OFFICERS HANDBOOK
Grand LodgeA.F. and A.M. of Oregon
Reprinted 2012
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
l. Introduction and Basics
ThePurposeofFreemasonry
II. Lodge Officers
TheirDutiesandPreparationsfortheirOffices
III. Masonic Code, By-Laws, The Manual, Grand Lodge Proceedings, The Ritual
IV. General Information
Insurance,N.P.D.,TheMentorPlan,Investigations,Examining andBeingaVisitor,Finance,Budget,Fees,Dues,Remitting Dues,DonationsandBequests,Assessments,FundRaising, DispositionofOperatingIncome
V. Committees
Introduction,CommitteesRequiredbyCode,GrandLodge Programs,OptionalCommittees,MiscellaneousCommittees
VI. Masonic Parliamentary Procedures
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I. INTRODUCTION AND BASICS
INTRODUCTION
TheimportanceofofficertraininghaslongbeenrecognizedintheOregonMasonicJurisdiction.Throughouttheyears,manysuchprogramshavebeendeveloped.ThisOfficersHandbookisoneexample.
Itisourhopethatwehavecompiledaworkingmodelofthebasicessentialsnecessaryforofficerdevelopment.Theindividualinstructionsandsuggestionsarebasedupontheusualpracticeofadvancingthroughalineofprogression.IfthepracticeinyourLodgerequiressomevariancefromthesuggestedprogression,pleaserememberthatthebasicaimistodevelopqualifiedbrethrentofilltheoffices.
YoushouldbeginstudyingtheentireOfficer’sHandbook,especiallythechapterentitledTheWorshipfulMaster,earlyinyourcareerasaLodgeOfficer.
ThepositionofWorshipfulMasterissoimportanttothewelfareandprogressofhisLodgethatifOregonFreemasonryistoprogresswemustdependupontheMaster’sleadershipinhisLodge.TimeisessentiallyshortandveryfewofushavetheinnatetalentstobecomesuccessfulWorshipfulMasterswithoutseriousandearnestpreparationforthetask.
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ItishopedthatthisHandbook,byemphasizingtheWorshipfulMaster’sobligations,willbeofbenefittotheMasterdischarginghisdutiesandpreparingfortheperpetuationofFreemasonryandhisLodge,andassisttheelectiveandappointiveOfficersinpreparingforadvancement.
BASICS
Before going into the specifics of the duties of LodgeOfficers,itisperhapswelltoconsiderthequestion:WhatisthepurposeofFreemasonry?
Stripped down to fundamentals, and if we believe in ourritualisticteachings,wefindintheEnteredApprenticeDegreethatessentiallytheFraternity’sbasicpurposeisto inspire a good man to become a better man.Tothebestofourknowledge,weadmitintotheFraternityonlythosemenwhoaregood—notperfect—butfundamentallygood.Throughteachingandexample,wetrytoinspirethemtobecomebettermen.ThisisabasicMasonicprecept.
Ifweagreewiththisprecept,howdoweinspiregoodmentobecomebettermen?ThatbasicpurposecanonlybeinitiatedandtaughtwithintheprecinctsoftheLodgeinfluence,tyled or untyled. Each individual Lodge and its membersbecomethebasicinstrumentofFreemasonryinaccomplishingitspurpose.
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EverythingthataLodgedoes—thedignifiedandimpressiveconferralofadegree,thesocialeveningithaswithfamilyandfriends; the fellowship of the refreshment table, the attentionitgivesto itsmembers, itswidowsandorphansanddisabledbrethren;participation in the lastritesofadeceasedbrother;prompt opening and nonlagging communications; making anewmemberorvisitorfeelathomeandapartoftheLodge;andparticipationinpubliccharitableandcivicfunctions—areallapartofandhelpfulinaccomplishingthepurposeoftheFraternity.
TheindividualLodgeisthevehicleforachievingFreemasonry’sbasicpurpose.
WhoisresponsibleforaLodgeperformingitsfunctioninfurtheringFreemasonry’sbasicpurpose?IntheGrandJurisdictionofOregon,theGrandMasteristheleaderoftheFraternityandthefinalexecutiveauthorityonMasonicLawandCustom.MasonryinOregonisgovernedbytheMasonicCodeadoptedandamendedbytheConstituentLodgesthatformtheGrandLodge.UnderourpeculiardemocraticMasonicsystem,theWorshipfulMasterofanOregonLodgehasmoreabsoluteauthorityandpowerinhisLodgethanthepresidingofficerofanyotherdemocraticorganizationknown.Almostliterally,andofcoursewithintheboundsofprudenceandreason,aslongastheMasterconductshisLodgewithinthelimitationsoftheMasonicCode,heisalawuntohimself.HispowersexceedthosegrantedapresidingofficerunderRobert’sRulesofOrder.TheGrandMastermayexerthisutmostpowersin
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leadingtheFraternityinstrivingforitsbasicpurpose,andinimplementingtheprogramsoftheGrandLodge,butiftheWorshipfulMasterinhisLodge,willfully,negligentlyorthroughprocrastinationorlackofpreparation,failstoleadhisLodgeinitsroleofaccomplishingMasonry’spurpose,thatLodgethenbecomesaweaklinkintheMasonicchain.
II. DUTIES OF LODGE OFFICERS
WORSHIPFUL MASTER
ManyofthoseportionsofthisbookletdevotedtoLodgeOfficersareintendedtoprepareofficersforalikelyprogressiontohigheroffices.You,myBrother,havebeenelectedtothemostimportantofficeinalodgeofFreemasons.Noofficerinanyotherorganizationhastheprofoundinfluenceuponthewelfareofthatorganizationthatyou,theWorshipfulMaster,willhaveuponyourlodge.The future welfare of the lodge has become your responsibility.
Youaregivenmanypowersnotextendedtopresidingofficersofotherorganizations.Forinstance,theMasonicCodeprohibitsyourrulingsbeingappealedtotheLodge.(AnyMasterwhoserulingsareinviolationoftheCodemaybesubjectedtoMasonicCharges.)Yourrulingsshouldneverbearbitraryorcapricious.Becauseyourpowerissomuchgreaterthanthatofotherpresidingofficers,tactanddiscretioninexercisingthatpowerareessentialtopeaceandharmony.
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AsWorshipfulMasterofyourLodge,youareamemberoftheGrandLodgeofOregon.WhenyouareinstalledasMaster,youwilltakeanobligationtoattendtheAnnualCommunicationoftheGrandLodgeofOregonanditisyourdutytofulfillthatobligation.
WORKWHICHSHOULDBECOMPLETEDBEFOREREACHINGTHISSTATION
Beforeyourelection,youshouldhave:
1. Familiarized yourself thoroughly with the entire MasonicCode.(WhenyouareinstalledyouwillbechargedtoseethattheCodeisreadinyourLodgeateveryStatedCommunication.)YoushouldalsostudytheByLawsofyourLodge.
2.LearnedthepartsofallofficersinopeningandclosingtheLodgeinallofthedegreesandingoingfromlabortorefreshmentandfromrefreshmenttolabor.Ataminimum,youshouldholda“BasicProficiency”cardissuedbytheGrandLecturer.
3.LearnedtheCandidate’sLecturesofallthreedegrees.YoualonewilldeterminewhetherornottheCandidatehasshownsuitableproficiencyinthelecture.
4.LearnedtheFlagCeremonyandtheOptionalFlagCeremony,bothofwhicharesetforthintheRitual.
5. Learned what persons may, and what persons must, beescortedandintroduced.(AsMaster,youwillhavetherightto
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haveanyBrotherescortedandintroduced.However,MasoniccourtesydoesrequirethatcertainBrothersbeescortedandintroduced.)YoumustlearnhowBrothersareescorted,howtheyarepresentedandintroduced,whetherandwhentheyareaccordedeitherthepublicortheprivateGrandHonorsandwhereintheEasttheyshouldbeseated.Youshould,forthisandotherreasons,thoroughlyfamiliarizeyourselfwiththebookletMasonicEtiquettepublishedbytheGrandLodgeofOregon.
6.MasteredtheorderofbusinessestablishedbytheMasonicCodeandtheByLawsofyourLodge.Inconjunctionwiththis,youshouldalwayshaveanofficers’meetingbyatleastthedaybeforeeachStatedCommunication.ThisisessentialsoalltheofficersunderstandthebusinessthatwillcomebeforetheLodge.Youshould again consultwith theSecretary just before eachcommunication.Youmust—andyourofficersshould—knowallthebusinesswhichislikelytobetransacted.
Whileconductingthemeeting,ifthereisnobusinessofaparticularordersimplyannouncethatfactandpassontothenextorder.Youneednot,butmayifyouwish,rapthegavelbetweenorderofbusiness.ThereisnoreasontoasktheSecretarywhetherornottherearepetitions,whetherornotthereisballoting,communications,andsoforth.Allofthesethingsyoushouldknow,andshouldbeabletoannounce,withoutaskingtheSecretary.Underunfinishedandotherbusiness,youshouldfirststateanddisposeofthebusinessknowntoyouandtheninquireastowhetherornotthereisanyotherbusiness.
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7. Learned how to preside over balloting, including readingandreferringpetitionsandtheminimumlengthoftimebetweenreadingpetitionsforthedegreesandpetitionsforaffiliationandballotingonthosepetitions.Youmustalsolearnwhatistobedoneifthereisanobjectionoranunfavorablecommitteereport,whomayandwhomustballotforthedegreesandpetitionsforaffiliation,andhowballotingisconductedandreported.AllofthesesubjectsarecoveredintheMasonicCodeofOregon,theStandardManualortheRitual.
8.PlannedhowyouwillinterestallnewlyaffiliatedandnewlyraisedMasonssotheywillbecomeactiveinyourLodge.Generally,thiscanbedonebyputtingthemtowork.But,alwaysmakecertainthattheBrotherswhosignedthepetitionandthosewhowereontheinvestigatingcommitteeassistinmakingthenewBrother welcome. Make certain his wife becomes acquaintedwithFreemasonry.
9.Establishedwhatcommitteesmayandwhatcommitteesmustbeappointedand,whenrequiredbytheCode,whichofficersmustbethechairmanof,ormembersof,aparticularcommittee.Foryouryeartobesuccessful,allthecommitteesmustwork.Monthsbeforeyourelection,makecertainwhichcommitteesyouwantandneedandwhichBrothersyouwantoneachcommittee.Ifacommitteehasbeenworkingsatisfactorilyinthepast,itisreasonabletoreappointsomeoftheBrotherswhohavebeenonthecommitteeinordertoassurecontinuityandtoappointsomenewmemberstothecommitteetoensure
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theinfusionofnewideas.
ThinkcarefullybeforeappointinganofficertoacommitteewhentheappointmentisnotCodemandated.Youmaybeimposingsomuchworkonhimthathewillnotcarryoutthedutiesofhisoffice.BeforeappointinganyBrothertoacommittee,contacthim,explaintohimwhatyouwantthecommitteetodo,andgethisassurancethathewillworkonthecommitteeandthathewillattempttocarryouttheprogramyoudesire.
Donotappointcommitteemenwhowillnotwork.Afterthecommitteeshavebeenappointed,keepin touchwiththem.Attendthemeetingsofcommittees,especiallytheorganizationalmeetings.Makecertaineverymemberofeverycommitteeunderstandswhatyouwanthimandhiscommitteetoaccomplishandwhenyouwantthistobeaccomplished.
Oneoftheveryimportantcommittees,onethatyoumustbe certain is working, is the telephone committee. Thatcommittee must contact all of the local members of theLodgeandallofthelocalsojournersbeforeeachstatedandspecialmeetingandbeforeeachsocialoccasion.ThecommitteemustcallalloftheBrothersbeforeaMasonicfuneral.They should frequently call all housebound Brothers and allwidowsofMasterMasons.Youmayalsoconsidertheuseofanautomatedcallsystem.
