PROTOCOL MANUAL 1

PROTOCOL MANUAL 1-16-03

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Table Of Contents Paragraph

Statement of Purpose 1

Protocol Defined 9

Protocol In Lodge

A. Opening of Lodge 13

Business 17

Quorum 18

Early Opening 20

Dispensation 21

B. The Hat 23

C. Aprons

Officer's Jewels 26

Church Services Parades 36

Entering 37

Retiring 38

Informal Admittance 40

On Refreshment 41

Alarms 43

E. Use of Outer and Inner Doors 45

F. Conducting Candidates 49

G. Gifts to Candidates 52

H. Balloting 55

Conduct While Balloting 57

Tyler 60

I. Addressing the Lodge 61

Addressing the Worshipful Master 63

District Deputy Grand Master 64

Proper Decorum 69

J. The Grand Honors 70

Regular Installation 80

Open Installation 82

K. Funeral Services 83

Opening Communications 93

Emergent Communications 94

Lodge of Sorrow 95

. Table Lodge 99

M. Tendering the Gavel 103

N. Open Installation Procedure 111

II. Closing of Lodge 118

III. Examining and Receiving Visitors 126

A. Visitors. 127

B. Candidates 144

C. Introducing Visitors 150

D. New Members. 153

IV. Committee of Investigation

A. Candidates. 155

Initial Meeting 157

B. Brother For Affiliation 175

V. Community Relations 178

Outside the Lodge Room 179

Foundation stones 180

Non members or the Uninitiated 181

A. Guest Speakers or Public Officials 185

B. Widows 190

VI. Official Visits. 193

A. Receiving The Grand Master

Official Visits 196

Unofficial Visits. 197

Grand Honors. 217

B. Other Dignitaries 242

District Deputy grand Master 245

Deputy Grand Master 248

Grand Wardens 254

Other Elected Grand Officers 255

The Word Brother 261

Visiting Grand Lodge Officers

from Other Jurisdictions 263

Past Masters 266

Dignitaries in Appendant Bodies 270

VII. Protocol at Grand Lodge 277

A. Annual Communication 275

Who votes -When. 283

The Proxy. 283

B. Emergent Communication 286

C. Grand Lodge of Instruction 288

D. District Lodge of Instruction 294

1)STATEMENT OF PURPOSE

2) The purpose of this manual is to assist the Master and other Lodge

Officers in dealing with the administration of the non ritualistic

duties and activities incident to their offices. It is also hoped that

it will be a means of cementing and keeping intact the Masonic Manners

and Courtesies which tradition and usage have established in New Jersey

over the years.

3) It is intended to be a ready source of constant information to the

Lodges and Officers which will aid them in conforming to established

customs and procedures of the Fraternity, thus, to assist in maintaining

dignity and uniformity in those customs and procedures throughout the

Jurisdiction.

4) The Committee, in gathering or compiling the protocol guidelines and

suggestions included herein, does not in any way intend to infringe on

those portions of Ritual, Constitution, or By-Laws which are now in

effect. Neither do we wish to limit or inhibit a Worshipful Master or

other Lodge Officer from performing in a manner which is consistent

within good taste and common sense. Every possible situation cannot be

foreseen.

5) The information included in the manual is in no sense wholly original

with the Committee compiling it. We have attempted to compile the

information currently published in various forms, within our own

Jurisdiction along with the customs, traditions, personal experience and

knowledge of current and past Grand Lodge Officers.

6) If this manual serves to make your task as an officer of your Lodge

easier or gives you an expanded and improved knowledge of Masonic

Protocol, then this manual will have been worthwhile. This purpose can

best be accomplished by faithfully studying the ideas and suggestions

and by sharing them with the brethren of your Lodge.

7) We sincerely hope that this manual will prove to be a worthwhile

handbook or guide and will become an indispensable book for all Lodge

Officers. Properly used as a companion to the Constitution and By-Laws,

Officers Manual, and the Masonic Ritual, it should guarantee a high

degree of dignity and decorum within New Jersey Freemasonry.

8) The Committee John C. Outlaw, PGM , Raymond P. Bellini, Sr., PGM,

Grand Secretary, Harold D. Elliott, II, PGM, Edward R. Woods, PGM, Grand

Instructor William E. Burkett, PDDGM, Earl F. Sutton, PDDGM ,Richard W.

Van Doren, PGOr.

9) PROTOCOL

10) In this usage, we mean more than just a verbal agreement of how we

are going to conduct ourselves. What we are really talking about is the

fine art of good manners. Freemasonry has developed its own conventions,

by which its members act in Lodge and the Ante-Room. Not to proceed

according to their dictates is not Masonic offense; it is merely a lack

of Masonic manners.

11) Titles can be confusing to an inexperienced brother, but they can be

very simply handled and your District Deputy Grand Master (DDGM) will

always be ready to assist and advise you. The little refinements, which

can be accomplished only by forethought and carefully laid plans, will

mark a well governed Lodge, one which is well handled and in which a

visitor is properly received and treated.

12) Lodge courtesies, like those in the outside world, are founded

wholly in the Golden Rule. They oil the Masonic wheels and enable them

to revolve without creaking. They smooth the path of all in the Lodge

and prove to all and sundry the truth of the ritualistic explanation of

the "more noble and glorious purpose, to which we are taught to put the

trowel" .

I. MASONIC PROTOCOL IN THE LODGE ROOM

13) A). Opening of Lodge

14) A Masonic Lodge cannot be regularly opened unless the warrant is

present, except in the presence of the Grand Master.

15) Either the Worshipful Master, Senior Warden, or Junior Warden must

be present to open a Masonic Lodge. However, either of those brethren

can appoint any other brother to open the Lodge in his presence.

16) The number of Masons required to open or close a lodge is the number

prescribed by the ritual, one of whom must be the Worshipful Master or

either of the Wardens. The seven required by ritual are the Worshipful

Master, Senior Warden, Junior Warden, Treasurer, Secretary, Senior and

Junior Deacons. A Masonic lodge must be tyled.

17) To do Masonic work, the presence of seven Master Masons is required,

and for the transaction of lodge business the presence of seven of its

members, a quorum, the number required to retain a lodge warrant, is

necessary.

18) If there be a legal quorum present (seven members of the lodge), the

majority those voting decides any matter of business, except when

required by the rule of Grand lodge.

19) Lodges may, in their By-laws grant permission to their Worshipful

Master to open a regular communication at any time not more than one

hour before the time fixed in their By-laws.

20) In the event of an early opening, no business is to be transacted

until the regular meeting time.

21) A dispensation must be obtained to open a regular communication

other than as stated in the By-laws of the lodge. [ at a different time

or place.]

22) The Master of the lodge may at any time order an emergent

communication, or change the time of one already ordered, but no work

may be done except such as is permissible at an emergent communication.

