View source for MassachusettsGC2016 PART VII

= GRAND CONSTITUTIONS, PART VII =

== PART VII: MISCELLANEOUS REGULATIONS ==

=== Sec. 700. REGULAR MASONIC BODIES ===

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Whereas, this Grand Lodge recognizes no degrees of Masonry except those conferred under the regulations of the Grand Lodges of the various states and territories of the United States and the Governments throughout the world; and, whereas, it admits the following-named organizations to be regular and duly constituted Masonic Bodies, namely:
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The General Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons International; The Grand Royal Arch Chapters of the Several States and Territories of the United States, and the Royal Arch Chapters and other Bodies under their jurisdiction; the General Grand Council of Cryptic Masons International; The Grand Councils of Royal and Select Masters of the several States and Territories of the United States, and the Councils under their jurisdiction; The Grand Encampment of the United States; The Grand Commanderies of the several States and Territories of the United States, and the Commanderies under their jurisdiction; The Supreme Councils of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite for the Northern and Southern Jurisdictions of the United States, and the various Bodies under their jurisdiction; The Imperial Council of the Ancient Arabic Order of the Nobles of the Mystic Shrine for North America, and the Temples under their jurisdiction.
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Therefore, any Mason admitted into any other Orders, as Masonic (as distinguished from Masonic-related), is acting un-Masonically, and for such conduct shall be liable to be expelled from all the rights and privileges of Masonry, and shall be ineligible to membership or office in any Lodge or in this Grand Lodge.
</span>

==== Earlier Revisions ====

* '''Additional Regulations 1801''' contains the following sections: 
** [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1792#ARTICLE_5TH Article 5th], I-193; "The Grand Lodge shall cause to be provided a diploma with a suitable and appropriate device, purporting the regular election of a Master by a Lodge duly constituted under its Jurisdiction and recommending to the respectful notice, friendly aid and attention of all regular Lodges, Masters, and Past Masters throughout the World."
** [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1792#ARTICLE_6TH Article 6th], I-193; "That the Master of every Lodge, who shall cause his Lodge strictly to comply with the foregoing Regulations, respecting making returns, paying Quarterages and all fees, shall for his vigilance and fidelity be furnished by the Grand Secretary with a diploma of his office, gratis, and shall also be entitled to receive of the Grand Secretary, diplomas for each Mason, made, passed and raised in his Lodge agreeably to returns made thereof as aforesaid. The Grand Secretary shall supply each District Deputy Grand Master with a suitable number of diplomas whenever he shall apply, for which he shall be accountable when he shall make his returns in December; and for every diploma furnished to each individual, in advance of the foregoing Regulations, the applicant shall pay therefor seventy-five cents."
** [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1792#ARTICLE_7TH Article 7th], I-194; "That all Past Masters, who have presided in any Lodge under this Jurisdiction, who have heretofore complied with the Regulations of the Grand Lodge, and whose Lodges are not in arrears to the Grand Lodge, shall receive a diploma of the office of a Master of a Lodge, ''gratis'', and all Past Masters, who have presided, in Lodges now in arrears, which Lodges shall on or before the Quarterly Communication in December next pay up all their arrears to the Grand Lodge, shall also receive diplomas of their office, ''gratis''."
* '''GC1843''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1843#Section_18_2 Part Fifth, Section 18], IV-652; "No Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, can legally assemble, in this Commonwealth, under a warrant granted by any foreign Masonic power." ''Note that this section does not directly apply to the appendant bodies to which this section applies in later editions of the Grand Constitutions, but exclusive jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge was of particular importance during the 19th century.''
** ''Amended 06/12/1878, 1878-51; stricken from the Grand Constitutions.''
* '''GC1843''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1843#Section_24 Part Fifth, Section 24], revised 06/13/1883, 1883-43, adopted 1883-67; 
** "Whereas, this Grand Lodge recognizes no degrees in Masonry except those conferred under the regulations of the GRAND LODGES of the various States and Territories, of the United States and the Governments throughout the world and whereas it admits the following named organizations to be regular and duly constituted Masonic Bodies, namely : —
*** "The General Grand, Royal Arch Chapter of the United States; The Grand Royal Arch Chapters of the several States and Territories of the United States, and the Royal Arch Chapters and other Bodies under their jurisdiction; The General Grand Council of Royal and Select Masters of the United States; The Grand Councils of Royal and Select Masters of the several States and Territories of the United States, and the Councils under their jurisdiction; The Grand Encampment of the United States; The Grand Commanderies of the several States and Territories of the United States, and the Commanderies under their jurisdiction; The Supreme Councils of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite for the Northern and Southern jurisdictions of the United States, of which Henry L. Palmer and Albert Pike are M. P. Sov. Grand Commanders respectively, and the various Bodies under their jurisdiction;
*** "Now, therefore, it is hereby declared that any Mason who is hereafter admitted, in this jurisdiction, into any other Orders, as Masonic, whether called the Rite of Memphis or by any other name, is acting un-Masonically, and for such conduct shall be liable to be expelled from all the rights and privileges of Masonry, and shall be ineligible to membership or office in this Grand Lodge."
** ''Amended 09/11/1895, 1895-222, by removing the phrases "of which Henry L. Palmer and Albert Pike are M. P. Sov. Grand Commanders respectively," and "whether called the Rite of Memphis or by any other name"; also renumbered Section 23.''
* '''Address of the [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMLawrence Grand Master]''', 03/08/1882, 1882-16, regarding "spurious rites and degrees"; the Grand Master commented on the Egyptian Rite, originally brought to the Grand Lodge's attention by Grand Master [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMWelch Welch] in 1879. An amendment to the Grand Constitutions was offered to delineate the accepted Masonic orders and bodies, which was considered at the June communication on 06/14/1882, 1882-85, and was recommitted and not adopted.
* '''Vote of Grand Lodge''', 09/10/1884, 1884-122; " ''Resolved'', That it is expedient to have Sections 24 and 25, of the Miscellaneous Regulations of this M.W. Grand Lodge, read to all officers of subordinate Lodges, before administering the official obligation of installation; so that they may have full knowledge of the late action of the Grand Lodge, before swearing to 'strictly comply' therewith." The circular letter ordering the implementation of this vote appears on 1884-175, 12/10/1884.
* '''Vote of Grand Lodge''', 03/12/1902, 1902-14, follows an extremely detailed and lengthy report regarding the prerogatives of a Grand Body to define regular Masonic organizations; Grand Lodge voted to decline the petition (presented 1901-147) to repeal the sections of the Grand Constitutions that defined them. 
** ''1903-84 refers to a renewal of the petition to repeal these sections; "In the opinion of your committee the petition now submitted differs in no material respect from that so decidedly acted upon by the Grand Lodge in March, 1902, and your committee see no reason why the subject should be again presented. We therefore recommend that said petition be not submitted to the Grand Lodge for consideration." ''
* '''GC1918''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1918#Section_700 Section 700], 1918-406; ''In this revision, the phrase "(as distinguished from Masonic-related)," does not appear.''
* '''GC1930''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1930#Section_700 Section 700], 1930-159; ''In this revision, the text is the same as in '''GC1918'''.''
* '''GC1953''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1953#Section_700 Section 700]; ''In this revision, the text is the same as in '''GC1918'''.''
** ''Proposed  06/08/1983, 1983-146; discussed 09/14/1983, 1983-178; approved 12/14/1983, 1983-219; add the following:
*** ''"General Grand Council of Cryptic Masons International" ''
*** ''"The Imperial Council of the Ancient Arabic Order of the Nobles of the Mystic Shrine for North America, and the Temples under their jurisdiction;" ''
* '''GC1989''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC2012_PART_VII#Sec._700._REGULAR_MASONIC_BODIES Section 700]

