Duties and Responsibilities of
Lodge Officers and
Committee Chairmen
The Grand Lodge of Massachusetts A.F. & A.M.
December, 2006 (VER. 4.20)
Second printing, April, 2008 (VER. 4.21)
Third printing, September, 2010 (VER. 5.00)
Published by The Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, A.F. & A.M. 186 Tremont Street Boston, Massachusetts, 02111 Cover design by Bro. William A. Barrell, III
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Dedicated in memory of
M.W. Fred Kirby Bauer, P.G.M. 1936-2006 Grand Master of Massachusetts 1999, 2000, 2001
A faithful overseer of the Craft. A man who valued good leadership, saw a quality in every man, and challenged everyone to seek their potential.
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THE MOST WORSHIPFUL GRAND LODGE OF ANCIENT FREE AND ACCEPTED MASONS OF THE
COMMONW EALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS EDUCATION COMMITTEE
September, 2010 Dear Brother: Congratulations on being appointed an officer or committee chairman of your lodge. We hope you will find your experience as a Masonic Lodge officer to be a very fulfilling, exciting and rewarding one. As you can probably imagine, there are many different responsibilities and duties associated with each office and committee. Each position, especially as a line officer, is important to the smooth operation and success of the lodge. Each officer should develop a “passion” to succeed and make that passion contagious within his lodge. The impression we as Masons make on our candidates is also very important as this in many instances determines the future level of participation of the candidate in the lodge. Part of that impression comes from the amount of knowledge the officers have about Masonry in general, and part from how well an officer performs the duties of his office. Information in this guide has been compiled from many lodges and sources and adapted for our use where necessary. Your own lodge’s individual procedures and policies may differ and should be reviewed and updated if necessary to conform with your customs and traditions. This guide has been developed as a tool to assist you and help you better understand what will be expected of you as a committee chairman or as an officer as you progress through the various line positions to eventually become the Master of your lodge. Many of the lessons and experiences of being Master or a leader of a Masonic Lodge will be directly applicable to other bodies and organizations and will make you a better leader, a better manager, and a better person overall. Thank you for your service to your lodge and again, we wish you much success and enjoyment in your tenure as an officer of your lodge. R.W. Stephen C. Cohn Editor
Grand Lodge Education Committee, 2010 M.W. Roger W. Pageau, Grand Master R.W. George Bibilos, Chairman Bro. Alfredo Canhoto Wor. Elliot Chikofsky R.W. Stephen C. Cohn R.W. Paul F. Gleason R.W. Russell Lowe R.W. James K. Ray R.W. Mason W. Russell
Originally compiled and edited in 1994 By Garden City Lodge, A.F. & A.M. Newtonville, Massachusetts
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DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF
LODGE OFFICERS AND
COMMITTEE CHAIRMEN Table of Contents I.
Introduction .................................................................. iv
1. Lodge Officers and Committee Chairmen Preface..................................................................................... 1 2. Overview .................................................................................. 2 Introduction ............................................................................ 2 Objective ................................................................................. 2 Continuation in line................................................................ 2 Relationship of Officers .......................................................... 3 3. General Considerations for all officers .................................... 4 Required .................................................................................. 4 Requested ................................................................................ 4 Lodge of Instruction ............................................................... 4 Rehearsals ............................................................................... 4 Exemplification ....................................................................... 5 Step-up .................................................................................... 5 Double Step-up ....................................................................... 5 By-laws .................................................................................... 5 Grand Constitutions and Regulations..................................... 5 Conduct .................................................................................. 5 Dress ....................................................................................... 6 Application meetings .............................................................. 7 Masonic Trestle-Board ............................................................ 7 Masonic Titles ......................................................................... 8 Addressing the Lodge.............................................................. 8 Traveling with the District Deputy Grand Master .................. 8 Grand Master’s Award............................................................. 9 4. Worshipful Master ................................................................. 10 Overview ............................................................................... 10 Specific Duties....................................................................... 10 5. Senior Warden ....................................................................... 13 Overview ............................................................................... 13 Specific Duties....................................................................... 13 6. Junior Warden ....................................................................... 15 Overview ............................................................................... 15 Specific Duties....................................................................... 15 7. Senior Deacon ........................................................................ 18 Overview ............................................................................... 18
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Specific Duties....................................................................... 19 8. Junior Deacon ........................................................................ 21 Overview ............................................................................... 21 Specific Duties....................................................................... 22 9. Senior Steward ....................................................................... 24 Overview ............................................................................... 24 Specific Duties....................................................................... 25 10. Junior Steward ..................................................................... 28 Overview ............................................................................... 28 Specific Duties....................................................................... 29 11. Inside Sentinel...................................................................... 30 Overview ............................................................................... 30 Specific Duties....................................................................... 31 12. Treasurer .............................................................................. 32 13. Secretary............................................................................... 33 14. Electrician ............................................................................ 34 Overview ............................................................................... 34 Specific Duties....................................................................... 34 15. Tyler ..................................................................................... 35 Overview ............................................................................... 35 Specific Duties....................................................................... 35 16. Marshal ................................................................................ 35 Overview ............................................................................... 35 Specific Duties....................................................................... 35 17. Associate Steward(s) ............................................................ 36 18. Chaplain(s) .......................................................................... 36 19. Proxy .................................................................................... 37 20. Duties of Committee Chairman ........................................... 38 Ambassador ........................................................................... 38 Blood/CPR ............................................................................. 38 D.A.R.E. ................................................................................ 38 DeMolay ................................................................................ 38 Education .............................................................................. 38 Entertainment ....................................................................... 38 Finance ................................................................................. 38 Funeral .................................................................................. 38 Masonic Awareness ............................................................... 38 Membership .......................................................................... 39 Mentoring ............................................................................. 39 Nominating ........................................................................... 39 Service ................................................................................... 39 Trowel Magazine ................................................................... 39 21. Additional Appointed Positions ........................................... 39 Ambassador ........................................................................... 40 Chief Instructor .................................................................... 40 Mentor .................................................................................. 40
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II.
Regalia Regalia, lia, Lodge Station Identification, Identification, and Ancient Charges Regalia Emblems .................................................................. 41 Station Locations .................................................................. 42 Grand Lodge Stations ........................................................... 43 Ancient Charges of a Master ................................................ 44
III.
Master’s Path Workshop Materials
The Business of Freemasonry .................................................... 45 Developing a 12-Month Calendar .............................................. 50 Fellowship Night ....................................................................... 53 Setting the Craft to Work........................................................... 54 Job Requirements of the Master ............................................ 54 Building Your Officer and Leadership Team......................... 55 Committee Organization and Selection Worksheet ................... 56 Committee Suggestions.............................................................. 57 Utilizing Past Masters ................................................................ 58 Member Awards Planning .......................................................... 59 Joseph Warren Distinguished Service Medal ............................. 60 J.W. Medal, Sample Letter of Recommendation ........................ 61 Your Meeting ............................................................................. 62 The Meeting -- One or More Candidates .............................. 62 The Meeting — No Candidates .............................................. 63 The Success of Proper Planning, S.C. Cohn .............................. 65 The Passion For Masonry, S.C. Cohn ........................................ 67 How Public Relations Can Help Grow Your Lodge, D. Duncan .......... 71 Public Speaking: When You’re Dying on the Platform, P. Gleason .......79 Recommended Books for Additional Reading ........................... 82 IV.
Short Talk Bulletins from the Masonic Service Association
The Challenges of Past Masters, S.M. Pollard ............................ 83 Dare to be Different, J. S. Levitan............................................... 87 Diligent Inquiry ......................................................................... 93 Ego, S.M. Pollard ....................................................................... 97 Five Masonic Thoughts, W.A. Carpenter ................................ 101 And Give Them Proper Instruction, A. Cerza.......................... 105 The Investigating Committee, Z. Eaton ................................... 109 The Investigating Committee, G.L. of D.C. ............................. 113 Leadership is Expected and Respected .................................... 117 Masonic Etiquette, J.K. Nicholson ........................................... 121 Masonic Leadership, It’s Time to Set the Pace, J.R. Graham.... 127 My Lodge Needs Me! R.C. Hyland........................................... 133 For Newly Raised Brethren, R.H. Starr .................................... 137 The Recommender, L.C. Jensen ............................................... 141 Selecting a Line Officer, C.S. Anthony..................................... 145
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Sponsors of Candidates; Their Duties, Guidelines, and Recommendations, H.J. Noble ................................................. 149 Standard of Masonic Conduct, G.L. of MN ............................. 153 Short Talk Bulletin Information ............................................... 158
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DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF
LODGE OFFICERS AND
COMMITTEE CHAIRMEN
PREFACE It is true these guidelines are the result of years of experience but times and circumstances change. These guidelines can be changed as the need arises. Suggestions are always welcomed and will be seriously considered. It is best if they are submitted in writing. It is most important all officers understand what the Lodge and Masonry are trying to achieve. If you have any questions you can talk to any of the officers higher in line including the Master or a Past Master for information.
Freemasonry is a system of morality, veiled in allegory, and illustrated by symbols. These are the surest ways by which the moral and ethical truths may be taught. The purpose of Freemasonry is likened to a journey on the paths of charitable, benevolent, educational and spiritual growth. Effective ritual fosters that journey, and is the thread which binds us to those who immediately preceded us, as their ritual bound them to their fathers and grandfathers. We should always keep in mind our direction and not be distracted by petty quarrels, but maintaining the proper course to better serve our Lodge, our families, our communities and ourselves.
It is extremely important that there be a spirit of cooperation between all of the officers. But remember, the Master makes the ultimate decision and has total responsibility. It is hoped that this will be a valuable reference tool for you and that you may find it an indispensable part of your Masonic library. However, we caution you not to leave it on the shelf to collect dust. Otherwise our labors and efforts will have been in vain and you will not learn what is expected of you.
These guidelines are intended to be a comprehensive set of what are generally accepted as regulations or rules for the various stations, and to serve as a guide as to what should result in the best functioning of the lodge. It should make for the most effective presentation of our ritual thereby better educating our candidates and brethren.
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OVERVIEW progression are: Inside Sentinel, Junior Steward, Senior Steward, Junior Deacon, Senior Deacon, Junior Warden, Senior Warden and Master. In a normal progression, this would take eight years to complete. In addition, with most lodges the outgoing Master traditionally fills the position of Marshal for the following year. This is to provide an officer who is familiar with both ritual and floor work, thus a total of a nine-year commitment.
INTRODUCTION The purpose of this guide is to clearly specify the duties of a Masonic Lodge officer. First, duties in general for all officers and secondly, the specific duties and responsibilities for each officer. The Installation ritual also lists specific duties, particularly for the Master. The Constitutions and Regulations of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts also have requirements relative to the duties of each officer, particularly for the Master and Wardens. All officers should read and become familiar with the Grand Constitutions and Regulations and should also be familiar with the By-laws of their lodge.