Masoniccharityisneglectedifweforgetoroverlookanyhouse
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bound or disabled Brother or widow. The committee shouldreport atonce illness,needs forassistance,possibleneedofeducationalassistanceandthepossibilitythataBrother,widow,orEasternStarmember,mightbeacandidatefortheOutReachServicesprogram.TheyshouldlikewisereportifaBrotherwouldbeabletoattendLodgeifsomeonewouldtransporthim.Whenwivesareinvited,directthephonecallstothem.
The membership committee is likewise important. TheseBrothers may be able to discover why someone has quitattendingorhaspermittedhisduestogounpaid.Analertmembership committee may prevent needy Brothers frombeingdroppedfornonpaymentofdues.TheBrotherswhoeithersignedhispetitionorinvestigatedshouldassistinreturningthedelinquentmembertogoodstanding.
10.DecidedwhichBrothersaretobeappointedtoofficesinyourLodge.Monthsbeforeyourelectionyoumusthaveapproached those Brothers and secured their agreementthattheywillattendallofficers’meetingsandallcommunicationsandthattheywillworkandcarryouttheprogramsyouhaveplanned.Toensurecontinuityintheprogramsyouplan,consultwiththeWardensandtheSeniorDeacontoensurethat they will carry on those programs. Only after they haveagreedtheywilldososhouldyoufinallydecidewhatprogramsyouwillimplement.Adviseeachofficerthathisappointmentisforoneyearonly.
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11.Plannedandarranged,wellinadvanceofyourinstallation,fortheprogramsyouwanttohaveduringyouryear.TheprogramsmightbeeducationalonaMasonicorpublictheme,orsocial,such as a family or public education night or a special eventsuchasaWidows’orPastMasters’NightoraSaintJohnsDaycelebration.The“LodgeofExcellenceAchievementAward”canbeusedasaguideforsuccessfulLodgeprograms.Make certain that the special events are well planned, advertised and executed.
AsktheDistrictDeputy,GrandLodgeOfficers,andResearchLodgeMemberstoassistwithprograms.Rememberthatcalendarsareoftenfilledmonthsorevenyearsinadvance.Contactthemearlytogetfromthem,andgivetothem,adefinitecommitment.
12.AttendedtheannualtraininggivenbytheGrandLodgeandcompletedboththeFellowsoftheCraftandTorchlightprograms.
NOTE: Do not set impossible goals for your committees, your officers or yourself. Set your goals high enough to be challenging, but not so high that everyone becomes discouraged. Remember that you cannot do everything yourself. Delegate duties to others.
Throughoutyouryear,strivetocarryouttheplansyoumadebeforebeinginstalled.Youshouldalso:
1.Holdpracticesregularlysotheofficersareproficientinopening,closing,balloting,escorting,etc.,andsothedegreeteamsareproficientintheirwork.
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2.Makecertain thatallpersonsentitled toknowhavebeeninformedofallcommunicationsandallevents.
3.MakeknowntotheJuniorWardenwhattypesofrefreshmentsyouexpecthimtoprovide.
4.AfterhavingestablishedatthebeginningofyouryearthattheLodgehassufficientinsurancetoprotectitagainstliabilityclaimsandcasualtylosses,constantlycontinuetoascertainthatadequateinsurancecoverageremainsinplace.
5.BecompletelyfamiliarwiththefinancesofyourLodge.AssurethatproperIRSfilings(990N)havebeencompletedeachyear.
6.BecertaintheLodgeisneatandcleanbothinsideandout.Thereshouldbeanoutsidesign,bothlargeandeasilyreadable,advising thepublic thatyourbuilding isaMasonicTempleorBuilding.
7.Openmeetingsontime.A prompt and orderly dispatch of business; courtesy in
presiding,andclosingthemeetingassoonasthebusinessiscompleted;having timelyandentertainingprograms;and, ifrefreshmentsaretobeserved,makingcertaintheywillbewellreceived,areamongtheresponsibilitiesofpresidingofficersofmostorganizations,includingours,myBrother.
Courtesymayincludemanythings,amongwhichonatleast
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some occasions is saying “please” and “thank you,” alwaysspeakingloudlyandclearlyenoughthatallpresenthearandunderstand,andnever,ifitcanbeavoided,speakinginaderogatorytonetoanyonepresent.Ifanyoneimproperlyraisesanyissue,itisbesttoaskhimtocometotheEast.There,quietlyexplaintohimwhyhisconductisnotproper.
Carefulplanningandpreparationforyouryearandthroughoutyouryear,andagreatdealofwork,willensurethatwhenyoubecomeaPastMaster,yourBrotherswill indeedhavereasontocongratulateyouuponyourtermofoffice.
UponbecomingaPastMaster, rememberyouareno longerMasteroftheLodge.However,youshouldrememberalsothattherearemanytimeswhenyourlaborscanbeofassistancetoyourLodge.Donotwaittobecalledupon;volunteertoassistwheneverpossible.PerhapsyoucouldassisttheStewards,orcoach,orbeamentor,orhelpinmanyotherways.TheworkyoudoasWorshipfulMaster,andtheworkyoucontinuetodowhenyouareaPastMaster,allcontributetothesuccessandfuturewelfareofFreemasonry.
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SENIOR WARDEN
DUTIES
AstheSeniorWardenyourdutiesareto:
1.AssisttheWorshipfulMasterinthedischargeofthedutiesofhisoffice,andinhisabsencetogoverntheLodge.
AssistingtheWorshipfulMasterincludes:
— Attending all Stated and Special Communications of theLodgeandperformingworkasdescribedintheRitualandasorderedbytheWorshipfulMaster.
—AttendingallOfficers’MeetingsandofferingwiseandwholesomecounseltotheWorshipfulMaster.
—ParticipatinginthegovernmentoftheLodgebyassistingtheWorshipfulMasterintheperformanceofhisduties,thussharingtheburdenofthisimportantofficewhilepreparingforthedutiesofthehigheroffice.
—ActivelysupportingtheprogramoftheWorshipfulMasterandworkingtopromoteandmaintainpeaceandharmonyamongthemembers.
— Participatinginthetraininganddevelopmentoftheofficers
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oftheLodgesotheywillbetterunderstandthedutiesoftheirofficeandbecomemoreproficientintheirwork.
—RepresentingtheWorshipfulMasteratsuchfunctionsasavisitation to another Lodge, a funeral, and other activitiesasordered.
—Youmaybecalledupontoorganizeadegreeteam.Youmustprepareteammemberstoensuretheyareproficientintheirwork.
2.ServeastheChairmanoftheCommitteeonFinance.Itisessentialthatyouandyourcommitteeregularlyreviewthe
financialrecordsoftheLodgeandmakeareporttotheWorshipfulMasterateachStatedCommunication.
3.ServeasamemberofGrandLodge.YoumustattendtheAnnualCommunicationoftheGrandLodge
ofOregon.Ifunabletoattendthisimportantmeeting,youmustadvisetheWorshipfulMastersothataproxyisappointed.AsamemberofGrandLodgeyoumustacquaintyourselfwiththelegislation,resolutions,andotherbusinessscheduledtobepresented.YoushouldbecomefamiliarwiththosesectionsoftheMasonicCodepertainingtotheopening,orderofbusiness,andrulesoforderinGrandLodgesothatyoumaybetterunderstanditsproceduresandrequirements.
4.Youshouldfinalizeplans,goalsandprogramsforyouryearasWorshipfulMaster.Youshouldidentifyandobtainacceptance
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fromeverypersontobeappointedasanofficerortoacommittee.YoushouldalsoconfirmspeakersandotherparticipantsforLodgeprogramsthroughouttheyear,anddrawupacalendarofactivitiesforyouryearasWorshipfulMaster.
WORKWHICHSHOULDBECOMPLETEDBEFOREREACHINGTHISSTATION
1.MemorizetheOpeningandClosingCeremonyoftheLodgeonalldegrees;attendaBasicProficiencyclass.
2.MemorizetheWorshipfulMaster’spart intheconferralofbothsectionsofalldegrees.
3.BecompetentinalloftheproceduresandresponsibilitiesoftheWorshipfulMasterinopeningandgoverningtheLodge.Suchprocedures include,butarenot limited to,receivingtheGrandMasterorhisrepresentative;callingtheCraftfromlabortorefreshmentandtolaboragain;conductingbusinessataStatedCommunication;andballotingoncandidatesfordegreesoraffiliation.
NECESSARYSTUDYWORK
l.ContinuestudyoftheMasonicCodeofOregon.
2. Read the Master’s Book by C.H. Claudy, available from theGrandLodgeoffice.
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3.ReadthepamphletHat and the Gavel fromtheMasonicServiceAssociationandavailablefromtheGrandLodgeoffice.
4.ContinuestudyofMasonicproceduresasfoundintheRitual,StandardManual,MasonicCodeofOregon,MasonicEtiquetteandInstructions,andotherbooksandpamphletsavailablefromtheGrandLodgeoffice.
5.AttendtheannualtraininggivenbytheGrandLodge,alongwiththeFellowsoftheCraftandTorchlightprograms.
JUNIOR WARDEN
DUTIES
AstheJuniorWardenyourdutiesareto:
l.AssisttheWorshipfulMasterinthedischargeofthedutiesofhisoffice,andinhisabsence,andthatoftheSeniorWarden,togoverntheLodge.
AssistingtheWorshipfulMasterincludes:
— Attending all Stated and Special Communications of theLodgeandperformingworkasdescribedintheRitualandasorderedbytheWorshipfulMaster.
—AttendingallOfficers’Meetingsandofferingwiseandwhole
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somecounseltotheWorshipfulMaster.
—ActivelysupportingtheprogramsoftheWorshipfulMasterandworkingtopromoteandmaintainpeaceandharmonyamongthemembers.
—RepresentingtheWorshipfulMasteratsuchfunctionsasavisitationtoanotherLodge,afuneral,civicfunction,andotheractivitiesasordered.
—Youmaybecalledupontoorganizeadegreeteam.Youmustprepareteammemberstoensuretheyareproficientintheirwork.
2.ServeasChairmanoftheCommitteeonGrievance.
The JuniorWarden receivesgrievancesor reportsofallegedmisconduct.YoumustperformyourdutiesinamannerdescribedintheMasonicCodeofOregon.
3.ServeasamemberofGrandLodge.
You must attend the Annual Communication of the GrandLodgeofOregon.Ifunabletoattendthisimportantmeeting,youmustadvisetheWorshipfulMastersothataproxyisappointed.AsamemberofGrandLodgeyoumustacquaintyourselfwiththelegislation,resolutions,andotherbusinessscheduledtobepresented.Youshouldbecomefamiliarwiththosesectionsof
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theMasonicCodepertainingtotheopening,orderofbusiness,andrulesoforderinGrandLodgesothatyoumayunderstanditsproceduresandrequirements.
4.TakechargeoftheLodgewhenatrefreshment.
YouaretoprovidedirectiontotheSeniorStewardtoensuretherefreshmenttableisproperlysetandvariedthroughouttheMasonicyear.YoushouldcontacttheBrethrenyouwishtospeakattherefreshmenttableinadvancesotheymaybeprepared.AlthoughitispermittedtocalluponanewlyinitiatedorpassedBrother,itisnotarequirementtodoso.IfthenewlyinitiatedorpassedBrotheristobecalledontospeak,itisimportantthathebetoldinadvanceandprovidedwhateverassistancehemayrequire.YoushouldobservetheabovesuggestedprocedureandpresideovertherefreshmenttableuntilyourelinquishthegaveltotheWorshipfulMaster,whowilleitherclosetherefreshmenttableorcallupontheGrandMaster(orhisrepresentativeonanofficialvisit)whowillofficiallyclosetherefreshmenttable.
5.Youshouldpreparetentativeplans,goalsandprogramsforyouryearasWorshipfulMaster.
Planning should include identifying significant dates andevents,andpreparingatentativecalendar.Eventstolookforincludethe50th,75thor100thanniversaryoftheLodge;the50thanniversaryofaBrotherservingasMasteroftheLodge;orthe50th,60thor75thanniversaryofaBrotherbeingraised.
