The Order of the Red Cross of Constantine is a Christian Masonic Order that draws inspiration from the story of the Roman Emperor Constantine the Great and his vision of the cross before the Battle of the Milvian Bridge. Rooted in the values of faith, loyalty, and spiritual knighthood, the Order is open only to Master Masons who profess the Trinitarian Christian faith and who are also Companions of the Holy Royal Arch. The Order blends chivalric tradition with deep Christian symbolism and is known for its solemn ceremonies, spiritual emphasis, and the close fraternal ties it fosters among its members.
There are five ceremonies embodied in this Christian Order, and the whole form a complete ritual. These are made up of three individual rituals of admission into this Masonic and Military Order: The Red Cross of Constantine, in a Conclave – The Order of The Holy Sepulchre, in a Sanctuary – The Order of St John the Evangelist, in a Commandery. Two additional degrees comprise entrance to the two major positions in the Conclave, which are the consecration into the Chair of Viceroy and enthronement into the Chair of Sovereign.
- The Red Cross of Constantine
The first ceremony consists of the candidate’s admission, obligation and installation as a Knight-Companion of the Red Cross of Constantine, in which the historical basis of the Order is detailed.
- The Knight of the Holy Sepulchre and St. john the Evangelist
In the ceremonies of the Knights of the Holy Sepulchre and of St. John the Evangelist, this knowledge is further explained, and the ultimate aims of Freemasonry are revealed. These latter ceremonies, together with the two Installation ceremonies which lead to the principal chairs, are probably the most impressive ceremonies in Freemasonry.
Qualification for membership of this Order is that one must be a Royal Arch Companion and profess a belief in the Trinitarian Christian Faith. An invitation to join is not required. If you would like further information on the Order, or details of how to join (given the above qualifications) – please email: The Divisional Recorder – we very much look forward to hearing from you.