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Down here at least, you'd have to wait another month before you heard about the vote on your petition. The first meeting after it's turned it, it is accepted, then during the next month you are investigated, after that, it is read again and voted on. But to answer your question, it depends on the usual dress of your lodge. I wore slacks and a polo to my initiation personally.
Ask what the usual dress code is for your lodge and go in that. Lodges range from tux to coveralls. When in doubt dark suit and tie works pretty much everywhere.
So you petitioned without visiting the lodge? I'll never understand that approach, but to each their own. Maybe I'm misunderstanding. Especially if you got signatures sight unseen.
For what it is worth, if in Texas, the petition will have to be read one month and then voted on after the results of an investigative committee is heard, which is usually at the next stated meeting.
Personally, I'd show up in a suit to an initiation and worse comes to worse you can take off your tie. And I'd also show up in a suit if visiting for the first time and didn't know what the norm was. Better to be overdressed than under, and its not like putting on a suit is all that onerous.
You're applying to join an organization you'll (hopefully) be committed to the rest of your life.
If you dress casually then it won't be impressive if they all come in suits.
If you wear a suit but everyone dresses casually then you'll stand out and you'll make a positive impression.
I'd go with a suit. As Bro. Hatley pointed out, you can always take off the tie or jacket if you feel weird when you get there. One thing I've learned during my Masonic career is that if in doubt, suit up!
Agreed... I showed up for my EA degree in a suit. Was overcrowded for our little country lodge, I guess, but it never hurts to put forth a little effort and respect. Once I'd been around awhile I started matching the way the other brothers dressed. As a candidate, they'll usually have something special for you to wear in the first section, but you do need to show up at the lodge in clean, neat clothing. And especially, clean underwear.
I went to the lodge to get my petition. First I emailed the lodge and got a call back. I always thought the lodge was an abandoned building lol. But a nice man named Ronald showed me the lodge and helped me get this far. I've only met two masons in person and one over the phone, whom I'll get to meet tomorrow after work.
The advise provide so far is pretty much bang on. When in doubt always suit-up. In my lodge in Ontario, Canada we always wear suits and the officers wear tuxes for our meetings. Good luck in your masonic journey.
That's one of the Ancient Mysteries that will be made clear unto you as you work your way through the degrees. As senior deacon, I've opened the door and been surprised a time or two ;-)