THE MASONIC FRATERNITY by Missouri Freemasons

MASONIC FRATERNITY ~he

An explanation of the character of the Institution, its customs, ideals and traditions.

WRITTEN FOR THE

MASONIC SERVICE ASSOCIATION OF THE GRAND LODGE, A. F. & A. M., OF MISSOURI BY RAY

DENSLOW

A WORD TO THE CANDIDATE You are about to undergo a new experience in life-your initiation into the mysteries of Freemasonry. Life is but an experience, and your entrance into our fraternity will mark a mile-post in your life, rich as it may be with other accomplishments and associations. In the first place you will revel in a glorious association of friends; that you are regarded as a friend is evidenced by your unanimous election to receive the degrees of Freemasonry. Not a dissenting vote was cast against you, otherwise you could not have been elected. Our fraternity believes that it would be better to keep without, two or more worthy men, than admit one who is unworthy. When you petitioned the fraternity, your petition was recommended by two of our members who believed you were such a man as they might wish to take within their own homes. This petition was read in open lodge and referred to a committee of three of our brethren charged with the making of an investigation as to your former life and character. The probabilities are, that had you lived at any time in your life in another city, these brethren addressed letters to lodges located in those cities in an endeavor to find out your reputation while among them. When this committee reported, you were unanimously elected and each member present was satisfied with the report of the committee as to your past history and character. In making application you stated on the petition that you were "unbiased by the improper solicitation of -friends"meaning that no member of the fraternity solicited you; that what you were doing was the result of cool and deliberate thought, since Freemasonry does not seek "classes", resort to "drives", or endeavor to influence its prospective petitioners through their emotions. You also stated that you were not influenced by "mercenary motives", meaning that you did not petition with the desire of helping make your business -3-

more profitable by reason of your membership; that you came freely and voluntarily, filled with a love for your fellow man and a desire to be of service to others. If you have any other such desire, ask for the return of your petition. Freemasonry offers itself only as a field for your service to humanity. Naturally, the friendships formed within the society, if true and sincere, will lead to "the promotion of business connections and friendships; it could not do otherwise, but such a matter is of secondary consideration, and the good Freemason looks askance at that brother who would level the fraternity to naught but a business getting institution.

Nature of Our Society What is Freemasonry? Ask the' average man and you will receive replies as varied as it is possible to be. "A secret society," says one. "A group of men banded together to promote their mutual welfare," says another. And so it goes. A German volume gives us this definition: "Masonry is the activity of closely united men, who, employing symbolical forms borrowed prifi(~ipally from the mason's trade and from architecture, work for the welfare of mankind, striving morally to ennoble themselves and others, and thereby to bring about a universal league of mankind, which they aspire to exhibit even now on a small scale." It has been intimated that Freemasonry is a secret society, but such is not the truth. The society does not contain any truths, plans or principles which are not enunciated all over the land. It has no great secret, no open sesam"e, no abracadabra. Its forms and ceremonies it does hold private, not to conceal from the world so much as to make its lessons more impressive, for mystery is a magic factor in reckoning the psychology of the mind. The Rev. Joseph Fort Newton defines the individual member: "When is a man a Mason? When he can look out over the rivers, the hills, and the far horizon with a profound sense -4-

of his own littleness in the vast scheme of things, and yet have faith, hope and courage-which is the root of every virtue. When he knows that down in his heart every man is as noble, as vile, as divine, as diabolic, and as lonely as him-self, and seeks to know, to forgive, and to love his fellow man. When he knows how to sympathize with men in their sorrows, yea, even in their sins-knowing that each man fights a hard fight against many odds. When he has learned how to make friends and to keep them, and above all how to keep friends with himself. When he loves flowers, can hunt the birds without a gun, and feels the thrill of an old forgotten joy when he hears the laugh of a little child. When he can be happy and high minded amid the meaner drudgeries of life. When star-crowned trees, and the glint of sunlight on flowing waters, subdue路 him like the thought of one much loved and long dead. When no voice of distress reaches his ears in vain, and no hand seeks his aid without response. When he finds good in every faith that helps any man to lay hold of divine things and see majestic meanings in life, whatever the name of the faith may be. When he can look into the wayside puddle and see something beyond mud, and into the face of the most forlorn fellow mortal and see something beyond sin. When he has kept faith with himself, with his fellow man, with his God; in his hand a sword for evil, in his heart a bit of song-glad to live, but not afraid to die. Such a man has found the only real secret of Masonry, and the one which it is trying to give to all the world."

Our Ceremonies Originally, Freemasonry was contained in a one degree ceremony, but, by a gradual development, it is now, and has been for more than two centuries, a ceremony of three degrees. These degrees are referred to as: 1. Entered Apprentice. 2. Fellowcraft. 3. Master Mason. One who receives the first of these degrees is said to have been initiated an Entered Apprentice. The word "initiation" -5-

is distinctly Masonic, but in recent years is applied to anyone who is joining a society or association. Literally, it means "a beginning" and is rightfully used in Freemasonry, for the initiation into the first degree of Freemasonry is the beginning of a system of instruction which culminates in the third degree. Before a candidate may be advanced, it is necessary that he should be instructed in the teachings and ceremonies of each degree. Any brother will be found willing to give this instruction, but it is well to insist upon the help of some brother who is actively engaged in the work of the lodge, otherwise this teaching may not be correct, and, when once learned incorrectly, will handicap you in passing examination for visitation or engaging in conferring of degrees. When you shall have arrived at a proficient stage in memorizing these teachings (your instructor will be the best judge) you should present yourself at the lodge for examination; the examination takes place in the open lodge and you may select your examiner. If your work is found to be correct you will be permitted to advance in the ceremonies; if not, it will be necessary for you to continue with your lectures until you have acquired them. In any event you may not be advanced until a specified time has lapsed (twenty-eight days in Missouri) . The second stage of our ceremonies constitutes the passing to the degree of Fellowcraft; you are literally "a fellow of the craft" enjoying the same rights and privileges as your fellow workers and members; this, at one time, constituted the highest degree of the fraternity. A proficiency examination is required in this degree as well as in the first degree, the same conditions for advancement holding true as in that degree. The third degree ceremony is referred to as raising; there are certain ritualistic references involved, but in general it may be said that a candidate is raised to a new dignity or officethat of a Master Mason, or that he is raised to a position where he may fully understand the full import of Masonic teachings. Here again, a proficiency examination is required, but in this instance there is a penalty attached for your fail-6-

