An Initiate’s Guide
The Masonic Province of East Kent
Introduction
Congratulationson your Initiation into Freemasonry, often referred to as Masonry, and on behalf of all the Brethren (as we are called) in the Masonic Province of East Kent, I am delighted to welcome you as a member of an organisation with branches spread throughout the world and one that has been in existenceforover 300years.
Freemasonry is steeped in tradition and you now have the opportunity to learn about its origins, customs and practices. You have started a journey that will take you through the three steps of Craft Masonry. There is a fourth step into the Order of the Holy Royal Arch and in due time you will find there are a number of other steps you can take.
This booklet has been produced to provide you with information about Craft Freemasonry and whilst it is not exhaustive, I hope it will give you a foundation of knowledge. Please do not hesitate to ask if you need more information. Your proposer, seconder or mentor will be able to help you and you will findtheBrethrenoftheLodge onlytoohappytoassist.
Your Lodge will be the keystone to your Freemasonry and you will find that regular attendance at both formal Lodge meetings and Lodge of Instruction will help increase your knowledge and your enjoyment, in what I am sure you will find is a very happyandsupportiveenvironment.
FreemasonryistobeenjoyedandIwishyouverymanyhappyyearsintheCraft.
Neil Hamilton Johnstone
RightWorshipfulProvincialGrandMaster
The Provincial Mentoring Scheme
The provision of Mentoring support is a top priority for the Province of East Kent and although there is an obvious focus on new members, the principle of on-going personal development and support is intended to ensure that all Brethren, whatever their office or responsibility, are supported to the maximum.
In this context, mentoring is a supportive relationship between you, your Lodge Mentor and Personal Mentor and more experienced Masons in your Lodge who will provide guidance, support and encouragement. They will seek to build your confidence and help you learn more about Freemasonry, as well as helping you meet and develop relationships with other members of your own and other Lodges.
You will probably have been introduced to your Mentor at your Initiation. Please take advantage of his help and support through your masonic career and if you have any questions as you work through the content of this booklet.
Personal Information
Name …………………………………
Lodge Name …………………………………
Lodge Number …………..
Date of Initiation ………………………….
Lodge Mentor ……………………………..
Personal Mentor …………………………..
Proposer ……………………………………
Seconder ……………………………………
A helpful reminder
Before you completed your application to join, you should have received information and possibly leaflets to give you an insight into Freemasonry and what we practise and believe.
To recap:
1. Masonry consists of a body of men banded together for the purpose of mutual intellectual, social and moral improvement, all pledged to preserve our mysteries, privileges, customs and ceremonials. Its members endeavour to cultivate and exhibit brotherly love, relief, and truth, to one another and the world at large.
2. An essential condition of membership is a belief in a Supreme Being.
3. Masonry recognises no distinction of religion and emphasises the duties of loyalty and citizenship. It does not permit any of its members to discuss religion or politics at Masonic meetings.
4. It offers no pecuniary advantages binding
one Mason to deal with another, or to support him in any way in the ordinary business relations of life.
5. We support a wide variety of Masonic and non-Masonic charities but Masonry is not in any financial sense a mutual-benefit society. Masonic charities are solely for the less fortunate.
6. Masonry teaches that a man’s first duty is to his family. People should therefore not join if the associated fees and charitable contributions will be to the detriment of their loved ones.
7. Therefore everyone should be sure:
a) He desires the intellectual and moral improvement of himself and others;
b) He is willing to devote time, means and efforts in the promotion of brotherly love, relief and truth;
c) He seeks no commercial, social or pecuniary advantages;
d) He is able to afford the necessary expenditures without detriment to himself or his dependants.
The Form of a Craft Lodge
Keybyinitials: Worshipful Master, Senior Warden, Junior Warden, Grand Officer, Immediate Past Master, CHaplain, Directorof Ceremonies, Assistant Directorof Ceremonies, STeward, ORganist, Senior Deacon, Junior Deacon, TREasurer, SECretary, Assistant Secretary, Charity Steward, ALMoner, Inner Guard
Our Structure
The United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE) is the ruling and governing body of Freemasonry in England and much of the world and is based at Freemasons Hall in Great Queen Street in London. For administration purposes Lodges in the country are grouped under Provincial Grand Lodges and there are some 27 Provinces in England. We are in the Masonic Province of East Kent.
UGLE is governed by The Grand Master and assisted by a number of senior executive officers. Because the Grand Master is a member of the Royal Family there is a Pro Grand Master appointed to act on his behalf as and when necessary.
Grand Lodge meets 4 times a year at what are known as “Quarterly Communication”, which can be attended by Grand Officers, Masters, & Past Masters and Wardens of all Lodges in England.
Provincial Grand Lodges such as East Kent have a Provincial Grand Master who is assisted by a number of Provincial Officers. Provincial Grand Lodge administers the Lodges that are within the Provincial boundaries.
Masonic Authority in the Province of
East Kent
TheGrandMaster
HeadoftheUnitedGrandLodgeof England(UGLE)
TheProvincialGrandMaster
TheDeputyProvincialGrand Master
TheAssistantProvincialGrand Masters
TheWorshipfulMasters
The “Progressive” Officers of a Lodge
The Officers of the Lodge can be divided into three different categories; those who are progressing to the Master’s Chair, those who administer the affairs of the Lodge and those who look after the ceremonial of the Lodge.
Progressing Offices
It is not necessary for the Officers who are progressing to the Master’s Chair to occupy all of these offices but it is beneficial to do so if at all possible and provides valuable experience that cannot be taught. It is normal to start at Inner Guard and progress through all the Offices. Any Candidate for the Master’s Chair must however have served the office of Senior or Junior Warden for one year.
Steward
The Steward’s Jewel is a Cornucopia between the legs of an extended pair of compasses. His duties are to introduce visitors and see that they are properly accommodated, to assist in the collection of dues and subscriptions, to keep an eye on Lodge expenses at the time of refreshment, to see that the
tables are properly furnished, that every Brother is suitably provided for and generally to assist the Deacons and other Officers in performing their respective duties.
