OFFICERS HANDBOOK. Grand Lodge A.F. and A.M. of Oregon

Transcription

1 OFFICERS HANDBOOK Grand Lodge A.F. and A.M. of Oregon Reprinted 2012

2 1 l. Introduction and Basics TABLE OF CONTENTS The Purpose of Freemasonry II. Lodge Officers Their Duties and Preparations for their Offices III. Masonic Code, By-Laws, The Manual, Grand Lodge Proceedings, The Ritual IV. General Information Insurance, N.P.D., The Mentor Plan, Investigations, Exam ining and Being a Visitor, Finance, Budget, Fees, Dues, Re mitting Dues, Donations and Bequests, Assessments, Fund Raising, Disposition of Operating Income V. Committees Introduction, Committees Required by Code, Grand Lodge Programs, Optional Committees, Miscellaneous Commit tees VI. Masonic Parliamentary Procedures

3 2 I. INTRODUCTION AND BASICS INTRODUCTION The importance of officer training has long been recognized in the Oregon Masonic Jurisdiction. Throughout the years, many such programs have been developed. This Officers Handbook is one example. It is our hope that we have compiled a working model of the basic essentials necessary for officer development. The individual instructions and suggestions are based upon the usual practice of advancing through a line of progression. If the practice in your Lodge requires some variance from the suggested progression, please remember that the basic aim is to develop qualified brethren to fill the offices. You should begin studying the entire Officer s Handbook, especially the chapter entitled The Worshipful Master, early in your career as a Lodge Officer. The position of Worshipful Master is so important to the welfare and progress of his Lodge that if Oregon Freemasonry is to progress we must depend upon the Master s leadership in his Lodge. Time is essentially short and very few of us have the innate talents to become successful Worshipful Masters without serious and earnest prepara tion for the task.

4 3 It is hoped that this Handbook, by emphasizing the Worship ful Master s obligations, will be of benefit to the Master discharging his duties and preparing for the perpetuation of Freemasonry and his Lodge, and assist the elective and appointive Officers in preparing for advancement. BASICS Before going into the specifics of the duties of Lodge Officers, it is perhaps well to consider the question: What is the purpose of Freemasonry? Stripped down to fundamen tals, and if we believe in our ritualistic teachings, we find in the Entered Apprentice Degree that essentially the Fraternity s basic purpose is to inspire a good man to become a better man. To the best of our knowledge, we admit into the Fraternity only those men who are good not perfect but fundamentally good. Through teaching and example, we try to inspire them to become better men. This is a basic Masonic precept. If we agree with this precept, how do we inspire good men to become better men? That basic purpose can only be initiated and taught within the precincts of the Lodge influ ence, tyled or untyled. Each individual Lodge and its members become the basic instrument of Freemasonry in accomplishing its purpose.

5 4 Everything that a Lodge does the dignified and impressive conferral of a degree, the social evening it has with family and friends; the fellowship of the refreshment table, the attention it gives to its members, its widows and orphans and disabled brethren; participation in the last rites of a de ceased brother; prompt opening and non-lagging communi cations; making a new member or visitor feel at home and a part of the Lodge; and participation in public charitable and civic functions are all a part of and helpful in accomplishing the purpose of the Fraternity. The individual Lodge is the vehicle for achieving Freemasonry s basic purpose. Who is responsible for a Lodge performing its function in furthering Freemasonry s basic purpose? In the Grand Jurisdiction of Oregon, the Grand Master is the leader of the Fraternity and the final executive authority on Masonic Law and Custom. Masonry in Oregon is governed by the Masonic Code adopted and amended by the Constituent Lodges that form the Grand Lodge. Under our peculiar democratic Masonic system, the Worshipful Master of an Oregon Lodge has more absolute authority and power in his Lodge than the presiding officer of any other democratic organiza tion known. Almost literally, and of course within the bounds of prudence and reason, as long as the Master conducts his Lodge within the limitations of the Masonic Code, he is a law unto himself. His powers exceed those granted a presiding officer under Robert s Rules of Order. The Grand Master may exert his utmost powers in

6 5 leading the Fraternity in striving for its basic purpose, and in implementing the programs of the Grand Lodge, but if the Worshipful Master in his Lodge, willfully, negligently or through procrastina tion or lack of preparation, fails to lead his Lodge in its role of accomplishing Masonry s purpose, that Lodge then be comes a weak link in the Masonic chain. II. DUTIES OF LODGE OFFICERS WORSHIPFUL MASTER Many of those portions of this booklet devoted to Lodge Officers are intended to prepare officers for a likely progression to higher offices. You, my Brother, have been elected to the most important office in a lodge of Freemasons. No officer in any other organization has the profound influence upon the welfare of that organization that you, the Worshipful Master, will have upon your lodge. The future welfare of the lodge has become your responsibility. You are given many powers not extended to presiding officers of other organizations. For instance, the Masonic Code prohibits your rulings being appealed to the Lodge. (Any Master whose rulings are in violation of the Code may be subjected to Masonic Charges.) Your rulings should never be arbitrary or capricious. Because your power is so much greater than that of other presiding officers, tact and discretion in exercising that power are essential to peace and harmony.

