Obligations
Affiliation (for a Bro. affiliating from another Obedience)
I ... in the presence of this Chartered and Right Worshipful Lodge, do hereby pledge my Masonic faith that I recognise the International Order of Freemasonry for Men and Women, Le Droit Humain, as a regularly constituted Masonic body, and that I will obey the Laws and Constitutions of its Supreme Council, the General Rules and Regulations of the British Federation, and the Bye-Laws and Officers of this, the ... Lodge No...... on the Roll of the Supreme Council of the International Order of Freemasonry for Men and Women Le Droit Humain.
Joining from another Federation
I..................................... in the presence of this Chartered and Right Worshipful Lodge, do hereby pledge my Masonic faith that will obey the General Rules and Regulations of the British Federation and the Bye-Laws and Officers of this the.................. Lodge No.............. on the Roll of the Supreme Council of the International Order of Freemasonry for Men and Women, Le Droit Humain.
Joining from another Lodge of this the British Federation
I......................... in the presence of this Chartered and Right Worshipful Lodge, do hereby pledge my Masonic faith that I will obey the Bye-Laws and Officers of this, the ..........Lodge No..... on the Roll of the Supreme Council of the International Order of Freemasonry for Men and Women, Le Droit Humain
Re-joining the Order
I............................... in the presence of this Chartered and Right Worshipful Lodge, do hereby re-affirm my allegiance to the Supreme Council of the International Order of Freemasonry for Men and Women, Le Droit Humain, my obedience to the General Rules and Regulations of the British Federation and promise that I will obey the Bye-Laws and Officers of this the.................Lodge No..............on the Roll of the Supreme Council of the International Order of Freemasonry for Men and Women, Le Droit Humain.
Preface
The Lodges of the Craft are allowed a choice between the sanctioned Rituals, some preferring the more ornate, others the plainer rituals.
The working instructions are set forth in greater detail than may, under ordinary conditions, be thought desirable, but the rapid growth of our Order in districts where personal instruction is rarely available, renders such a course both necessary and justifiable.
It is desirable to give to the Brn. in the columns as large a share in the working of the Lodge as possible. Certain verses from the V.S.L. and some well known Masonic Chants and Hymns have therefore been inserted.
It should be stressed, however, that music, chants, or the symbolic chair in the North, are non essentials.
The more elaborate ceremonial is, however, the especial glory of this Ritual. Every effort to carry out the full ceremonial with proper dignity and precision should be made.
As Masons may belong to any religion, it is desirable to have on the A. a Scripture of more than one Great Faith, but no attempt should be made to impose any particular interpretation of the Ritual upon any Bro. of the Order. The Lodges should observe towards each other the old Rule: 'In things essential, Unity; in non essentials, Liberty; in all things, Charity.'
Pedestals
The R.W.M.'s pedestal should be raised above the dais by two steps, the S.W.'s pedestal should similarly be raised above the floor by two steps and the J.W.'s pedestal (which should stand at the same height as the S.W.'s) by one step.
The position of the door varies in Temples; it is sometimes in the West, behind the S.W., sometimes in the north-west. The I.G. should be seated near the door.
The Masonic Era
As the aspect of Freemasonry at present obtaining the world is largely Jewish in its form, Masons reckon the date from the fabled creation of the world, calling it Anno Lucis (abbreviated A. L.) signifying 'in the year of Light'. This has a symbolic reference to the Light of Masonry. The date is obtained by adding 4000 to the vulgar era; thus, 1924 is A. L. 5924. When the ordinary date is used in Masonic communications, it is usually marked E. V. (era vulgaris).
Jewels of Office
| R.W.M.* | A Square |
| P.M | A Square with the 47th problem of Euclid appended |
| S.W | A Level |
| J.W | A Plumb-rule |
| Orator | A Book |
| Secretary | Crossed Pens |
| Treasurer | Crossed Keys |
| D.C | Crossed Wands or a Caduceus |
| S.D | A Dove |
| J.D | A Dove |
| Organist | A Lyre |
| Almoner | A Purse |
| I.G | Crossed Swords |
| O.G. or Tyler | A Sword |
| Stewards | Cornucopia |
*The R.W.M. may if he prefers it, wear the Scottish form of this Jewel, which consists of the square and compasses, the segment of the circle, and the sun with the all seeing eye.
Order of Procession
| Thurifer | Orator |
| D.C. | P.M.s of the Lodge |
| E.A.s | Brn. 30° |
| Visiting E.A.s | Visiting Brn. 30° |
| F.C.s | Brn. 31° |
| Visiting F.C.s | Visiting Brn. 31° |
| M.M.s | Brn. 32° |
| Visiting M.M.s | Visiting Brn. 32° |
| Brn. 18° | Brn. 33° |
| Visiting Brn. 18° | Visiting Brn. 33° |
| Visiting P.M.s | J.W. |
| I.G. | S.W. |
| Almoner | I.P.M. |
| Treasurer | R.W.M. with Deacons |
| Secretary |
On special occasions when a large number of Brn. are present, it is desirable that only Officers and P.M.s of the Lodge and Visiting Brn. of the 30° and upwards should process.
Preliminary Ceremonies
There should be a very soft subdued light in the Temple. The Star should be in the East. This will usually be found quite sufficient to give the faint diffused light required, if the six-pointed star in the middle of the roof of the Temple be a transparency, it may also be used, if it does not make the light too strong. As emblematical of the Sacred Fire, a small light within a lamp of ruby glass should also be burning. This may either stand upon a pedestal close to the A..., or be suspended from a pulley. The D.C. should marshal the Brn. (or Officers only) in readiness for the procession and see that all present are correctly clothed. He should instruct M.M.s on which side of the Temple to be seated so as to ensure equal distribution; care should be taken that visitors understand the place appointed for them both in the procession and in the Temple. As far as possible, silence should be maintained while the Procession is being formed
Procession
The Brn. enter in procession singing. The Thurifer* bearing the censer, heads the procession. Special arrangements may be made for visitors of great distinction, and in smaller gatherings visiting dignitaries may immediately precede the Wardens.
There must be no gaps in the Procession. After leaving the E.A's at their seats, the D.C. should pause to allow the F.C.'s to close up behind him before continuing to the S.E. Here he should pause after the F.C's are in place, to allow the M.M.'s to close up behind him. He pauses at the S.W. corner while some of the M. M. 's take their places in the S.W., he then proceeds to the N.W. where the remaining M.M.s take their places. The Visiting P.M.'s follow the D.C. up the N. column and take their places in the E., whilst the Officers, P.M.s of the Lodge and Brn. of the 30° and upwards form up in the N. column.
*The D.C., if he chooses, may himself act as Thurifer but should not carry the Thurible but collect after the Brn. are in their places.
Introcessional
One of the following canticles may be sung as an Introcessional. The music should begin as the procession enters the door of the Temple. (The use of hymns and chants is optional)
I was glad when they said unto me; we will go into the house of the LORD.
I will wash my hands in innocency, O LORD: and so will I go to Thine altar
That I may show the voice of thanksgiving: and tell of all Thy wondrous works.
LORD, I have loved the habitation of Thy house: and the place where Thine honour dwelleth.
The LORD is in His holy temple: the LORD's seat is in heaven.
O magnify the LORD our GOD, and worship Him upon His holy hill: for the LORD our GOD is holy.
The LORD shall give strength unto His people: the LORD shall give His people the blessing of peace.
Or Psalm 100 may be used in either of the following forms:
O be joyful in the LORD, all ye lands: serve the LORD with gladness, and come before His presence with a song.
Be ye sure that the LORD He is GOD; it is He that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are His people, and the sheep of His pasture.
O go your way into His gates, with thanks-giving and into His courts with praise: be thankful unto Him, and speak good of His Name.
For the LORD is gracious. His mercy is from generation to generation. Or - All people that on earth do dwell
Sing to the LORD with cheerful voice;
Him serve with mirth, His praise forth tell
Come ye before Him and rejoice. The Lord, ye know, is GOD indeed;
Without our aid He did us make;
We are His flock, He doth us feed,
And for His sheep He doth us take. O enter then His gates with praise
Approach with joy His courts unto;
Praise, laud and bless His Name always,
For it is seemly so to do. For why? The LORD our GOD is good:
His mercy is for ever sure:
His truth at all times firmly stood,
And shall from age to age endure.
Ceremony of Censing
Each Bro. or group of Brn. to be censed stand with the hands joined before their breast and the palms laid together and bows as the gaze of the Thurifer meets theirs. During the ceremony appropriate music can be played, the Brn. remaining standing. * When all are in their places, the Thurifer or D.C. advances to the pedestal of the R.W.M., who places upon the charcoal in the censer some incense which he consecrates. The Thurifer steps back and bows to the R.W.M., who returns the bow. He then censes the R.W.M., with three triple swings +++ +++ +++ the chains being held short and the censer extended at the level of the eves, but slightly lowered after the first and second sets of triple swings. The censer is then grasped firmly by the chains in the right hand, and swung with full chains (if space permits) in the form of a V. three long dignified strokes to the right of the pedestal, then three to the left. Then, with the arm extended in front, the censer is swung in seven graduated circles, each circle above the other, so that by the time the seventh and smallest circle is made, the arm is raised to its full height. The Thurifer bows again to the R.W.M., and then passes directly to the A..., which he encircles, beginning at the E., swinging the censer at short chain with a circular motion the censer being level with the surface of the Altar: He then returns to the R.W.M.'s pedestal, bows, and squares the Lodge to the J.W.'s pedestal, where the ceremony which took the place at the previous pedestal is repeated, save that, the J.W. receives five swings of the censer, one triple and two single +++ + +. A pause is observed between single swings, just as between triple swings. He next passes to the S.W.'s pedestal, censing him in identical fashion, save that he receives seven swings, two triple and one single +++ +++ +. The Thurifer now turns to the J.D. bows to him, and after the bow has been returned, censes him with three single swings + + + after which they bow as before, and the Thurifer squares the Lodge to the S.D., who is censed in a similar manner, but with four swings, one triple and one single +++ +. The Thurifer now censes the distinguished visitors according to their rank, beginning with those of highest dignity (nine swings for 33°, seven for 32°, 31° and 30° five for 18° and visiting P.M.'s the swings to be divided as above), bows as he passes the R.W.M.'s pedestal and censes the P.M.'s (The I.P.M. receives seven swings and the Orator is censed according to his rank). The Thurifer then takes up his position before the Master's pedestal, having returned directly thereto: then, having bowed to him, he turns and faces the Brn., bows to them collectively and (himself remaining stationary) censes them successively, beginning with those on his left hand, and ending with those on his right. This is accomplished by a number of short swings, aimed down the S. column and up the N. in rapid succession. This ceremonial should be carefully carried out, each Bro. bowing a moment later than his predecessor. while they are being censed. The Thurifer squares the Lodge and passes to the position of the I.G, whom he censes with two single swings + +; then he hands the censer to him. The whole ceremony should be carried out as briskly as is consistent with dignity; there should be no unnecessary delay. As the Thurifer censes the different pedestals the Brn. should unite in thought upon the three principles which they represent; R.W.M. - Wisdom; S.W. - Strength; J.W. - Beauty. This should also be done while the candles are being lighted at each pedestal. When the A. is reached the thought should be on the unity of Brotherhood.
