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 INTRODUCTION AND GUIDANCE NOTES
 PART 1: ENTERED APPRENTICE
 PART 2: FELLOWCRAFT
 PART 3: MASTER MASON
PLEASE NOTE
THIS INTERACTIVE PRESENTATION SHOULD NOT BE GIVEN TO THOSE BEING MENTORED
BUT USED BY THE MENTORS AS A GUIDE TO WHAT THEY SHOULD SHARE.
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INSTRUCTION AND GUIDANCE NOTES
INTRODUCTION
THE MENTOR
THE LODGE
GUIDANCE NOTES
R W Bro. Graham Ives
Provincial Grand Master
We acknowledge the help and
assistance given to us by the
Province of Gloucestershire
In compiling this booklet.
INITIAL MEETING BEFORE THE BALLOT
THE NIGHT OF THE INITIATION CEREMONY
AFTER INITIATION THE MENTOR'S WORK
FIRST MEETING
SECOND MEETING
THIRD MEETING
FOURTH MEETING
LODGE OF INSTRUCTION
CONCLUSION
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MENTORING PROGRAMME INTRODUCTION
The purpose of the mentoring programme is to ensure that every new member
enjoys being a freemason, understands what it is about, and becomes involved
in his Lodge and in all its activities.
The Lodges that have accomplished this objective have benefited from keen,
enthusiastic and committed members who are not only an asset to their Lodge
and freemasonry in general, but also keen to encourage their friends to join.
This objective cannot be achieved by one person alone. The Lodge as a whole
must welcome, involve, and value its new members. We are receiving them
into our order and their attitude and response to us will depend on how we
treat them.
This booklet is intended to provide a framework for a Lodge to implement a
Mentoring Scheme as well as guidance for those brethren who take on this
very important role.
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THE MENTOR
We will first look at the Mentor and his role and then how the Lodge can make
it possible for him to achieve the objectives. The Candidate's Sponsors will in
many cases assume the role of Mentor. However, it may be an advantage
sometimes to have a third party involved who can take an active interest in the
new Brother for the first two or three years of his membership of the Lodge.
It is the aim of the Mentor to ensure that the new member is made to feel
welcome, understands Freemasonry, and what he can give and receive from it
if he becomes, and is involved in the activities and work of the Lodge. To be
able to do this the Mentor must be an enthusiastic Mason, keen to take on the
role, and a good communicator. He will need to be an experienced Mason, not
necessarily a Past Master, but for the right man it is an excellent role for a
Master newly out of the Chair.
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THE LODGE
It is the remit of every Lodge to look after its members and to ensure that a
Mentor is appointed for each of its candidates. Lodges have adopted various
procedures for doing this. One of the most effective has been to appoint a
brother to coordinate the scheme. This brother should not shoulder the
responsibility of acting as a Lodge Mentor because, as we have seen, each
candidate needs his own guide to whom he can relate. It would also be too
onerous for one brother to look after more than one candidate properly as will
be seen in the Guidance Notes that follow.
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GUIDANCE NOTES
These Notes are intended to be for Guidance. Many Lodges will already have
procedures in place for some of the points and it is intended that these notes
should be complimentary, rather than conflict with them.
The appointment of the Mentor cannot be too early. If he is to be one of the
candidate's proposers this is easily achieved, but if it is to be another brother,
then that brother should be involved as soon as possible, so that the candidate
can have someone to refer to from the start.
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INITIAL MEETING BEFORE THE BALLOT
The Proposers meet the Candidate and his family at the Candidate's home or
at another convenient place and answer questions they may have regarding
Masonry. The following points should be considered in the discussions with the
Candidate:i.
Make it quite clear that he can only be accepted into Freemasonry if he
does believe in a Supreme Being.
ii.
Are his moral and mental standards in line with Masonic aims?.
iii.
Will his acceptance create financial or domestic problems?
iv.
What are his motives for joining Freemasonry?
v.
Does his family support his wish to become a Freemason?
Explain the procedure and reasons for Balloting new members and that he will
have to be interviewed and why. Explain that a brother will act as his Mentor.
The Candidate and his family will get their first impression of the Craft from
this meeting, so ensure that it is a favourable one.
The Candidate and his family must be given copies of the booklet
Freemasonry: An Approach to Life, or five Grand Lodge booklets, namely:Press [Page Down] Key for next page - Page 1 of 2
• What is Freemasonry
• Freemasonry and Society
• Freemasonry and Religion
• Regular Freemasonry & Public Affairs
• Freemasonry's External Relations
All these are included in the Orange folder issued by Grand Lodge.
They may also see the Videos "The Freemasons" and "Freemasonry TodayTomorrow."
Upon the election of the Candidate for Initiation, the Lodge should send him a
Congratulatory letter, which should inform him of the proposed date of his
Initiation, the Fees he will have to pay, and the correct dress for the evening.
The Proposers, or Mentor, must inform the Candidate what they expect of him
at his Initiation. They must also ensure that the Candidate and his lady are
invited to any forthcoming open Lodge functions, and find out if the Candidate
has any particular Masonic friends or associates who would like to be invited to
attend (or assist) in the conferral of the Degrees. Above all, they should make
the new Brother a part of the Masonic Family.
