31. Are there differences of rank in Masonry?
As mentioned earlier (question 22), in a Craft
Lodge there are three Degrees of membership: Entered Apprentice, which is the initial and
introductory stage during which the new Freemason is learning about the Craft; Fellow
Craft, which is a more advanced stage of learning, when the member can participate in
certain ways, especially by joining in discussions; and Master Mason, which is the
full-membership stage, whose members can vote and participate fully in all affairs of the
Lodge. The additional or higher degrees of the Scottish and York Rites are honored but
convey no additional authority or privileges within a Craft Lodge.