Ultimate - Antioch Shrine Temple

Shrinersvs. MasonsBecoming a Shriner is not as simple aswalking into a temple, paying dues anddonning a fez. To become a Shriner, aman first must be a Master Mason.Why? Let’s back up.The fraternity of Freemasonry is theoldest, largest and most widely knownfraternity in the world. It is impossibleto Google the exact date Freemasonrybegan, but we do know it dates backhundreds of years to when stonemasonsand other craftsmen gathered after workin shelter houses, or lodges. Over time,the men organized into Masonic guilds,and the tools of their trade – the squareand compass – became the symbol oftheir brotherhood.Time passed, and the need for Masonsdeclined. So, Masonry evolved into anorganization that began to acceptmembers who were not craftsmen.Today, Masonry is built upon a foundationof improving character and strengtheningcommunities, though the square andcompass are still the symbols of thefraternal brotherhood.Just as Shriners have temples,Masonry has a basic organizational unitcalled the Blue Lodge or Craft Lodge.(Groups of Lodges are organized undergoverning bodies known as GrandLodges.) Members of the Lodges arerequired to read up on their fraternityand earn a series of Masonic degrees.Once they have completed the thirdand final degree, members are titledMaster Masons. Of course, for thosemen wishing to delve deeper intoFreemasonry – in essence, continuingtheir Masonic education – there areadditional courses of study, known asthe Scottish Rite and York Rite.Once a Mason earns the Master Masontitle, he can join the Shriners fraternity. Inshort, all Shriners are Masons... but notall Masons are Shriners.45