Although it is normally expected that any member appointed in line will progress up through the line to Master and then serve a year as not Marshal, advancement is automatic. One must demonstrate a certain level of proficiency in the current office in order to be considered for advancement to the succeeding office. This includes not only proficiency in the ritual, but attendance at district meetings as required, including LOI's and Exemplification, as well as the performance in the duties and responsibilities of his current office as outlined herein. In most lodges all line officers up to and including Senior Deacon are appointed annually by the Master and serve at his will and pleasure. In some lodges though, the Senior Deacon is also an elected officer. There are no permanent line positions in a Masonic Lodge. The Wardens are elected and it is assumed they will progress normally to the office of Master and then to Marshal if that is the local lodge tradition.
OBJECTIVE This guide is written for the purpose of helping to develop and maintain a long tradition in your lodge of excellence in the functioning of its officers, particularly the line officers who move through the various offices over a period of years. It is the desire of the lodge to continue to maintain this tradition. The objective is to define the duties so that ALL officers will be able to clearly understand the importance of each officer's performance and how it is vital to maintaining this tradition.
It is fully recognized that we are, by any definition, a “volunteer organization” and with it come the other demands and responsibilities that require our attention. Those being the
CONTINUATION IN LINE The line officers in order of 2
and for cleanup. All officers from Senior Deacon down should help the Junior Warden during the meal and during cleanup. See specific duties for each officer. The Electrician, Tyler, Organist, Chaplain and Marshal are responsible to the Master.
demands of our families and employers which should take precedence over participation in lodge affairs. But it is desired that once an officer makes a commitment to the lodge, it will be kept to the best of his ability for the duration of his term, whether it be for the year or up to and including Master. Given that participation in lodge is supposed to be “recreation,” it is also desirable that, if married, the officer has the support of his wife and family. This makes for better relations in both the family and the lodge.
In matters of ritual and floor work, all officers should pay strict attention to the ritualist or ritualists who are responsible only to the Master who appoints them. The Treasurer and Secretary are also elected officers of the lodge, but are governed by the Constitutions and Regulations of Grand Lodge and the By-laws of the respective lodge.
If at any time an officer finds he cannot continue the commitment for the time being, he should discuss the matter with the Master. It is preferable to resolve the matter as soon as possible, even if it means dropping out of line temporarily. This would mean that he could be considered in the future if or when he is able to make the commitment. Being forced out could prejudice future involvement when circumstances change.
Committee Chairmen, although not officers of the lodge, are expected to perform their duties with diligence and enthusiasm. Their work is very important to the overall effectiveness of the lodge. Trustees should also perform their duties with care and diligence in order to keep the lodge as fiscally healthy as possible. Our fraternity is based on certain standards. By adhering to these simple rules our organization will flourish. If shortcuts are taken and rules ignored, then in time, our generation will be responsible for the downfall of Masonry from the position it occupies today.
RELATIONSHIP OF OFFICERS All officers are responsible to the Master as the top officer of the lodge. However, the Senior Deacon has the responsibility for the junior officers of the line. Also, the Junior and Senior Stewards work under the direction of the Junior Warden during meal times
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GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR ALL OFFICERS Funerals and Visiting Hours for all members.
ATTENDANCE
Visits to our sick brethren, as requested by the Master, Wardens or Service Committee Chairman.
REQUIRED The following events REQUIRE the attendance of all officers, except as noted. It is understood that there will be times when an officer cannot attend one of the required events. It is simple courtesy to inform the Master in advance, or secondarily as in the case of the junior officers, the Senior Deacon, if one of these events will be missed. In cases where degree work in involved, this notice should be AT LEAST three full days in advance if at all possible in order to provide for substitutes.
When an officer becomes aware of the sickness or illness of a brother or a member of his family, he should report it to the lodge Secretary or Master and to the Service Committee Chairman. He should also plan to visit said brother.
LODGE OF INSTRUCTION
Exemplification of degree work, once yearly.
Published monthly in the lodge notice is a directive that all officers are required to attend the monthly Lodge of Instruction. This is a regulation set by Grand Lodge. It is part of the duties assigned to, and accepted by, each lodge officer. It is the responsibility of each officer to contact the Master personally in advance to give the reason why they will miss a Lodge of Instruction. If it is a last minute emergency, common courtesy dictates the Master be contacted as soon as possible for that purpose. If the Master is not available, the Secretary should then be notified. The telephone numbers for both appear in the monthly lodge notice.
A Masonic Funeral to be done by the Lodge, as requested by a Brother.
REHEARSALS
Monthly Communication. Special Communications. Rehearsals, as scheduled by the Master (Treasurer and Secretary excepted), (see next page). Special Rehearsals, as called. Lodge of Instruction (LOI), as scheduled by the Master of the LOI (see below).
Although the Master has overall responsibility for the operation and the conducting of all lodge functions and activities, the responsibility of conducting the monthly rehearsals is
REQUESTED Attendance at the following requested of all officers.
is
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usually delegated to the ritualist(s). This is done to allow a more knowledgeable and experienced Past Master to better orchestrate the flow of the floor work and the ritual. Rehearsals are a serious matter and a time of learning for the junior officers.
STEPSTEP-UP All officers should be prepared to move up one station to perform the ritual and duties of the next officer in line. They should be prepared to do this at any time. A new officer in line should be prepared to do this by the fourth meeting of the year.
Other conversations not related to the rehearsal should be held outside of the rehearsal hall as they only serve to interfere with the learning process. See paragraph on CONDUCT.
DOUBLE STEPSTEP-UP Each officer should be familiar enough with the second office above him to perform the ritual and duties of said office with 24 hour notice and some assistance.
EXEMPLIFICATION Held annually pursuant to a warrant issued to each District Deputy Grand Master by the Grand Master is a District Exemplification of the ritual. All officers, elected and appointed, are required to attend the annual Exemplification. This is a regulation set by Grand Lodge.
BYBY-LAWS Each officer shall be thoroughly familiar with the By-laws of his lodge, particularly in respect to his own duties. Ask the Secretary for a copy if you do not have one.
As with the Lodge of Instruction, it is part of the duties assigned to and accepted by each lodge officer. It is the responsibility of each officer to contact the Master personally in advance to give the reason why they will miss the Exemplification. If it is a last minute emergency, common courtesy dictates the Master be contacted as soon as possible for that purpose. If the Master is not available, the Secretary should then be notified. The telephone numbers for both appear in the monthly lodge notice. Should attendance by line officers of the lodge be deemed “unacceptable” by the Grand Lecturer, the lodge will be required to convene a private Exemplification at a time convenient to the Grand Lecturer and at the total expense of the lodge.
GRAND LODGE CONSTITUTIONS AND REGULATIONS REGULATIONS Each officer should have read and be familiar with the Constitutions and Regulations of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts. The Master and Wardens should each have a copy in their possession. The other officers may borrow a copy from the Secretary or a Warden.
CONDUCT The conduct of the officers is very important to the impression that the lodge makes on others, and to the 5
meeting with a prospective candidate and his sponsor, the Master and Wardens should be dressed neatly. As in all contact with non-Masons, one is to act in such a way as to give the most favorable impression. Proper dress for the Lodge of Instruction is a shirt and tie, sports jacket and slacks or business suit, dress shoes and socks. In short, an officer should always dress in a dignified manner reflecting the respect he has for his brethren and their respect for him.
quality of work and performance in the lodge. All officers should always remember this and act accordingly. As part of this there is no place for levity, horseplay or other unseemly behavior in the lodge room or in the preparation room, nor during the actual instruction period for candidates. There is ample opportunity for fun and frolic before and after the meetings and instruction periods. This also applies to rehearsals, although certainly some humor may be allowed as long as it does not impact an officer's ability to learn the ritual and floor work. However, it is important to remember that other officers are trying to learn the work, so any humor should not be disruptive of this end as it could impact upon the candidates. A little thought given to this will accomplish much in maintaining the respect and the dignity of the work.
The black tuxedo is worn for several reasons. First, as we primarily meet in the evening, it is the socially accepted formal attire. Second, as an officer, it is used to make one stand out and by so doing give the air of dignity and authority. The stature an officer receives by wearing a tuxedo will give the brethren the incentive to look to him for leadership and guidance. It is the officer's responsibility to understand this and maintain the integrity of a Masonic Lodge officer.
DRESS The dress for officers during meetings or on any official function is normally black tuxedo with unruffled white shirt with standard collar, black bow tie, black socks and black shoes, and a pair of white parade gloves. While in lodge an officer will wear the officer's collar and apron of his installed station. The collar is silvertone with blue underlining with the emblem of the office suspended from the bottom. The collar may have the emblem encircled or not. The emblem will also be on the lodge officer's apron, which will be worn in place of the usual blue-bordered white apron worn by members.
The parade white dress gloves are important because that is what makes all officers equal. One officer may be a plumber by trade, a second a lawyer, a third may be a construction laborer. Simply looking at a man's hands will usually indicate if he is a laborer or white collar worker. Unfortunately, there are certain innate prejudices regarding career descriptions. What this means is that a man of a certain labor group may not be able to command as much respect from someone as he could if he did something else. If all officers are wearing white gloves, it may help eliminate the prejudices and make all officers equal. Remember, formal wear is an officer's uniform when in lodge.
It is preferred that officers be neat and clean, with beards and mustaches trimmed and well kept. For candidate instruction they should be neatly dressed. For an application
As time passes, officers will have the opportunity to wear a pocket 6
jewel. The rule of thumb is to wear it when you are in a lodge room. If you are anywhere outside the lodge building, do not wear the jewel. This includes parades, church services, Funeral services and banquet facilities that are not Masonic.
apron of higher office and any pocket jewels he has earned. When a Past Master temporarily fills a vacant office, he is to only wear the collar of the office he is temporarily assuming, not the apron. Whenever in lodge, officers should maintain good posture. This means sitting in an erect position when in the assigned station, with both feet planted firmly on the floor. One should not slouch, lean to one side, or cross the legs. An officer should sit tall and proud, carrying himself at all times in such a manner to command the respect of the brethren.
The reason for this is because pocket jewels are for use only at lodge functions and are not for public display. We do not want to tempt fate by wearing these jewels outside. They could fall apart or some elements of our society could come forward and attempt to take them in the belief they are worth money. If we do not wear jewels in public, we will not encourage that sort of behavior. Further support for this policy can be found in section 818 of the Grand Constitutions.