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THE NIGHT OF THE INITIATION CEREMONY
The Proposers meet their Candidate at the Lodge Rooms a few minutes before
the Lodge has opened.
He should be introduced to the Tyler and the Junior Deacon who should put
him at his ease and explain that he is not expected to say anything unless he is
prompted to do so. He should, preferably, not be left on his own, but if he is, it
should be explained that the Tyler will come and collect him after a short
while.
In some Lodges, at some convenient place in the Ceremony, perhaps after the
Charge, the Candidate is formally introduced to his Mentor who then goes to
sit with him in the N.E. After the Meeting the Mentor must look after the
Candidate by showing him where to leave his Apron, taking him to the Bar, and
seeing that he is introduced to the Brethren.
At subsequent meetings the Mentor should sit with the candidate, if
practicable, or see that he is comfortable both within the Lodge Room and at
Dinner afterwards, making sure he is introduced to as many of the Lodge
members as possible.
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AFTER INITIATION THE MENTOR'S WORK
The Candidate meets with the Mentor a minimum of FOUR times and each
should be a relaxed meeting with plenty of time for discussion.
They meet:Following the First Degree, prior to the Second Degree;
Following the Second Degree, prior to the Third Degree;
Following the Third Degree;
One month after the third session to discuss any reservations or queries
that the candidate may have.
The new Mason needs to know and appreciate his duties as a Master Mason
and what his rights and privileges are. He should be advised of the procedure
when visiting other Lodges, and his Mentor should take the opportunity to
arrange visits to other Lodges where he can see the Ceremony he has recently
taken part in. He needs information about the traditions and work of the Craft
as a whole.
1)
2)
3)
4)
Do not leave the newly made Mason alone to fend for himself after the Third
Degree!
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For far too long, new Candidates have been brought into the Craft enthusiastic
and eager to become active members, only to be neglected by their Lodge. A
properly educated, oriented and interested new Mason is an ACTIVE member
of his Lodge. The Mentoring Programme is the first step to membership
retention and expansion.
N.B. If there is to be a meeting where a superior degree ceremony or an
Installation is to take place and the Candidate has to leave the Lodge for a
while, the Mentor should accompany him. This is an excellent opportunity
for further instruction, especially if there is another new Mason in the same
position.
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FIRST MEETING:
Location :
The Lodge Room is best.
Subjects to discuss:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
The Book of Constitutions.
The Initiation Ceremony.
The Signs, Token and Word.
The Organisation of the Lodge and the Lodge Officers.
Masonic Etiquette and Protocol.
The Festive Board.
A brief History of Freemasonry.
The questions to be answered in the next ceremony.
Suggested time: Sufficient time for a full discussion in a relaxed atmosphere.
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SECOND MEETING
Location :
Again, The Lodge Room is preferable.
Subjects to discuss:
•
•
•
•
•
•
The Second Degree Ceremony.
The Signs, Token and Word.
Masonic Aprons and Collars.
Masonic Jewels.
Provincial Charities and associations.
The questions to be answered at the next ceremony.
Suggested time: Sufficient time for a full discussion in a relaxed atmosphere.
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THIRD MEETING
Location :
The Lodge Room
Subjects to discuss:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
The Third Degree Ceremony.
The Signs, Token and Word.
The Five Points of Fellowship.
Visiting other Lodges.
The Organisation of The Provincial Grand Lodge and the United Grand
Lodge of England.
The Provincial Year Book
Honours given to Grand and Provincial Grand Officers
Grand Charities - their structures and aims
The way forward to the Master's Chair.
Suggested time: Sufficient time for a full discussion in a relaxed atmosphere
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FOURTH MEETING
Location:
The Lodge Room
Present:
The Mentor, the New Master Mason, the Preceptor of the Lodge of Instruction
Subjects to discuss:
• The Grand Lodge Certificate.
• Joining the Lodge of Instruction.
• Learning the Ritual.
• The responsibilities of Lodge Officers, especially the Master in his year of
office.
• Discuss any special contribution the new Master Mason can make to the
Lodge.
• Joining the Royal Arch and completing your journey through basic
masonry.
Suggested time: Sufficient time for a full discussion in a relaxed atmosphere
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LODGE OF INSTRUCTION
It is regretted that so many new Brethren are ignored after they receive the
Third Degree. Often, they are left to their own devices and to fend for
themselves. If the Lodge can retain their interest during this most critical
period of their Masonic life, and give them guidance and encouragement until
they have had time to form habits of interest and activity for themselves, they
will develop into working, active Masons. Otherwise, they are likely to stop
attending after a few meetings and either lapse into chronic indifference, or
find their way to some other activity they find more attractive. It is therefore
important that the Mentor and the Proposer introduce the Candidate to a
Lodge of Instruction as soon as possible after he has become a Master Mason.
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CONCLUSION
If the Mentoring Programme is followed, the Lodge will have a new member
with a clear understanding of the fundamentals of Freemasonry and who will
have met and enjoyed the company of the members of the Lodge. By joining
the Lodge of Instruction he will have become involved in the ritual and
ceremonial proceedings of the Institution. He should therefore be in a position
to thoroughly enjoy his Freemasonry. In short, by looking after, taking care of,
and instructing the new Brother, the Lodge has gained a valuable new addition
to its membership, and the Craft in general is strengthened with a strong link in
the chain.