==== References ====

* ''V-330, 06/12/1851, refers to the Supreme Council in Louisiana, deemed clandestine.''
* ''1880-130, 12/08/1880, refers to remarks by Grand Master [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMWelch Welch] regarding the degrees. "Brethren, you cannot perhaps be too frequently reminded that under the American system the first three degrees contain everything that is of the most value in Masonry. Each of the other degrees may have its peculiar advantages; but they are, after all that may be said or done, more ornamental and pleasurable than useful, and it would be a great misfortune to Masonry if their attractions should prove so great as to cause the Lodge-room to be even temporarily deserted. They no doubt serve to bring together and unite the members of different Lodges, but do not let us, in our desire to see new things or to make great displays, neglect that without which Masonry would be of little use." ''
* ''1896-351, 12/09/1896, refers to a case of members of a particular Lodge who received "so-called degrees or orders pretended to be Masonic". The officers-elect of this Lodge refused to renounce their connection with this organization; Grand Master [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMHolmes Holmes] declared the elections null and void and disqualified the officers, requiring the Lodge to call new elections, which was subsequently done.'' 
* ''1901-21, 03/13/1901; see section 701 below.''
* ''1901-243, 12/27/1901, refers to a portion of the address given by Past Grand Master [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMNickerson Nickerson] at the Feast of St. John.''
* ''1902-150, 09/10/1902, refers to a case in which a member of a Boston lodge was charged with associating himself with a clandestine Lodge, "Ancient Landmark #1", "and with assisting in conferring and selling, and with soliciting certain persons to receive and apply for, so-called Masonic degrees." The [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMGallagher Grand Master]'s Address on 1902-177 refers to this case.''
* ''1916-576, 12/13/1916, refers to [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsEdicts1900-1949#Grand_Master_.28Precedence.29 comments] on the precedence of the Grand Master when appearing in "subsidiary" Masonic bodies.''
* ''1918-327, 12/11/1918, refers to changes to '''GC1843''' recommended just before the adoption of '''GC1918'''.''
* ''1922-197, 06/14/1922, refers to Grand Master [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMPrince Prince]'s [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsEdicts1900-1949#Ku_Klux_Klan remarks on the Ku Klux Klan]. "Without hesitation, I declare the Ku Klux Klan an un-Masonic organization, utterly without Masonic support or sympathy. Its avowed principles violate Masonic law at every point and it would be impossible for me to conceive of a Mason who could so far forget his Masonic teachings as to affiliate with an organization which advocates taking the law into its own hands, condemning men and women in secret trials, and imposing the punishment of the whip, the tar bucket, or unlawful banishment."
* ''1930-336, 09/10/1930, refers to a [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsEdicts1900-1949#Use_of_Lodge_Funds ruling] by Grand Master [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMHDean Herbert W. Dean] regarding improper use of lodge funds. "The question has been again brought to my attention regarding the expenditure of Lodge funds for the support of non-Masonic organizations by the Lodges in this Jurisdiction. I am convinced that this is an improper use of the funds of a Lodge, as they are needed for the proper care of those members who require financial assistance. These calls for aid are constantly increasing and every Lodge should conserve its funds for that purpose. I therefore wish it understood that it is not deemed proper for any Lodge to contribute to the support of a unit of any non-Masonic organization." The Grand Master made further remarks on the subject on 1931-37, 03/11/1931. ''

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=== Sec. 701. SPURIOUS MASONRY ===

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Any Mason in this jurisdiction who shall confer, communicate, or sell, or shall assist in or be accessory to the conferring, communicating, or selling, or shall solicit any one to receive or apply for any degree called, claimed, or represented to be Masonic, not hereinbefore recognized or admitted, may be expelled from all the rights and privileges of Masonry.
</span>

==== Earlier Revisions ====

* '''GC1843''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1843#Section_5_8 Part Fifth, Section 5], IV-650: "No Lodge shall encourage, promote, or permit, the delivery of any Masonic lectures, which have not been sanctioned and authorized by the Grand Lodge. Nor shall any Mason be permitted to deliver such lectures under this jurisdiction."
* '''GC1843''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1843#Section_25 Part Fifth, Section 25], adopted 06/13/1883, 1883-43; "Any Mason in this jurisdiction who shall confer, communicate, or sell, or assist in conferring, communicating, or selling, or solicit any one to receive, or. apply for, any so-called Masonic degree or degrees, limited to Freemasons, not hereinbefore recognized or admitted, may be expelled from all the rights and privileges of Masonry."
* '''Vote of Grand Lodge''', 09/10/1884, 1884-122; " ''Resolved'', That it is expedient to have Sections 24 and 25, of the Miscellaneous Regulations of this M.W. Grand Lodge, read to all officers of subordinate Lodges, before administering the official obligation of installation; so that they may have full knowledge of the late action of the Grand Lodge, before swearing to 'strictly comply' therewith." The circular letter ordering the implementation of this vote appears on 1884-175, 12/10/1884.
* '''GC1918''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1918#Section_701 Section 701], 1918-407
* '''GC1930''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1930#Section_701 Section 701], 1930-160
* '''GC1953''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1953#Section_701 Section 701]
* '''GC1989''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC2012_PART_VII#Sec._701._SPURIOUS_MASONRY Section 701]

==== References ====

* ''1881-21 is unclear.''
* ''1881-85, 09/14/1881, refers to a complaint brought before the Grand Lodge by [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=Grecian Grecian] Lodge of Lawrence, with respect to a rejected candidate who was subsequently accepted and advanced by [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=Tuscan Tuscan] Lodge of Lawrence.''
* ''1901-21, 03/13/1901, refers to the petition of officers who were associated with an unrecognized "order or body acting as Masonic", and whose installation was prohibited by order of the [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMGallagher Grand Master]; his response to their petition is reproduced in full. The petition was refused, and the Grand Lodge approved the Grand Master's action.''
* '''Vote of Grand Lodge''', 03/12/1902, 1902-14, follows an extremely detailed and lengthy report regarding the prerogatives of a Grand Body to define regular Masonic organizations; Grand Lodge voted to decline the petition (presented 1901-147) to repeal the sections of the Grand Constitutions that defined them. 
* ''1902-150, 09/10/1902, refers to a case in which a member of a Boston lodge was charged with associating himself with a clandestine Lodge, "Ancient Landmark #1", "and with assisting in conferring and selling, and with soliciting certain persons to receive and apply for, so-called Masonic degrees." The [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMGallagher Grand Master]'s Address on 1902-177 refers to this case.''
* ''1903-84, 09/09/1903, refers to "irregular work" being performed in the western part of the State, both by "a Scotchman" and by expelled Masons from New York and Massachusetts. "These shameless deceivers of humble and ignorant victims were pretending to make Masons of persons of an inferior class who would never be received in regular Lodges and would hardly venture to apply." ''
* ''1903-137, 12/09/1903, refers to remarks by Grand Master [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMSanford Sanford] regarding spurious Masonry. "Hundreds of victims have been inveigled into taking so-called degrees by misrepresentation and falsehood, from unscrupulous parties, who are advertising in the daily papers for candidate's for degrees, which they have no legal authority to confer. Our only safeguard is to submit strange visitors to a rigid examination, and also to require them to show their diplomas or travelling cards, duly signed by the Recording Grand Secretary, with their own names signed in the margin. You will remember, Worshipful Masters, that at your installation you promised that no visitor should be admitted into your Lodges without due examination and producing proper vouchers of their having been initiated in a regular Lodge. These vouchers should be very carefully examined. It may be annoying to a Brother to be refused admission to a Lodge, because he has not those vouchers with him, but if he be a true Mason, he will see the justice of this requirement. I would therefore request of the Masters of Lodges not to admit visitors unless they can produce their diploma and pass.a thorough examination by a competent committee, or be vouched for by a Brother, known to the Worshipful Master, who has sat in a regular Lodge with him."
* ''1904-160, 12/14/1904, refers to a case in which a member of a lodge was associated with a "Cerneau" Scottish Rite body; The process included a suit presented before the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court.''
* ''1922-213, 06/14/1922, refers to a report of conviction in Salt Lake City of a "seller of clandestine Masonry" by mail. This organization, the "American Masonic Federation", claimed a chain of regularity through Louisiana and Scotland, which is detailed in the report.''

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=== Sec. 702. PAST MASTER'S DIPLOMA ===

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The Master of any Lodge under this jurisdiction who has faithfully discharged his duties and complied with the laws of the Grand Lodge may at the end of his first year, be presented by the District Deputy Grand Master or the District Grand Master with a Past Master's Diploma.
</span>