Inner Guard
The Inner Guard’s place is within the entrance of the Lodge and his Jewel is that of Two Swords in Saltire. His duty is to report to the Master when Brethren claim admission, to admit Masons on proof, receive the Candidate in due form and obey the commands of the Junior Warden. It is the first of the progressive offices, which lead to the Master’s Chair.
The Deacons
The Junior Deacon
The Junior Deacon’s Jewel is a Dove bearing an Olive Branch. His place is at the right of the Senior Warden. His symbolic duty is to carry all messages and communications from the Senior to the Junior Warden and to see that the same are punctually obeyed. In practice, his duty is to attend on Candidates during the Ceremony of Initiation and to assist the Senior Deacon during the
ceremonies of Passing and Raising. He has a wand of office, usually topped by a copy of the Jewel of his office.
The Senior Deacon
The Senior Deacon has a Jewel similar in every respect to that of the Junior Deacon. His place is at or near to the right of the Worshipful Master. His symbolic duty is to bear all messages and commands from the Worshipful Master to the Senior Warden and await the return of the Junior Deacon. From a practical point of view his duty is to attend on Candidates during the ceremonies of Passing and Raising. In common with the Junior Deacon, he has a wand of office, usually topped by a copy of the Jewel of his office.
The Junior Warden
The Junior Warden is placed in the South. His symbolic duty is to mark the sun at its meridian, to call the Brethren from labour to refreshment and from refreshment to labour, that profit and pleasure may be the result. The Jewel of a Junior Warden is the Plumb Rule, an emblem of uprightness. Symbolically it points out the integrity of the measures he is bound to pursue in conjunction with the Worshipful Master and Senior Warden in the well ruling and governing
of the Lodge particularly in the examination of Visitors, lest through his neglect any unqualified person should gain admission to our assemblies and the Brethren be thereby innocently led to violate their obligation. He has a gavel as an emblem of power which he uses to assist the Worshipful Master and the Senior Warden in preserving order in the Lodge. He also has a Column of Office that he places horizontal when the Lodge is open for business and erect when the Lodge is called from labour to refreshment.
The Senior Warden
The Senior Warden is placed in the West. His symbolic duty is to mark the setting sun, to close the Lodge on the Worshipful Master’s command after having seen that every Brother has had his due. His Jewel is a Level, which, being an emblem of equality, symbolically points out the equal measures he is bound to pursue in conjunction with the Worshipful Master in the well ruling and governing of the Lodge. He has a Gavel as an emblem of power, which he uses to assist the Worshipful Master in preserving order in the Lodge. He also has a Column of Office that he places erect when the Lodge is opened to point out to the Brethren that the Lodge is engaged in Masonic business.
The Worshipful Master
The Worshipful Master’s place is in the East. He is one of the three Officers elected by the Brethren of the Lodge to serve in that office for a year (the other two being the Treasurer and, sometimes, the Tyler). The Master’s duties are to rule and direct his Lodge, to enforce obedience to the Rules and Regulations of the Institution, not to suffer or permit any deviation from the established landmarks of the Order; not to administer, or cause to be administered, any rite or ceremony which is contrary to, or subversive of, the Institution and to maintain, support and uphold, pure and unsullied, the principles and tenets of the Craft. It is indeed a heavy responsibility but the immense pleasure that a Brother gains from being Master of his Lodge is such that it cannot be easily or adequately described!
The “Administrative” Officers of a Lodge
These are the officers who administer the affairs of the Lodge. They do not have to be Past Masters of a Lodge but they often are. Their progression through the Chair has possibly left them with the desire to put something back into the Lodge and to use the valuable experience they have acquired.
The Chaplain
The Chaplain’s office is to administer the spiritual needs of the Lodge. His Jewel is the Open Book on a Triangle surmounting a Glory. The open book represents the Volume of the Sacred Law, which is always open on the Master’s pedestal when the Brethren are at labour in the Lodge. The Volume of the Sacred Law is the greatest of the three great though emblematical lights in Freemasonry. Without it the Lodge is not perfect.
The Chaplain’s place in the Lodge is to the immediate left of the Immediate Past Master. As both in the Opening and Closing of the Lodge in
each Degree, as well as in each of the three Ceremonies, the blessing of the Almighty is invoked on the proceedings of the Lodge. It is therefore the duty of the Chaplain, as far as may be possible, to attend all the meetings of the Lodge, in order that he may exercise his sacred office in the devotional portions of our Ceremonies.
The Treasurer
The Treasurer’s Jewel is a Key. Like the Worshipful Master, the Treasurer has to be elected annually by the Brethren of the Lodge. His duty is to receive all fees, dues, etc., and to pay from the Lodge all current expenses, also any sums that may be voted by the Brethren for the purposes of charity. His accounts must be fairly recorded and be available for all members to know how their subscriptions have been applied and how the balance stands.
The Secretary
The Secretary’s Jewel is Two Pens in Saltire, tied by a ribbon. His duty is to issue the summonses detailing all matters of business that may be brought forward in the Lodge, to attend the Lodge punctually and to enter the proceedings in the minutes for confirmation at a subsequent regular meeting of the Lodge. He is required to keep a correct register of
the names and addresses of all the members and make returns to the Provincial and Grand Lodges.
The Assistant Secretary
The Secretary of a Lodge has a lot of work to do and it is therefore permitted to appoint an Assistant Secretary. The Jewel of the Assistant Secretary is Two Pens in Saltire surmounted by a ribbon bearing the word “Assistant”. His office is to assist the Secretary and you will find that Secretaries use the Assistant Secretary in ways that vary from Lodge to Lodge.
