District Representative's Toolkit

Constitution Program
Entered Apprentice Circumambulation
Fellow Craft Circumambulation
Fellow Craft Quiz: A Refresher Quiz
Masonic Education Program
Master Mason Degree Circumambulation Ritual
Master Mason Degree Quiz
A Masonic Quiz
Masonic Protocol Program
- Reception of First Time Visitors & What Happens When a Brother Arrives Late
- Lodge Room Behavior - Balloting
- Examination of First Time Visitors - Avouching
- Reception of the Grand Master
Entered Apprentice Quiz: A Refresher Quiz
A Closer Look at Masonry
Masonic Care & Share
Masonic Etiquette
Revised 4th Night Program For Newly Raised Masons and Experienced Masons (added 8/07)

The Constitution and Standing Regulations Of the Grand Lodge Of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons Of the State of Maine

Note to the District Education Representative:

This could be a short program that utilizes two narrators at separate locations within the Lodge and far enough apart so that they would have to speak loudly for each other to hear, thus allowing everyone in the Lodge to hear. It would also be advisable to choose narrators who speak loudly and read well. Obviously, this program could be done by you and one other if you desired, but often the more people who are involved, the more interesting for the Brethren. You will note that each narrator’s copy is highlighted for his reading portion and is to be alternated. between them.

Narrator 1: I frequently hear reference to the Constitution and Standing Regulations. When we took our obligation as a Lodge officer, we,” solemnly promised upon the honor of a Mason to strictly comply with the Constitution and Regulations of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Maine, and all other ancient Masonic usages.” Where can I see what I obligated myself to?

Narrator 2: As a minimum, your Lodge Secretary and Master should have a copy. They cannot properly do their duties without ready access and familiarity with that book. Your District Deputy also has a copy readily available and should be familiar with its contents. There is also a current copy maintained on the Grand Lodge website. (www.mainemason.org)

Narrator 1: How did our Constitution originate, and when?

Narrator 2: Our Constitution actually began by “ An Act to incorporate the Master, Wardens, and Members of the Grand Lodge of Maine” by the Senate and House of Representatives of the State of Maine on June 16, 1820. This Legislative act was signed by the Presidents of those bodies and finalized by the signature of MW William King, first Governor of the State of Maine and first Grand Master of Masons in Maine. This act legally created us as an entity, and formed the foundation upon which our Constitution was written.

Narrator 1: What is actually contained within the book of Constitution?

Narrator 2: It consists of the Constitution, Standing Regulations, Index, and Digest of Decisions.

Narrator 1: Can you describe each section so that I may better understand them?

Narrator 2: I will try. The Constitution prescribes our basic structure as an organization. It begins with a preamble that is similar to the preamble of the Constitution of the United States.

Narrator 1: Excuse me, but what do you mean, preamble?

Narrator 2: This is important enough so that I will read the preamble to you. Quote: “We the Grand Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of the State of Maine, in order to form perfect fraternal union, establish order, insure tranquility, provide for and promote the general welfare of the Craft, and secure to the Fraternity the blessings of Masonic privileges, do ordain and establish this Constitution.”

Narrator 1: What follows?

Narrator 2: It has a declaration on the first page that describes the philosophies and goals of the Grand Lodge of Maine. This is where we learn the broad principles of our organization. The beginning paragraph tells us that: Quote: “Freemasonry is a charitable, benevolent, educational, and religious secret society, adhering to its own peculiar ancient landmarks.”

Narrator 1: Now wait a minute! We tell people that we are not a religion or a secret organization. It sounds as if our own constitution says that we are.

Narrator 2: We are not either of these. If you read further, you will learn that it is religious in that it teaches monotheism; in other words, professing a belief in a Supreme Being. You will also learn that it is not theological. You also note that our methods of recognition and symbolic instruction are secret, not that we are a secret society.

Narrator 1: What else is in the Constitution?

Narrator 2: The Grand Lodge structure beginning with the officers, their titles, and their election. It establishes the power of the individual Lodges, and recognizes that the decision making power of the Grand Lodge is within the individual Lodges. It describes the qualification requirements of the Grand Officers, the various Grand Lodge committees, and means of election.

Narrator 1. Hey! I was always led to believe that the Grand Lodge was a bunch of elected people who ran everything from the Grand Lodge Office.

Narrator 2: I’m sorry, but you are wrong. The Grand Master and other elected and appointed officers purpose is to serve the individual Lodges, and they receive their authority by vote of the 192 Lodges within the State of Maine. So you see, the real power of Grand Lodge is the individual Lodges. You have the authority to elect the officers, as well as make changes in the Constitution.

Narrator 1: What else is in the Constitution?

Narrator 2: It would take more time than you wish to listen if I were to cover everything in the Constitution. I will simply say that it generally covers all operating procedures for your Lodge, the Grand Lodge, and includes disciplinary procedures. I would suggest that you borrow a copy from your Master or Secretary and scan through it to familiarize your self with the contents. Some Lodges procure a copy for their Wardens, that they might prepare themselves with the knowledge that they will need to effectively lead their Lodge when the time comes.

Narrator 1: How is the Constitution changed?

Narrator 2: Any change must be proposed at a Grand Lodge annual session. It is given an initial reading and the opportunity for debate. A vote is then taken to see if the Brethren wish to even consider it for a vote at the next Grand Lodge session. If the vote is affirmative, the article lies over until the following year and is then brought up for a vote. This is where the real power of the constituent Lodges may be exercised. It takes a majority vote of the 192 Lodges and the constitutionally authorized Grand Lodge officers for a change to become law. (You may remember that each Lodge has 3 votes, so the constituent Lodges have 576 votes to decide an issue)

Narrator 1: That helps explain the Constitution. What about the other sections?

Narrator 2: The next section is the Standing Regulations.

Narrator 1: What do they do?

Narrator 2: The Standing Regulations describe operating procedures of sections within the Constitution. In other words, they get into specifics. When you review the Constitution, you will sometime see a cross reference to the Standing Regulations. This tells you that there is a more specific operating procedure for that Section.

Narrator 1: I do remember once briefly looking at the Standing Regulations and noted that there was a year and page in brackets after each regulation. What does that mean? Narrator 2: The year indicates when the regulation was approved. The page listed is the actual page of the Grand Lodge annual proceedings for that year.

Narrator 1: Wow! You mean that when I see a date such as 1866, that is when the regulation was established?

Narrator 2: It sure is! You will also note that once a Standing Regulation is numbered, the number stays, even though the regulation may be repealed. Again, if you wish to know the history of the regulation, simply go to your Lodge’s mandatory file of the annual report of the Grand Lodge.

Narrator 1: The index is self explanatory, I guess. What about the Digest of Decisions?

Narrator 2: That section can get confusing! The section contains decisions that were made by Grand Masters and legitimized by Grand Lodge annual meetings regarding the implementation of sections within the Constitution. These decisions were made in response to specific issues regarding Constitution implementation. This section also has dates and pages listed after each item. These are particularly important because there are some contradictions within the Digest if Decisions, and the most recent date take precedence.

Narrator 1:This all sounds complicated. Is it as bad as it seems?

Narrator 2: Not really. The good news is that the Digest of Decisions is in alphabetical order and that helps. It is important to scan the complete digest to ensure that there isn’t an answer to your question in more than one place. Again, remember that the most recent date takes precedence!

Narrator 1: Is there anything else that would help me understand the Constitution?

Narrator 2: My final advice is to familiarize yourself with the book in small portions. In other words, don’t try to absorb the whole book at once. The index is not the best, and you might need to spend some time looking for a specific subject. If you familiarize yourself with the book at your leisure, it will help you if a situation arises where you need the information. Remember that your District Deputy and the Grand Lodge elected Officers are always ready to help you resolve specific problems.

