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

• 2.1 The Meeting

• 2.1.1 It is important to start the meeting on time, for which purpose request that the officers aim to arrive at least 15 minutes – preferable 30 minutes before the scheduled start.

• 2.1.2 Salutes should be given at a time determined by each Lodge, but generally after the Minutes when the Lodge is open in the first degree. Normally any visiting GO attending will be known in advance, giving the opportunity to rehearse the correct preamble and salutation in private. The DC should ensure that all signs are given correctly, i.e. with the open hand in the form of a S, not giving the impression of thumbing a lift. See Appendix 5 for more details.

• 2.1.3 The WM is the most important person in the Lodge. The DC directs the ceremony on behalf of the WM and at all times should set an example to the Brethren regarding dress, manner and behaviour. He should discreetly advise the Brethren of any infringement of etiquette. The person who should prompt during the ceremony is preferably the IPM but if he is unable, then the DC will be responsible. Open ritual books should be discouraged in the Lodge.

• 2.1.4 The DC should sit in the position that allows him the best command of the ceremony, regardless of his rank as GO, Provincial officer or otherwise. During the ceremony he should be “anywhere and everywhere”. He should know the strengths and weaknesses of the Lodge officers and arrange appropriate support from the ADC or others.

• 2.1.5 The wand of offices gives the DC the right to move about the Lodge freely and excuses him and anyone in his charge from squaring the Lodge or saluting. The Provincial Team always carry their wands lightly between the finger and thumb of the right hand, holding them erect, with the left arm held at their side.

•  The same applies to the Deacons. This improves the flow of the ceremony and prevents time wasting.

• 2.1.7 When conducting Brethren about the Lodge the DC should hold out his left hand, palm uppermost, so that the Brother can place his right hand on top rather than the grip used by the Deacons for Candidates of interlaced arms and fingers. Before a Brother is seated a polite court bow should be given. This is given by inclining the head only.


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