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Planningshouldalsoincludeparticipatinginlocaleventssuchas“HometownDays”andhonoringamemberoftheLodgewhoisalsoacivicleader.YoumayalsowishtonotecertainmemberswhomyoubelievemaybegoodofficersorcommitteemembersduringyouryearasWorshipfulMaster.YoushouldcontinuetorefertothenotebookyoubeganpreparinginyourJuniorandSeniorDeaconyears.
WORKWHICHSHOULDBECOMPLETEDBEFOREREACHINGTHISSTATION
l.MemorizetheOpeningandClosingCeremonyoftheLodgeonalldegrees;attendaBasicProficiencyclass.
2.MemorizetheSeniorWarden’spartintheconferralofbothsectionsofalldegrees.
3.BecompetentinalloftheproceduresandresponsibilitiesoftheWorshipfulMasterinopeningandgoverningtheLodge.Suchproceduresinclude,butarenotlimitedto,receivingtheGrandMasterorhisrepresentative;callingtheCraftfromlabortorefreshmentandtolaboragain;conductingbusinessataStatedCommunication;andballotingoncandidatesfordegreesoraffiliation.
4.MemorizetheMasterMasonLecture.
5.MemorizetheGrandLodgeInstructions.
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6.MemorizetheGeometryLectureoftheFellowCraftDegree.
NECESSARYSTUDYWORK.
1.ContinuereadingtheMasonicCodeofOregon.
2.ReadthepamphletThink Tank for Junior WardenspreparedbytheMasonicServiceAssociationandavailablefromtheGrandLodge.
3.ContinuestudyofMasonicproceduresasfoundintheRitual,theStandardManual,MasonicCodeofOregon,MasonicEtiquetteandInstructions,andotherbooksandpamphletsavailableattheGrandLodgeoffice.
4.AttendtheannualtraininggivenbytheGrandLodgealongwiththeFellowsoftheCraftandTorchlightprograms.
TREASURER
DUTIES
AstheTreasureryourdutiesareto:
1.ActascustodianofLodgefunds.YouaretoreceiveallmoniesandotherpropertiesplacedinyourhandsbytheSecretary.AllmoniesaretobedepositedintheLodgebankaccount,andpropertiesintheLodgesafedepositbox,and
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giveaproperreceipttotheSecretaryforthesame.UndernocircumstancesareyoutodepositLodgefundsinyourpersonalaccount.
2.KeepabookorbookscontainingacurrentrecordofdisbursementsfortheaccountoftheLodge.Copiesofreceipts,checkstubs,canceledchecksandbankstatementsarenecessaryforunderstandingandauditofaccounts.
3.DisburseortransferfundsoftheLodgeonlyonwarrantsorchecksauthorizedbytheLodgeanddulysignedbytwoofthefollowing:WorshipfulMaster,TreasurerorSecretary.
4.Makeareportofreceipts,disbursementsandfinancialconditionoftheLodgeataStatedCommunicationasrequiredbytheMasonicCodeofOregonandatanyothertimetheWorshipfulMasterdirects.
5.FileabondasrequiredbytheMasonicCodeofOregon.
6.TransferallLodgepropertyinyourpossessiontoyoursuccessorinoffice,attheendofyourterm,takingduplicatereceiptsthereforeandfilingonewiththeSecretary.
7.KnowtheTreasurer’spartintheopeningandclosingoftheEnteredApprenticeDegree.
Youmaybecalledupontoact inanadvisorycapacityto
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theFinanceCommittee,whenrequestedtodosobytheWorshipfulMaster.AthoroughstudyofSections220and272,Art.9,oftheMasonicCodeofOregon,isnecessaryfortheproperperformanceof thisoffice.TheassistanceofaBrother in theaccountingbusinessmaybehelpfulifyouarenotfamiliarwithmaintainingbookkeepingrecords.
SECRETARY
DUTIES
AstheSecretaryyourdutiesareto:
l.MakenoteofalltheproceedingsoftheLodge.
2.ReceiveallmoniesduetheLodge.
3.PayallmoniessoreceivedovertotheTreasurer,takinghisreceiptforthesame.
4.IssuenoticesandsummonsesatthedirectionoftheWorshipfulMaster.
5.NotifymembersoftheirappointmenttoanInvestigatingCommitteeandfurnisheachmemberwithacopyofthepamphlet“DutiesoftheInvestigatingCommittee,”availablefromtheGrandLodgeOffice.
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ThesedutiesarebrieflylistedintheChargegivenattheinstallationandaremorethoroughlydefinedinSection221oftheMasonicCodeofOregon.ManyothersectionsoftheCodealsohaverequirementsfortheLodgeSecretary,soitisnecessarytostudyallsectionsoftheCodetoincreaseyourknowledgeandefficiency.ItisnecessaryforallreportsrequiredbytheCodetobe submittedpromptlyandaccurately. YoushouldcooperatewithrequestsforinformationfromeitherGrandLodgeOfficersorCommitteeChairmen.
NOTE
TheBrotherbestsuitedforthisofficeshouldbeselectedtofillthisimportantposition.Seriousconsiderationshouldbegiventohiscontinuanceinofficeforaslongasheiswillingandcapableofefficientlydischarginghisduties.
Theimportanceofhisdutiesbringhim,morethananyotherofficer,intoclosepersonalcontactwiththeBrethren.HeplaysavitalpartinthesuccessorfailureofhisLodge.ItisnecessaryforhimtohaveathoroughknowledgeofOregonMasonicLawandProcedure.
WhilehehasnoneoftheWorshipfulMaster’sauthority,hisexperienceandknowledgecanbeofinvaluablehelptotheMaster,officersandmembersoftheLodge.HeshouldalwaysrememberthatheisunderthedirectionoftheMasterandisnotrunningtheLodge.Thisisofvitalimportance.
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SENIOR DEACON
DUTIES
AstheSeniorDeaconyourdutiesareto:
1.Activelytakechargeofthewelcomingandtheaccommodatingofvisitors. Inasense,youarechairmanofthecommitteeforthatpurpose.Youmayhavesuchassistanceasnecessary.ThefriendlinessofyourLodgedependsuponthewelcomeandattentionyoupaytovisitingandLodgeBrethren.SeethatvisitorsmeettheotherBrethren,thattheyhavesomeonetositwithandthattheirnamesarerememberedandproperlypronounced.
2.KnowhowtoreverentlydisplayandclosetheGreatLights.Knowhowtoproperlyilluminateandextinguishtherepresentativesofthe lesser lights. Inapproachingandretiringfromthealtar,andindeedinallfloorwork,youmustwalkinanuprightmannerandturnsquarecorners.
3.ConductCandidatesandescortBrethrenasorderedbytheWorshipfulMaster.WhenconductingaCandidatealways takehisarm.BeforetheCandidateisobligated,takehisrightarm.Afterheisobligated,takehisleftarm.WhenescortingaBrotheralwaysextendtohimyourrightarm.
ContinueyourstudyofMasonicEtiquette.KnowwhichBrethrenaretobeescortedbywayoftheSouthandwhichbywayof
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theNorth.StudytheentireMasonic Etiquettetomakecertainthat,bythetimeyouareinstalled,youmayconfidentlyperformyourworkofescortingandintroducingBrethren.
4.Makecertainthattheballotboxisproperlypreparedforballoting,thatsufficientballsandcubesareavailableintheballotbox,andthevotingcompartmentisclear.Knowhowtoextendtheballotbox to theWorshipfulMasterandWardens,and toanyBrotherwhomaybevotingfromhisplaceintheLodge.Allballotingmustbedoneinsuchamannerthatthesecrecyoftheballotisheldinviolate.
5.Welcomeandreceivecandidatesforthedegrees.BecertainthatyouknowandpronouncetheCandidate’snamecorrectly.DoeverythingpossibletoensurethattheCandidateisateaseand that he receives a favorable impression of Freemasonry.ThismaybeafactorinhisbecominganactiveMasterMason.
6.CarrymessagesfromtheWorshipfulMastertotheSeniorWardenandelsewhereabouttheLodge,asordered,andotherwiseassisttheWorshipfulMasterandWardens.Muchoftheharmoniousfunctioningofacommunicationdependsuponthefriendlybutproficientexecutionofyourduties.AstheofficerwhoismostofteninvolvedinfloorworkintheLodge,youare,inlargemeasure,thedecisivefactorintheimpressiontheBrethrenofyourLodge,visitingBrethren,andcandidateshaveofyourLodgeandofFreemasonryingeneral.
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WORKWHICHSHOULDBECOMPLETEDBEFOREREACHINGTHISPLACE
l.MemorizethepartoftheSeniorDeaconinthedegrees,thepartoftheSeniorDeaconinopeningandclosingLodge,howtopurgeLodge,yourpartintheOptionalFlagCeremony,andyourpart inballoting.Allof thismustbedonesoyouwillbepreparedtoperformyourdutiesintheplacetowhichyouhavebeenappointed.
NECESSARYSTUDYWORK
l.TheMasonicCodeofOregon,especiallythePenalCode.
2.TheStandardManual.
3.TheByLawsofyourLodge.
4.TheGrandLodgeofOregon’sBookletonMasonic Etiquette.
5.LearnbothoftheFellowCraftLectures.
6.Continuenotingthingstodoandnottodoinyourpermanentnotebook.BeginplanningyouryearasMaster.
7. Learn how to conduct a meeting of Freemasons and theorderofbusiness.
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8.LearntheflagsaluteandtheOptionalFlagCeremony.
9.LearnwhichBrethrenareordinarilyescortedandintroducedandthepropermethodofintroductionfromtheEast.
10.LearnwhoisentitledtothePrivateorPublicGrandHonorsandwhenthosehonorsshouldbegiven.
11.Learnhowtopresideoverballoting.
12.Learnhowtocall theLodge fromLabor toRefreshmentandcallitonagain.
13.MemorizethepartsoftheWardensandoftheMasterinopeningandclosing,bothinlongandshortforminallthreedegrees,aswellaslearningallthedutiesofaMasteringoverninghisLodge.NextyearyouwillprobablybetheJuniorWardenofyourLodge.TheJuniorWardenisrequiredtoactastheMasterifboththeMasterandtheSeniorWardenareabsent.Nowisthetimetomakecertainyouarepreparedforthoseimportantduties.
JUNIOR DEACON
DUTIES
AstheJuniorDeaconyourdutiesareto:
l. Assist in welcoming the Brethren. Visitors should be wel
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comedwithafriendlysmile.ItshouldbeseenthattheymeetotherBrothersandtheyhavesomeonetositwithsotheyfeelathome.YoushouldassisttheTylerinmakingcertaintheSeniorWardenknowswhoallthevisitorsareandthattheyareentitledtositinLodge.
2.BetheguardianinsidethedooroftheLodge.YoumustknowhowandwhenBrethrenmaybeadmittedorexcusedwhiletheLodgeisatlabor.Knowhowtodothefloorwork.Inallofyourworkyoumustwalkinanuprightmannerandturnsquarecorners.
3.CarrymessagesfromtheSeniortotheJuniorWardenandelsewhereabouttheLodgeasdirected.
WORKWHICHSHOULDBECOMPLETEDBEFOREREACHINGTHISPLACE
l.KnowthepartoftheJuniorDeaconin(a)openingandclosingLodge,(b)thedegreeworkinallofthedegrees,(c)purgingLodge,and(d)answeringalarmsatthedooroftheLodge.
2.KnowyourpartintheOptionalFlagCeremony.
NECESSARYSTUDYWORK
l.Welcomingandaccommodatingvisitors.
2.ThedutiesrequiredoftheSeniorDeaconbytheMaster.
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3.TheSeniorDeacon’spart inopeningandclosingceremonies,includingtheOptionalflagCeremony,callingfromLabortoRefreshmentandtoLaboragain,andpurgingLodge.
4.ConductingBrethrentotheAltarandtotheEast.
5.Ballotingprocedures.(SeetheMasonicCode,RitualandtheStandardManual.)
6.Welcoming,receivingandconductingcandidates.
7.TheGrandLodgeofOregon’sbookletonMasonic Eti quette.
8.ContinuereadingandstudyoftheMasonicCodeofOregon.