*The R.W.M. may direct that the Brn. be seated, in which case each Bro. or group of Brn. should stand when being censed and remain standing
Alternative Method of Censing
The R.W.M. directs the Brn. to be seated. The D.C. then takes the censer to the R.W.M. to be charged and proceeds to the A... which he encircles, beginning at the E., swinging the censer at short chain with a circular motion, the censer being held level with the surface of the A... After which he goes to the R.W.M. who rises and is censed as in the preceding method. Each officer rises to be censed and afterwards remains standing. The Brn. in the columns all rise when the D.C. bows to them.
Lighting the Candles
The ceremony is accompanied by soft music which, however, should cease while the officers are speaking. As soon as the censing is over, the I.P.M. conducted by the D.C. (if desired) and accompanied by the S.D., advances to the Sacred Fire, and lights therefrom a small ornamental lamp or a taper in a holder borne by the S.D. The latter then carries it to the R.W.M., who by means of a small taper lights from it the tall candle standing on his right, after the words 'our work,' The taper should not be blown out, but quenched by means of an extinguisher.
R.W.M.May the Light of Wisdom illumine our work: His Wisdom is infinite.
The S.D. carrying to the light squares the Lodge the pedestal of the S.W., who lights his candle similarly.
S.W. May the Light of Strength sustain our work: His Strength is omnipotent.
The S.D. passes to the N. and so to the pedestal of the J.W. who lights his candle similarly.
J.W. May the Light of Beauty make manifest our work: His Beauty shines through the whole universe.
The S.D. returns to his place, and extinguishes the light which he has been carrying. When he has done this, the I.P.M., raising his r... h... says:
I.P.M.His Light dwelleth ever in our midst.
The Brn. take their seats, and after a few moments' silence, the Lodge is opened.
Opening the Lodge in the First Degree
R.W.M.gives one k.., which is answered by the Wardens, and says Brn., assist me to open the Lodge. All rise.
R.W.M.(to J.W., addressing him by surname) Bro..., what is the first care of every Freemason?
J.W. To see the Lodge close tyled, Bro... (giving surname).
R.W.M.Direct that duty to be done.
J.W. (to I.G. by surname) Bro.... you will see that the Lodge is close tyled.
I.G.(opens the door, and after seeing that the Tyler is in his proper place,* closes the door, turns and addresses the J.W. by surname) Bro....., the Lodge is close tyled.
*The Tyler should stand, during the inspection, with his back to the door and with drawn sword at the 'carry.'
J.W.(to R.W.M. by surname) Bro..., the Lodge is close tyled.
R.W.M.(to S.W. by surname) Bro..., what is our next care?
S.W. To see that none but Freemasons are present, Bro....
R.W.M.Brn., to order as E.A.F.s
The Brn. stand to order with s..p* and s..n, and then following the lead of the R.W.M. drop to p... of f... Henceforward the officers are addressed by the names of their respective offices, and always by their full title, as 'Right Worshipful Master', 'Worshipful Senior Warden,' 'Worshipful Junior Warden,' and so on.
*The r... s...p should be taken on all occasions when the s...n is made.
R.W.M.W.J.W., how many principal officers are there in a Lodge?
J.W. Three, R.W.M; namely, the R.W.M. and the W. S. and J. Wardens.
R.W.M.W.S.W. how many assistant officers are there?
S.W. Likewise, three R.W.M., not including the O.G. or Tyler; namely the S. and J. Deacons and the I.G.
R.W.M.W.J.W. what is the situation of the O.G. or Tyler?
J.W. Outside the door of the Lodge, R.W.M.
R.W.M.What is his duty?
J.W. Being armed with a drawn sword, his duty is to keep off all cowans* and intruders to Freemasonry, and to see that candidates come properly prepared.
*Cowan - a word 'applied derogatorily to one who does the work of a mason, but has not been regularly apprenticed or bred to the trade', hence 'one uninitiated in the secrets of Freemasonry.' - Dr Murray's New English Dictionary Oxford.
R.W.M.Bro I.G., your situation in the Lodge?
I.G.Within the entrance of the Lodge R.W.M.
R.W.M.What is your duty?
I.G.To admit Masons on proof, to receive candidates in due form, and to obey the commands of the W.J.W.
R.W.M.Bro J.D., your situation in the Lodge?
J.D.At the right of, or near, the W.S.W., R.W.M.
R.W.M.What is your duty?
J.D. To carry all messages and communications of the R.W.M. from the W.S.W. to the W.J.W., and to see them punctually obeyed.
R.W.M.Bro S.D., your situation in the Lodge?
S.D. At the right of, or near, the R.W.M.
R.W.M.What is your duty?
S.D. To bear all messages and commands from the R.W.M. to the W.S.W., and to await the return of the J.D.
R.W.M.W.J.W., where is your constant place in the Lodge?
J.W. In the S., R.W.M.
R.W.M.Why are you so placed?
J.W. To mark the sun at its meridian, to call the Brn. from labour to refreshment and from refreshment to labour again, that profit and pleasure may be the result.
R.W.M.W.S.W., your constant place in the Lodge?
S.W. In the W., R.W.M.
R.W.M.Why are you so placed?
S.W. To mark the setting sun and to close the Lodge at the R.W.M.'s command after having seen that every Bro. has had his due.
R.W.M.(turning to I.P.M.)R.W.I.P.M. where is the situation of the M?
(If no P.M. be present, this is addressed to the S.W.)
I.P.M.In the E., R.W.M.
R.W.M.Why is he so placed?
*The words 'he' and "his" shall always be used here.
I.P.M. To mark the rising sun; as the sun rises in the E. to open and enlighten the day, so is the R.W.M. placed in the E. to open his Lodge and to employ and instruct the Brn. in Freemasonry.
R.W.M.Brn., so stand I. Our Lodge being thus duly formed, before I declare it open, let us invoke a blessing from T.G.A.O.T.U. on all our undertakings. (raising his hands) May our labours, thus begun in order, be conducted in harmony and closed in peace.
All sing
S... m... i... b...
(chanted with the r... h... extended p... d...s, this position should be taken at all times when these words are chanted).
The R.W.M. now waits until the I.P.M., conducted by the D.C., and escorted by the Deacons with crossed wands, descends to the A... and k...ls. The S.D. passes to the S. side of the A..., and the J.D. to the N. Side.
R.W.M.Brn. (here all come to order, and the R.W.M. raises his hands), in the name of T.G.A.O.T.U. and under the auspices of the Supreme Council of the International Order of Freemasonry for Men and Women Le Droit Humain. I declare the Lodge duly open (here all finish the s...n and take the p... of f...) for the purpose of Freemasonry in the First Degree (gives E.A. k..s, which are answered by the S.W., J.W., I.G. and T.)
The p... of f... should always be taken after the s...n and whenever a Bro is on his feet (not whilst walking) after the opening of the Lodge and until its closure. As the R.W.M. says the word 'open', the I.P.M. opens the V.S.L. and all the lights are turned up. The J.W. lays down his column, and the S.W. raises his. When the k...s are finished, the I.P.M., having arranged the s... over both points of the c...s which are extended towards the west, rises and stretching his hand forward, says:
I.P.M. In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
He then returns to the E.., conducted by the D.C and escorted by the Deacons with crossed wands. He salutes the R.W.M. in passing. The S.D. on his return arranges the T... B...
Alternative Method
The I.P.M. descends to the A... escorted by the D.C. The Deacons leave their seats and move simultaneously with the I.P.M. They meet at the A.., face each other, take a step forward, turn together towards the E. and cross wands. After the R.W.M. has finished speaking and the k...s have been given, the I.P.M. rises; each Deacon steps back with the foot nearest the A... and then outwards to one side. The D.C. escorts the I P.M. back to the E., after which the Deacons square the Lodge in opposite directions. The J.D. halts at the S.E. corner while the S.D. turns the T...B.. They then proceed to their seats. If no I.P.M. be present the above part is taken by the S.W. unaccompanied.
All sing
Hail, Eternal! By whose aid
All created things were made;
Heaven and earth Thy vast design;
Hear us Architect Divine!
May our work, begun in Thee,
Ever blest with order be;
And may we, when labours cease,
Part in harmony and peace.
By Thy glorious Majesty,
By the trust we place in Thee,
By the badge and mystic sign,
Hear us, Architect Divine!
S... m... i... b...
Order of Business
The R.W.M. asks the Secretary to read the Minutes of the last meeting.
The R.W.M. asks for corrections or amendments and it there are none, or all the observations have been made, he proceeds to take a vote on the Minutes after the Orator has given his conclusions.
The custom of consulting the Orator before important decisions are taken is adopted from French workings. The Orator is intended to be an expert on the Book of Constitution, Bye-Laws etc., and by his knowledge to support the R.W.M., not that he may signify his personal approval or disapproval of any matter, but that he may testify that no provision of the Constitution or byelaws has inadvertently been disregarded. The same thing applies to his conclusions concerning the eligibility of a Candidate for Initiation.
