Who We Are
Much like our Grand Lodge is the overarching and governing body of our local Lodges in Illinois, the Grand Chapter is the central authority in the State of Illinois. It was instituted on April 10th, 1850 at a special communication of the Grand Lodge in Springfield. Today, there are forty six Chapters in Illinois, from as small as twelve members to as large as over 200. New Chapters have been formed, with specific missions such as Capitular education or fellowship or to charter where especially active Lodges are located and brethren seek additional Light in the Craft.
There is no “central” location for the Grand Chapter in Illinois, rather the main office tends to be where the Grand Secretary works out of. The state is divided into 13 distinct districts, each with two to five Chapters overseen by a District Deputy Grand High Priest, the direct and local representative of the Grand High Priest, who presides over the Grand Chapter.
The Grand Chapter meets annually at their Grand Convocation, commonly at the end of July. There, the business of the Grand Chapter is transacted, committees produce reports, the officers of the next Capitular Year are elected and installed, and the day is generally filled with events centering around fellowship, leadership, education, and other opportunities.
Our Mission
It is the goal of the Grand Royal Arch Chapter of Illinois, working through its subordinate chapters, to consistently and responsively enhance those lessons taught in the Symbolic or Craft Lodge. This is done by developing and promoting programs that
- preserves the traditions, history, and unique aspects of our fraternity,
- secures, protects, and promotes our rituals and ceremonies,
- builds and strengthens the character of our membership,
- fosters fellowship and fraternal relations,
- provides opportunities for increased leadership skills, and
- allows our lodges and chapters to make a difference in our communities.