9 Points of Masonic Protocol & Etiquette

Compiled from various authoritative sources

1. One of the peculiarities of the Masonic Fraternity is that a man attends a Lodge meeting or a Masonic gathering not as a private individual, but as a Master Mason. He is therefore to be addressed by his surname, i.e., "Brother Smith" rather than "Brother Bill." "Brother" is a title. In addressing another member, the correct way to do so is "Brother Lastname". Officers may be addressed as "Brother Junior Warden" etc.

A Mason's profane status or title should be of no concern in Masonic Lodge. His Masonic status or title are the governing criteria for his recognition in the Lodge.


2. The responsibility of every Mason is to maintain a respectful attitude toward the Grand Master, not necessarily for the sake of the man in office, but for the maintenance of the supreme importance of the office, The Grand Master is therefore never to be addressed at any Masonic gathering by his first name, no matter how close an individual may feel toward him. His proper address is "Most WorshipfuL" and when being formally received in a Lodge, he is accorded his full title, "Most Worshipful Edward G. Gilbert, Grand Master of Masons in the State of NY" When the Grand Master visits a Lodge, nothing is to follow his remarks except the closing.


3. A District Deputy on an official visit is received with an etiquette which reflects the fact that he is the personal representative of the Grand Master. When he is present in the Lodge room it is as if the Grand Master was there in person .. Proper deference to the DDGM includes allowing him the protocol of "final comment". No one should rise to
speak on any issue after the DDGM has completed his prepared remarks.


4. The Worshipful Master must be shown the same respect and courtesy we show the Grand Master. He should be addressed at all times as "Worshipful" and when an individual rises to speak or when called upon by the Worshipful Master he should salute the Master with the proper mode of recognition. No other procedure is acceptable.


5. Prayers at Lodge functions should be in keeping with Masonic teachings. They should never be an expression of particular sectarian views or dogmatic creeds. It is a matter of courtesy and respect that all prayers, speeches and discussions at Masonic affairs avoid sectarian, controversial or political tones.


6. When wishing to speak in Lodge, a Brother should rise and salute the East wait to be recognized by the Master, and then begin to speak. All remarks should be directed to the East. If a Brother wishes to speak to another Brother directly, you must first ask permission from the East.


6. A sloppy manner of saluting, of approaching the East (or any other station), of standing, and of speaking to an officer, is a reflection on the Lodge for a failure to give to the office that respect which belongs to it.


7. While it is considered good form to do so, there is no requirement that Grand Honors be given in the East


8. While traditionally done West of the alter here in the Suffolk District, according to the Grand Marshal, all presentations should be done in the East


9. The Worshipful Master is the officer whose duty it is to see that nothing is ever allowed to harm the Lodge which is entrusted to his care. For that reason he cannot tolerate a careless practice of etiquette. If, upon coming to the East, a Master finds that indifference to, or a casual practice of etiquette has crept into the Lodge he should find an early opportunity to address the subject with his officers and members.


What is the place of Masonic etiquette in the Craft? It has no SPECIAL place! It has every special place! It is ALWAYS observed whenever or wherever Masons assemble, speak, or act in the name of the Craft!