Mentoring Report UGLE

Rulers’ Forum
Working Party
Report on
Mentoring
Groups 1, 4 and 8
11th December 2007
Rulers’ Forum
Working Party Report on Mentoring
Contents
1. Overview
2. Roles & Responsibilities
3. Mentoring Guidelines
4. Mentoring Toolkit
5. Acknowledgements
6. Index
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1. OVERVIEW Contents Page Index
1.1 INTRODUCTION
We have had discussions with a number of Lodges and Provinces and the structure and
methodology set out in this paper is a compilation of good practice throughout England and
Wales. The role envisaged for Grand Lodge is a development of the process started by the
Rulers’ Forum and which will be the vehicle by which the experiences of the individual
Provinces can be shared and benefited from by others.
At the start of the Initiation Ceremony the candidate is told that he can “follow your leader
with a firm but humble confidence” and so begins a symbolical journey from darkness to light,
from ignorance to Masonic Knowledge. The work of the Mentor is to be the new mason’s
guide, leader and coach once the ceremony has finished – to explain not only the workings,
traditions and organisation of our Institution, but also to lift the veil of allegory and reveal the
meaning behind the symbols so that the new mason can enjoy and understand the
organisation that he has joined.
Thus the whole focus of Masonic Mentoring is to enable the new mason to grow in
knowledge, involvement and confidence in masonry so that he can benefit from and enjoy his
membership.
1.2 THE MENTOR
It can be seen from the above that there has to be a special relationship between the new
mason and his Mentor. This is a one-to-one relationship and except in the case of very small
or special Lodges the concept of a “Lodge Mentor” for all candidates is not the best way
forward. In many cases the obvious choice of Mentor would be the candidate’s Proposer or
Seconder. Where this is not possible they should be consulted on the choice of someone
else. Whatever the decision the brother must be carefully chosen and have particular
qualities. It has been observed many times that the greatest difficulty in the scheme is to find
suitable Mentors.
The first and most important attribute for a Mentor is that he relates to his charge and that
they get on well together and enjoy each other’s company. The Mentor will then introduce the
new mason to his friends in the Lodge and immediately increase his circle of friends. It is
likely, but not necessary, that the Mentor will be of a similar age group to the candidate. It
therefore follows that it is possible that the Mentor has himself only become a mason quite
recently perhaps in the last five years or so and may not have the in-depth knowledge to fulfil
his task. If the view is taken that only knowledgeable masons can be Mentors then it is likely
that they will be of a different generation to their charges and while they may relate, the new
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mason could find himself in the company of men much older than, and of different interests,
to himself.
If, as suggested, the Mentor is relatively new to masonry himself he will need considerable
support from the Lodge and the Province.
1.3 THE MENTORING SCHEME
The Mentoring Scheme therefore consists of two parts. One part is focused on the new
mason and the other sets out to support the Mentor. From our own knowledge of the Craft we
are all aware that no one can know all there is to know about masonry and so there must be
a high level of support from the Lodge, the Province and Grand Lodge.
LOCAL DELIVERY BACKED BY CENTRAL SUPPORT
1.3.1 Organisation
The scheme essentially focuses on the new mason in an upturned pyramid which grows
upwards through the Mentor who is the point of delivery, to the Lodge which is the support, to
the Province which is the enabler, to Grand Lodge which is a conduit through which best
practice is disseminated.
Provincial Mentoring Organisation
PGM/DPGM/APGM
or Training Committee
(As appropriate - each Province to decide)
PROVINCIAL MENTOR
(Appointed by PGM and responsible to above)
LODGE MENTOR
(Co-ordinator/Administrator)
MENTOR MENTOR MENTOR
CANDIDATE CANDIDATE CANDIDATE
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The Lodge: We have seen above that the essence of a Mentoring Scheme is the one-to-one
relationship between the Mentor and the new member and it is vital that the Lodge chooses
the right man for the job. This is done best in Lodges where a Mentoring Co-ordinator has
been appointed. The Lodge Mentoring Co-ordinator (Lodge Mentor) has essentially an
organisational and support role for the Mentors. He is responsible for the operation of the
scheme once the Lodge has agreed its adoption. He should select and recommend the
Mentor and ensure that he fully understands his responsibility and is trained in what needs to
be done. To help him select the best Mentor he should meet the candidate before his
Initiation and hopefully the Mentor selected should also meet the Candidate prior to the
evening of initiation.
– In short the role of the Lodge is to: implement the System in their Lodge
– appoint a Co-ordinator who
9 may customise Provincial booklets for the Lodge
9 ensures applicants receive a fitting introduction to Masonry
9 helps each Mason find a suitable Masonic coach/mentor
9 tracks progress of System in Lodge
9 liaises with Provincial Co-ordinator
– is willing to take on the role for a number of years.
– provide Masonic coaches/friends/mentors who
9 encourage Masonic awareness in each charge using provided materials
and own experience
9 know where to turn when they reach the limit of their own experience
A good Co-ordinator (Lodge Mentor) will have a pool of Mentors whom he will have trained
in anticipation of an applicant for Freemasonry. Many Provinces run regular Workshops for
Mentors to support the Lodge Co-ordinators. He will also arrange for the EAs or FCs to be
coached while they are out of the Lodge Room during a higher degree ceremony. It is often a
good time for the new mason to meet his fellows and have an open discussion about
Freemasonry perhaps around a theme.
The Province: The role of the Province is pivotal to the success of the scheme. Its role is to:
– manage the System locally
– appoint a Provincial Mentoring Co-ordinator who
9 downloads the toolkit and customises content for the Province
9 supports Lodges
– provides advice and guidance to Lodge Co-ordinator
– organises training for Lodge Co-ordinators and mentors/coaches
– arranges Masonic awareness and development seminars
– listens to Lodges’ experiences
– provide booklets for each applicant, candidate, etc.
– measure effectiveness of System in the Province
– in future to provide experience to Grand Lodge
As stated above, a number of Provinces run Seminars and Workshops to support their
Mentoring Programme. A round the table discussion can be much more fruitful than always
meeting on a one-to-one basis. Some of the most interesting discussions have happened
when the wives and partners of the new members are present at an Initiates dinner or some
similar occasion.
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There are various thoughts about funding a Mentoring Scheme and if Lodges are asked to
buy the booklets some reject the whole concept on the basis of cost. It is certainly best if the
cost of the booklets and Seminars are centrally funded by the Province and there will be
differing views as to how this can best be managed. Whilst one Province already levies a
charge on its Lodges in respect of material supplied to every Initiate, other Provinces may
well prefer to meet such costs out of overheads.
Grand Lodge: It is hoped the role of Grand Lodge would be to:
– provide continuing sponsorship of System

– learn of good practise from Provinces
– provide central support to Provinces
9 maintain and provide an online mentoring toolkit
9 maintain further Masonic development material on the web
9 advise Provinces on recommended implementation
– measure overall effectiveness of System
1.4 CONCLUSION
As was stated at the beginning, the ideas set out above have been found to work in a number
of Provinces and many Lodges. They are offered as ideas for those Lodges where there is no
scheme at present or where it is intended to reintroduce a Mentoring scheme. The Provinces
where there has been the greatest success are those that have a culture of Mentoring
running through the whole of the Province “like Blackpool through a stick of rock”.
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2. Roles & Responsibilities Contents Page Index
2.1 Provincial Mentor
2.2 Lodge Mentor
2.3 Mentor
2.4 Proposer & Seconder
2.5 Monitoring & Evaluation
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2.1 Provincial Mentor 2. Roles & Responsibilities 2.2 The Lodge Mentor Index
2.1.1 Introduction
"Mentoring is to support and encourage people to manage their own learning in order that they may
maximise their potential, develop their skills, improve their performance and become the person
they want to be."
Eric Parsloe, The Oxford School of Coaching & Mentoring
Candidates for Freemasonry, of the right quality, are not always easy to find and it is
therefore particularly disappointing when any Initiate feels the need to resign from the Craft. It
must be in all our interests to ensure that such resignations are kept to an absolute minimum
and that, when they do occur, they are not as a result of the Lodge showing a lack of interest
in, or support for the Initiate.
The purpose of a Mentoring Programme is to provide a high level of personal support to each
Candidate, in order to ensure that he is able to enjoy being a Freemason, understands the
principles of the Craft, and becomes involved in his Lodge and all its activities as fully as
possible.
It is accepted that one person alone cannot achieve this objective. The Lodge, as a whole,
must welcome, support and value its new members - indeed, every member! The Lodge
Mentor must be assisted by other members of the Lodge, and will act as a co-ordinator for
the Proposers, Seconders or, for other brethren he has selected to act as Mentors under his
guidance. Each Lodge will of course approach this task in its own preferred way, but
whatever that way is, there needs to be acceptance of the fact that a structure is
necessary. It is not enough to merely depend upon a Proposer or Seconder, however well
meaning they may be, for their other duties in the Lodge or an inability to attend regularly
may leave the Candidate neglected.
2.1.2 What does a Provincial Mentor do?
In simple terms, just as a Mentor supports a Candidate, so the Provincial Mentor supports
Mentors working within the Lodges in the Province. He will be appointed by the Provincial
Grand Master with express instructions to provide a programme of training and support
across the Province.
Provincial Mentor = Training and Support
As a minimum, his duties should include the following -

9 Maintain an up-to-date database of Lodge Mentors, their addresses, telephone
numbers and, more importantly, e-mail addresses for frequent updates and training
information.
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9 Organise Mentor Training Days at least once a year, so that ideas can be exchanged
and new initiatives explored. Training of Mentors is essential if the Mentoring
programme is to succeed and workshops held should ideally contain professional
material. e.g. Active Listening Skills PowerPoint Presentation
9 Depending on the size of the Province, encourage the establishment of support
groups, so that networking is possible between Sister and nearby lodges.
9 Actively pursue those lodges without Mentors, to encourage the adoption of the
programme and offer to visit with a Road Show PowerPoint Presentation, a Short
Paper on Mentoring or other events to publicise the scheme.
9 Encourage lodges to ‘publicly’ appoint their Lodge Mentor at the annual Installation
Meeting, and to amend their ceremony of Initiation to allow the introduction of the
individual Mentor to the Candidate immediately after the “Charge” is delivered.
9 Report to the Provincial Executive or training committee as appropriate, with regular
periodic returns on Mentor numbers, successes, problems and training initiatives. For
this reporting function to be meaningful, rather than dependant upon anecdotal
evidence as is presently often the case, it must be linked to a Lodge Mentoring Report
prepared and submitted by the Lodge Mentor.
9 Provide the Provincial Grand Master with the necessary material to promote the
scheme in his Address to the annual meeting of Provincial Grand Lodge.
9 Enable the Provincial Grand Master to report on the progress of the scheme and draw
to the attention of the assembled brethren its importance and the range of services the
Provincial Mentor is able to provide.
9 Arrange new members’ meetings and networking events for new masons, including
dinners and informal meetings with wives and partners in a social environment, where
at least one of the Rulers of the Province will be present.
9 Actively promote ‘supported visiting’. This allows the new Candidate to be
accompanied on visits to other lodges, where he can watch an appropriate ceremony,
in the company of members of his own lodge.
9 Identifying and sharing best practice in mentoring around the Province, perhaps
through a Newsletter, an email network or at workshops.
2.1.3 In addition to his most important role related to Training;

The Provincial Mentor will also act as a confidant to Mentors working within the Lodge
system. There will be an ongoing requirement for him to provide comfort and reassurance
during times of uncertainty and even disillusionment, by
9 simply being available for a chat, either face-to-face, or on the telephone. Whilst this
appears relatively simple, the Provincial Mentor must nevertheless be aware of the
skills necessary when engaging in Active Listening;
9 smiling, encouraging, being optimistic about development programmes or processes
being undertaken;
9 helping Lodge Mentors feel good about what they have already achieved;
9 helping Lodge Mentors keep to deadlines and schedules, so that Monitoring and
Evaluation information is prepared and submitted in a timely manner;
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9 helping Lodge Mentors with any of their work that has 'stopped them in their tracks',
albeit temporarily;
9 helping Lodge Mentors plan their work, e.g. providing proformas, booklets or specimen
handouts as identified under Mentoring Toolkit or from any other source;
9 giving Lodge Mentors informal feedback on work they do, as they develop their
teaching or research. Feedback from other Mentors provides a useful 'first reaction' to
Lodge Mentors' work;
9 asking simply 'how is it going?'. The fact that someone will ask this is a powerful
motivator; Lodge Mentors do not want to have to reply 'well, nothing much is
happening at present'.
9 helping Lodge Mentors to get the most out of feedback and advice from other brethren
and to spread good ideas;
9 helping Mentors maintain their motivation when they are experiencing difficulty with a
particular Candidate. This should not be surprising and, indeed, may highlight a
difficult part of their own development. The Provincial Mentor can gently remind the
Mentor of the value of the final goals, and explain that whilst tough parts are only to be
expected, ‘a problem is only a problem until you know how to solve it', and so on;
9 cultivating Lodge Mentors’ feelings, e.g. “go on - you can do it”, “you're not on your
own”, 'there's someone rooting for you' etc;
9 being in a position where they “know someone who can”, when they feel unable to
offer direct help themselves.
2.1.4 What training may Mentors need?
Mentors will come in all shapes and sizes. Some will be retired brethren with many years
Masonic experience, whilst others may well have an age profile more in keeping with that of a
much younger Candidate. As a result, the amount of time they are able to commit to training
will vary considerably as will their availability to attend Workshops. However, there is one
thing they will all have in common or certainly should have, and that is an enthusiasm for the
concept of mentoring and a realisation of its importance to our Order.
Mentors are often senior people in the Craft involved in other Lodge work, or in other Orders.
Committed masons are frequently holders of an Office or position in their Lodge, or even in
the Province. This should not necessarily be the case, for the choice of Mentor should
reflect the needs of the Candidate, which may mean the appointment of a much less
experienced Mentor who, nevertheless, has more in common with the Candidate. There
is no one blueprint for success and each Lodge and every Province will doubtless find its own
solution and make best use of the talents available to it. Impress upon the Mentor and the
Lodge Mentor that they should never despair if the size of the task looks to be
unmanageable, but should rather look to share the work with other brethren, the Proposer
and Seconder, or even consider joining with Sister Lodges if necessary.
Mentors are often high profile people. It would not therefore be surprising if some think they
have no need of training or, even if they recognise that some Mentor training may help them,
feel they are too busy to find the time. Indeed, they may indicate, quite correctly, that they
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have more in-depth Masonic knowledge than you, their trainer. This is of course best
addressed by acknowledging that they may well have a greater level of Masonic knowledge,
but pointing out the initial task is to familiarise the Candidate with the basic tenets and the
social side of Freemasonry, rather than to convey anything too esoteric or complicated. It is
perhaps a good time to draw their attention to the content of the After Initiation Section in the
Mentoring Toolkit, for this clearly indicates the level at which real training starts.
2.1.5 What qualities are generally seen as relevant to being a good Mentor?
A successful Mentor should be:
9 interested in being a Mentor.

9 a person with stimulating ideas.
9 someone interested in discussing the ideas of others.
9 someone with skills to exchange.
9 supportive of change - personal, institutional, educational.
9 able to adapt to change in time to influence and control future developments.
9 able and willing to give time to the relationship to allow it to develop.
9 ready to share concerns with other Mentors.
9 a coach rather than a counsellor.
9 open, inspiring trust and confidentiality.
9 encouraging, helping Candidates to value their own work and development.
9 focussed in approach, sharing clear aims, goals or objectives.
9 able to inspire confidence.
9 deserving respect, but not demanding respect.
9 knowledgeable, but not overbearing or pedantic.
The Provincial Mentor needs to encourage people with these skills, or the ability to gain them,
to come forward and ensure the continued success of our Order. It is a chance to serve the
Craft in a meaningful and rewarding way that will have ramifications in relation to our
membership levels for many years to come.
The appointment of Provincial Mentors will ensure a consistent approach to the subject of
mentoring not only across Provinces, but also across the whole of the Craft.
The importance of the Provincial Mentor cannot be overemphasised. Without a

Provincial Mentor, there is no structured training programme for Lodge Mentors and
Mentors. Without suitably qualified Mentors at Lodge level, care of the Candidate will
suffer and we shall undoubtedly pay the price.
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2.2 The Lodge Mentor 2. Roles & Responsibilities 2.3 The Mentor Index
It is the responsibility of every Lodge to look after its members and the Lodge needs to
ensure that a Mentor is appointed for every Candidate. The Lodge Mentor has a vital role to
play, as it is his responsibility to ensure that the Mentoring process is not only implemented,
but that it also works effectively in his Lodge. To do so he must;
9 Be fully aware of the Mentoring process, what it is trying to achieve and what ‘success
looks like’.
9 Make sure that all the members of his Lodge are aware of Mentoring and what
benefits it will bring to their Lodge. Perhaps deliver a Short Paper on Masonic
Mentoring in open Lodge.
9 Ensure Mentors fully understand the aims and objectives of the programme.
9 Ensure Mentors attend any training courses or workshops provided.
9 Match the right Mentor to the Candidate. This will of course vary according to the
size of Lodge membership and the availability of suitable Mentors. Please see the
section Who Should Be a Mentor? for further advice on this. It would be helpful to be
involved at the early stages of a candidate’s application to the Lodge. This will allow
him to start thinking of a suitable match. Remember not to disregard the Proposer or
Seconder, as they may have the ability to fulfil the role.
9 Take time to ensure the Candidate and Mentor form a good initial relationship. Do they
sit together both in the Lodge and at the Festive Board? Is there a good relationship
between them and the Proposer and Seconder?
9 In order to assess how mentoring is working within the Lodge, he may wish to
complete a Detailed Mentoring Report in respect of each Candidate and use the
Lodge Mentoring Report to convey his thoughts to the Provincial Mentor.
9 Report his findings to the Lodge; perhaps he may be given an opportunity to give a
Lodge Mentor’s Report in open lodge.
Most importantly, try to make sure that this is all done in good heart and with fun. Mentoring
exists to help develop good masons and support your Lodge. If it works, everyone wins, and
the Lodge Mentor has the enviable position in making that happen.
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2.3 The Mentor 2. Roles & Responsibilities 2.2 The Lodge Mentor Index
The role of Mentor is the key position within the whole Mentoring process. It is the Mentor
who imparts his knowledge, spends time with the Candidate, and guides and supports him
throughout his initial Masonic journey. By helping him take the correct first crucial steps, you
will be guiding him on a path that will change his life, and the lives of those around him, for
the better.
The responsibilities of a Mentor are great, but the role is also, in many ways, an easy and
enjoyable one. Mentoring is not rocket science. It is simply a process of spending time with a
Candidate and exposing him to information in a controlled manner, i.e. small understandable
chunks that he can easily digest, whilst making sure he starts to understand what is
happening around him. Once he has the basic knowledge, your role will then change from
‘Teacher’ to ‘Mentor’. This may involve some elements of counselling, acting as a confidential
advisor and being a role model. These are all things you have done successfully many times
before, but you thought of it as friendship. See Mentoring Relationship for further details on
these different roles.
To find details of what the aims of a Mentor are, please read the section that is entitled
Mentoring Guidelines. In this section you will also find information on some of the key Skills
and Qualities of a Mentor, such as those relating to questioning and listening. There are also
examples of Practical Activities that will help you support your Candidate’s development.
To help you in your role, there is a comprehensive selection of material in the Mentoring
Toolkit. This section includes information that you can give to a new candidate, including
explanations of all three Degrees and much, much more. You may find it helpful to maintain
a Record Sheet, especially if you enlist the assistance of other brethren at any time.
You will have plenty of support both from The Lodge Mentor and the rest of the brethren, for it
is in everyone’s interest that you are successful in your role.
You may know of other Mentors in other Lodges and, if so, it will be good to speak to them
from time to time, to exchange ideas and best practice. Look out for any training opportunities
and workshops that may be available for you to attend in the Province, and keep in close
contact with the Lodge Mentor who will be very interested in the progress you are making.
But most importantly – enjoy yourself and have fun
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2.4 The Proposer and the Seconder 2. Roles & Responsibilities Index
When looking at the role of the Mentor, an obvious question to ask is:
“Isn’t that the role of the Proposer or Seconder?”
To some extent, the answer to this question is “yes, it is”.
Some Candidates are fortunate to have a Proposer or Seconder who has not only a sufficient
level of knowledge, but also the time and ability to pass that knowledge on to the Candidate.
All too often, this is not the case, and through no fault of either the Proposer or Seconder,
care of the Candidate may be neglected.
9 They may have an active office in the Lodge that prevents them from spending quality
time with their Candidate.
9 They may still be at an early stage of their own Masonic career, without the required
level of knowledge to be able to answer the Candidate’s questions.
9 They may be unable to attend Lodge meetings on a regular basis, for reasons of
family or business commitments.
This is where the Mentor comes into his own, as someone who can provide the time and the
knowledge required to care for the Candidate and develop his understanding of the Order.
It is clear from the above, that the relationship between the parties will very much depend on
the knowledge, skill and availability of the Proposer or Seconder. If they are able to do so,
one or both of them they may be able to be the Mentor themselves. Alternatively, it may be
that they and the Mentor work together, or it might be left solely to the Mentor to provide
independent support and guidance.
But no matter how the relationship develops, the Proposer and Seconder must always
maintain a close relationship with their Candidate. They are often the reason that he
joined the Craft and their enduring friendly relationship with him will only further enhance the
work of the Mentor.
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2.5 Monitoring & Evaluation 2.1.3 Return 2. Roles & Responsibilities Index
The mentoring programme will only achieve its aims if it operates within a well organised
structure. This includes a defined process of monitoring and evaluation. Everyone involved in
the scheme should be involved in this review process to ensure ongoing continuous
improvement.
2.5.1 The Mentor
By its very nature, this role will involve continuous review as the Mentor and Candidate will be
meeting on a regular basis to review progress.
It is the responsibility of the Mentor to give feedback on progress to the Lodge Mentor. This
will include how the mentoring relationship is progressing with the Candidate and will contain
such points as:
9 How often do they meet?

9 Have they met after each of the degree ceremonies?
9 Does the Candidate make any positive/negative comments about any aspects of the
Craft?
9 Has the candidate taken part in any ritual or shown interest in doing so?
9 Are there any recognisable skills that the Candidate has that may be useful to the
Lodge in the future i.e. a head for figures (Treasurer), Compassion (Almoner)?
9 Is the Candidate visiting other Lodges?
9 Does he attend any social events?
9 Any other general comments
The Mentor can also give feedback on how he personally feels about the role he has agreed
to undertake: does he enjoy it; has he had any good success; any best practice to share etc?
The frequency of these review sessions will depend upon the Lodge Mentor, but must occur
at least once a year before he completes a Detailed Mentoring Report in respect of each
Candidate.
2.5.2 The Lodge Mentor 2.5 Monitoring & Evaluation Index
As the Co-ordinator of mentoring within his Lodge, the Lodge Mentor needs to monitor and
report on all mentoring activities to the Provincial Mentor.
This will involve both objective and subjective methods. Subjective evaluation will come from
review discussions with Mentors on Candidate progress. This will involve the areas
mentioned above in the Mentor section, and will be mainly focussed on the nature of the
relationship between the Candidate and his Mentor.
More objective measurement can be made by taking note of a number of criteria for each
candidate:
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Number of attendances
Progression in Lodge, if appropriate
Number of Provincial seminars attended
Number of visits made to other Lodges
Attendance at Lodge of Instruction (if appropriate)
Whilst not wishing to appear prescriptive, a degree of uniformity is necessary when adopting
the criteria to be used, if a Provincial or national picture is to emerge. Whatever criteria are
being used should be open and transparent and agreed by all parties. The same criteria
should be used for each candidate in the Lodge and across Lodges. However, merely a `gut`
feeling is unhelpful as it can lead to charges of inconsistency and bias. Judgements should
be supported with evidence.
What should also be made clear is that these criteria give a judgement on the process
and not on the person.
If the process is working well, it should result in a Candidate attending regularly, showing
interest in the ritual, wanting to move on, eager to learn, asking questions and obviously
enjoying his masonry.
Whatever judgements are made should be the basis for growth during the next year. Setting
targets can be unhelpful and threatening, as well as instigating a culture of failure if targets
are not met. What is positive and empowering is for the Candidate to indicate what he
would like to do and the support he will require e.g. Learn some ritual, shadow the Inner
Guard, visit another Lodge, or help in fundraising.
Once a year the Lodge Mentor should complete a Lodge Mentoring Report and return it to
the Provincial Mentor by a specified date. This report allows the Lodge Mentor to give
progress details at both individual Candidate and general Lodge levels.
When making comments on a candidate’s progress the following terms could be used:
Very good progress (we have an excellent candidate here).

Good progress (we have the makings of an excellent Mason).
Satisfactory progress (things are going OK most of the time).
Unsatisfactory progress (the candidate does not seem to be happy. We need to sort the
problems).
2.5.3 The Provincial Mentor 2.5 Monitoring & Evaluation Index
One of the key roles of the Provincial Mentor is to monitor all mentoring activities within his
Province. By receiving Lodge Mentoring Reports from individual Lodges, he will be able to
compile an annual report for the Provincial Executive.
The format of this report will depend upon the amount of information requested by the
Executive, but as a minimum it should include the following:
9 Number of Lodges actively employing Mentoring within the Province.
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9 How many Lodge Mentors and Mentors there are within the Province.
9 Any training/workshop/road show activities within the last year.
9 Any feedback received on such activities.
9 Best practice identified.
9 Any notable successes to be celebrated.
9 Improvements identified for next year.
In addition to the above, the Provincial Mentor should consider providing data relating to how
successful Lodges are in retaining their members – and by definition, also measuring the loss
of members.
This can be done in two ways.
Membership Turnover; this is calculated by the following method:
Number of Leavers in Year * x 100 (to give %)

Total Lodge Membership **
* Resignations + exclusions + expulsions

** Membership at start of Masonic year + joining members + initiates
For example a lodge with 65 members and 3 leavers will have a loss ratio of 4.6%
It is accepted that this is the ultimate 'big picture' measure, as there will be many reasons for
people leaving the Lodge. However, one may note the following points:
9 As the ultimate aim of mentoring is to help secure the future of masonry, what better
way to see if it is working than this figure
9 If mentoring is working, it will contribute towards a more dynamic, vibrant lodge. If this
is so, it may prevent other, longer serving members from leaving as the Lodge evening
becomes more enjoyable. What may be termed 'knock-on effect'
9 This top line figure will give a good indication of which Lodges to look to for 'best
practice' (what are they doing right?) and will also identify those needing further
monitoring and possible support from Province
9 It will give a Provincial average with which to compare all Lodges within the Province
9 If all Provinces were to do this, it would not only give a national average, but also
highlight regional variations
An example of how this report could be formatted at Provincial level can be seen by following
this link: Membership Turnover Report.
The resultant % allows objective comparison. There are two tabs on the spreadsheet. One is
by numerical Lodge order; the second, and more interesting, has them sorted by leaver %
order.
Being particularly interested in New Members, the Provincial Mentor would apply a similar
calculation as follows:
Number of resignations with less than 5 years membership x 100

Number of brethren with less than 5 years membership
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Hence a Lodge with 11 members of less than 5 years service that has seen 3 of them leave
will have a loss ratio of: 27.2%.
Figures are easily presented in a spreadsheet format. Please note that the figure of 5 years is
arbitrary and could be changed to 3/7/10, if so required.
It is recognised that these are only some of the mechanisms available and are not
necessarily the only way to measure the health of a Lodge or a Province. They are, however,
useful as a guide and to establish trends.
A further interesting use of such evaluation is to apply these calculations to particular groups,
such as those members who have been through the Chair (Number of IPMs who have left
over Number of IPMs). There is anecdotal evidence that the years immediately after a brother
has been through the Chair may see him leaving Freemasonry, having achieved his initial
goal and finding there is little challenge thereafter.
This of course raises the question ‘When does Mentoring stop?’ and, in truth, the answer is
probably ‘Never’. It is an area of future debate about how mentoring can support such
issues, but calculations such as these will allow objective analysis of the situation within each
Lodge.
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A SHORT PAPER ON MASONIC MENTORING.

Provincial Mentor The Lodge Mentor Index
This paper is designed to be read out in open Lodge to give a brief explanation of the Masonic Mentoring
programme, its background, current activities and future developments.
______________________________________________________________
Brethren, let me ask you a simple question. Where does the future of Freemasonry lie?
“Ah, that’s easy” I hear you say, “it’s in the hands of the younger Masons.”
But in whose hands are they? Who is shaping those that will shape the future of the Order?
As I look around this room I can see that it is filled with a great deal of Masonic experience,
experience that is held by those with a love and a passion for their Freemasonry.
We must harness this knowledge and hand it onto the next generation.
To this end the Province has launched a programme of ‘Masonic Mentoring’ where it is
looking for those that embody all that is good about the Craft and care for its future.
We will provide Masonic Mentors with a structured training and support programme to enable
them to stimulate, engage and develop young, talented Masons to take a thriving
Freemasonry well into this new Century.
This paper is designed to provide a short overview of the subject; its background, current
progress and future developments.
What Is Masonic Mentoring?
Mentoring is a process where an individual can pass on his Masonic knowledge and
experience to a less experienced brother. Mentoring is widely used in the business world as
part of a person’s career development, and what we are trying to do is to map that process
into our Masonic lives.
Think back to when you first came into Masonry and you will realise that entering
Freemasonry can be a daunting and, often, overwhelming time. The very nature of our
organisation often leads to men joining us with little, or even no, idea of what is fully expected
of them and what they can gain from membership. A Mentor should be there to help during
these formative and crucial years.
But, I hear you thinking, that is the job of the Proposer or Seconder. At this point I must stress
that a Masonic Mentor in no way takes the place of a Proposer or Seconder, but is there to
provide support and guidance in ways which I will explain later.
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Why do we need it?
It is a sad fact that recent years have seen a steady decline in the number of Freemasons
within the United Kingdom. That is not all, two further worrying trends compound the
situation. Many of our newer brethren leave within the first 5 years of their Masonic life and
the number of active masons in each lodge is often declining.
It is this situation that has prompted our Province to implement the Mentoring programme. It
has the full support of the Provincial Grand Master and is seen as an integral part of the
development of Freemasonry in this Province.
What’s happening in the Province?
A Programme has been designed and implemented to create Masonic Mentors in Lodges to
help them with the retention and engagement of our newer brethren. This was launched in
(month and year) at a Mentoring Workshop held in (location), and it is hoped that these will
become regular events.
At these workshops, the role of the Mentor is explained and those attending are given a pack
with useful information on how to carry out their duties. At present we have over (number)
brethren in the Province taking on this role.
What does a Mentor do?
The role of a Mentor is to ensure that a new brother becomes ‘engaged’ into the ideas and
aims of our Order.
By ‘engaged’ we mean someone who is committed to their Freemasonry; regularly attends

their Lodge and takes an active role in Lodge life. By comparison someone who is
‘disengaged’ may be a Mason by right of membership, but not in tune with the aims of the
Order, not regularly attending and certainly not trying to apply their Masonic learning to their
everyday lives.
But isn’t that what the Proposer and Seconder are meant to do?
In an ideal world, the answer to this is YES. Many new masons are fortunate to be proposed
by committed and active members, but unfortunately this does not always mean that either
the Proposer or Seconder is able to effectively act as Mentor, for a number of reasons:
9 The Proposer or Seconder may hold an office in the lodge and may not be able to
spend quality time with their Candidate on a Lodge evening.
9 The Proposer or Seconder may be relatively new to Freemasonry themselves and may
not have the experience and knowledge required.
9 A situation may arise where the Proposer or Seconder cannot attend a Lodge, or, as in
some cases, stops attending altogether.
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It is in such situations that a Mentor is essential, to provide the Candidate with support,
advice and above all, friendship.
How do they do that?
The key to doing this is to take everything one step at a time. The Candidate has a great deal
of information to assimilate and the Mentor has a wealth of knowledge to impart. Controlling
access is perhaps one of the most important tasks, for the process must be governed by the
Candidate’s ability to digest the information and not by any wish on the part of the Mentor to
proceed quickly to the next stage.
It is therefore important to bring some structure to the programme and identify what the
Candidate needs to know and when he needs to know it. This is perhaps best achieved by
splitting the programme into four stages, namely
Stage 1. What is expected of me? These are all the basic questions, such as: When do we
meet? Who’s who? What are the fees that I owe? What’s a Warden etc?
Stage 2. What do I have to do next? Once the basic ‘administrative’ side is dealt with, the
next stage is to ensure an understanding of the relationship of the three Degrees
and the symbolic meaning of each as he completes them in turn. It is only with a
full understanding of our ceremonies and their meanings that a new brother will
realise the essence of Masonry. Without this, he will never become fully engaged in
the Craft and it will be impossible for him to maintain further interest.
Stage 3. Do I belong? This is when the question arises “Now that I understand it, do I fit in,
is it for me?” The answer to this can only be ‘yes’, if the first two stages have been
completed. This is when the Mentor asks if the Candidate wishes to be involved in
performing part of the Ceremony and ensures that he is fully immersed in the social
activities of the Lodge.
Stage 4. How can I advance? At this stage we have a brother who is enjoying his
Freemasonry, has struck a happy balance with his home/work/Masonic life and
wishes to progress further. Such progression could be ‘up the ladder’ towards
Worshipful Master, or into an acting role such as Charity Steward or Treasurer. It is
here that a Mentor will guide his charge along a sure path, guiding him in the right
direction and providing support and encouragement whenever required.
There are a number of practical activities that will allow all the above to happen and these are
given to the Mentors in a pack at the Mentoring Workshops organised by the Provincial
Mentor.
What will happen in the future?
There will be an annual Mentoring Workshop, complemented by a half yearly review where
Mentors can meet, discuss their experiences and share best practices and ideas. (Insert, if
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appropriate, whether these will be held at more than one geographical location in a larger
Province, to maximise attendance).
We hope that Lodges will take the initiative and embrace ideas such as developing an
Induction Booklet, giving their new members all the basic information and contact details that
they will need.
The aim is to have Mentors in each lodge, so I must now ask the members of this Lodge to
consider supporting the Province in this initiative. If you wish to do so, please speak with me
during the course of the evening and I will arrange a meeting for us to discuss in detail, the
commitment you will be making.
(If Paper is delivered to an Installed Masters’ Lodge, you may wish to consider replacing
above paragraph with: -)
We are looking at having a Mentor in each Lodge and are asking each of you, as senior and
respected masons in this area, to help us with this aim. On behalf of the Provincial Grand
Master, I ask each of you to deliver this lecture in your Lodge and to encourage brethren to
come forward as Mentors. Your experience and knowledge of the membership in your own
Lodge will be invaluable in identifying the right calibre of Mentor.
In Conclusion
Be in no doubt that the future of Freemasonry is in the hands of our newer Brethren.
But in whose hands are they?
Who is shaping those that will shape the future of the Order?
As a Masonic Mentor you will not only be helping your charge to embark on a full and
enjoyable Masonic career, but you will also be safeguarding the future of your lodge.
And who knows?
Maybe the future of Masonry is you!
THANK YOU
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Masonic Mentoring Newsletter Index Return
MASONIC MENTORING
NEWSLETTER
Vol 1 No 2
Welcome to another of our Newsletters written particularly for those of

you who have volunteered to be Mentors.
The objective of the Newsletter is to allow the exchange of ideas, to exchange

methods of mentoring and what works and what doesn’t and to provide feedback
and encouragement. This information needs to come from you so please send me
your contributions – contacts details below.
Some thoughts from the

Step by Step
Provincial Grand Master “..it calls on you to
While not claiming to have thought of the
afford assistance and One of the key elements of passing on
your knowledge and experience of
idea of Mentoring, mainly because I did
not, I am very enthusiastic about
instruction to the Freemasonry is to do it in small chunks in
a logical progression. The existence and
implementing what I believe to be one of
the most important initiatives within the
Brethren in the aims of the many ‘side’ degrees may be
fascinating but it is an understanding of
Province for a long time.
The idea has been launched somewhat
inferior Degrees.” Craft Masonry that should be of top
priority.
cautiously because I wanted both Lodges Take your charge through the
and Brethren to assimilate the idea calmly ‘administrative’ set up of your Lodge first
and without pressure from the Provincial
office. It has been well received in most
3rd Degree Address to (clothing, fees, dates of meetings, roles of
Officers etc). You will be surprised how
Lodges and particularly in places where
they are not afraid to recognise the need
the Candidate much basic information he will need to
know. It is an entirely new culture for him
for a more informed approach to looking and, working alongside his Proposer and
after the newer members in order to Seconder he will really appreciate your
maintain their interest and enthusiasm. If attention.
only all Lodges would recognise that need!
So many of our more recent initiates have
very little instruction and guidance beyond A Friendly Face
the performance of the established
ceremonies which are really only signposts We may not like to acknowledge it but
to what Freemasonry is about and how its some Lodges can be rather cliquey,
teachings should be practised within the which, to be fair, is a natural progression
daily lives of us all. of friends wanting to sit and talk together.
Anyone willing to act as a Lodge Mentor is This can be off putting for a newer Mason,
taking on a great responsibility. The task so make sure that there is someone with
should be a rewarding one and will him both in the Lodge Room and at the
ultimately reflect in the long term Festive Board. This is particularly
involvement of newer Brethren of your important if his Proposer or Seconder are
Lodges. To all Mentors I record my thanks. not available.
<PGM NAME>
<DATE>
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Contact Us: Explanations?
It is a given fact that for every symbol, word or mystery in Freemasonry

<INSERT CONTACT DETAILS> there are always many interpretations. In this Newsletter we will try and
<PROVINCIAL MENTOR> share some of these with you.
<PROVINCIAL OFFICE>
During the Opening of our Lodges, we hear that one of the duties of the
Tyler is, ".... to keep off all intruders and Cowans to Masonry..." So what is
a Cowan?
The Oxford Dictionary has the following entry: - COWAN. [1598] 1. (Sc.)
One who does the work of a Mason, but has not been apprenticed to the
trade. 2. Hence, one uninitiated in the Secrets of Freemasonry [1707].
3. (Slang) A sneak, eavesdropper. The New English Dictionary
(incidentally at this time about sixty years old) states a Cowan to be One
who builds dry stone walls, applied derogatorily to one who does the
work of a Mason but has not been regularly apprenticed to the Trade.
In 1707, Mother Kilwinning Lodge, defined a Cowan as –
" a Mason without the word ".
So, that should leave little doubt in our minds as to

what a Cowan is !
Dates for your Diary
<INSERT DATES OF
UPCOMING WORKSHOPS,
ROADSHOWS, SEMINARS
ETC>
Induction Booklet
A few Lodges have created an ‘Induction Booklet’ for want of a better phrase. This booklet, which is given to every new
candidate, is a great way of passing on information about the Lodge. Contents include:
• Contact names & numbers (including their Mentor)

• Explanation of the different types of Social events
• Charities supported by the Lodge
• Meeting times and dates of local Lodges with contact numbers
• Words of the Opening/Closing Odes
• Any other details peculiar to that lodge
We are currently looking at the production of a standard template that could be adapted and used by all
Lodges - watch this space.
“Any other suggestions?”

