Knife and Fork Degree
Jan 31, 2013 23:53:28 GMT 9.5
Post by stepnwolf on Jan 31, 2013 23:53:28 GMT 9.5
One of the undoubted landmarks of the Craft is the Lodge at Table, sometimes called the Knife and Fork Degree. It is often omitted from lists of ancient landmarks but the history of our Order confirms its existence. Indeed, it was no accident that the premier G.L. met in a tavern so that the L. could move from labor to refreshment with a minimum of difficulty.
Over the centuries the work of the degree has changed somewhat, but its original purpose continues to be the same: to cement the bonds of friendship and to provide relief in the midst of labor. The degree may be worked to honor a visitor of rank, to celebrate the advancement of a member of the L., or simply to foster the ideals of fellowship among the BB.
The tools of the degree are the fork, knife and glass or tumbler, which is also called a cannon. The cannon is charged, that is filled with wine or something less mind altering, in preparation to propose a toast. Usually there are 7 toasts which are delivered, one by one, over the course of the meal.
The tyler's toast, given at the end of the meeting, is usually a moving reminder of the the BB absent from the festive board. In part it says:
To all poor and distressed Masons, where so ever dispersed over the face of earth and water, wishing them a speedy relief from all their sufferings and a safe return to their native country should they so desire it.
The refrain often heard at the close of the dinner is Happy to meet, Sorry to part, Happy to meet again.
