THE TABLE LODGE
The
observance of Masonic Festivals, such as the Feast of the Holy Sts. John is one
of the noble traditions of our craft that has been allowed to fall into disuse
in the 20th Century. In the behalf
that the festive occasions could be revived to the enlightenment and pleasure
of the brethren, the ritualistic observance and the suggested program has been
prepared for the Festive Board. It
contemplates the use of a Lodge for Table Instructions (usually known as a
“Table Lodge”), another time-honored tradition unfamiliar to Washington Masons.
The Table
Lodge is no mere banquet with entertainment; it is a special lodge ceremony in
itself, with ritual, formalities and special terminology which is of some
interest. Traditionally, Freemasonry has
two great festivals, the Feast of the
It must
be remembered that a Table Lodge is a tyled lodge
open on the Entered Apprentice degree, authorized by the Grand Master for a
specific time, place and occasion. All
Brethren should be clothed as Entered Apprentices and none should wear uniform
or regalia of any other organization.
The Seven Major Toasts in a Table
Lodge
To Our Country
To the Holy Saints John
To the Memory of our Departed Brethren
To the Grand Master and the Grand
Lodge
To the Lodge (the sponsor).
To Our Visiting Brethren
To All Freemasons Wherever Dispersed