Introduction

Facets of the Diamond At the present day, we find much uncertainty as to what Freemasonry is or means. Some call it a religion; others, merely religious. Some say its fundamental dogma is monotheism; others add immortality of the soul or even resurrection of the body; some consider it Christian; while still others aver that, fundamentally, it has no religious doctrine at all. Many think of it almost as a temperance society or one of pharisaic morality; {Sic} (meaning excessively or hypocritically pious); others as a patriotic society to uphold the flag, the Constitution, and the public schools. Not a few regard it as a charitable or benevolent institution, at least, expecting it to care for them in old age. Some look upon the lodge as a holy place; others as merely a private room where the ceremonies may be performed in secrecy. Some never tire of the ritual and have mastered it so thoroughly that the least slip of a word or phrase gives pain; others are soon surfeited and care little to hear it oft repeated. Many take the ritual literally; others symbolically; while a few, with no thought about it either way, perfect themselves in its rendition in order to gain that eminence which comes from passing through the chairs. Some see all sorts of meanings in the symbols; others see only the symbols themselves. Some become immersed in the history of the Fraternity; others in its philosophy of life; and a few work out of it a fine and exalting spirituality. Some sense a strong bond of brotherhood; others find only a social club or place to meet for diversion; some merely scent the aroma of a dinner; while some find nothing whatever in the order and soon lose contact with it. Surely, if Freemasonry is a jewel, it is a diamond with many facets.

Source: Conversations on Freemasonry by Henry Wilson Coil, Sr., 1976, Transactions of the Missouri Lodge of Research, Volume No. 32, page 11.

Contents

Chapter 1. History of the freemasons Chapter 2. Masonic membership Chapter 3. Organizational structure

Freemasons and freemasonry

Freemasonry is a global fraternity of men who believe in the brotherhood of Man under the Fatherhood of God. There are over 2,000,000 members of the fraternity, worldwide. Written documentation shows that Freemasonry is the oldest and largest existing fraternal organization in the world. Historically, Freemasons are builders. True Freemasons are respectful and tolerant of the opinions and religions of other Freemasons and non-Freemasons. They are taught to practice charity toward those who are less fortunate, not only by monetary gifts, but by their personal and united voluntary efforts. History of the freemasons In 1717, the first Grand Lodge of England was formed when four existing Masonic lodges merged together. Soon, a regulatory body was formed, which most of the Masonic lodges in England. joined. During this same time, a few lodges chose to start their own Grand Lodge, which was named the 'Antient Grand Lodge of England'. The two Grand Lodges competed to become the supreme Grand Lodge until in 1813, they agreed to unite to become the United Grand Lodge of England or U.G.L.E.. Afterward, Freemasonry spread across the globe, and within a few years, Grand Lodges were also formed in other countries. Grand Lodge Inception Dates of the Formation of the first Grand Lodges:

Grand Lodge of England - 1717 Grand Lodge of Ireland - 1725 Grand Orient de France - 1728 Grand Lodge of Massachusetts in the United States - 1733 (Via a Grand Lodge warrant, Henry Price was made the Provincial Grand Master of New England.) Grand Lodge of Scotland - 1736

First Grand Lodge - 1717 - The actual origin of Freemasonry is unknown because previous to 1717, when the 4 lodges in London merged together to form the first Grand Lodge of England, recorded documents are scarce. Therefore, after 1717, recorded Masonic documents are more complete. Many Masonic scholars theorize that the fraternity began with the stonemasons' guilds during the Middle Ages. These guilds were similar to trade unions.

Oldest Masonic Document - 1390 - The oldest known document which refers to (stone) "Masons" is the Regius Poem of 1390 A.D.. However, within the Regius Poem, reference is made to an earlier work which has never been found. Old Charges - Referred to as the Old Charges, these old manuscripts which are written in "Olde Englishe", form the foundation of subsequent Masonic charters. They are also known as the old Masonic constitutions, and are the basis for Masonic jurisprudence, yet today. Masonic Rituals - Much of the archaic (old) language within the rituals is not commonly used in the English language, today. Many of Freemasonry's symbols, too, which are used within the rituals, are more than 200 years old. With a better understanding of Masonic words, the meanings of the rituals become easier to understand. Freemasonry soon spread throughout Europe and was brought to the American colonies. Famous Colonial Freemasons - Many of the now famous names in colonial America, such as George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, Paul Revere, John Hancock, Lafayette, John Paul Jones, and many others were Freemasons who were instrumental in the founding and building of America.

Masonic membership Contrary to common misconception, joining Freemasonry is not by invitation only. In fact, in many jurisdictions, the brothers of the lodge are not allowed to ask potential candidates to join (in these jurisdictions, the brethren must wait for the potential candidate to inquire). Other jurisdictions allow for varying degrees of solicitation. However the initial introduction is made, the official process of becoming a Mason begins when a candidate for Freemasonry formally petitions a lodge. The brethren will then investigate the candidate, to assure themselves of his good character, and hold a secret ballot election (often using an old fashioned ballot box). The number of adverse votes needed to reject a candidate varies from jurisdiction to jurisdiction (in some, one "black ball" is enough to reject, in others up to three are required). Generally, to be accepted for initiation as a regular Freemason, a candidate must:

Be a man who comes of his own free will. Believe in a Supreme Being (the form of which is left to open interpretation by the candidate). Be at least the minimum age (from 1825 years old depending on the jurisdiction. In some jurisdictions the son of a Mason, known as a "Lewis," may join at an earlier age than others). Be of good morals, and of good reputation.

Be of sound mind and body (lodges had in the past denied membership to a man because of a physical disability; however, now, if a potential candidate says a disability will not cause problems, it will not be held against him). Be free-born (or "born free", i.e., not born a slave or bondsman).As with the previous, this is entirely an historical holdover, and can be interpreted in the same manner as it is in the context of being entitled to write a will. Some jurisdictions have removed this requirement. Be capable of furnishing character references, as well as one or two references from current Masons, depending on jurisdiction.