ure to present yourself; this penalty is a refusal on the part of the lodge to permit you to hold office or dimit until the examination has been passed. Neither may you exercise the right of ballot. You should therefore not delay after receiving the third degree to perfect yourself and present yourself at the first possible moment while the ceremonies are fresh in your memory.

Requirements for Admission, The petitioner for Masonic degrees must comply with certain fundamental requirements, some of which are fixed by what we term "the ancient landmarks" and other requirements established by our own Grand Lodge. To more fully understand these restrictions, it may be well to explain that the fraternity was once an operative institution, all of its membership being comprised within the trade known as stonemasons. It was during this period that certain laws were enacted, such as the requirement as to physical perfection, for originally no man possessed of maim or blemish could be accepted as a member. In recent years, since the change in the fraternity from an operative to a speculative institution, many lodges have not been so insistent as to physical blemish and some permit the admission of those who through the use of mechanical devices are able to receive and transmit the ceremonies. This bars the deaf, the blind, and those who are so crippled as to be unable to wear artificial appliances, necessary to permit them to move about freely and to demonstrate their capacity to receive and impart certa'in significant signs and ceremonies. Our Grand Lodge once ruled that "a cork leg discounted a cork head." Candidates must be of lawful age; in this country the age of twenty-one years prevails, since this is the age fixed by our government for the assumption of citizenship. In certain foreign jurisdictions there is a custom permitting a "lewis" (son of a Master Mason) to petition at the age of eighteen. It is presumed that at a lawful age, the petitioner has reached a place where he is physically and mentally able to perform physical duties and use sound judgment. One under twenty-one years of age is said to be in his nonage. -7-

One whose mental powers have waned to such an extent that he is incompetent to manage his affairs or to understand the nature of the ceremonies is said to be in his dotage and is ineligible for Masonic degrees. Freemasonry is builded around a belief in God, and refers to him as the Supreme Architect of the Universe; one who does not so believe would find himself in uncongenial surroundings apd could not consistently apply for, nor receive any portion of the degrees. If therefore follows that one who has not lived in accordance with God's teachings, or those rules of morality generally accepted as right, is not qualified to receive the mysteries of die fraternity. It is apparent that the mentally qnsound, the physically unfit, and the morally deficient are not wanted. Only freemen may petition; this originally stood as a bar to the colored race in America, resulting in the formation of negro lodges under their own control and always regarded by the white Grand Lodges as clandestine and unauthorized. There is nothing in the laws of Grand Lodges barring petitioners because of color, but because of the social inequality of the races, and the fact that there were colored lodges in existence affording the colored people a chance to experience the blessings of fraternity, the Masonic fraternity in the United States today is essentially a fraternity of the white race.

A jJ;1an's Fraternity The objection of the fraternity to the admission of women is age-old and widely known. Because of this custom and tradition, it does not imply any lack of confidence in those of the opposite sex, nor. the high regard held for their sex by our fraternity, but the very basic principles of our order prohibit their admission, and have so prohibited since the institution began. Freemasonry is essentially a man's fraternity; it could not be otherwise and carry out its objects and purposes. It has always been a guild of men, sometimes operative, sometimes speculative, but always composed of men. The name of no woman ornaments the traditions of the craft and yet our -8-

ceremonies and lectures express nothing but the highest regard for woman, and the best evidence of this is in the protection thrown about the widows and orphans of our membership. Experience, said to be the best teacher, has shown that societies made up of equal representatives of both sexes are not the most satisfactory. Our fraternity has kept itself remarkably free from scandal; whether this could have been accomplished by intermingling of the sexes is problematical. At least history has not borne it out.

Disease, Crime, Education In your application you stated that you were free from certain disease; these questions were asked because of the desire of the fraternity to keep its membership free from those who have loathsome disease; again, those so afflicted are all most apt, later in life, to be candidates for Masonic relief by reason of such condition. You stated in your application that you had never been convicted of any crime. Masonry has no place around its altars for the criminal or law-breaker. It helps to make good men better, but it does not profess to be a criminal reformatory. Failure to live up to the laws of the land presages failure to be bound by Masonic ties. Our society desires to be known everywhere as a patriotic, law abiding organization with an intelligent membership and definite ideas as to moral uplift. We have, numbered among our members, some who are uneducated and unrefined, yet they have received from the fraternity inspiration, enthusiasm, and help, but it is not to this class, as a rule, that Masonry offers its greatest appeal. Our society appeals most to the intelligent man, the dreamer of ideals, the charitable man, the philosopher, the samaritan, and he whose mind is attuned to' God.

Masonic Discussion In your conversation you should be guarded in your expressions lest you let fall some of those Masonic expressions -9-

by which we know and distinguish our membership. You are not to argue with those who, through ignorance, may ridicule our institution. The lodge room is the only proper forum for Masonic discussion, although there is nothing to prohibit two or more known Masons from conversing in a Masonic manner. Not every man who wears a square and compass is a Freemason; there are many impostors in the country. Nor is everyone who throws out a well known Masonic catch-word a member.

