Contents
Introduction ................................................................................................ 1 Qualifications .............................................................................................................................. 1 Term ............................................................................................................................................... 1 Titles ............................................................................................................................................... 2 Authority....................................................................................................................................... 2 Purpose ......................................................................................................................................... 2
Grand Lodge Officers ............................................................................... 4 Duties ............................................................................................................................................. 4 Assistant Grand Secretary ..................................................................................................... 5 Grand Chaplain ...................................................................................................................... 6 Grand Orator ......................................................................................................................... 6 Grand Senior Deacon ............................................................................................................ 7 Grand Junior Deacon ............................................................................................................. 8 Grand Marshal ...................................................................................................................... 9 Grand Sword Bearer ............................................................................................................ 10 Grand Stewards ................................................................................................................... 10 Grand Pursuivant ................................................................................................................ 11 Grand Tyler and Assistant Grand Tyler ................................................................................ 11 Grand Standard Bearer ....................................................................................................... 12 Grand Flag Bearer ............................................................................................................... 12 Grand Musician ................................................................................................................... 13 Grand Director of Ceremonies ............................................................................................ 13
Grand Master ........................................................................................................................... 14 Introduction of Officers ....................................................................................................... 14 Introduction of Grand Master ........................................................................................... 15 The Grand Master’s Wife..................................................................................................... 15 Grand Honors........................................................................................................................... 15
Expectations............................................................................................. 18 Mandatory Events .................................................................................................................. 18
Leadership ................................................................................................................................ 18 Family.......................................................................................................................................... 19 Children & Childcare ............................................................................................................. 19 Electronics................................................................................................................................. 19 Issued Equipment .................................................................................................................. 20
Attire ........................................................................................................... 21 Lapel Pins .................................................................................................................................. 21 Awards & Emblems ............................................................................................................... 21
Priorities .................................................................................................... 22 Annual Communication ....................................................................................................... 22 Annual Communication General Schedule .......................................................................... 23
Grand Lodge Programs ........................................................................................................ 23 Orientation ................................................................................................................................ 24 Leadership Academy ............................................................................................................ 24
Ceremonies............................................................................................... 25 Flag Salute ................................................................................................................................. 25 Procession ................................................................................................................................. 26 Reception of the Grand Master......................................................................................... 28 Cornerstone/ Public Dedication ...................................................................................... 29 Lodge Hall Dedication .......................................................................................................... 29 Emblems .................................................................................................................................... 30 PGM Grave Marker ................................................................................................................ 30 Installations .............................................................................................................................. 31
Resources .................................................................................................. 32 Contacts ...................................................................................................................................... 32 Website ....................................................................................................................................... 32 Grand Lodge Email Address .............................................................................................. 32 Calendar ..................................................................................................................................... 33
Introduction Grand rank 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 ‐ rather it carries with it increased duties to continue service to the Craft as an officer of the Grand Lodge of Kansas. The Grand Lodge of Kansas recognizes two types of Grand Lodge officers; elected and appointed. Elected Grand Lodge officers are the Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master, Grand Wardens, Grand Treasurer, and the Grand Secretary. All other Grand Lodge officers are appointed. This manual provides an overview of the responsibilities of appointed Grand Lodge officers.
Qualifications Kansas Masonic law does not list the qualifications of appointed Grand Lodge officers, although in most cases, an appointed grand officer is a past master who is well regarded in his lodge, district, and area. However, Grand Masters may ask any Master Mason who has not yet attained the rank of past master to serve as an appointed officer of the Grand Lodge.
Term All appointed Grand Lodge officers serve at the pleasure of the Grand Master, just as appointed officers in a regular lodge serve at the pleasure of the Worshipful Master. Appointments to grand rank occur during the Grand Master’s term of office and terminate when his successor is installed.
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Titles In Kansas, elected Grand Lodge officers, as well as Grand Lecturers, Grand Representatives and current Area/District Deputy Grand Masters are entitled to be addressed thereafter as “Right Worshipful.” Upon his installation, and for life thereafter, the Grand Master is entitled to be addressed as “Most Worshipful.” Appointment to grand rank automatically confers the title of “Worshipful.” But remember, brethren who serve as an appointed Grand Lodge officer may have already earned the title of “Right Worshipful,” (i.e. by having been appointed a Grand Representative). In those cases, the higher title takes precedence. By longstanding tradition, the titles of Kansas Grand Lodge officers insert the word “Grand” before the name of the office: thus it is Grand Senior Deacon, not Senior Grand Deacon.
