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GRAND LODGE

FREE AND ACCEPTED MASONS JURISDICTION OF GEORGIA

CONSTITUTION – BYLAWS AND GENERAL

REGULATIONS

Approved Amendments

June 10, 2015 College Park, GA

146th

Grand Session

2015

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Article I. Title and Time of Meeting 2

Article II. Composition of Grand Lodge 2

Article III. Eligibility to Office 2-3

Article IV. Vacancy, Succession and Title 3

Article V. Quorum of Representatives 3

Article VI. Power of the Grand Lodge 3

Article VII. Elected Grand Lodge Officers 4

Article VIII. Appointed Grand Lodge Officers 4

Article IX. Duties of Grand Master in the interval of Grand Lodge 4-5

Article X. Duties of the Deputy Grand Master 5

Article XI. Duties of Grand Wardens 5

Article XII. Duties of the Grand Treasurer 5-6

Article XIII. Duties of the Grand Secretary 6

Article XIV. Tenure of Elective Officers 6

Article XV. Penalty of Officers for Insubordination, Inefficiency, etc. 6

Article XVI. Powers of the Executive Committee 6-7

Article XVII. Bylaws for Board of Trustees 7-8

Article XVIII. Appointed Officers Duties 8-9

Article XIX. U.D. Lodge Warrants, How Granted & Cost 9

Article XX. Masonic Supply Department 9-10

Article XXI. Grand Lodge Printing, Minutes and Otherwise 10

Article XXII. Free Dispensation and How Granted 10

Article XXIII. Warrants, Lost or Misplaced, How Restored 10

Article XXIV. Representatives Near The Grand East 10

Article XXV. Masonic Charity 10

Article XXVI. Decorum and Business of the Grand Lodge 10-11

Article XXVII. Construction of "Unwritten Masonry” 11

Article XXVIII. Tenure of all Standing Committees 11

Article XXIX. Harmony in Ritualistic Work, Etc. 11

Article XXX. The Formation of New Lodges 11

Article XXXI. Previous Laws and Conflicting Laws Repealed 11

Article XXXII. Powers and Duties of Lodges 11-12

Article XXXIII. Dissolution of Lodges 13

Article XXXIV. Official Organ 13

Article XXXV. Amendment to the Constitution 13

BYLAWS

Article 1. Remunerative and Compensation Grand Officers & Committees 16

Article 2. Travel, Per Diem and Expenses for Grand Lodge Officers & Committees 16

Article 3. Admission Fees, Dues and Taxes 16

Article 4. National Compact or Non Prince Hall Masons 16

Article 5. Order of Business for this Grand Lodge 17

Article 6. Laws Governing Subordinate Lodges 17

Article 7. Receiving Persons into Subordinate Lodges 18-19

Article 8. Meetings and Officers 19-20

Article 9. Reinstatement 20

Article 10. Report of Elective Officers 20-21

Article 11. Regulations 21-22

Article 12. Rules of Order for Lodges 22

Article 13. PREROGATIVES OF THE WORSHIPFUL MASTER 22-23

Article 14. THE TWENTY-FIVE LANDMARKS OF FREEMASONRY 23-24

Article 15. Masonic Relief Association 24-26

Article 16. ANCIENT CONSTITITUTION 27-29

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ARTICLE I. TITLE AND TIME OF MEETING

This Grand Lodge shall be known by the name and title of “The Most Worshipful Prince Hall

Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons Jurisdiction of Georgia”. It shall meet annually in the

second week of June if possible. ARTICLE II. COMPOSITION OF GRAND LODGE Section .01 This Grand Lodge shall be composed of the Worshipful Masters and Wardens of all regular warranted

lodges and actual Past Masters under this Jurisdiction. Section .02 The following shall comprise the officers of the Grand Lodge: Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master,

Grand Senior Warden, Grand Junior Warden, Grand Treasurer, Grand Secretary, Assistant Grand

Secretary, Grand Senior Deacon, Grand Junior Deacon, Grand Senior Steward, Grand Junior

Steward, Grand Tyler, Grand Chaplain, Grand Marshal, Grand Sword Bearer, Grand Lecturer,

Grand Orator, Grand Chorister, Chairman Committee on Foreign Correspondence (C.C.F.C.),

Grand Historian, Grand Flag Bearer, Secretary/Treasurer Masonic Relief Association (MRA),

Grand Organist, Grand Photographer, Grand Trustees, Grand Musician, Grand Standard Bearer,

Grand Bookkeeper, District Deputy Grand Masters and Assistant District Deputy Grand Masters. Section .03 The following Standing Committees shall be appointed by the Grand Master:

(a) Credentials

(b) Jurisprudence

(c) Warrants

(d) Appeal and Grievance

(e) Auditing

(f) Foreign Correspondence

(g) Grand Master’s Address

(h) Time and Place

(i) Scholarship

(j) Resolution

(k) Fraternal Assistance

(l) Constitution and Bylaws

(m) Veteran’s Affairs

(n) Community Outreach

(o) Public Relations

Section 04 The Grand Master may appoint the following Special Committees: Memorial, State of the Country, and

such others as he may deem necessary.

ARTICLE III. ELIGIBILITY TO OFFICE Section .01 No brother shall be eligible to any elective office in this Grand Lodge who is not a Past Master by actual

service. Section .02 Brothers that are Past Masters who demit into this Jurisdiction are entitled to all rights and honors of a

Past Master.

(a) He is entitled to the title of Past Master

(b) He is eligible to be invited to sit in the East with other Past Masters

(c) He has the right to represent his lodge as a voting delegate at the Grand Lodge Session

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Section .03 Brothers that are Past Masters who demit into this Jurisdiction are:

(a) Not eligible for nomination for Worshipful Master in any lodge in this Jurisdiction until

he has served as a Warden in the lodge he is a member of in this Jurisdiction. (b) He is not eligible for nomination for any elected Grand Lodge office until he has been

elected, installed, and served as Worshipful Master in this Jurisdiction.

Section .03 Honorary and associate memberships are at the discretion of the Grand Master.

Honorary Membership and Honorary Past Master status are at the discretion of the Grand Master.

If Honorary Past Master status is bestowed on a member he is only entitled to the title of “Honorary Past Master”, he

has no privileges of an actual Past Master that has served as an elected and installed Worshipful Master. Section .04 For any brother to be nominated for Grand Master, he must be or must have served as a Grand Warden,

Deputy Grand Master, Grand Master, or Past Grand Master within this Jurisdiction.

ARTICLE IV. VACANCY, SUCCESSION AND TITLE Section .01 Whenever a vacancy shall occur in any elective office of the Grand Lodge, the Grand Master, or Acting

Grand Master, shall have power to fill same by appointment, which appointment shall be valid

until the succeeding annual election and installation. The officer so appointed shall be charged

with all the duties and responsibilities of one regularly elected. A ranking officer thus appointed

shall succeed to the office of Grand Master only in the event all ranking officers that were elected

and installed at the last Grand Lodge Communication have deceased during the interim.

Section .02 Any brother succeeding to the office of the Grand Master other than the elected and installed Grand

Master shall be entitled Acting Grand Master, and shall not have the title of Past Grand Master

after retiring unless he has been elected and installed as Grand Master by the Grand Lodge. Section .03 Should it ever happen that no ranking officer or none acting as such shall be present to preside over the

Grand Lodge, then the Grand Secretary, or some Past Master agreed upon, shall preside over the

Grand Lodge until the Grand Lodge officers are elected and installed.

ARTICLE V. QUORUM OF REPRESENTATIVES

The representatives of Thirty Five (35) of the subordinate Lodges in this jurisdiction shall

constitute a quorum for the transaction of any business that may come before the Grand Lodge;

but no special Grand Lodge Communication shall be held without giving due and timely notice

thereof to all subordinate lodges and the members of the Grand Lodge. ARTICLE VI. POWER OF THE GRAND LODGE Section .01 The Grand Lodge shall have the power to alter or amend this Constitution or make such Rules and

Regulations for the government and prosperity of the fraternity as may be necessary and in

harmony with the Ancient Landmarks of the Order; but no alteration or amendment of the

Constitution shall be made until it shall have been proposed in writing in open Grand Lodge

session as defined in Article XXXV. Section .02 In case of extreme emergency when a special session of the Grand Lodge is called, it shall have the

power to alter, amend, or repeal the Constitution by a two-thirds vote of members present. Section .03 All Laws, Bylaws, Rules and Regulations not contained in the Constitution can be altered, amended or

repealed at any session of the Grand Lodge. Section .04 All matters voted on in the Grand Lodge, except as otherwise provided for in Article VI, shall be

determined by a majority vote indicated by the usual sign of voting, and except also, in the

election of officers when, if an objection is raised, the vote shall be by ballot and each lodge shall

be entitled to three votes as follows: Master 1 vote, Senior Warden 1 vote, Junior Warden 1 vote.

Section .05 There shall be no proxy voting in the Grand Lodge and a person entitled to vote must be present and

registered. All Past Masters shall be entitled to one vote each. In case of a tie on any one ballot,

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the Grand Master may cast the deciding vote in addition to the one already caste by him. Section .06 The Grand Lodge upon proper application shall have the power to establish lodges under dispensation

and grant warrants in accordance with the Ancient usages and regulations of the Craft.

Section .07 This Grand Lodge is the only source of authority and exercises exclusive jurisdiction on all matters

pertaining to Ancient Free Masonry within the State of Georgia and Jurisdiction; it has supreme, inherent and

absolute legislative, judicial and executive Masonic authority and power. It is subject only to the Ancient

Landmarks and from its decision in relation to them or any Masonic subject there is no appeal.

The Grand Lodge has and claims all original essential powers and privileges belonging to Ancient Craft Free

masonry and especially:

To make and enforce all laws regulations for the government of the fraternity and alter, amend and repeal the same

at will: and its enactments, edicts and decisions upon all questions shall be the supreme Masonic law of its

jurisdiction and shall be strictly obeyed by all lodges and Masons.

To make and adopt general laws and regulations and has the final decision and determination of all matters of

controversy or grievances which may be brought up by appeal or otherwise from its subordinate lodges or from the

Masters thereof; Appeals shall be submitted to the Grand Lodge for review of judgments, orders, verdicts, decisions

or sentences of a lodge in any disciplinary proceedings of the lodge or the rulings or decision of Masters and the

accused has the rights to and may appeal to the Grand Lodge from any judgment, order, verdict, decision or sentence

rendered or adjudged by the lodge.

No lodge, or any member thereof, under the jurisdiction of this Grand Lodge, shall resort to civil courts to establish

any right or to redress any grievances arising out of the membership in the Order or connected therewith until it or

he shall have exhausted the remedies with the Order and in a manner provided by the Constitution, laws and

regulations of this Grand Lodge.

ARTICLE VII. ELECTED GRAND LODGE OFFICERS The elected officers shall consist of Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master, Grand Senior Warden,

Grand Junior Warden, Grand Treasurer and Grand Secretary ARTICLE VIII. APPOINTED GRAND LODGE OFFICERS Section .01 The appointed officers shall consist of the Grand Senior Deacon, Grand Junior Deacon, Grand Senior

Steward, Grand Junior Steward, Grand Tyler, Grand Chaplain, Grand Marshal, Grand Lecturer,

Grand Organist, Grand Auditor, Grand C.C.F.C., District Deputy Grand Masters, Assistant

District Deputy Grand Masters, Assistant Grand Secretary, Grand Photographer, Grand Historian,

Grand Standard Bearer, Grand Bookkeeper, Grand Trustees and Secretary-Treasurer MRA. Section .02 Others officers that may be required for the orderly transaction of business and operation of this Most

Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge may be appointed. All of which shall be left to the will and

pleasure of the Grand Master.

