structured business agenda.

At other times during the month the assemblies meet socially for a barbecue or a games afternoon.

There are Pledge Groups who are girls between the ages of 7 and 11 who have pledged to become a Rainbow girl on reaching the age of 11.

Cumberland Assembly meets at Castle Hill NSW on the third Saturday. Illawarra/Campbelltown Assembly meets at Campbelltown NSW on the fourth Saturday. Muriel Parkin Memorial Assembly meets at Blacktown NSW on the fourth Monday

We also have Sparkles who are girls under the age of 7. They are so called because they make our lives sparkle by being in their presence.

How to join and what happens then To join the Order a girl must fill out a petition form. This is then read at a meeting of the Assembly she wishes to join. If the girl is unknown to any of the members, a few girls and an adult advisor will visit the girl and her family to talk about Rainbow and what she can learn and gain by being a member.

An Assembly is led by the Worthy Advisor under the guidance of a Mother Advisor and Advisory Board (adults).

‘Rainbow gets girls ready for life’

Grand Worthy Advisor Karina Marlow

If you know of a girl who would benefit from the Order please contact Supreme Deputy, Mrs Karen Vella at nswsarainbow@hotmail.com or Grand Executive Member, Mrs Valerie London on (02) 9622 7867 or nifer16@tpg.com.au

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KNIGHT TEMPLAR PRIESTS

The Grand College of the Holy Royal Arch Knight Templar Priests

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Regalia A Knight Templar Priest wears a white tunic with a Red Cross on the front, a plain white mantle and a Mitre with a Cross on the front and back. The High Priest wears a taller Mitre with a Patriarchal Cross.

his is an exclusive Christian Order and requires every candidate to be a subscribing Past Master of a Craft Lodge, a subscribing Royal Arch Mason and a subscribing Knight Templar.

Joining is by application on the prescribed form.

The main principles of the Order concern spiritual growth through a study of the Biblical aspect of priesthood. In the course of the ceremony, the candidate is conducted around seven pillars during readings from the Old and New Testaments. Each Pillar is associated with a word referring to the Lamb of God who opened the seven seals to reveal the seven spirits of God. During the Ceremony, the candidate has 31 additional Degrees conferred upon him, but by name only.

The Symbol of the Order is an equilateral triangle on which are inscribed certain letters alluding to the secrets of the Order.

The gathering is called a Tabernacle and the head of the Tabernacle is called the High Priest. He is assisted by seven Knight Priests who each officiate at one of the seven Pillars, and a Conductor, the equivalent of a Deacon in the Craft Ceremony.

The Tabernacle meets four times a year, one meeting being devoted to installation of a new High Priest.

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The main principles of the Order concern spiritual growth through a study of the Biblical aspect of priesthood. In the course of the ceremony, the candidate is conducted around seven pillars during readings from the Old and New Testaments.

During the Ceremony, the candidate has 31 additional Degrees conferred upon him, but by name only.

The Order The Order is governed by the Grand College which is located in the City of York in the United Kingdom.

The Grand High Priest is Most Illustrious Knight Priest Christopher Gavin Maiden.

Tabernacles in District 11 for New South Wales and The Australian Capital Territory are: 1 New South Wales No 16, meeting at Concord; 1 St George No 22, meeting at Cronulla; 1 Canberra No 43, meeting in Canberra; 1 Hunter No 162, meeting at New Lambton; 1 Cumberland No 181, meeting at Blacktown.

The cost to join is about $50, annual dues about $70 and regalia consisting of a mantle and a Mitre about $180.

Contact The Grand Superintendent for New South Wales and The Australian Capital Territory, Rt Em Kt Pt John Peverill.

Email: john_peverill@hotmail.com or Grand College: GCHRAKTP@googlemail.com Website: knighttemplarpriests.com

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YORK CROSS OF HONOUR

Order of the Knights of The York Cross of Honour

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of those of the four Orders of which each candidate is required to be a member. To quote from the Ceremonial for the reception of a candidate: ‘The requirements for membership in a Priory of Knights of the York Cross of Honour are higher than those of any other Masonic affiliated organisation. The only entrance is through the door marked SERVICE.’

his is a distinguished Order of Merit which requires very advanced and stringent qualifications for membership.

Joining is by written invitation only and a candidate must be a Past Master of a Craft Lodge, a Past First Principal of a Royal Arch Chapter, a Past Thrice Illustrious Master of a Cryptic Council and a Past Preceptor of a Priory of Knights Templar.

The Order operates under the Convent General of The York Cross of Honour in the USA and there is only one Priory in New South Wales. There is another in Queensland. The Priory meets four times a year and one of these meetings is the annual installation of the Eminent Prior.