Authority The Constitution (Art. VI § 1) sets out the various Grand Lodge officers. Article VI, § 5(f) allows the Grand Master to “create additional offices in the Grand Lodge,” and subsection 10 outlines their responsibilities: Subordinate Officers shall perform such duties as by usage appertain to their respective offices. They shall attend the Grand Master when commanded and be obedient on all occasions to lawful authority. Every officer shall perform such other and additional duties as may be required by law or regulation; but no service shall ever be required from anyone, which can in any manner conflict with the duties he owes his GOD, his country, his neighbor or himself. These instructions, combined with those duties for elected Grand Lodge officers contained in the bylaws (Chapter 2) form the minimum standard. The Grand Master remains free to define the specific duties of appointed Grand Lodge officers as he sees fit. The following section explains the duties of each officer in detail for the ensuing year, and serves as the Grand Master’s instructions as to the duties of his appointed Grand Lodge officers.
Purpose Officers of your local lodge have a duty to make their lodge a success. And although Grand Lodge officers function very similarly to local lodge officers, their primary purpose is not to make the Grand Lodge successful. Rather, their function is to assist in carrying out the mission of the Grand Lodge of Kansas, shown below. Your service as a Grand Lodge officer is your opportunity, not only to repay the Craft for the benefits you have received in Masonry, but to lead the fraternity forward. In the past, Grand Lodge officers had relatively few duties and little input in the direction of Kansas Freemasonry. Starting in 2013, the Council of Administration asked more from Grand Lodge officers and in exchange, gave them a voice in the way forward. In future, the Grand Master will ask you to make a similar commitment, to share your time and talents in helping Kansas Masonry and our lodges statewide achieve success
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Grand Lodge Officers You have been chosen as a Grand Lodge officer because the Grand Master believes you can contribute to the betterment of the Craft. The days of Grand Lodge officers having only ceremonial duties must come to an end. We need every man to pitch in, help drive our programs forward, and generate new initiatives to help our lodges. To that end, in addition to the official duties of your office, you will be asked 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 at Area meetings, 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 Grand Lodge Officer Orientation; please be prepared to accept some additional duties.
Duties Each Grand Lodge officer has several duties corresponding to his respective station and these fall into two categories; ceremonial and administrative. This section sets out the ceremonial and administrative duties applicable to each appointed officer by rank, in order of precedence.
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Assistant Grand Secretary The Assistant Grand Secretary is appointed by the Grand Secretary pursuant to Bylaw § 2‐129 with the consent of the Grand Master. He serves at the pleasure of the Grand Secretary.
Ceremonial Duties The Assistant Grand Secretary assists the Grand Secretary: At the Annual Communication Whenever the Grand Lodge of Kansas is opened
Administrative Duties The Assistant Grand Secretary performs such duties as assigned by the Grand Secretary including:
Communication with foreign jurisdictions Records maintenance and database input and retrieval Technical and electronic setup and maintenance Edit and transcribe all notes, reports, recordings, etc., from Annual Communications and forward to the Publications Committee (added 2019) Other duties as assigned
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Grand Chaplain The Grand Chaplain assists the Grand Lodge in offering devotion to Deity. His prayers may be those derived from his own particular religion, but the name of Deity should always be universalist in character (i.e. “The Grand Architect of the Universe,” or “Great and Glorious Creator of the Universe”) according to the tenets of Freemasonry. All prayers should be committed to memory.
Ceremonial Duties The Grand Chaplain: Plans and conducts the Necrology Service during the Annual Communication Pronounces benediction at the Annual Communication, whenever the Grand Lodge of Kansas is opened in form, before meals, and as directed by the Grand Master or his designee Represents the Grand Master at events in the absence of all officers senior in precedence
Administrative Duties The Grand Chaplain should be prepared to act as a liaison to local lodge chaplains and to suggest proper adorations to Deity in accordance with accepted Masonic practice. In addition, the Grand Chaplain should advise the Grand Master and the Council of Administration on matters spiritual. The Grand Chaplain is authorized to act as the Grand Master’s inspector on matters of religious devotion, reporting his findings to the Grand Master.