7 6 As Worshipful Master of your Lodge, you are a member of the Grand Lodge of Oregon. When you are installed as Master, you will take an obligation to attend the Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of Oregon and it is your duty to fulfill that obligation. WORK WHICH SHOULD BE COMPLETED BEFORE REACHING THIS STATION Before your election, you should have: 1. Familiarized yourself thoroughly with the entire Masonic Code. (When you are installed you will be charged to see that the Code is read in your Lodge at every Stated Communication.) You should also study the By-Laws of your Lodge. 2. Learned the parts of all officers in opening and closing the Lodge in all of the degrees and in going from labor to refreshment and from refreshment to labor. At a minimum, you should hold a Basic Proficiency card issued by the Grand Lecturer. 3. Learned the Candidate s Lectures of all three degrees. You alone will determine whether or not the Candidate has shown suitable proficiency in the lecture. 4. Learned the Flag Ceremony and the Optional Flag Ceremony, both of which are set forth in the Ritual. 5. Learned what persons may, and what persons must, be escorted and introduced. (As Master, you will have the right to

8 7 have any Brother escorted and introduced. However, Masonic courtesy does require that certain Brothers be escorted and introduced.) You must learn how Brothers are escorted, how they are presented and introduced, whether and when they are accorded either the public or the private Grand Honors and where in the East they should be seated. You should, for this and other reasons, thoroughly familiar ize yourself with the booklet Masonic Etiquette published by the Grand Lodge of Oregon. 6. Mastered the order of business established by the Ma sonic Code and the By-Laws of your Lodge. In conjunction with this, you should always have an officers meeting by at least the day before each Stated Communication. This is essential so all the officers understand the business that will come before the Lodge. You should again consult with the Secretary just before each communication. You must and your officers should know all the business which is likely to be transacted. While conducting the meeting, if there is no business of a particular order simply announce that fact and pass on to the next order. You need not, but may if you wish, rap the gavel between order of business. There is no reason to ask the Secretary whether or not there are petitions, whether or not there is balloting, communications, and so forth. All of these things you should know, and should be able to an nounce, without asking the Secretary. Under unfinished and other business, you should first state and dispose of the business known to you and then inquire as to whether or not there is any other business.

9 8 7. Learned how to preside over balloting, including reading and referring petitions and the minimum length of time between reading petitions for the degrees and petitions for affiliation and balloting on those petitions. You must also learn what is to be done if there is an objection or an unfavorable committee report, who may and who must ballot for the degrees and petitions for affiliation, and how balloting is conducted and reported. All of these subjects are covered in the Masonic Code of Oregon, the Standard Manual or the Ritual. 8. Planned how you will interest all newly affiliated and newly raised Masons so they will become active in your Lodge. Generally, this can be done by putting them to work. But, always make certain that the Brothers who signed the petition and those who were on the investigating committee assist in making the new Brother welcome. Make certain his wife becomes acquainted with Freemasonry. 9. Established what committees may and what committees must be appointed and, when required by the Code, which officers must be the chairman of, or members of, a particular committee. For your year to be successful, all the commit tees must work. Months before your election, make certain which committees you want and need and which Brothers you want on each committee. If a committee has been working satisfactorily in the past, it is reasonable to reappoint some of the Brothers who have been on the committee in order to assure continuity and to appoint some new members to the committee to ensure

10 9 the infusion of new ideas. Think carefully before appointing an officer to a committee when the appointment is not Code mandated. You may be imposing so much work on him that he will not carry out the duties of his office. Before appointing any Brother to a committee, contact him, explain to him what you want the committee to do, and get his assurance that he will work on the committee and that he will attempt to carry out the program you desire. Do not appoint committeemen who will not work. After the committees have been appointed, keep in touch with them. Attend the meetings of committees, especially the organizational meetings. Make certain every member of every committee understands what you want him and his committee to accomplish and when you want this to be accomplished. One of the very important committees, one that you must be certain is working, is the telephone committee. That com mittee must contact all of the local members of the Lodge and all of the local sojourners before each stated and special meeting and before each social occasion. The committee must call all of the Brothers before a Masonic funeral. They should frequently call all house-bound Brothers and all widows of Master Masons. You may also consider the use of an automated call system. Masonic charity is neglected if we forget or overlook any house-

11 10 bound or disabled Brother or widow. The committee should report at once illness, needs for assistance, possible need of educational assistance and the possibility that a Brother, widow, or Eastern Star member, might be a candidate for the OutReach Services program. They should likewise report if a Brother would be able to attend Lodge if someone would transport him. When wives are invited, direct the phone calls to them. The membership committee is likewise important. These Brothers may be able to discover why someone has quit attending or has permitted his dues to go unpaid. An alert membership committee may prevent needy Brothers from being dropped for nonpayment of dues. The Brothers who either signed his petition or investigated should assist in returning the delinquent member to good standing. 10. Decided which Brothers are to be appointed to offices in your Lodge. Months before your election you must have approached those Brothers and secured their agreement that they will attend all officers meetings and all communications and that they will work and carry out the programs you have planned. To ensure continuity in the programs you plan, consult with the Wardens and the Senior Deacon to ensure that they will carry on those programs. Only after they have agreed they will do so should you finally decide what programs you will implement. Advise each officer that his appointment is for one year only.