23) B):The Hat

24) The Worshipful Master may be known by his head being covered, etc.;

remember, no gavel --no hat! The hat is also removed during prayer, when

addressing the Flag, in a moment of respect for a departed brother and

at funerals; there because you are before the Public and they have no

knowledge of our customs.

25) History says that at one time, every Worshipful Master in the City

of London was covered; now only two wear hats. Whether we realize it or

not, New Jersey appears headed the same way. Just think how many

Worshipful Masters you have seen reach for the hat, after the Senior

Deacon heads for the inner door, and removes it as soon as he gets back

to the East, not to pick it up again until he is ready to step down at

the closing.

26) C). Wearing of Aprons and Jewels

27) The brethren will be clothed. The badge of a Mason is his Masonic

apron. In New Jersey, each Master Mason is presented with a white

lambskin apron which he is to wear at all communications of Masonic

meetings requiring Masonic dress. In New Jersey, the rule is to wear

the apron outside the suit coat and outside of the outermost garment

where it is the most visible. In some neighboring jurisdictions, e.g.

Pennsylvania, the apron may be worn inside the suit coat with the coat

being unbuttoned or open.

28) Officer's aprons, white lambskin with blue trim, are to be worn by

elected or appointed Officers of the Lodge. Past Masters, elected or

appointed as Officers, should wear a blue officers apron and not a Past

Master's apron while serving in an Officer. The silver metal collar with

the jewel of office is worn with an Officer's apron.

29) Past Masters are to wear a Past Master's apron with purple border

one inch wide, and it shall be worn on all Masonic occasions within this

Jurisdiction. [Sec. 39-06, Pg. 110)

30) Present and Past Grand Lodge Officers are to wear a Grand Lodge

Officer's apron; a white lambskin apron with a purple border .1.5 inches

wide.

31) The Distinguished White Leathern Apron is a white lambskin apron

with the Seal of the Grand Lodge imprinted in blue on the apron flap.

32) Lodge Officer's jewels are silver and have the symbol of each

officer's station attached, and are to be worn when serving as an

officer in his station or place.

33) Grand Lodge officers jewels are gold and have the symbol of the

officer attached and should be worn as directed by the Grand Master.

34) No aprons other than those prescribed by the Grand Lodge shall be

worn at any communication of the Grand Lodge or any constituent Lodge or

at any other meeting or service authorized or permitted by the Grand

Lodge, excepting however, that this prohibition shall not apply to

present or past Grand Lodge Officers or other

35) visitors from other Grand Jurisdictions, nor to the Representatives

of Co-Ordinate Bodies of Masons received as such at an Annual

Communication of this Grand Lodge [Sec.29, Item 07,pg. 111]

36) The wearing of aprons and jewels at church services is permitted

when the attendance is 25 brethren or more. Permission must be obtained

in advance from the Grand Master to appear in parades or other public

ceremonies in masonic regalia

37) D). Entering or Retiring From a Lodge

38) While at labor, a brother requesting the Tyler to admit him into the

lodge should inquire as to which degree the Lodge is working on before

entering the Lodge. While the Lodge is at labor, a brother entering

should go in on the square, which would be a line on the South side of

the Lodge to a point West of the altar, then North to the center of the

altar and face East. When the Worshipful Master rises, the brother

should be on the appropriate step and give the dugard and sign of the

degree on which the Lodge is at Labor, and then proceed as directed by

the Worshipful Master.

39) Upon retiring from the Lodge, the brother would approach the altar,

wait for the Worshipful Master to rise, salute and retire from the Lodge

on the square in the reverse manner as when he entered.

40) Informal admittance may be permitted only by the Worshipful Master,

and when so announced, the brethren would enter the Lodge and go

directly to their seats without going to the altar or saluting, except

when crossing the room to the north side when a salute must be given.

41) When entering or retiring from the Lodge when on refreshment, the

brother would place himself on the West side of the altar and salute the

Junior Warden and then proceed to enter or retire from the Lodge

informally. If he forgets to determine the degree and activity status

from the Tyler beforehand, observing the position of the Warden's

columns and that of the Square and Compasses will indicate who and how

to salute.

42) No member should be permitted to enter the Lodge while the Lodge is

being opened or closed.

43) There should be no alarms while the Grand Master is present. With

the same consideration, alarms should never disturb a candidate during a

degree. So, bearing in mind that a brother may attend, to see the Grand

Master, or to hear a speaker, or to see a friend receive a degree, it

would be well for a Worshipful Master to explain this to the Tyler at

the beginning of the year and leave it to his good judgment.

44) In moving about the Lodge while at Labor, the rule is that no one

from the sidelines should cross between the Worshipful Master and the

Altar. This is so that the Worshipful Master may view the Sacred Law at

all times for his edification, wisdom, and guidance.

45) E). Use of the Outer and Inner Doors

46) The outer door is the only door by which members, visitors, and

guests should be admitted into or retired from the Lodge room. The outer

door is tyled from the outside by the Tyler and from the inside by the

Junior Deacon.

47) The inner door is in the custody of the Senior Deacon and is

answered only by the Senior Deacon when an alarm is given by a candidate

in waiting. It is unmasonic and discourteous to the Worshipful Master

for brethren to enter or retire by the inner door when the Lodge is at

labor.

48) The ballot box is the key to the inner door.

49) F). Conducting Candidates

50) Candidates are neither expected nor permitted to move of their own

volition; they are conducted at all times. Once the degree is completed,

you do not put your hands on the candidate again, except as a candidate

in another degree.

51) Master Masons, as such, are all equal and are escorted but never

conducted.

52) G). Gifts to Candidates

53) As all are to be treated “I in the same way and manner” , any gifts

presented to candidates in open Lodge should be the same to each.

54) Other, special, personal, or family gifts should be made after lodge

is closed and in the collation hall.

55) H). Balloting

56) There are three forms of voting in our Masonic Lodges: First, the

secret ballot in the ballot box with white balls and black cubes;

Second, by a written ballot; and Third, by the manual or ancient voting

sign of a Mason.

57) We should remember at all times, when the ballot is called for, that

the Lodge is at labor and every brother should conduct himself

accordingly. We salute before casting our ballot; the salute is not

returned. This is a reminder to ourselves and an affirmation to our

brothers that we are conscious of our obligations and that we vote not

as an individual but as a Master Mason and for the good of the Order.

58) It is not only the right, but also the duty of each Master Mason to

vote unless excused by a three-quarters vote of the members present.

(This is easily determined by the Worshipful Master announcing,

"Brother(name) has asked to be excused from voting. Is there any

objection?" The show of hands will quickly determine the number, if any,

of objections.)

59) The ballot must be kept strictly secret. A brother violates its

secrecy by stating how he has or will vote, nor may member demand of

another how he has or will vote.

