Freemasonry does not end with the three degrees of the Blue Lodge. Through the appendant and concordant bodies, a Master Mason can deepen his understanding, widen his service and continue his search for Light.
These organizations are not separate from Freemasonry but extensions of it. Each preserves its own degrees, traditions and teachings, and each offers its own opportunities for fellowship, leadership and charity. The York Rite, the Scottish Rite and the Shrine are open to Master Masons in good standing, and the other groups each set their own requirements.
The two Rites
Further Light in Masonry
York Rite
The York Rite
The York Rite is made up of three bodies: the Chapter of Royal Arch Masons, the Council of Royal and Select Masters (Cryptic Masons), and the Commandery of Knights Templar. Its degrees teach spiritual and moral lessons and complete the story of the building of the Temple begun in the Blue Lodge.
In Texas, York Rite Masonry is overseen by the Grand Royal Arch Chapter, the Grand Council and the Grand Commandery. Lubbock York Rite meets at the York Rite Building, 5611 Villa Drive, where our lodge also meets.
Scottish Rite
The Scottish Rite
The Scottish Rite is the most widely practiced Rite in the world. Its degrees build on the teachings of the Blue Lodge and culminate in the 32°, Master of the Royal Secret. The 33° is an honor conferred for outstanding service to the Craft or to humanity.
Texas belongs to the Southern Jurisdiction, governed by the Supreme Council, 33°, in Washington, D.C. Texas Valleys, including the Valley of Lubbock, confer the degrees and support education, scholarships and RiteCare speech and language programs for children.
Fellowship and service
The Wider Masonic Family
For Master Masons
Shriners International
Shriners are best known for their philanthropy, above all Shriners Children’s, the network of hospitals that cares for children regardless of a family’s ability to pay. Shriners combine fellowship and family fun with serious charitable work. [Local Shrine Center or club, with link.]
For Master Masons
The Grotto
The Mystic Order of Veiled Prophets of the Enchanted Realm, known as the Grotto, is a social order that values good fellowship and fun. Its Humanitarian Foundation supports dental care for children with special needs. [Local Grotto, if any.]
For men and women
Order of the Eastern Star
Open to Master Masons and their female relatives, the Eastern Star offers service, leadership and fellowship, with lessons drawn from heroines of the Bible. Its chapters are active in charity across Texas. [Local chapter, if any.]
For young people
DeMolay, Rainbow and Job’s Daughters
DeMolay for young men, and the International Order of the Rainbow for Girls and Job’s Daughters International for young women, build leadership, public speaking and character. Many Texas lodges sponsor chapters to support the next generation. [Local chapters, if any.]
Every one of these paths begins in a Blue Lodge. Learn how to join Lubbock Lodge.