A Proclamation from the M. I. Grand Master Regarding Degree Conferrals

 

A Proclamation from the M. E. Grand High Priest Regarding Degree Conferrals

 

Most Excellent Master – Consecration Ceremony for the Enlightened Mind

by ROBERT G. DAVIS 

      In the York Rite system of degrees, that of Most Excellent Master is the first which most likely originated in America.  While we can find several degrees in England, Ireland and Scotland, which bear the names of Excellent none of them have any resemblance to the Most Excellent Master degree practised in most, if not all, the American Grand Chapters of Royal Arch Masons.

     It is believed the degree originated in Temple Chapter at Albany, New York about 1797.  Indeed, Thomas Smith Webb, author of the American craft ritual, was situated in Albany at that time and was busily publishing the first American ritual monitor, which included the York degrees.  He and a fellow named Hanmer had organized Temple Lodge a year earlier so they could work the Royal Arch degree.  Webb gave an account of the Most Excellent Master degree in his first edition of the Freemason’s Monitor.  It is not known whether Webb invented the degree, or simply arranged it from other previous works.  There is some evidence that it had been worked for several years prior to 1797. However, in publishing it with his first monitor, he may well have expanded or improved its ritual form.  Regardless of origin, Webb is certainly given the credit for having brought the Most Excellent Master into the Royal Arch system.

Stated Meeting Notice

The next Stated Convocation of Washington Chapter No. 2, Royal Arch Masons, will be held at the Masonic Hall at 4911 Montrose Boulevard at 7:00 PM on Monday, September 14, 2020.  Members of the Chapter are encouraged to attend.  All Royal Arch Masons are welcome.

Proper attire is recommended.