Some Grand Lodges in the United States have an additional residence requirement, candidates being expected to have lived within the jurisdiction for a certain period of time, typically six months. Having been elected and initiated, a member may subsequently resign from membership if he so desires. Additionally, the fraternity may either suspend or expel a member for cause. Since the adoption of Anderson's constitution in 1723, it has been accepted as fact by regular Masons that only men can be made Masons. Most Grand Lodges do not admit women because they believe it would violate the ancient Landmarks. While a few women, such as Elizabeth Aldworth, were initiated into British speculative lodges prior to 1723, officially regular Freemasonry remains exclusive to men. While women cannot join regular lodges, there are (mainly within the borders of the United States) many female orders associated with regular Freemasonry and its appendant bodies, such as the Order of the Eastern Star, the Order of the Amaranth, the White Shrine of Jerusalem, the Social Order of Beauceant and the Daughters of the Nile. These have their own rituals and traditions, but are founded on the Masonic model. In the French context, women in the 18th and 19th centuries had been admitted into what were known as "adoption lodges" in which they could participate in ritual life. However, men clearly saw this type of adoption Freemasonry as distinct from their exclusively male variety. Since the late 19th century, mixed gender lodges have met in France. In addition, there are many non-mainstream Masonic bodies that do admit both men and women or are exclusively for women. Co-Freemasonry admits both men and women, but it is held to be irregular because it admits women. The systematic admission of women into International Co-Freemasonry began in France in 1882. In more recent times, women have created and maintained separate Lodges, working the same rituals as the all male regular lodges. These Female Masons have founded lodges around the world, and these Lodges continue to gain membership.

There are some Masonic youth organizations as well. These youth organizations for people with family ties to Freemasonry provide children and young adults with supervised fun (dances, art projects, educational trips) and learning experiences which broaden their horizons as they grow toward adulthood. Some of these activities are learning how to budget and manage their finances, how to develop leadership skills and learn public speaking. Members also learn how to improve themselves and about the importance of charity toward those who are less fortunate than themselves. Religion is not taught. What is taught is respect and tolerance for people from all religions and ethnicities. Eligible members may also benefit from scholarships which are awarded by each of these organizations. There are some rules for joining a Masonic youth organization. These rules vary slightly by jurisdiction, however, members must be related to or a direct descendant of a Master Mason (currently living or deceased). In most jurisdictions, this includes a Master Mason's:

Biological and adopted children Half-brothers and half sisters Step-children Nieces and Nephews Grandchildren Grand nieces and nephews Cousins (first and second).

Order of DeMolay - The Order of DeMolay is a youth organization for boys which are between the ages of 12 and 21 years old. Boys must believe in a Supreme Being and wish to work towards becoming a man of good character. International Order of the Rainbow For Girls - The International Order of the Rainbow For Girls is a youth organization for girls which are between the ages of 12 and 20 years old. Girls must have faith in a Supreme Being and demonstrate hope and charity in their interactions with others.

Job's Daughters International - Job's Daughters International is a youth organization for girls which are between the ages of 10 and 20 years old. Girls must believe in a Supreme Being and want to make the world a better place. Girls participate in fun activities and projects, such as skating, bowling, dances, and trips. helping others, charitable service and giving back to the local community.

Organizational structure

Grand Lodges and Grand Orients are independent and sovereign bodies that govern Masonry in a given country, state, or geographical area (termed a jurisdiction).[11] There is no single overarching governing body that presides over worldwide Freemasonry; connections between different jurisdictions depend solely on mutual recognition.[12] Regular Masonic jurisdictions Regularity is a constitutional mechanism whereby Grand Lodges or Grand Orients give one another mutual recognition. This recognition allows formal interaction at the Grand Lodge level, and gives individual Freemasons the opportunity to attend Lodge meetings in other recognised jurisdictions. Conversely, regularity proscribes interaction with Lodges that are irregular. A Mason who visits an irregular Lodge may have his membership suspended for a time, or he may be expelled. For this reason, all Grand Lodges maintain lists of other jurisdictions and lodges they consider regular.[13] Grand Lodges and Grand Orients that afford mutual recognition and allow intervisitation are said to be in amity. As far as the UGLE is concerned, regularity is predicated upon adherence to a number of fundamental principals (known as Landmarks), set down in the UGLE Constitution and the Constitutions of those Grand Lodges with which they are in amity. Even within this definition there are some variations with the quantity and content of the Landmarks from jurisdiction to jurisdiction. Other Masonic groups organise differently.[14] Each of the two major branches of Freemasonry considers the Lodges within its branch to be "regular" and those in the other branch to be "irregular." As the UGLE branch is significantly larger, however, the various Grand Lodges and Grand Orients in amity with UGLE are commonly referred to as being "regular" (or "Mainstream") Masonry, while those Grand Lodges and Grand Orients in amity with GOdF are commonly referred to "liberal" or "irregular" Masonry. (The issue is complicated by the fact that the usage of "Lodge" versus "Orient" alone is not an indicator of which branch a body belongs to, and thus not an indication of regularity). The term "irregular" is also universally applied to various self created bodies that call themselves "Masonic" but are not recognised by either of the main branches. Masonic Lodge A Lodge (often termed a Private Lodge or Constituent Lodge in Masonic constitutions) is the basic organisational unit of Freemasonry. Every new Lodge must have a Warrant or Charter issued by a Grand Lodge, authorising it to meet and work. Except for the very