==== Earlier Revisions ====

* '''Additional Regulations''', [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1792#ARTICLE_4TH Article 4th], II-193, 12/15/1801; "The Grand Lodge shall cause to be provided a diploma, printed on parchment, with a device emblematical of, and suited to, the Genius and Design of Masonry, and purporting in a dignified simplicity of language, that the Bearer thereof (inserting the name) has been raised to the Sublime Degree of a Master Mason, in _____ Lodge, of regular standing as appears by the records of the Parent Grand Lodge of Massachusetts. The diploma shall bear the Seal of the Lodge in which the Brother was raised, or is a member, and shall be signed by the Master, Wardens and Secretary of said Lodge. At the foot of the diploma shall appear a certificate, signed by the Grand Secretary, by order of the Grand Master, expressing the date of the charter of the Lodge unto whom it is intended to be issued, and that the same was regularly constituted and is under the Jurisdiction of this Grand Lodge."
* '''Vote of Grand Lodge''', II-201, 03/08/1802, ''to pay the accounts for the designer and engraver of the diploma.'' 
* '''GC1811''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1811#Section_11_2 Chapter III, Section 11], II-522: ". . . the Master of each Lodge, who has complied with the Laws of the Grand Lodge, shall be presented with a Master's Diploma, after having sustained the office one year."
* '''GC1819''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=ByLaws1819#Section_17 Chapter 5, Section 17], III-235; ". . .  the master of each Lodge, who has complied with the laws of the Grand Lodge, shall be presented with a master's diploma, after having sustained the office one year."
* '''GC1843''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1843#Section_3_12 Part Fifth, Section 3], IV-650; "The Master of any Lodge, under this jurisdiction, who has faithfully discharged his duties and complied with the laws of the Grand Lodge, shall, at the end of his first year, be presented by the District Deputy Grand Master, with a Past Master's Diploma."
* '''GC1918''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1918#Section_704 Section 704], 1918-408; ''In this revision, the words "may at the end of his first year" read instead "shall, at the end of his first year,".'' 
* '''GC1930''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1930#Section_702 Section 702], 1930-160; ''In this revision, the text is the same as in '''GC1918'''.''
* '''GC1953''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1953#Section_702 Section 702]; ''In this revision, the text is the same as in '''GC1918'''.''
* '''GC1989''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC2012_PART_VII#Sec._702._PAST_MASTER.27S_DIPLOMA Section 702]

==== References ====

* ''VI-559, 12/27/1864, refers to the committee ruling, adopted by Grand Lodge, [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsEdicts1850-1899#Past_Masters_.28Definition.29 defining a Past Master], in accordance with the prerequisites for being certain Grand Lodge officers.''
* ''1916-307, 09/11/1916, refers to remarks by Grand Master [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMMJohnson Melvin Johnson] regarding Past Master's Diplomas. The Grand Master was discussing the case of a Master who, in his opinion, was unworthy of receiving a diploma. In 1916-592, 12/13/1916, the Grand Master indicated that he refused diplomas to three Masters for reasons he provided.''
* ''1952-286, 12/10/1952, refers to [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsEdicts1950-1974#Past_Masters.27_Diplomas remarks] by Grand Master [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMRoy Roy] regarding the awarding of Grand Master's diplomas, and his concern that such awards be earned.''

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=== Sec. 703. INTER-JURISDICTIONAL CORRESPONDENCE ===

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Inter-jurisdictional correspondence shall in all cases be conducted through the office of the Grand Secretary except as the Grand Master may otherwise order.
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==== Earlier Revisions ====

* '''Vote of Grand Lodge''', II-123, 01/17/1798; "That a respectable committee of Correspondence be appointed to receive all letters, communications, etc., and to prepare answers to be laid before the Grand Lodge for their consideration and sanction at their Quarterly Communications, and that said committee seek to obtain all Masonic information which may tend to the benefit or aggrandizement of this Grand Lodge."
** II-130, 06/11/1798; "The choice of a Committee of Correspondence, refer'd over to this meeting, was acted upon and the M.W. [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMBartlett J. Bartlett], R.W. Brothers [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMDunn Samuel Dunn], [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMRevere Paul Revere], [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MAGLTHarris Thaddeus M. Harris] and [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MAGLPMorton Perez Morton] were appointed the committee accordingly."
** II-179, 03/09/1801; "The R.W. [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMBartlett J. Bartlett], [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMRussell Benj. Russell] and [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMThomas I. Thomas] were appointed a committee to consider and report the most speedy and effectual method of answering communications, and transmitting the doings of the Grand Lodge with regularity and dispatch and reported the following, vizt: That at a meeting of the Grand Lodge, June 11, 5798, a Committee of Correspondence was appointed, who, from their local situation and their various avocations, can never perform the important duties assigned them. They are therefore of opinion that the said committee should he discharged, and heg leave to recommend that the following be adopted as a Standing Law of the Grand Lodge."
* '''GC1918''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1918#Section_705 Section 705], 1918-408; ''In this revision, the section reads: "Inter-jurisdictional correspondence shall in all cases be conducted through the office of the Grand Master except as he may otherwise order." 
* '''GC1930''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1930#Section_703 Section 703], 1930-160; ''In this revision, the text is the same as in '''GC1918'''.''
* '''GC1953''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1953#Section_703 Section 703]; ''In this revision, the text is the same as in '''GC1918'''.''
* '''GC1989''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC2012_PART_VII#Sec._703._INTER-JURISDICTIONAL_CORRESPONDENCE Section 703]

==== References ====

* ''1909-179, 12/08/1909, refers to a portion of Grand Master [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMFlanders Flanders]' annual address, regarding recommendations made at a conference of Grand Masters of the original colonies and also including Maine, Vermont and Nova Scotia held in Philadelphia in June. The conference recommended the following: "All inter-jurisdictional communications should be sent through the offices of the Grand Masters." ''

<hr>

=== Sec. 704. ITINERANT CERTIFICATES ===

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No Lodge or officer or member of a Lodge shall give a certificate or recommendation to enable a Mason to proceed from Lodge to Lodge as a pauper, or in an itinerant manner to apply to Lodges or Brethren for relief.
</span>

==== Earlier Revisions ====

* '''GC1843''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1843#Section_8_4 Part Fifth, Section 8], IV-651; "No Lodge, or officer or member of a Lodge, shall, under any circumstances, give a certificate or recommendation, to enable a Mason to proceed, from Lodge to Lodge, as a pauper, or, in an itinerant manner, to apply to Lodges for relief."
** ''Amended 06/12/1878, 1878-50, revised 09/11/1878, 1878-87, removing the phrase "under any circumstances". ''
** ''Proposed 06/12/1895, 1895-128, adopted 09/11/1895, 1895-221, replacing "apply to Lodges" with "apply to Lodges or Brethren". ''
* '''GC1918''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1918#Section_706 Section 706], 1918-408
* '''GC1930''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1930#Section_704 Section 704], 1930-161
* '''GC1953''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1953#Section_704 Section 704]
* '''GC1989''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC2012_PART_VII#Sec._704._ITINERANT_CERTIFICATES Section 704]

==== References ====

''none.''

<hr>

=== Sec. 705. BEGGING LETTERS ===

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Begging circulars or similar appeals from any source, domestic or foreign, shall not be entertained unless they have been approved by the Grand Lodge or Grand Master.
</span>

==== Earlier Revisions ====

* '''GC1918''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1918#Section_707 Section 707], 1918-409
* '''GC1930''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1930#Section_705 Section 705], 1930-161
* '''GC1953''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1953#Section_705 Section 705]
* '''GC1989''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC2012_PART_VII#Sec._705._BEGGING_LETTERS Section 705]

==== References ====

* ''1923-159, 06/13/1923, refers to Grand Master [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMFerrell Ferrell]'s remarks on [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsEdicts1900-1949#Begging_Letters begging letters]. "It has been brought to our attention that a number of begging letters have recently been circulating through our Lodges. These letters are from Masons outside of our jurisdiction, and may at first glance seem worthy. But we desire to call the attention of the Brethren to this fact: 'Begging letters or similar appeals from any source, domestic or foreign, shall not be entertained unless they have been approved by the Grand Lodge or Grand Master.' In deciding disposition of these appeals the Lodges and the Brethren must bear in mind the law just quoted, Section 707 of the Grand Constitutions."

===== Chain Letters =====

''Several Grand Masters made rulings on the matter of chain letters, forbidding lodges and their members from participating.''

