The foundation of all mankind’s peaceful and democratic organizations of is the ‘Rule of Law’.

The Rule of Law is the agreement between every member of an organization (or society) and every other, to conform to the laws of the organization democratically arrived at, through their own participation, direct and indirect, in the law-making process. Through the ‘Supremacy of the Rule of Law’ we are ensured both of protection from tyranny and arbitrariness, as well as of the opportunity to share in our own government and the shaping our own destinies.

Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons subscribe to the principle of the supremacy of the Rule of Law and, in British Columbia and Yukon, the primary source of that law pertaining to the Craft is to be found in the Book of Constitutions and Regulations.

This document contains the Constitution of the Grand Lodge of British Columbia and Yukon, which is the governing body of all Freemasons within the territorial limits of the province of British Columbia and Yukon Territory.

The members of Grand Lodge are all the present and past officers of that body, together with all present and past Worshipful Masters of constituent lodges, and the current Wardens of those lodges. Constituent lodges are those formed by Freemasons throughout the province and territory under the licence and authority of Grand Lodge. The Worshipful Master, Past Masters and Wardens of each constituent lodge are the representatives of their lodges in Grand Lodge.

The operation and conduct of Grand Lodge, of each constituent lodge, and all of their Officers and members, are governed by the provisions of the Book of Constitutions and Regulations, which itself contains Constitutions and Regulations.

It is essential therefore, that every Master Mason is familiar with the Book of Constitutions and Regulations, as it sets out both his rights and responsibilities, and those of the leaders of the Craft.

The Book of Constitutions and Regulations has been amended regularly at annual communications of Grand Lodge, and its layout is currently not as cogent as it might be.

It is anticipated that it will be reorganized, but not substantially changed, in the foreseeable future. Despite this, you are urged to study it to ensure your personal knowledge of both your rights and your responsibilities within the Craft.