Introduction to the Washington York Rite Consortium

The Washington York Rite Consortium stands as the unified expression of Capitular, Cryptic, and Chivalric Masonry within the Washington Jurisdiction, Prince Hall Affiliation. Comprised of Terrell D. Hicklin Grand Chapter Holy Royal Arch Masons, Alpha Omega Illustrious Grand Council Royal and Select Masters, W.E.B. Du Bois Grand Commandery Knights Templar, and William Hawkins Priory #13, this Consortium represents the collective strength, heritage, and fellowship of York Rite Masonry in our Jurisdiction.

These three Grand Bodies and Priory are distinct in their rites, teachings, and traditions, yet they are bound together through their ultimate and perpetual allegiance to the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Washington and Jurisdiction, under whose sovereign Masonic authority they exist, operate, and flourish. It is to the Grand Lodge that each Body remains accountable in all matters Masonic, administrative, and fraternal.

Our Constitutional Foundations
Each York Rite Grand Body—Capitular, Cryptic, and Chivalric—derives its authority from the time-honored principles of Masonic governance:

Whereas, every legally constituted Grand Body of the York Rite, duly organized by delegates regularly assembled, possesses the inherent right to adopt a Constitution as the fundamental law guiding its perpetual governance;

Whereas, each Grand Body is empowered to establish such rules, regulations, and structures as are necessary for its proper administration, for the chartering and oversight of its subordinate bodies, and for the preservation of the Ancient Landmarks and traditions of the Craft;

Therefore, united under these enduring principles and under the supreme Masonic authority of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Washington and Jurisdiction, the York Rite Bodies of this state work together to uphold, promote, and advance the noble teachings and purposes of the Holy Royal Arch, Royal and Select Master degrees, and the Orders of Christian Knighthood.

Purpose of the Consortium
The Washington York Rite Consortium exists to

• strengthen cooperation among the three York Rite Grand Bodies,
• promote excellence in ritualistic and administrative proficiency,
• encourage member development and leadership growth,
• expand the visibility and impact of York Rite Masonry across the Jurisdiction, and
• preserve the integrity, dignity, and heritage of our Masonic traditions.

A Unified Commitment
Through this Consortium, Terrell D. Hicklin Grand Chapter, Alpha Omega Illustrious Grand Council, and W. E. B. Du Bois Grand Commandery affirm their unwavering commitment to working together as one united York Rite family. With shared purpose, aligned vision, and faithful allegiance to the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Washington and Jurisdiction, we continue to elevate the Craft, enrich our communities, and honor the noble legacy of Prince Hall Freemasonry.

Washington York Rite Consortium
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