* [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsEdicts1900-1949#Chain_Letters 1916-17, 03/08/1916], Grand Master [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMMJohnson M. Johnson]: "The attention of the Brethren is called to the unwritten law that no attention whatever should be paid to chain letters or circular appeals except such as bear the official approval of the Grand Lodge or the Grand Master of the jurisdiction. . . The proper place for chain letters and all other unapproved circular appeals for Masonic aid is the waste basket." 
* [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsEdicts1900-1949#Chain_Letters_2 1917-30, 03/14/1917], Grand Master [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMLAbbott L. Abbott]: "Chain prayer letters seem to be the present most popular form and are being widely circulated in addition to those seeking money for various objects. Such letters are unmasonic and prohibited in this jurisdiction. They are calculated to appeal to the superstitious and are a rank imposition upon those to whom they are sent. Every loyal Masonic officer and member should use every reasonable effort to rid the Fraternity of this pernicious practice so contrary to Masonic ethics and authority." 
* [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsEdicts1900-1949#Chain_Letters_3 1920-182, 06/09/1920], Grand Master [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMPrince Prince]: ". . . The silly and superstitious so-called 'Masonic Prayer' is again in circulation. It is probably impossible to stop these things at their source, but I reiterate the advice which I cannot put in too strong terms that any Brother receiving this absurd communication should immediately destroy it and if he knows the source from which he received it should call the attention of the writer to the impropriety of his action in giving circulation to anything so contemptible." 
* [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsEdicts1900-1949#Chain_Letters_3 1924-358, 09/10/1924], Grand Master [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMFerrell Ferrell]: "As far as I know there is no prayer so peculiar as to deserve the title Masonic, and if the prayer were sufficiently exclusive to set Masons apart for the special favor of the Deity, it would deserve the title less."
* [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsEdicts1900-1949#Chain_Letters_4 1930-73, 03/12/1930], Grand Master [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMHDean H. Dean]: "My attention has been called to another recurrence of the periodical epidemic of chain letters. These silly things are started every few years. My predecessors have many times called attention to them and advised the Brethren to pay no attention to them. The only thing to be done when one of them appears is to put it into the waste basket and thus break the chain." 
* [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsEdicts1900-1949#Chain_Letters_5 1935-86, 06/12/1935], Grand Master [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMAllen Allen]: "The present outbreak is the worst of all. The basic idea is that if one sends a small amount of money to some specified person and writes a certain number of letters, one will in due time receive a considerable sum of money. . .  The scheme would seem to be so transparently silly as to deserve no comment. Nevertheless it has been serious enough to be denounced as criminal by the Post Office Department and has been made a profitable source of revenue by unscrupulous racketeers. . . I emphatically add my own condemnation of this vicious scheme. No Mason should write such a letter or in any way help its circulation. All such letters should immediately go into the waste basket. Break the chain whenever and wherever you get a chance." 
* [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsEdicts1950-1974#Chain_Letters 1951-140, 06/13/1951], Grand Master [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMRoy Roy]: "Just this week copies of chain letters have been placed on my desk. They are being circulated among Masons only, with the suggestion of good fortune if the chain is unbroken, and ill fortune if this chain is broken. Chain letters my Brethren, originate in disordered minds. They are essentially based upon superstition. Inasmuch as Freemasonry has no part in fostering superstition you will please advise all your members who receive such letters to disregard them. . . Chain letters have the strongest sort of disapproval of the Grand Master." 
* [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsEdicts1950-1974#Chain_Letters_2 1952-182, 06/11/1952], Grand Master [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMRoy Roy]: "Apparently there is a recrudescence of the Chain Letter Nuisance. Our condemnation of a continuance of the practise of keeping them going is not known to all. The hopeful thing is that the nuisance has not realized fully on its possibilities, because there is one born every minute, and we must conclude that we get our share in Masonry. Let me again ask you, Brethren, to impress upon your members to remember that when such a letter comes to them that they told us when they came into Masonry that they were of lawful age, and that they must be adult in their actions as well as in their years." 
* [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsEdicts1950-1974#Chain_Letters_3 1954-89, 06/09/1954], Grand Master [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMWJohnson W. Johnson]: ". . . I express the opinion that it is conduct unbecoming a Mason and therefore a Masonic offense subject to Masonic discipline for a member of the Craft to send to another member of the Craft a chain letter which contains any Masonic reference and purports to bring good fortune to those who perpetuate the chain and misfortune to those who break it." 
* [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsEdicts1950-1974#Chain_Letters_4 1964-78, 03/11/1964], Grand Master [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMOsgood Osgood]: ". . . During the past ten weeks I have been receiving from disgusted recipients many samples of a Chain Letter purporting to be sent by Masons to other Masons suggesting that good fortune will come to those who do not so demean themselves. Every teaching of our Fraternity seeks to promote Light, to exalt Trust. . .  I rely on all of you for the exercise of good judgment in the future, and for the stamping out of this infantile and unwarranted practice." 

<hr>

=== Sec. 706. USE OF MASONRY IN BUSINESS ===

<span style="color:#009966">
No Mason (or other person) shall, within the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, be a principal in, or accessory to, the conduct of any business, profession, occupation, or other calling prosecuted for profit under any name or style by which it is held out to the public as Masonic; but this regulation shall not apply to such as were being conducted at the time of the adoption of this regulation or to such as may hereafter be approved by vote of this Grand Lodge taken at a Regular Communication subsequent to that at which said approval is proposed.
</span>

==== Earlier Revisions ====

* '''GC1918''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1918#Section_708 Section 708], 1918-409
* '''GC1930''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1930#Section_706 Section 706], 1930-161
* '''GC1953''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1953#Section_706 Section 706]
* '''GC1989''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC2012_PART_VII#Sec._706._USE_OF_MASONRY_IN_BUSINESS Section 706]

==== References ====

* ''1874-129, 12/09/1874, refers to a portion of the annual address by Grand Master [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMNickerson Nickerson]; he noted that "Frequent enquiries have been made of late in regard to the expediency or propriety of furnishing lists of members of Lodges at the request of others than officers of our own jurisdiction entitled to call for them. Almost invariably the purpose aimed at is the promotion of some mercenary scheme, and the Secretary who complies with such a request will soon find that the members of his Lodge are beset by book peddlers or overwhelmed by advertising schemes. Neither duty nor courtesy requires a Secretary to pay any attention to such solicitations." ''
* ''1918-328, 12/11/1918, refers to changes to '''GC1843''' recommended just before the adoption of '''GC1918'''.''
* ''1921-153, 06/08/1921, refers to remarks by Grand Master [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMPrince Prince] regarding the [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsEdicts1900-1949#Use_of_Mailing_Lists use of Lodge mailing lists]. "Requests for membership lists, addresses of Masters or Secretaries, permission to send representatives into our Lodges to address them, or any endorsement of non-Masonic movements are uniformly denied. Even in the stress of war, when the temptation to relax established rules was at its peak, the policy of the Grand Lodge remained unchanged. The merit of the appeal and the worthiness of the cause have no bearing on this policy. The only question to be answered is whether the object is Masonic or not. Masonry in Massachusetts, with its great membership and efficient organization, must not be used for purposes and propaganda which are not Masonic." ''
* ''1934-80, 06/13/1934, refers to [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsEdicts1900-1949#Use_of_Mailing_Lists_2 remarks] by Grand Master [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMChipman Chipman] regarding the use of mailing lists. "It has come to my notice that Masters and Secretaries of a number of our Lodges have been requested to furnish copies of membership lists or addresses of the Brethren, in order to make use of them for purposes other than Masonic. The impropriety of this request is so obvious that it would seem unnecessary to refer to the matter at all, but in view of the position taken by our Grand Masters in the past and the fact that officers of our Lodges are constantly changing, it is deemed important to repeat what has so often been said before,- that such a practice is most unwise and not in the interests of the Fraternity. . . Individual Masons naturally will contribute as liberally as they may see fit to the causes presented to them, but I urge the officers of Lodges to firmly decline to furnish our mailing lists for any non-Masonic purpose." ''
* ''1934-81, 06/13/1934, refers to [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsEdicts1900-1949#Candidates_.28Sales_Tactics.29 remarks] by Grand Master [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMChipman Chipman] regarding sales tactics used on candidates. "In certain parts of the state our Lodges are being infested by high-power salesmen who make contact with candidates as soon as they are raised, or even before, for the purpose of inducing them to buy books or insurance . . . I enjoin upon all Masters of Lodges to inform every candidate that he is under no obligation whatever to purchase any Masonic books or insurance. If approached by salesmen, he should refuse to listen to them. Later, when he has adjusted himself in Masonry he will be in position to know what he wants and can then consider the offers as he would any other business proposition." ''
* ''1942-287, 12/09/1942, refers to [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsEdicts1900-1949#Wartime_Conditions_.28Public_Service.29 commentary] by Grand Master [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMSchaefer Schaefer] regarding lodge participation in war-related public service activities, including war bond drives. "I am reluctant, however, to use or cause to be used the organizational facilities of Masonry for matters of a distinct extra-Masonic nature. . .  Not infrequently it is more desirable and more convenient to combine with others in those organizations rather than to divide efforts with Masonic groups." ''
* ''1946-304, 12/11/1946, refers to [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsEdicts1900-1949#Lodge_Notices_.28Use_For_Business.29 comments] by Grand Master [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMWragg Wragg] regarding use of Lodge notices for business. "It is settled Masonic law that a lodge notice is a personal and private communication from a Lodge to the members and that the information which it contains is private Masonic business for the sole benefit of the members. After a notice has served its intended purpose, each member should either destroy his copy or keep it in his private file for his own personal use. The use of a lodge notice for business purposes is un-Masonic and any member so using a lodge notice may be subjected to Masonic discipline." ''
* ''1960-33, 03/09/1960, refers to [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsEdicts1950-1999#Use_of_Mailing_Lists commentary] by Grand Master [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMEaton Eaton] regarding the use of mailing lists. "There have been some exceptions granted in special cases. It would be easier to say no and stick to it; however, it is not our intention to be dictatorial, and we attempt to judge all requests on their merits. Where these requests border on the use of our membership lists for business purposes, they become a problem." ''