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Part 1: ENTERED APPRENTICE
CONTENTS:
WELCOME
CEREMONY OF INITIATION
THE ORGANISATION OF THE LODGE
A BRIEF HISTORY OF FREEMASONRY
THE FESTIVE BOARD
SOME DO'S AND DON'TS
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IN KNOWLEDGE LIES STRENGTH
Welcome
Congratulations on being Initiated into the world wide Brotherhood of
Freemasonry.
This booklet is designed to help understand our Order. Some 14,000 men join
English Freemasonry every year. Why do they do so?
Most join because they see that friends, whom they respect, are proud to be
Freemasons and clearly enjoy their membership of the Order. All should have
had the opportunity of seeing the comprehensive booklets issued by the
United Grand Lodge of England (U.G.L.E.). so that they are well informed. But
the high standards of behaviour expected from all members of the Craft make
it necessary for us to know something about a man before we can accept him;
in particular we need to be satisfied that he is not seeking to become a
Freemason because he expects that membership will advance him in his
business, or provide him with a material gain or preference. We also want to
know that he will be a credit to the Craft, and will indeed become a Brother
among us. But overriding all this is one most important requirement - to be a
Freemason a man must have a belief in a Supreme Being (a God.) No atheist or
agnostic is eligible. [See Book of Constitutions (B o C) Charge]
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Freemasonry is not a religion; far from it. A Freemason is required to practice
his own religion, whatever it may be, and to regard his Freemasonry as a moral
code subordinate to, but supportive of that religion. Members of many faiths
in many countries are Freemasons; Christianity, Judaism, Islam and many
others; and men of differing faiths can and do meet together in the
brotherhood of a Lodge without dissension, "in perfect harmony" as
Freemasons put it. And it must be made clear at the outset that, in order to
preserve the harmony by which we set so much store, no discussion of religion
is permitted in Lodge; for the same reason, there is no discussion of politics.
You particularly need the support of your Wife (Partner) and family.
So much for the preconditions of membership. Now we turn to the question of
what Freemasonry is, and what demands it will make on you. What is said in
this booklet of course applies to Freemasonry in England, where the governing
body is U.G.L.E. which operates from Great Queen Street, London but there
are, throughout the world, many other independent Grand Lodges which we
acknowledge, so you will realise that you are now a member of an association
which has counterparts all over the world.
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Some Grand Lodges, which do not accept or demand the same standards, are
not recognised by us. You must check before visiting a Lodge overseas that
they are recognised by U.G.L.E.
The first essential in understanding Freemasonry, is to rid your mind of
preconceived notions about it; these may well have resulted from uninformed
talk or guesswork and even sometimes from malicious gossip. We do not
pretend that all Freemasons are perfect in thought, word and deed, but we do
affirm that we expect our Brethren to observe the highest moral standards,
requiring each Brother to behave towards others (whether members of the
Craft or not) as he would have them behave towards him, to attend his Lodge
as regularly as his domestic and other duties will allow, and to give in the cause
of charity as generously as his means will permit.
The definition of Freemasonry best known to members of the Craft is a
"system of morality" and moral teaching is the basis on which it rests. This
teaching is effected by ritual and ceremonial which experience has shown to
have a real impact on the minds of the Brethren. This may sound rather
pompous, but in practice it is not so;
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Freemasonry is to be enjoyed - its companionship, its constructive attitude to
life and its insistence on the importance of the welfare and independence of
the individual, all help to ensure that this happens. From the moment that a
man becomes a Freemason he is considered as a Brother to every other
Freemason throughout the world, however senior that Brother may be; there
must of course be discipline and order, but the element of brotherhood, with
its privileges and duties, is always present.
It is, in fact, the Lodge which is the most important Masonic body for a
candidate since it is in the Lodge that he will attend meetings, and meet his
fellow Freemasons. This does not mean that your Freemasonry will be limited
to your own Lodge; invitations to visit other Lodges as a guest are common
and visitors are always welcome. You are entitled to ask any questions of your
Proposer or Seconder, but do not press them to break confidence regarding
higher degrees. Nurture this special relationship as both of them have a
responsibility for your Masonic well being.
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THE CEREMONY OF INITIATION
The ceremony could be said to be to be representative of the birth of Man. At
birth we are all naked and without possessions and we rely on the help and
guidance of others until we reach maturity when we in turn can extend that
help to others.
The hoodwink you wore, represented the darkness before birth and
emphasised the "shade of Darkness" that exists prior to the "Light" of Masonic
teaching being revealed. It also enabled the candidate to be led from the
Lodge Room without seeing it, if he refused to continue with the Ceremony.
The Cable Tow, an old emblem of a servant being bonded to his Master, in a
freemason's Lodge symbolises our ignorance until we are brought to the Light
of the Volume of the Sacred Law, the Bible because in our Lodge everyone is a
Christian and we have no members from other Faiths. The Candidate is
without possessions for the reason stated above but he is divested of all
metallic objects so that he cannot bring any offensive weapons into the Lodge
to disturb its harmony. The naked heel and the slipshod are because the
ground is Consecrated and the knee is made bare so that there is nothing
between it and the Earth when the Obligation is taken.
.