APPLICATION MEETINGS An application meeting should be normally held in an ancillary room in the lodge building. The application meeting is usually held in the lodge so the candidate may see the beauty of your building and its facilities, but at the discretion of the Master, it may be held at some other suitable place. In this case, arrangements should be made for the candidates to see the building. Application meetings should not be held during rehearsals.
Regarding Masonic Funeral Services, the only brethren not in white aprons will be the lodge officers. Everyone should wear a dark business suit with a dress shirt, conservative tie, dress shoes and socks. There should be no pocket jewels of any sort, no Past Master's Aprons or any other apron worn except as noted above. Finally, all Masons at a Funeral Service are to be addressed as “Brother.” See section on “MASONIC TITLES.” On the subject of aprons, all brothers must have an apron while attending lodge. This includes installations and other semi-public affairs. The apron is the working tool of the Mason and we are at “work” when we are in lodge. While some jurisdictions permit aprons to be worn under the jacket, in Massachusetts an apron is ALWAYS worn outside the jacket. It is never worn underneath. If a Past Master is installed into an office he is to wear the collar of that office. He may wear the apron of that office, his Past Master's apron, or other
MASONIC TRESTLEBOARD The Masonic Trestle-board is something every officer should have in his possession. It contains much valuable information including the monitorial portions of the three degrees in Freemasonry such as: An Installation Service. A Funeral Service Suitable Prayers for opening and closing a lodge
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returns to “Worshipful.” The others keep the title of Right Worshipful for life. A brother who is elected to serve as Junior or Senior Grand Warden is also addressed as Right Worshipful and keeps his title for life. If a Past Grand Warden or Past Deputy Grand Master is elected to serve as Grand Master, he is addressed as “Most Worshipful Grand Master,” Grand Master, or Brother . He also keeps his title of Most Worshipful along with his regalia for life.
Form of Application for the Degrees Official Visitation program Dedication of Masonic Halls and Constitution of a new lodge
MASONIC TITLES There is some apparent confusion as to when to use titles and who is addressed as what. First, Masonic titles are not to be used in public settings. They are meant to be used in lodge only. First and foremost, we are all “Brothers.” When we became Masons, we became Brothers and when we leave this mortal world, we will leave as Brothers. All else is transitory.
ADDRESSING THE LODGE When desiring to speak to the Master or the Lodge when in session, it is proper protocol to raise your hand and await recognition from the Master. When acknowledged by the Master, it is preferred that the speaker stand when speaking. While some jurisdictions require a speaker to salute the Master prior to or while speaking, it is not necessary in Massachusetts.
Thus said, any brother serving as an officer is to be addressed as “Brother .” For example, Brother Senior Warden, Brother Marshal or Brother Junior Steward. This also holds true even if the brother occupying an office is a Past Master. When a brother is duly installed as Master of his Lodge, he is addressed as “Worshipful Master” or Worshipful Brother for the year. If he takes no station after his term as Master, he is entitled to be addressed as Worshipful Brother , not “Worshipful Charlie” or “Worshipful Jones.” If a Past Master is named by the Grand Master to be his representative or emissary, he is addressed as “Right Worshipful.” This includes the Deputy Grand Master, District Grand Master, District Deputy Grand Master, or Grand Representative. The Grand Representative is addressed as Right Worshipful only for the time he serves in that capacity. After he has served, if he has not served in one of the aforementioned positions, his title
TRAVELING WITH THE DISTRICT DEPUTY GRAND MASTER The only brethren expected to travel with the District Deputy Grand Master are the Masters and Wardens of the district's constituent lodges. Permanent members of Grand Lodge may travel with the District Deputy but usually do not unless they are specifically invited. All other Past Masters, Past District Deputy Grand Masters, and junior officers should not automatically assume they can travel with the District Deputy Grand Master. Most District Deputies offer a blanket invitation to all officers, Past Masters and Past District Deputy Grand 8
Masters, and they encourage the junior officers to attend whenever possible. It is advisable to check with the current District Deputy Grand Master regarding his policy.
District Deputy Grand Marshal. One should not address the lodge unless called upon to do so by the District Deputy Grand Master. Finally, there is to be no prompting of officers on their ritual by any member of the suite unless specifically asked to do so by the Worshipful Master or District Deputy Grand Master.
When traveling on a suite, the appropriate dress would be as if one were in his own lodge, including tuxedo, apron and gloves. The Wardens and Master have a special traveling apron and pocket jewel they will wear. Other officers will wear plain white aprons obtained from the lodge being visited. Past Masters and Past District Deputy Grand Masters will wear their respective aprons and jewels. When entering the lodge room on the suite, there is to be no talking. After being introduced to the Master of the Lodge, you should proceed to a convenient seat as directed by the
GRAND MASTER'S AWARD Each officer should be aware of the requirements each year for this award so as to support the Master in obtaining this award should he so desire. The requirements for this award are available from the Secretary or from the Grand Master's office.
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WORSHIPFUL MASTER OVERVIEW
SPECIFIC DUTIES 1. He shall see that the officers and candidates are proficient in their work, and they carry out their duties in a proper manner.
The Worshipful Master is the top officer in the line of progression. This is a station that offers an opportunity to further demonstrate the administrative and managerial talents to the lodge. The Master is in a position to affect the direction the lodge will take over the next few years.
2. Immediately upon notification of sickness or death of a brother, he shall make, or see to it a Warden makes, a personal visit if possible or a telephone call to the family to offer any assistance that is within the power of the lodge to perform, and which may be needed. He shall follow up any action which will may result and see that it is completed.
The emblem for this station is the Square. The collar may have the emblem encircled or not. The emblem will also be on the Lodge Apron which will be worn during lodge in place of the usual blue-bordered white members' apron. The Traveling Apron will also have this emblem on it along with the name of the lodge. This apron is to be worn while visiting other lodges.
3. He shall conduct any Masonic funerals that may be requested with the assistance of the officers of the lodge. In unusual circumstances, such as the service being out of state, he shall make the necessary arrangements to have another lodge conduct the service through the Grand Lodge Service Department.
The Master has complete and overall responsibility for all aspects of the lodge. This includes ritual, floor work, candidate instruction, dinners and other functions, Masonic Funerals, relations with Grand Lodge, the service committee, blood program, relations with the building association, if any, the Masonic Awareness program, charitable funds, the music for the lodge, visiting sick brethren, public relations, and anything else that affects the welfare of his lodge. This is a large job. Fortunately, much of this work is delegated to others, either to officers or to committee chairmen. However, he is responsible to see that each performs their task to his satisfaction and reflects the welfare of the lodge. As Master, he is a voting member of the district’s Lodge of Instruction and Grand Lodge. Below are specific duties and responsibilities of the Master.
4. He will ensure that visits to the sick are made, whether in a hospital, nursing home, or at home. He will work closely with the Service Committee chairman as this is a very important function of the lodge. 5. He will keep the Wardens well informed of the activities of the lodge, remembering that either Warden may need to take on the responsibilities of his office at any time in order to have a smooth continuous operation of the lodge. This is particularly true of the Senior Warden, as he will succeed him in office the following year. He shall inform the Senior Warden of any business that will be carried over to his year. 10
6. He will act immediately upon any matters pertaining to the Masonic Home in Charlton, MA.
11. He will appoint a Nominating Committee no later than April of his term as Master.
7. His attendance is required at the Annual Meeting of Grand Lodge in December (second Wednesday) and at the quarterly convocations in March, June and September (always second Wednesdays of the month unless otherwise notified by Grand Lodge). Eighty-eight percent of the voting power of Grand Lodge is held by the Masters and Wardens of the individual lodges. If it is impossible for him or either Warden to be present, he shall ensure that a proxy with proper credentials is appointed and is there to represent his Lodge. The proxy has the power to vote only if all three officers are not in attendance. He is also strongly requested to attend the stated convocation (Feast of St. John) in December.
12. He should never hesitate to seek advice from the Secretary, Treasurer, a Past Master or his officer line if he feels it is needed, remembering always that any action is his ultimate responsibility. The Treasurer and Secretary are particularly good sources of information, as they are usually well seasoned Past Masters, and have usually been in that office for several years. This also provides continuity for leadership. 13. He will, to the best of his ability, strictly adhere to the approved budget he presented to the Nominating Committee. He should always consider the fiscal health of the lodge and should inform the Finance Committee of any major deviations from the approved budget prior to implementation.
8. His attendance is required, along with the Wardens, on the suites of the District Deputy Grand Master of his Masonic District at all Official and Fraternal Visits.
14. He will make periodic reports to the lodge updating the membership on the status of his program plans for the year.
9. He will learn the parts of the District Deputy Senior Grand Warden (DDSGW), District Deputy Junior Grand Warden (DDJGW), and the District Deputy Grand Treasurer (DDGT) for all Official Visits.
15. He shall review these duties annually, revise as needed, and reissue these duties to all officers prior to their meeting with the Nominating Committee, most likely in May.
10. He shall ensure that all line officers attend the visitations of the District Deputy Grand Master as required. Attendance by the Marshal, Secretary, Treasurer, Ritualists, Electrician, Tyler and Chaplains are requested if available. The Senior Deacon will keep attendance records for him. He should encourage other members to attend.
16. He shall issue a call-down list for the purpose of getting information, calling special meetings informing members of funerals etc. as quickly as possible to all concerned. The call-down list will show the order of calling and give instructions for use. It shall be issued to all officers before their installation. 17. Although the Secretary usually produces the monthly notice as he 11
regalia respective to his particular station.
has a great deal of the input to it, the format and makeup of the notice is the responsibility of the Master. This includes his monthly message, which should be substantive and prepared with forethought. This is the Master’s way of communicating with all the Lodge’s members.
19. He will ensure there is ample assistance each month for the collating, stuffing and sorting of the monthly lodge notices as necessary. 20. He should plan on representing the lodge at the annual Grand Master's Country Fair held on the grounds of the Masonic Home in Charlton. This is usually held the Sunday before Father's Day. There are upwards of 20,000 visitors to the Masonic Home that day and many hands make for light work.
18. Normally, the lodge will be set up with the regalia laid out in the proper positions in the lodge. At the request of the Master, it may be laid out in an ancillary room so that the officers may march in to open the lodge. If the Master decides to open in station without marching in, it is the responsibility of each individual officer to see to it that he has all the necessary
21. He shall have attended a Master’s Path workshop within 30 months prior to his installation as Master.
12
SENIOR WARDEN second section of the Third Degree. The Official Cipher should be reviewed for specifics.
OVERVIEW The Senior Warden is the second officer in the line of progression. This is a station that offers an opportunity to further demonstrate his administrative talents to the lodge. The Senior Warden is in a position to affect the direction the lodge will take over the next few years.
