The Guiding Light March. 2016 | Page 9

The Guiding Light / March. 2016 9

THE WEST GATE

Brethren, I want to continue a focus this month on Masonic protocol and etiquette during lodge. The discussion continued at a recent Lodge Light Training about solemnity in the lodge when opening and closing. We talked about the respect given to the deacons as they perform their duties to open and close, as well as respect and solemnity for the Great Light in Masonry. I will offer some of our discussion for you to ponder the next time a lodge is opened and closed.

One of the main points of discussion has been the closing. Our thoughts have gone to the respect for the task of the Senior Deacon as he performs it. It is his job to close

The Great Light in Masonry, place the square and compass upon it, and turn out the representatives of the lesser lights. The question being, what is proper Masonic protocol while this is being accomplished? It seems that once the Worshipful Master has given the order to the Junior Deacon, most brethren begin to make their way to the door with no regard to the final job of the Senior Deacon. We have talked about how it is done in other lodges, as well as how it is done in our lodge. We have begun to come to the consensus that we owe a little more respect to the Senior Deacon, but more especially to the book upon which we all took our obligation. As wardens, we have begun trying to set the tone for closing, by remaining at attention until the task is performed. I feel that is important that we show respect and honor for what is taking place in front of us. Should we not show unity in brotherhood for what the Senior Deacon is doing at the altar?

If you have visited other lodges or been a member elsewhere, how is it done? I know there are certain little things that differ from lodge to lodge. Is this something we should try and add to our lodge decorum? I personally think so.

Please remember the Education Banquet on March 9. If you need a ticket, contact myself, or Sal Pacheco. You will be proud to see the deserving scholarship recipients and Lamar Medal winners. This is the fruits of our labor to award these scholarships. We work so hard to raise this money to further a young person’s education. Tickets are only $20. I think you will also enjoy the speaker, Brother Joseph King from the Brady Masonic Lodge. He will be speaking on integrity and how it ties to Masonry and life. We need to show our support to this cause.

Randall S. King, Senior Warden