You now have some idea of what was meant when you solemnly promised, upon the honor of a Mason, that you would strictly comply with the Constitution and Standing Regulations of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Maine.

Hopefully, this helps. Narrator 1: I frequently hear reference to the Constitution and Standing Regulations. When we took our obligation as a Lodge officer, we,” solemnly promised upon the honor of a Mason to strictly comply with the Constitution and Regulations of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Maine, and all other ancient Masonic usages.” Where can I see what I obligated myself to?

Narrator 1: How did our Constitution originate, and when?

Narrator 1: What is actually contained within the book of Constitution?

Narrator 2: It consists of the Constitution, Standing Regulations, Index, and Digest of Decisions.

Narrator 1: Can you describe each section so that I may better understand them?

Narrator 2: I will try. The Constitution prescribes our basic structure as an organization. It begins with a preamble that is similar to the preamble of the Constitution of the United States.

Narrator 1: Excuse me, but what do you mean, preamble?

Narrator 1: What follows?

Narrator 1: Now wait a minute! We tell people that we are not a religion or a secret organization. It sounds as if our own constitution says that we are.

Narrator 1: What else is in the Constitution?

Narrator 1. Hey! I was always led to believe that the Grand Lodge was a bunch of elected people who ran everything from the Grand Lodge Office.

Narrator 1: What else is in the Constitution?

Narrator 1: How is the Constitution changed?

Narrator 1: That helps explain the Constitution. What about the other sections?

Narrator 2: The next section is the Standing Regulations.

Narrator 1: What do they do?

Narrator 1: I do remember once briefly looking at the Standing Regulations and noted that there was a year and page in brackets after each regulation. What does that mean?

Narrator 2: The year indicates when the regulation was approved. The page listed is the actual page of the Grand Lodge annual proceedings for that year.

Narrator 1: Wow! You mean that when I see a date such as 1866, that is when the regulation was established?

Narrator 1: The index is self explanatory, I guess. What about the Digest of Decisions?

Narrator 1:This all sounds complicated. Is it as bad as it seems?

Narrator 1: Is there anything else that would help me understand the Constitution?

Hopefully, this helps.

Entered Apprentice Circumambulation

Taken and paraphrased from the August 1999 Masonic Services Association Short Talk Bulletin.

The program is designed to be a reading of the Biblical passage, followed by an interpreted meaning. You will note that each narrator’s copy is highlighted for his reading portion and is to be alternated. between them.

District Rep: All of us have sat and listened to the circumambulation ritual of the EA degree without thinking about the message it communicates. The following is an explanation of that ritual. This circumambulation, as in the other degrees, is a Bible passage. This one is Psalm 133, written by King David

This lesson was probably chosen because of its emphasis on the importance of unity among Masons. The unity we enjoy adds to the pleasure of belonging to a fraternity of like-minded fraternal brothers interested in the same moral and ethical principles.

Narrator 1: Behold how good and how pleasant it is for Brethren to dwell together in unity:

Narrator 2: This message begins by telling us to observe, take note, be sure that we understand, and examine closely the joy and pleasure that results from unity and harmony among Brethren.

Narrator 1: It is like the precious ointment upon the head,

Narrator 2: This Psalm continues by describing how important and precious that unity is. The ointment discussed is a very precious oil that was used to consecrate Aaron as a high priest. Aaron was Moses’ older brother and spokesman.

Narrator 1: that ran down upon the beard, even Aaron’s beard, that went down to the skirts of his garment:

Narrator 2: The overpowering beauty of Brethren joining together in unity is compared to a large quantity of this precious oil that was used so abundantly on Aaron that it ran down from the top of his head to the hem of his robe.

Narrator 1: As the dew of Hermon, Narrator 2: The second example of the beauty of Brethren joining together is comparing it with the dew of Hermon. This area of the Middle East will sometimes go for months without any rain to water the crops. The only moisture is that dew that occurs as a result of the climatic conditions in that area. Mount Hermon is one of the more beautiful mountains in Israel, and the dew that was evident upon the mountain as the sun cast its first rays of the morning causes it to glisten like a beautiful jewel, as well as providing life sustaining moisture for the crops.

Narrator 1: And as the dew that descended upon the mountains of Zion, for there the Lord commanded the blessing, even life forevermore.

Narrator 2: Mount Zion is mentioned because that is the location of the Holy city of Jerusalem where the Israelites went to make their sacrifices and hold religious feasts. This was also the location where the Lord God made that promise of everlasting life.

District Representative: This completes the explanation of the EA Circumambulation.

Narrator 1

Narrator 1: Behold how good and how pleasant it is for Brethren to dwell together in unity:

Narrator 2: This message begins by telling us to observe, take note, be sure that we understand, and examine closely the joy and pleasure that results from unity and harmony among Brethren.

Narrator 1: It is like the precious ointment upon the head,

Narrator 1: that ran down upon the beard, even Aaron’s beard, that went down to the skirts of his garment:

Narrator 1: As the dew of Hermon,

Narrator 2: The second example of the beauty of Brethren joining together is comparing it with the dew of Hermon. This area of the Middle East will sometimes go for months without any rain to water the crops. The only moisture is that dew that occurs as a result of the climatic conditions in that area. Mount Hermon is one of the more beautiful mountains in Israel, and the dew that was evident upon the mountain as the sun cast its first rays of the morning causes it to glisten like a beautiful jewel, as well as providing life sustaining moisture for the crops.

Narrator 1: And as the dew that descended upon the mountains of Zion, for there the Lord commanded the blessing, even life forevermore.

Narrator 2

Narrator 1: Behold how good and how pleasant it is for Brethren to dwell together in unity:

Narrator 2: This message begins by telling us to observe, take note, be sure that we understand, and examine closely the joy and pleasure that results from unity and harmony among Brethren.

Narrator 1: It is like the precious ointment upon the head,

Narrator 1: that ran down upon the beard, even Aaron’s beard, that went down to the skirts of his garment:

Narrator 1: As the dew of Hermon,

Narrator 1: And as the dew that descended upon the mountains of Zion, for there the Lord commanded the blessing, even life forevermore.

Fellowcraft Circumambulation

Taken and paraphrased from the August 1999 Masonic Services Association Short Talk Bulletin.

This short program utilizes two narrators at separate locations within the Lodge and far enough apart so that they have to speak loudly for each other to hear, thus allowing everyone in the Lodge to hear. Choose narrators who speak loudly and read well. Obviously, this program can be done by you and one other if you desire, but often the more people involved, the more interesting for the Brethren. This program is provided in three copies. One is for you, and the two others for individual narrators. The program is designed to be a reading of the Biblical passage, followed by an interpreted meaning. You will note that each narrator’s copy is highlighted for his reading portion and is to be alternated. between them.

District Rep: How many times have we sat and listened to the circumambulation ritual of the FC degree and really thought of what it was communicating? The following is an explanation of that ritual. This circumambulation, as in the other degrees, is a Bible passage. This one is taken from: Amos 7:7-8

Narrator 1: To fully understand this circumambulation, we need to give you some background information: God delivered the nation of Israel from slavery in Egypt about 1270 B.C. by many miracles, signs and wonders including:

The Egyptian plagues;
The parting of the waters of the Red Sea;
Moses' meeting with God on Mount Sinai to receive the stone tablets containing the Ten Commandments;
Bringing water from a rock to quench their thirst;
Giving them manna from heaven for food;
Not letting their clothes wear out in forty years;
Parting the waters of the Jordan River;
Bringing them into the land of Canaan, the "promised land," and defeating the idol worshippers who lived there.

Narrator 2: After all these and many other miracles, the Israelites continued to be an obstinate and disobedient people. God tried on numerous occasions to bring them back into fellowship with Him. They would usually say they would obey Him, God would forgive them, and then they would revert to their wicked ways.