9.MemorizetheEnteredApprenticeLecture.
NOTE
TheJuniorDeacon’schairisaplaceoflearning.Itistimetogetapermanentnotebook.Asyouprogress,recordinityourideasandimpressionsofthosethingsyoushoulddoandrefrainfromdoing.VisitotherLodgesasoftenaspossible.Recordinyournotebookobservationsofthingsseenandheard,boththosetobefollowedandthosetobeavoided.
AlwaysarriveearlyformeetingssoyouwillhavetimetoassistinsettinguptheLodgeifcalledupontodosoandtostillbeat
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yourplaceinsidethedoortoextendafriendlyhandtoalloftheBrethrenwhoattend.
CHAPLAIN
DUTIES
AstheChaplainyourdutiesareto:
l.Givealltheritualisticprayers.(TheseconstitutetheprimarydevotionalexercisesoftheLodge.)TheMastermayrequestotherprayers,suchastheblessingbeforeaLodgedinner,amemorialprayerinpayingtributetoadepartedbrother,etc.Heshouldgiveadvancewarning,butitiswelltobepreparedforsuchacallbylearningseveralappropriateprayersofyourownoriginorfromreferencesources.
2.GivetheprayersoftheFuneralServices.(TheseconstitutetheprimaryreligiousandspiritualfunctionsoftheCHAPLAINinpublicceremonies.)
3.Giveshorttalksemphasizingmoralandvirtuouspoints,at the Master’s request. (This refers to the CHAPLAIN’Sduty to impart such lessons tohisBrethren.)Remember thattheofficeoftheCHAPLAINisnotanecclesiasticalortheological one, but rather a Masonic one. The Master should giveyouamplenoticeofhisdesireforsuchatalk,butyoushouldstart gathering material now in preparation for that function.
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4.TakepropercareoftheHolyBible.(TheGreatLightisespeciallyentrustedtotheCHAPLAIN’Scareandishisresponsibility.)ThatmostsacredofourspiritualsymbolsshouldbehandledandstoredwithreverencebytheCHAPLAINattheendofeachmeeting.
WORKWHICHSHOULDBECOMPLETEDBEFOREREACHINGTHISPLACE
l.MemorizeOpeningandClosingPrayers.
NECESSARYSTUDYWORK
l.Memorizeallprayersinallthreedegrees.
2.MemorizeFuneralServicePrayersfromtheStandardManual.(Notethatthesemaybevariedtobeappropriatetotheindividualcase.)
3.Memorizespecialritualisticparts. (InthoseLodges inwhichtheCHAPLAIN’Sofficeisnotinthelineofprogression,youmaylearnsuchotherportionsoftheRitualasappealtoyourinterest.Ofcourse,iftheofficeisinthelineofprogression,youshouldbepreparingfortheofficenextahead.)
4.Preparematerialforshortprayersonspecialoccasions.
5.Gathermaterialforshorttalksemphasizingmoralityandvirtue.
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6.Studyprocedureandpreparetoassistintheexaminationofvisitors.
7.Learnhowtogreetandwelcomevisitors,BrethrenandCandidates.Thisdoesnotalwayscomeeasilytoeveryman,butafirmhandclasp,awarmsmileandafriendlywordisthestart.
NOTE
YoushouldalwaysrememberthatwhenyougiveaprayeryouarespeakingtotheGREATARCHITECTOFTHEUNIVERSE(whoispresent)onbehalfofalltheBrethrenoftheLodge.Everyprayershouldbespokenearnestlyandsincerely,withreverenceandadoration.Eachwordshouldbeutteredclearlyanddistinctly,andwithsufficientvolumethateveryBrotherpresentmayhearandunderstandthattowhichhewillaffirm“SoMoteItBe.”
MARSHAL
DUTIES
AstheMarshalyourdutiesareto:
l.Studyandbecome familiarwithall theceremoniesof theLodge especially those involving public processions in connectionwithFestivalsoftheOrderandFuneralServices.
2.Studyandbecomefamiliarwithallthearrangementsofthe
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Lodge.Knowtheproperwaytoarrangeanddisplayallthelights,ornamentsandjewelsusedinourceremonies.AssisttheTylerinsettingupandtakingdowntheLodge.
3.AftertheLodgeissetup,assisttheTylerintheactivitiesoftheanteroom.StationyourselfneartheanteroomdoorandassisttheSeniorDeaconinwelcomingeachBrotherashecomesin.
4.BepreparedtoassistintheexaminationofvisitingBrethrenwhenrequested.Learnthetestoathandthepropermannerinwhichitshouldbeadministered.
NECESSARYSTUDYWORK
Ifyouhavenotpreviouslydonesoyoushouldbecomefamiliarwiththefollowing:
l.Testoath.
2.OpeningandClosingtheLodge.
3.InstallationCeremony.
4.Processionarrangements.
5.Examinationofvisitors.
6.ArrangementandstorageofLodgefurnitureandequipment.
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7.MasonicEtiquette.
8.ThefourquestionsandstatementtotheE.A.candidategivenpriortoinitiation.
9.AllritualisticprayersgivenbytheChaplain.
NOTE
InacceptingthisofficeyoumustbecomefamiliarwithMasonicetiquetteandcustomsforbothpublicandtyledoccasions.AttheMaster’sdirectionyoumustbepreparedtocarryoutthesedutieswithdignityanddecorum.Skillandprecisionarenecessaryinthiswork.
SENIOR STEWARD
DUTIES
AstheSeniorStewardyourdutiesareto:
l.PreparecandidatestoreceivedegreesasprescribedintheRitual.YoumayreceivesuchassistanceasmaybedirectedbytheWorshipfulMaster.
2.Assist theSeniorDeacon,when requested, inconductingcandidates,andperformothertasksasdescribedintheRitual.
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3.Takeyourplaceonthenortheastandwhenforming linesforthereceptionoftheGrandMaster(orhisrepresentative)ortheDistrictDeputyoftheGrandMasteronhisofficialvisit.Yourstaffwillnotbeused.
4.UnderthesupervisionoftheJuniorWarden,youwillensurethatdiningroomtablesaresetbeforeeachmeetingandthatrefreshmentsaresuitablyprepared.YouareresponsibleforarrangingthediningroomtablesinthemannerprescribedbytheWorshipfulMaster.YoushouldconsideranyspecialneedsofaBrotherandensurethatrefreshmentsarereadyassoonastheLodgeisclosed.
WORKWHICHSHOULDBECOMPLETEDBEFOREREACHINGTHISPLACE
1.MemorizetheSeniorSteward’spart intheconferralofalldegrees.
2.MemorizetheFellowCraftCharge.
3.MemorizetheMasterMasonCharge.
NECESSARYSTUDYWORK
1.LearntheJuniorDeacon’spartintheopeningandclosingofalldegrees.
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2.LearntheJuniorDeacon’spartintheconferralofalldegrees.
3.ReadtheFirstSectionoftheFellowCraftandMasterMasonDegrees.
4.ReadthepamphletMasonic EtiquetteandDuties of Investigating CommitteeavailableattheGrandLodgeoffice.
JUNIOR STEWARD
DUTIES
AstheJuniorStewardyourdutiesareto:
1.ParticipatewiththeSeniorStewardinpreparingCandidatestoreceivedegrees.
2.ParticipatewiththeSeniorStewardinconductingCandidatesandtoperformothertasksasdescribedintheRitual.
3.TakeyourplaceonthesoutheastendwhenforminglinesforthereceptionoftheGrandMasteronhisofficialvisit.Yourstaffwillnotbeused.
4.ParticipatewiththeSeniorStewardinpreparingforrefreshmentsasdescribedinthedutiesoftheSeniorSteward.
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NECESSARYSTUDYWORK
1.MemorizetheSeniorSteward’spart intheconferralofalldegrees.
2.LearntheEnteredApprenticeCharge.
3.ReadtheFirstSectionoftheEnteredApprenticeDegree.
TYLER
DUTIES
AstheTyleryourdutiesareto:
1.VouchforpersonsyouknowtobeMasterMasons.
2.FindaBrotherwhocanvouch foravisitor forwhomyoucannotvouch.
3.AsktheMastertoappointanexaminingcommitteeforthevisitorsthathavenotbeenvouchedfor.Youdonotappointsuchacommittee;thatistheMaster’sprerogative.
4.AssisttheSeniorWardenbyassuringhimthatallwhohaveenteredtheLodgeroomareentitledtodoso.Whenrequested,provide to the appropriate officers a list of visitors and theirMasonicstatus.
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5.IntroduceBrethrenandvisitorstooneanother.SeethatfirsttimevisitorstotheLodgearegivenovertothecareofaBrotherwhowillactasapersonalhostfortheevening.
6.WithsuitableassistanceseethattheLodgeisproperlysetupbeforeeachmeetingandthateverythingisproperlystoredafterthemeetingadjourns.Thisextendstotheequipmentinthepreparationroomandtheanteroom.Thecandidate’sequipmentshouldbecleanandingoodorder.TheTyler’sregister,theBibleforexaminations,andcleanapronsshouldbeavailableintheanteroom.
7.AttendtheanteroombeforeandafterthemeetingandmanagetheanteroomwhileLodgeisinsession.
8.MakeCandidatesfeelwelcome.SeethattheyareunderthecareofoneoftheBrethrenatalltimes.
9.BeregularandearlyinattendanceatallLodgemeetingstoensuretheabovedescribeddutiesaresatisfactorilyperformed.
NOTE
This is an office best filled by a more experienced memberoftheCraftwhopossessesafriendly,courteousandoutgoingpersonality.ThisBrothermustbefamiliarwithMasonicetiquetteandcustomsregardingthewelcomingandaccommodationofvisiting Brethren. His duties extend beyond the instructionscontainedintheinstallationchargewhichmerelyadmonishescourtesyandvigilance.
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III. MASONIC CODE, BY-LAWS, THE MANUAL, GRAND LODGE PROCEEDINGS AND THE RITUAL
MASONICCODE
WEBSTERDEFINES“code”as:“Aconcisearrangementofexistinglaws,”“Approvedbylegislation,”“Acceptedsystemofrulesandregulationspertainingtoagivensubject.”
TheMasonicCodeofOregon,havingbeenapprovedbytheGrand Lodge while in Annual Communication, governs eachLodgeandeverymemberthereofwhereverhemaybeandanymemberoftheFraternitywhilewithintheOregonMasonicJurisdiction.
ACode has been inexistence since the organization of theGrandLodgeofOregonin1851.WhileithasbeenchangedbythedelegatestotheGrandLodgetomakeitresponsivetotheneedsofthetime,basicallyandfundamentallyithasremainedunchanged.
AttheInstallationoftheWorshipfulMaster,theInstallingOfficerpresentstheWorshipfulMasterwiththeCodeandadmonisheshim:“TosearchitatalltimesandcauseittobereadinyourLodge,thatnonemaypretendignoranceoftheexcellentpreceptsitenjoins.”
TheotherelectiveandappointiveofficersoftheLodgeat
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theirinstallationalsoacceptandassumeobligationsandresponsibilitiesasprovidedintheCode.
TheCodeisdividedintofourparts:containingandexplainingtheConstitutionoftheGrandLodge,theByLawsoftheGrandLodge,theByLawspertainingtoLodgesandthePenalCodeoftheGrandJurisdiction.
ByreviewingtheCode,youcanlearn:
PartI
TheLandmarksofFreemasonry
ThepowersoftheGrandLodge
Membership,voting,GrandLodgeOfficersandCommittees
ThePowersoftheGrandMaster
TheTimeandDateofOpeningandClosingGrandLodge
PartII
TheOrderofBusinessoftheAnnualCommunication
TheDutiesoftheGrandLodgeOfficersandtheTrustees
EducationalAssistance
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MasonicServiceBureaus
MasonicandEasternStarHome
MasonicLibrary
FundsoftheGrandLodge,Fees,Assessments,etc.