Grand Orator The office of Grand Orator is authorized by Bylaw §2‐128. Traditionally, the Grand Orator is the Past Grand Master who appointed the current Grand Master to the progressive line, although this is not always the case. A purely ceremonial role, the Grand Orator’s principal employment occurs at the installation of officers at the annual communication. At other times, if present, he may be called upon to make appropriate remarks at lodge dedications, awards ceremonies, and other similar occasions. If he is a Past Grand Master, he may elect to wear his PGM apron and jewel in place of the Grand Orator regalia.
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Grand Senior Deacon The Grand Senior Deacon is the entry position to the Grand Lodge progressive line. If elected, the Grand Senior Deacon will serve as Grand Master of Masons five years hence. Accordingly, his duties are numerous to fit him for his eventual role as head of the Craft in Kansas.
Ceremonial Duties The Grand Senior Deacon: Performs ritual duties in the opening and closing of Grand Lodge Introduces all visitors at communications and meetings (i.e. seminars, social events) where the Grand Master or his designee presides Acts as messenger of the Grand Master or his designee Supervises the Grand Junior Deacon and Grand Stewards in setting up and breaking down the Grand Lodge paraphernalia on the altar Represents the Grand Master at events in the absence of all officers senior in precedence In the carrying out of his official duties, the following suggestions are strongly recommended: Attend to and become familiar with the Grand Master’s checklist of visitors Receive the Volume(s) of Sacred Law (VSL) and working tools from the Grand Pursuivant Load the Grand Master’s calendar on your pocket device Notify the Grand Master, well in advance, if unable to attend a Grand Lodge function
Administrative Duties The Grand Senior Deacon performs such duties as assigned by the Grand Master including: Secretary of the Council on Planning Lead Project Coordinator as assigned In order that he may have the assistance of able brethren to accomplish his many duties, the Grand Senior Deacon shall be entitled to the assistance of any officer subordinate to him in precedence.
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Grand Junior Deacon The Grand Junior Deacon serves as the assistant to the Deputy Grand Master. He should undertake those projects assigned to him by the Deputy Grand Master when called upon. In addition, he is charged – with the Grand Stewards – with arranging the altar in preparation of the Grand Master opening the Grand Lodge, and in arranging the seating for the Grand Lodge officers with the assistance of the Grand Sword Bearer, Grand Flag and Grand Standard Bearers as available.
Ceremonial Duties The Grand Junior Deacon assists the Grand Lodge with: Ritual duties in the opening and closing of Grand Lodge Supervising the Grand Sword Bearer, Grand Flag‐ and Grand Standard Bearers in preparing any lodge room for the opening of Grand Lodge including arranging seating for all Grand Lodge officers, procuring the necessary paraphernalia, etc. Setting up and breaking down the altar and lights at all tiled meetings with the assistance of the Grand Stewards Representing the Grand Master at events in the absence of all officers senior in precedence In the carrying out of his official duties, the following suggestions are strongly recommended: Attend to and become familiar with the seating chart for Grand Lodge officers With the assistance of the Grand Stewards, relieve the Grand Senior Deacon of the VSL and working tools and arrange the altar Attend to and become familiar with the Grand Master’s checklist of visitors Load the Grand Master’s calendar on your pocket device Notify the Grand Master, well in advance, if unable to attend a Grand Lodge function
Administrative Duties The Grand Junior Deacon performs such duties as assigned by the Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master, and the Grand Senior Warden including: Securing replacements for gaps in the Grand Lodge officer positions at Grand Lodge events and providing the Grand secretary with the names and lodges of said replacements for the official record Assist the Marshal, or act in his absence, in organizing practice rehearsals prior to any Grand Lodge event Assist the Grand Chaplain with the Necrology service Other duties as assigned
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Grand Marshal The Grand Marshal functions as the Grand Master’s chief of staff. He is responsible for the smooth flow of ceremonial and ritual proceedings at all Grand Lodge events. Although principally known as the leader of processions, it is also the Grand Marshal’s duty to act as the official Grand Lodge prompter. He is also the stage director for all ceremonies. Even the Grand Master will stand where the Marshal tells him to stand. Along with the Grand Pursuivant, the Grand Marshal reports only to the Grand Master.