It is the duty of the Senior Warden to be prepared to assume the Master's station at a moment's notice, and to perform his duties in his absence to maintain the Master's plans. He shall be responsible to assist the Master in all ways possible in conducting the business of the lodge. He shall be prepared to attend a Lodge of Qualification for Master at the end of his term, prior to his being installed Master. As Senior Warden, he is a voting member of his district’s Lodge of Instruction and Grand Lodge
The emblem for this station is the Level. The collar may have the emblem encircled or not. The emblem will also be on the Lodge Apron which will be worn during lodge in place of the usual blue-bordered white members' apron. The Traveling Apron will also have this emblem on it along with the name of the lodge. This apron is to be worn while visiting other lodges. Additionally, the truncheon will be carried by the Senior Warden in the performance of his duties while in the lodge room.
Below are some specific duties and responsibilities of the Senior Warden.
SPECIFIC DUTIES 1. He shall be prepared to open the lodge on any degree in the absence of the Master.
It is the ritualistic duty of the Senior Warden to assist the Master in all phases of his duties. He is to help to ensure his programs and his year are successful. It is important for the Senior Warden to perform this to the best of his ability as he will be setting an example for the junior officers to follow in their stations.
2. He shall, in the absence of the Master, automatically assume the East and conduct the lodge for the evening. 3. He shall be prepared to conduct a Masonic Funeral.
When in lodge it is the duty of the Senior Warden to communicate any orders from the Master to the Junior Warden. Additionally, he is to duly examine the candidate(s) when they are presented in all three degrees. He has one lecture to present to the candidates; part of the third section of the First Degree. There is a limited amount of ritual is the second section of the Second Degree and more in the
4. He should be firming and confirming his plans for his year as Master of the lodge. Any advance preparations should have been completed by the end of the year, and should have a report available for the nominating committee on his plans for his year. 5. His attendance is required at the Annual Meeting of the Grand Lodge in December (second Wednesday) 13
held every spring for the training of incoming masters within 30 months of his installation as Master of his lodge.
and at the quarterly convocations of in March, June and September (always the second Wednesday of the month unless otherwise ordered by Grand Lodge). Eighty-eight percent of the voting power in Grand Lodge is held by the Masters and Wardens of the individual lodges. If it is impossible for him to be present, he shall notify the Master for any proxy action that may be needed. (The proxy votes only in the absence of all three senior officers.) The Senior Warden is also requested to attend the stated convocation in December at the Feast of St. John.
13. He is to serve on the lodge's Finance Committee. This involves approving payment of bills and advising the Master on matters involving lodge finance. 14. He is to serve as Co-Chairman of the lodge's Service Committee. This usually involves working with the Master and the committee chairman in interviewing applications by members of the lodge for admission to the Masonic Home in Charlton. 15. He is to serve on the lodge's Application Committee. He is to sit in on all meetings with perspective candidates and to help conduct the application interview. He will serve the lodge by being the first line of contact in determining if a man is qualifies to become a member of our fraternity.
6. His attendance is required on the suites of the District Deputy Grand Master of his District at all Official and Fraternal Visits. 7. He should visit ailing brethren at the hospital or at home and determine if any assistance by the lodge is needed. 8. He shall be prepared to read a portion of the Grand Constitutions of the Grand Lodge at a monthly meeting specified by the Master.
16. He should plan on representing the lodge at the annual Grand Master's Country Fair held on the grounds of the Masonic Home in Charlton. This is usually held the Sunday before Father's Day. There are upwards of 20,000 visitors to the Masonic Home that day and many hands make for light work.
9. In some lodges he is responsible for the assigning of positions for Senior Wardens' Night and be responsible for this event. 10. He is responsible for the coordination and training of the Fellow Crafts for the third degree.
17. He should have a copy of the Grand Constitutions and be familiar with their requirements by the time he is installed as Master of the lodge; otherwise he may make serious mistakes due to ignorance.
11. He will, with the assistance of the Treasurer and Secretary, create an operating budget for his year as Master. This is to be approved by the Finance Committee and presented to the Nominating Committee prior to his election as Master.
18. He will be available every month for the collating, stuffing and organizing of the lodge notices as necessary.
12. His attendance is required at the annual “Master's Path Workshop” 14
JUNIOR WARDEN preparations for all dinners, including the cooking, serving or catering as needed. He is also to do the same for all collations and other social activities of the lodge. He shall plan any menus needed and, at the direction of the Master, any entertainment. The exception is the annual Children’s Holiday Party, if traditionally held in his lodge, and which may be the responsibility of the Entertainment Committee. For any of these functions, the Stewards, Inside Sentinel and other helpers are under his direction. It is his duty to see that these people perform their work properly to meet the objectives of the event. As Junior Warden, he is a voting member of the Lodge of Instruction. Below are the specific duties and responsibilities of the Junior Warden.
OVERVIEW The Junior Warden is the third senior officer in the line of progression. This is a station that offers an opportunity to demonstrate his administrative talents to the lodge. The Junior Warden is in a position to affect the direction the lodge will take over the next few years. The emblem for this station is the Plumb. The collar may have the emblem encircled or not. The emblem will also be on the Lodge Apron, which will be worn during lodge in place of the usual blue-bordered white members’ apron. The Traveling Apron will also have this emblem on it along with the name of the lodge. This apron is to be worn while visiting other lodges. Additionally, the truncheon will be carried by the Junior Warden in the performance of his duties while in the lodge room.
SPECIFIC DUTIES 1. He shall be prepared to open the lodge on at least one degree, preferably the Third Degree, in the absence of both the Master and the Senior Warden.
When in lodge it is the ritualistic duty of the Junior Warden to communicate to the Brethren any orders transmitted from the Master through the Senior Warden. Additionally, he is to duly examine the candidate(s) when they are presented in all three degrees. He has one lecture to present to the candidates; the second section of the First Degree. There is a limited amount of ritual is the second sections of the Second and Third Degrees. The Official Cipher should be reviewed for specifics.
2. He shall, in the absence of both the Master AND Senior Warden, automatically assume the East and conduct the lodge for the evening. He may enlist the assistance of a Past Master for degree work but he must open, conduct the business meeting, and close the lodge. He does NOT automatically assume the West in the absence of the Senior Warden.
It is the duty and responsibility of the Junior Warden to make all necessary arrangements and
3. During his term he should be making plans and preparing for his term as Master. This should include 15
10. He will collect all monies received from the Stewards collected for meals and/or other events, total all income and expenses, and deliver to the Secretary together with his accounting.
any special date reservations needed or third party commitments required. 4. His attendance is required at the Annual Meeting of the Grand Lodge in December (second Wednesday) and at the quarterly convocations of in March, June and September (always the second Wednesday of the month unless otherwise ordered by Grand Lodge). Eighty-eight percent of the voting power in Grand Lodge is held by the Masters and Wardens of the individual lodges. If it is impossible for him to be present, he shall notify the Master for any proxy action that may be needed. (The proxy votes only in the absence of all three senior officers.) The Junior Warden is also requested to attend the stated convocation in December at the Feast of St. John.
11. He is to serve on the lodge's Finance Committee. This involves approving payment of bills and advising the Master on matters involving lodge finance. 12. He is to serve on the lodge's Service Committee. This usually involves working with the Master and the committee chairman in interviewing applications by members of the lodge for admission to the Masonic Home in Charlton. 13. He is to serve on the lodge's Application Committee. He is to sit in on all meetings with perspective candidates and to help conduct the application interview. He will serve the lodge by being the first line of contact in determining if a man is qualifies to become a member of our fraternity.
5. His attendance is required on the suites of the District Deputy Grand Master of the his District at all Official and Fraternal Visits. 6. He should visit ailing brethren at the hospital or at home and determine if any assistance by the lodge is needed.
14. He should plan on representing the lodge at the annual Grand Master's Country Fair held on the grounds of the Masonic Home in Charlton. This is usually held the Sunday before Father's Day. There are upwards of 20,000 visitors to the Masonic Home that day and many hands make for light work.
7. He shall be prepared to read a portion of the Grand Constitutions of the Grand Lodge at a monthly meeting specified by the Master. 8. His attendance is requested at the annual “Master's Path Workshop” held every spring for the training of incoming masters. He must attend a Master’s Path Workshop within 30 months prior to his installation as master of his lodge.
15. He is responsible for arranging for a parking space for the District Deputy Grand Master as close to the lodge entrance as possible whenever he visits the lodge. In cases of inclement weather, he should station a Brother, with an umbrella, near the door to assist the District Deputy and his suite
9. He should have a final schedule of the meals for the year, ready prior to his installation, to the satisfaction of the incoming Master for his year as Junior Warden. 16
participants. If there is no on-site parking, the Junior Warden is to arrange for valet parking for the District Deputy Grand Master.
otherwise he may make serious mistakes due to ignorance. 17. He shall be available every month for the collating, stuffing and organizing of the lodge notices as necessary.
16. He should have a copy of the Grand Constitutions and be familiar with their requirements by the time he is installed as Master of the lodge;
17
SENIOR DEACON placed in the hands of the Junior Deacon to be conducted out of the lodge at the conclusion of the first section.
OVERVIEW The Senior Deacon is the fifth, and highest, junior officer in the line of progression. This is a station that offers an opportunity to assume more responsibility in the lodge and to demonstrate leadership potential. The Senior Deacon is the “Captain of the Floorwork.” The manner in which the Senior Deacon conducts himself reflects directly on the candidates.
The Senior Deacon is also responsible for handling the ballot box whenever the Master calls for a ballot. He should review the procedures for balloting in the Grand Constitutions and the Floorwork Recommendations section of the Official Cipher. The duty here is specific. He is to stand guard at the ballot box and insure that all members present have voted unless specifically excused by the Master. After the balloting has concluded, he is to vouch that everyone has voted. During the second section of the Third Degree in the presentation of the Ancient Form, he is to assume the role of the First Craftsman. In this role, he will remove his lodge collar and apron and wear a white Fellow Craft Apron. He will not carry his rod about the lodge during this section. When the role of Craftsman has been completed, he is to return to his station and put on his regalia. At this point, he is to check that the Junior and Senior Stewards have done the same, and sit when the Senior Deacon sits.
The emblem for this station is the Square and Compasses, with the sun mounted within their precepts. The collar may have the emblem encircled or not. The emblem will also be on the Lodge Apron, which will be worn during lodge in place of the usual blue-bordered white members' apron. Additionally, the Senior Deacon will carry a black rod with the emblem mounted on top of it. He will carry this in the performance of his duties while in the lodge room. His first major exposure to the ritual of the lodge is the learning of the Middle Chamber lecture of the Fellow Craft degree. He should have this lecture prepared for presentation by his installation into his office.
