15th Masonic Districts
Most Worshipful Grand Lodge A.F. & A.M. of Massachusetts
Masonic Calendar


Ancient Craft Masons commence their era with the creation of the world, calling it Anno Lucius (A.L.), “in the year of light”.

Scottish Rite, same as Ancient Craft, except the Jewish chronology is used, Anno Mundi (A.M.), “in the year of the world.

Royal Arch Masons date from the year the second temple was commenced by Zerubbabel, Anno Inventionis (A.I.), “in the year of the discovery.”

Royal and Select Masters date from the year in whcih the temple of Solomon was completed, Anno Depositionis (A.Dep.), “in the year of the deposit.”

Knights Templars commence their era with the organization of their Order, Anno Ordinus (A.O.), “in the year of the Order.”

Order of High Priesthood dates from the year of the blessing of Abraham by the Hight Priest Melchizedek, Anno Benefacto (A.B.), “in the year of the blessing.”

 

Rules for Masonic Dates
Ancient Craft Masons
Add 4000 years to the common era. Therefore 1979 derives to 5979.

Scottish Rite
Add 3760 years to the common era. Therefore 1979 derives to 5739.

Royal Arch
Add 530 years to the vulgar era. Therefore 1979 derives to 2509.

Royal and Select Master
Add 1000 years to the common era. Therefore 1979 derives to 2979

Knights Templars
From the Christian era take 1118 years. Therefore 1979 derives to 861

Order of High Priesthood
Add 1913 years to the Christian era, the Year of Blessing. Therefore 1979 derives to 3892.