CONTENTS OF SAMPLE LETTERS SECTION. Tboard Filename Letter No. Description Page

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1 CONTENTS OF SAMPLE LETTERS SECTION <filename>.let <filename>.txt Letters included in "Trestleboard" Program Letters created outside of the Trestleboard Program Tboard Filename Letter No. Description Page ABYLAWS.LET New affiliate to sign Bylaws AMNESTY1.TXT... Member offering one-time offer for delinquent dues AREYOUOK.TXT... Member delinquent in dues, inquiring on his welfare AWARD.TXT... Member informing of Service Award BYLAWS.LET Candidate/Master Mason to sign Bylaws CLEARANC.TXT... Member enclosing Certificate of Clearance DEGREE_1.LET 8... Candidate show-up for Entered Apprentice Degree DEGREE_2.LET 9... Candidate show-up for Fellowcraft Degree DEGREE_3.LET Candidate show-up for Master Mason Degree DELINQ-1.TXT... Member notifying of dues delinquency DELINQ-2.TXT... Member delinquent, requesting dues payment DEMITINF.TXT... Member informing him of R&Rs of requesting Demit DEMIT.TXT... Member enclosing Demit DEMITUNK.TXT... Grand Secy requesting demit, member's address unknown DUES-3RD.TXT... Member 3rd Notice of overdue dues ELECT_A.LET 5... Affiliate elected to membership ELECT_D.LET 4... Candidate elected to receive degrees, show-up for E.A FEESDUE.TXT... Candidate informing him of balance due before Bylaws GM-DISP.TXT... Gr. Master requesting dispensation GM-TYPO.TXT... Gr. Master requesting "Healing" typo of candidate's name G_DEMIT.LET Grand requesting Demit G_FIFTY.LET Grand requesting 50 year veteran's medal G_LIFE.LET Grand requesting life membership at age G_RECORD.LET Grand request for certified Masonic record INAVTIV1.TXT... Member notification of G.L. "inactive" status listing INACTIV3.TXT... Member dues received but no dues card sent, inactive INFOMASO.TXT... Prospective candidate with info on Masonry & Pre-Ap INFORM.LET 3... Candidate listing investigators INSTRUCT.LET Candidate informing him of Lodge of Instruction date LECTURE1.LET Candidate schedule exam of E.A. lecture prior to F.C LECTURE2.LET Candidate schedule exam of F.C. lecture prior to M.M LECTURE3.LET Candidate schedule exam of M.M. lecture prior to Bylaws LIFE_88.TXT... Member enclosing life membership card MAILRETD.TXT... Member's old address, why mail being returned? M_EXAM.LET Member requesting to examine candidate's proficiency M_FIFTY.LET Member awarding 50 year veteran's medal M_FILLIN.LET Member requesting to participate in degree work M_INVSTA.LET Member requesting to investigate affiliation candidate M_INVSTD.LET Member requesting to investigate degree candidate

2 M_NOSUSP.LET Member notice of intent to suspend for N.P.D. with date M_OMEET.LET Officer requesting special officers meeting M_SUMMON.LET Member requesting attendance at meeting M_SUSPEN.LET Member notification of suspension for N.P.D M_WKCAND.LET Member requesting to work with candidate on lecture NOSUSP-1.TXT... Member 2 page letter reviewing benefit loss if suspend NOSUSP-2.TXT... Member follow-up to 2-page letter above, N.P.D NOSUSP-3.TXT... Member Suspension likely, payment requested PLEA.TXT... Member personal plea to avoid suspension N.P.D PRE_AP_A.LET 2... Affiliate candidate thanks for Pre-Ap meeting PRE_AP_D.LET 1... Degree candidate thanks for Pre-Ap meeting REFDEMIT.TXT... Member Demit refused -- instead remit for long service REJECT_A.LET 7... Affiliate candidate application rejected by lodge REJECT_D.LET 6... Degree candidate application rejected by lodge REMIT.TXT... Member elderly and ill, maybe destitute, remitting dues REMIT2.TXT... Member request for remission okayed by Master REQAFFAP.TXT... Affiliation Candidate requesting application SMPLELEC.TXT... Candidate elected to receive degrees, show-up, Sec SP_BYLAW.LET Sponsor candidate to sign Bylaws SP_EXAM.LET Sponsor candidate's examination of M.M.'s lecture SP_INVST.LET Sponsor notification of candidate's investigation SP_LINST.LET Sponsor notification of candidate's L-O-I date SP_THANK.LET Sponsor thanks for the candidate TY-PAST$.TXT... Member thanks for payment of past dues TY-REFER.TXT... Sponsor thanks for referral WIDOW-1.TXT... Widow expressing condolences of the Lodge

3 ABYLAWS.LET <Today's Date> <Candidate s Full Name> <Candidate s Address> <Candidate s City, State, Zip> Dear Bro. <Candidate s Name>; The Master of <Lodge Name> Lodge, Wor. Brother <Master s Name>, invites you to attend a <Special or Regular> Communication of <Lodge Name> Lodge on <Meeting Day and Date> at <Lodge Address> in <Lodge City> and there sign the bylaws of <Lodge Name> Lodge. The Lodge will open at <Meeting time>. If you have any questions, you may call your sponsor, <Sponsor s Name> at <Sponsor s Phone Number>, or call me at < s Phone Number>. Fraternally yours, < s Name> 3-3

