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Officers responsibilities
- Thread starter Plustax
- Start date
I would buy "Our Stations and Places" from Cornerstone publishing. As a new mason, I was wondering about the many different officers and their responsibilities, and this book was a good place to start. It's written for Emulation or similar workings, but while we might not have an Inner Guard, the Senior Deacon is still the same, for example.
This program was written and presented back in 2002 at the GM conferences.
Hope this helps.
LODGE OFFICERS DUTIES
While we strive for uniformity in our ritualistic work, the duties and responsibilities of the Officers in our Constituent Lodges vary from Lodge to Lodge. These needs vary based on the size of your Lodge, the location of your Lodge (an urban versus a rural setting), and other demographics. Also, specific traditions and customs have evolved over time in your Lodge and in your area.
Recognizing the uniqueness of each Lodge, the following presentation seeks to provide information which you, as a member, a current Lodge Officer, or even a Past Master, can tailor to fit the specific needs and requirements of your Lodge.
The importance of defining the duties of each officer and committee is the first step toward a successful year as Worshipful Master. When all understand and agree to their respective duties and responsibilities, peace and harmony will prevail and your Lodge will accomplish your individual and collective goals and objectives.
Many of the duties and responsibilities of the Officers of a Masonic Lodge are contained in the Laws of The Grand Lodge of Texas, The By-Laws of your Lodge, and the Monitor of the Lodge. References will be made to each of these sources throughout this presentation and a list of references will be displayed at the conclusion of the program.
WORSHIPFUL MASTER
Managing a Masonic Lodge is much like managing a business. The chief officer of a Masonic Lodge is the Worshipful Master. The powers and prerogatives are many and varied; his responsibilities are great. He is responsible only to the Grand Lodge of Texas for his official actions (Art. 283), but he holds the office in a special relation of trust, confidence, and responsibility — in a fiduciary capacity — with an ultimate obligation to the members of his Lodge for all his actions.
The duties and responsibilities of the Master of a Lodge are varied. References are included in the following:
Laws of The Grand Lodge of Texas, A.F. & A.M.
Chapter 12—Title II. Worshipful Master
Art. 276. Qualifications.
Art. 276a. Additional Qualifications.
Art. 277. Office Vacant: When and How Filled.
Art. 278. Master Presiding “Covered.â€
Art. 279. Custodian of Charter.
Art. 280. Correction of Minutes.
Art. 281. Can Require Every Member to Vote.
Art. 282. Can Cast Deciding Vote.
Art. 283. No Appeal from Decision Except to Grand Lodge.
Art. 284. Duty to Require Audits.
Division IV. Masonic Forms
Form 23. By-Laws
Art. V. Duties of Officers
Section 1. Worshipful Master. It shall be the duty of the Worshipful Master to see that the By-Laws of the Lodge, as well as the Constitution and Regulations of the Grand Lodge are duly observed, and that the officers attend strictly to their duties.
Hence, the need to define and agree on those duties to avoid any misunderstandings and hard feelings.
Art. VI. Standing Committees
Section 1. The Worshipful Master, Senior and Junior Wardens shall constitute Standing Committees on Fraternal Assistance, Sickness, and Arbitration … Details the duties of these Committees.
Sections 2, 3 and 4. Committee on Finance. Details the duties and reports of the Committees.
Art. XII. Business. Details the Order of Business.
Art. XIII. Rules of Business. Details the rules for conducting the business of the Lodge.
From the Monitor of the Lodge, we find the following duties of a Master of a Lodge:
You promise a regular attendance on the committees and communications of the Grand Lodge (No. XII, page 120);
And by the way, just because a successor is eventually installed, those who have assumed this vow are never relieved of the promises made!
Search the Book of Constitutions at all times … cause it to be read in your Lodge (page 122);
Carefully preserve your Charter and transmit it to your successor in office (page 122);
And again, you are to see the By-Laws of your Lodge carefully and punctually executed (page 122).
In short, the Worshipful Master is charged to educate, to teach the members about the Grand Lodge Constitution and Laws and his Lodge By-Laws. Then after teaching these principles of our Fraternity, he must see that all, including himself, live up to these standards of Masonic usage.
THE WARDENS
Laws of The Grand Lodge of Texas, A.F. & A.M.