HANDY HINTS
Make sure that a new mason is always accompanied by someone when they are asked to leave the Lodge
room. Use this opportunity to tell them about what is generally happening in the lodge room (without giving
away too much). It is also a great opportunity for them to ask any questions that they may have.
Thanks for Contributions to this Newsletter go to<XXX>
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Guidelines for Active Listening and Reflection

Return 2.1.3 3.6. Skills and Qualities of a Mentor Index
Studies from many years of experience with non-directive interviewing in industry have
produced a series of guides for empathetic listening. For a Mentor, the most useful of these
guides are:
1. Listen patiently to what the other person has to say, even though you may believe it is
wrong or irrelevant. Indicate simple acceptance, not necessarily agreement, by nodding or
perhaps injecting an occasional "mm-hmm" or "I see".
2. Try to understand the feeling the person is expressing, as well as the intellectual content.
Most of us have difficulty talking clearly about our feelings, so it is important to pay careful
attention.
3. Restate the person's feeling briefly, but accurately. At this stage you simply serve as a
mirror. Encourage the other person to continue talking. Occasionally make summary
responses such as, "You think you are in over your head", or "You feel the Director of
Ceremonies is being too forceful." In doing so, keep your tone neutral and try not to lead the
person to your own preconceived conclusions.
4. Allow time for the discussion to continue without interruption and try to separate the
conversation from more official communication of lodge protocol or ritual. Do not make the
conversation any more "authoritative" than it already is by virtue of your position in the lodge.
5. Avoid direct questions and arguments about facts; refrain from saying, "That is just not
so", "Hold on a minute, let's look at the facts", or "Prove it." You may want to review evidence
later, but a review is irrelevant to how a person feels now.
6. When the other person touches on a point you want to know more about, simply repeat
his statement as a question. For instance, if he remarks, "Nobody can learn ritual to be word
perfect", you can probe by replying, "You say no one successfully learns ritual?" With this
encouragement he will probably expand on his previous statement.
7. Listen for what is not said, evasions of pertinent points or perhaps too-ready agreement
with common clichés. Such an omission may be a clue to a bothersome fact the person
wishes was not true.
8. If the other person appears to genuinely want your viewpoint, be honest in your reply. In
the listening stage, try to limit the expression of your views since these may influence or
inhibit what the other person says.
9. Do not get emotionally involved. Try simply to understand first and defer evaluation until
later.
10. BE QUIET. Let the other person talk. Actively listen to what THEY have to say.
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Detailed Mentoring Report Form

2.2 The Lodge Mentor 2.5.1 The Mentor 2.5.3 The Provincial Mentor Index
Information to be collated annually by the Lodge Mentor and Summary Form forwarded to the Provincial Mentor by (date)
Lodge Name ______________________________________ No. _________
Mentoring Partnerships:-
Mentor Candidate
1. ________________________________ 1. _______________________________
2. ________________________________ 2. _______________________________
3. ________________________________ 3. _______________________________
For each candidate –

Number of attendances Candidate
1. __________
2. __________
3. __________
Progression in Lodge ( if appropriate)
1. ______________________________________
2. ______________________________________
3. ______________________________________
Ritual undertaken
1. ________________________________________
2. ________________________________________
3. ________________________________________
Number of meetings with Mentor

1. _____
2. _____
3. _____
Annual Review Meeting undertaken Yes/ No (delete)
Provincial seminars attended

1. _____
2. _____
3. _____
Attendance at other Lodge activities inc. socials

1. _____________________________________________
2. _____________________________________________
3. _____________________________________________
Number of visits made to other Lodges

1. _____
2. _____
3. _____
Other Masonic activities (please state)

1. _______________________________________________
2. _______________________________________________
3. _______________________________________________
Comments:
Signed __________________________ Lodge Mentor
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Lodge Mentoring Summary Report

2.1.2. What does a Provincial Mentor do?
2.2. Lodge Mentor 2.5.2 The Lodge Mentor 2.5.3 Provincial Mentor Index
Information to be collated annually by the Lodge Mentor and this form forwarded to Provincial Mentor by (date)
Masonic Year:
Lodge:
Lodge Mentor:
Please comment on the progress of each candidate – refer to ‘Monitoring & Evaluation’ for
Guidance
Candidate Initiation Mentor Progress
Name Date
General Comments (Identification of Best Practice, Notable Successes etc)
Please return this form to your Provincial Mentor
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3. Mentoring Guidelines. 2.3 The Mentor Contents Page Index
3.1 Introduction
3.2 Letter from the Provincial Grand Master
3.3 Why do we need Masonic Mentors?
3.4 What is Masonic Mentoring?
3.5 What Does a Mentor do?
3.6 Skills and Qualities of a Mentor
3.7 Who should be a Mentor?
3.8 How to be a Mentor
3.9 Practical Activities
3.10 Feedback
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3.1 Introduction Mentoring Guidelines Index
MASONIC
MENTORING
IS ABOUT
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
“..it calls on you to afford assistance and instruction to

the Brethren in the inferior Degrees.”
3rd Degree Address to the Candidate
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Congratulations!
To be selected as a Mentor for the Freemasons of the future is true recognition of your
Masonic integrity, enthusiasm and ability. This is your opportunity to share your knowledge
and experience and to guide newer brethren to fulfil their Masonic potential.
This guide is designed to assist you in your role and help you
“Make A Difference”
“Walk towards the edge” he said,

“We’re afraid,” they said.
“We’re afraid,” they said.
They walked towards the edge.
He pushed them….
and they flew.
Guillaume Apollinaire
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3.2 Letter from the Provincial Grand Master

Mentoring Guidelines Index
Your
Provincial Grand Lodge of <Insert>
Address Line 1, Address Line 2, Address Line 2, Post Code
Logo Tel: 01010 01 0101 Fax: 01010 010101
here
<Insert Name>
Provincial Grand Master
Dear Brother,
Congratulations on being made your Lodge’s Mentor.
The future of the Craft is indeed in the hands of our newer brethren and we must do all in our
power to encourage their interest and involvement in Freemasonry. Their learning process
will continue in the years to come and the help and support that you can give them, or
encourage others to give, will be invaluable.
As Lodge Mentor you now have an opportunity to serve both your own Lodge and the Craft in
general and to ensure our continued success in a changing world. A world where ever
greater pressures often make it difficult for a man to achieve a balanced lifestyle satisfying
the needs of family, business and his own intellectual development.
Remember you are not alone, but are part of our greater mentoring initiative and are
supported not only by myself and our Provincial Mentor, but also by Grand Lodge itself. If in
doubt, seek advice and support and, of course, the help of your fellow Mentors is readily
available. Use your own knowledge and strengths, but remember that you do not have to do
everything yourself. Encourage the involvement and support of other brethren who
themselves may make a daily advancement in Masonic knowledge by assisting our newer
brethren.
Continue to enjoy your Freemasonry to the full and, by so doing, I feel sure that you will be
successful in passing on that enjoyment to others. Thank you for helping to ensure the
continued success of our Order.
Kindest regards
<Insert Signature>
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3.3 Why Do We Need Masonic Mentors? Mentoring Guidelines Index

It is a sad fact that recent years have seen a steady decline in the number of Freemasons
within the United Kingdom. That is not all, two further worrying trends compound the
situation. Many of our newer brethren leave within the first 3 - 5 years of their Masonic life
and the number of active masons in each lodge is often declining.
Everybody says that the future of Freemasonry lies with the newer brethren. This is true, but
what do we, as experienced masons, do about this?
This came from a brother who was questioned why he had put in his resignation within just
two years of joining.
“I didn’t really know what I was joining, but I knew that my Proposer was a decent and
honourable man and he always spoke so highly of Freemasonry. My first night was
overwhelming and I’m still not sure what it was all about. I remember everybody was very
friendly, so much so that I was struggling to remember everybody’s name. My Proposer was
an active officer in the Lodge, but he made sure he had plenty of time to look after me that
night.”
“Everybody was asking what I thought of it all and a few said that it would make more sense if
I quickly visited another Lodge in the area, so that I could watch the ceremony from the
sidelines. My Proposer said that this was a great idea and he would give me a ring to arrange
it. Well, everyone was busy and I never managed to visit before the next meeting. The next
meeting was a little confusing, as I was asked to leave quite soon in the ceremony and I had
to sit in the dining room. I had a good chat with the Stewards (and a pint!), but before I knew
it everyone was leaving the Lodge room and it was time for the meal. “
“As I said, my Proposer was an active officer and he was really busy that night so I had to
spend the rest of the evening with people I didn’t know. They were very nice but I felt as if I
couldn’t really ask them the questions I wanted to, maybe I didn’t even know which questions
to ask. My wife and grown up children showed interest at first, but when I couldn’t answer
their questions their interest soon waned.”
“I’m afraid the rest of my short Masonic career was a bit like that, as I never got to do much
visiting and I went through all my degrees without really understanding any of them. As soon
as I had reached my Third Degree, someone asked if I wanted to join something called the
Chapter. It was at this point I stopped and asked myself what I was doing. I was in something
that I didn’t really understand, nobody had the time to tell me what was going on and I was
being asked to get involved further.”
“That was when I decided to leave. I’m in business and when my company takes people on,
we make sure that they are looked after until they know their way. “
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You may think the statement on the previous page a little contrived, but it is a true story.
Fortunately, he was persuaded to hold his decision and with a little support and
encouragement he is currently an active officer himself. Furthermore, he has now proposed
his son as a candidate.
What do we learn from this?
Look at the key points from the previous statement:
9 Didn’t really know what he was joining
9 Not sure what the first night was all about
9 Did not manage any visits to other Lodges
9 Confused when asked to leave the next meeting (2nd or 3rd degree?)
9 Felt embarrassed with his lack of knowledge
9 Became a Master Mason without understanding the ceremonies
9 Did not have the answers to his families’ questions
9 Asked to join Chapter, again without any understanding
We must ask ourselves the question “Does any of this happen in my Lodge?” If we are
truthful with ourselves, we may not like the answer.
This is where Mentoring may help. Mentoring is an established developmental tool that has
long been used in business, to help both new starters in their work inductions and to motivate
and develop existing employees to help them fill their true potential.
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3.4 What is Masonic Mentoring? Mentoring Guidelines Index
The textbook says:
“Mentoring is a fundamental form of human development where one person invests

time, energy and personal know-how in assisting the growth and ability of another
person”
Make sense? Let’s make it a little more relevant:
“Masonic Mentoring is a learning process where a more experienced brother invests

time, energy and Masonic experience in assisting a new brother to enjoy his Masonry
to the full.”
What does that last bit “ .. to the full” mean?
Well, not everybody wants the same from their Masonry. The main thing is to ensure that
our newer brethren are enjoying their masonry so much that they not only wish to
stay, but also wish to take an active part.
Although a mentoring programme may be primarily aimed at new candidates and we often
refer to ‘newer brethren’, it may also be used to encourage others who have stopped
attending their Lodge as well as those who attend regularly, but whose Masonic development
appears to have stalled.
Whilst any mentoring scheme, by its very nature, must inevitably be tailored to the needs of
the candidate, it is not only the candidate who will ultimately benefit. In the longer term, great
benefits will also accrue to the Lodge in terms of continuity, by ensuring active younger men
are available to pick up and carry the baton.
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3.5 What does a Mentor do? Mentoring Guidelines Index
3.5.1 In short, he turns the key –
Find the Key, Turn the Key and Open the Door
Understanding Your Charge

What are their fears & What motivates them?
concerns?
Find the Key
Evaluate
What do they need? How do they learn?
Motivation
Feedback
Turn the Key
Coaching Stimulate Signs of Demotivation
Get them involved Introductions
Open the Door
Facilitate
Build profile
Networking
Great Mentors are people who find

the key in someone and turn it!
Set the pace and get them involved.
36
3.5.2 Turning the Key – Stimulate Mentoring Guidelines Index
The old adage of “You get out of it what you put in” is so true of Freemasonry.
We all know of brethren who are fully active in many degrees and those who
just enjoy the social side.
It is not the role of a Mentor to turn his charge into the former, but rather to let
him find his own level of participation and to support him in doing so. In this
way, he will be encouraged to maximize his participation and will remain
enthusiastic about the organisation he has joined.
If the Candidate does not wish to embark on a path of continuous

Masonic development, he should not be rushed. To be taken through each
step of the learning process slowly will, in such cases, ultimately achieve
better results.
It is important that the Candidate feels comfortable in his Masonry. At first he

will have many questions and concerns that are at a quite basic level, such as
when do we meet? What do I wear? etc. These basic questions should be
answered before any attempt is made to introduce him to the more ‘involved’
aspects of Freemasonry.
The diagram below explains the levels of development
Stage 4: How can I advance?
Stage 3: Do I belong?
Stage 2: What should I do next?
Stage 1: What is expected of me?
As all good operative Masons know, we must have solid foundations upon
which to build a strong structure. So it is with the Candidate. Cover the basics
first, for only then will he be ready for the next step.
37
3.5.3 The Mentoring Relationship 2.3 The Mentor Mentoring Guidelines Index
It is important to gain an understanding of the relationship between a Mentor

and the Candidate. When carried out properly, this relationship will be a
changing one as the candidate develops his understanding and engagement
within the Craft.
The role of a Mentor is much more than just a teacher, being more of an
advisor, coach, confidential counsellor and sounding board. In fact, the role of
a teacher will only exist during the initial stage of the process. Yes, there is a
lot to learn for a new mason and there will be times when a Mentor does sit
down and impart knowledge (teach), perhaps by explaining a section of ritual
or the role of a specific office. However, this is really just the basic part of the
mentoring process which will probably occur mainly at the start of the
relationship as the candidate progresses through the three degrees. True
mentoring will come when a candidate starts to manage his own learning and
is guided along this path by his Mentor.
Great teachers share their knowledge and make learning enjoyable and
effective. They focus on the three I’s: Inspiration, Implementation and
Integration. Firstly, they inspire people to want to learn. Secondly, they
provide implementation tools that work. Thirdly, they help people to integrate
their learning into their daily lives. We never forget a great teacher. As
mentioned, this role will mainly take place at the start of the relationship.
Once the basic knowledge has been grasped, the relationship will develop
into one of coaching. Good coaches often take three steps. Firstly, they
encourage people to build on their strengths. Secondly, they equip people to
tackle areas of improvement. Thirdly, they enable people to achieve ongoing
success. Good coaches also recognise that people have different learning
styles. Before communicating knowledge, they ask themselves “How can I put
this message in a way the person can accept?”
A mentor will also act as an advisor. Advisors are people we seek out, to
obtain specialist knowledge or advice on how to deal with a certain situation.
To be able to carry out this role, the mentor must have credibility with the
candidate and hold their respect. But how do you gain such credibility and
respect? Several tips are worth bearing in mind. Firstly, be true to yourself.
Secondly, be clear on your strengths. Thirdly, be clear on your limits.
A candidate may also look upon their mentor as a role model. Role Models
are people we admire. They provide examples that we may wish to copy and
emulate. Teachers for example can have a profound impact on us if they are
inspiring and bring their subject to life. Sometimes we find ourselves talking,
dressing or acting like them in our own lives. Positive models at work, for
example, teach us about ‘the things you must do to be successful around
here’.
38
A Mentor may also be asked to perform the role of counsellor. Counsellors
meet people who want to solve a problem they are experiencing in their
personal or professional lives. This can be just as true within their Masonic
lives as well. The classic method is to create a safe environment, practice
listening skills and be non-directive. Providing the Counsellor acts as a good
‘third ear’, the person is often able to find their own answers to the problem.
39
3.6 Skills and Qualities of a Mentor
2.3 The Mentor Mentoring Guidelines Index
There are some general skills and qualities that all Mentors should possess.
The old adage that the GAOTU gave us two eyes, two ears but only one
mouth so that we could look and listen four times as much as we speak,
can certainly be applied to the Mentor.
3.6.1 Observational Skills.
Keeping a watchful eye on your Candidate will provide useful indicators on

how he is settling in to his masonry.
9 Does he join in with the brethren, or is he often to be found standing

apart on his own?
9 Does he appear interested in the proceedings of the Lodge? His
body language will tell you this. Is he looking at what is happening
and does he appear to be focused on the ritual, or does he appear
inattentive, look blank or easily distracted?
9 Facial expressions, gestures, posture, eye signals, body
movements all transmit a message. Body language, it is claimed,
can be a window to our thoughts, indeed it often speaks louder than
words – we may say one thing, while our bodies say another.
There are key non-verbal signs:

9 Empathy can be signalled by smiles, open and positive gestures,
standing or sitting close, eye contact and nodding and tilting the
head.
9 A defensive or distrusting attitude can be signalled if someone sits
with their legs crossed towards you, while a willingness to trust can
be signalled if the crossed leg is away from you.
9 Anger or aggression can be signalled by a rigid or tense body
posture, staring eyes, clenched fists or clasped hands, tightly folded
arms, foot tapping and finger pointing.
9 Nervousness can be signalled by downcast eyes, hand over the
mouth or frequently touching the face, shifting weight or fidgeting.
9 Boredom can be signalled by picking imaginary fluff from sleeves,
pulling at an ear, stifled yawning or gazing around the room.
3.6.2 Questioning Skills Mentoring Guidelines Index
Mentors need to bear in mind that their primary role is to help and encourage
their charges to develop. This cannot be achieved if they create pressure or
confusion by incorrect questioning. A meaningful coaching or mentoring
session depends upon using questions that provoke a response that
enhances learning.
40
There are two main types of question – open and closed. A closed question is
one that may be answered by a simple ‘yes’ or ‘no’ and usually begin with ‘do
you’, ‘are you’, ‘have you’ and so on. It may also be a question to which a
respondent is offered a choice of alternative replies, such as ‘which of the
following options do you prefer?’
On the other hand, open questions are aimed at provoking an extended ‘free’
response and might start with ‘what’, ‘where’, ‘which’, ‘why’,’ how’ or ‘when’.
Use closed questions:
9 Where a straightforward ‘yes’ or ‘no’ is enough

9 To gather or verify information
9 To confirm understanding of facts
9 To confirm agreement or commitment
9 To get a decision where there are a number of alternatives.
The repeated use of closed questions needs to be avoided, because a

series of such questions can become wearying on the respondent and can
quickly turn a discussion into an interrogation.
A more difficult skill to develop, but one that is essential to guiding and
supporting a learner, is to use open questions that enable the Mentor to:
9 Establish rapport and put the other person at ease

9 Free up the other person to answer as they choose and in their own
words
9 Encourage uninhibited feedback
9 Help explore opinions and values in more detail
9 Create involvement and commitment
9 Check out understanding more comprehensively.
For example, if you wanted to ask a Candidate about the merits of the Festive
Board, you could say ‘Do you think the Festive Board is a good idea?’ This
invites a simple ‘yes’ or ‘no’ response. If you had phrased the question ‘What
do you think are the good and bad points about the Festive Board?’, then you
would invite a response that would require the Candidate to express an
opinion. The benefits of using appropriate open questions are evident.
3.6.3 Listening Skills. Mentoring Guidelines Index
It is the ability to listen ‘actively’ that separates the good communicators from
the poor. This involves really concentrating on the message being transmitted,
by trying to understand not only what is being said, but how and why it is
being said.
Success as a Mentor depends, to a large extent, on the ability to concentrate

effectively on what is being said, often for long periods. You may well make
41
the other person feel unimportant or not valued, if they sense you are not
paying close attention to their ideas or considering their feelings.
When in discussion, listen for a note of confidence or hesitation in a

Candidate’s voice. This will indicate whether he really understands the topic
or is still to grasp what is being discussed. Confidence, and other emotions,
will most probably be expressed as much in the tone of the response as in the
actual words themselves.
A successful Mentor who does possess the above techniques will soon
discover they are very useful, as they will quickly enable him to gain a true
picture of the Candidate’s strengths and abilities. By doing so, the Mentor will
be able to start making judgments on how the Candidate may be able to
contribute towards the lodge, if he so wishes. Does he have a flair for public
speaking, a good way with figures, an ability to form relationships quickly, is
he an organised person?
By identifying such skills, the Mentor may see the potential for a future
Secretary, Charity Steward, DC etc.
Please refer to the Guidelines for Active Listening and Reflection
42
3.7 Who should be a Mentor?
Lodge Mentor 3. Mentoring Guidelines Index
In ideal circumstances a Mentor should be:
9 An experienced Mason; preferably one who has gone through the

Chair and has shown a commitment to the Royal Arch.
9 Someone not currently holding an office in the Lodge, or at least not
an onerous one demanding their presence during the meeting or at
the meal afterwards. It is considered essential for the Mentor to
retire with the candidate and to sit with him at the subsequent
meal.
9 Someone not likely to be encumbered with a time consuming office
for some years to come, as mentoring may be required for a
relatively prolonged period.
9 A member who regularly attends lodge meetings and rehearsals,
with sufficient spare time outside of normal Lodge attendance to
meet with the new brother regularly.
9 Someone who lives not too far from the brother for whom he has
become responsible, for close proximity makes it easier to meet
and forge a friendship outside as well as inside the Lodge.
9 Outgoing, with a friendly personality.
9 Someone with a proven track record of being helpful to new and
inexperienced brethren.
9 Enthusiastic about his Freemasonry.
9 A good communicator.
9 Of a similar age profile to the Candidate.
Whilst it would be helpful for a mentor to possess all of these qualifications

and personal characteristics, they are listed only for guidance, as it is highly
unlikely such brethren are available in many Lodges and even where they are,
numbers will be extremely limited. Time constraints alone, resulting from
offices held in the Lodge, will make it impossible for many Proposers and
Seconders to fulfil the task.
Compromise will frequently be needed and when it is, priority should always
be given to those characteristics which will result in the development of
a lasting friendship between Candidate and Mentor. If the Mentor is of a
similar age profile and is a good communicator with an outgoing and friendly
personality, the mentoring is more likely to prove successful. Any perceived
lack of detailed knowledge on the part of the Mentor can be easily addressed
with the support of the Lodge Mentor and training must be made available
at Provincial level. (see Support for the Mentor)
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3.8 How to be a Mentor Mentoring Guidelines Index
9 As an absolute minimum, it is important to meet with the Candidate

before and after each degree ceremony to put him at ease and to
answer any questions he may have. Regular meetings thereafter will
assist in the implementation of a development programme which allows
the Candidate to achieve his goals. The amount of time necessary will
vary considerably from Candidate to Candidate according to their level
of self-confidence and the amount of research they may have
undertaken privately. Nevertheless, even with the most confident of
Candidates, considerable work may be involved and you should not
consider becoming a Mentor unless you are able to make a real
commitment in terms of time.
9 Ensure you are seated next to the Candidate during the Lodge
meeting.
9 Ensure you are seated next to the Candidate at the meal and
introduce him to others present (i.e. Lodge members, their guests and
visitors).
9 Be prepared to visit the Candidate at his home if invited to do so and
keep in contact outside of Lodge meetings.
9 Accompany the candidate at all times when he is required to leave the
Lodge Room. This is a very useful time for answering questions and
explaining what has happened.
9 Explain Freemasonry, its structure, Offices, symbolism, ceremonial,
and demonstrate the correct manner of saluting.
9 Take a supportive interest in the progress made by the Candidate.
Congratulate him on his progress and encourage him to develop it still
further.
9 Help the Candidate to learn the Ritual as he progresses in the Lodge.
Not just the words, but more importantly, their meaning.
9 Encourage the Candidate to play a full part in the life of the Lodge, both
ceremonially and socially.
There are of course different stages in the overall process of Mentoring,

namely –
Getting started
The first meeting, whenever and wherever that takes place, should be a time
to get to know one another, building rapport and sharing experiences outside
Freemasonry. Discuss when and where you will meet in future and how you
will communicate. Talk about the expectations you both may have and
especially the level of confidentiality.
Laying the Foundation

As the partners get to know each other, it is possible to establish what each
expects of the other. As Candidate and Mentor get to know more about each
44
other, so trust is established and a point is reached where discussion can take
place openly and honestly.
The Progressive Stages

The Mentor helps the Candidate to increase his knowledge and acts as a
confidant and motivator. During this phase he devotes more time to focusing
on the provision of detailed information relating to all aspects of Freemasonry.
At the end of each session he should take a few minutes to discuss with the
Candidate what has been achieved and whether the Candidate feels the
session has been worthwhile. Following a meeting, indulge in a little self-
analysis (What could I have done better?)
It is essential the Candidate appreciates he may speak with you at all times in
the strictest confidence. He will hopefully recognise you not only as his
Mentor, but also as his friend.
Ask if he feels you are helping him to settle in. Try to assess his level of
interest - is he responsive, does he asks questions? Does he ask
spontaneously for help and guidance or are there signs of hesitation,
discomfort or even avoidance?
Do not adopt an overtly direct style of questioning and try not to encourage
yes/no answers. Listening techniques are just as important as
questioning techniques. Naturally, the Candidate will gain confidence over
time and if you find he is doing more talking than you, you are probably well
on the way to achieving your goal.
Should you at any time feel your relationship with the Candidate is becoming
strained in any way, you should immediately seek guidance from the Lodge
Mentor.
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3.9 Practical Activities 2.3 The Mentor Mentoring Guidelines Index
The Candidate has a great deal of information to assimilate and you have a
wealth of support material to give to him. Controlling access to the support
material is perhaps one of your most important tasks, for the process must be
governed by the Candidate’s ability to digest the information and not by any
wish on your part to proceed quickly to the next stage.
(see Mentor’s Check List)
In the event of non-attendance of the Candidate, you should try to make

immediate contact. There may be good reason for non-attendance, owing to
family or business commitments and your enquiry should certainly not appear
to imply criticism of any sort. The best approach is always the most genuine
one, asking after his health, saying he was missed and that several of the
brethren asked after him.
46
3.10 Feedback Mentoring Guidelines Index
It is important you ask yourself ‘Is it working?’, but as communication is a two-
way street, you will not know how comfortable the Candidate is with his
membership of the Lodge, or indeed in his relationship with you, unless you
encourage him to talk about himself. Remember, you may at this stage be the
one person he feels he can talk to in confidence.
Hopefully his initial impressions of Freemasonry in general and of the Lodge

in particular will be positive ones. However, it would not be surprising if within
that generally positive framework there appeared to be one or two negative
areas and, if so, it should not be too difficult to identify the specific problems
and address them.
In the event that feedback from the Candidate is generally negative, then of
course you have a problem of a very different kind. It is essential to try and
work out what has gone wrong before you start making decisions and you
should immediately confer with the Lodge Mentor with a view to establishing
the best course of remedial action available. It may be that, despite your best
efforts, the Candidate does not feel Freemasonry is for him. Alternatively, it
may be that the relationship between you and the Candidate has not
developed as it should and the appointment of another Mentor may meet with
greater success. In such circumstances, you should not feel embarrassed for
it takes two people to form a meaningful relationship and although you may
well have done everything you could to make it work, it naturally will not do so
unless your efforts are reciprocated.
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Conclusion
If the Mentoring Programme is followed, the Lodge will have a new member
with a clear understanding of the fundamentals of Freemasonry and who will
have met and enjoyed the company of members of the Lodge. By joining the
Lodge of Instruction, if one is available, he will have become involved in the
ritual and ceremonial proceedings of the Institution more quickly than may
otherwise have proved possible. He should therefore be in a position to
thoroughly enjoy his Freemasonry. In short, by looking after, taking care of
and instructing the new Brother, the Lodge has gained a valuable new
addition to its membership and the Craft in general is strengthened.
Be in no doubt that the future of Freemasonry is in the hands of our newer

Brethren.
But in whose hands are they?
Who is shaping those that will shape the future of the Order?
As a Masonic Mentor you will not only be helping your charge to embark on a
full and enjoyable Masonic career, but also safeguarding the future of your
lodge.
And who knows?
Maybe the future of Masonry
Key Contact: W Bro A N Other

Provincial Mentor
48
Mentor’s Check List Practical Activities Section Index
Upon joining Freemasonry your Charge will have some basic questions which
must be answered. This is called Stage 1.
Stage 1
At first he will be a little bewildered, but he may shortly be asking "How often
do we meet and when?" "Who is who?" "What is a Warden, Deacon etc?"
"What are the fees used for and how often do I pay them? "What am I
expected to wear and who provides the regalia?"
It is important that these very domestic questions are raised and answered at
an early stage. Only when your Charge has answers to these questions,
should you guide him towards the next stage.
Once he is happy with this first stage, the basic 'administrative' side of things,
he will move on to Stage 2.
Stage 2
Stage 2 is where he needs to understand the relationship of the Three

Degrees and the symbolic meanings of each as he completes them in turn.
This is a great opportunity for the Mentor to help him understand what is going
on around him. Sit with him in the Lodge room and go out with him if he has to
retire during a higher degree.
Only with a full understanding of the ceremonies and their meanings will your
Charge appreciate the essence of Masonry. Without this, he will never
become fully engaged with the Craft and it will be difficult for him to maintain
further interest.
Stage 3
By Stage 3 your Charge will have had an educated grounding in

Freemasonry. He will ask himself "Do I fit in?" or "Is this for me?” The
answer to these two questions will be "yes" only if the first two stages have
been satisfactorily completed.
This is when the Mentor asks if his Charge wants to be involved in performing
part of the ceremony and confirms that he is taking part in the social side of
his Lodge activities.
Stage 4
By Stage 4 a Brother should be enjoying his Masonry, having struck a happy

balance between his home/work and Masonic life and wishing to progress
further. Such progression could be 'up the ladder' to the Worshipful Master's
Chair, or into an active role such as Charity Steward, Treasurer, Secretary,
Almoner or Organist.
49
It is here that the Mentor will guide his Charge along a sure path, and provide
support and encouragement whenever required.
Checklist for Stage 1 Practical Activities Section Index
As a minimum you should aim to cover the list below:-
9 Give an explanation of the 'Private Lodge' and identify any other

Lodges that meet in the area. You might also wish to cover the
subject of the difference between 'privacy' and 'secrecy.'
9 Explain the set up of the Lodge and the various offices (Master,
Wardens, Secretary, etc).
9 Give him a written list of names and contact numbers of the

members of your own Lodge.
9 A written list of dates of meetings, rehearsals and the Lodge of

Instruction.
9 Tell him what he is expected to wear.
9 Make a Lodge tour, explaining the layout of the furniture, tracing

boards, etc.
9 A great way to cover some of these issues is outside of the

Lodge. Meet your Charge socially.
9 Tell him what he will need to bring to the Lodge in the way of
cash. How he pays for his meal, his drinks, the collection, the
raffle, etc.
9 Explain to him the procedure for introducing a guest to the Lodge.
9 Remember to counsel your Charge to maintain a sensible

balance between Freemasonry, Family, Work and other interests.
Get your Charge to reflect on the ceremony he has just completed (Initiation,
Passing, Raising).
9 Explain the relationship between the Three Degrees.