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The Left Breast is made bare so that the points of both The Poniard and the
Compasses can be felt next to the heart
The Candidate is invested with an Apron of plain white Lambskin which is a
symbol of purity and is derived from the Aprons worn by the ancient operative
masons. It is the Badge of the Order and all other Aprons, however ornate, are
embellishments of this Badge.
The Working Tools which were presented to you are to teach us the basis of a
good life, which is explained in more detail in the Charge.
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THE ORGANISATION OF THE LODGE
The rules governing the organisation of the Lodge and those under the U.G.L.E.
are set out in The Book of Constitutions (B o C) and the Lodge By-Laws with
which you were presented. The Lodge is presided over by The Worshipful
Master, who is elected by the brethren each year for a period of one year [see
B o C Rule 105(a).] He rules the Lodge with the assistance of his Wardens
whom he appoints. The W.M. also appoints the Officers of the Lodge for his
year of office [see B o C Rule 104(a)] except for the Treasurer and the Tyler
[see B o C Rule 137] who are elected by all the Brethren at the same meeting
as when they elect the Master. Although the appointments are only for one
year it is usual for some offices to be held by the same brother for a number of
years, preferably not exceeding five to seven, to provide continuity, e.g. that of
The Secretary, The Treasurer and The Director of Ceremonies.
Principal Officers
The Principal Officers of the Lodge and their precedence are as follows:Press [Page Down] Key for next page - Page 1 of 2
The Principal Officers of the Lodge and their precedence are as follows:1
Worshipful Master
10 * Senior Deacon
2 * Senior Warden
3 * Junior Warden
11 * Junior Deacon
12
Assistant Secretary
4
5
Chaplain
Treasurer
13
14
6
7
Secretary
Director of Ceremonies
15 * Inner Guard
16 * Stewards
8
Almoner
17
9
Charity Steward
Assist. Director of Ceremonies
Organist
Tyler
The officers marked with an * are usually progressive towards the office of
Worshipful Master which is the highest honour the Lodge has in its power to
confer on any of its members. The Immediate Past Master is not an officer of
the Lodge, but as the Master's immediate predecessor is placed on his
immediate left. He presides in the absence of the W.M.
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BRIEF HISTORY OF FREEMASONRY
Organised Freemasonry in England, as we know it today, began on 24th June
1717 when four London Lodges formed the first or Premier Grand Lodge. There
had of course been Lodges throughout the British Isles before that date. One
of the earliest recorded Initiations was that of Elias Ashmole - founder of the
Ashmolean Museum in Oxford - into a Lodge in Warrington, Cheshire in 1646.
The Lodges of today are generally thought to have developed from the
Medieval Stone Masons Guilds or Lodges and our Constitutions today are
similar to those found in manuscripts dating from the 14th & 15th centuries.
Having said this, the precise origins of Freemasonry are not known, and many
opinions abound. During the middle part of the 1700's a number of breakaway
Grand Lodges were formed. Most did not last long, but one, purporting to
perform the Ceremonies according to "Antients" custom, lasted from 1754
until 1813 when it was finally reunited with the Premier Grand Lodge to form
the United Grand Lodge of England, at a great ceremony which took place on
27th December 1813. In August 1938 the Grand Lodges of England, Ireland and
Scotland each agreed upon, and issued, a statement identical in terms except
that the name of the issuing Grand Lodge appeared throughout. This
statement, which was entitled, Aims and Relationships of the Craft, was
agreed without deviation.
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THE FESTIVE BOARD
At every meeting, usually after the Ceremony, Brethren gather for a dinner
which is usually referred to as the Festive Board. This is always a happy occasion
and should be considered as much a part of a Masonic Meeting as the
Ceremony in the Lodge. The protocols which are to be observed are just as
important as those in the lodge room, but the atmosphere is, of course, much
more relaxed, and it is at the dinner table that one has the opportunity to get to
know the brethren of your Lodge and the Visitors.
Stewarding is a very essential tradition and should be looked upon as an
opportunity to serve the Lodge and play a part rather than an intrusive
interference in your meal.
One of the most respected Masonic offices is that of a Provincial Grand Steward
and it is marked by a distinctive Red Apron and a Red Collar.
The gestures and clapping which follow a Masonic toast are called 'Masonic fire'
or 'firing'. They are considered to be private, and so are not given when nonmasons are present, because the gestures are thought of as representing the
First Degree sign.
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It is a very ancient custom and is sometimes performed in a Lodge with a 'firing
glass' which has a toughened base and is banged on the table.
The first toast will have struck you as unusual. It's origin has not been surely
established; but it's form has been well known to and honoured by many Royal
members of the Craft. The Monarch and the Craft have been linked in a
Masonic toast since the earliest days of organised Freemasonry. This is because
loyalty to the Crown as lawfully constituted authority is an essential principle of
English Freemasonry. It is given in this form whether or not the Monarch is a
Freemason and so takes the same form when there is a Queen on the Throne.
When the Worshipful Master gavels, followed by the two Wardens, silence must
ensue. This is a courtesy which must be observed; to continue talking is
disruptive of the proceedings.
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SOME DO'S AND DON'TS
...Dark suit (preferably charcoal grey), white shirt, black tie, black shoes (no
buckles), black socks. Your apron should be clean and smart.
...Never enter the Lodge before you are properly dressed with apron, once
Initiated
...When making a proposition or addressing the Lodge it must be made to the
W.M.