ARTICLE IX. DUTIES OF GRAND MASTER IN THE INTERVAL OF GRAND LODGE

Section .01 During the intervals of the annual communication of the Grand Lodge, the Grand Master may exercise

all of its executive powers except the granting of warrants, and by virtue of his authority, he may

grant dispensations to ballot for and confer degrees in less time than is specified in the

constitution. Section .02 He may grant dispensations for the formation of new lodges. Section .03 He may convene any lodge, preside therein, inspect its proceedings and compel its conformity to

Masonic Usage. Section .04 He may arrest the warrant or dispensation of any lodge for good reasons shown and suspend the

operation thereof until next annual communication of the Grand Lodge.

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Section .05 He may suspend the Worshipful Master of any Lodge from the exercise of the powers and duties of that

office for good reasons, until the next annual communication of the Grand Lodge; but in every

case, he shall have prepared a report of such actions and its causes and all cases shall take

precedence in the business of the Grand Lodge until disposed of by the same Grand Lodge. Section .06 He may require the attendance of, and information from any Grand Lodge Officer respecting matters

pertaining to the duties of his office. Section .07 He may appoint representation to other jurisdictions of recognized Grand Lodges and receive and credit

such representation from them, provided they are actual Past Masters. Section .08 He shall present a written message at each annual Grand Communication, setting forth all of his official

acts during the year, exhibiting the general condition of the craft within the jurisdiction and

recommending such legislation as may be deemed necessary for the welfare of the craft. Section .09 He shall constitute all charted lodges, either in person or by authorized representatives in accordance

with the Ancient usage and regulations. Section .10 He shall exercise general supervision of the Craft, and see that the Constitution and Regulations of the

Grand Lodge are strictly maintained, and obeyed, and to discharge all necessary executive

functions of the Grand Lodge when that body is not in session. Section .11 It is his prerogative to visit each subordinate lodge within his jurisdiction at least once a year, or cause

the same to be done by his duly authorized representative. He may appoint all non-elective officers

and committees. Section .12 He shall have his report made in such a way that it may be taken apart, and that part bearing upon

finance to be given to the Auditing Committee; the part bearing upon deceased, to be given to the

Committee on Memorials, that bearing upon Temperance to be given to the Committee on Temperance, that part bearing on appeals and grievances, to be given to the Committee on

Appeals and Grievances. Section .13 He shall call for a report from all representatives of the Grand Lodge of Georgia for all foreign

Jurisdictions and District Deputy Grand Masters. Section .14 Upon the cessation of any subordinate lodge to work and keep in regular standing, the Grand Master

shall direct that all lodge property shall be sent to the Grand Secretary, notifying him of such, and

the Grand Secretary shall see that the order is fully executed, and his file shall show the same. He

shall see to it that all real estate holdings and moneys are legally turned over in the name of the

Grand Lodge.

Section .15 The Grand Lodge has the authority to request all subordinate lodges to re-submit their

Constitution and By Laws periodically to be reviewed by the Grand Lodge to confirm their

compliance with those of the Grand Lodge.

ARTICLE X. DUTIES OF THE DEPUTY GRAND MASTER

It shall be the duty of the Deputy Grand Master to assist the Grand Master in the discharge of his

duties at all the communication of the Grand Lodge, and in his absence to preside therein, and in

the event of the death of the Grand Master, or his absence from the State, or his inability from any

cause to perform the functions of his office, the Deputy Grand Master shall succeed to and be

charged with all his powers and duties. ARTICLE XI. DUTIES OF GRAND WARDENS

It shall be the duties of Grand Wardens to assist the Grand Master at all communications of the

Grand Lodge, and in his absence, and that of the Deputy Grand Master, to preside therein, in order

of their rank, and in case of the death or absence from the State, or other inability of their

superiors, the wardens shall in the order of their rank, succeed to and be charged with all the

powers and duties of the Grand Master. ARTICLE XII. DUTIES OF THE GRAND TREASURER Section .01 He shall have charge of all funds, securities, vouchers, bonds and other property of the Grand Lodge. He

shall pay all orders for money on hand that may be desired by the Grand Lodge.

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Section .02 He shall not pay any amount or part of account for any purpose, the authority for which has not

previously been granted by the Grand Master. He shall meet with the Grand Auditors whenever

required, and he shall give a surety bond of one hundred thousand ($100,000.00) dollars, or such

as may be decided upon. Section .03 All money in the Treasurer’s hands available and unused shall be placed in some bank of sound financial

standing at interest to the credit of the Grand Lodge. The Grand Master and Grand Secretary shall

be notified of the same. He shall render a monthly statement to the Grand Master and Grand

Secretary. ARTICLE XIII. DUTIES OF THE GRAND SECRETARY Section .01 He shall record the proceedings of the Grand Lodge, and personally attend every communication of the

Grand Lodge with all necessary books, papers and reports of his office. He shall keep the seal of

the Grand Lodge and affix the same, with his attestation to all instruments in writing required to

be executed by him. Section .02 He shall receive and issue a receipt for all dues, fees and other moneys received by him belonging to the

Grand Lodge and immediately pay it over to the Grand Treasurer and take his receipt for the same.

He shall keep a faithful journal of the proceedings of the Grand Lodge, and conduct any

correspondence required of him under the order of the Grand Master. Section .03 He shall have charge of the records, papers, parchments, certificates, lodge paraphernalia and other

documents of the Grand Lodge other than those belonging to the Grand Treasurer and Secretary

Treasurer, M.R.A. Section .04 He shall do and perform any duty customary to his office and in accordance with the rules of his office

and regulations of the Order.

Section .05 He shall keep a record which will show the name of a brother, from what lodge and to what lodge demit

is issued and report the same to the Grand Lodge. Section .06 He shall keep a record, which shall show the amount of dues paid by each subordinate lodge and

membership. He shall also keep a record of dispensation: when issued, purpose, limit of time and

fee received. Section .07 He shall keep on file the number of lodges that cease to work and report to the Grand Master those

lodges not in good and regular standing, receive and take charge of all of the property and see that

the orders of the Grand Master are fully obeyed and executed. Section .08 BOND OF GRAND SECRETARY

He shall execute and file in the office of the Grand Master, within thirty days after his installation,

an official bond in the penal sum to one hundred thousand ($100,000.00) dollars, and with such

sureties, as shall be approved by the Grand Master, conditioned that he will faithful discharge the

duties of his office as prescribed in this constitution.

ARTICLE XIV. TENURE OF ELECTIVE OFFICERS Section .01 The Grand Master shall be elected annually. Section .02 The Grand Master cannot serve more than five consecutive one-year terms. Section .03 All other elective officers cannot serve more than five one-year terms, except the Grand Secretary and

Grand Treasurer. Section .04 The annual election shall be held the last day of the Grand Lodge Session.

ARTICLE XV. PENALTY OF OFFICERS FOR INSUBORDINATION, INEFFICIENCY, ETC.

Section .01 Any Grand Lodge Officer, except the Grand Master, failing to discharge the duties of his office or

otherwise guilty of conduct unbecoming a mason, shall be tried by a commission, and if the

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officer or officers are found guilty the Grand Master shall suspend them from office. Section .02 In every such case, the Grand Master shall prepare a separate report of such action and its causes and all

such cases shall take precedence in the business of the Grand Lodge until disposed of by the same

Grand Lodge Communication. Section .03 The commission shall consist of seven and shall be appointed by the Grand Master annually at each

Grand Lodge Communication after the election of officers. Section .04 The accused officer and the commission shall be furnished with a copy of the charges by the Grand

Master and the commission shall try the case in the city or town of the accused or as nearby as

possible. Section .05 The commission shall receive no emoluments except in the case of trials, when they shall receive

adequate compensation. Section .06 The commission shall be empowered to summon witnesses who shall receive adequate compensation.

Section .07 In case of the absence of the accused and he does not furnish the commission with the evidence of his

absence, he shall be tried ex parte and the judgment of the commission shall be final. Section .08 The stipend, if any, of a suspended officer shall cease at and during the time of said suspension, and the

Grand Master shall be empowered to appoint a temporary successor until next regular

communication, who shall be entitled to the same remuneration that would accrue to the absentee.

ARTICLE XVI. POWERS OF THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Section .01 The Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master, Grand Senior Warden, Grand Junior Warden, Grand

Treasurer, and Grand Secretary shall form and constitute an executive committee for the Most

Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge, Jurisdiction of Georgia. They shall have the authority to

make necessary administrative decisions for the Grand Lodge in the interim between annual

communications and shall meet at the discretion of the Grand Master. Section .02 The Grand Master shall be ex-officio Chairman of all committees.

ARTICLE XVII. BYLAWS FOR BOARD OF TRUSTEES Section .01 The Grand Trustees, who shall always be under the control of the Grand Lodge, shall be empowered to

acquire, hold, mortgage, execute a trust deed, sell and otherwise dispose of real properties of the

Grand Lodge, as the Grand Lodge may direct, and shall make a detailed report of their work to the

Grand Master, and to the Grand Lodge at its annual Communication. Section .02 Grand Trustees shall be obligated to accord a measure of respect in regard to financing official extra

duty assignments made by the Grand Master, and delegated to members of the craft when the

same are designed, in his judgment, to contribute to the best interest and welfare of the Grand

Lodge.

Section .03 Name: This board shall be entitled: ‘The Board of Grand Trustees of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall

Grand Lodge, Free and Accepted Masons, Jurisdiction of Georgia. Section .04 Membership: The membership shall be composed of nine (9) Grand Trustees who shall be elected as

follows: The Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master, Grand Senior Warden, Grand Junior Warden,

Grand Treasurer, and Grand Secretary by virtue of their respective elected office; and three

additional members who shall be appointed by the Grand Master Section .05 Officers: The officers of the board shall be, Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master and Grand Secretary.

Section .06 Term of office: The term of office for each respective officer of the Board of Grand Trustees shall be for

one year. Section .07 Purpose: The purpose of the Board of Grand Trustees is that of supervising matters relating to the

financial welfare and well being of the Grand Lodge, and providing for the safekeeping of all

property of the Grand Lodge.

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Section .08 Duties, Powers and authority of the Board; It shall be the duty of the Board of Grand Trustees to:

(a) Prepare a budget, which shall be a guide to all officers regarding expenditures of the Grand

Lodge. (b) This budget shall be prepared and presented to the Grand Lodge in session each year.

(c) Approve all transfer of funds.

(d) Make loans as prescribed by the Grand Lodge. (e) Refer all applications for loans in excess of $20,000.00 to the Grand Lodge.

(f) Keep an accurate inventory of, and to have and hold all real and personal property of the

Grand Lodge. They shall designate and provide a safe storage place for same.

