A wave of excitement is rippling through English Freemasonry, and it’s all thanks to a centuries-old ritual with a modern twist. The Savage Club Royal Arch Chapter, known for its vibrant and engaging approach to Masonic tradition, has reignited interest in the Royal Arch degree with its unique and captivating ritual.
The Savage Club, founded in 1857 as a haven for artists and writers, has long been associated with creativity and innovation. This spirit extends to the associated Masonic chapter, which has adapted the traditional Royal Arch ritual to create a more streamlined and engaging experience.
Yesterday, I attended the chapter which met in Bakers Hall, London, to see what has sparked all the interest! Here is my opinion.
What sets the Savage Club ritual apart?
- Dynamic Storytelling: The ritual seamlessly blends narration and performance, creating a more immersive and theatrical experience for participants. Adventitious Indiana Jones elements of the Royal Arch tale are usually just in your imagination. The Savage Ritual brings them to life.
- Enhanced Participation: By streamlining certain elements, the Savage Club ritual allows for greater involvement from all members, fostering a stronger sense of camaraderie.
This fresh approach has proven incredibly popular, with Chapters across England eager to incorporate elements of the Savage Club ritual into their own ceremonies. Others strongly object to the ritual and are inspired to dedicate themselves more to their own practices. The result is a revitalization of the Royal Arch degree, attracting new members and reinvigorating existing ones.
A Bridge Between Tradition and the Present
The Savage Club Royal Arch ritual exemplifies the adaptability of Masonic traditions. Ironically, the Royal Arch used to be more simple and dramatic in nature and this ceremony has restored it to that form.
Freemasonry is about self-improvement, and I believe it is honoring this ancient wisdom to improve what we are doing on an ongoing basis.
As word of this innovative ritual spreads, it is clear that the Savage Club is playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of English Freemasonry. By demonstrating that tradition and innovation can go hand-in-hand, they are ensuring that the Craft remains relevant and vibrant for centuries to come.