4 AMNESTY1.TXT May 1, 19xx Brother Address City Dear Brother ; You recently received a two page letter from me explaining what benefits you would lose should you voluntarily or involuntarily terminate your Masonic Membership. I have yet to receive a response from you! As I previously mentioned to you, we value your membership in Sample Lodge. In light of the fact you are about to become three years in arrears in dues to the Lodge, The Master has empowered me to make one final offer in order to keep you as a member in good standing in Sample Lodge and the Masonic Fraternity. The Master will grant you an unconditional one-time-only amnesty, if you remit the current year's (19xx) dues along with a letter requesting said amnesty, within two weeks. Unless I receive the above from you, or hear from you in any other fashion, I will have no alternative but to abide by the By-Laws of Sample Lodge and the regulations of Grand Lodge. Your name will then be read in open Lodge, and submitted to the Grand Master as in danger of being suspended for non-payment of dues. I truly hope you will take advantage of this amnesty offer and remit your current dues and your letter requesting the amnesty. Otherwise a vote for suspension will be taken at our regular stated June meeting. I certainly would regret having to do this. Again, this is a one-time offer and does expire in two weeks. If you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to call me any evening. Sincerely and Fraternally, SAMPLE LODGE, A.F. & A.M. Hiram A. Biff 3-4

5 AREYOUOK.TXT Date Bro. Address City Dear Brother ; It has been quite some time since the Lodge has heard from you. The Lodge records show you have not paid your dues for years, despite many attempts to contact you. Basically, we are concerned for your welfare! If you are ill, please have a member of your family contact us. If you are living on a fixed income and having financial problems, let us know! We want to keep you in the Lodge and the Fraternity. If you recall when you were raised, you took an obligation to support us, and we took that same obligation to support you. Are you attending Lodge where you are now living? Are you satisfied with the Fraternity? Perhaps you would prefer a Demit to enable you to either affiliate with a local lodge or just withdraw from the Fraternity while still in fairly good standing. If you wish a Demit, you must request this in writing. We are willing to work with you to keep your record clear and in good standing, but you must communicate with us. If we do not hear from you, we can only assume you are no longer interested or have unfavorable feelings toward the Lodge or the Fraternity. At that point we will have no other options but to proceed in accordance with the By-Laws of Sample Lodge and the regulations of Grand Lodge with the steps delineated for suspension. I hope you will give this matter your careful and immediate attention, and contact the Master or the soon. In the meantime I offer you my warmest personal and fraternal regards. Sincerely and Fraternally, SAMPLE LODGE, A.F. & A.M. Hiram A. Biff 3-5

6 AWARD.TXT Date Bro. Address City, State, Zip Dear Bro. <Last Name>; The By-Laws of Sample Lodge provide for the recognition of every Brother who has been a faithful member of the Lodge for <Number of Years> years. By tradition, this includes special recognition during a regular meeting and the presentation of a <Type of Award>. The Lodge records indicate that you are eligible to receive this award. Accordingly, the Master, Wardens, Officers and members of your Lodge sincerely congratulate you on your <Number of Years> of continued membership. The Worshipful Master requests the honor of your presence at our <Date of Meeting> Communication in order that you may be properly recognized, and receive your award. You are cordially invited to attend the dinner as the guest of the Lodge, in appreciation of your service and dedication to Sample Lodge. Please notify the Master or the if you are planning to attend so that proper arrangements can be made. If you are in need of transportation or other assistance, please let the Master or know so they can be arranged. If you cannot attend at this time, but would be able to attend a future meeting, arrangements will be made to accommodate you. Finally, if you cannot attend any meeting, we can either attempt to present your award to you in your home or mail it to you, but we would prefer to present it to you personally. A list of all eligible members will be published in the <Month> Lodge Notice. Again, Congratulations on your <Number of Years> of service to Sample Lodge and to the Masonic Fraternity. We look forward to seeing you at the <Date of Meeting> Communication. If you have any problems or questions, please do not hesitate to call. Sincerely and Fraternally, SAMPLE LODGE, A.F. & A.M. Hiram A. Biff 3-6

7 BYLAWS.LET <Today's Date> <Candidate s Name> <Candidate s Address> <Candidate s City, State, Zip> Dear Bro. <Candidate s Name>; The Constitutions of The Grand Lodge of Massachusetts provide that "The fees for initiating, passing, and raising shall entitle the candidate to membership in the Lodge which accepts his application and confers the degrees, without further charge or ballot if the candidate signs the By- Laws within one year from the date of raising..." You have fulfilled all of the requirements necessary of a candidate for the Masonic Degrees, and have achieved the grade of Master Mason. You are now eligible to sign the By-Laws of <Lodge Name> Lodge, and thereafter enjoy all the rights and privileges of memebership. The Master, Wor. Brother <Master s Name>, invites you to attend a <Special or Regular> Communication of <Lodge Name> Lodge on <Meeting Day and Date> at <Lodge Location> in <Lodge City>, and there sign the bylaws of <Lodge Name> Lodge. The Lodge will open at <Meeting Time>. If you have any questions, you may call your sponsor, <Sponsor s Name> at <Sponsor s Phone Number>, or call me at < s Phone Number>. Fraternally yours, < s Name> 3-7

8 CLEARANC.TXT Date Bro. Address City Dear Brother ; Enclosed is a certified copy of the Certificate of Clearance requested by you, terminating your membership in Sample Lodge. According to Grand Lodge Regulations, this certificate may not be used for the purpose of affiliation, nor does it confer visiting privileges since you already belong to one or more Massachusetts Lodges. I wish you all the best in your future endeavors in Masonry. Should you ever have a question concerning this certificate or Sample Lodge, please do not hesitate to contact me. Sincerely and Fraternally, SAMPLE LODGE, A.F. & A.M. Hiram A. Biff 3-8

9 DEGREE_1.LET <Today's Date> <Candidate s Name> <Candidate s Address> <Candidate s City, State, Zip> Dear Mr. <Candidate s Last Name>; The Master of <Lodge Name> Lodge, <Master s Name>, has scheduled an Entered Apprentice Degree to be conferred on you at <Lodge Location>, <Lodge Address> on <First Degree - Day and Date>. The preferred dress for the evening is a suit, or a sport jacket and tie. The fee for the degree is <Fee for First Degree>. This fee will be collected from you before the work of the evening begins. The Master requests that you be present at or before <Degree Time>. It is very important for you to be prompt. If you have any questions, you may call your sponsor, <Sponsor s Name> at <Sponsor s Phone>, or call me at < s Phone>. Very truly yours, < s Name> 3-9