(g) Recommend Grand Lodge taxes and assessments according to the needs of the Grand

Lodge, and in accordance with the income and expense of the Grand Lodge. (h) Call for and inspect documentary proof, if necessary of all bills presented to be paid by

the Grand Lodge. They shall certify as to the correctness of the same and order them paid if found

valid; except current expenses and salaries. (i) Be responsible for all business transactions that involve property and finances, which

shall be binding on the Grand Lodge. They shall be consulted on all matters of increased expenses

contemplated by any person authorized to recommend such matters. (j) Report in writing each year to the Grand Lodge, in session, their activities and business

transactions for the past year. (k) Receive a semiannual report from the Grand Secretary, Grand Treasurer, and Grand

Auditor. (l) Be authorized to employ professional personnel necessary for the efficient operation of

the Grand Lodge business. Section .09 Meetings are to be called by the Grand Master, or any 5 members of the Grand Trustee Board, one of

which must include the Grand Master or Deputy Grand Master; with the Grand Master’s approval

or permission. Special meetings shall be called according to the provisions established by the

Grand Lodge and the Grand Master. Section .10 Rules of order; Mackey’s Jurisprudence will govern the deliberations of the Grand Board of Trustee.

Section .11 Quorum: Five members of the board of trustees shall constitute a quorum to transact business of the

Grand Lodge. Three elected members of the Board of Grand Trustees, and two members

designated by the Grand Lodge as members of the Board of Grand Trustees by virtue of their

respective office shall comprise the specifications necessary to complete the complement of the

quorum, one of whom must be the Grand Master or Deputy Grand Master. Section .12 Ways and Means: For the faithful performance of their duties as Grand Trustees, they shall receive

adequate compensation for their service, and shall be paid traveling expense when on official

business of the Grand Lodge.

Section .13 Grand Master’s Vehicle Allowance

(a) A monthly allowance of $500.00 shall be allocated to the Grand Master for the use of his privately

owned vehicle (POV) to execute the business of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge. The

monthly vehicle allowance is allocated for normal maintenance of his POV and/or rental of a vehicle to

provide a safe and secure means of transportation.

(b) It shall be the duties and power of the Board of Grand Trustees to authorize the necessary

compensation for the vehicle allowance.

ARTICLE XVIII. APPOINTED OFFICERS DUTIES Section .01 Grand Deacons - It shall be the duties of the Grand Deacons to assist the Grand Master and Grand

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Wardens in such manner as the ancient usages of the craft prescribe. Section .02 Grand Stewards - It shall be the duty of the Grand Stewards to superintend the preparations for all

occasions directed by the Grand Master. Section .03 Grand Lecturer - It shall be the duty of the Grand Lecturer under the direction of the Grand Master, to

visit the lodges in the Jurisdiction and to exemplify the ritualistic work that there may be

uniformity of action throughout the Jurisdiction as approved by the Grand Master and not

otherwise. Section .04 Assistant Grand Secretary - It shall be the duty of the Assistant Grand Secretary to assist the Grand

Secretary with his duties as requested to do so. He shall also serve in the absence of the Grand

Secretary. Section .05 Grand Chaplain - It shall be the duty of the Grand Chaplain, during each communication of the Grand

Lodge, to perform such service appertaining to his office as may be required of him by the Grand

Master. Section .06 Grand Marshal - It shall be the duty of the Grand Marshal:

(a) To proclaim the Grand Officers at their installation and to make such proclamation as

directed by the Grand Master.

(b) To introduce the representatives of the Grand Lodges and all Brethren of distinction as

directed by the Grand Master.

(c) To make suitable preparation for the communication to the Grand Lodge and to keep the

meeting area in proper condition during the communication. To take charge of and safely keep all

jewels, furniture, clothing and paraphernalia of the Grand Lodge during the communication. To

carry all notices and summons by the Grand Lodge or Grand Master. (d) To conduct all processions of the Grand Lodge and to perform such other duties

appertaining to his office as may be required. Section .07 Grand Tyler - It shall be the duty of the Grand Tyler to guard the outer door of the Grand Lodge, to

report all request for admission to the Grand Lodge to the Grand Master, and to see that all who

enter are properly clothed. Section .08 Grand C.C.F.C.- There shall be a committee on foreign correspondence with a regular appointed

chairman. The chairman of this committee shall communicate with all Jurisdictions by sending a

copy of the minutes of this Jurisdiction to the chairman of the committee on foreign

correspondence with who the Jurisdiction of Georgia is in fraternal accord. (a) He shall receive a copy of minutes and review the same from other Jurisdictions and

report the same to the next convening Grand Lodge, together with a statement of his expenses for

stationary and postage. (b) The Chairman of Foreign Correspondence shall receive as compensation of two hundred

($200.00) dollars per annum, together with his actual expenses itemized. Section .09 Grand Organist - It shall be the duty of the Grand Organist to preside at the organ and conduct the music

of the Grand Lodge upon all occasions of ceremony as directed by the Grand Master. Section .10 Grand Standard Bearer - It shall be the duty of the Grand Standard Bearer to bear the Banner of the

Grand Lodge in all processions and public ceremonies as directed by the Grand Master. Section .11 Grand Flag Bearer - It shall be the duty of the Grand Flag Bearer to bear the flag of the United States of

America in all processions and public ceremonies. Section .12 Grand Photographer - The Grand Photographer shall be responsible for pictures at the Grand Lodge

communication and at the Grand Master’s discretion. Section .13 Grand Auditor - The Grand Auditor shall check the books and accounts of the officers and report his

findings to the Grand Master and submit an annual report to the Grand Lodge. Section .14 District Deputy Grand Masters - The Grand Master shall divide the Jurisdiction into districts and shall

appoint for each district, an officer called a District Deputy Grand Master. He shall be a member

of a lodge of his district and a Past Master of this Jurisdiction. Each District Deputy Grand Master

shall visit each lodge in his District at least once annually, or when requested, or when deemed

necessary. He shall advise as to any correction deemed necessary for uniformity.

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(a) The District Deputy Grand Master shall report the working conditions of his lodges and shall

examine their records and accounts and perform such other duties as may be assigned them by the

Grand Master. (b) The District Deputy Grand Master shall receive traveling expenses and the per diem

allowance of Grand Lodge Officers for all official visits approved by the Grand Master.

(c) The expenses of the District Deputy Grand Master and his assistant as representatives in

attendance at the Grand Lodge shall be borne by their respective Districts with assistance from the

Grand Lodge. Section .15 Grand Historian - It shall be the duty of the Grand Historian to research, preserve, and maintain accurate

history of the Grand lodge. He shall be charged to present accurate and factual documentation of

events and dates of Grand Lodge activities. Section .16 Youth Organizations - There shall be youth organizations formed throughout the Jurisdiction, wherever

possible, to be known as Knights of Pythagoras. The youth organizations shall be governed by

such constitution bylaws and rituals, as the Grand Lodge shall approve. (a) The ritual used by the Knights of Pythagoras shall be known as the Knight

's Companion.

(b) The Grand Lodge shall provide financial assistance to aid the growth and development of

the Knights of Pythagoras. The Grand Master shall appoint the Director of the Knights of

Pythagoras. (c) The expenses of representatives in attendance at the Grand Lodge shall be borne by the

subordinate lodge.

Section .17 Grand Security Officer- It shall be the duty of the Grand Security to provide the necessary safety and

security as prescribed by the Grand Master. They must ensure that members comply with all registration

requirements.

Section .18 Grand Director of Facility – It shall be the duty of the Grand Director of Facilities to maintain the

normal functioning of physical real estate operated by the Grand Lodge or as prescribed by the Grand Master.

ARTICLE XIX. U.D. LODGE WARRANTS, HOW GRANTED & COST Section .01 The Grand Lodge shall give all U.D. Lodges warrants or charters without cost.

Section .02 U.D. Lodges shall pay a Dispensation fee as determined by the Grand Lodge.

ARTICLE XX. MASONIC SUPPLY DEPARTMENT Section .01 There will be a supply department set up for the use of the Grand Lodge, its officers and members, and

also for the subordinate lodges. Section .02 The supplies for Grand Lodge and Subordinate Lodges paraphernalia, books, cards and printed matter of

all kinds and description shall be furnished by the supply department operated by the Masonic

Supply Department who will send application blanks to the Grand Treasurer, and a monthly report

made to the Grand Master, Grand Treasurer and Grand Secretary—Treasurer M. R.A.

ARTICLE XXI. GRAND LODGE PRINTING, MINUTES AND OTHERWISE

All printing for the use of the Grand Master, Grand Secretary, Grand Lodge Officers, or for any

cause whatsoever pertaining to the Grand Lodge shall be submitted by the Grand Master for bids,

and the work will be awarded to the lowest bidder or to the bidder which best represents the needs

of the organization. The printing shall be paid for by warrant drawn on account and said account

be approved by the Grand Master. ARTICLE XXII. FREE DISPENSATION AND HOW GRANTED Section .01 In cases where lodges lose their property by fire, storm, or theft, the Grand Master shall issue a

dispensation free.

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Section .02 Other dispensations may be granted for a period not exceeding 90 days, in the interim of the Grand

Lodge, and may be extended for a period not to exceed 60 days for a fee of $25.00 which must be

sent to the Grand Secretary, who shall keep proper records of the same. Section .03 A special dispensation must be obtained from the District Deputy Grand Master to initiate, pass and

raise a candidate at one communication. Section .04 A special dispensation must be obtained from the District Deputy Grand Master when initiating more

than five candidates for any degree.

ARTICLE XXIII. WARRANTS, LOST OR MISPLACED, HOW RESTORED Section .01 Subordinate lodges loosing warrants by fire, upon petition to the Grand Lodge, shall be furnished with a

new one free. Section .02 Warrants lost or misplaced may be duplicated upon petition to the Grand Lodge, setting forth the cause

of such loss and payment of $50.00. ARTICLE XXIV. REPRESENTATIVES NEAR THE GRAND EAST

The Grand Master shall issue commissions and forward the same to all representatives near the

Grand East of Foreign Jurisdictions and keep a record of the same in a book provided for that

purpose. He shall also keep a record of the representatives near the Grand East of Georgia for

Foreign Jurisdictions.

ARTICLE XXV. MASONIC CHARITY Section .01 The Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master, Grand Senior Warden, Grand Junior Warden, Grand

Treasurer, and Grand Secretary shall constitute the Grand Lodge committee on charity, before

whom all matters pertaining to charity and benevolence shall be considered.

ARTICLE XXVI. DECORUM AND BUSINESS OF THE GRAND LODGE Section .01 The business of the Grand Lodge is to receive the reports of the Grand Lodge Officers and various

committees and carefully consider the same, to settle all matters that pertain to the Craft and

fraternity in general and subordinate Lodges and brethren in particular. Section .02 Therefore, all differences that cannot be settled privately or by particular Lodges, or by the District

Deputy Grand Master, the matter may be referred through the Grand Master to the Grand Lodge

for a final decision. Section .03 No question shall be entertained unless properly moved and seconded, neither shall it be opened for

discussion until it has been directly stated by the Grand Master when the question is thus before

the body. No motion shall be considered, except motion to amend, withdraw or to postpone to a

certain time, which several motions, by parliamentary usage have precedence in the manner in

which they are arranged. Section .04 No visitor shall receive any expense from the Grand Lodge, except he has been invited. It is further

provided that the expense of the visitor(s) shall only include meals and lodging, not estimated, but

itemized and approved and ordered paid by the Grand Master.

