We all know the power of the gavel, right? That simple tool has helped to pass important rulings in courtroom chambers and committee rooms alike, throughout the centuries. It’s much the same in our Lodges. The Worshipful Master wields his gavel when presiding over meetings and once sounded, the gavel is repeated in different parts of the room to make clear the Master’s wishes and members must bring all conversation to a close.
If you’re into conspiracy theories, you’ve probably heard the ones about Freemasons cooking up schemes to run the world. Is it true? Well. . . “No.” Although a number of notable politicians around the world, have been and are currently Freemasons, members are actively discouraged from discussing politics, mainly as it’s one thing that individuals…
Due to a new air of openness about membership, you may now start to see some reports alluding to our philanthropic undertakings in the News and on Social Media. We still undertake plenty of works in our local communities which have previously gone unseen. We are officially the second largest charitable contributor after the National…
It’s true that we can’t always get along with everyone that we meet, but there’s no room for bad blood in the Lodge. If two members happen to fall out, they aren’t allowed to carry the conflict over into the lodge. Any ill-feeling must be left at the door, as it could potentially cause disruption….
It’s not wise to keep your mobile phone on all the time. Moviegoers seethe at the mere thought of it! Well. . . it’s exactly the same in our lodges. Members need to switch off their mobiles upon arrival to avoid any disparaging looks and in some instances, a hefty fine as it costs a…
Most Masons would love the opportunity to wear their aprons, collars and gloves in public but according to our Book of Constitutions, it’s strictly forbidden without a special ‘written’ dispensation having first been granted. You’ll see Masonic lapel pins and rings worn in public and as this is not ‘regalia’ is deemed acceptable. It IS…
Salutes aren’t just for the military, we Freemasons have our own similar ‘signals’ of respect. Upon entering a lodge, members are expected to acknowledge the Worshipful Master with a salute before they speak, doing the same again when they depart. Salutes are also compulsory when addressing a superior officer within the Lodge.
