Masonic Orders

The Supreme Grand Royal Arch Chapter of Scotland is the governing body of Royal Arch Freemasonry in Scotland, overseeing the activities and rituals of Royal Arch Chapters throughout the country. It was established to unify and regulate Royal Arch Masonry, which is an extension of the third degree in Freemasonry and includes additional degrees such as Mark Master, Excellent Master, and Royal Arch Mason. The Chapter ensures the integrity of Masonic traditions and teachings, provides leadership through its officers, and maintains connections with Royal Arch bodies worldwide. Membership is open to Master Masons who seek to deepen their Masonic journey, and the organization is also involved in charitable and community activities, reflecting the broader values of Freemasonry.

Royal Arch Website

The Supreme Council for Scotland of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite is the governing body responsible for overseeing the Scottish Rite Freemasonry in Scotland. It administers the higher degrees of Freemasonry, ranging from the 4th to the 33rd degree, beyond the initial three degrees managed by regular Masonic lodges. Established in 1846, the Supreme Council for Scotland is part of an international network of Supreme Councils that govern the Scottish Rite worldwide. It aims to promote moral and ethical teachings, personal development, and the pursuit of knowledge through a series of progressive degrees, each with its own unique lessons and rituals. The Scottish Rite is known for its emphasis on philosophical and chivalric themes, exploring deeper aspects of Masonic teachings and symbols. The Supreme Council is headed by the Sovereign Grand Commander and includes a variety of officers and members who contribute to its governance and the administration of its charitable and educational initiatives.

Supreme Council Website

The Grand Lodge of the Royal Order of Scotland is the governing body of this distinguished and highly selective Masonic Order, that traces its roots to historic Scottish traditions and lore. Based in Edinburgh, this Grand Lodge oversees the activities of the Royal Order worldwide, managing its two degrees: the Degree of Heredom of Kilwinning and the Degree of Knight of the Rosy Cross. The Royal Order of Scotland is notable for its emphasis on Christian themes and Scottish heritage, and it is considered one of the most prestigious and exclusive Masonic bodies. Membership is by invitation only and is restricted to Master Masons who have been active in Freemasonry for at least five years and are also members of other Masonic bodies, often with significant standing or recognition in the Masonic community. The Grand Lodge of the Royal Order of Scotland is led by the Deputy Grand Master and Governor, along with other high-ranking officers, who uphold the ancient traditions, teachings, and rituals of the Order while promoting charity, fellowship, and the deeper philosophical aspects of Freemasonry.

Royal Order Website

The Great Priory of Scotland is the governing body for the Order of the Knights Templar and the Knights of Malta within Scotland. This Masonic order, part of the broader chivalric and Christian traditions of Freemasonry, confers the degrees of Knight Templar and Knight of Malta, which are centred on themes of knighthood, chivalry, and Christian faith. The Great Priory of Scotland oversees the activities of Preceptories and Priories across Scotland, ensuring that the rituals and teachings of these degrees are conducted with fidelity to their historical and spiritual origins. Membership is open to Master Masons who are also Royal Arch Masons and profess a belief in the Christian faith. The Great Priory is led by the Most Eminent and Reverend Grand Master of the Temple, along with other high-ranking officers, who are responsible for the administration, ritual observance, and promotion of the Order’s charitable and benevolent activities, reflecting the principles of brotherhood, integrity, and service.

Great Priory Website

The Grand Imperial Council of Scotland is the governing body of the Order of the Red Cross of Constantine and its associated Masonic orders within Scotland. This Masonic order, rooted in Christian traditions, focuses on the legend of Emperor Constantine the Great and the significance of the Cross in Christian history. The Grand Imperial Council oversees the operations of Conclaves across Scotland, which confer the degrees of Knight of the Red Cross of Constantine, Knight of the Holy Sepulchre, and Knight of St. John the Evangelist. Membership is highly selective, open to Royal Arch Masons who profess the Christian faith, and is by invitation only, recognizing those who have shown a significant commitment to Freemasonry. The Council is led by the Most Illustrious Grand Sovereign, supported by various officers who ensure the preservation of the Order’s traditions, promote its teachings, and engage in charitable activities that reflect the Order’s values of faith, chivalry, and service to others.