What is the significance of the Fellow Craft degree in Freemasonry?
The Fellow Craft degree is the second degree of Craft Masonry, following the Entered Apprentice degree. It represents a significant progression in a Mason's journey of moral and spiritual development. As noted in the Masonic Monitor by George Thornburgh, this degree emphasizes the importance of education, reason, and the pursuit of truth, encouraging Masons to "apply themselves to the study of the liberal arts and sciences" .
Furthermore, the Fellow Craft degree symbolizes the struggles of a candidate as they labor to attain knowledge and understanding. It is a journey from ignorance to knowledge, where the candidate is taught to seek moral and intellectual truth, ultimately striving for a deeper comprehension of divine truth . This degree is not just about personal growth; it also emphasizes the betterment of society through the application of learned principles.