Table of Contents Introduction.............................. 1 Qualifications......................................... 1 Mission and Vision .......................... 2 Term ......................................................... 2 Titles ......................................................... 3 Areas......................................................... 3
Area Deputy Grand Master . 4 Bylaws ...................................................... 4 Duties ....................................................... 5 Orientation, Leadership Academy and Annual Communication ............. 5 Area Meeting ......................................... 6 Executive Leadership Team .............. 6 DDGM Spring Visits and Reports .... 7 Area Committee ................................... 7 Reports & Area Summary Reports . 8 Fall Feedback ......................................... 8 Reports in Detail ................................... 9 Supervision of DDGMs .................... 10 Grand Lodge Strategic Plan......... 11
Secondary Duties ..................13 Promote Grand Lodge Programs . 13 Attend the Grand Master ............... 13 Assist with Area Meetings .............. 13 Attend District Schools .................... 14 Social Media ........................................ 14 Succession Planning ......................... 15 Grade Yourself ................................... 15 Installations of Officers ................... 15 Equipment ........................................... 15 Conclusion ........................................... 16
Awards ..................................... 18 Grand Master’s Order of Merit .....18 Distinguished Service Medal..........19 Ritualist Jewel .....................................19 Master’s Achievement Award .......20 Trice‐Robison Award ........................20
Ceremonies & Protocol ...... 21 Reception of the District Deputy ..21 Introduction of Officers ...................22 Introduction of Grand Master .......22 Grand Honors......................................22 Expectations ........................................23 Mandatory Events .............................23 Leadership............................................23 Family ....................................................24 Electronics ............................................24 Attire ......................................................24 Lapel Pins, Awards & Emblems .....24 Events ....................................................25 Cornerstone/Public Dedication ....25 Lodge Hall Dedication ......................25 Emblems ...............................................25 PGM Grave Marker ...........................26 Installations .........................................26
Resources ............................... 27 Contacts ................................................27 Website .................................................27 Grand Lodge Email Addresses .......27 Calendar................................................28 Grand Lecturers .................................28 Important Dates .................................29
Introduction The title of Area Deputy Grand Master (ADGM) is an honor bestowed on Masons who have distinguished themselves by faithfully serving the Craft. However, appointment as a Grand Lodge officer is not merely a reward for past service. It carries with it increased duties to continue service to the Craft as an officer of the Grand Lodge of Kansas and the personal representative of the Grand Master. The Grand Lodge of Kansas recognizes both District and Area Deputy Grand Masters. The District Deputy Grand Master is subordinate to the Area Deputy Grand Master. Both are subordinate to the Grand Master and the Council of Administration (which consists of the elected Grand Lodge officers: Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master, Grand Wardens, Grand Treasurer, and the Grand Secretary). District and Area Deputy Grand Masters are normally selected by the Deputy Grand Master before the beginning of his term in the Grand East, and they are installed when he becomes Grand Master. This manual provides an overview of the responsibilities of Area Deputy Grand Masters.
Qualifications Kansas Masonic law provides that Area Deputy Grand Masters “shall be a Master or Past Master and resident of his Area unless otherwise approved by the Council of Administration.”
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Mission and Vision Officers of your local lodge have a duty to make their lodge a success. District Deputy Grand Masters are charged with carrying out the mission of the Grand Lodge of Kansas. We do this to achieve the vision of the Grand Lodge. Service as a District Deputy Grand Master is an opportunity, not only to repay the Craft for the benefits you have received in Masonry, but to lead the fraternity forward. The District Deputy Grand Master has many duties and with this increased responsibility comes a voice in the way forward. The District Deputy Grand Master is part of the leadership team in this Grand Jurisdiction. The Grand Master asks all appointees to make a commitment to share their time and talents in helping Kansas Masonry by supporting lodges across the state in achieving success.
Term All Area Deputy Grand Masters serve at the pleasure of the Grand Master. Just as appointed officers in a regular lodge serve at the pleasure of the Worshipful Master. The appointment as an Area Deputy Grand Master terminates when the Grand Master’s successor is installed.
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Titles In Kansas, District and Area Deputy Grand Masters, as well as elected Grand Lodge officers, Grand Lecturers, and Grand Representatives, are entitled to be addressed as “Right Worshipful.” This title continues for as long as the District or Area Deputy serves in that capacity. By‐law § 2‐131 states that when an Area or District Deputy “makes an official visit to any Lodge in their Area or District, he shall be received in the same manner and with the same ceremony as is prescribed by the usages and customs of the fraternity for the reception of elective Grand Officers other than the Grand Master.”
Areas The Grand Jurisdiction of Kansas is divided into Areas so that, ideally, every location can be served equally by Grand Lodge representatives, primarily the District Deputy Grand Master. District Deputy Grand Masters will have a District number assigned for bookkeeping and tracking of District schools only. Instead they will work within the entire Area as assigned by the Area Deputy Grand Master. Masonic Areas reflect the demography of Kansas Masonry though borders drawn on a map seemed to serve as some false identifier that the Council of Administration wants to see dissolve into the bigger picture of being Kansas Masons. This change will provide flexibility for the Area Deputy Grand Master in ensuring that all lodges within his jurisdiction are cared for appropriately. A printable version of the Area Map is available in the A/DDGM’s Web Portal in the members tab of the www.kansasmason.org website.
