The Ancient and Accepted Rite (Rose Croix)
The “Rose Croix” is a colloquial name used for the 18º of the 33-degree masonic system known as the Ancient and Accepted Rite for England and Wales and its Districts and Chapters Overseas, which has operated in this country since 1845. The 18º is the Order’s most popular as it serves as the entry point to which new members are admitted, with the degree’s full title being that of Sovereign Prince Rose Croix of Heredom, Knight of the Pelican and Eagle.
The Order derives its pedigree from the late eighteenth century French Rite of Perfection (also called the Order of the Royal Secret) and The Grand Constitutions of 1786 under the mythical titular direction of Frederick the Great, King of Prussia. As of January 2024 the Order no longer requires its members to hold a Christian faith.
Today, the Order’s Chapters are grouped into districts and are administered by a Supreme Council whose Grand East (headquarters) is located at 10 Duke Street, St James’s, London.
18º: Sovereign Prince Rose Croix of Heredom, Knight of the Pelican and Eagle
Successful candidates for Perfection into this Order are already in possession of the 1º – 3º of Craft masonry, and receive the 4º – 17º in name only. These are known as The Intermediate Degrees and allow the candidate to be admitted into the 18º, which is worked and received in full. The 18º is based on the life and teachings of Jesus of Nazareth.
19º – 33º: The Higher Degrees
If a member chooses to progress through the offices of his Chapter and serve as its Most Wise Sovereign, they may be recommended for promotion to the 30º, which they would receive in full whilst receiving the 19º – 29º in name only.
The 31º and 32º are reserved for members who, through the years, have shown exceptional dedication to the Order. The 33º is reserved for members of the Supreme Council, its Inspector Generals who oversee its districts, and members who go far above and beyond the call of service. It should be noted that the 30º – 33º are worked in full by the Supreme Council only.