R.W.M. Bro Orator, what are your conclusions on this matter?
OratorAll is in order, R.W.M.
The R.W.M. asks for excuses from absent Brn., correspondence etc.
If a ballot is to be taken with regard to the admission of any candidate, it should be done at this point. Before the ballot is taken the R.W.M. may call upon the Proposer and Seconder to give some information concerning the Candidate. Any further business is then taken.
If an Initiation is to take place, the ceremony proceeds as on next page.
If there be a lecture, it follows here.
Initiation
The R.W.M. should have previously instructed a responsible Bro. (preferably a P.M.) to retire and prepare the Candidate. The latter; having been already divested of all m...s and v...s is h... w..., has his r... a... l... b... and l... k... b... his r... h... s...p-s...d, is clothed in a loose white robe, and has a c... t... about his n*. It is explained to the C. that the preparation has a symbolic meaning. For this purpose the official Card and pamphlet must be used. Before the entrance of the Candidate, his Affirmation Paper or Testament is read in Open Lodge. When all is ready, the Tyler sounds the alarm - one loud k...
*The knt. of the c... t... should be fairly close to the throat the loose end hanging down in front. It is important that the l... kn... and r... h...l should be in actual contact with the cushion and ground respectively
I.G. (with s...n) W.J.W., there is an alarm.
J.W. (rises) R.W.M., there is an alarm.
R.W.M. W.J.W., you will enquire who seeks admission.
J.W. (seated) Bro I.G., you will see who seeks admission.
The I.G. and Thurifer go out. The I.G closes the door, examines the preparation of the C. and addresses the Tyler thus:
I.G. Whom have you there?
T.A.B., a poor Candidate in a s... of d... who has been well and worthily recommended, regularly proposed and approved in open Lodge and who now comes of his own free will and accord, properly prepared, humbly soliciting to be admitted to the mysteries and privileges of Ancient Freemasonry.
I.G. How does he hope to obtain those privileges?
T.By the help of G... and the being free. t... of g... r...
I.G. Let the C. wait, while I make report to the R.W.M.
The I.G. re-enters the Lodge, closes the door, advances with s...p and s...n and says:
I.G. R.W.M., there now stands at the door of the Lodge, A.B. a poor Candidate in a s... of d... who has been well and worthily recommended, regularly proposed and approved in open Lodge, and who now comes of his own free will and accord, humbly soliciting to be admitted to the mysteries and privileges of Ancient Freemasonry.
R.W.M. How does he hope to obtain those privileges?
I.G. By the help of G... and the t... of g... r..., being free.
R.W.M. The t... of g... r... has already been heard in his favour. Do you, Bro. I.G. vouch that he comes properly prepared?
I.G. I do, R.W.M.
R.W.M. Then let him be admitted in due form. Brother Deacons.
The Deacons go to the W. near the door to receive the C. from the I.G. The I.G. opens the door, meets the C. at the entrance between the pillars and draws him into the Temple by the c... t..., holding with his l... h... the loop and the cord passing through it.
The Thurifer, with the censer, enters behind the C.*
*During all ceremonies it is the duty of the Tyler to keep charcoal alight in the censer, ready for use when required.
I.G. (applying the p... of the d... which he holds in his r... h... to C.'s l... b...) Do you feel anything?
I.G. (having received a reply in the affirmative) As you now feel the p... of a d... on your l... b..., so may the recollection of it be a prick to your conscience, should you ever attempt unlawfully to reveal the secrets of Freemasonry. Enter this Lodge of Freemasons in the Name of God, and fear no evil.
The I.G. raises the d... above his own head in token that he has performed his task.
The Deacons cross their wands; the J.D. takes the r... h... of the C., instructs him to bow his head, guides him beneath the crossed wands, and places him to the left of the S.W., facing E. If there are other C.s the S.D. leads the second. and others are led if necessary, by assistant Deacons appointed by the RWM.
R.W.M. (to C.) A.B., you have passed the F... P... into the T... but as no person can be made a Mason unless he be free and of mature age, I demand to know if you are free and of the full age of eighteen years?
C.I am.
R.W.M. Thus assured, I will ask you* to k...l while we invoke the aid of our Superiors on our proceedings.
*When the alternative Invocation is used, this should read: 'Thus assured I will ask you to k...l while we invoke the blessing of Heaven on our proceedings'
During the Invocation the Deacons cross their wands over the head of the C. and the Thurifer stands behind him gently swinging the censer.
The Brn. rise and stand with p... of f...
Invocation
R.W.M. (raising his hands) *We invoke your blessing, O ye Ministers of T.G.A.O.T.U., and Thine, O most Worthy and Venerable M...O...W..., who art the H... of all true Freemasons throughout the world*. We ask your aid for this Candidate for Masonry, that he may so dedicate and devote his life to your service as to become a true and faithful Brother among us; that he may in due time attain unto Wisdom; and that - assisted by the secrets of this our Masonic Art - he may display the beauty of Divine Humanity and cooperate with the Supreme Will in evolution.
*Alternative Wording; G.A.O.T.U., we invoke Thy blessing; and Yours O ye Ministers of Wisdom, Strength and Beauty.
All sing
S...m...i...b...
The Brn. resume their seats, and the Thurifer returns the censer to the Tyler.
R.W.M. (to C) A.B. in all cases of difficulty and danger, in whom do you put your trust?
C.In ... (this reply must be spontaneously answered and not suggested by the JD)
R.W.M. Right glad am I to find your faith so well founded. Relying on such sure support, you may safely rise and follow your guide with firm but humble confidence; for where that Name is invoked we trust that no danger can ensue. (The C., is assisted to rise.)
R.W.M. (gives one k..., which is answered by the W...) The Brn. in the N., E., S. and W. will take notice that A.B. is about to pass in view before them to show that he is a Candidate properly prepared to be made a Freemason.
The JD conducts the C. round the Lodge returning to the N.W.
The Three Symbolical Journeys
R.W.M. Bro. J.D. take the Candidate the first Symbolical Journey.
The J.D. conducts the C. towards the N., then to the S.E, and halts facing W. A great noise as of clashing of swords and clanking of chains is heard in the Lodge, as the C. is being led around. The noise can best be made by means of a thin sheet of metal (not less than four feet square) suspended by the corner and shaken.
J.D. R.W.M., the first Symbolical Journey is finished.
All sing
All glory to T.G.A.O.T.U.
J.W. (to C.) In olden days, when the ceremonial initiations of which Masonry is a survival were duly performed, the Candidate was led through gloomy caverns, symbolising the underworld, amid tumultuous sounds, in darkness, surrounded by perils he could not understand. This in its turn, was a faint copy of the veritable journey through the underworld made of old, and still made by the Candidate in the true Mysteries during his mystic Initiation. These memories are perpetuated in Freemasonry by the Symbolical Journey of the b...d f...d Candidate round Lodge amid noise and clashing of swords.
R.W.M. Bro J.D. take the Candidate to the W. of the S...P. and let him give the offerings to the E...als of Earth and Water.
The J.D. conducts the C. a few paces before the J.W., but turns the C., so that he faces N.
J.D. - Ho! E...als of the Earth, who guard the right side of the S...P... Behold! A blinded child of mortality, seeking Immortality, approacheth. (The J.D. touches the f...d of the C. with a little sand, and some is placed in his r...h...). Earth to Earth, he gives you of your own. (Here the C. is instructed to throw down the sand). As he thus recognises you, so shall you henceforth always recognise him your as one of the Brn. Open ranks that he may come near to the W... of your Gate.
J.D. (turning the C. to face S.) Ho! E...als of the Water, who guard the left side of the S...P... Behold! A blinded child of mortality seeking Immortality, approacheth. (The J.D. touches the f... of the C. ith a little water and a little is placed in his r...h...) Water to Water, he gives you of your own. (The C. is instructed to throw down the water). As he thus recognises you, so shall you henceforth always recognise him as one of the Brn. Open your ranks, that he may come near to the W... of your Gate.
An alternative method is for the J.D. to leave the C. facing the W..t while he makes the offerings, so that he passes straight through the portal without being turned about. When this is completed the J.D. takes the C's r... h... and with it gives the alarm of the Degree i.e. one k.. on the J.W.'s right shoulder.
J.W. Whom have you there?
J.D. A.B., a who has poor Candidate in a s... of d..., been well recommended, regularly and worthily approved in proposed and open Lodge, and who now comes of his own free will and accord properly prepared, humbly soliciting to be admitted to the mysteries and privileges of Ancient Freemasonry.
J.W. How does he hope to obtain those privileges?
J.D. By the help of G... and the t... of g... r... being free.
The J.W. rises, takes the C. by the r... h... and guides him to the left of his pedestal and says:
J.W. - Enter, free and of g...r...
The J.D. conducts the C. to his former position in the W.
R.W.M. - Bro J.D. take the Candidate the second Symbolical Journey.
The C. is conducted to the end of the S. column, and halts facing N. Sounds are made, similar to those in the first Journey, but fainter and less obtrusive, and higher in pitch.
J.D. R. W. M., the second Symbolical Journey is finished.
All sing
All glory to T.G.A.O.T.U.
S.W. (to C.) As the Candidate left the gloomy caverns behind him, he passed into a quieter region, symbolising the higher regions of the underworld, where-into the coarser, harsher sounds did not penetrate, but still there was some disharmony among the souls. This second stage is also found in the real underworld as the Candidate passes out of Hades into the Elysium above; this is remembered in Freemasonry in the second Symbolical Journey.
R.W.M. Bro J.D., take the Candidate to the W... of the T...P... and let him give the offerings to the E...als of Air and Fire.
The J.D. conducts the C. to the S.W., and turns him to face the E.
J.D. Ho! E...als of the Air, who guard the right side of the T..P... Behold! A blinded child of mortality, seeking Immortality, who hath passed the S...P.., approacheth. (a fan is gently waved before the face of the C. It is then placed in his hand). Air to Air, he gives you of your own. (The C. is assisted to blow a blast of air in the direction of the E.) As he thus recognises you, so shall you henceforth always recognise him as one of the Brn. Open your ranks, that he may come near to the W... of your Gate.