The Almoner
The Almoner’s Jewel is a scrip-purse upon which is a heart. At most Lodge meetings alms are collected and this can take the form of a collection for Masonic Charities during the closing Hymn. Symbolically the Almoner’s work is in dispensing these alms. In practical terms he keeps in touch with the members and former members of the Lodge as well as the widows and dependents of deceased Brethren. He will visit them when they are in poor health, and he will petition the Masonic Charities to provide help for them when they are in need.
The Almoner is a very important office within the
Lodge and he is the person to contact should you know of a Brother or the dependents of a Brother who are in need or, if you yourself are in need. It is not everyone who can undertake the duties of this office. It requires a very special type of person and, if he is working as he should, you will find that he carries on his work with compassion and in the utmost confidence.
The Charity Steward
The Charity Steward’s Jewel is a trowel. It is a symbol of secrecy and fraternal care. As the Almoner’s work is to dispense the alms so it is the Charity Steward’s work to collect money for Masonic Charities. His work is not the easiest to carry out, many Brethren find it difficult to ask others for money. It is a particular type of person who makes a really effective Charity Steward!
mentoring in the Lodge and a successful Lodge Mentor can help produce a happy and successful lodge.
The Lodge Mentor
The Lodge Mentor’s Jewel is Two Chisels in Saltire. The role of the Lodge Mentor is very important in trying to ensure every member of the lodge gains the most from Freemasonry and gives the most to Freemasonry to ensure a happy and fulfilling masonic career. The Lodge Mentor is the coordinator of
The Almoner, Mentor and Secretary
These three officers form an important “unofficial support team” who work together for the Lodge for the benefit of the brethren.
From the information above you will see that Freemasonry provides many opportunities for Brethren to gain enormous satisfaction in their lives by carrying out administrative duties on behalf of their Lodges. Whatever your circumstances, if, after you have been raised to the Degree of a Master Mason you are currently unable to progress through to the Master’s Chair, or if you have no ambition to do so, you may like to consider volunteering for one of the administrative offices. You are unlikely to regret it!
The “Ceremonial” Officers of a Lodge
These officers are responsible for the ceremonial aspects of the Lodge. They do not have to be Past Masters but you will often find they are. In fact it would be unusual to find a Director of Ceremonies who is not a Past Master. His progression through the Chair will be invaluable to him in this highly conspicuous office. He will need all the experience he has gained from occupying the “progressive” offices and the Master’s Chair.
The Director of Ceremonies (DC)
The Jewel of the Director of Ceremonies is Two Rods in Saltire tied by a ribbon. His duty is to see that the ceremonies of the Lodge are carried out with propriety and decorum, to see that the visitors and Brethren are placed according to their rank and the Officers are in their respective stations. In addition to the Jewel, the Director of Ceremonies has a Wand of Office, usually topped by a copy of the Jewel of his office.
The Assistant Director of Ceremonies (ADC)
His Jewel is Two Rods in Saltire, surmounted by a bar bearing the word “Assistant”. As you might expect his
duties are to assist the Director of Ceremonies in his duties. You will often find that the ADC will have set duties in a Lodge. For example, when a Brother has arrived late and seeks admission the ADC will often be the one to receive him and conduct him to an appropriate seat in the Lodge. It is interesting to look out for the different way that the DC and ADC work when you visit different Lodges.
The Tyler
The Tyler’s Jewel is a Sword. If he is not a member of the Lodge the Brethren elect the Tyler annually. His place is outside the door of the Lodge and, understandably, it is an office that does not appeal to all Brethren. Others however relish it and a Tyler may often seek re-election and so serve the Lodge for many years in that office. His symbolic duty is, being armed with a drawn sword, to keep off all intruders and cowans to Masonry and suffer none to pass but such as are duly qualified. From a practical point of view his duty is to see that the candidates are properly prepared and to give proper reports on the door of the Lodge when candidates, members or visitors require admission.
The Immediate Past Master (IPM)
The IPM’s Jewel (and that of all Past Masters) is the
Square and the Diagram of the 47th Proposition of the 1st book of Euclid engraved on a silver plate, pendant within it. His position is not one of appointment but of progression. He was Worshipful Master before the current Master and thereby occupies the position as a result. His duty is to give advice and help to the Worshipful Master whenever he is called on for that assistance. From a practical point of view you will see him give the occasional prompt to the Worshipful Master when his memory temporarily fails him during his delivery of the ritual.
The Organist
The Jewel of the Organist is a Lyre. His duty is to provide the music that enriches our ceremonies. In recent times the number of people playing musical instruments such as the piano and organ has reduced and more are playing instruments such as the guitar and drums. Lodge Organists are therefore becoming harder to find. You will find that some Lodges sing unaccompanied, some have electronic music provided from a CD or computer whilst others have dispensed with music altogether. Music has played an important part in Masonic ceremonial for nearly three hundred years and you will find that when an organist is present our ceremonies are greatly enriched.
Appointed Roles
These are strictly speaking not Officers because they do not have a collar and jewel, but they are appointed by the Master at his Installation meeting and are never the less important in the successful operation of Freemasonry.
The Holy Royal Arch Chapter Liaison Officer
His role is to provide the link between the Lodge and the Holy Royal Arch Chapter, usually just referred to as “Chapter”. He is an important source of advice and information for the brethren.
Library and Museum Representative
The Library and Museum Representative is the link between the Lodge and the Provincial Museum and Library at Canterbury, an important part of Freemasonry in East Kent
Lodge Membership Officer
This is possibly best described as being an office to assist the lodge in recruiting appropriate men to become valued and lasting members of the lodge and to assist in creating an environment which in which members can thrive and enjoy their membership.
The Holy Royal Arch Chapter
Whereas Craft Freemasonry, that organization that you have just joined, teaches about man’s relationship with man, the Holy Royal Arch teaches about his relationship with his God. It is only by combining the two that you can become a complete Mason and the Holy Royal Arch is considered to be the natural successor to, and completion of, the Craft. The Provincial Grand Master is also the Head of the Holy Royal Arch Order and is known as the Provincial Grand Superintendent.