10 DEGREE_2.LET <Today's Date> <Candidate s Name> <Candidate s Address> <Candidate s City, State, Zip> Dear Bro. <Candidate s Last Name>; The Master of <Lodge Name> Lodge, <Master s Name> hereby summonses you and requests that you present yourself at the <Lodge Name>, <Lodge Address> on <Second Degree Day and Date> for the purpose of receiving the Fellowcraft Degree, the Second Degree in Freemasonry. The Degree will be conferred upon you provided you have demonstrated proficiency in the candidate's lecture of the Entered Apprentice Degree. The preferred dress for the evening is a suit, or a sport jacket and tie. The fee for the degree is <Second Degree Fee>. This fee will be collected from you before the work of the evening begins. The Master requests that you be present at or before <Degree Time>. It is very important for you to be prompt. If you have any questions, you may call your sponsor, <Sponsor s Name> at <Sponsor s Phone>, or call me at < s Phone>. Fraternally Yours, < s Name> 3-10

11 DEGREE_3.LET <Today's Date> <Candidate s Name> <Candidate s Address> <Candidate s City, State, Zip> Dear Bro. <Candidate s Last Name>; The Master of <Lodge Name> Lodge, <Master s Name> hereby summonses you and requests that you present yourself at the <Lodge Name>, <Lodge Address> on <Third Degree Day and Date> for the purpose of receiving the Master Mason Degree, the Third Degree in Freemasonry. The Degree will be conferred upon you provided you have demonstrated proficiency in the candidate's lecture of the Fellow Craft Degree. The preferred dress for the evening is a suit, or a sport jacket and tie. The fee for the degree is <Third Degree Fee>. This fee will be collected from you before the work of the evening begins. The Master requests that you be present at or before <Degree Time>. It is very important for you to be prompt. If you have any questions, you may call your sponsor, <Sponsor s Name> at <Sponsor s Phone>, or call me at < s Phone>. Fraternally Yours, < s Name> 3-11

12 DELINQ-1.TXT Date Bro. Address City re: Overdue Dues Obligation: $ Dear Brother ; I hope this letter finds you and your family in good health. In reviewing the records of the Lodge, I find you have not paid your dues for last year as well as for the current year. I fully understand the financial condition of many of the brethren of the Lodge, but as in life, the Lodge needs its dues money in order to operate and remain viable. We can no longer operate at a deficit and must be more aggressive in collecting past dues. I am hoping you will be able to satisfy your past dues obligations to the Lodge in the near future, before any action is taken by the Lodge in accordance with the By-Laws of Sample Lodge and the Regulations of the Grand Lodge. If you feel your circumstances prohibit you from fulfilling your financial obligations to the Lodge at one time, I will certainly accept two or three monthly payments until your indebtedness is satisfied and a new dues card issued. If you further feel your circumstances are so acute that they would warrant a remission of your dues, you should respond to the Master, Wor. <Master s Name>, or the, < s Name>, as soon as possible explaining your condition. If granted by the Master, this would be a one-time-only remission of your dues and not a future entitlement. You can rest assured that any information of this kind will be kept strictly confidential. We hope you value your time as a member of the Masonic Fraternity as much as we value having you with us. You may have other personal reasons for not desiring to retain your membership as a Master Mason. Those reasons should be thought out and possibly discussed with an officer of this Lodge. The key issue here is COMMUNICATIONS! I hope you will give this matter your immediate attention. Sincerely and Fraternally, SAMPLE LODGE, A.F. & A.M. Hiram A. Biff 3-12

13 DELINQ-2.TXT Date Bro. Address City, State, Zip Dear Brother <Last Name>; The By-Laws of Sample Lodge state that Annual Dues are payable on or before September 1st of each year. The current dues schedule is listed below for your reference. Essentially, the only income the Lodge has for its general operation is from the dues it collects from its members. By not submitting your payment, you are affecting the functions of your Lodge and its programs. The records indicate you are now in arrears in your dues for the years <List Years>, amounting to $ <Amount in Arrears>. Please send your check, payable to Sample Lodge, A.F. & A.M., to the at once to avoid the possibility of being suspended from membership in Masonry. If there is any reason Bro. <Last Name>, why you cannot pay your dues, please inform the Master or immediately. Every consideration will be given. If you have a reasonable problem, the Lodge will certainly consider it. We do want to intentionally suspend any Brother without due cause. As you know, any discussion will be kept in the strictest confidence. Please let us hear from you! Sincerely and Fraternally, SAMPLE LODGE, A.F. & A.M. Hiram A. Biff Lodge Dues for 19 $ Grand Lodge Dues $ 3-13

14 DEMITINF.TXT Date Bro. Address City Dear Bro. ; Thank you for taking care of your dues obligations to Sample Lodge. I assume by the tone of your letter that you are desiring to Demit from the lodge at this time. Since you are still a member in good standing you are eligible to request the Demit. The Demit gives you most Masonic privileges for one year following the date of the Demit. It also allows you limited privileges after that year has lapsed. You may use the Demit to visit any lodge during the first year, after which you must affiliate in order to visit. The Demit also says that you were a member in good standing at the time of issuance of the Demit and therefore eliminates much of the 'red tape' should you decide at some future period to affiliate with a lodge. When a Demit is issued, it being certified by the lodge secretary and the Grand, you are then relieved from all lodge obligations including the payment of dues. Other benefits are also lost at that point and they were pointed out to you in the two page letter sent to you earlier. If you are requesting a Demit for other reasons such as financial or medical, and the payment of your dues would create a real hardship for you at this time, I want you to know there are vehicles in place to assist you with these problems. Upon your request, the Master can temporarily remit your dues to the Lodge and to Grand Lodge thereby preserving your membership in the Fraternity. This request must also be made by you in writing briefly stating your conditions. You can rest assured any information communicated this way will be held in the strictest confidence. I just want you to be fully aware of what a Demit is and what it affords you, and also other options that may be open to you. Please contact me if this is, in fact, what you are desiring and I will process your request immediately. In the meantime I wish you all the best and hope you and your family are in good health. Sincerely and Fraternally, SAMPLE LODGE, A.F. & A.M. Hiram A. Biff 3-14