12 Planned and arranged, well in advance of your installa tion, for the programs you want to have during your year. The programs might be educational on a Masonic or public theme, or social, such as a family or public education night or a special event such as a Widows or Past Masters Night or a Saint Johns Day celebration. The Lodge of Excellence Achievement Award can be used as a guide for successful Lodge programs. Make certain that the special events are well planned, advertised and executed. Ask the District Deputy, Grand Lodge Officers, and Research Lodge Members to assist with programs. Remember that calendars are often filled months or even years in advance. Contact them early to get from them, and give to them, a definite commitment. 12. Attended the annual training given by the Grand Lodge and completed both the Fellows of the Craft and Torchlight programs. NOTE: Do not set impossible goals for your committees, your officers or yourself. Set your goals high enough to be challenging, but not so high that everyone becomes discouraged. Remember that you cannot do everything yourself. Delegate duties to others. Throughout your year, strive to carry out the plans you made before being installed. You should also: 1. Hold practices regularly so the officers are proficient in opening, closing, balloting, escorting, etc., and so the degree teams are proficient in their work.

13 12 2. Make certain that all persons entitled to know have been informed of all communications and all events. 3. Make known to the Junior Warden what types of refresh ments you expect him to provide. 4. After having established at the beginning of your year that the Lodge has sufficient insurance to protect it against liability claims and casualty losses, constantly continue to ascertain that adequate insurance coverage remains in place. 5. Be completely familiar with the finances of your Lodge. Assure that proper IRS filings (990N) have been completed each year. 6. Be certain the Lodge is neat and clean both inside and out. There should be an outside sign, both large and easily readable, advising the public that your building is a Masonic Temple or Building. 7. Open meetings on time. A prompt and orderly dispatch of business; courtesy in presiding, and closing the meeting as soon as the business is completed; having timely and enter taining programs; and, if refreshments are to be served, making certain they will be well received, are among the responsibilities of presiding officers of most organizations, including ours, my Brother. Courtesy may include many things, among which on at least

14 13 some occasions is saying please and thank you, always speaking loudly and clearly enough that all present hear and understand, and never, if it can be avoided, speaking in a derogatory tone to anyone present. If anyone improperly raises any issue, it is best to ask him to come to the East. There, quietly explain to him why his conduct is not proper. Careful planning and preparation for your year and throughout your year, and a great deal of work, will ensure that when you become a Past Master, your Brothers will indeed have reason to congratulate you upon your term of office. Upon becoming a Past Master, remember you are no longer Master of the Lodge. However, you should remember also that there are many times when your labors can be of assistance to your Lodge. Do not wait to be called upon; volunteer to assist whenever possible. Perhaps you could assist the Stewards, or coach, or be a mentor, or help in many other ways. The work you do as Worshipful Master, and the work you continue to do when you are a Past Master, all contribute to the success and future welfare of Freemasonry.

15 14 SENIOR WARDEN DUTIES As the Senior Warden your duties are to: 1. Assist the Worshipful Master in the discharge of the duties of his office, and in his absence to govern the Lodge. Assisting the Worshipful Master includes: - Attending all Stated and Special Communications of the Lodge and performing work as described in the Ritual and as ordered by the Worshipful Master. Attending all Officers Meetings and offering wise and wholesome counsel to the Worshipful Master. Participating in the government of the Lodge by assisting the Worshipful Master in the performance of his duties, thus sharing the burden of this important office while preparing for the duties of the higher office. Actively supporting the program of the Worshipful Master and working to promote and maintain peace and harmony among the members. Participating in the training and development of the officers

16 15 of the Lodge so they will better understand the duties of their office and become more proficient in their work. Representing the Worshipful Master at such functions as a visitation to another Lodge, a funeral, and other activities as ordered. You may be called upon to organize a degree team. You must prepare team members to ensure they are proficient in their work. 2. Serve as the Chairman of the Committee on Finance. It is essential that you and your committee regularly review the financial records of the Lodge and make a report to the Worshipful Master at each Stated Communication. 3. Serve as a member of Grand Lodge. You must attend the Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of Oregon. If unable to attend this important meet ing, you must advise the Worshipful Master so that a proxy is appointed. As a member of Grand Lodge you must acquaint yourself with the legislation, resolutions, and other business scheduled to be presented. You should become familiar with those sections of the Masonic Code pertaining to the opening, order of business, and rules of order in Grand Lodge so that you may better understand its procedures and requirements. 4. You should finalize plans, goals and programs for your year as Worshipful Master. You should identify and obtain acceptance

17 16 from every person to be appointed as an officer or to a committee. You should also confirm speakers and other participants for Lodge programs throughout the year, and draw up a calen dar of activities for your year as Worshipful Master. WORK WHICH SHOULD BE COMPLETED BEFORE REACHING THIS STATION 1. Memorize the Opening and Closing Ceremony of the Lodge on all degrees; attend a Basic Proficiency class. 2. Memorize the Worshipful Master s part in the conferral of both sections of all degrees. 3. Be competent in all of the procedures and responsibilities of the Worshipful Master in opening and governing the Lodge. Such procedures include, but are not limited to, receiving the Grand Master or his representative; calling the Craft from labor to refreshment and to labor again; conducting business at a Stated Communication; and ballot ing on candidates for degrees or affiliation. NECESSARY STUDY WORK l. Continue study of the Masonic Code of Oregon. 2. Read the Master s Book by C.H. Claudy, available from the Grand Lodge office.