60) Remember that if he is a member of the Lodge, the Tyler comes under

these same rules. He is replaced by the Junior Deacon while inside. The

Worshipful Master makes the same announcement to him as was made to the

Lodge. [See Appendix A for the voting schedule.]

61) I).Addressing Brethren the Lodge, Worshipful Master, Officers and

Brethren

62) When a brother enters a Masonic Lodge he must suppress his own

personality to the extent that Masonic dignity and courtesy are observed

at all times. He must remember his Masonic Obligations and conduct

himself as a Brother Mason at all times. The principles of ordinary

courtesy will always enhance the dignity of his speech.

63) The Worshipful Master is addressed as Worshipful Master except where

indicated in the ritual as Worshipful Sir. A Past Master is addressed as

Worshipful Sir. A brother should never be addressed as Brother John or

Brother Joe, but as Brother Brown or Brother Smith. An Officer should

always be addressed by the official title of the office which he holds

rather than as the brother who holds it.

64) A DDGM should be addressed as:

65) Right Worshipful District Deputy Grand Master or

66) Right Worshipful Brother (name) District Deputy Grand Master or

67) Right Worshipful (name) District Deputy Grand Master.

68) In addressing the Worshipful Master, a brother should rise, wait

until acknowledged by the Worshipful Master, salute, address the Office

as Worshipful Master, and continue to speak. A brother wishing to speak

to an officer or another brother should ask the permission of the

Worshipful Master to address the officer or the brother to whom he

wishes to speak.

69) It is not courteous to talk or cause any confusion during a Lodge

session and the Worshipful Master has the right to call any such

offending brother to order if the harmony of the Lodge is being

disrupted. The Lodge is no place in which to discuss religious,

commercial (ie. business), or political problems; bitterness and

ill-will are discourteous and the criticism of the Lodge or Grand Lodge

is clearly unmasonic.

70) J). Grand Honors

71) Grand Honors are:

72) always given to the Grand Master.

73) always given to the Deputy Grand Master,

74) always given to the District Deputy Grand Master when he

75) is officially representing the Grand Master.

76) They may be given by courtesy to a Past Grand Master.

77) Grand Masters have generally directed that Grand Honors be given to

the recipients of 50 year tokens, 60 year wreaths, and 75 year jewels.

78) If Grand Honors are once given at a communication of a Lodge, they

should not again be given at that communication to any brother unless he

be of a higher Masonic rank than the brother to whom they were first

given -or unless they by given (with the approval of the Grand Master)

to recipients of 50 year tokens, 60 year wreaths, and 75 year jewels.

79) The Grand Master may order Grand Honors given to any brother.

80) At a closed ceremony of Installation, the Grand Honors are given to

the Worshipful Master after his investiture. At the conclusion of the

ceremony, after the Proclamation in the South, West, and East, the Grand

Honors

81) are again given and everyone joins in giving them. They are regarded

in this instance as being given the Grand Lodge of New Jersey, and in a

broader sense, to the Institution of Freemasonry in general.

82) No Grand Honors are given to the Worshipful Master at an open

Installation or after the Marshal makes the Proclamation.

83) K). Masonic Funeral Ceremonies

84) All affiliated Master Masons in good standing, and Entered

Apprentices and Fellow Crafts, are entitled to a Masonic Funeral

service, if requested, providing that not more than six months have

elapsed between the date of their initiation or passing, and their death.

85) The 1984 Officer's Manual has the complete service with extensive

guidelines on Pages 147, 148, and 151, with other aids for unusual

circumstances on Pages 171 to 173.

86) Bear in mind that all processions are under the direction of the

Marshal, so we are always at labor under Lodge room discipline. The

procedures have been set and are detailed to make them easy to follow

and it is much to our advantage to do so.

87) The most appropriate dress is dark business suit unless the Lodge is

conferring a degree on the evening of the funeral service, then the

Officers would normally be wearing tuxedos. A very small number of

lodges have been granted permission to conduct their services in tuxedos

because they have done so for many years and the communities were

accustomed to it.

88) Not only should the oration be delivered from memory, but it is well

to remember that the rule is, "There will be no books in evidence". [A

good system for memorization is in Appendix C, Demolay Ritual Bulletin,

1979.]

89) The procedure is so arranged that the brother doing the service

should lead the column on the side that will place him at the foot of

the casket and the Chaplain, bearing the Three Great Lights, leading the

other column, will be at the head. It is not at all necessary for the

brother delivering the exhortation to wear someone else's jewel. He is

not in charge of the Lodge; he is only delivering the funeral oration.

In many cases, he is a white apron brother and not an officer.

90) The next in line behind him is asked to carry the white apron, in

much the same position as the one he is wearing, that it may be in full

view and available when needed, without appearing as if by magic. If

someone else is to do the service it would be well that the Worshipful

Master carry the apron.

91) Probably the second most important thing, after a good, distinct and

audible delivery, is that the Marshal see that the brethren are so

placed that they not obstruct the view of the mourners. Heshould then

find a suitable place for himself, until the service is completed, then

step back on the floor and direct the procession as the brethren pay

their respects and depart; he is the last to do so.

92) The wording of the exhortation itself was set by vote of this Grand

Lodge and the record can be found in the 1954 Proceedings on Page 125

and 137. After much serious consideration, it compares favorably with

that of any other Grand Jurisdiction. It is also designed to permit no

personal or private eulogy.

93) There is one way and one way only to open a Masonic Lodge in this

Jurisdiction. If it is an emergent communication, called for an

individual funeral service or for a Lodge of sorrow for the year, it is

opened exactly the same as one for a regular communication.

94) In all emergent communications, when the final gavel is sounded, in

the opening ceremonies, the Worshipful Master should rise and announce

the purpose of that communication. In the event of the absence of the

Worshipful Master, for any reason, the Senior Warden calls the emergent

communication and announces the purpose. At this point there is one

difference: the Constitution and Laws, Section 29, Item 24, Page 87,

reads, "The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States shall

be given at every regular communication of a Lodge and at all emergent

communications except those called to conduct funeral services." [1963]

We have had the privilege of opening a Lodge of sorrow for the year

since this legislation was passed in 1959.

95) To many, a Lodge of Sorrow has been a great help; others have not

chosen to use it. To do so, the Lodge must pass, at its Annual

Communication, a resolution to do so. Then an emergent communication is

opened, after the close of the Annual, and before the next regular

communication, or before the next funeral, whichever comes first.

96) It is opened for the purpose of conducting funeral services during

the ensuing Masonic year. It is to be closed before the next Annual

Communication is opened. Provision may be made for an appropriate Annual

Memorial Service to our departed brethren.[Section 20 Page 73]

97) The elected Grand Lodge Officers, the Grand Instructors, and the

Ritual Committee have been open to suggestions for a ritual specifically

for a Lodge of Sorrow, and have considered many. To date none have

surfaced which offer an improvement great enough to warrant trying to

change the existing law.

