The Mark Master Degree is believed to have originated as a ceremony of registering an individual mark which distinguished the accomplished skill of a master craftsman from that on operative apprentice. Some scholars suggest it may be one of the earliest forms of an operative ritual, which has since developed into the rite of Masonic degrees. In the York Rite (though it wasn’t always this way), the Mark Master is the first of the Capitular degrees.
The candidate for the Mark Master Degree represents a humble laborer in the quarries of King Solomon’s Temple, who is instructed to present his work in payment of a craftsman's wage. The work presented is first determined of little value and discarded as unfit, but later discovered crucial to the building yet not made by his hand.
The Mark Master Degree expands on the lessons of charity first introduced in the Entered Apprentice Degree, and historically serves as a continuation of the Second (Fellowcraft) degree wherein the Candidate is taught what a workman's wages are and how to receive them. It teaches that a man can be often misunderstood and under-valued, but always to remain true to his heart and be ever willing to stand up for what he knows to be right, even if that position is unpopular; discharge his several duties punctually and with precision; but never claim the work of another as his own.
Disorder and Restraint
The format of the Past Master Degree is designed to offer a brief, but usually humbling experience, of the knowledge, skill, and wisdom necessary to effectively preside over a Chapter of Royal Arch Masons. While a certain level of commotion in the Temple is intended to interrupt the appropriate and harmonious proceedings of the Chapter, the actual Presiding High Priest must take care to ensure the lesson does not reach too great a level of disorder.
Grand Lodge Alternative
There will be many occasion when Brethren will seek out Capitular Masonry for the singular purpose of acquiring the Past Master Degree in satisfaction of qualifying requirements to ascend to the East in a Symbolic Lodge. There are two primary schools of thought to address this issue. First, is the belief that an introduction to Royal Arch Masonry, through the Mark Master and Past Master degrees, will inspire Candidates to complete their Masonic journey and become actively involved as Royal Arch Masons. The second consideration involves redirecting those Candidates, only seeking to accomplish the singular criteria, to the Grand Lodge where they may receive a virtual Past Master Degree in satisfaction of the qualifying requirement.
While it certainly remains the prerogative of the High Priest to accept a petition for the Capitular Degrees, it is strongly urged every consideration first be given to protecting the integrity and strengthening the value of Royal Arch Masonry in the best interest of all Companions.
From GGCRAMI (General Grand Chapter Royal Arch Masons International) Archives
