Welcome to the home of the San Diego York Rite of Freemasonry!
What is York Rite Masonry?
York Masonry is the oldest and best-known of all Masonic Rites. It takes its name from York, England, where the earliest known record of Masonry exists, dating from about 923 A.D.. Masonry’s first written record is centered around York. This was the seat of the Ancient Grand Lodge, which finally merged with another group called the modern Premier Grand Lodge (which became public in 1717) in about 1813. This is the basis upon which our present system of Blue Lodge, or Craft Masonry, is constituted.
The Mother Grand Lodge of England, many years ago, set forth as Paragraph 1 of its general Laws and Regulations: “By the solemn act of the union between the two Grand Lodges of Freemasons of England in December 1813, it was declared and pronounced that Pure Ancient Masonry consists of three degrees and no more, viz.: those of the Entered Apprentice, the Fellowcraft, and Master Mason, INCLUDING THE SUPREME ORDER of the HOLY ROYAL ARCH.”
Entry into YORK RITE FREEMASONRY is available to those who have progressed to the degree of Master Mason in a “Blue Lodge.” In completing the beginning of the masonic journey in the Symbolic Lodge (or Craft Lodge, or Blue Lodge), a mason can delve deeper into the teachings of our honorable fraternity.
What is your relationship with God? How are the relationships with your family, friends, and fraternal Brothers? And does your personal piety cause you to engage with your faith as part of your involvement with the fraternity?
York Rite does not replace the necessity for involvement in Blue Lodge but is instead a supplement for those interested in uncovering further mysteries about themselves and the world at large.
For further information on becoming a “YORK RITE” member, please get in touch with a San Diego Area Chapter, Council, Commandery, or College member.
