Two Entered Apprentice Degrees -An Evening of Camaraderie and Fellowship

On October 24, 2024, King Lodge No. 461 welcomed brethren from across East Tennessee for a memorable evening of fellowship, tradition, and learning. Twenty-one Masons, including 10 visiting brothers from six different lodges, gathered to witness two Entered Apprentice (EA) degrees, marking the beginning of two new journeys within Freemasonry. The evening was enhanced by a special homemade lasagna prepared by our Secretary, which received the “Fork of Approval” from the Grandmaster of the Knife and Fork Degree, Bro. Ken Albritton of Sinking Creek Lodge No. 575. Alongside hearty fellowship, the night celebrated the enduring significance of the Entered Apprentice degree.

The Entered Apprentice degree is the foundational step into Freemasonry. This degree has its roots in the ancient stonemason guilds of medieval Europe, where apprentices would join the fraternity to learn the craft, beginning as novices under the guidance of master stonemasons. Freemasons would progress from apprentice to journeyman (or Fellowcraft) and ultimately to master, mirroring the structure we still use today. This first degree introduces essential Masonic values like integrity, humility, and brotherly love, creating a foundation that every Mason builds upon through his Masonic journey.

For today’s Masons, the Entered Apprentice degree remains highly relevant, offering symbolic teachings that encourage reflection, self-discipline, and a commitment to personal growth. The rituals and symbols in this degree serve as reminders of the timeless values that can guide Masons in every area of life. For instance, the tools presented in the Entered Apprentice degree remind us to manage time wisely and to chip away at personal imperfections. These lessons have as much significance now as they did centuries ago, inspiring Masons to make meaningful contributions to their communities and live with integrity.

Our event concluded with acknowledgments to those who contributed to the degrees. Bro. David Smith conferred the first degree, while Bro. Wes Leonard led the second. Special thanks to Bro. Josh Johnson from Zollicoffer Lodge No. 444, who presented the stereoptic; Bro. John Colbaugh from Centennial Lodge No. 491, who delivered the charge; Bro. Ray Reburn from Taylorsville Lodge No.  243, who offered the explanatory; and Bro. Joe McQueen from Rhea Lodge No. 47, who gave the apron lecture. This evening of fellowship exemplified the bonds that make Freemasonry not only a society of friends but also a lifelong brotherhood.

The Entered Apprentice degree represents more than an initiation; it’s an invitation to live meaningfully and to work daily toward self-improvement and service to others. If you are interested in beginning your own Masonic journey, please contact us—we welcome all who seek to better themselves and their communities.

Article by

Bro. Wes Leonard

Secretary