few "time immemorial" Lodges pre-dating the formation of a Grand Lodge, masons who meet as a Lodge without displaying this document (for example, in prisoner-of-war camps) are deemed "Clandestine" and irregular. A Lodge must hold regular meetings at a fixed place and published dates. It will elect, initiate and promote its members and officers; it will build up and manage its property and assets, including its minutes and records; and it may own, occupy or share its premises. Like any organisation, it will have formal business to manage its meetings and proceedings, annual general meetings and committees, charity funds, correspondence and reports, membership and subscriptions, accounts and tax returns, special events and catering, and so forth. The balance of activities is individual to each Lodge, and under their common constitutions and forms of procedure, Lodges evolve very distinctive traditions. A man can only be initiated, or made a Mason, in a Lodge, of which he may often remain a subscribing member for life. A Master Mason can generally visit any Lodge meeting under any jurisdiction in amity with his own, and as well as the formal meeting, a Lodge may well offer hospitality. A visitor should first check the regularity of that Lodge, and must be able to satisfy that Lodge of his own regularity; and he may be refused admission if adjudged likely to disrupt the harmony of the Lodge. If he wishes to visit the same Lodge repeatedly, he may be expected to join it and pay a subscription.

Most Lodges consist of Freemasons living or working within a given town or neighbourhood. Other Lodges are composed of Masons with a particular shared interest, profession or background. Shared schools, universities, military units, Masonic appointments or degrees, arts, professions and hobbies have all been the qualifications for such Lodges. In some Lodges, the foundation and name may now be only of historic interest, as over time the membership evolves beyond that envisaged by its "founding brethren"; in others, the membership remains exclusive. There are also specialist Lodges of Research, with membership drawn from Master Masons only, with interests in Masonic Research (of history,philosophy, etc.). Lodges of Research are fully warranted but, generally, do not initiate new candidates. Lodges of Instruction in UGLE may be warranted by any ordinary Lodge for the learning and rehearsal of Masonic Ritual. Freemasons correctly meet as a Lodge, not in a Lodge, the word "Lodge" referring more to the people assembled than the place of assembly. However, in common usage, Masonic premises are often referred to as "Lodges". Masonic buildings are also sometimes called "Temples" ("ofPhilosophy and the Arts"). In many countries, Masonic Centre or Hall has replaced Temple to avoid arousing prejudice and suspicion. Several different Lodges, as well as other Masonic or non-Masonic organisations, often use the same premises at different times. According to Masonic tradition, medieval European stonemasons would meet, eat, and shelter outside working hours in a Lodge on the southern side of a building site, where

the sun warms the stones during the day. The social Festive Board (or Social Board) [15] part of the meeting is thus sometimes called the South.[16] Early Lodges often met in a tavern or any other convenient fixed place with a private room. Lodge Officers Every Masonic Lodge elects certain officers to execute the necessary functions of the lodge's work. The Worshipful Master (essentially the lodge President) is always an elected officer. Most jurisdictions will also elect the Senior and Junior Wardens (Vice Presidents), the Secretary and the Treasurer. All lodges will have a Tyler, or Tiler, (who guards the door to the lodge room while the lodge is in session), sometimes elected and sometimes appointed by the Master. In addition to these elected officers, lodges will have various appointed officers such as Deacons, Stewards, and a Chaplain (appointed to lead a non-denominational prayer at the convocation of meetings or activities often, but not necessarily, a clergyman). The specific offices and their functions vary between jurisdictions. Many offices are replicated at the Provincial and Grand Lodge levels with the addition of the word 'Grand' somewhere in the title. For example, where every lodge has a 'Junior Warden', Grand Lodges have a 'Grand Junior Warden' (or sometimes 'Junior Grand Warden'). Additionally, there are a number of offices that exist only at the Grand Lodge level.[17]

Masonic Lodge Officer Duties and Responsibilities

Masonic Lodge Officers, as they move through the Masonic Officer Chairs, as in any organization, could not properly function without a leadership team which provides Masonic Officer Training. A successful organization's future depends upon how well this team of lodge officers work together to provide Masonic Officer training. In the business world, an organization is built around Presidents, Vice Presidents, General Managers, Regional Managers, Supervisors and Workers. Each position plays an important part in order for the organization to be profitable and successful. In essence, the Masonic Lodge Officer duties and Masonic Officer Training structure, much like their counterparts in the business world, shoulder the Lodge Officer Responsibilities which makes a lodge successful. Masonic Lodge Progressive Line: Lodge Officers are part of a "progressive line", which is also known as "going through the chairs" ...or as the Masonic Officer Chairs. This line of succession moves up one position at a time from one year to the next.

If no one asks to "step out of line" for any reason, 7 years from the time of becoming Junior Steward, the Master Mason will arrive at the chair of the Worshipful Master. The progression is as follows: Junior Steward, Senior Steward, Junior Deacon, Senior Deacon, Junior Warden, Senior Warden...and then Worshipful Master. The progressive line is used in the United States and in many other jurisdictions, as well. Lodge Elections: In the Masonic Lodge, the top five Lodge Officers are (in this order) the Worshipful Master, the Senior Warden, Junior Warden, Treasurer and Secretary are elected by the Lodge members at their annual elections. Normally each position is filled for one year, however they may be re-elected to the same position depending on the circumstance. Lodge elections are performed via a Masonic Ballot Box. Masonic Lodge Officer Duties For Their Term in Office: 1 Year Appointed Lodge Officer Positions: The other officers, which include the Senior Deacon, Junior Deacon, Senior Steward, Junior Steward, Marshal, Tiler and Chaplain are appointed positions by the Worshipful Master. Other members of the Masonic Lodge may be called on to serve on any of the numerous committees by the Worshipful Master. Lodge Officer Duties and Names: The duties and names of the officers are taken from very old customs dating back to the medieval stonemasons' guilds. Masonic Lodge Jewels: In England in the 1400s, under the reign of King Edward III, local (city) governments grew out of the merchant and craft industries in each city or town. After an operative Master stonemason created his "Master's Piece" to the satisfaction of the Master of his craft, or guild, he was considered a "Master Mason". Heads of the guilds became heads of their town councils, mayors, sheriffs, etc. During this time, one of the ways which a local official proclaimed his rank was by wearing a badge of office, or jewel, on a chain around his neck. The practice is still in use today in England. If you have ever watched a ceremony wherein a Lord Mayor (regular mayor in the United States) attends a formal ribbon cutting event, you would see an ornate necklace which is the medallion, signature of his office, around his neck. Masonic Lodge Officers carry over this ancient guild tradition, today, in the form of the symbolic "jewels" of their offices.