ARTICLE XXVII. CONSTRUCTION OF "UNWRITTEN MASONRY” That “Unwritten Masonry” is not to be construed to offset the action of this Grand Lodge and

anything not found in the Landmarks shall not be binding upon the Grand Lodge or any Master

Mason at any time. ARTICLE XXVIII. TENURE OF ALL STANDING COMMITTEES

The tenure of all standing committees, i.e.: Jurisprudence, Warrants, Appeals and Grievances,

Auditing, Foreign Correspondence, and Trial Commission, shall be for one year until their

successors are appointed at the end of the next regular Grand Lodge communication

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ARTICLE XXIX. HARMONY IN RITUALISTIC WORK, ETC. For uniformity of our ritualistic work in every subordinate lodge, The Georgia Prince Hall

Masonic Ritual is adopted as the official Ritual of this Jurisdiction. Mackey’s Jurisprudence,

Duncan’s Ritual, Worshipfu1 Master’s Assistant by Robert Macoy, and Simon’s Standard Monitor

are adopted as official references for use in this Grand Lodge Jurisdiction.

ARTICLE XXX. THE FORMATION OF NEW LODGES Section .01 Any number of Master Masons, not less than fifteen (15), desiring to form a new Lodge, may send their

petition to the Grand Master to obtain a dispensation to work one year on probation or until the

next communication of the Grand Lodge. No new lodge shall be established for the sole purpose

of healing a Non-Prince Hall Lodge. Section .02 If the Grand Lodge be satisfied as to their Masonic abilities, and firm attachments to the Ancient

Landmarks of the order, and to their willingness to submit to the Constitution and General Laws of

the Grand Lodge, and the Rules and Regulations for the government of the subordinate Lodges,

they may obtain a warrant, and enjoy all the rights and privileges of a regular warranted lodge

provided. However, no new lodge shall be formed unless recommended by the District Deputy

Grand Master. ARTICLE XXXI. PREVIOUS LAWS AND CONFLICTING LAWS REPEALED

All laws, rules and regulations heretofore enacted are hereby declared void; furthermore, all laws

or parts of laws otherwise conflicting are hereby repealed. ARTICLE XXXII. POWERS AND DUTIES OF LODGES Section .01 Executive; which are prescribed in its charter, by the constitution and regulations for the performance of

its own work, under the control of the Master, who is the executive authority. Section .02 Legislative; which includes all matters appertaining to its internal affairs, which are not in violation of

the general regulations of Masonry, the Constitution and regulations of the Grand Lodge or its

Bylaws. Section .03 Judicial, which embraces the exercise of discipline over its own members, (Masters excepted).

Section .04 Meetings: Each Lodge shall hold a minimum of two meetings per month. Section .05 Quorum: No Lodge shall hold a stated communication thereof with less than four members of the Lodge

present, one of whom shall be the Master, Senior or Junior Warden. Section .06 The election of representatives to the Grand Lodges and reception of petitions for degrees or affiliation

shall only be done at a stated meeting. Section .07 Stated Meeting: A Lodge cannot transact business at other than the stated meeting or one called for a

specific purpose. The first meeting of each month is the “stated” meeting for transacting all

business. If for any reason the stated meeting thereof be not held as stipulated, then the Worshipful

Master may request a dispensation from the DDGM to have a called meeting for the purpose of

transacting specific business of the Lodge. The second meeting of the month is for the purpose of

conducting candidates, workshops, and/or study nights. Section .08 If only one “stated” meeting is provided for in the bylaws per month and such meeting is not held; a

special meeting to transact business requires a dispensation from the District Deputy Grand

Master. Section .09 Regular and Special: The work of conferring degrees, making appropriations for charity and holding

ceremonial observances must be done at an intermediate (second meeting) or called meeting. A

Lodge of Master Masons shall do all business, except the examination of candidates or the

conferring of degrees. A dispensation is required from the District Deputy Grand Master for a

lodge to meet at any time other than their stated or intermediate meeting. Section .10 Power and Duties of Lodges: In conferring the degrees of masonry, the subordinate Lodges are enjoined

to a strict adherence to work as authorized and taught in this jurisdiction. Failure to comply with

this requirement will be sufficient grounds for revocation of charter. Section .11 Representation: Each chartered and duly constituted Lodge shall be represented in the Grand Lodge at

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each of its communications by one or more of its proper officers, or a duly accredited representative. If any Lodge does not have representation at two successive annual

communications, its charter may be forfeited unless excused by the Grand Lodge. Section .12 Jewel and Clothing: Each member of, or representative of, the Grand Lodge shall appear therein with the

proper jewel of his office, except he be an officer of the Grand Lodge or while temporarily filling

a station, when he shall wear the jewel pertaining to said office. Section .13 The Masonic Dress for the Jurisdiction of Georgia will be: a standard, black suit, black shoes, black tie,

white apron, white gloves and jewel of office. Section .14 Solicitations: No Lodge or any member thereof shall, by circular or otherwise, solicit pecuniary

assistance from any of the Lodges of this or any other Jurisdiction without permission from the

Grand Master. Section .15 Electioneering: No campaign by circular or other communication for the passage of legislation or

concerning the election of officers shall be sent to the Lodges nor to individuals without express

permission from the Grand Master. Section .16 Seal: Each Lodge shall have an official seal, having inscribed thereon the name and number of the

Lodge, the date of its charter, and the place of its location. All documents and papers emanating

from such lodge shall bear the impression of its seal, or be considered null and void. Section .17 Books and Secretary: Each Lodge shall provide:

(a) Book of Bylaws with signature of each member.

(b) Book of records of the lodge.

(c) Register of the members, their occupation, date of initiation, passing and raising; also

suspensions, expulsions or rejections. (d) Cashbook and a ledger for the accounts of the Members.

Section .18 Penalty of Lodges for Violation of Law: For the neglect or violation of any duty imposed upon a lodge

or upon any of its officers by this constitution or by the code, the lodge shall be held responsible

and its charter may be arrested or forfeited.

ARTICLE XXXIII. DISSOLUTION OF LODGES Section .01 Lodge may be dissolved by a voluntary surrender of its charter or by the revocation of the same by the

Grand Master or Grand Lodge. Section .02 Charter Forfeited: The charter of a lodge may be forfeited by:

(a) Disobedience to any provision of this constitution, laws and regulations.

(b) Disregarding the lawful authority of the Grand Master.

(c) Violating any of the ancient and recognized usages of the craft.

(d) Failure to meet during a period of six successive months. Section .03 No charter shall be forfeited unless charges (of which the lodge shall have had due notice) shall be

presented and investigated by the Grand Lodge. Section .04 Status of Members Under Forfeiture: The forfeiture of the charter of a lodge involves the suspension of

all its members, excepting those may be exempt from such effect, and when such forfeiture is

declared by the Grand Master, it shall be conclusive, and all funds, jewels, furniture, dues and

property of every kind of said lodge shall be disposed of as provided in Article XIII, Section 6.

ARTICLE XXXIV. OFFICIAL ORGAN Section .01 The Grand Lodge shall publish, periodically, an official organ known as the Masonic Digest. Section .02 Copies of the official organ shall be published on the official Grand Lodge website:

www.mwphglga.org and available for print at will. A copy will be provided to each financial lodge of this

jurisdiction upon request.

ARTICLE XXXV. AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION

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Section .01 To Amend This Constitution: Recommendations to amend the Constitution and Bylaws must be

approved by the Constitution and Bylaws Committee. The Constitution and Bylaws Committee

must submit recommended changes to the Committee on Jurisprudence for review. Section .02 The Committee on Jurisprudence must verify that the recommended changes do not conflict with the

Landmarks of Masonry. If the Committee on Jurisprudence finds that the recommendations do not

conflict with the Landmarks, the committee will notify the Constitution and Bylaws Committee

immediately after review. If the Committee on Jurisprudence finds a conflict with the Landmarks

of Masonry, the Committee on Jurisprudence must site the Landmark that conflicts with the

recommendation. Section .03 The Constitution and Bylaws Committee or Grand Master must submit proposed changes to all lodges at

least 90 days before the next Grand Lodge Session. Each lodge must read the proposed changes in

the next three regular meetings. Section .04 The Constitution and Bylaws Committee or Grand Master will submit the proposed changes in writing

in open Grand Lodge session to be acted upon. A 2/3 vote of the members present is required to

alter, amend, or repeal the constitution.

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ARTICLE 1. REMUNERATIVE AND COMPENSATION GRAND OFFICERS &

COMMITTEES Section .01 Honorarium and per diem for Grand Trustee officers will be such as voted and fixed by the Grand Lodge

from time to time. Section .02 Board and per diem for members of standing committees will be such as voted and fixed by the Grand

Lodge from time to time. ARTICLE 2. TRAVEL, PER DIEM AND EXPENSES FOR GRAND LODGE

OFFICERS & COMMITTEES Section .01 Whenever the presence of the Grand Master is required by any subordinate lodge or lodges, said lodge

or lodges shall bear his traveling expenses and board equally. In case his services are required by

other lodges contiguous to said lodge or lodges, then his several expenses for traveling shall be

prorated between the several lodges visited.

Section 02 The Grand Trustees will review the honorarium for the Grand Master periodically and make

recommendations. Section .03 All officers and brothers doing any work under the direction of the Grand Lodge shall be given adequate

compensation for such services and to be paid for the services which include time necessarily

taken from his usual occupation, whether traveling to and from, and while engaged in the work of

the Grand Lodge. Section .04 The traveling expenses and board of the officers of the Grand Lodge while attending the Grand Lodge

shall be paid out of the treasury of the Grand Lodge, EXCEPT THOSE PERSONS WHO

REPRESENT A SUBORDINATE LODGE. Section .05 Grand Lodge Officers will be given:

(a) $ .40 per mile for travel expenses.

(b) Food and Lodging will be paid for the Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master, Grand

Senior Warden, Grand Junior Warden, Grand Secretary and the Grand Treasurer upon receipt of

hotel bill.

ARTICLE 3. ADMISSION FEES, DUES AND TAXES Section .01 Each lodge shall charge $5.00 for the E.A. Degree. $5.00 for the F.C. Degree and $7.00 for the M.M.

Degree. The additional $5.00 is for membership fee in the Masonic Relief Association. Section .02 Every subordinate lodge shall pay to the Grand Lodge a fee of $5.00 for each candidate raised to the

M.M. Degree during the reporting month, not later than January 15th, said sum to be collected

from the candidate, but the Lodge is responsible for same.

ARTICLE 4. NATIONAL COMPACT OR NON PRINCE HALL MASONS Section .01 In order for the National Compact or “York Masons” so-called, or any other Non Prince Hall Mason to

be healed in the Lodges of Georgia, he must pass the adopted examination and ballot. If accepted

he or they must pay the regular initiation fee into the treasury of the lodge which such application

is made and two (2.00) dollars for the certificate from the Masonic Relief Association.

