Introduction

In participating with his Lodge, he participates with a universal brotherhood of men, of like moral character, integrity, and reputation. The California Masonic Candidate Mentor Program can be used by any lodge, large or small, and all lodges are urged to adopt it. This program is urgently needed for the advancement of Masonic knowledge so vital to the candidate, and consequently; for the success of your Lodge. The Mentor does not replace the Candidate’s Coach, but working with him; can be used as a part of your Lodge’s successful education and renewal efforts.

Each Candidate who petitions our Fraternity is entitled to an explanation of the history, purpose, operation, symbolism, philosophy, obligation and ideals of Freemasonry by his Counselor. This is not to be confused with the necessary coaching of his ritual memory work by his Coach for advancement in the degrees.

Members advancing to responsible positions in the Lodge should have sufficient knowledge to do an effective job. Many start through the chairs shortly after becoming members and are Masters of their Lodges within a few years. Giving the new Candidate as much information as time will permit will make him a better member. As he progresses, this knowledge will better qualify him to function as an officer, should the opportunity arise for him to do so.

It is necessary to support the intense interest of the Candidate right from the start, and there is no better time to do so than when he is receiving the degrees, and immediately thereafter. It is believed that this plan for Masonic Education within the Lodge will do much to further the Candidates interest and increase his desire to take an active part in the functions and activities of the Lodge

The Mentoring Program consists of assigning a well educated Brother to a Candidate, to act as his mentor, educator, and companion for a period of up to one year, thereby, creating an active, educated, and working Brother.

The Mentoring Program together with the Grand Lodge of California Masonic Education material provides the necessary methodology to guarantee that every candidate and Brother is properly instructed in the fundamentals and workings of the Craft. The program is simple, practical, and economical. It is operated by the Lodge for the candidate. It also creates a close personal relationship between Lodge, Mentor, and our new Brother.

The letter to the Mentor from the Lodge Master explains what needs to be taught. Emphasis will be given during the training to that which is esoteric ritual and cannot be improperly revealed and that, which is exoteric and can thus be disclosed.

Lodge Master assigns Mentor to Candidate upon election to receive the Degrees of Masonry. The Lodge Master sends letter (sample enclosed) to Mentor, letter (sample enclosed) to Candidate and letter (sample enclosed) to Wife of Candidate, explaining and outlining the process. The Mentor should make arrangements to either drive the Candidate to the Lodge or meet him there one hour prior to the Entered Apprentice Degree. It is intended in either case that the mentor should stay with the Candidate after as well as prior to each degree. He introduces Candidate to Lodge members and makes him feel comfortable and relaxed prior to initiation.

After the Entered Apprentice Degree, the “Walkabout” may be performed. (See “Walkabout”) The Mentor will then meet with the Candidate and discuss the prescribed questions concerning the Entered Apprentice Degree.

One-hour prior to the Fellowcraft Degree, the Mentor will meet with the Candidate and stay with him at the Lodge until he is prepared for passing, and then after the degree to answer any immediate questions.

Prior to the Master Mason Degree, the Mentor will meet with the Candidate and discuss the questions concerning the Fellowcraft Degree. He will bring the Candidate to the Lodge for his Master Mason Degree and stay with him until he is prepared for raising, and then after the degree to answer any immediate questions.

After being raised to Master Mason, the Mentor will meet with the Candidate and will discuss the questions concerning the Third Degree.

The Mentor will bring the new Master Mason to at least four Lodge functions.

The Mentor will accompany the new brother on a visitation to another Lodge in their area and instruct him on the proper use of the “Test Oath.”

This Mentoring Program is structured into four phases:

Phase I 

is considered the formal training. It incorporates the “Seven Steps to Masonic Light” where the Candidate meets with the Mentor (or Education Team if the Lodge has one) for the purpose of reading and discussing the three degree booklets comprising “A Basic Masonic Education Course” published by the California Grand Lodge Masonic Education Committee, attends four Lodge functions with the new Brother and arranges and accompanies the new Brother on a visit to another lodge. 

Phase II 

is a recommended meeting that can be held as part of a Lodge program or as a Mentor and Brother program. It provides material every new Mason ought to know. 

Phase III 

provides suggested information for a continuing Masonic Education Program as part of a Lodge Communication. 

Phase IV 

is an extra-added bonus. It contains suggestions for “The Masonic Minute”; a 10 to 15 minute Education segment for every Lodge Communication. Every Brother in every Lodge should commit himself wholeheartedly to fulfilling the task of educating their fellow Brothers. A Master must emphasize the importance of a training program, not only to his Officers but also to all the Brothers. The need for continued education and knowledge of the Craft is essential for developing future Leaders.