What is Red Cross of Constantine?
The Red Cross of Constantine is a distinguished Christian fraternal order within Freemasonry, officially known as the Masonic and Military Order of the Red Cross of Constantine and the Appendant Orders of the Holy Sepulchre and of St John the Evangelist. It is regarded as one of the highest honors within York Rite Masonry, characterized by its chivalric and Christian nature.
Historically, the Order is based on the legend of Constantine the Great, who, prior to the Battle of Saxa Rubra in 312 A.D., received a vision of a cross in the heavens, which led to his conversion to Christianity. Membership requires candidates to be members of Craft Freemasonry and Royal Arch Freemasonry, professing belief in the Christian doctrine of the Holy Trinity.
The Order consists of three degrees: Knight of the Red Cross of Constantine, Knight of the Holy Sepulchre, and Knight of St John the Evangelist. Its purpose is to commemorate the elevation of Christianity, cultivate social virtues, and foster good fellowship among all branches of Masonry. The governing body for the United States is the United Grand Imperial Council of Knights of the Red Cross of Constantine and Appendant Orders for the United States of America and Its Jurisdiction.
With an international presence in nearly 50 nations, the Red Cross of Constantine is an invitational organization that emphasizes dedication and performance in Masonic activities, making it a prestigious part of Freemasonry worldwide.