About the Mark Degree

There are several paths open to the Master Mason who wishes to pursue his knowledge of Freemasonry beyond the Craft. The Mark Degree provides one of these and is one of the oldest of these ‘side degrees’, incorporating some of the themes found in the Craft before the 18th Century and which, in England, faded from it.  

Its origins are uncertain but it was certainly being worked in England in the 18th Century, and is now worked all over the world, though not always in the same institutional framework, and in Belgium the Mark Lodges come under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Mark Master Masons of England and Wales and its Districts and Lodges Overseas.  This in itself confers a particularly English flavour on an already rich variety of Masonic workings on offer in Belgium, and provides yet another view of Freemasonry to those seeking to advance their Masonic experience.  Its appeal lies in the fact that some aspects of the Craft become clearer in the Mark, which is not only a true craftsman’s degree but also dramatically conveys essential lessons about life. It is also known as a major contributor to a number of important charities.

The ceremony of ‘Advancement’ to the degree of Mark Master Mason is a compelling one with the Candidate playing an active role in the proceedings designed to teach him the value of remaining true to himself in overcoming the disappointments and unfairness of life confident in the knowledge that right will eventually prevail.  The ritual, which is meant to be delivered entirely by heart, requires great commitment on the part of the Officers of the Lodge, and this makes for a cohesive working team aiming to convey to the Candidate the message of the degree with clarity and sincerity.

Mark District of Belgium