Narrator 1: Amos was a Judean shepherd in the middle 700s B.C. when he was chosen to be a prophet of God. His main calling was to warn the people of Israel of their impending destruction if they failed to repent their sins.

Narrator 2: Then, in the days of Amos, some five hundred years after the Exodus, the Israelites had sunk to an all time moral and spiritual low. The nation was prosperous, but its prosperity was based on selfishness, unfairness to the poor, robbery, theft and murder. The people practiced a token worship of God, but they perverted true worship by paying homage to pagan gods and idols. There was a complete lack of mercy and justice and absolutely no regard for human life.

. Narrator 1: We will now explain the meaning of the circumambulation text: Thus He shewed me; and behold the Lord stood upon a wall made by a plumb line, with a plumb line in His hand.

Narrator 2: It was at this time that God, through Amos, told them that He will "Set a plumb line in the midst of them";

Narrator 1: And the Lord said unto me, 'Amos, what seest thou?' And I said, 'A plumb line.'

Narrator 2: This was to set a standard of uprightness and justice for them:

Narrator 1: Thus saith the Lord, 'Behold, I will set a plumb line in the midst of my people Israel. I will not again pass by them anymore.'

Narrator 2: God would not overlook their sins anymore. True to form, the people of Israel, being complacent in their prosperity, did not heed Amos' warning. As a result, Jerusalem was destroyed, and the people enslaved in Assyria in 722 B.C.

Narrator 1: This lesson admonishes us that while God is forgiving, there is a limit to his patience.

Narrator 2: This Scripture was probably chosen because of its reference to the” plumb," which is one of the working tools of the Fellowcraft Degree. The plumb is an instrument used by ancient and modem craftsmen to determine whether an object is perfectly upright or perpendicular; it has, therefore, become an emblem of the spiritual and moral uprightness so essential in Masonry.

Narrator 1 Copy

The Egyptian plagues;
Parting the waters of the Red Sea;

Moses' meeting with God on Mount Sinai to receive the stone
tablets containing the Ten Commandments;

Bringing water from a rock to quench their thirst;
Giving them manna from heaven for food;
Not letting their clothes wear out in forty years;
Parting the waters of the Jordan River;
Bringing them into the land of Canaan, the "promised land," and defeating the idol worshippers who lived there.

Narrator 1: We will now explain the meaning of the circumambulation text: “Thus He showed me; and behold the Lord stood upon a wall made by a plumb line, with a plumb line in His hand".

Narrator 2: It was at this time that God, through Amos, told them that He will "Set a plumb line in the midst of them";

Narrator 1: “And the Lord said unto me, 'Amos, what seest thou?' And I said, 'A plumb line’.”

Narrator 2: This was to set a standard of uprightness and justice for them:

Narrator 1: “Thus saith the Lord, 'Behold, I will set a plumb line in the midst of my people Israel. I will not again pass by them anymore’.”

Narrator 1: This lesson admonishes us that while God is forgiving, there is a limit to his patience.

Narrator 2 Copy

The Egyptian plagues;
Parting the waters of the Red Sea;
Moses' meeting with God on Mount Sinai to receive the stone tablets containing the Ten Commandments;
Bringing water from a rock to quench their thirst;
Giving them manna from heaven for food;
Not letting their clothes wear out in forty years;
Parting the waters of the Jordan River;
Bringing them into the land of Canaan, the "promised land," and defeating the idol worshippers who lived there.

Narrator 1: We will now explain the meaning of the circumambulation text: “Thus He showed me; and behold the Lord stood upon a wall made by a plumb line, with a plumb line in His hand”.

Narrator 2: It was at this time that God, through Amos, told them that He will "Set a plumb line in the midst of them";

Narrator 1: “And the Lord said unto me, 'Amos, what seest thou?' And I said, 'A plumb line’.”

Narrator 2: This was to set a standard of uprightness and justice for them:

Narrator 1: “Thus saith the Lord, 'Behold, I will set a plumb line in the midst of my people Israel. I will not again pass by them anymore’.”

Narrator 1: This lesson admonishes us that while God is forgiving, there is a limit to his patience.

FELLOWCRAFT DEGREE: A Refresher Quiz

This quiz can be used by the District Educational Representative (or any member of the Lodge Education Committee) for presentation in open lodge to all FC masons and above at a stated meeting when there is no work. You should have made contact to the Master prior to the meeting to request 10-15 minutes for this educational session. Work with the lodge Educational Coordinator. Ensure that what you planned hasn't already been given recently. No materials need be distributed. You may stand anywhere you feel comfortable and can audibly reach everyone.

Why were you required to 'learn' the EA lesson? Ans. To demonstrate proficiency at the first level before taking on new responsibilities.
How many times:
1. were you asked, "Who comes here?" at each station?
2. did you circumambulate (circle the Altar)? Ans. Two
What officer received you into a FC lodge? Ans. Senior Deacon
Which officer prepared you to receive the obligation? Ans. Senior Warden
What position did you assume at the altar to receive the FC obligation? Ans. Kn on my na ri kn, my le le fo a sq, my bo er, my ri ha re on th HB, S an C, my le ar fo a sq.
1. Which officer gave you the obligation? Ans. The Master
2. Was it of your own free will and accord that you took the obligation? Ans. Yes
To what symbolic penalty did you swear for revealing the se of a FC? Ans. To ha my le br to op, my he ta fr th, an gi to the be of th fi an fo of th ai as a pr
In what position did you find the 3 Gr Lt after receiving light? Ans. 1 po of th co el ab th sq, th ot be hi, de th as ye I ha re li, bu pa
1. Which officer explained to you the grip of a FC? Ans. WM Which officer assisted him? Ans. SD What is the name of that grip? Ans. Ja
2. What does it represent? Ans. The ri ha pi of th po of KST
3. Explain the due guard and sign of a FC.
4. Ans. DG: Yo fe fo an an of an ob sq; ri ha re on HB, S an C; le ar fo a sq; Sign: diag. sl ac br from le to ri; al to th pe of th ob
5. Who explained to you how wear your apron as a FC? Ans. Senior Warden
6. How should it be worn? Ans. With flap turned up and corner tucked up
What are the three working tools of a FC? Ans. Plumb, square, and level

What do they teach? Ans. The plumb teaches us to walk uprightly in all our transactions with mankind; to square our actions by the square of virtue, and remembering that we are all traveling on that level of time from whose borne no traveler returns.

13. After being reinvested, you returned to the lodge room and received the "carpet" lecture. Which officer generally gives this lecture?

Ans. Senior Deacon

What does this lecture represent?
Ans. A regular advance of a flight of winding stairs consisting of 3, 5, and 7 steps to a place representing the middle chamber of King Solomon's Temple.
To what does the number 3 allude? Ans. The first three degrees in masonry; the three principal officers of a lodge who are representatives of our three ancient grand masters, Solomon, King of Israel, Hiram, King of Tyre, and Hiram Abiff.
To what does the number 5 allude? Ans. The 5 orders in architecture; Tuscan, Doric, Ionic, Corinthian, Composite

Of these what are the three ancient and original orders of architecture? Ans. Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian, which were invented by the Greeks.

What nation was responsible for the other two? Ans. Rome

To what does the number 5 also allude? Ans. The five senses of human nature: hearing, seeing, feeling, smelling and tasting.
Which of these are most revered by masons? Ans. The first three because by the sense of hearing, we hear the Word; by the sense of seeing, we perceive the sign; and by the sense of feeling we receive the grip whereby one mason may know another as well in the night as in the day.
To what does the number 7 allude? Ans. Seven liberal arts and sciences: grammar, rhetoric, logic, arithmetic, geometry, music, and astronomy.
Of these which is most esteemed by masons? Ans. Geometry
Which officer was symbolically guarding the outer door of the middle chamber of KST? Ans. Junior Warden

What story was told you at the outer door by the Senior Deacon? Ans. Battle between the Ephemites and Jeptha's men of Gilead, and adoption of the pass.