18 17 3. Read the pamphlet Hat and the Gavel from the Masonic Service Association and available from the Grand Lodge office. 4. Continue study of Masonic procedures as found in the Ritual, Standard Manual, Masonic Code of Oregon, Ma sonic Etiquette and Instructions, and other books and pamphlets available from the Grand Lodge office. 5. Attend the annual training given by the Grand Lodge, along with the Fellows of the Craft and Torchlight programs. DUTIES JUNIOR WARDEN As the Junior Warden your duties are to: l. Assist the Worshipful Master in the discharge of the duties of his office, and in his absence, and that of the Senior Warden, to govern the Lodge. Assisting the Worshipful Master includes: Attending all Stated and Special Communications of the Lodge and performing work as described in the Ritual and as ordered by the Worshipful Master. Attending all Officers Meetings and offering wise and whole

19 18 some counsel to the Worshipful Master. Actively supporting the programs of the Worshipful Master and working to promote and maintain peace and harmony among the members. Representing the Worshipful Master at such functions as a visitation to another Lodge, a funeral, civic function, and other activities as ordered. - You may be called upon to organize a degree team. You must prepare team members to ensure they are proficient in their work. 2. Serve as Chairman of the Committee on Grievance. The Junior Warden receives grievances or reports of alleged misconduct. You must perform your duties in a manner described in the Masonic Code of Oregon. 3. Serve as a member of Grand Lodge. You must attend the Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of Oregon. If unable to attend this important meet ing, you must advise the Worshipful Master so that a proxy is appointed. As a member of Grand Lodge you must acquaint yourself with the legislation, resolutions, and other business scheduled to be presented. You should become familiar with those sections of

20 19 the Masonic Code pertaining to the opening, order of business, and rules of order in Grand Lodge so that you may understand its procedures and requirements. 4. Take charge of the Lodge when at refreshment. You are to provide direction to the Senior Steward to ensure the refreshment table is properly set and varied throughout the Masonic year. You should contact the Brethren you wish to speak at the refreshment table in advance so they may be prepared. Although it is permitted to call upon a newly initiated or passed Brother, it is not a requirement to do so. If the newly initiated or passed Brother is to be called on to speak, it is important that he be told in advance and provided whatever assistance he may require. You should observe the above suggested procedure and preside over the refresh ment table until you relinquish the gavel to the Worshipful Master, who will either close the refreshment table or call upon the Grand Master (or his representative on an official visit) who will officially close the refreshment table. 5. You should prepare tentative plans, goals and programs for your year as Worshipful Master. Planning should include identifying significant dates and events, and preparing a tentative calendar. Events to look for include the 50th, 75th or 100th anniversary of the Lodge; the 50th anniversary of a Brother serving as Master of the Lodge; or the 50th, 60th or 75th anniversary of a Brother being raised.

21 20 Planning should also include participating in local events such as Hometown Days and honoring a member of the Lodge who is also a civic leader. You may also wish to note certain members whom you believe may be good officers or committee members during your year as Wor shipful Master. You should continue to refer to the notebook you began preparing in your Junior and Senior Deacon years. WORK WHICH SHOULD BE COMPLETED BEFORE REACHING THIS STATION l. Memorize the Opening and Closing Ceremony of the Lodge on all degrees; attend a Basic Proficiency class. 2. Memorize the Senior Warden s part in the conferral of both sections of all degrees. 3. Be competent in all of the procedures and responsibilities of the Worshipful Master in opening and governing the Lodge. Such procedures include, but are not limited to, receiving the Grand Master or his representative; calling the Craft from labor to refreshment and to labor again; conducting business at a Stated Communication; and ballot ing on candidates for degrees or affiliation. 4. Memorize the Master Mason Lecture. 5. Memorize the Grand Lodge Instructions.

22 21 6. Memorize the Geometry Lecture of the Fellow Craft Degree. NECESSARY STUDY WORK. 1. Continue reading the Masonic Code of Oregon. 2. Read the pamphlet Think Tank for Junior Wardens prepared by the Masonic Service Association and available from the Grand Lodge. 3. Continue study of Masonic procedures as found in the Ritual, the Standard Manual, Masonic Code of Oregon, Masonic Etiquette and Instructions, and other books and pamphlets available at the Grand Lodge office. 4. Attend the annual training given by the Grand Lodge along with the Fellows of the Craft and Torchlight programs. DUTIES TREASURER As the Treasurer your duties are to: 1. Act as custodian of Lodge funds. You are to receive all monies and other properties placed in your hands by the Secretary. All monies are to be deposited in the Lodge bank account, and properties in the Lodge safe deposit box, and

23 22 give a proper receipt to the Secretary for the same. Under no circumstances are you to deposit Lodge funds in your personal account. 2. Keep a book or books containing a current record of disbursements for the account of the Lodge. Copies of receipts, check stubs, canceled checks and bank statements are necessary for understanding and audit of accounts. 3. Disburse or transfer funds of the Lodge only on warrants or checks authorized by the Lodge and duly signed by two of the following: Worshipful Master, Treasurer or Secretary. 4. Make a report of receipts, disbursements and financial condition of the Lodge at a Stated Communication as required by the Masonic Code of Oregon and at any other time the Worshipful Master directs. 5. File a bond as required by the Masonic Code of Oregon. 6. Transfer all Lodge property in your possession to your successor in office, at the end of your term, taking duplicate receipts therefore and filing one with the Secretary. 7. Know the Treasurer s part in the opening and closing of the Entered Apprentice Degree. You may be called upon to act in an advisory capacity to

