When reflecting upon the operation of a lodge, it easy to recognize that the three principal officers are critical elements. Toward that end, these officers are deemed to be the pillars of the lodge since their uties are linked clearly to their stations, jewels, and powers. Even their names of wisdom, strength, and beauty are expressive of their roles in serving their Brothers and their lodge.
The Master in the East represents the pillar of wisdom and is the source of knowledge and direction within the lodge. He is responsible for the direction of all that occurs within the lodge and it is his designs that guide the members. Following the ideals of his installation charges, the Master sets the example of good, moral, and true conduct at all times. While he holds the gravel and wears the Square, he sits under the watchful All-seeing Eye, constantly working for peace and harmony. As with the sun, he rises in the East each day to lead and direct the lodge.
The Warden in the West represents the pillar of strength and serves to support the Master in accomplishing the goal of making each Mason happy in his labors. The durability of the Craft depend upon the strength placed in its lessons and its members. As the durability of a building depends upon its foundation, our lodge and its many spiritual buildings depend upon the dedication and commitment of the Craft. Conviction in the value of moral conduct and our Masonic lessons given us strength to continue in doing good and extending Brotherly Love to all, but especially our Masonic Brethren. When the sun sets in the West, we should look carefully at what we have done that day to add to our Spiritual Building. The wages we have earned should be such as to tell us that we have labored well, both within and outside the lodge room. The Warden in the West is a constant reminder of the value of work in the service of truth, justice, and Brotherly love.
The Warden in the South represents the pillar of beauty and serves the Master in bringing this quality to the lodge. Beauty here refers to the highest degree of pleasure to the mind through the attainment of an ideal. The beauty of an edifice is obtained in completion, when all the parts come together and all of its virtues are revealed. It is in the noon day, when the sun shines in its splendor, that beauty, both inner and outer, may be truly visible. Thus the Craft, to labor or at rest, are called upon to find the beauties of social virtue, express Brotherly love with kindness and benevolence, and have that internal beauty so necessary to being a Mason.
So it is that in paying attention to the principal officers, their stations, and duties is found the foundation of our Craft. Not only must our officers lead from the East, West, and South , but they must serve as pillars supporting each of us, our lodge, and Freemasonry. The triangle which they represent is but another symbol for the Great Architect, which is the true support for each of us and at the end, of the Lodge which we seek.
Masonic Education and Service Committee 2002, From the Grand Lodge of Texas Web Site.
