Rockingham MMM

Overview and Place in Freemasonry

The Mark Master Mason degree is the third largest in Freemasonry and is often referred to by its members as the fourth regular step in Freemasonry. It is seen as the natural progression between the Fellow Craft and the Royal Arch, offering both symbolic depth and practical lessons in character, conduct, and fellowship.

Its ritual is centred around a single verse from Psalm 118:
“The stone which the builders rejected has become the head of the corner.”

While the setting is the building of King Solomon’s Temple and the various craftsmen employed there, the degree’s true focus is on reflecting upon human strengths and weaknesses—reminding brethren of the value of perseverance, skill, and moral integrity.

Purpose and Encouragement

The Mark Degree is one of encouragement. It reinforces the idea that every member, regardless of rank or role, has a valuable contribution to make. Through its ritual and allegory, it delivers a positive message of recognition, trust, and the worth of the individual within the Masonic community.

Relationship to Other Degrees

After completing the three degrees of Craft Freemasonry, many brethren seek to make what is called a daily advancement in Masonic knowledge, as urged in the Charge after Initiation. The United Grand Lodge encourages Master Masons to join the Royal Arch as the completion of the third degree but makes no direct suggestion that they take the Mark Degree.

This is an historical anomaly. In many other Masonic jurisdictions, the Mark Degree is considered an essential step before the Royal Arch, and in some, it is a requirement. In England and Wales, however, a Mason may be exalted into the Royal Arch without having taken the Mark. Those who do join as Mark Master Masons often describe it as completing the work of the Fellow Craft.

Rockingham Mark Master Masons

Rockingham Lodge of Mark Master Masons works this degree within the traditions of the Province and in close connection with the wider Masonic family. The lodge provides a setting where members can explore the lessons of the Mark Degree, participate in its distinctive ritual, and enjoy the fellowship that comes with being part of one of Freemasonry’s most meaningful steps.

Its work preserves a degree that is both practical in its message and uplifting in its spirit, encouraging every member to take pride in their contribution and to recognise the value in others.