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ARTICLE 5. ORDER OF BUSINESS FOR THIS GRAND LODGE 1. Grand Lodge is called in conventional form with devotional exercises conducted by the Grand

Chaplain

2. Roll Call of Lodges to Establish Quorum

3. Roll Call of Grand Lodge Officers

4. Receiving Grand Master

5. Reading of Grand Lodge Minutes

6. Receiving Head of House, Visiting Grand Masters and Delegation

7. Grand Master’s Annual Address

8. Deputy Grand Master and Grand Wardens Stewardship Reports

9. Grand CCFC Report

10. Review and Acceptance of Annual Audit and Budget

11. Committee Reports

12. Election of Grand Lodge Officers

13. Installation of Officers

14. Selection of Prince Hall Weekend Celebration Site

ARTICLE 6. LAWS GOVERNING SUBORDINATE LODGES Section .01 All Worshipful Masters of Subordinate Lodges under this jurisdiction shall on or before January 15th of

each year, cause to be delivered to the Grand Secretary, an exact list of all members, the number

initiated, passed, raised, admitted, rejected, demitted, deceased; the number since the last annual report, and they shall in all cases of suspensions or expulsions notify the Grand Secretary

within 10 days from the time of such, together with the cause thereof, and also submit the

additional fee for the scholarship fund. Section .02 No Worshipful Master or Warden or any representative to the Grand Lodge shall appear therein without

the jewels he wears in the subordinate lodge of which he is a member. Section .03 The Worshipful Master and Wardens shall represent all subordinate lodges in the Grand Lodge. In the

case that neither of them can attend, the lodge may nominate and elect a representative from

among the Past Masters, the same to be members of the subordinate lodge represented as

representative to the Grand Lodge and they shall be supplied with the proper jewels of their

positions. Section .04 Every brother attending the Grand Lodge shall appear in Masonic dress, according to these Bylaws, and

with the proper Masonic regalia and Jewels. Section .05 The majority of every lodge, when duly assembled, has the privilege of instructing their representatives

to the Grand Lodge at the annual communication. Section .06 No brother shall be allowed to vote in any lodge of which he is not a member, and no brother shall be a

member of more than one lodge at the same time. Section .07 All business pertaining to ruling and regulating the craft and balloting for candidates in subordinate

lodges shall be done in the Master Masons lodge. Section .08 No subordinate lodge shall have any procession other than on funeral occasion or on St. John’s Day

except by dispensation from the Grand Master. Section .09 Subordinate lodges shall furnish their representatives to the Grand Lodge with sufficient means to pay

their traveling expenses, board, lodging and per diem for actual time spent in attending the

sessions, and each representative should remain until the Grand Lodge closes. However, if the

treasurer of a lodge is low, it must not be depleted. Section .10 The Grand Lodge will not issue or grant charters or warrants to any subordinate lodge named after any

living person.

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ARTICLE 7. RECEIVING PERSONS INTO SUBORDINATE LODGES

Section .01 Hazing is strictly enforced and prohibited by law. Any person found guilty of hazing will be expelled

from the Jurisdiction of Georgia. Hazing is the practice of rituals and other activities involving

harassment, abuse or humiliation used as a way of initiating a person into a group. Hazing is seen

in many different types of social groups, including gangs, sports teams, schools, military units, and

fraternities and sororities. Hazing is may be comprised of either physical or psychological abuse. It

may also include nudity and/or sexually based offences. Any member of the MWPHGL of

Georgia, who participates in the hazing of a candidate for admission into the MWPHGL of

Georgia, does not represent the MWPHGL of Georgia, Inc. Instead, that person or persons will be

considered a criminal by the MWPHGL of Georgia, Inc. Any member who commits hazing is

individually and personally liable to the victim and will be subject to suspension and or expulsion

from the MWPHGL of Georgia and can be subject to a lawsuit for monetary damages.

Section .02 Bullying is strictly enforced and prohibited by law. Bullying is the use of force, threat, or coercion to

abuse, intimidate, or aggressively dominate others by one or more persons. The behavior is often

repeated and habitual.

Bullying is classified into four basic types: Physical, Verbal, Relational and Cyber.

1.Physical - Hitting, striking, punching, slapping, or kicking

2.Verbal – Name calling, spreading, public humiliation, rumors, threats, teasing or taunting

3.Relational - Destroying peer acceptance and friendships based on race, size, religion, gender,

ability, appearance

4.Cyber- Using social media or electronic devices to hurt or harm others

Section .03 Harassment is strictly enforced and not tolerated. Harassment is any threatening, insulting, or

dehumanizing gesture, used by social media, written or physical conduct directed against another. Sexual

Harassment is strictly enforced and prohibited by law. Sexual Harassment refers to persistent and unwanted sexual

advances.

Section .04 No person shall be initiated as a member into any lodge, unless he is 18 years of age, industrious habits,

of good repute, of sufficient natural endowment and with some visible means of acquiring an

honest livelihood. He must be upright in body and not deformed at the time of making. Section .05 All applications for initiation into any subordinate lodge must be presented on the regular meeting night,

at least one month prior to the balloting for the same, except in cases of emergency, when

dispensation must be obtained from the District Deputy Grand Master. Section .06 No subordinate lodge shall initiate, pass or raise more than five candidates at one communication, unless

by dispensation from the District Deputy Grand Master, nor shall any candidate receive more than

one degree a month, except in cases of emergency, when a dispensation must be obtained from the

Grand Master. Section .07 Every subordinate lodge, shall pay to the Grand Lodge, an annual tax of $12.50 for each member in

good standing; $9.00 for Gold Card members; $5.00 per brother for scholarship. KOP $3.50. The

said tax shall be paid on or before May 1, of each year. The Grand Lodge may approve additional

amounts or increases during its annual meeting. Section .08 No subordinate lodge shall receive and initiate any person who has ever been charged with or has

pending charges and found guilty of any felony of moral turpitude as prescribed in the current

Official Code of Georgia Annotated, (O.C.G.A). No subordinate lodge shall receive a petition of a

profane that has pending charges or found guilty of any felony other than stated above. Unless he

has been exonerated or five (5) years after their probationary period has ended and voting rights

restored. (a) Nor shall any lodge receive and retain as a member thereof, any man who is a common profane

swearer, a reputed libertine, a bigamist, an excessive drinker, or one who is guilty of any crime

involving moral turpitude, or is generally charged with any demoralizing practice and no lodge

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having balloted for and rejected such a candidate shall receive his petition or elect him a member

thereof in six months from the time of rejection, nor shall a rejected applicant be received in any other subordinate lodge within this jurisdiction only under the same conditions as above

mentioned. Section .09 In all cases where candidates are rejected, it shall be the duty of the Secretary wherein they have been

rejected to give written notice to the Grand Secretary within 10 days of the time of such rejection

taking place, and the Grand Secretary shall notify each subordinate lodge each month of

rejections; the Secretary of the Subordinate lodge shall also notify the Grand Secretary of all

suspensions or expulsions of any of its members immediately after it takes place. Section .10 The petition having been once read cannot be withdrawn. It must go through the ordeal of investigation

and ballot. Section .11 All subordinate lodges failing to make their regular annual report shall stand suspended until paid;

Lodges failing to report for two consecutive years, their warrants, implements, papers and jewels

shall be sent to the Grand Secretary for the Grand Lodge, nor shall they be reinstated as a regular

lodge until the delinquencies are settled. Section .12 If for any cause, a subordinate lodge or Knights of Pythagoras Council discontinues working, all of its

property, real and personal are immediately assigned to the Grand Lodge under the provisions of

Mackey’s Jurisprudence, as follows: “As in the case of all extinct Lodges, whatever funds or

property it has accumulated will pass to the Grand Lodge which may be called the natural heir of

its subordinates.”

Section .13 Demits When a member wishes to move his membership from one lodge to another, he must request a

Demit from the lodge that he is a member. To receive a Demit, the member must have paid all

assessments and tax (local and Grand Lodge) for the current year (Bldg Fund, GL Tax,

Scholarship, etc). He must also pay three months (90 days) local dues in advance to cover the

period that the Demit is valid if he hasn’t paid his dues in full for the current year. If the Demit

expires before it is placed in another lodge, the member will have to request another Demit.

A. Masons Demitting into the Jurisdiction of Georgia

Demits received from Jurisdictions outside Georgia must have the Prince Hall Grand Lodge

Seal of the Jurisdiction the Mason is demitting from and must bear the required signatures.

B. Demitting from the Jurisdiction of Georgia to another Jurisdiction

All Demits to other Jurisdictions must have the Grand Secretary of Georgia Seal. The lodge

secretary completes the Demit form as required and send it to the Grand Secretary for his seal.

ARTICLE 8. MEETINGS AND OFFICERS Section .01 Each subordinate lodge shall have a stated time of meeting in each month, which time shall be agreed

upon by the lodge and on the anniversary of the Saints John, (i.e.: June 24, and on or before

December 27th of each year). Section .02 The officers shall consist of a Worshipful Master, Senior Warden, Junior Warden, Treasurer, Secretary,

Senior Deacon, Junior Deacon, Senior Steward, Junior Steward, Tyler, Chaplain, Marshal and

Assistant Secretary. Section .03 The Worshipful Master, Senior Warden, Junior Warden, Treasurer and Secretary shall be elected by

secret ballot. To be eligible for nomination for Worshipful Master a member must have been

elected as a Warden in the lodge he is a member of in this Jurisdiction. The other officers shall be

appointed. Section .04 The election of officers shall take place on the regular stated meeting in the month of December, after an

acceptable audit preceding the festival of Saint John the Evangelist (December 27th) each year

provided, however, if for any cause, the election or installation, or both did not occur, then the

lodge must apply to the Grand Master for a dispensation for the same. A majority of all votes cast

shall be considered necessary for an election to office. The Worshipful Master shall appoint all

officers that are not elective except the Junior Deacon, and the Senior and Junior Stewards. The

Senior Warden shall appoint the Junior Deacon and the Junior Warden shall appoint the two

Stewards. The Worshipful Master shall appoint all committees of the lodge.

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Section .05 The Worshipful Master shall appoint an Audit Committee to examine the books and accounts of the

Secretary and Treasurer, who shall report the same every six months (June and December).

Section.06 Cut off dates for audits are May 31st and November 30

th.

Section .07 The Secretary shall keep a record of the proceedings of the Lodge, transmit a copy of the same to the

Grand Master or the Grand Lodge when required to do so, make out all reports required by the

Grand Lodge, keep a register of all delinquent members, suspensions and expulsions; fill out

diplomas when directed by the lodge. Keep a register of the same and exhibit a statement of the

amount of each delinquent member at the stated meetings for the election of officers. He shall also

make a semiannual report of his receipts for the lodge; as a compensation for his service, he shall

receive compensation as the lodge may direct, except the MRA dues and Grand Lodge dues,

which he must pay. Section .08 The Treasurer shall report his receipts and disbursements at the semiannual meetings, and have his

accounts ready for settlement at the expiration of his term of office. He shall make a semiannual

report of his receipts and disbursements; he shall deliver to his successor in office all money,

accounts, vouchers, documents and any other property in his possession belonging to the lodge.

