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M.Ill Bro Jack B. Christie 33°

Sovereign Grand Commander

A very warm welcome to the web site of the Ancient and Accepted Rite for New Zealand, well known to many Masons as the Rose Croix.

The first three degrees of free masonry are but the wonderful entrance to the great Temple of Freemasonry. Those who would seek more light, more knowledge of the mission and symbolism of Freemasonry, a more complete interpretation of the teachings of the Craft degrees, as well as acceptance into a very special fellowship and Brotherhood, can obtain these within the Ancient and Accepted Rite. Known in some parts of the world as the Scottish Rite, the Rose Croix follows the Christian teachings. It builds a superstructure on the firm base of the three craft degrees, and so provides a means whereby the earnest seeker after truth may receive further and deeper knowledge and understanding of the same great truths.

I hope the following information will be useful and interesting to you, the reader. Later there is a list of Inspectors General for each district and an email to them will provide any further information you require.

Warm fraternal regards and may God bless your endeavors whatever they may be.

Jack Christie, 33°

Sovereign Grand Commander

An Introduction to the Ancient and Accepted Rite Rose Croix

The Aim of the Order

The aim of the Order, which is Christian in character and practice, is to provide a duly qualified Master Mason with the opportunity to extend his participation and enjoyment of masonry.

How Rose Croix Started

In the 18^th century the protestant kingdom of Frederick II of Prussia was troubled by Rome, the Jesuits and Austria. Frederick, a mason himself, encouraged the craft at all levels. He opposed tyranny in all its forms and tried to restrain Romanism in Prussia and the power of Austria. Freemasonry assisted Frederick to achieve his ends. In 1785 freemasonry was strong and both Prussia and Austria sought its support. The atmosphere of freedom of association and learning, together with similar social freedoms developing in France and Britain, created a perfect climate for the development of the Rose Croix Order. It was protestant, it was Masonic, and with Frederick governing Prussia firmly in all things, he foresaw the advantages of formulating the Grand Constitutions of 1786. These have remained the basic landmark of all Supreme Councils throughout the world.

From Europe to the World

Within the next century the Rose Croix Order spread to many parts of the world. In the early 1800’s the Supreme Council, Northern USA, was formed and it was this Council which in 1845 sponsored the Supreme Council for England and Wales.

Rose Croix to New Zealand

In 1875 the first New Zealand Chapter was formed at Greymouth under the authority of England and Wales. The New Zealand Supreme Council was established on February 12, 1994. Today there are approximately 50 Chapters under its banner, four of which have accomplished 100 years of service.

What is Rose Croix?

It is a simple, beautiful degree following the Christian teachings. Its ritual is of special interest to the practising Christian as it moves through the steps of life, links craft masonry to higher levels and finally welcomes the candidate into the living circle. Master Masons of 1 year’s seniority are eligible to join. Known as the Ceremony of Perfection, each candidate is instructed from the 4^th to the 18^th degree in one ceremony.

Because those who enter the Order are Christian, it follows that members of the Rite have between them an understanding that they all have the same religious faith.

The Rose Croix degree, it is claimed by some, is the most dignified and beautiful degree experienced in the fabric of Freemasonry. It is by no means an exaggeration to describe the discoveries of the Rose Croix degree as the result and perfection of all preceding masonry.

The Rose Croix in New Zealand

Application for membership in the “Rose” is open to members in good standing in any Craft Lodge who are Master Masons of 1 year’s standing. Acceptance for membership is subject to the usual Masonic conditions of residence, sponsors, investigation, and ballot. Physical impairment is not a disqualification. Belief in the Holy Trinity is an essential requirement.

The government of the Rose Croix in New Zealand resides in the Supreme Council 33° which selects and elects its own membership. It is composed of up to 9 Members of the 33°, supported by Inspectors General in each District who manage and support the Chapters.

Degree Work

Each Chapter determines its own schedule for meetings. Certain degrees must be conferred in full form, namely, the 18th degree to which a Brother is elevated at his initial meeting. The 30^th, 31^st, 32^nd and 33^rd degrees are also “worked” in full form. The other intermediate degrees are conferred by name. There are in some districts Past Sovereigns’ Chapters which are authorised to work the 4^th to the 17^th degrees as demonstrations. All members of the Order may attend such meetings and they are a fascinating insight into Masonic mythology.

The Rose Croix presents an opportunity, a challenge and many rewards to the Master Mason.

List of Holders of the Rose Croix de’Honeur

The Rose Croix de’Honeur is an honour bestowed for exceptional service to members of the Ancient and Accepted Rite for New Zealand that have not been recognised by advancement to a higher degree. It is available only to members of the 18^th and 30^th degrees and the numbers are limited to only 10 members at one time.

Contacts for Further Information

The Rose Croix Order in New Zealand is divided in to districts each of which has an Inspector General in charge. They are the best source of information and of the places and times that chapters meet. The following is the list of current Inspectors General:

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