PartIII
OfficersofConstituentLodgesandtheirDuties
Powers,DutiesandLimitationsofaLodge
LawsgoverningMembers,PetitionersandAffiliations
DutiesofInvestigatingCommittees,presentationofPetitionsandtheAcceptanceorRejectionofthesame
UniformCodeofLodgeByLaws
PartIV
PenalCode—Definitionofa“MasonicOffense”
JurisdictionoftheLodge
ChargesforunMasonicConduct—HowPreparedandFiled
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TrialCommissionorTrialBoard,HowSelected
GrandLodgeTrials,VerdictsandPenalties
AppealsfromVerdicts
TheCodealsocontainsanappendixlistingvariousresolutionsadoptedbytheGrandLodgeatAnnualCommunications.
PartIIIisabsolutelyessentialtothegovernmentoftheLodgeandathoroughknowledgeofthissectionshouldbeacquiredbyeachofficer.Certainly,bythetimeanofficeriselectedSeniorWardenofhisLodgehisknowledgeandfamiliaritywithPartIIIshouldbecomplete.
ThestudyoftheCodeshouldformapartofthemonthlyOfficers’ Meetings in every Lodge. Without a thorough workingknowledgeandunderstandingoftheCode,noLodgecanfunctionefficiently,norcantheofficersoperatesmoothlyandsuccessfully.
BYLAWS
TheByLawsoftheGrandLodgeofOregonaretobefoundintheMasonicCode,Sections101to167inclusive,andnodelegateofaConstituentLodgeshouldpresumetoattendandparticipateintheproceedingsofacommunicationofGrandLodgewithoutbeingthoroughlyconversantwiththoseSectionsoftheCode.
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TheByLawsofeachConstituentLodgearegivenintothekeepingoftheWorshipfulMasterathisinstallationandheisinstructedbytheInstallingOfficer,“Whichyouaretoseecarefullyandpunctuallyobserved.”
Whyisthissoimportant?BecausetheByLawswereadoptedbytheLodgeforitsgovernment.
A uniform code of ByLaws for Constituent Lodges was adoptedbyGrandLodgeandistobefoundintheMasonicCode.TheAdoptionoftheUniformByLawsismandatory.Theycan,however,beamended.
TheByLawsshouldbediscussedandstudiedbytheofficersattheirmonthlyOfficers’Meeting.
THEMANUAL
TheStandardManualoftheGrandLodgeofOregoncontainsinformationpertainingtoFreemasonryandtotheoperationofourLodges.TheGrandLodgehasrecognizedthisinprovidingfor itspresentationtonewmembers.It isessentialthateveryofficerbefamiliarwithitanditsuses.
ThemanualcontainstheceremoniesfortheInstitutionandConstitutionofaLodge,theInstallationofitsOfficers,thelastritesforadepartedBrother,andotherceremoniesoftheFraternity.
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TheStandardManual,however,encompassesmuchmore—things thatmanyofusmayoverlook.Ofprime importance isaStatementofPolicyoftheGrandLodgeastotheextentthatpoliticalandreligioussubjectsmaybediscussedfortheenlightenmentofthemembershipatLodgemeetings.ItcontainsmanywordsthataresubjecttoincorrectpronunciationandtheManualprovidesaGuidetoPronunciationthatwillbehelpful.
ManyproblemsthatconfrontLodgeOfficerscanberesolvedbyacarefulstudyoftheManual.Itisimportant,therefore,thattheLodgeOfficersuseitasoneofthetoolsoftheirprofession.
TheManual,withtheMasonicCodeandByLawsshouldbestudiedanddiscussedatthemonthlyOfficers’Meeting.
GRANDLODGEPROCEEDINGS
AnoftenoverlookedtoolthatshouldbeusedbytheWorshipfulMasterandotherofficersofaLodgeistheinformation contained in the current and past Grand Lodge Proceedings.YourLodgeSecretaryshouldhaveacompletelibraryofthesevolumessince,byCode,eachLodgeisfurnishedwithtwocopieseachyear,onefortheWorshipfulMasterandonefortheLibraryorSecretary’sdesk.
InadditiontothecompletelistofGrandLodgeOfficers,DistrictDeputiesandGrandLodgeCommitteepersonnel,theProceedingscontaintheGrandMaster’sreportofhisstewardship,inspi
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rationalmaterialsuchastheGrandOrationandtheNecrologyReport,and thevital statisticsofGrandLodgeoperationandfinancialaffairs,includingthoseoftheJenningsMcCallCenter.Throughthereportsofofficersandcommittees,youaremadeawareofactionstakenattheGrandLodgeleveltofurthertheinterestsoftheFraternity.OfprimeimportanceistheresultofactiontakenbyGrandLodgeonlegislation.
TheseareallmattersthatconcerneveryMasoninOregon.TheLodgeOfficersshouldbewellinformed.
Acarefulreading,analysisandstudyoftheGrandLodgeProceedingswill increase theirMasonicknowledgeandmake formoreeffectiveleadership.
THERITUAL
TheRitualisthefoundationoftheceremoniesofOregonFreemasonry.Itteachesitslessonsthroughsymbolismandallegorybywhicheachcandidatehastheopportunitytoprogresstowardthegoalheexpectstoattain.
TheRitualinitspresentformisauthorizedbytheMasonicCodeofOregonandanyintentionaldeviationisaMasonicOffense.
OurOregonMasonicHistoryrelatesthestruggleandefforttobringauniformworktoallLodgesinthisGrandJurisdiction.Priortotheearly1900sanofficialMasonicRitualwasnonexistentinOregon.Brethrenraisedinmanyjurisdictionsconstitutedalarge
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partofourmembershipandeachbroughttheworkofhisownjurisdiction.AttheGrandLodgeCommunicationof1908acommitteewasappointedtoprepareanOregonRitualandfinallysuchaRitualwasadopted.
TheRitualincypherform,whenintroducedtotheconstituentLodges,was slow tobeadoptedbecause fewcould read thecypheredwork.Competentinstructorswerefewinnumbersoitwasnotuntiltheearly1920sthattheworkwasactuallybeingperformedinauniformmanner.
In the Jurisdiction of Oregon, memorization of the threeCandidate’s Lectures is required of each new initiate withoneexception:ACandidatemayparticipateinthe“FellowsoftheCraftProgram”ifauthorizedbytheWorshipfulMaster.UndertheguidelinesofFellowsoftheCraft,onlytheobligationoftheDegreemustbememorizedalongwiththesignsandmodesofrecognition.ItisimportanttotheCandidate,totheLodge,andtoFreemasonrythatacompetentcoachbeappointedpromptlybytheWorshipfulMastertoworkwitheachCandidate.CareshouldbeexercisedtodeveloptheinterestofthenewmemberandassurehisprogressinMasonry.
TheWorshipfulMastermustassumetheresponsibilityforthequalityoftheritualisticworkperformedinhisLodge.Whilehecandelegatecertainphasesofthistohisotherofficersormembers,theoverallresponsibilityremainswithhim.ThisisamatterofgreatimportancebecauseofthenecessityofproperlyimpressingtheCandidatesatalltimes.
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IV. GENERAL INFORMATION
INSURANCE
TheelectedOfficersand/orTrusteesareresponsiblefortheinsuringofthebuildings,tenantsimprovementsandthecontentsownedbytheLodge,whichareintheofficers’custodyorundertheirsupervisionandcontrol.
TheTrusteesoftheLodgemaybeeitherthethree(3)principalelectiveofficersormemberselectedbytheLodgeorappointedby the Worshipful Master, but in all instances the WorshipfulMasterandtheelectedofficersmustbeadvisedindetailoftheinsurancecoverage.
Shouldthebuildingorbuildingsbeunderthecontrolofaseparateassociationororganization,thenitistheresponsibilityofthepresidingofficerofsuchorganizationtoadvisetheWorshipfulMasterinwritingoftheamountandcompletedetailsofinsurancecoverageonpropertiesundertheirsupervision.
TheliabilityoftheLodgeandthepersonalliabilityoftheofficersandmembersbecauseoftheownership,leasing,rentingand/orofthepropertyincludingalltheactivities,ritualisticorotherwise,conductedthereinorelsewherebyreasonofthe usual duties or activities as explained and outlined intheMasonicCodeofOregonandtheByLawsoftheLodge,MUSTBEINSURED.
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TheGrandLodgeofOregonobtainsaBlanketLiabilityPolicyandHonestyBondontheofficersresponsibleforthehandlingandsafeguardingofthemoniesoftheindividualLodges.Lodgesmust participate in the Blanket Liability Insurance Policy andHonestyBond.However, it is theresponsibilityof theelectedofficers,particularlytheWorshipfulMaster,tofamiliarizethemselveswiththe limitsandformofcoveragetodetermineifallpossiblelossesareinsuredandthelimitsofinsurancesufficienttotakecareofanyanticipatedclaim.IftheofficersarenotsatisfiedtheyshouldconsulttheGrandSecretarytodeterminehowtheproblemmaybesolved.
ItistheresponsibilityoftheWorshipfulMasterandtheelectedofficerstomakecertainsufficientpropertyinsuranceisobtainedtoadequatelyprotecttherealandpersonalpropertyoftheLodge.
IfaLodgeowningitsbuildingleasesorrentsallorpartofthebuildingtoanotherorganization,thatorganizationmustobtaintheirownliabilityinsurance.Verifyannuallythatanytenanthasliabilityinsuranceandacurrentliabilityinsurancepolicy.Ifalcoholistobeserved,orgamblingistooccur,theguidelinesoftheMasonicCodeplusallStateandFederalregulationsmustbefollowed.
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N.P.D.
NonPaymentofDuesDroppedforNonPaymentofDues
The Grand Master’s message of 1964 stated: “The loss bydeath,demits,withdrawals,etc.,could,toalargeextent,beoffsetthroughtheeffortsofaPastDuesCommittee.”ThemajorityofLodgescontinuetohandlethesituationasinthepastoraccordingtothewishesoftheWorshipfulMaster,withoutanyplannedororganizedapproachtotheproblem.
Howoftenhaveyou,asamemberandalsoasanofficer,heardalistofmembers’namesreadattheAnnualorStatedCommunicationtobe“DroppedNPD,”withnoexplanationbytheSecretaryortheWorshipfulMaster?
ItisthedutyoftheWorshipfulMastertoentertainamotionto“Dropthemembersasread.”Whatplans,ifany,hadbeenmadetocontactthosewhoaredelinquent?Nonameshouldbereadwithoutanexhaustiveeffortonhispart.ThereportofaspecialNPD Committee should be discussed with the Trustees andLodgeofficersattheMONTHLYOfficers’MeetingbeforeafinaldecisionismadebyvoteoftheLodge.
Can we justify, without a complete investigation, striking amember’snamefromtherollbyreadinghisnameinOpenLodge,thenreportingtotheGrandSecretary,whointurnreportstothe
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AppendantandAffiliatedbodies,givingNonPaymentofDuesasthereason?
Itispossibleforanyqualifiedpersontoascertainthereasonforthemember’snamebeingremovedfromtherolloftheLodge.Notonlydoesdroppingfromtherollswithoutcompleteinvestigationembarrassthemember,butheandhisdependentswillhavebeendeniedthebenefitsofhismembership.Evenifreinstatedatalaterdate,suchactionwilldelaythehonorofreceivingandwearinga25year,50year,60yearor75yearemblem.
Acommitteeappointedtoascertainthereasonforthedelinquencymaydiscoverthatthememberisinneedofassistancebecauseoffinancialreverses,disability,sicknessorotherreversal,tohimoramemberofhisfamily,whichhe—forpersonalreasons—hasnotreportedtotheLodge.
Think of the damage to the image of Freemasonry when amemberisdroppedwithoutthoroughinvestigation.Thiswouldbeparticularly true in thesmaller localitiesshouldtherebeaneedforassistanceinanyform.
Letusliveandpracticeourobligations.ItissuggestedthattheSecretary,byJune1,prepareacompletelistofmemberswhosedues are not paid. The Worshipful Master should write thesemembersapersonalletter,remindingthemoftherequirementsof theLodgeByLaws, suggestingpaymentoranexplanationfordelay.ThelettershouldbesenteitherCertifiedorRegisteredmail,withReturnReceiptattached.