Ceremonial Duties The Grand Marshal: • Performs ritual duties in the opening and closing of Grand Lodge • Organizes and leads processions both public and private • Organizes and leads practice and rehearsals of Grand Lodge ceremony • In the absence of the Grand Senior Deacon, introduces all visitors at communications and meetings (i.e. seminars, social events) where the Grand Master or his designee presides • Procures the necessary paraphernalia, regalia, etc., (e.g. white gloves) to insure a proper turnout • Assists the Grand Director of Ceremonies with the Annual Communication • Represents the Grand Master at events in the absence of all officers senior in precedence. In the carrying out of his official duties, the following suggestions are strongly recommended: • Attend to and become familiar with the order of precedence for Grand Lodge officers • Attend to and become familiar with all Grand Lodge ceremonies • Notify the Grand Master, well in advance, if unable to attend a Grand Lodge function
Administrative Duties The Grand Marshal also performs the following administrative duties: • Event notification of all Grand Lodge events in coordination with the Grand Master
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Grand Sword Bearer The Grand Sword Bearer performs the rather antiquated ceremonial function of carrying the sword of the Grand Master, which evokes the duties of a medieval page who carried his knight’s weapons into battle. Fortunately, the Grand Master rarely uses his sword these days, freeing up the Grand Sword Bearer to assist the Grand Lodge in other, less lethal, capacities.
Ceremonial Duties The Grand Sword Bearer assists the Grand Lodge with: Ritual duties in the opening and closing of Grand Lodge Preparing the seating for Grand Lodge officers along with the Grand Flag and Grand Standard Bearers under the direction of the Grand Junior Deacon and tearing down the same upon conclusion of the ceremony Assisting the Grand Junior Deacon as he shall direct Represents the Grand Master at events in the absence of all officers senior in precedence. In the carrying out of his official duties, the following suggestions are strongly recommended: Attend to and become familiar with the seating chart for Grand Lodge officers Notify the Grand Master, well in advance, if unable to attend a Grand Lodge function
Grand Stewards The Grand Stewards shall assist the Grand Deacons in the performance of their respective duties and to do such other things proper to their offices as may be required by the Grand Master or the Grand Lodge. For all assemblies of the Grand Lodge, the Grand Stewards will assist the Grand Deacons in arranging lodge rooms or meeting areas (in the case of seminars, banquets, etc.) in advance of events. The Grand Stewards assist the Grand Lodge with: Ritual duties in the opening and closing of Grand Lodge Setting up and breaking down the altar and lights at all tiled meetings under the direction of the Grand Junior Deacon Representing the Grand Master at events in the absence of all officers senior in precedence In the carrying out of their official duties, the following suggestions are strongly recommended: Attend to and become familiar with the seating chart for Grand Lodge officers Direct such subordinate officers including, Grand Sword Bearer, Grand Flag and Grand Standard Bearers with preparing the seating for the Grand Lodge officers Assist the Grand Senior Deacon with the VSL and working tools and arrange the altar Notify the Grand Master, well in advance, if unable to attend a Grand Lodge function
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Grand Pursuivant The Grand Pursuivant is the attendant of the Grand Master and as such, he serves no other master, nor is he subject to the directives any other officer
The Grand Pursuivant assists the Grand Master with: The care, custody, and control of the Grand Master’s personal effects, including regalia, hat, gavel, VSL, working tools, guestbook, and electronics In the performance of his duties the Grand Pursuivant will Deliver the VSL and working tools to the Grand Senior Deacon prior to the opening of Grand Lodge, wherever situated, and collect the same from the altar at the conclusion of the ceremony Deliver the Grand Master’s guestbook to the Grand Tyler or Assistant Grand Tyler(s) for display and annotation at every assemblage and collect the same at the conclusion of the event Perform such other and further duties as the Grand Master shall direct Notify the Grand Master, well in advance, if unable to attend a Grand Lodge function Represent the Grand Master at events in the absence of all officers senior in precedence.