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Area Deputy Grand Master You have been appointed Area Deputy Grand Master because the Grand Master believes you can contribute to the betterment of the Craft. The days of Area Deputy Grand Masters having only ceremonial duties have come to an end. We need every man to pitch in, help drive our programs forward, and generate new initiatives to help our lodges. The Area Deputy Grand Master, simply put, is a regional manager. He represents the Grand Master personally in his Area and in those Districts he oversees. He supervises the District Deputy Grand Masters in his Area. Assisting them where required, and he organizes and coordinates the Area Meeting. The District Deputy Grand Masters are charged with reporting on their assigned lodges with the online “DDGM Report”. The Area Deputy Grand Master will assist the District Deputy Grand Masters with this enhanced reporting feature, and review each report, and providing feedback. In addition to the official duties of your office, we encourage you to choose a specific Grand Lodge project with which to assist. Please review the current Grand Lodge strategic plan and determine where you can assist us. For example, you might assist by leading presentations, writing or editing Grand Lodge projects, helping with web and online design of Grand Lodge sites, or committee work to refine further ways to help lodges succeed. We will revisit the plan in greater detail at the District and Area Deputy Orientation. Please consider accepting some additional duties.
Bylaws Bylaw 2‐132(a) outlines the responsibilities of Area Deputies: Duties of Area Deputy Grand Master. Each Area Deputy Grand Master shall arrange for and hold in his Area at least one general meeting each year at such time and place as may be designated by the Grand Master, to which meeting all of the Lodges of his Area shall be invited and the principal purpose of which meeting shall be for carrying out the program of the Grand Lodge. He shall be responsible for assembling information and data from lodges and districts in his area in such a manner and form as shall be determined from time to time by the Grand Master or the Council of Administration, to include necessarily but not be limited to summary of findings for report to the Grand Master, Council of Administration or their designees. He shall function as the coordinating officer for his area for such Grand Lodge programs and efforts as he may be directed by the Grand Master. These instructions form the minimum standard. The Grand Master remains free to define the specific duties of appointed District and Area Deputies as he sees fit.
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Duties The Area Deputy Grand Master is an executive leadership position, and his services are vital to the lodges in his jurisdiction. It is no accident that in districts where no one is willing to serve as a District or Area Deputy, the lodges are in trouble, losing members, unable to open, poor proficiency, shabby premises. By being part of the executive leadership of the Grand Lodge of Kansas, the Area Deputy Grand Master is vital to connecting with, and helping, if necessary, the lodges in his Area. The following are the primary duties of the Area Deputy.
Attend the annual Orientation Conference, Annual Communication of Grand Lodge and the Leadership Academy Conduct an Area Meeting inviting District Deputy Grand Masters and Lodge Leaders in your Area Actively participate on the Executive Leadership Team Actively promote Grand Lodge programs and projects Supervise your assigned District Deputy Grand Masters
Beyond those duties that are specifically required by the Bylaws, you should complete the following during your term of service:
Review and approve all lodge planned events that require Grand Lodge participation Perform tasks at the direction of the Grand Master Attend Area Meetings in neighboring Area Assist District Deputy Grand Masters in planning District Schools of Instruction Conduct Presentations Succession Planning Complete and return a self‐evaluation to the COA Administer the Area Facebook page and other social media
Orientation, Leadership Academy and Annual Communication Grand Lodge Leader elects are required to attend the Deputy Grand Master’s orientation under the provisions of Bylaw 2‐133. The orientation is the only opportunity for new Area Deputy Grand Masters to receive training in their duties and for returning Area Deputy Grand Masters to update their training and familiarize themselves with new concepts and programs for the coming masonic year. The Area Deputy Grand Master is also required to attend the Annual Communication as a representative of his area and a part of the leadership team. Likewise, the Leadership Academy has emerged as a significant statewide event, and District and Area Deputies should not only attend, but actively plan to assist with presentations or organization of the event. The Area Deputy Grand Master should encourage attendance by at least the master and wardens of every lodge in his Area.
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Area Meeting The Area Deputy Grand Master must conduct one general meeting each year in coordination with the Grand Master or his designee. This meeting should occur in a lodge in the Area. The District Deputies and all of the Lodges of his Area should be invited and the principal purpose of the meeting shall be for carrying out the program of the Grand Lodge. Contact the Deputy Grand Master at your earliest opportunity to schedule this meeting. The function of the Area Meeting is to inform the attendees of:
Grand Lodge projects New initiatives Program Aids available Grand Master’s Schedule for when he is in the Area Development of new programs and ideas Strategic Planning
Executive Leadership Team The Executive Leadership team of the Grand Lodge of Kansas is the Council of Administration plus the Area Deputy Grand Masters. Between them, they make or ratify all administrative decisions concerning the Craft consistent with the laws and landmarks of Kansas Freemasonry. The Council of Administration first included the Area Deputies in executive decision making in 2013, and the result was an unqualified success. The Area Deputy Grand Masters will receive notice of, and the invitation to participate in, Council of Administration meetings as they happen, whether in person, or via teleconference. Area Deputy Grand Master will act as a conduit from the Council of Administration to the Craft. This is a dual purpose function, giving the Council feedback from the membership and letting the membership give input. This is a critical communications function and cannot be neglected.