The main principles and the core moral teachings of the Order are a continuation

The main principles and the core moral teachings of the Order are a continuation of those of the four Orders of which each candidate is required to be a member.

The Grand Master-General’s personal representative in Australia is Eminent Knight Donald H Gunner.

The joining fee in New South Wales is $250; this covers the Registration cost with The Convent General, Regalia etc. The annual dues are $60.

For further information contact: The Registrar, Richard V. Pickering, Tel: (02) 9871 3375 Email: r.pickering@bigpond.com

The meaning of membership in KYCH can best be explained by a closing statement of Most Eminent Knight Donald E Friend, Grand Master General, at his Convent General Session in 1995:

‘As a Knight of the York Cross of Honour, you are a proven servant of the Masonic Fraternity. Your inspiration has come from your past, your duty is in the present, your hope is in the future.

I ask you always to remember – in all you do, in all you say, in all of your actions, take a good look at yourself: you are someone’s impression of Freemasonry.’

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THE OPERATIVES

The Operatives The Worshipful Society of Free Masons, Rough Masons, Wallers, Slaters, Paviors, Plaisterers and Bricklayers

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So what else is different?

There are numerous differences, such as the orientation of the Lodge room, which is west to east. The presiding Officer in the ‘Chair’ is called the Deputy Master Mason (seated in the west), not Worshipful Master, the Director of Ceremonies is called the Super Intendant of Works, the Senior Warden sits in the east and the Junior Warden in the north, plus too many more to mention here.

Masonic Society which exists to perpetuate a memorial of the practices of operative Free Masons existing prior to modern speculative Freemasonry.

Are you eligible?

The minimum qualification demanded by the Society is Master Mason, Mark Master Mason and Royal Arch Companion in good standing.

Is the regalia expensive?

Apart from the three Grand Master Masons and Grand Clerk, who on certain occasions wear gowns and hats, having their origins in antiquity, regalia is minimal and consists simply of a blue collarette from which is suspended the badge of one’s grade provided by the Assemblage and simply exchanged as progress is made. All members wear the distinctive Society tie.

‘The Operatives Never Forget’ There are seven grades or degrees in total commencing with that of Indentured Apprentice and progressing through to the 6th degree of Passed Master (not Past Master).

What are the degrees and how do you progress?

There are seven Grades or Degrees in total commencing with that of Indentured Apprentice and progressing through to the 6th Degree of Passed Master (not Past Master). To be eligible to take the 6th Degree you must have been through the ‘Chair’ in a Craft Lodge as well as the ‘Chair’ of a Mark Master Mason Lodge. The 7th Degree consists of the three Grand Master Masons together with those appointed to the grade ‘honoris cause’. Progression through each Degree depends on not just paying one’s sub and simply turning up from time to time, but a regular attendance and doing the job.

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The three GMMs, Don Falconer, Arthur Craddock and Brian Blanchard with three members of Australia Eastern Region who were promoted to the VII˚, Lawrie Muir, Frank Jefferies and Douglas James (in 2005).

Where and when do we meet?

In Assemblages (we do not call them Lodges) four times a year at Concord West Masonic Centre on Saturday morning or Laurel Bank Masonic Centre Willoughby on Monday night.

ENQUIRIES: Regional Clerk, F M Jefferies, 6 Reganza Street, Lake Haven NSW 2263 Tel: (02) 4392 0609 Email: fmjefferi@bigpond.com.au Website: www.operatives.org.uk

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ORDER OF ATHELSTAN

The Masonic Order of Athelstan in England, Wales and its Provinces Overseas

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wo Courts were consecrated at Willoughby on 10 November 2007, named the Court of Sydney No 28 and the Court of St David No 29, the latter now meeting at Concord West.

Also in November 2007, Courts were consecrated in Melbourne, Perth and Brisbane with a Court in Adelaide following in July 2010. In the early days there were two distinct Provinces named Australia North and Australia South which were eventually combined to form a single Province after the consecration of the Court of Coenwald No 61 at Bendigo (Victoria) on 7 November 2009 which was named the Province of Australia. At this time, there were a total of eight Courts in Australia – one each in Perth, Brisbane, Adelaide, two in Sydney and three in Victoria.

The Masonic Order of Athelstan was formed in 2005, the first Court of the Order was consecrated on 22 October 2005 at Newmarket, East Anglia and grew out of the shared interests that a number of like-minded individuals had in the origins of Masonry.

Their research culminated in a few members of that group focusing specifically on the Saxon Chronicles. In essence, their informal meetings became more and more regular and the rich and invigorating debates offered each member considerable encouragement and support to continue with their personal endeavours.

