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Views expressed in the articles, etc., published in Pharos are solely those of the authors, and do not necessarily reflect or represent the views or opinions of Silas H. Shepherd Lodge of Research No. 1843, F. & A. M. of Wisconsin, its officers, or any other Masonic body. Furthermore, authors are solely responsible for the authenticity of their sources. Grateful acknowledgement is given to these authors for permission to reprint them here.
The Masonic Funeral Service
by Napoleon Sneed-Janczak
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The Masonic Funeral Service
There are few moments in Freemasonry where the public can share in ceremonial practices conducted by Masons for Masons. Installations, Cornerstone laying/ Rededications, and the Masonic Funeral Service. The Masonic funeral service is the topic this article is going to address for you and why these ceremonies are important for the Brotherhood and our families.
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It is believed that the services evolved much like the Craft. When the old stonemason’s guilds lost a worker on duty, they created rites and rituals to both mourn and honor the life lost too short. Masonic funeral practices are solemn ceremonies for the Brothers to celebrate the life a Mason lived, recognize his service, and send him off with dignity, respect, and honor. We reflect on this moment in our own lives to remember to live a good life in this world so that we may be welcomed in the next. A Masonic Funeral serves as both a tribute to the individual and a reminder of our shared commitment to “Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth.” As we mourn the loss of a Mason, we are reminded that while life is temporary, the principles of our Craft are eternal.
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Like our other public ceremonies, there are lessons about Freemasonry to help Masons reflect on themselves but also help dispel any misgivings the families may have had about our Fraternity beforehand. In many cases this will be the first exposure to Freemasonry. We explain the various items and symbols to reaffirm our commitment to the virtues that bind us; also help those who are not initiated get a sense there was truly an honorable purpose to our Brother’s life.
The tenets, virtues, and common values we teach in our degrees are exemplified in a Masonic funeral service through the various symbols displayed. The Evergreen or Sprig of Acacia is very important in this ceremony. We are reminded of mortality within ourselves and immortality of the departed Brother. The Acacia or Evergreen represents immortality of the soul, spiritual temple, and eternal life; representing the belief that a part of man survives death through the spirit and legacy he leaves behind. When we place the Acacia on the casket or altar with an urn, we are reminded the innocence lost can be renewed. The strength and resilience of the evergreen is a constant reminder that we can overcome the trials of life.
The square and compasses are a reflection of living a life of moral conduct, keeping our words and deeds within due bounds or remembering circumspection in all our actions. It is important to remind ourselves that throughout our life we strive for discipline and order.
The most common symbol is the badge of a Mason; the white leather apron and gloves. These signify purity, innocence, and a new beginning, while the white gloves symbolize clean hands and pure intentions. In the funeral service every Mason should wear a white apron and gloves no matter which office they hold. This represents equality, and pure intentions i.e. “here I find you, and here I leave you.”
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The statement, “May we meet, act, and part my Brothers,” is not something left in the Lodge, but of special importance to the Brothers family. It is vital for us to be present whenever possible upon initiation of a new candidate. It is a special experience. We stress the importance of being there for our Brothers when they enter our fraternity. It is equally if not more vital to be there upon their departure from the physical journey to the spiritual. Remember, this may be the first experience the family and some Masons see. The years of service and sacrifice a Brother devotes to the fraternity and in some cases the volunteer support of the family, will reflect on the Fraternity as a whole in the memorial service. We teach that support of our Brothers is paramount to who we are as Freemasons, and equally so when it comes to the “Widows and Orphans.” It is imperative that we follow up with these families periodically. They often do not reach out to us, and our Lodge Chaplain or designated committee should do this regularly.
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Masonic funeral services are not all done the same. Jurisdictions vary on how these services are conducted, but the lessons, solemnity, and dignity afforded are universal. Masonic funeral services are not religious ceremonies, but graceful gatherings that are quiet, orderly, and prayerful. They are not intended to replace the services of one’s faith. The rituals developed over the years are designed to be uniform, and with purpose. The Brother officiating should have knowledge of the Fraternity, and how our departed Brother’s service was exemplified. Be deliberate when in procession to your assigned chairs. It is about mourning and celebrating a life well lived with compassion and understanding.
I was reminded recently at the passing of a Brother that his Apron was nowhere to be found. The family wanted a Masonic service to be performed. It seems trivial on its face, but it is very important to us as Masons to have the apron we received be with us in death. Please make arrangements with your family and let them know where your items are and make your wishes known. Talk to your Brothers about your wishes also.
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Lastly, it is just as important to share the moments a Mason receives his degrees, and it is equally important when he lays down his working tools. We owe it to the Brother, and those loved ones he leaves behind who allowed our Brother to be with us when we needed him also. So Mote It Be!