the charges of the degrees
From The Grand Lodge Of Texas
The word “charge” has many meanings, ranging from a “fee”, such
as “room charge”, to an “ impulsive rush”, such as the “Charge of the Light
Brigade”. Likewise it alludes to an “acceptance of responsibility”, which is
more familiar to the Mason. Each degree possesses a “Charge” by the presiding
officer of the lodge to the candidate. As a conclusion to each degree, each
“charge” states the duties expected of the candidate as a Mason from that point
onward.
In the various historical constitutions, which outline the regulations for the
government of our Craft, are found “charges” governing our conduct as Masons. In
operative Masonry, they included our actions toward our employer and toward each
other as Brothers, but in speculative Masonry, we find a broader and more
spiritual set of expectations. In the “Charges of 1722” is found references to
God and religion, civil responsibilities, lodge matters, officers and Brothers,
work, and general behavior. For the Texas Mason, the Charges found in
Lightfoot’s “Manual of the Lodge” clearly state the duties expected at each
level of advancement.
The Entered Apprentice is welcomed and informed that Masonry has
its roots in antiquity and serves as an institution for learning and
self-improvement. He is instructed to inculcate, or deeply impress upon himself,
three great duties, which are to God, to his neighbor, and to himself. Likewise
he is cautioned about his civil conduct, his outward demeanor, his attendance,
and further instruction in Masonry. Finally he is charged to keep the secrets
and preserve the dignity of the Fraternity.
The Fellowcraft is recognized for his advancement and encouraged to increase in
knowledge. The candidate is charged to judge wisely and to develop his knowledge
of the liberal arts, especially geometry. Since geometry and Masonry were
originally synonymous in meaning, the candidate is expected to conform to the
principles of the order in developing their own moral character. Studying the
Works of God and gaining knowledge are the central duties contained within this
degree.
The Master Mason is commended for his advancement and tied more closely to the
Craft. His charges include duty, honor, gratitude, dignity, and guardianship. In
addition to benevolence, regularity of conduct, preservation of the landmarks,
and customs, are added overall character. These bring together the binding of
the candidate to the Brethren and the Craft.
Taken individually, or in total, the “Charges” mark a path for each to follow in
developing their moral and spiritual temple. Through reading a charge in the
monitor or carefully listening to a presentation at a conferral, each Brother
may gain insights into himself and his responsibilities as a Mason. As stated in
the Monitor, “Freemasonry … is progressive, and a knowledge of its philosophy
and teachings can only be acquired by time, patience, perseverance, and close
application.” The Charges do not represent the end of a degree, rather a
beginning of one’s life and character.
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