Congratulations. You made the first knock. You entered the unknown as a man and left with one of the greatest honors ever bestowed, the title of Brother.

But now what?

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, uncertain, or even a little lost, that’s completely normal. Becoming an Entered Apprentice is like being tossed into the deep end of a pool you’ve never swum in before.

Don’t worry, you now have Brothers here to help.

Start by Decoding the Degree

That ritual you just experienced? It wasn’t just a show.

In about an hour, you went from “I think I know about Freemasonry” to being a Freemason.

You learned:

• What a Mason truly is

• How a Mason is made

• What a lodge is and how it’s formed

• The allegory of King Solomon’s Temple

• Basic Masonic symbolism

• A splash of esotericism

• A dash of secrecy

• And your first working tools

This is not passive information. It’s not trivia. You’re expected to use these lessons and apply them to your daily life.

That’s exciting, sometimes confusing, but also overwhelming. Just remember, you’re an Apprentice,  NOT a Master. And that’s exactly where you’re supposed to be.

Your First Task- Learn Your Work

Now comes your first job,  memorize your catechism.

No one cares what your uncle taught you or how good you are at reading instructions. In Freemasonry, we memorize. Every jurisdiction has its own requirements for proving proficiency, but I challenge you to go beyond what’s required.

Memorizing the words is just the surface.

Understanding them and applying them is where the real Light lives.

Be Present at Lodge

Even if you can’t attend a tiled meeting yet show up.

Come to dinners. Help with cleanup. Offer rides to Brothers who can’t drive. Be seen. Be heard. Be part of the Craft.

Freemasonry gives back what you put in. If you sit on the couch and never come to lodge, don’t expect the Craft to reveal anything to you.

Ask Questions

Most Brothers aren’t teachers. They won’t know what you’re struggling with unless you speak up.

Be bold. Ask. Learn. Grow. That’s what the lodge wants from you, respect, punctuality, and a growth mindset.

Engage with your mentor. Get involved. Use the teachings you’ve been given to grow in merit and character.

What You Should Expect from the Lodge

It’s not all on you.

A good lodge should offer:

• Brotherhood and respect

• Ongoing guidance through your degrees

• Educational resources tailored to your stage

• Help when things don’t make sense

Some older members may seem distant at first. Don’t take it personally. Keep showing up. Let your actions earn the title “Brother.”

You’re not in this alone.

Tips I Wish I Knew as an EA

Here are a few things I wish someone told me when I was where you are:

1. Keep a Masonic Journal

You’ll meet so many people and experience so much, it will blur together. Record it all, degrees, dates, lessons, faces.

2. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask

I used to keep my mouth shut. Fear held me back. After COVID, I realized Masonry only stays alive if we breathe life into it. Don’t wait.

3. Don’t Rush the Journey

Yes, I have the regalia and the dues cards. But I wish I had slowed down and soaked in more. Freemasonry is a lifelong journey. You don’t lay down your tools until the Great Architect calls you home.

Final Thought

To every new Brother out there, I hope this helps you find your footing.

To the seasoned Brethren, what advice would you give your EAs and mentees?

Drop it in the comments or share it with a Brother who just knocked at the door.

Welcome to the Craft. We’re glad you’re here.

Learn more at www.beamason.org, www.grandlodgeoftexas.org

Learn About The Masonic Obligations
https://brotherfluff.com/the-masonic-oath-a-sacred-commitment/