How does the Mark Master Mason degree relate to the Fellow Craft degree?
The Mark Master Mason degree is closely related to the Fellow Craft degree as it is often considered an extension or continuation of the teachings and principles introduced in the Fellow Craft degree. The Mark Master Mason degree is recognized as having originally been part of the Fellow Craft degree, symbolizing further advancement in the Masonic journey.
In the context of Masonic symbolism, the Fellow Craft degree emphasizes the importance of service and the development of intellectual faculties, while the Mark Master Mason degree builds upon this foundation by introducing the concept of individual merit and the significance of personal marks in one's work. As noted in *The Hidden Life in Freemasonry*, the Fellow Craft degree represents the candidate's entry into the stream of learning and service, while the Mark Master Mason degree symbolizes the recognition of one's contributions and the unique mark each Mason leaves in their work.
Thus, the progression from Fellow Craft to Mark Master Mason reflects a deeper understanding of Masonic principles and the importance of individual contributions to the collective work of the fraternity.