As the group progressed, its subsequent interface with other likeminded Masons encouraged them to progress the idea of a new Order, even to the writing of a ritual to support it. This ritual was based on the research of many old historic documents and the discovery of old Craft and other Masonic rituals. Eventually a draft of the ritual was produced based upon the life and symbolism of King Athelstan, the grandson of King Alfred, the first King of England to be referred to as ‘the King of All the English’.

The first Court of the Order was consecrated on 22 October in Newmarket, East Anglia. The Order is now widespread with 10 Provinces within England and Wales and overseas in India, Australia, the United States and Spain and is one of the fastest growing Orders in Freemasonry with a combined membership reaching close to 3,000 members.

The Masonic Order of Athelstan portrays the story of a Master Mason called to York in 926 to receive the Ancient Charges. It goes through a series of rituals to explain a lot of the Symbolism we still see in some Lodges today and culminates with an historical

oration taking us through the development of the various Grand Lodges, the appointment of Sir Thomas Gresham in 1567 as the first Speculative Grand Master and ends at 1813 with the formation of the United Grand Lodge of England.

The main difference is that the Masonic references represent the earlier recorded references to Masonry in Britain. In this Order we aim to bring to life the 926 Court that was held in York to educate and raise the quality of Masonry in 10th Century England and in so doing to explore the development of the Craft over the centuries in order to prompt further study and research. As such our meetings are held in a Court and our candidates are ‘instructed into the Order’.

‘The Inner Workings of an Eminent Prior’ deals with the earliest passing of the veils ceremony and the Kabbalistic explanation of the four banners of the Royal Arch. ‘The Inner Workings of a Worshipful Master or Grand Master of Speculative Masons’ are based on the betrayal of Athelstan by Edwin.

The appendant Order of the Scarlet Mantle is strictly a reward based degree for those Knights who have given meritorious service to the Order and to their Court. It is a Knighting ceremony and is commemorative of the Knighting of Athelstan by Alfred the Great in and around the year 898 (the first recorded making of a Knight in England). Members bear the initials of the Scarlet Mantle (KSM), Knight Commander of the Scarlet Mantle (KCSM) or Grand Cross of the Scarlet Mantle (GCSM).

Structure and qualification To be a member of the Order, although invitational, you must be a subscribing Master Mason and Royal Arch Mason and to acquire the Chair as WM of the Court you must be a Past Master of the Craft. You must also continue membership in both Orders.

Meetings and fees Court meetings in Australia vary from two to three meetings per year and the cost of the regalia is incorporated into your joining fee of around $150. Annual dues are per calendar year of around $50 depending on the Court.

More information on the Order of Athelstan can be found at: www.athelstan.org.uk

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ST THOMAS OF ACON

The Commemorative Order of St Thomas of Acon

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he Order is a ‘Commemorative’ Order which takes its name and symbolism from the medieval Order of purely English origin without claiming to be its linear descendant. The Order commemorates the selfless devotion of a small band of English knights, part of the Third Crusade led

by King Richard of England to the Holy Land (1189–1192). The three principal founders of the Order were Ralph de Diceto, the Dean of St Pauls; William the Englishman, his Chaplain; and Baldwin of Exeter, Archbishop of Canterbury (1185-1190). During the siege of Acre (Acon in Palestine and Akko in Israel) this band of knights, formed as the Order of Saint Thomas of Acon, undertook the distasteful task of burying the dead. Later they included tending the wounded, ransoming the hostages and clothing the naked.

The sole charitable aim of the Order is to assist in the maintenance of Canterbury Cathedral to which an annual pilgrimage is made.

The watchwords of the Order are ‘Humility’ and ‘Love’ (Humilitas et Caritas). The Order has only one degree, that of Knight with an additional two-tiered honour of ‘Knight Caritas’ and ‘Knight Humilitas’.

The watchwords of the Order are ‘Humility’ and ‘Love’ (Humilitas et Caritas).

The Order has only one degree, that of Knight with an additional two-tiered honour of ‘Knight Caritas’ and ‘Knight Humilitas’.

This Commemorative Order was founded in 1974 with the 25 members meeting in a private house in Blackheath, London. In 1997 the Grand Master expanded the Order, found new premises and established the operational framework which is now in existence. By 2008 the Order consisted of some 2,000 members, formed as Chapels, throughout England, and Wales and in the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Spain. The Order is formed into Provinces under the charge of a Grand Preceptor. In this Province are two Chapels in Sydney; St Andrew at Willoughby and St David at Concord, and St John in Brisbane and St Christopher in Tweed Heads.

Meetings are held twice a year.

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Membership is by invitation and restricted to those having membership of the Royal Arch and Knight Templars.

The Order can be found at www.orderofstthomasofacon.org

If you are interested in further information or joining the Order please contact the Provincial Grand Secretary Ivan Teager on ivan@transdata.com.au or Ph: (02) 9913 2550.