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IncasetheWorshipfulMasterdoesnotreceiveanacknowledgmentwithin30days,amemberofaspecialcommitteeshouldbedirectedtovisitthememberandreport.Shouldthereportindicatetheneedformorepersonalcontactorneedofassistanceinanyform,theWorshipfulMastershouldvisit inpersonanddecidewhatactionshouldbetaken.
DuringtheinterviewtheWorshipfulMastercanexplainthemandatoryreportingtotheLodge,theGrandLodgeandtotheAppendantandAffiliatedbodieswhichhavetoremovehisnamefromtheirrolls.SuchactiondenieshimtheprivilegesandbenefitsofmembershipandhisfamilyfrommakingapplicationtoanyaffiliatedorganizationrequiringevidenceofhiscurrentmembershipintheLodge.
Ifthememberhasdefinitelydecidedto“drop,”explainthe“CertificateofWithdrawal”andhowitremovesthestigmaofhavinghisnamepublishedasN.P.D.EachLodgereceivesalistofN.P.D.’stoenableittodenyadmissionshouldheendeavortovisit.
If thememberresidesoutof townoroutof the jurisdictionandthereplyindicatesassistanceisneeded,theDistrictDeputyof theGrandMasterorMasonicServiceBureauof theotherjurisdictioncanberequestedtoinvestigate,throughtheGrandSecretary’soffice.
AlthoughtheSecretaryisrequiredtonotifythememberofhisarrears,apersonallettersignedbytheWorshipfulMasterreceives
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moreattentionfromthememberthannumerousremindersfromtheSecretary.
TheLodgehasanobligationtoeverymemberanditistheobligationanddutyoftheWorshipfulMastertomaintaincontactwithmembersanddeterminewhytheyarenotavailingthemselvesofthefriendshipandadvantagesofmembership.Havewefailed?It’suptotheWorshipfulMastertofindtheanswer,rekindlethedesiretobecomeactiveandparticipateintheworkoftheLodge.
MENTOR PLAN
Whenapetitionerreceivesafavorableballotandhisfeesareaccepted,theLodgeimmediatelyassumesaseriousobligationto that petitioner. As its part of the bargain, it owes him thefinest,mostsincereconferraloftheDegreesthatiswithinthecapabilitiesoftheLodge;itoweshimthebestincoachingforhisCandidate’sLecture;andfinally,andofequalimportance,asheprogressesthroughtheDegrees,andatleastuntilhehaspassedhisMasterMasonLecture,itoweshimtheopportunitytoacquireabasicknowledgeofMasonicFundamentalsandinformation.
The impartingofsuchknowledge toaCandidatemay incitehim to further Masonic activity and study. This should be anobjectiveofanyWorshipfulMaster,fortrulytheinterestedandactiveMasonisthelifebloodofourFraternity.The“FellowsoftheCraft”programisanadditionaltoolthatwillquicklyeducateournewMasonsandhelptoholdtheirinterest.
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TheOregonMentorPlan,ifproperlyusedandapplied,isasuggestedmeansofhelpingaWorshipfulMasterandaLodgetofulfillthecompleteobligationtotheCandidateandnewmember.TheMentorPlanisavailableinkitformatactualcostfromtheGrandSecretary’sOffice.ThekitcontainstheMentorManual,thefourCandidate’sbooklets,anEncyclopediaofMasonicSymbolsandaconciseDictionaryofMasonicTerms.
ItisnotthepurposeoftheOfficer’sManualtooutlinemethodsinwhichtheMentorPlanmaybesuccessfullyemployed.AsuggestedplanisofferedintheMentorManualand,sincethatplanhasproventohavegoodresults,itisrecommended.
ButwhateverapplicationoftheMentorPlanismadewiththenewBrother,ithastremendouspossibilitiesforMasonicbenefittotheLodgeandtheFraternityasawhole,whichafterallshouldbeaprimeobjectiveoftheWorshipfulMaster.
Every petitioner should have a Mentor to explain the Mentor Plan. The Coach is not the Mentor, nor the Mentor the Coach. Ordinarily, they should not be the same Brother.
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INVESTIGATIONS
Beingappointedamemberofthiscommitteeplacesagreatresponsibility upon the one assigned to that duty. Upon thecommittee’sfavorablereport,afterathoroughinvestigationintothemoral,physicalandfinancialqualifications,thepetitionerisacceptedorrejectedbyavoteoftheLodge.
Havingacceptedtheassignment,thecommitteemembermustbeconscientiousinthedischargeofhisduties;otherwisehehasprovenhimselfunworthyofthetrustshownbytheWorshipfulMaster.
TheMasonicCodeofOregonmustbestrictlyadheredtoandallquestionsontheCommitteeReportFormmustbeansweredinfull.Iftheyarenot,theWorshipfulMastershouldnotacceptthereport.
ThepetitionerisaskingforacceptanceintoourFraternityandMasonryhaseveryrighttoknowallabouthimbeforegivinghimthebenefitoftheballot.
Wouldyoubewillingtoinvitehimintoyourhomeandintroducehimtoyourfamily?Wouldyouintroducehimtochurchmembers,personalandbusinessfriendsandassociates?Couldyouenjoyaneveningofrelaxationwithhim?IsthereanypossibilityofhimorhiswifeorchildrenbecomingachargeontheLodge?Hashemadesufficientarrangementsthroughlifeinsuranceortrust
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fundstoavoidthishappening?Whatistheneighbors’opinionofhimandhisfamily?Haveyoutalkedtothemandobtainedthisinformationpersonally?Whatabouthisbusinessethics,hisbusinessassociatesandfellowworkers?Isheamemberofachurch?DohischildrenattendSundaySchoolregularly?
Donotmakeaninvestigationbytelephone.Visitthereferencesgivenandexplainthereasonforyourvisit.
YouwillfindthatthereferencesgivenareusuallymembersoftheCraftorotherswhoarewellacquaintedwiththeapplicant.Donothesitatetoobtaintheinformationthatisnecessary.
Makeaconscientiousandcompleteinvestigation.OtherwiseyouarewastingyourtimeanddeprivingyourLodgeofathoroughinvestigationanddoingthepetitioneraninjusticebynotimpressinguponhimthetruesignificanceandimportanceofthestephehasdecidedtotake.
YouareallowednotlessthaneightweekstocompletethisassignmentbutadditionaltimemaybegrantedbytheWorshipfulMaster,ifnecessary,toproperlycompletetheinvestigation.
Shouldtheapplicant’sreferenceshaveoutoftownaddresses,write,bycertifiedorregisteredmail,withreturnaddressedenvelopeenclosed,requestingtheinformationneeded.
Aboveall,areYOUsatisfiedyouhavefulfilledyourdutyand
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canyouhonestly say: “Ihavenohesitation in recommendingthispetitioner?”
DONOTPROCRASTINATE.Remember,somememberoftheCrafttookhisassignmentseriouslyandgavefreelyofhistimetocompletethequestionnaireassuringyouofinitiationwithoutunduedelay.
EXAMINING AND BEING A VISITOR
ThereisnosuchthingasanunimportantMasoniccommittee.TheyallperformimportantfunctionsandareavitalpartofMasonicwork.EachisdesignedtomeetaseparateneedandeachsuppliesanecessarysegmentinthepromotionofMasonry.TheExaminingCommitteeiscertainlyvitaltothatprocess.
LetusbeginbyrememberingthatthedutyofanExaminingCommitteeissimplytosatisfythemselvesthatthevisitor isaMaster Mason in good standing in a Lodge of this Grand JurisdictionoraLodgeofanotherGrandJurisdictionrecognizedbythisGrandJurisdiction.Itisnottheirfunctiontoconductaninquisition,embarrassthevisitor,ordisplaytheirownknowledgeofMasonry.
Withreferencetovisitors,ourCodeprovides—“ItistheprivilegeofeveryMasterMason,uponprovinghimselfassuchandpresentingdocumentaryevidencethathisduesareeitherpaidorremittedtowithinoneyearofdate,tovisitandsitinevery
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regular Lodge, subject to the right of the Master to admit orexcludeavisitor.”
Itfurtherprovides—“AvisitorshallnotbeadmittedtoaLodgeinthisGrandJurisdictionexceptuponstricttrialanddueexaminationbyaCommitteeofnotlessthanthreeMasterMasonsastohisknowledgeofMasonry;orunlesslawfullyvouchedforby,andas,aMasterMason,and,inaddition,shallfurnishdocumentaryevidence thathisduesarepaidorhavebeenremittedtowithinoneyearofthedateofsuchvisit,certifiedundertheSealofthisGrandLodgeoraGrandLodgerecognizedbythisGrandLodge.”
The law with reference to visitors varies somewhat in otherGrandJurisdictions,andifyouwishtovisitthereyoushouldexpectsomechanges,butyoushouldnotpermitthistodiscourageyoufromvisiting.AnyvariancewillbeminorandyoumayexpecttheBrotherstheretobeconsiderateandtactful.Ingeneral,youwillfindtheproceduresaboutthesameinmostJurisdictions.
IfyouarecalledupontoserveonanExaminingCommittee,howshouldyouproceed?First,theTylershouldhavemetthevisitorandshouldintroducehimtoyou.Gethisnamerightandbesureofitspronunciation.Nextyoushouldexaminehiscredentialstodeterminehisgoodstanding.Seethathisduescardisproperlysigned.ChecktheRegisterofLodges(attheTyler’sdesk)toverifythathisLodgeisrecognized(iffromanotherGrandJurisdiction),ifnecessary.YoumaynextaskthevisitortoexaminetheTyler’s
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RegistertoseeifanyonehaspreviouslyenteredtheLodgewhomightbeabletovouchforhim(ifappropriate).Inallofthispreliminarycheckingyoushouldmakeeveryefforttoputthevisitorateaseandcausehimtofeelthatyouaretheretohelphim.
The next step is for the committee to take the visitor to asecludedplacefortheformalexamination.ThereshouldbeaVolumeoftheSacredLawavailableattheTyler’sDeskforusewiththeTestOath.Asacommitteeman,youshouldknowtheTestOath.ItissimplecourtesytoaskthevisitorifhewishestorecitetheOath.Youshouldneveraskhimifhecangiveit.Ifhecannotreciteitfrommemory,youmayreciteitslowlywithhim,allofyouhavingfirsttakenholdoftheBook.ItisprobablethattheOathmaycomebacktohimafteryougethimstarted,buttheessentialpartisthatheaffirmstheoathuponcompletion.InsomejurisdictionsitisthepracticeforeachtokisstheBookuponcompletionoftheoath.
ThenextstepistoinquireabouthisknowledgeofMasonry.Indoingso,youmayaskifhehaseverheldoffice,takenpartsindegrees,etc.IfhehasnotbeenactiveinMasonry,itis,ofcourse,unreasonabletoexpecthimtobeabletorecitepartsoftheRitualforyou,butyoumayaskhimtotellyouwhatherecallsaboutthedegreesandwhentheywereconferreduponhim.UsuallythiswillenableyoutodeterminewhetherheisaMasterMason.
Remember,again,thatyourdutyissimplytosatisfyyourselfastohisstanding,andnofurtherquestioningshouldbeconducted
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beyondthatpoint.OnceyouaresatisfiedthatheisaMasterMason,andhehaspresentedthenecessarydocumentaryevidenceof his present standing, it is his privilege to visit your Lodge,subjectonlytotherequirementsandregulationsofhisownandthevisitedJurisdiction.
InthisJurisdiction,aswereadearlier,onlytheMasterhasthepowertoexcludeavisitor.ThisisnotthecaseinsomeJurisdictions.There,anymembersittingintheLodgemayobjecttotheMasterandthatwilldenythevisitor’sprivilege.TheMastertheremaynotdemandthemember’sreason.ThereitisthetheorythattheLodgeisthemember’shome,andconsequentlyhemaydenyadmissiontoanyone.Fortunately,however,suchexclusionsareextremelyrare.