Said report shall be filed in the Archives of the Lodge. For faithful performance of his duties, he

shall execute such bonds as in the judgment of the lodge is sufficient for protection. As a

compensation for his service, he shall receive compensation as the lodge may direct, except the

MRA dues and Grand Lodge dues, which he must pay. Section .09 The Tyler shall serve all summonses upon members when so ordered by the Worshipful Master and to

attend all meetings of the Lodge. As a compensation for his service, he shall receive compensation as

the lodge may direct, except the MRA dues and Grand Lodge dues, which he must pay. Section .10 All officers herein exempt from monthly dues by the lodge shall be entitled to all privileges and

immunities of the lodge while in office. MRA dues and Grand Lodge dues not included. Section .11 If a candidate for initiation or advancement, whose petition has been acted on by the committee on

petition and reported favorably upon and balloted for, resulting in his election and, for any cause

on his part does not receive the degree within six months, his election shall be void and a new

ballot must be taken. Section .12 No member who is in arrears for dues three months shall be entitled to any benefits of the lodge and any

member allowing himself to become un-financial to equal three months dues, he shall be notified

by the Secretary of the same, and upon failing to settle his accounts, the Worshipful Master may

order him summoned to appear at the lodge within 30 days and pay the same. Upon further failure,

he shall be suspended by a majority vote of the members present; provided, however, that any

Master Mason in good standing is unable to contribute, may be relieved from this restriction by

appearing before the lodge and so explaining his condition. In this case, the lodge shall be the

judge as to the payment of the member’s lodge dues, MRA dues and Grand Lodge Dues. Section .13 In all cases in balloting, except for elections and candidates or as otherwise provided for, a majority vote

shall govern, and in the case of a tie, the Worshipful Master shall cast the deciding vote in addition

to the one already cast.

ARTICLE 9. REINSTATEMENT Section .01 When a member is suspended from his lodge and reinstated within three months time, he shall be

required to pay all indebtedness that he owed previous to suspension and that which would accrue

up to the time of reinstatement, i.e.: Lodge Dues, MRA dues, Grand Lodge taxes, etc. which will

restore his full benefits. Section .02 But if more than three months have elapsed from the time of suspension, he shall be required to pay a

minimum of $13.00 for reinstatement to be apportioned as follows: $3.00 for the subordinate

lodge, $5.00 for the Grand Lodge and $5.00 for the Masonic Relief Association for a new

certificate or policy. The life of said policy begins at the date of issue. However, the Grand Master

may issue a dispensation or edit modifying these provisions.

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ARTICLE 10. REPORT OF ELECTIVE OFFICERS Section .01 Each subordinate lodge must send annually, a list of the elective officers, with their Post Office and

email address to the Grand Secretary and Secretary/Treasurer of the Masonic Relief Association,

on or before January 1st of each year. The information must be submitted on the form provided by

the Grand Secretary, who shall keep a record of the same in a book provided for that purpose. Section .02 Order of Business for Subordinate Lodges:

(a) Opening Lodge with the usual formalities.

(b) Official Roll Call of Officers.

(c) Reading and approving minutes and treasurer, financial report of the previous meeting.

(d) Reports of Committees.

(e) Reading of Communications.

(f) Petitions and Applications.

(g) Balloting for Candidates.

(h) Unfinished Business.

(i) New Business.

(j) Conferring Degrees.

(k) Reading and Correcting of Minutes.

(l) Closing.

ARTICLE 11. REGULATIONS Section .01 Any Mason not belonging to, nor affiliating with any Lodge, who shall be charged with Masonic

conduct to the injury of the craft in general, shall be summoned to the nearest Lodge and be tried,

and if found guilty, he shall be suspended, or expelled from the fraternity; subject, however, to the

rules and regulations of the Grand Lodge. Section .02 Every Freemason should avoid addressing a cowan as a Free Mason under any circumstances under the

penalties of the Constitution and General Laws of the Grand Lodge. He is to cautiously examine a

stranger or a foreign brother as prudence and the rules of the craft direct so that he may not be

imposed upon by a pretender, and if he finds any such unworthy, he is to reject him, but such as

are found to be true and faithful, he may receive and treat as a brother should.

Section .03 In all matters or disputes between Masons, the case shall be referred to the nearest Lodge for settlement.

If possible, lawsuits are to be avoided, and the good advice of prudent brethren is to be followed.

Section .04 Any Mason who willfully violate any parts of rules number 2 and 3 above shall be deemed guilty of

unmasonic conduct and upon conviction thereof, shall be suspended or expelled from the Order. Section .05 In no case shall a subordinate Lodge publish to the world, the suspensions or expulsion of any of its

members, unless by permission of the Grand Lodge or Grand Master. Section .06 When a member receive his demit from a Lodge in this jurisdiction, he must place the said demit in a

Lodge in this or some other jurisdiction within 90 days after receiving the same; failure to comply

with this law, the power of the demit is null and void. If, however, said member finds it impossible

to dispose of his demit in the time allotted, he must apply to his Lodge for an extension of time.

Failing to hear from the Lodge, he must apply to the Grand Master. Section .07 Members of Lodges that have suspended work or whose charter has been arrested in this jurisdiction,

must receive demit from the Grand Master before they can affiliate or join any other lodge in this

jurisdiction. Section .08 In thickly settled communities (cities excepted), the distance between Lodges shall be at least five miles

and in thinly settled communities, the distance shall be at least 10 miles. Section .09 No Lodge in this jurisdiction shall charge a member for depositing his demit in said Lodge, since said

member must be financial before he can obtain his demit from his Lodge, but said member must

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pay dues and Grand Lodge taxes and assessments as required by the Lodge and Grand Lodge from

the time that his demit was issued and accepted by said lodge. Section .10 Canvassing for office in subordinate or Grand Lodge is strictly forbidden, and is un-Masonic, and the

canvasser shall not be considered in the next election, if found guilty of such practices. Section .11 Any brother having received a demit and while in possession of the same, has the same status of a non-

affiliate, and shall not be entitled to any of the rights and benefits of Masonry, and shall not be

admitted to a Lodge until said demit has been received and accepted by some Lodge. Section .12 Any non-affiliating Mason, who shall refuse to contribute annually to the funds of a lodge in amount

equal to the ordinary lodge dues, shall not be entitled to the rights, benefits, or privileges of the

Lodge whose jurisdiction he may be under. (a) He shall not visit and associate with regular members of the Lodge in Masonic meetings.

(b) He shall not ask or demand relief and pecuniary aid from the Lodge or its members for

neither himself nor his family.

(c) He shall not move in or join a Masonic procession.

(d) The right to Masonic burial is denied.

ARTICLE 12. RULES OF ORDER FOR LODGES Section .01 Any brother wishing to speak in the Lodge shall rise on his due guard and address the Worshipful

Master in a respectful manner. Section .02 No brother shall be permitted to speak more than twice on the same subject, unless by the consent

of the Worshipful Master. Section .03 All debates shall be courteous, pertinent and to the subject. Section .04 On all questions submitted to the Lodge, the usual voting sign shall ascertain its consent. Section .05 When two or more brethren rise at the same time in debate, the Worshipful Master shall name the

brother who shall speak. Section .06 Before any motion is put on any subject, the Worshipful Master shall distinctly state it. Section .07 No motion shall be put, unless it has been properly seconded, and if required, it shall be put in

writing. Section .08 A motion to lay on the table is not permitted.

Section .09 A motion to adjourn cannot be entertained.

Section .10 No motion for the previous question can be admitted. Section .11 When an amendment is proposed to any question, a member who has already spoken to the main

question may speak to the amendment also. Section .12 A majority of a committee constitutes a quorum for the transaction of business.

ARTICLE 13. PREROGATIVES OF THE WORSHIPFUL MASTER

1. The right to congregate his Lodge. Under this prerogative, the Master may call a meeting of his Lodge any

time. He may not, as formerly change any time or place, his power in this respect being restricted to the

calling of special or a called meeting. The Lodge itself fixes the stated communications as well as the place

where they are to be held, and the Master has no power to alter either. 2. The right to preside. When the Grand Master, or his duly appointed representative, appears in a Lodge, the

power of the Master to preside temporally disappears, unless the superior authority waives the right. 3. The right to fill temporarily any vacancies that may occur in the Lodge officers.

4. To control the admission of visitors. In the exercise of this right, the Master may refuse to any visitor,

however correct the standing of the visitor may be, he being responsible for the exercise of his prerogative.

It is the general practice of the Master, though not absolutely bound to do so, to refuse a visitor when any

member of the Lodge objects to his visit.

5. To regulate and terminate all discussions. When, in his judgment, the debate has extended far enough, or

when for any reason he may deem it proper to do so, he rises in his place and proceeds to put the question,

or to direct the labors into some other channel, and when the Master rises, all, others must be seated.

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6. To direct the order of business. This he may do, notwithstanding the Bylaws may have appended to them a

summary of the order in which business is to be transacted.

7. To appoint all committees, and become ex-officio member of all committees.

8. To close the Lodge at will. By this, it is not meant that the Master may close his Lodge in the midst of its labors,

at the mere suggestion of his own arbitrary will, for that would be intolerable; but that he is the proper judge as

to when the labors ought reasonably to cease, and the brethren retire to their homes.

9. To issue summons. In addition to summons to attend meetings of the Lodge, the Master has power to summon

witnesses in trials — all Masons within the jurisdiction of his Lodge — to answer complaints against them; and

the officers of his Lodge, to render their accounts, or to answer for delinquencies of the members of his Lodge

to attend the funeral of deceased brothers. The summons can be issued by authority of the Master only, or the

one who may be appointed to the functions of that office, and it is a preemptory order, which must be obeyed

under penalty, unless the excuse of the defaulter is a legitimate one. Summons are usually in writing, signed by

the Master, countersigned by the Secretary, and having the Lodge seal attached; but a verbal summons by the

Master personally is equal binding as a written one. 10. To be the custodian of the charter. Although the charter purports on its face to be granted to the Master and

Wardens, yet, at his installation it is placed in special charge of the Master, and he is made responsible for its

safekeeping.

11. In company with the Senior and Junior Wardens, to represent his Lodge at all communications of the Grand

Lodge. In exercise of these prerogatives, other exhibitions of authority are sometimes called forth, as the right to

order a re—ballot, under the prescribed restrictions.

12. He signs all drafts upon the Treasurer, is exempt from trials by his Lodge, and is entitled to receive the degree

of Past Master. He cannot demit or resign during his term of office. No vacancy can occur in his office except

by death or expulsion. In which event, the Senor Warden succeeds to the position.

13. The Senior Warden is charged with the superintendence of the Craft while at labor, to the Junior Warden is

committed their superintendence during the hour of refreshment. From this the practice has arisen, in some

Lodges, of requiring that all complaints for the infraction of the laws of Masonry should be presented to the

Lodge through the Junior Warden. This custom is in every way to be commended.

14. In the absence of the Master, the Senior Warden succeeds to his station, but the Junior Warden does not

thereupon occupy the Senior Warden’s vacant station, but the Senior Warden becomes for the time, acting

Master, and the prerogative of appointment vest in him, and he proceeds to appoint a Senior Warden pro

tempore. The Wardens cannot resign, and in case of a vacancy in their offices, as well as the other elective

offices, by death, suspension or expulsion, no election can be had to fill it until the ‘regular time of choosing,”

unless a dispensation is secured from the Grand Master. 15. Upon election, to see that the officers are elected or appointed, as the Constitution of the Grand Lodge may

permit, or the Bylaws direct. The elections and installation are required to be held at least once in each year.

16. To give the deciding vote in case of a tie provided the vote was taken by upraised hands, but not by secret

ballot.

17. To sign all drafts upon the Treasury for the payment of Lodge disbursements by consent of the Lodge. Nor may

the Treasurer lawfully payout the funds without such order. 18. To appoint the Senior Deacon and such other officers as may be prescribed in the Bylaws of the Lodge.

