Entry Rules
Entry Rules
AVDA is set to celebrate excellence in writing, research, and innovation related to Freemasonry and its principles. The awards welcome contributions from diverse perspectives, encouraging Masonic authors and scholars to participate in this distinguished award.
Eligible submissions are invited in the following three categories:
1- Category One: Masonic History Book: Works exploring the history of Freemasonry and its evolution, from its origins to contemporary practice.
2- Category Two: Masonic Philosophy and Symbolism Book: Works examining the meanings and significance of Masonic symbols, teachings, and practices.
3- Category Three: White Papers—as they might cover the historical development of Freemasonry, analytical studies of Masonic philosophy and symbolism, practical guidance on rituals, traditions, and instruction, or original research spanning social and cultural inquiry through to scientific and technological innovations relevant to the Craft.
The deadline for submissions is June 30, 2026, and the announcement of winners will take place during the Masonic Awards ceremony scheduled for November 2026 in Edinburgh.
SECTION 1: Book Submission
Categories
We invite authors and publishers to submit their books for consideration in the following categories:
A- Masonic History: Books that explore the history of Freemasonry and its evolution over time, from its origins to its current practices.
B- Masonic Philosophy and Symbolism: Books that delve into the deeper meanings and significance of Masonic symbols, teachings, and practices.
Submission Guidelines:
Eligibility: Books published must be related to Freemasonry and its principles and fall within one of the above-stated categories.
The closing date for entries is June 30, 2026.
Book Submission Form must be filled here.
For a complete submission, the following supportive materials must be provided:
1- A physical copy of the book is to be sent to: the Grand Secretary's desk, Brother William M.S. Semple, Freemasons' Hall, 96 George Street, Edinburgh, Scotland, EH2 3DH
2- A digital copy of the book in PDF format.
3- A picture of your book cover (in High definition)
4- A summary of the book's contents.
5- A five-line Masonic author biography
6- A high-resolution portrait photograph suitable for publication
Only completed submissions will be considered.
By submitting your work, you are allowing AVDA to use the provided materials for promotional purposes.
AVDA reserves the right to alter the rules or prize(s) at any time without prior notice.
We encourage all interested authors and publishers to submit their works for consideration.
We wish you the best of luck and look forward to reading your submissions that help deepen our understanding of Freemasonry and its principles.
SECTION 2: White Paper Submission
White papers may cover the historical development of Freemasonry, analytical studies of Masonic philosophy and symbolism, practical guidance on rituals, traditions, and instruction, or original research spanning social and cultural inquiry through to scientific and technological innovations relevant to the Craft.
Submission Guidelines
Eligibility: White papers should be related to Freemasonry and its principles. There are no restrictions on the publication date of the white papers.
The closing date for entries is June 30, 2026.
The paper Submission Form must be filled here
For a complete submission, the following supportive materials must be provided:
1- All submissions must be the author’s original work, written in English, and must include a list of references appended to the paper.
2- Papers should be submitted in Word (.doc/.docx) or PDF (.pdf) format, using a font size no larger than 11 points, and must be at least 2,000 words in length
3- If any AI writing assistance is used (including ChatGPT, Gemini, or similar tools), this must be clearly disclosed; excessive reliance on AI may result in the submission being deemed unacceptable or ineligible at the judges’ discretion.
3- A five-line Masonic author biography
6- A high-resolution portrait photograph suitable for publication
Introduction: The paper should begin with an introduction—a summary of its aim, subject, context, and purpose, no more than two paragraphs in length.
Only completed submissions will be considered.
By submitting your work, you are allowing AVDA to use the provided materials for promotional purposes.
AVDA reserves the right to alter the rules or prize(s) at any time without prior notice.
Copyright
All materials submitted to Arcana Veritas must be free from any copyright issues and have obtained proper permission from the author or publisher to be used. If there are any doubts about copyright, the Arcana Veritas judging panel should be informed.
Any Reference to a publication must be clearly mentioned and footnoted.
By ensuring that all materials are properly cleared for copyright, we can contribute to the advancement of Masonic knowledge throughout Lodges on a global level.
Submission Deadlines
The Book Submission deadline is set for June 30. 2026. Late submissions will not be accepted.
The White Papers Submission deadline is set for June 30, 2026. Late submissions will not be accepted.
For further information, please contact us at the following email address:
avda@grandlodgescotland.org or scribe@magnusgeometra.com
Arcana Veritas Distinction Awards