J.D. (turning the C. to face W.) Ho! E...als of the Fire, who guard the left side of the T...P... Behold! A blinded child of mortality, seeking Immortality, who hath passed the S...P..., approacheth. (A lighted candle or taper is dexterously passed beneath the r... h... of the C. so that he feels its heat, and is then given him to hold). Fire to Fire, he gives you of your own. (The C. is assisted to make a triangle clockwise with the light). As he thus recognises you, so shall you henceforth always recognise him as one of the Brn. Open your ranks, that he may come near to the W... of your Gate.
An alternative method is for the J.D. to leave the C. facing N. while he makes the offerings, so that he passes straight through the portal. When this is completed, the J.D. takes the C.'s r... h... and with it gives one k... on the S.W.'s right shoulder.
S.W. Whom have you there?
J.D. A.B., a poor Candidate (as before)
S.W. How does he hope (as before)
J.D. By the help (as before)
The S.W. rises, takes the C. by the r... h... and guides him to the left of his pedestal and says:
S.W. Enter, free and of g... r...
The J.D. conducts the C. to his former position in the W.
R.W.M. Bro J.D. take the Candidate the third Symbolical Journey.
The C. is led as in the other Journeys and placed at the left of the S.W. There should be complete silence.
J.D. R.W.M., the third Symbolical Journey is finished.
All sing
All Glory to T.G.A.O.T.U.
R.W.M. (to C.) The Candidate passed out of the lower regions and reached the threshold of the heavenly world, where perfect silence lulled the weary senses and calm peace enfolded him. The lower world lay behind him; before him the joys of heaven. In the interspace was silence. This was, and is, his experience in the true Mysteries; it was symbolised by utter silence in the Mysteries of Egypt and Greece; in Freemasonry it is kept in memory in the silence of the third Symbolical Journey.
The J.D. now delivers the C. over to the S.W., who rises and says:
S.W. R.W.M., I present to you A.B., a Candidate properly prepared to be made a Freemason.
R.W.M. W.S.W., your presentation shall receive attention, but first I shall address a few questions to the Candidate, which I trust he will answer with candour.
S.W. releases candidate's hand and sits.
R.W.M. A.B., do you seriously declare on your honour that, unbiased by the improper solicitation of friends against your own inclination and uninfluenced by mercenary, or other unworthy motive, you freely and voluntarily offer yourself as a Candidate for the mysteries and privileges of Ancient Freemasonry?
C.I do.
These replies must be spontaneously answered and not suggested by the J.D., who may say, if necessary, 'Answer'
R.W.M. Do you likewise pledge yourself that you are prompted to solicit those privileges from a favourable opinion preconceived of the Institution, a genuine desire for knowledge, and a sincere wish to render yourself more extensively serviceable to your fellow creatures?
C.I do.
R.W.M. Do you further seriously declare upon your honour that, avoiding fear on the one hand and rashness on the other, you will steadily persevere through the ceremony of your Initiation, and, if once admitted, will afterwards act and abide by the ancient usages and established customs of the Order?
C.I do.
R.W.M. W.S.W., you will direct the J.D. to instruct the Candidate to advance to the E. - the place of light by the proper s...ps.*
*These proper s...ps of the several Degrees should not be confused with the regular s...ps; they are formed quite differently.
While the C. is being moved into position and before any instruction is given by the J.D., the Thurifer collects the censer and remains standing. There must be no movement in the Lodge during the instruction and the approach to the A.
J.D. (to C.) The method of advancing from W. to E. - the place of light - is by t... s..ps irregular as regards length. The first is ... the second ... and the third ... in length. They are each taken with the l...f... After each the r... h... is brought square with the h... of the l..f...
You will stand with your feet together both pointing straight forward. Keeping your heels together turn your r... f... outward so as to form a square. Now take the first s...p.
The J.D. should be careful to place the C. about one yard from the A... so that no further s...ps are necessary before k..g.
As the C. reaches the A... the D.C. (bearing a flat cushion) and the Thurifer (carrying the censer) advance, and the s...d-bearers rise. The Thurifer proceeds up the N. column towards the E. When he reaches the N.E. corner he turns, and he and the D.C. advance together to the foot of the R.W.M.'s pedestal. Together they ascend one on either side of the R.W.M. When the censer has been charged and the s...d and g...l have been placed on the cushion by the R.W.M. the two Officers descend to the floor together and stand facing each other, leaving room for the I.P.M. to descend to the floor of the L., if it is desired that he shall take the place of the R.W.M. The R.W.M. descends to the floor by the left of his pedestal. Then he and the D.C. advance to the A... The Thurifer stands behind the R.W.M. and at the same time the s...d-bearers group themselves in a semi-circle behind the C.
R.W.M. (to C.) A.B. it is my duty to inform you that Masonry is free, and requires a perfect freedom of inclination in every Candidate for its mysteries: it is founded on the purest principles of piety and virtue; it possesses many great and invaluable privileges; but in order to secure those privileges to the worthy, and we trust to the worthy alone, vows of fidelity are required. Let me assure you that those vows are in no way incompatible with your moral, civil or religious duties. Are you then willing to take a solemn O.., founded on the principles I have stated, to keep inviolate the secrets and mysteries of our ancient and honourable Order?
C.I am
R.W.M. I must warn you that the traditional form of this O... comes down to us from medieval times, when the Operative Masons sought to impress it more deeply upon the Candidate by threatening him with dire physical penalties if he should ever break his oath. You as a man of honour need no such menaces; yet on account of their symbolic meaning and for the sake of the unchanging tradition of Freemasonry you will repeat the ancient form as we have all repeated it.
All through the O... the s...ds should be pointed towards the C. and all the Brn. should direct their thought strongly towards him with a view to helping him. The Thurifer should gently swing the censer during the O... and admission. The Deacons cross their wands over the head of the C.
R.W.M. You will k... on your l... k..., keeping your r... k... in the f... of a sq...; place your l... h... under and your r...h... upon this B. which is the V.S.L.,* state your several names at length and say after me:
Here the Brn. rise
O....
C.I, A.B., in the presence of T.G.A.O.T.U. and in the body of this Chartered Worshipful Lodge of Ancient, and Right Free and Accepted Masons, regularly assembled and properly dedicated, of my own free will and accord, do hereby and hereon most solemnly and sincerely swear that I will always hele^ conceal and never wilfully reveal, any part or parts, point or points, of or belonging to the secrets or mysteries of Ancient Freemasonry, which may heretofore have been known by me, and which shall now or at any future time be communicated to me, to anyone in the world, unless it be to a true and lawful Bro. or Brn. and not even to him or them, until after due trial, strict examination or a full conviction that he or they are worthy of that confidence, or in the body of a Lodge, just perfect and regular.
I further solemnly promise that I will not write those secrets, indite, carve, mark, engrave or otherwise them delineate, or cause or suffer the same to be done by others (if in my power to prevent it) upon anything movable or immovable under the canopy of heaven, whereby or whereon any letter, character or figure, or the least trace of any letter, character or figure, may become legible or intelligible to myself or anyone else in the world, that so our secret arts and hidden mysteries might improperly become known, and that through my unworthiness.
I likewise solemnly pledge myself to support and maintain the Laws and Constitution of the Supreme Council of the International Order of Freemasonry for Men and Women Le Droit Humain, and the Bye-Laws and Officers of this the ... Lodge No...... which I will always acknowledge to be my mother Lodge in Freemasonry. And that I will never countenance any clandestine meeting for Masonic purposes, or Lodge not holding proper Charter from a Supreme Council, Grand Lodge or other supreme body.
These several points I solemnly swear to observe, without evasion, equivocation or mental reservation of any kind, under no less a p..., on the violation of any of them, than that of having etc. ; or the more effective punishment of being branded as a wilfully perjured individual, void of all moral worth and totally unfit to be received into this or any other warranted Lodge, or into any society of men and women who prize honour and virtue above the merely external advantages of rank and fortune.
So help me, T.G.A.O.T.U., and keep me steadfast in this my great and solemn O..., being that of an E.A.F.
*This position of the h...s is the Dieu Garde (Anglice, due-guard) used in Scottish and American Lodges.
^'Hele' an old English word meaning to cover or conceal or keep secret, correctly pronounced "heal.
The Deacons uncross their wands and the C.'s h...s are removed from the V.S.L. The Brn. bring their s...ds back to 'carry' i.e. the s...d is held upright in the hand, with the elbow in form of a square. They then raise the cross of the hilt to the level of the forehead in salute as all sing softly thrice:
May the vow be kept!
Only the officers, and those in the E. stretch out the right hand horizontally, palm downwards, the first time this is sung; the second time it is raised higher, the third time higher still.
R.W.M. In the presence of the Deity Whose Name you have invoked, and of the Brn. here assembled, you will now recognise the solemnity of the O... and your submission to our discipline by touching with your lips or forehead the V.S.L.
During the act of admission the Brn. raise their s...ds with the R.W.M. and return to 'carry' as his hand is lowered. At the words 'in me vested' the hilt is raised to the forehead, and so kept till the sound of the bell dies away, when the s...ds are again brought to 'carry'.
R.W.M. (holding the f... s...d aloft in right hand) To the Glory of T.G.A.O.T.U, (lowering s...d to 'carry') and to the perfection of humanity, (raising g... in left hand) in the name and under the auspices of the Supreme Council of the International Order of Freemasonry for Men and Women, Le Droit Humain, (crossing g... over s...d) by virtue of the power in me vested (placing the p...t of the s...d on h... of C.) I create (sounds E.A. k...s with g... on the b...de of s...d and then removes s..d to l... s...) receive (repeats k...s, with s...d on l... s... and then removes it to r... s...) and constitute (repeats k...s on s...d on r... s... and again places s...d on h...) you (states names in full) an E.A.F.
The E.A. k...s are sounded on a bell immediately after the above words; if there is more than one Neophyte they are sounded for each. The sound should be allowed to fade naturally. A few chords of music should be played here; they should begin very softly and swell to a triumphant outburst.
R.W.M. Brn., you have heard the O... of the Neophyte. W.S.W., on behalf of the Brn., what do you ask for him?
S.W. Light, R.W.M.
