PERFECT CEREMONIES
OP THB
ROYAL, EXALTED, RELIGIOUS, AND
MILITARY ORDER OF
^l^nBonxc J^nxQ^ih Jplemplar,
mtA the Scripturg Readings mfulL
' hA^k^'io Atr.'fitE
GRAND* CCWCUV^ ftSR ENGLAND
'" and WALES.
Privately Printed for A, Lewis,
LONDON, X876.
Copyright, A II Rights Reserved,
CONTENTS.
— # —
PAGB
Officers of an Encampment (Preceptory) ... 6
Form of Declaration 7
Ceremony of Opening the Encampment ... 9
Do. Gosing do. .... 14
Ceremony of Installation — Part 1 17
Do. Part II 39
Charge to a Knight Templar 5a
Ceremony of Installing Eminent Commander . . 55
Ceremony of Consecrating an Encampment . . 6x
Masson's System of Examination 67
\
®tRctta sd mt (Encampment
The old nomenclature of Officers is
here retained, the recent changes at
present in use being : —
Encampment it
Eminent Commanosr
1ST Captain
8D Captain
Expert
GSAND CONCLAVB
Pxov. G. Conclave
New Chief Assembly
Registsar
Captain of Lines
Equerry Without
Treasurer
at j^esiHt Preceptory.
„ Eminent Preceptor.
M Constable.
„ Marshal.
M Sub-Marshal.
„ Great Priory— ruled
by a Great Prior.
„ PROV. G. Priory—
ruled by a Prov,
Great Prior.
I, Convent General—
rnled by the Prince
of Wales as M. £.
andS. G. M.
The
z
6
©eclaratfon.
To the E. C and Sir Knts. of the ...
Enc,^ registered under the Gd. Cone,
of the Royal, Exalted, Religious, and
Military Order of Masonic Knts,
Templar in England and Wales.
I of , being a Companion
of the Chapter of R. A. Masons, No.
, meeting in , and called
Chapter of , am desirous of being
installed into the Order of Masonic
Knts. Templar in England and Wales ;
and do therefore humbly suppli-
cate the E. C. and the Knights now
assembled, that they will graciously
condescend to admit me into their
holy Order; prompted by a hutabk.
8
Declaration,
zeal, I trust that the sincerity of my
endeavours to promote the glory of
the Cross will entitle me to their
favourable opinion. And I do hereby
declare, that I am a Christian, and
believe in the doctrine of the Holy
and Undivided Trinity; and that I
will submit to and observe the Bye-
Laws of the Enc, and all the
usages, customs, and statutes of the
Order, and particularly the statutes
which are, and may from time to time
be, resolved and agreed upon for the
government of the said Order in Eng-
land and Wales, by the above-men-
tioned Grand Conclave. — ^As witness
my hand this day of .
Witnesa (Signed)
/
Cmmons of ©peninfl ti&e
(Encampment
E. C. — Sir Knights, assist me to
open this Encampment.
{The Knights all rise)
E. C. — Sir Knight Second Captain,
What is the first care of every Knight
Templar ?
2d C. — ^To see that the Encamp-
ment is properly guarded.
E. C. — Direct that duty to be done.
2d C. — Sir Knight Captain of the
Lines, see that the Encampment is
properly guarded.
C. OF L. — Sir Knight Second Cap-
tain, the Encampment is properly
guarded.
2d C. — Eminent Commander, all is
secure.
C. OF L. J
Equerry
Without.
\
lo Knights Templar.
E. C. — Sir Knight First Captain,
what is the next care ?
1st C. — ^To see that none but
Knights Templar are present.
E. C— To Order, Sir Knights.
( Which is done. Swords drawn in
r. h,y and the points in the /., with the
sword* s blade diagonally across the d.)
E.C. — Sir Knight Registrar, call the
Muster Roll.
(The Registrar reads over the names
of all present^ and ecu:h Knight answers
to his name,)
E. C. — Sir Knights, let us now de-
posit our arms at the foot of the Cross,
and implore the blessing and protec-
tion of the Holy Trinity.
{Deposit arms accordingly on p...)
Prelate. — Let us pray.
Prayer.
