Temple Degree Initiations

What are Temple Degree Initiations?

• Rosicrucian initiations are rituals designed to mark the milestones of a student’s progress on the mystical path. In these beautiful rituals, mystical laws and principles are demonstrated in a dramatic form in order to both inform and inspire the Rosicrucian student.

• In a dramatic way, the initiation sheds illumination upon certain subjects which otherwise may not be thoroughly understood and appreciated. Further, the mystical aspect of initiation arouses your psychic and emotional response concerning the subjects you are about to study and produces an awareness, a state of consciousness, which otherwise could not be achieved.

Where can I find registration information?

• The Rosicrucian Online Community Events page will generally show the Temple Degree Initiations being conferred.  First select a future date range (e.g., first through the last of the month of interest), then enter "initiation" in the Search box to narrow the results.  

• Register by following the contact instructions in the event posting.  Try to register early as space is limited at most locations.  You will need to bring your membership statement with proof of current degree and paid-through date.  If participating in the Second Temple Degree Initiation or higher, you must also bring the Initiation Card you received during your First Temple Degree Initiation.

What if I missed it this year?

• If you missed the opportunity for an Initiation this year, please continue with your home studies and look for the dates and opportunities to participate in the Initiation next year.  You can participate in Initiations at any point in your studies when you are eligible and have the opportunity.  Some people wait and take them all after they have reached the Twelfth Temple Degree, others try to take them as soon as possible once they reach a particular degree, and others take them as they have the opportunity (both with time and finances) to participate.

Do I have to participate in formal Temple Degree Initiations?

• You are not required to have your Temple Degrees formally conferred in a Lodge or Initiatic Center.  You can simply perform the home initiations in your sanctum.  

• As noted above, however, having the Temple Degrees formally conferred provides an experience on the psychic and emotional levels that cannot be achieved in one's home sanctum.

Who conducts the Ritual?

• The First through Eleventh Temple Degrees are conferred by the Grand Councilor for the Region.

• The Twelfth Temple Degree is conferred only by the Grand Master.