Almoner (English practice)
The officer in English and English-derived Lodges who looks after the welfare of members, their families and the widows of former members.
Also searched as: masonic almoner · lodge almoner · charity steward
- How chosen
- Appointed by the Master, often a senior Past Master.
The office
The Grand Lodge of England describes the Almoner's job as looking after the welfare of members who may need support. In practice that means keeping in touch with brethren who are ill or housebound, visiting, staying close to the widows of members, and knowing where to turn when a family needs help.
English Lodges usually also appoint a Charity Steward, who encourages giving to the Masonic and other charities and whose jewel is a trowel.
American Lodges seldom have an Almoner by that name. The same care usually falls to the Master, the Wardens, a relief committee, or the Lodge as a whole.
The emblems: the Trowel.
In context: Visiting a Lodge Outside the United States
Frequently asked questions
What does the Almoner do in a Masonic Lodge?
The officer in English and English-derived Lodges who looks after the welfare of members, their families and the widows of former members.
How is the Almoner chosen?
Appointed by the Master, often a senior Past Master.
Sources
Drawn from what Grand Lodges publish about their own officers, the published monitors and Mackey. Duties are described in plain words; nothing here comes from, or goes beyond, any obligated material. Offices, titles and duties vary by jurisdiction, and your Lodge Secretary is the authority for yours.
- United Grand Lodge of England, What is a Lodge and its officers?
- Wikipedia, Masonic lodge officer
- Albert G. Mackey, An Encyclopædia of Freemasonry (1873)