Visitation Freemasons encourage visitation from those who are known to be in good Masonic standing. As a member, you are charged with the responsibility of seeing that lodge hospitality is extended to every visitor to your lodge-but first you and the lodge must satisfy yourself as to his right of visitation. This must be done, first, by requiring the visitor to produce documentary evidence as to his membership in a regular lodge; then, satisfying yourself that he is the proper holder of the certificate; the latter may be accomplished through the means well known to every Mason. Likewise, when you desire to visit a lodge, be sure that you take with you the documentary evidence as to your standing, for no lodge may legally appoint an investigating committee unless this is forthcoming. Your next duty is to be fully posted in the ceremonies of the order so that the examining committee may have no doubt as to your knowledge and rights. Remember that visitation to other than your own lodge is a privilege and not a right; if you cannot convince the committee of your standing you need not be incensed -the committee are merely protecting the lodge and the fraternity. There is an easy method of securing entrance to a lodge -if you have at any time in your Masonic life sat in a lodge with a brother who has been admitted to the lodge as a visitor; he can ÂŤvouch" for you. If A and B sit in lodge together, and if A and C have sat in lodge together, then A can vouch for the Masonic standing of B to C, it being -10-

necessary for B to be present when the avouchment is made. In visiting a lodge, you should ascertain whether it be one regularly recognized by your Grand Lodge; this can be done by consulting your own Grand Lodge proceedings, the list of recognized lodges, and the lodge charter.

Reformers Not Wanted Our fraternity is not looking for reformers, so don't become one; our ceremonies and forms have been developed over a long period of time and are the result of the best thought of intelligent men. All our officers are charged, before installation, to permit no innovations in the body of Freemasonry.

Levity Out of Place There is no place in the Masonic rites or ceremonies for levity; nowhere in the degrees of Ancient Craft Masonry will you be made the butt for jokes or the laughing stock for the members. Our ceremonies are too serious for the introduction of such matter. The brotherhood of man, the fatherhood of God and the immortality of the human soul are not matters for jest. He, therefore, who petitions a Masonic lodge, may do so with the knowledge that nowhere within the realms of legitimate Masonry will anything occur to cause him to lose his self-respect or give him the slightest embarrassment. Unfortunately, there are societies which align themselves under the Masonic banner, but which are in nowise Masonic, to whom levity and the ridiculous make a strong appeal. But their character is well known and those who enter understand full well the nature of the organization. Do not understand, for a moment, that the brethren of the Masonic fraternity do not have their humor, their entertainment and their social pleasures, but these features do not comprise the essence of the institution, and are incidental; but the humor is not that coarse and uncouth humor which would cause the intelligent or high-minded brother to blush with shame. Freemasonry is intensely human; it has its serious -11-

side, it has its humorous side, its ups and downs, its glories and its troubles.

Extraneous Societies We have referred to the existence of other degrees and orders, some of which are founded 011 Masonic membership. It is unnecessary, and hardly possible for us to list the names of all extraneous, auxiliary and associated orders. They are limited, apparently, only by the names in the zoo, the histories, and the Bible. For many years there has been a tacit recognition of two Rites which seemingly endeavor to live up to the Masonic standards in their preaching and their profession. These are: 1. The Ancient York Rite (American). 2. The Scottish Rite. The first named includes the degrees and orders conferred by chapters of Royal Arch Masons, councils of Royal and Select Masters, and commanderies of Knights Templar. The latter includes degrees conferred by lodges of Perfection, chapters of Rose Croix, councils of Princes of Jerusalem and consistories of S. P. R. S. The Grand Lodge does not officially recognize any organizations or associations, except such as it itself organizes and supervises.

Politics and

M~onry

Your religious or political belief will prove no bar to your entrance into Freemasonry. There is nothing in Masonry to keep any honest, patriotic, sane-minded individual from entering our portals. There is one exception-no atheist may be admitted; our fraternity believes in the existence of a God; it necessarily follows that one who had no such belief would not fit into the Masonic structure.

Religion and Masonry The fraternity does not endeavor to fix your conception of God; Freemasonry is not concerned with mere details, for -12-

details are the causes of creeds and divisions into groups of those who would fight over the non-essential things of life. Because of this broad-minded attitude, this tolerance, and liberalism, men of every sect, race, country and opinion, may sit side by side in a Masonic lodge and echo to the teachings therein revealed, the time worn expression of "So mote it be". There are, unfortunately, certain religious organizations which do not permit their membership to become members of our fraternity. The objection is on their part and not on ours; we freely open our doors to men of all religions; we ask of them only sincerity and an honest desire to unite with us. Freemasonry cannot pose as a liberal and tolerant institution without practicing these virtues. But we do not proselyte, and if you are a. member of a church or organization which objects to the teaching of great moral truths and the enlightenment of the human race, then in the interest of harmony it is the wish of the fraternity that you retire, because you cannot honestly be fair to yourself in such a dual relationship. Understand that Freemasonry is not an Hanti" organization. We believe our principles a sufficient groundwork on which to establish an organization which deserves to live and to have a place in the world. The only enemies which the fraternity has are ignorance, vice and superstition and our only weapons are education and enlightenment.

Annual Dues The work and activities of the fraternity are maintained through the collection of what is termed "annual dues". The amount of these dues is fixed by each subordinate lodge at an amount sufficient to pay the per capita tax fixed by the Grand Lodge, and the expenses of the lodge, usually ranging from $3.00 to $10.00, depending as to whether a city or country lodge, and the nature of lodge expenses. These dues are payable annually in advance and generally for the calendar year; dues are not charged until one becomes a Master Mason, nor is one charged with dues for the time he might stand suspended. In the event that you find yourself -13-

financially unable to pay the annual dues, it is your duty to communicate the fact to the secretary or other officer of your lodge. The time of payment may thereupon be extended or the dues remitted in part or in whole as the lodge may see fit. Should your dues become delinquent the secretary is instructed to send you a notice of this fact, and in the event of your failure to answer or explain the delinquency you may be cited to appear and show cause why you should not stand suspended. Payment of dues will stop all action and even if you are suspended, the payment within the year will automatically reinstate you; you may therefore see that your suspension is dependent upon yourself. Should you permit a year to go by following your suspension, then it becomes necessary for you to regularly petition for reinstatement and the petition follows the usual procedure necessitating a ballot by your brethren. Should your petition be rejected you may renew the application at any subsequent meeting. Should you be reinstated, you are not liable for dues for the period during which you were under suspension.