What is the name of that pass? Ans. Sh
Why was it adopted by the fraternity to enter a FC lodge? Ans. It identified enemies in the battle because of their inability to pronounce it right.
Which officer was symbolically guarding the inner door to the middle
chamber of KST? Ans. Senior Warden
Which officer symbolically presided in the middle chamber? Ans. The Master
The Master gave you a short talk about the letter G. To what does that
allude? Ans. The science of geometry and God
Whom did the Master direct to record you as a Fellowcraft? Ans. Secretary
A charge was given to you, usually by an experienced master mason. What
was it? Ans. A short recap of the degree, some Masonic history, and an outline of your responsibilities as a Fellowcraft mason.
Upon entering and retiring from a opened lodge of FC, what should you do? Ans. Fa the ea fr be th al; gi th dg twd the WM

NOTES ON THE FELLOWCRAFT REFRESHER QUIZ

It is meant to be presented as an oral quiz by the District Educational Representative to lodge members evoking an answer by voluntary response from the floor. Some questions are obvious and ridiculously easy; others require some thought and recall. None are meant to embarrass anyone. Keep the pace lively and make it a "fun" session.
Allow enough time to elaborate or expand on the answer provided, as you feel proficient. You may want to refer to the Maine Masonic Textbook and /or cipher to clear up a point, but that should not be necessary.
This quiz may be shortened, lengthened, or modified in any way to ensure interest is maintained, fit in with your own expertise, or abide by lodge time constraints. In its present form it has taken two sessions of about 10 minutes each to cover the quiz, (of course, depending on how deeply the discussions proceed).
You will probably find many brethren who are far more knowledgeable than you in this degree. This is to be expected. Don't let it bother you; move on to the next question. Try not to let "ritualists" dominate discussion, but try to involve everyone.
You will have had a successful session if you have held members' interest and quiz was educational and enjoyable.

Masonic Education Program For Masons and Prospective Masons

A brief sample of what a Mason could tell a Non-Mason about the Craft. As Adapted From the Program Written by V.W. Bro. Tim Martel For the M.E.A.L.S. Committee

This short program briefly describes what a Mason could say about Masonry to a Non-Mason about the Craft. Situations present themselves almost everyday for Masons to talk about the Craft to Non-Masons. Sometimes a potential candidate, a family member, a friend or co-worker, will ask a Mason that he knows to tell him what Masonry is all about. Other times, a Mason recognizes that a particular person is the type of man that would make a good Mason & wants to tell him about Masonry but doesn’t say anything because he doesn’t know what he can or should say to the un-initiated. Situations like these are wonderful opportunities to present some well-established facts about Masonry to the public that could possibly clear up some misunderstandings about the Craft and could even result in the submission of an application for membership. The setting for this skit could be inside or outside of the lodge room. Two participants are required. One to play the role of the Mason and the other to play the role of a potential Mason (all good men who are currently Non-Masons are potential Masons in my eyes).

Non-Mason: Tom, I couldn’t help but notice your ring. Isn’t it a Masonic ring?

Mason: Yes it is Bill and thanks for asking. I am very proud to be a Mason. I have been a Mason for several years and I really enjoy it.

Non-Mason: I have always heard that Masonry is very secretive and nobody seems to be willing to talk about it. What is Masonry all about or can’t you talk about it either?

Mason: Yes Bill, I will be glad to talk about it. First of all, Masonry is he oldest, largest and most well known fraternity in the world. Some of the better-known Masons are: President George Washington, President Truman, President Ford, Winston Churchill, Rudyard Kipling, Mark Twain, Wolfgang Mozart. A well know Maine Mason was Civil War General, Maine Governor and President of Bowdoin College, Joshua Chamberlain and many others too numerous to mention. Nobody really knows just how old Masonry actually is but tradition and legend have traced its origins back to the building of King Solomon’s Temple in the 10^th Century B.C. Evolution of the Masonic fraternity can be traced from the associations or guilds of operative stonemasons in the Middle Ages who worked and traveled throughout Europe employing the secrets and skills of their craft to build beautiful cathedrals. Many of those beautiful buildings still stand today. By the 17^th Century most of the cathedrals had been built and some of the guilds or lodges of operative Masons began to accept honorary members or men who were not of the stonemason’s craft. This trend changed the fraternity from strictly Operative Masons to the Speculative or symbolic Masonry that exists worldwide today. Organized Freemasonry came to America in 1733, when the Grand Lodge of England formed a Provincial Grand Lodge in Boston. This body was responsible for the formation of lodges in many parts of New England and elsewhere in North America. Maine’s first lodge was formed in Falmouth (now Portland) in 1769. It was Falmouth Lodge #1 and is called Triangle Lodge #1 today. There are approximately 24,000 Masons in Maine today.

Non-Mason: WOW! You sure know a lot about Masonry, but why is it so secretive?

Mason: Masonry really isn’t very secretive. We are a men’s fraternity that has some signs and words that allow us to positively identify fellow Masons, regardless of their age, occupation, race, or culture.

Non-Mason: I have heard people say that Masonry is a religion. Is that true?

Mason: No, Masonry is not a religion. All Masons believe in a supreme being and we accept members from all religions. We start and conclude every meeting with a prayer but since Masonry in an inclusive fellowship, a candidate for membership may take his obligations upon that book which is to him the volume of the Sacred Law. In this Grand Jurisdiction the volume of the Sacred Law is generally the Holy Bible.

Non-Mason: That sounds pretty good. Is there anything else that I should know about Masonry?

Mason: Yes Bill, there are a few more things that I think that you should know. Masons are very proud citizens & we pledge allegiance to the flag of our country at the beginning of every meeting. We promise to obey the laws of our country and we promise to treat all people with respect and dignity. We promise to live by the “Good Book” and we are more interested in the internal characteristics of a man than the external. Furthermore, we are encouraged to practice faith, hope and charity in all of our dealings with mankind. If you wish to know more, I will get you an informational packet that will provide further information about Masonry.

Non-Mason: Thanks for answering my questions Tom. The more I hear about Masonry the more it interests me. I would really appreciate it if you could get me that informational packet. Who knows, maybe I will submit an application for membership.

Non-Mason: Tom, I couldn’t help but notice your ring. Isn’t it a Masonic ring?

Mason: Yes it is Bill and thanks for asking. I am very proud to be a Mason.

I have been a Mason for several years and I really enjoy it.

Non-Mason: I have always heard that Masonry is very secretive and nobody seems to be willing to talk about it. What is Masonry all about or can’t you talk about it either?

Non-Mason: WOW! You sure know a lot about Masonry, but why is it so secretive?

Non-Mason: I have heard people say that Masonry is a religion. Is that true?

Non-Mason: That sounds pretty good. Is there anything else that I should know about Masonry?

Meaning of the Master Mason Degree

Circumambulation Ritual

Taken from the August, 1999 MSA Short Talk Bulletin, and the Masonic Bible published by Heirloom Bible Publishers

District Educational Representative Copy

District Rep or Narrator 1: We have all listened to the circumambulation ritual during the Master Mason degree, but most Masons do not stop to think about the symbolic meaning or significance of this Biblical passage which is the Book of Ecclesiastes 12:1-7. This is also the page of the Bible that is open during a Master Mason’s Lodge. This passage is a description of man’s passage from living through physical decline to the final stages of his death. There are other interpretations of this passage, but this one appears frequently in contemporary writings

Narrator 1: REMEMBER now thy Creator: Narrator 2: We should reverence, honor, glorify, and worship God

Narrator 1: In the Days of Thy Youth:

Narrator 2: We should honor God throughout all the days of our life

Narrator 1: While the Evil Days come not:

Narrator 2: We have not yet reached that point in time where the rigors of old age have arrived.

