Masonic Terms

Glossary of Masonic Terms

As you research Prince Hall Affiliated Freemasonry you may hear the following terms used. We hope to share just a few generally accepted definitions from our perspective. The definitions are not intended to be comprehensive, but to act as a give to help you get started with your Masonic Journey.
 

Appendant Bodies 

Masonically affiliated groups that Masons or their relatives may join, such as the Scottish Rite, York Rite, and the Shriners.

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Degree

One of three progressive stages of advancement in the lodge, conferred using a ritual ceremony; additional degrees are conferred by appendant bodies.

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Grand Lodge

A governing organization with authority over the individual lodges in its jurisdiction.

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Initiated

The completion by a candidate of the 1st Masonic degree.

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Masonic Lodge

A group of Freemasons assembling under the authority of a charter issued by a Grand Lodge; also a building or a room where Masons meet.

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Sitting in the East

The position in the lodge room where the Worshipful Master sits, also known as the Oriental chair; lodges are symbolically situated east and west.

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Speculative Masonry

Freemasonry as practiced today, using the symbolism of Operative Masons to build character in men.

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Worshipful Master 

The Worshipful Master is the president or currently sitting presiding officer of a Masonic lodge.  The “Worshipful” in the title refers to his service to God and others, rather than referring to the lodges status towards him or his position.​

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