Masonic Lodge Officer Jewels Medallion Signature of Office

1. Worshipful Master- Lodge Officer Duties: His Jewel is the Square, which is a stonemason's tool to ascertain true and correct angles of the cut and smoothed stone...thus his Jewel symbolizes virtue. The Worshipful Master of a Masonic Lodge is the highest ranking of all Lodge Officers which a Lodge may elect. The Worshipful Master sits in the East of the Lodge room (symbolic of the Rising Sun in the East) and directs all of the business of the Lodge. Note: Even if the building faces a different direction, the Master is said to be "in the East". He also presides over ritual and ceremonies. His position is similar to a President of any other organization. As Master, his word is final over any and all actions pertaining to his Lodge. It is his duty "Set the Craft to work and give them wholesome instruction for their labor". to

While the Worshipful Master's rank is highest of all members, his Lodge Officer Duties are the easiest to remember. The Worshipful Master is responsible for every single thing within his lodge during his year as Master. He is ultimately responsible for every other lodge officer and their duties, every lodge committee, ritual and degree work, Masonic education, social functions, fundraisers, District and Grand Lodge liaison, Trestle Board communication, etc. All eyes are upon the Master. If lodge functions go smoothly, it is the Master who takes the credit. If lodge functions go awry, it is the Master who bears the blame. Therefore, the Master wears many hats. It is his duty to preside over business meetings, the conferral of degrees, and delegation of duties to all other Lodge Officers.

While Freemasons call the Master, "Worshipful Master", they do not, as some people may erroneously believe, actually worship him. "Worshipful" is an honorary title which shows respect for his position. In France, the word "Worshipful" is replaced with the word "Venerable". It is no different than respecting the office of our President of the United States. He would be addressed, formally, as "Mr. President" rather than by his first name. Likewise, if you go before a judge, you would address him as "Your Honor", rather than by his first name, as a measure of respect that you hold for his office.

2. Senior Warden- Lodge Officer Duties:

His Jewel is the Level...symbolizing that all Masons meet on the level, without regard to social, political or religious beliefs or status. The Senior Warden of a Masonic Lodge is the second in command within the Lodge Officers. In the absence of the Worshipful Master, the Senior Warden assumes the Worshipful Master's duties. The Senior Warden of a Masonic Lodge sits in the West (symbolic of the setting sun) and assists the Worshipful Master in opening and closing the Lodge. The Senior Warden is in charge of the Lodge when it is at labor. His position is similar to a Vice-President of any organization. His ancient duties were to pay the Craft (the members of the guild) their wages and to handle disputes among the workers. It is his duty to support the Master and to prepare himself for that office during the following year.

3. Junior Warden- Lodge Officer Duties: His Jewel of Office is the Plumb,... which is a stonemason's instrument used for ascertaining the alignment of a vertical surface. It symbolizes upright behavior among Masons.

The Junior Warden of a Masonic Lodge is the third in command of the Lodge. The Junior Warden sits in the South (symbolic of the position of the sun at midday) and is responsible for the Brethren while the Lodge is at ease or refreshment. His position is similar to a Second Vice-President. The Junior Warden, too, may open the lodge if the Master is unable to attend the meeting. It is the Junior Warden's duty to arrange meals for the lodge, and, typically, the 2 Stewards act as his assistants in this responsibility. Symbolically, it is also his duty to make certain that the members do not convert their refreshment into intemperance or excess. This is a holdover from earlier days, which still remains as part of the Junior Warden's job description, even though in most U.S. jurisdictions, alcohol is barred from the lodge. Which Officers Can Open the Lodge? The Master, the Senior Warden, the Junior Warden or a Past Master.

4. Senior Deacon- Lodge Officer Duties:

His Jewel is the Square and Compass with the Sun in the middle . The sun signifies that his position is on the lower level, to the right of the Worshipful Master in the east. His duty is as messenger of the Worshipful Master, hence he does a lot of walking. The Senior Deacon of a Masonic Lodge is an assistant officer of the Lodge. The Senior Deacon's principle roles are to welcome and escort both visitors and candidates into the lodge and introduce distinguished visitors. It is his duty to assist the Worshipful Master and carry orders between the Worshipful Master and the Senior Warden. During degree rituals, he guides the new candidate and conducts him around the lodge room. During the opening and closing ceremonies, the Senior Deacon opens the Holy Scriptures to the correct passage of the degree being worked and closes it after the lodge is adjourned. He also lights and extinguishes the candles at the altar. In some lodges, he carries the ballot box around the lodge when new members are being voted upon.

The Senior Deacon's position is similar to a Manager. The Senior Deacon (and the Junior Deacon) both carry long staffs (or rods), because as messengers of the Worshipful Master, the staffs are symbolic of the caduceus (or wand) that the Roman winged god and messenger Mercury carried during their duties. Atop the rods are the jewels of their offices.