When parading about the lodge, the Altar is always to the right of the Senior Deacon and the Junior Deacon will either be to his left or immediately behind. Although floorwork is the Master's prerogative, it is suggested that timing for sitting in the chair be coordinated with the junior officers. When parading about the lodge room, turns should be made using military right angles carrying the rod extended down from the right shoulder. Finally, when stepping off, it should always be on the left foot. He should concentrate
He is responsible for the candidates once they are inside the door. He should be able to conduct them in such manner that they are comfortable with him. This will help make their experiences pleasurable ones. He should use his station as a way to inspire the other junior officers, as they will soon succeed to this station. He will always conduct the candidate about the lodge for the first section of each degree. He will return to his station only after the candidate is 18
This may be done by the Senior Deacon, one of the junior officers, a Past Master, Chaplain or other brother who is well versed in Masonry.
on being able to deliver ritual while moving about the lodge. His performance has a direct bearing on the candidates. By giving his ritual in a strong and confident manner he will leave a lasting impression on the candidates
2. He shall maintain an accurate attendance record and progress on each candidate and report these results to the Secretary in a timely fashion.
The Senior Deacon is the senior ranking junior officer and the highest appointed officer in most lodges (note: some lodges elect the Senior Deacon). As such, under the direction of the Master, he has the responsibility for the direction, training and functioning of the junior officers, other than when they are under the direction of the Junior Warden for meals and functions (see Junior Warden's duties). He should coordinate with the Junior Warden on conflicts that may come about because of his dual direction. He should ensure that all other junior officers perform their duties with dignity and in a timely manner to obtain the objective stated above. Below are the specific duties and responsibilities of the Senior Deacon.
3. He shall see that each candidate attends and receives the required instruction at the district’s Lodge of Instruction (LOI) for each degree. After the candidate has completed the Third Degree, the Senior Deacon shall conduct the candidate to the Secretary’s desk to sign the By-laws of the Lodge. 4. If any candidate cannot or, because of some special emergency, does not make a scheduled LOI, he shall, with the assistance of the Master, make arrangements for a makeup before the date of the next scheduled degree. 5. He shall ensure that a junior officer personally accompanies each candidate to the opening of the LOI and during the rest of the evening. This duty may be divided between the officers.
SPECIFIC DUTIES 1. He is in complete charge of the instruction of the candidates, and the assignment of junior officers to assist in the instruction of candidates. Normally, each session should be a minimum of two hours with a minimum of four sessions between degrees. It is necessary to teach the candidates to “read” the Cipher book and give hints on memorizing the lectures, such as the importance of repetition, frequency of sessions, and other techniques. Also, time should be used to explain the meaning of the symbolism and allegories of the degrees, and how they can be applied to everyday life.
6. He shall maintain an attendance record of officers at candidates instruction and at LOI's for the use of the Master and eventually the Nominating Committee for the following year. This information should also be reported to the Secretary in a timely manner. 7. He shall see that the junior officers are proficient in their ritual and floor work as directed by the ritualists. He will give them necessary instruction. This may be scheduled with the officer and may 19
candidate
well as the Senior Warden's and Master's position.
8. He shall be prepared to exemplify the candidate lectures with each candidate in the Lodge or elsewhere as the Master may direct, on any degree.
13. He is to serve on the lodge's Greeting Committee, greeting every brother who enters the lodge room.
be done instruction.
following
14. He is to serve as secretary for the lodge's Finance Committee meetings, unless otherwise provided for in the lodge's By-laws. He will take the minutes of the meeting and pass them to the Junior Warden for transcription and distribution. This information should also be reported to the Secretary in a timely manner.
9. He will discuss with the Master periodically or as needed, any problem relative to the morale of, and good will among, the junior officers. 10. He shall present a menu plan to the nominating committee for his year as Junior Warden. 11. It is recommended that he attend some of the Official and Fraternal Visits of the District Deputy Grand Master of the his District. It is the prerogative of the DDGM whether he is invited on the suite, but he must be in a tuxedo. Most DDGM's will gladly extend an invitation unless there is an exceptionally large suite.
15. He should represent the lodge at the annual Grand Master's Country Fair held on the grounds of the Masonic Home in Charlton. This is usually held the Sunday before Father's Day. There are upwards of 20,000 visitors to the Masonic Home that day and many hands make for light work. 16. He will be available every month for the collating, stuffing and organizing of the lodge notices as necessary.
12. Since the Senior Deacon is expected to step into the Junior Warden's position the following year, he should be preparing for that job as
20
JUNIOR DEACON Under no conditions should a candidate be made to feel uncomfortable, inferior or fearful. A brief explanation as to the dress of the candidate should be made without revealing anything of the ritual.
OVERVIEW The Junior Deacon is the fourth junior officer in the line of progression. This is a station that offers an opportunity to assume more responsibility for the lodge's candidates. He has direct responsibility for their preparation. The manner in which the Junior Deacon conducts himself reflects directly on the candidates and the junior officers.
If there is more than one candidate for the degree, the Junior Deacon will conduct the second candidate about the lodge during the first section of each degree. He is to return to his station as assume his regular duties after the candidates are placed at the Altar for their obligation. If the lodge has one or three candidates, the Junior Deacon will return to his station after the candidates are all received into the lodge.
The emblem for this station is the Square and Compasses, with the crescent moon mounted within their precepts. The collar may have the emblem encircled or not. The emblem will also be on the Lodge Apron which will be worn during lodge in place of the usual blue-bordered white members' apron. Additionally, the Junior Deacon will carry a black rod with the emblem mounted on top of it. He will carry this in the performance of his duties while in the lodge room.
The Junior Deacon is responsible for tyling the door at all times. This ceremony should always be done with dignity and never rushed. The knocks should be made distinct. Whenever the door is untyled, he is to stand at the door as the Inner Guard, and should never return to his station until the door is securely tyled.
The ritualistic duty of the Junior Deacon is the supervision, reception, and preparation of candidates. He will be assisted in this by the Senior and Junior Stewards who are under his direction for this purpose (see duties of the Stewards). As this duty involves the initial contact with the lodge in operation by the candidates, and therefore their first impression of the lodge, it is imperative that these officers be fully aware of this at all times in the presence of the candidates and act accordingly. They should always treat the candidates with decorum, courtesy and with friendliness. It is important to impress upon them that we are gentlemen.
When parading about the lodge, the Altar is always to the right of the Junior Deacon. Although floorwork is the Master's prerogative, it is suggested that timing for sitting in the chair be coordinated with the junior officers. When parading about the lodge room, turns should be made using military right angles carrying the rod extended down from the right shoulder. Finally, when stepping off, it should always be on the left foot. As Junior Deacon, he should be required to plan one social event for the year. A logical choice would be to plan a Ladies’ Night for the members 21
and their ladies. Although a similar event may have been planned in the previous year as Senior Steward, many things may not have gone smoothly. This would be an excellent chance to improve on the previous year's event. He is to arrange for meals, entertainment, facilities, and a small gift for the ladies. This is an opportunity to demonstrate to the brethren the administrative and managerial capabilities, and what can be learned from a previous experience.
4. He shall be responsible for supplying each candidate with a newly cleaned pair of white socks for each degree. 5. He shall be responsible for the candidates’ uniforms and aprons and see that they are properly cleaned and stored for the following degree at the conclusion of each degree. 6. He shall see to it the candidates are properly prepared for the degree prior to the opening of the lodge. This includes cabletow set for the proper degree, slipper, hoodwink, asking of the three questions for the first degree, and in the case of the second and third degrees, aprons in the proper configuration.
He would find it advisable to purchase a Masonic Trestle-Board and Official Cipher. They may be obtained through the lodge Secretary or through the Grand Lodge supply room.
7. He shall attend all weekly instruction periods for the candidates unless specifically excused by the Senior Deacon. If he is unable attend, he will inform the Senior Deacon in ample time for other arrangements to be made.
Below are the specific duties and responsibilities of the Junior Deacon.
SPECIFIC DUTIES 1. He shall ask the three questions as required in the first degree. They shall be asked of each candidate separately and privately in the presence of the Stewards after the candidates have been prepared, with the exception of the hoodwink. If the two Stewards are not available, he may use any two members of the lodge.
8. He is responsible for the organization of the closet where the regalia is stored and shall ensure that it is kept neat and tidy. He shall ensure all regalia is put back in their proper locations, and if items have been borrowed, they have been returned or arrangements made for their return.
2. He shall collect the fees for each degree before the degree work begins, unless the Secretary informs him that the fees have already been remitted. He shall turn any fees collected over to the Secretary together with the names of the candidates. 3. He shall be responsible for supplying each candidate with a clean uniform at the time of the first degree. A stick-on nametag may be used to identify each uniform for the second and third degrees.
9. He shall be responsible, under the direction of the Junior Warden, that all lights in the building are off at the conclusion of all activities and degree work. If he has to leave early, he will request another officer to do this and inform the Junior Warden who has this responsibility. 10. He shall provide each candidate with a copy of each lodge notice that has his name printed within for the taking of the degrees and for balloting. He can obtain these from the Secretary. 22
instruction in the previous degree. If a candidate is unable to attend the LOI, he is to notify the Master or Secretary so alternative instruction can be arranged.
11. He shall learn and perform the middle chamber lecture and work of the second degree for step-up night. 12. He should prepare himself to be able to step up to the Senior Deacon's work at a moment's notice, exclusive of the middle chamber lecture.
17. He is to serve as co-chairman of the lodge's Transportation Committee. He is to assist in the arranging and scheduling rides for the brethren who wish to attend lodge but are unable to drive. He should always remember that he is dealing with the brother's dignity, and should never make him feel that it is an imposition to get him to lodge.
13. He shall supervise the setting up of the lodge for degree work with the aid of the Stewards. 14. With the assistance of the Stewards, he shall inventory the regalia and furniture of the lodge at least once a year, and make a written report to the Master and Wardens. This information should also be reported to the Secretary.
18. It is recommended that he attend some of the Official and Fraternal Visits of the District Deputy Grand Master of his Masonic District. It is the prerogative of the DDGM whether he is invited on the suite, but he must be in a tuxedo. Most DDGM's will gladly extend an invitation unless there is an exceptionally large suite.
15. He is to serve on the lodge's Greeting Committee along with the Inside Sentinel, Stewards and Senior Deacon. Every brother should be greeted as he enters the lodge room prior to the start of the meeting. This is an excellent vehicle to get to know the brethren and they to get to know him. This further creates an atmosphere of warmth for the brethren who attend meetings regularly.
19. He should plan on representing the lodge at the annual Grand Master's Country Fair held on the grounds of the Masonic Home in Charlton. This is usually held the Sunday before Father's Day. There are upwards of 20,000 visitors to the Masonic Home that day and many hands make for light work.
