THE WORSHIPFUL MASTER
by M.W.Bro. Bruce Saunders, Grand Master;
Published in THE TRACING BOARD, GRS; October, 1979
At the outset of this month's message let me say that no Master
Mason should be denied the privilege of being Master of his Lodge. However, we
know full well that there are some members in our fraternity who have no desire
nor do they have the ability to perform the duties of that high office but, are
a dedicated and an outstanding member who offers a great deal to the lodge.
The Worshipful Master is elected annually by the members of the Lodge; however,
before allowing his name to stand for this high office he should be well versed
in the Bylaws of his Lodge, the Constitution of Grand Lodge, capable of opening
and closing his Lodge, and be prepared to put on all degree work (with some
assistance by P.M.s). As the head of the Craft he should work in close harmony
with all his officers, especially the secretary, making sure he is maintaining a
compete and proper record of all meetings, making sure that all dues and fees
are kept current and that new members and all members names are properly
recorded, this to include their age, occupation and present and forwarding
address. As regards to Lodge meetings, the Master should stress that all
meetings will commence at the time stated on the notice. All the minutes and
discussions should be concise and to the point, check all correspondence with
the secretary previous to the meeting (if possible); he should execute the
business of the Lodge in a business-like manner. Many lengthy discussions can be
overcome by referring the subject to a special committee who will bring in a
report at the next meeting. The Master is automatically an ex-officio member of
all committees.
In connection with ritualistic and floor work, the Master should insist on a
high grade of proficiency and possibly hold one or two practice sessions. In
regard to floor work and other instructional practices he would inquire if the
new members would care to attend and make them feel a part of the lodge. At the
same time this is a good time for giving the new members proper instruction. The
Master should promote and incorporate Masonic education into Lodge meetings as
program time permits. There are many good papers, books and other material
available from the Grand Lodge library for this purpose. The Master should
strive to maintain brotherly love and good fellowship among the brethren in his
Lodge and make sure that sociability at the festive board be planned for each
meeting.
The Worshipful Master can do much to promote this same fraternal fellowship on a
wider basis by promoting inter-lodge visitation, either on an individual or a
group basis. Encourage the brethren to attend their district and area meetings
and certainly the fellowship at the Grand Lodge Communication is of a high
caliber.
In conclusion, Brethren, to be the Master of your Lodge (the highest honor that
can be conferred upon a brother), you must be prepared to give this top priority
for the term of your office. There is much to be done in preparing and making
your meetings both interesting and instructional. Remember your Obligation and
the charge given to you at your installation, which states in part "the Brethren
have committed the government of this Lodge to your care, and you can be
insensible neither to the duties which devolve upon you as their head, nor to
your responsibility for the faithful discharge of the same. The honor,
reputation and usefulness of this Lodge will materially depend upon the skill
and ability with which you manage its' affairs. It will be your province to
communicate light and instruction to the brethren of your Lodge.
Forcibly impress upon them the dignity and high importance of Freemasonry and
practice out of the Lodge those excellent precepts which are ever inculcated
within it."
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