While most of our rules and rituals are shrouded in mystery, one particular aspect has been spoken about – and often mocked – for years. Yes, we’re referring to the secret handshake. But there’s not just one! It’s all to do with your rank within the Fraternity, as the greeting you use changes as you progress. This is but one of the ways members identify each another outside of meetings.
If you’re working within a large group of people for a while, there’s a good chance that there will be differences of opinion, and thus an argument could ensue. Disagreement exists and conflict happens, right? In this instance you’re both invited to leave the Lodge room and return once you have amicably settled your differences….
It’s true that sometimes a good anecdote can help lighten the mood of a particularly stuffy room, but don’t try it in a Lodge meeting as the proceedings are quite serious matters! The meetings aren’t without humour, but no one expects a belly laugh during the meeting. Perhaps at the bar or at dinner afterwards?
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…
We Freemasons may not be plotting how to take over the world, but our Lodges are very serious places. That doesn’t mean we can’t have a laugh in the bar or over dining, but the opportunity for humour within the Lodge is very sparse. Its like watching a play. If someone does something funny, then…
Certain aspects of your life would need to change if you become a Freemason. So, if you enjoy a few beers during your spare time, that’s OK as we are a very social organisation – but any more than a few, runs the risk of breaking the Freemasons’ cardinal virtue of temperance. Anyone prosecuted for…
Yes, trials occur in Lodges when members face charges of violating the Masonic Constitution. In those cases, a formal jury is formed, but solicitors aren’t involved. Instead, the Mason on trial and his accuser(s) become defendant and prosecution respectively. If found guilty, the penalties for the defendant are often serious and are always actioned.