<hr>

=== Sec. 707. OFFICER LIMITED TO ONE OFFICE ===

<span style="color:#009966">
No Brother shall hold more than one office in the same Lodge, or in Grand Lodge, except as a Director, at the same time.
</span>

==== Earlier Revisions ====

* '''GC1843''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1843#Section_13_2 Part Fifth, Section 13], IV-652; "No Brother shall be a member of more than one Lodge, nor shall he hold more than one office in the same Lodge, or in Grand Lodge, at the same time."
** ''Amended 03/14/1894, 1894-14, to read: "No Brother, excepting members of Lodges under the jurisdiction of this Grand Lodge located in foreign countries, shall be a member of more than one Lodge in this Commonwealth, nor shall he hold more than one office in the same Lodge, or in Grand Lodge, at the same time." ''
** ''Proposed 06/12/1895, 1895-128, adopted 09/11/1895, 1895-221, to read: "No Brother, excepting members of Lodges under the jurisdiction of this Grand Lodge located in foreign countries, shall be an active member of more than one Lodge in this Commonwealth, nor shall he hold more than one office in the same Lodge, or in Grand Lodge, at the same time, except as a Director." ''
** ''Proposed 12/12/1900, 1900-207, adopted 03/13/1901, 1901-27, to read: "No Brother shall hold more than one office in the same Lodge, or in Grand Lodge, at the same time, except as a Director." ''
* '''GC1918''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1918#Section_709 Section 709], 1918-409
* '''GC1930''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1930#Section_707 Section 707], 1930-161
* '''GC1953''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1953#Section_707 Section 707]
* '''GC1989''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC2012_PART_VII#Sec._707._OFFICER_LIMITED_TO_ONE_OFFICE Section 707]

==== References ====

''none.''

<hr>

=== Sec. 708. QUORUM OF GRAND LODGE OR LODGE ===

<span style="color:#009966">
A Communication or Meeting of the Grand Lodge or of a particular Lodge, duly convened, may transact business and do work if three or more members are present provided one of them is, by Masonic law, entitled to preside thereover.
</span>

==== Earlier Revisions ====

* '''Vote of Massachusetts Grand Lodge''', 05/11/1770, I-229: ". . . that whenever Summons's are issued for convening a Gd Lodge by the Grand Master or his direction, and the Grand Lodge in consequence thereof is congregated, the same is to all intents & purposes a legal Grand Lodge, however few in Number, & as such may with the strictest propriety proceed to business."
* '''GC1918''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1918#Section_710 Section 710], 1918-409
* '''GC1930''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1930#Section_708 Section 708], 1930-161
* '''GC1953''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1953#Section_708 Section 708]
* '''GC1989''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC2012_PART_VII#Sec._708._QUORUM_OF_GRAND_LODGE_OR_LODGE Section 708]

==== References ====

* ''1888-320, 12/27/1888, refers to a portion of an address given by Past Grand Master Josiah Drummond of Maine at the Feast of St. John.''

<hr>

=== Sec. 709. DEFINITIONS ===

* <span style="color:#009966">(a) ''Ample Form''. The Grand Lodge is declared to be opened in Ample Form only when the Grand Master presides;</span>
* <span style="color:#009966">(b) ''In Due Form'', when the Deputy Grand Master presides;</span>
* <span style="color:#009966">(c) ''In Form'', when it is opened in the absence of both the Grand Master and his Deputy.</span>
* <span style="color:#009966">(d) ''Suspension from membership'' deprives a Brother, temporarily, of his rights as a member of his Lodge.</span>
* <span style="color:#009966">(e) ''Suspension from Masonry''. The suspension of a Brother excludes him from all his Masonic privileges, and prohibits all Masonic intercourse between him and his Brethren during the time of his suspension.</span>
* <span style="color:#009966">(f) ''Expulsion from Masonry''. This is the highest penalty that can be incurred, and the severest punishment that can be inflicted, for any violations of Masonic engagements. It excludes a Mason from all his Masonic rights and privileges forever, unless he be restored by the Grand Lodge. It ought never to be exercised but with extreme caution, and in cases where a lighter punishment would be of no avail.</span>
* <span style="color:#009966">(g) ''Summons and Notification''. These terms are used in the old regulations, and, by many of the Grand Lodges in this country, synonymously. The Grand Lodge of Massachusetts makes the following distinction:</span>
** <span style="color:#009966">A ''Notification'' is the notice by which the time, place, and hour, and frequently the business of the Lodge, are communicated to the members. Every Brother receiving this notice is requested to attend. The obligation which it imposes is a general one; and the highest penalty incurred by a continuous violation of it is forfeiture of membership.</span>
** <span style="color:#009966">A ''Summons'' is a call of authority, a citation to appear and answer to the charges therein set forth. Or it is an imperative injunction to appear at a Meeting of the Lodge with which the Brother receiving it is affiliated; or to attend on the Grand Master, a District Grand Master, a District Deputy Grand Master, or any committee or other body authorized by the Grand Lodge or Grand Master to issue it. The obligation to obey it is special and obligatory on every Brother receiving it. The penalty for its non-observance is expulsion, unless the party offending be able to urge a pressing and positive necessity as his excuse.</span>
* <span style="color:#009966">(h) ''The Lodge''. A Lodge is a society of Masons meeting by authority of a Charter or warrant from a regular Grand Lodge for the purpose of doing Masonic work and transacting appropriate business. The word ''Lodge'' in these Constitutions shall (unless the context indicates otherwise) be construed to refer to the particular Lodges holding Charters by authority of this Grand Lodge.</span>
** <span style="color:#009966">The word sometimes, in Masonic terminology, means the place in which a particular Lodge meets.</span>
** <span style="color:#009966">In a few jurisdictions the word technically signifies the Ark of the Covenant, which is kept in the Hall, and frequently carried in public processions. The ark is not used in our Lodges.</span>
** <span style="color:#009966">The ''Flooring'', or ''Master's Carpet'', is frequently called the Lodge.</span>
* <span style="color:#009966">(i) The ''Flooring'', or ''Carpet'', is a regularly arranged painting of the Masonic emblems on canvas. No Lodge should be without one.</span>
* <span style="color:#009966">(j) The ''Trestle-Board'', or ''Tracing-Board'', "is for the Master to draw his designs upon"; or it is the Board on which the designs of the Master are already drawn. The term is frequently used synonymously with ''Flooring'' and ''Carpet''.</span>
* <span style="color:#009966">(k) A ''clandestine'' Mason is one who has been made in a spurious body pretending to be Masonic.</span>
* <span style="color:#009966">(l) An ''irregular Mason'' is one who has been made in a regular Lodge but in an unconstitutional or unlawful manner.</span>
* <span style="color:#009966">(m) A ''Stated Communication'' is a regular Meeting for doing Masonic work and transacting appropriate business.</span>
* <span style="color:#009966">(n) A ''Special Communication'' is a Meeting called for the purpose of Masonic ritualistic work and related activities. No business may be transacted.</span>
* <span style="color:#009966">(o) A ''Deputy Grand Lodge'' is a special meeting of the Grand Lodge presided over by a deputy of the Grand Master.</span>

