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Masonic Funerals
CHAPTER IX
THE WORSHIPFUL MASTER'S
HANDBOOK
Grand Lodge, F.A.A.M. of the
District of Columbia
One of the most important things we can do for our
Brethren and their families is to support them in their time of trial or
troubles. Certainly one of their darkest moments is when one of our
Brothers departs to the Celestial Lodge above. Showing our support by
attending the funeral and later making a condolence call at the house
shows the family that our Brother was indeed respected and among friends
and brothers and important to us. In the past, the Worshipful Master would
have telegrams sent to a group of brethren. They would receive the signal
and would be expected to be present. Today, an obituary is placed in the
Washington Post. It is expected that the Worshipful Master and his
officers will attend when in town and not absolutely impossible to do so,
especially, when an emergent Communication or Masonic Service has been
requested.
Normally, the family or friends should notify the
Secretary or the Worshipful Master. Only if requested by the widow or
immediate family member should there be a Masonic Funeral Service -
usually at the funeral home. When the request is to the Secretary, the
Master should personally confirm it with the immediate family member. A
dark suit and tie without nametags or traveling jewels is appropriate
dress. Stein’s and Danzansky’s have a set of paraphernalia. If the funeral
service is elsewhere, someone needs to be assigned to bring the
paraphernalia from one of the other locations and return it afterwards. It
can be a terrible embarrassment to our brother’s family and ourselves if
the service isn’t done well. There will be times when a passing brother
may be very close to some of the members of the Lodge and the Worshipful
Master will be asked if they can participate. The Master should accept
these offers graciously.
Prior to the service, after the Lodge has been opened by
the Master in emergent form, the Master, Senior Warden and Junior Warden
should visit with the family and pay their respects on behalf of the
Lodge. Also the Master (often with the Master of Ceremonies) should talk
to the Minister (or Rabbi) and discuss whether we wait for him to come
into the room (sometimes they prefer to wait until we are finished) .
After the service, when it is time to leave, the Masons line the corridor
to the hearse, prior to the pall bearers bringing the casket. The Stewards
(or Deacons, if no Stewards) cross their staffs over the door to the
hearse. The Deacons then will cover the Worshipful Master. If in a new
funeral home or at a cemetery, it is a good idea to discuss with the Rabbi
and Master of Ceremonies when and how to enter and egress.
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