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DDGM Spring Visits and Reports The formal spring visit by the District Deputy Grand Master is used to convey the various programs and activities of the Grand Lodge (as reviewed at the annual orientation session and Annual Communication). In addition, the spring visit is used to gather information about the lodge in a detailed “DDGM Report.” The District Deputy Grand Masters’ spring visits and reports must be completed by the District Deputy Grand Masters prior to the Feast of St. John the Baptist, June 24. This report must be completed online only, and a copy will be forwarded to the Area Deputy Grand Master automatically when submitted. Area Deputy Grand Masters are charged with reviewing the reports of the District Deputy Grand Masters, and filing a summary report of his lodges to the Grand Master and the Council of Administration. The “DDGM Report” as well as a “DDGM Spring Visit Worksheet” can be found in the A/DDGM’s Web Portal in the members tab of the www.kansasmason.org website. These reports are critical in allowing the District and Area Deputy Grand Master to assist in evaluating the lodges’ strengths and weaknesses. In order to adequately gain the required information in advance of his visit, the District Deputy Grand Master will have to communicate with local lodge officers at each lodge to which he is assigned. A template for this communication named the “Spring Letter” is available in the A/DDGM’s Web Portal in the members tab of the www.kansasmason.org website. He should then visit the lodge, observe it at labor, retire, and be formally received. At the appropriate time, the District Deputy Grand Master should bring greetings from the Grand Master and then make appropriate remarks about Grand Lodge programs and activities as well as any other pertinent information. At an Area Committee Meeting, the Area Deputy Grand Master and District Deputy Grand Masters will discuss individual lodges’ strengths and weaknesses. Together they will identify solutions to any problems facing the lodges before the fall visit. At or immediately following the Area Meeting, or sooner if urgency requires it the Area Deputy Grand Master will submit a report of his conclusions concerning the lodges in his Area to the Grand Master and Council of Administration. This should be done via the “ADGM Area Summary Report” found in the A/DDGM’s Web Portal in the members tab of the www.kansasmason.org website. This team can then bring Grand Lodge resources to the problems, if required.
Area Committee As Area Deputy Grand Master, you should set up an Area Committee meeting for all District Deputy Grand Masters in the area, either in person, or by telephone. The primary purpose of the Area Committee Meeting is helping the District Deputy Grand Masters with their spring reports and the feedback they are to give the lodges in the fall. You may not be able to get all District Deputy Grand Masters together for the meeting. If not, that’s ok. But you must contact them in order to “staff” their lodge reports. Think of the Area Committee meeting as a staff meeting where the District Deputy Grand Masters go through their spring reports to locate suggestions for problems facing the area lodges, from advice on financial management, to suggestions for improving meetings and boosting attendance. During this meeting the District Deputy Grand Masters will rough out the feedback for each lodge to be given in the fall.
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Report Routing and Area Summary Reports District Deputy Grand Masters will complete the spring report online. Instead of individual reports being submitted to the Council of Administration, the report is routed automatically to the Area Deputy Grand Master. Very soon after the Area Committee meeting, the Area Deputy Grand Master will compile a summary report of his lodges and submit the necessary data via the “ADGM Area Summary Report” found in the A/DDGM’s Web Portal in the members tab of the www.kansasmason.org website. This report, will contain information related to strategic planning, lodges strength and weaknesses, extracurricular activities, proficiency ratings and leadership. Essentially the summarized report for the Area gives the Council of Administration a snapshot of the current state of the Area, and collectively the entire state, to track problems and improvements.
Fall Feedback In the fall, the District Deputy Grand master should return to the lodge with the results of his report and feedback from the Area Committee meeting, candidly reviewing the lodges’ strengths as well as any problem areas. He should present the lodges with any suggestions or problem‐ solving information he has obtained after the Area Committee meeting. Lodges should understand that these are suggestions only, they are not required to adopt any recommendations but in the event they choose to, they should know that the Grand Lodge is ready, willing, and able to assist. Fall visits must be completed before December.
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Reports in Detail Bylaw 2‐132 charges the District Deputy Grand Masters with assembling information and data from lodges and districts in such a manner and form as shall be determined from time to time by the Grand Master or the Council of Administration. To include necessarily but not limited to summary of findings for report to the Grand Master, Council of Administration or their designees.” Reporting forms have been developed consistent with that Bylaw and may be found in the A/DDGM’s Web Portal in the members tab of the www.kansasmason.org website. District Deputy Grand Masters must submit their reports online. Area Deputy Grand Masters should provide their District Deputy Grand Masters with paper worksheets for use during their visit to the lodge. Compared to all previous versions of District Deputy Grand Master reporting forms, the reports forms used since 2014 are much more detailed. In some lodges, the report created initial discomfort. The purpose though, is to give us an accurate assessment about every lodge in the state. This will allow us to identify strengths of every lodge as well as what problems they face, if any, and bring Grand Lodge help and advice to assist them in becoming the lodge they want to be. Even so, some lodges will resist providing information, in part due to a long standing perception among some that “Grand Lodge just wants to take our money.” Regardless, District Deputy Grand Master, in addition to the report, are to collect as much information as possible on the lodges through personal direct observation and from Grand Lodge records. In the event a lodge should refuse to provide any information that should be noted in the report. Rather than being a passive observer, the District Deputy must objectively evaluate the lodge. This, too, may be uncomfortable for the Deputy and the Lodge, however, that is not the intent. If we do not candidly assess the health and vitality of our lodges, even the grandest Grand Lodge programs may come too late to prevent some lodges from going dark forever. When a District Deputy encounters these types of hardships, it is up to you as the Area Deputy to help guide both him and the Lodge membership through the process for full effect.