98) L). Table Lodge

99) A table lodge is someone else's ancient, and in most cases, obsolete

Lodge form. It comes to us from several sources: English, French, and

German included. In those days, lodges often met in what were called

Public Houses; later they were called taverns. They were probably the

only public place that a group of men could obtain meeting rooms, have a

meal served, and remain securely private.

100) In that day, there was much less ceremony. In some, they were used

only after an Entered Apprentice Degree. Some state, '"After the making,

the candidate was brought into the table" .The lectures in those days

were worked in question and answer form; the Master asking the questions

and different brothers at the table giving the answers. It created an

opportunity for good food, good fellowship, and conviviality. They

always included a series of toasts.

101) They do not conform to New Jersey's laws governing a Masonic

communication and we have no law concerning table lodges, as such. Their

use can serve us well as a means of continuing an ancient and respected

custom, providing a special reason for our members to come out and have

a good meal and hear a good speaker in the company of their brethren.

102) If it is desired to serve alcoholic beverages for the traditional

toasts, a dispensation must be obtained from the Grand Master to do so.

Be guided by Section 29, Item 22 and 23, Pages 86 and 87 of the

Constitution and By Laws. A sample which follows in he Appendix B was

issued as a guide and Service in 1965 and is included here for your

information and guidance.

103) M). Tendering the Gavel

104) The gavel is the authority of the Worshipful Master of the Lodge

and is only surrendered on the following three occasions:

105) --The gavel is always surrendered to the Grand Master;

106) the Deputy Grand Master in the absence of the Grand Master.

107) --The gavel is surrendered to the District Deputy Master on his

official visit.

108) --The gavel is surrendered to a brother who has the authority to

close the Lodge in short form.

109) --The gavel is NOT extended to a guest speaker by the Worshipful

Master unless the speaker is the Grand Master or the Deputy Grand Master.

110) The gavel is the voice of authority in a Masonic Lodge. It never,

under any conceivable circumstance, needs a human voice to speak for it.

111) N). Open Installation of Officers

112) Pages 126 and 127 of our Constitution and By-Laws list 22 items

which a Lodge must conform to for an open installation. In addition, it

is suggested that all officers to be installed be wearing tuxedos as

well as the installing team. The membership of the installing team

should be held as close to, as possible, a maximum number of four. This

is not Law, but an effort to keep down excess movement and avoid

confusing the invited guests.

113) In review, the Lodge is not opened, however; the Lodge is fully set

up with the Three Great Lights, the Three Lesser Lights, the Letter G

and Officers' rods in place as though the Lodge were open. This must all

be arranged before the guests are admitted into the Lodge room. No

Masonic signs are given at any time in an open installation.

114) Presentation of gifts to the Worshipful Master are made only by

Master Masons. A gift from wife, children, etc., must be made in their

behalf by a Master Mason.

115) In closing, the Worshipful Master directs the Senior Deacon, by

pre-arranged signals, to disarrange the altar. The Senior Deacon

proceeds with no reply to the Worshipful Master. After the Lesser Lights

are extinguished, the Senior Deacon goes directly to his place. No words

are spoken by the Senior Deacon or the Worshipful Master.

116) Photographs may only be taken during an open installation during

the presentation of gifts to the Worshipful Master.

117) No recordings of any type are permitted of an open installation.

118) II. CLOSING OF LODGE

119) There are three variations on closing of Lodges in the Grand

Jurisdiction.

120) First is a "regular" closing by the Worshipful Master or someone

designated by him to close in regular form. In this case, the duties of

the two Deacons, the Secretary, and the Treasurer are given in the

opening and are not. used in closing. Bear in mind that while, and only

while, the Three Great Lights are displayed, are the signs given.

121) Second, the Lodge may be closed by the Grand Master or the Deputy

Grand Master by right their office. The Grand Master closes Lodges in

"ample form" . He and the Deputy are always addressed by their titles.

122) Third, those closing the Lodge by dispensation. In order to

demystify the terminology, listen to the wording; all others, regardless

of heir rank, if any, will say, "by virtue of a dispensation granted me

by Most Worshipful (the current Grand Master)" If they use the word

"dispensation" , they are addressed as" Worshipful Master'.

123) A Worshipful Master would be wise, when he has several ranks of

Grand Lodge Officers present, to request his District Deputy Grand

Master to approach the East, seat him on his left, and seek his advice.

He can probably ask if he has a message for the brethren, give him the

gavel, and take his seat; then let the DDGM make the decision as to whom

to invite to speak and/or close Lodge.

124) Yes, the District Deputy Grand Master is the direct representative

of the Grand Master for the administration of the district, carrying out

his directives, and executing his orders.

125) Elected officers are well aware of this, but an elected officer

outranks an appointed officer and there is ample history to prove that,

to forget or ignore this, often leads to an unwanted word added before

his title.

126) III EXAMING & RECEIVING VISITORS

127) A). VISITORS

128) Remember, every Masonic Lodge wants and should welcome visitors.

The Tyler should not assume upon himself the authority or responsibility

to examine visitors to the Lodge. The Worshipful Master will assign an

examining committee for that purpose. The duty of the EXAMINING

COMMITTEE is to ascertain if those who would visit the Lodge are regular

Masons in good standing. This committee is usually composed of at least

two (2) brothers who are very familiar with Lodge work, and if possible,

a recently raised brother to give him the opportunity to learn.

Following is the recommended procedure:

129) ,1. Worshipful Master designates a committee.

130) 2. Committee and visitor retire to a private room.

131) 3. Introduce the committee members to the visitor, making

132) him feel welcome.

133) 4 .Examine the visitor's dues card. There should be a sign posted

outside the Lodge room indicating all visitor's must present a current

dues card.

134) 5 Ask the visitor to sign his name on another piece of paper for

comparison with the signature on the dues card.

135) 6 Look up his lodge in the List of Regular Lodges, a book

furnished each Lodge by our Grand Lodge, which shows the names of

all the Lodges throughout the world recognized by our Grand Jurisdiction.

136) 7. Once you have established that the visitor is a member in good

standing of a recognized lodge, request him to demonstrate the signs,

steps and words of each degree and to place the Three Great Lights in

proper position for the three degrees. Perhaps he can do this properly,

perhaps not.

137) It may be years since a visitor has actually sat in Lodge or

perhaps he has not served as an officer nor is he familiar with ritual.

If he cannot answer all the questions on ritual, do not be impatient.

138) Let him tell you in his own words enough of the incidentals or

stories of the degrees to prove that he has received them. Let us not

forget that the purpose of this examination is to ascertain that our

visitor is a Mason in good standing and entitled to sit with us; it is

not to learn how proficient he is in the ritual nor to exhibit our own

proficiencies and abilities.

139) After the examination, the committee returns to the Lodge room and

renders a report to the Worshipful Master. The visitor DOES NOT enter

the Lodge with the committee.