Monitors and Exposures To assist you in learning the various lectures and charges used in conferring the degrees, the Grand Lodge has prepared a printed monitor containing both lectures and charges; these monitors are usually supplied at cost through the secretaries of the lodges. For more than two hundred years there have been published from time to time certain books purporting to be exposures of the Masonic degrees; these books have no value to regular Freemasons, and, as a matter of fact, their possession is strictly forbidden. There are in existence certain so-called "cipher rituals", the possession of which is equally as objectionable. Any well informed committee can easily detect the holder of these volumes; the secrets of Freemasonry are such that they cannot be communicated in an understanding way through the printed page. Only the "mouth to ear" method of instruction is satisfactory or permissible. -14-

A Universal Society There is no part of the civilized globe where Masonry does not exist. It is truly the Universal Secret Society. On the North American continent there are four million members, three million or more being residents of the United States. Since the value of one's membership is sometimes rated in the number of individual contacts possible, it may be seen that the field is unlimited. Grand Lodges exist in each of the United States and the District of Columbia; each Grand Lodge is supreme within its jurisdiction. There has never been a Grand Lodge for the United States. As an example of the popularity of the fraternity in Europe, the year book of the United Grand Lodge of England shows the existence of more than eleven hundred lodges in the City of London. The proportion of Masonic membership to the population of a country may be said to be a barometer as to the education of the people of that country.

Duty to Other Societies Our fraternity recognizes its inability to attract all men to its banners and therefore recognizes the good that is being done for the betterment of mankind by other societies founded along Masonic lines and built upon Masonic principles. It therefore has the highest respect for such institutions and it is considered bad form on the part of any Freemason to speak disparagingly of another society. It is more particularly your duty never to engage in any argument with those outside the fraternity respecting the advantages, disadvantages or principles of the order. Do not suffer ridicule to lead you into any such argument. Let it be beneath your dignity to engage in such discussion; those who are familiar with the character of the order will not ridicule it and nothing is gained by arguing with the ignorant.

No Jazz IIIethods You will be forcibly struck throughout the ceremonies with the words and phrases used; these come down to us -15-

from time immemorial and constitute a strong appeal. Masonry does not permit innnovations in its work, but possesses the same dignity and methods of expression in use for centuries; modern day jazz methods are not permitted to gain foothold and much of the beauty of the degrees and appreciation of membership is tied up in the ancient customs and traditions of the order.

lUasonry and the Law Masonry does not encourage disputes between its members nor others outside the fraternity; it believes in arbitration and a friendly discussion of the points at issue. Only in cases where one brother has done another an injustice in violation of an obligation does the fraternity permit its courts to receive the charges. Our society is not a collection agency and where arbitration or friendly discussion fail to secure results, only the civil courts remain in which to effect an adjustment. Masonry is not a perfect society; as long as it is composed of members of the human race it will continue to have its flaws and imperfections. No earthly society has yet attained perfection. Should our society ever reach this state, there would be no excuse for its existence. Man is but a weak mortal after all, and during your membership in our society you will necessarily come in contact with men who do not measure up to the Masonic standard; knowing this weakness of nature you should not attribute the brother's failings to - the fraternity.

Religious and Political Controversies Masonry does not engage in religious or political controversies; the discussion of such subjects in Masonic lodge rooms. is forbidden and a Master of a lodge who would permit it subjects himself to suspension from office. There are no subjects whose discussion leads to greater discord than does the subject of religion and politics. It is a Masonic offense for a member to refer to his Masonic connections in a political advertisement; it is equally as bad for a lodge to -16-

permit one who is a candidate for political office to speak before the lodge unless the matter under discussion is one dealing with the business of the lodge with which he is connected. It is our belief that one who has been properly instructed in the teachings of the fraternity does not need to be told or instructed as to his duties as a citizen. He knows that vice, crime, irreligion, ignorance and superstition are enemies of the human race and he judges his actions accordingly. We have no place in our midst for the radical, the communist or the soci~list. We believe in respecting the property rights of every citizen; we believe that radicalism is unbridled power which may lead to destruction. We believe that a laborer is worthy of his hire, that he is entitled to an honest wage for an honest day of service. Our fraternity will be found to be the very support of civil society and organized government so long as the rights of its people are respected by those in authority.

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ENTERED APPRENTICE You are now an Entered Apprentice. You have made a beginning. Whether you have been deeply impressed with all you have seen and heard depends largely on your intelligence and the manner in which the officers of the lodge have presented our teachings. There is nothing abstruse in the degree, no elaborate ceremonies, no philosophical high-brow lectures or metaphysical discussion. It is a simple and sincere ceremony containing a beautiful allegory. It is unfortunate that so few candidates discover the allegorical teaching, but this in no manner lessens its value. You have embarked on an interesting journey, for Freemasonry would take you by the hand and lead you toward the light, symbol of knowledge, understanding and power as contrasted with darkness, ignorance and superstition. You will be taught that the whole human race is one large family, created by an Almighty Father, referred to in lodges as the Supreme Architect of the Universe, consequently that all men are brothers. You will be taught your duty toward those who are in need of relief and you will be specially instructed in the value of truth. He who is not a good man and true has not absorbed the first lesson taught him in Freemasonry. You will be taught to be temperate in all things, steady of purpose, and noble of mind, prudent, and mindful to extend justice on all occasions.

