How does Carl Claudy describe the role of an Entered Apprentice?

Standing in the Northeast corner of the lodge, the Entered Apprentice lays his Masonic cornerstone midway between the darkness of profane ignorance and the full light of the symbolic East 1. In this position, he stands as a just and upright Mason to receive the foundational instructions that allow him to comprehend what has taken place during his initiation 1. This experience occurs only once, marking his formal entry into his heritage as a Mason 1.

As an Entered Apprentice, he is introduced to the principal tenets of the Fraternity, beginning with brotherly love and unity as celebrated in the 133rd Psalm 1. He is also taught the true nature of Masonic charity through the Rite of Destitution 1. Claudy emphasizes that the Apprentice’s role in charity goes far beyond the mere giving of physical alms or money 1. True Masonic charity requires the giving of oneself—offering comfort, counsel, sympathy, and spiritual help to those in need 1. While physical relief may be coordinated through the lodge, the larger giving of personal comfort and kindness is governed by the individual brother's conscience 1.

Additionally, the Apprentice receives two working tools: the Twenty-four Inch Gauge and the Common Gavel 1. Through the gauge, he learns to divide his time productively between the service of God and a distressed brother, his usual vocations, and refreshment and sleep, applying Masonic labor directly to everyday life 1. Through the gavel, he learns the symbolic discipline of knocking away unneeded stone—divesting his mind and conscience of vices and superfluities—to reveal the inherent spiritual perfection within 1.