Chapter 13—Title II. The Wardens
Art. 285. Duties of Wardens.
Art. 286. Junior Warden: Not Affected: When.
Also: Chapter 12—Title II. Worshipful Master
Art. 277. Office Vacant: When and How Filled.
The Charge to the Wardens in the Installation Ceremony contained in the Monitor of the Lodge, we find the following:
You should be examples of good order and regularity … You are to assist the Master in the discharge of his trust; diffusing light and imparting knowledge to all whom he shall place under your care. In the absence of the Master, you will succeed to higher duties; your acquirements must, therefore, be such as that the Craft may never suffer from the want of proper instruction (page 129).
Much of the materials previous referenced for the Master are applicable to the Wardens. The Wardens are preparing to be the leaders, the teachers, the preservers of our Fraternal Codes and Standards.
SENIOR WARDEN
The second officer in the Lodge is the Senior Warden, and in the absence of the Worshipful Master, he assumes the position and place of the Master. He must, therefore, work closely with the Worshipful Master in all matters relating to the Lodge, and the Master should reciprocate.
From the Monitor of the Lodge, we find the following specific duties of the Senior Warden:
Your regular attendance on our stated meetings is essentially necessary. In the absence of the Master, you are to govern this Lodge; in his presence, you are to assist him in the government of it (page 123).
In many Lodges, the Senior Warden is given the responsibility to see that all stations and places are filled. In the absence of the installed officer, he is often delegated the responsibility to find a qualified member to fill the office.
In some Lodges, the Senior Warden is delegated the responsibility of filling the various stations in our degree conferrals. In other Lodges, the degrees are split between the Master, Wardens and Deacons.
Often, the oversight of a Building and Grounds Committee is assigned to the Senior Warden.
We are all invited to Look Well to the Senior Warden and convince ourselves that he has earned our trust to fill the high office of Worshipful Master.
JUNIOR WARDEN
The Junior Warden is the first elective position of the three principal line officers and his responsibility deepens as he begins to prepare for his future leadership of the Lodge.
From the Monitor of the Lodge, we find the following specific duties of the Junior Warden:
To you is committed the superintendence of the Craft during the hours of refreshment … (page 124).
Many Lodges assign oversight of the Senior and Junior Stewards to the Junior Warden and also the coordination of the kitchen activities.
There are specific Constitutional duties assigned to the Junior Warden respecting Masonic Trials. These are extensive and are specifically enumerated in the Laws of the Grand Lodge of Texas.
Laws of The Grand Lodge of Texas, A.F. & A.M.
Chapter 3 — Title V. Charges
Art. 509. Duties of Junior Warden. It is the duty of the Junior Warden to prefer charges against offending Brethren and prosecute same …
Art. 510. Complaint by Any Master Mason. … it shall be the duty of the Junior Warden to immediately present such charges, in the manner and form required by Masonic law.
In most Lodges, the Junior Warden serves as the Parliamentarian and legal counselor. As such, he must be conversant with The Laws of The Grand Lodge of Texas and the By-Laws of the Lodge. This will be valuable knowledge as he continues his preparation for his journey to the East.
In many Lodges, the Junior Warden monitors the progress of Candidates through our degree work. A coordination of efforts with Senior Deacon will insure that our Candidates are not neglected.
In some Lodges, the Junior Warden is often the contact with our Brethren who are ill and bereaved. In other Lodges, this responsibility devolves upon the Chaplain. This presentation assumes the latter.
TREASURER
The Treasurer is the official custodian of the funds of the Lodge and should keep an accurate account at all times.
From the Monitor of the Lodge, we find the following specific duties of the Treasurer:
It is your duty to receive all moneys from the Secretary, make due entries thereof and pay them out by order of the Worshipful Master and consent of the Lodge (page 124).
Laws of The Grand Lodge of Texas, A.F. & A.M.
Chapter 14—Title II. The Treasurer
Art. 287. Duties of Treasurer.
Art. 284. Duty to Require Audits … It shall be the duty of the Treasurer and Secretary to make all their books and records available to the (Audit) Committee or accountant appointed to audit same.