There are many other branches to Freemasonry and you will find many brethren will be only too pleased to tell you about them.
Museum and Library
The Province of East Kent is proud of its Masonic Museum and Library. Open to all and located in the heart of Canterbury's tourist route, you will find the Kent Museum of Freemasonry close to the Westgate Towers and a five-minute stroll from the Cathedral.
Entrance is free of charge, although voluntary donations are welcomed.
The Museum is an Accredited Museum, meeting the nationally agreed standards of the Arts Council on collection care, museum management and the provision of information and services to visitors. The museum is a hidden treasure that boasts a rare collection of exhibits of national and international importance. Its collection of Masonic material is probably the finest in the UK outside of London.
The vast collection of regalia and books covers all Masonic orders through the ages.
The 'Kent Museum of Freemasonry' is the working title of 'Kent Masonic Museum and Library Trust', a Charitable Incorporated Organisation, registered under Charity number 1163887
There is also a Library and Museum situated at Freemason’s Hall in Great Queen Street in London, which is also open to all and well worth a visit.
Lodges of Instruction
You will often hear reference to The Lodge of Instruction or Lodge of Improvement.
This informal, but official, meeting is when there is time to learn about Freemasonry and how the Lodge functions. It also gives the opportunity for everyone, but in particular the “progressive” officers, to practice the ritual.
Each such Lodge has a Preceptor, he is often the Director of Ceremonies but equally he can be an experienced Past Master. It also has a Secretary to take the minutes. As this is an informal meeting, no regalia or dark suits are worn, just ordinary everyday dress.
You may say that you do not want to progress through the Chair so there is no point in attending, you may feel this because you believe you could never cope with learning the ritual, but every Freemason, however eminent, has had the same thoughts. Most Masters will at some time tell you that they have been quite amazed at their own abilities when put to the test. Of course, home and work commitments must always come first and your individual circumstances may preclude you from making that commitment. Nevertheless you should still consider attending the
Lodge of Instruction as it is in this informal gathering that you can start to understand Freemasonry and get to know your fellow Brethren in relaxed circumstances Education
Education is an important part of Freemasonry and for some that desire for knowledge is one of the reasons they became interested in joining in the first place. The more you understand of our Ritual and History the more you will enjoy it. Your Lodge Mentor, Personal Mentor and Membership officer amongst others are there to explain why we do certain things. Some things are traditional, some symbolic, indeed some things have a number of explanations but all are there to enhance your enjoyment of Freemasonry by a better understanding of its ritual and history. There exists a huge amount of information which when you have achieved the rank of Master Mason you can access on the Provincial members only portal “Your Province”. There is no such thing as a silly question. The more you ask the more you will understand.
Lodge items
You will notice that your lodge room contained particular items, or furniture. They have a variety of uses – some are symbolic, and some practical. You will see these in practically every Lodge you attend.
Carpet or Masonic Pavement
In most Lodge rooms you will find a black and white squared carpet or chequered floor. This denotes our chequered existence, darkness and light, joy and sorrow.
Chairs and Pedestals
There are chairs and benches for all those attending our meetings around the squared carpet but three of these chairs will be behind pedestals or small tables. In many cases the chair and the pedestal will be marked with the jewel of the occupant. The chair and pedestal in the East is for the Worshipful Master. Opposite him in the West is the Senior Warden and in the South the Junior Warden. On the Master’s pedestal will be placed the bible, and any other relevant Holy Book, denoted as the ‘Volume of the Sacred Law’.
The Warrant
The Warrant of the Lodge is granted to the Lodge by the Most Worshipful Grand Master at its
Consecration. This Warrant must be in the Lodge Room when a Lodge is opened. It will always be displayed at the initiation of a new member and when a new Master is installed. In some Lodges, it may be on display throughout the ceremony.
Volume of the Sacred Law (VSL)
In the English Constitution, the VSL is the Holy Bible. The VSL is always open when a Lodge is conducting business or one of its ceremonies. The Square and Compasses will be placed upon the VSL. If a Sacred Volume is required for a Brother of a faith other than Christian, then the Volume will be placed in front of or beside the Bible, but never on top.
The ‘Moveable Jewels’
These are the Square, the Level and the Plumb-Rule, which are the jewels of the Master, Senior Warden and Junior Warden respectively. The ‘Jewels’ and the other ‘tools’ used in Masonic ceremonies are referred to in documents from the early 1700s.
Rough and Smooth Ashlars
The Senior Warden’s pedestal will have a smooth ashlar, or block of stone resting on it and the Junior Warden’s a rough ashlar. These are
the ‘Immoveable Jewels’. They represent two different stages in Freemasonry and understanding. The rough ashlar is thought of as the stone on which an apprentice can learn the art of stonemasonry. The smooth ashlar is used by the more experienced stonemason to hone and perfect his skills.
The Columns of the JW and SW
Each Warden has a column on his pedestal. These will usually show the designs of the Doric order for the Senior Warden, denoting strength, and the Corinthian order for the Junior Warden, denoting beauty. Usually the columns are surmounted by a celestial or terrestrial globe which point out Masonry universal. The Wardens will also position their Column to show if the Lodge is ‘opened’ or ‘closed’
The Working Tools
The Working Tools of each degree are fully explained in the ritual. The appropriate set of tools is displayed in the lodge for each degree.
Lodge Banners
Many Lodges have a banner, although it is not a requirement. Some banners date back to the consecration of the Lodge, some are more recent. They often depict the origin, or some particular
characteristics of the Lodge.
Tracing Boards
The Tracing Boards have always been a feature of Freemasonry. These three boards illustrate the story of each degree, the details being explained during the ceremony.
The Ballot Box
The Ballot Box is used for voting for new members, and can be of a variety of designs. Some have a ‘yes’ and ‘no’ drawer. The correct procedure for balloting in your Lodge will be explained to you.
