Grand Council of Royal and Select Masters of Maryland

Most Illustrious, G. Andrew Martinez
Most Illustrious Grand Master, 2026 – 2028

Companions,
On behalf of the Grand Council of Royal and Select Masters of Maryland, welcome to the
Cryptic arm of York Rite Freemasonry! I am here to humbly serve you and will do my utmost to
make the year ahead meaningful and memorable (and fun!)

There are three Cryptic Degrees offered to the Royal Arch Companions:
 The Royal Master Degree
 The Select Master Degree
 The Super Excellent Master Degree

The first two degrees, the Royal Master and Select Master degrees, take place during the
building of King Solomon’s Temple and are very much the backstory of the Blue Lodge degrees. 
The third degree, the Super Excellent Master degree, is only offered every few years (due to its
large cast) and is the backstory of the Royal Arch degree. (There is also a fourth degree, the
Thrice Illustrious Master Degree, that is very deep and moving for those who have exemplified
to become the head of a Council as a Thrice Illustrious Master.)

This upcoming year will focus on education and charity while promoting a quality experience
for our Companions. Membership and ritual proficiency will also be addressed as part of that
quality experience. Our Grand Council and I are here to serve!

Thank you all for entrusting me to lead our Grand Council of Royal & Select Masters of
Maryland for the upcoming Cryptic Year. It is truly an honor I never expected, and I am truly
humbled by your faith in me.

Travel Bright, My Companions, and Be the Light the World Needs!

Sincerely & Fraternally,

G. Andrew Martinez

Most Illustrious Grand Master 2026 – 2028