Masonic Education Curriculum (v5 December 2015)

Transcription

1 Masonic Education Curriculum (v5 December 2015) Masonic Lodges need this curriculum so that every Mason learns the same basic topics in Masonry and becomes confident about Masonic signs, words and the meanings of our ceremonies. This document was prepared as a direct result of feedback from Masons attending the three Divisional Conferences in It sets out the topics needed to strengthen Masons knowledge in our 3 degrees. The recommended method of Masonic Education is by Mentoring explained as follows. Mentoring A Mentor is a Masonic Friend, preferably about the same age as the Candidate and from a similar background. A Mentor does not have to be a Past Master who knows all the answers but should be a keen Mason who will allow a newer Mason to have a voice and discuss topics on his journey of discovery. See the final section on Selecting a Mentor. Mentor training sessions will be available in Districts to show how to lead Masons through the curriculum topics. The Curriculum is subdivided into three areas: 1 Lodge Culture & Etiquette; 2 Activities Outside the Lodge; 3 Ceremonial. There is a final Section on Selecting a Mentor. The next sections recommend topics to be covered in each of these areas. LODGE CULTURE & ETIQUETTE This section suggests topics in three areas: in Lodge; at refectory; within other districts. In Lodge Explain and discuss the etiquette, traditions and customs in your Lodge. Discuss the history, culture and roots of your Lodge and that Lodge customs differ from Lodge to Lodge. Give an explanation of your Lodge structure and organisation. Explain how to address Brethren in various Masonic ranks. Guide a new Mason when he is ready to volunteer for Charges. Discuss how to become a Mentor in Lodge. At Refectory Explain the protocols in refectory for toasts, fires and speeches. Get to know your Lodge members and what they do/did professionally and socially. Guide a new Mason when he is ready to volunteer for other activities in the Lodge e.g. social committee. Page 1 of 8

2 Within Other Districts Discuss the etiquette when visiting other Lodges. Explain that visiting into other Districts and overseas is permitted. Explain the history of New Zealand Grand Lodge. ACTIVITIES OUTSIDE THE LODGE This is divided into two parts: Personal Development; Sharing Masonry with non-masons contributing to a better society. Personal Development Making a Personal Development Plan. How to learn and deliver Masonic Charges. Explain and discuss the 7 Pillars of New Zealand Freemasonry. Discovering the essence of Freemasonry and try to explain it. How to facilitate Self-Organized Discussion Groups (SODGs). Skills training for using the GL Website. Outline the broader picture of the six degrees in New Zealand Freemasonry. Sharing Masonry with Non-Masons. The following questions should be discussed in full at every opportunity: What can I tell my family about Masonry? How much Masonry can I share with my friends and neighbours? Assist the Mason to construct his own explanation of Freemasonry. CEREMONIAL The Entered Apprentice Degree The Opening and Closing Ceremonies in the First Degree Explain where each Lodge Officer stands and his duty. Discuss the ritual of the Master addressing his Wardens asking questions. Emphasise that this is done in every Masonic Lodge throughout the world. Questions Before Advancing to the East Discuss the questions asked of a Candidate when he enters the Lodge and immediately after the 1st degree prayer. Explain the 1st perambulation and discuss the reasons for the Master s questions before advancing to the East. Encourage Masons to ask questions about meanings. Encourage the use of note books to write questions and explanations. Page 2 of 8

3 The Method of Advancing from West to East in the 1st Degree Discuss why: each step is of different length; the feet need to form a square; we kneel on the Left Knee the right is formed in a square, the point of the compasses is pointed at the naked left breast. The Obligation Discuss: what is being promised. Make sure that everyone understands that this is a solemn Obligation on the VSL and therefore in the presence of TGAOTU; the meaning of TGAOTU; what makes the Lodge is worthy; what makes it worshipful; what makes it warranted; how it was properly dedicated; the kneeling position. The Sign, Token and Words Demonstrate how to do the 1st degree sign and emphasise that it must start with the 1st regular step in Freemasonry. Inform Candidates that the token needs a word never to be given to anyone at length. Demonstrate giving and receiving the letters and syllables of the 1st degree word. The Distinguishing Badge of an Entered Apprentice Explain meaning of the apron and the charge after investiture both symbolically and in modern society. The North East Corner Charge Explain the symbolism, especially the place of charity compared to relief. The Method of Preparation Explain each part of the preparation in the 1st degree in understandable language. Page 3 of 8

4 The Working Tools in the 1st Degree Explain the symbolism and possible every-day meanings in our private and working lives. The Charge After Initiation This beautiful charge is considered by many to be the most important in the ritual. Explain and discuss what each part means. Particular reference should illustrate: VSL; duty to God, neighbour and self duty versus loyalty 4 Cardinal Virtues secrecy, fidelity, obedience politics and religion truth, honour and virtue Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth Explain each in Masonic terms plus their relevance in modern day living. Include morality, integrity and ethics. The 1 st Degree Tracing Board. The first degree tracing board is the longest charge in our ritual and deserves several sessions on explaining its intricacies. It is important that a Candidate receives this explanation and the opportunity for discussion before preparing for the 2nd degree. The Questions and Answers Leading to the 2nd Degree Explain questions and discuss answers an understanding is more important than a recital. The Mentor must ensure that the Candidate has done his homework and knows his answers. The Fellow Craft Degree Introduction Explain that whilst progressive, this is a discrete degree. Discuss the concept of Passing - through what, and why - and the term Fellow Craft. Discuss why a Candidate is admitted on the 90 angle of a square. Opening and Closing in the 2nd Degree Discuss the symbolism in the Opening and Closing ceremonies. Page 4 of 8