Merciful Redeemer of perishing
mankind, who hast promised that Thou
wouldst be in the midst of those who
assemble in Thy Holy Name, look
down upon us. Thy servants, with an
opening the Encampment. 1 1
eye of tender compassion, and so di-
rect us this day that all our labours
may be begun, continued, and ended
in love to Thee, affection to our com-
panions, protection to the distressed,
and obedience to our order. Amen.
E. C. — Sir Knight Second Captain,
what is the situation of the Captain
of the Lines ?
2d C. — Within the entrance of the
Encampment
E. C— His duty ?
2d C— To see that the Sentinels
are regularly placed at the outposts,
that the Encampment may be safely
guarded without as well as within.
E. C. — Let him resume his arms
and duty. {Done.)
E. C. — Sir Knight First Captain,
the situation of the Expert ?
1st C— In the West.
E. C— His duty ?
1st C— To assist the Eminent Com-
mander, and First and Second Cap-
tains, in the performance of our rites
and ceremonies.
E. C. — Let him resume his arms
and duty. {Done) \
I a Knights Templar.
E. C.-^Sir Knight Second Captain,
your situation in the Encampment ?
2d C. — In the north-west angle of
the Encampment
E. C. — Your duty ?
2d C. — ^To see that all commands of
the Eminent Commander are obeyed
in the North Column.
E. C. — Resume your arms and
duty. (JDone,)
E. C. — Sir Knight First Captain,
your situation in the Encampment ?
1st C— In the south-west angle of
the Encampment.
E. C— Your duty ?
1st C. — ^To receive reports from the
Second Captain, to forward them with-
out delay to the Eminent Commander,
and to see that the Knights are ar-
ranged under their respective ban-
ners.
E. C. — ^Are they so arranged ?
1st C. — ^To the best of my know-
ledge. Eminent Commander.
E. C. — Resume your arms and
duty. {Done)
E. C. — Where is the Eminent Com-
mander's place ?
opening the Encampment. 13
1st C. — ^At headquarters in the
East.
E. C— His duty?
1st C. — To open the Encampment
in form, to issue his commands for its
regulation, and to close it when he
may deem it convenient.
E. C. — Sir Knights, resume your
arms and duty. (Do^te.)
E. C. — Sir Knights, our Encamp-
ment being thus duly formed, I, in the
name of the Three Scriptural Offices of
1. Christ our Priest {Knigkts salute)^
2. Christ our Prophet {do.)y
3. Christ our King {do,)^
declare it du ly open ed
cof l. j-TTj i J J
{Tke Knights resume their seats)
END OF THE CEREMONY OF
OPENING THE ENCAMPMENT.
Cmmong of Clostnfl tfje
(Encampment
E. C. — Sir Knights, assist me to
close this Encampment.
{The Knights all rise)
E. C. — Sir Knight Second Captain,
what is the constant care of every
Knight Templar ?
2d C. — ^To see that the Encamp-
ment is properly guarded.
E. C. — Direct that duty to be done.
2d C. — Sir Knight Captain of the
Lines, see that the Encampment is
properly gua rded.
C.ofL_^7JJ^ J J
C. OF L. — Sir Knight Second Cap-
tain, the Encampment is properly
guarded.
14
Closing the Encampment 1 5
2d C. — Eminent Commander, all is
secure.
E. C— Sir Knight First Captain,
what is the next care ?
rst C. — ^To see that the Knights .
appear to order as Knights Templar.
E. C. — To order. Sir Knights.
(Done, as in Opening^
E. C. — Let us deposit our arms at
the foot of the Cross, and implore a
blessing from the Holy Trinity.
{Deposit arms accordingly.)
Prelate. — Let us pray.
Prayer.
O merciful God, grant Thy holy
protection and salutary blessing to
this Encampment ; enlighten its rulers
with the rays of Thy brightness, that
they may always see the just ways of
our Heavenly Captain, and may by
their example induce the Companions
committed to their charge so to follow
them through this wilderness of temp-
tation, that having overcome the
enemies of Thy holy Nam.e^ \3s\k^
1 6 Knights Templar.
may arrive at the heavenly Jerusalem,
armed with the shield of Faith and
the breast-plate of Righteousness,
through Jesus Christ our Saviour.
Amen.
E. C. — Sir Knights, resume your
arms.
{The Knights resume their arms.)