Narrator 1: Nor the YEARS DRAW NIGH:

Narrator 2: The time of death has not yet arrived

Narrator 1: When thou shall say,” I HAVE NO PLEASURE IN THEM”:

Narrator 2: This refers to the sadness of old age as we near that time in our life.

Narrator 1: While the sun, or the light , or the moon or the stars BE NOT DARKENED, nor the CLOUDS RETURN after the rain: :

Narrator 2: This refers to the storm clouds of old age which are just arriving in this parable..

Narrator 1: In the days when the KEEPERS OF THE HOUSE shall tremble:

Narrator 2: The keepers of the house are the hands and arms. The house represents the body. Our hands and arms are shaking due to old age.

Narrator 1: And the STRONG MEN shall bow themselves: Narrator 2: Our legs are becoming crooked or bowed. We are becoming bow- legged.

Narrator 1: And the GRINDERS cease because they are few:

Narrator 2: The grinders are our teeth. This refers to missing teeth caused by old age.

Narrator 1. And those that look out of the WINDOWS be darkened: Narrator 2: Refers to our eyes becoming weak with old age.

Narrator 1: And the DOORS shall be shut in the streets: Narrator2: Our hearing is failing.

Narrator 1: When the SOUND OF GRINDING is low: Narrator 2: Our teeth are nearly gone. This pertains to toothless chewing.

Narrator 1: And he shall RISE UP at the voice of a bird:

Narrator 2: We are having trouble sleeping. We get up early when the birds begin to sing at first light.

Narrator 1: And all the DAUGHTERS OF MUSIC shall be brought low: Narrator 2: Our voice is failing and we can no longer sing.

Narrator 1: Also when they shall be AFRAID of that which is HIGH:

Narrator 2: We now have a fear of heights and fear of falling due to our advancing years that we didn’t have when we were young.

Narrator 1: And FEARS shall be in the Way:

Narrator 2: We have reached the point in our lives that we fear many things due to not being able to defend ourselves.

Narrator 1: And the ALMOND TREE shall flourish:

Narrator 2: Our hair has turned white with age. The almond tree is all white when in full bloom is as is the hair on an old man’s head.

Narrator 1: And the GRASSHOPPER shall be a burden:

Narrator 2: We have become so weak, that even the weight of a grasshopper is difficult for us to bear.

Narrator 1: And Desire shall fail:

Narrator 2: We have reached that point in our declining years where we just doesn’t care about anything anymore.

Narrator 1: Because man goeth to his LONG HOME:

Narrator 2: This is the point in this parable where we go to our grave and heaven..

Narrator 1: And the MOURNERS go about the Streets:

Narrator 2: This refers to the funeral procession that is held after we die.

Narrator 1: Or ever the SILVER CORD be loosed or the GOLDEN BOWL be broken:

Narrator 2: The silver cord is the spinal marrow; being loosed is the cessation of nerve function from the Golden Bowl (the brain) due to the death of the old man.

Narrator 1: Or the Pitcher be broken at the FOUNTAIN or the WHEEL broken at the CISTERN:

Narrator 2: The pitcher is the great vein, which carries blood to the right ventricle of the heart, which is called the FOUNTAIN. The Wheel represents the great artery, which carries the blood from the left ventricle of the heart, which is called the CISTERN.

Narrator 1: Then shall the DUST return to the earth as it was:

Narrator 2: Refers to that from which God created man. As from dust we came, so unto it we must all return.

Narrator 1: And the Spirit shall return unto God who gave it:

Narrator 2: Genesis 2:7 tells us that God formed man from the dust of the earth and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life and man became a living soul. At the time of death, man ceases to exist on earth and his spirit returns to God, who gave it to him in the first place.

NARRATOR 1 COPY

Narrator 1: REMEMBER now thy Creator: Narrator 2: We should reverence, honor, glorify, and worship God

Narrator 1: In the Days of Thy Youth:

Narrator 2: We should honor God throughout all the days of our life

Narrator 1: While the Evil Days come not:

Narrator 2: We have not yet reached that point in time where the rigors of old age have arrived.

Narrator 1: Nor the YEARS DRAW NIGH:

Narrator 2: The time of death has not yet arrived

Narrator 1: When thou shall say,” I HAVE NO PLEASURE IN THEM”:

Narrator 2: This refers to the sadness of old age as we near that time in our life.

Narrator 1: While the sun, or the light, or the moon or the stars BE NOT DARKENED, nor the CLOUDS RETURN after the rain:

Narrator 2: This refers to the storm clouds of old age, which are just arriving in this parable.

Narrator 1: In the days when the KEEPERS OF THE HOUSE shall tremble:

Narrator 2: The keepers of the house are the hands and arms. The house represents the body. Our hands and arms are shaking due to old age.

Narrator 1: And the STRONG MEN shall bow themselves: Narrator 2: Our legs are becoming crooked or bowed. We are becoming bow- legged.

Narrator 1: And the GRINDERS cease because they are few:

Narrator 2: The grinders are our teeth. This refers to missing teeth caused by old age.

Narrator 1. And those that look out of the WINDOWS be darkened: Narrator 2: Refers to our eyes becoming weak with old age.

Narrator 1: And the DOORS shall be shut in the streets: Narrator2: Our hearing is failing.

Narrator 1: When the SOUND OF GRINDING is low: Narrator 2: Our teeth are nearly gone. This pertains to toothless chewing.

Narrator 1: And he shall RISE UP at the voice of a bird:

Narrator 2: We are having trouble sleeping. We get up early when the birds begin to sing at first light.

Narrator 1: And all the DAUGHTERS OF MUSIC shall be brought low: Narrator 2: Our voice is failing and we can no longer sing.

Narrator 1: Also when they shall be AFRAID of that which is HIGH:

Narrator 2: We now have a fear of heights and fear of falling due to our advancing years that we didn’t have when we were young.

Narrator 1: And FEARS shall be in the Way:

Narrator 2: We have reached the point in our lives that we fear many things due to not being able to defend ourselves.

Narrator 1: And the ALMOND TREE shall flourish:

Narrator 2: Our hair has turned white with age. The almond tree is all white when in full bloom is as is the hair on an old man’s head.

Narrator 1: And the GRASSHOPPER shall be a burden:

Narrator 2: We have become so weak, that even the weight of a grasshopper is difficult for us to bear.

Narrator 1: And Desire shall fail:

Narrator 2: We have reached that point in our declining years where we just doesn’t care about anything anymore.

Narrator 1: Because man goeth to his LONG HOME:

Narrator 2: This is the point in this parable where we go to our grave and heaven..

Narrator 1: And the MOURNERS go about the Streets:

Narrator 2: This refers to the funeral procession that is held after we die.

Narrator 1: Or ever the SILVER CORD be loosed or the GOLDEN BOWL be broken:

Narrator 2: The silver cord is the spinal marrow; being loosed is the cessation of nerve function from the Golden Bowl (the brain) due to the death of the old man.

Narrator 1: Or the Pitcher be broken at the FOUNTAIN or the WHEEL broken at the CISTERN:

Narrator 1: Then shall the DUST return to the earth as it was:

Narrator 2: Refers to that from which God created man. As from dust we came, so unto it we must all return.

Narrator 1: And the Spirit shall return unto God who gave it:

NARRATOR 2 COPY

Narrator 1: REMEMBER now thy Creator:

Narrator 2: We should reverence, honor, glorify, and worship God

Narrator 1: In the Days of Thy Youth:

Narrator 2: We should honor God throughout all the days of our life.

