CONSTITUTION OF THE MOST WORSHIPFUL GRAND LODGE OF THE ANCIENT AND HONORABLE FRATERNITY FREE AND ACCEPTED MASONS THE STATE OF NEW HAMPSHIRE

Transcription

1 CONSTITUTION OF THE MOST WORSHIPFUL GRAND LODGE OF THE ANCIENT AND HONORABLE FRATERNITY OF FREE AND ACCEPTED MASONS OF THE STATE OF NEW HAMPSHIRE Adopted June 10, 1869 Revised May 18, 1938 Revised May 15, 1957 Revised November 21, MANCHESTER, NEW HAMPSHIRE

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3 P R E F A C E This Constitution presents the fundamental laws of Freemasonry by which we are governed in New Hampshire. Included also are regulations adopted by Grand Lodge as well as decisions of Grand Masters approved by Grand Lodge. The first Regulations of the Grand Lodge of New Hampshire were adopted on April 25, 1792 and were revised in 1803 and In 1823 new Regulations were approved and on June 10, 1845 Grand Lodge adopted the first Constitution which was printed with the Proceedings of that year. On June 10, 1869 a revised Constitution was adopted and also printed in the Proceedings. The later editions of 1896 and 1913 are actually the 1869 Constitution with all the amendments which had been made to it. A major revision of the Grand Constitution was adopted by Grand Lodge on May 18, 1938 and this edition was amended on May 15, 1957 when it was then printed in its present loose-leaf form. In 1990 Grand Master, Brother Philip L. Hall, appointed a committee to revise the Grand Constitution. This new revision contains the "Declaration of Masonic Principles" as adopted on May 17, 1939, the Tyler's Oath and the installation ceremony of Grand Lodge Officers. The text has been edited and reorganized and a table of contents added. Rules and guidelines relative to degree work, the reception of Grand Lodge Officers, the Table Lodge, funeral ceremonies, Masonic protocol, etc. are to be found in the manuals published by Grand Lodge. The Grand Constitution Revision Committee, George D. Van Dyke, Chairman Douglas L. Robertson, Sr. Stanley A. Johnson November 21, 1992 iii

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5 TABLE OF CONTENTS Preface Declaration of Masonic Principles Tyler's Oath PART I - THE GRAND LODGE ARTICLE I - Style and Title... 1 ARTICLE II - Powers of the Grand Lodge... 1 ARTICLE III - Officers and Members... 3 ARTICLE IV - Communications and Lodges of Instruction... 4 ARTICLE V - Qualification, Election and Installation of Officers... 6 ARTICLE VI - Powers and Duties of Grand Officers... 7 ARTICLE VII - Stations, Jewels and Clothing ARTICLE VIII - Committees of Grand Lodge ARTICLE IX - Rules for the Government of Grand Lodge PART II - CONSTITUENT LODGES ARTICLE X - Dispensations and Charters for Lodges ARTICLE XI - Removal of Lodges ARTICLE XII - Surrender, Forfeiture and Revocation of Charters ARTICLE XIII - Powers and Duties of Constituent Lodges ARTICLE XIV - Officers of Constituent Lodges PART III - MEMBERSHIP ARTICLE XV - Candidates and Balloting ARTICLE XVI - Degrees, Honorary Membership, Lodge Visitors and Life Memberships ARTICLE XVII - Demits, Waivers, Affiliation, Non-payment of Dues and Reinstatement PART IV - MISCELLANEOUS ARTICLE XVIII - Trials and Penalties ARTICLE XIX - Awards and Recognition ARTICLE XX - Legitimate Freemasonry ARTICLE XXI - Installation of Grand Lodge Officers INDEX APPENDIX A - Masonic Associations - Articles of Association and By-laws... A-1 thru A-4 APPENDIX B - Life Membership Regulations... B-1 thru B-6 Life Membership By-laws... B-7 thru B-11 TRANSMITTAL MEMOS v

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7 D E C L A R A T I O N O F M A S O N I C P R I N C I P L E S Adopted by the Grand Lodge, May 17, 1939 Freemasonry is a charitable, benevolent, educational, and religious society. Its principles are proclaimed as widely as men will hear. Its only secrets are in its methods of recognition and of symbolic instruction. It is charitable in that it is not organized for profit, and none of its income inures to the benefit of any individual, but all is devoted to the promotion of the welfare and happiness of mankind. It is benevolent in that it teaches and exemplifies altruism as a duty. It is educational in that it teaches by prescribed ceremonials a system of morality and brotherhood based upon the Sacred Law. It is religious in that it teaches Monotheism, the Volume of the Sacred Law is open upon its Altars whenever a Lodge is in session, reverence for God is ever present in its ceremonial, and to its Brethren are constantly addressed lessons of morality; yet it is not sectarian or theological. It is a social organization only so far as it furnishes additional inducement, that men may forgather in numbers, thereby providing more material for its primary work of education, of worship, and of charity. Through the improvement and strengthening of the character of the individual man, Freemasonry seeks to improve the community. Thus it impresses upon its members the principles of personal righteousness and personal responsibility, enlightens them as to those things which make for human welfare, and inspires them with that feeling of charity and good will toward all mankind which will move them to translate principle and conviction into action. To that end, it teaches and stands for the worship of God; truth and justice; fraternity and philanthropy; and enlightenment and orderly liberty, civil, religious and intellectual. It charges each of its members to be true and loyal to the government of the country to which he owes allegiance and to be obedient to the law of any state in which he may be. It believes that the attainment of these objectives is best accomplished by laying a broad basis of principle upon which men of every race, country, sect and opinion may unite rather than setting up a restricted platform, upon which only those of certain races, creeds and opinions can assemble vii