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Supervision of District Deputy Grand Masters The District Deputy Grand Masters in your area should regularly seek your counsel on matters of Masonic law, and practice. You are strictly held in charge to guide and aid them on all such questions and further to support their endeavors by being a visible presence during their district visits or other events. Area Deputy Grand Masters should coordinate their schedules with their District Deputy Grand Masters for the Area Committee meeting, planning this well in advance of these visits. Active communication with the District Deputy Grand Masters will also ensure that District visits and reporting are completed in a timely manner. It goes without saying that each of your District Deputy Grand Masters should have your contact information at hand, and that the Area Deputy Grand Master should have all contact information for each of District Deputy Grand Master in his jurisdiction. Area Deputy Grand Masters should recognize that effective and regular communication with the District Deputy Grand Master is essential for the satisfactory discharge of their office. Increasingly, Masons nationwide are making use of social networking websites, most notably Facebook, to facilitate timely communication. As an all‐volunteer organization, Freemasonry is dependent on the services of brethren who are willing to pitch in and help achieve the goals of our Order. Many, if not most, of these helpers are capable, well meaning, Brother Masons who work long and hard for the betterment of the Craft. As such, they need little supervision. Most brothers who do need a helping hand are often overwhelmed by the job, a little help from the Area Deputy Grand Master can point the way and light the path for these men in short order. Those men who simply are not capable of executive leadership will be few and far between, but if you encounter problems in this area, please contact the Grand Master directly.
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Grand Lodge Strategic Plan Prior to 2010, each new administration discarded the majority of the previous Grand Master’s programs and implemented their own programs. Since then, that practice has been discontinued in favor of a unified strategic vision. In 2019, with “Vision 2020” coming to a successful end, a focus group containing a cross section of the Craft was consulted to determine the course of the Grand Lodge through 2030. The Mission of the Grand Lodge of Kansas: To encourage and support Freemasonry by assisting its Brothers and Constituent Lodges to achieve success and prosperity, as assets to their communities. The Vision of the Grand Lodge of Kansas: An ideal Masonic experience in every Lodge! Three Lanes to Success 1. Excellence in Membership 2. Excellence in Esoteric Work 3. Excellence in Communication Excellence in Membership examples: Quality Members Mentorship Program Community Focused through KMF Programs Benefits of Membership Set & Uphold Standards of our Craft Public Awareness Modernize Technology Bring back the Mystery Grand Lodge and Lodges enforce the bylaws Excellence in Esoteric Work examples: Set Standards for Lodges / Quality Modernize 1st & 3rd Degree Slides to PP for Lodges Grand Lodge lead by example Lodge Certification Increase number of Grand Lecturers & assign one to each area for study clubs, standards for cards, and enforcement of esoteric standards Excellence in Communication examples: Modernize (digital, written, text, written notes) Expand Social Media Preferred Communication (Email / Social Media / Text Message Use) Bring Digital Magazine with option for subscription Drive Technology usage Use “Our Lodge Page” for Chat More digital publications
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Secondary Duties Promote Grand Lodge Programs In the past, each Grand Master announced special projects during his term of office – often replacing those of the prior administration. This led to confusion in the Craft and supported the perception that there was no consistency in Grand Lodge planning. This is no longer the case. This year, we will promote the same programs as last year, building onto those programs with new goals as the need arises. You should actively promote these goals. Furthermore, as the personal representative of the Grand Master it is an unpardonable breach of your duty to criticize or neglect these programs.
Attend the Grand Master As the Craft’s liaison to the Grand Master, the District Deputy Grand Master, as well as the Area Deputy Grand Master, should stand ready to assist with and be present at any appearance of the Grand Master in their jurisdiction. In general, the District Deputy Grand Master should be familiar with the Grand Master’s itinerary, and make every effort to appear when the Grand Master visits his jurisdiction. The Grand Master’s itinerary is published on the Grand Lodge website calendar. Area Deputy Grand Masters are also the second step in the approval process for Grand Lodge Event planning for their local lodges.
Assist with Neighboring Area Meetings In an effort to achieve closer cooperation among Area Deputy Grand Masters and to promote a uniform message to the Craft, Area Deputy Grand Masters are expressly charged to work together in planning Area Meetings. Following appointment, you should contact and get to know your adjacent Area Deputy Grand Masters in order to begin preparations for your Area Meeting, and offer your assistance theirs.
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Assist and Attend District Schools Part of the Area Deputy Grand Master’s responsibilities include the supervision of the District Deputy Grand Masters, therefore, in order to more fully evaluate the performance of each District Deputy Grand Master in his Area, the Area Deputy Grand Master must conduct firsthand observations. If the District Deputy Grand Master requires assistance in planning and conducting the District school, the Area Deputy Grand Master should offer such help as is required in planning, organizing, or in some instances presenting part of the remarks. It is also incumbent on the Area Deputy Grand Master to be present at the District school, not to steal the show from the District Deputy Grand Master or the Grand Lecturer, but, rather to provide support and encouragement creating a show of unified leadership.
