The Royal Order of Scotland
The Royal Order of Scotland is reputed to be the most ancient order of Freemasonry outside of the Craft, with evidence that the degree was being worked in London as early as 1741. The ritual, which survives essentially in its ancient form, consists of two degrees, The Heredom of Kilwinning and the Knight of the Rosy Cross. Both degrees are conferred on candidates in a combined ceremony. Much of the ritual is in archaic verse and includes extensive catechistic dialogues between the Master and his two Wardens. Mastery of this ritual is a major feat of memory.
From the earliest written records of meetings, the order claimed that the King of Scots was the Hereditary Grand Master and a seat in the East is kept vacant for him at every meeting.
From the earliest written records of meetings, the order claimed that the King of Scots was the Hereditary Grand Master and a seat in the East is kept vacant for him at every meeting.
The order traces its course from the Old to the New Testament and finally culminates with the secret doctrine inculcated in the life and death of Christ.
There are no private Lodges in the order, each unit having the status of a Provincial Grand Lodge. Membership of the order is strictly by invitation of the Provincial Grand Master and usually requires prior membership of at least one other Christian order.
There are no private Lodges in the order, each unit having the status of a Provincial Grand Lodge. Membership of the order is strictly by invitation of the Provincial Grand Master and usually requires prior membership of at least one other Christian order.