==== Earlier Revisions ====

* '''Vote of Grand Lodge''', 09/11/1815, II-634, rejecting the following motion: "That when the Master and Wardens of a Lodge shall be summoned before this Grand Lodge, they shall appear in person and not by proxy . . . are satisfied for themselves, it would be improper for the Grand Lodge to adopt said motion. That by a fair construction of the Masonic Constitution and the established principles of the Order, when any officer of a Lodge is summoned to appear before this Grand Lodge to answer to any charge touching, or implicating the character of the Lodge, he has a right to appear by proxy; and your committee are of opinion, it would be highly dangerous to take it away." 
** ''A report supplying arguments for this position was presented on 12/11/1815, III-27.''
* '''GC1843''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1843#DEFINITIONS Definitions], IV-655
** (section (a) above) [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1843#Section_1_21 Definitions: 1], VI-655; "The Grand Lodge is declared to be opened in ample form when the Grand Master presides."
** (section (b) above)  [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1843#Section_2_20 Definitions: 2], VI-655
** (section (c) above) [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1843#Section_3_13 Definitions: 3], VI-656
** [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1843#Section_4_13 Definitions: 4], VI-656; "''Discharged Member.'' This term is applied to a member of a Lodge who has been discharged for non-payment of his quarterly dues, or other violation of the local rules of his Lodge."
** (sections (d) and (e) above)  [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1843#Section_5_9 Definitions: 5], VI-656; "''Suspension''. The suspension of a Brother excludes him from all his Masonic privileges, and prohibits all Masonic intercourse between him and his Brethren, during the time of his suspension."
*** ''Amended 09/11/1878, 1878-89, with the addition of the following note: "When the word suspension is used alone, it is understood to refer to the rights and privileges of Masonry, and not to membership in a Lodge." ''
*** ''Proposed 06/12/1895, 1895-128, adopted 09/11/1895, 1895-222; [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1843#Section_4_13 Definitions: 4]; "Suspension from Membership deprives a Brother, temporarily, of his rights as a member of his Lodge." ''
*** ''Proposed 06/12/1895, 1895-128, adopted 09/11/1895, 1895-222; [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1843#Section_5_10 Definitions: 5]; "Discharge from membership terminates absolutely the Brother's connection with his Lodge." ''
*** ''Proposed 06/12/1895, 1895-128, adopted 09/11/1895, 1895-222; [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1843#Section_6_9 Definitions: 6]; "Suspension from Masonry. The suspension of a Brother excludes him from all his Masonic privileges, and prohibits all Masonic intercourse between him and his Brethren, during the time of his suspension. " ''
** (section (f) above) [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1843#Section_6_8 Definitions: 6], VI-656
*** ''Amended 06/12/1878, 1878-51, revised 09/11/1878, 1878-87, replacing "unless" with "until".''
*** ''Proposed 06/12/1895, 1895-128, adopted 09/11/1895, 1895-222; [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1843#Section_7_8 Definitions: 7]; "Expulsion from Masonry. This is the highest penalty that can be incurred, and the severest punishment that can be inflicted for any violation of Masonic engagements. It excludes a Mason from all his Masonic rights and privileges forever, unless he be restored by the Grand Lodge. It ought never to be exercised but with extreme caution, and in cases where a lighter punishment would be of no avail." ''
** (section (g) above) [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1843#Section_7_7 Definitions: 7], VI-656
*** ''Amended 06/12/1878, 1878-51, revised 09/11/1878, 1878-87, replacing "Special Meeting" with "Special Communication". ''
*** ''Proposed 06/12/1895, 1895-128, adopted 09/11/1895, 1895-222; moved to [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1843#Section_8_5 Definitions: 8].''
** (section (h) above) [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1843#Section_8_5 Definitions: 8], VI-657; "''The Lodge.'' The term ''Lodge'' is generally understood to refer to the members of a particular Masonic association, or the place in which they meet. In a few of the states, it technically signifies the Ark of the Covenant, which is kept in the hall and frequently carried in public processions. In Massachusetts, however, and most of the other States, it means the ''flooring''. The Ark is not used in our Lodges.
*** ''Proposed 06/12/1895, 1895-128, adopted 09/11/1895, 1895-222; moved to [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1843#Section_9_5 Definitions: 9].''
** (section (i) above) [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1843#Section_9_5 Definitions: 9], VI-657
*** ''Proposed 06/12/1895, 1895-128, adopted 09/11/1895, 1895-222; moved to [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1843#Section_10_5 Definitions: 10].''
** (section (j) above) [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1843#Section_10_5 Definitions: 10], VI-657
*** ''Proposed 06/12/1895, 1895-128, adopted 09/11/1895, 1895-222; moved to [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1843#Section_11_4 Definitions: 11].''
** (section (l) above); 
*** ''1886-174, 12/08/1886, refers to an order issued to [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=DeWittClinton DeWitt Clinton] Lodge with respect to the conferral of degrees upon a candidate.''
* '''GC1918''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1918#Section_711 Section 711], 1918-409; ''Note the following labels, due to the inclusion of "Discharge from membership".''
** ''(a) Ample Form. The Grand Lodge is declared to be opened in Ample Form, when the Grand Master or a Past Grand Master presides;"
** ''(e) Discharge from membership terminates absolutely the Brother's connection with his Lodge.''
** ''(f) defines Suspension from Masonry.''
** ''(g) defines Expulsion from Masonry.''
** ''(h) defines Summons and Notification.''
** ''(i) defines the Lodge.''
** ''(j) defines the Flooring, or Carpet.''
** ''(k) defines the Trestle-Board, or Tracing-Board.''
** ''(l) defines a clandestine Mason.''
** ''(m) defines an irregular Mason.''
** ''(n) defines a Communication: "A Communication is a meeting for the transaction of business."''
* '''GC1930''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1930#Section_709 Section 709], 1930-162; ''In this revision, the text is the same as in '''GC1918'''.''
* '''GC1953''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1953#Section_709 Section 709]; ''In this revision, the text is the same as in '''GC1918'''.''
** ''A proposal to add a section (p) defining which Brothers were entitled to the rank and privileges of a Past Master was proposed 12/12/1962, 1962-225, but was rejected by Grand Lodge 06/12/1963, 1963-156.''
** ''** 'Proposed 1974-43, 03/13/1974; debated 1974-126, 06/12/1974; adopted 1974-176, 09/11/1974; amended as follows:''
*** ''Item (e) is deleted.''
*** ''Item (n) is revised to read: "A Stated Communication is a regular meeting for doing Masonic work and transacting appropriate business." ''
*** ''Item (o) is relabeled as item (p) and the following text is inserted as item (o): "A Special Communication is a meeting called for the purpose of Masonic work and related activities."''
* '''GC1989''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC2012_PART_VII#Sec._709._DEFINITIONS Section 709]; ''the current version has reworded text for Special Communications.''

==== References ====

* (d):
** ''1916-172, 06/14/1916, refers to [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsEdicts1900-1949#Suspended_Members remarks] by Grand Master [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMMJohnson Melvin Johnson] regarding suspended Brothers. "If a Brother has been suspended for non-payment of dues he may at any time pay the amount which was due the Lodge at the time of his suspension. He is then clear upon the books. . .  If the Lodge does not issue printed or written notices the Lodge should be advised of the application for reinstatement at one meeting and the matter should lie over until the next regular meeting. . . If he desires to regain his membership in the Lodge he must apply for such membership ''de novo''. His application is then dealt with just as if it had come from one who was never a member of the Lodge. All the formalities usually attending admission to membership must be observed, as in the case of any candidate." ''
** ''MFM, Vol. XXVI, No. 7, 05/01/1867, Page 191, refers to an [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsEdicts_MFM1861_1870#Suspensions extensive discussion] of suspensions.''
** ''MFM, Vol. XXX, No. 9, 07/01/1871, Page 287, refers to an expelled Mason "travelling about the country selling Masonic Charts and peddling what he calls Masonic degrees." The reader is advised to "reject Masonic peddlers and mountebanks of every description." ''
** '''GC1918''': ''See Section 504.''
* (e):
** ''See Sections 504 and 509.''
** ''MFM, Vol. XXVI, No. 3, 01/01/1867, Page 93, discusses the December 1866 Quarterly Communication, and may be spurious.''
* (f): 
** ''IV-615, 09/13/1843, refers to amendments to '''GC1819'''.
** ''1914-177, 06/10/1914, refers to a report by the Committee on Charters and By-Laws, in which the committee noted that "in a number of amendments and codes . . . the words 'expulsion' and 'expelled' are used as a penalty for non-payment of dues. We respectfully call attention of those Lodges to the fact that 'expulsion' is the term applicable to the separation of members from the rights and privileges of Masonry." ''
** ''1916-577, 12/13/1916, refers to comments by Grand Master [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMMJohnson Melvin Johnson] regarding the precedence of the Grand Lodge. "While the Grand Lodge cannot govern the other bodies, it is nevertheless the supreme authority of the jurisdiction." ''
* (g): 
** Grand Lodge Committee Report, IV-39, 09/13/1826; report on the relationship between the Fraternity and Masons unaffiliated with any Lodge, which includes the following [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsEdictsBefore1850#Summons_2 statement]: "Every Mason is bound to obey the summons of a Lodge of Master Masons and presented himself before then, if within the scope of his ability. There is no relation in which he can stand with the fraternity that can absolve a mason from this obligation. He may have sufficient excuse for not obeying a summons, and in that case it is his duty to lay his excuse before the summoning body which has the power of admitting it as satisfactory and it is presumed that it will always be ready to exercise this power liberally whenever a proper spirit is manifested. Thus a Lodge may excuse a Freemason for not performing this duty, but cannot absolve him from his obligation to perform it."
* (k): 
** ''V-330, 06/12/1851, refers to the Supreme Council in Louisiana, deemed clandestine.''
** ''1909-178, 12/08/1909, refers to a portion of Grand Master [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMFlanders Flanders]' annual address, regarding recommendations made at a conference of Grand Masters of the original colonies and also including Maine, Vermont and Nova Scotia held in Philadelphia in June. A form of Renunciation was unanimously adopted at the conference to be used for petitioners who have been identified with clandestine bodies.''
* (l, m): 
** ''1906-119, 09/12/1906, refers to a committee appointed to investigate the use of the term "Communication", with respect to meetings of Lodges. It was reported that it had only recently become synonymous with regular meetings; the term had previously been reserved for Quarterly and Annual Communications of the Grand Lodge. The committee was granted more time 12/12/1906, 1906-187, but it is unclear if it ever reported.''
** ''1916-18, 03/08/1916, refers to remarks by Grand Master [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMMJohnson Melvin Johnson] regarding irregularly made Masons. "It has only recently come to my attention that there are throughout the jurisdiction quite a large number of irregularly made Masons who are visiting our Lodges. I am now referring to clandestine Masons. A clandestine Mason is one who has been made in a spurious body. An irregularly made Mason is one who has been made a Mason in a regular Lodge, but in an unconstitutional or unlawful manner. The cases which I have found are mostly those of rejected candidates who have succeeded in taking degrees in other Lodges, mostly in other states than those wherein they were rejected, within the five year limitation of the Grand Constitutions and without lawful release and recommendation." ''
* (o):
** ''1871-86, 09/06/1871, describes a Deputy Grand Lodge that constituted [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=EzekielBates Ezekiel Bates] Lodge in Attleboro in September 1871, with Rt. Wor. [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GSCWMoore Charles W. Moore] as Acting Grand Master.''
** ''1871-211, 12/13/1871 lists Grand Master [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMGardner William Sewall Gardner]'s ten commissions to various Brothers to dedicate halls and constitute lodges in Deputy Grand Lodges.''
** ''1914-14, 02/21/1914, describes a Deputy Grand Lodge that constituted [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=CanalZone Canal Zone] Lodge in Ancon, Canal Zone, with Rt. Wor. [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MAGLHFletcher Herbert E. Fletcher] as Acting Grand Master.''
** ''1916-140, 05/20/1916, describes a Deputy Grand Lodge that constituted [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=Army Army] Lodge in Empire, Canal Zone, with Wor. John B. Fields of [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=CanalZone Canal Zone] Lodge acting as Grand Master.
** ''1916-282, 05/20/1916, describes a Deputy Grand Lodge that laid the cornerstone of a Masonic temple in Norwood, with Rt. Wor. [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MAGLFHamilton Frederick W. Hamilton] as Acting Grand Master.
** ''1917-1, 02/01/1917, describes a Deputy Grand Lodge to appoint a District Grand Master for the Canal Zone, and recognize the Grand Lodge of Panama, with Most Wor. [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMMJohnson Melvin Johnson] as Acting Grand Master. It also received a petition for the formation of [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=Isthmian2 Isthmian] Lodge.''
** ''1918-328, 12/11/1918, refers to changes to '''GC1843''' recommended just before the adoption of '''GC1918'''.''

