In England and Wales the Royal Arch degree is considered to be the fourth and final stage of a Freemason's journey in "Pure and Antient Freemasonry"

Craft Freemasonry exhorts its members to consider their relationships with their fellow man. It uses the metaphor of building a Temple to encourage them to become better people using the guiding principles of Integrity, Friendship, Respect and Service.

The Royal Arch invites “Companions” (as its members are known) to take that process of introspection and self improvement further by gently leading them to contemplate their place in the Universe and, without compromising their own religious beliefs, to examine the nature of their relationship with its Creator.

The Royal Arch thus expands and develops that process whereby in seeking to become better people by helping others, we aim to promote a better, kinder, more tolerant and peaceful society.

At the end of the 3rd Degree ceremony, the newly made Master Mason is informed that he has been given substituted information regarding the Degree “until time or circumstances shall restore the genuine”. Strangely, nothing further is mentioned regarding this "genuine" information, leaving something of a cliffhanger!

The Royal Arch provides the resolution of that conundrum, which is why it is referred to in the ritual as “... this Supreme Degree”.

The ceremony of Exaltation which admits new members is a beautiful, colourful and thought provoking experience, having a much stronger dramatic narrative than the Craft degrees. The Candidate is guided through an unforgettable journey based on the Old Testament account of the rebuilding of the Second Temple at Jerusalem.

These days in most Chapters, the work is divided between several members to ensure that as many Companions as possible are able to take part in ensuring that the Candidate has a truly memorable evening.

Membership of the Royal Arch is a requirement for those seeking membership of several of the degrees beyond The Craft (e.g. Knights Templar, The Red Cross of Constantine, The Order of Athelstan etc.)

Brethren seeking to broaden their knowledge and enjoyment of Freemasonry will therefore find membership of their Royal Arch Chapter to be a useful and necessary first step along the way.

Most Chapters draw their membership from more than one Lodge so you will have the opportunity to meet and get to know a far wider circle of Freemasons than you would normally.

As with the Craft, all meetings are followed by a meal to allow Companions to share the simple pleasures of Good Food, Good Wine and Good Company. The toasts and other “Festive Board” traditions are all very different which makes a Chapter meeting a thoroughly enjoyable occasion, much loved by its members.

Although the inspiration behind the exaltation ceremony is to be found in the Old Testament, membership is open to Freemasons of all faiths, who have achieved the 3rd (Master Mason) Degree for 4 weeks or more. Its themes are universal and applicable to all.

Joining your local Royal Arch Chapter won't break the bank! Subscriptions in Royal Arch Chapters are typically lower than Craft Lodges.

Dining Fees are about the same.