The Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite, or Rose Croix as it is colloquially known in England and Wales, is one of the oldest Rites in Freemasonry. Through symbolic rituals, captivating ceremonies and allegorical teachings, it invites Master Masons to dive more deeply into ancient traditions, spiritual insights, and moral values. Many consider it their most profound experience since Initiation.

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Our vibrant Order is open to Master Masons of at least six months’ standing, of all ages, faiths, and other characteristics, who share our commitment to fraternity and personal growth. Camaraderie and empowering life-long connections are at the heart of Rose Croix, with newcomers quickly transitioning into trusted friends.

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After the founding of the Premier Grand Lodge in 1717, English Freemasonry became popular in France. In the 1740s and 1750s, possibly in response to Parisian aristocrats mixing freely with social inferiors at lodges, a chaotic variety of Orders emerged. Many had extravagant titles or claimed connections to noble Crusaders or Scotland – a good marketing tactic given the two countries’ historic ties.

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In 1761, the ‘Grand Lodge of France and the Sovereign Council of Knights of the East’ granted French trader, Etienne Morin, a patent to establish lodges of all degrees in the West Indies. By 1783 he and colleague, Henry Francken, published the ritual for the 4° to the 25°. In 1786, the Grand Constitutions added degrees of ‘Scottish’ Masonry to create the 33-degree Rite we know today. It is still commonly known outside England and Wales as the Scottish Rite, though it bears no structural or historical link to Scotland’s Craft Masonry.

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The Ancient and Accepted Rite in England and Wales is governed by a Supreme Council consisting of nine Sovereign Grand Inspectors General. The Supreme Council manages the affairs and promotes the wellbeing of the Order, including consecrating new Chapters. It also fosters friendly relations with other Masonic bodies, nationally and internationally.

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The Supreme Council delegates authority to Inspectors General to manage groups of Chapters organised into geographical districts. Individual Chapters confer degrees from the 4° to the 18° with higher degrees personally conferred in full by the Supreme Council.

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For further information please contact the District Recorder, or any member of the order.

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Richard Howarth
Inspector General