Division IV. Masonic Forms
Form 23. By-Laws
Art. V. Duties of Officers
Section 2. Treasurer. It shall be the duty of the Treasurer to hold all deeds, certificates of stock, notes, bonds, obligations, or other property of a financial character belonging to the Lodge, and to collect and receive the same when directed by the Lodge…
Section 3. He shall keep a correct account of the same, and report minutely the financial condition of the Lodge…
The Treasurer should be integrally involved in creating an investment plan for approval of the Lodge, then seeing that the plan is rigorously followed.
While the Treasurer is not a member of the Audit Committee he can be of valuable assistance as they perform their duties, specifically respecting Art. 284 (auditing the books and accounts of the Treasurer and Secretary), and fulfilling their responsibilities in completing the required Minimum Audit Form No. 71.
SECRETARY
The Secretary is the key administrative person of the Lodge. The success of the Lodge is largely dependent upon the successful performance of the Secretary as he fulfills the duties of his office.
Laws of The Grand Lodge of Texas, A.F. & A.M.
Chapter 15—Title II. The Secretary
Art. 288. Duties of Secretary. Delineates the specific duties and responsibilities of the Secretary.
From the Monitor of the Lodge, we find the following specific duties of the Secretary:
It is your duty to carefully observe all the proceedings of the Lodge; make a correct record of all things proper to be written, receive all moneys due the Lodge, and pay them over to the Treasurer, taking his receipt for the same (page 124).
Division IV. Masonic Forms
Form 23. By-Laws
Art. V. Duties of Officers
Section 4. Secretary. It shall be the duty of the Secretary …
Section 5. It shall also be the duty of the Secretary…
Art. X. Visiting Brethren.
Section 2. In the event that the visiting Brother is a stranger and hails from some Lodge in another Grand Jurisdiction, it shall be the duty of the Secretary to notify the visitor’s Lodge that we have had the pleasure of a visit by one of its members, giving the name and date.
CHAPLAIN
One of the most significant honors that can come to a Brother is that of being appointed Chaplain of his Lodge. He is the first of the appointed officers and sits near the Worshipful Master.
From the Monitor of the Lodge, we find the following specific duties of the Chaplain:
It is your duty to perform those solemn services which we should constantly render to our creator … (page 125).
In some Lodges, the Chaplain chairs the Sick and Visitation Committee and has the responsibility for reporting on the health of the members and providing comfort to the bereaved.
In many cases, the Chaplain serves as Chairman of the Funeral Committee and as such, coordinates the Masonic Funeral Services performed by the Lodge.
THE DEACONS
From the Monitor of the Lodge, we find the following specific duties of the Senior and Junior Deacons:
It is your province to attend on the Master and Wardens, and to act as their proxies in the active duties of the Lodge; such as the reception of candidates into the difference degrees of Masonry; the introduction and accommodation of visitors, and the immediate practice of our rites (page 125).
The Senior Deacon is the most responsible position to which an officer may be appointed. His duties are many and the time spent performing them will reflect upon his future work as an elected officer of the Lodge.
In our degree work, the Senior Deacon conducts our Candidates though our Degrees. In this regard, he is instrumental in determining the impression we make on our Candidates, either positive or negative.
In some Lodges, the Senior Deacon monitors the Candidate’s progress through our Degrees and their memory work.
The responsibility for examining visiting Brethren often devolves upon the Senior Deacon. The manner of examination is covered under Masonic Courtesies in The Lodge Officer Manual (pages 12-13).
The Junior Deacon is the “right hand†of the Senior Deacon and should assist him in the performance of his duties. He also works in conjunction with the Tiler. Together they should ensure that the aprons, candidate uniforms and Lodge paraphernalia are clean and Masonically presentable for a good impression—for our candidates and our visitors.
STEWARDS
The Senior and Junior Stewards arrange for the serving of refreshments at all Stated and Called Meeting, and at other times when requested to do so by the Worshipful Master. The Stewards are often in a position to greet members and visitors.
From the Monitor of the Lodge, we find the following specific duties of the Senior and Junior Stewards:
It is your duty to assist the Deacons and other officers in performing their respective duties, to see that the tables are properly furnished at refreshment, and the brethren suitably provided for. Your regular and early attendance will afford the best proof of your zeal and attachment to the Lodge (page 126).