R.W.M. Then let that blessing of light be restored to him, as of old to chase away the primary darkness of chaos, God said 'Let there be Light'.
All sing
And there was light.
The J.D. unfastens the h... w.., and as the word 'Light' is sung, he removes it, taking care that the V.S.L, s... and c... shall be the first objects to meet the vision of the N.
R.W.M. Now that you have been restored to the blessing of material light, let me direct your attention to what we esteem the t... g... emblematical l...s in Freemasonry - namely the V.S.L., the s... and the c... The S... L... is to illumine our minds, the s... to regulate our actions and the c... to keep us within due bounds with all mankind, more particularly with our Brn. in Freemasonry.
R.W.M. (taking the N. by his r... h...) Rise, duly o...d Bro. among Freemasons.
As soon as the N. is raised to his feet, the organ sounds a triumphal fanfare. Simultaneously the Brn. bring the hilts of their s...ds again for a moment to their foreheads. The N. is turned completely round so that after momentarily seeing the Brn. with their s...ds at 'carry' he again faces the R.W.M.
R.W.M. The Brn. you have seen around you with their s...ds must not appear to you as a menace, but as a symbol of the protection with which Freemasonry henceforth surrounds you.
The Brn. once more raise the hilts. of their s...ds to their foreheads and all the Brn. chant:
Hail, Bro! Bro., Hail!
The s...d-bearers return to their places, and the D.C., after returning the g...l and s...d to the Master's pedestal resumes his place; at the same time the Thurifer passes to his position and all are seated. The J.D. places the N. in the N.E. The R.W.M. stands facing him.
R.W.M. Let me now point out to you the three great pillars on which a Lodge of Freemasons figuratively rests. They are typified by the R. W.M. in the E., the W.S.W. in the W. and the W.J.W. in the S. The pillar of the R.W.M. signifies Wisdom; that of the W.S.W., the Strength; and that of the W.J.W. Beauty.
I would also draw your attention to the three L...r L...s. They are situated in the S., the W., the E. and are meant to represent the Sun, the Moon, and the Master of the Lodge; the Sun to rule the day, the Moon to govern the night, and the M. to rule and direct the Lodge.
All sing
Wisdom is the breath of the power of GOD; and a pure influence flowing from the glory of the Almighty.
Wisdom iS the brightness of the everlasting Light; the unspotted mirror of the power of GOD, and the image of His goodness.
Wisdom reacheth from one end of the world to the other; mightily and sweetly doth she order all things.
Wisdom is the rose of sharon and the lily of the valley. She is the mother of fair love; and of patience and perseverance, and of holy hope.
The I.G. brings his d... to the R.W.M.
R.W.M. This evening you have escaped two dangers, but there is a third which will await you until the latest period of your existence. When you entered the Lodge this d... was, according to immemorial custom, held at your breast; if you had rashly rushed forward you would have injured yourself (hands d... to the I.G.) This c... t... with a running noose was around your neck (removes c... t... from the neck of the N. and hands it to the I.G.) if you had retreated you would also have injured yourself. This is to show you that in pursuit of wisdom you must be neither rash nor fearful. But the danger which will await you until your latest hour is that of wilfully or carelessly of breaking the solemn O... into which you have entered. See you to it that your vow be kept, and that your honour as a Freemason remains unstained.
All sing softly thrice:
May the vow be kept!
The accompanying ritual is as before. The I.G. now returns to his place.
R.W.M. As you have now taken the great and solemn O... of an E.A.F., I am permitted to inform you that there are several Degrees in Freemasonry with peculiar s...ts restricted to each. These, however, are not communicated indiscriminately, but are conferred on Brn. according to merit and ability; I shall, the therefore, now proceed to entrust you with the s...ts of this Degree, those marks by which Freemasons are known to each other and distinguished from the rest of the world. I must premise for your general information that all s.., l... and p... are true and proper s...ns by which to know a Freemason; you are therefore expected to stand perfectly erect, with your f... in the form of a s... (the N. does this, placing h... to h...), your body being thus an emblem of your mind, and your f... of the rectitude of your actions. You will now take a short p... towards me with your l... f..., bringing the r... h... into its h...w; this is called the first r...s...p in Freemasonry, and it is in this position that the s...ts of this Degree are communicated. They consist of a s...n, a g... or t... and a w... The s...n is given thus (makes the complete sign and then demonstrates each part in detail). The last part is commonly supposed to allude to the p..y attached among our ancient Operative Brn. to any violation of the O..., which was that of having, etc. The g... or t... is given thus..., and, when properly given and received, serves to distinguish a Bro. by night as well as by day. This g... demands a w..., one highly prized among Freemasons as a guard to their privileges; too much caution, therefore, cannot be observed in communicating it. You must never give it in full except in open Lodge, but only by l... or h... This being open Lodge I will give the w... in full. It is ... As in the course of the ceremony you will be called on for this w..., the J.D. will now dictate the answers you are to give.
R.W.M. (gives the g... to the N) What is this?
N. prompted by J.D. The g... or t... of an E.A.F.
R.W.M. What does this g... demand?
N. A w...
R.W.M. Give me that w...
N. At my Initiation I was taught to be cautious, but with you, a Bro., I will l... or h... it.
R.W.M. I commend you for your caution, l... it and begin.
N. (shares the w...)
R.W.M. This w... is derived from the l...h...p... at the p..y e... of K... S...'s T..., so named after ..., the g... g... of D..., a p... and r... in I... The import of the w... is: In ...
R.W.M. (takes the N. by r... h..., and passing him to the S. says) Pass,... to the W.W.'s
The R.W.M. returns to the Chair.
Examination by the W...s
The J.D. takes the N. to the pedestal of the J.W., directing him to stand erect with his h...ls together in the form of a s... The J.D. prompts the N. in his answers.
J.D. W.J.W., I present to you Bro. A.B. on his initiation into Freemasonry.
J.W. Bro A.B., you will advance to me as an E.A.F.
(The N. takes the s...p).
J.W. What is that?
N. (prompted by J.D.) the first r... s...p in Freemasonry.
J.W. Have you anything to communicate?
N. I have. (J.W. rises and receives the g...)
J.W. What is this?
N. The g... or t... of an E.A.F.
J.W. - What does this g... demand?
N. A w...
J.W. Give me that w...
N. At my Initiation I was taught to be cautious, but with you a Bro., I will l... or h... it.
J.W. I commend you for your caution l... it and begin.
(The N. shares the w...)
J.W. Pass, to the W.S.W.
The J.D. takes the N. to the S.W.'s pedestal. The J.D. prompts the N., directing him to stand as before.
J.D. W.S.W. I present to you Bro. A.B., on his initiation into Freemasonry.
S.W. Bro A.B. you will advance to me as an E.A.F.
The N. takes the s...p
S.W. What is that?
N. The first r... s...p in Freemasonry.
S.W. Do you bring anything with you?
N. I do. (Gives the full s...n).
S.W. What is that?
N. The s...n of an E.A.F.
S.W. To what is the last part supposed to allude?
N. To the p..y attached, among our ancient Operative Brn., to any violation of the O..., which was that of having, etc.
S.W. Have you anything to communicate?
N. I have. (S.W. rises and receives the g...)
S.W. What is this?
N. The g... or t... of an E.A.F.
S.W. What does this g... demand?
N. A w...
S.W. Give me that w...
N. At my Initiation, etc.
S.W. I commend you for your caution h... it and begin.
The N shares the w...
S.W.Whence is this w... derived?
N. From the l... h... p... at p...y e...e of the K... S...'s T..., so named after the g... g... of D..., a p... and r... in I...
S.W. The import of the w...?
N. ...
S.W.Pass,...
The Investiture
The J.D. places the N. on the S.W's left. The S.W. takes the N's hand, rises and says:
S.W.R.W.M. I present to you Bro. A.B. on his Initiation for some mark of your favour.
R.W.M.W.S.W., I delegate to you the duty of investing our Bro. with the distinguishing badge of a Freemason.
The D.C. advances to the pedestal of the R.W.M., bearing a white cushion, upon which the R.W.M. lays the badge, which is then carried to the S.W. who therewith invests the N. The S.W. descends to the floor of the Lodge for this eremony, and the N. stands in the N.W. The E.A. a...n should always be worn with the flap pointing upwards.
S.W.Bro A.B. by command of the R.W.M. I invest you (places the a..n on the N. and holds it while it is fastened by the J.D.) with the distinguishing badge of a Freemason. (The S.W. steps back and continues). It is more ancient than the Golden Fleece or the Roman Eagle, and more honourable than the Order of the Garter or any other Order in existence, it being the badge of innocence and the bond of friendship; and I strongly exhort you ever to wear and consider it as such. In all ages it has been the acknowledged emblem of innocence and purity of life and action which should at all times distinguish a Freemason. I trust you may live many years to wear that badge, with pleasure to yourself, usefulness to the Craft and honour to the Lodge in which you have been initiated; and let me further exhort you never to disgrace it, for be assured it will never disgrace you.
All sing
Pure as that badge thy life may be,
If by its teachings thou abide;
GOD'S holy Face, thine eyes shall see,
If thou wilt make that badge thy guide
S... m... i... b...
R.W.M.(to the N. who faces E. I must add to the observations of the W.S.W. that you are never to put on that badge should you be about to enter a Lodge where there is a Bro. with whom you are at variance, or against whom you entertain animosity. In such cases it is expected that you will invite him to withdraw In order that you may settle your differences amicably; this being happily effected, you may then clothe yourselves, enter the Lodge and work together with that love and harmony which should at all times characterise Freemasons. But if, unfortunately, your differences should be of such a nature as not to be so easily adjusted, it were better that one or both of you retire than that the harmony of the Lodge should be disturbed by your presence.
R.W.M.Bro J.D., you will place the N. in the N.E. part of the Lodge.
The D.C. collects the r... a... and places it on the corner square of the N.E. corner of the carpet. The J.D. instructs the N. to stand with his feet squaring the r... a..., l... f... across the Lodge, r... f... down the Lodge.
