My Freemasonry | Freemason Information and Discussion Forum

Register a free account today to become a member! Once signed in, you'll be able to participate on this site by adding your own topics and posts, as well as connect with other members through your own private inbox!

Charges of a Freemason

Bro. Kurt P.M.

2018 14G DCO
Premium Member
Found within the Constitution of the Grand Lodge of Texas are six sections dealing with the ancient charges of a Freemason which are extracted from the “Constitutions of 172 â€. Of these sections, section VI deals exclusively with the subject of Masonic “Behaviorâ€. It, too, is divided into six sections, namely:

1. Of Behavior in the Lodge while constituted

Which addresses solemnity, respect, and conduct due the Master, Wardens, and Brethren, along with the seriousness of the work.
2. Behavior after the Lodge is over, and the Brethren not gone

Which addresses excesses, religion, politics, and quarrels, with an emphasis on peace and harmony.
3. Behavior when Brethren meet without strangers, but not in a Lodge formed

Which addresses issues of respect toward all, courtesy and honor.
4. Behavior in presence of strangers not Masons

Which addresses the honor of the Fraternity and circumspection in conduct.
5. Behavior at home and in your neighborhood

Which addresses moral conduct, health, and family responsibility.
6. Behavior toward a stranger Brother

Which addresses guarding against the ignorant, false pretender, and toward the aid of a true Brother.

There is little question that these charges should be read at home and in the Lodge as reminders of our obligations we have toward our Brothers. The lessons of the Level, Square and Compasses, and Brotherly Love should always prompt kindnesses, patience, and understanding. There is no place for a sharp tongue, unkind remark, or dishonor of character in the Fraternity, for the True Mason’s behavior must be above reproach.

Finally, it is the concluding remarks within Charge VI that urge the cultivation of Brotherly Love and moral character. They admonish the Freemason to have pa-tience, to avoid slander and back-biting, and to follow the Masonic law in dealing with one another. All of the lessons found within the Degrees, the allegories, and symbols of the Craft are there to map out a path of behavior and moral stairway to that â€House not made with Hands, eternal in the Heavens†and as the section concludes: “that all may see the benign influence of Masonry, as all true Masons have done from the beginning of the world, and will do so to the end of time. Amen. So mote it be.â€

Brother Robert Northcutt Grand Lodge of Texas Masonic Education and Services Committee
 
Top