Your Three, Duties Your duties to God, your neighbor and yourself are of particular importance to you as an Entered Apprentice; they may be characterized as respect for God and his name, justice to your neighbor in practicing the golden rule, and the avoiding of all irregularities on your own part which would injure your good name and that of the fraternity. -19-

Secrecy A matter of importance is the necessity of secrecy concerning our ceremonies, not that these secrets are of such great importance, for we have no secrets that are not known to the world. This question of secrecy involves a splendid mental training, for the ability to keep a secret and to hold the tongue is a rare accomplishment.

Our Ceremonies Our ceremonies consist of two distinct parts, the ritualistic and the monitorial parts. The first is unwritten and is only communicated by mouth to ear methods. The latter is to be found in an authorized publication of the Grand Lodge and is sold at a small price. Occasionally, your lodge will be visited by the Grand Lecturer who is responsible for the teaching of our ritual; you should make an endeavor to be present on these occasions for they furnish rare opportunities for the perfecting of your ritualistic work; at other times District Lecturers will visit your lodge for the same purpose. . In learning this work, be certain that you have a competent instructor; those who merely know the words of the ritual are .not the most competent instructors-they should also know the meaning of the ritual. If you discover a word mispronounced or misused, you may be certain that it is incorrectly taught.

The Apron You have been presented with an apron; this is your property and may be placed among your personal effects. It is the only material thing which will be presented you during your Masonic travel. It has connected with it a beautiful symbolism; it has come down to us from that period of our history when we were an operative organization, when our forbears were actively engaged in the construction of those magnificent cathedrals and temples of ancient days. No more do we, as Freemasons, build these monumental structures, but we are today building what we may regard as even -20-

more lasting-the temple of our spiritual life. As the lambskin apron is pure and spotless, so may your life and actions be, so that when you lay down the working tools of life you may deserve the words of the Master, who delivers the funeral ceremonies over your lifeless remains, when he says (laying the apron in the grave) : The lambskin, or white leathern apron is an emblem of innocence and the badge of a Freemason, more honorable than the Star and Garter when worthily worn. Our brother was worthy of its distinction, and in the grave it shall bear witness to the sincerity of his profession.

The Holy Bible The Holy Bible is one of the essential features of lodges in the United States; it represents to us, as Freemasons, God's Divine Will, as revealed to us through various agencies. To . the Jew, this revelation may come through the Old Testament; to the Christian, through the New Testament; to the Mohammedan, the Koran; or it may be through other Sacred Books. Freemasonry does not attempt to define God nor set itself up as a judge of Divine Revelation. One's individual conscience is the guide.

Masonic Titles In the lodge you will find that certain brethren are given titles, but no titles are bestowed which you cannot also receive through work and merit. In any organization, some must govern. In a Masonic organization it is the Master; he is referred to as ctWorshipful Master" the term being one of respect and dignity; he is the only officer of the lodge who bears a title of respect. He sits in the east or front of the lodge; after he has been elected and installed he is responsible only to the Grand Lodge for his actions; only the Grand Master or the Grand Lodge may try or remove him. It is necessary that only those brethren be chosen for this position who are tolerant, honest and impartial. The Master is assisted by two associate officers, the Senior -21-

Warden, who sits in the west, and the Junior Warden, who is in the south; the Master has as a special officer, the Seni~r Deacon, while the Senior Warden has the Junior Deacon. Two Stewards, Senior and Junior, have certain necessary duties in the conferring of degrees. A Chaplain, Organist, Marshal, and Tiler complete the usual lodge officers. Your fellow member should be referred to as "brother" since it is an acknowledgment by you of the fact that he is one of those who has been taught, and believes in, the kinship of the whole human race.

Commercialism Do not permit yourself to be taken in by any of the many concerns which sell life insurance, cemetery lots, books, and the like to "Masons only". Any Freemason attempting to induce you to purchase, using as a sales talk, your or his Masonic connection, is guilty of a violation of our law and is subject to trial and possible expulsion. The use of the square and compass or any of the significant emblems of Freemasonry in a commercial way is strictly forbidden. It is considered bad form to employ these emblems on motor cars. The Masonic Fraternity has nothing to sell its initiates; it will not permit advantage to be taken of its members by making them prey to commercial agencies that are Masonic for revenue only.

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FELLOWCRAFT You are advancing in Freemasonry. You have discovered that our institution is a progressive science. Our degrees are conferred only for merit, for only those who have passed a satisfactory examination are permitted to be advanced. The degree teaches the necessity of a general education; only those who study and strive, add to the general understanding of the human race. Some of the matters brought to your attention may not be new to you, but remember the ritual is old, and a century ago, our ancestors here in the least settled parts of our country, where only the rudiments of education were known, discoursed Masonically on the Orders of Architecture, Geometry, Music, Astronomy, Logic, Rhetoric and Arithmetic. It may be that such teaching is responsible for the favorable attitude which the frate~nity has always had towards the education and enlightenment of the people. It is only natural that an organization of builders should dwell on such subjects as Geometry, Astronomy, Architecture and kindred sciences; they are subjects closely associated with the builder's art. You will here find a wide field for research and study, and whether you make a success or a failure of your life will hinge largely on how well you apply the knowledge you have gained to the discharge of your respective duties. Do not overlook the statement that our ceremonies are allegories, for here lies the beauty of the society. Nor should you attempt to find flaws and imperfections in the biblical and historical st:ltements made from time to time, knowing that it is an allegory.