I.P.M.or other P.M. (descending to the floor). It is customary at the erection of all stately and superb edifices to lay the foundation stone at the N.E. corner of the building. You, being newly admitted into Freemasonry, are placed in the N.E. figuratively to represent that stone, and, from the foundation laid this evening, may you raise a super-structure perfect in all its parts and honourable to the builder. You now stand, to all external appearance, a just and upright man and Freemason, and I urge you in terms of strong recommendation ever to continue and act as such. Among the thousands who range under the banners of Freemasonry there are many who, perhaps from circumstances of unforeseen misfortune and calamity, are reduced to the lowest ebb of poverty and distress. It has been our usual custom to awaken the feelings of every newly initiated Bro. on their behalf by making such claim on his charity as his circumstances in life may fairly warrant.
Whatever therefore, you feel disposed to give you may put into the Widow's Trunk when it reaches you, and I assure you it will be thankfully received and properly applied.
The Widow's Trunk is now taken round by the Almoner to all the Brn., and finally to the N.
Alm.(to the N. - Will you give something in the sacred cause of Charity?
The N. replies
Alm.Were you divested of all m...s and v...s previous to entering the Lodge?
The N. replies
Alm.Otherwise would you give freely?
The N. replies
Alm.giving the s...n R.W.I.P.M. our newly initiated Bro. affirms that he was d... of all m...s and v...s previous to entering the Lodge, or he would give freely.
I.P.M.Previous speaker continues I congratulate you on the honorable sentiments by which you are actuated, likewise on the inability which at present precludes you from gratifying them. Believe me, this question was not asked in mere playfulness or to sport with feelings. It was asked in all your seriousness, for three reasons:
First, to put your principles to the test;
Secondly, to evince to the Brn. that you had neither m...s nor v...s about you; for otherwise the ceremony of your Initiation must thus far have been repeated;
Thirdly, as a warning to your own heart; that if you at any time meet a poor or distressed Bro. who may claim your assistance, you will remember the circumstances of your admission into Freemasonry, p... and p..., and will cheerfully embrace the opportunity of practising towards him that virtue which now you profess to admire.
Working Tools
R.W.M.W.J.W., you will explain the Working Tools of this Degree.
The J.D. places the N. in front of the J.W.'s pedestal.
J.W.Bro A.B. by command of the R. W.M. I present to you the Working Tools of an E.A.F. which are the T... -f...l... G..., the C... G... and the C... hands the Tools to the N. The T... -f... I.. G... is used to measure the work; the C.. G... to knock off superfluous knobs and excrescences; and the C... further to smooth and prepare the rough stone. Takes back the Tools.
But as we are not Operative, but Free and Accepted or Speculative Masons, we apply these tools as symbols and invest them with a moral significance. Thus from the T... -f... I... G... we learn that accuracy and precision are essential for the proper conduct of our lives and as it is divided into twenty-four equal parts it reminds us of the twenty-four hours of the day; part to be spent in meditation and study, part in labour, refreshment and sleep, but all in the service of humanity.
The C... G... teaches us that skill without exertion is of little avail, and that labour is the lot of man; the heart may conceive and the brain devise in vain if the hand be not prompt to execute the design. The G... also represents the force of conscience, which should keep down all vain and unbecoming thoughts, so that our feelings and actions may be pure and unpolluted.
The C... points out to us that education and perseverance are necessary to establish perfection, that the rude material of our natures receives its polish and refinement from repeated efforts alone, and that nothing short of indefatigable exertion can induce the habit of virtue, enlighten the mind and purify the heart.
From the whole we deduce this moral; that knowledge supplemented by perseverance and tabour will finally overcome all difficulties, disperse the darkness and despair of ignorance, and establish the truths of Nature and Science in the mind of man.
All sing
Glorious is the fruit of good labours; and the root of wisdom shall never fall away.
The J.D. now places the N. in front of the R.W.M.'s' pedestal.
R.W.M.As you are called upon for certain fees for your Initiation, it is but proper that you should know by what authority we act. This is our Charter or Warrant of Constitution shows it from the Supreme Council of the International Order of Freemasonry for Men and Women, Le Droit Humain, and it is open for your inspection on this or any future Lodge evening. This is our International Constitution, these are our Regulations and these are the Bye-Laws of the Lodge hands them to him, each of which, I recommend to your careful perusal. By them you will be taught the duties you owe to the Craft in general and to this Lodge in particular.
You are now at liberty to retire in order to restore yourself to your personal comfort. On your return if time permits your attention will be called to a Charge, founded on the excellence of our Institution and the qualifications of its members; you will also hear an explanation of the Ceremony of Initiation.
The J.D. instructs the N. to salute the R.W.M. with the p... s...n and to square the Lodge, pausing to salute similarly the J.W. and S.W. as he comes to their pedestals. He then leads him to the left of the S.W., and instructs him to salute the R.W.M. before leaving the Lodge. He is re-admitted on report and the usual phrase "You will admit all well-known Brn".
The Bro. deputed to prepare the C. should instruct the N. in the s...p and s...n which he must give on re-entering the Lodge.
A Charge in the First Degree
The R.W.M. or some Bro. appointed by him delivers the Charge.
The N. may be seated during the Charges but must rise and salute at the beginning and end of each.
If the giving of either of the Charges is to be deferred, the R.W.M. should instruct the N. to study it carefully.
R.W.M.As you have now passed through the ceremony of your Initiation, allow me to congratulate you on being admitted a member of our ancient honorable Order. Ancient undoubtedly it is, as having subsisted from time immemorial; and honourable it must be acknowledged to be, because by a natural tendency, it conduces to make all those honourable who are strictly obedient to its precepts. Indeed, no institution can boast a more solid foundation than that on which Freemasonry rests - namely, the practice of every moral and social virtue. And to so high an eminence has its honour been advanced, that in every age even monarchs themselves have been promoters of the art, have not thought it derogatory to their dignity to exchange the sceptre for the trowel, have studied our mysteries and joined our assemblies.
As a Freemason, I would recommend to your most serious contemplation the V.S.L., charging you to consider them as a standard of truth, and to regulate your actions by the Divine precepts they contain. Therein you will be taught the important duties you owe to GOD, to your neighbour and to yourself.
To GOD, by never mentioning His Name but with the reverence which we should ever feel to Him, by following the duties of your own religion, and by showing the tolerance which springs from a recognition of His relation to all men.
To your neighbour, by acting to him on the s..., by rendering him every kind office that justice or mercy may require, by relieving his necessities, soothing his afflictions, and by doing unto him, in all things, as in similar cases you would wish that he should do unto you.
And to yourself, by such a prudent and well regulated course of discipline as may best conduce to the preservation of your corporeal and mental faculties in their fullest energy, thereby enabling you to exercise those sacred gifts wherewith GOD has blessed you, as well in service to Him as to the welfare of your fellow creatures.
As an individual, I would recommend to you the practice of you every domestic as well as public virtue; let prudence direct you, temperance chasten you, fortitude support you and justice be the guide of all your actions. Be especially careful to maintain, in their fullest splendour, those truly Masonic ornaments which have been already so amply illustrated in the recent ceremony - namely, benevolence and charity.
As a Freemason, there are other excellences of character to which your attention may be peculiarly and forcibly directed among the foremost of these are secrecy, fidelity and obedience. Your secrecy may be said to consist in an inviolable adherence to the O... into which you have entered, never improperly to divulge any of those Masonic secrets which have now been, or may at any future time be entrusted to your keeping and cautiously to avoid all occasions which may lead you inadvertently so to do.
Your fidelity must be exemplified by a close conformity to the constitutions of the fraternity, by adhering to the ancient landmarks of the Order, by never attempting to extort, or otherwise unduly obtain, the secrets of a superior Degree, and by refraining from recommending anyone to a participation in our secrets, unless you have a strong reason to believe that by a similar fidelity he will ultimately reflect honour on your choice.
So must your obedience be proved, by a strict observance of our laws and regulations, by a prompt attention to all s...ns and summonses, by a modest and correct demeanour while in the Lodge, by a ready acquiescence in all votes and resolutions duly passed by a majority of the Brn., and by a perfect submission to the will of the R.W.M. and his W.W's when acting in the discharge of the duties of their respective offices.
As a last general recommendation let me exhort you to dedicate yourself to such pursuits as may enable you to be respected in life, useful to mankind and an ornament to the Order of which you have this day become a member. You should more especially cultivate such of the liberal arts and sciences as may lie within the compass of your attainment; and, without neglecting the ordinary duties of your station in life, you should feel yourself called on to make a daily advancement in Masonic knowledge.
All sing
He that loveth wisdom loveth life; and they that seek her early shall be filled with joy.
He that holdeth her fast shall inherit glory; and wheresoever she entereth the LORD will bless.
They that serve her shall minister to the Holy One; and them that love her the LORD doth love.
She is more precious than rubies; and all the things thou canst desire are not to be compared unto her.
Her ways are ways of pleasantness; and all her paths are peace.
Mystic Charge
The following Charge is delivered by the R.W.M. or some Bro. appointed by him.
R.W.M.It is desirable to add something to the Charge to which you have listened; that is the exhortation made to all Freemasons but we regard it as our special work to pour the water of esoteric knowledge into the Masonic vessels, and as an Initiate of the ... Lodge you are called to this work.
We do not derive Freemasonry in the first instance from the building crafts of the middle ages, but from the Ancient Mysteries, once forming the heart of every great religion, in which the secrets which are the keys of the problems of life and death were given to the Initiated. In those Mysteries the facts of the worlds invisible were revealed to the pure, and thus within each religion men were found who, knowing the secrets of those worlds could explain and defend religion.
Such men, Initiates, were called Masons, because by their knowledge they build the foundations, walls and buttresses of religion for the sheltering of men. The founders of religions were termed Master Builders, and the M.M. has remained the highest degree in Craft Masonry. The tremendous oaths taken by every Mason were certainly not devised merely to guard a few words and signs from public curiosity. As things now are, they come as a shock, irreverent or grotesque, according to the temperament of the hearer. In a Masonry emptied of true knowledge they are like massive doorways, leading nowhither. May they not be only such to you, who are now a sworn Bro. among us. Remember always that, as a true Mason, you are a builder of universal religion.