Narrator 1: While the Evil Days come not:

Narrator 2: We have not yet reached that point in time where the rigors of old age have arrived.

Narrator 1: Nor the YEARS DRAW NIGH:

Narrator2: The time of death has not yet arrived

Narrator 1 When thou shall say,” I HAVE NO PLEASURE IN THEM”:

Narrator 2: This refers to the sadness of old age as we near that time in our life.

Narrator 1. While the sun, or the light, or the moon or the stars BE NOT DARKENED, nor the CLOUDS RETURN after the rain:

Narrator2: This refers to the storm clouds of old age, which are just arriving in this parable.

Narrator 1: In the days when the KEEPERS OF THE HOUSE shall tremble: Narrator 2: The keepers of the house are the hands and arms. The house represents the body. Our hands and arms are shaking due to old age.

Narrator 1: And the STRONG MEN shall bow themselves:

Narrator 2: Our legs are becoming crooked or bowed. We are becoming bow-legged.

Narrator 1: And the GRINDERS cease because they are few:

Narrator 2: The grinders are our teeth. This refers to missing teeth caused by old age.

Narrator 1: And those that look out of the WINDOWS be darkened: Narrator 2: Refers to our eyes becoming weak with old age.

Narrator 1: And the DOORS shall be shut in the streets: Narrator 2: Our hearing is failing.

Narrator 1: When the SOUND OF GRINDING is low: Narrator 2: Our teeth are nearly gone. This pertains to toothless chewing.

Narrator 1:And he shall RISE UP at the voice of a bird :

Narrator 2: We are having trouble sleeping. We get up early when the birds begin to sing at first light.

Narrator 1: And all the DAUGHTERS OF MUSIC shall be brought low:

Narrator 2: Our voice is failing and we can no longer sing.

Narrator 1: Also when they shall be AFRAID of that which is HIGH: Narrator 2: We now have a fear of heights and fear of falling due to our advancing years that we didn’t have when we were young.

Narrator 1: And FEARS shall be in the Way:

Narrator 2: We have reached the point in our lives that we fear many things due to not being able to defend ourselves.

Narrator 1: And the ALMOND TREE shall flourish:

Narrator 2: Our hair has turned white with age. The almond tree is all white when in full bloom as is the hair on an old man’s head.

Narrator 1: And the GRASSHOPPER shall be a burden: Narrator 2: We have become so weak, that even the weight of a grasshopper is difficult for us to bear.

Narrator 1: And Desire shall fail:

Narrator 2: We have reached that point in our declining years where we just doesn’t care about anything anymore.

Narrator 1: Because man goeth to his LONG HOME:

Narrator 2: This is the point in this parable where we go to our grave and heaven..

Narrator 1: And the mourners go about the Streets:

Narrator 2: This refers to the funeral procession that is held after we die.

Narrator 1: Or ever the SILVER CORD be loosed or the GOLDEN BOWL be broken:

Narrator 2: The silver cord is the spinal marrow; being loosed is the cessation of nerve function from the Golden Bowl (the brain) due to the death of the old man.

Narrator 1: Or the Pitcher be broken at the FOUNTAIN or the WHEEL broken at the CISTERN: Narrator 2: The pitcher is the great vein, which carries blood to the right ventricle of the heart, which is called the FOUNTAIN. The Wheel represents the great artery, which carries the blood from the left ventricle of the heart, which is called the CISTERN.

Narrator 1: Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was: Narrator 2: Refers to that from which God created man. As from dust we came, so unto it we must all return.

Narrator 1: And the Spirit shall return unto God who gave it: Narrator 2: Genesis 2:7 tells us that God formed man from the dust of the earth and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life and man became a living soul. At the time of death, man ceases to exist on earth and his spirit returns to God, who gave it to him in the first place.

MASTER MASON: A Refresher Quiz

This quiz can be used by the District Educational Representative (or any member

of the Lodge Education Committee) for presentation in open lodge to all MM

masons such as at a stated meeting when there is no work. You should have

made contact to the Master prior to the meeting to request 10-15 minutes for this

educational session. Work with the lodge Educational Coordinator. Ensure that

what you planned hasn't already been given recently. No materials need be

distributed. You may stand anywhere you feel comfortable and can audibly

reach everyone. You should be sure that you can read and understand all cipher

in this quiz before use.

NOTES ON THE MASTER MASON REFRESHER QUIZ

This is meant to be presented as an oral quiz by the District Educational Representative to lodge members evoking an answer by voluntary response from the floor. Some questions are obvious and ridiculously easy; others require some thought and recall. None are meant to embarrass anyone. Keep the pace lively and make it a "fun" session.
Take some time to read through this presentation before presenting it in Lodge. There are parts of questions and answers in cipher.
Allow enough time to elaborate or expand on the answer provided, as you feel proficient. You may want to refer to the Maine Masonic Textbook and /or cipher to clear up a point, but that should not be necessary.
This quiz may be shortened, lengthened, or modified in any way to ensure interest is maintained, fit in with your own expertise, or abide by lodge time constraints
You will probably find many brethren who are far more knowledgeable than you in this degree. This is to be expected. Don't let it bother you; move on to the next question. Try not to let "ritualists" dominate discussion, but try to involve everyone.
You will have had a successful session if you have held members' interest and quiz was educational and enjoyable.
How should a candidate be prepared to be made a Master Mason? Ans. By be de of al mis an mes, ne na no cl, ba-fo, ho-wi, wi a ca-to th ti ar hi na bo, an we hi ap as a F.C.
How many times were you asked, "Who comes here?" raps on the door, did
you circumambulate (circle the Altar)? Ans. Th
What is the password of a Master Mason? Ans. Tu
The candidate is received into the Lodge by the _______ on both ________
which is to remind him that ___________? Ans. SD; pos of th Co; as th vi pri of li is cotd wi th br, so ar th mot vae te of ma cotd wi th pos of th Co, wh te Fr, Mo an Br-lo.
After passing an examination at each station the W.M. ask several questions: Your answers? Ans. Fr wh co yo? Fr th W. Wh ar yo tr? To-ar th Ea. Of wh ar yo in pu? Of th wh is lo, an wh by my ow ens an yo as, I am in ho to fi. To wh di yo al? To th set of a M.M.
What position did you assume at the altar to receive the MM obligation? Ans. Kn on bo my na kn, my bo er, bo ha re on th H.B.0S. an Cs.
On receiving light, how did you find the 3GLs?? Ans. Bo po of th Co el ab th Sq.
Of what does that remind you? Ans. Th I shd ne lo si of th mo ap of tht us in, wh tes Fr, Mo and Br-lo.
What is the due-guard of a M.M,? To what does it allude? Ans. (Give) Th ma in wh my ha we pl wh I re th ob.

What is the sign of a M.M.? To what does it allude? Ans. (Give) To th pe of my ob, ra to ha my bo se in tw, th re th ses of th
de un.

