Freemasonry is practiced under many independent Grand Lodges with standards similar to those set by the United Grand Lodge of England. There are some Grand Lodges and other apparently masonic bodies which do not meet these standards, e.g. which do not require a belief in a Supreme Being, or which allow or encourage their members to participate in political matters. These Grand Lodges and bodies are not recognised by the United Grand Lodge of England as being masonically regular, and masonic contact with them is forbidden. It is also worth noting that in addition to “Craft” masonry and the “Supreme Order of the Holy Royal Arch”, there are a number of other “Progressive Order” (for example “Mark Masonry”, “Royal Ark Mariners”, “Royal and Select Masters”, and the “Ancient and Accepted Rite” to name but a few) that Master Masons can join if they wish. Most of these are administered from Mark Masons Hall, excluding the Ancient and Accepted Rite which is administered by the Supreme Council.
