Masonic Q & A

NOTE: The following is a set of questions and answers extracted from a publication entitled "A Basic Masonic Education Course". This course was created by the Grand Lodge of California in 1991 for use by candidates as they advance through their three symbolic degrees. Non-Masons who are interested are encouraged to read the text. To quote one of our more illustrious Masons, Brother Alfred Sawyer, "It would be well if we could learn more of what Masonry is than what some think it was."

When the Masonic Education Course was first published, a set of three booklets were printed, one for each degree. These questions and answers should be attached to their respective booklet.

Please remember that some of the questions and answers are specific to the Jurisdiction of California and may not apply to other Jurisdictions. This would primarily apply to those parts dealing with Masonic Law and procedure. Some differences in ritual may also be noted. Should any Grand Jurisdiction or other Masonic body choose to adopt any or part of this program, it would be appreciated it a letter indicating such intended use or a courtesy copy of the reprinted material be sent to the Grand Lodge of California.

Grand Lodge F. & A. M. of California
1111 California Street
San Francisco, CA. 94108

This information has been made available on the Masonry Forum, CompuServe by William N. Wine #72435,1512 Past Master of Mt. Diablo No. 448, Concord, California and a member of the Masonic Education Committee, Grand Lodge of California. (March 1994)


Masonic Education Manual
Grand Lodge of California
September 25, 1991

QUESTIONS FOR THE ENTERED APPRENTICE

  1. What is the modern definition of Masonry?
  2. What is Masonry's purpose?
  3. When did Freemasonry originate?
  4. What is the difference between Operative and Speculative Masonry?
  5. The origin of the first Grand Lodge occurred in what year? What was the significance of that event?
  6. What does "F.& A.M." and "A.F.& A.M." mean?
  7. Why is Freemasonry considered a secret society? Why?
  8. Why can't an Atheist become a Mason?
  9. What is Masonry's policy on Catholics becoming Masons?
  10. In order to submit a petition for entrance into Freemasonry, what are the qualifications of a petitioner?
  11. How can a petitioner best prepare himself for initiation into Masonry?
  12. What do we mean when we say a candidate must first be prepared in his heart?
  13. What do we mean when we say "duly and truly prepared"?
  14. What is the symbolism of the hoodwink?
  15. What is the symbolism of the Cable-Tow?
  16. Why is the entrance to the Lodge so important to a candidate?
  17. Who are the Holy Saints John and why does Masonry use these Saints?
  18. Give two reasons why candidates are perambulate around the altar?
  19. Why are the three Great Lights of Masonry placed in the center of the Lodge?
  20. What does the open Bible signify in the Lodge?
  21. What is the Square supposed to teach us?
  22. What is the Compass supposed to teach us?
  23. Of what significance is the Obligation?
  24. Even though the physical penalties mentioned in the Obligation are symbolic, why are they retained in the ritual work?
  25. The lambskin apron is an emblem of what? What does it signify?
  26. What is the Rite of Destitution supposed to teach us?
  27. Why is the Entered Apprentice placed in the Northeast coroner of the Lodge?
  28. Of what use is the Speculative Mason to make of the Symbolic working tools of the Degrees?
  29. Define "cowan".
  30. Define "eavesdropper".
  31. What are the rights of an Entered Apprentice Mason?
  32. What are the responsibilities of an Entered Apprentice Mason?