Wh wa Tu Ca? Ans. Th fi kn cu ar an cu wo in mes.
On entering or retiring from an opened Lodge of M.M., what should you do ? Ans. Go to th re of al, fa th W.M., an gi th du-ga.
What are the working tools of a MM? Ans. Al th im of Ma in, bu mo es th tr.
How is it explained operatively? Speculatively? Ans. Operatively – Th tr is an in ma us of by op ma to sp th ce wh un th bu ino on co ma. Speculatively -We ar ta to ma us of it fo th mo no an gl pu of sp th ce of Br-lo an Af, tht ce wh un us in on sa ba, or so of fr an Br, am whm no co shd ev ex, sa tht no co, or ra em, of wh be ca wo an be ag
15. After the candidate was led out to be reinvested what time was it?
Ans. Hi tw.
What usually happens in a Lodge at that time? Ans. It is called from labor to refreshment.
What officer takes charge of the Lodge at this time, by order of the W.M.?? Ans. JW.
Who wanted to build the temple? Why didn’t he? Wh did? Ans. Da, Ki of Is. He was a man of war, his hands stained with blood. So.
What two other key men did Solomon use in the building of KST? Ans. Hiram, King of Tyre and Hiram Abiff.
Solomon and the two Hirams composed what? Ans. The first Grand Lodge at Jerusalem.
In the second section, the candidate represents who? Ans. Hi Ab
What two things did he usually do at hi tw? Ans. Of up hi ad to di. Dr des on th tr-bo.
Why did the ruffians accost him? Ans. To ob th ses of a M.M.
Why did they expect to receive them? Ans. They were promised them, at th co of th Te.
Th se we to be gi on in th pr of ________? Ans. Th, So, Ki of Is, Hi Ki of Ty, Hi Ab.

Who were the ruffians? Location? Implement?
Ans. FR Ja So Ga 24 in ga SR Jo We Ga Sq TR Jm Ea Ga Co Ga

How many FCs conspired? Ans. Fi.
What was first done with the body of Hiram?? Ans. Bu in th ru of th te.
What happened at lo-tw? Ans. The three ruffians met to decide what to do with the body.
What did they decide? Ans. To co it a du we co fr th Te an bu in a gr si fe du ea an we an si fe pe.
How did they mark the grave and why? Ans. A sp of ac, sh oc re it.
How did the workmen discover Hiram’s absence? Ans. By th be no des dr on th tr-bo.
How many Fellowcrafts recanted? Ans. Tw
Why did they return? Ans. They had re on th at of th cr an we stk wi ho.
How were they clothed and why? Ans. In wh ap an gl, in to of th in.
To what did they confess? Ans. Their premeditated guilt in the plot.

KS ordered a search for the ruffians after ascertaining that they could not be
found in the temple. Where did he send the FCs? Ans.3E, 3W, 3N,3S

Which group obtained information? From whom? Ans. The group that traveled we. A wayfaring man.
How did the FCs find the ruffians? Ans. Sp of ac, vo in th cl of an ad ro im ve up th fo th mu of Hiram Abif.
What would have happened ti the FCs if they had not found them? Ans. They would have be de th mu of GMH an se su fo th cr co.
On finding the grave what happened with the FCs hands? Ans. Th fo th in ra to de th no fr th di af wh ar fr th gr.
How did the FCs identify the body? Ans. Th fo a je on it ne.
By what grip was Hiram finally, symbolically raised? Ans. By th st gr of a M.M. or Li pa.
What are the five points of fellowship? Ans. Fo to fo, kn to kn, br to br, ha to ba, ch to ch an mo to ea.
What is the great lesson of the M.M. degree? Ans. Immortality of the soul. Also building of the temple in one’s on heart/soul.

Nb. “Hiram Abiff really did exist. He was sent to assist Solomon by Hiram, King of Tyre. He was a skilled worker in brass and other metals. He actually lived to an old age and died of natural causes.

The Masonic Hiram Abiff was ‘born’ – and died to instill in the minds, hearts and souls of freemasons, the symbolic lessons of life.” Roberts

A MASONIC QUIZ

From the MSA digest.”At the Sound of the Gavel”

This program is a quiz, consisting of 15 questions of a Masonic nature and trivia given in a multiple answer format. Correct answers are given following each question. You may use all these questions or any part, depending on the time you have available and the length of discussion the questions generate. Be careful not to take too much time on any one question.

1. George Washington was Master of:

a. Alexandria Lodge No. 22

b. Alexandria-Washington Lodge No. 39

c. Fredricksburg Lodge No. 4

d. American Union Lodge No. 1

Answer.

George Washington was Master of “Alexandria Lodge #22.” He was not the Master of Alexandria-Washington Lodge for the sufficient reason that his own name was not added to Alexandria Lodge’s name until five years after his death. The Lodge was No. 39 under Charter of the Provincial Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania. In 1778, the lodge was re-chartered by the Grand Lodge of Virginia as Alexandria Lodge No. 22. In this new Charter, “George Washington, Late Commander in Chief of the forces of the United States” was named as the first, or Charter, Worshipful Master.

2. George Washington was raised a Master Mason in:

a. Alexandria Lodge No. 39

b. The Lodge at Fredricksburg

c. Fredricksburg Lodge No. 4

d. American Union Lodge

Answer.

George Washington was raised a Master Mason in “The Lodge at Fredricksburg.” Fredricksburg Lodge No. 4 is not correct, as Fredricksburg Lodge received its number from the Grand Lodge of Virginia. The Grand Lodge came into being in 1787. Washington was raised in 1753. Fredricksburg Lodge at that time had no charter from any Grand Body. It was one of those unique Colonial Lodges, which met “by immemorial custom” – merely a few brethren getting together and saying “ we are a Lodge.” Five years after Washington was raised, Fredricksburg Lodge received its first charter from the Grand Lodge of Scotland. Washington lived and died a member of two Lodges; he never separated from his Mother Lodge, even when becoming Charter Worshipful Master of Alexandria Lodge No. 22. Dual – in this case, plural – membership has always been permitted in Virginia.

3. George Washington was Grand Master of:

a.Virginia

b.Pennsylvania

c.NewJersey

d. Was not a Grand Master

Answer.

George Washington was not a Grand Master. He was proposed as Grand Master of Virginia in 1777, but declined on the dual grounds that he was too busy with affairs of national importance to accept private responsibility, and, as he had never been Master of a Lodge, he was not eligible. Washington was thrice proposed as General Grand Master of a General Grand Lodge of the United States, once by American Union (Army) Lodge in New jersey, (1779) and twice by the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, (1779 & 1780,) but declined the honor.

4. The first known Lodge in American was in:

a. Boston

b. Philadelphia

c. Savannah

d. New York

Answer.

The first known Lodge in America was in Philadelphia. The first “regularly constituted Lodge” was “The First Lodge in Boston” (now St. John’s). Other Lodges met under “immemorial custom” at earlier dates. No one knows exactly when the first of all colonial lodges met, only that it was some date earlier in the eighteenth century.

5. The two oldest Grand Lodges in the United States are:

a. Massachusetts and Pennsylvania

b. New Hampshire and Rhode Island

c. Virginia and Maryland

d. Georgia and New Jersey

Answer.

The two oldest Grand Lodges in the United States are Massachusetts and Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania in 1931 celebrated its two hundredth anniversary of Freemasonry; in 1933, Massachusetts celebrated its two hundredth anniversary.

6. The Boston Tea Party was staged by members of:

a. St. John’s Lodge

b. St. Andrews Lodge

c. American Union Lodge

d. King Solomon’s Lodge

Answer.

Members of St. Andrews Lodge of Boston staged the immemorial “Boston Tea Party.” The disguise as Indians and the raid on the ship was NOT arranged in Lodge, but supposedly, after the lodge at the Green Dragon Tavern. It is not known that all the participants on the “Tea Party” were members of the famous old Lodge, but that many of them were, and the patriotism of the Masons was responsible for this overt act of resistance to taxation tyranny, is undoubted.

7. The Book of Constitutions was first published in:

a. 1717

b. 1723

c. 1738

d. 1751

Answer.

The Book of Constitutions was first published in 1723. “Anderson’s Constitutions of 1723” of the Mother Grand Lodge of England were put into print under date of 1722, Old Style, or 1723, New Style Calendar. The title page bears the date “1723.” Unfortunately, Anderson’s text is not the original as adopted by the Mother Grand Lodge shortly after its formation 1717. But as it is the first and only version we have of whatever was actually adopted by the first Grand Lodge, it has become the foundation law of all Grand Lodges. A number of Grand Lodges consider the Ancient Landmarks to be those principals set forth in the “Old Charges” which form a part of Anderson’s Constitutions.