...When perambulating (not marching) in the Lodge remember, always step off
with the left foot and never swing your arms or clench your fist. When
saluting in the first degree, do not close the hand or thumb until the hand has
fully dropped to the side.
...Masonic acknowledgement in Lodge is by a Court bow i.e. inclination of the
head and not from the waist.
...When addressing or referring to a Mason at a Lodge meeting or the Festive
Board address him as Brother... or Worshipful Brother and his forename and
his surname or just his surname never solely with his forename. Part of the
tradition of Freemasonry is the structure and formal approach to its
proceedings which ensures self discipline.
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...If you are unable to attend a Lodge meeting or function always present your
apologies to the Worshipful Master through the Secretary. If it is a Provincial
function your apology must be through the Provincial Grand Secretary unless
otherwise stated.
...When addressing Officers in the Lodge remember we are all Brothers even
when the Office holder is a Worshipful Brother. The correct terminology
therefore is Brother Treasurer, Brother Secretary, Brother Director of
Ceremonies.
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Part 2: FELLOWCRAFT
CONTENTS:
INTRODUCTION
THE CEREMONY OF PASSING
THE PROVINCE OF LINCOLNSHIRE
THE MASONIC CHARITIES
ADDITIONAL HELP
THE FELLOWCRAFT MUST NOT FALL
INTO THE ERROR OF CONSIDERING
IT A HALFWAY STATION
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INTRODUCTION
Congratulations on being passed to the Degree of a Fellowcraft. During the
ceremony you were told that you are now in the midway of Freemasonry.
However, before the second quarter of the 18th Century, there were only two
degrees of Freemasonry, the entered Apprentice and Fellowcraft (also known in
Europe as the Fellow of the Craft,) and it was from the Fellowcraft that the
Master was elected, having first served as a Warden. These days we now have
the three degrees.
The second degree in Freemasonry teaches us about man's relationship with the
world in which we live and was created by the G.G.O.T.U. In the First Degree,
the deity was referred to as the G.A.O.T.U. You were informed that you were
now permitted to extend your researches into the hidden mysteries of Nature &
Science. Note the curious terminology 'permitted.' The second degree assumes
that,having being taught in the First Degree your Duties to GOD and your fellow
creatures, you are now responsible and mature enough to learn about the
Universe in which we live, to use its gifts for the benefit of all, and not to abuse
them. Knowledge without morality can be a very dangerous thing.
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THE CEREMONY OF PASSING
It is important to remember that in this degree you are already a Freemason,
so there was no need for a hoodwink, or to prevent you rushing into the
Lodge. The purpose of the degree is, firstly to acknowledge the progress you
have made in the craft, and secondly to build upon your knowledge by opening
the way for further learning. The difference in the mode of your preparation,
the position of the Square and Compasses, and the two rosettes on your
apron, are to indicate your progress in Freemasonry. It is interesting that just
as the position of your feet during the first degree obligation corresponded
with you being placed in the N.E. corner of the Lodge, so in the second they
correspond with your being placed in the S.E. corner of the Lodge.
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THE PROVINCE OF LINCOLNSHIRE
In the first booklet of this series, the organisation of the Lodge was explained,
and the Book of Constitutions [B o C] clearly states that each Private Lodge
runs its own affairs under the rule of the Worshipful Master.
However, to be Masonically Regular, the Lodge must be granted a Warrant by
the Grand Master of a recognised constitution. In the case of this Lodge we are
regulated by the United Grand Lodge of England. The organisation of U.G.L.E.
is set out in the B o C and will be discussed further in the third booklet The
Grand Master has the power to appoint Provincial and District Grand Masters
to assist him in ruling the Craft. The Provinces are within the British Isles,
excluding Scotland and Ireland, who have their own Grand Lodges, and the
Districts are overseas. Our Lodge is part of the Province of Lincolnshire, and we
are led by the Provincial Grand Master for Lincolnshire.
The power delegated by the Grand Master to Provincial Grand Masters and the
organisation of Provincial Grand Lodges are set out in the Book of
Constitutions. You will have no doubt noticed that some of the brethren in the
Lodge wear Dark Blue aprons rather than the Light Blue worn most of the
brethren.
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Those with the larger Darker Blue aprons are either Officers or Past Officers of
Grand Lodge, and those with the usual sized Dark Blue aprons are either,
Officers or Past Officers of this or other Provincial Grand Lodges, or holders of
the London Grand Rank.
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THE MASONIC CHARITIES
They are the means by which we are able to
assist Freemasons, their families and
dependants. They are organisations all
Freemasons should contribute to, and yet very
few know much of their beginnings, or how they
developed into the structure we have today.
During the medieval period, before the advent of
speculative masonry, most operative masons
were either employed by the Crown or the
Church, and their circumstances were such that
there was little need for Charity as we know it.
The Ancient Charges, which were designed to
govern the work, merely allude to "receive and
cherish strange masons either by setting them to work for at least a fortnight,
or by refreshing them with money until the next Lodge."
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The Dumfries Manuscript of around 1690 still only charges a Brother to "at all
times cheerfully distribute your Charity to the relief of distreste or sick fellow
masons." Similar practices were evidently met with in English Speculative
Lodges at the time, as can be seen by John Aubrey's statement "that when
anyone falls into decay the Brotherhood is to relieve him."