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lJtlASTER MASON As a路 Master Mason, you have now been raised to that sublime degree; the degree is not sublime because of the ceremonies, but because of the sublime lessons it seeks to portray, especially the teaching of immortality. How dreary a life without hope of immortality. With what dread must one approach the portals of the grave who has no belief in immortality. Freemasonry encourages this hope; it does not set forth details, facts or examples, but calls attention to the great lesson of nature-spring, the bloom; summer, growth; autumn, fruition; and winter the shroud which covers the germ of a new life, and our burial service adds: "The universal example cannot fail in its relation to man." All of the business of the lodge is conducted in this degree; when you shall have passed your proficiency examination you may then participate as a full fledged member, entitled to all rights and privileges. Particularly important is the keeping secret of all transactions of the lodge, a heavy penalty being prescribed for violation. This路 is particularly important in the matter of petitions presented and in the rejection of candidates. In the event of the election of a petitioner, his notice should come through the regular channels-the secretary.

Service to the Lodge One of the first duties which may be assigned you is service on an investigating committee. It will be your duty in this instance to路 make careful investigation of the character of the petitioner by writing to his former places of residence and making inquiry among the business and professional men of your community. Remember that character is more to be desired than wealth or position and that the standing of the -25-

fraternity in the community depends upon the character of your membership.

Necessity

Reading

The interested Freemason is the reading Freemason; our Grand Lodge recognizes this and maintains a library for the use of the membership. Address your inquiry to the Grand, Secretary, asking for the list of volumes at your disposal. The only expense is the matter of postage.

The Insignia The majority of members, being proud of their association together, wear some visible evidence of their membership; this is usually some form of the square and compass. This is permissible in the United States, but is not customary in foreign jurisdictions for reasons not necessary to discuss here. There are some forms of jewelry which are very objectionable and even forbidden. Officers of the lodge will be glad to advise you in this matter. Do not use the emblem on your car, on a business card, in an advertisement, or objectionable manner.

Solicitation You are at liberty to talk in a general way with those who have expressed an interest in the fraternity and your own good judgment will suggest the nature of this conversation. While you are not to solicit petitions, you may answer reasonable questions from sincere inquirers as to the nature of our society. Under no circumstances should you engage in the solicitation of candidates for the degrees. Those who enter our society are required to state unequivocally that they came voluntarily and with no desire to petition through mercenary or other unworthy motives. A candidate may not honestly answer these inquiries if he has been solicited. Solicitation is a Masonic offense. No organization is built on a solid foundation which has to resort to drives to maintain its membership. -26-

Conduct in the Lodge The regular meetings of your lodge are referred to as "stated communications". Special meetings are properly called "special communications". All meetings, in accordance with a long established Masonic custom, should be harmonious and dignified. A lodge room is no place for lewd jokes or acrimonious discussion. There are prescribed methods for your dress and entry into a Masonic lodge room; if you have doubts as to these customs, it would be well to inquire of the brother at the outer door known as the Tiler. All matters of business pertaining to the lodge, except the examination of candidates and conferring of degrees, are considered while the lodge is at labor on the third degree. Many years ago the practice was reversed-business being transacted in the first degree. You are at liberty to speak on matters affecting the lodge, but it is necessary for you to arise, address the Master and secure his recognition before doing so. He should be addressed as ÂŤWorshipful Master". In debates, you should be guarded in your expressions lest you offend; you should be willing to harmonize your opinions with those around you. Should you be in the minority, you should accept defeat with magnanimity. You are not to discuss with anyone the nature of your ballot; it is a Masonic offense to disclose your vote. The reason for this is apparent and Freemasonry insists upon the secrecy of its ballot. However you are responsible to the fraternity for the character of your ballot; you are charged with the responsibility of rejecting the unworthy, but in accepting this responsibility you are to see that personal prejudice does not enter into the ballot. Your right to reject those of unlawful age, the irreligious, the insane, the foolish, the libertine and others prohibited by custom, cannot be questioned.

The Lodge Makes No Promises In no instance does the lodge make any promises to you as to benefits which you may receive through membership in -27-

the fraternity, nor does the lodge make any promise to your family as a result of your connection with us. In every instance, YOU are the one who has made promises. It is due the fraternity that this be fully explained to your family, for many wives and widows have been led to believe that the fraternity is a life insurance association, carrying with it certain benefits and privileges as well as permanent support in case of your death. You, of course, know th.at such privileges could not be extended on the small amount of money which you would pay in during your natural lifetime and these facts should be fully explained by you, who are more competent to do it than any committee after your decease. Do not permit your family to have a m~sconception of your membership. As a matter of fact our lodges do dispense thousands of dollars in charity and is a charitable institution, three-fourths of the revenue of the Grand Lodge being expended in this manner. Under certain conditions your widow or orphans may be admitted to the Masonic Home, but this is a privilege extended, and not a right granted.

Hotv to Secure Aid Should you find yourself in a position where emergent help is necessary, you should hunt up the secretary of the lodge where you happen to be and, if necessary, have him wire your lodge secretary, who will verify your lodge standing and issue the necessary relief. A current receipt for dues is very desirable, in such instances, as it furnishes documentary evidence of your standing. In no instance should you feel aggrieved at a secretary for wiring your lodge; it is his means of protection. There are hundreds of Masonic impostors throughout the country today, preying upon Masonic brethren from a handout to the sale of questionable stocks and bonds.