5 The Pass Grip and Pass Word in the 2nd Degree Demonstrate and explain the pass grip and pass word. Get the Mason to practice and show you. Discuss the differences between: the pass grip and the grip/token of the degree; the pass word and the word of the degree. Draw attention to when to use one and when to use the other. The Symbolism of the 1 st Perambulation Discuss the reasons for the 1 st perambulation. Get Masons to think about why we do this part of the ceremony. The Method of Advancing from West to East in the 2nd Degree Discuss why: the steps go up a winding staircase; we kneel on the Right Knee; the left arm is supported in the angle of a Square. The Obligation Explain TGGOTU and stress the continuing solemnity The Signs, Token and Words Demonstrate and explain how to do the 2 nd degree Signs remembering that it is in 4 distinct parts, must start with the 2 nd regular step in Freemasonry; the Sign of Fidelity with thumb in the form of a square; the Hailing Sign with the thumb in the form of a square; the Penal sign left hand first followed by right hand. Explain the correct hand-shake and responses. Emphasise that the token needs a word never to be given to anyone at length, demonstrate and practice giving and receiving the letters and syllables of the 2 nd degree word. The Charge after Investiture Discuss the Liberal Arts: music, rhetoric and grammar. Discuss the Sciences: arithmetic, astronomy, logic, and geometry. Discuss their relevance to FM and their importance in society today. The Charge in the SE Corner Explain the symbolism of Passing Page 5 of 8

6 The Working Tools in the 2nd Degree Explain the symbolism and possible every-day meanings in our private and working lives The Tracing Board in the 2nd Degree There is a lengthy Charge about this Tracing Board and it should be explained in small pieces so that symbolism may be drawn to a Mason s attention for consideration and reflection. The Charge after Passing (where included) Explain the prominence of Geometry Explain the tenets and principles of the order, ancient usages and customs, landmarks and Inseparable loyalty The Questions and Answers Leading to the 3rd Degree Explain questions and discuss answers an understanding is more important than a recital. The Mentor must ensure that the Candidate has done his homework and knows his answers. The Master Mason Degree Opening and Closing in the 3rd Degree Discuss the symbolism in the Opening and Closing ceremonies. The Pass Grip and Pass Word in the 3rd Degree Demonstrate and explain the pass grip and pass word. Get the Mason to practice and show you. Draw attention to the differences between: the pass grip and the grip/token of the degree; the pass word and the word of the degree. Explain and discuss the 1 st, 2 nd and 3 rd perambulations, the reasons why they are needed, their similarities and differences. The Method of Advancing from West to East in the 3rd Degree Explain and discuss that the steps go over a grave. Discuss the 3, 5 and 7 steps in the EA, FC and MM degrees. Discuss why we kneel on both knees. Symbolism of Raising The symbolism of death and being raised to a reunion will mean different things to different Masons but open discussion will assist everyone to a better understanding. The story of this degree should be explained by the Mentor in a series of short episodes Page 6 of 8

7 interspersed with questions and discussion. A careful explanation is needed of this complex ritual to allow Masons to come to an understanding of the several parts. Mentors should allow Masons to think through their own personal meanings. This will need several revisits and a great deal of time. The Signs, Token and Words Demonstrate and explain how to do the 5 Points of Fellowship and that these are the 3 rd degree Signs. Special emphasis should be placed on getting the 3 rd Degree grip correct the Lion s Claw or Eagle Claw. (As a guide - this is done with the thumb and first finger circling the base of other Brother s thumb and your other 3 fingers stretched to the other side of his wrist with his likewise on your wrist.) Demonstrate the Penal sign when standing to order in this degree. Go through the two MM words and explain how they came about. The Working Tools in the MM Degree Explain the symbolism and possible every-day meanings in our private and working lives The Tracing Board in the 3rd Degree Discuss the content. Go through the Masonic alphabet and explain the symbols on the Tracing Board The Final Charge Explain and discuss what he has to do to earn these privileges Encourage him to practice them. The Questions and Answers After the 3rd Degree Explain questions and discuss answers an understanding is more important than a recital. The Mentor must ensure that the Candidate has done his homework and knows his answers. Future Expectations Explain responsibilities within your Lodge, delivering Charges, taking Office, the progression within your Lodge, helping serve on committees. Page 7 of 8

8 Where Next Preparing a Personal Development Plan for own Masonic progress this is best done with your personal Mentor. Finding the lost secrets - Masons word. Explain that we are using substituted secrets and the genuine lost secrets are found in the Royal Arch degrees. Mentors who are unsure should contact this Committee or a RA Education Mason for guidance. Finally, it is worth emphasizing the positives of Visiting Explain the importance and benefits of visiting other Lodges. Encourage visiting to observe the last ceremony undertaken by the Mason before advancing to his next degree. Selecting a Mentor 1. Ideally a mentor should guide a candidate throughout his Masonic career. This should develop a strong bond of mutual respect in their interpersonal relationship. However, as the candidate progresses through his Masonic career and circumstances change he may change Mentors. 2. A candidate s mentor should be selected before his initiation, following which the mentor should be introduced to him in open lodge. If a mentor is not readily available then the Proposer, failing which his Seconder, MUST accept that interim responsibility. 3. A mentor should be at least a Master Mason with the genuine preparedness, personality, ability and Masonic knowledge to constructively communicate on a one to one basis. Thus he must also be a good listener. 4. The preferred mentor may well be the candidate s proposer, hence likely to have an established rapport, be of similar age and perhaps share an occupational and social background. 5. Any Master Mason could become a mentor by acquiring the requisite Masonic knowledge and then indicating his genuine interest and preparedness to his Lodge Master. Freemasons New Zealand Masonic Education Committee February 2015 Page 8 of 8