The need for such a form of support would have been universal at the time,
and many Craft Guilds had similar arrangements for Relief. This situation was
little changed by the time the First Grand Lodge was formed, and we find in
Anderson's Constitutions of 1723 the regulations that were put into force at
the time. These place, on the Grand Lodge, the responsibility of considering
ways of collecting and dispensing charity to "any true Brother fallen into
poverty or decay."
By the 1760's the requirement for Charity was not included in the Ritual of
either the Moderns or the Ancients. In both workings the Candidate thanks the
Brethren from the N.W. and he is afterwards conducted to the N.E., where he
receives his Apron, and is presented with the Working Tools.
By the early 1800's the Candidates' Catechism was delivered from the N.E.
corner.
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Q.
A.
Why was you neither naked or clothed?
As I was an object of distress at that time it was to remind me if I ever
saw a friend, more especially a Brother, in a like distressed situation
that I should contribute as liberally to his relief as his situation required
and my abilities would admit, without material injury to myself or
family.
The Charge in the N.E. corner that we are familiar with today, was introduced
following the Lodge of Reconciliation and subsequent Union of the two Grand
Lodges in 1813. It is identical in sentiment in all printed Rituals, and shows only
slight variation in the Text.
The first of the individual Masonic Charities came into being in the late 18th
Century, when Chevalier Bartholemew Ruspini stated the object of a specific
charity to "preserve the daughters of indigent Freemasons from the dangers
and misfortune of the distressed situation ... and to qualify them to occupy a
useful station in life."
CHARITIES
The four main Masonic Charities, namely, The Grand Charity, The Royal
Masonic Trust for Girls and Boys,
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The Royal Masonic Benevolent Fund, and the New Masonic Samaritan Fund,
are all explained in considerable detail in the book entitled "THE MASONIC
CHARITIES" which should have been given to you when you were initiated.
CHARITY FESTIVALS
The principal method of raising funds for the main Masonic Charities is through
the various festivals which are determined by Grand Lodge.
Once a Province is invited to organise a festival, it will usually dedicate five
years to achieve the financial targets, and during those five years it is expected
that most of the charitable contributions will be directed towards the aims of
the festival.
The Provincial Charity Steward
The Provincial Grand Charity Steward is appointed by the Provincial Grand
Master annually. It is normal for him to hold office for a number of years.
His role is:1. To provide assistance, advice and training to, and for, the Lodge Charity
Stewards;
2. To gather contributions from Lodges and to encourage the donors to
contribute to the Charity being recommended by the Province at the time;
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3.
4.
To deposit the income and to ensure the maximum secure return available;
To maintain accurate records of all contributions and to ensure that a
professional audit is carried out, so that the accounts can be presented to
the Annual Charity Meting of the Province;
5. To reclaim tax on Gift Aid contributions, tax vouchers, and outstanding
covenants;
6. To ensure that all contributions are confidential between the donor, the
Lodge Charity Steward, and the Provincial Charity Steward.
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IS ADDITIONAL HELP AVAILABLE?
We have seen how the Masonic charities operate but additional help can be
obtained from three other sources:1. The State
2. Your Lodge
3. Provincial Grand Lodge
THE STATE
The Masonic Charities will not give support when help should be provided by
the State. A paper outlining Social Security Benefits is available from the
Provincial Grand Almoner (Handed to all attending the annual almoners' meetings
and posted to those who cannot attend.) Benefits are provided by the Department
for Work and Pensions, Local Authorities, and the Inland Revenue gives Tax Credits.
Local Social Services departments and Health Authorities are involved in the
provision and funding of residential and/or nursing care.
YOUR LODGE
It is usual for Lodges to hold funds which the Almoner can use to provide
immediate relief. However, not all problems can be solved by money. Often a
friendly chat can be more appropriate.
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The Lodge Charity Steward co-ordinates the collection of charitable donations
from Lodge members. The Lodge Almoner will assist the Brethren of his Lodge to
ensure that the required assistance is obtained for those in need.
PROVINCIAL GRAND LODGE - The Provincial Grand Almoner
The Provincial Grand Almoner is appointed annually by the Provincial Grand
Master, and in order to provide continuity, the same brother is usually reappointed for a number of years. He is responsible for the welfare of the Brethren
in the Province and their dependants (and this includes those living here but from
other Provinces.) He carries out his duty by:
1. Supporting and assisting Lodge Almoners by providing accurate information,
advice and encouragement;
2. Providing regular and effective training for Lodge Almoners;
3. Overseeing the correct preparation of Applications;
4. He is available to visit Lodges, give talks and can supply literature provided by
the Masonic Charities;
5. Receipt of requests from other Provinces and arranging necessary attention to
them.
6. Advising the Provincial Grand Lodge on all matters relevant to the work of
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The Provincial Almoner will be pleased to advise on all matters concerning Social
Security Benefits, Social Services and Health Care. If you have a problem contact
the Lodge Almoner or Provincial Almoner direct.
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Part 3: MASTER MASON
CONTENTS:
INTRODUCTION
THE CEREMONY OF RAISING
WHAT NOW?