9 Visit a sister or neighbouring Lodge that will be performing the same
ceremony. Make sure that you sit with him and encourage him to ask
questions. Remember—visiting is not compulsory. Excessive visiting
commitments can soon turn a man away from Masonry. Visiting should
be at a level where it is a pleasure rather than a chore.
50
9 Always retire with him if he is required to do so. Explain why he had to
retire.
9 Explain the basic messages which are symbolically conveyed in each
of the three Degrees.
9 Attend Masonic lectures and demonstrations when possible.
Information can be found on notice boards and in communications to
your Lodge.
9 Does your Lodge have a Masonic library which could be of use?
9 Visit Masonic web sites on the internet.
.
9 Involve your Charge in the social side of your Lodge. Encourage active
participation.
9 Does he have any ideas of his own for social events? Encourage
attendance at social events arranged by other Lodges.
9 Discuss with him whether he wants to take part in the ceremony, slow
and easy at first. Don’t push him.
9 Introduce him to your Lodge of Instruction. Help your Charge with

ceremonial work. If you are not good at it yourself then introduce him to
a Brother who is.
9 Attend a Lodge committee meeting with him.
9 Suggest that he subscribes to a magazine such as the Masonic

Square.
9 Tell him about the Museum at Grand Lodge, that it is open to the public
and well worth a visit if ever he is in the Capital.
9 Explain the set up of Grand Lodge, Provincial Grand Lodge and the
officers of these Lodges.
9 Attend a meeting of Provincial Grand Lodge with him.
9 Introduce your Charge to Acting Provincial and Grand Officers. They

will be aware of the Mentoring programme and will be happy to spend
a little time with your Charge. This is best done when they are not on
official duty and have more time to spare. No doubt they would
appreciate being forewarned of your intentions.
9 Inform your Charge of the Royal Arch and explain its importance as the
next step in Pure Antient Masonry. Introduce him to a member of the
Chapter for further discussions, but only if he shows interest.
Remember, as in all aspects of Mentoring never rush him into anything.
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9 Let him join the Chapter at the right time and only if he wants to.
9 Inform your Charge of the various Chapters in the area. He may wish
to join the one attached to his own Lodge, but is free to join another.
9 Explain the various other Masonic Degrees and if he shows interest,

encourage him to join. A note of caution here. We all know of
Brethren who have joined everything at once, found that they had
overstretched themselves and lost interest in it all, including the Craft.
Encourage him to take it slowly.
9 Remember to counsel your Charge to maintain a sensible balance

between Freemasonry, family and other interests.
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Support for the Mentor. Who Should Be a Mentor Section Index
As a Mentor you have your own training and development needs and whilst
you will be expected to treat the experience of mentoring as a learning curve
for yourself, you may well need advice and support to do this.
9 Who would you consider as being your Mentor? Identify at least one
other person to whom you could turn for advice in the absence of the
Lodge Mentor.
9 Networking. Get to know other Mentors. Talk to them about your

experiences and problems.
9 Refer back to a member of the Provincial Mentoring Team.
9 Attend any Mentoring workshops or seminars organised by the

Provincial Mentor and benefit from the shared experience.
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4. Mentoring Toolkit
Return to Provincial Mentor 2.1.4. Return 2.3 The Mentor Contents Page Index
4.1 Before Initiation

4.2 The Interview
4.3 Preparing for the Initiation
4.4 Initiation Ceremony
4.5 After Initiation
4.6 After Passing
4.7 After Raising
4.8 Beyond the 3rd Degree
4.9 The Installation
4.10 Reference and Support Publications
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4.1 Before Initiation Mentoring Toolkit Index
No two potential candidates are the same and it is vital to ensure that all are
suitable to become Freemasons, before welcoming them into the family of the
Lodge. After all, we would not welcome someone unsuitable into our family
home.
For some of course, the mystery of the unknown will be the attraction. Others
will be intrigued by rumours. Most join because they see that friends, whom
they respect, are proud to be Freemasons and clearly enjoy their membership
of the Order.
To decide whether a man is suitable for Freemasonry, or indeed that

Freemasonry is suitable for him, it is of course necessary to get to know him
and his family and this is best achieved initially by invitation to Lodge social
events. A subsequent meeting in the family home is recommended, but this
has to be by invitation and must never appear to be intrusive. At all such
meetings it is helpful for the wives/partners of Lodge members to be present
so that the wife/partner of the potential candidate does not feel intimidated in
any way.
The high standards of behaviour we expect from all members of the Craft
make it necessary for us to know something about the applicant before we
can accept him. However, questioning should not be inquisitorial, but instead
the potential candidate and his wife/partner should be encouraged to actively
engage in two way communication. Whilst we need to establish that the
candidate is suitable, it is also essential that he is made fully aware of what
membership of the Order entails and what it does not, for failure to fully inform
him will not ensure his ongoing commitment.
Grand Lodge Website readily available information.
What is Freemasonry?
An Approach to Life
Freemasonry and Society
Freemasonry and Religion
Freemasonry’s External Relations
Regular Freemasonry and Public Affairs
A supply of these booklets in hard copy format may be obtained from Grand
Lodge on request.
It is recommended that in addition to the above, the potential candidate and

his wife/partner are given access to the videos ‘The Freemasons’ and
‘Freemasonry Today – Tomorrow’ and to the Peterborough booklet, ‘Notes for
a Candidate for Freemasonry’ published by QCCC.
55
The Candidate and his family will get their first impression of the Craft
from this meeting, so ensure that it is a favourable one.
As the potential candidate and his family may well think of further questions
they would wish answered after the meeting has concluded, you should
ensure that contact details are left with them together with answers to
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).
If after attending Lodge social events, the initial meeting was a home
interview, then the potential candidate may well be asked to attend a further
interview by the Lodge Committee. If such is the case, he should be advised
at the end of the Initial Meeting, the reasons explained and a mutually
convenient date and time agreed. The Lodge Mentor, who will have been
present at the Initial Meeting, should accompany the candidate to the
interview and stay with him throughout. Only by so doing, will he be able to
best judge which Mentor is most suitable to allocate to the particular
candidate
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4.2 The Interview Mentoring Toolkit Index
Applicants are often interviewed at Lodge Committee Meetings where an

extensive alternative agenda has also been tabled for discussion. The
candidate will have been given a specific time for the interview and you
should adhere to that time, even if it means you must break off from your
discussions and resume later. Whilst the presence of the Lodge Mentor and
the Proposer/Seconder will be a calming influence, the candidate may
nevertheless be a little nervous and you should not keep him waiting. We are
all aware that interviews of any kind can, on occasion, be somewhat daunting.
Good interview techniques are essential, allowing information to be elicited in

a friendly and informal manner. Always remember that if the potential
candidate is relaxed, you are more likely to be seeing the real man. A
defensive interviewee may try to hide his true self.
It is of course necessary to establish –
9 Does he believe in a Supreme Being?

9 Are his moral and mental standards satisfactory?
9 Having advised him of the subscription and other costs, will his
acceptance create any financial or domestic problems?
9 Having explained the frequency of Lodge Meetings, Lodges of
Instruction/Rehearsals, is he prepared for the time commitment that
membership might involve?
9 Is he prepared to support the charitable aims of the Order, provided it is
without detriment to his family and connections?
9 What are his motives for joining Freemasonry?
9 What are his wife’s/partner’s views on Freemasonry and his proposed
membership of the Order?
9 Will he participate in the social activities of the Lodge and is his
wife/partner aware that there are such opportunities to be involved?
In particular we need to be satisfied that he is not seeking to become a

Freemason because he expects that membership will advance him in his
business, or provide him with a material gain or preference.
It is important to read and fully appreciate the views of the MW Pro Grand
Master.
(MW Pro Grand Master’s address.)

See extract from the Address of the MW Pro Grand Master to Grand Lodge
on 14th March 2007.
The importance of good selection cannot be overemphasised. Failure to

recruit men of real quality, whilst temporarily alleviating falling membership
levels, will not provide the future quality of leadership your Lodge requires.
57
Furthermore, it is likely that such recruits will fail to stay the course and will
ultimately add to the retention problem we are specifically trying to address.
Ask yourself ‘When did my Lodge last reject an applicant?’
By the end of the interview process, the Committee members should know
enough about the applicant to decide if he is suitable. For his part, the
applicant should have received sufficient information to decide whether
Freemasonry is for him. It is only at this point that the Interview Panel will
proceed to an explanation of the balloting procedure and why balloting is
necessary to ensure harmony is maintained at all times within the Lodge.
It is strongly recommended that the ballot should not be held on the

same evening and immediately prior to the ceremony of Initiation, as to
do so assumes the decision of the Lodge will be favourable. A member
who is reluctant to accept the candidate into the Lodge should ideally speak in
confidence to the Lodge Secretary or Worshipful Master so that they may
convey those reservations to the Proposer and Seconder and give them the
opportunity to withdraw their candidate in order to preserve the harmony of
the Lodge. Unfortunately, this does not always occur and there have been
instances of a fully prepared candidate waiting outside the door of a Lodge
when a ballot has proved unfavourable and this is of course inexcusable.
Similarly, it would seem sensible to leave at least one clear meeting between
each advancement ceremony, so that the candidate has time to learn and
consider his new status.
When the candidate is balloted for and initiated on the same evening, or
advanced from one degree to another extremely quickly, it is usually because
the Lodge sees a need to have a ceremony. The progress of a Candidate
should not be governed by the needs of a Lodge that wants something
to do, but rather should at all times be geared to the needs of the
Candidate.
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4.3 Preparing for the Initiation Mentoring Toolkit Index
Upon election, the Lodge Secretary should send the Candidate a

congratulatory letter, which should also confirm
9 Date, time and venue of ceremony.

9 Dress code.
9 Whether Candidate has any friends or associates he would wish to
invite to attend as his personal guests.
9 Financial matters needing to be addressed on the evening.
9 Contact details for Lodge Mentor, or individual Mentor if one has been
appointed.
A Mentor, or the Candidate’s Proposer/Seconder, must meet with him to

explain the general format of the evening and to prepare him for the toasts
and for the brief response he will be called upon to make. Inform him that it is
usual to thank the Proposer and Seconder and also the Junior Deacon,
bearing in mind that at this point he will have little or no idea of the
contribution which will be made by the Junior Deacon on the evening. The
Candidate may not have any experience of public speaking, so
emphasise that the response need only be very brief, as you do not want
him to feel anxious about any aspect of the evening.
Arrange to collect the candidate from his home. If it is not possible for you to
do so, arrange for another member of the Lodge to pick him up. This is a
wonderful opportunity to answer last minute questions and to put him at ease.
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4.4 Initiation Ceremony Mentoring Toolkit Index
Upon arrival at the Lodge building, ensure the Candidate is welcomed by the
Worshipful Master and some of the members. Having been through an
Introductory Meeting and/or Interview, not all will be strangers to him, but
nevertheless, a few kind words will not go amiss and will help him relax.
Do not let anyone joke with him about the ceremony and therefore expose
him to false information (e.g. goat). Remember, he does not know what is
humorous and what is not at this point of his Masonic career.
Show the Candidate where he is to be prepared and explain to him what the
presentation entails. Introduce him to the Tyler and to the Junior Deacon.
If he is to use his own clothing he should not wear a singlet/vest and should
remove any personal jewellery, such as rings, neck chain etc. If this is not
entirely possible, use sticking plaster to cover the jewellery. It is important to
be sensitive at this time as the Candidate may well not wish to remove a
wedding ring for example and should not under any circumstances feel
pressurised to do so.
Be sure that his own clothing is arranged in such a way that it will remain in
position and will not unravel during the ceremony, possibly causing
embarrassment.
Tell the Candidate what is expected of him and assure him that he will be told
exactly what to do and when to do it.
Naturally, you will undertake some of this work in conjunction with Bro Tyler,
being careful not to usurp his position. However, as the Candidate may have
been introduced to the Tyler only a few minutes earlier, it is important you stay
with him during preparation and enter the Lodge behind him.
It is recommended that the Mentor assigned to the Candidate should be

formally identified by the Worshipful Master, invited to the pedestal and
introduced to the Candidate immediately after the Charge is delivered.
Suggested wording for introduction of Candidate to Mentor.
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4.5 After Initiation 2.1.4. Return Mentoring Toolkit Index
Arrange to meet with the Candidate as soon as possible after his Initiation
ceremony. The meeting should be held in a quiet environment where you are
both able to talk freely without embarrassment. The candidate’s home, your
home or the Masonic Hall are all suitable options and indeed the Masonic Hall
has the added advantage of allowing you to point out many of the features
you will be discussing.
It would be strange if the Candidate did not have many questions at your first
meeting and it will therefore be necessary to display considerable patience
and understanding, if you are to bring some structure to the meeting without
appearing to disregard the Candidate’s immediate thirst for knowledge.
You should start by congratulating the Candidate on taking his first step in
Freemasonry and handing to him a personal letter from the Provincial Grand
Master.
Then embark upon a step by step explanation, encouraging the Candidate to

question what is being said on each subject –
9 Brief history of Freemasonry and of your own Lodge. If a history of your

own Lodge has not been written, then steps should be taken by the
Lodge to do so, for the benefit of future generations.
9 Organisation of the Lodge and duties of the Lodge Officers
9 Provide contact details for the Officers of your Lodge and arrange to
introduce each of them to the Candidate at the next Lodge meeting.
9 Discuss where the Officers are seated and provide a schematic layout
of the Lodge Room
9 Symbolic explanation of the Initiation ceremony.
9 In many Lodges, a Candidate does not have access to the printed ritual
until he is presented with, or allowed to purchase, a ritual book
following the completion of his Third Degree. Ensure he is provided
with a copy of the ritual immediately following the ceremony of
Initiation, so that he may read it and raise any questions while the
events are reasonably fresh in his mind.
9 Applying the principles of Freemasonry to our everyday lives. The

Charge after Initiation spells out the way in which we should live our
lives, so provide a copy and discuss it with the Candidate.
9 Why we use ritual rather than more modern day terminology to convey
the aims and ideals of Freemasonry.
61
9 Basic Masonic etiquette.
9 Festive Board
9 Inviting Guests brings with it certain responsibilities
9 Arrange for the candidate to make an accompanied visit to a Lodge

conducting an Initiation Ceremony as part of the learning process.
Visiting other Lodges
9 Provide the Questions and Answers with which the Candidate must be
conversant before he is Passed to the Second Degree and help him to
learn them. The Mentor should discuss with the Candidate the meaning
of the questions and answers rather than merely providing the missing
words.
9 Ensure the Candidate is proficient in the First Degree signs, so that he

(and you) will not be embarrassed when he leaves the Lodge after
answering his questions and when he re-enters the Lodge before the
ceremony of Passing.
9 Provide the words of any Opening and Closing Hymns that are
traditionally sung in your Lodge,
The Candidate will eventually need to be familiarised with other elements of

the First Degree Ceremony, such as the First Degree Tracing Board. It is
however, important not to overburden him at this early stage when he
has so much to learn. An explanation of the First Degree Tracing Board is
an excellent subject for an evening when the Lodge has no ceremony to
perform and will be found interesting by all the newer members and even by
those not so new! The explanation can be divided into constituent parts to
involve many members of the Lodge in the work of the evening.
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4.6 After Passing Mentoring Toolkit Index
Start by congratulating the Candidate on taking

his second step in Freemasonry and becoming
a Fellow Craft. Embark upon an explanation of
the Second Degree ceremony and endeavour to
impart as much general Masonic knowledge as
the Candidate is able to assimilate without
overburdening him. As a conscientious
Mentor, you will be very aware that it is
essential to have at least one clear meeting
between the stages of advancement if the
Candidate is to progress satisfactorily,
having regard to the sheer volume of
information with which he is faced.
9 Symbolic explanation of the Ceremony of Passing
9 The Tracing Board in the Second Degree is quite a long piece of ritual,
and it is therefore not always delivered when a Candidate is Passed.
In some Lodges, it is explained on an evening when there is little other
work and, as a result, may be witnessed by several Fellow Crafts for
the first time. An optional shorter explanation of the Tracing Board is
attached.
9 Applying the principles of Freemasonry to our everyday lives. The

Working Tools of this Degree spell out the way in which we should live
our lives, so provide a copy and discuss it with the Candidate.
9 In many Lodges, a Candidate does not have access to the printed ritual
until he is presented with, or allowed to purchase, a ritual book
following the completion of his Third Degree. Ensure he is provided
with a copy of the ritual immediately following the ceremony of Passing,
so that he may read it and raise any questions while the events are
reasonably fresh in his mind.
9 Ensure the Candidate is proficient in the Second Degree signs and

remind him of those in the First. Make him aware that he will be called
upon to demonstrate both, when he leaves the Lodge after answering
his questions and when he re-enters the Lodge before the ceremony of
Raising.
9 The Candidate may not have been too aware of his surroundings
during and immediately after the Ceremony of Initiation, but will
certainly have taken note of many features in the Lodge Room by the
63
time he becomes a Fellow Craft. It is a good time to talk about the
Symbolism which forms such an important part of our Freemasonry.
9 Arrange for the candidate to make an accompanied visit to a Lodge

conducting an Initiation Ceremony as part of the learning process.
9 Charity is at the very heart of Freemasonry. It is practiced through the

work of the four National Masonic Charities, many Provincial Charities
and individual Lodges across the length and breadth of England and
Wales.
9 The relationship between the United Grand Lodge of England and the
Provinces, in terms of respective roles.
9 Explain the different Masonic Clothing & Regalia
9 Provide the Questions and Answers with which the Candidate must be
conversant before he is Raised to the Third Degree and help him to
learn them. The Mentor should discuss with the Candidate the meaning
of the questions and answers rather than merely providing the missing
words.
9 Discuss with the Worshipful Master the need for him to deliver a Royal
Arch Chapter Address to the Candidate at the conclusion of the
Ceremony of Raising. Sample Royal Arch Chapter Address.
Be especially vigilant after the Second Degree ceremony, as the

Candidate may not have been quite the centre of attention he was on the
evening of his Initiation when everyone wished to talk with him. It is
important he does not feel any sense of anti-climax.
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4.7 After Raising Mentoring Toolkit Index
You should start by congratulating the Candidate on

taking his next step in Freemasonry and handing to
him a personal letter from the Provincial Grand
Master. Then embark upon a step by step
explanation, and encourage the Candidate to
question what is being said on each subject
9 Symbolic explanation of the Third Degree

ceremony.
9 Applying the principles of Freemasonry to our

everyday lives
9 Ensure the Candidate is proficient in the Third

Degree signs and take the opportunity to
remind him of those in the First and Second
Degree. It is also a good time to remind him of
the grip and words of each of the three
Degrees.
9 Ensure that the candidate owns a ritual book of his own. Encourage
him to read it in short passages over a period of time and to discuss
with you the meaning of those passages and any abbreviations he is
as yet unable to understand.
9 Life as a Master Mason
9 Lodge of Instruction
9 Grand Lodge Certificate
9 Visiting other Lodges
9 Encourage the Candidate to engage in social activities at every

opportunity. These may vary considerably from relatively low key
Lodge gatherings such as Treasure Hunts etc, through Ladies’ Nights,
to events such as ‘Light Blues’ Club or Dinner Dances organised at a
Provincial level. Involvement of the family is important – remember, a
mason with a supportive family tends to remain a mason.
9 Conclusion – being a Mason in the world
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Letter from Provincial Grand Master after Raising
4.7. After Raising Mentoring Toolkit Index
Your
Logo Provincial Grand Lodge of <Insert>
here Address Line 1, Address Line 2, Address Line 2, Post Code
Tel: 01010 01 0101 Fax: 01010 010101
<Insert Name>
Dear Brother,
Congratulations on being raised to the sublime degree of a Master Mason.
The ceremony called upon you to consider your own mortality, but let me be one of
the first to wish you a long and happy life, enriched by your membership of our Order.
The learning process will, no doubt, continue in the years to come. I hope that you
will find many lessons and illustrations to help and guide you through the peaks and
troughs of our mortal existence, and that Freemasonry will lead you to a better
understanding of yourself and your place in the Great Architect’s grand design.
You are now a Master Mason and entitled to a full participation in all our three
degrees. I hope that, when you feel you are ready, your Lodge will encourage you to
participate in the ritual and progress into office to serve your brethren in the Lodge
and ultimately Freemasonry in general. As a first step, please accept my personal
invitation to attend our next Provincial meeting, an opportunity for you to see more of
our workings and extend your Masonic friendships across the Province. Your Lodge
Secretary will have full details.
As our Pro Grand Master said in an interview in ‘Freemasonry Today’, “Freemasonry

provides a strong support network in an unstable world. But if you want to go further
it can point you in the right direction; your progress is up to you, for within
Freemasonry you can only move to a better understanding through your own efforts.”
It is with great pleasure that I again welcome you to our Masonic family here in the
Province of <Insert>. Enjoy your Freemasonry to the full, and I hope that in due time
you will seek a better understanding of the hidden mysteries and genuine secrets of
a Master Mason by extending your membership to a Chapter of the Holy Royal Arch
of Jerusalem at a time which you feel is appropriate.
Kindest regards
<Insert Signature>Provincial Grand Master N.B. As this

letter carries your Provincial Logo/letterhead and the PGM’s signature
you may feel that it is prudent to password protect or make a JPEG of
your finished letter to reduce the possibility of unauthorised editing.
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4.8 Beyond the 3rd Degree Mentoring Toolkit Index
4.8.1 Answering the Questions of Family and Friends
As the Candidate becomes accustomed to life as a Master Mason, he will

naturally wish to talk about Freemasonry within the circles he keeps both at
home and at work. Indeed, he will doubtless face many questions from both
family and friends, curious to learn about his new found interest. As a
relatively new mason he will likely be unsure as to what he may divulge to
others about Freemasonry, perhaps taking his Obligations too literally.
It is important to discuss this particular issue with him, for if through lack of
knowledge or confidence he responds to questions negatively with ‘I can not
tell you, it is a secret’, he will of course be perpetuating the very myth we are
trying so hard to dispel. It is only by Talking about Freemasonry, that we are
able to convince the uninformed and popular world of the benefits of our
ancient Institution.
4.8.2 The Holy Royal Arch
Upon becoming a Master Mason, the Candidate may well be approached by

friends who, with the best of intentions, may encourage him to join other
Orders and there are many. All these Orders are no doubt enjoyable, they will
increase his general Masonic knowledge and he may eventually join some of
them. At this point however, you must issue a word of caution. Remind
the Candidate that he must never involve himself in Freemasonry to an extent
that compromises the interests of his family and business and that it is,
therefore, unwise to become over involved too quickly. Encourage him to
develop his knowledge of Freemasonry one step at a time and impress upon
him that the next step in Pure Antient Masonry is the Holy Royal Arch.
It is very important to ensure that the Candidate becomes a Royal Arch

Mason before considering membership of any other Order. You should
therefore provide him with an explanation of the relationship between the
Craft and the Holy Royal Arch and encourage him to take that next step as
soon as he feels ready to do so. Introduce him to an enthusiastic Royal Arch
mason, of a similar age, if possible.
(If you, the Mentor, are not a Royal Arch Mason, you must enlist the
assistance of a Companion of the Order to explain its relationship to the Craft)
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4.8.3 Maintaining the Relationship
One question that may be asked is “When does mentoring come to an end?”
The truth is that there may be no single answer to this question. It will all
depend on the type and strength of the relationship that has been built up
between the Candidate and his Mentor.
The initial aim of the mentoring programme is to ensure a new brother enjoys
his first few years in the Craft and becomes a regular and active Freemason.
He may not wish to commit to any further activity, such as taking up an Office
or performing ritual. If this is what he wants, and he will still attend his Lodge
when he can, the mentoring relationship will probably start to wind down at
this point. However, it would be unusual indeed if he had no further questions
and did not direct these towards his Mentor.
Of course as well as a more formal mentoring relationship, bonds of friendship

may also appear which may continue for many a year.
However, the new mason may wish to pursue a more active Masonic career
by either taking up an office, performing ritual or working his way towards the
Chair of King Solomon. In such a case, mentoring should continue to support
his development.
It may be that the Mentor has no experience in the role that the new mason
aspires to; Worshipful Master, Treasurer, Charity Steward etc. In such a case,
it may be better that ‘the mentoring baton’ is passed to a brother who has the
necessary experience. The Lodge Mentor will review, on an ongoing basis,
the suitability of Mentors he has allocated to particular new members.
Dealing with signs of Declining Interest
If a Mentor is meeting regularly with the new member, he should be able to

pick up any signs of potential disinterest at an early stage. This may manifest
itself in many ways, but may include: missing Lodge meetings, not attending
social events, or never staying for the Festive Board.
The first thing to do is to talk, and listen, to him. It may be that his domestic
and/or working circumstances have changed and he has no longer the time to
attend as regularly as he would like. If this is the case, re-assure him that
family and work must come before his Freemasonry and that he is doing the
right thing. Let him know that when his circumstances change, he will be
welcomed back into his Lodge with open arms.
If he feels that it will be a long time before he can re-attend his Lodge, discuss
with him the potential of attending/joining another Lodge that meets at a time
more convenient for him.
68
However, it may actually be the case that he is losing interest in Freemasonry.
Speak to him and try to find out why. It may be that he has fallen out with
someone, that he is being pushed into doing something (ritual/an office) that
he does not want to do. These are issues that can be remedied and it is the
Mentor who must help him do this as he may not have the confidence to
speak up for himself.
If the problem results from a clash of personalities in the Lodge and cannot be
resolved, similarly for any other distinctly Lodge related problems, then as a
last resort you can always recommend that the Candidate try another Lodge.
If necessary, visit with him and introduce him to anyone you might know in the
Lodge. It is better that he is lost to your Lodge, than to Freemasonry as a
whole. Do not blame yourself if this happens, as we all experience situations
when we are unable to correct a problem.
In the final analysis, you may regrettably have to accept that the Candidate is
not the right sort of man to be a Freemason or, that Freemasonry is not the
right organisation for him. If you believe this to be true and have tried all that
you can, it is better he leaves the Order in good standing and with good heart.
It is not in anyone’s interest to have a disinterested person in the Lodge. At
least you will know that you have done all that you can.
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4.9 The Installation Meeting Mentoring Toolkit Index
Every year, each Lodge holds an Installation, when a new Worshipful Master
takes up his role and appoints his Officers for the year ahead. It is a big event
in the Lodge’s calendar, as it is an opportunity to give thanks to the outgoing
Master for all his hard work, to give best wishes to his successor, and to
pledge the support of the brethren to the new ‘team’.
As it is such an important event, a lot of preparation is put in by everyone,

particularly the Worshipful Master, Secretary and Director of Ceremonies.
However, as a newer mason you will also have an important part to play. You
represent the future of the Lodge and, as the event is largely about looking
forward, your presence will certainly add to the sense of occasion.
Before the evening, check the dress code with your Mentor, as Lodges
sometimes have a different code for their Installation meeting. Also check the
start time, as that is also sometimes changed.
On the evening itself, make sure you arrive in good time as Installation
meetings often attract larger attendances and you do not want to find yourself
caught up in a last minute rush to get ready. Take your seat in good time,
remembering to check that it is not spoken for, as some may be reserved for
use during different parts of the ceremony.
You will be asked to leave the Lodge Room at some point in the evening, as
the Master Elect in presented whilst the Lodge is open in the Second Degree
and is installed by a Board of Installed Masters after all Master Masons have
been asked to withdraw in the Third Degree.
Attend the rehearsal if at all possible and talk with your Mentor to make sure
you are aware of the correct modes of exit from and re-entry to the Lodge
(signs, steps, positioning etc). Hopefully, you will not be alone when you leave
and re-enter the lodge, but there is a possibility that your Mentor may not be
able to come out with you on this particular occasion, as he may have a job to
do in the Lodge.
When you do leave the Lodge Room, you should stay within close proximity,
for you will be called back in and need to be ready when that happens. When
you re-enter, you will be asked to pass round the Lodge and salute the
Worshipful Master in the degree in which the Lodge is opened. This may
sound somewhat daunting, but you will be well briefed by the Director of
Ceremonies and it is unlikely you will be called upon to walk round on your
own.
In some Lodges, the perambulations are accompanied by music and the

singing of the Masonic Hymn, ‘Hail Masonry Divine’
70
You will then witness the Installing Master presenting the Warrant of the
Lodge, the Book of Constitutions, the By-laws of the Lodge and possibly the
By-laws of the Province, to his successor. The new Worshipful Master will
then appoint and invest his officers.
When the officers have all been appointed and invested, there will be three
Addresses given –
Address to the Worshipful Master

Address to the Wardens and
Address to the Brethren
(Print-outs of the above Addresses should preferably be given to the

Candidate immediately after the ceremony of Installation, rather than before it,
in order to maximise its impact)
As an Installation Meeting is such a special occasion, it is more than likely

there will be a distinguished visitor present. Be prepared to be introduced to
him as he will no doubt wish to meet and talk with the newer members.
The Installation is an important event in the life of your Lodge,

play your part and most of all – enjoy yourself.
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4.10 Reference and Support publications
Mentoring Toolkit Index
Literally thousands of books have been written on the subject of Freemasonry

over the course of the last 300 years and, in more recent times, the
World Wide Web has greatly added to the volume of material available. Not all
of it is good; indeed not all of it is comprehensible!
It is important to ensure that the Candidate is not inundated with large

amounts of information he is unable to understand. Start him reading slowly
and there is probably no better place to start than the Peterborough Booklets
published by QCCC Ltd. Following on, there are good booklets available
which provide a Daily Advancement in Masonic Knowledge and books
available giving information on other Orders.
Some Lodges are extremely musical whilst others are less so. The amount of
singing which takes place during the evening varies greatly, not just
geographically, but even between Lodges meeting in close proximity to each
other. If the new member is to feel comfortable and part of the family, it is
important that he is able to join in rather than feel apart because he does not
know the words. It is therefore important to provide him with details of any
Masonic Songs and Anthems that are used in your Lodge.
Talking about Freemasonry 4.8. Beyond the 3rd Degree Index
What can I tell my family?
Freemasonry is not a Secret Society and there is very little of your experience
as a Freemason which cannot be discussed with your family. It is a very good
idea to share your experiences, so that family members understand what
happens at a Lodge meeting and how you yourself participate in it. It is also
important that those close to you, especially your wife or partner, if you have
one, has a good understanding of what Freemasonry is and why you are
prepared to devote some of your time and money to it.
Can I tell my friends I am a Freemason?
You are encouraged to do so and hopefully it will be something of which you

are very proud. There is no good reason for not letting your friends and
colleagues know that you have become a Freemason and it is only natural
that you will wish to tell them about those aspects of it which you find most
enjoyable and intellectually rewarding. Remember, the friend in whom you
confide may one day be interested in becoming a Freemason, so feel
comfortable in what you will say to a prospective Candidate. You may wish to
address the following issues and many more -
72
9 What is Freemasonry?
9 Who is eligible to join?
9 What are the characteristics of a good mason?
Is there anything I cannot talk about?
The only things you must not disclose are the modes of recognition i.e. the
Signs, Tokens and Words of the Degrees, because you have promised in
your obligations not to do so. If pressed on the subject, you should advise that
they are wholly symbolic and used as a means of recognition only within the
confines of the Lodge Room.
There will of course be other things about which you cannot talk for lack of
knowledge, not because they are secret in any way. When talking to family or
friends, do not be afraid to admit that you are on a steep learning curve and
that your understanding of Freemasonry is, as yet, far from complete. Tell
them you will find out the answers they require before you next meet. A brief
conversation with your Mentor will doubtless provide the necessary
information to satisfy your friends whilst, at the same time, enhancing your
own knowledge of Freemasonry.
What if I encounter bias?
Some of our detractors are biased through plain ignorance of the aims and
objectives of Freemasonry. If you come across this, try asking the individual to
keep an open mind and not be swayed by the misinformation and pure
sensationalism that surfaces from time to time. Give them copies of the Grand
Lodge booklets you yourself received before Initiation, invite them to a Lodge
Open Day or to a Lodge social function. The number of both vociferous
detractors and scurrilous articles published about Freemasonry has noticeably
decreased in recent times, owing to the work of the Communications
Department of Grand Lodge that leaves no such matters unchallenged.
Nevertheless, there are still detractors and you may well come across
someone who has no intention of changing their preconceived opinion
73
Relationship between the Craft and the
Holy Royal Arch
The Holy Royal Arch Index
Introduction
The Order of the Holy Royal Arch, often referred to as Chapter because each
unit meets under the title of Chapter rather than Lodge, is an important step in
pure Antient Freemasonry.
For many years it was described as the completion of the Third Degree which,
as the Grand Master said in April 2004 “implies that neither the Third Degree
nor the ceremony of Exaltation is complete, which is surely untrue.” He further
made the point that “a man only becomes a complete Mason when he takes
the very important additional step into” the Royal Arch. The Holy Royal Arch is
thus an Order with its own independent status as may be seen in the foreword
to the Book of Constitutions, which states specifically that it is “an extension
to, but neither a superior nor a subordinate part of the Degrees which precede
it”. It may therefore be seen as a completion of a journey in pure Antient
Freemasonry.
History
The history of the Royal Arch is somewhat complicated. It is probably enough

to say that the legend upon which the Order is based, does go some way
towards explaining what the Third Degree appears to leave out.
You will know that before 1813 there were two Grand Lodges, and that they
differed in certain key respects. The Antients practised the Royal Arch as an
appendage to the Third Degree and regarded it as a fourth degree conferred
in their Lodges. The Moderns did not. Indeed, if it was performed it was
unofficial and without the blessing of Grand Lodge and thus, in time, this led
to the formation of separate Royal Arch Chapters. It was not until after the
Union of the two Grand Lodges in 1813 that it was declared to be an official
and universally accepted part of pure Antient Masonry – but delivered in
separate Chapters, thus pleasing both Grand Lodges.
The Holy Royal Arch - an Extension of the Craft, or different from the Craft
Our journey in Freemasonry, as you will have learnt, is a quest for

philosophical and spiritual growth. Whereas the Craft ceremony, and in
particular the five points of fellowship which you learnt in your Raising, deal
with your relationship with your fellow men, so you will find that the Royal Arch
74
and its peculiar five signs is concerned with man’s relationship with God. In
effect, it puts pure Antient Masonry into the context of the eternal and eternity.
The Story of the Ceremony
To do this, it bases its ceremonies on the rebuilding of the Temple in

Jerusalem when the Jews were allowed to return from Babylon many years
after they had been taken there following their defeat and the destruction of
the original Temple by Nebuchadnezzar.
The ceremony is quite beautiful and moving – something which, as with one’s
Initiation, one never forgets.
The Organisation
Many Lodges have Chapters attached to them, bearing the same number as
the Lodge and often the same name. When you feel ready, you should
enquire about being Exalted, as it is called, into this Supreme Order. It does
not have to be in the Chapter attached to your Lodge if there is one. Your
Mentor, or any Brother wearing the Royal Arch jewel, will be happy to help
you.
In general, it would be sensible to wait for a few months before you join Holy
Royal Arch, in order that you may be able to digest what you have already
experienced and enjoy the pleasures of visiting as a Master Mason. But, be
assured that once you do take that next step you will be welcomed as warmly
as you were into your Lodge.
Other Orders 4.10. Reference and Support publications Index
It is worthwhile pointing out that as well as completing your journey in pure

Antient Freemasonry, which is what the Craft and Royal Arch are called, you
will now find that you are eligible for entry into a number of other Orders and
Degrees. You will perhaps have heard mention of these at the Festive Board
when, in general conversation, reference is made to the Temple, Mark and
Royal Ark Mariners, Red Cross and Rose Croix. Each of these is, in its own
special way, a further means of teaching lessons and philosophising upon the
values and virtues which always merit greater understanding, amplification
and investigation, Faith, Hope and Charity being prominent. (For further
reading see “Beyond the Craft” by Keith B Jackson)
Whilst these Orders and Degrees throw a valuable and interesting light upon
our philosophies, one must never lose sight of the fact that it is the Craft
and the Holy Royal Arch upon which all rests.
75
HAIL! MASONRY DIVINE 4.9. The Installation Meeting Index
3rd Degree Perambulation
Hail Masonry divine! Glory of ages shine.

