John Vauter

The Worshipful Master sits in the East of the Lodge room (symbolic of the Rising Sun in the East) and directs all of the business of the Lodge. Note: Even if the building faces a different direction, the Master is said to be “in the East”. He also presides over ritual and ceremonies. His position is similar to a President of any other organization. As Master, his word is final over any and all actions pertaining to his Lodge.

It is his duty to: “Set the Craft to work and give them wholesome instruction for their labor”.

While the Worshipful Master’s rank is highest of all members, his Lodge Officer Duties are the easiest to remember. The Worshipful Master is responsible for every single thing within his lodge during his year as Master. He is ultimately responsible for every other lodge officer and their duties, every lodge committee, ritual and degree work, Masonic education, social functions, fundraisers, District and Grand Lodge liaison, Trestle Board communication, etc.

All eyes are upon the Master. If lodge functions go smoothly, it is the Master who takes the credit. If lodge functions go awry, it is the Master who bears the blame. Therefore, the Master wears many hats. It is his duty to preside over business meetings, the conferral of degrees, and delegation of duties to all other Lodge Officers. While Freemasons call the Master, “Worshipful Master”, they do not, as some people may erroneously believe, actually worship him. “Worshipful” is an honorary title which shows respect for his position. In France, the word “Worshipful” is replaced with the word “Venerable”.

It is no different than respecting the office of our President of the United States. He would be addressed, formally, as “Mr. President” rather than by his first name. Likewise, if you go before a judge, you would address him as “Your Honor”, rather than by his first name, as a measure of respect that you hold for his office.