Apron
Leather aprons were worn centuries ago by
stonemasons to protect their skin and clothing, as well as
to carry their tools. Today, lambskin or cloth aprons, often
elaborately decorated or embroidered, are worn by members as
a symbolic connection to those medieval craftmen from which
it is purported that we derive our Masonic tradition.
Degrees of Masonry
Indications of the level of membership and knowledge of
Freemasonry principles. The basic degrees of Masonry are
Entered Apprentice, Fellowcraft, and Master Mason.
Freemason
The word "free" was added to "mason" during the Middle Ages.
The origin is uncertain, but may be related to stonemasons
who worked as advanced stone carvers in "freestone."
Grand Lodge
The administrative body in charge of Freemasonry in a
specific geographic area. The United States has Grand Lodges
in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.
Grand Master
The elected leader of the Grand Lodge. In California, this
position changes annually in October.
Lodge
This refers to both a unit of Masons as well as the room or
building in which they meet. There are approximately 13,000
lodges in the United States.
Mason
A member of the Masonic
fraternity.
Master
The elected leader of the local lodge; also the title a
Mason acquires once he has completed the third degree of
membership.
Stated meeting
The monthly lodge meeting to conduct regular business,
receive new members, and vote upon the Application of
Degrees.
Temple
Another name for a Masonic building. The word is used in the
same sense that Justice Wendell Holmes called the Supreme
Court a "Temple of Justice." Most California lodges now
refer to their buildings as Masonic Centers.
Youth groups
Masonic organizations for young people that include
DeMolay
International for boys 12 to 21,
Rainbow for
Girls for girls 11 to 20, and
Job's
Daughters for young women 11 to 20. |