ANSWERS TO THE QUESTIONS FOR THE ENTERED APPRENTICE

1. What is the modern definition of Masonry?
A modern definition of Freemasonry is "an organized society of men, symbolically applying the principles of Operative Masonry and architecture to the science and art of character building.
2. What is Masonry's purpose?
Its basic purpose is to make "better men out of good men".
3. When did Freemasonry originate?
We are not sure at what point in time our craft was born. We do know it goes beyond written record and we believe it was not always called Freemasonry.
4. What is the difference between operative and speculative Masonry?
"Operative" refers to the time in our history when masons actually did the physical labor of building. "Speculative" refers to the period of time when men who were not actually stone masons came to be accepted into the lodges as "non- operative" members. They are not "physical builders", but are considered "character builders" instead.
5. The origin of the first Grand Lodge occurred in what year? What was The significance of that event?
In 1717, four Lodges in London formed the first Grand Lodge. The formation of that Grand Lodge marked the start of Freemasonry as we know it today.
6. What does "F. & A.M." and "A.F. & A.M." mean?
"F. & A.M. means Free and Accepted Mason. "A.F. & A.M." means Ancient Free and Accepted Mason.
7. Is freemasonry considered a secret society? Why?
NO. Our membership is not concealed from the public; we advertise the time and place of our meetings; we participate in community activities and events; and openly sponsor charities. Our only secrets are our ritual, modes of recognition and the business transacted at our stated meetings.
8. Why can't an atheist become a Mason?
An atheist does not believe in God or a Supreme Being, therefore, he could not express a belief in them.
9. What is Masonry's policy on Catholics becoming Masons?
There is nothing in any of our doctrines or regulations which would prohibit a Catholic from becoming a Mason.
10. In order to submit a petition for entrance into Freemasonry, what are the qualifications of a petitioner?
A petitioner must be a man, 21 years of age, have a belief in a Supreme Being, free of felony convictions and be of good moral character.
11. How can a petitioner best prepare himself for initiation into Masonry?
A candidate should first prepare his mind to understand and absorb our teachings. Also, to understand that our ceremonies are serious in nature and dignified in presentation, and that he should pay strict attention to every part of the ceremony. He should learn that every member in the Lodge room is his friend and brother.
12. What do we mean when we say a candidate must first be prepared in his heart?
We are concerned with building of character. Working toward this goal must begin within the heart, for if the heart is not ready, we cannot expect to make an impression on the mind.
13. What do we mean when we say "duly and truly prepared"?
The phrase refers to the wearing of special garments furnished by the Lodge. It is to emphasize our concern with man's internal qualities, rather than his worldly wealth and honors.
14. What is the symbolism of the hoodwink?
The hoodwink is a symbol of the darkness in which the uninitiated stands regarding Masonry. It is removed after the candidate has been enlightened regarding the mysteries of Masonry.
15. What is the symbolism of the cable tow?
The cable tow is a symbolic restraint that is removed from the candidate after he has assumed the obligation of an Entered Apprentice Mason.
16. Why is the entrance into the Lodge room so important to a Candidate?
On entering the Lodge, the candidate has entered into the new world of Masonry. A world where he can become a better man by working on his own nature using the teachings of masonry.
17. Who are the Holy Saints John and why does Masonry use these Saints?
Masonic Lodges are symbolically dedicated to St. John the Baptist and St. John the Evangelist, who are allegorically said to have been the "Patron Saints" of Freemasonry.
18. Give two reasons why candidates "perambulate" around the altar?
So the Brethren can see that the candidate is properly prepared. The perambulation should teach the candidate that Freemasonry is a progressive science, and that life is a journey through which each must travel toward his ultimate destiny.
19. Why are the "Three Great Lights of Masonry" placed in the center of the Lodge?
The altar with the Three Great Lights upon it symbolizes the place which God has in Masonry, and which He should have in every person's life. No Lodge in California may stand officially open, unless the Holy Bible is opened upon its Altar and the Square and Compass is displayed thereon.
20. What does the open Holy Bible signify in the Lodge?
The open Holy Bible signifies that we should regulate our conduct according to its teachings, because it is the rule and guide of our faith.
21. What is the square supposed to teach us?
It is a symbol of morality and teaches us to "act upon the square".
22. What is the compass supposed to teach us?
To regard the Compass as excluding beyond its circle that which is harmful or unworthy.
23. Of what significance is the obligation?
The Obligation has a two-fold purpose. In addition to binding the candidate to Freemasonry and its duties, it also protects the Fraternity against someone revealing its secrets which deal with its modes of recognition and symbolic instruction. The candidates should understand that the great truths which Masonry teaches are not secret, but the manner in which Freemasonry teaches these truths is considered secret.
24. Even though the physical penalties in the obligation are symbolic, why are they retained in the ritual work?
They are retained to impress upon the mind of each Brother how serious a violation will be regarded by the members of the Fraternity.
25. The lambskin apron is an emblem of what? What does it signify?
It is an emblem of Innocence and the Badge of a Mason. It signifies that Masons are workers and builders, not drones and destructionists.
26. What is the rite of destitution supposed to teach us?
It symbolically reminds us that we should not bring our passions or our prejudices into the Lodge room lest that harmony, which is one of the chief concerns of Masonry, be destroyed.
27. Why are Entered Apprentices placed in the northeast corner of the Lodge?
To receive instruction from the Worshipful Master in order to erect his moral and Masonic Edifice. Also, to remind him that he is the foundation of the future of Masonry.
28. Of what use is the speculative mason to make of the symbolic working tools of the degrees?
The working tools allocated to the three degrees, by their very presence, declare there is constructive work to be done, and by their nature, indicate the direction this work is to take.
29. Define "cowan"
A cowan is one who tries to masquerade as a Mason.
30. Define "eavesdropper"
An eavesdropper is one who tries to steal the secrets of our Society. He is the one who would forge a good dues card, or finds one and masquerades as the owner.
31. What are the rights of an Entered Apprentice Mason?
He has the right to attend all first degrees with a member of his Lodge. To receive instruction in the first degree. To receive a Masonic Funeral service. To receive a trial if charged with violating his obligation. And to request receiving his degrees in another Lodge should he relocate. To request advancement to a higher degree when proficient. By use of the modes of recognition, he may make himself known to other Masons.
32. What are the responsibilities of an Entered Apprentice Mason?
He must keep for himself those secrets that have been entrusted to his care, conduct himself with proper decorum, diligently work to learn his proficiency and as much about the Craft as possible. He should not be content with learning the words letter-perfect, but should study the meanings also. If he cannot interpret these for himself, he should seek help form others. Complete faithfulness to his obligation, and implicit obedience to the charge are among his important and lasting responsibilities.
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QUESTIONS FOR THE FELLOW CRAFT MASON