LODGE OF INSTRUCTION
HOW IS THE CRAFT GOVERNED
GRAND, PROVINCIAL OR DISTRICT GRAND, LONDON
AND OVERSEAS GRAND AND LONDON RANK
IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE I CAN DO?
HOW CAN I FURTHER MY MASONIC KNOWLEDGE?
IN CONCLUSION
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INTRODUCTION
You have now been raised to the Sublime Degree of a Master Mason, and you
are now able to explore the many facets that make our Institution so
fascinating. However, before you set out on your journey, let us take a few
moments to examine the degrees you have received, and the teachings they
contain. In the first degree you were taught about your relationship with your
fellow creatures, and the principles of charity and goodwill to all men. In the
second, about your relationship to the world in which we live, and the nature
of God himself. In the third, you were taught about yourself, and to prepare for
death. In brief, therefore, you have been taken through the three stages of
man: birth, life and death. The teachings of each degree were reinforced
through a series of playlets, to impress on your mind the rules by which we
should live, and the standards we should strive to attain.
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THE CEREMONY OF RAISING
The third degree ceremony is the most dramatic of the three. The ceremony
teaches us to die with honour and dignity, and expresses our hope for life after
death. At the end of the ceremony, you were told that the genuine secrets of
the degree were lost. This may have been a surprise, but you would not expect
the genuine secrets to be found in death, therefore you must search further to
find them. In order to do this you need to join a Royal Arch Chapter. Your
Mentor or Lodge Secretary will be able to help you with this important step.
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WHAT NOW?
As a new Master Mason it is hoped that you will wish, in a short while, to
embark on an exciting ladder of progression within your Lodge, culminating in
years to come with your Installation as Worshipful Master.
It has been said that to be Installed as Worshipful Master of his Lodge is the
pinnacle of a man's Masonic career.
But first, the key words are Watch, Learn and Listen. Read the book of Ritual
with which you have been presented, and so gain a daily advancement in
Masonic knowledge. Make visits to other Lodges. Volunteer to undertake
Steward's duties if the opportunity arises. These are some examples of how
you can stimulate your interest, and become involved as an active and useful
member of your Lodge.
GRAND LODGE CERTIFICATE
At a meeting soon after your being raised to the third degree you will be
presented with your Grand Lodge Certificate. This certificate is a sort of
passport to regular Freemasonry. You may be asked to produce it if you are
visiting a Lodge where you are not known, or in a foreign constitution.
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It should therefore be kept with your regalia, and never framed and hung in
your office or your home. Your certificate on its own is not sufficient proof of
your being a mason, and if you have not been vouched for by a member of the
Lodge you are visiting, you are likely to be required to give the signs and
passwords of the degrees which are to be worked during your visit.
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LODGE OF INSTRUCTION / IMPROVEMENT
If your Lodge has a Lodge of Instruction or Improvement (LOI) or shares one
with another Lodge you are indeed fortunate, because it is in the LOI that you
will have the opportunity of learning and practicing ceremonies. This will
enable you to be confident about the part you have to play, when your time
comes to participate in a ceremony. Your Mentor should take the opportunity
to introduce you to the Preceptor of the Lodge of Instruction or Improvement
as soon as possible after your raising to the degree of a Master Mason.
FURTHER READING
• The Book of Ritual used by your Lodge
• The Book of Constitutions
• Information about Masonic Charities
• Information for Guidance for Members of the Craft
• The Provincial Year Book
There are other books published by a number of companies which can be
obtained from the publishers, but are often available from Quatuor Coronati
Correspondence Circle Ltd.
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• The Craft - A History of Freemasonry in England by John Hamill
• The Freemason at Work
• The Inner Guard and the Deacons
This list is just a small selection of reading which will help to broaden your
horizons with regard to Freemasonry.
USEFUL ADDRESSES
QUATUOR CORONATI CORRESPONDENCE CIRCLE Ltd
60 Great Queen Street
LONDON WC2B 5BA
Tel.: 0207 405 7340
THE SQUARE
Ian Allen Lewis Masonic
Riverdene Business Park
Molesey Road
HERSHAM Surrey KT12 4RG
Tel.: 01 932 266600
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FREEMASONRY TODAY
87 Guildhall Street
BURY ST EDMUNDS
Suffolk IP331PU
Tel.: 01284 735222
HOW THE CRAFT IS GOVERNED
The Book of Constitutions (B o C) regulates freemasonry under the United
Grand Lodge of England, and no alteration of these Constitutions may be made
without consent of Grand Lodge. Grand Lodge consists of the Grand Officers
for the year, Past Grand Officers, the Masters, Wardens and Past Masters of all
Lodges under the Grand Lodge, all of whom must be subscribing members of
English Lodges. The Grand Master is the head of the Craft, and is elected
annually. The practice of re-electing the Grand Master until he chooses to
retire provides a continuity of leadership often not available in other
Constitutions. The Grand Master appoints the Grand Officers, which may
either be to an acting rank for a year, or to a past rank, which is where the
appointee is honoured with the rank without actually serving in it. At the union
of the two Grand Lodges in 1813, Grand Lodge set up four Boards, which by
1838, had all been absorbed into the Board of General Purposes. This
continues today as the policymaking body of the Craft. The constitution and
the duties of the Board can be found in rules 223 to 238 of the Book of
Constitutions.