15 DEMIT.TXT Date Bro. Address City Dear Brother ; Enclosed is a certified copy of the DEMIT requested by you, terminating your membership in Sample Lodge. According to Grand Lodge Constitutions, section 506: "A Brother, who holds a Demit is entitled to visit Lodges, subject to the constitutional provisions for visiting, for one year from the date of issue and no more. If he remains for more than one year without being affiliated with some regular Lodge, he shall not of right be entitled to any of the benefits or privileges of Masonry, except that he may at any time petition for affiliation." I wish you all the best in your future endeavors in Masonry. Should you ever have a question concerning this Demit certificate or Sample Lodge, please do not hesitate to contact me. Sincerely and Fraternally, SAMPLE LODGE, A.F. & A.M. Hiram A. Biff 3-15

16 DEMITUNK.TXT Date R.W. Paul W. Rolston, Grand Grand Lodge of Massachusetts 186 Tremont Street Boston, MA Dear Brother Grand ; Sample Lodge requests a Demit be issued for the following brother whose address is unknown, and all attempts to locate him have failed. Name of Member: REQUEST FOR DEMIT -- ADDRESS UNKNOWN Street: City: State: Zip: Lodge: Date of Membership: Date of Birth: Last Year Dues Were Paid: Date Certified Letter Sent: Date Return Receipt Received: Date Information On Brother Was Requested In Lodge Notice: LAST KNOWN ADDRESS Attest: Date: 19 Lodge Approved: Date: 19 Grand 3-16

17 DUES-3RD.TXT Date Bro. Address City re: Overdue Dues for 199x: $ Dear Brother ; In reviewing the records of the Lodge, I find you are in arrears in payment of dues to Sample Lodge. Frankly, the only source of operating revenue the Lodge has is through its dues payments. Grand Lodge has requested that individual Lodges tighten up on their suspension policies. Allowing a Brother to become suspended for two years, rather than one, before submitting his name to the Lodge for suspension usually results in only delaying the inevitable. At our regular May Communication I am required by our By-Laws to report to the Master those members who are in arrears, and at our regular June Communication those names will be read in open Lodge and a vote taken to suspend. Perhaps you have overlooked this matter. I most urgently ask that you please attend promptly to it. The Lodge needs its dues in order to operate and function effectively. Should there be a problem that would cause financial hardship, please convey this to the Worshipful Master or myself so your membership in the Lodge can be continued. Of course this will be handled in strict confidence. Please do not hesitate to call me if you have any questions. Sincerely and Fraternally; SAMPLE LODGE, A.F. & A.M. Hiram A. Biff 3-17

18 ELECT_A.LET <Today's Date> <Candidate s Name> <Candidate s Address> <Candidate s City, State, Zip> Dear Bro. <Candidate s Last Name>; At a regular communication of <Lodge Name> Lodge held on <Ballot Date> in <Lodge City>, the members of the Lodge elected you, by a unanimous vote, to affiliate with the brethren of <Lodge Name> Lodge. I congratulate you on your election. The Brethren of <Lodge Name> Lodge invite you to sign the bylaws of our Lodge. The Lodge will next meet on <Next Lodge Meeting>. I look forward to seeing you at our upcoming communications. I am sure you will enjoy being with us. Welcome to <Lodge Name> Lodge. Fraternally yours, < s Name> 3-18

19 ELECT_D.LET <Today's Date> <Candidate s Name> <Candidate s Address> <Candidate s City, State, Zip> NOTE: This letter does not comply with Grand Lodge Regulations informing the candidate of time limits, forfeiture, and Section 413 of the Constitutions. See SMPLELEC.TXT for proper format. Dear Mr. <Candidate s Last Name>; At a regular communication of <Lodge Name> Lodge, held on <Ballot Date> in <Lodge City>, the members of <Lodge Name> Lodge elected you, by a unanimous vote, to receive the Ancient Masonic degrees in <Lodge Name> Lodge. Masonic tradition dictates that a candidate not be solicited for membership by the Lodge, but that he must seek admission to the Lodge of his own free will. You have done this by asking the recommendation of a friend, <Sponsor s Name>, and seeking admission through his recommendation. Also, it is recognized in Masonry that a man must first be a Mason in his heart before he can receive degrees in a Lodge of Masons. You have been found to be such a man by your sponsor, your investigators, and the Brethren of the Lodge. The members of <Lodge Name> Lodge take pride in the tradition and history of our Lodge and of Massachusetts Masonry. Freemasonry is the oldest continuing fraternity in the World. Men such as George Washington, a Past Master of his Lodge; Paul Revere, a Past Grand Master of Masons in Massachusetts; and Benjamin Franklin, a Past Grand Master of Masons in Pennsylvania have all shared the mystic tie of the Masonic Degrees, and the Brotherhood of Freemasonry. Men such as these, and many others down through the ages, have shaped the traditions and set the high standards that Freemasons live by today. I congratulate you on your election. The Master of <Lodge Name> Lodge, <Master s Name>, has scheduled an Entered Apprentice Degree to be conferred on you at <Lodge Location>, <Lodge Address>, on <First Degree - Day and Date>, at <Degree Time>. Please be prompt. The preferred dress for the evening is a suit, or a sport jacket and tie. The fee for the degree is <First Degree Fee>. This fee will be collected from you before the work of the evening begins. If you have any questions, you may call your sponsor, <Sponsor s Name> at <Sponsor s Phone>, or call me at < s Phone>. Very truly yours, < s Name> 3-19