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9 Believing in these things, this Grand Lodge affirms its continued adherence to that ancient and approved rule of Freemasonry, which forbids the discussion in Masonic meetings of creeds, politics, or other topics likely to excite personal animosities. It further affirms its conviction that it is not only contrary to the fundamental principles of Freemasonry, but dangerous to its unity, strength, usefulness and welfare, for Masonic Bodies to take action or attempt to exercise pressure or influence, for or against any legislation or in any way to attempt to procure the election or appointment of governmental officials or to influence them, whether or not members of the Fraternity, in the performance of their official duties. The true Freemason will act in civil life according to his individual judgment and the dictates of his conscience. TYLER'S OATH "I,, do hereby and hereon solemnly and sincerely swear that I have been regularly initiated, passed, and raised to the sublime degree of Master Mason in a just and legally constituted Lodge of such; that I do not now stand suspended or expelled; and know of no reason why I should not hold Masonic communication with my Brethren." ix

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11 P A R T I T H E G R A N D L O D G E ARTICLE I STYLE AND TITLE SECTION 1. The style and title of the Grand Lodge is: THE MOST WORSHIPFUL GRAND LODGE OF THE ANCIENT AND HONORABLE FRATERNITY OF FREE AND ACCEPTED MASONS OF THE STATE OF NEW HAMPSHIRE. ARTICLE II POWERS OF THE GRAND LODGE SECTION 1. The Grand Lodge, by the ancient Constitution and usages of the fraternity, is the supreme authority in Masonry, and has the power to determine what Masonry is. It is invested with certain original and essential powers and privileges belonging to the Ancient Craft, and shall have power especially- First: To decide what Masonic Bodies are regular, wherein symbolic Masonry is used, shown or made a part of the ceremonies. Second: To prohibit the Masons of its obedience from practicing as Masonic any other rites than those which it declares to be Masonic; and from using any of its esoteric ceremonies as Masonic ceremonies in any other Body than it shall hold to be Masonic. Third: To enact and enforce all laws and regulations for the government of the Fraternity and to alter, amend and repeal the same at pleasure. Fourth: To constitute new Lodges by granting dispensations and charters under seal; and for good cause, to suspend, revoke or annul the same at pleasure. Fifth: To be the only Masonic Body to perform all public dedication and consecration ceremonies as deemed worthy by the Grand Master. Sixth: To establish and preserve a uniform mode of working and lectures under the sanction of the Ancient Landmarks and customs of Masonry. Seventh: To assess and collect from the several Lodges under its jurisdiction such sums of money as may be deemed necessary for the benefit of the Craft. Eighth: To hear and determine all questions of dispute between two or more Lodges. 1 TM No. 15 approved May 20, 2006

12 Ninth: To hear and decide all cases of appeal from the decision of Constituent Lodges. Tenth: To demand and receive such fees and charges for granting dispensations, charters, certificates and diplomas as may be reasonable. Eleventh: To hear and decide all charges and complaints against any officer of Grand Lodge and to inflict such punishment on the delinquent and guilty as may appear just and proper. Twelfth: To exercise all such powers and perform all such acts as by custom are exercised and performed by Grand Lodges; but in no case to alter, deface or remove the ancient established Landmarks of Masonry which are recognized by New Hampshire as follows: A. Monotheism. B. The Volume of the Sacred Law a part of the furniture of the Lodge. C. Secrecy. D. The symbolism of the operative art. E. The division of symbolic Masonry into the three degrees of Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft and Master Mason. F. The legend of the third degree. G. That it makes Masons of men only. H. That it is non-sectarian and non-political; i.e., that its dominant purposes are charitable, benevolent, educational and religious. SECTION 2. Recognition of foreign Grand Lodges. In extending fraternal recognition to a foreign Grand Lodge, the following facts should be made evident before recognition should be granted, viz: 1. That the foreign Grand Lodge in question represents a substantial unity of the Freemasons of the territory over which it assumes jurisdiction; i.e., the country, province or state. 2. That it has been lawfully organized by three or more regular Lodges. 3. That it is independent, having entire dogmatic and administrative authority over resident Masons and the symbolic degrees within its territorial jurisdiction. 4. That its ritual is fundamentally in accord with the Ancient Landmarks, customs and usages of the Craft. This involves: A. Monotheism. B. The Volume of the Sacred Law a part of the furniture of the Lodge. 2