Long may'st thou reign. Long may'st thou reign.
Where’er thy lodges stand, may they have great command
And always grace the land. Thou art divine
2nd Degree Perambulation
Great fabric still arise, and grace the azure skies.

Great are thy schemes. Great are thy schemes.
Thy noble orders are, matchless beyond compare.
No art with thee can share. Thou art divine!
1st Degree Perambulation
Hiram the architect, did all the craft direct,

How they should build, How they should build.
Sol'mon, great Israel's King, did mighty blessings bring,
And left us cause to sing; Hail royal art!
76
The Warrant 4.9. The Installation Meeting Index
IM WM, I now deliver into your special keeping the Warrant of the Lodge.
It has been for many years entrusted to the hands of very worthy and
distinguished Brethren, and I am sure that in delivering it into your
charge it will lose none of its former splendour, but will be transmitted
to your successor pure and unsullied as you now receive it.
The Book of Constitutions and By-Laws 4.9. The Installation Meeting Index
IM The B of C I also present to you - hands B of C to WM which I strongly

recommend to your notice, for you will find that there is scarcely a case
of difficulty can occur in the Lodge in which that book will not set you
right. These - hands By-laws to WM are the By-laws of your Lodge
(which I recommend you to have read at least once in the year in order
that the Brethren may not plead ignorance of them).
77
Address to the Worshipful Master 4.9. The Installation Meeting Index
IM (or other PM) from N of SW’s ped and faces WM
Worshipful Master, you, having been installed in the Chair of this worthy and
worshipful Lodge, cannot be insensible to the obligations which devolve on you
as its head, or to your responsibility for the faithful discharge of the duties
annexed to the appointment. The honour, reputation, and usefulness of this
Lodge will materially depend on the skill and assiduity with which you manage
its concerns; while the happiness of its members will be generally promoted in
proportion to the zeal and ability with which you promulgate the genuine
principles of the Institution.
As a pattern for imitation, consider that glorious luminary of Nature, which,

rising in the East, regularly diffuses light and lustre to all within its circle; in like
manner it is your peculiar province to communicate light and instruction to the
Brethren of your Lodge. Forcibly impress upon them the dignity and high
importance of Masonry; seriously admonish them never to disgrace it; charge
them to practise out of the Lodge those duties they have been taught in it; and
by virtuous, amiable, and discreet conduct to prove to the world the happy and
beneficial effects of our Ancient Institution, so that when anyone is said to be a
member of it, the world may know that he is one to whom the burdened heart
may pour forth its sorrow, to whom the distressed may prefer their suit, whose
hand is guided by justice, and whose heart is expanded by benevolence.
In fine, Worshipful Master, by a strict observance of the By-laws of your Lodge,

the Constitution of Masonry, and above all by the use of the Sacred Writings
which are given as the rule and guide of our Faith, you will be enabled to lay up
a Crown of Joy and Rejoicing which will continue when time with you shall be
no more - (Sign of R).
And may God grant you health and strength to perform the duties of your high
office with satisfaction to yourself, and advantage to your Lodge - (drops Sign of
R)
78
Address to the Wardens 4.9. The Installation Meeting Index
IM (or other PM) from S of WM’s ped
Brother Senior and Junior Wardens, the Worshipful Master having appointed
you to the principal offices, you are to consider yourselves pledged by your
acceptance thereof to a strict performance of your duties, as well as to a
regular attendance during the time for which you are appointed. You are
sufficiently acquainted with the principles of Masonry to prevent any mistrust
that you will be found wanting in the discharge of the duties of your respective
offices. Suffice it to say that what you observe praiseworthy in others you
should carefully imitate, and what in them may appear defective you should in
yourselves amend.
You ought to be examples of good order and regularity, for it is only by paying
due obedience to the laws in our own conduct that we can reasonably expect
compliance with them from others. You are assiduously to assist the
Worshipful Master in the discharge of the duties of his important trust, by
communicating Light and imparting knowledge to all whom he may place under
your direction. From the spirit you have hitherto evinced, we entertain no doubt
your future conduct will be such as to merit the esteem of your Brethren and
the gratifying testimony of a clear conscience.
79
Address to the Brethren 4.9. The Installation Meeting Index
IM (or other PM) from S of WM's ped, facing W
Brethren, such is the nature of our Constitution that as some must of

necessity rule and teach, so others must of course learn, submit, and obey.
Humility in each is an essential qualification. The Brethren whom the
Worshipful Master has selected to assist him in the ruling and governing of
the Lodge are too well acquainted with the principles of Masonry, and the
Laws of our Institution, to warrant any mistrust that they will be found wanting
in the discharge of the duties of their respective offices, or that they will
exceed the powers with which they are entrusted; and you, Brethren, I am
sure, are of too generous a disposition to envy their preferment.
I therefore trust that we shall have but one aim in view, to please each other
and unite in the grand design of being happy and communicating happiness.
And as this association has been formed and perfected with so much
unanimity and concord, long may it continue. May brotherly love and affection
ever distinguish us as men and as Masons. May the principles and tenets of
our profession, which are founded on the basis of religious truth and virtue,
teach us to measure our actions by the rule of rectitude, square our conduct
by the principles of morality, and guide our inclinations, and even our
thoughts, within the compass of propriety.
Hence we learn to be meek, humble and resigned; to be faithful to our God,

our Country, and our Laws; to drop a tear of sympathy over the failings of a
Brother; and to pour the healing balm of consolation into the bosom of the
afflicted. May these principles and tenets be transmitted pure and unpolluted,
through this Lodge from generation to generation.
80
Province of ************************* Your
MASONIC WEB PAGES 4.10. Reference and Support publications Index
Logo
England
here
www.ugle.org.uk United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE)
www.grandcharity.co.uk The Grand Charity
www.freemasonry.london.museum UGLE Library and Museum
www.rmtgb.org The Royal Masonic Trust for Girls and Boys
www.rmbi.org.uk The Royal Masonic Benevolent Institution
www.nmsf.org The Masonic Samaritan Fund
www.mqmagazine.co.uk UGLE Official magazine
www.grandchapter.org.uk Official website of the Royal Arch Masons of
England
www.freemasonry.dept.shef.ac.uk Sheffield University Centre for Masonic
Research
www.canonbury.ac.uk Canonbury Masonic Research Centre
www.cornerstonesociety.com The Cornerstone Society
www.ukmason.org.uk/faq.htm UK Masonic mailing list
www.letchworthshop.co.uk/ Letchworth’s, the shop at Freemasons Hall
www.bradford.ac.uk/webofhiram/ An electronic database of Masonic material at
Bradford University
www.internet.lodge.org.uk The Internet Lodge, a good starting point for
information
www.quatuorcoronati.com The Premier Research Lodge
Other Links
www.cix.co.uk/~craftings/http.htm A huge source of links to the UK,
Europe and North America, plus
assorted links and Australasia, Pacific
etc.
www.grandlodgescotland.com Grand Lodge of Scotland
www.irish-freemasons.org Grand Lodge of Ireland
www.masonic-poetry.org International Masonic Poetry Society
www.freemasonry.bcy.ca Grand Lodge of British Columbia and
Yukon - try search
www.geocities.com/fmisrael Freemasonry in Israel
www.freemasoninformation.com Freemasonry Internet information from USA
Please Note – internet sites and web addresses are subject to change
so these addresses are given only as a starting point for Masonic
research on the ’net. As with any internet sites, always take care and
remember that at your initiation “you were taught to be cautious”!
81
A DAILY ADVANCEMENT IN MASONIC
KNOWLEDGE BOOKLETS.
4.10. Reference and Support publications Index
MENTORS: more comprehensive booklets are available for

a daily advancement in Masonic knowledge
Would your lodge buy them as a resource for your brethren to

share or as part of the Lodge library? Could you purchase a
set with neighbouring or Sister lodges?
82
Your
Logo
Province of / or Lodge Number ****** here
INFORMATION ABOUT OTHER ORDERS

(Click the picture to follow the link.)
Easy to read information about extra degrees and Orders allied to

Masonry,
available from Letchworth’s (The Shop at Freemasons’ Hall)
Telephone 020 7395 9329 http://www.letchworthshop.co.uk/
MENTORS: more comprehensive booklets are available

for a daily advancement in Masonic knowledge.
Would your lodge buy them as a resource for your brethren
to share, or as part of the lodge library? Could you
purchase a copy with neighbouring or Sister lodges? Will
more experienced masons donate resources to start a
library?
83
What is Freemasonry? Website available information Index
Freemasonry is one of the world's oldest secular fraternal societies. The

following information is intended to explain Freemasonry as it is practised
under the United Grand Lodge of England, which administers Lodges of
Freemasons in England and Wales and in many places overseas.
The explanation may correct some misconceptions.
Freemasonry is a society of men concerned with moral and spiritual values.

Its members are taught its precepts by a series of ritual dramas, which follow
ancient forms, and use stonemasons' customs and tools as allegorical guides.
The Essential Qualification for Membership

Website available information Index
The essential qualification for admission into and continuing membership is a
belief in a Supreme Being.
Membership is open to men of any race or religion who can fulfil this essential
qualification and who are of good repute.
Freemasonry is not a religion, nor is it a substitute for religion. Its essential

qualification opens it to men of many religions and it expects them to continue
to follow their own faith. It does not allow religion to be discussed at its
meeting.
The Three Great Principles
For many years Freemasons have followed three great principles:
Brotherly Love - Every true Freemason will show tolerance and respect for the
opinions of others and behave with kindness and understanding to his fellow
creatures.
Relief - Freemasons are taught to practise charity and to care, not only for
their own, but also for the community as a whole, both by charitable giving,
and by voluntary efforts and works as individuals.
Truth - Freemasons strive for truth, requiring high moral standards and aiming
to achieve them in their own lives.
84
Freemasons believe that these principles represent a way of achieving higher
standards in life.
Charity
From its earliest days, Freemasonry has been concerned with the care of
orphans, the sick and the aged.
This work continues today. In addition, large sums are given to national and
local charities.
Freemasonry and Society Website available information Index
Freemasonry demands from its members a respect for the law of the country
in which a man works and lives.
Its principles do not in any way conflict with its members' duties as citizens,
but should strengthen them in fulfilling their public and private responsibilities.
The use by a Freemason of his membership to promote his own or anyone

else's business, professional or personal interests is condemned, and is
contrary to the conditions on which he sought admission to Freemasonry.
His duty as a citizen must always prevail over any obligation to other
Freemasons, and any attempt to shield a Freemason who as acted
dishonourably or unlawfully is contrary to this prime duty.
Secrecy
The secrets of Freemasonry are concerned with its traditional modes of

recognition. It is not a secret society, since all members are free to
acknowledge their membership and will do so in response to enquiries for
respectable reasons. Its constitutions and rules are available to the public.
There is no secret about any of its aims and principles. Like many other
societies, it regards some of its internal affairs as private matters for its
members.
Freemasonry and Politics
Freemasonry is non-political, and the discussion of politics at Masonic

meetings is forbidden.
Other Masonic Bodies
Freemasonry is practised under many independent Grand Lodges with

standards similar to those set by the United Grand Lodge of England.
There are some Grand Lodges and other apparently Masonic bodies that do
not meet these standards, e.g. that do not require a belief in a Supreme
Being, or that allow or encourage their members as such to participate in
political matters.
85
These Grand Lodges and bodies are not recognised by the United Grand
Lodge of England as being Masonically regular, and Masonic contact with
them is forbidden.
Conclusion
A Freemason is encouraged to do his duty first to his God (by whatever name
he is known) through his faith and religious practice; and then, without
detriment to his family and those dependent on him, to his neighbour through
charity and service.
None of these ideas is exclusively Masonic, but all should be universally

acceptable. Freemasons are expected to follow them.
86
Freemasonry: An Approach to Life Website available information Index
Freemasonry teaches moral lessons and self-knowledge through participation

in a progression of allegorical two-part plays, which are learnt by heart and
performed within each lodge.
Freemasonry offers its members an approach to life which seeks to reinforce

thoughtfulness for others, kindness in the community, honesty in business,
courtesy in society and fairness in all things. Members are urged to regard the
interests of the family as paramount but importantly Freemasonry also
teaches and practices concern for people, care for the less fortunate and help
for those in need.
Why do people join and remain members?
People become Freemasons for a variety of reasons, some as the result of

family tradition, others upon the introduction of a friend or out of a curiosity to
know what it is all about.
Those who become active members and who grow in Freemasonry do so

principally because they enjoy it. They enjoy the challenges and fellowship
that Freemasonry offers. There is more to it, however, than just enjoyment.
Participation in the dramatic presentation of moral lessons and in the working

of a lodge provides a member with a unique opportunity to learn more about
himself and encourages him to live in such a way that he will always be in
search of becoming a better man, not better than someone else but better
than he himself would otherwise be and therefore an exemplary member of
society.
Each Freemason is required to learn and show humility through initiation.

Then, by progression through a series of degrees he gains insight into
increasingly complex moral and philosophical concepts, and accepts a variety
of challenges and responsibilities which are both stimulating and rewarding.
The structure and working of the lodge and the sequence of ceremonial
events, which are usually followed by social gatherings, offer members a
framework for companionship, teamwork, character development and
enjoyment of shared experiences.
What promises do Freemasons take? Website available information Index
New members make solemn promises concerning their conduct in the lodge
and society. These promises are similar to those taken in court or upon
entering the armed services or many other organisations. Each member also
promises to keep confidential the traditional methods of proving he is a
Freemason
87
which he would use when visiting a lodge where he is not known.
The much publicised 'traditional penalties' for failure to observe these
undertakings were removed from the promises in 1986. They were always
symbolic not literal and refer only to the pain any decent man should feel at
the thought of violating his word.
Members also undertake not to make use of their membership for personal
gain or advancement; failure to observe this principle or otherwise to fall
below the standards expected of a Freemason can lead to expulsion.
Who can join?
Membership is open to men of all faiths who are law-abiding, of good

character and who acknowledge a belief in God. Freemasonry is a multi-racial
and multi-cultural organisation. It has attracted men of goodwill from all
sectors of the community into membership. There are similar Masonic
organisations for women.
Is Freemasonry a religion?
Freemasonry is not a religion. It has no theology and does not teach any route
to salvation. A belief in God, however, is an essential requirement for
membership and Freemasonry encourages its members to be active in their
own religions as well as in society at large.
Although every lodge meeting is opened and closed with a prayer and its
ceremonies reflect the essential truths and moral teachings common to many
of the world's great religions, no discussion of religion is permitted in lodge
meetings.
Is Freemasonry a secret society? Website available information Index
Freemasonry is not a secret society, but lodge meetings, like meetings of

many other social and professional associations, are private occasions open
only to members.
Freemasons are encouraged to speak openly about their membership, while

remembering that they undertake not to use it for their own or anyone else's
advancement. As members are sometimes the subject of discrimination which
may adversely affect their employment or other aspects of their lives, some
Freemasons are understandably reticent about discussing their membership.
In common with many other national organisations, Grand Lodge neither
maintains nor publishes a list of members and will not disclose names or
member's details without their permission.
In circumstances where a conflict of interest might arise or be perceived to

exist or when Freemasonry becomes an issue, a Freemason must declare an
interest.
88
The rules and aims of Freemasonry are available to the public. The Masonic
Year Book, also available to the public, contains the names of all national
office-holders and lists of all lodges with details of their meeting dates and
places.
The meeting places and halls used by Freemasons are readily identifiable,
are listed in telephone directories and in many areas are used by the local
community for activities other than Freemasonry. Freemason's Hall in London
is open to the public and 'open days' are held in many provincial centres.
The rituals and ceremonies used by Freemasons to pass on the principles of

Freemasonry to new members were first revealed publicly in 1723. They
include the traditional forms of recognition used by Freemasons essentially to
prove their identity and qualifications when entering a Masonic meeting.
These include handshakes which have been much written about and can
scarcely be regarded as truly secret today; for medieval Freemasons, they
were the equivalent of a 'pin number' restricting access only to qualified
members.
Many thousands of books have been written on the subject of Freemasonry

and are readily available to the general public. Freemasonry offers
spokesmen and briefings for the media and provides talks to interested
groups on request. Freemasons are proud of their heritage and happy to
share it.
Is Freemasonry involved in politics?
Freemasonry is definitely not a political organisation, it has no political

agenda, and discussion of politics is not permitted at lodge meetings.
Freemasonry naturally tends to attract those with a concern for people and a
sense of social responsibility and purpose. There are members, therefore,
who are involved in politics at local, national and international level. Equally
there are members who take an active interest in non-Masonic charitable
organisations and other community groups.
Is Freemasonry involved in the community?
From its earliest days, Freemasonry has been involved in charitable activities,
and since its inception it has provided support for many widows and orphans
of Freemasons as well as for others within the community.
All monies raised for charity are drawn from amongst Freemasons, their
families and friends, while grants and donations are made to Masonic and
non-Masonic charities alike.
Over the past five years alone Freemasonry has raised more than £75m for a
wide range of charitable purposes including those involved in medical
research, community care, education and work with young people.
89
Freemasonry has an enviable record or providing regular and consistent
financial support to individual charities over long periods while at the same
time making thousands of grants to local charities, appeals and projects
throughout England and Wales each year. For the future, opportunities to
obtain or provide matched funding are periodically examined with a view to
enhancing the impact of the support Freemasonry can give to specific
projects. The personal generosity of Freemasons and the collective
fundraising efforts of almost 8,000 lodges, however, will continue to determine
the contribution Freemasonry makes within the community.
90
Freemasonry and Society Website available information Index
Introduction
This text is intended to expand a topic mentioned in the leaflet 'What is

Freemasonry'. It explains the United Grand Lodge of England's view on
Freemasonry and Society.
Grand Lodge's Policy
It must be clearly understood by every member of the Craft that his

membership does not in any way exempt him from his duty to meet his
responsibilities to the society in which he lives. The Charge to the new Initiate
call on him to be exemplary in the discharge of his civil duties; this duty
extends throughout his private, public, business or professional life.
Respect for the Law
Freemasonry demands from its members a respect for the law of any country
in which a man may work and live.
Principles
The principles of Freemasonry do not in any way conflict with its members'
duties as citizens, whether at work or at home or in public life, but on the
contrary should strengthen them in fulfilling their public and private
responsibilities. Thus there is no conflict of interest between a Freemason's
obligation and his public duty.
If an actual or potential conflict of duties or interests is known to exist or is

foreseen, a declaration to that effect should be made.
It may on occasions be prudent to disclose membership to avoid what others

mistakenly imagine to be a potential conflict or bias, but this must be a matter
for individual judgement.
Use of Membership Website available information Index
A Freemason must not use his membership to promote his own or anyone
else's business, professional or personal interests. This is made clear directly
or by inference several times during a Freemason's early career so that no
Freemason can pretend to be ignorant of it. A Freemason who transgresses
this rule may be suspended from Masonic activities or even expelled.
Family
91
Freemasonry should not be allowed to harm a man's family or other
connections by taking too much of his time or his money, or causing him to
act in any way against their interests.
Duty as a Citizen
A Freemason's duty as a citizen must always prevail over any obligation to

other Freemasons, and any attempt to shield a Freemason who as acted
dishonourably or unlawfully, or to confer an unfair advantage on another
Freemason is contrary to this prime duty.
Personal or Business Difficulties
If it could be proved by evidence that any personal failure or business difficulty

was attributable to 'Masonic influence', Masonic authority would take a serious
view of the fact, as this would be contrary to the principles of Freemasonry.
Secrecy
Freemasonry is not a secret society.
Like many other societies, it regards some of its internal affairs as private
matters for its members.
There is no secret about its aims and principles. Copies of the constitutions
and rules can be obtained from Freemasons' Hall by interested members of
the public.
The 'secrets' of Freemasonry are concerned with its traditional modes of
recognition. Its ceremonies are private.
In ordinary conversation there is very little about Freemasonry that may not be
discussed.
On enquiry for acceptable reasons, Freemasons are free and will be proud to
acknowledge their own membership.
92
Freemasonry and Religion Website available information Index
Introduction
The following information is intended to deal with a topic mentioned in the

leaflet 'What is Freemasonry'.
It explains the United Grand Lodge of England's view of the relationship

between Freemasonry and religion.
Basic Statement
Freemasonry is not a religion, nor is it a substitute for religion. It demands of

its members a belief in a Supreme Being but provides no system of faith of its
own.
Freemasonry is open to men of all religious faiths. The discussion of religion

at its meetings is forbidden.
The Supreme Being
The names used for the Supreme Being enable men of different faiths to join
in prayer (to God as each sees Him) without the terms of the prayer causing
dissention among them.
There is no separate Masonic God; a Freemason's God remains the God of

the religion he professes.
Freemasons meet in common respect for the Supreme Being, but He remains
Supreme in their individual religions, and it is no part of Freemasonry to
attempt to join religions together. There is therefore no composite Masonic
God.
Volume of the Sacred Law
The Bible, referred to by Freemasons as the Volume of the Sacred Law, is

always open at every Masonic meeting.
The Obligation of Freemasonry
The Obligations taken by Freemasons are sworn on or involve the Volume of

the Sacred Law, or the book held sacred by those concerned. They are
undertakings to help keep secret a Freemason's means of recognition, and to
follow the principles of Freemasonry.
The physical penalties, which are purely symbolic, do not form part of an
Obligation. The commitment to follow the principles of Freemasonry is,
however,
93
deep.
Freemasonry Compared with Religion Website available information Index
Freemasonry lacks the basic elements of religion.
a) it has no theological doctrine, and by forbidding religious discussion at its

meetings will not allow a Masonic theological doctrine to develop.
b) It offers no sacraments.
c) It does not claim to lead to salvation by works, by secret knowledge or by

any other means. The secrets of Freemasonry are concerned with modes of
recognition and not with salvation.
Freemasonry Supports Religion
Freemasonry is far from indifferent to religion. Without interfering in religious

practice it expects each member to follow his own faith, and to place above all
other duties his duty to God, by whatever name He is known. Its moral
teachings are acceptable to all religions.
Freemasonry is thus a supporter of religion.
94
Freemasonry's External Relations Website available information. Index
Introduction
The following information is intended to expand a topic mentioned in the

leaflet 'What is Freemasonry'. It explains the United Grand Lodge of England's
relations with other Masonic bodies.
Freemasonry is practised under many independent Grand Lodges with

principles or standards similar to those set by the United Grand Lodge of
England throughout its history.
Standards
To be recognised as regular by the United Grand Lodge of England, a Grand

Lodge must meet the following standards.
It must have been lawfully established by a regular Grand Lodge or by three

or more private Lodges, each warranted by a regular Grand Lodge.
It must be truly independent and self-governing, with undisputed authority
over Craft - or basic - Freemasonry (i.e. the symbolic degrees of Entered
Apprentice, Fellow Craft and Master Mason) within its jurisdiction and not
subject in any other way to or sharing power with any other Masonic body.
Freemasons under its jurisdiction must be men, and it and its Lodges must
have no Masonic contact with Lodges which admit women to membership.
Freemasons under its jurisdiction must believe in a Supreme Being.
All Freemasons under its jurisdiction must take their Obligations on or in full
view of the Volume of the Sacred Law (i.e. the Bible) or the book held sacred
by the man concerned.
The three 'Great Lights' of Freemasonry, (i.e. the Volume of the Sacred Law,
the square and the Compasses) must be on display when the Grand Lodge or
its subordinate Lodges are open.
The discussion of religion and politics within its Lodges must be prohibited.
It must adhere to the established principles and tenets (the 'Ancient
Landmarks') and customs of the Craft, and insist on their being observed
within its Lodges.
Irregular and Unrecognised Grand Lodges
There are some self-styled Masonic bodies that do not meet these standards,
e.g. which do not require a belief in a Supreme Being, or which allow or
encourage their members to participate as such in political matters. These
bodies are recognised by the Grand Lodge of England as being Masonically
irregular, and Masonic contact with them is forbidden.
95
Website available information. Index
Introduction
The text 'Freemasonry's External Relations' explains relations between the

United Grand Lodge of England ('Grand Lodge') and other Masonic bodies. It
shows what constitutes Masonic regularity. The following text examines the
attitude of regular Freemasonry to public affairs.
Regularity
The basic principles or rules governing the recognition of a Grand Lodge as

regular were codified by Grand Lodge and the Grand Lodges of Ireland and
Scotland (the 'Home Grand Lodges') in 1929. They include a requirement that
the 'discussion of religion and politics within the Lodge shall be strictly
prohibited'. The phrase 'within the Lodge' should not be interpreted narrowly
but extends to Masonic circumstances generally, and must be read in the light
of paragraph 6 of Aims and Relationships of the Craft.
Aims and Relationships of the Craft
The aims and relationships of the Craft (i.e. Freemasonry as practised under
a Grand Lodge) have been explained from time to time in the Press in the
British Isles, particularly in formal statements (in identical terms except for
national names) issued by the Home Grand Lodges in 1938. Relevant
paragraphs of Grand Lodge's statements are as follows:
'6. While English Freemasonry thus inculcates in each of its members the
duties of loyalty and citizenship, it reserves to the individual the right to hold
his own opinion with regard to public affairs. But neither in any Lodge, nor at
any time in his capacity as a Freemason, is he permitted to discuss or to
advance his views on theological or political questions.'
'7. The Grand Lodge has always consistently refused to express any opinion
on questions of foreign or domestic State policy either at home or abroad, and
it will not allow its name to be associated with any action, however
humanitarian it may appear to be, which infringes its unalterable policy of
standing aloof from every question affecting the relations between political
parties, or questions as to rival theories of government.'
'8. The Grand Lodge is aware that there do exist bodies, styling themselves
Freemasons, which do not adhere to these principles, and while that attitude
exists the Grand Lodge of England refuses absolutely to have any relations
with such bodies, or to regard them as Freemasons.'
In 1949 the Home Grand Lodges formally confirmed that they stood by their
statements, particularly paragraph 7. Their opinion has not changed.
96
Public Affairs
The basic principles and the statement of Freemasonry's aims show that the
rule that forbids Masonic discussion of politics is designed to prevent regular
Freemasonry becoming involved in any way in affairs of State, whether they
are domestic or external. Great care must be taken to ensure that nothing is
done that might allow it even to seem to be so involved.
Grand Lodges which ignore these principles are not conducting themselves
regularly and cannot expect to be or to remain recognised.
References
The full 'basic principles' and the statement on the aims and relationships of
the Craft are printed in Grand Lodge's Book of Constitutions and Masonic
Year Book.
Basic principles are re-stated in Grand Lodge's leaflet 'Freemasonry's

External Relations'.
Copyright 2002: The United Grand Lodge of England

Created by: Mark Griffin and maintained by: U.G.L.E
97
Your Questions Answered: Website available information Index
How many Freemasons are there?
How and when did Freemasonry start?
How many degrees are there in Freemasonry ?
What happens at a lodge meeting?
Isn't ritual out of place in modern society?
Why do grown men run around with their trousers rolled up?
Why do you wear regalia?
How much does it cost to be a Freemason ?
Why are you a secret society?
What are the secrets of Freemasonry?
Why do Freemasons take oaths?
Why do your 'obligations' contain hideous penalties?
Why is it necessary to adopt strange rituals?
Isn't it true that Freemasons only look after each other?
Aren't you a religion or a rival to religion?
Why do you call it the VSL and not the Bible?
Why do you call God the Great Architect?
Why don't some churches like Freemasonry?
Why will Freemasonry not accept Roman Catholics as members?
Isn't Freemasonry just another political pressure group?
Are there not Masonic groups who are involved in politics?
Why don't you have women members?
What is the relationship between Freemasonry and groups like the Orange
Order, Oddfellows and Buffaloes?
Is Freemasonry an international Order?
Q. What is Freemasonry? (Top)
A. Freemasonry is the UK's largest secular,
fraternal and charitable organisation. It teaches
moral lessons and self-knowledge through
participation in a progression of allegorical two-
part plays.
Q. How many Freemasons are there? (Top)
A. Under the United Grand Lodge of England, there are 330,000 Freemasons,
meeting in 8,644 lodges. There are separate Grand Lodges for Ireland (which
covers north and south) and Scotland, with a combined membership of
150,000. Worldwide, there are probably 5 million members.
Q. How and when did Freemasonry start? (Top)

A. It is not known. The earliest recorded 'making' of a Freemason in England
is that of Elias Ashmole in 1646. Organised Freemasonry began with the
founding of the Grand Lodge of England on 24 June 1717, the first Grand
Lodge in the world. Ireland followed in 1725 and Scotland in 1736. All the
regular Grand Lodges in the world trace themselves back to one or more of
98
the Grand Lodges in the British Isles. There are two main theories of origin.
According to one, the operative stonemasons who built the great cathedrals
and castles had lodges in which they discussed trade affairs. They had simple
initiation ceremonies and, as there were no City and Guilds certificates, dues
cards or trade union membership cards, they adopted secret signs and words
to demonstrate that they were trained masons when they moved from site to
site. In the 1600s, these operative lodges began to accept non-operatives as
"gentlemen masons". Gradually these non-operatives took over the lodges
and turned them from operative to 'free and accepted' or 'speculative' lodges.
The other theory is that in the late 1500s and early 1600s, there was a group
which was interested in the promotion of religious and political tolerance in an
age of great intolerance when differences of opinion on matters of religion and
politics were to lead to bloody civil war. In forming Freemasonry, they were
trying to make better men and build a better world. As the means of teaching
in those days was by allegory and symbolism, they took the idea of building
as the central allegory on which to form their system. The main source of
allegory was the Bible, the contents of which were known to everyone even if
they could not read, and the only building described in detail in the Bible was
King Solomon's Temple, which became the basis of the ritual. The old trade
guilds provided them with their basic administration of a Master, Wardens,
Treasurer and Secretary, and the operative mason's tools provided them with
a wealth of symbols with which to illustrate the moral teachings of
Freemasonry.
Q. How many degrees are there in Freemasonry ? (Top)

A. Basic Freemasonry consists of the three 'Craft' degrees (Entered
Apprentice, Fellow Craft and Master Mason) completed by the Royal Arch
degree (Chapter). There are many other Masonic degrees and Orders which
are called 'additional' because they add to the basis of the Craft and Royal
Arch. They are not basic to Freemasonry but add to it by further expounding
and illustrating the principles stated in the Craft and Royal Arch. Some of
these additional degrees are numerically superior to the third degree but this
does not affect the fact that they are additional to and not in anyway superior
to or higher than the Craft. The ranks that these additional degrees carry have
no standing with the Craft or Royal Arch.
Q. What happens at a lodge meeting? (Top)

A. The meeting is in two parts. As in any association there is a certain amount
of administrative procedure - minutes of last meeting, proposing and balloting
for new members, discussing and voting on financial matters, election of
officers, news and correspondence. Then there are the ceremonies for
admitting new Masons and the annual installation of the Master and
appointment of officers. The three ceremonies for admitting a new Mason are
in two parts - a slightly dramatic instruction in the principles and lessons
taught in the Craft followed by a lecture in which the candidate's various
duties are spelled out.
Q. Isn't ritual out of place in modern society? (Top)