Withdrawal From Lodge Should you desire to withdraw from Freemasonry, there are various honorable methods prescribed. Should it be your desire to retire permanently, then you should make request of your secretary, being certain that all obligations to the lodge -28-

have been fully paid. The lodge has no other alternative than to grant a dimit, unless charges have been filed against you for some Masonic offense. This dimit is a certificate stating that you have been a member of the fraternity, and that having complied with all of the laws and requirements, and on your own request you have been granted the certificate showing your honorable withdrawal. You have no privileges except the right to petition for affiliation in your mother lodge or any other lodge in whose jurisdiction you may have acquired residence. Should it be your desire to change your lodge membership to another lodge in Missouri, then you should ask for a certificate of good standing. This certificate, with a petition for affiliation, may be presented to any of our lodges and in the event of your election the dimit will be forwarded to the secretary of the lodge in which you have been elected. Should you be rejected for affiliation, your membership will continue in the lodge of which you are a member. The only other methods of separation are by suspension or expulsion, and carry with them a certain amount of ignominy. Suspension for non-payment of dues in most instances is looked on with disfavor, since no brother is ordinarily suspended who is actually unable to pay dues; such a suspension is therefore a plain and open refusal to pay an amount due the lodge, part of which often represents money advanced as per capita tax to the Grand Lodge.

Affiliation Should you desire to connect yourself with the fraternity, and hold a regular dimit from a lodge, it is only necessary that you present it with a petition for affiliation; in the event of your election there will be no affiliation fee other than payment of current dues. Brethren who so petition, are said to have Uaffiliated". Those who hold dimits are called Unonaffiliates".

No Assessments Permitted Your lodge can collect nothing from you except annual -29-

dues; lodges are prohibited from levying assessments upon members.

Our Laws Our laws are contained in the Constitution and By-Laws of the Grand Lodge, a volume available to every member; your lodge is governed by by-laws made by itself. Nothing in the lodge by-laws may conflict with the laws of the Grand Lodge. Nor maya Grand Master or any other officer issue a dispensat~on which conflicts with Grand Lodge law. Only the Grand Lodge may change its laws.

Grand Lodges Each state and the District of Columbia has a Grand Lodge; these Grand Lodges are the supreme authority in their jurisdictions. Those which are recognized as legal bodies are called "regular". Those organizations not recognized are spoken of as ÂŤirregular", or "clandestine". These latter organizations exist only for the purpose of taking money from those who are unacquainted with the regularity of lodges. Our government has prosecuted these organizations when known, but there are still many such organizations in existence. Grand Lodges are usually incorporated, sometimes as F. & A. M.; A. Y. M.; F. A. A. M. and A. F. & A. M. (Missouri uses the title ÂŤAncient Free and Accepted Masons"). In our proceedings each year appear the names of the Grand Lodges recognized by us, together with the names of their Grand Secretaries. In most instances the names of the Grand Secretaries appear on the reverse of the receipt for dues, and the question of ascertaining the regularity of the lodge is a small matter.

Attendance As to your attendance at lodge, you will find our ancient charge very specific: ÂŤWhile your regular attendance at our lodge is earnestly solicited, yet it is not meant that Freemasonry should interfere with your regular vocations, for these are on no account to be neglected." -30-

The question of your attendance is therefore a matter for your own judgment. If you desire to become a worker and assist in the instruction of new brethren, then it will be necessary for you to be somewhat regular in your attendance. Few lodges meet oftener than twice a month and the custom of most lodges is to close at a regular hour. Many lodges have by-laws to the effect that no business matters may be taken up after 10 o'clock.

Election of OfJiÂŁers The election of officers of your lodge occurs annually at a time fixed by your lodge. There are no nominations for office in Masonic bodies; the practice of electioneering for office is strictly forbidden. It is considered very un-Masonic for a brother to solicit for office. Since you have a voice in the election of your officers it ill behooves you to find fault with those brethren selected to serve you. You are fully aware that only those men of the highest character and intelligence are qualified to give your lodge the best service. The activities and standing of your lodge will be just what those whom you select to govern make it. The ability of a brother to commit to memory a ritual in no way makes him competent to direct a business organization.

AlasoniÂŁ Trials The violation of any law, civil, moral, or Masonic, which would bring disgrace upon the name of our institution is considered sufficient cause for Masonic trial. Your conduct should be at all times such as will bring no reproach upon yourself or the fraternity. It may not be untimely to remind you that our fraternity has ever been careful of its fair' name and you can bring it no greater disgrace than to engage in acts unworthy of the position you now hold. Should you violate these laws, by your brethren; it will be a representative will receive scant claims on technicalities of law.

you will be brought to trial fair trial; your attorney or attention should he base his Our institution has nothing

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to exact except justice, but that justice which might be administered by a father to a wayward son. Should you be convicted, you have the right of appeal to the highest court in Freemasonry-your GrandOLodge. Should you be acquitted, you are restored to your former standing in the lodge. Should you be a member, and not be satisfied with the decision of the lodge in the trial of a brother, you, too, may appeal to the Grand Lodge from the judgment of the lodge. Our fraternity will not interfere in the differences which exist between yourself and other members involving civil matters. It would be impolitic to make our fraternity a collection agency. The payment of debts is not a question for discussion in our lodges; should there be a question of fraud or violation of law involved, then the matter could be adjudicated in a Masonic court. Should you feel that you could not secure a fair trial among your own brethren, then you mOay take advantage of another form of trial offered you by the Grand Lodge, known as the ÂŤTrial by Commission". In this instance the Grand Master will appoint three disinterested brethren from other districts who will hear the case. In case of guilt, Freemasonry has but four punishments to offer: 1. Censure; 2. Reprimand; 3. Suspension; 4. Expulsion. Censure is the mildest form of punishment and involves only a criticism of the act; reprimand is more severe in that the guilty brother is brought before the lodge and is there administered a reprimand for his conduct and an admonition to look well to his future conduct; suspension involves your temporary separation from Masonic privileges such as burial, voting, lodge attendance, etc. The amount of time is a matter fixed by the lodge. At the conclusion of this time, you are automatically restored to good Masonic standing. In the case of expulsion, you are out permanently, unless in the goodness of their heart the lodge might be induced to receive your petition for reinstatement and to pass favorably thereon. An expelled Freemason has no privileges whatever except the right to petition for reinstatement.

