The Role Of The Sponser
A Candidate for the Mysteries of Freemasonry must be sponsored by two Masons, in good standing, and members of the Lodge to which he is applying.
Since the Candidates initial introduction to Freemasonry is through his sponsors, Their role is of vital importance.
The Sponsors have a number of duties to the Candidate and to the Lodge; which are:
a. Should be well acquainted with the Candidate.
b. Before filling out the Application Form, instruct him as to:
1- Principles of Freemasonry.
2- Costs of Initiation and yearly dues.
3- Time that he must put aside for Coaching, memory work and Mentoring.
4- Determine if he will, in fact, benefit from being a Member and if the Craft will benefit from his being a Member.
c. Bring him to a Festive Board and/or Friendship Night or Open House before his Initiation to introduce him to the members present.
d. Provide him with Masonic literature.
e. Accompany him to Degree Nights and instruct him in what to expect and why. No 'riding the goat' stories.
f. See that his Coaching and Mentoring is regular and adequate.
g. When the Sponsors feel that he is ready for the next Degree, report to the Degree Coordinator and the Worshipful Master.
h. After being raised to the Master Mason Degree, take him visiting to meet other Masons and to familiarize him with the practice of visiting.
i. Have him produce a Paper or thesis outlining his interpretations and impressions of the Degrees through which he has passed and present it to the Lodge. This is optional but I believe would be beneficial.
by R.W. Bro. R.M. Fisher