first three degrees

Entered apprentice to master mason

Structure of Freemasonry
(York Rite & Scottish Rite)

Within the structure of Freemasonry, there are three foundation degrees which serves as the first three steps and entry in Masonry. Those are Entered Apprentice (1st), Fellow Craft (2nd), and Master Mason (3rd). In order to be initiated into the First Degree, we require that a man be 21 years and older, believe in the Fatherhood of God and Brotherhood of Man and completed a Membership Application as well as pay the joining fee of $100. A Lodge will interview the candidate and democratically decide whether to (1) admit him, (2) refer him to another suitable lodge, or (3) deny him based on reasons explained to him.

IFAMM’s degree structure is based on York Rite (aka American Rite), this is a series of progressive degrees that are conferred based on the Primary Body. Typically, the first three degrees are considered to be in the “Blue House” with other degrees conferred under another type of “House”.

Specifically, the York Rite is a collection of separate Masonic Bodies and associated Degrees that would otherwise operate independently. Each primary body in York Rite are governed independently and have a leader responsible for overseeing that “House“. The name (“York”) comes from the city of York, where, according to a Masonic legend, the first meetings of Masons in England took place, although only the lectures of the York Rite Sovereign College make reference to that legend.

Each lodge within the State of Georgia confers every degree separately through ritualistic practices and Masons are required to take a Oath and Obligation; none of which compromise their belief in God or country. A Lodge has three primary officers; Worshipful Master (who may be seen as the President), Senior Warden and Junior Warden (who may be seen as 1st and 2nd Vice Presidents). For the Grand Lodge, the title “Grand” is put before each officer’s name to imply the level they are on.

Since Masonry is the world’s first and largest fraternal organization, it is based on the belief that every man within our Fraternal Order has a responsibility to help make their community and world a better place. Oftentimes, International Masons are considered extended family members and become friends for life, with families and children getting to know one another.

Within the first three degrees, Lodges hold two meetings a month whereas members are asked to commit and attend (Business Meeting and Education Meeting), three quarterly Statewide Joint Council Meetings (January, April, and August), and the Annual Grand Session which is held in October.

There are a number of leadership opportunities for Masons within their Local Lodge, City Joint Council, and District. From serving as the leader of a Local Lodge to more advanced opportunities, Freemasonry builds character and makes a good man a better man.

Degree progression is based on the Mason’s knowledge and proficiency in the preceding degree, remaining current on monthly dues and financial obligations, as well as local involvement in charitable functions by which he participates.

Should you be interested in learning more, please complete this MEMBERSHIP INQUIRY FORM and we will do our best to get back to you in a timely manner.