So You've Just Been Initiated, Now What?

Whether you're a newly initiated Entered Apprentice or a Mason who's been in the Craft for years, you've likely encountered this common challenge: the vast ocean of Masonic knowledge can sometimes feel overwhelming.

Where do you start?

How do you navigate the countless books, lectures, and interpretations?

What's the best way to apply Masonic teachings to your daily life?

These questions aren't unique to new Mason. Even experienced Masons often find themselves seeking a clear path through our fraternity's rich symbolism and profound philosophy. The journey of Masonic education is lifelong, but without a guide, it can sometimes feel like wandering in the dark.

This shared experience of seeking direction in our Masonic learning brings many brethren together in lodges, study groups, and online forums.

It's also why resources that offer structured approaches to Masonic education are often met with interest from Brethren at all stages of their Masonic journey.

One such resource that has recently caught my attention is a free course offered by Square Magazine, called Mentor Notes, but it’s an "Introductory to the First Degree in Freemasonry."

While its title suggests a focus on new members, it’s something every mason should complete because it’s basically how you mentor a newly initiated brother!

For new Masons, it's common to feel a mix of excitement and perhaps a bit of uncertainty about what comes next. Having been in your position before, I'd like to share some insights that might be helpful as you begin your Masonic journey.

One of the first things you might consider is how to build upon the foundation laid during your initiation. While your lodge will provide guidance and mentorship, some Brethren find additional resources helpful for deepening their understanding of Masonic principles and practices.

One of the great things about Square Magazine’s "Introductory to First Degree in Freemasonry," is that it’s free, but provides a structured approach to learning about the Craft, particularly focused on the First Degree.

The course covers several topics that could be relevant to every new mason:

- A Beginner's Guide to Freemasonry

- Exploration of the First Degree Working Tools

- Insights into the Charge After Initiation

- Preparation for Questions Leading to the Second Degree

- Historical perspectives, including William Preston's First Degree Lecture and J.S.M. Ward's Entered Apprentices Handbook

- Practical applications of Masonic teachings in daily life

- An examination of the Masonic maxim "Audi, Vide, Tace"

What you might find useful about this course is its attempt to bridge Masonic symbolism with practical application. It offers interpretations of how Masonic principles can be applied in personal and professional contexts, which some Brethren find valuable.

As a Newly Initiated Brother, you might be wondering how to make sense of the symbols and ceremonies you've encountered. This type of structured learning can potentially provide a framework for understanding, though it's worth noting that Masonic education is a lifelong journey, and interpretations can vary.

It's also important to remember that while external resources can be helpful, active participation in your lodge and discussions with your Brethren are fundamental to your Masonic experience. The course, or others like it, should be viewed as a supplement to, not a replacement for, the education provided by your lodge.

The fact that this course is offered free of charge makes it an accessible option for new Brethren looking to expand their knowledge.

It's a low-risk way to explore additional Masonic education beyond what your lodge provides.

Remember, there's no rush to absorb everything at once. Freemasonry is a journey of gradual discovery and personal growth. Whether through this course, lodge education, personal reading, or discussions with Brethren, the important thing is to engage with the Craft in a way that feels meaningful to you.

As you continue your Masonic journey, you may find various resources and perspectives that resonate with you. The Square Magazine course is one such resource that you might consider as you seek to deepen your understanding of the Craft.

Ultimately, the path you take in your Masonic education is a personal one. Whatever resources you choose to explore, may they enrich your experience and help you derive the full benefits of your membership in our fraternity.

Click here to access Square Magazine’s “Mentor Notes- Entered Apprentice”