Wands of Office
The Director of Ceremonies and his Assistant, and the Senior and Junior Deacons each have a Wand of Office. The DC and his Assistant will always carry their wands when moving about the Lodge. The Deacons depending on the ritual, may carry theirs.
The Gavels
The Worshipful Master and the Senior and Junior Wardens each have a Gavel. A Gavel is used by
the Master to gain the members’ attention when he is about to speak. The Master will sound his Gavel, followed by the Senior Warden and the Junior Warden.
The same procedure is followed at the Festive Board when the Master is about to propose a toast or take wine.
About our Ritual
Your initiation involved a lot of ritual, some of which may have been difficult to understand at the time. To gain a better understanding it is a good idea to try to attend the initiation of another brother, either at your own lodge or by visiting another lodge – your Mentor will help arrange this.
Ritual is important. It is something that has been passed down through the centuries from Mason to Mason, and makes our fraternity unique.
What’s the purpose of ritual?
The purpose of ritual is to remind the candidate of certain ethical and moral precepts, awakening in him respect and tolerance for another’s ideas and beliefs. It is for this reason that Brethren are required to avoid discussion of religious and political issues when attending Lodge, as these are topics that can easily
divide men.
Ritual has been employed by nearly all cultures known to mankind as a process to assist in selfrealization and as such is a rite of passage, which if fully understood and experienced will lead to an improved state. The ritual of Freemasonry promotes self-knowledge, tolerance and philanthropy, as echoed in its three great principles of Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth. It also extols the cardinal virtues as defined by Cicero, namely: Prudence, Temperance, Fortitude and Justice and interestingly Cicero classed the art of memory as one of the virtues that made up Prudence.
Self discovery
It is suggested that you should regard your initiation not only as the beginning of your Masonic journey or way of life, but also as a porchway to discovering about yourself and your relationship with your fellow man. When you start to learn the ritual it is equally as important to focus upon the meaning of the words as it is to commit them to memory.
You will find it interesting to go through the particular words of your Obligation or The Working Tools that were used in your Initiation Ceremony, your Mentor will be please to explain them to you.
Customs and Protocol
…details vary enormously from ritual to ritual and Lodge to Lodge
Salutes and signs
Salutes and signs are used throughout Lodge meetings and change depending on the degree that is being worked, each degree having its own sign(s). You have already been given the First Degree sign and you will be taught others as you progress through Masonry.
You will have seen that whenever a Brother talks to the Worshipful Master or Wardens in the Lodge Room (nowhere else) the salute, or sign, of the particular degree is given.
“So mote it be”
This phrase is used in Masonry instead of the Hebrew word “Amen”. The phrase literally means “So be it” or “May it be so”.
The Court Bow Brethren do not salute each other, but by way of acknowledgement or thanks a Court Bow is given. This consists of standing upright and bowing the head slightly – nothing more.
Squaring the Lodge
In some Lodges it is the custom to move around the Lodge Room in a clockwise direction in a series of straight lines “squared” at the corners.
Stepping off with the left foot is standard practice.
Addressing Brethren.
When addressing a brother by name it is usual to refer to him as Brother or Worshipful Brother.
When addressing a brother by his office the correct form is Worshipful Master, Brother Secretary, Brother Treasurer etc., even if he is a Worshipful Brother by rank.
As in any formal meeting, all remarks are made through the Chairman, in our case the Worshipful Master.
If you write a letter to a Mason, never include the Masonic Rank on the envelope, only inside the letter.
Our Regalia
Dress Code
The dress code in most lodges is similar: a dark lounge suite or Morning Dress, appropriate tie (plain black by default), white shirt and gloves, black shoes and socks, in some lodges the members have a Dinner Jacket and Bow Tie as the standard dress.
Masonic Aprons
Having been Initiated into Freemasonry one of the most bewildering aspects which quickly comes to your notice is the variety of aprons and collars that the Brethren around you are wearing.
From the earliest times operative or practicing masons have worn protective clothing in the form of leather aprons. Masonic aprons, also called Badges, are believed to have developed from this practical protective clothing and each one indicates the individual’s Masonic rank. Since 1813, Masonic regalia has been standardised to the pattern used today,
The United Grand Lodge of England is assisted in the administration of its Lodges by a “middle tier of management” in the form of Provincial and District Grand Lodges. Each Lodge – Private, Provincial or District as well as the Grand Lodge, have members and officers and it is the officers and past officers of Provincial and District Grand Lodges and the United Grand Lodge who wear the red and darker blue aprons.
This is a selection of the designs you will most commonly see.
Badges conferred by the Lodge
When you were Initiated into Freemasonry you were invested with the apron of an Entered Apprentice.
The apron of a Fellowcraft Freemason shows that a Freemason has taken the Second Degree.
The completion of a Mason’s Third Degree is indicated by the apron of a Master Mason. You will find that this is worn by the majority of the Brethren.
Master’s Apron
On being Installed in the Master’s Chair of his Lodge the Mason changes the rosettes on his apron for the levels. He also becomes known as “Worshipful Brother”. You will notice that the collar of a “Past Master” has a silver stripe running through the middle of it whereas the acting Worshipful Master and the officers of the Lodge have plain collars.
Freemasonry afterwards. You will sometimes see blue rosettes on a Provincial Officer’s apron indicating that the honour has been awarded for exceptional service without the Brother being a Past Master of a Lodge.
The “undress” apron of a Provincial or District Grand Lodge Officer is worn ordinarily in the Lodge whereas the “dress” apron is usually worn on special occasions.
The Badges of a Mason conferred upon him by the Provincial Grand Master.
The red apron is the badge of a Provincial Grand Steward. In many Provinces it is considered a very special rank. Often no “past” appointments are made to this rank, nor is it awarded after a Brother has already received another Provincial appointment. You may see a Provincial Grand Steward with rosettes instead of levels indicating that he has yet to “go through the Chair” of a Lodge.
The Badges of a Mason conferred upon him by the Grand Master.