<hr>

=== Sec. 710. AMENDMENTS ===

<span style="color:#009966">
No permanent By-Law, Rule, or Regulation of this Grand Lodge shall be adopted, repealed, or amended at the Communication at which such adoption, repeal, or amendment is proposed, nor until it has been duly considered by a committee, fully discussed in Grand Lodge at the next succeeding Quarterly Communication, and voted on at the second succeeding Quarterly Communication.
</span>

<span style="color:#009966">
There shall be mailed by the Grand Secretary to the Secretary of each Lodge under the jurisdiction of this Grand Lodge, an attested copy of such proposal for adoption, repeal, or amendment, within thirty days after the Communication at which such proposal is made. Two-thirds of the votes cast shall be necessary for the adoption thereof.
</span>

<span style="color:#009966">
The Grand Secretary shall insert in his customary written notifications for Communications of the Grand Lodge to the officer, permanent members and Lodges a notice of any such proposal which may be in order for consideration.
</span>

==== Earlier Revisions ====

* '''GC1792''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1792#SECTION_9th Section 9th], Item 8, II-10; "The Grand Lodge has an inherent power and authority to make new regulations, and alter these for the benefit of the Institution, provided always the Ancient Land-Marks be carefully preserved, and that such new regulations be proposed, at a Quarterly Communication, and agreed to by a majority of the Brethren present at the Annual Grand Feast."
* '''GC1811''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1811#Section_12_2 Chapter IV, Section 12], II-524; "No permanent Regulation shall be established at the meeting when it is proposed, nor until it has been duly considered by a committee, to be appointed by the Grand Master, or in his absence chosen by the Grand Lodge, for that purpose."
* '''GC1819''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=ByLaws1819#Section_11_3 Chapter 6, Section 11], III-238; "No permanent regulation shall be established at the meeting when it is proposed, nor until it has been duly considered by a committee to be chosen by the Grand Lodge."
** ''Proposed 12/15/1825, III-568, amended 03/08/1826, IV-8, to include the following text: "The prayer of a petition for a new Lodge shall not be granted at the Communication when it is presented; but shall be referred to a Committee with instructions to report at the next following Communication." ''
* '''GC1843''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1843#Section_22 Part 5th, Section 22], IV-653; "No permanent regulation of this Grand Lodge, shall be repealed, or amended, at the meeting at which such repeal, or amendment, is proposed, nor until it has been duly considered by a committee, to be chosen by the Grand Lodge, at a previous quarterly communication. A majority of two-thirds of the votes present shall be necessary for the adoption of any amendment."
** ''Proposed 06/12/1867, VII-168, amended 09/11/1867, VII-179, to read: "No permanent regulation of this Grand Lodge, shall be repealed, or amended, at the meeting at which such repeal, or amendment, is proposed, nor until it has been duly considered by a committee, to be chosen by the Grand Lodge, at a previous quarterly communication, and every Lodge under the jurisdiction of this Grand Lodge within the territorial limits of Massachusetts shall be served by the Recording Grand Secretary with an attested copy of such proposed repeal or amendment within thirty days after the meeting at which such repeal or amendment is proposed. A majority of two-thirds of the votes present shall be necessary for the adoption of any amendment." ''
** ''Amended 06/12/1878, 1878-51, revised 09/11/1878, 1878-88, replacing "Meetings" with "Communications". ''
** ''Amended 09/12/1883, 1883-130, to read: "No permanent regulation of this Grand Lodge shall be adopted, repealed, or amended at the Communication at which such regulation, repeal, or amendment is proposed, nor until it has been duly considered by a committee to be chosen by the Grand Lodge at a previous Quarterly Communication. And every Lodge under the jurisdiction of this Grand Lodge, within the territorial limits of Massachusetts, shall be served by the Recording Grand Secretary with an attested copy of such proposed regulation, repeal, or amendment, within thirty days after the Communication at which such regulation, repeal, or amendment is proposed. Two-thirds of the votes cast shall be necessary for the adoption of any regulation or amendment." ''
** ''Proposed 06/12/1895, 1895-128, adopted 09/11/1895, 1895-221, replacing "a committee to be chosen by the Grand Lodge" with "a committee appointed by the Grand Lodge". ''
** ''Proposed 09/09/1903, 1903-84, to repeal this section; it was not brought before the Grand Lodge for consideration." ''
* '''Vote of Grand Lodge''', 12/13/1866 (1866-47), VII-126; "That the G. Sec. insert in his notifications for meetings of the G. Lodge the Part, Article and Section of any proposed amendment to the G. Constitutions, which may be in order for deliberation at such meeting."
* '''GC1918''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1918#Section_712 Section 712], 1918-413; ''In this revision, the closing phrases of the first paragraph, "fully discussed in Grand Lodge at the next succeeding Quarterly Communication, and voted on at the second succeeding Quarterly Communication" do not appear.''
* '''GC1930''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1930#Section_710 Section 710], 1930-165; ''In this revision, the text is the same as in '''GC1918'''.''
* '''GC1953''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1953#Section_710 Section 710]; ''In this revision, the text is the same as in '''GC1918'''.''
** ''Proposed 06/11/1958, 1958-132; amended 09/10/1958, 1958-178, to read as follows: "No Permanent By-Law, Rule, or Regulation of this Grand Lodge shall be adopted, repealed, or amended at the Communication at which such adoption, repeal, or amendment is proposed, nor until it has been duly considered by a committee., fully discussed in Grand Lodge at the next succeeding Quarterly Communication, and voted on at the second succeeding Quarterly Communication. There shall be mailed by the Grand Secretary to the Secretary of each Lodge under the jurisdiction of this Grand Lodge, an attested copy of such proposal for adoption, repeal or amendment, within thirty days after the Communication at which such proposal is made. Two-thirds of the votes cast shall be necessary for the adoption thereof. The Grand Secretary shall insert in his customary written notifications for Communications of the Grand Lodge to the officers, permanent members and Lodges a notice of any such proposal which may be in order for consideration."
* '''GC1989''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC2012_PART_VII#Sec._710._AMENDMENTS Section 710]

==== References ====

* ''1883-126, 09/12/1883, refers to the report of the Committee on Charters and By-Laws with respect to amendments to by-laws for several Lodges.''

