Pure Ancient Freemasonry consists of both Craft Masonry and Royal Arch Masonry. Together, they form a complete and enriching journey for the thoughtful and reflective Mason. The teachings of the Craft degrees guide a Brother to build better relationships, embody virtue, and live by the core principles of Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth.

The Royal Arch continues this path, offering deeper insight into the narrative of Freemasonry. It provides a profound spiritual and philosophical dimension, completing the journey begun in the Craft and inviting the Freemason to explore the fullness of the Masonic story.

In the Royal Arch, members are referred to as Companions, a term that carries significant meaning. Derived from Latin roots meaning "one with whom bread is shared," a Companion is someone who can be trusted with your life. This conveys a bond that transcends even that of Brotherhood—suggesting trust, loyalty, and mutual support.

Royal Arch Companions commit to uplifting one another and striving for excellence in their moral conduct, both within the Chapter and in their personal lives.

Membership in the Royal Arch is open to all Freemasons of any faith who have been Raised to the degree of Master Mason for a minimum of four weeks.

During the Third Degree, Masons are taught that the genuine secrets of a Master Mason were lost and substituted secrets adopted until such time as the originals could be recovered. Exaltation into the Royal Arch offers a beautiful and enlightening continuation of that journey—explaining how those secrets were eventually rediscovered and their deeper significance.

The ideal time to consider joining the Royal Arch is when a Brother feels settled and confident in his understanding of Craft Masonry and its teachings.

Although the required waiting period is brief, each Mason is encouraged to take time to reflect on his readiness. Joining earlier does allow a Companion to immerse himself fully in the ceremony and absorb its profound meaning before taking on any formal responsibilities.

The Royal Arch has one main ceremony known as Exaltation, during which a new Companion is admitted to the Chapter. This ceremony is celebrated for its beauty, colour, and deep symbolism.

In addition, each Chapter installs three Principals in a unique annual ceremony—an occasion that highlights the leadership and structure of the Order.

Royal Arch regalia consists of three distinctive items:

• A vibrant apron
• A sash reflecting the colours of the Order
• A breast jewel, often worn in Craft Lodge to signify Royal Arch membership.

The breast jewel features the Seal of Solomon, with inscriptions in both Latin and English. While the jewel holds many layers of symbolism, at its heart it serves as a reminder of the lessons of harmony, peace, wisdom, strength, beauty, and spiritual growth.

Wearing the jewel in a Craft meeting indicates that a Brother has completed his journey in pure ancient Freemasonry.

Joining the Royal Arch follows a similar path to other Masonic orders. You will need a Proposer and Seconder, both of whom are already members of the Chapter you wish to join.

If your Lodge does not have a Chapter directly attached, it likely has a relationship with a nearby Chapter. Your Royal Arch Representative in Lodge will be able to guide you through the process, suggest Chapters based on your availability, and support your journey toward Exaltation.