The by-laws of most lodges hold the Worshipful Master responsible for the safe-keeping of the warrant, or charter, of the lodge. The Worshipful Master, with the Wardens, also holds all the property of the lodge in trust for the members. He signs all orders on the Treasurer and is an ex-officio member of all committees in the lodge.

However, the duties and responsibilities of the Worshipful Master are far more extensive than those cited in the preceding paragraph.

The Worshipful Master is the key figure in the lodge, since it is up to him to rule and govern. He is the leader, the authority figure, the chief executive officer, the motivator, the mentor, and the benchmark to which his officers will compare themselves in their decorum and in their proficiency.

The Worshipful Master is required to appoint several committees (such as a finance committee, a benevolent committee, a phoning committee, a sick and visiting committee, and a committee of General Purposes). The purpose and composition of these committees is usually contained in the by-laws of the lodge.

Planning is an essential part of the Worshipful Master’s duties, since he is the one who primarily decides what is to be done during the course of each month's communication, including the annual official visit of the District Deputy Grand Master.

The Worshipful Master presides over each monthly meeting, or ‘communication’, of the lodge. His duties include the welcoming of visitors, and directing the reading and confirmation of the minutes of the preceding communication; the reading of correspondence; the passing of accounts; and inquiring if any brethren know of another in ill or distressed circumstances.

He also calls for reports of committees; conducts general business, motions, elections, and unfinished business. He receives petitions for initiation and affiliation, appoints committees of investigation, and superintends the balloting for petitioners.

He is also responsible for the conferring of degrees in accordance with the Constitutions, and for providing masonic education.

Following the close of every communication, he thanks any visitors or brethren for attending the meeting.

He also presides over the board of refreshment (the ‘Festive Board’) following a communication.

Responsibilities of the Worshipful Master