140) If the Worshipful Master will obtain from the brother who makes the

committee report the visitors card, he will be in better position to

fully present him to the Lodge.

141) After a favorable report, the Worshipful Master invites the visitor

to enter the Lodge to join us in our meeting. The Worshipful Master

should welcome the visitor as a guest and introduce him to the brethren

142) .A very successful working arrangement is for the Worshipful Master

to authorize both Wardens to examine prospective visitors at a place and

time mutually acceptable to them. If satisfied of the brothers good

standing, they have him fill out the Lodge visitor's card; explain to

him that they are the Senior or Junior Warden of the Lodge and when he

wishes to visit the Lodge, ask for him; he will then have the card,

which he will sign, and vouch for him.

143) All visitors who are admitted to the Lodge should sign the Lodge

144) B).CANDIDATES

145) Candidates may only attend when their Lodge is at labor on a degree

which has been conferred upon them and only in the Lodge which conferred

the degrees.

146) A candidate is permitted and should be encouraged to witness the

conferral of a degree which has previously been conferred upon him.

147) He should be welcomed as a brother and assigned to a knowledgeable

brother who could explain to him the meaning of the degree as it is

being conferred.

148) After the conclusion of the work of that degree and prior to

resuming labor on a degree which has not been conferred on them,

candidates should be asked to retire from the Lodge room in the regular

manner.

149) Candidates may visit the District Grand Lodge of Instruction after

their Third Degree and prior to passing the examination ONLY in their

own district.

150) C).INTRODUCING VISITORS FROM OTHER LODGES

151) The Worshipful Master should acknowledge and introduce visitors

from other Lodges every time they visit. This should be done at their

respective chairs and not West of the altar or from the East. Endeavor

to make the visitors feel as comfortable as possible so that they will

visit again and have good feelings about their visit. Remember to

introduce them by any titles which they might now hold or be entitled

to. Generally, the visitor's card will contain the needed information.

152) The key to making all this work is to train the Tyler to get the

complete data on the visitor's card and pass it to the Junior Deacon

before he gives the alarm. The Junior Deacon should deliver the cards to

the Worshipful Master before any alarm or announcement is made.

153) D) .NEW MEMBERS

154) Historically, each Lodge will have their own traditions or customs

here. New members are the lifeblood of our Fraternity. Why not make a

little fuss over them. Make them feel comfortable and wanted. Introduce

them to the Brethren from East or West of the Altar. Tell them a little

about the history and customs of your Lodge. Share with them the planned

activities and by all means extend to them your personal invitation to

become involved. Make them feel that they are an important part of this

Fraternity and that their participation is earnestly solicited.

155) IV. COMMITTEE OF INVESTIGATION

156) Consider it an honor to be appointed and to serve as a member of

the committee of investigation. The future welfare, purity and

prosperity of your Lodge and the character of its membership depend on

how thoroughly, faithfully, and conscientiously you perform the duty

your Master has requested.

157) A). Candidates

158) In our Jurisdiction, the Committee on Investigation usually

consists of three members appointed by the Worshipful Master. This

committee is charged to learn as much as possible about the petitioner

and to explain to him and his family as much about Freemasonry as

possible. In the investigation and interview you should try to obtain

sufficient information to answer the following questions:

159) 1 Why has he submitted his petition?

160) 2.Is he of lawful age?

161) 3.Is he in declining years (an old man in dotage)?

162) 4.What does he expect from membership in the Fraternity?

163) 5.Is his spouse and family in agreement with his joining?

164) 6. What is his reputation in the neighborhood and where he works

165) 7. What is his idea or concept of Freemasonry?

166) For those petitioners who know of no one currently in the

Fraternity, a preliminary meeting is called for so that two members of

the Lodge can fill out his petition. Care should be taken at that

meeting to explain as much as possible of the process which the petition

will go through, that an investigating committee will be appointed and

will call on him at a future date, and that any questions will be

answered, if possible. Bear in mind that all of the above must be done

with care and in a most tactful manner. Blunders here will forever mar

the first impression of the Fraternity and may well dissuade an

otherwise viable candidate from pursuing things further.

167) It is necessary that an interview be arranged with the petitioner

for the purpose of investigation. Preferably, it should be done in the

home of the petitioner. This affords the opportunity to see his

environment; meet with his family, and conduct the interview in a

casual, friendly manner.

168) It is suggested that the committee prepare, in advance, a series of

remarks or queries that will bring out the information being sought in a

friendly, unassuming manner, rather than the appearance of a "third

degree" type of interview. Remember, this may be the first contact with

Freemasonry. Put your best foot forward.

169) We must remember that by the time the petitioner has decided to

seek membership in the Fraternity, he has formed some concept of what

Freemasonry is and undoubtedly knows someone who has been a Mason

--perhaps a member of your Lodge. The purpose of the interview with him

is to determine his eligibility. He probably is equally concerned about

the kind of organization he is seeking to join and would be pleased to

know something about the character and conduct of the men he is hoping

to be associated with. He may well take advantage of the committee's

visit to satisfy questions he may have in his own mind. The

investigators should be prepared to answer those inquiries intelligently

so that they can do the Lodge and the prospective candidate a valuable

service. Be prepared to discuss:

1. What the Fraternity really is.

2. What the purposes of Freemasonry are.

170) 3. What Freemasonry offers to its initiates, members, and families

171) 4. Explain fully what takes place after each degree and what will

be required of him

172) eg. memorization, passing an examination, etc.

173) 5. What it expects and requires of its members.

174) Remember, it is a privilege and honor to serve as a member of all

investigating committee. It is a once in a lifetime opportunity to

introduce someone to our Fraternity and your conduct will make a lasting

impression on them.

175) B). Brother for Affiliation

176) Remember, in this instance you are visiting a fellow member of the

Fraternity. The reason for investigation is to assure your selves that

the brother continues worthy and well qualified.

177) Again, meet him at his home if Possible, with his family present.

be under the same guidelines as those for a new candidate

178) V. OUTSIDE THE LODGE ROOM AND IN PUBLIC PLACES

179) Civic and community relations are important to the Lodge and to

Freemasonry in general. This can be done by the individual brother by

reflecting his Masonic training in his daily life and by doing his duty

as a good citizen. Each member should be impressed with the fact that

he, as an individual, is a window through which the uninitiated looks at

us as Freemasons and Freemasonry as a fraternal organization. By his

conduct the World judges us; by his actions and usefulness, the World

judges the Fraternity.

180) There are but few public functions which the Lodge performs. These

are the funeral ceremony (found in the 1984 Officer's Manual), the

laying of foundation stones (ibid. , page 107), and the public

installation of officers (ibid., page 80). Additionally, there may be

receptions or other special events that are open to the public for which

a ritual or written ceremony does not exist, per se.