  1. What are we trying to emphasize in the Fellow Craft Degree?
  2. The Fellow Craft Degree symbolizes man in what period of his life?
  3. Approximately when did we start to become Speculative rather than Operative?
  4. When and where was the first Grand Lodge formed?
  5. What does the Level symbolize?
  6. What does the Plumb symbolize?
  7. What are the Jewels of the Fellow Craft and what do they signify?
  8. What does Corn, Wine and Oil represent?
  9. What are the great values of life? What do they signify?
  10. What do the Winding stairs as a whole represent?
  11. What do the first three steps represent?
  12. What do the next five steps represent?
  13. What do the final seven steps represent?
  14. What are we trying to teach on the journey to the Middle Chamber?
  15. What is the Middle Chamber?
  16. Why do we use the letter "G"?
  17. What must a Fellow Craft Mason do to understand the significance of the emblems of the degree?
  18. What are the four rights of a Fellow Craft Mason?
  19. What are the responsibilities of a Fellow Craft Mason?

ANSWERS TO THE QUESTIONS FOR THE FELLOW CRAFT MASON

1. What are we trying to emphasize in the Fellow Craft degree?
In the degree of Fellow Craft, we try to emphasize the dignity and worth of the individual.
2. The Fellow Craft Degree symbolizes man in what period of his life?
The Fellow Craft Degree symbolizes man in the prime years of his life.
3. Approximately when did we start to become speculative rather than operative Masons?
It began in the early 1600's.
4. When and where was the first Grand Lodge formed?
A Grand Lodge of England was formed in London at a meeting held in the Goose and Gridiron Tavern in the year 1717 A.D.
5. What does the level symbolize?
The Level is a symbol of equality.
6. What does the plumb symbolize?
The plumb is a symbol of uprightness of conduct.
7. What are the jewels of the Fellow Craft and what do they signify?
They are the attentive ear, the instructive tongue and the faithful breast. They signify the necessity to learn to utilize good Masonic instruction and to develop a devotion to the teachings of our Craft.
8. What does corn, wine and oil represent?
Corn represents nourishment and the sustenance of life. It also is a symbol of plenty. Wine is a symbol of refreshment, health, spirituality and peace. Oil represents joy, gladness and happiness.
9. What are the great values of life? What do they signify?
They are religion, which is man's quest for God; Brotherhood, which is life grounded in good will; Art, by which we enjoy the beautiful; Citizenship, by which we enjoy communal life; Science, by which we learn the nature of the world we live in; and Literature, by which we enter into communion with the life of all mankind.
10. What do the winding stairs as a whole represent?
The Winding Stairs represent the progress of an inquiring mind, toiling and laboring toward intellectual cultivation and study. It reminds us that each man must seek knowledge of God on his own. Masonry teaches a need for this relationship - not the way to it.
11. What do the first three steps represent?
The first three steps teach us that we are dependent upon God, and that we must harmonize our will with His, building our own spiritual temple according to the Divine Plan.
12. What do the next five steps represent?
The five steps teaches the use of Order in Architecture, and that this order must be applied to our own spiritual building.
13. What do the final seven steps represent?
The seven steps symbolize the crowning glory of man, and thedevelopment of both the mind and the spirit, and the acquisition of the courage and faith which cause each person who possess these virtues to climb to the summit and attain the rewards that await those who faint not.
14. What are we trying to teach on the journey to the middle chamber?
It represents man's journey from ignorance to enlightenment. It signifies that man must acquire knowledge chiefly through his own effort, though he is often dependent upon others for help. Emphasis should be placed upon the amount of effort put forth by the candidate, for without effort, he cannot reap the reward he seeks.
15. What is the middle chamber?
It is the symbolic place of reward for your labors. Fellow Craft received their wages on the evening of the sixth day.
16. Why do we use the letter "G"?
The letter "G" is a symbol of Geometry and, also, of Deity. By the letter "G", we are reminded that our every act is done in the sight of God, and that Divine Providence is over all of our lives.
17. What must a Fellowcraft Mason do to understand the significance of The emblems of the degree?
A Fellow Craft Mason must study them until the lesson learned is engraved upon his heart.
18. What are the four rights of a Fellow Craft Mason?
To attend Lodge when opened in the Fellow Craft Degree. To visit another Lodge opened in the Fellow Craft Degree. To be instructed and examined in the Fellow Craft Degree. To be advanced when proficient in the Fellow Craft Degree.
19. What are the responsibilities of a Fellow Craft Mason?
In addition to his responsibilities as an Entered Apprentice, he is to acquire knowledge and apply that knowledge to his duties in life.
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QUESTIONS FOR THE MASTER MASON