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ROYAL ORDER OF SCOTLAND

The Royal Order of Scotland

Two degrees are worked, the Degree of Heredom of Kilwinning and the Degree of the Rosy Cross, not to be confused with the 18th Degree of the Ancient and Accepted Rite or Rose Croix of Heredom.

The Degree of Heredom of Kilwinning is a peculiarly interesting Degree and full of instruction to Craft Masons, as in its lectures it explains the symbolism and teaching contained in the first three Degrees of Craft Masonry, with a demonstration of signs, grips and words of each.

V IR

EXCEL IN

T UT E

DEO SIS

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he Royal Order of Scotland is today a Scottish Order and is controlled from its headquarters in Edinburgh. It is presided over by a Deputy Grand Master and Governor, the titular headship being reserved for the hereditary King of Scots. Every subordinate Lodge is a Provincial Grand Lodge, each holding sway over a Province, whether within or without Scotland.

GLORIA

The Provincial Grand Lodge of New South Wales

ET

SILEN T I O

Two degrees are worked, the Degree of Heredom of Kilwinning and the Degree of the Rosy Cross

The Rosy Cross Degree tradition takes its origin on the field of Bannockburn on Summer St John’s Day 1314 and was instituted by King Robert the Bruce who, having in the course of the battle for Scottish independence, received assistance from a body of Knights who may have been original Templars and Freemasons.

He conferred upon them as a reward for their services the civil rank of Knighthood.

It has been asserted by many, that the degree of the Rosy Cross contains the ceremonial formerly practiced by the Most Ancient Order of the Thistle.

Most of the ritual is delivered in a quaint and rhyming old border verse, and question and answer dialogue.

Requirements of a Member You must have been an active Master Mason for a minimum of five years and have a belief in the Christian Trinity.

Membership by Application.

Meeting dates Four meetings per annum during the months of February, May, July (Instal) and October, each on the third Friday at 7.30pm. Held in the Concord West Temple, 315 Concord Road, Concord West.

Regalia The regalia consists of an Apron, Garter, two Sashes with Jewels, and a Star Jewel of the Order.

Costs Joining fee Annual fee Regalia Five Provincial Grand Masters of Australia L to R: RW Bro Keith Hickey, ACT; RW Bro Robert Jackson, WA; RW Bro John Anderson, NSW; RW Bro Ivor Willmott, SA; RW Bro Ian Wylde, Qld

$120.00 $60.00 $212.00

Contact: Provincial Grand Secretary Bro Darrell Coomber PO Box 637, Springwood NSW 2777. Telephone: (02) 4751 7653 Email: darrellcoomber@bigpond.com

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ALLIED MASONIC DEGREES

The Allied Masonic Degrees

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he Grand Council of the Allied Masonic Degrees was formed in 1879 to bring under its directions a number of Orders that recognised no central authority. By 1931, two of the degrees (Holy Royal Arch Knight Templar Priests and one degree of the Secret Monitor) were no longer administered by the Grand Council, leaving the five current ceremonies: 1 St Lawrence the Martyr 1 Knights of Constantinople 1 Grand Tilers of Solomon 1 Red Cross of Babylon 1 Grand High Priest

St Lawrence the Martyr The ceremony commemorates the martyrdom of the Saint in Rome in the middle of the third century and teaches the lessons of fortitude and humility. This is also the ‘administrative’ degree. In it, all business of the Council is conducted, candidates are received and the Worshipful Master is installed.

Knights of Constantinople This is a real ‘side’ Degree, in the sense that many years ago it was customary for one Brother to confer it on another; he would for example, take him aside at the end of a Lodge meeting, administer a simple obligation and entrust him with the secrets.

The scene of the Ceremony is the courtyard of the palace of the Emperor Constantine the Great in Constantinople during the fourth century AD. The Degree inculcates the useful lessons of humility and universal equality.

Grand Tilers of Solomon This Degree is a legend similar to that of the Cryptic Degree of a Secret Master but with interesting variations, in particular with respect to the period of the occurrences. It relates the story of the accidental intrusion of a craftsman into the secret vault of King Solomon. The Degree warns of the great danger of care-

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lessness and of hasty judgment and teaches the importance of careful tiling.

Red Cross of Babylon The Degree is of considerable antiquity, being closely associated with the Royal Arch and the rebuilding of the second Temple in Jerusalem with the candidate bearing the name of Zerubbabel.

The legend begins in the days of Cyrus, King of Persia, continues through to the time of Darius and incorporates an outstanding feature of crossing a bridge over a river which has particular significance.

The Degree teaches us to keep inviolate our Masonic secrets and to withstand all temptations to reveal them, however profitable those temptations may be. It emphasises the importance of Fidelity, Integrity and Truth.