19. To pass and install his successor with legal assistance.

20. To control the Minutes, so far as to see that nothing improper to be written is recorded, and also that nothing

essential is omitted.

21. To refuse to initiate a candidate, notwithstanding his acceptance by the Lodge, if in his judgment, such initiation

would be improper. 22. To discuss all questions, without regard to parliamentary etiquette of leaving the chair, because it is his duty at

all times to give the Craft good and wholesome instruction. 23. To be exempt from trial by his Lodge. The Grand Master or Grand Lodge alone has penal jurisdiction over him. ARTICLE 14. THE TWENTY-FIVE LANDMARKS OF FREEMASONRY

“Remove not the ancient landmarks which thy fathers have set” — Solomon.

(For full explanation and commentary on these Landmarks, see Mackey’s Text Book of Masonic Jurisprudence, pp. 17—39.) 1. The modes of recognition.

2. The Division of Symbolic Masonry into three degrees.

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3. The legend of the Third Degree.

4. The government of the Fraternity by a presiding officer called a Grand Master, who is elected from the body

of the Craft.

5. The prerogative of the Grand Master to preside over every assembly of the Craft where so ever and when so

ever held.

6. The prerogative of the Grand Master to grant dispensations for conferring degrees at irregular times.

7. The prerogative of the Grand Master to grant dispensations for opening and holding Lodges.

8. The prerogative of the Grand Master to make Masons at sight.

9. The necessity of Masons to congregate in Lodges.

10. The government of the Lodge by a Master and two Wardens.

11. The necessity that every Lodge, when congregated, should be duly Tiled.

12. The right of every Mason to be represented in all the general meetings of the Craft, and to instruct his

representatives.

13. The right of every Mason to appeal from the decision of his brethren in Lodge convened to the Grand Lodge

or General Assembly of Masons.

14. The right of every Mason to visit and sit in every Regular Lodge.

15. That no visitor not known to some brother present as a Mason can enter the Lodge without first undergoing

an examination according to ancient usage.

16. No Lodge can interfere in the business or labor of another Lodge, nor give degrees to brethren who are

members of other Lodges.

17. That every Free Mason is amenable to the laws and regulations of the Masonic Jurisdiction in which he

resides, although he may not be a member of the Lodge.

18. That every candidate for initiation must be a man, freeborn and of lawful age.

19. That every Mason must believe in the existence of God as the Grand Architect of the universe.

20. That every Mason must believe in a resurrection to a future life.

21. That a “Book of the law of God” constitutes an indispensable part of the furniture of every Lodge.

22. That all men in the sight of God, are equal, and meet in the Lodge on one common level.

23. That Freemasonry is a secret society in possession of secrets that cannot be divulged.

24. That Freemasonry consists of a speculative science, founded on an operative art, and the symbolic use and

explanation of the terms of that art for the purpose of religious or moral teachings.

25. That the landmark can never be changed. These constitute the landmarks, or as they have sometimes been

called, “the body of Masonry,” in which it is not in the power of any man or body of men to make the least

innovation.

ARTICLE 15. MASONIC RELIEF ASSOCIATION

MASONIC RELIEF ASSOCIATION DEPARTMENT

BY LAWS AND REGULATIONS

MASONIC RELIEF ASSOCIATION A DEPARTMENT OF THE

MOST WORSHIPFUL PRINCE HALL GRAND LODGE OF F&A MASONS OF GEORGIA

Section 1. It was enacted by the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons for the State of

Georgia, (known as the Most Worshipful, Prince Hall Grand Lodge F. &. A.M of Georgia), June 12, 1907, that a

Masonic Relief Department be established, beginning the first day of January, 1908.

Section 2. That this Association shall be composed only of Master Masons in good standing belonging to this

Jurisdiction.

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Section 3. The Grand Master, Grand Secretary, Secretary-Treasurer of this Association, and three members of the

Grand Lodge, to be appointed annually by the Grand Lodge, shall comprise the officers of this Association, whose

duty it will be to decide and determine all matters pertaining to and by which decision the holder of the certificate

agrees to abide.

Section 4. The entrance fee into the Association shall be $2.00 and the dues shall be $1.20 per month ($14.40). For

a total of $16.40.

Section 5. That every Mason now in good standing in every subordinate lodge shall become a member of this

Association, and that every Master Mason under fifty years of age added hereafter to the roll of members of such

lodges shall become members of this Association.

Section 6. That application for membership into this Association must be made on blank forms furnished by the

Association, and on which the application must show the name, number and location of the Lodge to which he

wishes to belong, the name of his beneficiary, his age and Post Office address. Said application must be

recommended by the Worshipful Master and the Secretary of said Lodge, with Lodge attached.

Section 7. That the certificate of membership in this Association must show what Lodge the holder thereof belongs,

number and location, the name and age of the beneficiary, and the date of issuance, and must be signed by the

Secretary-Treasurer; M.R.A. Department, Grand Secretary and Grand Master.

Section 8. That in case the holder of a certificate transfers from one lodge to another, said certificate must be

transferred on the books of the Association by the payment of $2.00 to the M.R. A. department.

Section 9. That a Master Mason losing his membership in his Lodge for any reason, forfeits his members in the

Masonic Relief Association.

Section 10. That the application fee and monthly dues for this Association must be paid into the Lodge in which the

membership lies, and must be forwarded by the Lodge to the Secretary-Treasurer by first class mail, postal or

express money orders, or by Lodge or Cashier’s Check quarterly if not paid in full for the year. The Secretary-

Treasurer is not authorized to receive money any other way.

Section 11. In no case will this Association recognize or pay any claim where the member belonged to one Lodge,

and joined another without a Demit.

Section 12. That it shall be the duty of the subordinate Lodge to collect monthly dues from each member belonging

to this Association and forward same to the Secretary-Treasurer of this Association on a form furnished for that

purpose.

Section 13. That the management of the affairs of this Association shall be in the hands of one person, whose

position shall be known as Secretary-Treasurer, supervised by the Grand Master and the M.R. A. Board, except

where otherwise provided, and that he give surety bond in a sum to be determined by the M.R.A. Board.

Section 14. That the Secretary-Treasurer of this Association shall be appointed by the Grand Master.

Section 15. That the secretary-Treasurer of this Association shall keep proper records of all members of each

subordinate lodge.

Section 16. That it shall be the duty of the Secretary of this Association to receive all money paid into it, and to

place the amount to the credit of the member or members legally paying it.

Section 17. That the funds of this Association in the hands of the Secretary-Treasurer shall be placed in a bank or

banks of sound financial standing, authorized by the Grand Master and M.R. A. Board and the Secretary-Treasurer

of this Association shall furnish the Grand Master and Grand Secretary, the first of each month, a statement of the

financial standing of this Association.

Section 18. Money in the hands of the Secretary-Treasurer, its use not contemplated in the very near future, must be

placed at interest, in a bank or banks, and interest accounted for in his report separately, as any other money coming

into his hands,

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Section 19. Each person becoming a member of the Masonic Relief Association and receiving a benefit certificate

of membership therin shall pay to the Secretary of his Lodge, the required dues, assessments and payments each

month.

19a. If any member shall fail to pay the dues, assessments or payments due by him to the local Lodge, the

Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge, or the Masonic Relief Association, and shall fail to pay the said dues by

midnight of the 15th

day of the calendar month following the date upon which three months dues became in arrears,

the member shall be automatically suspended and all benefits due under the certificate shall terminate.

` 19b. Failure to make payment of the dues and assessments on or before midnight of the 15th

day of the

calendar month following the date upon which three months dues became in arrears shall of itself and without notice

of any kind, automatically suspends such member for failure to pay the same, and all beneficial right of any such

member failing to make such payment as herin provided, and all rights which except for such failure would accrue

to his beneficiaries, shall be void and his certificate of no force or effect unless such member be reinstated to

beneficial membership in the manner provided in the laws.

19c. The Masonic Relief Association shall not be liable on any certificate of membership unless at the time

of death of the member, the Lodge to which the member belonged was in good standing with the Most Worshipful

Prince Hall grand Lodge with all taxes and assessments paid.

Section 20. Should any member in good standing desire to change his beneficiary or beneficiaries named on his

certificate, he may do so by executing in writing on a form furnished by the Masonic Relief Association, attested by

the Secretary of his Lodge and properly filled out and signed by the holder of his request therefore.

20a. Any member shall return the request or change of beneficiary properly executed, together with his

membership certificate and the sum of $2.00 to cover the transfer fee to the Secretary-Treasurer of the Masonic

Relief Association, who shall make the change of beneficiary as request, with the change of beneficiary written on

the certificate, together with a receipt for the transfer fee, and forward the same to the member.

Section 21. Any member may name his beneficiary

Section 21a. The Masonic Relief Association may make any payment by the laws of the Masonic Relief

Association and due under the term of the certificate of membership regardless of the designation of beneficiary, to

person(s) named as beneficiary by the member.

21. b. The production by the Masonic Relief Association of a receipt signed by the beneficiary(ies) of said person, or

of sufficient proof of such payment shall be conclusive evidence that such benefits have been paid to the person(s)

entitled thereto, and that all claims due under the certificate of membership and the laws of the Association have

been fully satisfied.

Section 22. If a certificate of membership is lost, destroyed, or not under the control of a member desiring to change

the beneficiary named on the certificate, he shall make an affidavit stating where and how the same was lost or

destroyed, or, if it is in the hands of any other person other than the member, who and why said person has the

certificate, and why it cannot be produced and surrendered, and shall further furnish a written release of all such

member’s rights under such missing certificate, and thereupon a new certificate may be issued upon payment of the

fee of $2.00 for the issuance of such duplicate policy.

Section 23. No member of the Masonic Relief Association maybe reinstated in the Masonic Relief Association

unless said member is in sound bodily and mental health at the time for his application for reinstatement, and no

benefit or payment shall be made to the beneficiary of any member who shall depart this life, if at the time of

reinstatement of such member, the said member should not be in sound bodily and mental health at the time he is

reinstated.

Section 24. The beneficiary named on a certificate of membership of the Masonic Relief Association or any person

who may be entitled to the benefits due under the certificate upon the death of a member in good standing, and

whose Lodge is in good standing with the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge with all taxes and assessments

paid shall receive benefits due under provisions of the Masonic Relief Association.

Section 25. That claims for relief on account of the demise of a Master Mason must be made on a form,

furnished by the Masonic Relief Association.

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Section 26. That the salary of the Secretary-Treasurer shall be such an amount as voted and fixed by the Grand

Trustees and payable monthly.

Section 27. No suit shall be brought against the Masonic Relief Association or the Most Worshipful Prince Hall

Grand Lodge by any member or by the beneficiary of any member until after said person has exhausted all efforts to

obtain redress and relief from the Masonic Relief Association and the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge.

ARTICLE 16. ANCIENT CONSTITUTION

ANCIENT CONSTITITUTION Section .01 THE CHARGES OF A FREE MASON Extracts from the ancient Record of Lodges beyond the sea, and those in England, Scotland, and Ireland, for the use

of the Lodges in London, to be read at the making of New Brethren, or when the Master shall order it.