24 23 the Finance Committee, when requested to do so by the Worshipful Master. A thorough study of Sections 220 and 272, Art. 9, of the Masonic Code of Oregon, is necessary for the proper performance of this office. The assistance of a Brother in the accounting business may be helpful if you are not familiar with maintaining bookkeeping records. DUTIES SECRETARY As the Secretary your duties are to: l. Make note of all the proceedings of the Lodge. 2. Receive all monies due the Lodge. 3. Pay all monies so received over to the Treasurer, taking his receipt for the same. 4. Issue notices and summonses at the direction of the Worshipful Master. 5. Notify members of their appointment to an Investigating Committee and furnish each member with a copy of the pamphlet Duties of the Investigating Committee, avail able from the Grand Lodge Office.

25 24 These duties are briefly listed in the Charge given at the installation and are more thoroughly defined in Section 221 of the Masonic Code of Oregon. Many other sections of the Code also have requirements for the Lodge Secretary, so it is necessary to study all sections of the Code to increase your knowledge and efficiency. It is necessary for all reports required by the Code to be submitted promptly and accu rately. You should cooperate with requests for information from either Grand Lodge Officers or Committee Chairmen. NOTE The Brother best suited for this office should be selected to fill this important position. Serious consideration should be given to his continuance in office for as long as he is willing and capable of efficiently discharging his duties. The impor tance of his duties bring him, more than any other officer, into close personal contact with the Brethren. He plays a vital part in the success or failure of his Lodge. It is necessary for him to have a thorough knowledge of Oregon Masonic Law and Procedure. While he has none of the Worshipful Master s authority, his experience and knowledge can be of invaluable help to the Master, officers and members of the Lodge. He should always remember that he is under the direction of the Master and is not running the Lodge. This is of vital importance.

26 25 SENIOR DEACON DUTIES As the Senior Deacon your duties are to: 1. Actively take charge of the welcoming and the accommo dating of visitors. In a sense, you are chairman of the committee for that purpose. You may have such assistance as necessary. The friendliness of your Lodge depends upon the welcome and attention you pay to visiting and Lodge Brethren. See that visitors meet the other Brethren, that they have someone to sit with and that their names are remembered and properly pronounced. 2. Know how to reverently display and close the Great Lights. Know how to properly illuminate and extinguish the representatives of the lesser lights. In approaching and retiring from the altar, and indeed in all floor work, you must walk in an upright manner and turn square corners. 3. Conduct Candidates and escort Brethren as ordered by the Worshipful Master. When conducting a Candidate always take his arm. Before the Candidate is obligated, take his right arm. After he is obligated, take his left arm. When escorting a Brother always extend to him your right arm. Continue your study of Masonic Etiquette. Know which Brethren are to be escorted by way of the South and which by way of

27 26 the North. Study the entire Masonic Etiquette to make certain that, by the time you are installed, you may confidently perform your work of escorting and introducing Brethren. 4. Make certain that the ballot box is properly prepared for balloting, that sufficient balls and cubes are available in the ballot box, and the voting compartment is clear. Know how to extend the ballot box to the Worshipful Master and Wardens, and to any Brother who may be voting from his place in the Lodge. All balloting must be done in such a manner that the secrecy of the ballot is held inviolate. 5. Welcome and receive candidates for the degrees. Be certain that you know and pronounce the Candidate s name correctly. Do everything possible to ensure that the Candi date is at ease and that he receives a favorable impression of Freemasonry. This may be a factor in his becoming an active Master Mason. 6. Carry messages from the Worshipful Master to the Senior Warden and elsewhere about the Lodge, as ordered, and otherwise assist the Worshipful Master and Wardens. Much of the harmonious functioning of a communication depends upon the friendly but proficient execution of your duties. As the officer who is most often involved in floor work in the Lodge, you are, in large measure, the decisive factor in the impression the Brethren of your Lodge, visiting Brethren, and candidates have of your Lodge and of Freemasonry in general.

28 27 WORK WHICH SHOULD BE COMPLETED BEFORE REACHING THIS PLACE l. Memorize the part of the Senior Deacon in the degrees, the part of the Senior Deacon in opening and closing Lodge, how to purge Lodge, your part in the Optional Flag Cere mony, and your part in balloting. All of this must be done so you will be prepared to perform your duties in the place to which you have been appointed. NECESSARY STUDY WORK l. The Masonic Code of Oregon, especially the Penal Code. 2. The Standard Manual. 3. The By-Laws of your Lodge. 4. The Grand Lodge of Oregon s Booklet on Masonic Etiquette. 5. Learn both of the Fellow Craft Lectures. 6. Continue noting things to do and not to do in your permanent notebook. Begin planning your year as Master. 7. Learn how to conduct a meeting of Freemasons and the order of business.

