Congratulations on your decision to enter the world’s oldest
and largest fraternal organization. As an organization of good men and true,
there is a well defined line directly connecting today’s Masonry with the
Operative Masons who built the great castles and cathedrals of the Middle Ages
in Europe and the United Kingdom.
The path you will follow in your initiatory
degrees will be identical with that trod by every other mason who has come
before you. You will be asked the same questions. You will be required to take
the same vows. Likewise, you will be accorded the same honors. Whatever you
experience here - be assured that every Master Mason has experienced it before
you.
We tell you this so you may better understand the reason for that which is soon
to be unfolded to you. Masonry is a great philosophic system of morality, or
ethics, interpreted by allegory and by the use of ancient symbols. Its great
teachings are brotherly love, relief and truth- and these will be further
explained to you as the day progresses.
In keeping with the traditions of the
Operative Masons of the middle ages, you will enter our craft as an entered
apprentice. Ancient apprentices served a term of seven years, during which their
performance was evaluated to determine who would be advanced to the rank of
Fellow of the Craft. Their initiation provided certain information to prepare
them for their period of apprenticeship and enable them to identify themselves
as members of the fraternity. Wise and serious truths were taught them using
symbols to impress upon their minds the importance of adherence to these
principles.
Every object, every word, every item displayed in the lodge has a symbolic
significance. We encourage you to pay particular attention to every detail of
the ceremonies you are about to witness. You may not learn the meaning of every
symbol today and you will not remember every detail of the lessons presented.
Your faithful attendance in the future will provide answers to the many
questions, which arise as you witness these ceremonies.
You will find Masonry is dignified and inspirational. It should, and will, play
a vital part in your future life.
Have no fear. There is nothing in a Masonic
Lodge that does not have a direct bearing upon the lessons to be unfolded for
your instruction. There is no mental or physical anguish awaiting you; no
levity; no horseplay, and no embarrassment. Be alert to all that happens as you
progress upon your way. Remember that you have entrusted yourself to friends-
friends whom you will soon call brothers- and in whom you can safely place the
utmost trust and confidence.