We’re really ploughing through this now, and we are already on Day 26 of the 100 Day Study Plan to prepare for our year in The Chair. Not only is there the learning of the Ritual, but also all the other preparation that goes along with being Master of a Lodge. For example, yesterday I spent an hour in the afternoon exchanging emails with the Lodge Secretary regarding the administration of the Lodge. We had our committee meeting a few weeks ago where it was finalised who would be in what office, however, not everyone could make it so a few blank spaces needed to be filled now that subsequent conversations had been made.
Also, other bits of ritual needed to be distributed to Past Masters to ensure they have plenty of time to learn and revise parts they need to perform over the coming months. With plenty of warning none can claim they weren’t given enough time! One of the benefits of being Master Elect, especially in Kennet Lodge, is choosing what food will be served at the Festive Boards for the coming year. There’ll be no mushroom starters in Kennet Lodge this year! Onto today’s learning. It’s been a busy week with some large chunks of ritual, unfortunatley today is no exception…
Learning Masonic Ritual, Day 26 of 100: First Degree Entrusting
I did consider splitting this up as it is quite a chunk to do in one day (in my book of Emulation Ritual this is on pages 86-89), however I decided not to because the piece does have flow. Another reason I haven’t split this is because the last part (the word, and it’s meaning) should be familiar to you if you’ve spent time as the Junior Deacon in your Masonic career, so page 89 should be a breeze.
Like yesterday there are quite a few initial letters describing the sign and token. You should be able to work these out, but if you have ANY doubt speak to your Lodge Mentor, IPM, or anyone else who can confirm this for you correctly. Don’t make assumptions because it ‘sounds right’! Likewise, there is also a fair bit of red-ink in today’s Ritual, which are the ‘stage directions’ and actions you need to perform.
Although you aren’t at the stage of rehearsal yet, still be familiar with what you need to do, and when, so that the actions can be incorporated into your rehearsal. On the bright side, once the candidate has been Entrusted you can hand him over to the Junior Deacon and have a breather whilst he and Wardens do a bit of work!