Masonic appendant bodies, sometimes called concordant bodies, are extensions of Freemasonry. To belong to any of them, first, candidates must already have earned the three degrees of Masonry. From there, they have the option to join as many of these organizations as they like. (Several appendant bodies include women who have a Masonic connection.)
Some Freemasons join several such groups because they discover it’s a way to go deeper into an aspect of the fraternity that interests them. Other members prefer to focus their attention on their original blue (or “craft”) lodge. It’s personal to the individual.
Here are some of the best known Masonic appendant bodies in the U.S., from the Scottish Rite and York Rite to the Eastern Star:
- Scottish Rite: If you’ve heard of a 33rd degree Mason, you’ve heard of the Scottish Rite. The organization – which didn’t actually originate in Scotland – offers “high degrees” that expand and elaborate upon the lessons of Masonry’s first three degrees. The group gained pop culture fame with Dan Brown’s novel (and now, streaming series) The Lost Symbol. Learn more.
- York Rite: The order, which is most popular in the United States, is comprised of three bodies: the Royal Arch Chapter, the Royal and Select Master Council, and the Knights Templar Commandery, which is based on the story of the Knights Templar medieval warriors. (Yes, the same Knights Templar sensationalized in Dan Brown’s The Da Vinci Code.) Learn more.
- Justice-Columbia No. 3 is affiliated with the Columbia Chapter No. 1. For more information about starting your journey you can find more information at www.columbiachapter1.com
- Shriners International: Ever enjoyed the Shriners’ red fezzes and tiny-car antics in your local parades, or known a child who received care from a Shriners children’s hospital? The Shrine is a Masonic social group with a reputation for fun, and a legacy of high-profile charity work. Learn more.
- Order of the Eastern Star (OES): OES was the first membership organization in the U.S. that gave women a voice on a national scale. It’s open to Master Masons and female relatives, spouses, and descendants of Master Masons. Learn more.
- High Twelve: Along with life lessons, Freemasonry is about friendship. This social club for Master Masons meets regularly to enjoy fellowship and support Masonic causes. Learn more.
- National Sojourners: This organization is designed especially for Master Masons who have served active duty in the U.S. armed forces. Learn more.
- Order of the Amaranth: This coed group is open to Master Masons as well as women who have with a connection to Masonry. Learn more.
- White Shrine of Jerusalem: While all Masonic orders require belief in a Supreme Being, the White Shrine specifically requires belief in Jesus Christ. Its membership is coed, including both Master Masons and women with a Masonic connection. Learn more.
These groups often get together for shared events and to support one another, adding to the friendship and fun that’s at the heart of Freemasonry.