I. Of God and Religion II. Of the Civil Magistrate, Supreme and Subordinate.

III. Of Lodges.

IV. Of Masters, Wardens, Fellow and Apprentices.

V. Of the Management of the Craft in working.

VI.Of behavior, Vis;

1. In the Lodge when constituted

2. After the Lodge is over and the Brethren not gone.

3. When the Brethren meet with strangers, but not in the lodge.

4. In the presence of strangers not Masons.

5. At Home and in the neighborhood.

6. Towards a strange Brother.

CONCERNING GOD AND RELIGION

A Mason is obliged by his Tenures to obey the moral law and if he rightly understands the Art he never will be a

stupid Atheist, nor and irreligious Libertine.But though in ancient times Masons were charged in every Country to be of the Religion of that Country or Nation, whatever it was, yet it’s now thought more expedient only to obligate them to that Religion in which all men agree, leaving their particular opinions to themselves: “That, is to be good men, and true, or Men of Honor and Honesty, by whatever denomination or persuasion they may be distinguished whereby Masonry becomes the Center of Union and the Means of conciliating true Friendship among persons that must have otherwise remained at a perpetual distance.”

II OF THE CIVIL MAGISTRATE SUPREME AND SUBORDINATE

A Mason is a peaceful Subject to the Civil Powers, wherever he resides, or works, and is never to be concerned in Plots and Conspiracies against the Peace and Welfare of the Nation, nor to behave himself undutiful to inferior Magistrates; for as Masonry hath been always injured by War, Bloodshed, and Confusion, so ancient Kings and Princes have been mush disposed to encouraged the Craftsmen because of their Peaceableness and Loyalty, whereby they practically answered the Cavils of their Adversaries, and promoted the Honor of the Fraternity, who over flourished in times of Peace. So that if a Brother should be a Rebel against the State, he is not to be countenanced in his Rebellion, however, he maybe pities as an unhappy man; and if convicted of no other crime, though the loyal Brotherhood must and ought to disown his Rebellion, and give no Umbrage or Ground of political Jealousy to the government for the time being; they cannot expel him from the Lodge and his relation to it remains indefeasible. III OF LODGES A lodge IS A PLACE WHERE Masons assemble and work; hence that Assembly, or duly organized Society of Masons, is called a Lodge, and every Brother ought to belong to one and to be subject to its Bylaws and the General Regulations.

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It is either particular or general, or will be best understood by attending it, and by Regulations of the General or Grand Lodge hereunto annexed. In ancient times, no Master or Fellow could be absent from it, especially when warned to appear at it without incurring a severe Censure until it appeared to the Master and Wardens, that pure necessity hindered him. The person admitted into membership of a Lodge must be good and true men, freeborn, and of mature and discreet age, no Bondmen, no Women, no Immoral or Scandalous men, but of good Report.

IV OF MASTERS, WARDENS, FELLOWS, AND APPRENTICES All Preferment among Masons is grounded upon real Worth and Person Merit only; that so the Lord may be well served, the Brethren not put to shame, nor the Royal Craft disgraced; therefore no Master or Warden is chosen by Seniority, but for their merit. It is impossible to describe these things in writing, and every Brother must attend in his place, and learn them in a way peculiar to this fraternity. Only candidates may know that no Master should take an apprentice unless he has sufficient employment for him and unless he be a perfect Youth, having no Main of defect in his body, that they render him incapable of learning the Art of serving his Master’s Lord and of being made a Brother, and then a Fellow Craft in due time, even after he has serves such a Term of Years as the Custom of the Country directs; and that he should be descended from honest parents; that so, when otherwise qualified, he may arrive to the honor of being Warden, and then Master of the Lodge, Grand Warden, and at length the Grand Master of all Lodges, according to his merit. No brother can be a Warden until he has passed the part of the Fellow Craft; nor a Master until he has been elected as a Warden, nor Grand Warden until he has been Master of a Lodge, nor a Grand Master unless he has been a Fellow Craft before its election, who is also to be nobly born, or a Gentleman of the best Fashion, or some eminent Scholar, or some curious Architect, or other Artist, descended of honest Parents, and who is of singular great merit in the opinion of the Lodge. And for the better and easier, and honorable discharge of his own office. The Grand Master has a power to choose his own Deputy Grand Masters, who must have been formerly, the Master of a particular Lodge, and has the privilege of acting whatever, the Grand Master, his principal, should act, unless the said principal be present, or interposed his authority by letter. These Rulers and Governors, supreme and subordinate, of the ancient Lodge are to be obeyed in their respective Stations by all the Brethren, according to the Old Charges and Regulations, with all the Humility, Reverence, Love and Alacrity.

OF THE MANAGEMENT OF THE CRAFT IN WORKING

All Masons shall work honestly on working days, that they may live creditably on Holy days: and the

time appointed by the Law of the Land, or confirmed by custom shall be observed. The most expert of the Fellow

Craftsmen shall be chosen or appointed the Master or Overseer of the Lord’s Work; who is to be called Master by

those who work under him. The Craftsmen are to avoid all ill language, and to call each other by no disobliging

name, but Brother or Fellow, and to behave themselves courteously within and without the Lodge.

The Master, knowing himself to be able of cunning shall undertake the Lord’s Work as reasonably as

possible and truly dispense the Goods as if they were his own; nor give more wages to any Brother or Apprentice

than he really may deserve. Both the Master and Masons receiving their wages justly, shall be faithful to the Lord

and honestly finish their work, whether task or journey; nor put the work to task that hath been accustomed to

Journey.

None shall discover Envy at the Prosperity of a Brother, nor supplant him, or put him out of his work. If

he is capable to finish the same; for no man can finish another’s work so much to the Lord’s profit unless he be

thoroughly acquainted with the Designs and Drafts of him that began it. When a Fellow Craftsman is chosen

Warden of the work under the Master, he shall be true both to Master and Fellows and shall carefully oversee the

Work in the Master’s absence to the Lord’s Profit; and his Brethren shall obey him.

All Masons employed shall meekly receive their wages without Murmuring or Mutiny and not desert the

Master till the work is finished. A younger Brother shall be instructed in working, to prevent spoiling the

Material for want of Judgment, and for increasing and continuing brotherly love.

All the tools used in working shall be approved by the Grand Lodge. No laborer shall be employed in

the proper work of Masonry; nor shall Free Masons work with those that are not free, without an urgent necessity;

nor shall they teach Laborers and unaccepted Masons, as they should teach a Brother or Fellow.

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OF BEHAVIOR 1. In the Lodge while Constituted, you are not to hold private committees or separate

conversation without leave from the Master, not to talk of anything impertinent or unseemly, not interrupt the

Master, or Wardens or any Brother speaking to the Master; not behave yourself ludicrously or jestingly while the

Lodge is engaged in what is serious and solemn; not use any unbecoming language upon any pretense whatsoever,

but to pay due Reverence to your Master, Wardens, and Fellows, and put them to worship.

1a. If any complaint be brought, the Brother found guilty shall stand to the Award and

Determination of the Lodge, who are the proper and competent judges of all such controversies (unless you carry

it by Appeal to the Grand Lodge), and to whom they ought to be referred, unless a Lord’s Work be hindered, the

meanwhile in which case a particular reference may be made; but you must never go to law about what concerns

Masonry, without an absolute necessity apparent to the Lodge and approval of the Grand Master.

2. Behavior after the Lodge is over and Brethren have not gone, you may enjoy yourself with innocent mirth, beating one another in games according, to the ability, but avoid all excess or forcing any brother to eat or drink

beyond his inclination, or hindering him from going when his occasion calls him, or doing or saying anything

offensive, or that may forbid an easy or free conversation; for that would blast out Harmony and defeat laudable

purposes.

2a. Therefore, no private piques or quarrels must be brought within the door of the Lodge, far

less any quarrel about Religion, or Nations, or State Policy, we being only as Masons of the Catholic Religion

above Mentioned: we are also of all Nations, Tongues, Kindred and Languages, and are resolved against all

politics, as what never yet conducted to the Welfare of the Lodge, nor ever will. This charge has always been

strictly enjoined and observed, but especially ever since the Reformation in Britain, or the Dissent and Secession

of the Nations from the Communion at Rome.

3. Behavior when Brethren meet without Strangers, but no in Lodge formed, you are to salute

one another in a courteous manner, as you will be instructed, calling each other Brother, freely giving Mutual

instruction, as shall be thought expedient without being overseen or overheard, and without encroaching upon

each other, or derogating from that respect which is due to any brother when he is not a Mason; for though all

Masons are as Brethren upon the same level, yet Masonry takes no Honor from a man that he had before. Nay,

rather it adds to his Honor, especially if he has deserved well of the Brotherhood, who must give Honor to whom

it is due, and avoid all ill Manners.

4. Behavior in presence of Strangers not Masons – You shall be cautious in your words and

carriage, that the most penetrating Stranger shall not be able to discover or find out what is not proper to be

intimated and sometimes you shall direct a Discourse and manage it prudently for the Honor of the Worshipful

Fraternity.

5. Behavior at home and in your Neighborhood – You are to act as becomes a moral and wise

man: particularly not to let your Family, Friends and Neighbors know the concerns of the Lodge, etc., but wisely

to consult your own Honor, and that of the Ancient Brotherhood, for reasons not to be mentioned here. You must

also consult your health, by not continuing together too late, or too long from home, after lodge hours are past;

and by avoiding of Gluttony and Drunkenness, that your Families be not neglected, or injured, nor you disabled

from working.

6. Behavior towards a Stranger Brother – You are cautiously to examine him, in such a method

as Prudence shall direct you, that you may not be imposed upon by an ignorant false Pretender, whom you are to

reject with Contempt and Derision, and beware of giving him any hints of Knowledge.

6a. But if you discover him to be a true and genuine Brother, you are to respect him

accordingly, and if he be in want, you must relieve him if you can, or else recommend him to be employed. But

you are not to do beyond your ability, only to prefer a poor Brother, that is a good man and true before any other

poor people in the same circumstances.

6b. Finally, all these Charges you are to observe and those that shall be communicated to you in

another way, cultivating Brotherly Love, the Foundation and Cap-stone, the Cement and Glory of this ancient

Fraternity, avoiding all wrangling and quarreling, all slander and backbiting, nor permitting others to slander any

honest Brother, but defending his character, and doing him all good offices as far as is consistent with your Honor

and Safety, and no further.

6c. And if any of them do you injure, you must appeal to your own or his Lodge; and from

thence you may appeal to the Grand Lodge at the Quarterly Communication. And from thence to the Annual

Grand Lodge as has been the ancient Laudable conduct of our Forefathers in every Nation; never taking a legal

Course but when the Case cannot be otherwise decided and patiently listening to the honest and friendly Advice

of Master and Fellows, when they would prevent you going to Law with Strangers, or would excite you to put a

speedy Period to all Lawsuits so that you may mind the Affairs of Masonry with the more Alacrity and Success;

but with respect.

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7. Brothers or Fellows at Law, the Master and Brethren should kindly offer their Mediation,

which ought to be thankfully submitted to by the contending Brethren; and if that Submission is impracticable,

they must however carry on their Process or Lawsuit, without wrath and rancor (not in the common way), saying

or doing nothing which may hinder Brotherly Love, and good Offices to be renewed and continued; that all may

see the benign Influence of Masonry as all true Masons have done from the Beginning of the World, and will do

to the End of Time.

Amen, so mote it be.