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What is Cryptic Masons
Councils of Cryptic Masons form the center body of the York Rite of Freemasonry. A Master Mason may join a
Chapter of Royal Arch Masons and receive the four degrees of that organization. After which he may seek further knowledge
in Freemasonry and join a Council of Cryptic Masons.
CRYPTIC RITE
No rite of Freemasonry has come into its own
so much as the series of degrees known as the Cryptic Rite, also known as the Cryptic Masons. Its popularity is well deserved
for there are no more beautiful or meaningful degrees in all Freemasonry that those conferred in the Council of Cryptic Masons.
One reason for its popularity is that it completes a story, a Masonic allegory. Freemasonry
is very philosophical and teaches its ideals by allegory or story. This philosophy is moralistic and religious however Freemasonry
is not a religion., nor a substitute for one. Ancient Cryptic Masonry centers around
the story of the preservation, loss and recovery of the Word. The Word represents man's search for life's purpose
and the nature of GOD. Symbolic Freemasonry, as in the Lodge, teaches of the loss of the Word and hope for its recovery. Royal
Arch Masonry, as in the Chapter, teaches its recovery. Cryptic Masonry, as in the Council, completes this story by teaching
of the Word's initial preservation.
Knights Templar
The Knights Templar is a Christian-oriented
fraternal organization that is based on the history and mythos surrounding the medieval crusading order of warrior monks,
known as the Knights Templar, which existed from the 12th to the 14th century. Originally,
the Knights Templar were laymen who protected and defended Christians traveling to Jerusalem. These men took vows of poverty,
chastity and obedience, and were renowned for their fierceness and courage in battle. Today,
the Knights Templar display their courage and goodwill in other ways. They organize fund-raising activities such as breakfasts,
dinners, dances, and flea markets. They support Masonic-related youth groups and they raise millions of dollars for medical
research and educational assistance. Currently, Templar membership consists
of people from all walks of life, including doctors, lawyers, clergy, businessmen and entertainment personalities, all of
whom profess a belief in the Christian Religion.
 Grand York Rite of California
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