Grand High Priest The Degree is founded on the blessing of Abraham and the consecration of Aaron and the candidate is admitted by the President (who represents the King of Salem) and is set apart with due ceremonial to the Holy Office of Grand High Priest in a most beautiful and uplifting enactment. It is usual that this Degree is only performed in any Council once in every year.

Qualification for admission The candidate must be a Master Mason who has been advanced as a Mark Master Mason and exalted as a Royal Arch Mason.

Regalia The Regalia of the Order comprises five miniature breast jewels representing the five different Degrees. Alternatively a member may wear a ribbon. Past Masters wear a single jewel suspended from a thistle green collarette.

For further information, contact Mr P Stolzenburg by email: pehstolz1@bigpond.com

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RECTIFIED SCOTTISH RITE

Rectified Scottish Rite under the Great Priory of Belgium – Southern Cross Prefecture

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he Rectified Scottish Rite (Rite Écossais Rectifié – RER) is the oldest continuously extant chivalric Masonic Order, having adopted its current structure in 1778. The Rite enjoys a special place in the broader Masonic family because of its history, ideals and practices. The Rite effectively provides a ‘snapshot’ of Masonic history as a direct descendant of earlier chivalric Orders. The impressive archaic rituals, the exclusive nature of the Rite, with its strictly enforced requirements for admission and limitations on promotion, all serve to provide a mystique that promotes its desirability.

The Rite aims to strengthen and promote a deeper understanding of the members’ Christian faith by presenting the lessons inherent in its rituals in a profound and esoteric manner. The Rite also promotes a stronger sense of community by fostering fraternity, benevolence, charity and the spirit of service in the members.

The Rite thus inspires personal improvement: intellectual, moral and spiritual.

History The Rectified Scottish Rite arose out of the remnants of Baron von Hund’s ‘Rite of Strict Observance’ (c1754). A convention held at Kohlo in 1772 decided to reorganise that moribund Rite and it subsequently became imbued with the ‘Martinist’ philosophy of Jean-Baptiste Willermoz (c1730-1824, after Louis Claude de Saint-Martin, c1743-1803, and following their teacher, Martinez de Pasqually, c1727-1774), as he was the author of our rituals. The modern form of the RER was then confirmed at subsequent conventions held at Lyon in 1778 and Wilhelmsbad in 1782, while the ‘mother’ Great Priory of Switzerland (Grand Prieure Indépendant D’Helvétie – GPIH) was established in 1779.

The Rite spread rapidly over Europe in the next 30 years but then waned just as rapidly and by the middle of the 19th Century, only Switzerland remained of all the original provinces. The GPIH continued to be the sole preserver of the Rite until 1935, when other regular Great Priories began to emerge, including USA (1935), France (1935, 2002), Belgium (1986), Togo (1998) and England (2008).

The Great Priory of Belgium supports the spread of the Rite by having formed a number of English-speaking Lodges of St Andrew, and it is from this situation that the Rite was introduced into Australia in 2001.

Regalia The members of the Rite wear regalia appropriate to rank and honour. For example, Brethren of St Andrew wear an apron and collar, gloves and carry a sword.

Joining and Grades Joining is by invitation only and candidates must be subscribing Master Masons who profess the Trinitarian Christian Faith. The joining fee for Lodges of St Andrew varies up to $400 which includes the cost of regalia. Annual dues are approximately $100 and dining costs are between $50–$70 per meeting.

The grades of the Rite are nominally six, but the first three (Apprentice, Companion and Master) are accepted as equivalents of the Craft degrees and are ceded to the authority of the Craft to solely administer (similar to the procedure in the Ancient and Accepted Rite in Australia). The grades worked by the Rite are then: Scottish Master of Saint Andrew, Squire Novice, and Knight Beneficent of the Holy City (Chevalier Bienfaisant de la Cité Sainte – CBCS).

After being admitted to the grade of St Andrew a 2-year period of active service to the Rite must pass before a member might be considered for reception as a Squire Novice; and entry to the Inner Order cannot be solicited. A similar period of service in the novitiate must lapse before a Novice might be considered for arming as a Knight.

Lodges of St Andrew meet regularly, twice per year, under instruction from a Deputy Master, to receive approved candidates into the fourth grade of Scottish Master of St Andrew. There are currently 15 lodges under the Scottish Directorate of Belgium, of which six are in Australia.

Southern Cross Prefecture consists of Governor Arthur Phillip (Sydney, NSW), Sir John Lavarack (Brisbane, QLD) and Earl of Hopetoun (Canberra, ACT). The Deputy Masters are each supported by a number of officers, who are all appointed to serve 2-year terms.

