March 2008

Every Mason has heard the word “refreshment” used in Lodge. Its definition varies by its context. Many think that refreshment comes after a meeting in the form of food and beverage served. We’ve all heard the Lodge being called from “labor to refreshment” but what is “refreshment” and where did it come from and what does it mean to the Lodge?

First of all, when a Lodge is active or in session, it is either at labor or at refreshment. When a Lodge is called to refreshment, it is still “active” with the Junior Warden placed in charge of the Craft. The phrase “calling the Craft from labor to refreshment” is quite old and found in early writings in the 18th century.

The meaning of refreshment does not necessarily refer to eating and drinking, but to “the cessation of labor.” Lodges in ancient times were arranged in a different manner. Both Wardens were placed in the West and where a long table sat in front of them (more than one for large Lodges) upon which sat the emblems of Freemasonry, and also materials for refreshment. In those times a lecture had many parts where toasts were involved. When a section of the lecture was complete, the Lodge was then called to refreshment for the toast or “the charge.” This happened many times during the course of the lecture. We recognize “the charge” in our Table Lodge ritual where it is also done with honors.

In mythical Masonry, high twelve was the hour when the Craft suspended labor at Solomon’s Temple. Labor was resumed one hour later. We see this in our third degree where the Lodge is figuratively called to refreshment. It is important to note that when the Craft is called to refreshment, it is the Junior Warden who is placed in charge, and it is proper to recognize and salute him as if he is the Master. When the Junior Warden calls the Craft back to labor, this authority is transferred back to the Master.

Bro. Jason L. Stitak, S.W.

References: A New and Revised Edition – An Encyclopedia of Freemasonry. Mackey, Hughan and Hawkins. 1924.

The Rule and Guide of Masonic Faith is the Holy Bible. From cradle unto grave we cling to books, the permanent of friends, the sources of knowledge and inspiration. Books are the lasting memories of mankind. Youth relies upon the printed page for records of science, reports of philosophy, foundations of history, words of inspiring wisdom. Knowledge of the best books and a wise use of them superior scholarship and highest education. In age as in youth we turn the leaves of literature for renewed acquaintance with the gracious past and better hold upon the living present. Of all the books is the one of leadership, the Book Supreme blazing the way with Light of noblest excellence to man, the Bible. Within these covers are laid down the moral principles for the upbuilding of a righteous life. Freemasonry lays upon the Altar of Faith this Book. Around that Altar we stand a united Brotherhood. There we neither indulge sectarian discussion nor the choice of any Church. We say the Freemason shall have Faith but our God is everywhere, and we teach that it is the prayer that counts, not the place of praying. For centuries the Bible has shone the beacon light of promised immortality, the hope serene of union eternal with the beloved who go before. Here is the message for Masonic comfort when all else fails, the rays of truth glorifying God, enlightening Man.

Submitted by Wor. & Ill. Bro. James T. Shultz