16. It is his duty to remind the candidates, by telephone, of the Lodge of Instruction five days before that meeting. This is extremely important as a candidate cannot advance to the next degree without having first received
20. He will be available every month for the collating, stuffing and organizing of the lodge notices as necessary.
23
SENIOR STEWARD OVERVIEW
If the lodge has more than two candidates, the Senior Steward will conduct the third candidate about the lodge during the first section of each degree. He is to return to his station and assume the regular duties after the candidates are instructed to leave the Altar and salute the Junior and Senior Wardens. If there are two or fewer candidates, the Senior Steward will return to his station after the candidates have been duly examined by the Master.
The Senior Steward is the third junior officer in the line of progression, and is a station that offers an opportunity for some responsibility for the lodge's candidates. To achieve this position demonstrates the fact the Brother has shown some promise and potential interest in the lodge affairs to receive this appointment. The emblem for this station is the Cornucopia, with the opening, or horn, facing left. The collar may have the emblem encircled or not. The emblem will also be on the Lodge Apron, which will be worn during lodge in place of the usual bluebordered white members' apron. Additionally, the Senior Steward will carry a white rod with the emblem mounted on top of it. He will carry this in the performance of his duties while in the lodge room.
During the second section of the Third Degree in the presentation of the Ancient Form, he is to assume the role of the Second Craftsman. In this role, he will remove his lodge collar and apron and wear a white Fellow Craft Apron. He will not carry his rod about the lodge during this section. There is one line of ritual to be recited. The Senior Deacon will ask one question and the Senior Steward will respond. This ritual will be found in the Official Cipher.
The ritualistic duty of the Senior Steward is to take care of the regalia of the lodge and to assist with the preparation of the candidates. As this duty involves the initial contact with the lodge in operation by the candidates, and therefore the first impression of the lodge, it is imperative that the Stewards be fully aware of this at all times in the presence of the candidates and act accordingly. They should always treat the candidates with decorum, courtesy and with friendliness. It is important to impress upon them that we are gentlemen. Under no conditions should a candidate be made to feel uncomfortable, inferior or fearful.
When the role of Craftsman has been completed, he is to return to his station and put on his regalia. At this point, he is to check that the Junior Steward and Senior Deacon have done the same, and sit when the Senior Deacon sits. When parading about the lodge, the Altar is always to the right and the Junior Steward is always on the left of the Senior Steward. Although floorwork is the Master's prerogative, it is suggested that timing for rising be timed with the Junior Steward. Further, when parading about the lodge room, turns should be made using military 24
3. REGALIA
right angles carrying the rod extended down from the right shoulder. Finally, when stepping off, it should always be on the left foot. The Stewards have two basic responsibilities. First, they are responsible to the Junior Deacon, under the direction of the Senior Deacon, for the regalia of the lodge (see below for specifics). Second, they are responsible to the Junior Warden in assisting him for dinners and functions of the lodge. This dual supervision can lead to conflicts, but cooperation between the supervising officers should keep conflicts to a minimum. In case of conflict, check with the other officer courteously. The final decision, of course, rests with the Junior Warden. The Stewards handle a lot of the details that keep a lodge running smoothly, and are important to the operation of the lodge. Specific duties of the Stewards are listed below. Any of these duties may be delegated to the Inside Sentinel or Assistant Stewards, if any, but the Stewards are responsible for their completion.
A. The Stewards shall set up the furniture of the lodge for each degree. It is suggested that a guide be posted on the wall of the regalia closet or case for reference. B. They shall lay out all of the officer's aprons, collars with the jewels, and the proper implements of the various officers in the respective positions. C. Under the direction of the Junior Deacon, they shall put away all regalia in its proper place immediately upon the closing of the lodge. If anything has been borrowed they shall see that it has been returned to the person from whom it was borrowed. D. They shall polish any regalia that requires it including officer's jewels, Altar Square and Compasses, batons, truncheons and Senior Deacon's combination Square and Compasses. E. They shall assist the Junior Deacon in inventorying the regalia of the lodge.
SPECIFIC DUTIES 1. The Stewards are responsible for assisting in teaching of the candidate’s lecture(s) during the weekly instruction periods under the direction of the Senior Deacon.
4. FUNERAL BOX A. The Senior Steward, with the assistance of the Junior Steward, is in charge of the care of the funeral box and to see that it arrives at a funeral in a timely fashion.
2. The Stewards need to arrive at least one half-hour prior to a rehearsal to set the regalia required for the degree being rehearsed. For a meeting where dinner is being served, they may need to arrive one hour earlier or more, as needed to assist the Junior Warden in preparing for dinner as well as setting up the lodge hall for the degree.
B. He shall inventory the funeral box when the general regalia is inventoried and include the results in the Junior Deacon's report. He shall continuously maintain the box, as it may be needed at a moment’s notice with no time to replenish it.
25
C. When notified, he should ensure a box is available with sprigs of Acacia for the members.
meals and/or other events as directed and give to the Junior Warden with a proper accounting
D. He shall notify the Secretary when the supply of aprons is low.
E. Unless a caterer with a wait-staff has been engaged, they shall serve and wait upon the brethren and guests in the dining hall.
E. The normal follows:
inventory
is
as
F. They shall clean the tables and assist in the kitchen as needed prior to any socializing.
1 Combination Square and Compasses 2 Compasses 1 Square 1 Magnetic Compass (to determine East)
G. The Senior Steward shall know how to properly and safely operate the dishwasher and other equipment in the kitchen, if provided. The Junior Steward shall learn how during his year as Junior Steward.
1 Holy Bible 1 Masonic Trestle-board 2 Burial Service books 21 Printed prayers (Solemn Strikes the Funeral Chimes)
H. After most of the members have left, they shall break-down the tables and chairs and store them in the proper locations, leaving up the number of tables as the Junior Warden shall direct.
4 Officers and Members register 2 Black ink pens 23 Aprons
I. They shall complete the cleaning of the kitchen including the floor and the dining hall. Most kitchens and dining rooms have brooms and mops for this purpose.
1 Sprig of Acacia for Master *Sprigs of members
Acacia
for
1 Marshal's baton (this may have to be put in from the regular regalia of the Lodge at the time of taking the box to the funeral).
J. They shall remove all rubbish in plastic bags provided to an appropriate container for proper disposal.
5. DINNERS AND FUNCTIONS
K. The Senior Steward is responsible to see that pitchers of fresh, cold water and clean cups are provided in the South, West and East of the lodge hall. On the second degree, there should be a cup of water available on the Treasurer's desk for the Senior Deacon.
A. The Stewards shall set up as many tables and chairs as directed by the Junior Warden. B. They shall ensure the tables are covered and set as directed by the Junior Warden. C. They shall sell meal tickets prior to the meal and record attendance as required.
6. CANDIDATES A. The Stewards shall assist the
D. They shall collect all monies for 26
Junior Deacon in the reception and preparation of candidates. This is a very important function as it provides a first impression by the candidate. They should always treat the candidate with decorum, courtesy and with friendliness. It is important to impress upon them that we are gentlemen. Under no conditions should a candidate be made to feel uncomfortable, inferior or fearful.
9.
He is to serve on the lodge's Greeting Committee, along with the Inside Sentinel, Junior Steward, and Deacons. He should greet every brother who enters the lodge room prior to the start of the meeting.
10. The Senior Steward should be required to plan one social event for the year. A logical choice would be a Ladies Night for members and their ladies. He must arrange for a meal, entertainment, facilities, and a small gift for the ladies. The specifics are left to him and will demonstrate to the lodge his administrative and managerial skills and capabilities.
B. They shall set out the candidate's uniform, cable tow, hoodwink, white socks and proper slipper (1st right, 2nd left, 3rd none). For the second and third degrees they shall also lay out the candidate's apron. C. They shall be present during the asking of the Three Questions by the Junior Deacon to the candidates. They shall learn these questions so as to be able to ask them in the second half of their term, if asked by the Junior Deacon.
11. The Stewards should plan on representing the lodge at the annual Grand Master's Country Fair held on the grounds of the Masonic Home in Charlton. This is usually held the Sunday before Father's Day. There are upwards of 20,000 visitors to the Masonic Home that day and many hands make for light work.
During balloting, the Senior Steward should station himself at any additional door in the lodge room as necessary.
12. They should be available every month for the collating, stuffing and organizing of the lodge notices as necessary.
8. The Senior Steward may, depending on lodge traditions, be responsible for the candidates learning their third degree cipher and demonstrating their proficiency in the same. The candidates should be ready no later than three days prior to the next communication. When the candidates are ready, the Senior Steward should inform the Senior Deacon and the Master.
13. It is recommended that he attend some of the Official and Fraternal Visits of the District Deputy Grand Master of his Masonic District. It is the prerogative of the DDGM whether he is invited on the suite, but he must be in a tuxedo. Most DDGM's will gladly extend an invitation unless there is an exceptionally large suite.
7.
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JUNIOR STEWARD OVERVIEW The Junior Steward is the second junior officer in the progressive line, and is a station that offers an opportunity for some responsibility for the lodge's candidates. To achieve this position demonstrates the fact the Brother has shown some promise and interest in the lodge affairs.
aware of this at all times in the presence of the candidates and act accordingly. They should always treat the candidates with decorum, courtesy and with friendliness. It is important to impress upon them that we are gentlemen. Under no conditions should a candidate be made to feel uncomfortable, inferior or fearful.
The emblem for this station is the Cornucopia, with the opening, or horn, facing right. The collar may have the emblem encircled or not. The emblem will also be on the Lodge Apron, which will be worn during lodge in place of the usual bluebordered white members' apron. Additionally, the Junior Steward will carry a white rod with the emblem mounted on top of it. He will carry this in the performance of his duties while in the lodge room.
If the lodge has more than two candidates, the Junior Steward will conduct the fourth candidate about the lodge during the first section of each degree. He is to return to his station and assume the regular duties after the candidates are instructed to leave the Altar and salute the Junior and Senior Wardens. If there are two or fewer candidates, the Junior Steward will return to his station after the candidates have been duly examined by the Master.
The ritualistic duty of the Junior Steward is to assist with the preparation of the candidates. This means he is expected to be present well before the opening of the lodge to help ensure that the candidate(s) is properly dressed for his degree work. He is to stand witness for the Junior Deacon, when he asks the candidate the three questions prior to their taking the first degree. During this time, he should leave all talking to the Junior Deacon. However, common sense should be used. Once the candidate is prepared, he is to return to his station and put on his regalia for the evening.
During the second section of the Third Degree in the presentation of the Ancient Form, he is to assume the role of the Third Craftsman. In this role, he will remove his lodge collar and apron and wear a white Fellow Craft Apron. He will not carry his rod about the lodge during this section. There is one line of ritual to be recited. The Senior Deacon will ask one question and the Junior Steward will respond. This ritual will be found in the Official Cipher, and is the only ritual recited by the Junior Steward. When the role of Craftsman has been completed, he is to return to his station and put on his regalia. At this point, he is to check that the Senior Steward and Senior Deacon have done the same, and sit when the Senior Deacon sits.