20 FEESDUE.TXT Date Bro. Address City Dear Bro. ; Congratulations on being raised to the Sublime Degree on. I'm sure it was quite an experience for you! Your next milestone will be that of signing the By-Laws of Sample Lodge and then receiving a dues card which will enable you to visit any regular lodge in the world. The signing of the By-Laws can happen as soon as the next regular business meeting provided a number of items have been completed, as were also required before you advanced to each succeeding degree. You will be also be invited to the next informational session at the Masonic Forum which will be held on at the Lodge Building. You will also be receiving instruction in the Third Degree Cipher and should be prepared to be exemplified in open Lodge on the candidate's portion. You should also be prepared to satisfy the remainder of the financial requirements associated with your initiation, namely the membership fee of $ According the Grand Constitutions, you have one year from your date of raising to satisfy the above requirements, sign the By-Laws and receive a dues card. Until then, you are able to attend any degree but only at our lodge. I look forward to seeing you again at our next meeting, and hopefully sign the By-Laws on, 199x. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact either the Master or myself. Sincerely and Fraternally; SAMPLE LODGE, A.F. & A.M. Hiram A. Biff 3-20

21 GM-DISP.TXT Date M.W. Arthur E. Johnson, Grand Master Masonic Building 186 Tremont Street Boston, MA Dear Brother Johnson: On behalf of <Master s Name>, Master of Sample Lodge, Sample Lodge requests dispensation to <State reason: enclose flyers with notice; change meeting date; change time between degrees; have a degree team present; etc.>. Thank you for your assistance. Sincerely and Fraternally SAMPLE LODGE, A.F. & A.M. Hiram A. Biff 3-21

22 GM-TYPO.TXT Date M.W. Arthur E. Johnson, Grand Master Masonic Building 186 Tremont Street Boston, MA Dear Brother Johnson: At the <Date of Meeting> meeting of Sample Lodge, it was brought to my attention just prior to being balloted upon, that the name of one of our candidates was improperly spelled in our monthly lodge notice. The listing for <Candidate s Name> contained a typographical error in his last name and was through no fault of the candidate. He was elected to receive the degrees in Sample Lodge. We are requesting that the irregular ballot be healed and that Mr. <Candidate s Last Name> be declared eligible to receive the degrees of Freemasonry in Sample Lodge. Thank you for your courtesies. Sincerely and fraternally, SAMPLE LODGE, A.F. & A.M. Hiram A. Biff 3-22

23 G_DEMIT.LET <Today's Date> <Grand s Name> <Grand Lodge Name> <Grand Lodge Address> <Grand Lodge City, State, Zip> Dear Brother Grand ; <Member s Salutation> <Member s Full Name>, a member of <Lodge Name> Lodge, has requested a Demit from membership of said Lodge. Enclosed is a Demit form for Grand Lodge certification. <Member s Salutation> <Member s Last Name> was born <Member s Date of Birth>, initiated <Member s First Degree Date>, passed <Member s Second Degree Date>, and raised on <Member s Third Degree Date>. Should you need further information, I may be contacted at < s Phone>. Fraternally Yours, < s Name> 3-23

24 G_FIFTY.LET <Today's Date> <Grand Master s Name> <Grand Lodge Name> <Grand Lodge Address> <Grand Lodge City, State, Zip> Dear Grand Master; We ask that you consider the worthiness of <Member s Salutation> <Member s Full Name> for a Masonic Veteran's Medal. <Member s Salutation> <Member s Last Name> is a member in good standing of <Lodge Name> Lodge in <Lodge City>. Name: <Member s Full Name> Address: <Member s Address> <Member s City, State, Zip> Home Phone: <Member s Phone> DOB: <Member s Date of Birth> Place of Birth: <Member s Place of Birth> Degree Lodge: <Member s Degree Lodge> Entered: <Member s First Degree Date> Passed: <Member s Second Degree Date> Raised: <Member s Third Degree Date> On behalf of the Master of <Lodge Name> Lodge, <Master s Name>, I thank you for your consideration of this matter. Respectfully Submitted, < s Name> 3-24

25 G_LIFE.LET <Today's Date> <Grand s Name> <Grand Lodge Name> <Grand Lodge Address> <Grand Lodge City, State, Zip> Dear Brother Grand ; We ask that you consider <Member s Salutation> <Member s Full Name> for life membership in Grand Lodge, as he has reached the age of eighty-eight years. Name: <Member s Full Name> Address: <Member s Address> <Member s City, State, Zip> Home Phone: <Member s Phone> DOB: <Member s Date of Birth> Entered: <Member s First Degree Date> Passed: <Member s Second Degree Date> Raised: <Member s Third Degree Date> I thank you on behalf of <Member s Salutation> <Member s Last Name> for your attention to this matter. Respectfully submitted, < s Name> 3-25

26 G_RECORD.LET <Today's Date> <Grand s Name> <Grand Lodge Name> <Grand Lodge Address> <Grand Lodge City, State, Zip> Dear Brother Grand ; <Candidate s Salutation> <Candidate s Full Name> has applied for affiliate membership with <Lodge Name> Lodge. Please provide me with a copy of <Candidate s Salutation> <Candidate s Last Name>'s Masonic Record. Name: <Candidate s Full Name> Address: <Candidate s Address> <Candidate s City, State, Zip> Home Phone: <Candidate s Phone> DOB: <Candidate s Date of Birth> Degree Lodge: <Candidate s Degree Lodge> Entered: <Candidate s First Degree Date> Passed: <Candidate s Second Degree Date> Raised: <Candidate s Third Degree Date> Thank you for your help with this matter. Fraternally yours, < s Name> 3-26