Freemasonry, as a survival of the Ancient Mysteries, is intended to quicken evolution in its Initiates; the true Mysteries still exist, and Freemasonry is an unconscious witness to their existence in the past; for in its ritual, now so little understood, there are traces of the old Initiations, and the Mason may find these as he reads the Egyptian Book of the Dead and other ancient writings.
In the higher Mysteries - the true - the candidate passes through various superphysical localities, seeing them in their general aspects, their details being reserved for his later study. In the lower Mysteries, which were copies of the higher, living or mechanical pictures of these worlds were set before him, and he gazed upon them as one may gaze at a drama acted upon a stage, whether by living people or by lay figures. Freemasonry reproduces in symbols the characteristic points of these pictures, and teaches its Initiates what lies on the other side of death.
The simplest explanation is all that can now be given. The fuller meanings will be unveiled to you later. You enter h.... It is the blindness of the ignorance into which men are born and which they mostly die. You come to be released from that blindness, to find the light. Every candidate for Initiation is in a s... of d...
Moreover, it also symbolises the blank unconsciousness which follows the passage through the gateway of death, ere the subtler part of the physical body has fallen away. For the candidate is now to pass symbolically through the lower worlds, to do in symbol what he must hereafter do in fact: for the F... P... represents the gateway of death, and each must pass through it in his turn.
As you enter the F... P..., the door of the Temple, you are told to b... y... h... It is the symbol of the humility which must characterise the candidate for knowledge. In the F... P... you meet the touch of the d... on your b... It is a warning of the danger of rashness in entering the unknown as the c... t... round your n... is a warning against timidity. Self-restraint and quiet confidence should mark the candidate.
Passing through the F... P..., you felt the touch of a friend, the hand of your guide; so will a friendly touch greet you on the other side of death, and the reminder that where the NAME is invoked no danger can injure, will recur to your mind then, as a suggestion to pronounce it and as a sure consolation.
Then comes the noise and tumult of the first Symbolical Journey. The candidate is surrounded by the turmoil of the lowest world beyond death - a region terrible indeed for the man who passes out of this world full of lustful desires, but innocuous to the pure and good. For the most part, the attention of the average good man is not sufficiently turned outwards to notice this stage of his passage; but if any of you should happen to notice it, remember that - as symbolised in this Journey - no harm can touch the pure in heart. The candidate approaches the S... P... It is the entrance to the next stage of the world beyond death, and it is guarded by the e...als of that world. Offerings are called for, that the candidate may pass those of the E... and W... He has them not, but they are given to him here comes in the use of ceremonies performed in aid of the departed in all religions and he offers them, passes through the guardians, faces the W... of the S... P... and passes him with the aid of his guide. Then comes the second Symbolical Journey, through the higher stages of the intermediate world, quieter, though not quite peaceful yet. Again there is a pause; the guardians of the T... P... receive their offerings, and the candidate faces and passes the W... of the T... P... Then in utter silence, the third Symbolical Journey is taken, for now he is on the threshold of the heavenly world and all is peace. Thus of old in the lower Mysteries by drama, and now in Freemasonry by the candidate passing through the Symbolical Journeys, were and are men taught that there is nothing for the pure to fear on the other side of death. And the Mason, accustomed to the facts imprinted on his memory by action, grows to think of the further worlds as of a familiar land.
Much more of this you will learn in the instructions given in this Lodge, until these worlds shall become really familiar to you. I need scarcely tell you what this will mean to you, when you find yourself therein, as one day you must.
Let Freemasonry be to you a living thing, and no mere collection of empty torms; so shall you be worthy to take your part in the building of the mystic Temple, and be, what every Mason should be, the guide and helper of the ignorant.
All sing
Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works: and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
For every good gift and every perfect gift is from above; and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.
The path of the just is as the shining light; shining more and more unto the perfect day.
The R.W.M. informs the newly-initiated Bro. that this ends the ceremony of his initiation; and if he so desires, he can extend a few words of welcome to him.
The R.W.M. then proceeds to
close the Lodge.
Explanation of the Tracing Board of the First Degree
It is not customary to give this on the night of an Initiation.
R.W.M.Or delegateThe usages and customs among Freemasons have ever borne a close resemblance to those of ancient Egyptian rites; the philosophers of Egypt veiled their mysteries and systems of learning and polity under signs, symbols and hieroglyphical figures, these being communicated under solemn pledges to the chief priests and Magi. Other ancient systems, such as that laid down by Pythagoras, were established in a similar manner and maintained under the same conditions.
The ancient and honourable Society of Freemasons in like manner teaches the highest principles of morality, and inculcates among its genuine professors the loftiest virtues, by means of symbols.
Your attention is first called to the extent of the Lodge, emblematic of the proportions of the Temple of Humanity; which is in length from east to west, in breadth from north to south and in depth from the zenith to the centre of the earth. Our Lodges stand on holy ground because they form part of the Temple of Humanity and because of their consecration to highest ends, as well as from the glorious truth that He, who is the H... of all true Freemasons, works ever with, in and through His faithful followers. The ground on which our Lodges stand will become increasingly holy as far as the Brn. working therein are actuated by the sincere desire to benefit humanity.
Our Lodges are situated due east and west. First, because the sun, which is the physical representative of the Divine LOGOS of our system, rises in the east and sets in the west. Second, because learning originating in the east, ever spreads its benign influence to the west. Third, because sacred buildings from time immemorial, including the glorious temple of Solomon, King of Israel (to which structure we attach many symbolical meanings), have been oriented with the most scrupulous exactness.
Our Lodges are supported by three great pillars - Wisdom, Strength and Beauty; wisdom to contrive, strength to support us under all our difficulties, and beauty to adorn the inward man. The universe is the Temple of the Deity whom we serve; wisdom, strength and beauty are about His throne as pillars of His works, for His wisdom is infinite, His strength omnipotent, and His beauty shines through the whole universe in symmetry and order. The heavens He has stretched forth as a canopy; the earth He has planted as His footstool; He crowns His temple with stars as with a diadem, and from His hands flow all power and glory. The sun and the moon are messengers of His will, and all His law is concord. Thus the three great pillars raise our thoughts to these Divine attributes and also serve to remind us of these qualities as exemplified in our Most Worshipful Master and true Head, as well as in those great Masonic figures of antiquity known as S..., K... of I...; H..., K... of T..., and H... A... In our Lodges these great pillars are examples of the noble orders of architecture: the Ionic, the Doric and the Corinthian.
The covering of a Freemasons' Lodge is a celestial canopy of divers colours, symbolic of the star-lit heavens which canopy the true Temple of Humanity, truly 'a temple not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.' To reach this canopy we have the assistance of a ladder, symbolised among the Jews by that of Jacob; its lower part is based upon the V.S.L., and its summit extends upwards to the Star of Initiation. This ladder has as many staves or rounds as comprises all the virtues, but three are principal - faith, hope and charity. The Mason who has acquired these virtues may justly be deemed to have attained the summit of his profession of Freemasonry, which is, figuratively speaking. an ethereal mansion, veiled from mortal eyes by the starry firmament, and depicted in our Lodges by seven stars, which refer to as many regularly made Masons, without which number no Lodge is perfect, neither can any candidate be legally initiated therein.
The true Temple of Humanity, of which each Freemason's Lodge forms a part, is not erected in space and time, and the distinctions which we, in our mortal bodies and possessed of our limited senses, recognise, have no place in real Freemasonry. This is shown by the recognition that the sun is ever shining at the meridian and, consequently, whenever the initiation of a candidate takes place. To the man of the world, in a state of darkness, the sun rises in the east and sets in the west; but tO the truly enlightened Mason the sun never sets, for his real life is spent in the living Temple where is no darkness and where T.G.A.O.T.U. is ever the Light.
The interior fittings of a Freemasons' Lodge comprise the ornaments, the furniture and the jewels. The ornaments are: the mosaic pavement, symbolising spirit and matter; the b... s... ever reminding us of the presence of GOD in His universe; and the indented border, the Guardian Wall. The furniture of the Lodge consists of the V.S.L., the s... and the c...; and the jewels of the Lodge are three movable and three immovable. The movable are the s.., l... and the p... r...; they are called movable jewels because they are transferred by Master and Wardens to their successors on the day of installation. The immovable jewels are the tracing board, and the rough and perfect ashlars. These are called immovable because they lie open and immovable for Masons to moralise upon and are ever present in the Lodge. In the Temple of Humanity the ornaments may be said to be the beauty shed abroad by T.G.A.O.T.U.; for furniture we have those qualities and faculties with which He endows all true Freemasons; and the jewels are those individuals who have been prepared and polished so that they reflect the Divine Nature. Viewed from above, with the wider vision of the spiritual world, it is seen that the Temple is really composed of living stones each one of which is wrought, polished and ornamented by the true Master Builder, so that, while in itself beautiful and resplendent, each one contributes to the glory of the Architect and the Wonderful Builder, and the majesty of the Divine Plan is seen, together with the beauty of each individual part. In this superb edifice the living stones can have no thought or desire for personal or individual profit or glory, but each possesses only a desire that the glory of the Divine may be manifest in the whole by the harmonious blending of the parts. To conduce to this end each true Mason endeavours, while still in the earliest Degree of this perfect order, to surrender desire and will, to care nothing for personal fame or advancement, but to cooperate with every Bro. in the mighty work to which each is called. This task may take many ages to accomplish, but once admitted to this Order the A... will continue to progress in the Craft, until he becomes a M.M. and a M. of the Lodge, able to employ and instruct the Brn. In all regularly constituted Lodges there is a point within a circle, round which a Mason cannot err. Pendent to the four corners of the Lodge are four tassels; the real significance of these will be doubtless comprehended by every A... as progress is made in the science; in our Lodges they are, among other meanings held to denote temperance, fortitude, prudence and justice. The distinguishing characteristics of every true Free and Accepted Mason are virtue, honour and mercy.
Examination e of Candidates for the Second Degree
E.A.s' before being passed to the Second Degree are required to give proofs to the R.W.M., or to the W.J.W., or his delegate, of their proficiency in the s...ts of the E.A. Degree to repeat the E.A. O... from memory, and to show some general knowledge of Masonic procedure and etiquette. It is customary for the E.A. or someone on his behalf to place an application for an increase in wages in the Bag of Propositions, at a meeting prior to that on which the Ceremony of Passing is to take place.