13 C. Secrecy. D. The symbolism of the operative art. E. The division of symbolic Masonry into the three degrees of Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft and Master Mason. F. The legend of the third degree. G. That it makes Masons of men only. H. That it is non-sectarian and non-political; i.e., that its dominant purposes are charitable, benevolent, educational and religious. ARTICLE III OFFICERS AND MEMBERS SECTION 1. The Grand Lodge consists of its officers, and the Masters and Wardens, for the time being, of the Constituent Lodges under its jurisdiction, or their legally appointed proxies and one Representative of each Lodge to be elected by its members or his legally appointed proxy; together with all Past Grand Masters, Past Deputy Grand Masters, Past Grand Wardens and Past District Deputy Grand Masters, while they retain their allegiance to this Grand Lodge. Any Brother who shall have served in the same office or on the same committee of this Grand Lodge for ten years and any Past Grand Master of another jurisdiction becoming a member of a Lodge in this state, may be elected by the Grand Lodge to permanent membership. SECTION 2. The Officers of Grand Lodge are: a Grand Master whose style is Most Worshipful; a Deputy Grand Master, a Senior Grand Warden, a Junior Grand Warden, a District Deputy Grand Master in each District, a Grand Treasurer, a Deputy Grand Treasurer, a Grand Secretary, a Grand Lecturer, a Deputy Grand Lecturer, a District Deputy Grand Lecturer in each District, one or more Grand Historians, two or more Grand Chaplains, a Senior Grand Deacon, a Junior Grand Deacon, whose style is Right Worshipful; a Secretary to the Grand Master, a Deputy Grand Secretary, a Grand Marshal, four Grand Stewards, a Grand Sword Bearer, two Grand Pursuivants, one or more Grand Organists, District Education Officer(s), maximum of two in each District, a Grand Tyler and a Deputy Grand Tyler, whose style is Worshipful. In addition, there shall be a Worshipful Grand Archivist, who shall not be installed, and shall serve at the pleasure of the Grand Master. SECTION 3. The appointment of the proxy of the Master, Warden or Representative of a Constituent Lodge to represent him in Grand Lodge shall be in writing, signed by the principal, and shall designate at what Communication of Grand Lodge the proxy shall act, and shall be for one Communication only, and shall be void if the principal appears in person. Proxies must be members of the same Constituent Lodge which they are representing. SECTION 4. All officers and members of Grand Lodge must be Master Masons holding allegiance to this Grand Lodge. Representatives of Constituent Lodges 3 TM No. 22 approved November 15, 2014

14 must be members of the Lodges they respectively represent. SECTION 5. No Master or Warden of a Constituent Lodge can be chosen the Representative of said Lodge in the Grand Lodge. ARTICLE IV COMMUNICATIONS AND LODGES OF INSTRUCTION SECTION 1. The Annual Communication of Grand Lodge shall be held on the third Saturday of May at nine-thirty o'clock in the forenoon at such location in the state as the Grand Master shall direct, and the Grand Secretary shall mail notice of said Annual Communication to the Constituent Lodges and the members of Grand Lodge at least thirty days before the date of said Annual Communication. SECTION 2. The Semiannual Communication of Grand Lodge shall be held on the third Saturday of November at nine-thirty o'clock in the forenoon at such location in the state as the Grand Master shall direct, and the Grand Secretary shall mail notice of said Semiannual Communication to the Constituent Lodges and the members of Grand Lodge at least thirty days before the date of said Semiannual Communication. SECTION 3. Every Lodge shall be represented at each Annual Communication and each Semiannual Communication of Grand Lodge. The Grand Secretary shall cause a roll of the Constituent Lodges to be called immediately at the opening of both Communications, and another roll to be called as the last order of business before the closing of said Communications unless Grand Lodge votes to accept the report of the Credentials Committee in lieu thereof. Any Lodge failing to have a representative present at the opening and closing roll calls shall be subject to a fine of one hundred dollars which is to be paid to the Grand Secretary for the use of Grand Lodge; provided, however, that in any case arising under this requirement, an appeal may be taken to the Grand Master, whose decision shall be final. SECTION 4. In case of an epidemic, destruction of the hall by fire, or any real emergency, the Grand Master shall have the power to change the time and place of holding any and all Communications, as his judgment may deem it best for the Fraternity as a whole. SECTION 5. At the Annual or Semiannual Communication old business may be decided upon by a majority vote. New business requires a unanimous vote in order to be enacted at the same Communication at which it is introduced; otherwise, it shall lie over until the following Communication when passage will require only a majority vote or it may be referred to a committee. SECTION 6. At any Annual Communication or Semiannual Communication, Grand Lodge shall have full power and authority to make such amendments, alterations and additions to this Constitution as Grand Lodge shall deem proper and expedient for the benefit of the Craft. Such amendment, alteration or addition must be proposed in writing by a member of Grand Lodge at an Annual or Semiannual Communication of Grand Lodge, be filed with the Grand Secretary, and if the vote upon the same at the Annual or Semiannual Communication at 4 TM No. 22 approved November 15, 2014

15 which the said amendment, alteration or addition is proposed be unanimous, it shall be declared by the Grand Master to have been adopted. Otherwise, it shall lie over for consideration at the next Communication, Annual or Semiannual, and a copy of said amendment, alteration or addition shall be mailed to the Constituent Lodges and to each member of Grand Lodge at least thirty days prior to the date of the Communication when action is to be taken, and it will then be decided upon by a majority vote. Any such proposed amendment, alteration or addition, when acted upon by a majority vote, may be amended as Grand Lodge shall deem proper, provided also, that the Ancient Landmarks of Masonry be carefully preserved. SECTION 6A. At any Annual Communication or Semiannual Communication, Grand Lodge shall have full power and authority to make such alteration(s) to the Ritual (a uniform mode of working and lectures) as Grand Lodge shall deem proper and expedient for the benefit of the Craft. Such alteration(s) to the Ritual must be proposed in writing by a member of Grand Lodge at an Annual or Semiannual Communication of Grand Lodge, be filed with the Grand Secretary, and if the vote upon the same at the Annual or Semiannual Communication at which the said alteration(s) to the Ritual is proposed be unanimous, it shall be declared by the Grand Master to have been adopted. Otherwise, it shall lie over for consideration at the next Communication, Annual or Semiannual, and a copy of said alteration(s) to the Ritual shall be mailed to the Constituent Lodges and to each member of Grand Lodge at least thirty days prior to the date of the Communication when action is to be taken, and it will then be decided upon by a majority vote. Any such proposed alteration(s) to the Ritual, when acted upon by a majority vote, may be amended as Grand Lodge shall deem proper, provided also, that the Ancient Landmarks of Masonry be carefully preserved. SECTION 7. Such committee reports as may be ordered by the Grand Master, and the exemplification of the work and lectures or other educational programs may be presented at any Annual Communication or at any Semiannual Communication. SECTION 8. Special Communications may be called as Grand Lodge or the Grand Master may direct. 5 TM No. 24 approved May 16, 2015

