Keith C
Registered User
Let me first state I know very little about the appendant bodies beyond the basics, so this is more of a question that an argument. It is my (limited) understanding there is no such thing as a Sovereign body in Masonry outside of the blue lodge(s). All appendant bodies exist at the permission and the pleasure of Blue Lodge, and are to serve the sames needs. Is this incorrect? I have no disagreement with anything specifically that you wrote.
My understanding is "Sort of."
Except in PA, where the York Rite bodies are under direct control of the GM, Appendant Bodies are indeed independent. However, the GM of the jurisdiction has the authority to allow or prevent MMs under their jurisdiction from joining and attending Appendant Bodies. So, except in PA, the Grand Chapter, Grand Council and Grand Commandry do not need any "approvals" from any Grand Lodge, they can be devoided of membership by decision of the GM.