27 INACTIV1.TXT Date Bro. Address City Dear Brother ; I hope this letter finds you and your family in good health. I want you to know that we are thinking of you, and hope that when your schedule allows, you will be able to come back to Lodge to visit for an evening! As part of the annual accounting of members, I have received an updated listing from Grand Lodge showing the status of our membership. Unfortunately there are some discrepancies in the data. I am trying to ascertain where some of the many problems lie, and why many members are listed as inactive when they are current on our books. Unfortunately, you are listed as "inactive." I spoke with the Grand 's office and according to their records you are listed as suspended from Lodge, effective 19xx. I am sure there is some explanation or reason that this may be an error. Please contact me as soon as you can so we can work together to erase this notation on your record. If you have a Demit from your other lodge, could you send me a copy of it. I will then see to it that your record is clear and we can still keep your smiling personality in our Lodge. I hope you realize what this scenario implies. Should you wish to deal with Grand Lodge direct, the number is (617) Should you decide to go that route, it is extremely important you keep me posted as to your progress. If there are other extenuating circumstances that might warrant a remission of your Lodge dues, please contact me immediately. I will be more than happy to work on your behalf with the of Lodge to get you reinstated there, hereby maintaining your membership with Sample Lodge. Should you have any questions relative to this or any other Masonic matter, please do not hesitate to contact me. I look forward to hearing from you soon. Sincerely and Fraternally SAMPLE LODGE, A.F. & A.M. Hiram A. Biff 3-27

28 INACTIV3.TXT Date Bro. Address City Dear Brother ; Thank you for your dues payment to Sample Lodge. According to Grand Lodge regulations, since there is a suspension posted to your membership by Lodge, as of, 1991, I am forbidden to issue your dues card. The Constitutions of the Grand Lodge, Sec. 504, states "A Brother who has been suspended for non-payment of dues, even by a lodge in another jurisdiction, shall have no right to attend the meeting of any lodge until the amount due the suspending Lodge is paid in full." Accordingly, I am required to issue you a receipt for your payment and hold your dues card until I receive notification from the Grand 's office that the suspension has been lifted by the issuing lodge. I truly regret having to take this action, but unfortunately I have no other alternative. As I mentioned to you in my letter of, I will be more that happy to work on your behalf with the secretary of Lodge to have you reinstated there. Should you have a Demit from Lodge, and believe the suspension was listed in error, please send me a copy of it and I will then make sure the suspension lifted and your record is cleared. This would automatically maintain your membership with Sample Lodge. Should there be other extenuating circumstances that might warrant a remission of your lodge dues, please contact me immediately. Rest assured that anything discussed of this nature will be held in the strictest confidence. Should you wish to deal with Grand Lodge directly, their address is: 186 Tremont Street, Boston, MA 02111; (617) Which ever option you choose to follow, it is very important I be kept abreast of any actions taken and any progress made. I look forward to hearing from you shortly. Sincerely and Fraternally; SAMPLE LODGE, A.F. & A.M. Hiram A. Biff 3-28

29 INFOMASO.TXT Date Mr. Address City Dear Mr. ; I have been given your name by your friend,, a fellow member of Sample Lodge, A.F. & A.M. He informs me that you are interested in learning more about Freemasonry and what Masonry is about and are considering joining Sample Lodge. I am enclosing a few booklets that will be of interest to you: "What It Means To Be A Mason" and "Freemasonry, A Way Of Life" both published by the Grand Lodge of Masons in Massachusetts, and "Should I Ask" published by the Supreme Council of the Northern Jurisdiction of Scottish Rite. I hope they will answer many of the questions you have about our beloved fraternity. Should you decide you want to become a part of our lodge, I will forward the necessary application forms to you and arrange for you to be contacted by the chairman of the membership committee. You will be invited to meet with him to be shown the lodge building in Mytown and meet other members of the Lodge. You will also be informed what the fee schedule is for joining the lodge and the annual dues structure. He will also answer any other questions you will have and explain to you the rest of the processes involved. Should you have any questions in the meantime please do not hesitate to call me. Thank you for your interest in Freemasonry and in Sample Lodge. I look forward to hearing from you soon. Sincerely, SAMPLE LODGE, A.F. & A.M. Hiram A. Biff 3-29

30 INFORM.LET <Today's Date> <Candidate s Name> <Candidate s Address> <Candidate s City, State, Zip> Dear <Candidate s Salutation> <Candidate s Last Name>; The Master of <Lodge Name> Lodge, <Master s Name> has assigned three members of the Lodge to review your application for Masonic degrees, and to make inquiries of your references. The committee consists of: <Investigator #1 Name> of <Investigator #1 City> <Investigator #2 Name> of <Investigator #2 City> <Investigator #3 Name> of <Investigator #3 City> The members of the investigation committee will be in touch with you in the near future. Should you have any questions, please contact your sponsor, <Sponsor s Name> at <Sponsor s Phone>, or contact me at < s Phone>. Very truly yours, < s Name> 3-30

31 INSTRUCT.LET <Today's Date> <Candidate s Name> <Candidate s Address> <Candidate s City, State, Zip> Dear <Candidate s Salutation> <Candidate s Last Name>; The Master of <Lodge Name> Lodge, <Master s Name> has arranged for you attend a Lodge of Instruction on <Date For Lodge of Instruction> at <Lodge of Instruction Location>. The meeting will be held at <Lodge of Instruction Place>, <Address for Lodge of Instruction>. You should arrive at or before <Candidate Show Time>. Please remember to bring your Lodge of Instruction card with you. If you have any questions, you may call your sponsor, <Sponsor s Name> at <Sponsor s Phone> or call me at < s Phone>. Fraternally yours, < s Name> 3-31