16 SECTION 9. Lodges of Instruction shall be held annually for each Masonic District. The Grand Master shall call a Communication of all Lodges in each District to be called a "Lodge of Instruction", at such time and such place as he shall designate, for the exemplification of the ritualistic work or for such other program of Masonic instruction as the Grand Master may choose to present. It shall be the duty of the Masters, Wardens, Treasurers, and Secretaries of Lodges in any District, whenever the Grand Master shall call a Lodge of Instruction to be held for said District, to attend the same. It shall be the duty of the Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master, Grand Wardens, Grand Secretary, Grand Deacons, Grand Lecturer, Deputy Grand Lecturer, and other Grand Lodge Officers that the Grand Master may deem necessary, as well as the District Deputy Grand Master, District Deputy Grand Lecturer and District Education Officers of the District for which said Lodge of Instruction is to be held, to attend all such Lodges of Instruction and perform the duties of their respective offices. The Grand Master shall organize all such Lodges of Instruction with members of Grand Lodge and shall preside therein. In the absence of the Grand Master these duties shall be performed by the Deputy Grand Master; in the absence of both of them, by the Senior Grand Warden; in the absence of all three, by the Junior Grand Warden; and in the absence of all four, by the District Deputy Grand Master of the District in which the Lodge of Instruction is to be held. The Grand Secretary shall send to the Secretary of each Lodge in a Masonic District, a notice of the time and place that the Lodge of Instruction is to be held for said District at least thirty days before the date of said Communication. The Grand Secretary shall be the Secretary of all such Lodges of Instruction and shall keep a record thereof, which shall be published, in the next printed proceedings of Grand Lodge. The Grand Master or the District Deputy Grand Master shall designate the Lodges to confer the degrees or other appropriate Masonic program as may be desired at Lodges of Instruction. 5-A TM No. 24 added May 16, 2015

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18 The expense of a Lodge of Instruction shall be borne by the Lodges within the Masonic District in which it is held in proportion to their respective members. Each Lodge shall pay its proportion of said expenses to the District Deputy Grand Master within one month after the Lodge of Instruction and he shall use the same to pay said expenses. ARTICLE V QUALIFICATION, ELECTION AND INSTALLATION OF OFFICERS SECTION 1. The Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master, Grand Wardens, Grand Treasurer, Deputy Grand Treasurer and Grand Secretary shall be chosen by ballot at the Semiannual Communication of Grand Lodge. The other officers shall be appointed by the Grand Master. In all cases of ballot, a majority shall be necessary to make a choice. SECTION 2. The officers of Grand Lodge shall be elected and appointed for the term of one year and shall be installed at the Annual Communication of Grand Lodge. The installation shall be conducted by such Past Grand Master as the Grand Master may invite to perform that service. In the absence of any Past Grand Master, and in the absence of the retiring Grand Master, the installation shall be conducted by any Past District Deputy Grand Master who may be present. SECTION 3. No Brother shall be eligible to the office of Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master, Grand Warden, District Deputy Grand Master, Grand Lecturer, Deputy Grand Lecturer, District Deputy Grand Lecturer, or Grand Deacon unless he shall have been regularly elected and duly installed Master of a duly constituted Lodge and faithfully discharged his duties in such office for the term for which he was elected. None of the officers above named, during his continuance in office, shall be Master or Warden of a Constituent Lodge nor shall the Master of any Constituent Lodge be eligible to either of the above named offices in Grand Lodge, during his continuance in office as Master, unless he be a Past Master elected to again serve his Lodge in an emergency. SECTION 4. In case the Grand Master-elect be absent at the time of installation, he may be installed at such time and place, and by such person, as Grand Lodge or the Grand Master may authorize and appoint, unless he declines to accept said office. SECTION 5. If any elected or appointed Grand Officer be absent at the time of installation, he may be installed by the Master of the Lodge in which he holds his membership or by such other person as may be designated by the Grand Master and a certificate of the fact of such installation shall be filed with the Grand Secretary. No officer may be installed by proxy. SECTION 6. The several Grand Officers, previous to their installation, shall make the following declaration: "I, A.B., do solemnly promise on the honor of a Mason, in the presence of Almighty God and before the Grand Lodge of the State of New Hampshire, that to the best of my ability I will faithfully, honestly and impartially perform the duties of the office to which I 6 TM No. 23 issued January 5, 2015

