The Degrees

The Entered Apprenctice

“Entered Apprentice Degree” is the name of the first step a man takes in becoming a Mason. The general nature of this step is well described by the word “Apprentice,” which, throughout the many languages that use it, always means “a learner, a beginner, or one who has passed through the first stage of birth into a new world.” An Apprentice is a beginner in Masonry; he is a learner of the lore and teachings of that which Masons describe as “the Royal Art.” For Masonry is an art, one of the finest there is; and he is one in the process of being born into the world of Masonry, so different from the profane (or uninitiated) world, a world by itself, with its own nature and laws, its own culture and fellowship, its own purposes and ideals.

The Fellowcraft

The Degree of Fellow Craft symbolizes man in the prime years of his life. He is shown as an adult who is ready to accept the responsibility of life, not only for himself but for his family and all of society. When Mason assumes the duties and privileges of a Fellow Craft, he is taught that he is responsible for his own destiny and that of the State. The themes of this Degree are education and achievement. The more a man learns through the pursuit of knowledge, the more he achieves.

The Master Mason

The third degree represents maturity, with advanced wisdom and knowledge. Master Masons are taught about virtue and morality, along with the duties and tools of a Master Mason.

Once a Mason has completed his third degree - which usually takes some years - he receives all the rights and privileges available to him and will become known as a Master Mason.