E. C. — Our labours being ended, I,
in the name of the Three Scriptural
Offices of
1. Christ our Priest (Knights salute),
2. Christ our Prophet
3. Christ our King (do.),
declare this Encamp ment duly closed.
c.ofl_^7773 j j
E-W-mm J J
END OF THE CEREMONY OF CXOSING
THE ENCAMPMENT.
(feremong of Installation.
Part I.
{The Can, is prepared^ habited as a
pilgrim^ with sandals^ mantle^ a belt
or cord round the waist, a pilgrim's
staff, hat, and scrip and wallet, with
bread and a bottle of water. Having
been elected by ballot, the Can, is con-
ducted to the entrance of the Encamp-
ment On the ap proach, an alarm is
sounded without j j j j j J J
C. OF L. — Sir Knight Second Cap-
tain, there is an alarm at the outposts.
2d C. — Ascertain the cause of that
alarm.
C. OF L. — Eminent Commander, a
stranger is endeavouring to penetrate
our lines.
E. C. — Be cautious, and see who
the intruder is.
17
1 8 Knights Templar,
2d C. {to Captain of the Lines) — See
who comes.
C. OF L. {to Equerry and Candidate
without) — Who comes here ?
E. W. — Companion A. B., a pilgrim
on his travels, weary and fatigued,
having heard of this Encampment of
Knights Templar, is anxious to take
refuge therein, and, if possible, to be
admitted to the privileges of the Order.
C. OF L. — What recommendation
does he bring ?
E. W. — ^The sign and word of a
Royal Arch Mason.
C. OF L. {to Can) — Show me the
sign, and communicate the word.
{Can, gives the R..J sign and the
word by which Royal Arch Masons
reveal themselves to Companions)
C. OF L.— -Wait, while I report you
to our Eminent Commander.
(C of L, returns from the door, salutes
the E. C, and says — )
C. OF L. — Eminent Commander,
beyond the outposts is Companion
A. B., a pilgrim on his travels, weary
and fatigued, who, having heard of
this Encampment of Knights Templar,
Ceremony &ffii^iB^Sm^ 19
is anxious to take refuge therein, and,
if possible, to be admitted to the pri-
vileges of the Order.
E. C. — ^What recommendation does
he bring ?
C. OF L. — ^The sign and word of a
Royal Arch Mason.
E. C. — Let him be admitted with
caution.
E. C. — ^To order. Sir Knights,
{TkM C0m, is admmd/ ^ JCni^A^
stand to order ; tkf Bx^i fimwim ike
Can,, habited as a pilgrim^ and con-
ducts hint to the Semid C€^tam^ wfio^
presenting his sword to the Can's breast ,
thus addresses him : — )
2d C. — ^Who are you who dares to
penetrate thus far into our Encamp-
ment?
EXPT. (fo 2d C^i/i'am)— Companion
A, B., a pilgrim on his travels, weary
and fatigued J who, having licarcl of
this Encampment of Knights Temp-
lar, is anxious to take refuge therein,
and, if pos^Ue^. to be adxaitted to tbe
privileges of the Order.
2d C. (to Can,) — What recommen-
dation do you bring ?
20 Knights Templar,
Can, — ^The sign and word of a Royal
Arch Mason.
2d C. — Show me the sign, and com-
municate the word.
{Can, gives the R..J sign and the
word by which Royal Arch Masons
reveal themselves to Companions, Ex-
pert theft conducts him to the First
Captain^ who challenges him in the
same words as Second Captain, and
receives the same answers, A fter this
the Expert conducts the Can, near to
the foot of the Sepulchre, and directs
him to salute the E. C with the sign
and the word)
E. C. — ^Welcome, in the name of
Jehovah; rest yourself, and partake
of bread and water, the staff of life,
and the only refreshment we can at
present afford you.
{The Pilgrim is seated in the west,
and refreshed with bread and water.
The Knights are all seated, A fter the
Pilgrim has partaken of bread and
water, he rises, and the E, C. thus
addresses him : — )
E. C. — Pilgrim, you have sought
refuge in our Encampment, and de-
Ceremony of Installation, 21
sire to be admitted to the privileges
of our Order ; let me, therefore, de-
mand of you, " On whom in the hour
of danger do you rely ?"