For further information contact: The Chancellor Email: southerncrossrer@gmail.com

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SCOTTISH RITE – SCOTLAND

Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite Supreme Council for Scotland of the Thirty Third and Last Degree

A

ffectionately known as the ‘Rose Croix’, the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite under the Supreme Council for Scotland is the oldest Rite of its kind in Australia, having had a presence in Queensland since January 1879 and in New South Wales since November 1892. Today there are Chapters in the Eastern States and in Western Australia, all owing allegiance to Scotland but working together in regional groupings as semi-autonomous units, known as Provinces.

This Degree contains very meaningful and moving ceremonies, and Candidates never fail to be affected in both the Masonic and the personal aspects of their life by the significance of its teachings.

In the Thirtieth, or Grand Elect Knight Kadosh Degree, the Candidate seeking admission is repeatedly urged to consider carefully before committing to the philosophic principles of Membership. By reflection and contemplation, by listening The Motto of the Rite is to the requirements of a Philosopher, and ‘Deus Meumque Jus’ finally by dedicating himself to these meaning same principles, the Candidate is brought Membership Qualifications ‘God And My Right’ to the point of admission to the Sovereign Membership is open to Master Masons Council, where further symbolic teachwho profess a belief in the Christian ings await him. Having approached the Trinity and is by invitation. However, Sovereign Council as a Grand Scottish enquiries are invited and welcomed from Knight of Saint Andrew of Scotland, or Christian Master Masons who are ready to extend their researches Twenty Ninth Degree Mason, the successful Candidate leaves into this fascinating and meaningful branch of Freemasonry. as a fully fledged Grand Elect Knight Kadosh, holding the Thirtieth Degree.

Teachings It is important to note that admission to the Thirtieth Degree is The Scottish Rite under Scotland is a Christian Order which a Promotion under the Supreme Council for Scotland and must teaches Christian principles and high morals. This is especially not be considered a right. Those holding the Thirtieth Degree so in the ‘working’ Degrees of the Rite, the Eighteenth and Thirhave well and truly earned it and are held in high esteem amongst tieth Degrees, where the search for truth and the dedication of their Brethren. one’s self to the service of God are the key teachings. The ‘Intermediate Degrees’, ie. those between four and seventeen, and those Higher Rank between nineteen and twenty nine, are ‘Conferred’ on Candidates As with any aspect of Freemasonry, there are what are called to prepare them for the important step they are proposing to take.

‘Grand Ranks’. In the Scottish Rite under Scotland these are The Eighteenth, or Sovereign Prince Rose Croix Degree sees Degrees that are conferred on worthy Members of the Rite by Candidates embarking on a quest to find the lost Word of a Supreme Council, upon the recommendation of the Deputy for Master Mason. Along the way, the Christian Principles of Faith, the Province.

Hope and Charity are encountered and shown as key ‘milestones’ Thirty First Degree Masons, or Grand Inspector Inquisitor Compointing to the ultimate destination. Having learned these impormanders, administer the Judicial aspect of the Rite. Thirty Second tant lessons, the searchers are led to the lost Word, where further Degree Masons, or Sublime and Valiant Princes of the Royal valuable teaching is available. Upon re-entering the Sovereign Secret, are the Military Commanders of the Rite and form an Chapter triumphantly with their prize, the Candidate and his Conductor are received by the Most Wise Sovereign, or Master, impenetrable barrier to those who would gain admission falsely. and other Office Bearers and the Candidate is rewarded for his The Ceremonies of these Degrees are worked within the Province efforts by being Knighted as a Sovereign Prince Rose Croix. following approval by Supreme Council.

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SCOTTISH RITE – SCOTLAND

Deputy and Administrator congratulate a newly Installed Most Wise Sovereign and his predecessor at Lawson Sovereign Chapter.

Members of the Scottish Rite at a Demonstration Meeting in Yass, NSW.

The Thirty Third (and Last) Degree, where Members are called Sovereign Grand Inspectors General, is the highest Degree in Freemasonry. This Degree can only be worked by Supreme Council and is conferred upon Brethren who are appointed as their Deputy in a Province, either in Scotland or overseas. Holders of the Thirty Third Degree are the Rulers of the Rite and their numbers are necessarily small. Members made Deputy of a Province, both in Scotland and in other parts of the world where Scottish Constitution Chapters and Councils meet, are appointed by Supreme Council and hold their Office during the pleasure of Supreme Council, without having a pre-determined date of retirement.

It is this history of the practice of our Rites and Ceremonies in Australia, this line of Christian Masons stretching back into the Nineteenth Century even before the creation of the United Grand Lodge of New South Wales & the Australian Capital Territory, that today’s Members hold very dear. Throughout that time the lessons of the Order have been taught to many eminent Freemasons, including at least one Grand Master of the UGL of NSW & ACT, Most Worshipful Brother, His Honour Judge Hugh Montgomerie Hamilton, who was Grand Master from 1909 to 1910, and whose name lives on in one of our Sovereign Chapters meeting in Sydney to this day.