181) The uninitiated are not aware of, nor are they familiar with

Masonic customs, courtesies, or protocol. This must be taken into

consideration when receiving the uninitiated inside or out side of the

Lodge room. Suggested procedures are as outlined:

182) A ). Guest Speakers or Public Officials

1. Send invitation at least six (6) months prior to the requested date

183) 2. Advise him/her at the time of invitation as to the type and

length of the program.

184) 3. Indicate the amount of time allotted, in the overall program,

for the speaker's presentation.

185) 4. Since he/she is not a member of the Fraternity, make sure that

a reception committee is assigned to receive him/her if you are

conducting Lodge business.

186) 5.Ascertain, beforehand, how the speaker would like to be

introduced and whether a resume might be forwarded to assist that

introduction.

187) 6. Be on time with your program.

188) 7.Invite the speaker to the East informally and introduce him/her

to your members and guests.

189) 8. Make sure that you thank the speaker on behalf of yourself and

the lodge.

B) WIDOWS PINS

190) Each Lodge should adopt and use the Widow's Pin program recommended

by the Grand Lodge. A special annual program could be held for this

purpose or it could be done through a ladies night program within the

Lodge room.

191) Widows' pins are never to be given to any member of the family

immediately before or after the funeral service. The ceremony and pin

are intended to be reminders to the deceased's family that we, as his

brothers, still have concern for the widow's well being and stand ready

to assist her in any needs that might arise. By making the presentation

at a date other than at the funeral ceremony, we demonstrate that

concern. It gives the Lodge and its members a further opportunity to

meet the family at a less trying time.

192) There is a Grand Lodge Committee on Widows' Pins and their

presentation listed in the White Book. Call on them; they are there to

be of service to you.

193) V-1-. OFFICIAL VISITS AND RECEIVING DIGNITARIES

194) It is always a highlight of any Lodge year to have an official

visit from a Grand Lodge Officer or other dignitary. At such a time,

there is an established protocol peculiar to such an event.

195) The Worshipful Master who is cognizant of this protocol, and who

follows it to the letter, will -not only avoid embarrassment for himself

and his Lodge, but will be able to relax knowing that he can rehearse

exactly what will happen and be said far in advance of the actual

visitation.

196) A). The Grand Master's Official Visit

197) The time of the Grand Master's planned entrance into the Lodge Room

will generally be made known in advance. The Grand Master will

communicate this through his secretary in approving the program

submitted by the Worshipful Master or someone designated by the

Worshipful Master. For Example, if a dinner precedes an official visit,

and the time for the Grand Master's entrance into the Lodge Room has

been designated as 8:00PM, every effort should be made to insure the

completion of the dinner in time to afford the Grand Master and those

accompanying him to have time to prepare themselves (aprons and jewels,

etc.) shortly prior to 8:00PM. Regardless of the time designated, it is

with due respect to the office of Grand Master that his time of entrance

be honored.

198) Announcement of the Grand Master's presence will be made by the

Grand Marshal or, in his absence, one designated by the Grand Master to

act as Grand Marshal. The Tyler of the Lodge gives the alarm and when

asked the cause of the alarm reports, "The Grand Marshal is prepared to

enter". The Junior Deacon will report, "The Grand Marshal is prepared to

enter" .The Worshipful Master will answer, "Admit him". He will then

raise the Lodge. The Junior Deacon will admit the Grand Marshal, leaving

the outer door open after the Grand Marshal enters. The Grand Marshal

proceeds in a direct line to the altar, salutes and announces to the

Worshipful Master, "The Most Worshipful Grand Master is prepared to

enter". The Worshipful Master does not respond. The Grand Marshal walks

back toward the door and stops. Upon a nod from the Grand Marshal, those

accompanying the Grand Master will enter the room and form in columns on

the North and South sides of the Lodge according to a prescribed

procession for entrance given to them previously in a Grand Staff

Protocol Manual.

199) The Grand Marshal will escort the Grand Master to the altar. His

position is on the North side of the Grand Master .The Grand Master

followed by all accompanying him into the Lodge Room (except the Grand

Marshal) will go on the step and salute the Worshipful Master. The Grand

Marshal will announce, “Worshipful Master, it is my privilege and

pleasure to present to you, Most Worshipful (name) Grand Master of

Masons of the State of New Jersey. He is accompanied this evening by (if

all are present), in this sequence)

200) -Right Worshipful (name) Deputy Grand Master;

201) -Right Worshipful (name) Senior Grand Warden;

202) -Right Worshipful (name) Junior Grand Warden;

203) -Right Worshipful (name) Grand Treasurer;

204) -Right Worshipful (name) Grand Secretary;

205) -Right Worshipful (name) Deputy Grand Secretary.

206) [In the event that the Grand Treasurer, Grand Secretary,

207) or Deputy Grand Secretary are Past Grand Masters,

208) they are announced as:(example)

- Most Worshipful (name) Past Grand Master, Grand

209) Treasurer.

210) This should be done with any Grand Lodge Officer serving

211) who is also a Past Grand Master.]

212) Continuing his announcement of those accompanying the

213) Grand Master ,the Grand Marshal then names the

214) -Past Grand Masters present,

215) -the District Deputy Grand Master of the respective district,

216) -and any honored guest or guests.

217) The Worshipful Master will welcome the Grand Master and invite him

to the East, where he will present him to the brethren. The Grand Master

proceeds to the East under the escort of the Grand Marshal and such

others as may be designated by the Grand Master. The Worshipful Master

greets the Grand Master in the East with a handshake and announces,

"Brethren, it is my honor to present to you Most Worshipful (name) Grand

Master of Masons of the State of New Jersey. We will accord him The

Grand Honors taking time from the Right Worshipful Grand Marshal". The

Grand Marshal (in the center of the floor in front of the Worshipful

Master) leads the Lodge in the Grand Honors. The Worshipful Master

should first remove his hat, and then surrender the gavel to the Grand

Master by saying, (example) "In token of our fealty to the Most

Worshipful Grand Lodge and to you as Grand Master, I extend to you the

gavel of (name) Lodge # to wield as you see fit." [The Worshipful Master

thereafter will only wear his hat when presiding and in possession of

the gavel.]

218) If the Grand Master returns the gavel because of a planned program,

the Worshipful Master will request the Grand Master to be seated on his

immediate right. The Worshipful Master then requests the Grand Marshal

to escort to the East the Elected Grand Lodge Officers. The ranking

Grand Lodge Officer will be escorted by the Grand Marshal with the

others, in order of rank, following. The Worshipful Master will greet

them all in the East with a handshake and then present each, in order of

rank and full title, to the brethren. The Brethren respond with

applause. He will then ask them to take seats in the East and ask the

Grand Marshal to escort to the East the Past Grand Masters present, the

District Deputy Grand Master of the respective district, and any honored

guest(s) of the evening. The Worshipful Master receives them in the East

with a handshake and presents them all to the brethren, followed by a

round of applause. He indicates that they are then to be seated.

