where did the office of director of ceremonies come from in the craft and what are his duties

The office of Director of Ceremonies was created in the year 1738, when provision was made for the Grand Master to appoint one annually 2. Within a lodge or chapter, the role is an important office that is usually conferred upon a Past Master or Principal 1.

The primary responsibility of the Director of Ceremonies is the management of ceremonial procedure 1. The perfection and smooth execution of the lodge's rites depend upon his efficiency 1. His official jewel of office is represented by crossed rods tied by a ribbon 1.

General Masonic principles emphasize that ceremonies, when properly arranged and regularly conducted, serve to engage attention, impress awe and reverence upon the mind, and direct the brethren toward solemn rites 3. Proper order and method at the opening of a lodge remind the officers of their duties, foster a reverential awe for the Deity, and ensure that all business proceeds with decorum 3. The Director of Ceremonies oversees these procedural details so that the ceremonial working is conducted with propriety 13.

In formal public processions of the Craft, such as the 1823 procession to Government House in Calcutta, the Grand Director of Ceremonies took a leading position, marching near the front of the parade behind the Tylers and band, but ahead of the individual lodges and the officers of the Provincial Grand Lodge 4.

During the ceremony itself, the official marshalled the assembled brethren into position, such as forming three sides of a square around the Grand Master, and oversaw the entry of the Provincial Grand Master and the placing of the Holy Bible, Square, and Compasses upon the pedestal 4. Upon completing the arrangement of the brethren and the ceremonial furnishings, he took his official station at the right hand of the Grand Master 4. In these early records, the officer fulfilling this role is also referred to as the Grand Conductor of the Ceremonies 4.