<hr>

=== Sec. 711. LODGE NOTICES ===

<span style="color:#009966">
All written or printed notices of Lodge meetings containing any Masonic information beyond the time and place of such meeting must be sent out in sealed envelopes. Any electronic display of such information must be password protected and any electronic communication thereof must be in accordance with guidelines established by the Grand lodge.
</span>

==== Earlier Revisions ====

* '''Grand Lodge Committee Report''', 1890-52, 06/11/1890, on Committees of Investigation; Past Grand Master [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMDame Dame] remarked on the privacy of Lodge notices. "It may not be amiss, in this connection, to utter a word of caution to the Brethren generally, against allowing themselves to converse too freely about the private affairs of the Lodge in places where their conversation may be overheard by outsiders; and particularly against allowing notices of meetings to fall into the hands of those who are not Masons. These notices are personal and confidential in their nature; they should never be sent in unsealed envelopes, much less should they be printed on postal cards."
* '''GC1918''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1918#Section_713 Section 713], 1921-53; added 03/09/1921. ''The text originally read: "All written or printed notices of Lodge meetings containing any Masonic information beyond the time and place of such meeting must be sent out in sealed envelopes."''
* '''GC1930''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1930#Section_711 Section 711], 1930-165; ''In this revision, the text is the same as in '''GC1918'''.''
* '''GC1953''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1953#Section_711 Section 711]; 1953-54; approved 1953-197; "All written or printed notices of Lodge meetings containing any Masonic information beyond the time and place of such meeting must be sent out in sealed or spot-sealed envelopes."
** ''Proposed 1974-43, 03/13/1974; debated 1974-126, 06/12/1974; adopted 1974-176, 09/11/1974; amended by the removal of the words "or spot-sealed". ''
* '''GC1989''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC2012_PART_VII#Sec._711._LODGE_NOTICES Section 711]

==== References ====

* ''1918-329, 12/11/1918, refers to changes to '''GC1843''' recommended just before the adoption of '''GC1918'''.''
* ''1936-157, 09/09/1936, refers to a [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsEdicts1900-1949#Lodge_Mailings ruling] by Grand Master [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMAllen Allen] regarding the use of certain kinds of envelopes for lodge notices.'' 

<hr>

=== Sec. 712. RECOGNITION OF FOREIGN GRAND LODGES ===

<span style="color:#009966">
Fraternal recognition may be extended to a foreign Grand Lodge when, the Committee on Foreign Relations having first considered and reported thereon, it appears to the satisfaction of this Grand Lodge:
</span>
# <span style="color:#009966">That the foreign Grand Lodge in question represents a substantial unity of the Freemasons of the territory over which it assumes jurisdiction; i.e. the Country, Province, or State, or else shares such territorial jurisdiction with another Grand Lodge by mutual consent.</span>
# <span style="color:#009966">That it has been lawfully organized by three or more regular Lodges or that it has been legalized by this Grand Lodge or by a Grand Lodge recognized by this Grand Lodge.</span>
# <span style="color:#009966">That it is an independent, self-governing organization, having sovereign Masonic authority within its jurisdiction.</span>
# <span style="color:#009966">That its ritual is fundamentally in accord with the  ancient landmarks, customs, and usages of the Craft.  This involves:</span>
#* <span style="color:#009966">A. Monotheism;</span>
#* <span style="color:#009966">B. The Volume of the Sacred Law a part of the furniture of the Lodge;</span>
#* <span style="color:#009966">C. Secrecy;</span>
#* <span style="color:#009966">D. The symbolism of the operative art;</span>
#* <span style="color:#009966">E. The division of Symbolic Masonry into the three degrees of Entered Apprentice, Fellowcraft, and Master Mason;</span>
#* <span style="color:#009966">F. The legend of the Third Degree.</span>
# <span style="color:#009966">That it makes Masons of men only.</span>
# <span style="color:#009966">That it is non-sectarian and non-political; i.e., that its dominant purposes are charitable, benevolent, educational, and religious.</span>

==== Earlier Revisions ====

* '''GC1918''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1918#Section_714 Section 714], 1922-545; added 12/13/1922. ''The text originally used the phrase "(a committee having first considered and reported thereon) it appears to the satisfaction of this Grand Lodge:"; in item 1, the phrase "That the foreign Grand Lodge in question represents a substantial unity of the Freemasons of the territory over which it assumes jurisdiction; i.e., the Country, Province, or State."; in item 2, "That it has been lawfully organized by three or more regular Lodges." in item 3, "That it is independent, having entire dogmatic and administrative authority over resident Masons and the Symbolic Degrees within its territorial jurisdiction." 
* '''GC1930''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1930#Section_712 Section 712], 1930-166
* '''Vote of Grand Lodge''', 12/12/1951, 1951-295, changing the name of the Standing Committee on Recognition of Foreign Grand Lodges to the Standing Committee on Foreign Relations.
* '''GC1953''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1953#Section_712 Section 712]; 1953-54; approved 1953-197.
* '''GC1989''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC2012_PART_VII#Sec._712._RECOGNITION_OF_FOREIGN_GRAND_LODGES Section 712]

==== References ====

* ''1883-47, 06/13/1883, refers to an extensive report on the recognition (and refusal of recognition) of foreign Grand Lodges granting charters within a specific territory.''
* ''1920-174, 06/09/1920, refers to the appointment of a committee by Grand Master [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMPrince Prince] to investigate the status of foreign Grand Lodges to determine which should be recognized, and from which recognition should be withdrawn.''

<hr>

=== Sec. 713. GRAND HONORS ===

<span style="color:#009966">
There are only two kinds of Masonic Grand Honors: namely, Public Grand Honors and Private Grand Honors.
</span>

<span style="color:#009966">
The Public Grand Honors (sometimes called Public Honors) consist only of the battery of three times three, the first being right over left, the second left over right, and the third right over left. These Public Grand Honors are given when non-Masons or other than Masons are present.
</span>

<span style="color:#009966">
The Private Grand Honors (sometimes called Private Honors) are given by battery of three times three, each battery being followed by the sign of a degree in the order of the first, second and third. The Private Grand Honors may be given only on four occasions - Dedication of a Masonic Hall, Constitution of a new Lodge, Installation of a Master-elect, on receiving a Grand Master or in honor of a Brother receiving a Grand Lodge Medal or other honor, but only if no Non-Masons are present. It is fitting and proper that a Brother should be greeted with the Private Grand Honors should the Master of the Lodge so direct.
</span>

<span style="color:#009966">
At the installation of the Grand Master, the battery is omitted, the signs only being given.
</span>

==== Earlier Revisions ====

* '''GC1953''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC1953#Section_713 Section 713]; 1953-54; approved 1953-197
* '''GC1989''': [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsGC2012_PART_VII#Sec._713._GRAND_HONORS Section 713]

==== References ====

* ''1947-375, 12/10/1947, refers to a [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=MassachusettsEdicts1900-1949#Masonic_Honors ruling] by Grand Master [http://masonicgenealogy.com/MediaWiki/index.php?title=GMWragg Wragg] regarding Grand Honors. (This ruling formed the basis of the section included in '''GC1953'''.) "In this jurisdiction there are only two kinds of Masonic Grand Honors: namely, Public Grand Honors and Private Grand Honors. The Public Grand Honors (sometimes called Public Honors) consist only of the battery of three times three, the first being right over left, the second left over right, and the third right over left. These Public Grand Honors are given where non-Masons or other than Master Masons are present.
** ''"The Private Grand Honors (sometimes called Private Honors) are given by the battery of three times three, each battery being followed by the sign of a degree in the order of the first, second and third. The Private Grand Honors may be given only on four occasions - Dedication of a Masonic Hall, Constitution of a new Lodge, Installation of a Master-elect, or on receiving a Grand Master.''
** ''"At the Installation of the Grand Master, the battery is omitted, the signs only being given.''
** ''"At a Masonic funeral, neither the Public nor Private Grand Honors are given, but the following should be done at the proper place in the service; both arms should be placed across the breast, the left uppermost, followed by a reverential bow, this to be done three times by the Brethren in attendance.''
** ''"In honor of a Brother receiving a Grand Lodge Medal, or other honor, it is fitting and proper that the Brother should be greeted with the Private Grand Honors should the Master of the Lodge so direct."''

<hr>

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