Grand Tyler and Assistant Grand Tyler The Grand Tyler is the outer guard of the Grand Lodge. It is his duty to ensure that only those who are duly qualified to gain entry are admitted to a tyled proceeding. At every communication of the Grand Lodge, he is to insure that the brethren are properly clad and vouched for. This means that aprons are required and must be worn. In this endeavor he is seconded by the Assistant Grand Tyler(s). In the performance of his duties the Grand Tyler and the Assistant Grand Tyler will Guard the entrance of the Grand Lodge, requiring all who enter are properly clothed and vouched To serve notices and summons when specifically directed to do so and to perform such other duties as may be required of him by the Grand Master or the Grand Lodge To receive the Grand Master’s guestbook from the Grand Pursuivant and cause them same to be displayed for annotation at every assemblage and upon conclusion of the event deliver the same to the Grand Pursuivant Notify the Grand Master, well in advance, if unable to attend a Grand Lodge function Secure such additional assistant Tylers as any occasion requires Represent the Grand Master at events in the absence of all officers senior in precedence NOTE: When opening the Grand Lodge at all functions including the annual communication, the Tyler and/or Assistant Grand Tyler are initially stationed outside the door. After opening, but prior to the flag salute, these officers may admit themselves to the lodge without ceremony.
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Grand Standard Bearer It is the responsibility of the Grand Standard Bearer to display the emblem of the Grand Lodge of Kansas at the direction of the Grand Master. In addition, he should be at the disposal of the Grand Deacons to assist in preparing and arranging lodge rooms or meeting areas (in the case of seminars, banquets, etc.) in advance of events.
The Grand Standard Bearer assists the Grand Lodge with: Ritual duties in the opening and closing of Grand Lodge Preparing the seating for Grand Lodge officers along with the Grand Sword and Grand Flag Bearers under the direction of the Grand Junior Deacon and tearing down the same upon conclusion of the ceremony Assisting the Grand Junior Deacon as he shall direct Representing the Grand Master at events in the absence of all officers senior in precedence. In the carrying out of his official duties, the following suggestions are strongly recommended: Attend to and become familiar with the seating chart for Grand Lodge officers Notify the Grand Master, well in advance, if unable to attend a Grand Lodge function
Grand Flag Bearer It is the responsibility of the Grand Flag Bearer to lead the courtesies to the national emblem at the direction of the Grand Master and pursuant to Bylaw § 3‐424 (see page 24). In addition, he should be at the disposal of the Grand Deacons to assist in preparing and arranging lodge rooms or meeting areas (in the case of seminars, banquets, etc.) in advance of events.
The Grand Flag Bearer assists the Grand Lodge with: Ritual duties in the opening and closing of Grand Lodge Preparing the seating for Grand Lodge officers along with the Grand Sword and Grand Standard Bearers under the direction of the Grand Junior Deacon and tearing down the same upon conclusion of the ceremony Assisting the Grand Junior Deacon as he shall direct Representing the Grand Master at events in the absence of all officers senior in precedence In the carrying out of his official duties, the following suggestions are strongly recommended: Attend to and become familiar with the seating chart for Grand Lodge officers Notify the Grand Master, well in advance, if you are unable to attend a Grand Lodge function
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Grand Musician The Grand Musician is another purely ceremonial office. His principal employment occurs at the Annual Communication where he programs music appropriate for the occasion. He is entitled to wear his distinctive emblem and jewel at every Craft function, and as with other Grand Lodge officers, he represents the Grand Master at events in the absence of all officers senior in precedence. At the annual communication, the Grand Musician sits near the Grand Secretary where he can access the sound system. At all other events, he is seated to the left of the Grand Sword Bearer. In the carrying out of his official duties, the following suggestions are strongly recommended: Attend to the musical playlist required by the Grand Master Represent the Grand Master at Masonic events in his absence.
Grand Director of Ceremonies In contrast to the Grand Musician, the duties of the Grand Director of Ceremonies are entirely administrative. His role is to organize and plan the Annual Communication in coordination with the Grand Secretary. In this role, he may receive assistance from the Grand Marshall, and with consultation and approval of the Council of Administration, he may utilize the services of a professional event planner. Although he has no ceremonial duties, in the event he elects to participate in Grand Lodge ceremonies, he may wear his own regalia (if he is a Past Grand Master), or he may be issued the apron and jewel of a Grand Marshall. He is to be seated to the left of the Grand Sword Bearer.
