Masonry is a fraternal organization that has been around for centuries. It is often associated with funerals, as many masons are asked to perform rituals and ceremonies at the funerals of fellow masons. During these services, a number of special phrases and words are spoken by masons in order to pay tribute to the deceased. These phrases are designed to offer comfort and closure for those left behind, as well as provide a sense of hope for the afterlife. Here is an overview of some of the things that masons typically say at a funeral.
At a funeral, Masons typically say prayers for the deceased and offer condolences to the family. They may also share memories of the deceased or words of comfort and support. Additionally, Masons may recite ancient masonic funeral rites such as The Acacia, The Broken Column, and The Cable Tow which focus on themes such as mortality, death, resurrection, and eternal life.
Common Masonic Funeral Services
Masonic funeral services are one of the most common types of funerals held in America. They are typically conducted by members of the Freemasons and involve certain rituals and traditions that are specific to the organization. The following is a brief overview of what is typically included in a Masonic funeral service:
- Opening remarks from a senior member of the Freemasons.
- A prayer or some form of spiritual reflection.
- Remembrance and honoring of the deceased.
- Reading from scripture or some other type of inspirational text.
- Closing remarks from a senior member of the Freemasons.
Masonic funeral services are generally quite solemn yet still uplifting. It is customary to wear appropriate attire to this type of service, such as a suit or dress for men and women respectively. It is also customary for family members and friends to bring flowers as a sign of respect for the deceased, although this isn’t required. Additionally, those attending may be asked to recite certain words or phrases that have special meaning to the organization.
The Freemason’s mourning ritual is unique in that it does not focus on grief or sadness but instead seeks to remember and celebrate the life that has been lost. This is done through stories, poems, music, and other forms of expression which help to pay tribute to the deceased’s life and legacy. The aim is not just about remembering their death but rather celebrating all they had accomplished while living. Ultimately, these services provide closure and comfort for those mourning their loss while also honoring their memory in a respectful manner.
Opening Prayers at a Masonic Funeral
Masonic funerals are a solemn and dignified occasion. The opening prayer, also known as the invocation, should be respectful and meaningful. It should evoke a sense of reverence and honor for the deceased Mason and reflect the core beliefs of Freemasonry.
The following are some examples of prayers that can be used to open a Masonic funeral:
• O Almighty God, who hast promised to all those who seek thy protection never to forsake them, we humbly beseech thee to look down with mercy on this our brother in his last hour. Defend him from the fears of death, and grant him an admission into thy celestial lodge above, where he may join in singing thy praises for evermore. Amen.
• Almighty God, our heavenly Father, who has promised us that in our last moments we shall be supported by his mercy: We implore thee to comfort this Thy servant during his last earthly journey; that having faithfully served Thee here below he may enter into joy everlasting. Amen.
• Our Father who art in Heaven; Grant unto this Brother who now stands upon the threshold of eternity that he may have peace and everlasting life through Jesus Christ Our Lord. Amen.
• O Most Gracious God, Whose tender love is over all Thy works: We commend into Thy keeping these remains of our beloved Brother; trusting that Thou wilt be ever mindful of his mortal existence here upon earth and reward him according to his works done in the body through Jesus Christ Our Lord. Amen.
The Masonic Ritual During a Funeral Service
The Masonic ritual during a funeral service is an important part of the ceremony. It can be very meaningful to the family and friends of the deceased, as it pays tribute to their life and memory. The ritual includes prayers, readings, and reflections on the life of the deceased. It is a solemn occasion that honors the person who has passed away, and gives comfort to those left behind.
The ceremony typically follows a set pattern, with some variations depending on regional customs and traditions. The service begins with a prayer for guidance, usually led by an officer of the lodge. Then, a reading or scripture passage is shared in remembrance of the deceased. This may be followed by an open eulogy or speech from one or more family members or friends.
Following this, there may be either a poem or hymn chosen by the family. The next part of the ceremony includes words of comfort for those in attendance. This is often done by one of the lodge officers, but could also be given by another family member or friend if desired. Then there is usually a brief statement about what Freemasonry stands for and why it was important to the deceased.
After this, any lodge brothers who are present will offer up their own words in remembrance of their brother Mason who has passed away. Often these include memories shared between them that help to bring comfort to those present who were close to him in life. Therefore, the ceremony concludes with another prayer for peace and guidance for those left behind.
At this point, everyone present will stand as a symbol of respect for all that was accomplished in life by their beloved Mason who has passed away. This moment can be incredibly powerful for those present at the funeral service as they pay tribute to their departed loved one and remember all they have lost due to his passing.
Symbols Used in a Masonic Funeral
Masonic funerals are an important part of Freemasonry, a fraternal organization that has been in existence for centuries. The symbols used in a Masonic funeral are meant to serve as reminders of the deceased’s life and their connection to the fraternity. They also represent the teachings of Freemasonry and the foundation on which it was founded.
• Square and Compasses: The Square and Compasses is one of the most recognizable symbols of Freemasonry. It is made up of two interlocking triangles, symbolizing unity and friendship. It also stands for morality, truth, and justice; as well as temperance, fortitude, and prudence.
• All-Seeing Eye: The All-Seeing Eye is a reminder that God is ever-present and watching over us all. It serves as a reminder to be mindful of our actions and words, as we will be held accountable for them.
• Acacia: The Acacia tree is another important symbol used in Masonic funerals. It symbolizes immortality, resurrection, and rebirth – reminding us that death does not end life but rather marks a transition into the afterlife.
• Blazing Star: The Blazing Star is seen as a reminder to always strive for excellence in our daily pursuits. It stands for knowledge, wisdom, truth, beauty, justice, faithfulness, courage, integrity, loyalty, humility and charity – all virtues that should be upheld by Masons throughout their lives.