As this duty involves the candidate’s initial contact with the lodge in operation, and therefore his first impression of the lodge, it is imperative that these officers be fully 28
for the candidates learning their second degree cipher and demonstrating their proficiency in the same. The candidates should be ready no later than three days prior to the next communication. When the candidates are ready, the Junior Steward should inform the Senior Deacon and the Master.
When parading about the lodge, the Altar is always to the right along with the Senior Steward. Although floorwork is the Master's prerogative, it is suggested that timing for rising be timed with the Senior Steward. Further, when parading about the lodge room, turns should be made using military right angles carrying the rod extended down from the right shoulder. Finally, when stepping off, it should always be on the left foot.
3. He is to serve on the lodge's Greeting Committee, along with the Inside Sentinel, Senior Steward, and Deacons. He should greet every brother who enters the lodge room prior to the start of the meeting.
SPECIFIC DUTIES
3. He should be required to plan one social event for the year. A logical choice would be for a Holiday Party in December for members and their families. Along with the chairman of the entertainment committee, he must arrange for a meal, entertainment, facilities, and a small gift for the children.
In addition to the duties of the Senior Steward, the following are some specific duties performed by the Junior Steward. 1. During balloting, the Junior Steward should station himself at the untyled door. 2. The Junior Steward may, depending on lodge traditions, be responsible
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INSIDE SENTINEL OVERVIEW
During the procession of the Third Degree in the presentation of the Ancient Form, he is to form the Brethren in a single file at the beginning of the third circuit of the lodge. Clarification of this procedure can be found in the floorwork section of the Official Cipher.
This is the first office in the progressive line. As you must crawl before you learn to run, as such, it affords the first opportunity to learn the basics of being an officer of a Masonic lodge. The emblem for this station is the double crossed swords. The collar may have the emblem encircled or not. The emblem will also be on the Lodge Apron, which will be worn during lodge meetings in place of the usual blue bordered white members' aprons.
As Inside Sentinel, he is to serve as part of the lodge's greeting committee along with the Stewards and Deacons. He should greet every brother who enters the lodge room prior to the start of the meeting. This may seem trivial, however, how can he ask a brother for assistance in performing the duties he will assume in higher stations if he does not get to know them, and they do not get to know him? The greeting committee is the perfect mechanism to assist a junior officer in getting to know his fellow brethren and, additionally, it helps create an atmosphere of warmth for the brethren who attend lodge meetings.
The ritualistic duty of the Inside Sentinel is to stand guard over the untyled door to the lodge room. He is to allow none to enter or leave the lodge through this door except for the Junior Deacon, the Stewards, the Candidate or Candidates, and the three ruffians in the Third Degree. It is the Inside Sentinel who opens and closes this door except when the Senior Deacon is directed to investigate the demand at the door, to conduct the candidate(s) into the lodge room, and during the second section of the Third Degree when other brethren will be passing through the door as part of the ceremony. In all cases, after those who have passed through the door are in the lodge room, he is to ascertain that the door is closed and secure.
The Inside Sentinel should be a keen observer of all that goes on in the lodge and should be learning as much as possible. It is wise for any officer to be ahead of his own office. This is an excellent opportunity to get ahead and for a learning year. He should assist the Stewards in any way possible, and learning their duties specifically (see Junior and Senior Stewards). He should prepare himself to be able to assume either of the Steward's duties and degree work at any time. The duties are relatively simple, yet they form the foundation for the future duties an officer will assume. Strong adherence to the duties assigned will make his future experiences enjoyable ones.
If the lodge is fortunate to have five candidates, he will be responsible for conducting the fifth candidate around the lodge room during part of the first section of each degree. He will return to his station and assume his regular duties after the candidates are instructed to leave the altar and salute the Wardens. 30
3. He should assist the Stewards by filling the water pitchers in the South, West and East with fresh, cold water and ice if available.
Below are some specific duties and responsibilities of the Inside Sentinel.
SPECIFIC DUTIES
4. In the absence of the Electrician, he will operate the lights for the meetings.
1. During balloting, the Inside Sentinel should station himself at the tyled door.
5. He should attend the visits of the District Deputy Grand Master as scheduled.
2. He should learn the ritual for the three gates and be prepared to fill a vacancy if necessary. He should be thoroughly familiar with the work of the Fellow Craft Team.
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TREASURER He will accept all deposits made by the Secretary and post those deposits to the respective chart of accounts. He will also make any deposits necessary into any pre-paid accounts such as postage for standard mailings.
The duties of a lodge Treasurer are few, and are spelled out in the charge he receives on being installed in office. As the chief financial officer of the lodge, he will be responsible for paying all bills as authorized by the Master and/or By-laws of the lodge, maintaining the lodge’s operating checkbook and any savings accounts and investments.
He will, at least annually, prepare financial statements in conformity with “generally accepted accounting principles” and present them to the lodge membership. He will also prepare financial statements in the format provided by the Grand Lodge and ensure that these financials are reviewed or audited by a committee appointed by the Master of the lodge, and that they are submitted to the Grand Lodge by December 1st of each year.
The emblem for this station is the crossed keys. The collar may have the emblem encircled or not. The emblem will also be on the Lodge’s Apron, which will be worn in place of the usual member’s blue-bordered white apron, unless the treasurer is a past master or higher, whereupon he may wear the apron of his highest office. All funds, incoming and outgoing, should flow through the Treasurer so he may maintain an accurate and complete record of the financial transactions of the lodge. He will maintain close contact with the lodge’s trustees to ensure that all expenditures are properly approved and conform to the bylaws of the lodge and the constitutions of the Grand Lodge.
He will ensure that all federal and state tax forms are properly completed and filed within the specified deadlines, with copies filed with the Grand Treasurer’s Office. As of 2010, the only required submission of a Lodge is an IRS form 990N, 990EZ, or a full form 990, depending on the gross receipts of the lodge. The Treasurer will work closely with the lodge’s Auditor to ensure that all funds and accounts are properly and accurately depicted, and will file an annual report to the lodge at the lodge’s stated annual meeting.
Under the direction of the Master and trustees, he will work closely with any professional investment managers to ensure the funds of the lodge are properly invested and make periodic reports to the lodge with those results. In some lodges, however, the trustees are solely responsible for the interaction with the investment managers.
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SECRETARY Additionally, he should process the monthly deposit of funds into the lodge’s bank, and will also transmit the totals of any funds collected and deposited to the Treasurer for his records.
The duties of a Secretary are numerous, varied, and at times time-consuming. But if a Secretary can effectively manage his time, he will find that the most of the tasks that need to be accomplished can be done in a minimal amount of spare time.
Other tasks include the maintaining of the individual records of the Lodge members, the processing of the various applications for degrees and affiliations, the processing of the various forms of a demit, and the assisting of the Master in preparing the lodge notice of communication for the upcoming meeting.
The emblem for this station is the crossed quills. The collar may have the emblem encircled or not. The emblem will also be on the Lodge’s Apron, which will be worn in place of the usual member’s blue-bordered white apron, unless the secretary is a past master or higher, whereupon he may wear the apron of his highest office.
He will ensure that there are an ample supply of candidate aprons and ciphers on hand and maintain an ample amount of envelopes and labels available for mailing the monthly notices.
As the chief operating officer of the lodge, most of the visible tasks a Secretary performs are those of recording the minutes of the various meetings of the lodge, and handling some of the correspondence necessary. He will also transmit the monthly reports of membership activity within his lodge to the Grand Secretary’s Office in a timely manner.
The Secretary will be responsible for ordering various types of regalia at the discretion and direction of the Master. He will also keep track of the various types of awards available for the membership in the form of service pins.
Those tasks not so visible are the sending of dues bills, collecting and properly posting the dues payments and the issuing of dues cards.
The Secretary will also be the prime contact for most communications involving Grand Lodge and will be responsible for validating the membership roles as maintained by the Grand Secretary’s Office.
He should be keenly aware of the by-laws of his lodge and intimately familiar with the Grand Constitutions.
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ELECTRICIAN hour before meetings and rehearsals to check out the lighting. He shall verify all the lights are working and prepare lights for use. He shall ensure that station lights are operational including the desk lamps for the Secretary and Treasurer’s desks.
OVERVIEW It is recommended every lodge appoint an Electrician, who shall be at each and every meeting and rehearsal to light the way for the Master. Proper use of the lighting can greatly enhance the impact of the ritual, including the opening and closing of the lodge. He is under the direction of the Master.
3. He shall make notes on proper lighting of the lodge for each of the degrees and execute them faithfully for the Master.
The emblem for this station is the crossed lightning bolts. The collar may have the emblem encircled or not. The emblem will also be on the Lodge Apron which will be worn during lodge in place of the usual blue-bordered white members' apron.
4. When the lights are ready, he should assist the Stewards in preparing the lodge for meetings and rehearsals. 5. He should note anything about the lodge hall in need of repair and notify the Master and the representative of the building association, if any.
Below are some specific duties and responsibilities of the Electrician.
SPECIFIC DUTIES
6. He should assist the Junior Deacon with the preparation of the candidates when needed.
1. He shall remain aware of the tone and feeling of each part of each degree and keep his eye on the Master for any changes during the ceremony.
7. He should attend the visits of the District Deputy Grand Master as scheduled.
2. He shall arrive at least one half
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TYLER Below are some specific duties and responsibilities of the Tyler.
OVERVIEW Although the Tyler remains outside the lodge while ritual and meetings are conducted, he is a very important officer of the lodge as he is the first member of the lodge a visitor comes in contact with. He should be very courteous and considerate of them. He should notify the Marshal or Senior Deacon of their presence as soon as possible.
SPECIFIC DUTIES 1. He should request an examination committee for visiting brethren when needed. 2. He should verify that all visiting brethren are properly vouched for. 3. He shall maintain the Members' and Visitors' registers.
The emblem for this station is the sword. The collar may have the emblem encircled or not. The emblem will also be on the Lodge Apron which will be worn during lodge in place of the usual blue-bordered white members' apron.
4. He shall learn his part in the third degree ritual. 5. He should attend the visits of the District Deputy Grand Master as scheduled.
MARSHAL Below are some specific duties and responsibilities of the Marshal.
OVERVIEW The Marshal's most important duty, usually as the lodge’s Immediate Past Master, is to be available as a source of knowledge to the Master when requested. In addition to his ritual duties he will conduct visitors and guests of the lodge as the Master shall direct.