5. Junior Deacon- Lodge Officer Duties: Like his senior counterpart, the Senior Deacon, the Jewel of his office is the Square and Compass, however the Junior Deacon's Square and Compass has a moon in the center (rather than a sun), which signifies that he is in the West. The Junior Deacon of a Masonic Lodge is an assistant officer of the Lodge. He sits to the lower right of the Senior Warden. The Junior Deacon's principle roles are to assist the Senior Warden by carrying messages from the Senior Warden in the West to the Junior Warden in the South and to guard the inner door of the Lodge. It is his duty to ascertain at all times whether the Tiler is guarding the door and only allowing visitors to enter after they have been properly vouched for. The Junior Deacon and the Tiler communicate with each other by knocking on the door (the Tiler from the outside...and the Junior Deacon from the inside). Some jurisdictions split this position into 2 positions...that of the Junior Deacon and the Inner Guard. The Junior Warden's position is similar to a Manager.

6. Senior Steward - Lodge Officer Duties:

His Jewel is the Cornucopia, which is an exact duplicate of the Junior Steward's Cornucopia. The Cornucopia signifies the "Horn of Plenty". It is a goat horn filled with the fresh fruits and vegetables to denote the " fruits of your labors" and represents a job well done. The Senior Steward of a Masonic Lodge is an appointed officer of the Lodge.

The Senior Steward is tasked to understudy the Junior Deacon's position and fill in for the Junior Deacon when absent. The Junior Deacon's principle role is to prepare the candidates during ritual and escort them to the lodge room and assist the Senior Deacon. In their entry Officer positions, both the Senior and Junior Stewards typically handle kitchen duties and wait staff for the members. The Senior Steward's position is similar to that of a Supervisor.

7. Junior Steward - Lodge Officer Duties:

His Jewel is the Cornucopia, which is an exact duplicate to the Senior Steward's Cornucopia. The Cornucopia signifies the "Horn of Plenty". It is a goat horn filled with the "fruits of your labors" and represents a job well done. The Junior Steward of a Masonic Lodge is an appointed officer of the Lodge. The Junior Steward is tasked to understudy the Senior Steward position and fill in for the Senior Steward in his absence. The Junior Steward's principle role is to assist the Senior Steward and the Senior Deacon in the preparation of the Candidates. Both the Senior and Junior Stewards carry rods, atop which are the jewels of their offices. The rods represent England's Lord High Steward's rod in the House of Lords. The Junior Steward position is similar to that of a Supervisor. LODGE OFFICER DUTIES FOR THOSE NOT IN THE PROGRESSIVE LINE: The following officers do not usually move in the progressive line. Many times they have already progressed through all the chairs and choose to serve their lodge in different positions. Treasurers and Secretaries often serve their lodge in their respective positions for many years. Continuity in these positions is vital to a well-run and efficient lodge. Training takes time and if these officer positions changed each year, financial and accounting chaos would occur.

8. Treasurer - Lodge Officer Duties: His Jewel is a Pair of Crossed Keys, signifying he is the Collector and Distributor of all Lodge Monies as he holds the keys to the cashbox. The Treasurer of a Masonic Lodge is the Chief Financial Officer of the Lodge. He sits to the right of the Master and behind the Senior Deacon. The Treasurer is responsible for all financial transactions. He receives all money, pays all debts by order of the Worshipful Master with the consent of the lodge and renders a report when requested. The treasurer does not need to be in possession of an accounting degree, however experience with bookkeeping and accounting is an asset. Financial bookkeeping transactions may be performed either by hand or by the use of accounting software.

9. Secretary - Lodge Officer Duties:

His Jewel is the Crossed Quill Pens. The Secretary is the Lodge's Recorder. The Secretary's Lodge Officer Duties require a high degree of lodge experience, Masonic knowledge, diplomacy and, above all, detailed paperwork skills. The Lodge Secretary is the backbone of any Masonic Lodge and he holds a position of great responsibility. He sits to the left of the Master. His duties require him to handle all correspondence to the members, minutes of Lodge meetings, petitions of new candidates, continuous lodge member count, and many other administrative duties. He compiles an ongoing list of each new candidate and which degrees that candidate has undertaken. From his member list, he sends out the annual dues notices and receives dues payments. He communicates with other Lodges and the Grand Lodge, types letters, retrieves the mail as well as handles many other details. The Secretary's Lodge Officer duties are many, not the least of which is that he must be well versed in Grand Lodge By-Laws for his jurisdiction and his Lodge By-Laws. He keeps the list of Lodge members and helps the Master organize his meetings. A very experienced member usually resides in this chair...many times he is a Past Master of the Lodge. While it is not a prerequisite, due to the number of hours that this position

requires, most (not all) Lodge Secretaries are retired and therefore able to devote the many hours required which are necessary to this position. The Secretary's position is similar to a corporate C.O.O., (Chief Operation Officer).

10. Marshal - Lodge Officer Duties:

His Jewel is the Crossed Batons. The Marshal is the Lodge's Conductor or Master of Ceremonies. The Marshal of a Masonic Lodge is an appointed officer of the Lodge. The Marshal is in some jurisdictions the "Director of Ceremonies". The Marshal's duties and principle role is the organization of processions and ensuring the correct precedence and etiquette in formal proceedings. It is his duty to formally conduct visitors into the lodge and introduce them to the members when the lodge is in session. The Marshal's position is similar to that of a Supervisor.

11. Tiler - Lodge Officer Duties:

His Jewel is the Sword, by which he symbolically refuses entrance to anyone who is uninitiated in the Craft. The sword has no scabbard, as it is his symbolic duty to always have his sword drawn, ready for the defense of his post. The Tiler (or Tyler) of a Masonic Lodge is an appointed officer of the Lodge and is sometimes known as the "Outer Guard". He sits outside the closed door of the lodge room, armed with a sword. The Tiler's duties and principle role is to ensure that only those who are duly qualified are allowed to enter the Lodge Room. He guards against cowans and eavesdroppers. During the Middle Ages, a cowan was a man who built stone walls of poor quality. He was an uninitiated or non-apprenticed stonemason...a "jackleg", if you will. While the Tiler is sometimes called upon to assist in the preparation of candidates, his chief duty is to (symbolically) keep unskilled workmen from overhearing the conversation within the Lodge Room.

