Emulation Lodge of Improvement

In recent months, interest has been renewed in ceremonies (Initiation, Passing, Raising) with multiple candidates.

The Committee of Emulation Lodge of Improvement strongly believes that it is entirely a matter for each Lodge to decide for itself how it wishes to conduct ceremonies, always of course keeping within any formal Craft-wide regulations that might exist.  It is certainly not for ‘Emulation’ to dictate what a Lodge must, or must not, do.

The Friday evening demonstrations at Emulation Lodge of Improvement are for the case of a single candidate, and this will continue to be so.  It is reflected in our published ritual books.

If there are two candidates, very little amendment is needed.  Indeed, “double” ceremonies have been common for a long time.  For more than two candidates, the situation becomes more complicated.  It is for each Lodge to determine how this may be handled with dignity and decorum.

For Lodges that have chosen to practise Emulation Working, in whole or in part, we would suggest that alterations be kept to a minimum.  This should help ensure that the current Officers of the Lodge can more readily prepare themselves for the ceremonies;  that future generations of Officers will have a good idea what is expected of them before they begin studying their work;  and, most important of all, that candidates get consistent good experiences.

The Committee of Emulation Lodge of Improvement

June 2025