A. No. The ritual is a shared experience which binds the members together.
Its use of drama, allegory and symbolism impresses the principles and
99
teachings more firmly in the mind of each candidate than if they were simply
passed on to him in matter-of-fact modern language.
Q. Why do grown men run around with their trousers rolled up? (Top)
A. We are often asked why we roll up our trouser leg. The reason is entirely
symbolic and simply shows the prospective member is a ‘free man’ with no
marks of imprisonment (mark caused by a leg iron). Incidentally, a new
member is only required to roll up his trouser leg on three occasions and
never thereafter. He does not, or certainly should not, feel self conscious
about it in any way, for he knows that everyone present, without exception,
has at some time been required to do the same. Admittedly, taken out of
context, this can seem amusing, but like many other aspects of Freemasonry,
it has a purely symbolic meaning.
Q. Why do you wear regalia? (Top)

A. To symbolise the clothes of the early stonemasons, who wore leather
aprons to protect themselves whilst at their work. This is just one of many
legacies of the Operatives, continued by present day Freemasons.
If you read the answer to this question in conjunction with the answers to two
other questions frequently posed, namely ‘why is it necessary to adopt
strange rituals?’ and ‘why do grown men run around with their trouser legs
rolled up?’, you will hopefully appreciate that Freemasonry contains much
symbolism, which applies as much to the way we dress as the words we use.
Q. How much does it cost to be a Freemason ? (Top)

A. It varies from lodge to lodge but anyone wishing to join can find a lodge to
suit his pocket. On entry, there is an initiation fee and an apron to buy. A
member pays an annual subscription to his lodge which covers his
membership and the administrative cost of running the lodge. It is usual to
have a meal after the meeting; the cost of this can be included either in the
annual subscription or paid for at the time. It is entirely up to the individual
member what he gives to Charity, but it should always be without detriment to
his other responsibilities. Similarly, he may join as many lodges as his time
and pocket can allow as long as it does not adversely affect his family life and
responsibilities.
Q. Why are you a secret society? (Top)

A. The prevailing impression of a secretive society is difficult to dispel. We are
most certainly not a Secret Society. It would be a very curious Secret Society,
which published as much about itself as Freemasonry and had its addresses
and telephone numbers in every Directory. Truly “Secret Societies” would not
think it appropriate to have their own website, like the one you are presently
looking at. They would not publish and distribute a Yearbook containing
names, addresses and photographs of its leading figures and the addresses
of Secretaries of local Lodges. Freemasons have stands at many local and
county Shows and our members are encouraged to speak openly about
Freemasonry.
Like many other organisations, it is a private, member funded, voluntary

association. Most voluntary associations do not share their modes of working
100
with the rest of the World. Uniquely, Freemasonry is accused of sinister
secretiveness if it does not share its modes of working with the rest of the
World. We can do no better than quote The Home Affairs Select Committee,
which in May 1998 reported on Freemasonry to Parliament. "We do not
believe that there is anything sinister about Freemasonry, properly observed...
it is obvious that there is a great deal of unjustified paranoia about
Freemasonry".
Q. What are the secrets of Freemasonry? (Top)

A. The secrets in Freemasonry are the traditional modes of recognition which
are not used indiscriminately, but solely as a test of membership, e.g. when
visiting a Lodge where you are not known.
Q. Why do Freemasons take oaths? (Top)

A. New members make solemn promises concerning their conduct in Lodge
and in society. Each member also promises to keep confidential the traditional
methods of proving that he is a Freemason which he would use when visiting
a lodge where he is not known. Freemasons do not swear allegiances to each
other or to Freemasonry. Freemasons promise to support others in times of
need, but only if that support does not conflict with their duties to God, the
law, their family or with their responsibilities as a Citizen.
Q. Why do your 'obligations' contain hideous penalties? (Top)

A. They no longer do. When Masonic ritual was developing in the late 1600s
and 1700s it was quite common for legal and civil oaths to include physical
penalties and Freemasonry simply followed the practice of the times. In
Freemasonry, however, the physical penalties were always symbolic and
were never carried out. After long discussion, they were removed from the
promises in 1986.
Q. Why is it necessary to adopt strange rituals? (Top)

A. Freemasonry endeavours to teach moral lessons and self-knowledge to
new members, however, it is one thing to have aims and ideals and quite
another to impress them upon the minds of the members. So, in our Lodge
rooms we enact, for the benefit of the new member, what can be likened to
the scenes from a play. The scenes are called degrees, because
Freemasonry is a progressive system. The play is centred on the building of
King Solomon’s Temple where every part of the building and every implement
used is given a deeper moral or spiritual interpretation, which is explained to
the new member.
Q. Isn't it true that Freemasons only look after each other? (Top)
A. No. From its earliest days, Freemasonry has been involved in charitable
activities. Since its inception, Freemasonry has provided support not only for
widows and orphans of Freemasons, but also for many others within the
community. Whilst some Masonic charities cater specifically but not
exclusively for Masons or their dependants, others make significant grants to
non-Masonic organisations. On a local level, lodges give substantial support
to local causes.
101
Q. Aren't you a religion or a rival to religion? (Top)
A. Emphatically not. Freemasonry requires a belief in God and its principles
are common to many of the world's great religions. Freemasonry does not try
to replace religion or substitute for it. Every candidate is exhorted to practise
his religion and to regard its holy book as the unerring standard of truth.
Freemasonry does not instruct its members in what their religious beliefs
should be, nor does it offer sacraments. Freemasonry deals in relations
between men; religion deals in a man's relationship with his God. In a world
where there is presently such intolerance, we take great pride in our members
who are able to meet together in friendship whatever their faith.
Q. Why do you call it the VSL and not the Bible? (Top)
A. To the majority of Freemasons the Volume of the Sacred Law is the Bible.
There are many in Freemasonry, however, who are not Christian and to them
the Bible is not their sacred book and they will make their promises on the
book which is regarded as sacred to their religion. The Bible will always be
present in an English lodge, but as the organisation welcomes men of many
different faiths, it is called the Volume of the Sacred Law. Thus, when the
Volume of the Sacred Law is referred to in ceremonies, to a non-Christian it
will be the holy book of his religion and to a Christian it will be the Bible.
Islam and Freemasonry
Q. Why do you call God the Great Architect? (Top)

A. Freemasonry embraces all men who believe in God. Its membership
includes Christians, Jews, Hindus, Sikhs, Muslims, Parsees and others. The
use of descriptions such as the Great Architect prevents disharmony. The
Great Architect is not a specific Masonic god or an attempt to combine all
gods into one. Thus, men of differing religions pray together without offence
being given to any of them.
Q. Why don't some churches like Freemasonry? (Top)

A. There are elements within certain churches that misunderstand
Freemasonry and confuse secular rituals with religious liturgy. Although the
Methodist Conference and the General Synod of the Anglican Church have
occasionally criticised Freemasonry, in both Churches there are many
Masons and indeed others who are dismayed that the Churches should attack
Freemasonry, an organisation which has always encouraged its members to
be active in their own religion.
Q. Why will Freemasonry not accept Roman Catholics as members? (Top)

A. It does. The prime qualification for admission into Freemasonry has always
been a belief in God. How that belief is expressed is entirely up to the
individual. Four Grand Masters of English Freemasonry have been Roman
Catholics. There are many Roman Catholic Freemasons.
102
Q. Isn't Freemasonry just another political pressure group? (Top)
A. Emphatically not. Whilst individual Freemasons will have their own views
on politics and state policy, Freemasonry as a body will never express a view
on either. The discussion of politics at Masonic meetings has always been
prohibited.
Q. Are there not Masonic groups who are involved in politics? (Top)
A. There are groups in other countries who call themselves Freemasons and
who involve themselves in political matters. They are not recognised or
countenanced by the United Grand Lodge of England and other regular Grand
Lodges who follow the basic principles of Freemasonry and ban the
discussion of politics and religion at their meetings.
Q. Why don't you have women members? (Top)

A. We are often asked ‘why men only?’ and if we wished to avoid the
question, we would no doubt reply ‘why is the WI only for Women?’
Traditionally, Freemasonry under the United Grand Lodge of England has
been restricted to men. The early stonemasons were all male, and when
Freemasonry was organising, the position of women in society was different
from today. However, Freemasonry these days, like most things, is not solely
a male preserve. There are four Masonic Orders in the UK, two being
exclusively female, one mixed and our own (admittedly much the largest)
which is exclusively male.
Q. What is the relationship between Freemasonry and groups like the

Orange Order, Odd Fellows and Buffaloes? (Top)
A. None. There are numerous fraternal orders and Friendly Societies whose
rituals, regalia and organisation are similar in some respects to those of
Freemasonry. They have no formal or informal connections with
Freemasonry.
Q. Is Freemasonry an international Order? (Top)

A. Only in the sense that Freemasonry exists throughout the free world and is
a multi-racial and multi-cultural organisation recognising no constraints
relating to colour, creed or language that may be experienced in some other
parts of our communities. Each Grand Lodge is however sovereign and
independent, and whilst following the same basic principles, may have
differing ways of passing them on. There is no international governing body
for Freemasonry.
103
Masonic Clothing. 4.6. After Passing Index
Q. Why are there so many different aprons?
There are seven designs of apron that you may normally see in a Lodge;
these are as follows -
Aprons worn by Entered Apprentices.

A plain white lambskin apron with a white flap
Aprons worn by Fellow Crafts.

As above, but with two light blue rosettes
Aprons worn by Master Masons.

As above, but bordered in light blue with silver tassels on blue ribbons
and a third light blue rosette on the flap.
Aprons worn by Masters and Past Masters of Lodges.

Similar in design to the Master Mason’s apron, with the rosettes being
replaced with perpendicular lines upon horizontal lines, sometimes
referred to as ‘levels’. The correct name for them is ‘Taus’.
Aprons worn by Provincial Grand Officers.

Similar to the Past Master’s apron (unless he has not gone through the
Chair, in which case the rosettes are not replaced with levels), but dark
blue in colour with gold tassels and the emblem of their office and
name of the Province in the centre. The ‘undress’ version is
ornamented with gold cord and is usually worn for normal meetings,
while the ‘full dress’ version is ornamented with gold lace and is often
worn for Installation meetings.
Aprons worn by Grand Officers

Developing from the Provincial Grand Officers apron, the roundel in the
middle with the name of the Province is replaced with the emblem of
the holder, surrounded by a sprig of acacia and an ear of corn. Again,
there is a ‘full’ dress and an ‘undress’ version.
Provincial and Grand Stewards

These follow a similar design to that of the Provincial or Grand Officers’
apron, but are scarlet in colour.
Look up Rule 265 in the Book of Constitutions for a more detailed explanation
of the various aprons. The design of aprons for visitors from other
Constitutions will differ from those listed.
104
Why do some people wear collars?
Officers of the Lodge wear light blue collars with the jewel of their office
attached. Past Masters wear light blue collars with a narrow silver band in the
centre and a square and the 47th proposition in Euclid attached. Provincial
and Grand Officers wear dark blue collars, with the jewel of their rank. Grand
Officers and the Provincial Grand Officers have ‘full dress’ and ‘undress’
collars, the full dress collars being more ornate in design, especially for Grand
Officers.
You will occasionally see someone wearing a chain instead of a collar.

Chains are worn by the Provincial Grand Master, the Deputy Provincial Grand
Master and the Assistant Provincial Grand Masters.
Again, for further information, refer to the plates in the Book of Constitutions.
Why do some people wear medals?
The correct term is ‘jewel’ rather than ‘medal’ and four types are frequently
worn. These are -
Past Masters’ Jewels

It is customary in some Lodges to present the Worshipful Master with a
Past Master’s jewel at the end of his year in office, to thank him for his
work during the year. The design of jewel often incorporates the
emblem of the Lodge.
Charity Festival Jewels

Individuals who subscribe certain amounts to a Festival of one of the
four national Masonic Charities, qualify as Stewards for that Festival.
To mark this, they may wear the special Festival Jewel. Some of these
jewels may only be worn for the duration of the Festival, whilst others
receive permission from the Grand Master to be worn permanently.
Centenary Jewels
The Grand Master may grant the Lodge a Centenary Jewel when it
reaches its 100th anniversary. This can be worn by Master Masons
and above in the Lodge. For a Lodge which has reached its Bi-
Centenary (200 years), a bar is added to the ribbon of the Centenary
Jewel.
Royal Arch Jewels

These are worn by Freemasons who have completed their three Craft
Degrees and taken that next, most important, step on the path of
Pure Antient Masonry, by joining the Holy Royal Arch. They are
expected to wear their Royal Arch Jewel when attending Craft
meetings. Whilst the design of the jewel stays the same, the colour of
the ribbon changes depending upon the progress of the mason (known
as a Companion) through the Order. It should be worn to the right of,
and takes precedence over, all other jewels.
105
Extract from the Address of the MW Pro Grand
Master to Grand Lodge on Wednesday, 14th
June 2007
Return to The Interview Index
Quote
Although the number of Grand Lodge Certificates issued in 2006 showed a

drop of nearly ten per cent over the previous year, this is an exciting time for
Freemasonry. I believe we are at a turning point. This is a turning point for the
better. With this in mind we should all be renewing our efforts to find men of
quality to join us. To do so we need to be able to openly voice the objectives
and merits of our Freemasonry. We need to do this from the very beginning.
By beginning, I mean from the moment we first interview a potential
candidate. I am looking at initiatives to help this process.
It has always seemed strange to me that, for example, we ask the candidate
those three very important questions after the ceremony has begun. He is in a
state of darkness, has little understanding of the criteria for membership and
even less chance of giving a reasoned answer.
So what we need to do is to give clear guidelines for these interviews. We

must tell the candidate what he can expect from us and what we will expect
from him. I am on record as saying that in this age of openness we should be
able to discuss the purpose of our rituals with a candidate before he decides
whether to join. To put it another way, no thinking man is going to join and
then stay committed to an organisation that cannot talk about itself openly and
with clarity. So we have to be clear in our own minds what the purpose of
Freemasonry is and what our ritual means. When we are clear, we need to
become good at marketing ourselves. Then, in the interview we can explain
our Freemasonry in a way that fits the twenty first century and why it will be
relevant to the candidate. That will allow us a better chance of competing for
his leisure time, his finances and his intellectual stimulation.’
Unquote
106
Your
Provincial Grand Lodge of <Insert>
Address Line 1, Address Line 2, Address Line 2, Post Code
Logo Tel: 01010 01 0101 Fax: 01010 010101
here
<Insert Name> 4.5. After Initiation Index

Dear Brother,
Congratulations on being made a Freemason.
The ceremony through which you passed may initially be difficult for you to
remember in any detail, but I can assure you it contains many great principles.
Your Mentor will help you to recollect the ceremony and will happily explain
those parts which may be unclear to you, so please do not hesitate to ask as
many questions as you like. The learning process will continue in the years to
come.
You are now a Freemason. Although there are other members who are more
experienced and of higher rank, you are their equal as a man and their
brother. You enjoy the same rights and privileges as any other Freemason,
except for the forms of recognition associated with the higher degrees and
these will come to you in time.
Remember at all times that you are a valued member of your Lodge and
make a real effort to get to know the other members and join in Lodge
activities, for you will find many friendships await you.
It is with great pleasure that I welcome you to our Masonic family here in the
Province of <Insert>. Enjoy your Freemasonry to the full, for it has much to
offer you if you are prepared to regard it as a pattern for living.
Kindest regards
<Insert Signature>
N.B. As this letter carries your Provincial Logo/letterhead and the PGM’s
signature, you may feel that it is prudent to password protect, or make a
JPEG of your finished letter to reduce the possibility of unauthorised
editing. It is envisaged that the Lodge Mentor will print off a copy as
needed, for the Mentor to present to the new Candidate at the start of
their first meeting.
107
Freemasonry – A Brief History.
4.5. After Initiation Mentoring Toolkit Index
Modern speculative Freemasonry as we practise it, originated in Britain. We
say Britain rather than any of its constituent countries as there are competing
thoughts as to whether England or Scotland saw our first lodges. Written
records are now lost and so we can leave it as a little friendly rivalry between
England and Scotland as to where our roots lie. You will hear many theories
on how Freemasonry came into being. The most popular thought is that it is
derived from the mediaeval guild of operative masons who built the
magnificent cathedrals and churches spread throughout the land. Other
plausible theories suggest that Freemasonry evolved from the early days of
the Royal Society and the activities of the earnest thinkers which it nurtured.
Some put credence in other more esoteric suggestions such as our origins
coming from the Knights Templar, the court of the Saxon King Athelstan, the
ancient Roman College of Architects, or even Pythagoras or other luminaries
of the ancient world. The truth is that we do not know for sure and, more
importantly, it does not really matter. It has been usefully suggested that you
can compare it with standing on the shore of the Bristol Channel and saying
that you are looking at the waters of the River Severn. This is true, but you
are also looking at the waters of the rivers Teme, Avon and Stour, amongst
many others. No doubt we too have many sources which are less obvious.
What we do know is that current Freemasonry came into being on the feast
day of St John the Baptist in 1717, when the first Grand Lodge was
established. The happiness of this event was marred by subsequent
dissension which lasted for sixty years and saw the formation of other rival
Grand Lodges. That was not resolved until 1813 when the two surviving rivals
were reconciled and formed what we know today as the United Grand Lodge
of England. This is the body which now governs Freemasonry in England and
Wales and Districts overseas.
108
Lodge Officers 4.5. After Initiation Mentoring Toolkit Index
A Masonic Lodge is not a building or a room; it is a group of people making up

a unit referred to as ‘A Lodge’.
The workings, transactions and ceremonial of the Lodge revolve around its
officers, although any member may be asked to take part in the proceedings,
by learning and then performing part of the ceremony, which may be a couple
of sentences or even pieces taking 10 minutes or more to deliver.
There are as many as seventeen officers, all with their own responsibilities,
plus an Immediate Past Master who would also be present, but in actual fact
is not an Officer of the Lodge. Of these officers, the Master, Treasurer and
Tyler are elected at a meeting specified for that purpose in the Lodge By-laws.
The appointment of all other officers is at the sole discretion of the Master.
All Lodges are governed by the same Rules, issued by the United Grand
Lodge of England. These Rules are known as the Book of Constitutions and
detail very clearly those officers who must be appointed in a Lodge and those
officers who may be appointed (B of C 104a).
The officers that must be appointed are known as the regular officers and are
the Master, his two Wardens, a Treasurer, a Secretary, two Deacons, an
Inner Guard and a Tyler. The Master shall appoint as additional officers an
Almoner and a Charity Steward and may also appoint as additional officers a
Chaplain, a Director of Ceremonies, an Assistant Director of Ceremonies, an
Organist, an Assistant Secretary and a Steward or Stewards. No Brother can
hold more than one regular office in the Lodge at one and the same time, but
the Master may appoint a Brother who is holding a regular office, to also hold
an ‘additional’ Office.
A Brother who is not a subscribing member of the Lodge may not hold any
office, except that of Tyler.
All these officers can be recognised by the fact that they wear a broad light
blue collar. To each of these collars is attached a jewel which represents that
office.
So, who are these Officers and what do they do?
109
The Worshipful Master Mentoring Toolkit Index
4.5. After Initiation
The qualification required to be eligible for election to Master is that the
Brother should have served for a full year as a Senior Warden or Junior
Warden in a regular Lodge. The Master is effectively the Chief Executive of
the Company. Nothing much can happen at a Lodge Meeting until the Master
starts the proceedings and the members would be in for a marathon session if
the Master didn’t close them! In between the opening and closing of the
Lodge, depending on the business to be transacted, the Master will call upon
various officers to carry out particular duties, although many will be carried out
by the Master himself.
In many Lodges there is what may be described as ‘a ladder system’ with

each officer progressing one step up the ladder at the annual Installation
meeting. Even in Lodges employing the ‘ladder system’ it is not always strictly
observed and would not normally apply to such offices as Lodge Secretary,
Director of Ceremonies, Almoner and Charity Steward as these are offices
that benefit from a period of continuity and are not therefore regarded as
progressive. Although the appointment of all officers, other than those elected,
is as previously stated in the gift of the Worshipful Master, a wise Master will
adhere to established sensible practice in order to maintain harmony within
his Lodge.
It is not compulsory for members to advance through the offices, but

under normal circumstances, a member should not accept the office of
Warden unless he is prepared to advance to the Master’s Chair.
The Jewel appended to the Master’s Collar is the Square; a Master’s Collar
may on occasion be adorned with a commemorative Jewel indicating that the
members of his Lodge have played their part in establishing a fund, which
was placed at the disposal of the Royal College of Surgeons. No other Jewel
or Badge is permitted to be attached to any Collar.
110
The Wardens 4.5. After Initiation Mentoring Toolkit Index
The Senior Warden sits opposite and facing the Master in the West, whilst the
Junior Warden sits at about 45 degrees to the Master’s left in the South. They
have important roles to play, assisting the Worshipful Master in the running of
the Lodge. Serving as a Warden also provides them with the opportunity to
prove to the membership that their ability and commitment makes them
suitable candidates for advancement.
As previously stated, the qualification for advancement to the Master’s Chair

is that a Brother shall have served for a full year as a Warden in a regular
Lodge (that is to say, from one regular installation meeting until the next
regular installation at the corresponding period in the following year (B of C
105a)). Naturally, a Brother who has previously served in the office of Master
is also qualified to serve in that office again, but not continuously in the same
Lodge for more than two years in succession, unless by dispensation, neither
shall a Brother be Master of two or more Lodges at the same time without
dispensation (B of C 115).
.
If the investiture of a Warden shall not have taken place at the meeting at
which the Master was installed, and thereby the Brother appointed has not
served a full year, he cannot be included among those eligible for election as
Master of the Lodge except by dispensation (B of C 109).
The Jewel appended to the Senior Warden’s Collar is the Level and that to
the Junior Warden’s Collar is the Plumb Rule.
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The Chaplain 4.5. After Initiation Mentoring Toolkit Index
The Office of Chaplain is not surprisingly, a devotional one. He offers the

prayers of the Lodge, but need not be a man of the cloth. He is usually
positioned close to and to the left hand side of the Master and is quite often a
very experienced Mason. He should be happy to be approached by the less
experienced members for advice and instruction.
The Jewel appended to the Chaplain’s Collar is the VSL on a triangle,

surmounting a glory. (Sunburst)
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The Treasurer 4.5. After Initiation Mentoring Toolkit Index
The qualification for Treasurer is that he is a member of the Lodge. The

Treasurer, as already stated, is elected rather than appointed, and is
responsible for the receipt and banking of funds, making payments and the
production of a set of accounts. He also submits an annual statement of
accounts for auditing and circulation to the members of the Lodge, and
provides the financial control over the Lodge income and expenditure. Some
Lodges have a particular desk and chair reserved for him, but this depends on
availability and space.
The Jewel appended to the Treasurer’s Collar is a Key.
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The Secretary 4.5. After Initiation Mentoring Toolkit Index
The Secretary is responsible for the business of the meeting. He keeps the
Lodge minutes and is responsible for the general paperwork, including the
issue of summonses and the Annual Returns to Grand Lodge. He is also
responsible for liaison with Provincial Grand Lodge, dealings with other
Lodges and for communications from and to members.
He is expected to have a sound knowledge of the regulations of the Craft, as

he may be consulted by the Master on points of procedure. There is a
Secretary’s table provided, but its position will vary from Lodge to Lodge.
The Jewel appended to the Secretary’s Collar is Two Pens in Saltire, tied by a
ribbon. (Saltire in heraldry means a diagonal cross e.g. Scottish Flag).
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The Director of Ceremonies
The Director of Ceremonies is responsible for the ceremonial of the Lodge
and the smooth running of the meeting. He should ensure that all articles
necessary for a meeting are laid out correctly, and will arrange processions in
and out of the Lodge Room. He also attends to matters of protocol, such as
the correct way to receive important visitors and give salutations to Grand
Officers.
He will of necessity be positioned in a prominent place in the Lodge, so that

he can closely observe that all procedures and rituals are being carried out
correctly, and can quickly intervene to assist should the need arise. He is
also responsible for the manner in which the after meeting is conducted in the
Dining Room, ensuring that protocols are adhered to, but allowing the
brethren to enjoy themselves within the bounds of propriety.
The Jewel appended to the Director of Ceremonies’ Collar is Two Rods in

Saltire, tied by a ribbon.
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The Deacons 4.5. After Initiation Mentoring Toolkit Index
The Senior Deacon who sits at the right side of the Master and the Junior
Deacon who sits at the right of the Senior Warden, are the two officers who
conduct the Candidate through the various ceremonies. Upon them rests a
great deal of responsibility for the success of a ceremony. They need to have
knowledge of, and the confidence to carry out the perambulations, for if the
Candidate were to find himself in the wrong part of the Lodge Room at the
wrong time, it would detract from the ceremony. As far as the ceremony is
concerned, a Lodge with two efficient Deacons will rarely go wrong.
The Jewel appended to the Deacons’ Collars is a Dove and Olive Branch.
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The Charity Steward 4.5. After Initiation Mentoring Toolkit Index
The Charity Steward is basically a fund-raiser. It is at times a thankless task

and may require a lot of determination to succeed. His prime responsibility is
to raise monies for Masonic Charities, however he can often be found making
appeals on behalf of local and non Masonic Charities. He collects donations,
explains the advantages of Gift Aid forms, Standing Orders etc. He
disseminates information about the various Charities and their work, as this
ensures all members appreciate the use to which their donations are put and
also encourages them to be as generous as their personal circumstances
permit. He does not have a particular place reserved for him in the Lodge
Room.
The Jewel appended to the Charity Steward’s Collar is a Trowel.
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The Almoner 4.5. After Initiation Mentoring Toolkit Index
The Almoner keeps in touch with members and their families in times of
illness or distress. Lodge funds can be allocated to the Almoner for specific
purposes, such as the distribution of Christmas cards and gifts to widows.
Each Almoner has his own method of working, but typically an Almoner
arranges visits to those in hospital, organises practical help for members
when they or their families are in difficulties, or simply visits members who find
themselves unable to attend meetings.
The Almoner provides an individual Brother with a very important link to

various sources of assistance. With the help of the Almoner, Brethren can
receive assistance in times of poverty or distress and this facility is of course
provided in total confidence. Like the Charity Steward, the Almoner does not
have a reserved place in the Lodge room.
The Jewel appended to the Almoner’s Collar is a Scrip-purse, upon which is a

Heart.
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The Assistant Director of Ceremonies
The Assistant Director of Ceremonies is exactly that and, depending upon the
Director of Ceremonies, will either be involved in the floor work or merely
occupy a relatively inactive office. The ADC will usually sit adjacent to the DC.
The Jewel appended to the Assistant Director of Ceremonies’ Collar is Two

Rods in Saltire surmounted by a bar bearing the word ‘Assistant’.
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The Organist 4.5. After Initiation Mentoring Toolkit Index
A newly made mason will quickly come to appreciate that a good Organist
really does make a huge difference to the atmosphere of a Lodge Meeting.
His ability to interpret the proceedings from the keyboard adds enormously to
the drama and tension of the ceremony.
In many Lodges, although not all, singing is an important part of the evening
which the members greatly enjoy. Because we can’t all sing in tune, the
Organist is often called upon to rescue the moment!
The Jewel appended to the Organist’s Collar is a Lyre.
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The Assistant Secretary 4.5. After Initiation Mentoring Toolkit Index
The role of the Assistant Secretary, like the Assistant Director of Ceremonies,
varies considerably from Lodge to Lodge. Occasionally he may be given
interesting tasks, but more often than not, especially if the Secretary has
many years service, his Assistant is underutilised.
With an ever increasing volume of email traffic, allowing quicker and more
cost effective communication, it should be recognised that some Lodge
Secretaries of long standing may not be able to communicate in this way. This
in itself does not represent a problem, as it is possible to retain the great
experience such Secretaries bring to the office, by recommending the
Assistant Secretary acts as a mailbox for the Secretary.
The Jewel appended to the Assistant Secretary’s Collar is Two Pens in

Saltire, surmounted by a bar bearing the word Assistant.
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The Inner Guard 4.5. After Initiation Mentoring Toolkit Index
The Inner Guard, often a fairly inexperienced member, is given the

responsibility of ensuring only those entitled to be present are present. This
can be quite a daunting task, but with the assistance of the Director of
Ceremonies and the Tyler, who guards the outside entrance to the Lodge, it
can be most interesting.
It is one of the first steps in the progression to the Master’s Chair and the
requirement for the new member to work on the floor of the Lodge will provide
him with a greater appreciation of the ceremonies carried out in the Lodge
Room. The Inner Guard will be found just inside the door of the Lodge Room.
The Jewel appended to the Inner Guard’s Collar is Two Swords in Saltire.
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The Tyler 4.5. After Initiation Mentoring Toolkit Index
The qualification for election to Tyler is that of being a Master Mason. As

previously stated, the Tyler assists the Inner Guard in ensuring only persons
entitled to be present are present and additionally, looks after Brethren prior to
them entering the Lodge.
In some Lodges, the office of Tyler is on the ladder of progression. There is

however, a school of thought that believes the Tyler should be an office
occupied after being Immediate Past Master, as an experienced mason is
better able to guide and assist the Inner Guard and ensure visitors are
suitably qualified. The Tyler is positioned just outside the door of the Lodge
room and can often communicate with the Inner Guard through a wicket fitted
into the door. The Jewel appended to the Tyler’s Collar is a Sword.
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The Stewards 4.5. After Initiation Mentoring Toolkit Index
The Stewards, who are normally the newer members, are the officers who
arguably have one of the most important duties of the Lodge, which is to look
after the visitors and the inner needs of their own Brethren.
Carrying out these duties provides the Steward with the opportunity to meet
and talk with many members of the Lodge and, in turn, allows the Brethren to
get to know the newer members. The work of the Stewards takes place
outside the Lodge Room, where a different set of traditions are enacted,
although these are by custom and practice, rather than by dictate.
The Jewel appended to the Steward’s Collar is a Cornucopia (also known as

the Horn of Plenty).
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LAYOUT OF A LODGE ROOM
This is only one example. See how your lodge varies from this. Don’t
hesitate to ask your Mentor!
There may be minor variations from Lodge to Lodge, but the seating of the
Worshipful Master, the Wardens and the Deacons, is invariable. The Cardinal
points are notional.
The room in which the meetings and ceremonies are conducted is called
the ‘Lodge Room’. You may find some of the Brethren referring to it as ‘The
Temple’, but this is actively discouraged, as use of the word ‘Temple’ has
misplaced religious connotations.
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Symbolic Explanation of the Ceremony of
Initiation
Whilst the friendships made are extremely

important and not to be underestimated in any
way, the key to enjoying your Freemasonry to
the full lies in understanding it. However, in
coming to understand the meaning of our
Ceremonies, we have a problem, for different
Brethren will interpret them in different ways.
What is more, none of them will be wrong. After
all, if we were all able to understand the
Ceremonies in a uniform manner, there would be
little point in coming to our Lodges to witness
them time after time, as their significance could
perhaps be explained in a single visit. Over a
period of time, the ritual you see, hear and learn,
will prompt you to think about it more widely and
more deeply. This will lead you to consider the
one constant that should be in our minds - How
can we improve ourselves as building blocks for
the Temple we are contemplating?
This is a challenging concept for anyone who has just been initiated and gone
through a Ceremony that may be viewed on the evening of their Initiation as
confusing, perhaps somewhat bizarre and more than likely a little nerve
wracking!
The ceremony represents the birth of Man. At birth we are all naked,
without possessions and rely upon the help and guidance of others until
we reach maturity and can, in turn, extend help to others.
You may remember that just before you entered the Lodge Room you were
confronted with the challenge, --- “Do you feel anything?” This symbolic
challenge was designed to intimate to you that you were about to engage in
something serious and solemn.
A second challenge awaited you inside the door of the Lodge; “Are you free?"
After you vowed that you were free of any bondage, the blessing of the
Almighty was invoked upon the proceedings.
Then almost immediately came the third and most important challenge of all,
"In all cases of difficulty and danger, in whom do you put your trust?" There is,
of course, only one answer to this question. "In God” for the Christian: “In the
name of Allah” for the Moslem; in other words, in the name of the Supreme
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Being appropriate to the religious persuasion of the Candidate. To avoid
possible offence and to promote unity among all men, the Supreme Being of
all denominations is referred to as the Great Architect of the Universe.
See Islam and Freemasonry
The hoodwink or blindfold that you wore represented the darkness before
birth and education and also made it possible for you to be led from the Lodge
Room without seeing it, if you refused to continue with the Ceremony. The
Cable Tow placed around your neck was an emblem of the bondage which
comes from ignorance, but together with the poignard which was presented to
your naked left breast, also served to control your movements during the
ceremony. You were divested of all metallic objects so that you could not
bring any offensive weapons into the Lodge to disturb its harmony. The
naked heel and the slipshod are because the ground is consecrated and the
knee is bare so that there is nothing between it and the Earth when the
Obligation is taken. The trouser leg is also rolled up to demonstrate the
Candidate is a free man, bearing no marks of a leg iron. The Left Breast is
made bare so that the points of both the poignard and the compasses can be
felt next to the heart and also to prove that the Candidate is not female!
It is appropriate that you entered the Lodge Room in a state of darkness, for it
symbolised the gateway or beginning of life. You proceeded down the North
side, a place of darkness. Your movements around the Lodge Room followed
the path of the sun in the Northern Hemisphere, where our ceremonies
originate. It rises in the East, reaches its highest point in the South then sets
in the West and returns to the East through the hours of darkness.
.
After convincing the Brethren you were properly prepared to be made a

Freemason, you made significant declarations about your honesty to the
Craft. You declared that you offered yourself freely and voluntarily as a
Candidate, that you wished to serve your fellow man and that, if you were
admitted, you would adhere to the established customs of the Order.
You were then advanced to the pedestal by three steps, the beginning of your
journey to the East, or light, in Freemasonry. You stepped off each time with
the left foot, the left side traditionally symbolises evil. Each step with your left
foot was symbolical of putting down evil. Each step represented your growing
confidence.
Upon reaching the pedestal, you entered into an obligation of concealment.