As with Provincial and District Grand Lodges, Grand Officers have an embroidered or “dress” apron and an “undress” or plain apron.
The “dress” apron of a Provincial Grand Lodge Officer. This honour is usually awarded to a Brother who has passed through the Master’s Chair of his Lodge and continued to serve
This is the dress apron worn at Grand Lodge, Provincial or District Grand Lodge and at other special occasions.
An Officer of the United Grand Lodge of England at an ordinary regular Lodge meeting will invariably be wearing this plain apron
Masonic Breast Jewels
When you look around the Lodge and see the Brethren in their various regalia you will notice that many of them are wearing what appear to be medals on the left breasts of their jackets. In Freemasonry these are not known as “medals” but are referred to as Breast Jewels. There are an enormous variety of designs and a variety of reasons why they are worn and what they signify. Note that only Jewels allowed or approved by the Grand Master can be worn at a Masonic Meeting. The following information refers to the Breast Jewels you are most likely to see in a Private Lodge working under the English Constitution.
The Past Master’s Jewel
It is common practice for Lodges to present the Immediate Past Master of the Lodge with a Breast Jewel at the end of his year in Office as a token of appreciation for the manner in which he has conducted the affairs of the Lodge during his Mastership. The actual Jewel is the part which has the square and the diagram of the 47th proposition of the 1st book of Euclid engraved on a silver plate pendant within it. It will be suspended on a ribbon upon which you will find all manner of Lodge Crests, names, coats of arms, etc.
The Centenary Jewel
When a Lodge has been able to show that it has been working, without interruption for one hundred years a petition may be submitted to the United Grand Lodge for permission to wear a Centenary Jewel of the approved pattern. Once permission has been given all Master Masons who are subscribing members of the Lodge are entitled to wear the Centenary Jewel of the Lodge. Many Lodges have now had two hundred years of uninterrupted working and to commemorate this they may petition the United Grand Lodge for permission for their subscribing members who are Master Masons to wear a Bi-Centenary Bar to their Centenary Jewel.
Breast Jewels of the Royal Arch Chapter
Closely associated with English Craft Freemasonry is another Order entitled the Royal Arch Masons. The ritual it contains follows on from Craft Masonry and is considered to be the completion of Masonry. When a Brother becomes a member of the Royal Arch Chapter he is “rewarded” with this Royal Arch Breast Jewel pendant from a narrow white ribbon.
The jewel is part of the regalia of a Royal Arch Mason and it is proper to wear it in a Craft Lodge. The
Chapter Jewel should be worn nearest to the jacket lapel
The colour of the ribbon varies with the rank of the Brother in Chapter. When a Royal Arch Mason becomes one of the Three Principals of his Royal Arch Chapter the ribbon from which the Jewel is suspended changes from white to red. A Brother wearing a Royal Arch Jewel with a red ribbon is therefore one of the Three Principals of his Royal Arch Chapter or a Past Principal. If the Brother is a present or past Provincial, District or Grand Officer or a holder of London or Overseas Grand Rank in the Royal Arch Order the ribbon is tricoloured – dark blue, crimson and light blue.
The Festival Steward’s Jewel
A “Festival” is simply a festive occasion, usually a dinner, which marks the culmination of a money raising period by a Province in support of one of the Masonic Charities. On average a Festival will be held every 8 to 10 years. All Brethren, as well as members of their family and their friends who have subscribed at least the qualifying fee, may wear the Charity Jewel and attend
the Festival. There are a wide variety of designs and each has to be approved before it can be issued and worn. The Jewels are worn during the period leading up to the Festival and during the year of the Festival.
The Past Master’s Jewel
Worn by a brother who has been Worshipful Master of his lodge.
Tercentenary Jewel
Worn to celebrate the three hundredth anniversary of Freemasonry in 2017.
Our charities
As you learned at your initiation, charity has been a significant part of Freemasonry since its earliest days, although unlike other fundraising organisations such as Round Table and Lions, most of the money we raise comes out of our own pockets. So whilst every brother is expected to contribute, it’s important that no one should over-commit himself to charitable giving.
You are now part of a much larger National and International family. As with all good families, welfare is important and we should strive to help our Brethren and their families who are ill or in distressed circumstances. When Freemasons or their dependants fall on hard times, financial assistance may be available from their Lodge, Provincial Grand Lodge or the masonic Charitable Foundation.
Collecting of Alms
The Deacons usually circulate a broken column, or alms bag at each meeting. Put an amount of your choosing in the bag. You may also be asked to put it in a envelope so that tax can be reclaimed which can add a significant amount to the Lodge’s giving. How the proceeds of the Alms collection are applied is a matter for individual Lodges. You may also be asked by your Lodge’s Charity Steward to complete a
standing order to pay a regular small amount for charity on a monthly or other basis. This can be an effective and painless way to support charity and it allows the Lodge to claim back the tax too.
Lodge commitments
Your Lodge has to pay an amount of money annually in respect of each of its members to the governing bodies of The United Grand Lodge of England and the Provincial Grand Lodge of East Kent. Additionally a payment is made on behalf of each member to the Grand Charity. The lodge collects this money by way of your annual subscription, in addition to the amount collected through the alms bag, and other charity giving methods.
Making a difference
Together we can make a difference – a big difference. Freemasonry is the largest contributor to charitable causes after the National Lottery. Every year Freemasons across the country donate millions of pounds to charity, talk to your Charity Steward, he will be pleased to explain things to you in more detail.
The focus of Masonic charitable giving is to the main Masonic charities however, a sizeable amount also goes to non-Masonic charities along the length and breadth of the nation, our donations do make a real difference to many peoples’ lives.
Provides support for Freemasons, their Families and the Wider Community
The Masonic Charitable Foundation combines the work of four previous charities. These were The Freemasons Grand Charity, The Royal Masonic Benevolent Institution (RMBI), The Samaritan Fund and The Royal Masonic Trust for Girls and Boys.