Social Media Social media is now a part of everyday life for many. Many districts, as well as areas within the Grand Jurisdiction of Kansas have Facebook pages to promote lodge events within your areas, share ideas, and even to communicate. If your area has a page, please visit with the outgoing Area Deputy Grand Master who should give you Administrative rights to maintain the page. If your area does not have one, please consider setting one up and using it to promote your lodge’s events. If you need assistance, contact the Grand Lodge social media focal. Not only is Facebook popular with our younger members, many of our more mature members are on Facebook. Facebook is not the only social media in common use. Twitter is becoming increasingly popular and should also be considered. Photos from Lodge installations, emblem presentations, picnics, cancer screenings and special events, when published on social media, give many who would not normally be exposed to Masonry a glimpse into the world of our fraternity. Also social media is a great way to promote events such as the District School of Instruction and the Area Meeting. Items of interest to a wider audience, should be forwarded to your to the Grand Lodge Social Media focal for publication on the Kansas Grand Lodge Facebook page. Keep in mind that everything on social media is open to the public. This being the case, even private remarks from a Grand Lodge officer, can reflect on the Grand Lodge. During your term, please refrain from posting anything on social media that you would not be appropriate for any audience. Political and secular remarks should not be posted. Profanity, racial remarks, or anything that would divide or cast a poor light on the Grand Lodge should not be posted.
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Succession Planning Area Deputy Grand Master should begin searching for their replacement among the lodges in their district without delay. Grand Lodge requires that replacements ‐ someone who, in your estimation, possesses the qualifications to make a good Area Deputy, be recommended by July 1. The “Recommended Replacement Form” is available through the A/DDGM’s Portal and should be submitted via email.
Grade Yourself Part of the Area Deputy Grand Master responsibilities includes grading their own performance, therefore, in order to more fully evaluate their service. The self‐evaluation online form is available on the A/DDGM portal under the members tab at www.kansasmason.org website.
Installations of Officers For many years, installation ceremonies varied. A standardized ceremony named “Lodge Officer Installation Ceremony” is located on the Downloads Page under the members tab at www.kansasmason.org website.
Equipment Area Deputies are issued the following equipment for their use during their period of service:
Apron, Apron case, and Jewel Grand Lodge Books and Manuals
Area Deputy Grand Master should inspect this equipment to ensure it is in good working condition when received. At the conclusion of the term of service, these items must be returned to the Grand Lodge. You may be required to sign a document when your equipment is issued. In the event any of these items are worn out, lost, damaged, or stolen, while in your care, the Grand Secretary should be informed at once. In addition, you will also be issued the following item(s) which are yours to keep:
Name tag for you
You will also be issued, from time to time, brochures and other material from the Grand Lodge to be distributed to the lodges in your district. Please ensure that the Grand Secretary’s office has your current address and contact information at all times.
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Conclusion As an Area Deputy Grand Master, you are the personal representative of the Grand Master in your jurisdiction, and a member of the executive leadership of the Grand Lodge of Kansas. You must become familiar with all the programs promoted and endorsed by the Grand Master, but more than that, you should understand the strategic direction of the Grand Lodge itself. The old days when Masonry attracted men left and right allowing our officers to be no more than figureheads, are long gone. If we don’t actively lead the way forward, Masonry will fade into insignificance. That said, if you have reservations about a particular program or strategic direction bring those concerns to the Council of Administration. Never allow yourself to be publicly critical of any Grand Lodge program and under no circumstances should you ever criticize the Grand Lodge to the Craft. Bear in mind at all times that you are the personal representative of the Grand Master to the lodges in your area. You are, in fact, far more than that to the local lodges, YOU are Grand Lodge. You are also charged to promote peace and harmony among all Masons, especially within your Area, and to help coordinate the activities of the lodges on the local level. You are to work closely with the lodges in your jurisdiction. To accomplish this effectively will require patience, understanding, sensitivity, and cooperation on your part to the needs and problems of the individual members and lodges under your care. Never criticize or correct an officer or lodge member publicly wait until you can explain his error privately, that he may be spared any embarrassment. In the unlikely, although not unheard‐of, event that your visit to a lodge turns sour, your role should not be confrontational. Instead, take note of the specific complaints of the brothers concerned. Seek out their names, and promise them that Grand Lodge will be advised of their complaint. Finally, you have been afforded a high honor in your preferment as Area Deputy Grand Master that only a select few in our fraternity will ever receive. Be faithful to your duties, and always convey the warmest fraternal greetings of your Grand Master to the brethren in your travels. Above all else, enjoy your opportunity to serve the Craft, and have fun with your duties in your year in office.
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Awards The Grand Lodge instituted new awards in 2013, including the Distinguished Service Medal, and the new Ritualist series of jewels that are tied to a reinvigorated proficiency program. Area Deputy Grand Masters should acquaint themselves and their District Deputy Grand Masters with the particulars of these awards in order to explain them to the Craft and to make recommendations to the Grand Master and Council of Administration for consideration of worthy brothers across the State.
Grand Master’s Order of Merit The Grand Master’s Order of Merit is the highest award that can be conferred by the Grand Master. It is given in recognition of exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of leadership duties, or exceptionally meritorious service to the Grand Master deserving of exemplary recognition. Any member can recommend someone for this award via the “Recommendation for Grand Master’s Order of Merit” found under the members tab at www.kansasmason.org. The Grand Master has the final decision on nominations for this award, and he may only award one Order of Merit during his term of office, and the Council of Administration must ratify the award by majority vote. The Grand Master’s Order of Merit entitles the recipient to a Pre‐Paid Perpetual Life Membership (PPLM) for any lodge in which he is a member during the year preceding the award’s conferral. Said stipend (up to $1500) will be paid by Grand Lodge and is not transferrable. If the recipient is already a Perpetual Life Member of his lodge(s), the amount of the stipend will be donated to the Kansas Masonic Foundation’s Kansas Freemason’s Endowment in the recipient’s name. This award is limited to Past Masters, District and Area Deputies, Grand Lecturers, or Grand Lodge Officers who are members in good standing of a warranted lodge in Kansas who conform to the requirements listed above. The Order of Merit is personally presented by the Grand Master at the All‐Masonic Banquet during the Annual Communication.