29 28 8. Learn the flag salute and the Optional Flag Ceremony. 9. Learn which Brethren are ordinarily escorted and intro duced and the proper method of introduction from the East. 10. Learn who is entitled to the Private or Public Grand Honors and when those honors should be given. 11. Learn how to preside over balloting. 12. Learn how to call the Lodge from Labor to Refreshment and call it on again. 13. Memorize the parts of the Wardens and of the Master in opening and closing, both in long and short form in all three degrees, as well as learning all the duties of a Master in governing his Lodge. Next year you will probably be the Junior Warden of your Lodge. The Junior Warden is required to act as the Master if both the Master and the Senior Warden are absent. Now is the time to make certain you are prepared for those important duties. DUTIES JUNIOR DEACON As the Junior Deacon your duties are to: l. Assist in welcoming the Brethren. Visitors should be wel

30 29 comed with a friendly smile. It should be seen that they meet other Brothers and they have someone to sit with so they feel at home. You should assist the Tyler in making certain the Senior Warden knows who all the visitors are and that they are entitled to sit in Lodge. 2. Be the guardian inside the door of the Lodge. You must know how and when Brethren may be admitted or excused while the Lodge is at labor. Know how to do the floor work. In all of your work you must walk in an upright manner and turn square corners. 3. Carry messages from the Senior to the Junior Warden and elsewhere about the Lodge as directed. WORK WHICH SHOULD BE COMPLETED BEFORE REACHING THIS PLACE l. Know the part of the Junior Deacon in (a) opening and closing Lodge, (b) the degree work in all of the degrees, (c) purging Lodge, and (d) answering alarms at the door of the Lodge. 2. Know your part in the Optional Flag Ceremony. NECESSARY STUDY WORK l. Welcoming and accommodating visitors. 2. The duties required of the Senior Deacon by the Master.

31 30 3. The Senior Deacon s part in opening and closing ceremonies, including the Optional flag Ceremony, calling from Labor to Refreshment and to Labor again, and purging Lodge. 4. Conducting Brethren to the Altar and to the East. 5. Balloting procedures. (See the Masonic Code, Ritual and the Standard Manual.) 6. Welcoming, receiving and conducting candidates. 7. The Grand Lodge of Oregon s booklet on Masonic Eti quette. 8. Continue reading and study of the Masonic Code of Oregon. 9. Memorize the Entered Apprentice Lecture. NOTE The Junior Deacon s chair is a place of learning. It is time to get a permanent notebook. As you progress, record in it your ideas and impressions of those things you should do and refrain from doing. Visit other Lodges as often as possible. Record in your notebook observations of things seen and heard, both those to be followed and those to be avoided. Always arrive early for meetings so you will have time to assist in setting up the Lodge if called upon to do so and to still be at

32 31 your place inside the door to extend a friendly hand to all of the Brethren who attend. DUTIES CHAPLAIN As the Chaplain your duties are to: l. Give all the ritualistic prayers. (These constitute the primary devotional exercises of the Lodge.) The Master may request other prayers, such as the blessing before a Lodge dinner, a memorial prayer in paying tribute to a departed brother, etc. He should give advance warning, but it is well to be prepared for such a call by learning several appropriate prayers of your own origin or from reference sources. 2. Give the prayers of the Funeral Services. (These consti tute the primary religious and spiritual functions of the CHAPLAIN in public ceremonies.) 3. Give short talks emphasizing moral and virtuous points, at the Master s request. (This refers to the CHAPLAIN S duty to impart such lessons to his Brethren.) Remember that the office of the CHAPLAIN is not an ecclesiastical or theological one, but rather a Masonic one. The Master should give you ample notice of his desire for such a talk, but you should start gathering material now in preparation for that function.

33 32 4. Take proper care of the Holy Bible. (The Great Light is especially entrusted to the CHAPLAIN S care and is his responsibility.) That most sacred of our spiritual symbols should be handled and stored with reverence by the CHAP LAIN at the end of each meeting. WORK WHICH SHOULD BE COMPLETED BEFORE REACHING THIS PLACE l. Memorize Opening and Closing Prayers. NECESSARY STUDY WORK l. Memorize all prayers in all three degrees. 2. Memorize Funeral Service Prayers from the Standard Manual. (Note that these may be varied to be appropriate to the individual case.) 3. Memorize special ritualistic parts. (In those Lodges in which the CHAPLAIN S office is not in the line of progres- sion, you may learn such other portions of the Ritual as appeal to your interest. Of course, if the office is in the line of progression, you should be preparing for the office next ahead.) 4. Prepare material for short prayers on special occasions. 5. Gather material for short talks emphasizing morality and virtue.

34 33 6. Study procedure and prepare to assist in the examination of visitors. 7. Learn how to greet and welcome visitors, Brethren and Candidates. This does not always come easily to every man, but a firm handclasp, a warm smile and a friendly word is the start. NOTE You should always remember that when you give a prayer you are speaking to the GREAT ARCHITECT OF THE UNIVERSE (who is present) on behalf of all the Brethren of the Lodge. Every prayer should be spoken earnestly and sincerely, with reverence and adoration. Each word should be uttered clearly and distinctly, and with sufficient volume that every Brother present may hear and understand that to which he will affirm So Mote It Be. DUTIES MARSHAL As the Marshal your duties are to: l. Study and become familiar with all the ceremonies of the Lodge especially those involving public processions in connection with Festivals of the Order and Funeral Services. 2. Study and become familiar with all the arrangements of the

35 34 Lodge. Know the proper way to arrange and display all the lights, ornaments and jewels used in our ceremonies. Assist the Tyler in setting up and taking down the Lodge. 3. After the Lodge is set up, assist the Tyler in the activities of the ante-room. Station yourself near the ante-room door and assist the Senior Deacon in welcoming each Brother as he comes in. 4. Be prepared to assist in the examination of visiting Brethren when requested. Learn the test oath and the proper manner in which it should be administered. NECESSARY STUDY WORK If you have not previously done so you should become familiar with the following: l. Test oath. 2. Opening and Closing the Lodge. 3. Installation Ceremony. 4. Procession arrangements. 5. Examination of visitors. 6. Arrangement and storage of Lodge furniture and equip ment.