As such, the Charitable Foundation provides annuities and makes grants to deserving individual masons and their dependants and gives donations to Masonic and non-Masonic charities. It provides support for such as The Air Ambulance, Hospices and International Aid when needed for such events as the Tsunami, as well as assisting the other Masonic Charities when necessary.
Included is the care and the welfare of retired Freemasons and their dependants with assistance appropriate to individual needs, including providing residential care and nursing homes. There are 18 homes throughout the country. It provides financial support for medical treatment for
needy, sick and infirm Freemasons, their wives, children and dependants. The Foundation assists applicants in financial need if the treatment they require is not available on the NHS without undue delay or hardship. Once an application has been accepted the interests of the patient are paramount and the required treatment is obtained wherever is most appropriate.
The charity also exists to relieve poverty and to advance education. Those eligible for assistance are the children (including adoptive and step children) of Freemasons who are members of Lodges governed by the UGLE.
An important charity established in 2014 and supported by East Kent Freemasons for the benefit of masons and non-masonic charities within the Province of East Kent.
Finally, if you or your dependants are in need of assistance, you may find it difficult to talk about it. Please find a way. The Lodge Almoner is taught to deal with cases of hardship in the strictest confidence, so please do talk to him.
Masonic Ballots and Votes
As soon as a man is initiated into Freemasonry he is entitled, as a subscribing member of the Lodge, to take part in the affairs of the Lodge. For this reason all the business of every Lodge must be conducted in the First Degree. It is not long therefore, before the newly Initiated Mason is confronted by a vote or ballot. The following section of this booklet explains the three methods of voting in a Masonic Lodge and the reasons they are used.
The Secret Ballot
One of the expressions that has become part of the English language – to be blackballed – comes from the peculiar style of balloting for or against membership adopted in Masonic Lodges. The secret ballot must be used in all Lodges when considering the proposed admission of members.
Applications for membership will be made by:
• A man seeking to be Initiated
• A Brother from another Lodge seeking to join
• A Brother who was previously a member seeking to re-join the Lodge
• A Brother, whether a member of the Lodge or not, to whom it is proposed to offer Honorary membership
In all such cases it is usually the Deacons who prepare the ballot. They will pass around the Lodge, starting with the Worshipful Master, to provide every subscribing member with a black and a white ball. (Honorary members have no voting rights so will not participate in any ballots in the Lodge). The ballot box will have a hole in it which is large enough for your hand, and a single drawer. The Worshipful Master will announce that the white ball is to elect and the black ball is to reject. He will be presented with the ballot box, demonstrating to all present that the drawer is empty, and then proceed to carry out the ballot. He will do this by concealing one of the balls in his hand and, when his hand is within the opening of the box, dropping the ball into the drawer beneath. One Deacon, holding the ballot box, will then offer it to each Brother in turn whilst the remaining Deacon will collect the unused ball. The ballot box is then returned to the Worshipful Master who will examine the contents of the drawer and announce the result. At most, three black balls are required to reject a proposed new member. A Lodge may prescribe in its by-laws that two, or only one black ball, is required to reject.
Some Lodges use a different style of ballot box which has two drawers marked “Y” or “N” or “yea” and “nae”. In this case the Brethren are only given one ball and drop it into the drawer of their choice.
To find a black ball in a ballot should be a rare occurrence. It is very often avoided by a Brother making it known to the W.M., D.C. or the Secretary that he is not happy with the proposed member as soon as he becomes aware of his application. In this way the proposal is often withdrawn before it comes to ballot. Remember also that you do not have to give your reasons for your objection to a proposed member.
So why do Masons ballot in such a way? You may recall that, following your investiture with the Entered Apprentice Apron, the Worshipful Master addressed you: “…you are never to put on that badge should you be about to enter a Lodge in which there is a Brother with whom you are at variance, or against whom you entertain animosity. …” and that, “if your differences could not be easily adjusted, it would be better that one or both of you retire than that the harmony of the Lodge be disturbed by your presence”. The whole essence of a Lodge is the love and harmony between the Brethren who form it. A new member with whom maybe two, three or even more of the existing members are at variance could seriously disturb the harmony of the Lodge and, indeed, his membership could lead to its destruction. Note that the rejection of a proposed member of a Lodge does not mean that he cannot successfully join another Lodge.
A Paper Ballot
Traditionally the Worshipful Master and Treasurer are elected each year by paper ballot. Every subscribing member of the Lodge who is present at the meeting is presented with two pieces of paper. He writes, one on each, the name of the Brother of his choice for each of the Offices, folds the paper and gives it to the Brother, usually one of the Deacons, who is collecting them. One or two scrutineers may be appointed to count the votes and announce the results. It is done in this manner because if there are two or more candidates it is the one with the majority of votes that is successful. No Brother should be afraid to be seen to vote in a particular way.
However, most Lodges now declare the Worshipful Master and Treasurer in accordance with rules 105(a) and 112(a) respectively in the Book of Constitutions. This is because almost always there is only one nominee for each office and so a considerable amount of time is saved by not balloting. In any event any full member of the Lodge has the right to call for a ballot should they so wish.
A Show of Hands
Approval to a duly proposed and seconded proposition is given in most Lodges by simply raising the right hand, palm downwards, to a position slightly above the elbow, as thought the hand is being placed on the VSL.
Masonic Odes (Hymns)
For nearly 300 years music has had an important place in Masonic ceremonies and at Festive Boards. Over the years numerous Masonic songs and Hymns have been written but the two you will often hear are the Opening and Closing Odes, which are sung at the opening and closing of Lodge meetings.
Opening Ode
Hail Eternal! By whose aid
All created things were made: Heav’n and earth Thy vast design; Hear us, Architect Divine!
May our work begun in thee, Ever blessed with order be; And may we when labours cease, Part in harmony and peace.
By Thy glorious Majesty, By the trust we place in Thee. By the badge and mystic sign Hear us, Architect Divine.
So mote it be.