Oncethecommitteehasdeterminedthatthevisitorisentitledtovisit, theyso informtheTyler,assist thevisitingBrothertosign theTyler’sRegister (insomeJurisdictions thecommitteeoramemberthereofmustalsosign,vouchingforthevisitor),provideappropriateclothingforthevisitorandconducthimintotheLodge.IftheLodgeisatlabor,thecommitteeshouldpresentthevisitoratthealtar,introducehimtotheMaster,andwhenhehasbeenproperlywelcomed,conducthimtoaseat.Atleastonemembershouldsitwiththevisitorthroughouttheevening.
IfyouarepreparingtovisitaLodgeyoushouldhaveyourcurrentduescardandphotoidentification.Besureyourduescardissignedbyyou.Ifpossible,youshouldrefreshyourmemory
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regardingpasswords,gripsandsigns.YoushouldfirstbesurethattheLodgeyouwishtovisitisaregularMasonicLodgerecognizedbyyourGrandLodge.
YouwillapproachtheTyler,introduceyourself,andtellhimyouwishtovisit.HemayaskyousomepreliminaryquestionsandthenadvisetheMasteroftheneedforanExaminingCommittee.ItiswellforyoutobefrankwiththeTylerandtellhim,aswellastheExaminingCommitteelater,ofanyunfamiliarityyoumayhavewiththeprocedures.
NoMasonneedfeelanyconcernaboutvisitinganotherMasonicLodge,andhewhodoesnotavailhimselfofthisprivilegemissesanimportantpartofMasonry.CertainlyeveryMasonhassomerecollection,regardlessofhowremoteintime,ofhisprogressthroughthedegrees.Givenareasonableopportunity,heshouldhavenotroubleinrecallingenoughdetailtojustifytheconclusionthatheis,infact,aMasterMason.
Visitationisindeedatrueprivilege.ItenablesaMasontowidenhisscopeofexperience,addtohislistofacquaintancesandtohisfundofknowledge,andincreaseshisunderstandingofthecomplexitiesofhumannature.Aboveall,itstrengthensthemystictieofMasonicfraternity.
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FINANCE
AsuccessfulandfinanciallystableLodgemustoperateonthesamebasicgoodpracticesthatarereflectedbyanysuccessfulbusinessenterprise.ThefinancialstructureshouldensurethattheLodgeoperateswellwithinitscurrentincome,thatreservesareestablishedtomeetcontingencies,andthatprovisionsaremadeforthemaintenanceand improvementofexistingfacilities,andfortheultimatepurchaseorconstructionofadequateLodgeproperties.
BUDGET
A budget should be carefully prepared to cover the regularoperatingexpensesoftheLodge,foreachMasonicyear.IfthebudgetindicatesthatexpenseswillexceedincomefromduesandinterestfromLifeMemberships,itmaybenecessarytopresentachoicetothemembers—eitheracutinbudgetedexpenses,oranincreaseinannualdues.
The following is a suggested form of budget, which can beadaptedtotheneedsoftheindividualLodge:
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___________________________LodgeNo._______
Receipts: Disbursements:Dues$______ Salaries$InterestfromLife RentMemberships$______ Light&WaterTotalincomefor NaturalGasOperatingExpenses$______ Refreshments Entertainment Telephone PostageNote:OperatingIncome MonthlyBulletinmaybeincluded,suchas Funerals&Flowersrevenuefromadvertising GrandLodgeDuesinBulletin,orinterest Insuranceonoperatingfundsonshort Miscellaneousterminvestments. Totalexpenses $_______________
In preparing the budget, the committee should review theoperatingexpensesforthethreeyearspreceding.Thesecanbeobtained from theFinancialStatementof theLodgewhich isfurnishedtotheGrandLodge.
FEES
TheCodeprovidesthattheByLawsoftheLodgeshallprescribethefeeforeachofthedegrees.
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Fees, less theamountdue theGrandLodge, shouldnotbeincludedas current income,but shouldbe dedicated to contingency funds. Contingency funds may include maintenance,repairorconstructionofLodgeproperties,paraphernaliarepairorreplacement,orspecialcharityandrelieffunds.
Toencouragepetitions,feesshouldnotbesubstantiallyhigherthanthatofotherLodgesinthegeneralarea.
DUES
TheCoderequiresthattheAnnualDuesofaLodgebespecifiedinitsByLaws,andshallbedueonJanuary1stofeachyear.Theannualduesshouldbeataleveladequatetomeetbudgetedoperatingexpenses.EstimatedincomefromduesshouldincludeinterestderivedfromLifeMemberships.
AchangeintheDuesstructurerequiresanamendmenttotheLodgeByLaws.
REMITTING DUES
Duesshouldberemittedonlyincasesofbonafidehardship,asprovidedintheCode.TheN.P.D.Committeeshouldbeinthebestpositiontorecommendremission.
ThenamesofmembersrelievedofduesshouldbereportedtotheGrandSecretarywiththeDecemberMonthlyReport.Failure
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tofollowthisprocedurewillimposeontheLodgethepaymentofGrandLodgeDuesforeachmemberwhohasbeenrelievedof dues.This is costly to the Lodgeand may seriouslyaffectestimatedoperatingincome.
DONATIONS AND BEQUESTS
Anyfundsderivedfromdonationsorbequestsshouldbereservedforpropertyimprovementoracquisition,subjecttoanyusespecifiedbythedonor.Aspecialqualifiedcommitteeshouldsolicitdonationsandbequests,andbepreparedtoanswermember’sproceduralquestions.
ASSESSMENTS
An assessment can be proposed to meet unusual financialproblems,suchastoretireanindebtedness,tosupplementexistingfundsforthepurchaseofproperties,ortomeetimmediatefinancialproblems.
AnyproposedassessmentonthemembersofaLodgeissubjecttotherequirementsoftheMasonicCodeofOregon.
FUND RAISING
Investment in stocks, bonds, savings accounts, etc., shouldyieldareasonable income,butshouldbemadewithprudentconsiderationforthesecurityoffundssoinvested.TheMasonic
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Codesetsout certain requirements for thehandlingof fundsandsecurities.
DISPOSITION OF OPERATING INCOME
Operatingfundsinacheckingaccountshouldnotexceedcashrequirementstomeetcurrentexpenses.
Excessoperatingfundsshouldbeplacedinasavingsaccountorothershorttermsecurities,wheretheywillbeasreadilyavailableasoperatingexpensesmayrequire.
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V. COMMITTEES
INTRODUCTION
The following is a brief outline of the duties and suggestedpersonnelofcommittees.Carefulconsiderationshouldbeusedinmakingappointments.ItissuggestedthattheSeniorWardencompleteplansandselectionsforhisappointivecommitteesbyatleastSeptember.Allmembersofthecommitteesshouldthenbecontacted,thedutiesexplainedandtheiracceptancereceived.
ManycommitteesareofsuchimportanceinaLodgethattoensurethecontinuityofaprogramseriousconsiderationshouldbegiventoappointingmembersonacontinuingbasis.
COMMITTEESREQUIREDBYTHECODE
A.AUDITING
Threequalifiedmembers.
Tothefunctionsofthiscommitteeasoutlinedinthemanual,thefollowingsuggestionsareadded:
(1)WorkwiththeSecretaryinpreparationoflistsofpastduemembers.
(2)ProvidetheFinanceandBudgetcommitteeswithnecessary
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reportstoenablethosecommitteestofunctionasrequestedbytheWorshipfulMaster.
(3)AssisttheSecretaryandTreasurerinpreparationofreportsnecessarytofilewiththeGrandSecretary.
(Note)Makethisaworkingcommitteethewholeyear.
B.CHARITY
TheMasterandWardensshallbeacommitteeoncharityandshallhavepowertoactindisbursingfundsasprovidedintheLodgeByLaws.Anymemberknowingofasituation involvinganycaseinwhichtheLodgemaybeabletorenderassistanceshould bring this information to the attention of the committee. The information should be reported to the Lodge forconsideration.CHARITY IS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF EVERYMASON.
C.EXAMINATIONOFVISITORS
Thiscommitteehas todowith theexaminationofaMasterMasonwhoisvisitingtheLodgeforthefirsttimeandwhocannotbevouchedfor.Itissuggestedthatthecommitteebeappointedthefirstoftheyearandbecomposedofenoughmembersthataqualifiedcommitteewillbeavailabletoactateverymeeting.Theyshouldbesatisfied ineach instance that thevisitor isaMason.Theyshouldseethatheisseatedwithothermembers.
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(See“ExaminingandBeingaVisitor”inthegeneralsectionfordetails)
D.FINANCE
SeniorWardenandtwoothermembers
This committee in addition to authorizing payment of billsshouldworkwith theWorshipfulMaster,Secretary,Treasurer,BudgetandPastDuesCommitteesincontrollingorimprovingthefinancialconditionoftheLodge.TheSecretaryandTreasurershouldbeconsultedtoascertaincurrentmonthlyfinancialstatus,havingtheprojectedconditionoftheLodgeinmind.Thiscommittee shouldbeprepared to report to theLodgeat thedirectionoftheMaster.
E.GRIEVANCE
JuniorWardenandtwoothermembers
ThiscommitteeshouldstudyandfamiliarizeitselfwiththePenal Code. They must thoroughly understand Lodge andGrand Lodge authority and Trial Commission jurisdiction.WheneverpossibleemphasizeatLodgeOfficers’MeetingswhatconstitutesMasonicandmoraloffensesandthedifferencesbetweenMasonicandCivilOffensesandtrials.
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F.INVESTIGATION
ThreequalifiedmembersappointedbytheMaster.
ThiscommitteeshouldnotincludeanymemberoftheLodgewhohasrecommendedthepetitioner,orwhosenamehasbeengivenasreference.ThemembersofthecommitteeshallbemadeknowntoeachotherandtotheLodge.Thiscommitteeshouldberecognizedasaveryimportantoneandcarefulconsiderationshouldbemadeas to thequalificationsof eachmemberappointed.ItissuggestedthattheMasterpersonallygettogetherwiththiscommitteeandexplaintothemwhatisexpectedofthemandstresstheimportanceofpersonalcontacts.(SeeInvestigationsinthegeneralsectionfordetails.)
G.TRUSTEES
TheByLawsoftheLodgemakeprovisionfortheselectionoftrustees.TheirdutyistohavechargeoftheinvestedfundsandanyrealpropertyoftheLodge.
GRANDLODGEPROGRAMS
ItissuggestedcommitteesbeappointedtoassistincarryingoutGrandLodgePrograms.
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OPTIONALCOMMITTEES
Some or all of the following suggested committees may befoundusefulbyyourLodge.
A.MEMBERS(BIOGRAPHY,OCCUPATION,TALENTSANDHOBBIES)
Thedutiesofthiscommitteewouldconsistofmakingacardindexorotherappropriaterecord(suchasadatabase)ofeachmember,showingabriefhistoryofthememberasoutlinedintheheading.SuchanindexcouldprovemosthelpfultotheMaster,theOfficersandCommitteeChairmenforpickingqualifiedmembersforanyactivity.
B.PARLIAMENTARYPROCEDURE
ThiscommitteecanbeofassistancetotheMasterincarryingonanefficient,wellorganizedmeeting.(SeethesectiononMasonicParliamentaryProcedurefordetails.)
C.AMENDMENTOFBYLAWS
IncaseanamendmentistobeproposedtochangetheByLawsacommitteeshouldbeappointedtostudyandpreparetheformofamendmentforproposaltotheLodgeforitsconsideration.
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D.BUDGET
It shouldbe thedutyof this committee tostudy theLodgefinancialreportsandprepareabudget.ThiscommitteeshouldworkincloseharmonywiththeFinanceCommittee,theWorshipfulMasterandTrustees.(SeeOperatingBudget,FeesandDues,andLodgeFinancesinthegeneralsectionfordetails.)
E.COACHING(CANDIDATES)
ThisisaveryimportantassignmentandcarefulconsiderationshouldbegivenbytheMasterintheappointmentofthemembertocoachtheCandidate.Thecoachandthementordonothavethesamejobfunction.