  1. What does this degree symbolize for man?
  2. What does the Lodge represent in this degree?
  3. To what do the symbols in this degree refer.
  4. What are the three things that the candidate is reminded of by his preparation for initiation into the sublime degree of a Master Mason?
    1.  
    2.  
  5. Of what are you reminded by your reception at the door?
  6. Explain the importance of the obligation.
  7. Explain clandestine lodges and clandestine Masons.
  8. What is nonage?
  9. What is dotage?
  10. Why are Signs, Tokens and Words important to Masons?
  11. The symbol of the Temple for each of us is?
  12. Who was Hiram Abif?
  13. What do we mean by "Foreign Countries" in Masonry?
  14. If a Mason lives according to the edicts of the Lodge, what are his wages?
  15. What are we trying to teach by the use of the three ruffians?
  16. What is the Masonic definition of "Low Twelve"?
  17. Who is the "Lion of the tribe of Judah"?
  18. What does the Masonic search for the "Lost Word" symbolize?
  19. Why do we use the sprig of Acacia?
  20. What are we symbolically trying to teach when we "Raise to the sublime degree of Master Mason"?
  21. What does each of the emblems of the third degree represent?
  22. What are the rights of a Master Mason?
  23. What are the responsibilities of a Master Mason?
  24. Balloting
    1. Who can vote?
    2. Must you vote on every issue brought to a vote when you are attending Lodge?
    3. Can you leave Lodge prior to casting your ballot?
    4. When would you ever use a "Black Cube" in balloting?
  25. Are you allowed to ask another Brother how he voted or answer a person who asks you how you voted?
  26. Why do we examine visiting Brethren if we have not sat in Lodge with them or if no one will vouch for them?
  27. Who appoints and what are the duties of the investigating committee in reference to new candidates?
  28. What are the financial responsibilities of a Master Mason?
  29. There are four ways a membership in the Lodge can be terminated, name and define them below.
    1.  
    2.  
    3.  
    4.  
  30. After your late entrance into the Lodge, what is the procedure?
  31. How do we normally signify our vote on matters brought before the regular meeting?
  32. When do we use the written ballot?
  33. Name the elective officers.
  34. Name the appointed officers.
  35. Who appoints the officers in their appointed positions?
  36. We are governed by Masonic Law handed down to us by what body?
  37. Which members are entitled to attend the "Annual Commnication" of the Grand Lodge?
  38. Who may vote at Grand Lodge? How many votes is each Lodge entitled?
  39. Grand Lodge is divided into how many geographical divisions?
  40. What are the responsibilities of the district inspectors?
  41. What is your obligation to Grand Lodge?

