Saddleback Laguna Lodge No. 672 F. & A. M.

1. Saddleback Laguna Lodge No. 672 F. & A. M. Conducting Candidate Investigations

2. Why Investigate • You can’t make a perfect Ashlar out of a broken block • You can’t make a lodge like OURS without a careful selection process • Too insure that Motives are proper • Align Expectation with Reality • Few are chosen “Make it count” • Confidentiality is crucial

3. Qualifications of Investigators • High integrity & Character • Knowledgeable about our Craft & our Lodge • Respectful & Courteous • Desire to build an Active & Engaged Lodge • Leads by Example

4. Duties prior to Interview • Review ALL paperwork • Contact applicant ASAP so a request for additional time isn’t needed • Make every effort to complete by next Stated Meeting • Check the recommenders and references • Not necessary to contact the Master, the Secretary or the Officers Coach • Identify yourself and that Mr. X has given them as a reference on he application for Masonry • Ask the reference if they are familiar with Masonry and if necessary explain the core values of Masons and what Masons do. • Ask if the reference is willing to discuss the applicant with you. • For example, “Would you be willing to comment on Mr. X joining our organization? • “Do you think Mr. X would make a good Mason.” • When the discussion is completed, thank the person for their time and willingness to discuss the Candidate with you

5. Getting Started • Call the Candidate immediately / use email only if necessary • Proper Introduction • Make the appointment • Be on time for the Appointment • If you are delayed or can not keep the appointment, call the Candidate as soon as possible • Dress in appropriate attire – business casual or casual but not too casual • Cordial Greeting with Candidate and family (Smile & Positive Mental Attitude) • Take the time to allow you and the Candidate and his family to feel relaxed • Small talk • The Candidate should not feel you are rushed • Begin the Masonic discussion when you feel that everyone is comfortable

6. General Investigation Guidelines • A person’s home provides valuable insight into their lifestyle • It does concern the personal moral and ethical standards of the Candidate and his family • Use current conservative social standards regarding these standards • Masonry is about acceptance not exclusion • Avoid using personal prejudice • Does it appear that the Candidate will fit into Masonry? • Be aware of possible hidden motives of the Candidate • Business; Relief; Religious; Political • Never be alone with any female or children when in the Candidate’s home • If you feel that additional references are needed ask for them now • Follow up on addition references immediately after the interview

7. The Interview • Discuss Masonry with the Candidate’s family by giving a brief description of who we are and what we do. • Masonry is based on brotherly love, relief and truth and his answers should reflect the same. • Speak from your own experience regarding the moral, ethical, social, benevolent and spiritual aspects of Masonry. • Masonry is an adjunct to Family; Spirituality; Work • Verify ability to devote time to progressing thru degree’s with coach • Time commitment is optional after 3rd degree (we hope for engagement) • Explain the three no –no's in Masonry • No Religious or political promotion and not using the Lodge to promote your business activities • If the Candidates family asks how they can participate, discuss our appendent and concordant organizations and our social activities

8. Explain the Process of becoming a Mason • Discuss the timeline and milestones of the application process • Application read • Interviews scheduled (at least 2 of 3) • Balloting unanimous (letters & Scheduling) • Degree’s; Proficiencies • Coaching • Briefly explain the relationship between the Blue Lodge and other Masonic bodies • Advise the Candidate to contact the Secretary if he has any questions or would like an update on his application • Give the Candidate the Secretary’s phone number and email address

9. Completing the Reference of Application for Degrees • The Candidate must fill in the second page of the Reference of Application for Degrees. Do not fill out the form for the Candidate. • Ask him to print. • When the Candidate has finished, review the page for completeness and clarity • Ask for additional information if you are not satisfied with any answer • Complete your paperwork (Page 3) Legibly & Timely • Answers should be objective observations • Do not forget to complete the recommendation question at the end of the form.

10. In Summary “We can easily forgive a child who is afraid of the dark; the real tragedy of life is when men are afraid of the light.” Plato • Be thorough; Accurate; and objective • Your brothers are relying on your good judgment and avouchment • These are only guidelines and we welcome your input • Use your own judgment during the Investigation process • DO NOT skip any item in the procedure without approval of the Master before completing the investigation

11. Saddleback Laguna Lodge No. 672 F. & A. M. Thank you for your time and attention