F.MENTORCOMMITTEE
Thepurposeofthiscommitteeistoimplementthementorplan.(SeeTheMentorinthegeneralsection.)
G.RITUALCOMMITTEE
Itissuggestedthataqualifiedmemberbeappointedforeachdegree,toworkwiththecommitteeonMasonicInstruction.
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H.ILLNESSANDDISTRESSCOMMITTEES
I.FUNERALS
This committee can assist in funeral arrangements of thedeceasedmemberandrenderservicetotheirlovedones.TheefficientworkofthiscommitteewillreflecttrueMasonryintheeyesofthefamilyandfriends.
II.CHILDREN’SCOMMITTEE
ThiscommitteeshouldmakepersonalcontactwiththoseconcernedandreporttheirfindingstotheLodgeforfurtheraction.Anymemberknowingofanysuchcasesshouldreport totheLodgesothatthecommitteecouldinvestigatethecause.EDUCATIONALASSISTANCEMAYBEAVAILABLE.CHECKWITHTHEDISTRICTDEPUTY.
III.SHUTINS
EverymemberoftheLodgeshouldserveonthiscommittee.Visitationsshouldnotberestrictedtothehospitalorhomeof sick members. The older (in age) should be visited andgivennewsoftheLodge.Inquiryshouldbemadeastotheirhealth,theirfinancialsituationanddesiresastoterminalarrangements.Thesehave tobehandleddiscreetlyandwithtact.ReportsshouldbemadetotheWorshipfulMasterandSecretary.Asneeded,theSecretaryshouldrefercasestotheOutReach Program. On special occasions, the committee
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shouldarrangetransportationtoandfromtheLodgeforthosewhodesiretoattendmeetings.Widowsshouldalsobevisitedandiftherearechildrenofschoolage,inquiryshouldbemadeastotheneedforeducationalassistance.Thiscommitteecanexemplify Masonic Charity. On “Open” meeting evenings theoldermembers,widowsandorphanscanbeinvited.RememberthememberorwidowattheMasonicandEasternStarHomeatJenningsMcCallCenterinForestGrove.
IV.WIDOWSOFDECEASEDMASONS
ThiscommitteeshouldkeepincontactwiththewidowsandreporttotheLodgeincaseanyassistancemightbeneeded.ItisalsosuggestedthatthecommitteemakeanannualreporttotheLodge.ThiswouldrequirepersonalcontactandthepublicimageofMasonrywouldbebroughttolight.
Note:ThetelephonecommitteeandallBrothersshouldassist.
I.MEMBERSHIPCOMMITTEES
A.DELINQUENTDUES
EverymemberoftheLodgeshouldbeinterestedincontactingthosebrethrenwithwhomhehasbeenassociated.(SeeN.P.D.andRemittingDuesinthegeneralsectionfordetails.)
B.SOJOURNERS
Thiscommitteeshouldattempttoobtainthenamesandad
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dressesofallsojournersintheareaneartheLodge.Eachsojournershouldbecontacted,invitedandaccompaniedtoaLodgemeeting.Theyshouldbeintroducedtotheofficersandmembersbefore themeeting; theExaminationCommitteeplannedandarrangedforinadvance.
TheWorshipfulMastershouldreceiveacompletelistofthosepresent,givingname,officeheldifany,Lodgeandlocality.EachsojournershouldbewelcomedfromtheEast.Thecommitteemustfollowupandgeteachsojournertobecomearegularvisitorand,ifpossible,amemberbyaffiliation.SuggestaspecialSojournersnightannually.
J.LODGEATTENDANCECOMMITTEES
A.HOSPITALITY
Thiscommitteeshouldbechosenfrommembersqualifiedtocommunicateeasilywithvisitorsandshouldextendtothemacordialreception.
B.PUBLICITY
Thiscommitteeisresponsibleforpublicity.Itmustberesponsible to the WorshipfulMaster.Nothing shouldbe printed orpublishedwithouttheWorshipfulMaster’sauthorization.
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C.TELEPHONE
ThenumberofmemberstoserveonthiscommitteedependsonthetotalnumberofLodgemembers.Itissuggestedthatanofficerbethechairman.Carefulpreparationofa“telephonelist”ofthosememberswhocanbecontactedisimportant.DeterminefromyourrosterthosememberswhocouldattendLodge.Thetelephonecommitteeshouldalsocontactwiveswhenladiesareinvited.
D.TRANSPORTATION
Theresponsibilityofthiscommitteeistooffertransportationtothosememberswhoareunabletoattendthemeetingswithoutthishelp.Thecommitteeshouldalsoarrangetransportationforanyvisitations.
E.TRESTLEBOARD
ThisLodgeactivityistheresponsibilityoftheMaster.However,hemaydelegatethepreparationofthemonthlyLodgebulletintooneormoreofhisofficersorotherresponsiblemembers.
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MISCELLANEOUSCOMMITTEES
A.APPENDANTBODIES
Thiscommitteecanactasa liaisonbetweentheLodgeandappendantbodies,andkeeptheLodgeadvisedoftheactivitiesandareasofpossiblecooperation.AnyspecialeventsrequiringthecooperationoftheLodgemaybehandledbythecommittee.
B.CIVICANDCOMMUNITY
ThiscommitteeshouldkeepabreastofanycommunityorcivicactivitiesandreporttotheLodgefortheiractionandparticipation.TheinformationshouldformthenucleusoftheWorshipfulMaster’sprogramforeducationalcommunications.
C.PROGRAM
ThiscommitteeshouldincludetheJuniorWarden
ThecommitteeshouldbeinstructedbytheWorshipfulMastertoworkoutdetailsandmakecontactsforallopenmeetings,andentertainmentsubjecttohisapproval.Oneobjectofthiscommitteeshouldbetoformulateandorganize“OPEN”meetingssotheteachings,principlesandobjectivesofFreemasonrycanbeimpressedupontheuninitiated.Meetingscouldbearrangedandplannedaroundthefollowing:FlagDay,ConstitutionDay,Oregon’sStatehood,VeteransDay,LodgeAnniversary,St.Johns
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Day,etc.Themembersoftheyouthgroupsshouldbeinvitedtoparticipateasmuchaspossible.
D.GRANDLODGELEGISLATION
IftheLodgewishestoproposeGrandLodgelegislation,thiscommitteecancorrelatetheinformationandpresentittotheLodgeforacceptanceandpresentationtotheGrandLodge.ThiscommitteecanalsostudyanyproposedlegislationandreporttotheLodge.
E.LODGEHISTORY
TheWorshipfulMastershouldappointahistorian.Thehistorian’sdutyistosearchtheLodgerecords,studythemembership(pastandpresent),ascertainandrecordMasonicandCivicactivitiesofthemembers,andpreparehistoricalandinterestingMasonicfactsabouttheLodgebystudyingtheminutes.ManyitemscanbeusedbytheWorshipfulMasterinthepreparationofaninterestingmeeting.
F.NATIONAL,STATEANDLOCALISSUES
ThiscommitteeshouldassembleallavailableinformationonanyoftheseissuesandinformtheLodge.Ifspeakersaretobeobtainedtogivefurtherinformation,thecommitteecanmakethearrangementsfortheMaster.
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G.YOUTHGROUPS
ThiscommitteeshouldcontacttheadvisorofDeMolay,Job’sDaughters,andRainbowGirls,havingthemextendinvitationstoLodgememberstovisitandwitnesstheirdegreework.TheorganizationsshouldalsobeinvitedtoexemplifytheirworkintheLodgeroom.Carefulstudywillprovetheyouthorganizationsneedencouragementratherthanfinancialassistance.Havethemparticipateactivelyatsomeofthe“Open”meetings—FlagDay,Constitution Day, Salute to Oregon, Veterans Day, ushers forchurchservice,etc.
VI. MASONIC PARLIAMENTARY PROCEDURE
Whenwethinkofparliamentaryprocedure,wegenerallythinkofRobert’sRulesofOrder.WhileRobert’sRulesarewidelyacceptedbymostorganizations,manydonotapplyinaMasonicmeeting.
Robert’sRulesaredesignedtogivethechairtheauthoritytogovern,butthepowertomakefinaldecisionsisvestedinthehandsofthegoverned.Thisistoensurethatthechairdoesnotgoverntheorganizationinadictatorialmanner.
InaMasonicLodgeitisnecessarythatthefinalauthoritybevestedintheWorshipfulMaster.Heischarged,athisinstallation,withtheresponsibilitytocarryouttherequirementssetforthintheCodeoftheGrandLodgeofOregonandtheByLawsofhis
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Lodge.HeisalsochargedwiththeresponsibilityforensuringthatnothingthatisinconsistentwithMasonicteachingisdiscussedorvotedonintheLodge.WhiletheMasterhaswidepowersforgoverninghisLodge,thesepowersarenotunlimited.
HemustruleandgovernhisLodgeaccordingtotherulessetforthintheCode,theStandardManual,andtheByLawsofhisLodge.
SomeofthemajordifferencesbetweenRobert’sRulesandtheMasonicRulesofOrderare:
1.TheMastercannotacceptamotionfromthefloortolayanitemofbusinessonthetable.Amembermayrecommendthatanitemofbusinessbedeferreduntilalatermeeting,butonlytheMasterhastheauthoritytodeferit.
2.TheMastercannotacceptamotionfromthefloortoadjournorcloseameeting.ThetimeofclosingisdeterminedsolelybytheMaster.
3.TheMastercannotacceptamotionfromthefloortopostponeanitemofbusiness.
4.TheMastercannotacceptamotionfromthefloorthatlimitsorextendsdebate.TheMastersolelydecidesthelengthofdebate,oriftherewillbedebate.
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5.TheMastercannotacceptamotiontovotebyvoice.TherearenovoicevotesinMasonry.
6.TheMastercannotacceptamotiontowaivetheByLawsoftheLodge.
7.TheMastercannotacceptamotionthatsetsthetimeoffuturemeetings.ThetimesanddatesofStatedCommunicationsaresetintheByLawsoftheLodgeandcannotbewaived.SpecialCommunicationsareatthediscretionoftheMaster.
8.TheMastercannotacceptamotionfromthefloortoreferanitemofbusinesstoacommittee,exceptasstatedintheCodeconcerningaPetitionfortheDegreesofMasonry.InallotherinstancestheMastermustdecidewhatisreferredtoacommitteeforhealonehasthepowertoappointcommittees.
9.TheMasterhasthepowertointroduceanitemofbusinessandcallforavotewithoutdebate.Whilethisshouldbedoneonlyinrarecircumstances,itisstillwithinhisauthority.
TheMastershouldneverruleorgovernhisLodgeinanarbitrarymanner,butwithmoderationanddecorum.ForthisreasonhemustbethoroughlyfamiliarwiththeserulesoforderaswellasthecodeoftheGrandLodgeandtheByLawsofhisLodge.HehasbeengivenwidepowerstogovernforthegoodofMasonry,andhemustkeephisobligationeverbeforehimashegovernshisLodge.
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Type Motion Purpose Master Second Debatable Amendable Vote Accept Req’d Req’d
1.Mainmotion Introduce Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes business
2.Topostpone Suppressaction No
3.Toamend Modifya Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes motion
4.Amendan Modifya Yes Yes Yes No Yes amendment motion
5.Refertoa Forfurther No committee study
6.Tolimitor Modify No extenddebate freedomof debate
7.Previous Forceanim No question mediatevote
8.Layonthe Defer No table action
9.Toreconsider Considera Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes defeated motion
10.Torescind Repealpre Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes viousaction
11.Suspendthe Waivethe No rules bylaws
12.Todividea Considerpart Yes Yes No Yes Yes motion separately
13.Objectto Supress Yes No No No No consideration action ofamotion
14.Tocallfor Verifya No arollcallvote voicevote
15.Risetoa Toaska Yes No No No No pointoforder question
16.Risetoa Makea Yes No No No No questionof request privilege duringdebate
17.Torecess Temporarily No dismiss meeting
18.Toadjourn Dismiss No meeting
19.Fixtimefor Arrangetime No futuremeeting fornext meeting
PARLIAMENTARYNOTICES
appendix1
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