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Grand Master Since the very beginning of our ancient and honorable Order, the office of the Grand Master has been accorded enormous respect and deference, largely because the first Grand Masters in England were members of the nobility. All Grand Masters are conscious of the centuries of tradition, although many are uncomfortable with the degree of ceremony that accompanies this high office. It is important to keep in mind that the respect and honor of the position represents respect for the office, not merely respect for one man. We have been blessed in Kansas to have an unbroken line of worthy and steadfast Grand Masters who have held themselves to the highest standards of conduct and integrity, ever conscious that this high office is not about them, but about serving others. Yet, we have all seen in other situations, men who have become intoxicated by the power and perceived adoration, and who have transformed their year of service into something more selfish. With the help of the Grand Architect of the Universe, and with your good counsel, your Grand Master pledges to serve the Craft in the manner in which they deserve to be served, with dignity and respect, mindful that this elevated station is, after all, temporary in nature. In short, the Grand Master recognizes that the new Masonic year isn’t about him – it’s about leaving Kansas Freemasonry better than we found it. It’s not his year next year, it’s our year.
Introduction of Officers At every Grand Lodge event, the Grand Master will direct the Grand Senior Deacon to introduce all Past Grand Masters, who are afforded grand honors (See below). Following those introductions, the Grand Master will then direct the Grand Senior Deacon (or the Grand Marshall in his absence) to either introduce all Grand Lodge officers and their families/guests, or he will ask the officers to introduce themselves and their families/guests who might be in attendance. In both cases, the introductions begin at the left hand of the Grand Master, excluding all Past Grand Masters (including the Grand Secretary if he is a Past Grand Master), and continuing to the south, west, and north before ending with the Deputy Grand Master. In the interests of time, applause will be held until all are introduced. It is accepted practice to introduce oneself as “John Smith, Past Master of Hometown Lodge 123, serving as your Grand _,” but individual introductions may be varied. It is, however, good form to keep introductions brief.
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Introduction of Grand Master According to Floor Rules and Instructions (2016), there are two ways to introduce the Grand Master: 1. “Most Worshipful John Doe, Grand Master of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas.” 2. “Most Worshipful John Doe, Grand Master of Masons in Kansas.” Which one is used is at the prerogative of the Grand Master. If called upon to do so, please introduce, the Grand Master as:
“Most Worshipful Mikel J. Stoops, Grand Master of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas.”
The Grand Master’s Wife The Grand Master’s spouse or significant other is accorded no special title. Please check with the Grand Master for any introductions of friends or guests that he desires.
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 tiled setting with the lodge open in the MM degree.
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Suggested arrangement for Grand Lodge Officers in a Lodge setting.
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1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
Grand Master Deputy Grand Master Grand Senior Warden Grand Junior Warden Grand Treasurer Grand Secretary Assistant Grand Secretary Grand Chaplain Grand Orator Grand Senior Deacon Grand Junior Deacon
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Grand Marshall Grand Sword Bearer Grand Senior Steward Grand Junior Steward Grand Pursuivant Grand Flag Bearer Grand Standard Bearer Grand Musician Grand Tyler Assistant Grand Tyler
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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. Grand Lodge officers are held to no higher standard in this regard, although your attendance at our events is earnestly solicited. Although the Grand Lodge will travel to many places throughout the year, the Grand Master does not require a full attendance of the line. You, as a Grand Lodge Officer, are encouraged to attend what events you can. The events are prioritized in Section 6 (pages 27‐8) below, 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 are mandatory.
Mandatory Events Attend the Annual Communication on March 15‐16, 2019 in Wichita Attend the Grand Master’s reception on April 13, 2019 in Wichita Attend the Leadership Academy on September 13‐14, 2019 in Overland Park Attend the Annual Communication on March 20‐21, 2020 in Wichita Otherwise, you should: Communicate regularly with the Grand Master Deliver the message of the Grand Master when visiting lodges Attend your local lodge on a regular basis Accept such administrative duties as you are able 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. An event announcement is shown at right.
Leadership Local lodges look to Grand Lodge officers to set an example. Be prompt; don’t make it a habitual practice to arrive late for meetings that you have promised or planned to attend. Display a positive attitude. In addressing a lodge, whatever the content of your remarks, they should be positive in nature. There is no instance that would call for negative comments from you. Your 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 Your 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 insure that no one feels the need to overdress or underdress. But, just as your wives 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. You will not be asked why your spouse is not in attendance.