• Hourglass: The Hourglass symbolizes mortality – reminding us that life is fleeting and we must make the most of every moment we have on this earth. It serves as a reminder to never take our lives or the lives of others for granted.
These symbols are meant to both honor the deceased Mason’s memory while also teaching lessons about life that can be applied to everyone who attends the funeral service. By understanding these symbols’ meanings and using them properly at Masonic funerals, we can ensure that these important lessons are passed down through generations to come.
Purpose of Masonic Funeral Service
A Masonic funeral service is a solemn occasion that celebrates the life of a Mason, who was a member of the Freemasonry fraternity. It’s an opportunity for family and friends to gather and pay tribute to the deceased. The service includes a number of symbolic elements that reflect the individual’s commitment to Freemasonry and its principles.
The purpose of the service is to honor and celebrate the life of the deceased Mason, as well as to provide comfort and support for those in attendance. It’s also an opportunity for family and friends to come together in fellowship, share memories, and offer support.
The service typically includes several components:
- Opening remarks from a Masonic official
- Prayers or readings from scripture
- A eulogy or tribute from a family or friend
- A symbolic ritual, such as placing flowers on the casket
- Closing remarks from a Masonic official
The opening remarks typically consist of brief words about Freemasonry’s commitment to brotherly love, truth, justice, charity, integrity and morality. Prayers or readings from scripture are often included to offer comfort and solace to those in attendance. The eulogy is an opportunity for family members or close friends to share stories about their loved one with those in attendance. These stories often highlight qualities that made them unique; they may tell humorous anecdotes that remind everyone why their loved one was so special. The symbolic ritual may include placing flowers on the casket or other acts that symbolize what was important in the life of the deceased Mason. The closing remarks typically include words about hope and faith in God’s plan for all mankind.
At the In Reflection of the service, family members can take comfort knowing that their loved one was honored with dignity and respect by fellow Masons who shared his commitment to virtue and morality.
Honoring Deceased Members at a Funeral
Masonry is a fraternal organization that believes in honoring its members, even after their death. At funerals, Masonry honors its deceased members by displaying memorabilia related to the individual’s membership and involvement in the organization. This includes the regalia of the order, such as an apron or collar which is draped over the coffin, and a Bible presented to family members as a token of remembrance.
During the ceremony, Masonic brethren will also take part in the funeral proceedings. They may be asked to provide pallbearers or serve as honorary pallbearers. In addition, they may be asked to say a few words about the deceased member during the eulogy.
Masonry also pays tribute to deceased members by presenting special gifts to their families. These can include donations or scholarships that are given in memory of the deceased member’s commitment and dedication to Masonry.
At funerals, Masonic brethren will also participate in traditional Masonic rituals such as reciting prayers and performing music related to Masonry. This serves as a way for them to come together and remember their fallen brother or sister.
Therefore, Masonic organizations will often provide financial aid for funerals if requested by family members of deceased Masons. This is done in order to help alleviate some of the financial burden that can often come with burying loved ones.
In reflection, Masonry honors its deceased members at funerals by displaying memorabilia related to their membership and involvement in Masonry, providing pallbearers for services, presenting special gifts to families of the deceased member, participating in traditional Masonic rituals such as reciting prayers and performing music related to Masonry, and providing financial aid if requested by family members of deceased Masons.
Special Prayers for Masons Who Have Passed Away
Masonic funerals are a time of solemn remembrance and mourning for those who have left us. At the same time, it is also an opportunity to celebrate the life of a Mason and to honor his or her commitment to the fraternity. As part of this celebration, there are special prayers that can be said by those in attendance. These prayers can help bring comfort to both the family and friends of the deceased, and allow them to remember their loved one with dignity and respect.
The most common prayer used in Masonic funerals is known as the “Master’s Prayer”. This prayer acknowledges the strength of God’s love for all mankind, and offers comfort to those who are grieving. It reads:
“Our Heavenly Father, we humbly beseech Thee to accept our thanksgiving for our beloved Brother [name], who has been called from labor on earth to his eternal rest in Thy heavenly home.
Another popular prayer used in Masonic funerals is known as “The Mason’s Prayer”. This prayer acknowledges God’s power and asks for guidance during this difficult time:
“Almighty God, we come before Thee with our heartfelt grief at the loss of our beloved Brother [name]. Grant us Thy peace, O Lord; grant us strength; grant us hope as we face this sorrowful time together.
In addition to these two prayers, Masons often recite “The Twenty-third Psalm” during Masonic funerals. This short but powerful psalm serves as a reminder that although we may be going through hard times now, God will still be by our side no matter what happens:
“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside still waters…Yea though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death I will fear no evil: for Thou art with me…Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life:
These are just some of the special prayers that are used at Masonic funerals as a way to honor their memory and provide comfort for those who have lost a loved one. While these prayers may not bring back those who have passed away, they can serve as reminders that even though they have gone from this life they will never truly be forgotten.
In Reflection On What Do Masons Say At A Funeral
Masons believe that funerals are a time for reflection and remembrance, and so they strive to provide meaningful words that can help with the grieving process. Masonic funeral rituals are full of symbolism and ritual gestures, providing comfort to those in attendance. The words of a Masonic eulogy are meant to honor the life of the deceased, while encouraging those present to remember the life they lived.
Through their funeral rituals, Masons aim to remind us all of our shared humanity and encourage us to strive for peace and harmony in our lives. In times of grief, these words can be especially comforting as they provide a sense of connection and belonging for those who have lost a loved one.
While we may never know what our loved ones would have wanted us to say at their funerals, we can take comfort in knowing that the Mason’s words will provide solace and hope during this difficult time. Whether it is through prayer or reciting passages from sacred texts, Masons can offer comfort through their words if we allow them to do so.