Remember, they are experienced; they know what to do and where to go. If

the Worshipful Master makes a mistake or omits a part of the group, they

will generally stand and wait to give him a chance to make the correction.

219) NOTICE:

220) It is done in three steps only:

221) 1 The Most Worshipful Grand Master

222) 2 The Elected Officers of Grand Lodge

223) 3 All others.

224) The Worshipful Master then thanks the Right Worshipful Sirs for

accompanying the Grand Master. He then calls on the designated Grand

Chaplain to lead us in prayer followed by a salute to the Flag of our

Country. One verse of the National Anthem is optional. He then seats

himself, seats the Lodge, rises and makes his welcoming speech and

finishes by calling on the first speaker (which is the District Deputy

Grand Master of that district).

225) The regular program, reception or other, would follow according to

a procedure detailed previously by the Grand Master through his

secretary. During the course of the evening's program, speakers should

be called upon in the following order (as directed by the current Grand

Master):

226) The District Deputy Grand Master

227) 2. The Past Grand Master speaking for the Past Grand Masters

228) 3. A pre-determined Elected Grand Lodge Officer (usually selected

just prior to the entrance of the Grand Master)

229) 4.The presentation of the honored guest , if there is one, His

response follows.

230) 5. Musical selections may be added to the program

231) 6. Any presentations including those to the honored guest if any

232) 7. The Grand Master.

233) The Most Worshipful Grand master does not make speeches. He is not

asked for a few words of wisdom. he addresses the craft, over which he

is the Supreme Ruler.

234) Just as there should be no alarms at the outer door during degree

conferrals, there should be none while the Grand Master is present. The

Worshipful Master would be well advised to discuss this in the beginning

of the year with the Tyler. He should authorize the Tyler to admit

brethren informally, which means, be seated as quickly and quietly as

possible, "without any signs".

235) There is to be no deviation from a printed program (which must be

previously approved) except by the Grand Master, or with his permission.

The proper procedure should be detailed elsewhere, but the Grand Master

should ALWAYS be the last speaker. His presentation is the purpose of

the meeting. He should be presented, prior to his address, by the

Worshipful Master with THESE FOUR WORDS ONLY: "Brethren, the Grand

Master" .And this form should be used only for the Grand Master.

236) The brethren will rise spontaneously and be seated by the Grand

Master when he is presented and at the conclusion of his address.

237) This remains true not only in the Lodge, but also at any assemblage

of Masons, as such, at which he is present.

238) The only scheduled item following the Grand Master's address is the

presentation of the present and past Grand Lodge Officers by the Right

Worshipful Grand Marshal, at the request of the Worshipful Master. The

Grand Master then presents the Grand Marshal to the brethren.

239) Upon the conclusion of the program, the Worshipful Master should

request the Grand Master to close the Lodge. He then removes his hat,

surrenders the gavel and his chair. The Worshipful Master then sits to

the immediate right of the Grand Master when the latter is seated. [The

gavel should always be offered to anyone in the position that they will

use it; by which is meant, hold the head and offer them the handle.]

240) The Grand Master may direct that the Grand Honors by given to

anyone, at any time. This should never be done by order of the

Worshipful Master in the presence of the Grand Master, the Deputy Grand

Master, or the District Deputy Grand Master.

241) This procedure is always subject to minor changes at the will and

pleasure of the reigning Grand Master. Be sure to check with your

District Deputy Grand Master.

242) B). Reception and Introduction of Other Dignitaries

243) In New Jersey, the Grand Master makes official visits. The other

occasion that is termed "Official Visit" is that of District Deputy

Grand Master in the performance of his duties as the representative of

the Grand Master in overseeing the Lodges assigned to him. This is all

detailed in Section 3 -Item 28, Page 16 of the Constitution and Laws.

244) Others make personal visits, unless they are commissioned as the

representatives of the Grand Master. Bear in mind, that this might apply

to any brother, any where, to do anything that he (the Grand Master)

could do, if present.

245) In the case of the District Deputy Grand Master, it would be well

to remember that they are appointed, for one year at a time, to

represent one man, the Grand Master, while the Elected Grand Lodge Line

Officer represents the majority of votes cast in Grand Lodge and is

expected (in a surprisingly short time) to be the Grand Master.

246) This is not meant in any way to take from the great assistance that

the District Deputy Grand Master can be to a Worshipful Master; he has

more experience. He should be better informed on protocol than most

Worshipful Masters.

247) Let us assume that at or about the time of opening of the Lodge,

you observe that a Grand Lodge Officer is in attendance. First ascertain

his position in Grand Lodge. Should he be an Elected Officer, the Deputy

Grand Master, Senior Grand Warden, Junior Grand Warden, Grand Treasurer,

Grand Secretary, or Deputy Grand Secretary, you should determine whether

he is present for an official or personal visit. This will determine

immediately how he should be received, what honors are due him, and

whether he may close the Lodge.

248) Deputy Grand Master

249) The Tyler announces that the Deputy Grand Master seeks admission.

250) He will usually be accompanied by the District Deputy Grand Master

or some Past Grand Lodge Officer, who will escort him into the Lodge and

introduce him to the Worshipful Master, West of the altar. The

Worshipful Master will greet the Deputy Grand Master and invite him to

continue under his present escort that he may greet him in the East and

present him to the brethren.

251) He will be accorded the Grand Honors, usually taking time -from the

person who escorted him into the Lodge room. After the Grand Honors, the

Worshipful Master will tender him the gavel, the symbol of authority and

remove his hat. Generally, he will return the gavel to the Worshipful

Master and the planned program may proceed. When the evening's program

is completed, the Deputy Grand Master should be requested to address

and/or close the Lodge.

252) The Deputy Grand Master should be addressed as "The Deputy Grand

Master of Masons of the State of New Jersey". The Grand Master and the

Deputy Grand Master close constituent Lodges by right of their office

and are always addressed by their titles. All others close by virtue of

a dispensation granted by the reigning Grand Master and are addressed as

"Worshipful Master I'.

253) Dispensations to close Lodges in the prescribed short -form have

been described as a gift -from the Grand Master to the Worshipful

Masters that serve during his term of office. They are of no value to

the men that carry them, only to the Worshipful Masters that request

their use.

254) Senior and Junior Grand Wardens

255) The Senior or Junior Grand Warden may make a personal and even an

unannounced visit to a Lodge. He would be greeted at the altar and

invited to the East under the escort of the District Deputy Grand

Master, if present, or a Past Grand Lodge officer or the Senior Deacon.

The Worshipful Master would present him to the brethren with such words

as "I am pleased to present to you Right Worshipful (name), Senior or

Junior Grand Warden of the Grand Lodge of the Most Ancient and Honorable

Society of Free and Accepted Masons -for the State of New Jersey" . It

is not necessary to tender the gavel nor is he accorded Grand Honors.