The Closing Ode
Now the evening shadows closing Warn from toil to peaceful rest; Mystic arts and rites reposing Sacred in each faithful breast.
God of light! Whose love unceasing, Doth to all Thy works extend. Crown our order with Thy blessing, Build, sustain us to the end.
Humbly now we bow before Thee, Grateful for Thine aid Divine; Everlasting power and glory, Mighty Architect! Be Thine.
So mote it be.
The are other songs in common use: The National Anthem, the Entered Apprentice’s Song (first printed in 1723) which is sometimes sung at the Festive Board on an Initiation Night and the Master’s Song which is often sung to the Worshipful Master on the Installation night, together with the Ladies Song which is often sung to the Master’s Lady at Ladies Night.
The Festive Board
Freemasons in England and Wales will usually dine together after their Lodge meetings at what is known as the Festive Board. It usually takes the form of a three or four course meal during which there can be several “wine takings”, followed by a number of toasts. The Festive Board is not part of the Lodge meeting and is not therefore covered by any Rules in the Book of Constitutions but does not mean that “anything goes”, the proceedings should be fun but carried out with propriety and decorum. Almost invariably you will find that each Lodge has traditions relating to those proceedings. In this section of the booklet we will be looking at the various aspects of the Festive Board.
Seating
Some Lodges use seating plans, some do not; some have round tables, some have a top table with sprigs but the Worshipful Master and his Wardens will usually sit so as to form a triangular pattern. The senior ranking Brother present often takes the seat on the immediate right of the Worshipful Master. Indeed, at an Installation Meeting the Provincial Grand Master will insist that his Representative takes that seat.
Many Lodges will place the Initiate in that seat on his Initiation night. When visiting a Lodge be guided by your host as to where to sit.
Wine Taking
During the meal you will probably find announcements that the Worshipful Master wishes to take wine with a Brother or a group of Brethren. This is usually a signal for those named to rise, raise their glasses to the Worshipful Master, take a sip and resume their seats. However, in many lodges it is traditional for the Worshipful Master to take wine with everyone present and to request that they all remain seated whilst he stands. Also, if everyone is invited to take wine with a particular Brother, on the occasion of his Birthday for example, then he will remain seated while all present will rise. It doesn’t take long to get the hang of it!
Toasts
A set Toast List is provided to each Lodge. Grace is always said before and after the meal and the formal toasts follow. In a Province the toast list will usually take the following form.
TheKingandtheCraft
TheMostWorshipfulGrandMaster
TheMostWorshipfulProGrandMaster
TheRightWorshipfulDeputyGrandMaster
TheRightWorshipfulAssistantGrandMaster
AndtherestofGrandOfficerspresentandpast
TheRightWorshipfulProvincialGrandMaster
TheDeputyProvincialGrandMaster
TheAssistantProvincialGrandMasters and theRestofProvincialGrandOfficersofEastKent andholdersofequivalentrank
TheWorshipfulMaster
TheInitiate
GuestsandVisitors
OfficersoftheLodgeandPastMastersoftheLodge
TheTyler’sToast
On actual toast lists you will find that the Officers are named.
It is traditional in many Lodges for the toast to the guests and visitors to be given by the Junior Warden (because of his responsibilities regarding visitors to the Lodge). There is usually a response from a Brother on behalf of the guests and visitors. He will often take the opportunity to praise the work in the temple and many cannot resist the temptation to tell a joke. If you are invited to respond on behalf of the guests when you visit a Lodge bear in mind that jokes are not obligatory. Anecdotes can often be more entertaining but if you cannot resist the temptation to tell a joke make sure that it is not risqué or even worse. Jokes in that vein will not be appreciated. Also, when commenting upon the work, remember that if you can give praise do so; if you cannot give praise, it is better to say nothing. Criticism is for Lodge members to deal with between themselves, not for guests and visitors to give.
Note:
The toast to the King and the Craft is a Masonic Toast; it is not the Loyal Toast. The fact that she is not a Freemason does not therefore affect it being followed by Masonic “fire”.
Absent Brethren
A toast not on the Toast List is that to Absent Brethren. Depending upon the Lodge it is usually given at 9.00 p.m. or 9.30 p.m. If it precedes the beginning of the official toast list it should not be followed by Masonic “fire” .
Masonic “fire”
In earlier times the Military had a custom of firing guns or muskets after toasts. Guilds are reported, for example, to have had annual processions where the Mayor would be accompanied by trades people and soldiers to each of the city gates at which toasts were drunk, each health being followed by a volley of shot from the musketeers. Masonic “fire” would seem to have been adapted from this practice. “Firing Glasses” were made with heavy bases to withstand being banged on tables to imitate the shots. Many Lodges use a standard form of fire (although some do vary, and some Lodges still use firing glasses).
The usual pattern of fire is:
One Two; X XXX XXX XXX
In earlier times, the hand movements during “fire” included Masonic signs and there was a need for the dining room to be “tyled” during the “firing” routine. Although this no longer applies the tradition of “tyling” has remained. “Silent Fire” follows certain toasts in some Lodges, (one of which is the Tyler’s
Toast”). “Silent Fire” is a contradiction in terms but Lodge traditions prevail.
The Tyler’s Toast
The Festive Board is usually concluded by the Tyler’s Toast:
“To all poor and distressed Masons, wherever dispersed over the face of earth and water, wishing them a speedy relief from all their sufferings, and a safe return to their native country, should they so desire it.”
In some Lodges a second verse is added after the “fire” which is:
“Brethren of the mystic tide the night is waning fast, our work is done, our feast is o’r these words must be our last, goodnight, goodnight, repeat again that farewell strain, happy to meet sorry to part but happy to meet again.”
Conclusion
We hope you have found this guide useful, it is not intended to provide all the answers to every question you may have but to possibly shed some light on a few things.
Please do talk to your Mentor and any member of the Lodge, they will all be pleased to help.
Aug 2024.