19 have been elected/appointed and that I will conform to and maintain the Constitution, laws, rules and regulations of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of New Hampshire, and the ancient usages, customs and Landmarks of Free and Accepted Masons." SECTION 7. All Grand Officers, elected or appointed, when installed, shall be proclaimed by the Grand Marshal, and shall hold their respective offices until their successors are duly elected or appointed and installed. SECTION 8. No elected or appointed officer of Grand Lodge, or of any Constituent Lodge, can act as such until he is duly installed. ARTICLE VI POWERS AND DUTIES OF GRAND OFFICERS SECTION 1. The Grand Master shall preside over and govern Grand Lodge at all its Communications and shall perform all acts and deeds that are warranted and required of him by the Constitution, regulations and edicts of Grand Lodge. SECTION 2. The Grand Master has power and authority, during the recess of Grand Lodge, to grant dispensations to new Lodges to continue in force until the next Communication, Annual or Semiannual, of Grand Lodge; to arrest the dispensation or charter of any Lodge for good cause until the next Communication, Annual or Semiannual, of Grand Lodge; and for dereliction of duty or other un-masonic conduct he may suspend a Brother or Lodge until the next Communication, Annual or Semiannual, of Grand Lodge, when he shall present the reason for such arrest or suspension in writing. He may convene Grand Lodge at pleasure giving reasonable notice thereof to the Lodges and members of the time and place at which the Communication is to be held and stating therein the object of it. SECTION 3. Dispensations are required from the Grand Master and may be granted by him for: A. Public processions. B. Non-Masons to join a Masonic procession. C. Receiving or balloting on a petition for any type of membership at a Special Communication. D. Balloting on a petition for any type of membership or conferring degrees, permitting either in less than the statutory time of 28 days. E. A Lodge from another jurisdiction: 1. To officially visit a New Hampshire Lodge or 2. To exhibit work of its jurisdiction in a New Hampshire Lodge on either their own or one of our candidates. 7 TM No. 11 approved November 20, 1999

20 F. A New Hampshire Lodge, opened specifically for the purpose of: 1. Visiting a Lodge in another jurisdiction or 2. Visiting a Lodge in another jurisdiction and exhibiting work of this state upon a New Hampshire candidate or one of theirs provided, in each case, a dispensation is also granted by the Grand Master of the other jurisdiction. G. Performing ritual not sanctioned or authorized by Grand Lodge. H. A Table Lodge (conducted in accordance with regulations stipulated in the Manual of the Grand Lodge of New Hampshire). I. A Masonic Memorial Service to be performed for a deceased Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft or non-affiliated Mason. J. A special election to fill a vacancy in an elected Lodge office caused by death, expulsion or suspension. K. A Lodge to change its place of meeting from one town to another town or more than two miles in the same town. L. Lodges to perform degree work in areas outside the Lodge Room. M. Other than conventional clothing to be worn during degree work. N. A new Lodge. O. A waiver of jurisdiction over a petitioner for degrees who has Masonic residence in New Hampshire and wishes to join a Lodge in another jurisdiction. P. Lodges to engage in gambling activities. Q. Lodges to open on Sunday for purposes deemed by him to be in the best interest of the Craft, subject to the restrictions in Article XIII, Section 2. R. To permit the degrees of Ancient Craft Masonry to be conferred upon more than five candidates at the same communication and by the same ceremony. S. Permitting a dedicated Lodge Room to be used for non-masonic purposes with concurrence of the Jurisprudence Committee. SECTION 4. The Grand Master, or a deputy appointed by him for the special purpose, may convene any Lodge, preside therein, inspect its proceedings and require its conformity to the Constitution, regulations and edicts of Grand Lodge. SECTION 5. The Grand Master has authority to divide the state into Districts and assign their limits. Every newly constituted Lodge shall be assigned by him to some District and notice given to the District Deputy Grand Master of the same. SECTION 6. The Grand Master, by himself, by a District Deputy Grand Master or by a special deputy named for the purpose, shall, at least once in a year, visit all the Lodges within this jurisdiction; 8 TM No. 21 approved November 16, 2013

21 preside for such time as is necessary to examine into their conduct, records and proceedings; correct irregularities and innovations and make a report of his doings to Grand Lodge at its next Annual Communication. SECTION 7. The Grand Master may appoint a special deputy or deputies to constitute a new Lodge or Lodges, or for any other purpose to be specified in such appointment. SECTION 8. The Grand Master shall appoint all committees of Grand Lodge. Any vacancies in any standing or special committee may be filled by the Grand Master. SECTION 9. The Grand Master is empowered to take the following action regarding Grand Representatives: A. To recommend a Brother who is a member of a New Hampshire Lodge and not already a Grand Representative of another jurisdiction to be appointed by another Grand Lodge as the Grand Representative of that Grand Lodge near the Grand Lodge of New Hampshire for a term not greater than five years, who may thereafter be reappointed; B. To approve the recommendation of another Grand Lodge that a Brother who is a member of a Lodge in their jurisdiction be appointed as the Grand Representative of the Grand Lodge of New Hampshire near their Grand Lodge. C. To remove a Grand Representative near the Grand Lodge of New Hampshire who does not attend consecutive sessions of the Grand Lodge of New Hampshire or who otherwise is not performing the functions of the office; D. To suspend exchanging Grand Representatives with a jurisdiction that is not utilizing the program. SECTION 10. The Grand Master shall cast the deciding vote whenever, in any question before Grand Lodge, there shall be an equal number of votes. SECTION 11. It shall be the duty of the Grand Master, or presiding officer, at the Semiannual Communication of Grand Lodge, to give, or cause to be given, exemplification of the work and lectures of such degree or degrees as may be designated by the Grand Master or Grand Lodge, or any other educational instruction program which may be deemed feasible, expedient or necessary for the benefit of Masonry. SECTION 12. In case of the death or permanent removal from the state of the Grand Master, the Deputy Grand Master shall, ex officio, exercise all the powers and perform all the duties of the Grand Master, as herein provided, until his successor is elected. During the absence of the Grand Master or because of his physical inability to perform the duties of his office, the Deputy Grand Master shall exercise and perform like powers and duties. 9 TM No. 17 approved May 15, 2010