Pilgrim.— On God.
E. C. — ^And in whom do you put
your trust for eternal salvation ?
Pilgrim. — In our blessed Saviour
Jesus Christ.
E. C. — Can you give me any proof
of your sincerity ?
Pilgrim. — I am ready to under-
take any task, however perilous,
which may entitle me to admission
under your banner, as a Soldier of
the Cross.
E. C. — ^Then, as a proof of your
faith, I enjoin you a seven years* pil-
grimage. This you will figuratively
perform, by proceeding seven times
round the Encampment.
E. C. — Sir Knights, guard your
Encampment
{TheEmt, Comr.y and the istand 2d
Capts.y remain at their respective sta-
tions, but the other Knights stand
I round the Sepulchre^ facing outwards^
with drawn swords^ aiid stand to
22 Knights Templar.
order. Expert conducts the Pilgrim
round the Encampment, preceding hint
with a drawn sword. After the
third round he halts in the West,
Expert near him, and theE, C. is asked
by the Second Captain to remit the re-
mainder of the term^
2d C. — Eminent Commander, the
pilgrim having performed three years
of his pilgrimage, and having evinced
great zeal and fidelity, I have to re-
quest you will remit the remainder of
the term.
E. C. — Sir Knight Second Cap-
tain, I readily attend to your re-
quest, and remit the remainder of the
term.
E. C. — Sir Knights, resume your
stalls.
{The Knights return to their stations)
^ E. C. — To order. Sir Knights.
{The Knights stand to order, the
Candidate in the west, the Expert near
him. The Prelate reads one of t/te
following prayers : — )
Ceremony of Installation. 23
Prayer.
Prelate. — Merciful Lord of heaven
and earth, who hast protected this
Thy servant through a long and dan-
gerous pilgrimage, and hast inclined
his heart to dedicate the remainder of
his life to Thy service, grant, we be-
seech Thee, that he may constantly
adhere to those pious resolutions, that
he may heartily detest the sins of his
former life, and may henceforward,
with a firm resolution, shun all occa-
sions of offending Thee, O great Em-
manuel, and may at last arrive at the
conclave of the heavenly Jerusalem.
Amen.
Or this Prayer.
P. — Grant, O Lord, that this Candi-
date for the mysteries of our Lord
and Saviour's birth, life, death, resur-
rection, and ascension, may ever hold
fast the profession of a Christian ;
may boldly fight under the banner of
the cross as a faithful Knight atvd
24 Knights Templar,
Soldier of our blessed Master, and
may he become a true Companion
amongst us ; this we beg for the sake
and in the name of Thine only Son,
our Lord and Redeemer. Amen.
Or this Prayer.
P. — O Emmanuel, our great and
heavenly Captain, look down, we be-
seech Thee, on this Encampment of
Thy devoted servants, and impart
Thy Holy Spirit to the Candidate
now before Thee, that he may be-
come a good and faithful soldier in |
Thy service, and be worthy of Thy j
acceptance and salvation. Amen.
{Or the Prelate reads passage of \
Scripture^ St Paul's Epistle to He- \
brews ^ chap, xl, verses i-6 inclusive i) — |
" Now faith is the substance of things \
Iioped for, the evidence of things not \
seen. For by it the elders obtained a j
good report. Through faith we un- j
derstand that the worlds are framed
by the word of God, so t/tat things
Ceremony of Installation, 25
which are seen were not made of things
which do appear. By faith Abel offered
unto God a more excellent sacrifice than
Cain, by which he obtained witness that
he was righteotis, God testifying of his
gifts : and by it lie being dead yet
speaketh. By faith Enoch was tran-
slated that he should not see death;
and was not founds because God had
translated him ; for before his transla-
tion he had this testimony ^ that he
pleased God, But without faith it is
impossible to please Him, for he that
cometh to God must believe that He is,
and that He is a rewarder of those
that diligently seek Him^
E. C. — Let the Pilgrim now ap-
proach the Holy Sepulchre, and,
bended on both knees, enter into a
solemn engagement,' placing both
hands on the Holy Gospel.