SPECIFIC DUTIES 1. He should assist the Master as requested. 2. Check with the Tyler and inform the Master of any special or out-of-state visitors.
The emblem for this station is the baton. The collar may have the emblem encircled or not. The emblem will also be on the Lodge Apron, which will be worn during lodge in place of the usual blue-bordered white members' apron.
3. Obtain the names of any brothers wishing to make a presentation to a candidate at a 3rd Degree and report them to the Master. 4. Should attend the visits of the District Deputy Grand Master as scheduled
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ASSOCIATE STEWARD(S) OVERVIEW should be learning as much as possible. It is wise for any officer to be ahead of his own office. This is an excellent opportunity to get ahead and for a learning year. They should prepare themselves to be able to assume either of the Steward's duties and degree work at any time. While the duties are relatively simple, they form the foundation for the future duties an officer will assume. Strong adherence to the duties assigned will make their future experiences enjoyable ones.
They shall assist the Stewards in their duties under the direction of the Junior Warden or Senior Deacon as needed. The use of Associate Stewards will greatly enhance the smooth functioning of the lodge. Although there is no official office of Associate Steward, it provides a good opportunity for interested brethren to gain experience and training as possible future officers. They should be keen observers of all that goes on in the lodge and
CHAPLAIN(S) OVERVIEW Most chaplains who have served for a number of years will have many different prayers they have customized for the openings and closings.
The ritual states the Chaplain will conduct the devotion of the lodge. This includes opening and closing prayers and any ritualistic prayers during the degrees.
A chaplain should also make himself available, if possible, when called upon to assist the Master in conducting Masonic funeral services.
The emblem for this station is the Holy Bible. The collar may have the emblem encircled or not. The emblem will also be on the Lodge Apron, which will be worn during lodge in place of the usual blue-bordered white members' apron.
A lodge may have more than one chaplain who share the responsibilities equally.
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PROXY of the lodge who has signed the Bylaws of the lodge (except if representing lodges outside the geographic boundaries of Massachusetts), and he should be able to attend all Quarterlies. A Proxy living out of state or otherwise unable to fulfill these requirements is of no use to the lodge. A Proxy may only serve one lodge.
OVERVIEW The Proxy is an elected position in the lodge, whose sole function is to attend the Quarterly Communications of the Grand Lodge and vote on any issues that may be required as directed by the Lodge. The Proxy votes only in the absence of all three senior officers of the lodge, the Master and Wardens. An elected Proxy should be a member
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DUTIES OF COMMITTEE CHAIRMEN BLOOD DONOR/CPR
ENTERTAINMENT
1. Act as a liaison between the Lodge and the District Blood Chairman, and the American Red Cross when necessary.
1. To plan events that are to entertain the members of the lodge and their families. 2. To plan programs at the direction of the Master and to appoint a committee to work to achieve those plans.
2. Report to the lodge on the donor recruitment within the district and within the Lodge. 3. Keep local lodge donor records.
FINANCE
D.A.R.E.
1. To oversee the financial status of the Lodge's funds.
1. To develop relations with the local Police Department's D.A.R.E. officers and to ascertain their needs and determine how the lodge might be able to assist or promote their activities.
2. In the absence of the Master, to provide signatures on the bills presented for payment in accordance with the By-laws of the Lodge.
2. Develop programs within the Lodge, or assist in developing programs within the District and the community, to assist in raising funds to support the local programs.
3. To assist the Senior Warden in planning his budget for the ensuing year, and to assist the Master in keeping his budget on track.
FUNERAL
2. To report on those activities when requested by the Master.
1. To conduct funeral services for departed brethren at the request of and/or absence of the Master.
DeMOLAY
2. To enlist the assistance of other able brethren in conducting the services.
1. To establish and maintain relations with the local DeMolay chapters, and to act as a liaison between the Lodge and those chapters.
MASONIC AWARENESS
2. To report on those activities when requested by the Master.
1. Develop Awareness programs within the lodge to stimulate increased attendance by our members and to attract new candidates.
EDUCATION 1. Ensure that candidates receive proper instruction in our ritual and are proficient in it.
2. Maintain correspondence with District Masonic Awareness Chairman and report to him our activities.
2. Ensure that candidates attend the district’s Lodge of Instruction. 38
deceased brethren or members of his family.
MEMBERSHIP
5. Maintain communications with the lodge Secretary concerning the welfare of the lodge.
1. Ensure that all applications for membership are properly investigated, and that all requirements of the lodge are fulfilled by both the lodge and the applicant, reporting the results to the Secretary.
TROWEL MAGAZINE 1. To write and submit articles of the activities of the lodge to the Trowel Magazine for publication on an ongoing basis.
NOMINATING 1. To evaluate and recommend to the membership candidates for the offices of Master, Senior Warden, Junior Warden, Treasurer, Secretary, Auditor of the funds, if applicable, Proxy, and members of the Board of Trustees in accordance with the lodge’s By-laws.
Other duties may be defined in the future, and other committees may be named and their functions defined by the Master as the needs of the Lodge warrant.
ADDITIONAL APPOINTED POSITIONS
2. To assist in the evaluation of the performance of the junior line officers and assist the incoming Master in the selection of his appointed line officers.
Ambassador Every Lodge is required to have a visible and hopefully knowledgeable member to serve as the Lodge’s Ambassador. His responsibility will be to serve the Lodge as its spokesman in the community, and as such should be comfortable and skilled in public speaking. He should be experienced enough to speak in lodges and LOI’s on Masonic topics. He should have enough information available to him to be able to represent the appendant bodies to any Master Mason. He may serve as a mentor to any number of candidates or new Masons. He should be considered a membership development specialist and as such devise and create membership development functions. He should attend and complete the Ambassador training program prior to his appointment.
3. To receive a report from the Senior Warden outlining his programming plans for his term as Master. 4. To receive from the Senior Warden a copy of an operating budget approved by the Finance Committee for his term as Master.
SERVICE 1. To report on the general welfare of the brethren and their families. 2. To compile data on those in need and to report to the Lodge of those suffering losses and/or joyous events. 3. To arrange for visits to sick brethren and to send well wishes to them in accordance to lodge custom. 4. To send cards of condolences from the lodge to the families of our 39
Mentor
An Ambassador should be articulate, positive, respected, knowledgeable, clean and well dressed, able to relate multi-generationally, and do so to target audiences. He should recognize that building and maintaining membership is essential to the Lodge’s success. A Lodge Ambassador will not take the place of the Masonic Awareness or Service Committee members who are engaged in Masonic work in the Lodge family or community. The Ambassador will work on the grass-roots level in membership development. It will be his responsibility to act upon prospective candidates to “close the sale” and bring him before the Lodge with his application. More than one Ambassador may be appointed as needed.
A Mentor may be any member who tales a sincere interest in the progress of a new Mason. He should be one who is willing to work closely with the new Mason. The mentoring process should begin as the prospective candidate’s application is read in Lodge. This ensures that even before he is elected for membership, he is properly informed of the basic fundamentals of the Fraternity, and has an involved and educated contact who may act as an educator and companion throughout the degree process and during his first few months as a master Mason. A Mentor should be knowledgeable enough to be able to stimulate the candidate and keep his interest peaked. A Master who has properly planned programming and events throughout the year supplements the Mentor and provides activities that will make a candidate or new member want to become involved. Every candidate is a stranger to Freemasonry and Freemasonry is a stranger to him. The candidate should be exposed to our rich history and heritage. A mentor’s duties are not solely to teach the candidate about the beauty and meaning of our ceremonies, but to present him with the spirit of the Fraternity so they can understand and appreciate its purposes and ideals. The new Brother will feel that he has become an integral part of the Masonic family. The Lodge therefore will be the beneficiary of new members who have a deeper understanding and can take an active role right from the beginning.
Chief Instructor The Chief Instructor may be any member who has an intimate knowledge of the Fraternity. His principle duty is to assist the Lodge in instructing the candidates in the history and heritage of the Fraternity by utilizing the prepared lessons from the Education Department as a basis for instruction. He may function as a ritualistic instructor but that is a secondary function of the Chief Instructor and is usually delegated to a member who has a solid knowledge of the ritual. The Chief Instructor is a resource available to the Lodge, properly trained, and has the ability to effectively teach the lessons. He will be utilized if a candidate is unable to attend a District Lodge of Instruction, or may be recruited to instruct at a Lodge of Instruction.
Other individual appointed positions may be required by the Grand Master as opportunities arise.
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Ancient Charges of a Master Many incoming Masters hear the following Charges for the first time the night they are installed Master of their Lodge. They never really hear or understand what they are. They are included here for all officers to read and hopefully begin to understand what the Office of Master entails.
My Brother:
You agree to promote the general good of society, to cultivate the social virtues, and to propagate the knowledge of the art.
Previous to your investiture, it is necessary that you should signify your assent to those ancient charges and regulations which point out the duty of a Master of a Lodge:
You
promise to pay homage to the Grand Master for the time being, and to his officers when duly installed, and strictly to conform to every edict of the Grand Lodge, or general assembly of Masons, that is not subversive of the principles and groundwork of Masonry.
You agree to be a good man and true, and strictly to obey the moral law.
You agree to be a peaceable citizen, and cheerfully to conform to the laws of the country in which you reside.
You admit that it is not in the power of any man, or body of men, to make innovations in the body of Masonry.
You promise not to be concerned in plots and conspiracies against government, but patiently to submit to the decisions of the supreme legislature.
You promise a regular attendance on the committees and communications of the Grand Lodge, on receiving proper notice, and to pay attention to all the duties of Masonry on convenient occasions.
You agree to pay a proper respect to the civil magistrate, to work diligently, live creditably, and act honorably by all men.
You admit that no new Lodge shall be formed without permission of the Grand Lodge, and that no countenance be given to any irregular Lodge or to any person clandestinely initiated therein, being contrary to the ancient charges of the Order.
You agree to hold in veneration the original rulers and patrons of the Order of Masonry, and their regular successors, supreme and subordinate, according to their stations; and to submit to the awards and resolutions of your Brethren, when convened, in every case consistent with the Constitutions of the Order.
You admit that no person can be regularly made a Mason in, or admitted a member of, any regular Lodge, without previous notice and due inquiry into his character.
You agree to avoid private piques and quarrels, and to guard against intemperance and excess.
You agree that no visitors shall be received into your Lodge without due examination, and producing proper vouchers of their having been initiated in a regular Lodge.
You agree to be cautious in carriage and behavior, courteous to your Brethren, and faithful to your Lodge. You promise to respect genuine Brethren, and to discountenance imposters and all dissenters from the original plan of Masonry.
These
are the regulations of Free and Accepted Masons. Do you submit to these charges, and promise to support these regulations, as Masters have done in all ages before you?
The Master assents. 44