22 SECTION 13. In case of the death, permanent removal from the state or absence of both the Grand Master and the Deputy Grand Master, the Senior Grand Warden shall, ex officio, preside over Grand Lodge and shall otherwise possess all of the powers of the office of Grand Master. In the absence, as above, of the Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master and Senior Grand Warden, the Junior Grand Warden shall, ex officio, possess all of the powers of the office of Grand Master. In the absence of these officers, the most Junior Past Grand Master, for the time being, shall possess all of the powers of the office of Grand Master. If there be no Past Grand Master available then the Senior Past District Deputy Grand Master, whose services are physically available, shall possess all of the powers of the office of Grand Master. In any of these cases, unless he be a Past Grand Master, the presiding officer shall wear the jewel of the Deputy Grand Master. SECTION 14. It is not the duty of the Grand Master of Masons in New Hampshire to decide matters pertaining to Chapters of the Order of the Eastern Star, the White Shrine, the Order of Amaranth, the Order of DeMolay for Boys or the Order of Rainbow for Girls. SECTION 15. The Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master and Grand Secretary of Grand Lodge shall attend, at the expense of Grand Lodge, the meetings of the Masonic Service association of the United States, the George Washington Masonic National Memorial Association, the Conference of Grand Masters of Masons in North America and the Conference of Grand Secretaries in North America. SECTION 16. It shall be the duty of the Deputy Grand Master to render to the Grand Master such assistance as may be required of him. In the absence of the Grand Master, he shall preside in Grand Lodge and perform such duties and possess such authority as appertain to the office of Grand Master. SECTION 17. It shall be the duty of the Grand Wardens to assist the Grand Master in Grand Lodge, act as his Wardens and attend in the examination of any Constituent Lodge when required. SECTION 18: The Grand Treasurer of the Grand Lodge of NH is responsible for managing all financial interests of the Grand Lodge, and will, according to his position, be Chairman of the Finance & Investment Committee. He will report to The Grand Master, and provide reports and activities according to the will and pleasure of the Grand Master during his elected term of office. The Grand Treasurer should be present at all official communications of the Grand Lodge, including, but not limited to Lodges of Instruction, Annual and Semi-Annual Communications. The requirements, duties and responsibilities are: Managing all financial records of Grand Lodge. Preparing monthly reports of all financial activities. Presenting policies and procedures for the regulation of all financial activities of Grand Lodge. Having a moderate to expert level of expertise in electronic record keeping and communications, including, but not limited to: MS Excel, MS Word, MS Power Point; PC or Mac ; computer file backup procedures; Internet usage and communications 10 TM No. 19 approved May 21, 2011

23 Assuring that regular intervals are maintained for banking transactions. Preparing and maintaining the various budgets pertaining to the Grand Lodge accounts. Having and/or acquiring the ability to read, interpret and report on investment account activities. Receiving all funds, keeping accurate records, paying all bills of Grand Lodge, as directed. Assuming the various duties generally assigned to a financial manager, while maintaining proper demeanor and carriage of an officer of the Grand Lodge. A. Have the custody and charge of the funds of Grand Lodge; B. Be bonded with surety or sureties, to the satisfaction of the Grand Master and Grand Wardens, conditioned for the faithful discharge of his trust; C. From time to time, invest the funds of Grand Lodge and change such investments in accordance with the written approval or instructions of a majority of the members of the Committee on Finance and Investments or as otherwise directed by vote of Grand Lodge; D. Lay before the Committee on Finance and Investments a statement of his accounts, exhibiting the amount, with the respective dates of receipts and disbursements and vouchers therefore; E. Receive all monies from the Grand Secretary, as well as all other monies paid to Grand Lodge; F. Pay all bills after they have been approved by the Grand Master; G. Annually render to Grand Lodge a statement of his accounts, with a schedule of the funds of Grand Lodge and H. Deliver to his successor in office the funds and other property of Grand Lodge, taking duplicate receipts therefore, one of which he shall deposit with the Grand Secretary. 10-A TM No. 19 approved May 21, 2011

24 SECTION 19. The Grand Secretary is responsible for managing the administrative requirements of the Grand Lodge office. He reports to the Grand Master, and will be expected to provide regular reports and communications to the Grand Master (and Grand Line officers) for their deliberations and decisions. He is also responsible for keeping the Deputy Grand Secretary abreast of all the functions and issues relating to the managing of the Grand Lodge business office, and the supervision of any office staff. The various requirements and duties are: Preparing monthly reports for the Grand Master regarding any issues, news or communications, for the Grand Masters approval, decision or presentation to other Grand Officers or the Fraternity in general. Keeping a regular inventory of all the properties and possessions of Grand Lodge, obtaining appropriate values on the inventory and assuring insurance is in place to cover any potential losses. With the Deputy Grand Secretary, assuring that Lodge Secretaries are trained to fulfill their respective duties, keeping current with required reporting, and assuring their Lodges are maintaining all necessary communications with Grand Lodge. Maintaining the offices of Grand Lodge. Keeping current with all generally accepted electronic communications procedures, including, but not limited to: MS Word, MS Excel, MS Power Point, PC or Mac programs, moderate to expert working expertise of whichever program is chosen by the Grand Lodge for keeping all accounting records of the Grand Secretaries office, choosing and maintaining a telephone system for the Grand Lodge office, choosing and maintaining the regularly used office equipment of the Grand Lodge office, and managing the Grand Secretaries office according to the Grand Lodge operating budget. Referring all questions from constituent Lodges regarding Masonic Protocol, Lodge operations, and conduct to the Grand Master. Assuming all the duties relative to the administrative management of the Grand Lodge office while maintaining the demeanor, positive attitude and accessibility of an officer of the Grand Lodge 10-B TM No. 19 approved May 21, 2011