32 LECTURE1.LET <Today's Date> <Candidate s Name> <Candidate s Address> <Candidate s City, State, Zip> Dear Bro. <Candidate s Last Name>; As an Entered Apprentice, you must indeed be looking forward to further exploring the mysteries of Freemasonry by experiencing the ritual lessons of the Fellowcraft Degree, or Second Degree. Before you can be passed to the Fellowcraft Degree, however, you must first be examined on your proficiency in the work of an Entered Apprentice. The Master of <Lodge Name> Lodge, <Master s name>, hereby summonses you and requests that you present yourself at the <Lodge Lecture Location>, on <Lecture Date> at <Lecture Time>, for the purpose of his examination of your work as an Entered Apprentice. Please be prompt, and bring with you your First Degree Candidate's Cipher Booklet. If you have any questions, you may call your sponsor, <Sponsor s Name> at <Sponsor s Phone> or call me at < s Phone>. Fraternally yours, < s Name> 3-32

33 LECTURE2.LET <Today's Date> <Candidate s Name> <Candidate s Address> <Candidate s City, State, Zip> Dear Bro. <Candidate s Last Name>; As a Fellowcraft, you must indeed be looking forward to further exploring the mysteries of Freemasonry by experiencing the ritual lessons of the Master Mason Degree, or Third Degree. Before you can be raised to the Master Mason Degree, however, you must first be examined on your proficiency in the work of a Fellowcraft. The Master of <Lodge Name> Lodge, <Master s Name>, hereby summonses you and requests that you present yourself at the <Lodge Lecture Location>, on <Lecture Date> at <Lecture Time>, for the purpose of his examination of your work as a Fellowcraft. Please be prompt, and bring with you your Second Degree Candidate's Cipher booklet. If you have any questions, you may call your sponsor, <Sponsor s Name> at <Sponsor s Phone> or call me at < s Phone>. Fraternally yours, < s Name> 3-33

34 LECTURE3.LET <Today's Date> <Candidate s Name> <Candidate s Address> <Candidate s City, State, Zip> Dear Bro. <Candidate s Last Name>; Congratulations on your elevation to the Sublime Degree. As a Master Mason, you must be looking forward to signing the bylaws of <Lodge Name> Lodge, and joining your friends and brethren as a member of <Lodge Name> Lodge. Before you may do this, however, you must first be examined on your proficiency in the work of a Master Mason. The Master of <Lodge Name> Lodge, <Master s Name>, hereby summonses you and requests that you present yourself at the <Lodge Lecture Location>, on <Lecture Date> at <Lecture Time>, for the purpose of his examination of your work as a Master Mason. Please be prompt, and bring with you your Third Degree Candidate's Cipher booklet. If you have any questions, you may call your sponsor, <Sponsor s Name> at <Sponsor s Phone> or call me at < s Phone>. Fraternally yours, < s Name> 3-34

35 LIFE-88.TXT Date Bro. Address City Dear Brother : It gives me great pleasure to present you with your Grand Lodge Life Membership Certificate, thereby exempting you from further payment of your Grand Lodge dues. This exemption is granted by the Grand Master through the Grand Treasurer upon reaching the age of 88 years. This certificate does not take the place of a receipt for Lodge dues for the purpose of visitations, but being a Charter Member of Sample Lodge, you will automatically receive your dues card every year. Please keep this certificate in a safe place and take special note of your Grand Lodge Life Membership Number,. Again, congratulations on achieving this remarkable milestone. Sincerely and Fraternally SAMPLE LODGE, A.F. & A.M. Hiram A. Biff 3-35

36 MAILRETD.TXT Date Name Address City, State, Zip Dear Brother: Recently, much of the mail sent to you by the Lodge has been returned with the notation "Temporarily Away." We can only assume that you have temporarily relocated to a warmer climate for the winter. Without your current address, not only do you not receive the monthly Lodge notices, but it becomes costly to the Lodge as all mail returned to us is postage due via first class mail. Please return this note to the secretary with your winter address and the dates you will be there. This way you will receive all notices and keep current with your friends and activities of the Lodge. Many thanks for your cooperation. We hope you have a warm and enjoyable winter, and also hope you can visit us in the spring when you return. Sincerely and Fraternally; SAMPLE LODGE, A.F. & A.M. Hiram A. Biff 3-36

37 M_EXAM.LET <Today's Date> <Member s Name> <Member s Address> <Member s City, State, Zip> Dear Brother <Member s Last Name>; The Master of <Lodge Name> Lodge, Wor. Brother <Master s Name>, has assigned you to the examination of <Candidate s Full Name>, a candidate for Masonic Degrees. The Master asks that you be present at a <Meeting Type - Special or Regular> Communication of <Lodge Name> Lodge on <Meeting day and date> at <Meeting Time> for the purpose of lecturing the candidate on the <Degree to be lectured - First, Second, Third> Degree in Freemasonry. Thank you for taking part in the work of the Lodge. The education of our candidates is the best investment we can make in the future of our lodge. If you have any questions, please call the Master at <Master s Phone>, or myself at < s Phone>. Fraternally yours, < s Name> 3-37

38 M_FIFTY.LET <Today's Date> <Member s Name> <Member s Address> <Member s City, State, Zip> Dear Brother <Member s Last Name>; Congratulations on your fifty or more years of service to <Lodge Name> Lodge, and to the Craft. The Grand Master of Masons of Massachusetts, The Most Worshipful <Grand Master s Name> has recognized your years of service to Masonry and has issued a veteran's medal, inscribed with your name, for presentation to you at an appropriate time. The Master of <Lodge Name> Lodge, <Master s Name>, hereby summonses you and requests that you be present at a <Meeting type - Special or Regular> Communication of the Lodge on <Meeting day and date>, at <Meeting Time>, for the purpose of presenting to you a fifty year veteran's medal. If you are unable to attend the meeting on this date, please contact the Master at <Master s Phone> or myself at < s Phone> to make other arrangements. Fraternally yours, < s Name> 3-38

