MASONIC ETIQUETTE WHILE IN THE LODGE hy PMR.SLOAN, RCC HI29 Tonight we are going to discuss Etiquette as it pertains to Masonry. And we will also discuss other forms of courtesy practiced in the lodge. This will include: the proper manner in which to move about the lodge, as well as the manner in which we should address the Worshipful Master. You might say, ‘what does moving about the lodge have to do with etiquette?" ‘The answer to that will come with the true definition of etiquette. ~ You know this particular subject could and would ordinarily take a much longer time to discuss than we have allotted for but, we will attempt to touch on some special points. - Before I present the actual definition of etiquette, I think we all could possibly benefit from some of our personal perceptions of this very descriptive mannerism. What exactiy do you believe etiquette to be? Will someone be so kind as to share their opinion. ETIQUETTE - Conventional requirements as to social behavior (The proper way to do something as accepted by society) Z. CONFUCIUS A. Throughout the ages, a great many societies believed that Confucius, the great philosopher, provided the prime example and guide for etiquette as well as a great many other social behaviors. I’m certain that many of us have heard the saying, "Confucius say this or Confucius say that." To put it in the simplest form, and without getting into the long list of accomplishments of Confucius, he believed that there was only one way to do something and the situation or setting is what provided the right way to do it. If you are not going to do it right then it shouldn't be done. B. If a native Indian tribe goes off across the sands in single file, the man up front, the wife next, and the children in order, with the smallest child last, it is etiquette; at the head the man is first to encounter rattlesnakes and/or other inconveniences, and thus saves his woman and children from fear, shock, ox embarrassment, which is the true purpose of politeness. IN THAT culture this manner of travel is the proper etiquette. Now let‘s talk about some of the things we do Magonically. We'll start with: TI. INDIVIDUAL MOVEMENT ABOUT THE LODGE A. From the very beginning, we are taught to "Cut those corners!" ‘This admonition is not to develop or sharpen military kills. It is meant to put us on the proper path toward forming right angles. The square, which is one of the great lights inhear of these special things as reports or lectures. If at some point prior to the rendering of the special information, you were moving about the lodge, take the introductory time, just prior to delivery, to find a seat and postpone your previous journey unless, of course, your movement was of some critical nature. V. CONCLUSION A. Once etiquette is understood, Masonic Etiquette is also understood, because etiquette in the Lodge is the same as it is everywhere else. here really is no such thing as Masonic Etiquette in the sense that Masons have a peculiar set of manners all to themselves; it is only Masonic in that certain things that we practice under the gavel are not situational things that are found outside of the todge. Masonic Lodges have an abundance of ceremonies and occurrences where there are certain strict ways that they must be conducted "the right way to do it". This manner of operation, so to speak, is our prime example of Masonic Etiquette. Most Masonic Etiquette is dictated by its historical usage, landmarks, constitution or bylaws. But the foundation of all etiquette is just plain old common courtesy, properly taught.