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Distinguished Service Medal The Distinguished Service Medal honors superior achievements at the jurisdictional level in furthering the strategic plan of the Grand Lodge of Kansas in the areas of: Membership, Esoteric Work, or Communications. No Grand Master may confer more than three (3) such awards during his term in office, and the Grand Master’s selections must be ratified by majority approval of the Council of Administration. Additional awards may be conferred with the unanimous consent of the Council of Administration. The Distinguished Service Medal entitles the recipient to a lifetime waiver of all fees for attendance at the Grand Lodge of Kansas Annual Communication, as well as any Grand Lodge‐sponsored Masonic seminar or school. The recipient shall not pay for any lunch or banquet costs associated with the Annual Communication. Any member can recommend someone for this award via the “Recommendation for Distinguished Service Medal” found under the members tab at www.kansasmason.org. Recommendations for awards must be received by December 1. The Distinguished Service Medal is personally presented by the Grand Master at the All‐Masonic Banquet during the Annual Communication.
Ritualist Jewel The Ritualist jewel replaces the plastic lapels pins given for proficiency (B,A,M, and U), and incorporates them into the Grand Lecturer system. “B” cards holders will henceforth be titled Ritualists. “A” card holders have been retitled Advanced Ritualists. The old “M” card is now referred to as Senior Ritualist, and the former “U” card is now a Master Ritualist. Upon earning his proficiency according to the specifications of By‐law § 3‐616, any of these Ritualists are entitled to wear the Ritualist jewel with the black/white ribbon. Ritualist and Advanced Ritualist jewels are present by the District or Area Deputy in the honoree’s home lodge or Area Meeting. Senior and Master Ritualists receive their awards at the All‐ Masonic Banquet during the Annual Communication. These are awarded at the All‐Masonic Banquet or during the Annual Communication session.
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Master’s Achievement Award The Grand Lodge of Kansas Master’s Achievement Award was established to recognize superior performance in leadership by Worshipful Masters. Special recognition is given to those Masters who exhibit excellence by undertaking various activities that support, enhance, and build this great Fraternity by meeting minimum prescribed requirements as well as participating in additional activities that achieve a superior performance level. The Lodge is responsible for submitting the application for the award, and the Master or his representative should be present at the next Grand Lodge session when the awards are announced. There is no limit to the number of Masters who may earn this award. Qualifying Masters will be judged in three critical categories: Leadership, Membership, and Communication. Participation in these key events per category earns points. Masters who achieve the required scores in each area are eligible to receive the award. The Master can choose some or all of the criteria to devote his energies to in order to be eligible for the award, but several categories are mandatory for eligibility. The Master’s Achievement Award conforms to the Strategic Plan and will consist of only one class of award, the gold medallion. Masters who earn the award will be formally recognized at the Grand Lodge session, presented with a handsome jewel which is authorized for wear at all Craft functions with appropriate attire. The Master who receives the most points each year will receive a cash stipend of $500 to be used for the benefit and improvement of their lodge. Cash stipends should be used to improve the lodge, for repairs, minor remodeling, furniture, or for equipment. Achievement of this award is in direct support of the strategic plan of the Grand Lodge. The Award packet and the nomination forms are available online. Lodge Masters should be encouraged early in their year to review the requirements for this award, and to strive to accomplish these requirements in their lodge. The Masters Achievement Award requirements are very nearly a blueprint for lodge success.
Trice‐Robison Award The Trice‐Robison Award promotes esoteric Excellence at the lodge level. By reviving this award, the Grand Lodge wants to recognize and promote those lodges that demonstrate top notch commitment to the ritual. The District Deputy Grand Master, or the Area Deputy Grand Master, must attest to a lodge’s proficiency before the application is submitted.
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Ceremonies & Protocol As a representative of the Grand Master, and therefore an officer of the Grand Lodge, local lodges will look to Area Deputy Grand Masters as an authority on the ceremonies they are not familiar with. Further, Area Deputy Grand Master should be conversant in some matters of protocol. This section is designed to acquaint you with some commonly encountered ceremonies and protocol.
Reception of the District Deputy On each of his official visits to lodge in his district, the District Deputy Grand Master should be received formally. The Area Deputy Grand Master should be received only if he is making an official visit to the lodge. An official visit by the Area Deputy Grand Master may happen when making a lodge visit on behalf of the District Deputy Grand Master, or having been sent by the Grand Master or the Council of Administration for official business with the lodge. The suggested ceremony for the reception of the District Deputy Grand Master is found in the Floor Rules and Instructions (2018). Additionally, a diagram of the suggested procedure is found in Manual of Floor Movements (2019). In brief, the ceremony of receiving the District Deputy Grand Master starts immediately after the flag salute when he retires from the lodge. The Master of the lodge directs the members to form two parallel lines to welcome the District Deputy Grand Master when he is readmitted to the lodge. Once in the East, the District Deputy Grand Master may return the gavel to the Master of the lodge and the business of the meeting may begin. However, once the District Deputy Grand Master is called on for his remarks, his address should be the highlight of the evening. According to Floor Rules and Instructions, “It is always courteous to get all business out of the way before the District Deputy Grand Master gives his closing remarks, after which the Lodge should be immediately closed. The District Deputy Grand Master represents the Grand Master and should be given the same courtesy.” This means that the Worshipful Master should immediately knock the gavel and prepare the lodge for closing. No further comments, remarks, sickness or distress, announcements, or any other matter should come after the District Deputy’s remarks. For the full ceremony, consult the “Manual of Floor Movements” and “Floor Rules and Instructions” available on the Downloads Page under the members tab at www.kansasmason.org .
