Provincial Grand Lodge of East Lancashire><br /> <h1 class=Information for Lodge Officers
May 2003
A Guide for Directors of Ceremonies

APPENDIX 6

SEATING IN THE LODGE

The RWPGM has the right to sit immediately on the WM's right. At an Installation his Representative has the same right, for the whole of the Lodge meeting. The DPGM would sit on the right of the RWPGM or Representative or on the WM's right if neither is present. Similarly for the APGMs. A Representative will not be present if the RWPGM, DPGM or APGM is attending.

If several are present the APGM in whose area the lodge belongs is given precedence over the others who then sit in order of appointment (the same order as on the Toast List!) These Brethren are the Rulers of the Province and must have preference over other brethren. If any of them are present, the Senior Ruler MUST be offered the gavel by the WM. A Representative of the RWPGM, however, is NOT offered the gavel (nor does he “demand” admission). If the lodge DC normally sits on the WM's right he should move if any of the aforementioned brethren are present – either to the WM's left or in the South.

Next should come Past PGMs, Past DPGMs, the “patch” AsstPGP, District Chairman and Past APGMs or Brethren of similar rank (acting or past) of other Provinces. Then come GOs according to Rank and finally Provincial Officers. Generally the most senior brethren should occupy the front row of seats in the NE unless there are severe problems of access.

The lodge DC should acquaint himself with the list of all senior brethren (Grand rank and above) intending to attend the lodge and using the above guide, toast lists and the Provincial Year Book plan out the seating well in advance. Named reserve seat cards are very useful to ensure the brethren sit exactly where the DC has planned – or that there is a seat available when the procession enters!

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