Page 19 - ASHLAR - Oct-Dec 2019

N A L G R
I O
G E AND LODGE
The Ashlar R Vol. XV Issue III
MASONIC BEHAVIOUR OR ETIQUETTE IN THE LODGE.
R.W.Bro. J.N.Chowdhary., PM Lodge Sanchi No. 247
Freemasonry has grown in Bhopal in the last our officers and above all the brethren. It is an
Thirty Five years and I felt it necessary to call experience of the heart and mind that naturally
the attention of Brethren towards the proper renders due regard to the rights and privileges
behavior inside the Lodge Room which, we the in our principles and ritualistic teachings.
Masons consider to be a dedicated or revered This is what has been classified in the Antient
or sacred ground. These behavior are the Land Marks of the Order. (We will first discuss
Masonic Etiquettes. the Worshipful Master who is the most
Generally, we focus on teaching and practicing important officer in the Lodge.)
the Rituals, Masonic Symbols, history etc., but THE WORSHIPFUL MASTER'S AUTHORITY
not on how to conduct our self within and even An important aspect of understanding the
outside the Lodge. Many times we heard that Masonic Etiquette is our understanding of the
the Banquet Table is the extension of the authority of Ruling Worshipful Master.
ceremonies but have never been specifically He is the absolute ruler of the Lodge during his
taught how to conduct ourselves on the Dinner term in office.
Table. He is single source of authority and control of
We have heard many times in various Charges the Lodge unless some Official has not taken
of the Degree workings about the behavior over the Lodge like RW the RGM or MW The
such as “By a perfect submission to Master and Grand Master of Grand Lodge of India or their
Wardens while acting in discharge of their representative, on some official visit.
Offices.” or “By ready acquiescence to all votes He decides what is to be discussed in the lodge
and resolutions…..” but have we ever given a or which ceremony is to be performed in
serious thought to these charges.? conjunction with the Lodge Secretary and
But we must remember, we are all guilty of Director of Ceremony.
lapses or ignorance of Masonic Etiquette. He has the authority to rule any Brother out of
Therefore I thought that I will put down in writing order at any time.
what I feel that every Mason must know and If he asks or requests a member to serve in
observe. some capacity it is proper to accept with
WHAT IS ETIQUETTE courtesy and carry out the request with due
-The procedures and behaviors acceptable diligence unless there is unavoidable reason
and required in society. which precludes carrying out that order.
-It enables us to behave with decorum and If any Brother feels that WM is arbitrary, there is
dignity. a Lodge committee, which consists of all the
- Need to match behavior to circumstances. Past Masters where it can be discussed and a
-Leads to pleasant and appropriate interaction. solution can be found. If the dispute is such
WHAT IS MASONIC ETIQUETTE which is not resolved then the Brother can refer
Specific technicalities and ceremonial the matter to Regional Grand Master through
observance unique to Freemasonry that is the Asst. Regional Grand Master in charge of
indispensable for the decorum and harmonious the Lodge.
working of the business of the Lodge-W.M's The Worshipful Master of the Lodge is there
prime responsibility. only for one year and he has lot of duties and
Brethren at the core Masonic Etiquette is about responsibilities to perform, therefore it is
showing respect for our fraternity, our Lodge, expected of each member to help him without

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