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Introduction of Officers At every Grand Lodge event, once the public is admitted to the ceremony, or immediately following the flag salute, the Grand Master will then direct the Grand Senior Deacon or the Grand Marshall to either introduce all Grand Lodge officers and their guests, or he will ask the officers to introduce themselves and their guests. In both cases, the introductions begin at the left hand of the Grand Master, excluding all Past Grand Masters, and continuing to the south, west, and north before ending with the Deputy Grand Master. In the interests of time, the Grand Master will call for applause only after all are introduced. It is accepted practice to introduce oneself as “John Smith, Past Master of Hometown Lodge 123, serving as Area Deputy Grand Master for Area_______,” but individual introductions may, of course, be varied. It is, however, good form to keep introductions confined to blue lodge titles, and most importantly: brief. After all officers have been introduced and applauded, the Deputy Grand Master will call up the assembled Masons and introduce the Grand Master. Immediately following his introduction, the Grand Master will direct the Grand Senior Deacon to present all Past Grand Masters, who are afforded Grand Honors.
Introduction of Grand Master According to Floor Rules and Instructions (2018), there are two ways to introduce the Grand Master. The most accepted form is: “Most Worshipful (insert name), Grand Master of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas. The other form is: Most Worshipful (insert name), Grand Master of Masons in Kansas.
Grand Honors The Grand Master and all Past Grand Masters are entitled to a special salute known as Grand Honors, which are of long antiquity. Public grand honors consist of three, triple hand claps and are given at the word of the Deputy Grand Master (or his designee) following the introduction of the Grand Master. Private grand honors (consisting of the D‐ue –g‐ds & S‐ns) should only be given in a tyled setting with the lodge open in the MM degree.
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Expectations As Masons we are taught to take care of our vocations, families, and duties to the Grand Architect of the Universe before taking on Masonic tasks. District and Area Deputy Grand Masters are held to no higher standard in this regard, although your attendance at our events is earnestly solicited. Even though the Grand Lodge will travel to many places throughout the year, the Grand Master does not require you to attend if beyond the length of your cable tow. Grand Lodge events in which Area Deputy Grand Master commonly participate are listed in the next section, with cornerstone ceremonies and lodge hall dedications given the highest priority, and installation of officers accorded the lowest priority. Please bear these priorities in mind when determining your schedule. The following are those few events that should be considered mandatory.
Mandatory Events
The annual orientation/training session. Ensure District Deputy Grand Masters make two visits to each lodge Both days of the current masonic year’s Annual Communication. The Leadership Academy Both days of the Annual Communication at the “end” of the year of service. Hold one Area Meeting Otherwise, Area Deputy Grand Masters should: Communicate regularly with the Grand Master and Deputy Grand Master Deliver the message of the Grand Master and Grand Lodge when visiting lodges Attend your local lodge on a regular basis
Before any event, large or small, the Grand Master or his designee will send notice via email with details of times and locations as well as any special duties or details to be addressed by the line. Upon receipt of an event notice, kindly RSVP.
Leadership Local lodges look to the Area Deputy Grand Masters to set an example. Area deputy Grand Masters should be prompt. Don’t make it a habitual practice to arrive late for meetings that they have promised or planned to attend. Display a positive attitude. In addressing a lodge, whatever the content of remarks, they should be positive in nature. There is no instance that would call for negative comments. Enthusiasm in our Fraternity is important, as our membership looks to you as an example. A poor or lackluster attitude not only reflects badly on the individual, but on the Grand Lodge and the Grand Master, as well.
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Family Wives or female guests are welcome at each and every public Grand Lodge event. Event notices will include information on dress code for every function to ensure that no one feels the need to overdress or underdress. But, just as ladies should always feel welcome, they should know that if they choose not to participate, that’s okay, too. They didn’t join our fraternity; we did. Masons should never be asked why their spouse or lady is not in attendance.
Electronics The Grand Master and his officers rely heavily on email and text messaging to further the business of the Grand Lodge. However, please ensure that ceremonial occasions are not interrupted by ringtones or other noises. Electronic devices, including the Grand Master’s, that disturb Stated or Special Communications of the Grand Lodge will cost their owner a $50 donation to Kansas Masonic Foundation charity fund. The Grand Marshal has the unpleasant task of collections officer in this instance.
Attire As part of a professional turnout, Grand Lodge officers, District and Area Deputy Grand Masters are required to dress appropriately. There are three types of Masonic events: formal, business wear, and casual, each requiring a different dress. It is encouraged that Area Deputy Grand Masters wear an “appearance suit.” What constitutes the “appearance suit” will be communicated by the Deputy Grand Master for his year as Grand Master. Minimum attire for any lodge event other than a picnic, is slacks, collared shirt, and tie. Jeans are only appropriate for outdoor events such as picnics.
