The Penalty for missing a study group...

Can missing study groups disqualify a candidate from being able to continue the process of becoming MM?

I would think that as long as you are able to pass proficiency, attendance in study group should optional...but I am not in TX. In CT we have "Lodge of Instruction" night coupled in with Ritual rehearsal. Attendance is optional, unless of course you have a part in an upcoming degree, in which case you would already be a MM.

as far as I know, in Texas, a lodge can declare anything "proficient." if they think that someone isn't proficient for whatever reason, then as a lodge, they can decide that.

I would personally find that a little overbearing...

I am confused...

After hearing someone turn in their proficiency, the lodge can declare itself satisfied or not. They do not give reasons.

If the reason is "they haven't been doing their study sessions," then there's really no way to know if that's why. AKA, yes, a lodge can technically declare itself not satisfied for any reason.

Bill Lins is probably the guy that can verify the truth in this or not, but this is my lowly educated position.

I know of no GLoT requirement regarding "study sessions". We really don't care how a Brother learns his work as long as it is imparted "mouth-to-ear". Dunno what PHA may require.

I think that the important thing is that you learn your work and turn in a proficiency in an open lodge to the satisfaction of the members present. I know of no requirement to attend study classes. I can say for certain that the GL of California does not have such requirements. I learned all of my work (albeit 34 years ago) with one on one sessions at my coaches house over coffee and cake or pie. I think that study classes are designed for brothers to have a place to go on a regular basis if they are having trouble getting with someone individually.

I know that is what we did at South Houston back in the 70's and 80's. We had Wednesday nights set up specifically for instruction. We ususally had all 3 degrees covered. We also did ritual practices on that night as well.

Right now in my lodge we have 2 1/2 masons learning their 3rd degree proficiency (I'm one), 1 member working on his 2nd degree proficiency, and 2 new members working on their 1st degree proficiency.

My lodge Master has dedicated Tuesdays at the lodge to degree work and proficiency study...so far attendance for the proficiency study has been weak and sporadic.

Attendance is purely optional...I just wish more members would opt to participate.

Youngblood, the most important thing is that you provide proof of proficiency when called upon to do so.........Study Groups in PHA Lodges are simply to assist the Men with any work that they may be having difficulties with. In MY Lodge, if a Man can't make ANY study groups due to work, family obligations, etc., but comes in and is proficient in all of his memory work when he is called on, he will advance to the next Degree. While you are on this Forum typing, you COULD be spending this time studying your material with a more well-informed Brother! Log off, and get back to work...............Good Luck, Brother.................

Bro Vincent C. Jones Sr., Lodge Chaplain, Bayou City Lodge #228
Prince Hall Affiliation, Free and Accepted Masonry, Houston, Texas
Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Texas

Let us not rush to conclusion brethren.

Yougblodd brings up a good point. I agree with all your comments.


However, let us explore the question further.


After all, he is an Entered Apprentice, :sneaky2:, and as such derserves our undivided attention



How's bout demanding that they also bring the desert and put out the garbage?