The Province of New South Wales has three additional active Members of the Thirty Third Degree, who are appointed as Administrators of the Northern, Central and Western Districts.

They are appointed for a five year term, during which they act as equivalents to the Craft Office of District Grand Inspector of Workings. Each submits his report to the Deputy for the Province, who provides an Annual Report to Supreme Council. This Annual Report sets out the progress of the Rite in the Province during the previous year and is published in full in the Annual Reporter, compiled and issued by the Supreme Council for Scotland and despatched around the world to constituent bodies and to other Supreme Councils of the Rite.

Background and History Sovereign Chapters working the Eighteenth, or Sovereign Prince Rose Croix Degree, sprang out of the legacies left by the old Military Chivalries of Christendom and began to emerge in France in 1740.

After many changes and modifications, the Supreme Council for Scotland was Consecrated in 1846 as a direct descendant of the Supreme Council in Charleston, South Carolina. It was from the recently established Supreme Council for Scotland in Edinburgh that the Sovereign Chapters in the Australian Colonies derived their Charters within its first half century of operation.

Representation Scottish Constitution Sovereign Chapters and Councils meet quarterly in Masonic Centres throughout the Sydney Region stretching from Gosford in the north and Liverpool in the south to Lawson in the west.

Dress requirements generally follow established Masonic patterns according to time and season.

Costs include a joining fee of approximately $160 and annual dues of $65. New Regalia, consisting of apron, collar and jewel, can be purchased for less than $700, although high quality Scottish Pattern Regalia is available from overseas suppliers for much less.

Swords form part of the Regalia, although wearing a sword is not compulsory.

For further information contact: The Provincial Grand Secretary, PO Box 1147G, Glenquarie Town Centre, Macquarie Fields NSW 2564 Telephone: 03 9618 7469 (H) Mobile: 0408 161 319 Email: lro9146@bigpond.net.au

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KNIGHTS TEMPLAR – SCOTTISH

The District Grand Priory of New South Wales

The Great Priory of Scotland of the United Religious and Military Orders of the Temple and the Order of St John of Jerusalem, Palestine, Rhodes and Malta

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he modern masonic order of Knights Templar is based on the historical events associated with two great military and religious Orders that existed at the time of the Crusades. The full title of the Order represents the joining together of the two Orders, which at the time of their existence, while not actual enemies, were militant rivals. Those Orders are commonly referred to as Knights Templar (the Order of the Temple) and Knights Hospitaller (the Order of St John of Jerusalem, Palestine, Rhodes and Malta). No evidence exists of any connection between the great medieval Orders and the modern masonic Orders.

The Great Priory of Scotland is based in Edinburgh and has 21 District Grand Priories under its control, seven of which are in Scotland with the remainder located in the Caribbean, Africa, South America and Australia. Each District Grand Priory has one or more Preceptories under its control. The first District Grand Priory in New South Wales was constituted in 1882, and re-constituted in 1922. The District Grand Priory of NSW meets bi-annually in the months of March and September whilst Preceptories meet quarterly.

The full title of the Order The earliest references to masonic Templar represents the joining activity are to be found in Ireland and the together of the two Orders... official history of the Order in Scotland, ‘Pour La Foy – A Short History of the Great Those Orders are Priory of Scotland’ (Draffen 1949) indicates commonly referred to that early in the nineteenth century the as Knights Templar Early Grand Encampment of Ireland issued a number of charters for Templar Encamp(the Order of the ments in Scotland. The Encampments Temple) and Knights worked in close connection to Craft Lodges Hospitaller (the Order and Royal Arch Chapters. In addition there were a number of other encampments at of St John of that time, associated with Craft Lodges, Jerusalem, Palestine, which are believed to have drawn their cerRhodes and Malta). emonies from Templar encampments in Europe. In 1809 a body known as the ‘Grand Assembly of Knights Templar in Edinburgh’ proceeded to seek a charter from the Duke of Kent, Grand Master of the Order in England. In 1811 the Duke granted a charter setting up the ‘Royal Grand Conclave of Scotland’ to take over the Order in Scotland. However, many encampments which had been issued Irish charters refused to join the new body and in 1826 formed themselves into a body titled the ‘Early Grand Encampment of Scotland’. Despite several attempts at achieving a union of the two bodies it was not until 1909 that unity was achieved under the Great Priory of Scotland.