36 35 7. Masonic Etiquette. 8. The four questions and statement to the E.A. candidate given prior to initiation. 9. All ritualistic prayers given by the Chaplain. NOTE In accepting this office you must become familiar with Masonic etiquette and customs for both public and tyled occasions. At the Master s direction you must be prepared to carry out these duties with dignity and decorum. Skill and precision are necessary in this work. DUTIES SENIOR STEWARD As the Senior Steward your duties are to: l. Prepare candidates to receive degrees as prescribed in the Ritual. You may receive such assistance as may be directed by the Worshipful Master. 2. Assist the Senior Deacon, when requested, in conducting candidates, and perform other tasks as described in the Ritual.

37 36 3. Take your place on the northeast and when forming lines for the reception of the Grand Master (or his representative) or the District Deputy of the Grand Master on his official visit. Your staff will not be used. 4. Under the supervision of the Junior Warden, you will ensure that dining room tables are set before each meeting and that refreshments are suitably prepared. You are responsible for arranging the dining room tables in the manner prescribed by the Worshipful Master. You should consider any special needs of a Brother and ensure that refreshments are ready as soon as the Lodge is closed. WORK WHICH SHOULD BE COMPLETED BEFORE REACHING THIS PLACE 1. Memorize the Senior Steward s part in the conferral of all degrees. 2. Memorize the Fellow Craft Charge. 3. Memorize the Master Mason Charge. NECESSARY STUDY WORK 1. Learn the Junior Deacon s part in the opening and closing of all degrees.

38 37 2. Learn the Junior Deacon s part in the conferral of all degrees. 3. Read the First Section of the Fellow Craft and Master Mason Degrees. 4. Read the pamphlet Masonic Etiquette and Duties of Investigating Committee available at the Grand Lodge office. DUTIES JUNIOR STEWARD As the Junior Steward your duties are to: 1. Participate with the Senior Steward in preparing Candidates to receive degrees. 2. Participate with the Senior Steward in conducting Candi dates and to perform other tasks as described in the Ritual. 3. Take your place on the southeast end when forming lines for the reception of the Grand Master on his official visit. Your staff will not be used. 4. Participate with the Senior Steward in preparing for refreshments as described in the duties of the Senior Stew ard.

39 38 NECESSARY STUDY WORK 1. Memorize the Senior Steward s part in the conferral of all degrees. 2. Learn the Entered Apprentice Charge. 3. Read the First Section of the Entered Apprentice Degree. DUTIES As the Tyler your duties are to: TYLER 1. Vouch for persons you know to be Master Masons. 2. Find a Brother who can vouch for a visitor for whom you cannot vouch. 3. Ask the Master to appoint an examining committee for the visitors that have not been vouched for. You do not appoint such a committee; that is the Master s prerogative. 4. Assist the Senior Warden by assuring him that all who have entered the Lodge room are entitled to do so. When requested, provide to the appropriate officers a list of visitors and their Masonic status.

40 39 5. Introduce Brethren and visitors to one another. See that first time visitors to the Lodge are given over to the care of a Brother who will act as a personal host for the evening. 6. With suitable assistance see that the Lodge is properly set up before each meeting and that everything is properly stored after the meeting adjourns. This extends to the equipment in the preparation room and the ante-room. The candidate s equipment should be clean and in good order. The Tyler s register, the Bible for examinations, and clean aprons should be available in the ante-room. 7. Attend the ante-room before and after the meeting and manage the ante-room while Lodge is in session. 8. Make Candidates feel welcome. See that they are under the care of one of the Brethren at all times. 9. Be regular and early in attendance at all Lodge meetings to ensure the above described duties are satisfactorily per formed. NOTE This is an office best filled by a more experienced member of the Craft who possesses a friendly, courteous and outgo ing personality. This Brother must be familiar with Masonic etiquette and customs regarding the welcoming and accom modation of visiting Brethren. His duties extend beyond the instructions contained in the installation charge which merely admonishes courtesy and vigilance.

41 40 III. MASONIC CODE, BY-LAWS, THE MANUAL, GRAND LODGE PROCEEDINGS AND THE RITUAL MASONIC CODE WEBSTER DEFINES code as: A concise arrangement of existing laws, Approved by legislation, Accepted system of rules and regulations pertaining to a given sub ject. The Masonic Code of Oregon, having been approved by the Grand Lodge while in Annual Communication, governs each Lodge and every member thereof wherever he may be and any member of the Fraternity while within the Oregon Masonic Jurisdiction. A Code has been in existence since the organization of the Grand Lodge of Oregon in While it has been changed by the delegates to the Grand Lodge to make it responsive to the needs of the time, basically and fundamentally it has remained unchanged. At the Installation of the Worshipful Master, the Installing Officer presents the Worshipful Master with the Code and admonishes him: To search it at all times and cause it to be read in your Lodge, that none may pretend ignorance of the excellent precepts it enjoins. The other elective and appointive officers of the Lodge at