Lapel Pins, Awards & Emblems Area Deputy Grand Masters are free to wear a Masonic pin, but the Grand Master requests that they restrict themselves to one pin, emphasizing the square and compasses, or other blue lodge symbolism, during their year of service as a Grand Lodge officer. All Grand Lodge officers are authorized to wear all awards given by the Grand Lodge of Kansas when wearing either formal or business wear, including years of service emblems, PPLM pins, Master’s Achievement Award, Distinguished Service Medal, Ritualist jewel, and Grand Master’s Order of Merit. Breast emblems should be worn suspended from the breast pocket, not the lapel. NOTE: When representing the Grand Lodge of Kansas, emblems from other appendant bodies should not be worn.
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Events The events listed below are the majority of Grand Lodge activities that the Grand Master and his officers attend, listed in order of priority. For high priority events, Area Deputy Grand Masters should make every effort to attend if within reasonable driving distance (less than 90 miles). For lower priority events, your attendance is encouraged, but not mandatory.
Cornerstone/Public Dedication Priority: High. Attendance greatly desired. A public ceremony, the dedication of a cornerstone or public building is conducted by the Grand Master or his designee, and his officers, and such officers and members of the local lodge as can conveniently attend. Opened in the first degree, the assembly then processes to the site of the dedication. Once on site, the Grand Lodge officers approve the work of the builders and sanctify the structure with an offering of corn, wine, and oil.
Lodge Hall Dedication Priority: High. Attendance greatly desired. Also a public ceremony, and similar in style to a cornerstone ceremony, the Grand Lodge opens in the first degree. After going to refreshment, lodge members and the public are invited to view the ceremony which focuses on the “symbolic lodge,” which is also blessed with corn, wine, and oil by the Grand Master.
Emblems Priority: Medium: Attendance encouraged if close. A public or private ceremony, emblem presentations are conducted by the Grand Master or his designee including Area Deputy Grand Masters, and such officers and members of Lodges as can conveniently attend. Although in the past, these ceremonies have been performed off‐the‐cuff, this occasion deserves more solemnity. A ceremony was been written for this event and should be used. DO NOT improvise remarks unless authorized by the Grand Master. The ceremony “Service Emblem Presentation” is included on the on the Downloads Page under the members tab at www.kansasmason.org . Emblem presentations are enormously important to the Craft and great care should be taken that the ceremony is performed with dignity and respect befitting the years of service of the honorees.
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PGM Grave Marker Priority: Medium: Attendance encouraged if close. The Grand Lodge performs a special ceremony marking the graves of Past Grand Masters. A public ceremony, the Grand Lodge is opened on the first degree, and called off for the purpose of retiring to the grave site for further ceremony. In general, there is no procession, but the members arrive by car at the grave where the ceremony is held.
Installations Priority: Low: Attendance appreciated but not required. A public or private ceremony, officer installations are conducted by the Grand Master or his designee, and such officers and members of Lodges as can conveniently attend. A written ceremony is available for this event, which may be obtained from the Grand Secretary.
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Resources Contacts To contact the Grand Master, text messaging at the telephone number listed, or email, is the quickest and easiest way to reach him. A full directory of Grand Lodge officers, Grand Lecturers, and committees, is available in the Directory section under the members tab of the www.kansasmason.org website.
Website The www.kansasmason.org Grand Lodge website is a tool available for all Kansas Masons, but particularly for Grand Lodge leadership. The website features the Grand Lodge calendar, as well as the strategic plan, forms, official notices, award specifications, online registration capability, current news, and portals for designated users. Please be familiar with the contents of the website and encourage our members to use it. Additionally, the website features a secure Area & District Deputy Grand Master portal under the Members Area tab where you will find this manual, as well as other needed materials.
Grand Lodge Email Addresses Area Deputy Grand Masters will receive a Grand Lodge email address during their year of service. Following your installation, the Grand Secretary will notify you with instructions on how to activate your Grand Lodge email address. Area Deputy Grand Masters will receive a custom email address in the form of “ADGM(Area Number)@kansasmason.org “. All email sent to this email will forward to your personal email address. All Grand Lodge business, along with that of the rest of the world, is now conducted by electronic means. You should check your email regularly throughout the day. Please respond to email promptly.
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Calendar The Grand Master’s calendar is available on the website and is updated regularly. It contains important Grand Lodge events and the Grand Master’s travel itinerary. A degree work calendar is also available and lodges should be encouraged to make use of it to publish special local lodge events and degree work so that brothers from outside their location may be made aware. The calendar may be found under the Grand Lodge tab of the www.kansasmason.org website. You are encouraged to copy this calendar to you smartphone or computer. This may be accomplished through the + Google Calendar link in the lower right hand corner of the calendar.
Grand Lecturers The Grand Lecturer are not only available for district schools of instruction. The Grand Lecturers are a resource that is often overlooked. The Grand Lecturers are available year round to assist with local lodge instruction. Local lodges may request a Grand Lecturer to come to their lodge and give the lodge instruction in any aspect of the work. If a lodge requests assistance from a Grand Lecturer, contact the chairman of the Ritualistic Committee listed in the Grand Lodge Directory found in the Directory section under the members tab of the www.kansasmason.org website.
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Important Dates School of Instruction Request form due
May 1
Spring DDGM Report due
June 24
Recommendation for Area & District Deputy
June 30
ADGM Area Summary Reports Due
August 31
Leadership Academy (Typical)
2nd Sat. in Sept.
Trice Robison Application due
Dec 31
Outstanding Mason Form due
Dec 31
Masters Achievement Award Application due
Jan 15
Area/District Deputy Orientation (Typical)
1st Sat. in Feb.
Annual Communication
3rd Friday in March & following Sat.
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