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There are seven Preceptories in New South Wales: Preceptory of Kintore, Bondi Masonic Centre; Preceptory of Granville, Concord West Masonic Centre (Research Preceptory only); Preceptory of Waverley, Hurlstone Park Masonic Centre; Preceptory of St George, Kensington Masonic Centre; Preceptory of Campbell, Yass Masonic Centre; Preceptory of St Lukes, Gosford Masonic Centre; Preceptory of Port Macquarie, Hastings Valley Masonic Centre.

The M.E. & Rev. Grand Master A.C. Niven GCT

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KNIGHTS TEMPLAR – SCOTTISH

Installation of District Grand Prior Rt. Em. Fr. John Martin Larsen in 2010

Knight Templar Uniform

Knight of Malta Uniform

The Order of the Temple confers the Grades (Degrees) of Pilgrim, Esquire and Knight, firstly reflecting on the traveller’s journey to the Holy Land, and seeking shelter, secondly his offering of service and finally serving others as a Knight of the Order. The Knights are collectively called Fratres.

The Order is a Christian Order and Aspirants (Candidates) must profess the Christian Faith, have a belief in the Holy Trinity, and be both a Master Mason and a Royal Arch Companion in good standing in a Craft Lodge and a Royal Arch Chapter under any Grand Body recognised as regular and in amity with the Grand Lodge of Scotland and the Supreme Grand Royal Arch Chapter of Scotland respectively.

The Order of Malta confers Grades (Degrees) of Knight of St Paul or Mediterranean Pass, and Knight of St John of Jerusalem reflecting firstly the journey of Paul, the apostle and his arrival at Malta and secondly the journey of the Knights Hospitaller from Palestine to Malta. These Grades are conferred annually in a Priory attached to a Preceptory or at a District Grand Priory Muster.

The Regalia of the Order is most impressive, being based on that of the medieval Knights Templar and Knights Hospitaller.

Our Order forms part of the ‘Masonic Family’, and is acknowledged by The United Grand Lodge of NSW & ACT by way of a Fraternal Agreement.

The principal contact for the Order is the District Grand Secretary, Ken Neville Ph: (02) 9772 1076 Email: ken.neville@optusnet.com.au Mail: 25 Presland Avenue, Revesby NSW 2212

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FREEMASON MAGAZINE SUPPLEMENT

How to join an Associated Masonic Order All applicants must be current members in good standing of a lodge either of the UGL of NSW/ACT or a Grand Lodge recognised by an Australian Grand Lodge, and/or meet the following criteria:

MARK AND ROYAL ARCH

KNIGHT TEMPLAR PRIESTS

Applicants must be a Master Mason with a minimum of two years membership.

Applicants must be a subscribing Past Master, Royal Arch Mason and Knights Templar.

SECRET MONITOR

YORK CROSS OF HONOUR

By invitation. Applicants must be a Master Mason of two years.

By invitation. Must be a Past Master, Past 1st Principal Royal Arch Chapter, Past Thrice Illustrious Master of a Cryptic Council, Past Preceptor of a Priory of Knights Templar.

SCOTTISH RITE – AUSTRALIA There are two choices – members with a Trinitarian belief or open to brethren of all Faiths.

KNIGHTS TEMPLAR Applicants must be a Master Mason of two years standing, member of Royal Arch and profess the Trinitarian Christian Faith.

RED CROSS OF CONSTANTINE Applicants must be a Royal Arch Mason and have a belief in the Holy Trinity.

THE OPERATIVES Applicants must be a Master Mason, Mark Master Mason and Royal Arch Mason.

ORDER OF ATHELSTAN By invitation. Applicants must be a Master Mason, Royal Arch Mason.

ST THOMAS OF ACON By invitation. Applicants must be a Royal Arch Mason and Knights Templar.

ROYAL ORDER OF SCOTLAND

DE MOLAY Open to young men aged between 12 and 21.

Applicants must be a Master Mason for five years and profess the Christian Trinity.

ALLIED MASONIC DEGREES

AMARANTH Applicants must be a Master Mason, Royal Arch Mason. Also open to all female relatives as well as Order of Rainbow and Job’s Daughters.

Applicants must be a Master Mason, Mark Master Mason and Royal Arch Mason.

RECTIFIED SCOTTISH RITE By invitation. Applicants must be a Master Mason and profess the Christian faith.

EASTERN STAR Applicants must be a Master Mason or women over the age of 18.

SCOTTISH RITE – SCOTLAND By invitation. Applicants must be a Master Mason and a belief in the Christian Trinity.

RAINBOW GIRLS Applicants must be girls between the ages of 11–21. Two other areas – Pledges, age 7–11 and Sparkles, under seven.

KNIGHTS TEMPLAR – SCOTTISH Applicants must be a Master Mason, Royal Arch, Christian Faith.

Check contact details with each Order.