Saddleback Laguna Lodge No. 672 F. & A. M.

Candidate Coaching Module

Why The Coach lays the

foundation for the Lodge and its direction by

Influencing a candidates enthusiasm; energy

Making a profound difference in his member experience

The better the candidates experience the stronger the lodge becomes in character; ethics and membership.

Qualification Enthusiastic;

empathetic and a good motivator

Knowledgeable in Masonry and ALL cipher ritual

Strong Character; Ethics and desire to share and learn.

Committed to devoting the necessary time

Duties of the Coach Acclimate the Candidate to the Lodge & Get

to know him. Prepare Candidate for Proficiency

Weekly if possible (be a good host) Teaching Basic Masonic Protocols & Etiquette

Provide accurate answers to Candidate’s questions

Outline mutual expectations Develop a foundation for ongoing Mentorship

Acclimating the Candidate @ Lodge Establish a foundation Prior to Initiation by;

Meeting the candidates at Lodge prior to their initiation day to show them around; Introduce him to many brothers

Offer reading materials (don’t suggest web search) Get to know your Candidates

Does he have a specific Book of Law for the Alter Be aware of Candidates mode of communication

Encourage questions (creates engagement) Only give accurate answers

Be a positive Influence

Preparation & Techniques

Limit distractions in surrounding environment Schedule mutually convenient times Never answer a question if you are unsure! One brick at a Time

Always correct mistakes immediately Notice and mention the rhythm of the Ritual Encourage Full Form but it is candidate choice Delve into Masonic History & Lecture details

Preparation & Techniques Cont.

Suggest 15-20 minutes of study 2 to 3 times a day Best quiet time? - first getting up and just before bed? Take advantage of commuting time to practice Advise Candidate about speed, tone, and volume

Speak up, slow down, and relax Teach Candidate to use a mirror to practice only once they feel

proficient. Encourage candidate to call immediately with any cipher

questions before learning a wrong word.

Preparation & Techniques Cont.

Be aware of various learning habits Visual; Auditory; Kinesthetic

Try starting in different places of the cipher If the Candidate is learning the full form

have them learn the obligation portion first If mutual rapport isn’t evident either

can request a change from the Senior Warden

Teaching Basic Masonic Protocols

How to dress & How and when to wear an apron How to properly sign the Tiler’s Register How to address the Worshipful Master and others

in Lodge Only speak to the Master in Lodge Address Master while making sign

How to enter and exit the Lodge when convened How are the jewels set on the bible at the Altar

Basic Masonic Protocols Cont.

Check columns on the Wardens’ Pedestals Junior Warden’s pillar up Lodge is at

Refreshment Senior Warden’s pillar up Lodge is at Work

Remember No Politics, No Religion, No Business within the Lodge Always be aware of who can hear you in the

dinning room. Be On Time No hats allowed in lodge

Develop a foundation for ongoing Mentorship

Motivate a desire to engage in Lodge programs

Keep in contact and informed about activities

Be involved in his degrees and Masonic future

The Coach/Mentor is the Candidate’s guide thru his Masonic journey

Adaptability

“Teach us how to teach you”

Finally

REMEMBER:

YOU MAY BE COACHING YOUR

NEW MASTER

Resources for Coaches

Red “Handbook for Candidates Coaches” Grand Lodge Mentoring Program 2004 New Grand Lodge publication “Members

Guide to Masonry” Mackey’s Encyclopedia of Freemasonry Morals and Dogma, Albert Pike California Masonic Code Senior Warden

Saddleback Laguna Lodge No. 672 F. & A. M.

Thank you for your time and attention