ST. JOHN'S LODGE
Ancient Free and Accepted Masons
BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS

JUNIOR STEWARD

 OVERVIEW  

The Junior Steward is the second junior officer in the line of progression, and is a station that offers an opportunity for some responsibility for the lodge’s candidates. To achieve this position demonstrates the fact the Brother has shown some promise and potential interest in the lodge affairs to receive this appointment. 

The emblem for his station is the Cornucopia, with the opening, or horn, facing right. The collar may have the emblem encircled or not. The emblem will also be on the Lodge Apron which will be worn during lodge in place of the usual blue-bordered white members’ apron. Additionally, the Junior Steward will carry a white rod with the emblem mounted on top of it. He will carry this in the performance of his duties while in the lodge room. 

            The ritualistic duty of the Junior Steward is to assist with the preparation of the candidates. This means he is expected to be present well before the opening of the lodge to help ensure that the candidate(s) is properly dressed for his degree work. He is to stand witness for the Junior Deacon, when he asks the candidate the three questions prior to their taking the first degree. During this time, he should leave all talking to the Junior Deacon. However, common sense should be used. Once the candidate is prepared, he is to return to his station and put on his regalia. 

As this duty involves the initial contact with the lodge in operation by the candidates, and therefore their first impression of the lodge, it is imperative that these officers be fully aware of this at all times in the presence of the candidates and act accordingly. They should always treat the candidates with decorum, courtesy and with friendliness. It is important to impress upon them that we are gentlemen. Under no condition should a candidate be made to feel uncomfortable, inferior or fearful. 

If the lodge has more that two candidates, the Junior Steward will conduct the fourth candidate about the lodge during the first section of each degree. He is to return to his station and assume the regular duties after the candidates are instructed to leave the Alter and salute the Junior and Senior Wardens. If there are two or fewer candidates, the Junior Steward will return to his station after the candidates have been duly examined by the Master. 

During the second section of the Third Degree in the presentation of the Ancient Form, he is to assume the role of the Third Craftsman. In this role, he will remove his lodge collar and wear a white Fellow Craft Apron. He will not carry his rod about the lodge during this section. 

There is one line in the ritual to recite. The Senior Deacon will ask one question and the Junior Steward respond. This will be found in the Official Cipher, and is the only ritual recited by the Junior Steward. 

When the role of Craftsman has been completed, he is to return to his station and put on his regalia. At this point, he is to check that the Senior Steward and the Senior Deacon have done the same, and sit when the Senior Deacon sits. 

When parading about the lodge, the Alter is always to the right of the Senior Steward. Although Floorwork is the Mater’s prerogative, it is suggested that timing for sitting in the chair be coordinated with the junior officers. When parading about the lodge room, turns should be made using military right angles carrying the rod extended down from the right shoulder. Finally, when stepping off, it should always be on the left foot. 

SPECIFIC DUTIES 

In addition to the duties of the Senior Steward, the following are some specific duties performed by the Junior Steward. 

1. During balloting, the Junior Steward should station himself at the untyled door.
2. The Junior Steward may, depending on lodge traditions, be responsible for the candidates learning their second degree cipher and demonstrating their proficiency in the same. The candidates should be ready on later than three days prior to the next communication. When the candidates are ready, the Junior Steward should inform the Senior Deacon and the Master.
3. He is to serve on the lodge’s Greeting Committee, along with the Inside Sentinel, Senior Steward, and Deacons. He should greet every brother who enters the lodge room prior to the start of the meeting.
4. He should be required to plan one social event for the year. A logical choice would be a Holiday Party for members and their families. He must arrange for a meal, entertainment, facilities, and a small gift for the children.