25 The Grand Secretary shall: A. Attend upon the Communications of Grand Lodge, observe and record the proceedings thereof, and preserve the same in suitable books kept for that purpose; B. Summon the members to attend all Communications of Grand Lodge in such manner as Grand Lodge or the Grand Master may direct; Master; C. Receive all petitions, applications and appeals and lay them before the Grand D. Have custody of the seal of Grand Lodge; E. Engross, attest and affix the seal to all charters, commissions, diplomas and certificates when ordered by the Grand Master or Grand Lodge; F. Keep a list of all Lodges under this jurisdiction according to seniority and G. Under the direction of the Grand Master, answer all communications on the subject of Masonry. SECTION 20. The Grand Secretary shall: A. Cause a transcript of the journal of proceedings of Grand Lodge to be printed, unless otherwise ordered by Grand Lodge, as soon after the Annual Communication as the same can be done; B. Forward a copy thereof to each of the Grand Lodges of the United States and to such other foreign Grand Jurisdictions as may be in communication with this Grand Lodge; C. Present a copy to each present Grand Lodge officer and to each Past Grand Master and five copies to each Constituent Lodge to be distributed as follows: 1. One to the Worshipful Master; 2. One each to the Senior and Junior Wardens; 3. One to the elected Representative to Grand Lodge and 4. One to the Lodge Secretary as the official Lodge copy; D. Forward a copy to each Permanent Member of this Grand Lodge who notifies the Grand Secretary in writing on or before June 1st of each year that he wishes to receive a copy; E. After its several Communications, forward to each member of Grand Lodge such number of copies of the edicts and regulations of Grand Lodge, including a list of the Grand Officers for the time being, as shall be directed by the Grand Master and all such other transactions of 11 TM No. 19 approved May 21, 2011

26 Grand Lodge as may be necessary for the information and regulation of the Constituent Lodges; F. Furnish the chairman of each committee with a copy of the vote or order of his appointment; G. Attend all committees with the records and papers of his office when required; H. Record all reports of committees which may be accepted by Grand Lodge; I. Collect and receive all fees and sums of money which shall become due to Grand Lodge, except income upon invested funds, and pay the same over to the Grand Treasurer; J. Open and keep an account with each Constituent Lodge and report a statement thereof at each Annual Communication of Grand Lodge; K. Be bonded with sufficient surety or sureties to the satisfaction of the Grand Master and Grand Wardens, conditioned for the faithful discharge of his trust; L. Before the Annual Communication present to the Committee on Finance and Investments a full statement of his financial accounts for its audit and report; M. Transmit to the Secretaries of the Constituent Lodges the necessary blanks to be used in making the annual returns of the Lodges; N. Furnish all Lodges with printed dues cards in a quantity equaling fifteen percent more than their membership as determined by the last annual return to Grand Lodge. These cards are to be furnished to the Lodges approximately at cost. The Lodge shall pay the Grand Secretary upon receipt of a bill for the same and the Grand Secretary shall make a financial accounting togrand Lodge; O. Furnish blank diplomas to Constituent Lodges, they paying the cost thereof. P. Ensure that all new Grand Representatives have received all literature as to the functions and responsibilities of Grand Representatives; keep attendance of Grand Representatives near the Grand Lodge of New Hampshire at communications of the Grand Lodge of New Hampshire and report vacancies to the Grand Master; require a yearly statement or synopsis by all Grand Representatives as to the workings of the Grand Lodge they represent, to be made available to all interested New Hampshire Masons. SECTION 21. The District Deputy Grand Masters shall visit the Several Lodges in their respective Districts as often as convenient, but at least once in every year, and preside in the Same. If unable to visit any Lodge, they may appoint some suitable Brother to perform that duty. They shall inspect their by-laws, the state and condition of their finances, records, mode of working and use of appropriate forms. They shall also inspect their copy of the Constitution of the Grand Lodge of New Hampshire insuring it contains all amendments to date, and a copy of the List of all Regular Lodges as published by the Pantagraph Press, Bloomington, Ill., or some similar source. 12 TM No. 17 approved May 15, 2010