Children & Childcare Despite the best efforts of the Grand Lodge to provide childcare at Grand Lodge events, there is – as yet – no workable system to provide on‐site childcare at either the Leadership Academy or the Annual Communication. The Grand Lodge remains open to any suggestions that would provide childcare for our members at these events. Regardless, your children are welcome at all public Grand Lodge events.
Electronics The Grand Master and his officers rely heavily on email and text messaging to further the business of the Grand Lodge. However, please insure that ceremonial occasions are not interrupted by your ringtones. 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 Freemason’s Charities.
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Issued Equipment Grand Lodge officers are issued the following equipment for their use during their period of service:
Apron Jewel Apron Case Additional accoutrements (sword, baton, etc.) if applicable Please inspect this equipment to insure it is in good working condition when you receive it. At the conclusion of your period of service these items must be returned to the Grand Lodge. In the event any of these items are worn out, lost, damaged, or stolen, while in your care, inform the Grand Secretary at once. You will be issued name tags for you and your spouse (if applicable) which are yours to keep. Please acquire a pair of white gloves for use at Grand lodge openings and ceremonies. Please insure that the Grand Secretary’s office has your current e‐mail address and contact information at all times.
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Attire As part of a professional turnout, Grand Lodge officers are required to dress appropriately. There are three types of Masonic events: formal, business wear, and casual, each requiring a different dress. The illustrated guidelines for Grand Lodge attire appear following this section.
Lapel Pins Following tradition, the Grand Master has designed a Lapel Pin. While not mandatory that it be worn on all occasions, His request is that all Grand Lodge Officers wear it or another masonic pin when in an appearance suit, or tuxedo. In order not to clutter up the collar of a jacket, please wear ONLY ONE PIN.
Awards & Emblems 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, Master’s Achievement Award, Distinguished Service Medal, and Grand Master’s Order of Merit. Breast emblems should be worn suspended from the breast pocket, not the lapel, with the name tag mounted below. When representing the Grand Lodge of Kansas, emblems from other appendant bodies should not be worn.
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Priorities Annual Communication No event in Kansas Masonry is as big or as important as the Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of Kansas. At the Annual Communication, Masons from the across the state convene to receive the official reports of Grand Lodge committees, consider new legislation, and elect Grand Lodge officers for the upcoming Masonic year. Beyond a legislative session, this event brings an opportunity to meet and connect with old friends and brethren. Your wives and/or female guests are cordially invited to attend the opening session, the ladies luncheon, and the All‐Masonic Banquet. There is no bigger spotlight on all Grand Lodge officers than at this event which makes your attendance and professional performance all the more important. What follows is a tentative timeline of events and activities that will require your attendance and attention.
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Annual Communication General Schedule Thursday Rehearsal: Public Grand Opening Rehearsal: Opening/Closing Grand Lodge on 3rd Degree Rehearsal: Installation of Grand Lodge Officers Past Grand Masters’ Luncheon – COA Only Council of Administration – Closed Session
Friday Public Grand Opening Ladies’ Luncheon/ Men’s Luncheon and Past Grand Masters’ Meeting Tiled Grand Lodge Session All‐Masonic Banquet
Saturday Necrology Service – Not Mandatory but Encouraged Resume Labor and Close Grand Lodge Installation of New Grand Lodge Officers Incoming Grand Lodge Officers’ luncheon
Grand Lodge Programs In the past, each new administration discarded the majority of the previous Grand Master’s programs and implemented their own programs. Since 2010, that practice has been discontinued in favor of a unified strategic vision. In 2019, after consultation with the Craft through focus groups, our strategic plan was reduced to three lanes: Excellence in Communication Excellence in Education Excellence in the Esoteric Work This administration has pledged to continue the strategic direction of the Grand Lodge and there will be no deviations from the existing plan. Further, any endeavors that do not fit with the three lanes will not be entertained. As Grand Lodge officers, you are expected to familiarize yourself with the strategic mission and actively assist in achieving the stated goals.
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Orientation The Grand Lodge officer Orientation session will feature detailed information about the current Grand Lodge strategic planning, and more importantly where you can focus your efforts to assist. Please make every effort to attend.
Leadership Academy The Grand Lodge officer Orientation session will feature detailed information about the current Grand Lodge strategic planning, and more importantly where you can focus your efforts to assist. Please make every effort to attend.
