The Magic of the Petition David Tucker, PM Atlantic Lodge No rd Masonic District

What does Magic mean?

The art of producing a desired effect or result through the use of various techniques that presumably assure human control of the forces of nature.

What is “Magic” about a Petition?

It determines the future of our Freemasonry!

What is the Petition Process?

I.Assign a Committee I. Interview the Petitioner I. Report of the Committee I. Lodge Ballot

What is the Petition Process? #1 – Assign a Committee of Investigation

Investigation Committee Committee Members must be well informed about the fraternity. * Masonic Landmarks * Masonic Protocols * The Investigation Report

Some Masonic Landmarks Relevant to an Investigation 1. Belief in God 2. Acceptance of the Word of God as the rule and guide to our faith and practice. 3. The legend of the 3 rd Degree; the means of recognition; the methods of conferring degrees; the obligations of the degrees; and the ballot of every Brother are and must continue to be inviolably secret.

Investigation Committee Structure 1. At least 3 Committee Members. 1. A Committee Chairman. 2. Have a Standing Committee – or 2.

Investigation Committee Structure 3 Committee Members: One Past Master - Chairman One Sitting Officer One Newer Brother

Investigation Committee Structure 3 Committee Members: One Past Master – Chairman Main speaker at the meeting One Sitting Officer One Newer Brother

Duties of Chairman 1.Provide copies of Petition to Committee Members. 2.Schedule the Investigation. At least one week in advance. * Inform Petitioner of need for 3 references 3.Go over dress code and protocol with Committee in advance. * Suit and Tie * Arrive early

Investigation Committee Structure 3 Committee Members: One Past Master – Chairman Main speaker at the meeting One Sitting Officer Can explain the Fraternity One Newer Brother

Investigation Committee Structure 3 Committee Members: One Past Master – Chairman Main speaker at the meeting One Sitting Officer Can explain the Fraternity One Newer Brother Can talk about brotherhood

We are interviewing him… Like a job interview, we are asking questions to determine if he will fit in with our culture. Will he conform to our rules? Will he be disruptive or bring disharmony to our meetings?

He is interviewing us… Is this organization for me? Will I fit in with these guys? What is this I’m getting into?

His family is interviewing us… What is he getting involved with now?

For your Report: 1.Family’s attitude toward him joining? 2.Can he attend regularly? 1.How well does he know his recommender? 1.What does he know about the fraternity? 2.What is his motivation?

DO NOT: Talk about Masonic Landmarks Accept alcoholic beverages Consume alcohol before the interview Arrive late Stay too long. 1 Hour maximum.

ALWAYS: Explain the process Including the fees and timeline Meet in the home Have the wife present Arrive early

Summary Points  Take the task seriously.

Summary Points  Take the task seriously.  Understand the purpose of a Committee.

Summary Points  Take the task seriously.  Understand the purpose of a Committee.  Have Members oriented with, or trained to serve on, a Committee.

Summary Points  Take the task seriously.  Understand the purpose of a Committee.  Have Members oriented with, or trained to serve on, a Committee.  Plan each Member’s role in the interview.

Summary Points  Take the task seriously.  Understand the purpose of a Committee.  Have Members oriented with, or trained to serve on, a Committee.  Plan each Member’s role in the interview.  Gather information from Candidate and family.

Summary Points  Take the task seriously.  Understand the purpose of a Committee.  Have Members oriented with, or trained to serve on, a Committee.  Plan each Member’s role in the interview.  Gather information from Candidate and family.  Provide information to Candidate and family.

Summary Points  Take the task seriously.  Understand the purpose of a Committee.  Have Members oriented with, or trained to serve on, a Committee.  Plan each Member’s role in the interview.  Gather information from Candidate and family.  Provide information to Candidate and family.  Prepare the Report.

Summary Points  Take the task seriously.  Understand the purpose of a Committee.  Have Members oriented with, or trained to serve on, a Committee.  Plan each Member’s role in the interview.  Gather information from Candidate and family.  Provide information to Candidate and family.  Prepare the Report.  Explain your findings if called upon to do so.

If we believe in the Magic of the Ballot… and follow proper protocol…

If we believe in the Magic of the Ballot… and follow proper protocol… We can control the future of NJ Freemasonry

The Magic of the Petition David Tucker, PM Atlantic Lodge No