1.7.3 Powers of lodges
The subordinate lodges are empowered to convene as Free and Accepted Masons; to receive and initiate Apprentices, pass Fellow Craft, and raise Master Masons, and require fees therefore; provided that such fees shall in no case be less than the sum fixed by the Grand Lodge; to choose officers annually; to assess and collect dues for the payment of the general expenses of the lodge and to levy and collect special assessments for Masonic or charitable purposes, and transact all matters appertaining to Masonry, agreeably to their charter, the Constitution and Edicts of the Grand Lodge, and the ancient usages of the Craft.
See Decision Nos 18, 19, 20, 24, 46, 63, 64, 92.
1.7.3.1 Lodge of sorrow
The subordinate lodges are empowered to open a "Lodge of Sorrow" at their Annual Communication, such lodge to remain open during the term of the incumbent Master and to be closed at the next Annual Communication.
Amended November 16, 1996.
Related Decisions
No. 18. Stopping The Work Of A Lodge
Decision: A brother declaring his intention to stop the work of his lodge can be punished therefor.
Constitution, Article VII, Sec. 1.7.3. November 13, 1867. (Doyle, GM)
No. 19. Will And Pleasure
Decision: That the Master of a lodge can open or close it at his own will and pleasure.
Constitution, Article VII, Sec. 1.7.3. November 13, 1867. (Doyle, GM)
No. 20. Recognition Of Motions
Decision: The business of a lodge is entirely within the control of the Master, and he is not compelled to recognize a motion to act upon a particular matter; but in his discretion may refuse to allow it to be considered.
Constitution, Article VII, Sec. 1.7.3. March 15, 1871. (Doyle, GM)
No. 24. Withdrawing From Freemasonry
Decision: It is not within the power of any Mason, or any body of Masons, to voluntarily withdraw from Freemasonry.
Constitution, Article VII, Sec. 1.7.3. November 16, 1874. (Morton, GM)
No. 46. Removal Of Objecting Officers By Master
Decision: A Master of a lodge has no power to remove from office a member who objected to the granting of an application.
Constitution, Article VII, Sec. 1.7.3. May 16, 1898. (Van Slyck, GM)
No. 63. Administering The Obligation
Decision: That the Junior Warden, in the absence of the Master and Senior Warden, is by virtue of his office the presiding officer of the lodge, and therefore has legal right to administer the obligation in conferring the degrees.
Constitution, Article VII, Sec. 1.7.3. May 16, 1910. (Magown, GM)
No. 64. Assistance During Degree Work
Decision: That the Master, by virtue of his prerogative, has legal right to call upon any Master Mason in good standing to assist him in any part of the work of conferring the degrees.
Constitution, Article VII, Sec. 1.7.3. May 16, 1910. (Magown, GM)
No. 92. Clarification Of Line Officers
Decision: I rule that the Treasurer, Secretary and Chaplain of a subordinate lodge are not line officers.
Constitution, Article VII, Sec. 1.7.3. November 18, 1995. (Cole, GM)
General Regulations, Article II, Sec. 2.2.1.