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The Board currently has three committees, Finance, External Relations (which
looks after our relations with other Grand Lodges around the World) and
Disciplinary Proceedings for London Lodges.
There is also a Public Relations Steering Group, which was set up by the Pro
Grand Master, and which reports to the Board. In 1999, it was decided to
streamline the decision making process, and the size of the Board of General
Purposes was reduced and a new body, The General Council, was created. The
constitution of the General Council is set out in rules 216 to 222 of the Book of
Constitutions. It is basically a think tank. "The General Council considers such
matters as the Grand Master or the Grand Lodge or the Board of General
Purposes may from time to time refer to it or any such other matter as it shall
see fit."
As stated in Booklet 2, England and Wales, other than London, are divided into
Provinces, and each Province is headed by a Provincial Grand Master
appointed by the Grand Master. Every Lodge in that Province comes under his
rule. London Lodges come under the rule of the Metropolitan Grand Master.
The Provinces are grouped into a number of Associated Masonic Provinces,
each of which have a committee made up of representatives from the
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These associations refer matters to the Board of General Purposes. The Grand
Master also has The Grand Master's Council to advise him.
There is also The Provincial Grand Masters' Forum, which refers matters to the
Board of General Purposes, and has matters referred to it for consideration.
The Grand Secretary, which is a permanent position, manages the day to day
running of Grand Lodge. He has three Directorates, Secretarial Services,
Finance and Administration and Communications, each of which has their own
Director in charge. Grand Lodge however is the ultimate authority. It meets
four times a year at "Quarterly Communications" and it has the sole authority
to enact new legislation, alter or repeal old, to erase or suspend lodges, and to
suspend members from their privileges, or expel them from the Craft.
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GRAND, METROPOLITAN, PROVINCIAL OR DISTRICT AND OVERSEAS GRAND RANK
The Grand Master, under the Book of Constitutions, has the right, annually, to
appoint brethren to Grand Rank. Appointment to Grand Rank is an honour for
service to the Craft, and is made either to an active office or in the form of a
past rank. When a Grand Officer is present in a Lodge it is customary to
acknowledge the honour given to him for his services to the Craft by saluting
him. The number of salutes depends on the seniority of his rank.
• Most Worshipful brethren, that is Grand Master, Pro Grand Master and
Past Grand and Pro Grand Masters are saluted with ELEVEN.
• The Right Worshipful Deputy, Assistant and Past Deputy and Assistant
Grand Masters are saluted with NINE.
• Right Worshipful Provincial and District Grand Masters and Grand Wardens
both present and past are saluted with SEVEN.
• Brethren from Grand Inspectors to Grand Chaplain, present and past, are
Very Worshipful brethren and are saluted FIVE.
• All other Grand Officers are Worshipful brethren and are saluted with
THREE.
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The full details of all the Grand ranks can be found in the Book of Constitutions,
rules 5 and 6.
It is also customary to salute Provincial or District Grand Officers with THREE
when they are present in a Lodge in their Province or District, and also holders
of Senior London Grand, London Grand or London Rank in London Lodges.
The Deputy and Assistant Provincial Grand Masters are saluted with FIVE in
their own Provinces. Past Deputy and Assistant Grand Masters are also entitled
to FIVE, if they served the office for more than two years.
The details of the Full Dress and Plain regalia for all these ranks are set out in
the B o C rule 265.
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IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE I CAN DO?
It is hoped that every Mason will use those "talents wherewith God has
blessed" him to the benefit of his Lodge, whether it is as a Lodge Auditor,
Librarian, Building Surveyor, Caretaker or Barman. The work need not be
onerous, but obviously it should be carried out to the best of one's abilities.
Many brethren who have found that they cannot learn ritual have offered their
services as Treasurers, Secretaries, Almoners or Charity Stewards. These offices
do not have to be filled by Past Masters. Likewise, the Province is often in need
of volunteers at various times of the year.
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HOW CAN I FURTHER MY MASONIC KNOWLEDGE?
The greatest joy that can be found in Freemasonry is the fellowship that it
brings. Becoming involved socially with members of the Craft, whether in or
out of the Lodge, brings a knowledge of them, and from them a knowledge of
the Craft in general. At your Initiation you were told that you should
endeavour to make a daily advancement in Masonic knowledge and there are
many organisations dedicated to the furtherance of that knowledge. The
foremost of these must be Quatuor Coronati Correspondence Circle, which is
attached to the Quatuor Coronati Lodge the foremost Lodge of Masonic
research in the world. The QCCC is open to all Master Masons to join. Ask your
lodge secretary for the name of your local representative.
There is also the Lincolnshire Bi Centenary Lodge of Installed Masters, which
welcomes Master Masons as visitors, although only Installed Masters can be
members. In addition, there are national publications such as "Freemasonry
Today" and "The Square" and details of both can be obtained from your Lodge
Secretary. You will also receive, free of charge, MQ Magazine which is
published four times a year, and is full of current information about the Craft.
There is also our Provincial publication The Lincolnshire Link.
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IN CONCLUSION
We all hope that you will have many happy years in Freemasonry. There is a
true saying that you only get out of life what you put into it, and the same is
true of Freemasonry. We hope that, where appropriate, your family will share
in your enjoyment. It is an Institution of which you can be proud to be a
member, and which we hope you will wish to encourage your friends to join
also.
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