On your knees before all the assembled brethren, you vowed to hele and
conceal what you might learn. Both words have the same meaning, namely,
to cover over. The word 'hele' is derived from the Anglo-Saxon language used
in England before the time of William the Conqueror. The word ‘conceal’
comes from the Norman French. Both words are used to ensure that the vow
of secrecy was clearly understood.
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You were made a Freemason in the body of a Lodge "just, perfect and
regular". ‘Just’ because the Volume of the Sacred Law was open on the
Master's pedestal; ‘perfect’ because there were seven or more regularly made
Freemasons in attendance; and ‘regular’ because the Lodge has a Warrant
from the United Grand Lodge of England, which gives authority to perform the
ceremony.
After being restored to material light, you were informed of the three great
though emblematical lights, or guides, in Freemasonry, the Volume of the
Sacred Law, the Square and the Compasses. You received light at the
pedestal facing East, symbolising birth and became a Brother among
Masons.
Having taken the great and solemn obligation of a Mason, you were entrusted
with the Sign, Token and Word of an Entered Apprentice Freemason. A great
deal happened to you during the ceremony and it would not be surprising if
you have difficulty recollecting them. Do not let this concern you, for your
Mentor will go through them again with you, before the next Lodge meeting.
You were invested with the badge of a Freemason, which is a simple white
lambskin apron derived from the aprons worn by the ancient operative
masons. It symbolises purity and innocence, white being the emblem of purity
and the lamb being usually considered as the symbol of innocence. This
badge is the basis of all Masonic aprons and it is adorned to show the
progress a Brother has made in the Craft. The badge is more ancient than the
Order of the Golden Fleece, which was established in 1430, or the Roman
Eagle, which the early Romans carried at the head of a staff as an emblem of
honour. It is more honourable than the Most Noble Order of the Garter
founded in 1346, the highest order of knighthood in the world. Apart from
signifying purity and innocence, the apron also denotes friendship. We are
urged to use this symbol as a guide in our daily lives and never to disgrace
the principles for which it stands.
You will remember being placed in the North East corner of the Lodge, body
upright, feet in the form of a square. This is where you represented the
foundation stone of a new building, the building of your new Masonic life. Be
upright in life, deal with every man on the square and continue to look to the
East for learning. On this foundation you were challenged, ‘to raise a
superstructure perfect in all its parts’. The North East corner has been well
chosen for this foundation stone as it represents the point where you move
from the North, the place of darkness and ignorance, to the East, the place of
light and learning. Make learning a life-long ambition.
The Charity lecture challenged: "Have you anything to give"? You were
deliberately prevented from accepting the challenge. All valuables had been
taken from you. It demonstrated that charity comes from the heart and is a
way of life not just a payment. Your dress and absence of valuables must
have made you ponder in what ways you can demonstrate charity. It was
meant to be a constant reminder of your obligation to relieve the distress of
indigent or needy Brethren. Charity may take the form of your time, your
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energy, your friendship or financial assistance. The practice of charity in its
broadest sense is the foundation and springboard for other qualities in life.
The twenty-four inch gauge, the common gavel and the chisel are the
Working Tools of an Entered Apprentice. They shape the rough stones of the
future building. Symbolically, the twenty-four inch gauge teaches you how to
use time; part in prayer to the Great Architect of the Universe; part in caring
for your neighbour and part for yourself, particularly as it relates to your family,
your work and your recreation. Your Masonic life is a symbolic rough stone
that needs to be shaped for the intended structure.
The common gavel represents the voice of conscience, which is ever ready to
warn us when we may tend to err. It reminds us with every knock to keep
down all vain and unbecoming thoughts.
The chisel points out the advantages of education and discipline. As the
workman uses the chisel to give form to the shapeless mass of stone, so
education transforms the ignorant person into a civilised being.
The Working Tools which were presented to you are to teach the basis
of a good life which is explained in more detail in the Charge.
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Alternative Version
WHAT HAPPENED AT YOUR INITIATION

Congratulations on being admitted into Freemasonry.
As you read through the following text remember

that your Mentor or any Brother in the Lodge will
tell you what the words are which are
‘incompletely shown’.
(1) You entered the Lodge Room prepared in a
particular way :- this is why …
The First Degree Ceremony represents birth, or
the birth of knowledge. When we first enter
Freemasonry, we are without the hidden
knowledge of the Craft and rely on the help and
guidance of others, our Sponsors, Mentors and
indeed any other Brother, until we reach that
maturity in the Craft when we in turn can extend
help to others.
The h...w...k you wore, represented the darkness
associated with the lack of knowledge and
Masonic Education and also enables the candidate to be led from the Lodge
Room without seeing it, if he refuses to continue with the Ceremony.
The c.... t... is an old emblem of a servant being bonded to his Master. In a
Freemason's Lodge, it symbolises our bondage to ignorance until we are
brought to the light of knowledge of the Volume of The Sacred Law. (In our
Lodges this is usually the Bible, but could be the sacred Book of another
Religion held by the Candidate, such as the Koran etc).
The 1.., b.... is made b... so that the points of both the p....... and the c........
can be felt next to the heart. Also, some believe, to prove that the Candidate
is not female.
You were d.v....d of all m.t.. objects, so that you could not bring any offensive
weapons into the Lodge to disturb its harmony.
You were s..p...d to emphasise your poverty and your k... was made b... so
that there was nothing between it and the Earth when the Obligation was
taken.
(2) Inside the Lodge Room you :-

9 confirmed that your entry was of your own volition,
9 confirmed your belief in God, and
9 that you were of mature age
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and you agreed to go through the Ceremony of your Initiation.
(3) You were paraded before the members as a good man and true.
(4) You recited an Obligation and agreed to obey the rules of the Organisation
and promised to preserve the “Secrets of Recognition” which were explained
and entrusted to you in detail; the symbolism of certain objects was also
explained to you.
(5) You were examined twice in reciting the ‘Secrets of the Degree’, first at the
Junior Warden’s pedestal and later at the Senior Warden’s pedestal.
(6) You were invested with an Apron of plain white Lambskin which is a
symbol of purity, and is derived from the Aprons worn by the Medieval
Operative Masons. It is the Badge of the Order and all other Masonic aprons,
however ornate, are derived from this Badge.
(7) As a test, at the North East Corner of the Lodge, you were asked to give to
Charity. You will recall the result and that you were received without
possessions, emblematically to show that you entered Freemasonry as a
pauper and in need.
(8) The Working Tools which were presented to you, teach us the basis of a
good life, which is explained in more detail in the Charge. You were then
given copies of the Book of Constitutions and the Lodge By-Laws, after which
you retired from the Lodge Room to restore yourself to personal comfort.
(9) When ready, you re-entered the Lodge Room where the “Antient Charge”
was recited to you: recommending how you should behave in your life and
actions.
Finally you saluted the Worshipful Master and took a seat in the Lodge Room.
131
CHARGE AFTER INITIATION
As you have passed through the ceremony of your

initiation, let me congratulate you on being admitted a
member of our ancient and honourable institution.
Ancient no doubt it is, as having subsisted from time
immemorial, and honourable it must be acknowledged
to be, as by a natural tendency it conduces to make
those so who are obedient to its precepts. Indeed no
institution can boast a more solid foundation than that
on which Freemasonry rests - the practice of every
moral and social virtue. And to so high an eminence
has its credit been advanced that in every age
monarchs themselves have been promoters of the art,
have not thought it derogatory to their dignity to
exchange the sceptre for the trowel, have patronised
our mysteries and joined in our assemblies.
As a Freemason let me recommend to your most serious contemplation the

Volume of the Sacred Law, charging you to consider it as the unerring standard
of truth and justice and to regulate your actions by the divine precepts it
contains. Therein you will be taught the important duties you owe to God, to
your neighbour and to yourself. To God, by never mentioning his name but with
that awe and reverence which are due from the creature to his Creator, by
imploring his aid in all lawful undertakings, and by looking up to Him in every
emergency for comfort and support. To your neighbour, by acting with him on
the square, by rendering him every kind office which justice or mercy may
require, by relieving his necessities and soothing his afflictions, and by doing to
him as in similar cases you would wish he would do to you. And to yourself, by
such a prudent and well regulated course of discipline as may best conduce to
the preservation of your corporeal and mental faculties in there fullest energy,
thereby enabling you to exert those talents wherewith God has blessed you, as
well to His glory as the welfare of your fellow creatures.
As a citizen of the world, I am to enjoin you to be exemplary in the discharge

of your civil duties, by never proposing or at all countenancing any act that may
have a tendency to subvert the peace and good order of society, by paying due
obedience to the laws of any State which may for a time become the place of
your residence or afford you its protection, and above all by never losing sight
of the allegiance due to the sovereign of your native land, ever remembering
that nature has implanted in your breast a sacred and indissoluble attachment
towards that country whence you derived your birth and infant nurture.
As an individual, let me recommend the practice of every domestic as well as

public virtue: let Prudence direct you, Temperance chasten you, Fortitude
support you, and Justice be the guide of all your actions. Be especially careful
132
to maintain in their fullest splendour those truly Masonic ornaments which have
already been amply illustrated ---- Benevolence and Charity.
Still, as a Freemason, there are other excellences of character to which your

attention may be peculiarly and forcibly directed: amongst the foremost of
these are Secrecy, Fidelity and Obedience.
• Secrecy consists in an inviolable adherence to the Obligation you have

entered into - never improperly to disclose any of the Masonic secrets
which have now been, or may at any future period be, entrusted to your
keeping, and cautiously to avoid all occasions which may inadvertently
lead you so to do.
• Your Fidelity must be exemplified by a strict observance of the

Constitution of the fraternity, by adhering to the ancient landmarks of the
Order, by never attempting to extort or otherwise unduly obtain the
secrets of a superior degree, and by refraining from recommending
anyone to a participation of our secrets unless you have strong grounds
to believe that by a similar fidelity he will ultimately reflect honour on
your choice.
• Your Obedience must be proved by a strict observance of our laws and

regulations, by prompt attention to all signs and summonses, by modest
and correct demeanour in the Lodge, by abstaining from every topic of
political or religious discussion, by a ready acquiescence in all votes and
resolutions duly passed by a majority of the brethren, and by perfect
submission to the Master and his Wardens whilst acting in the discharge
of their respective offices.
And as a last and general recommendation, let me exhort you to dedicate

yourself to such pursuits as may at once enable you to be respectable in life,
useful to mankind, and an ornament to the society of which you have this day
become a member; to study more especially such of the Liberal Arts and
Sciences as may lie within the compass of your attainment, and without
neglecting the ordinary duties of your station, to endeavour to make a daily
advancement in Masonic knowledge.
From the very commendable attention you appear to have given to this charge,
I am led to hope you will duly appreciate the value of Freemasonry, and
indelibly imprint on your heart the sacred dictates of Truth, of Honour and of
Virtue.
This part of our ritual, the “First Degree Charge”, is both beautiful and
meaningful, being designed to encourage the newly admitted mason to
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contemplate and think about the deeper implications of being a Freemason,
which encompass a daily striving to be a better man.
The thoughts it expresses are not new, as can be seen from the following
extracts from the Book of Constitutions, relating to The Antient Charges of a
Freemason –
Concerning GOD and RELIGION
A MASON is obliged, by his tenure, to obey the

moral law; and if he rightly understand the art he will
never be a stupid atheist nor an irreligious libertine.
He, of all men, should best understand that God
seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh at the
outward appearance, but God looketh to the heart. A
mason is, therefore, particularly bound never to act
against the dictates of his conscience. Let a man’s
religion or mode of worship be what it may, he is not
excluded from the order, provided he believe in the
glorious architect of heaven and earth, and practise the sacred duties of
morality. Masons unite with the virtuous of every persuasion in the firm and
pleasing bond of fraternal love; they are taught to view the errors of mankind
with compassion, and to strive, by the purity of their own conduct, to
demonstrate the superior excellence of the faith they may profess. Thus
masonry is the centre of union between good men and true, and the happy
means of conciliating friendship amongst those who must otherwise have
remained at a perpetual distance.
Of the CIVIL MAGISTRATE,
SUPREME and SUBORDINATE

A MASON is a peaceable subject to the civil powers,
wherever he resides or works, and is never to be
concerned in plots and conspiracies against the
peace and welfare of the nation, nor to behave
himself undutifully to inferior magistrates. He is
cheerfully to conform to every lawful authority; to
uphold, on every occasion, the interest of the
community, and zealously promote the prosperity of his own country. Masonry
has ever flourished in times of peace and been always injured by war,
bloodshed, and confusion; so that kings and princes, in every age, have been
much disposed to encourage the craftsmen on account of their
134
peaceableness and loyalty, whereby they practically answer the cavils of their
adversaries and promote the honour of the fraternity. Craftsmen are bound by
peculiar ties to promote peace, cultivate harmony, and live in concord and
brotherly love.
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Ritual. 4.5. After Initiation Mentoring Toolkit Index
Historically, by not reading the Ritual, all were

enabled to take part, even those of low
standards of literacy. Additionally, not
committing the Ritual to print emphasised its
secrecy which was fashionable at that time.
Neither can it be denied that the ceremony has
far more impact on the Candidate when
delivered from memory.
Freemasonry endeavours to teach moral

lessons and self-knowledge to new members,
however, it is one thing to have aims and
ideals and quite another to impress them upon
the minds of the members. So, in our Lodge
rooms we enact, for the benefit of the new
member, what can be likened to the scenes
from a play. The scenes are called degrees,
because Freemasonry is a progressive
system. The play is centred on the building of King Solomon’s Temple where
every part of the building and every implement used is given a deeper
moral or spiritual interpretation, which is explained to the new member.
In many Lodges, a Candidate does not have access to the printed ritual until
he is presented with, or allowed to purchase, a ritual book following the
completion of his Third Degree. It is highly unlikely that the candidate will then
have either the time or the energy to study all three ceremonies, so he should
be provided with a copy of the ritual immediately after each ceremony, that he
may read it and raise any questions while the events are reasonably fresh in
his mind.
He should be made aware that there are many versions of Masonic ritual, with
differences not only apparent at a national level owing to language, but also
regionally and even between Lodges meeting in close proximity to each other.
Very different ceremonials have evolved often with distinct signs, movements
and customs (and regalia is also extremely varied throughout the world, from
plain and simple to highly colourful and elaborate). All Masonic ritual,
however, has the same purpose – to make Masons and to educate them
further in the tenets of the Craft and their derivation.
Originally, each Lodge in England seems to have had its own ritual, more or
less following a common pattern but, since many relied on memory rather
than the precise written word, differing in content. After the union of the two
Grand Lodges – the Antients and the Moderns – in 1813, the Lodge of
Reconciliation (which had been formed to bring the union about) continued its
136
work by agreeing one set of ceremonies for acceptance by the united body. It
was approved by Grand Lodge in 1816 and is, essentially, the ritual still in
regular usage today, further refined by the Emulation Lodge of Improvement
founded in 1823. Though very many private Lodges may have their own
idiosyncrasies, of word or movement here and there, it is primarily the
Emulation working that is in common use throughout the English Constitution.
Impress upon the Candidate that the Ritual is a book to be studied, since it
carefully provides not only the words and an idea of the movements to be
used in the ceremonies, but also an insight into the thinking and intentions
that inspired Freemasonry. This is part of the reason why each participating
Mason is required to learn his words rather than simply reading them – by the
repetition and concentration that the learning entails, understanding and
appreciation grows. And with greater familiarity comes recognition,
acceptance and enjoyment so the process of learning is an essential part of
the Freemason’s education into the Craft and, hopefully, his subsequent
lifestyle. An integral part of the ‘beneficial effect’.
Thus, it is important that time and effort be assiduously given when learning is
to be done, so that the ceremony can be given as flawlessly as possible. For
this reason too, attendance at rehearsals is essential. A well conducted
ceremony not only impresses the candidate, but also demonstrates to him his
importance, shown by the fact that so many of his new-found Brethren have
gone to such lengths for his benefit and to ensure his welcome amongst them.
It does of course also provides them with huge satisfaction in a job well done
with skill and co-operation.
However long or short the piece of ritual, you should always endeavour to
deliver it with clarity and sincerity. If mumbled or garbled, the message will be
lost and with it the purpose, not to mention the recipient’s attention and
interest. Having said that, it is acknowledged that very few of us are
professional actors, so all that is expected is that members try their
hardest, do their very best and accept the guidance of the Director of
Ceremonies.
137
Basic Masonic Etiquette.
If you are unable to attend a meeting for business or other personal

reasons, you should advise the Secretary as soon as possible. If you are
an officer of the Lodge, you should also advise the Director of
Ceremonies, so that someone can be asked to undertake the work you
were to perform. Naturally, whoever is going to stand in for you will
appreciate as much notice as is possible.
9 Dark suit (preferably black or charcoal grey), white shirt, black or Grand
Lodge/Provincial tie, black shoes, black socks and white gloves are
worn. Note that some Lodges are 'Dress Lodges' where evening dress
is worn. Your apron should be clean and smart. Ensure you have your
regalia with you and sign the Attendance Register on arrival.
9 Never enter the Lodge unless you are properly dressed in regalia,
except when you are taking part in a ceremony of Passing or Raising,
or at a rehearsal.
9 If you arrive late for the meeting, do not panic! Given the vagaries of
traffic and the seemingly ever increasing demands of business life, it is
not unknown for members or guests to arrive late for a meeting. When
you have dressed appropriately, the Tyler will advise you how far the
meeting has progressed. He will then give a report on the door of the
Lodge and let them know that you are outside and will announce your
name when someone comes to the door to enquire who seeks
admission. When you are admitted to the Lodge, the Director of
Ceremonies or his Assistant will normally meet you. You should give
the relevant sign for the degree and, holding that sign, briefly apologise
to the Worshipful Master for your late arrival (a single sentence is more
than adequate). The Director of Ceremonies or his Assistant will then
take you to a seat, give you a court bow, and you should then sit. If you
are unsure of the relevant sign prior to entering the Lodge, you should
ask the Tyler who will be only too pleased to demonstrate it for you.
9 When making a proposition, or addressing the Lodge, it must be made

to the Worshipful Master, giving the salute in the degree in which the
Lodge is working.
9 When perambulating (not marching) in the Lodge, remember to always

start off with the left foot and never swing your arms or clench your
fists.
9 Masonic acknowledgement in the Lodge is by means of a court bow,

i.e. an inclination of the head, and not from the waist.
138
9 When addressing Officers or Brethren in the Lodge, remember that we
are all Brothers, even those who are Worshipful Brothers. Rank applies
to the individual not to the office he holds, therefore the correct
terminology is Brother Secretary or Worshipful Brother Smith, not
Worshipful Brother Secretary. Forenames should not be used except
to differentiate between two of the Brethren with the same surname.
That said, in many Lodges this tradition is relaxed at the Festive Board
when first names are used, but still always with Brother or Worshipful
Brother. The Worshipful Master is always referred to as such.
9 When addressing, or responding to the Worshipful Master, always

salute first (with step) in the current degree, followed by the words
“Worshipful Master”. If your response is to be lengthy (except as part
of the ritual), cut the sign after the address, say your piece and finish
with the salute.
9 It is bad form to talk to your neighbour in Lodge during the ceremony,

or when anyone is speaking. If you do need to talk during a break in
proceedings, ensure you do so discreetly.
9 Do not discuss religion or politics in your Lodge at any time.
9 You should always feel your way on matters of etiquette as customs may
vary from Lodge to Lodge. As a general rule, it is sensible (and polite)
to follow the custom and practice adopted by any Lodge you may be
visiting.
As a new member, you may find many of our rules of etiquette strange
when you first encounter them and indeed, on occasion, feel that you
have failed to comply with them. This is quite understandable in the
early days of membership and you will find the brethren very
understanding in such matters. Please do not worry unduly about such
things, but rather enjoy your new experiences.
139
Festive Board. 4.5. After Initiation Mentoring Toolkit Index
What is the Festive Board?

It is the meal held after most Lodge meetings and varies in type from buffet to
banquet, according to the wishes of the members. This is always a convivial
occasion, but should be considered as much a part of the evening as the
Ceremony in the Lodge, albeit in a more relaxed atmosphere. The meal
following the Installation meeting is usually more lavish than those following
the other meetings. There are often formal seating arrangements for the meal
following the Installation meeting and it is possible this meal will be
accompanied by rather more ‘wine takings’, toasts and speeches than are
usually the case.
Seating arrangements vary greatly from Lodge to Lodge, with some far more
formal than others. However, the seats to be occupied by the Worshipful
Master, his two Wardens and the Immediate Past Master are usually
specified. If there is no seating plan in force, your Mentor will doubtless view
dining as an opportunity to sit with you and introduce you to different brethren
on each occasion.
You may possibly be asked to act as a Steward and, if so, you should look
upon it as an opportunity to serve the Lodge and play a part, rather than
something intrusive which interferes with your meal. One of the most
respected Masonic offices is that of a Grand Steward or a Provincial Grand
Steward and it is marked by a distinctive Red Apron and Red Collar.
Is there a Masonic Grace?

There is no specific Masonic grace, but grace should always be said before
the meal and thanks returned afterwards, usually by the Lodge Chaplain.
What are Wine Takings?

At some convenient moment during the meal, the Worshipful Master will
recognise the presence of certain other Brethren by ‘taking wine with them’,
for example a Representative of the Provincial Grand Master or a Visiting
Grand Officer. Those named stand, raise their glass and take a sip of
whatever is in the glass. The content of the glass does not have to be wine or
even alcohol of any sort.
Who are the Toasts to?
9 The Queen and the Craft

9 The Grand Master
140
9 The Pro Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master, Assistant Grand
Master and Grand Officers present and past
9 The Provincial (or Metropolitan) Grand Master
9 The Deputy Provincial Grand Master, the Assistant Provincial
Grand Masters and the rest of the Provincial Grand Officers
present and past (amend as necessary for Metropolitan, District
or holders of London Grand Rank)
9 The Worshipful Master
9 The Initiate (if applicable)
9 The Visitors (optional)
9 All poor and distressed Freemasons (known as the Tyler’s
Toast)
Toasts are usually followed by Masonic Fire.
What is Masonic Fire?

Masonic Fire is a gesture made with the hands and followed by clapping after
each toast. It may take its origins from the tradition of firing guns in salute
following celebrations, but there is no certainty as to its origin. One alternative
view is that it represents the First Degree Sign and for this reason, it is not
done when non-masons are present.
Why is the Gavel used at the Festive Board?

The Worshipful Master, or his Director of Ceremonies, uses the gavel to claim
the attention of the Brethren, just as he does in the Lodge Room. When the
gavel is used, the Brethren should heed it and cease conversation
immediately.
May I leave the table?

You may do so if necessary, but should try to avoid it if possible. In some
Lodges, the chairs of the Worshipful Master and his two Wardens are not left
unoccupied and should one of them need to leave his seat, they would ask
another Brother to occupy it in their stead temporarily.
Will I have to make a Speech?

You will have already responded very briefly when you were toasted following
your Initiation and you will probably not be called upon to do so again for
some time. When you are eventually asked, you should try to remember the
following
9 Keep it short and relevant.

9 Avoid offensive content at all costs.
9 Start with a standard preamble. ‘Worshipful Master, Brethren’ or
‘Worshipful Master, Representative of the RW Provincial Grand Master,
141
Brethren’ etc. The preamble will depend upon who is present, so listen
carefully to the preceding toasts and follow suit.
9 If someone is replying to your speech, you should call upon him to do
so after Masonic Fire has been given (if appropriate).
Inviting Guests 4.5. After Initiation Mentoring Toolkit Index
When the visitor signs in against your name, you are vouching for his integrity
as a Freemason. In doing so, you are indicating that you know him well, that
he has fulfilled his dues and remains in membership of his own Lodge, and
that he has not been excluded from the Craft for misconduct. On most
occasions, visitors are Brethren who are well known to many members of the
Lodge, but such is not always the case. When a guest is an acquaintance
who is not attached to a specific Lodge, we must be more cautious. If you
have any doubts as to the status or integrity of your guest, you should seek
advice from your Mentor (B of C 127 applies).
142
Second Degree Questions and Answers
(Abbreviated) 4.5. After Initiation Mentoring Toolkit Index
W.M. Where were you first prepared to be made a Mason?

Cand. In my h.
W.M. Where next?

Cand. In a convenient room adjoining the Lodge.
W.M. Describe the mode of your preparation?

Cand. I was d…v…d of m…l and h…w…d. My r a, l b, and k were
made b, my r h was s s and a c t placed about my n.
W.M. Where were you made a Mason?

Cand. In the body of a Lodge, just, perfect and regular.
W.M. And when?

Cand. When the Sun was at its meridian.
W.M. In this country Freemasons’ Lodges are usually held in the

evening; how do you account for that, which at the first view
appears a paradox?
Cand. The earth constantly revolving on its axis in its orbit around the
Sun, and Freemasonry being universally spread over its surface,
it necessarily follows that the Sun is always at its meridian with
respect to Freemasonry.
W.M. What is Freemasonry?

Cand. A peculiar system of morality, veiled in allegory and illustrated
by symbols.
W.M. Name the grand principles on which the Order is founded?

Cand. Brotherly love, relief and truth.
W.M. Who are fit and proper persons to be made Masons?

Cand. Just, upright and free men, of mature age, sound judgement and
strict morals.
W.M. How do you know yourself to be a Mason?

Cand. By the regularity of my initiation, repeated trials and
approbations, and a willingness at all times to undergo an
examination when properly called on.
W.M. How do you demonstrate the p of your being a Mason to others?

Cand. By sns, ts, and the perfect pts of my entrance.
143
Second Degree Questions and Answers (Full)
W.M. Where were you first prepared to be made a Mason?
Cand. In my Heart.
W.M. Where next?

Cand. In a convenient room adjoining the Lodge.
W.M. Describe the mode of your preparation?

Cand. I was divested of metal and hoodwinked, my right arm left breast
and knee were made bare my right heel was slip shod and a
cable tow placed about my neck.
W.M. Where were you made a Mason?

Cand. In the body of a Lodge, just, perfect and regular.
W.M. And when?

Cand. When the Sun was at its Meridian.
W.M. In this country Freemasons’ Lodges are usually held in the

evening; how do you account for that, which at the first view
appears a paradox?
Cand. The earth constantly revolving on its axis in its orbit around the
Sun, and Freemasonry being universally spread over its surface,
it necessarily follows that the Sun is always at its Meridian with
respect to Freemasonry.
W.M. What is Freemasonry?

Cand. A peculiar system of Morality, veiled in Allegory and illustrated
by Symbols.
W.M. Name the grand principles on which the Order is founded?

Cand. Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth.
W.M. Who are fit and proper persons to be made a Mason?

Cand. Just, upright and free men, of mature age, sound judgement and
strict morals.
W.M. How do you know yourself to be a Mason?

Cand. By the regularity of my initiation, repeated trials and
approbations, and a willingness at all times to undergo an
examination when properly called on.
W.M. How do you demonstrate the proof of being a Mason to others?

Cand. By Signs, Tokens and the perfect points of my Entrance.
144
145
HYMNS WHICH MAY BE SUNG.
AT THE OPENING OF THE LODGE
Hail Eternal, by whose aid,

All created things were made,
Heav'n and earth, Thy vast design,
Hear us, Architect Divine!
May our work, begun in Thee,

Ever blest with order be,
And may we, when labours cease,
Part in harmony and peace.
By Thy glorious Majesty,

By the trust we place in Thee,
By the badge and mystic sign,
Hear us, Architect Divine!
SO MOTE IT BE
AT THE CLOSING OF THE LODGE

Now the evening shadows closing,
Warn from toil to peaceful rest;
Mystic arts and rites reposing,
Sacred in each faithful breast.
God of Light! whose love unceasing,

Doth to all Thy works extend,
Crown our Order with Thy blessing;
Build, sustain us to the end.
Humbly now we bow before Thee,

Grateful for Thine aid Divine;
Everlasting power and glory,
Mighty Architect be Thine.
SO MOTE IT BE
146
What is a Fellow Craft? 4.6. After Passing Mentoring Toolkit Index
Congratulations on being passed to the Degree

of a Fellowcraft. During the ceremony you were
told that you are now in the midway of
Freemasonry, which is to imply that there is a
further Degree beyond Fellow Craft.
However, prior to AD 1730 there were only two

degrees in Freemasonry, those of Entered
Apprentice and Fellow Craft (Fellow of the
Craft), and it was from the Fellow Craft of the
Lodge that the Master of the Lodge was elected
each year, provided that he had served at least
one year as a Warden. These days we have
three degrees, the third being that of Master
Mason. During the First Degree you were
taught the duties you owe to God and to your
fellow creatures, the Deity being referred to as
TGAOTU. In this degree (Fellow Craft) you are
taught about man's relationship with the world
in which we live and which was created by TGGOTU. You were informed
during the ceremony that you were now 'permitted' to extend your researches
into the hidden mysteries of Nature and Science. Note the curious terminology
'permitted'. The Second Degree assumes that, having been taught in the First
Degree your duties to God and your fellow creatures, you are now responsible
and mature enough to learn about the Universe in which we live, to use its
gifts for the benefit of all and not to abuse them. Knowledge without morality
can be a very dangerous thing!
147
Passing 4.6. After Passing Mentoring Toolkit Index
Just as the operative masons had to prove

their proficiency in one level of work, so have
you proved your proficiency as a speculative
or free and accepted mason, by being ‘passed’
to the degree of a Fellow Craft. It is important
to remember that in this degree you are
already a Freemason and, as a result, there
was no need for a hoodwink, or for a cable tow
to prevent you from rushing into the Lodge
The purpose of the degree is firstly to
acknowledge the progress you have made in
the Craft and secondly, to build upon your
knowledge by opening the way for further
learning.
You are now half way through your progress of

being educated in the three degrees, although
in practice it may take many years for you to completely understand them.
This level of progression is illustrated by the position of the Square and
Compasses on the Volume of the Sacred Law. One point of the compasses is
disclosed, implying that you are now in the midway of Freemasonry, superior
to an Entered Apprentice, but inferior to the degree of a Master Mason to
which you will hopefully soon progress. Your progress is further signified by
the different apron you are now wearing, with two rosettes on it.
This is the shortest of the three degree ceremonies and, as a result, there is a
danger that it may be considered the least important of the three. This is not
so, for all degrees have equal merit and special value. Whilst your Initiation
was obviously very important and you will soon discover the third degree
ceremony is particularly dramatic, the main aim of the Second Degree is to
impress on you the importance of developing your intellectual ability by
studying the hidden mysteries of nature and science, namely Grammar,
Rhetoric, Logic, Arithmetic, Geometry, Music and Astronomy. In other words,
be open to learning throughout your life.
Once again you were prepared to enter the Lodge in a special manner. This
time you wore an apron of the Entered Apprentice, signifying your
advancement in Masonic knowledge. The test questions put to you earlier in
the ceremony were to demonstrate that knowledge. You still were in a state of
poverty to remind you of the origins of Charity, namely in your heart. This time
you were admitted into the Lodge by the Inner Guard presenting a square to
your breast or heart. The square teaches and reminds you to square your
actions with all men.
148
Your movement around the Lodge Room again followed the sun as it appears
in the Northern Hemisphere. Each stop in that journey proved to all present
that you were a qualified Entered Apprentice, properly prepared and worthy of
being passed to the Second Degree.
Your Masonic journey to the light of the East continued as you again
approached the pedestal. The predominant number in this Degree is five, and
so you advanced to the pedestal by five steps as though ascending a winding
staircase. When you knelt to take your obligation, the number five was again
predominant, although perhaps obscure. When you took your obligation you
formed five squares with both of your arms, your hand, your foot and your
knee.
You were instructed how to take the second regular step in Freemasonry.
Although it was the same movement, but additional to the step you had taken
in the First Degree, details of the various signs, tokens and words were quite
different. During the course of your instruction you were told ‘For it was in this
position that Joshua prayed fervently to the Almighty’. This alludes to the time
when an army of Israelites, under the command of Joshua, was engaged in a
battle with the Amalekites. Although heavily outnumbered, the Almighty had
assured Joshua that the Israelites would prevail as long as he held his hands
in the position you were shown. It reminds us of the complete trust we should
all place in our Supreme Being.
The word of the Degree is a Hebrew one, and when conjoined with the word
in the First Degree forms the key to God's covenant with Israel. This is the
real importance of the word. The fact that it bore the name of the Assistant
High Priest at the dedication of King Solomon’s Temple is merely a
convenient coincidence.
Your new apron indicates that you have progressed from an Entered
Apprentice to a Fellow Craft as it is now adorned with two rosettes. These
should serve to remind you that, as a Craftsman, you are expected to make a
serious study of the seven liberal arts and sciences. You may remember that
they are grammar, rhetoric, logic, arithmetic, geometry, music and astronomy.
Perhaps this could be somewhat modernised by suggesting that this list
represents the need to develop your faculties, abilities and talents through
study and research for the benefit of yourself and society in general.
Freemasonry is a progressive science. In this Degree, you move from the

