Who is the highest ranking Freemason?

After a Mason becomes a 3rd degree Master Mason from a recognized Blue Lodge, we are all equal on the Level. There are elected officer’s that manage the affairs of our order, first in the Blue Lodge, then in Districts, and finally in the Grand Lodge. But they are all of equal stature within the order.

You can even go further in the Scottish Rite and can reach the 32nd degree. For the select few who have demonstrated exceptional service and outstanding accomplishments, they may be conferred the honorary recognition and become 33rd degree Masons. However that is only in the Scottish Rite, an appendant body of Freemasonry.

There are also additional degree’s within the York Rite, and you may become a Knights Templar, however you are still on the level with other Masons.

There’s an excellent line from an installation ceremony of one of the Appendant Bodies in Freemasonry – it is stated, “From the ranks you have risen and to the ranks you shall return.” It is a good reminder that some of us may be called to lead from time to time, we must always remember that we are still ‘ON THE LEVEL’ with our brothers.