Hi.  I am curious about the conferring of degrees.  What are the steps of instruction in reaching the different levels?  Is it actual classroom time and is it (in the case of Boston) at the Grand Lodge?  How much time is invested in raising new Masons? 

I am pursuing a graduate degree in the spring.  Would it be possible to do both - how intensive is the Masonic instruction?

Also, is the request of “asking three times” used within the downtown lodge?  I am eager to learn more and maybe even talk to Masons about their involvement and experiences within the fraternity.  I have reached out to both Columbian and Joseph Webb Lodges.  I live in South Boston, so I believe lodges downtown would be my closest possibilities.

Thanks for any feedback.

Adam

Adam

One of the more senior members of this forum may be better able to answer this question, but I did want to let you know I am in the last part of my Master’s program. working full time, juggling a family of three, and working through the masonic degrees at the same time.

There are times it can be dificult, but it is certainly possible, and VERY WORTHWHILE.

I had very similar concerns when I petitioned, but want to let you know that joining was one of the best decisions I ever made, and I have never once regretted it.  Not during mid terms, finals, or even comps/thesis.  There are times when it was the kind words of a brother that kept me going.

In summary, I would encourage you to go for it.  I’ve been where you are and understand your wise concerns, but go for it.  Trust me you will be so glad you did.  It will add so much to your grad school experience, and your life.

I hope one day to call you brother.

Steve Hardt
Sarasota 147

Brother Steve’s counsel is correct. Masonry pre-dates the time of widespread literacy.  Most of our ancient operative Brethren (The masons of the middle ages, who built the great cathedrals and public buildings of Europe), were illiterate. Therefore, we have a splendid tradition of oral instruction. Each of the three (3) degrees of symbolic Masonry, are conferred orally. Many lodges use visual aids, such as slide projectors and stage props.  Some lodges use audio effects to enhance the learning experience.

All Masonic instruction is conducted in the individual lodges. Lodges have a “Power of attorney”, issued by the Grand Lodge (of their state) to conduct Masonic degree work and instruction.

The time from initial application, to the completion of the final degree work, varies from lodge to lodge, and from individual to individual. Most states require a minimum of one month between the degrees. Some European lodges require one year between the degrees. Virginia (and some other states) have one-day classes. You arrive at the lodge hall at 0600am on Saturday morning. You are served a breakfast. The degree work begins at 0700am and you walk out of the lodge building at 600pm, a Master Mason. If your work or school schedule make attendance impossible, many lodges can hold degree instruction on weekends.

Some lodges close down for the summer months. If you take degree work in the spring, and then you cannot attend until September, then it will take you over 5 months to complete the degree work.  I encourage you to ask the secretary of the lodge you petition, to get a better understanding of the schedule of your particular lodge.

I became a Mason, when I was in college, and I was able to find the time, to complete all of the degree work, easily.

Most states do not require the applicant to “ask three times”, this old custom is fading away rapidly. Most lodges, are delighted to assist any applicant, after one contact.

I would be delighted to tell you of my experiences within the Fraternity. (Including my experiences in the appendant/concordant organization. Did you know that there are over 100 (one hundred) other organizations affiliated with Freemasonry?) You may also wish to read my blog:  http://www.cemab4y.blogspot.com