After the lodge members are inside the Lodge Room, the door closes and it is the Tiler's duty to decide whether late arrivals may enter. It is also his duty to make sure that each visitor is "properly clothed", which means they must be wearing their Masonic apron. To be fully and properly dressed before entrance into the Lodge Room, the visitor must be wearing their apron over the top (or on the outside) of their suit coat (never under their coat) and the apron strings must be fully tied before the Tiler will allow the visitor entrance. Some jurisdictions call this position the Outer Guard. The Tiler's position is similar to that of a Supervisor. 12. Chaplain - Lodge Officer Duties:

His Jewel of office is an opened book, symbolizing the Volume of Sacred Law (the Christian Bible, Hebrew Torah or Tanach, the Muslim Qur'an, the Hindu Vedas or other Holy Books). The Chaplain of a Masonic Lodge is an appointed officer of the Lodge. He sits to the left of the Master. The Chaplain is the spiritual leader of the Lodge. While he may or may not be a realworld Minister, Priest, Rabbi or Imam,... in the lodge, the Chaplain is responsible for non-denominational prayers at both the opening and closing of meetings, during degree ritual ceremonies and before meals. Most Chaplains have no religious training and prayers are non-denominational. The Chaplain's position is similar to that of a Supervisor.

Secrecy In the true sense of the words Freemasonry is not a secret society but a society with secrets. A secret society is one the members of which are not known; a society which exists without common knowledge. Freemasonry is well known. Men proudly wear the emblem of the Order on coat and watch charm and ring. Many Grand Lodges publish lists of their members. Many Grand Lodges maintain card indexes of all members in the jurisdiction so that it is easy to ascertain whether or not a man is a Mason. Grand Lodges publish their Proceedings, a Masonic press caters to the Masonic world, and thousands of

books have been written about Freemasonry. Obviously it is not the society which is secret. The initiate takes an obligation of secrecy; if he will carefully consider the language of that obligation, he will see that it concerns the forms and ceremonies, the manner of teaching, certain modes of recognition. There is no obligation of secrecy regarding the truths taught by Freemasonry, otherwise such a book as this could not lawfully be written. Sometimes the question is asked by a profane, "Why have any secrets? If what you know and teach is worth so much, why not give it to the world?" Secrecy is a common fact of everyday life. Our private affairs are ours, not to be shouted from the housetops. Business secrets are often of value in proportion to the success of keeping them. Diplomacy is necessarily conducted in secret. Board meetings of companies, banks, business houses, are secret. A man and his wife have private understandings for no one else to know. The lover tells the secrets of his heart to but one ear. From all of us some things are secret and hidden that might be open and known if we had the wit or would take the trouble to learn. Fine music is a secret from the tone deaf. Mathematics are a secret from the ignorant. Philosophy is a secret from the commonplace mind. Freemasonry is a secret from the profane and for the same reasons! The secrecy of Masonry is an honourable secrecy; any good man may ask for her secrets; those who are worthy will receive them. To give them to those who do not seek, or who are not worthy, would but impoverish the Fraternity and enrich not those who received them. It is sometimes suggested that Freemasonry pretends to possess valuable secrets merely to intrigue men to apply for them through curiosity. How mistaken this is understood by every Freemason. He who seeks Freemasonry out of curiosity for her secrets must be bitterly disappointed. In school the teacher is anxious to instruct all who seek the classroom in the secrets of geometry, but not all students wish to study geometry and not all who do have the wit to comprehend. Freemasonry is anxious to give of he r secrets to worthy men fit to receive them but not all are worthy, and not all the worthy seek. Objections to freemasonry

Freemasonry is the world's oldest and largest Fraternity. While its traditions look back earlier, Masonry in its current form appeared when its public events were noticed by the residents of London, England in 1717. Although Masonry, particularly in its earliest days, had elements of secrecy, the first 'exposure' of the supposedly highly-secret Masonic ritual actually appeared in 1696 - twenty one years BEFORE the founding of the first Grand Lodge nearly three hundred years ago. That exposure marked the beginning of (now) more than 300 years of objections to the organization. There are, surely, many causes why this happened: jealousy, fear of the unknown, superstition, bigotry, or a dozen more. The objections can be generally grouped into three categories :

Religious A number of people object to Freemasonry (often quite vocally) on a religious basis, claiming that Masonry is a religion, supplants their religion or is not 'the way to {their idea of} Heaven'. In addition, many religious leaders with 'marginal' credentials (a degree received by mail from a non-accredited religious school, for example) need to create other 'areas of interest' to provide their congregations with fodder for inquiry thereby never giving them time to critically consider the shaky theological background of their leader. The major causes of the world's hurts (famine, war, etc.) are simply too amorphous and could cause dissent. Focusing on what they define as a 'false religion' allows them to bring their flock together against a common and easily identifiable enemy. Finally, Freemasonry encourages toleration - something that dictators of nations and of local church groups particularly fear. Social Some object to Freemasonry on social grounds arguing that it is creating or part of a 'New World Order' - even if they can't provide a single scintilla of proof. The 'boogeyman' is always a convenient enemy. They'll argue too that Freemasonry is related to the Ku Klux Klan, that it protects its own members, or that it demands secrecy even to the point of murdering violators - again without tangible proof. These broad and often ambiguous claims shift and turn, never providing a single specific target against which responses can be mustered. Other There are miscellaneous other objections, including objections to the supposed foolishness of Masonic rituals and secrecy. When the larger issues are insufficient to prove a point - or when someone is desperate for attention, they use 'proof by verbosity', tossing in all sorts of snarky comments about "rolled-up trouser legs" etc. Anything at all to 'divert the discourse'.... Masonic symbols

