The Allied Masonic Degrees (AMD) is a distinctive and prestigious organization within the broader Masonic fraternity. Known for its select membership and emphasis on preserving and practicing a variety of lesser-known Masonic rites, the AMD has a rich history and a profound impact on its members. In this blog post, we will explore who can become a member of the Allied Masonic Degrees, what the organization is about, where it is located, and the reasons behind its establishment. We’ll also highlight the significance of custom Masonic challenge coins and lapel pins within this organization and provide a brief mention of CNF Interactive, a leading supplier of Masonic promotional products.
Who Can Be a Member of the Allied Masonic Degrees?
Membership in the Allied Masonic Degrees is highly selective and is by invitation only. To be considered for membership, an individual must already be a Master Mason in good standing and a member of a recognized Masonic Lodge. Additionally, prospective members are typically required to have completed the Royal Arch degree within the York Rite of Freemasonry. This requirement ensures that members possess a deep understanding of Masonic principles and a commitment to the fraternity.
The invitation-only nature of AMD membership adds to its exclusivity. Members are chosen based on their dedication to Masonry, their contributions to the fraternity, and their desire to explore and preserve the rich traditions of the various Masonic rites that AMD oversees. This selectivity has allowed the Allied Masonic Degrees to maintain a close-knit community of like-minded individuals who are passionate about their Masonic journey.
What is the Allied Masonic Degrees About?
The Allied Masonic Degrees is a Masonic organization that focuses on the study, preservation, and practice of a collection of lesser-known Masonic degrees. These degrees, which are not typically conferred within the mainstream Blue Lodge or other Masonic bodies, offer members a deeper and broader understanding of Masonic philosophy, symbolism, and rituals.
The degrees under the jurisdiction of the Allied Masonic Degrees vary by country, but they generally include the following:
1. St. Lawrence the Martyr: A degree that emphasizes the importance of charity and self-sacrifice.
2. Knights of Constantinople: A degree that explores themes of humility and the reconciliation of opposites.
3. Red Cross of Babylon: This degree delves into the story of the rebuilding of the Temple in Jerusalem and the struggles associated with it.
4. Grand Tilers of Solomon: Focused on the role of the Tiler (or guard) in Freemasonry and the importance of vigilance.
5. Order of the Secret Monitor: A degree that centers on the bonds of friendship and the duties of brotherhood.
The Allied Masonic Degrees is unique in its emphasis on Masonic education and the intellectual development of its members. Each degree within AMD is rich in symbolism and offers profound lessons that complement the teachings of the Craft degrees. Members are encouraged to engage in research, study, and discussion to deepen their understanding of Masonic principles and to share their insights with their fellow brethren.
Where is the Allied Masonic Degrees Located?
The Allied Masonic Degrees is an international organization with bodies, often referred to as “Councils,” located in various countries around the world. The two primary jurisdictions are:
1. The United States: The Grand Council of Allied Masonic Degrees of the United States of America oversees the organization in the U.S. It was established in 1932 and has since grown to include numerous Councils across the country.
2. The United Kingdom: The Grand Council of the Allied Masonic Degrees of England and Wales, and its Districts and Councils Overseas, governs the organization in the UK and several other countries. This body was established in 1879 and is considered the original governing body of the AMD.
In addition to these major jurisdictions, the Allied Masonic Degrees has Councils in other countries, including Canada, Australia, and several European nations. Each of these Councils operates under the guidance of its respective Grand Council, which ensures that the degrees are conferred with consistency and integrity.
When and How Was the Allied Masonic Degrees Established?
The origins of the Allied Masonic Degrees can be traced back to the late 19th century in England. The organization was formally established in 1879 when the Grand Council of the Allied Masonic Degrees of England and Wales was constituted. The formation of this Grand Council was driven by the desire to preserve and practice several “detached” Masonic degrees that were not regularly worked within the existing Masonic bodies.
These degrees, which had previously been conferred in an informal and irregular manner, were brought together under the jurisdiction of the newly formed Grand Council. The establishment of the Allied Masonic Degrees allowed for the formalization of these rituals, ensuring their continued practice and preservation.
In 1932, the Allied Masonic Degrees were introduced to the United States, where the Grand Council of Allied Masonic Degrees of the United States of America was established. This marked the beginning of the AMD’s expansion beyond the UK and its growth into an international organization.
Why Was the Allied Masonic Degrees Established?
The Allied Masonic Degrees was established to preserve and perpetuate several important yet lesser-known Masonic degrees that were at risk of being lost to history. Many of these degrees had fallen out of regular practice and were being conferred in an ad hoc manner by individual lodges or groups of Masons. The formation of the Allied Masonic Degrees provided a structured and formalized framework for the conferral of these degrees, ensuring their survival for future generations of Masons.
Another key reason for the establishment of the Allied Masonic Degrees was to create a venue for Masonic education and intellectual growth. The degrees under AMD’s jurisdiction are rich in symbolism and esoteric teachings, offering members an opportunity to delve deeper into the mysteries of Freemasonry. The organization encourages research, study, and the sharing of knowledge among its members, fostering a culture of continuous learning and exploration.
Custom Masonic Challenge Coins and Lapel Pins in the Allied Masonic Degrees
Symbols and traditions are integral to the Masonic experience, and this is particularly true within the Allied Masonic Degrees. Custom Masonic challenge coins and lapel pins play an important role in the organization’s culture, serving as tangible reminders of the lessons learned and the bonds formed within the fraternity.
Custom Masonic Challenge Coins: Challenge coins are highly valued within the Allied Masonic Degrees. These coins are often designed with intricate details that reflect the specific degrees within AMD, as well as the organization’s symbols and motto. Members proudly carry these coins as a symbol of their membership and dedication to the principles of AMD. The coins are also used to commemorate significant events, such as the conferral of a degree or the anniversary of a Council.
Lapel Pins: Lapel pins are another cherished symbol within the Allied Masonic Degrees. These pins are typically worn during formal Masonic events and gatherings, serving as a subtle yet powerful symbol of a member’s affiliation with AMD. The designs of the lapel pins often incorporate the organization’s colors, emblems, and other meaningful imagery, making them a respected and recognizable symbol within the Masonic community.
Conclusion
The Allied Masonic Degrees is a unique and prestigious organization that plays a vital role in preserving and promoting the rich traditions of Freemasonry. With its focus on lesser-known degrees, Masonic education, and intellectual development, AMD offers its members a deeper and more profound understanding of Masonic principles and philosophy.
As members of the Allied Masonic Degrees continue to explore the mysteries of Freemasonry, they proudly wear their Custom Masonic lapel pins and Masonic challenge coins as symbols of their commitment to the fraternity’s ideals. Carefully crafted by experts at CNF Interactive, these items serve as lasting reminders of the bonds of brotherhood and the pursuit of knowledge that define the AMD experience.
For Masonic organizations seeking high-quality Promotional Products, Brother Frank Looser at CNF Interactive is the official supplier of Masonic Promotional Products, Specializing in custom-designed coins and lapel pins. CNF Interactive offers a wide range of products that reflect the rich heritage and traditions of Freemasonry. Whether you are looking to commemorate a special event, recognize outstanding service, have a fundraiser, or celebrate your Masonic journey, CNF Interactive has the expertise and dedication to meet your needs.