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CUSTOMS AND TRADITIONS One of the interesting things connected with the fraternity is the ancient customs and traditions which surround the ceremonies and lodge practice. Even the obsolete words of the ritual arouse instant attention. You are at once attracted and pleased with the preservation of the language of our forefathers. Make a study of these traditions and you will iIri- /I prove in knowledge and in Masonic interest. Perfection in ritual will improve your knowledge of the English language. Association with your brethren will develop your personality and broaden your outlook on life.

Burial One of the rights you now possess is that of burial; this is the last rite that will be rendered you individually. There can be no objection on the part of the lodge to renaering this service as long as you remain in good standing and live and die in a respectable manner. If it is your desire that you be buried with Masonic ceremonies, the request should be made to the lodge either by yourself or by your family. It is an embarrassing matter for officers of the lodge to enter your home after your death and inquire as to whether your widow desires such a service. Such service is only rendered on request, for Freemasonry does not wish to intrude, at such a time, but does wish to add any solace and comfort to your bereaved. These matters should be explained to the members of your family while you are yet living so that misunderstanding may not occur afterwards. While the right of burial may be yours, do not overlook the duty which you owe a brother in assisting in the proper interment of his remains. The 路reputation of the fraternity is injured when only a small handful of faithful members turn out in funeral procession. -33-

Not a Benefit Society You should explain to your family that the fraternity is not a mutual benefit society, that no promises of assistance or aid were held out to you or your family from the time your petition was taken until you were raised a Master Mason. There are instances on record where families have derided the institution because the fraternity did not support them after the bread-earner had died. The average amount paid in for dues in a Masonic lifetime is approximately $100.00; with this explanation given your family they will hardly be disâ&#x20AC;˘ appointed at not receiving an annual pension. The average Masonic lodge has to make a dollar go farther than most any other organization. These matters can be much easier explained by you to your family before death, than by the entire lodge after your death. Freemasonry has its charities, as you will soon learn. But they are not promised in advance, nor should you receive the degrees with this idea in your mind. Three-fourths of the money received by our Grand Lodge is devoted to charity, our greatest single charity being the Masonic Home.

The Masonic Home Your lodge pays annually to the Grand Lodge the sum of $2.10 on each of its members, $1.50 of which goes to the

support of the Masonic Home. This is your home, supported by you, and open to you whenever you should become old, disabled and unable to make your own living. Because it is a home, certain rules have been established for its government and for admittance. For example, no one is admitted who has any loathsome disease, the reason for which is apparent. If you have close relations, who are able to support you, you should not seek admittance, because the demand is great from those who have no relatives. If you have funds wherewith to support yourself, then you should make no claim for admittance. If your disposition is such that you cannot get along with other people, then you have no business in a home where you must of necessity fraternize with hundreds of others. Should you receive pensions, bonuses, or other income, these -34-

will have to be turned over to the home as long as you remain a member of the home family, for the reason that it would be unfair to be supported for years by the home and permit an estate to go to relatives who refused to furnish you assistance when needed. The Grand Lodge does not look with favor on those who remain unaffiliated during their productive years and attempt to affiliate when they have passed the meridian of life; the Home Board have therefore made a rule governing the admission of such-a rule which requires a membership of a certain number of years before an application may be filed.

Ridicule In the circle of your acquaintance you will find some who will endeavor to ridicule secret societies; you are advised to refrain from argument with such since such remarks are inspired by those who are ignorant of our ceremonies and unable to properly discuss them.

Duty to Sick You have a duty towards the sick and afflicted; your own conscience and ability should regulate your action in this instance. In your professional character you may be in a position to render some real service to the widow and orphan. Let this be done without ostentation for virtue is its own reward.

Impostors There are, throughout the country, hundreds of impostors, notwithstanding stringent laws which have been passed making it a penalty for one to obtain money or aid through representation as to their lodge affiliations, nevertheless there are hundreds of such applications. In some instances these applicants may have at one time been members of the fraternity, but usually they are plain impostors. Often they will have stolen receipt cards; sometimes they will have a smattering of Masonic teaching. There is always a means of detecting the worthy from the unworthy. but it requires a little time. Refer the applicant to the secretary of your -35-

lodge; if he refuses to go, rest assured he is unworthy. A telegram to his lodge will very often cause him to leave your city hurriedly. Should he have questionable receipts, secure them and report the case to the police authorities. Give no money.

Visitation Should you desire to visit a lodge, take with' you the documentary evidence of your membership-your receipt for dues. Present yourself to the Tiler of the lodge, register and ask for an examination. If found proficient you will be admitted and introduced. Remember when visiting, that you are a guest; refrain from participating in discussions unless asked, maintain the dignity of your lodge.

Your Actions Avoid that publicity which would bring to the forefront your Masonic connections, unless it be in some Masonic forum. Our Grand Lodge has adopted stringent r~gulations against the use of the word "Masonic" in any commercial enterprise; if .you have doubts as to your Masonic actions, consult the Master of your lodge. The Grand Lodge forbids smoking in lodge rooms.

How to Appreciate Freemasonry Make yourself a well informed Mason; this may be accomplished by talking with well informed Masons and by reading. The Constitution and Laws of the Grand Lodge and the Annual Proceedings are to be found in each lodge. Every large city has its Masonic periodicals; extreme care should be taken in their selection since none are under Grand Lodge supervision. Most book concerns handle Masonic books, and here again is extreme care necessary, since the Masonic field is so wide, embracing as it does the field of law, history, philosophy, the sciences, biography and religion. No man living has, or ever will, read all of the volumes written on Masonic subjects. And as you increase in Masonic knowledge you will find a new field opening up, disclosing a wide vista, enabling you to come to a proper understanding of man, character, and the ultimate reward of the faithful craftsman. -36-