39 M_FILLIN.LET <Today's Date> <Member s Name> <Member s Address> <Member s City, State, Zip> Dear Brother <Member s Last Name>; The Master of <Lodge Name> Lodge, <Master s Name>, requests that you be present at a <Meeting Type - Special or Regular> Communication of the Lodge on <Meeting day and date>, at <Meeting time> for the purpose of taking part in the ritual of the <Degree work - First, Second, Third> Degree. Your assignment is that of the <Assignment - 1st, 2nd, 3rd Gate, Master, Emblems, Lecture>. If you have any questions, you may contact the Master at <Master s Phone> or myself at < s Phone>. Fraternally yours, < s Name> 3-39

40 M_INVSTA.LET <Today's Date> <Member s Name> <Member s Address> <Member s City, State, Zip> Dear Brother <Member s Last Name>; The Master, Wor. Brother <Master s Name>, has assigned you to the investigation of <Affiliate Candidate s Full Name> who has applied to affiliate with the Brethren of <Lodge Name> Lodge. The candidate took his Masonic Degrees in <Candidate s Degree Lodge>. Enclosed is some additional information that you will need, and a blank report form. Please contact the candidate, ask any questions that you deem appropriate, and contact his references as necessary. <Candidate s Full Name> s address is <Candidate s Address>, <Candidate s City, State, Zip>. His phone number is <Candidate s Phone>. His occupation is: <Candidate s Business Title>, <Candidate s Business Name>. The applicant's sponsor is <Candidate s Sponsor s Name> The Committee is comprised of: <Investigator #1 Name> <Investigator #1 Phone> <Investigator #2 Name> <Investigator #2 Phone> <Investigator #3 Name> <Investigator #3 Phone> The members of the investigation committee will be in touch with you in the near future. Should you have any questions, please contact your sponsor, <Sponsor s Name> at <Sponsor s Phone>, or contact me at < s Phone>. Thank you for serving on this committee. Please give your findings careful consideration. Many of the brethren, not being acquainted with the candidate, will depend heavily on the committee's recommendation. Your report must be submitted to the by our next regular meeting on <Meeting day and date>. Fraternally yours, < s Name> 3-40

41 M_INVSTD.LET <Today's Date> <Member s Name> <Member s Address> <Member s City, State, Zip> Dear Brother <Member s Last Name>; The Master, <Master s Name>, has assigned you to the investigation of <Candidate s Full Name>, who has applied to take degrees in <Lodge Name> Lodge. Enclosed is some information that you will need, and a blank report form. Please contact the candidate, ask any questions that you deem appropriate, and contact his references as necessary. <Candidate s Full Name>'s address is <Candidate s Address>, <Candidate s City, State, Zip>. His phone number is <Candidate s Phone>. <Candidate s Salutation> <Candidate s Last Name> s <Candidate s Business Title>, <Candidate s Company>. The candidate's sponsor is <Sponsor s Name>, <Sponsor s Phone>. The Committee is comprised of: <Investigator #1 Name> <Investigator #1 Phone> <Investigator #2 Name> <Investigator #2 Phone> <Investigator #3 Name> <Investigator #3 Phone> Thank you for serving on this committee. The investigating committee is our vanguard for insuring the quality of our membership. Please give your findings careful consideration. Many of the brethren, not being acquainted with the candidate, will depend heavily on the committee's recommendation. Your report must be submitted to the by our next regular meeting on <Meeting day and date>. Fraternally yours, < s Name> 3-41

42 M_NOSUS.LET <Today's Date> <Member s Name> <Member s Address> <Member s City, State, Zip> Dear Brother <Member s Last Name>; I regret to inform you, that in accordance with the section of <Lodge Name> Lodge bylaws which regulates the suspension of members delinquent in their dues obligation, your membership suspension will be considered at the Regular Communication of the Lodge to be held on <Meeting day and date>, at <Meeting time>. The records indicate that you owe dues now payable for <Number of years owed including the current year> years. This includes <Amount of dues delinquent not including current year> for previous periods as well as <Amount of dues for current year> for the current year. Please contact the Master, <Master s Name> at <Master s Phone>, or myself at < s Phone> Masonry cannot afford to lose good men like yourself. Your membership is very important to the Brethren of <Lodge Name> Lodge. Please call so that we may make some suitable arrangement to avoid the suspension of a valued Brother. Fraternally yours, < s Name> 3-42

43 M_OMEET.LET <Today's Date> <Member s Name> <Member s Address> <Member s City, State, Zip> Dear Brother <Member s Last Name>; The Master of <Lodge Name> Lodge, <Master s Name>, requests that you be present at a meeting of Lodge officers on <Meeting day and date>, at <Meeting time> The meeting will be held at <Meeting place>. Fraternally yours, < s Name> 3-43

44 M_SUMMON.LET <Today's Date> <Member s Name> <Member s Address> <Member s City, State, Zip> Dear Brother <Member s Last Name>; The Master of <Lodge Name> Lodge, <Master s Name>, summonses you and requests that you be present at a <Meeting type - Special or Regular> Communication of the Lodge on <Meeting day and date>, at <Meeting time>. Should you be unable to attend, please contact <Master s Name> at <Master s Phone>, or contact me at < s Phone>. Fraternally yours, < s Name> 3-44

45 M_SUSPEN.LET <Today's Date> <Member s Name> <Member s Address> <Member s City, State, Zip> Dear Brother <Member s Last Name>; I regret to inform you that at a Regular Communication of <Lodge Name> Lodge held on <Meeting day and date>, your membership in the Lodge was suspended in accordance with the lodge By-Laws as you are delinquent in your dues obligation to the Lodge. The Brethren regret these circumstances and hope that an arrangement can be made for your reinstatement. Please call the Master, <Master s Name>, at <Master s Phone> or myself at < s Phone>. Fraternally yours, < s Name> 3-45