Dear Brethren,

When we enter the lodge for the first time, we are presented with a gift. The white lambskin apron or the Badge of a Mason, an emblem of innocence. The apron represents many things. It begins our rebirth into a new way of life. We are going from darkness and into the light of human fellowship, morality and brotherly love. We are entering a fraternity which we can be very proud of, a society filled with true and faithful friends.

The apron's makeup is of lambskin. The lamb in itself represents sacrifice and innocence. We sacrifice time and sometimes family to be with our "brothers" or to attend a meeting or other Masonic functions. We are innocent because we are starting a new life as a Mason and will conduct ourselves accordingly.

The apron has always been associated with work. Unless a man was working, he would have no need to wear an apron. When a Mason puts on his apron, he is signifying to the world his willingness to work at his accepted responsibility to the Lodge. He is also showing his dedication to a life of purity before God and man.

When do we wear the lambskin apron? The lambskin apron presented to you at your first admittance into the Lodge should be worn at the degrees you are about to go through. After that, it should be put away until it's time to meet the Great Creator. The reason for not wearing it on a regular basis is that it may become soiled, worn and or lost. The Lodge supplies cloth aprons for all the meetings and communications. It is just a matter of convenience and common sense.

When should an apron be worn? An apron should be worn at all regular Lodge communications, installations and degree work. It can be worn if marching in a parade with other Masons, dedication of buildings, public appearances involving Masons and especially at Masonic funeral services. When visiting another Lodge, they will furnish you with an apron, if you're a Worshipful Master, Past Master or Past or Present Grand Lodge Officer, you should bring your own special apron.

Wear it with pride.

Fraternally,
Edward T. Gasior
Worshipful Master