42 41 their installation also accept and assume obligations and responsibilities as provided in the Code. The Code is divided into four parts: containing and explain ing the Constitution of the Grand Lodge, the By-Laws of the Grand Lodge, the By-Laws pertaining to Lodges and the Penal Code of the Grand Jurisdiction. By reviewing the Code, you can learn: Part I The Landmarks of Freemasonry The powers of the Grand Lodge Membership, voting, Grand Lodge Officers and Committees The Powers of the Grand Master The Time and Date of Opening and Closing Grand Lodge Part II The Order of Business of the Annual Communication The Duties of the Grand Lodge Officers and the Trustees Educational Assistance

43 42 Masonic Service Bureaus Masonic and Eastern Star Home Masonic Library Funds of the Grand Lodge, Fees, Assessments, etc. Part III Officers of Constituent Lodges and their Duties Powers, Duties and Limitations of a Lodge Laws governing Members, Petitioners and Affiliations Duties of Investigating Committees, presentation of Peti tions and the Acceptance or Rejection of the same Uniform Code of Lodge By-Laws Part IV Penal Code Definition of a Masonic Offense Jurisdiction of the Lodge Charges for un-masonic Conduct How Prepared and Filed

44 43 Trial Commission or Trial Board, How Selected Grand Lodge Trials, Verdicts and Penalties Appeals from Verdicts The Code also contains an appendix listing various resolu tions adopted by the Grand Lodge at Annual Communications. Part III is absolutely essential to the government of the Lodge and a thorough knowledge of this section should be acquired by each officer. Certainly, by the time an officer is elected Senior Warden of his Lodge his knowledge and familiarity with Part III should be complete. The study of the Code should form a part of the monthly Officers Meetings in every Lodge. Without a thorough working knowledge and understanding of the Code, no Lodge can function efficiently, nor can the officers operate smoothly and successfully. BY-LAWS The By-Laws of the Grand Lodge of Oregon are to be found in the Masonic Code, Sections 101 to 167 inclusive, and no delegate of a Constituent Lodge should presume to attend and participate in the proceedings of a communication of Grand Lodge without being thoroughly conversant with those Sections of the Code.

45 44 The By-Laws of each Constituent Lodge are given into the keeping of the Worshipful Master at his installation and he is instructed by the Installing Officer, Which you are to see carefully and punctually observed. Why is this so important? Because the By-Laws were adopted by the Lodge for its government. A uniform code of By-Laws for Constituent Lodges was adopted by Grand Lodge and is to be found in the Masonic Code. The Adoption of the Uniform By-Laws is mandatory. They can, however, be amended. The By-Laws should be discussed and studied by the officers at their monthly Officers Meeting. THE MANUAL The Standard Manual of the Grand Lodge of Oregon contains information pertaining to Freemasonry and to the operation of our Lodges. The Grand Lodge has recognized this in providing for its presentation to new members. It is essential that every officer be familiar with it and its uses. The manual contains the ceremo nies for the Institution and Constitution of a Lodge, the Installation of its Officers, the last rites for a departed Brother, and other ceremonies of the Fraternity.

46 45 The Standard Manual, however, encompasses much more things that many of us may overlook. Of prime importance is a Statement of Policy of the Grand Lodge as to the extent that political and religious subjects may be discussed for the enlightenment of the membership at Lodge meetings. It contains many words that are subject to incorrect pronuncia tion and the Manual provides a Guide to Pronunciation that will be helpful. Many problems that confront Lodge Officers can be re solved by a careful study of the Manual. It is important, therefore, that the Lodge Officers use it as one of the tools of their profession. The Manual, with the Masonic Code and By-Laws should be studied and discussed at the monthly Officers Meeting. GRAND LODGE PROCEEDINGS An often overlooked tool that should be used by the Worshipful Master and other officers of a Lodge is the information contained in the current and past Grand Lodge Proceedings. Your Lodge Secretary should have a complete library of these volumes since, by Code, each Lodge is furnished with two copies each year, one for the Worshipful Master and one for the Library or Secretary s desk. In addition to the complete list of Grand Lodge Officers, District Deputies and Grand Lodge Committee personnel, the Proceedings contain the Grand Master s report of his stewardship, inspi

47 46 rational material such as the Grand Oration and the Necrology Report, and the vital statistics of Grand Lodge operation and financial affairs, including those of the Jennings McCall Center. Through the reports of officers and committees, you are made aware of actions taken at the Grand Lodge level to further the interests of the Fraternity. Of prime importance is the result of action taken by Grand Lodge on legislation. These are all matters that concern every Mason in Oregon. The Lodge Officers should be well-informed. A careful reading, analysis and study of the Grand Lodge Proceedings will increase their Masonic knowledge and make for more effective leadership. THE RITUAL The Ritual is the foundation of the ceremonies of Oregon Freemasonry. It teaches its lessons through symbolism and allegory by which each candidate has the opportunity to progress toward the goal he expects to attain. The Ritual in its present form is authorized by the Masonic Code of Oregon and any intentional deviation is a Masonic Offense. Our Oregon Masonic History relates the struggle and effort to bring a uniform work to all Lodges in this Grand Jurisdic tion. Prior to the early 1900s an official Masonic Ritual was non-existent in Oregon. Brethren raised in many jurisdic tions constituted a large