Rose Croix Degrees

Membership

Under the English Constitution, this “non plus ultra” group of Masonic degrees is practiced separately from the three Degrees of the Craft. Every candidate must have been a Master Mason for at least six months and be in good standing with a regular and recognised Craft Lodge, as required by the qualifications specified by the Supreme Council (see below). The requirement to profess the Trinitarian Christian Faith was dropped by the Supreme Council in 2024 and no longer applies.

Organisation

Assemblies of Freemasons working this set of degrees are called Chapters. They work a Perfection Ceremony to bring in new members, as well as an Installation Ceremony for presiding officers. Membership in a Rose Croix Chapter allows a Brother to receive the 4th through the 18th Degrees in Freemasonry. 

Progression beyond the 18th Degree is possible, although restricted to those who have previously acted as presiding officer of a Chapter.

The 33rd Degree is mainly conferred upon presiding officers of Districts and certain senior members of the Supreme Council in London.

Governing body

The Rose Croix Degrees are administrated by the Supreme Council in London. Its symbol is a crowned double eagle holding a sword.