EACH OFFICER: SENIOR DEACON
Elder members of a craft most usually recognize this
officer as The second most important in the Lodge because of the
requirements of the office, duties performed and relation to the W.M. He is expected by all to be a highly knowledgeable
member. Should he not be extensively knowledgeable, his best attributes in
that position is a desire to study and learn his duties fully. A good memory
is needed. In regards to directions and instructions, the Treas.
and Sec. are in a strictly administrative capacity. Therefore the S.D. is
looked on as the fourth ranking officer in the Lodge. His stationary position in the Lodge is in the E.N.E.
area of the Lodge, just to the Front and to the right of the W.M., where he
can best serve as proxy. As the senior attendant, he is to protect and attend
on the W.M. His jewel is the S & C with the Sun which denotes his
place near the East. His every act on the floor is representative of the
desires of the W.M. and must be accepted by all as such. The W.M. seldom
appears on the floor The W.M. appoints as his S.D. a Brother with whom he
can work comfortably and who he
has no doubt been closely associated in the past. Through a W.M ongoing conversation, his S.D. should be
able to read ahead and immediately move to perform proficiently when
ordered. In the opening and closing ceremonies he moves about
swiftly, quietly and efficiently. He is the drawing personality during degree work and
is directly assisted by the Stewards and M. of C. He must master certain Masonic dialogue, never being
satisfied with the knowledge already digested. During degree work or instructions, he must be certain his innovations are not such that the meaning or intent of a subject is lost.
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