The Lodge being open in the First Degree, the R.W.M. proceeds as follows.
Questions
he following proofs of proficiency must be given in open Lodge.
R.W.M.Brn. Bro. A.B. is a candidate to be passed to the F.C. Degree. Bro. J.D., you will advance the A... to my pedestal.
R.W.M.Where were you first prepared to be made a Freemason?
C. In my h...
R.W.M.Where next?
C. In a convenient room adjoining the Lodge.
R.W.M.Describe the mode of your preparation.
C. I was d... of all m...s and v...s, and h... w...; my r... a..., l... b... and l... k... were made b... my r... h... s...p-s...d, and a c... t... was placed about my n...
R.W.M.On what were you admitted?
C. On the p...t of a d... presented to my l... b...
R.W.M.Where were you made a Freemason?
C. In the b... of a Lodge, just perfect and regular.
R.W.M.And when?
C. When the sun was at its meridian.
R.W.M.Our Lodges in this country being usually held in the evening, how do you account for this paradox?
C. The earth constantly revolving on its axis in its orbit round the sun, and Freemasonry being universally spread over its surface, it necessarily follows that the sun is always at its meridian with respect to Freemasonry.
R.W.M.What is Freemasonry?
C. A peculiar system of morality, veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols.
R.W.M.Name the three grand principles on which the Order is founded.
C.. Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth.
R.W.M.Who are fit and proper persons to be made Freemasons?
C. The just, upright and free, of mature age, sound judgement and strict morals.
R.W.M.How do you know yourself to be a Freemason?
C. By the regularity of my Initiation, repeated trials and approbation, and by my being willing at all times to undergo an examination when properly called on.
R.W.M.How do you demonstrate the proof of your being a Freemason to others?
C.. By s...s, t...s, w...s and the perfect p...s of my e...e.
R.W.M.Give me the p...s of your e...e.
C. Of, at and on.
R.W.M.Of, at and on what?
C. Of my own free will and accord; at the door of the L...; on the point of a d... presented to my l... b...
S.W.if no Bro. puts a question The c...s are silent, R.W.M.
The R.W.M. asks all E.A's to cover the Temple if the work is to proceed in a higher degree.
Ceremony of Closing the Lodge in the First Degree
The R.W.M. asks the Secretary if there are any further communications; if not, he proceeds to the closing of the Lodge.
The W... T... is now passed for charity, unless this has previously been done in an Initiation Ceremony. A bag for propositions in which applications for a rise in wages are placed may be circulated.
The R.W.M. gives one k.. which is answered by the Ws' rises and says:
R.W.M.Has any Bro. any proposition to make in the interest of the Order in general, or in the interest of humanity?
Members of the Supreme Council, and Brn. of the 33°, 32°, 31° and 30°, give greetings from their Councils and Assemblies. All rise and stand to order to receive greetings from the Supreme Council ONLY.
S.W.If no one speaks The c... are silent, R.W.M.
The R.W.M. gives a second k.., which is answered by the Ws', rises and says:
R.W.M.Has any Bro. any proposition to make in the interest of the Order in general, or in the interest of humanity?
Brn. of the 29° to 4° inclusive, Brn. of the Royal Order of Scotland, Knights Templar and Holy Royal Arch. In the absence of any response, the S. W. replies as above.
The R.W.M. gives a third k., which is answered by the Ws', rises and says:
R.W.M.Has any Bro. any proposition to make in the interest of the Order in general, or in the interest of humanity?
The greetings are now given from Mark, R.A.M. Lodges, Association of Installed Masters, National Council, and Craft Lodges. When the R.W.M. has acknowledged the greetings and any further propositions have been brought forward, the D.C. rises and says:
D.C. Brn. of this Lodge, you will rise and salute the R.W.M.
All
giving s...n Hearty good wishes, R.W.M.
R.W.M.rises My hearty good wishes to you all, my Brn.
The Brn. resume their seats.
The R.W.M. asks the Orator to read a short passage from one of the V.S.L. During the reading the Brn. will be upstanding with the p... of f...
R.W.M.gives one k..., which is answered by the Ws' and says Brn., assist me to close the Lodge All rise.
R.W.M.W.J.W., what is the constant care of every Freemason?
J.W.To prove the Lodge close tyled, R.W.M.
R.W.M.Direct that duty to be done.
J.W.Bro. I.G., you will prove that the Lodge is close tyled.
The I.G. gives E.A. k..s, which are answered by the T.
I.G.W.J.W., the Lodge is close tyled.
J.W.R.W.M., the Lodge is close tyled.
R.W.M.W.S.W., what is our next care?
S.W.To see that the Brn. stand to order as F...s, R.W.M.
R.W.M.Brn., to order as E.A. F.s'
The Brn. stand to order with s...n, and then following the lead of the R.W.M., take p... of f...
R.W.M.W.S.W., where is your constant place in the Lodge?
S.W.In the West, R.W.M.
R.W.M.Why are you so placed?
S.W.To mark the setting sun; as the sun sets in the West to close the day, so is the S.W. placed in the West to close the Lodge, at the R.W.M's command, after having seen that every Bro. has had his due.
R.W.M.Brn., before the Lodge is closed, let us with all reverence and humility express our gratitude to T.G.A.O.T.U. for the blessings we have received. Raising his hands. May He continue to preserve our Order by beautifying and adorning us with every moral and social virtue.
All sing
S... m... i... b...
Now the evening shadows closing
Warn from toil to peaceful rest;
Mystic arts and rites reposing
Sacred in each faithful breast.
God of light, whose love unceasing
Doth to all Thy work extend;
Crown our Order with Thy Blessing,
Build sustain us to the end.
Humbly now we bow before Thee,
Grateful for Thine aid divine;
Everlasting power and Glory,
Mighty Architect! be Thine.
S... m... i... b...
R.W.M.W.S.W., how should Freemasons meet?
S.W.On the L...l, R.W.M.
R.W.M.W.J.W., how should Freemasons act?
J.W.On the P...b, R.W.M.
R.W.M.and part on the S... So let us meet, act and part. Raising his handsMay the blessing of T.G.A.O.T.U. be upon and upon all true and faithful Brn. you, throughout the world.
All sing
S... m... i... b...
The I.P.M. conducted by the D.C. and escorted by the Deacons with crossed wands, descends to the A... and k..ls.
The Alternative method as in the opening may be used.
R.W.M.W.S.W., the labours of the day being ended, you have my command to close the Lodge gives E.A. k...s.
S.W.Brn. all come to order, and the S.W. raises his hands in the Name of T.G.A.O.T.U. joining his hands in front of his forehead palm to palm, and bowing and by command of the R.W.M., standing upright with g... in hand I close all finish the s...n, dropping hand to the side and disengaging the f...t from the position of order this Lodge gives E.A. k...s.
As the S.W. utters the word 'close' the I.P.M. disarranges the s... and c...s, and then closes the V.S.L. All the lights are extinguished, except the candles and the Sacred Fire. The S.W. lays down his column, and the J.W. raises his. When the S.W. has finished speaking, the I.P.M. rises, and raising his r... h.., says:
I.P.M.And the Word was with GOD.
He is then escorted back to the E., and the S.D. on his return turns the T... B...
If no I.P.M. be present, the S.W. goes to the A... (unaccompanied) after he has closed the Lodge.
J.W.And the Lodge is closed accordingly until the next general meetings emergency meeting excepted, of which due notice will be given gives E.A. k...s, which are answered by the I.G. and T..
Alternative method of Closing the Lodge
The k...s given by the S.W. are immediately followed by the sentence and k...s of the J.W. and those of the I.G. and the T., after which the I.P.M. rises and says: 'And the word...' He is escorted by the D.C. to the E., and the Deacons as indicated in the opening.
J.W.having extinguished his candle May His Beauty dwell in our hearts.
S.W.having extinguished his candle May His Strength sustain us.
R.W.M.having extinguished his candle May His Wisdom abide with us alway.
I.P.M.raising his r... h... His light shineth even in our darkness.
I.P.M.Brn. the Lodge being closed nothing now remains save that, in accordance with ancient custom, each Bro. lock up the s...ts of our Order in the safe and sacred repository of his ..., uniting in the act of ...
All sing
F..., f..., f..., and may GOD preserve the Craft.
Each time the word F... is sung, all the Brn. touch their h...t with their r... h... At the Word 'GOD' the r... h... is extended; at the word 'Preserve' it is placed over the h..t; at the word 'The' the back of the h... is raised to the f..h; at the word 'Craft' the h... is raised aloft. The Brn. remain for a moment with hand uplifted.
R.W.M.Bro. I.G., direct the O.G. to untyle the L...
The Brn. file out of the Temple in procession, singing the Nunc Dimittis (or, if preferred some other canticle). The order of procession is the same as when entering.
Recessional
The D.C. advances down the S. column to the W...t bowing to the J.W. and S.W., who leave their chairs and follow behind him. When this Procession reaches the N.W. corner, the Thurifer and the I.G fall in, in front of the J.W. The J.D. follows the S.W. The Thurifer, or I.G. if no Thurifer is available, waits until all the M.M.s in the N.W. have taken their places in front of him. The D.C. passing up the N. column directs the E.A.s to fall in behind him and passes across the E. The Almoner and Secretary take their places behind the I.G. The Thurifer (or I.G.) waits until all the visiting P.M.s below the rank of 30° have joined the procession in front of him. The F.C.s fall in behind the E.A.s. The J.D. waits beside the S.D. in the N.E. and both Deacons follow the S.W. at the end of the procession. The visiting Brn. of the 30° and upwards fall in before the J.W. The Treasurer steps in front of, and the Orator behind the Secretary. The P.M.s of the Lodge take their appropriate places behind the Orator. The I.P.M. immediately precedes the R.W.M. who is escorted by the Deacons.
All sing
LORD, now lettest Thou Thy servant depart in peace; according to Thy word.
For mine eyes have seen: Thy salvation
Which Thou hast prepared: before the face of all people.
To be a light to lighten the Gentiles;
and to be the glory of Thy people Israel