8. Grand Lodges assist in laying cornerstones:

a. When asked by civil authority

b. When requesting the privilege from Mayors or Governors

c. When members vote to do so

d. Never

Answer. A Grand Lodge never assists in laying a cornerstone. A Grand Lodge lays a cornerstone or has nothing to do with the ceremony. Not infrequently, non-Masons request a Grand Lodge to “assist” some other organization. Particular lodges may lay a cornerstone at the request of the Grand Master, and thus assist the Grand Body in its work, but the Grand Lodge never “assists.”

9. The length of a cable tow is:

a. ten feet

b. a hundred miles

c. three miles

d. a brothers reasonable ability

Answer.

The length of a cable tow is “reasonable ability.” The phrase was adopted at the Baltimore Masonic Convention of 1843, to define how far a cable tow stretched. In older days a cabletow was as long as an hour’s journey; roughly three miles. Today a brother must answer a summons if within “the scope of his reasonable ability.” In modern words, a cable tow is such length as to satisfy the individual brother’s conscience.

10. A cowan is:

a. an eavesdropper

b. a coward

c. a traitor

d. an uninstructed Mason

Answer. A cowan is an uninstructed Mason or a Mason without the word or a partially instructed Mason. A cowan is distinct from an eavesdropper, literally, one who listens at the eaves of a house. The eavesdropper tries to learn secrets to which he has no right. The cowan may be partly a Mason. In operative days a man who erected walls without mortar, or of unsquared stones, unskillful, was a cowan, or uninstructed Mason. A cowan may well be taught to be a Mason; an eavesdropper would never be taught. Today’s cowans are Masons dropped for

N.P.D. or Entered Apprentices or Fellowcrafts who have been stopped from further advancement.

11. A Hecatomb is:

a. a form of tomb

b. a sacrifice of 100 head of cattle

c. a hive of honey

d. a bag of gold

Answer.

A hecatomb is the sacrifice of a hundred head of cattle. Pythagoras was supposed to have sacrificed a hundred head of cattle to his gods, in delight of having erected the Forty-seventh problem of Euclid. The statement in the ritual however can hardly be found in fact. Pythagoras, eminent teacher and mathematician, born 586 BC, may, indeed, have discovered the mathematical wonder, which Euclid embodied in his geometry as the Forty-seventh problem; we know the Pythagoras was a vegetarian, reverenced animal life, and was poor. He could hardly have possessed a hundred head of cattle – riches in those days

- and even if he owned them, he would not have been so cruel as to kill them to mark his pleasure.

12. Lodges are numbered in every United States Grand Lodge, except in:

a. District of Columbia

b. Massachusetts

c. Nebraska

d. Wisconsin

Answer. Lodges are not numbered in Massachusetts; they are numbered in all other United States Grand Lodges. In Pennsylvania are twelve Lodges that have numbers but no names. Any man presenting a dues card from an alleged Massachusetts lodge, which bears a number, is self-confessedly spurious and clandestine. Massachusetts lodges have no numbers because of a happy compromise in early days when there was a dispute as to which lodges should have certain number; the result was no numbers for any lodge.

13. The Grand Lodge whose members can not belong to Eastern Star is:

a. NewYork

b. Pennsylvania

c. District of Columbia

d.Colorado

Answer. The Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania forbids its members to belong to the Eastern Star. A Grand Master of the Grand Jurisdiction issued an edict-forbidding members of Pennsylvania Lodges from joining, or remaining members of Eastern Star Chapters. The cause of the edict was explained as being improper activities of members of the Star in Masonic matters, notably Lodge elections. It was supposed that inasmuch as a Patron, who must be a Master Mason, is indispensable in an Eastern Star Chapter, the edict meant the death of the Order in the Keystone State. The reverse has proven true, since Chapters of the Order in Pennsylvania enlist the services of sojourning Masons as Patrons. Pennsylvania brethren report that the Eastern Star is flourishing in their jurisdiction, but the activities complained of have ceased.

14. The title of the first of the Old Charges is:

a. "Of Masters, Wardens, Fellows and Apprentices"

b. "Of Lodges"

c. "Concerning God and Religion"

d. "Of Civil Magistrates, supreme and subordinate"

Answer. The name of the first of the Old Charges is “Concerning God and Religion.” The first of the six Old Charges is vitally important as a fundamental law of the Ancient Craft, as it sets forth the non-doctrinal, non-sectarian character of Freemasonry, and states that the “natural religion in which all men agree” is important to Freemasons, leaving a man’s particular option as to his God and his religion to himself. This is the underlying law which makes Freemasonry universal; society in which Gentile and Jew, Parsee and Mohammedan, Christian and Buddhist may unite, provided all believe – as all do believe – in a Great Architect of the Universe.

15. The presidents who were Grand Masters were:

a. McKinleyand Harding

b. Washington and Madison

c. Jackson and Truman

d. Buchanan and Garfield

Answer. The Presidents that were Grand Masters are Andrew Jackson and Harry Truman. Jackson was Grand Master in Tennessee before he was President. Apparently, he was elected from the floor of his Grand Lodge, as there is no record of his having been Master of his Lodge. He was an honorary member of the Grand Lodge of Florida, of Federal Lodge No. 1, of the District of Columbia, and of Jackson Lodge No. 1, of Tallahassee, Florida. Truman is Past Grand Master of Missouri.

Masonic Protocol Program

Reception of First Time Visitors & What Happens When a Brother Arrives Late

As adapted from the Screen Play Written by Wor. David M. Blossom For the M.E.A.L.S. Committee

This short program deals briefly with First Time Visitors and What To Do If You Arrive Late To Lodge. It requires six Brothers taking parts as: Elder Brother (EB), New Mason (NM), Sr. Deacon, Wor. Master and two Brothers to be introduced as visitors. The EB, usually the District Representative, should read all parts pertaining to floor work. The setting should be in the Lodge Room with the EB and NM in a part of the Lodge such as the northeast near the Treasurers desk, with the other officers in their respective stations. (The Sign of Fidelity can be substituted for the Due-Guards, Signs and any other secret work if performed outside a tyled Lodge.)

NM: What will happen when I visit a Lodge for the first time, after I’ve been examined or avouched.

EB: In a good Lodge you will be introduced.

Scene: Lodge Room, Lodge is opened.

WM: Brother Senior Deacon, I will thank you to conduct our first-time visitors to the Altar.

SD: (Salutes with due guard then conducts two visitors to rear of Altar, where they salute) Worshipful Master, I have the pleasure of introducing to you Brother Charles Boynton, hailing from Sincerity Lodge, and Brothers Stanley Rozenkrantz and Robert Guildenstern, both of Magnanimous Lodge.

WM: *** My brothers, it gives me pleasure to introduce you to the members of Veracity Lodge and their visitors, and to welcome you to a seat among us. Brethren let us greet our visiting Brothers with a hearty welcome.

District Representative's Toolkit

Contents

The Constitution and Standing Regulations Of the Grand Lodge Of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons Of the State of Maine

Entered Apprentice Circumambulation

Fellowcraft Circumambulation

FELLOWCRAFT DEGREE: A Refresher Quiz

NOTES ON THE FELLOWCRAFT REFRESHER QUIZ

Masonic Education Program For Masons and Prospective Masons

Circumambulation Ritual

District Educational Representative Copy

NARRATOR 1 COPY

MASTER MASON: A Refresher Quiz

A MASONIC QUIZ

Masonic Protocol Program

Reception of First Time Visitors & What Happens When a Brother Arrives Late