North East corner where you were challenged as an Entered Apprentice, to
the South East corner. In the Charge, you were told, “You are now placed in
the South East part, to mark the progress you have made”. This is the fifth
time the word ‘progress’ has been used during the ceremony. Firstly, the Tyler
used it at the door of the Lodge. The Inner Guard repeated it when he
reported your presence to the Master. The third time was by the Master
immediately after your obligation when the Volume of the Sacred Law and the
square and compasses were presented to you. The fourth was when the
Senior Warden presented you with your badge. Progress is the central theme
of this Degree which is appropriate, for we progress from sunrise to sunset,
from
149 birth to death and from beginning to end.
Alternative Version
Your Second Degree Ceremony
Congratulations on being passed to the

degree of a Fellow Craft
The purpose of the Second Degree was
firstly to acknowledge the progress you have
made in the Craft and secondly, to build upon
your knowledge by opening the way for
further learning.
After the Lodge was opened and the Minutes
read and confirmed, you were asked the
Questions you were required to answer.
These reminded you of the way you were
prepared and the reasons for it, and you
agreed to persevere through the Second
Degree Ceremony. The Worshipful Master
then entrusted you with the p..s g..p and p..s
w…d leading to the Second Degree. You
then retired from the Lodge Room to be
prepared for the ceremony.
Entering the Lodge Room (without the now unnecessary h..dw..k), you
advanced and saluted the Worshipful Master as an Entered Apprentice
Freemason and a prayer was made for the forthcoming proceedings.
You were then paraded around the Lodge and examined by the Junior
Warden to prove you as an Entered Apprentice and you returned to the North
West Corner. The Worshipful Master then announced to the Brethren that you
would pass in view before them, as a Candidate properly prepared to be
passed to the Second Degree.
On arriving at the Senior Warden, you gave him the p..s g..p and p..s w..d
leading to the Second Degree.
Advancing to the pedestal, you then took another Obligation and promised to
keep the Secrets of the Second Degree as those of the First. Following this,
you were entrusted with the Secrets of a Fellow Craft Freemason with a
detailed explanation of their origin and meaning.
As in the First Degree, you were now examined by both the Junior and Senior
Wardens, to ensure you could demonstrate the signs, tokens and words of the
degree.
Next you were invested with the Badge of a Fellow Craft Freemason, to mark
the progress you had made and the Worshipful Master addressed you about
the same.
150
Moving then to the South East Corner, you were encouraged to continue in
your fidelity as a Freemason.
At the Senior Warden’s pedestal, the Working Tools and their Symbolism
were presented to you in detail.
At this stage you then retired from the Lodge Room to restore yourself to your
personal comfort. When ready, you re-entered the Lodge Room and an
Explanation of the Second Degree Tracing Board was given to you. (This may
be done at a future date in some Lodges.) This was principally about King
Solomon’s Temple and its building.
Finally you took your seat in the Lodge when you witnessed the rest of the
business and the closing of the Lodge.
In this degree (Fellow Craft), you were taught about man's relationship with
the world in which we live and which was created by the GGOTU.
During the ceremony, you were told that you are now in the midway of
Freemasonry, which is to imply that there is a further Degree beyond Fellow
Craft i.e. the Master Mason.
Prior to AD 1730 there were only two degrees in Freemasonry, those of
Entered Apprentice and Fellow Craft (Fellow of the Craft), and it was from the
Fellow Craft of the Lodge that the Master of the Lodge was elected each year,
provided that he had served at least one year as a Warden. These days we
have three degrees, the third being that of Master Mason.
The next degree which you will take, is the Third Degree when you will be
raised to the sublime degree of a Master Mason. There is no higher degree in
Craft Freemasonry.
The aprons which you have worn up to now, have been the property of the
Lodge. Your next apron however, will be your own property as you will be
using it for some years to come, both in the Lodge and when you go out
visiting other Lodges. You will need therefore, unless you have made other
arrangements, to arrange with the Secretary of the Lodge, to purchase for
you, a Master Mason’s apron and a pair of white gloves. These will be at your
own expense. You should also consider, at the same time, asking the
Secretary to purchase a copy of the pertinent Lodge Ritual Book for you, if
your Lodge does not present you with one.
Mentor: Please take this only as a template. This leaflet is based on

Emulation ritual, and if you use a different ritual then please amend
the handout to reflect your Lodge workings. What is important is
that we encourage the new mason to appreciate what has happened
to him and its greater significance. “Veiled in allegory and
illustrated by symbols”
151
TRACING BOARD 4.6. After Passing Mentoring Toolkit Index
The greatest symbol on the Second Degree

Tracing Board is the winding staircase. Its
seven steps represent the seven liberal arts
and sciences we have referred to, and
symbolise the ultimate attainment of a Fellow
Craft Freemason.
The seven steps are interdependent and are

strung together as follows: 'Grammar' is the
foundation of language, which enables us to
communicate and broaden our knowledge.
The art of speaking fluently is 'Rhetoric', but

without 'Logic' the previous two are just an
empty, senseless flow of words.
The exchange of knowledge allows you to

learn to compare. The science of comparison
is 'Arithmetic'.
The fifth step, five being the predominant

number of this Degree, is 'Geometry' which is
established as the basis of our art. Geometry has been described as the
science of harmony in space. Its laws apply equally to the minute world of
atomic physics and to the immense world of astronomy.
'Music' is the geometry of sound. Every note in the musical scale is exactly
double the wavelength of the corresponding note in the preceding octave, and
each note in a scale is a logarithmic progression. Music moves in measured
steps and cannot free itself from geometry without dissolving into discord.
The seventh step - the uppermost step, is 'Astronomy’. From here we

contemplate the wonder and the awesome magnitude of the Heavens. As we
battle to understand infinity with our finite minds, it should help to put the rest
of our lives into better perspective and assist in expanding our personal
horizons.
152
WORKING TOOLS (2nd Degree)
4.6. After Passing Mentoring Toolkit Index
The working tools of an Entered Apprentice

are those used to prepare the stone for the
hands of the more expert workman. The
working tools of this Degree, the square, the
level and the plumb rule, are the tools of the
expert Craftsman, the skilled mason
responsible for the correct interpretation of
the architect's design. These then are the
most important of all tools and the way in
which they were presented to you is probably
one of the most simple yet meaningful
passages in the whole of our Masonic ritual. If
you really absorb the philosophy contained in
it, you cannot fail to become a worthy
Freemason and a credit to the society in
which you live.
“I now present to you the Working Tools of a

Fellow Craft Freemason; they are the Square,
Level and Plumb Rule.
…indicates working tools as they are named….
The Square is to try, and adjust rectangular corners of buildings, and assist in
bringing rude matter into due form; the Level to lay levels and prove
horizontals; the Plumb Rule to try, and adjust uprights while fixing them on
their proper bases.
But as we are not all operative Masons, but rather free and accepted, or
speculative, we apply these tools to our morals.
In this sense, the Square teaches morality, the Level equality, and the Plumb
Rule justness and uprightness of life and actions.
Thus by square conduct, level steps, and upright intentions, we hope to

ascend to those immortal mansions whence all goodness emanates.”
(At the end of the presentation, in some Lodges, the Brethren all clap once on
the word “emanates”.)
153
Charity is at the heart of Freemasonry.
4.6. After Passing Index
The three Great Principles by which we stand are Brotherly Love, Relief, and
Truth. Freemasons are taught to practise charity and to care, not only for their
own, but also for the community as a whole, both by charitable giving, and by
voluntary efforts and works as individuals. From its earliest days,
Freemasonry has been concerned with the care of orphans, the sick and the
aged. This work continues today. In addition, large sums are given to national
and local charities. Masonic charity is exercised at every level, individual
Lodges make gifts and give aid to their own communities and every Province
also gives large sums of money to regional causes. The overall value of
grants made by the Masonic charities is more than £20 million a year, all of
which is income generated within Freemasonry. Nationally, our efforts are
channelled through four main charity organisations, they are:
The Freemasons’ Grand Charity 4.6. After Passing Index
The Freemasons’ Grand Charity was formed as an independent charity in

1980 to take over the functions of the United Grand Lodge of England's Board
of Benevolence, which itself had its origins in the Committee of Charity set up
in 1725. Like its predecessor, the Freemasons’ Grand Charity has a threefold
function:
9 relieving distressed Freemasons and their dependants,
9 making grants to other Masonic Charities,
9 making grants to non-Masonic causes.
The Royal Masonic Trust for Girls and Boys
In 1982 the Royal Masonic Institution for Girls (formed in 1788) and the Royal
Masonic Institution for Boys (formed in 1798) were combined to form the
Masonic Trust for Girls and Boys to continue nearly two hundred years of care
for the children of poor families. On 1 May 2003, the Trust became the Royal
Masonic Trust for Girls and Boys. The prime object of the Trust is support for
the children of distressed or deceased Freemasons, the aim being to give
them the start in life they would have received had distress not befallen their
families. The second objective is to provide help to children not connected to
Masonic families and to support charities connected with children.
The Royal Masonic Benevolent Institution
The RMBI provides a comprehensive range of services designed to meet the

needs of older Freemasons: Sheltered accommodation and residential and
nursing care in homes throughout England and Wales, as well as practical
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and financial support for those who wish to remain in their own homes. The
Institution has a daunting challenge to provide these services to an
increasingly large number of older Freemasons and their dependants.
Regular practical help and advice, through the Care Advice Team, home
improvement loans and holidays are other important ingredients in the help
the Institution provides.
The Masonic Samaritan Fund
Established in 1990 with the active support of United Grand Lodge of

England, the Masonic Samaritan Fund is an independent charity, which
provides support for sick and infirm Freemasons, their families and
dependants who are in need. The Fund gives relief to those applicants who
cannot afford the full cost of private healthcare and who are unable to obtain
their treatment on the UK's National Health Service without undue delay or
hardship.
Festivals for the Masonic Charities 4.6. After Passing Index
From the late eighteenth century and almost from the time of their inception,
the various Charities have employed the Festival system to aid fund raising.
Initially the occasions were supported by the Masters’ List of the London
Lodges, but as time went by the support of Provincial Masons was sought and
eventually the events became largely Provincial ones. Currently, Provinces
hold a Festival approximately every 11 years.
An early letter enlisting support for the Masonic Schools was sent to
Provincial Lodges as early as 1858. As support for any petitions was by votes,
which were in direct proportion to the amount donated by a Province or
Lodge, it was in the interest of Provinces who were likely to seek support from
these central funds to obtain the maximum number of votes possible.
Is Additional Help Available?
Having seen how the Masonic Charities operate, you should note that
additional help can be obtained from three other sources -
9 The State
9 Your Lodge
9 Provincial Grand Lodge
The State
The Masonic Charities will not give support when help should be provided by
the State. A booklet outlining Social Security Benefits is available from the
Provincial Grand Almoner. State Benefits are provided by the Social Security,
Social Services and Health Authorities.
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Your Lodge
It is usual for Lodges to hold funds which the Almoner can use to provide
immediate relief. However, not all problems can be solved by money and
often a friendly chat can be more appropriate. The Lodge Charity Steward co-
ordinates the collection of charitable donations from Lodge members. The
Lodge Almoner will assist the Brethren of his Lodge to ensure that the
required assistance is obtained for those in need.
Provincial Grand Lodge
Whilst many Brethren assist the Provincial Grand Charity in a variety of ways,
there are two Officers specifically appointed for this purpose. The Provincial
Grand Almoner and Provincial Grand Charity Steward are appointed annually
by the Provincial Grand Master and, in order to provide continuity, the same
Brother is usually re-appointed to each post for a number of years.
The Provincial Grand Almoner is directly responsible to the Provincial Grand

Master for the welfare of the Brethren in the Province and for their
dependants. He carries out his duties by -
9 Supporting and assisting Lodge Almoners by providing accurate

information, advice and encouragement.
9 Providing regular and effective training for Lodge Almoners.
9 Overseeing the correct preparation of Petitions.
9 Ensuring the effective control of payment from Masonic Charities
through Lodge or Case Almoners.
9 Updating the Provincial Executive at regular intervals, on petitioners
and charitable giving, whilst at all times maintaining strict
confidentiality.
9 Keeping and ensuring that accurate records are kept of all receipts and
disbursements made to Lodge Almoners and to beneficiaries.
9 Maintaining accurate records of petitioners, beneficiaries and Lodge
Almoners.
9 Promoting the work of the various Masonic Charitable Trusts by visiting
Lodges, giving talks and distributing literature.
9 Advising Provincial Grand Lodge on all matters relevant to the work of
Provincial and Lodge Almoners.
The Provincial Grand Charity Steward is directly responsible to the Provincial

Grand Master for the smooth running of the organisational structure of
Provincial Grand Charity and is, in effect, the Secretary of the Provincial
Charity Committee. He carries out his duties by -
9 Supporting and assisting Lodge Charity Stewards.

9 Monitoring the collection of money for Festivals.
9 Investing Provincial Charity Funds to ensure the maximum
secure return available.
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9 Maintaining accurate records of Provincial Charity Funds for
inclusion in the annual accounts of the Provincial Grand Charity.
9 Reclaiming tax on gift aided donations to Provincial Grand
Charity and issuing receipts and tax vouchers where
appropriate.
9 Reporting to the Provincial Executive on the progress of
collections for any current Festival.
The Provincial Grand Charity Steward would expect, under normal

circumstances, to be assisted by an appointed Treasurer. Additionally,
investment advice would usually be sought from professional brokers. In
some Provinces, a quite separate Secretary and Treasurer are appointed to
oversee the affairs of a Festival, leaving the Provincial Grand Secretary to run
the day to day business of the Provincial Grand Charity.
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Relationship between UGLE and the Provinces.
The United Grand Lodge of England is the governing body of Freemasonry in
England, Wales and the Channel Islands, with its headquarters at
Freemasons’ Hall, Great Queen Street, London.
It meets in Quarterly Communication on the second Wednesdays in March,

June, September and December and the Annual Investiture and Grand
Festival take place on the last Wednesday in April.
The Book of Constitutions regulates Freemasonry under the United Grand

Lodge of England and no alteration of these Constitutions may be made
without the consent of Grand Lodge.
Grand Lodge consists of the Grand Officers of the year, Past Grand Officers,
the Masters, Wardens and Past Masters of all Lodges under the Grand
Lodge, all of whom must be subscribing members of Lodges under Grand
Lodge. The Grand Master is the head of the Craft and is elected annually. The
Grand Master appoints the Grand Officers and this may either be to an acting
rank for a year or to a past rank, which is where the appointee is honoured
with the rank without actually serving in it.
The United Grand Lodge of England has some 270,000 members grouped in
approximately 8,000 lodges. Lodges in London (an area within a 10 mile
radius of Freemasons’ Hall), are organised into groups administered by
Metropolitan Grand Lodge of London. Lodges outside London and within
England, Wales and the Channel Islands are grouped into 47 Provinces,
based on the old Counties, each headed by a Provincial Grand Master.
The appointment of a Metropolitan or Provincial Grand Master is a prerogative

of the Grand Master, by whom a patent may be granted, to hold during his
pleasure, to any Brother whom he may think worthy of the appointment. By
this patent the Brother is invested with appropriate authority in the particular
Metropolitan Area or Province (B of C 63).
The offices in Grand Lodge are, broadly speaking, the same as those within a
Metropolitan Area and Province, or indeed the same as those within your own
Lodge, with just a few exceptions. Whilst the actual offices may carry the
same titles, the regalia worn is quite different and it is relatively easy to
distinguish a Brother holding Grand Rank from one holding Provincial Grand
Rank. Similarly, the regalia worn by a Brother who has not as yet attained
Provincial Grand Rank is also easily identified. Ask your Mentor to point out to
you the differing styles of regalia when you are next in the Lodge Room.
158
Third Degree Questions and Answers
(Abbreviated)
W.M. How were you prepared to be passed to the Second Degree?

Cand. In a manner somewhat similar to the former, save that in this Degree
I was not h w, my l a, b and r k were made b and my l h was s s.
W.M. On what were you admitted?

Cand. The sq.
W.M. What is a sq?

Cand . An angle of ...dgs, or the f p of a c.
W.M. What are the peculiar objects of research in this Degree?

Cand. The hidden mysteries of Nature and Science.
W.M. As it is the hope of reward that sweetens labour, where did our
ancient Brethren go to receive their wages?
Cand. Into the m c of K S T.
W.M. How did they receive them?

Cand. Without scruple or diffidence.
W.M. Why in this peculiar manner?

Cand. Without scruple, well knowing that they were justly entitled to them,
and without diffidence, from the great reliance they placed on the
integrity of their employers in those days.
W.M. What were the names of the two great Ps which were placed at the
p…way or e of K S T?
Cand. That on the l was called …., and that on the r ……
W.M. What are there separate and conjoined significations?

Cand. The former denotes in …….., the latter to ………; and when
conjoined ………, for God said, ‘In …….. I will establish this
Mine house to stand firm for ever’.
159
Third Degree Questions and Answers (Full)
W.M. How were you prepared to be passed to the Second Degree?

Cand. In a manner somewhat similar to the former, save that in this Degree
I was not hoodwinked, my left arm, breast and right knee were made
bare and my left heel was slipshod.
W.M. On what were you admitted?

Cand. The square.
W.M. What is a square?

Cand . An angle of 90 degrees, or the fourth part of a circle.
W.M. What are the peculiar objects of research in this Degree?

Cand. The hidden mysteries of Nature and Science.
W.M. As it is the hope of reward that sweetens labour, where did our
ancient Brethren go to receive their wages?
Cand. Into the middle chamber of King Solomon’s Temple.
W.M. How did they receive them?

Cand. Without scruple or diffidence.
W.M. Why in this peculiar manner?

Cand. Without scruple, well knowing that they were justly entitled to them,
and without diffidence, from the great reliance they placed on the
integrity of their employers in those days.
W.M. What were the names of the two great Pillars which were placed at
the porchway or entrance of King Solomon’s Temple?
Cand. That on the left was called …. and that on the right ……
W.M. What are there separate and conjoined significations?

Cand. The former denotes in strength, the latter to establish; and when
conjoined stability, for God said, ‘In strength I will establish this
Mine house to stand firm for ever’.
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Raising
4.7. After Raising Index
It was no doubt obvious from the outset that this

Ceremony is the most dramatic of the three through
which you have progressed. It is also the one that has
the deepest meanings, so take time to review the
Ceremony. In the Exhortation you were encouraged to
reflect on the previous degrees in order to prepare
yourself for the teachings of this degree. You are told
that its peculiar objects are to reflect on death. This is
so, and no doubt forms an appropriate conclusion to
the study of yourself that is encouraged in the Charge.
The ceremony teaches us to die with honour and
dignity and expresses our hope for life after death.
Death is inevitable and we learn to meet it face on,
with dignity. However, there is so much more to it and
reflection over time will lead you to consider many
points.
You are introduced to the legend of King Solomon, King Hiram and Hiram
Abif. Clearly there is a genuine secret that they possess, but that is lost
following the death of Hiram Abif. A highly dramatic and poignant moment
occurs when you represent him, following which you are Raised on the Five
Points of Fellowship. You should discuss in detail with your Mentor the Five
Points of Fellowship, as they are not only a key part of this degree, but also of
the whole Masonic structure.
Through your preparation in the earlier two degrees you are now capable of
being raised to a new sublime level of speculative thinking. This will lead you
to consider why you need to improve yourself. The purpose of
improvement lies in a personal need to search for that Supreme Being
for whom you have been, and continue to, build the Temple. Through our
work and especially through the Light received from the Volume of the Sacred
Law, we are now able, on the centre, to contemplate this most important of
matters.
Now you have been raised to the Sublime Degree of a Master Mason, it
means that you are permitted to take part in all of the ceremonies of Craft
Freemasonry with the exception of the Esoteric Board of Installed Masters.
With due diligence and careful preparation, that will surely come in the
fullness of time.
161
Alternative Version
YOUR THIRD DEGREE CEREMONY
Congratulations on becoming a Master Mason.
First let us look at what you experienced in the

Third Degree. I’m sure you will agree that it was a
most profound experience.
The Lodge was opened in the First Degree;

Minutes were read and the Lodge opened in the
Second Degree. You were then taken to the East
and answered the ‘Questions’; you then agreed, as
before to conceal the Secrets of the Degree after
which, the Worshipful Master entrusted you with
the p..s g..p and p..s w..d leading from the Second
to the Third Degree.
At the North West Corner you saluted the

Worshipful Master as a Fellow Craft, and retired
from the Lodge to prepare for the Third Degree
Ceremony.
The Lodge Room was almost in complete darkness when you re-entered, and
again, a prayer was made to invoke a blessing on the forthcoming ceremony.
During the first perambulation you were examined as an Entered Apprentice
at the Junior Warden’s pedestal. In the second perambulation you were
examined as a Fellow Craft Freemason at the Senior Warden’s pedestal.
During the third perambulation you communicated the p..s g..p and p..s w..d
to the Senior Warden who than presented you to the Master as a Candidate
prepared to be raised to the Third Degree. You will recall that you were
instructed to approach the pedestal in a particular way. At the pedestal you
took the Obligation of a Master Mason and agreed forever, to conceal the
Secrets of the Degree. The Exhortation and Traditional History were then
related to you, during which you played a part in a very dramatic presentation
to the assembled Brethren and you were shown the f..e p…ts of f…o...p.
Shortly after this, the lighting of the Lodge Room was restored. Towards the
end of this presentation the ‘Substituted Secrets of a Master Mason’ were
then partly explained, after which you retired from the Lodge Room.
Having restored yourself to your personal comfort, you returned to the Lodge
Room, advanced and saluted the Worshipful Master in the Three degrees and
you were then invested with your Master Mason’s Apron. The Worshipful
Master then addressed you about your duties as a Master Mason.
162
The second half of the Traditional History was then related to you, with some
explanation of how certain Secrets came into being. Next the full five signs
and secrets were demonstrated to you in great detail.
Finally the tools of a Master Mason were presented to you. You then were
moved to the North West Corner, where you saluted the Worshipful Master as
a Master Mason, and took your seat in the Lodge.
So what was the Ceremony attempting to convey?
The Third Degree Ceremony is the most dramatic of the three. The ceremony
teaches us to die with honour and dignity and expresses our hope for life after
death. Death is inevitable and we learn to meet it face on with dignity.
At the end of the ceremony you were told that the ‘Secrets of a Master
Mason’ were lost. What secrets? These secrets are not handed to you on a
plate, therefore you must search further. Freemasonry is all about searching
and researching.
In the fullness of time you will be encouraged to complement your Master

Masons Degree by joining a Royal Arch Chapter. Your Mentor will be able to
give you all the information which you require on this degree. This degree is
the next step on the path of Pure Ancient Masonry and reveals how the
genuine secrets of a Master Mason came to be rediscovered and again there
are important moral lessons to be learnt.
As a new Master Mason it is hoped that you will wish, in a short while, to
embark on an exciting ladder of progression within your Lodge, culminating in
years to come with your Installation as Worshipful Master. To be installed as
Worshipful Master of his Lodge is the pinnacle of a man's Masonic Career.
However, for the moment the key words are, Watch, Learn, and Listen.
Acquire and read a Book of Ritual and browse through the Book of
Constitutions. Constantly question your Mentor, he will be pleased to talk with
you.
Visiting is another joy of Masonry and now that you are a Master Mason you
will be able to visit any Lodge, witness how they perform all three degrees
and, hopefully, extend your Masonic friendships.
Mentor: Please take this only as a template. This leaflet is based on

Emulation ritual, and if you use a different ritual then please amend
the handout to reflect your Lodge workings. What is important is
that we encourage the new mason to appreciate what has happened
to him and its greater significance. “Veiled in allegory and
illustrated by symbols”
163
Applying the Principles to our everyday lives.
The ceremony seeks to demonstrate a noble principle, that often it is better to

die rather than be subjected to any falsehood and
dishonour. This was dramatically shown when you
became the representative of one who did just that.
It also taught you loyalty to your fellow men; a sense of

not wishing to let them down. However, you have been
made aware this loyalty must never be misplaced, for
whilst you have promised to keep the Masonic secrets
safe, you have an overriding obligation to act as a dutiful
citizen at all times and obey both the civil and moral law.
As quoted in an earlier degree, you need to do your duty

to God, your neighbour and to yourself. By now you
should realise that there is a strict code of conduct to
which all Masons are required to adhere in their every day
lives.
164
Life as a Master Mason. 4.7. After Raising Index
As a new Master Mason it is hoped that you will wish, in a short while, to
embark on an exciting ladder of progression within your Lodge, culminating in
years to come with your installation as Worshipful Master. To be installed as
Worshipful Master of his Lodge, is the pinnacle of a man's Masonic career.
But for the moment, you would be well advised to remember the motto of
Grand Lodge ‘Audi, Vide, Tace’ meaning ‘Watch, Learn and Listen’ for these
are key words not only for newly made masons, but for us all.
You should now be in possession of a Book of Ritual and should not be

embarrassed to ask your Mentor or, in his absence, more experienced
members of the Lodge what passages actually mean, if their meaning is not
clear to you.
Try to make occasional visits to other Lodges, as each Lodge approaches the
ritual in a different manner, some of which are most interesting and original.
Volunteer to undertake Stewarding duties if the opportunity arises, as this
helps you get to know the other Brethren in your Lodge.
In many Lodges, new Brethren are encouraged to do small pieces of work,

such as the Working Tools, on the floor of the Lodge. Mention to the Lodge
Director of Ceremonies that you would be interested in learning and delivering
a small piece of ritual. You may well wonder at the long pieces of ritual
committed to memory by some Brethren which are then delivered on the floor
of the Lodge, in front of an audience, with great aplomb – remember, each
one of those Brethren probably started his Masonic career learning just a
short piece of ritual as you will do.
Be interested in everything that is going on in your Lodge. Become

involved as an active and useful member, but do not overburden
yourself. The true test is always – am I still enjoying myself?
165
Lodge of Instruction. 4.7. After Raising Index
If your Lodge has a Lodge of Instruction, or shares one with another Lodge,
then you are indeed fortunate, for not every Lodge has this facility. The Lodge
of Instruction is often referred to as the LOI; although in some parts of the
country it is referred to as ‘Junior Lodge’. It is where ceremonies or Ritual are
practised and rehearsed and it enables you to gain confidence about the part
you have to play when your time comes to participate in a ceremony.
A good Lodge of Instruction will not limit itself to rehearsing ritual and
ceremonies, but will also devote time to research. It is an opportunity to learn
not only what we do, but why we do it.
The Lodge of Instruction, where one exists, is presided over by a Preceptor

who is in charge of the work, and your Mentor will certainly introduce you to
him.
166
Grand Lodge Certificate. 4.7. After Raising Index
At a meeting soon after you have been raised to the Third Degree, you will be
presented with your Grand Lodge Certificate and asked to sign it. As a Master
Mason, you are entitled to receive from Grand Lodge such a Certificate,
stating that you have been regularly Initiated, Passed and Raised. The
presentation may be made by the Worshipful Master, a learned Brother
designated by him, a visiting Representative of the Provincial Grand Master,
or indeed a visiting Ruler.
The Certificate is a sort of ‘passport’ to regular Freemasonry and may be used

within the Craft as documentary proof of your membership. Nevertheless, it is
clearly stated on the Certificate that it does not, in itself, entitle you to gain
admission to a Lodge, other than one to which you belong, without due
examination. In effect, this means you may well be called upon to ‘prove’
yourself should you visit a Lodge where you are not known, and you would
normally do this by answering questions on Freemasonry.
You should keep the Certificate with your regalia. It should not be framed and
must not be displayed either privately or publicly.
There is no formal ritual for the presentation of a Grand Lodge Certificate.

Indeed, you may well hear it done differently on every occasion you witness
one being presented. However, a presentation that follows an outline of the
Lecture on the First Degree Tracing Board is very appropriate, as it identifies
and explains the meaning of the many symbols on the Certificate.
167
Visiting other Lodges.
4.5 After Initiation 4.6 After Passing 4.7. After Raising Index
This is one of the most enjoyable parts of Freemasonry and, if invited, you
should certainly accept if you are able to do so. It provides an opportunity to
make new friends and see how other Lodges conduct their ceremonies. It is
fair to say that no two Lodges are exactly alike!
If you are in any doubt about the ‘Regularity’ of the Lodge to which you have
been invited, you should ask your Lodge Secretary to confirm that it is
recognised, something which is mandatory if the Lodge is located overseas.
Whilst visiting is extremely enjoyable, you should not engage in it to the

extent that it becomes detrimental to your family or working life. The
same common sense rule applies to every part of your Masonic
activities.
168
Conclusion – Being a Mason in the World.
Freemasonry is a wonderful experience and something that will be of benefit

throughout your life, but it is true with Freemasonry, as it is with life, that you
will only get out of it what you put in. It is hoped therefore, that you will use
those ‘talents wherewith God has blessed you’, to the benefit of your Lodge.
A Lodge has the need for many services in addition to those provided by
Officers invested by the Worshipful Master. You may find your niche as Lodge
Auditor, Librarian, Building Surveyor, Caretaker or Barman.
It has to be recognised that some Brethren, although wishing to be actively

involved in the life of the Lodge, find it difficult to learn ritual. It is possible for
them to offer their services as Treasurer, Secretary, Almoner or Charity
Steward, as these offices are not restricted to Past Masters of the Lodge.
Whatever the service you provide to your Lodge and whatever the office
you hold – remember it is but a step in your complete understanding of
Freemasonry. You will undoubtedly encounter Brethren with a greater
knowledge of Freemasonry than you, being impressed by the knowledge of
your Mentor, the skills of your Worshipful Master or the confidence shown by
Past Masters and Provincial and Grand Officers. Always remember that, like
you, they continue to seek a daily advancement in Masonic knowledge.
Freemasonry does not aim to make you better than the next man, but does
hope to make you better than you were. To make you someone who cares not
just for his family, although this is your first duty, not just for the brethren in
your Lodge, but also for the disadvantaged and vulnerable in our society. As a
Freemason in the modern world, we can give you no better advice than to do
unto others as you would have them do unto you and to do all in your power
to relieve the suffering of the less fortunate wherever you are able so to do.
169
Masonic Songs and Anthems Booklet
(Click on the above link for a Pocket-sized printout).
Your Mentor will advise you which songs are used in your Lodge
Opening Ode Closing Ode

Hail! Eternal! by whose aid Now the evening shadows closing.
All created things were made; Warn from toil to peaceful rest;
Heaven and earth Thy vast design; Mystic arts and rites reposing
Hear us, Architect Divine! Sacred in each faithful breast.
May our work begun in Thee, God of Light, whose love unceasing
Ever blest with order be; Doth to all Thy works extend,
And may we when labours cease, Crown our Order with Thy blessing,
Part in harmony and peace. Build,-sustain us to the end.
By Thy Glorious Majesty- Humbly now we bow before Thee,

By the trust we place in Thee- Grateful for Thy aid divine;
By the badge and mystic sign- Everlasting power and glory,
Hear us! Architect Divine! Mighty Architect! Be Thine.
So mote it be So mote it be
Absent Brethren (Version 1)

Holy Father, in Thy mercy
Hear our anxious prayer,
Keep our loved ones, now far absent
`Neath Thy care
When in sorrow, when in danger.

When in loneliness
In Thy love look down and comfort
Their distress
Father, in Thy love and power

Architect Divine
Bless them, guide them, save them, keep them,
They are Thine
So mote it be.
170
Song of Welcome (Visitors Toast)
Brethren from the East and West.
Who have stood the Tyler's Test,
You will find a welcome here,
Bright, Fraternal and sincere.
Chorus:
Warm Masonic hearts to meet you,
Hands of fellowship to greet you,
May our welcome here today
Cheer each Brother on his way.
We salute the man of worth.

Whether high or low his birth,
Whatsoever be his lot
Rich or poor it matters not.
And when we have said adieu,

May our love remain with you,
And may we renew that love,
In a Grander Lodge Above.
171
The Entered Apprentice's Song
1.--Solo:
Come, let us prepare; We Brothers that are
Met together on merry Occasion;
Let's drink, laugh and sing; Our Wine has a Spring,
Here's a health to an Accepted Mason.
Chorus:
Let's drink, laugh and sing; Our Wine has a Spring,
Here's a health to an Accepted Mason.
2.--Solo:
The world is in pain our secrets to gain,
But still let them wonder and gaze on;
'Til they're shown the Light; They'll ne'er know the Right
Word or Sign of an Accepted Mason.
Chorus:
‘Til they're shown the Light; They'll ne'er know the Right
Word or Sign of an Accepted Mason.
3.--Solo:
Tis this and 'tis that, They cannot tell what,
Why so many great Men of the Nation,
Should Aprons put on, To make themselves one.
With a Free or an Accepted Mason.
Chorus:
Should Aprons put on, To make themselves one.
4.--Solo:
Great Kings Dukes and Lords have laid by their swords,
This our Mist'ry to put a good grace on;
And ne'er been ashamed to hear themselves named
Chorus:
And ne'er been ashamed to hear themselves named
5.--Solo :
Antiquity's pride We have on our side,
It makes each man just in his station;
There's nought but what's good to be understood
By a Free or an Accepted Mason.
Chorus:
There's nought but what's good to be understood
By a Free or an Accepted Mason.
6.--Solo :
We're true and sincere, We're just to the Fair;
They'll trust us on any occasion;
No mortal can more The Ladies adore
Than a Free and an Accepted Mason.
Chorus:
172
No mortal can more The Ladies adore
Than a Free and an Accepted Mason.
7.--Solo :
Then join hand in hand, to each other firm stand;
Let's be merry and put a bright face on:
What mortal can boast so noble a toast?
As a Free or an Accepted Mason.
Chorus:
What mortal can boast so noble a toast
As a Free or an Accepted Mason
HAIL! MASONRY DIVINE

Where’er thy lodges stand, may they have great command
And always grace the land. Thou art divine
Great fabric still arise, and grace the azure skies.