ANSWERS TO THE QUESTIONS FOR THE MASTER MASON

1. What does this degree symbolize for man?
The immortality of the soul.
2. What does the Lodge represent in this degree?
The Sanctum Sanctorum, or Holy of Holies, of Solomon's great Temple at Jerusalem.
3. To what do the symbols in this degree refer?
The symbols refer to life, its tragedy, and its ultimate triumph.
4. What are the three things that the candidate is reminded of by his preparation for initiation into the sublime degree of a Master Mason?
A. To be humble B. His obligations become more extensive and binding each time he advances. C. That he is able to attain many of his desires only with the assistance given him by a friend or brother
5. Of what are you reminded by your reception at the door?
You are reminded that all lessons of Freemasonry must be implanted in the heart if they are to serve a useful purpose and become a part of your way of life, and that you should practice these in your daily life.
6. Explain the importance of the obligation.
By taking the Obligation, the candidate obtains the privileges, the rights and benefits of the Masonic fraternity. It is necessary that the Obligation is known and understood in order that it can be enjoyed and obeyed.
7. Explain clandestine Lodges and clandestine Masons.
A clandestine Lodge is one that has not been issued a charter from a duly recognized Grand Lodge and therefore, you may not visit such a Lodge. One who belongs to a clandestine Lodge is a Clandestine Mason and therefore, not entitled to visit your Lodge. A Master Mason from a regular Lodge should not conduct Masonic related discussions with a clandestine Mason.
8. What is nonage?
In the California jurisdiction, nonage in this Degree refers to one who is not yet 21 years of age.
9. What is dotage?
Dotage is a condition associated with old age. Being old does not bar someone from seeking membership, but we require that he be mentally alert and mentally healthy to take the Degrees of Masonry.
10. Why are Signs, Tokens and Words important to Masons?
They provide modes of recognition. Also, each sign, token and word has a symbolic meaning which serves to enrich the mind and improve our lives as Masons.
11. Who was hiram abif?
Hiram Abif was the son of a man of Tyre, and his mother was one of the daughters of the Tribe of Dan. Masonic tradition teaches us that he was sent by King Hiram of Tyre to assist King Solomon in building the Temple.
12. The symbol of the temple for each of us is?
Founded on the idea that man himself is a living Temple where God desires to reside. Freemasonry tries to undertake the task of helping each of its members build a more stately mansion within themselves where God can reside.
13. What do we mean by "foreign countries" in Masonry?
It is a symbolic place not a certain geographical location. Freemasonry itself, is a foreign country to every new member. By studying the writings and teachings of Freemasonry, you will find pleasant traveling. This will include history, philosophy, and many other areas leading to countless treasurers. Each of us must discover these treasurers for himself. They are some of the rewards of each Master Mason who travels in foreign countries.
14. If a Mason lives according to the edicts of the Lodge. What are his wages?
The intangibles of love, friendship, confidence, respect, opportunity, the happy labor of achievement and association. These are the wages of a Master Mason who earns them.
15. What are we trying to teach by the use of the three ruffians?
That there is no short cut to success. Only through honest labor and individual efforts will we obtain that which we seek. That we must always be on guard and not to allow the enemies that are within to gain control over our actions.
16. What is the Masonic definition of "Low Twelve"?
Low twelve denotes midnight, the blackest time of the night.
17. Who is the "Lion of the Tribe of Judah"?
All who were Kings of the Tribe of Judah. This phrase was also one of the King Solomon's official titles.
18. What does the Masonic search for the "Lost Word" symbolize?
The Masonic search for the Word symbolizes the search for truth, more particularly Divine Truth. We must always search diligently for truth, and never permit prejudice, passions, or conflict of interest, to hinder us in that search.
19. Why do we use the sprig of Acacia?
The sprig of acacia is used because it signifies immortality.
20. What are we symbolically trying to teach when we "Raise to the sublime degree of Master Mason"?
That by practicing the teachings of Masonry, we may in old age enjoy the happy reflections consequent on a well-spent and properly directed life, and die in the hope of a glorious immortality.
21. What does each of the emblems of the third degree represent?
The Three Pillars representing wisdom, strength and beauty are the three great supports of Masonry. The Three Steps represent youth, manhood and age. The Pot of Incense teaches us to be pure and blameless in our inner lives. The Bee Hive recommends the practice of that virtue of Industry and teaches us that we should be industrious, never sitting down while our fellow creatures are in need of assistance. And that he who does not endeavor to improve himself is not worthy of our protection as Masons. The Book of Constitutions guarded by the Tyler's Sword represent law and order. The Sword Pointing to the Naked Heart represents Justice. The All Seeing-Eye reminds us that our every action is observed by God. The Anchor and Ark is the security and stability that is gained by a life grounded in truth and faith. The Forty Seventh Problem of Euclid reminds us that ignorance is one of the greatest enemies we must face. The Hour Glass reminds us that time is swiftly passing by. The Scythe represents that with the passing of time, our lives and our work will soon be ended. What ever we hope to achieve must be accomplished without delay.