Often, the Stewards work under the direction of the Junior Warden to provide meals and refreshments for the Lodge’s Stated and Called Meetings, and other special occasions. They are typically charged with maintaining the kitchen and dining areas.
MARSHAL and MASTER OF CEREMONIES
The Marshal and the Master of Ceremonies will assist the other officers of the Lodge as requested.
From the Monitor of the Lodge, we find the following specific duties of the Marshal and Master of Ceremonies:
It is your duty to assist the Senior Deacon in preparing Candidates for initiation and to see that the needs of the Candidate are provided, such as the Candidate Information Program, Ritualistic Instruction, Masonic Education, and information concerning the customs and usages of Masonry (page 126).
While lower in the listing of Lodge Officers, the Marshal and Master of Ceremonies are instrumental in the integration of new members in your Lodge.
MUSICIAN
From the Monitor of the Lodge, we find the following specific duties of the Musician:
It is your duty to furnish suitable music for the Lodge on all proper occasions. In discharging the duties of this office your talents and zeal will be of inestimable value and a source of genuine pleasure to the brethren (page 127).
TILER
The Tiler works closely with the Junior Deacon in the performance of his duties. Together they are responsible for the security of the Lodgeroom during all meetings. He usually distributes all Officers’ Aprons and Jewels prior to the meetings and collects them after the meetings.
Laws of The Grand Lodge of Texas, A.F. & A.M.
Chapter 11—Title II. Lodge Officers
Art. 265. All but Tiler must Be Members. All officers of a Lodge, must be members thereof, except the Tiler.
From the Monitor of the Lodge, we find the following specific duties of the Tiler:
… It is your duty to guard against the approach of cowans and eavesdroppers, and permit none to pass except those who are duly qualified … (page 127).
Division IV. Masonic Forms
Form 23. By-Laws
Art. V. Duties of Officers
Section 6. Tiler. It shall be the duty of the Tiler to see that the Lodgeroom is kept clean and in order; and that the various articles of furniture are in their appropriate places; to strictly guard the door during the sitting of the Lodge; to summons the members of the Lodge to all called meetings where a summons is necessary, and be punctual in this attendance.
Like the Stewards, the Tiler shares the responsibility of making visitors to your Lodge feel welcome. A Tiler who acts as in a friendly manner will make your visitors feel at home and want to come back.
COMMITTEES
Much of the success of a Lodge is dependent upon the work of the Committees. In many cases, the activities and duties of the various Standing and Special Committees are well known to the membership and therefor require only brief mention. Other Committees have special duties assigned to them and require specific direction to the Chairman and Members. While the committee structure of Constituent Lodges is not within the scope of this presentation, several references to specific Committees have been made during this program.
Division IV. Masonic Forms
Form 23. By-Laws
Art. VI. Standing Committees
Section 1. The Worshipful Master, Senior and Junior Wardens shall constitute Standing Committees on Fraternal Assistance, Sickness, and Arbitration … Their duties are as follows:
(1) Fraternal Assistance —
(2) Sickness —
(3) Arbitration —
Section 2. Committee on Finance —
Section 3. Duties of Committee on Finance
Section 4. Reports of Committee on Finance
REFERENCES
The Laws of The Grand Lodge of Texas, A.F. & A.M., Revised 2000.
Available from the Office of the Grand Secretary, Waco
Monitor of the Lodge, 1982, Revised and Printed 1998.
Available from the Office of the Grand Secretary, Waco
The Lodge Officer Manual, Reprinted June, 1993.
Published by The Committee on Masonic Education and Service
Available from the Office of the Grand Secretary, Waco
An Approach to Lodge Officer Training for Texas Lodges
Published by The Committee on Masonic Education and Service
Available from the Office of the Grand Secretary, Waco
Masonry and The Mason, 1997, Fifth Printing
Published by The Committee on Masonic Education and Service
Available from the Office of the Grand Secretary, Waco
Worshipful Master’s Manual, 2001
Published by The Committee on Masonic Education and Service
The Grand Lodge of Texas, A.F. & A.M.
Guides to Becoming A More Successful Leader (Set of Five)
The Essential Skills of Leadership, 1998
By Bro. Dudley Davis and Bro. Ron Blue
Available from The Center for Leadership Excellence
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