Great are thy schemes. Great are thy schemes.
Thy noble orders are, matchless beyond compare.
No art with thee can share. Thou art divine!
Hiram the architect, did all the craft direct,

How they should build, How they should build.
Sol'mon, great Israel's King, did mighty blessings bring,
And left us cause to sing; Hail royal art!
173
Masonic Individual Record Sheet 2.3 The Mentor Index
*********** Lodge No ****
INDIVIDUAL RECORD SHEET
MENTOR……………………………………
CANDIDATE………………………………
Initiated_________________________________________
Passed__________________________________________
Raised__________________________________________
Proposer ---------------------- Seconder………………….
174
Topic or Activity Date Initials
The Entered Apprentice

The Apron
The Tools
The Lodge layout
Charity
Lodge Officers
Lodge History
The Festive Board
The Book of Constitutions (Rules and Regulations)
Memory Work - Questions
The Fellow Craft

The Apron
The Tools
Memory Work- Questions
The Master Mason

The Apron
The Tools
Protocol in the Lodge and throughout Masonry
Masonic Landmarks
Provincial Grand Lodge (visit to?)
Grand Lodge (visit to?)
Learning Resources
Masonic Bursaries and Grants
The Book of Constitutions (Antient Charges)
What Can I Tell My Friends (About Freemasonry)
INDIVIDUAL RECORD SHEET

Date Initials
Workshops, Seminars, and Lectures
Visits Made
175
Roles and Responsibilities
The Worshipful Master
The Senior and Junior Wardens
Immediate Past Master/ Past Masters/ Provincial
Officers
The Chaplain
The Treasurer
The Secretary
The Director of Ceremonies
The Almoner
The Charity Steward
The Senior and Junior Deacons
The Inner Guard and The Tyler
The Stewards
Royal Arch Masonry
Role of Province
Role of Grand Lodge
Other Orders such as Mark, Rose Croix, KT, Red
Cross etc
Mentor Please Note: this record sheet is not prescriptive, it is only an example to
show how to ensure that you have covered all the topics you wish to discuss with the
new mason. If your Lodge uses a mixture of Mentor, Proposer and/or Seconder to
convey the information, then it can also help you to keep track of the information he
has been given.
Amend the Record as you wish, to suit your own Lodge; for example you may wish to
add “Visit to Sister Lodges” or “Visit to Daughter/Mother Lodge” or “Guided tour of
the Lodge Room” etc.
176
Symbolic Explanation of the Ceremony of Initiation Index
by W. Bro. Shaikh Hatim Fidahussein Nakhoda, PDSGW
Edited and proof read by W Bro Shiva Banerjee, PDGSuptWks
Bismillah Hir Rahma Nir Rahim

In The Name of Allah the Most Gracious The Most Merciful
Assalaamo Alaikum, that is, peace be with you!
Worshipful Master, distinguished brethren and brethren: I am pleased to

submit my dissertation with some trepidation, as I feel unequal to doing justice
to this complex subject in a space of 20 odd minutes. But, I was persuaded to
take up the challenge by the encouragement and assistance of W Bros Shiva
Banerjee and Ronald Ng, whom I could not disappoint.
Islam has been much in the limelight these days. I have been diligent in
attending to my duties as both, a mason and a Muslim and have come to
realise that Islam and masonry are indeed compatible. Freemasonry may
even be considered complementary to Islam as its principles only go to
reinforce a Muslim brother’s own faith; contrary to the misconceptions widely
held among my Muslim brethren from various sects. The distrust perhaps
arises from the fact that Masonic symbols are derived from segments of the
Old Testament such as the Temple of King Solomon, which gives the
uninstructed world the erroneous impression that masons are Zionists. It is
serious enough for masonry to have been brought into question in Malaysia in
the late 70s. Yet, the Old Testament is not excluded from the beliefs of Islam.
On the contrary, King Solomon is considered to have been a follower of Islam
1
! More of this later … Anyway, masons are obligated to submit to the laws of
the VSL, which, in the case of the Muslim brethren in the Craft, is the Holy
Quran, if they so desire.
In this sense, the Antient Charges are also relevant. They direct the masons
“to obey the moral law… and practice the sacred duties of morality”. They
exhort him to “never be a stupid atheist nor an irreligious libertine”. Masons
are to “let a man’s religion or mode of worship be what it may… provided he
believes in the glorious architect of heaven and earth,” They are advised that
“by the purity of their own conduct, to demonstrate the superior
excellence of the faith they may profess". Thus masonry is the centre of
union between good men and true.” At home and in his neighbourhood a
mason is urged by the Antient Charges “to act as becomes a moral and wise
man… avoiding of gluttony or drunkenness… to give honour to whom it is
due, and avoid ill manners.2 ” That, and the three grand principles: “Brotherly
love, Relief and Truth” summarise what the fraternity teaches and expects of
every man who of his “own free will and accord 3" submits to its dictates.
177
An essential need of a mason is his inalienable belief in the Supreme Being,
God, Lord, Allah or Almighty. The term Islam, on the other hand, means
submission to the Divine Will and Guidance of Allah and to follow the Divine
Laws. The one who follows the divine Laws is called a Muslim. It therefore
must follow that both Islam and masonry have existed from time immemorial
and risen from the same roots. For this reason, King or Nabi (meaning
prophet) Solomon is believed to have been a Muslim. I will shortly review
Surah No. 27, Al Naml, of the Holy Quran, to explain this point of view.
In this context, however, we should also reflect on the Charge delivered to the
initiate of masonry, which at one point states: “As a Freemason, let me
recommend to your most serious contemplation the VSL4 , charging you to
consider it as the unerring standard of truth and justice and to regulate your
actions by the divine precepts it contains. Therein you will be taught the
important duties you owe to God, to your neighbour and yourself. To God, by
never mentioning His name but with that awe and reverence which are due
from the creature to his Creator, by imploring His aid in all your lawful
undertakings, and by looking up to Him in every emergency for comfort and
support. To your neighbour, by rendering him every kind office which justice
or mercy may require, by relieving his necessities and soothing his afflictions,
and by doing to him as in similar cases you would wish he would do to you. 5 ”
Evidently, masonry seeks only to reaffirm whatever faith a Brother holds, be it
Islam, Christianity, Hinduism, Buddhism, Taoism etc. except, if he should be
an atheist, and in which case he cannot be accepted as a mason.
Prophet Mohd was bestowed prophethood at the age of 40. One of the first
decrees he promulgated was to inform the business community to use the
same set of scales when conducting business transactions. In those days,
traders used two sets of scales: one for buying & the other for selling. The
prophet abolished that system, citing unscrupulous business dealings. In the
same way the Masonic Charge after Initiation mentions…”and by doing to him
in similar cases you would wish he would do to you.” Or, as in one of our
working tools explanation: “Thus by square conduct, level steps and upright
intentions we hope to ascend 6 …”.
Allah in Islam has 100 beautiful names, and this cluster of names is called
Asmaul Husna. They are His Divine attributes like All knowing, All Powerful,
The Creator, The Cherisher, The Just, The Kind & Forgiving, All Seeing etc.
Similarly, the masons refer to Allah by His various attributes too such as:
TGAOTU, TGGOTU, TMH, TTALGMH, TGOOTU, TSCOTU and so on. Also,
Allah can be beseeched by: “Ya HoVa”, the One and Only or “La Ilaha Il Lal
Lah”, None but Allah, or as in the Chapter: The Tetragammaton or TTALGMH
or El Elohe (Lord God).
For the Muslim masons, the Holy Quran is one of the three Emblematical
Lights in masonry. It is referred to as the VSL. The former mentions all the
Prophets, whom Allah sent, 124,000 in all, to different countries and peoples
of the world from time to time, beginning with Adam and ending with
Mohamed. The Main Prophets identified are Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses,
Jesus and Mohamed. All are said to have performed miracles. The Quran was
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Mohamed’s miracle, it being the Words of Allah, which were carried by Angel
Gibrael (Gabriel) for promulgation to the world by Mohamed. Again, just as
the masons are encouraged to memorise the rituals for the better
understanding of the messages enshrined in them, the Muslims consider it
their duty to memorise parts of the Quran that are extensively used in the
rituals of prayers, which for most, like the old English in the Masonic rituals, is
in an unfamiliar language. A person who memorizes the entire Quran is highly
respected and is called a Hafiz. Not unlike our Masonic ritualists, who are held
in high regard in the fraternity.
Prophet Abraham, or Ibrahim, was the Patriarch and he was the first to build
the Kaba in Mecca. As I had said earlier, Prophet Abraham (Ibrahim), Prophet
Moses (Musa) and Prophet Jesus (Esa) had performed miracles. Nabi Esa, or
Prophet Jesus, had performed the most number of miracles. Nabi Esa’s first
miracle, as mentioned in the Holy Quran, was when Miriam (Mary) entered
the chamber with her child in her arms. The Elders chided her, saying: “Hey
Miriam, what have you brought?” In response, Mariam pointed at the Baby –
indicating that the question be put to the Baby instead – when He (Esa)
answered: “Do not scold my Mother, she has done no wrong. I am the Nabi
Esa 7.
I have endeavoured so far to explain that both Islam and masonry have the
same root, neither contradicting the other nor can either be identified
reasonably as Zionists. Let me now give you a little insight into Islam, and
more particularly its sectarian developments, along with some information on
my own sect. The latter, because it appears to be historically connected to the
scriptures adopted by masonry.
As I have already stated, Prophet Mohammed’s (pbuh) most important

miracle was the Holy Quran. Every word in the Quran is the word of Allah
(swt). The Quran is divided into 114 Chapters called Surah. Each Surah,
except for one, begins with “Bismillah Hir Rah Ma Nir Rahim” (BHRMNR) in
praise of Allah, meaning: “In The Name of Allah The Most Gracious The Most
Merciful.” But the Surah No.9, Al Tawbah or Repentance, does not begin with
BHRMNR. It has been speculated to be the continuation of Surah No 8.
These words appear twice, however, in Chapter No.27 to make up the
BHRMNR appearing 114 times in the Holy Quran, once in the usual manner
at the beginning of the Surah and again in the letter within, in which Nabi
Suleiman (King Solomon) wrote to Queen Bilqis, the queen of Sheba, inviting
her to accept Islam, that is to follow Divine Laws. He had started his letter with
the words BHRMNR, as it has always been so done by a Muslim. It lends
weight to the belief that the Grand Master of masons was also an ancient
Muslim! This Surah No.27 is called, Al Naml, or “The Ant”. Queen Bilqis
reigned over a powerful empire in Yemen and her headquarters were in
Hadhramaut, 20 miles North of Sana (Capital of Yemen).
The first Chapter in the Holy Quran is called Surah Fatihah, also known as
Hamd, meaning praise of Allah. Like every book, this first Surah acts as an
introduction to the Quran. This Chapter has seven verses and is used
extensively at every Majlis or Meeting or in functions like: Wedding, Divorce,
179
Death Anniversary and Burial Ceremony. It is recited in the “Five Times
Prayers” and “Supplications” as well. This Surah is:
1. In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

2. Praise be to Allah The Cherisher and Sustainer of the Worlds;
3. Most Gracious, Most Merciful;
4. Master of the Day of Judgement.
5. Thee do we worship, And Thine aid we seek.
6. Show us the straight way,
7. The way of those on whom Thou hast bestowed Thy Grace, Those
whose (portion) Is not wrath, And who go not astray.
The practice merits comparison with the Masonic rituals of saying a prayer or
grace to TMH before and after every significant Masonic event.
Though all the Muslims believe in the One and Only Allah and the same
Prophet Mohammed (pbuh) and the one unabridged Holy Quran, they are
divided into several sects. The two main sects are the Sunni and the Shi’a.
But, there are many other sub sects or groups. Again, not unlike the many
Grand Lodges and rituals in masonry.
Sunnis consider 1st) Hazrat Abu Baker, 2nd) Hazrat Omar, 3rd) Hazrat
Osman, and 4th) Hazrat Ali as successors of Prophet Mohammed and were
based in Medina. They are recognised as Khalifas.
Shi’as, on other hand, regard Ali Ibne Abi Talib, the son-in-law & cousin of
Prophet Mohammed, as the successor and Khalifa. After Ali, the Shi’as
followed Imam Hassan and then Hussein; and so the reign from their base in
Kufa in District Najaf, Iraq, was passed from father to son. The father
designated one of his sons as his successor. The Shi’as are also called
Imamiyas or the followers of Imam.
Taking Ali as the first Imam, the seventh Imam was Ismail and the 14th was
Moez. The 21st, Taiyeb was the last of the Fatimid Imams, being the progeny
of Ali / Fatema. Fatimid Imams ruled North Africa including Egypt and Sudan
for two centuries 8 . Imam Moez founded the Al Azhar University in Cairo,
which is still in existence. Recently the Imam or Dean or Mufti of Al Hazar
University, Imam Mohammed Tantavi had visited Singapore.
Imam Taiyeb, the last of the historically important Fatimid Imams, instructed
Queen Arwa (Arabic name: Hurratul Malika) to appoint several Syednas, or
Chairmen, to carry on the Dawah or Mission in different parts of the world.
Queen Arwa was the ruler from the same country, Yemen, and the same seat
of Learning and at the same town of Hadhramaut as Queen Bilqis, the Queen
of Sheba or Saba. Queen Arwa appointed the 1st Syedna, Syedna Zoeb, to
carry on the Mission in Yemen, Hind (India) 9, & Sind (Pakistan) 10. Each
Syedna nominates his successor. Today, the 52nd Syedna is His Holiness Dr.
Abul Quaid Johar Mohammed Burhanuddin Saheb tus. I belong to this sect,
which is known as “Mustalian Taiyebi Sect of Dawoodi Bohras”. Our
Community is about 1.2 Million spread out in all parts of the world. We follow
180
the Mission as instructed by Imam Taiyeb. The affairs of the community are
conducted by the joint rule of three known as the Syedna, Mazoon and
Mukasir. These three rulers may be compared, though with significant
differences, with the Principals of an RAC in the Craft: Syedna as the First
Principal; Mazoon as the Second Principal and Mukasir as the Third
Principal.
Then we have huzzoorias, dewans etc who are the junior officers and may be
compared with the Scribes, Sojourners etc. of an RAC. There are no
elections. The Syedna is nominated by his predecessor to assume office after
the latter’s death and then the new Syedna appoints all his officers.
Some of the Shi’a sects, including my own sub-sect, instead of the usual five
pillars11 of Islam, have Seven Pillars, the two additional ones being:
1. The Oath of Allegiance to Succession and

2. The Taharat — meaning cleanliness – Outward and Inner leading to
Hereafter 12 .
Anyone born in a Bohra family is not recognized a Bohra until he or she is

INITIATED, just like the Initiation in masonry, though the ceremonies are not
comparable. The initiate must be of mature age, however, generally 13/14
years for a girl and 14/16 for a boy, and that he or she must come of his own
free will. No coercion or pressure from the parents is permissible. This
Initiation Ceremony is known as MISAQ.
The parents present him/her to the Syedna or his representative called Aamil,
after a Bath and Wuzu, not symbolically washing his feet as in some of our
Masonic rituals. The ceremony of Misaq takes about one hour when the
principles peculiar to the sect are communicated. It is stressed that the
knowledge of the ceremony is confined within the community, just as the so-
called secrets of the Craft. Then the oath of recognition and acceptance of:
the Unseen; the Supreme Being that is Allah; Heaven; Hell; the Angels; the
Holy Books; the Prophets; Prophet Mohammed; Ali and his Progeny and
finally, the present Syedna. Then a charge is given, as in the Craft first
Degree mentioned earlier, for Truth, Unity and Love of Brotherhood. To read
the Quran very regularly and slowly, and with understanding, as the rituals in
the Craft, and to follow the precepts laid down. To attend, if possible, the
Mosque for Prayers and to answer any calls made by the Aamil, the
representative... just as masons are extolled to answer the lawful summons
and to attend all meetings. And finally, to follow the Shariyah, meaning the 7
Pillars, which are Walayat (Succession), Taharat ( Cleanliness), Salaat
(Prayers), Zakat (Charity), Haj (Pilgrimage), Saum (Fasting), and Jihad
(Resistance to injustice).
Here, let me digress to refer to: “seven or more to make a perfect Lodge” 13 .
The Emulation rituals suggest that the number alludes “to seven liberal Arts
and Sciences” that a mason is required to research to progress in life, namely:
“Grammar, Rhetoric, Logic, Arithmetic, Geometry, Music and Astronomy”.
Esoterically, the numbers, 3, 5 and 7 may be said to allude to the harmony of
181
body, soul and spirit of a Lodge represented by the JW, SW and the Master
respectively; the five representing the five senses namely, sight, hearing,
smell, feel and taste, which together with instinct and faith of man in the
Supreme Being make seven. The Masonic “five points of fellowship” is
another example of the five duties pledged to assist a brother. These are not
similar but certainly complementary. In Islam too, the embracing of a Muslim
brother, breast to breast, has a similar meaning, both in happiness & in
sorrow.
Prayers in Islam have two parts. The first part is always the same, with a ritual
to stand, kneel, prostrate and sit. This ritual is called Selaat, and must be said
in Arabic and must be from memory, as in the Craft, and facing the Kaba; the
East in the Craft. The 2nd part of the prayers is called the Dua or
supplications, which can be said in ones mother tongue. After Every Dua all
the people say, Amin, so mote it be! After every prayer and Dua, there follows
a handshake and the hand must be pulled asunder, as in some Masonic
rituals, in a pledge to remain a brother “until death do us part, to meet in the
Hereafter”.
Majlis are meetings, generally held in the Mosque like our temple or in an
adjoining hall or room. Every meeting or any function begins with a Dua
seeking Gods Grace, which called Hamd, as I have mentioned earlier. And
every meeting ends with a Dua for favours received from the Almighty for
having marked well. The practice must sound familiar to every mason. Doors
to a Majlis are never closed, but latecomers make a Tasleem or bow at the
entrance, as a mason does on entry into an open Chapter, and on receiving a
nod from the presiding Aamil takes his appointed place. Brotherhood is
observed during the Five Prayers, when all fall in line behind the Imam who
leads the Selaat; The Ritual.
Women sit in the upper Hall of the Mosque, segregated from the men.
Brotherhood is also observed at the Festive board where there is no protocol.
The diners sit in groups of eight persons on the floor in a circle at a Safra
(tablecloth), and a thal (big dish about three and a half feet in diameter). The
host, with his helpers, wash the guests’ hands with a small basin and pitcher.
After the guests have settled down, the host proclaims BHRMNR … to
commence service. One of the eight in each circle presents a small dish of
salt and each one takes a pinch. The same is repeated after the group has
finished the meal. The meal is concluded with a thanks-giving prayer to Allah.
The significance of the salt is similar to that in Consecration and some other
Masonic ceremonies. The prayer, before and after a meal, is also practiced in
masonry.
My Community follows the lunar calendar where all the important dates are
marked on the calendar. This is similar to the Masonic calendar. Thus, all
major events like New Year, Muharram, Birthdays of Prophet Mohammed and
the current Syedna and death anniversaries of martyrs, and other major
events are marked. Except for death and burial ceremonies, no other social
functions are permitted to be held on those specific dates in the calendar.
182
Similarly, masons too should perhaps avoid conflicts between Craft meetings
and social activities, neither being less important.
Incidentally, a Good Standing Certificate is required for undertaking

ceremonies like Wedding, Misaq, and Haj Pilgrimage. A Safai Chitthi (Gujarati
for Clearance certificate) is needed to prove that all dues to the community
have been settled for before the event. Similar to the Masonic practice of
receiving a stranger or a joining brother!
Brethren, I have tried to bring to your attention an issue that is close to my

heart. In my pursuit to strictly conform to the Islamic principles and practices, I
have never found my Masonic duties to be in conflict or a hindrance. On the
contrary, I have found my Masonic duties to be complementary and in
harmony with those of Islam. In this District, which is set in a population
comprising more than half who are followers of Islam, I close with a fervent
and humble hope that this paper may in a small way help to alleviate
whatever prevailing distrust that may be extant among my fellow Muslin
brethren towards our Craft.
Thank you!
References:
1. Surah 27: Al Naml.

2. Antient Charges – Concerning God & Religion and Of Behaviour.
3. A part of every obligation undertaken by a mason.
4. The Holy Quran, as far as the followers of Islam are concerned.
5. Charge after Initiation – Revised Emulation ritual.
6. Emulation 2nd Degree W/T.
7. Surah No 19, Sec 2.
8. “The Middle East – A brief History of The Last 2,000 Years” by Bernard Lewis – pp
83-84.
9. Hind, referred to that part of the Indian sub-continent, which was to the east of the
Indus river.
10. The Indus river basin, a part of the Indian sub-continent, now Pakistan, which came
about only in 1947.
11. Prayers, Charity, Pilgrimage, Fasting and Resistance to injustice.
12. Taharat is included in the prayers.
13. Second Degree Tracing Board.
Presented by W. Bro Shaikh Hatim Fidahussein Nakhoda in The Lodge St. Michael No. 2933
on 29th July, 2006.
W. Bro. Shaikh Hatim Nakhoda is a Past Master of Lodge St. Michael No. 2933 and a Past
District Senior Grand Warden of the District Grand Lodge of the Eastern Archipelago. He is
also a Past Master of Lodge Singapore No 7178.In addition, he holds the rank of Past Asst.
Grand Director of Ceremony in the Grand Lodge of Mark Master Masons of England and
Wales and its Districts Overseas. He also carries the title Shaikh which was conferred on him,
for his knowledge on Islam.
This lecture was downloaded from the internet site of the District Grand Lodge
of the Eastern Archipelago at http://www.dglea.org/islam.html which posted
183
the lecture by W. Bro. Shaikh Hatim Fidahussein Nakhoda, PDSGW who
presented a paper on Islam and Freemasonry on Saturday, 29th July 2006, in
Lodge St. Michael No. 2933 UGLE, the research lodge in Singapore.
The link to the lecture was posted to UKMason-list@ukmason.org.uk by

Ronald Ng, PDGPurs, JW, Lodge St. Michael No. 2933 UGLE, Web Master,
www.dglea.org .
184
Peterborough Booklets
4.10. Reference and Support publications. Index
“After 1st, 2nd & 3rd Degree”

These wonderfully useful booklets have been produced to welcome the new
made Mason and prepare him for his Passing - explain what the Passing
ceremony actually meant and a general look at the Raising ceremony plus
more information for the Master Mason.
(Follow the link embedded in the picture.)

(See next page for more QCCC publications.)
185
Notes for a Candidate for Freemasonry
4.10. Reference and Support publications. Index
This Booklet has been prepared for the benefit

of men over 21 years old who have expressed an interest in Freemasonry. A
useful aid to those considering membership.
And then the next step on the path of Pure Antient Masonry.
186
Your
Logo
Province of / or Lodge Number ****** here
Royal Arch Chapter Address 4.6. After Passing Index
To be read by the Worshipful Master in Open Lodge at the conclusion of the Ceremony of
Raising.
Copy of text to be made available to the Candidate.
Brother (A. B.)
You now have the opportunity, following your Master Mason's Degree, to
progress and learn more about Freemasonry. In the Holy Royal Arch Degree
you go beyond the Third Degree by taking further steps along the path in
search of that which was lost in the Craft. It should be your wish, as a Master
Mason, to complete your Masonic journey and in doing so you will rediscover
that which was lost and obtain a full knowledge of Pure Ancient Masonry
In Craft Masonry, a Brother acknowledges a belief in a Supreme Being, yet

this relationship is never explored. In the Royal Arch, the Mason continues
and completes his education and knowledge of Craft Masonry and is invited to
consider his relationship and dependence on God.
Since the formation of a Provincial Grand Chapter in (insert year) every

Provincial Grand Master has expressed his wish that all Master Masons
should become members of the Holy Royal Arch and I suggest that you speak
to your Mentor, your Proposer into Freemasonry or the Lodge Secretary to
obtain further details on how to join this most colourful of orders.
Check out www.grandchapter.org.uk/
“The allegory of the exaltation ceremony is based on the Old Testament

telling of the return to Jerusalem from the Babylonish captivity to rebuild the
city and temple. In clearing the ground of the original temple for the
foundations of the second temple, the candidate makes a number of
discoveries which emphasise the centrality of God to man's life and existence
and, without transgressing the bounds of religion, lead the candidate to a
consideration of the nature of God and his personal relationship with Him,
whatever his religion might be.
In England, the Royal Arch is considered to be the next step of "pure ancient
Masonry". In the Craft the candidate is presented with a series of eminently
practical principles and tenets by which if he practises them he may hope to
live a life pleasing to his God, however he worships him, and of service to his
fellow man. “
NB MENTOR: This paper is based upon an instruction issued by one

Provincial Grand Lodge – you may wish to adjust and adapt it to suit
your own Province and include any recommendations from your own
Provincial Grand Lodge designed to encourage greater membership of
the Royal Arch.
187
SYMBOLISM 4.6. After Passing Index
During the course of the ceremonies, the Candidate will undoubtedly notice
that a great deal of symbolism is employed both in words and in special
artefacts placed and used around the Lodge Room. The following may help
him identify some of them:
9 The Three Great Lights (‘The Furniture of the Lodge’)
9 The volume of the Sacred Law – THE WORD i.e. the Holy
Writings relevant to the candidate’s persuasion, upon which he
makes his undertakings e.g. The Bible, The Koran, the
appropriate Sikh or Hindu scriptures etc.
9 The Square – denotes THE GREAT ARCHITECT and

symbolises morality.
9 The Compasses – denote THE UNIVERSE and are the symbol

of impartial justice, defining the limits of good and evil.
9 The Three Lesser Lights - the three candles in the east, south
and west denoting the sun at its rising, meridian and setting to
light men to their labours and symbolising:
The Master to rule his Lodge
The Sun to rule the day
The Moon to govern the night
9 The Three Great Pillars – said to support a Freemasons’ Lodge

and represented by the three candlesticks:
By the Master – Ionic denoting Wisdom and representing

Solomon, King of Israel.
By the Senior Warden – Doric denoting Strength and

representing Hiram, King of Tyre.
By the Junior Warden - Corinthian denoting Beauty and

representing Hiram Abif.
9 Black and White Chequered Pavement – represents Light and

Darkness or the joys and sorrows of our chequered existence
on earth and replicates the floor of King Solomon’s Temple.
9 The Wardens Columns – represent the two pillars at the

porchway or entrance to King Solomon’s Temple -
Senior Warden’s column erect when Lodge is at labour

188
Junior Warden’s column erect when Lodge is at rest
Celestial (SW) and Terrestrial (JW) Globes atop these columns
point out that Freemasonry is universal.
9 The Three Moveable Jewels-
Square (explained above)

Level (equality)
Plumb rule (justness and uprightness in life and actions)
9 The Three Immovable Jewels-
Tracing Board – for the Master to lay lines and draw designs
upon
Rough Ashlar – for Entered Apprentice to work, mark and
indent upon
Perfect Ashlar – for Craftsman to try and adjust jewels upon
9 Squaring the Lodge – a reflection of the earlier days when the

layout of the Lodge was drawn on the floor in chalk at each meeting
and later erased.
The Apron
Thought to derive from sheepskins used by ancient stone masons
for both protection and warmth, the legs being used to tie the skin
round the body, though now reduced to symbolic size and with draw
strings replacing legs; still made from the skin of a lamb.
Each Degree has its own form, with different standards for
enhanced ranks, but strictly as laid down by Grand Lodge.
Rosettes indicate grade of Brother concerned –
2= second degree and 3 = third degree, replaced by Levels when
a Master Mason has passed through the Chair.
9 The Collar – purely a means of suspending the jewel which

denotes a Brother’s office in the Lodge. Originally no more than a
strand of blue cord, it was gradually expanded to its present size,
but has no Masonic significance.
9 The Gloves - not worn by ancient operative masons, probably

derived from social fashions of ‘gentlemen’ in 19th Century.
9 Jewels of Office - the three most significant:
9 WM wears the Square
9 SW wears the Level
9 JW wears the Plumb Rule
189
Other Officers wear: -
9 Chaplain – Book on a triangle surmounting a glory

9 Secretary – Two pens in Saltire, tied by a ribbon
9 Director of Ceremonies – Two rods in Saltire, tied by a ribbon
9 Treasurer – Key
9 Almoner – Scrip-purse
9 Charity Steward – Trowel
9 Deacons – Dove and an olive branch
9 Organist – Lyre
9 Steward – Cornucopia (also known as the Horn of Plenty)
9 Inner Guard – Two swords in Saltire
9 Tyler – Sword
190
Introduction of Mentor to Candidate.
4.4. Initiation Ceremony Index
Bro ………. that concludes the Ceremony of your Initiation into Freemasonry.
Welcome to the worldwide fraternity of Freemasons and into this Lodge in
particular. As was explained in the ceremony, you are now expected to make
a daily advancement in Masonic knowledge. To help you to do this we have
asked Bro …….. to act as your guide and mentor. He will explain to you and
help you to understand the symbols and teachings set out in the recent
ceremony and also in the ceremonies to follow. He will also explain the
traditions and history of this ancient institution. Both your Mentor and Bro …...
the Lodge Mentor, are available to answer any questions that you may have.
(The WM may now shake the Candidate by the hand before he and his
Mentor are shown to their seats in the Lodge. It is advisable for the Mentor to
sit with the Candidate for the remainder of the meeting to guide him through
the closing etc.)
If possible it would be useful if the following rubric could be included in the

Ritual Books after the Charge after Initiation:
(If the Lodge operates a Mentoring scheme the WM should now introduce the
Candidate to his Mentor with some suitable words.)
191
5. Acknowledgements Contents Page Index
Working Party
The Working Party comprised -
Chairman
VW Bro Jeffrey Gillyon, PGSwdB, DPGM (Yorkshire, North & East Ridings)
Group 1
W Bro Gary Brown (Yorkshire, West Riding)

W Bro Tony Burke, ProvGSwdB (Yorkshire, North & East Ridings)
W Bro James Greaves, PPrSGW (Yorkshire, North & East Ridings)
W Bro David Loy (Yorkshire, West Riding)
W Bro Keith Robinson, PPrJGW (Durham)
W Bro David Thomson, ProvGStwd (Yorkshire, North & East Ridings)
Group 4
W Bro James M G Bartlett, PAGDC (Gloucestershire), Chairman

VW Bro Michael B Davies, PGSwdB (South Wales Western Division)
W Bro Toby D C Jones, PPrAGDC (Gloucestershire), Secretary
W Bro John C Thurston, ProvSGW (Gloucestershire)
W Bro Colin V Young, PSGD, APGM (Worcestershire)
Group 8
W Bro Nick J Burger, ProvGSwdB (Surrey)

W Bro Roger W Odd, PAGDC, ProvGSec and PPrSGW (East Kent),
Secretary of Group 8
Members of the Working Party wish to acknowledge the great assistance

received from the Provinces, many of which will doubtless recognise elements
of their own work contained within this Report.
192
6. Index Contents Page
The following listing should not be directly accessed without first having read
the full Report, as the Report contains many important recommendations
linking the subject matter.
Provincial Mentor
Active Listening and Reflection
Short Paper on Masonic Mentoring (for delivery to Lodges)
Personal letter from PGM (sample letter to Lodge Mentor)
Active Listening Skills (PowerPoint Presentation)
Road Show (PowerPoint Presentation)
Newsletter
Monitoring and Evaluation
Associated Documents -
Lodge Mentoring Report (summary from Lodge Mentor)
Membership Turnover Report (Excel Spreadsheet)
Lodge Mentor
Why do we need Masonic Mentors?
What is Masonic Mentoring?
The Mentoring Relationship
Skills and Qualities of a Mentor
Who should be a Mentor?
How to be a Mentor
Associated Documents –
Short Paper on Masonic Mentoring (for delivery to Lodge)
Lodge Mentoring Report (summary for return to Provincial Mentor)
Detailed Mentoring Report (for completion by Lodge Mentor)
Induction Booklet (Word Document Booklet on Mentoring)
Mentor
Why do we need Masonic Mentors?
What is Masonic Mentoring?
Skills and Qualities of a Mentor
Who should be a Mentor?
How to be a Mentor
Practical Activities
Feedback
Mentor’s Check List
193
Support for the Mentor
Mentoring Relationship
Record Sheet (Individual)
Before Initiation
An Approach to Life
Freemasonry and Society
Freemasonry’s External Relations
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).
The Interview
MW Pro Grand Master’s Address (Extract from 14th March 2007)
Preparing for Initiation
Initiation Ceremony
Associated Document –
Suggested Wording for Introduction of Candidate to Mentor
After Initiation
Personal letter from PGM (sample letter to Initiate)
Brief history of Freemasonry
Lodge Officers
Layout of the Lodge Room
Symbolic explanation of the Initiation Ceremony
The Charge after Initiation
Ritual
Basic Masonic etiquette
Festive Board
Inviting Guests
Questions and Answers (for Second Degree)
Opening and Closing Hymns
After Passing
What is a Fellow Craft?
Symbolic Explanation of the Ceremony of Passing
Tracing Board (Second Degree – short explanation)
Working Tools (Second Degree)
Symbolism
Charity is at the very heart of Freemasonry
194
Relationship between UGLE and the Provinces
Masonic Clothing & Regalia
Questions and Answers (for Third Degree)
Sample Royal Arch Chapter Address.
(WM at end of Third Degree Ceremony)
After Raising
Personal letter from PGM (sample to Master Mason)
Symbolic explanation of the Third Degree ceremony
Applying the principles of Freemasonry to our everyday lives
Life as a Master Mason
Lodge of Instruction
Grand Lodge Certificate
Conclusion – being a Mason in the world
Beyond the Third Degree

Talking about Freemasonry
Relationship between the Craft and the Holy Royal Arch
Installation Meeting
Warrant (of the Lodge)
Book of Constitutions, the By-laws of the Lodge
Address to the Worshipful Master
Address to the Wardens
Address to the Brethren
Reference and Support publications

World Wide Web
Peterborough Booklets
Daily Advancement in Masonic Knowledge
Information on Other Orders
Masonic Songs & Anthems Booklet (Lyrics Pocket Size Printout)
195

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Rulers’ Forum

2. Roles & Responsibilities

1. OVERVIEW Contents Page Index

LOCAL DELIVERY BACKED BY CENTRAL SUPPORT

Provincial Mentoring Organisation

MENTOR MENTOR MENTOR

CANDIDATE CANDIDATE CANDIDATE

Grand Lodge: It is hoped the role of Grand Lodge would be to:

– provide continuing sponsorship of System

2. Roles & Responsibilities Contents Page Index

2.1 Provincial Mentor

2.2 Lodge Mentor

2.4 Proposer & Seconder

2.5 Monitoring & Evaluation

2.1.2 What does a Provincial Mentor do?

Provincial Mentor = Training and Support

As a minimum, his duties should include the following -

2.1.3 In addition to his most important role related to Training;

2.1.4 What training may Mentors need?

A successful Mentor should be:

9 interested in being a Mentor.

The importance of the Provincial Mentor cannot be overemphasised. Without a

But most importantly – enjoy yourself and have fun

“Isn’t that the role of the Proposer or Seconder?”

To some extent, the answer to this question is “yes, it is”.

2.5.1 The Mentor

9 How often do they meet?

2.5.2 The Lodge Mentor 2.5 Monitoring & Evaluation Index

Very good progress (we have an excellent candidate here).

2.5.3 The Provincial Mentor 2.5 Monitoring & Evaluation Index

9 Number of Lodges actively employing Mentoring within the Province.

This can be done in two ways.

Membership Turnover; this is calculated by the following method:

Number of Leavers in Year * x 100 (to give %)

* Resignations + exclusions + expulsions

Number of resignations with less than 5 years membership x 100

A SHORT PAPER ON MASONIC MENTORING.

What Is Masonic Mentoring?

Why do we need it?

What’s happening in the Province?

What does a Mentor do?

By ‘engaged’ we mean someone who is committed to their Freemasonry; regularly attends

How do they do that?

What will happen in the future?

But in whose hands are they?

And who knows?

Maybe the future of Masonry is you!

Masonic Mentoring Newsletter Index Return

Welcome to another of our Newsletters written particularly for those of

The objective of the Newsletter is to allow the exchange of ideas, to exchange

Some thoughts from the

Contact Us: Explanations?

It is a given fact that for every symbol, word or mystery in Freemasonry

In 1707, Mother Kilwinning Lodge, defined a Cowan as –

" a Mason without the word ".

So, that should leave little doubt in our minds as to

Dates for your Diary

• Contact names & numbers (including their Mentor)

“Any other suggestions?”

Thanks for Contributions to this Newsletter go to<XXX>

Guidelines for Active Listening and Reflection

Detailed Mentoring Report Form

Lodge Name ______________________________________ No. _________

For each candidate –

Lodge Name ______________________________ No. _