22. What are the rights of a Master Mason?
The rights of a Master Mason consist of Masonic Relief, visitation and burial.
23. What are the responsibilities of a Master Mason?
The constant responsibility of a Master Mason is to preserve the reputation of the Fraternity unsullied. Leading a good life is the best means of carrying through our individual responsibility to our Lodge and our Craft. The conduct of each Master mason is strictly his own responsibility. He should choose the course which will bring credit to himself and honor to the Fraternity.
24. Balloting
A. Who can vote?
    Only members in good standing of the Lodge.
B. Must you vote on every issue brought to a vote when attending Lodge?
    No member present can be excused from balloting on any question before the Lodge.
C. Can you leave the Lodge prior to casting your ballot?
    No member is allowed to retire from the Lodge to avoid casting his ballot.
D. When would you ever use a "Black Cube" in balloting?
    If you know of some good reason to indicate the petitioner is unworthy, for strictly Masonic reasons not personal reasons. Examine your own motives and be sure the ballot you are about to cast will do justice to the candidate and benefit the Lodge.
25. Are you allowed to ask another Brother how he voted or answer a person who asks you how you voted?
The right to Secrecy of the Ballot is guaranteed by Masonic Law. No Brother should disclose how he voted and no Brother shall inquire into how another Brother voted.
26. Why do we examine visiting Brethren if we have not sat in Lodge with them or if no one will vouch for them?
To satisfy the Lodge members that the visitor is a Mason in good standing of a regular Lodge in the Degree of that in which the Lodge is opened.
27. Who appoints and what are the duties of the investigating committee in reference to new candidates?
The Master appoints the investigating Committee. The duties of the committee are to make a complete and impartial inquiry into the petitioner's character and determine his worthiness to become a Mason.
28. What are the financial responsibilities of a Master Mason?
They are two fold. First, in the area of mandatory support: Lodge dues must be paid annually. Second, in the area of voluntary support: contributions to the Masonic Home Endowment Fund, distressed worthy Brothers, support to other Masonic organizations and causes as desired.
29. There are four ways a membership in the Lodge can be terminated. Name and define them below.
A. DEMIT Request a demit to transfer to another Lodge when a member relocates to a new area. Plural membership is belonging to more that one Lodge within a Jurisdiction. Dual membership is to be a member of a Lodge in two different jurisdictions.
B. SUSPENSION You can be suspended for nonpayment of dues or unmasonic conduct. You can be reinstated by paying back dues at anytime.
C. EXPULSION A trial verdict of expulsion may be appealed to the Grand Lodge. If the verdict is upheld the member is expelled from the Lodge and all other Masonic organizations.
D. DEATH When a member is listed as deceased, he is no longer an active member of the Lodge. The unused portion of his dues is pro-rated and remitted to his estate.
30. After your late entrance into the Lodge. What is the procedure?
You should approach the altar; salute the Master, using the due guard and sign for the degree which Lodge is at labor and then be seated.
31. How do we normally signify our vote on matters brought before the regular meeting?
Voting is usually performed by saying aye or nay.
32. When do we use the written ballot?
At the annual meeting for the election of Officers, a written ballot is utilized.
33. Name the elective officers.
The Worshipful Master, Senior Warden, Junior Warden, Secretary and Treasurer are the elective Officers of the Lodge.
34. Name the appointed officers.
Senior Deacon, Junior Deacon, Chaplain, Marshal, Senior and Junior Wardens, Tyler and Organist are the appointive Officers of the Lodge.
35. Who appoints the officers in their appointed positions?
The Worshipful Masters assigns the Appointive Officers.
36. We are governed by Masonic law handed down to us by what body?
The Grand Lodge of California.
37. Which members are entitled to attend the Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge?
All registered Master Masons may attend the Annual Communication.
38. Who may vote at the Grand Lodge? How many votes is each Lodge entitled?
All Grand Lodge Officers, with the exception of the Grand Tyler, each Past Elected Grand Officer, each Lodge Master and Warden. The Past Masters of each Lodge are entitled to one collective vote. Each Lodge is entitled to four total votes.
39. Grand Lodge is divided into how many geographical divisions?
The California jurisdiction is divided into six Divisions.
40. What are the responsibilities of the district inspectors?
Their responsibilities are two fold: First, to instruct in the adopted ritual of the Grand Lodge as taught by the Grand Lecturer; Second, to advise and assist in the leadership training and proper administration of each Lodge.
41. What is your obligation to the Grand Lodge?
To continue with your degrees and become an active Master Mason of your Lodge and to obey all the laws adopted by the Grand Lodge.