The acknowledged purpose of the degree ceremonies is to present information about freemasonry to new members.

They also serve three important functions;

1. introducing candidates to the members of the Lodge,
2. providing an opportunity for members of the Lodge to become more familiar with the information presented and
3. developing confidence in public speaking of the members presenting the ceremony.

Success in all these areas depends on clear and thoughtful presentation of the material, with particular attention to the perspective of the candidate.

The style of presentation should reflect the backgrounds of the members. Marching a candidate around the lodge room may be appropriate if the members have military backgrounds, but this approach makes most people feel awkward and uncomfortable. Likewise the aim should be to encourage members to develop their own voice, rather than adopt a "masonic" style of speaking

Speaking too quickly or indistinctly is the most common first mistake in public speaking. The next is talking too slowly, word by word in a monotonous voice. When speaking, meaning is conveyed by phrases or groups of words and the expression of the speaker.

Take time to think about what you are going to say and the meaning you intend to convey. This will assist you to adopt an appropriate tone of voice and pace of presentation.

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