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Ceremonies It is important to realize that ceremonial events are the only occasions many Masons ever encounter Grand Lodge officers. Likewise, the public, which is never privy to our tiled events, seldom see the Grand Lodge in any other capacity. The following ceremonies are commonly performed by Grand Lodge officers. Each Grand Lodge officer should be familiar with them.
Flag Salute At any assembly of the Grand Lodge where an American flag is present, by longstanding custom, the Grand Master will order a flag salute. Courtesies to the national emblem may be rendered by reciting the Pledge of Allegiance, or more fully by the Grand Flag Bearer who posts the colors. The procedure for posting the colors is outlined in Bylaw § 3‐424, as follows; If the colors are to be presented and posted, the Master will raise the Lodge prior to the color party entering the room. When the color party enters, all present will stand silently facing the alter, right hand over heart, or salute as appropriate, as the color bearers and escorts march to the East and turn to face the West. All present will then turn to face the colors. The Master may then direct the Lodge to recite the Pledge of Allegiance and/or to sing the National Anthem. The Flag Bearer then places the Flag in the stand, the Master seats the Lodge and the color party retires. When retiring the colors at the end of the Communication, the color party takes its position in the East and the Master raises the Lodge. All present stand silently, right hand over heart, or salute as appropriate, as the color bearer removes the flag from its stand, and the party marches to the West. The flag bearer may hold a portion of the flag against the staff only when lowering the staff to pass through a doorway. Visiting brethren from other countries are not required to participate in the flag salute.
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Procession Masonic processions are as old as the Craft itself, and they are a regular feature of Grand Lodge events. As processions are one of the few occasions when the general public views Masons in regalia, be mindful to present a proper appearance. The Grand Marshal is charged with arranging and leading all processions. Please assist him by being familiar with your assigned position in line and taking your station promptly. The chart on the following page illustrates the proper placement of Grand Lodge officers in processions.
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Reception of the Grand Master .On visits to local lodges, the Grand Master may opt to be received formally. The suggested ceremony for the reception of the Grand Master is found in Floor Rules and Instructions (2018). Additionally, a diagram of the suggested procedure is found in Manual of Floor Movements (2019), shown here. Many lodges, and indeed many Grand Lodge officers, are entirely ignorant of the procedure for receiving the Grand Master, despite the best efforts of the Grand Lodge officers for the past twenty years to visit every lodge in the jurisdiction. In brief, the ceremony of receiving the Grand Master differs somewhat from the familiar procedure of receiving a District Deputy Grand Master, in that all of the stage movements take place south of the altar, and the Grand Master is received and escorted to the East before he introduces his party. Once in the East, the Grand Master may return the gavel to the Master of the lodge and the business of the meeting may begin or resume. However, once the Grand Master is called on for his remarks, his address should be the highlight of the evening. According to Floor Rules and Instructions, “No one else should speak after the Grand Master has made his final 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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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.
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Emblems Priority: Medium: Attendance encouraged if close. A public or private ceremony, emblem presentations are conducted by the Grand Master or his designee 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.
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.
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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. Telephone numbers, email addresses, and mailing addresses of all Grand Lodge officers may be obtained in the “Directory” section of the “Members” tab of the www.kansasmason.org web site.
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 (see below), 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 Grand Lodge officer’s portal under the Members Area tab where you will find this manual, as well as other Grand Lodge officer material as the occasion requires.
Grand Lodge Email Address Grand Lodge officers are eligible to receive a Grand Lodge email address of your_name@kansasmason.org during their year of service. This address can be set up by the Grand Secretary at your request to forward to your regular email account. In the event you wish to make use of this email address, contact the Grand Secretary’s office. 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.
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Calendar The Grand Master’s calendar is available on the website and is updated regularly. The Grand Master will assign someone to assist in coordinating the calendar appearances from valid Event Notices. All calendar requests should be directed to this designee. In the event the Grand Master is unable to attend an event, he may contact those Grand Lodge officers in the immediate vicinity to request they represent him. The calendar is located under the “Grand Lodge” tab of the www.kansasmason.org website under the “Grand Lodge Calendar” link. You may copy this calendar to your smart phone or computer by clicking the “+Google Calendar” link at the bottom right corner of the calendar.
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