One of the most prominent, and yet deceptive, aspects of Freemasonry is its symbolism. This imagery, like the teaching and practices of the Order, was inherited directly from the occult and is universally recognised. Its true significance is disguised beneath a thick veil of secrecy, mystery and deception; nevertheless, as we analyse the mystical nature of the symbolism employed within Freemasonry it is not difficult to recognise its occult origins. Freemasonry is widely accepted as the largest and most influential occult body existing throughout the world today, and has inherited its imagery, known as esoteric (or occult) symbolism, directly from the fountainhead of the pagan ancient mysteries. Evangelical

author of 'Christ the Christian and Freemasonry', and himself an Ulsterman, W.J. McK. McCormick states, "Whatever rite or symbol we examine in Masonry, in spite of protests well-meaning or otherwise, from those who have been deceived, we find that it derives its true origin and meaning from the Ancient Mysteries" (p. 94). The Dualistic Nature of Masonic Symbols:

All occult symbolism is in fact dualistic in meaning or interpretation, in that, it has an exoteric or outward meaning (known to the masses) and an esoteric or hidden meaning (known only to the elect few). Occultist Fredrick Goodman in his book 'Magical Symbols' (p. 6) explains: The true magic symbol is an image which hides an inner meaning. This meaning is usually cunningly hidden behind a form which most people think they can understand immediately." He further states that, "True magical symbols are 'disguises' for ideas, how their forms are so arranged as to provide a clue to some hidden meaning. The 'hidden meanings' are often very subtle, and an ability to recognise magical symbols must be developed by anyone who wishes to seek these out" (p. 11). Christian authority on Freemasonry E.M. Storms, in his book 'Should a Christian be a Mason?' (p. 43) states, "Nowhere in Masonry is the 'brother' more cleverly deceived than in the presentation of its varied and ancient symbols. Most symbols are dualistic in nature and Masonic symbols are no exception. Behind all Masonic symbolism there is an undisclosed occult interpretation of which most Freemasons are ignorant." The ironic fact is both evangelical and Masonic authorities are at complete agreement on the deceptive nature of secret society symbolism. The most authoritative Masonic writer ever, was held to be Albert Pike (1809-1891). He rose to Sovereign Grand Commander of the Supreme Council of the thirty-third degree (Mother council of the World) and Supreme Pontiff of Universal Freemasonry. In his book 'Morals and Dogma' (accepted universally as 'the bible' of Freemasonry) Pike admits: "Masonry like all religions, all the Mysteries, Hermeticism and Alchemy, conceals its secrets from all except the Adepts and Sages, or the Elect and uses false explanations and misinterpretations of its symbols to mislead those who deserve to be misled; to conceal the Truth which it calls Light, from them, and to draw them away from it.

He further states, "The Blue Degrees are but the outer court or portico of the Temple. Part of the symbols are displayed there to the Initiate, but he is intentionally misled by false interpretations. It is not intended that he shall understand them, but it is intended that he shall imagine he understands them" ('Final Notice' by Barry Smith pp. 328-329). It is these dualistic symbols that disguise a hidden occult significance, and are in reality the devil's dirty imprints. The Official Explanation On Freemasonry Logo:

We will begin with the symbol most commonly associated with Freemasonry. The Square, Compasses and Letter 'G'. Here we encounter the first problem. No individual can speak for Freemasonry, an individual may only express a personal view which may, or may not, be shared by other Freemasons. In the same way 'Freemasonry' does not impose meanings of its' symbols although many have obtained a general acceptance as to what they represent. In Scotland, however, Masonic symbolism is often different from that which pertains furth of the kingdom and the meaning of them several. To return to the Square, Compasses and Letter 'G'. In many countries the Letter 'G' is taken to mean God, the Supreme Being, and whilst it is an interpretation held by many Freemasons it is not a universal view. There are some faiths which have an aversion to depicting the Supreme Being in any physical form whatsoever. For such individuals the Letter 'G' simply cannot stand for the God of their faith. As Scottish Freemasonry does not impose the meaning of symbols (which would smack of dogma) on members, each individual is free to interpret them according to their own views. Thus some take the Letter 'G' to represent GOODNESS, the essential goodness of Freemasonry and of humankind. Others argue that the letter 'G' stands for

GEOMETRY the basis of the operative craft that gave birth to modern Freemasonry. There is one Scottish Rosslyn Templar who argues vociferously that the Letter 'G' indicates GREEGRIMENT, an old Scots word meaning harmony or concord, and who are we to argue with such an appropriate interpretation? There are other interpretations but these are, as far as we are aware, the three main ones, four if one includes the latter opinion. There are some countries, notably England, that no longer use the Letter 'G'. THE ALL-SEEING EYE

Freemasonry employs a mystical eye in its imagery known throughout the occult world as "the all-seeing eye." This symbol which is shared with most false religions, cults and occult bodies today has always been used as a symbol of 'deity'. Occultist Fredrick Goodman explains that, "The eye plays a most important part in occult symbolism and probably owes its origin in western magical designs to the Eye of Horus, which was one of the most frequently used of Egyptian magical symbols" (Magical Symbols p. 101). The Masonic third degree lecture teaches that the "All-Seeing Eye whom the Sun Moon and Stars obey, and under whose watchful care even comets perform their stupendous revolutions, beholds the innermost recesses of the human heart, and will reward us according to our works" (Beyond The Light' p. 136). Here, whilst addressing the subject of the all-seeing eye, Freemasonry once again outlines its erroneous teaching of 'salvation through an upright character and good works'. This is in complete violation of Scripture which teaches: "Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus

Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified" (Galatians 2:16). The peculiar Masonic teaching that surrounds this esoteric symbol, not surprisingly, disguises an occult meaning. Evangelical author of 'Guardians of the Grail' J.R. Church states, "The symbol may represent a god, but it is not the God of the Bible. It is a human eye indicating that man is god. It represents so-called 'mind power', the ability to manipulate one's world with thought" (p. 165). Occultist Fredrick Goodman writes that, "the eye relates to the 'God within' to the higher spiritual guardian who can 'see' the purpose of man's life, and in some mysterious way guide him" (Magical Symbols p. 101). J.R. Church further points out that, "Many modern groups, though not related through organisation structure, nevertheless, claim to be offshoots of the original so-called Mystery Religion. They practice and believe the same so-called Secret Doctrine. Some organisations may even appear to be enemies, but their underlying philosophy is the same. They appear to be tributaries of the mainstream Babylonian philosophy. They all carry the same symbols, such as the All Seeing Eye, and believe in the same so-called Secret Doctrine." (p. 161) He also explains that "It is the symbol of the Illuminati, as well as the symbol of the Rosicrucians" (p. 165). FIVE POINTED STAR The five-pointed star, known as the pentagram, is probably the most blatant occult symbol in use today. Witches Janet and Stewart Farrar explain that the five-pointed star is "one of the main symbols of witchcraft and occultism in general" ('Hidden Secrets of the Eastern Star' p. 82). The star itself is known by different names throughout the occult world, such as a witch's foot, a goblin's cross, a wizard's star and the dog star. Wiccan witches use its five points to mystically represent the elements of nature, earth, fire, water, air and spirit. This symbol is one of the most prominent emblems within Freemasonry, though its significance, like every symbol inherited from the occult, is concealed behind a smokescreen of secret society ambiguity.

The five-pointed star is found on most Masonic memorabilia and represents the blasphemous resurrection rite of the five points of fellowship, each point mystically symbolising a part of the resurrection act. First - Foot to foot. Second - Knee to knee. Third - Hand in hand. Fourth - Breast to breast. Fifth and last - Left hand behind back. The symbol is normally seen within Masonry with the single point pointing upwards denoting its association with white witchcraft. However, like the Orange Order and Mormonism, Freemasonry uses the five-pointed star as an esoteric representation of the five points of fellowship - which is a blasphemous resurrection rite with these bodies. In the 'Dictionary of Mysticism' by Frank Gaynor we learn that the five-pointed star "is considered by occultists to be the most potent means of conjuring spirits. When a single point of the star points upward, it is regarded as the sign of the good and a means to conjure benevolent spirits; when the single point points down and a pair of points are on top, it is a sign of the evil (Satan) and is used to conjure powers of evil" ('Hidden Secrets of the Eastern Star' p. 84). Lewis Spence states in 'An Encyclopaedia of Occultism': "This symbol has been used by all secret and occult societies, by the Rosicrucians, the Illuminati, down to the Freemasons today" ('Should a Christian be a Mason?' p. 53). The book of Acts tells us how the disobedient children of Israel brought such imagery into the camp and how God dealt with it: "Then God turned, and gave them up to worship the host of heaven; as it is written in the book of the prophets, O ye house of Israel, have ye offered to me slain beasts and sacrifices by the space of forty years in the wilderness? Yea, ye took up the tabernacle of Moloch, and the star of your god Remphan, figures which ye made to worship them: and I will carry you away beyond Babylon" (Acts 7:4243).

SUN, MOON AND STARS

The sun, moon and stars, known in Scripture as the host of heaven, are found to be to the fore of Masonic imagery. These heathenish emblems, which have always been associated with Baal worship, are also found prominently displayed today within most New Age shops. It is not surprising to find such imagery spread widely throughout the occult world. Paganism has always showed its trinities in art by the sun (with a face) representing the male sun god, the moon (with a face) representing the moon goddess (or queen of heaven) and the all-seeing eye representing their offspring. The children of Israel were often seen turning towards these objects of idolatry at times of great apostasy in Scripture. Such a time is revealed in II Kings 17:16, where "they left all the commandments of the LORD their God, and made them molten images, even two calves, and made a grove, and worshipped all the host of heaven, and served Baal."

OTHER MASONIC SYMBOLS

The point and the circle carries a sexual connotation. Another Masonic author states that this symbol is used in Sun Worship, and then says: "The female principle, symbolized by the moon, assumed the form of a lunette [small circular opening], or crescent, while the

male principle, symbolized by the sun, assumed the form of the lingam [Phallus] and placed himself erect in the center of the lunette, like the mast of a ship." ["Point Within A Circle," Short Talk Bulletin , August, 1931, Masonic Bulletin designed to read within the Lodges, p. 4]

Masonic author, R.H. MacKenzie, states that "among Egyptians, the base [of the triangle] represented Osiris, or the Male Principle; the perpendicular, Isis, or the Female Principle; and the hypotenuse, Horus, their son ..." [Kenneth R.H. MacKenzie, The Royal Masonic Cyclopaedia of History, Rites, Symbolism, and Biography , New York, J.W. Bouton, 1877, p. 743] Thus, you can see that the hypotenuse was conceived as a result of the sexual union of the base and the perpendicular. Within Masonic symbolism, the sex act is portrayed as the union of the perpendicular and the base. Freemasonry uses many other esoteric symbols such as the 'blindfold,' the 'sword pointing to the heart,' a 'mystical ladder,' 'a coffin' and many more. All these symbols carry a hidden occult significance, which can only be comprehended by acquiring esoteric knowledge provided during ritual initiation. This teaching and imagery is common to all secret societies and is shared also with Mormonism and the New Age movement.