Associated Bodies
St. Paul's Mark Lodge 131 E.R.
Short version of our History and contact
St. Paul’s Mark Master Mason Lodge No. 131 forms an important part of Montreal’s long-standing fraternal tradition and is closely connected with St. Paul’s Lodge No. 374. Through the Mark degree, the Lodge has provided generations of members with an opportunity to explore themes of responsibility, integrity, and the value of skilled work—principles that remain relevant in every era.
Origins of the Mark Degree
Mark Master Masonry has its roots in early operative stonemasonry, where individual craftsmen identified their work with a personal mark. Over time, this practical custom evolved into a symbolic system within Freemasonry, emphasizing accountability, craftsmanship, and the recognition of honest labour.
In England, the Mark degree developed as a distinct and organized Masonic body during the nineteenth century, eventually coming under the authority of the Grand Lodge of Mark Master Masons of England and Wales, with lodges established across the British Empire.
Formation in Montreal
St. Paul’s Mark Master Mason Lodge No. 131 was constituted under English authority to serve members of St. Paul’s Lodge and other qualified Freemasons in Montreal who wished to pursue this additional stage of Masonic learning. The Warrant was granted in April 1871 by the Grand Lodge of Mark Master Masons of England, Wales and its Districts and Lodges Overseas. The Lodge was actively opened and began its regular work on January 17, 1884.
Its formation reflected both the growth of Freemasonry in the city and the desire of its members to engage more deeply with Masonic symbolism and tradition.
From its earliest meetings, the Lodge brought together individuals from varied backgrounds, united by shared values rather than profession or social standing. The Mark Lodge quickly became a respected and stable presence within Montreal’s fraternal community.
Close Ties with St. Paul’s Lodge No. 374 E.R.
Throughout its history, St. Paul’s Mark Master Mason Lodge has maintained a close relationship with St. Paul’s Lodge No. 374. Many members belonged to both bodies, creating continuity in leadership, fellowship, and tradition. This close association helped ensure the Lodge’s long-term stability and reinforced its role within the broader St. Paul’s Masonic family.
Continuity and Tradition
Like its sister bodies, St. Paul’s Mark Master Mason Lodge No. 131 has experienced changes in meeting places, membership, and the surrounding social environment. Despite these changes, it has remained active and faithful to its founding principles.
Its continued operation under the English Register has preserved long-standing traditions while allowing the Lodge to adapt to the expectations of modern members.
A Living Institution
Today, St. Paul’s Mark Master Mason Lodge No. 131 continues to meet and welcome new members. While firmly grounded in historical tradition, it remains a living organization—one that values personal responsibility, respect for honest effort, and the bonds of friendship formed through shared experience.
The history of St. Paul’s Mark Master Mason Lodge No. 131 is not merely a record of the past. It is an ongoing story, shaped by each generation that contributes its own labour to the enduring structure built by those who came before.
St. Paul's Royal Arch Chapter 374 E.R.
Short version of our History and contact
St. Paul’s Royal Arch Chapter No. 374 forms an important part of Montreal’s long fraternal tradition and is closely associated with St. Paul’s Lodge No. 374. Established in Montreal in 1827, the Chapter reflects the continued development of Freemasonry in Canada and the desire of its members to explore its teachings in greater depth.
Origins and Establishment:
St. Paul’s Royal Arch Chapter was constituted under the authority of the Supreme Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of England. At the time, Royal Arch Masonry represented a natural continuation of Masonic involvement for members who wished to deepen their understanding of the Craft’s values, symbolism, and moral philosophy.
The Chapter was formed during a period of steady growth in Montreal, when fraternal organizations played an important role in social life, charitable activity, and community cohesion. From its earliest days, St. Paul’s Royal Arch Chapter served as a
gathering place for members seeking fellowship, reflection, and personal development.
Relationship with St. Paul’s Lodge No. 374 E.R.:
The history of the Chapter is closely intertwined with that of St. Paul’s Lodge No. 374. Many of the Lodge’s members went on to participate in the Royal Arch Chapter, strengthening the bond between the two bodies. This close relationship ensured continuity in leadership, shared values, and a common sense of purpose.
Together, the Lodge and Chapter helped shape Montreal’s early Masonic landscape, providing stable institutions during periods of significant social and political change.
Continuity Through Change:
Like its parent Lodge, St. Paul’s Royal Arch Chapter has endured periods of transition, including changes in meeting places, membership, and the broader civic environment. Despite these shifts, the Chapter has remained active and committed to its founding principles.
Its continued operation under English authority has preserved long-standing traditions while allowing the Chapter to adapt to the needs and expectations of successive generations.
Community and Fellowship:
Throughout its history, the Chapter has brought together individuals from diverse professional and personal backgrounds. While its members have included respected figures in Montreal’s public and commercial life, the Chapter’s
lasting strength lies in its culture of mutual support, respect, and shared responsibility.
The Royal Arch experience has long been valued for fostering reflection, ethical awareness, and strong fraternal bonds among its members.
An Enduring Presence:
Today, St. Paul’s Royal Arch Chapter No. 374 remains an active and welcoming body, committed to preserving its heritage while looking confidently toward the future. It continues to serve as a space for fellowship, learning, and service, contributing quietly but meaningfully to Montreal’s fraternal life.
The history of St. Paul’s Royal Arch Chapter is not simply a record of dates and events, but a story of continuity, dedication, and shared values—carried forward by each generation of its members.