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

1. Saddleback Laguna Lodge No. 672 F. & A. M. Candidate Coaching Module

2. 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.

3. 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

4. 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

5. 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

6. 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

7. 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.

8. 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

9. 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

10. 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

11. 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

12. Adaptability “Teach us how to teach you”

13. Finally REMEMBER: YOU MAY BE COACHING YOUR NEW MASTER

14. 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

15. Saddleback Laguna Lodge No. 672 F. & A. M. Thank you for your time and attention