27 The District Deputy Grand Masters may be reimbursed for their expenses incurred in visiting the Lodges in their respective Districts, their accounts first being examined and approved by the Grand Master. Each District Deputy Grand Master shall, on or before the first day of May each year, make a detailed report of his activities to the Grand Master with a copy to the Grand Secretary. SECTION 22. It shall be incumbent on the Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master, Grand Wardens, District Deputy Grand Masters, Grand Lecturers and District Deputy Grand Lecturers severally to improve and perfect themselves in the sublime arts and work appertaining to the degrees of Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft and Master Mason and to make themselves masters of the Masonic lectures and Ancient Charges belonging to those degrees. They are to consult with each other and with the Masters of Constituent Lodges for the purpose of adopting measures suitable and proper for diffusing a knowledge of said lectures and a uniform mode of working in the several Lodges throughout this jurisdiction. In order to better effect this laudable purpose, the Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master and Grand Wardens are severally hereby authorized and empowered to visit and preside in every and any Lodge in this state. The Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master and Grand Wardens are authorized to examine the doings of the several Lodges, correct irregularities and give such direction and instruction as the good of the Fraternity may require, always adhering to the Ancient Landmarks of the Order and the requirements of this Constitution. SECTION 23. The Grand Lecturers shall instruct the District Deputy Grand Lecturers in their work and they shall call them together at least four times each year for the purpose of such instruction. The District Deputy Grand Lecturers are to instruct the several Lodges within their respective Districts in the work and lectures of the three degrees and once each year shall visit the same for that purpose. The District Deputy Grand Lecturers may be reimbursed for their expenses incurred in visiting the Lodges in their respective Districts, their accounts first being examined and approved by the Grand Master. SECTION 24. The Grand Chaplains attending the Communications of Grand Lodge shall perform such duties as may be suitable to the occasion and as are established by Masonic usage. SECTION 25. The Grand Historian shall search the records and archives of Grand Lodge and shall record the significant historical events concerning New Hampshire Freemasonry and the accomplishments of New Hampshire Masons. SECTION 26. The Deputy Grand Secretary shall assist the Grand Secretary in the performance of his several duties. SECTION 27. The Secretary to the Grand Master shall perform such secretarial duties as the Grand Master may assign to him. 13 TM No. 19 approved May 21, 2011

28 SECTION 28. The Grand Deacons shall assist within Grand Lodge in such duties as appertain to their office and attend the Grand Master in processions. SECTION 29. The Grand Marshal shall direct the formation of all processions. He shall make proclamations and shall communicate and execute the commands of the Grand Master. SECTION 30. The Grand Stewards shall see that provision is made for every Brother at refreshment. In general, they shall be ready to assist every officer in the performance of his duties. SECTION 31. The Grand Sword Bearer is to attend the Grand Master and assist the Grand Marshal in the discharge of his duties. SECTION 32. The Grand Pursuivants are to attend the officers, members and visitors insuring that they appear in Grand Lodge suitably clothed and that they take their proper stations. In all public processions of Grand Lodge they shall assist the Grand Marshal. SECTION 33. The Grand Organist shall provide appropriate music at the Communications of Grand Lodge. SECTION 34. The District Education Officers are to instruct and assist the several Lodges within their respective Districts in the presentation of instructional programs relative to the moral teachings, philosophy, doctrine and history of Freemasonry. They shall separately visit each Lodge for that purpose at least once during the year following their installation, and shall take their direction from the Chairman of the Masonic Education Committee. They shall, on or before the fifteenth day of April, make a separate, detailed report of their activities to the Grand Master, with copies to the Grand Secretary and the Chairman of the Masonic Education Committee. The District Education Officers may be reimbursed for their expenses incurred in visiting the Lodges in their respective Districts, their accounts first being examined and approved by the Grand Master. SECTION 35. The Grand Tylers shall guard the outer door. SECTION 35A. The Grand Archivist shall have the special responsibility of cataloging and caring for the properties located within the Masonic Museum of the William Pitt Tavern in Portsmouth. SECTION 36. The salaries of the Grand Treasurer, Grand Secretary and office employees shall be as designated by the Grand Master and approved by the Committee on Finance and Investments. ARTICLE VII STATIONS, JEWELS AND CLOTHING SECTION 1. The stations of the Officers in Grand Lodge are as follows: Grand Master: In the East, at the head of Grand Lodge. Deputy Grand Master: In the East, next to and at the immediate right of the Grand Master. Senior Grand Warden: In the West. Junior Grand Warden: In the South. 14 TM No. 18 approved May 16, 2009

29 Grand Treasurer and Deputy Grand Treasurer: At the right and in front of the Grand Master. Grand Secretary: At the left and in front of the Grand Master. Grand Chaplains: In the East, the Senior next to and at the left of the Grand Master; the Junior at the left of the Senior. Grand Lecturers: At the right of the Grand Treasurer. Grand Historian: At the left of the Grand Chaplains. District Deputy Grand Masters: In the East at the left of the Grand Historian at the Semiannual Communication and in the South near the East at the Annual Communication. District Deputy Grand Lecturers: In front of the District Deputy Grand Masters. Deputy Grand Secretary: In the East at the left of the Grand Secretary. Secretary to the Grand Master: In the East, at the left of the Deputy Grand Secretary, if space is available; otherwise, at the left of the Grand Historian. Senior Grand Deacon: At the right of the Grand Master, in front of the Grand Treasurer. Junior Grand Deacon: In the West, at the right of the Senior Grand Warden. Grand Marshal: At the left of the Grand Master, in front of the Grand Secretary. Grand Stewards: In the South, two at the right and two at the left of the Junior Grand Warden, one Steward in front of the other. Grand Sword Bearer: At the left of the Grand Marshal. Grand Pursuivants: Near the doors of entrance to Grand Lodge. Grand Organist: Seated at the organ or other musical instrument. District Education Officers: In the South, near the East, and in front of the District Deputy Grand Lecturers when applicable. Grand Tylers: Outside the tyled door of entrance to Grand Lodge. Past Grand Masters: Next to and at the right of the Deputy Grand Master. SECTION 2. The jewels of the Grand Officers are: Grand Master: The compasses extended upon the sextant of a circle, to the angle of 45, with the square within the compasses, and above the square an eye irradiated, within a triangle, also irradiated, upon an oval within the compasses. 15 TM No. 4 approved May 21, 1994