256) He is greeted by the brethren with a hearty round of applause. The

Worshipful Master should invite him to remain in the East.

257) The Grand Warden may accept the invitation or he may desire to sit

in the body of the Lodge with the brethren. At the appropriate time, he

may be asked to address the brethren and/or close the Lodge.

258) There are more legitimate reasons or causes for these personal

visits than an active imagination could ever dream up. We have had Grand

Masters who visited a Lodge in every district, unannounced; but it

happens many more times with the other Elected officers. It may be a

part of the withdrawal pains; a holdover from the days when they were

free to visit. Some times they are prospecting, or checking out

recommendations. The way they are received definitely has a bearing on

future events.

259) Grand Treasurer, Grand Secretary, or Deputy Grand Secretary

260) Should a visit of these Elected officers occur, they would be

received in the same manner as the Grand Wardens. Past Grand Masters are

usually given the Grand Honors as a courtesy but a Worshipful Master

would be wise to request their permission to do so before making the

announcement.

261) The word "Brother" could hardly be overworked but when the rank,

full name and title is used formally, it becomes an encumbrance and

should be omitted.

262) Regardless of ones personal title or friendships, given names or

nicknames are never acceptable conduct in a Masonic Lodge. Always show

the proper respect due the office that the brother holds or has held.

Freemasonry should at all times and places be an uplifting experience.

For a Worshipful Master to create the appearance of dragging a guest

down to his level, with flip or comical salutations, can in no way

enhance the dignity of his office or his Lodge.

263) VISITING GRAND LODGE OFFICERS

264) ( From this or other jurisdictions)

265) The Worshipful Master should invite them to the East under the

escort of the Senior Deacon or any Present or Past Grand Lodge officer

present. They should be presented to the brethren, giving their

respective titles and identifying their jurisdiction. They should be

accorded a hearty round of applause. The Worshipful Master should extend

the courtesies of the Lodge, ask if they would like to address the

brethren, and invite them to remain in the East if they desire. No Grand

Honors are given.

266) Past Masters

267) Each Lodge has its own traditions and customs in this area. Past

Masters should be greeted at their respective seats or West of the altar

and accorded a hearty round of applause after they have all been

introduced. Visiting Past Masters from this or

268) other jurisdictions should be extended the same courtesies. The New

Jersey custom of raising the Lodge when a Past Master is admitted is

just that and nothing more; a pretty courtesy. Any Worshipful Master

would be well advised to treat them equally. Do not greet a group at

their seats and then admit one or more at a later time and, for a lack

of words, extend an invitation to a seat in the East.

269) All Past Masters would be wise to familiarize themselves with

Section 39, Item 06, Page 110 of the Constitution and Laws which details

a Past Master Apron and reads, "shall be worn on all Masonic Occasions

within this Jurisdiction" .

270) Dignitaries in Attendant Bodies

271) [York Rite, Scottish Rite, Shrine, etc.

272) These brethren may be introduced at their respective seats

273) West of the altar. They are to be introduced by giving their

respective title of their Blue Lodge First.

274) For example,

275) M.W.,R.W.,Worshipful, or Brother (name), Commander in Chief (name)

Consistory, Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite..Brother (name) Potentate of

(name)Temple, Ancient Arabic Order of Nobles of the Mystic Shrine

276) The correct titles should be obtained prior to the start of the

meeting in order to avoid any confusion and to insure the proper

designation. No Grand Honors are given.

277) VII .MASONIC PROTOCOL AT GRAND LODGE

278) A).Annual & Emergent Communication of Grand Lodge

279) The Annual Communication of Grand Lodge is held on the First

Wednesday after the Fourth Tuesday in April each year at a place to be

determined at the previous Annual Communication provided such change

shall not cause a conflict with Passover or Maudy Thursday

280) It is the obligation of the Worshipful Masters and Wardens to

attend with their officers aprons and jewels of office.

281) All Past Masters in good standing are members of Grand Lodge and

are entitled to vote on any matters presented. You must be present to vote.

282) The Worshipful Master, Senior, and Junior Warden of each Lodge who

are present at the Communication are also entitled to vote on any matter

presented. By right of the Warrant, the Lodge is entitled to three

votes. The Master and Wardens are the Representatives of the Grand Lodge

so they vote the Lodge's votes.

283) Any of the elected Lodge officers present may vote the ballots of

the other officers who are not in attendance. In the absence of the

Worshipful Master, Senior Warden, and Junior Warden, the elected Proxy

to Grand Lodge from the individual Lodges can vote in place of the

officers; he can only vote in the absence of all three presiding

officers. If the proxy is a Past Master he also casts his personal vote

for a total of four votes.

284) Remember, the Annual Communication is a tyled lodge. Your conduct,

courtesies and manners should be the same as a regular communication of

your own Lodge.

285) Attend the Annual Communication fully informed as to the matters

subject to vote. All matters are printed in the New Jersey Freemason.

which is distributed in sufficient time for all to be Fully informed as

to the intent of such legislation.

286) B). Emergent Communication of Grand Lodge

287) Emergent Communications of the Grand Lodge are called by the Grand

Master at his will and pleasure. Due and timely notice is given as to

matters to be discussed. All other requirements are the same as at the

Annual Communication.

288) C). Grand Lodge of Instruction

289) Each district is required to have a Grand Lodge of Instruction

annually. This date is set at the convenience of the Grand Instructor

and affords him the opportunity to observe the prescribed ritual

performed by the brethren of the district. The Grand Lodge of

Instruction is a Grand Lodge function. After the observance of the

ritual, the Grand Instructor informs the Grand Master as to the

proficiency of the respective officers of that district.

290) The District Deputy Grand Master assigns each Lodge specific parts

of the ritual to be presented at the Grand Lodge of Instruction. Every

Lodge Officer is expected and required to attend District Grand Lodge of

Instruction.

291) Every officer who occupies a station or place in the Lodge shall

remain in that station or place until relieved by the District Deputy

Grand Master or another Lodge officer.

292) Decorum should be such that the meeting can be a learning

experience for all attending.

293) Discuss with the District Deputy Grand Master the manner in which

corrections or criticism will be made by the Ritual Committee so that

each Lodge officer knows what to expect.

294) D). District Lodge of Instruction

295) A District Lodge of Instruction is to be held in each district on

at least a monthly basis. This Lodge of Instruction is under the

direction of the District Deputy Grand Master of the respective

district. Again, it is a tyled lodge and all Masonic courtesies and

protocol should be demonstrated by those in attendance.The purpose is to

instruct the respective Lodge officers in ritual, protocol, Masonic

courtesies and to impart information from the Grand Lodge to the brethren.

296) A primary duty of all Lodge Officers is the attendance at the

District Lodge of Instruction.

End