{The Can, is directed by the Expert
to kneel at the foot of the Sepulchre,^ and
place his hands on the open volume of
the New Testament ; the ist and 2d
Captains leave their stations, and hold
timr drawn swords crossed on his
26 Knights Templar.
E. C. — ^To order, Sir Knights. —
{Done:)
Prelate or E. C— Pilgrim, you
will repeat your Christian and sur-
names, and say after me : —
Obligation.
I, A. B., in the name of the Holy
Trinity, and in the presence of the
Knights here assembled, do hereby
and hereon most solemnly promise
and swear never to reveal the secrets
of a Knight Templar to any one
beneath tihiat degree, unless it be
to a Candidate for the same, in
a lawful Encampment of Knights
Templar, and then only whilst act-
ing as a regularly-installed Com-
mander. I furthermore solemnly
promise, that I will faithfully defend
and maintain the holy Christian faith
against all unprovoked attacks of its
enemies ; that I will not shed the
blood of a Knight Templar in wrath,
unless it be in the just wars of sove-
reign princes or states; but, on the
Ceremony of Installation, 27
contrary, will defend him, even at the
risk of my life, where or whensoever
his life or his honour may be in dan-
ger. That I will, to the utmost of my
power, protect the near and dear rela-
tives and connexions of Knights Tem-
plar, and if possible prevent all harm,
danger, or violence to which they may
be exposed. Lastly, I do most sin-
cerely promise to be obedient to the
supreme authorities of the country in
which I do or may reside, and strictly
to observe and maintain the Ancient
Laws and Regulations of the Order,
and the Statutes of the Grand Con-
clave of England and Wales, and to
answer and obey, so far as lies in my
power, all summonses which I may
receive, the same being duly marked.
To all these points I swear fidelity,
without evasion, equivocation, or men-
tal reservation of any kind, under no
less penalty than the loss of life, by
having my h .. d s .... k off and placed
upon a p e or s...e; my s...l
s..n a r, and my b....s e d to
the s g r..s of the s.n, as a
warning to all infidels and traitors..
28 Knights Templar,
So help me Christ, and keep me stead-
fast in this my solemn obligation.
E. C — ^You will seal that solemn
obligation seven times with your lips
on the Holy Gospel. {Pilgrim seals
seven times on the Gospel^
E. C. — Arise, a novice of our Order.
{Candidate rises.)
E. C. — Let the novice be divested
of his pilgrim's habit, and assume the
garb of a Soldier of the Cross.
E. C. — The Novice will now pay
attention while the Rev. Prelate reads
a certain portion of Scripture.
{Expert takes off the Pilgrim's habit
and puts on the armour progressively ,
as the Rev, Prelate reads from St Paul's
Epistle to the Ephesians, chap, vi.,
vers, 10-17 inclusive)
Prelate. — Finally, my brethren,
be strong in the Lord, and in the power
of His might. Put on the whole
armour of God, that ye may be able
to stand against the wiles of the devil.
For we wrestle not against flesh and
bloody but against principalities y against
powerSy against the rulers of the dark-
ness of this world, against spiritual
Ceremony of Installation. 29
wickedness in high places. Wherefore
take unto you the whole armour of Gody
that ye may be able to withstand in the
evil day, and having done ally to stand,
Standy therefore, haviiigyour loins girt
about with truth, and having on the
breastplate of righteousness, and your
feet shod with the preparation of the
gospel of peace ; above all, taking the
shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be
able to quench all the fiery darts of t/ie
wicked. A nd take the helmet of salva-
tion, and the sword of the Spirit, which
is the Word of God:'
E. C — Being now armed as a Sol-
dier of Christ, you are prepared to
enter on a warfare of seven years, but
I must request you first to make those
professions which your sainted prede-
cessors have made ; you will repeat
after me, suiting the action to the
words : —
E. C. — I draw my sword in defence 1
of the holy Christian faith. |
{Can, repeats, at the same time draw-
ing his sword)
E. C. — I draw my sword in defence
of all Knights Templar. {Does same,)
30 Knights Templar.
E. C. — I draw my sword in defence
of the near and dear relatives and
connexions of Knights Templar. {Does
same)
E. C. — You are now about to pro-
ceed on a seven years* warfare, and as
you may occasionally be stopped and
subjected to an examination as a Sol-
dier enrolled under the banner of the
cross, I shall now entrust you with
the sign and word of a Crusader,
whereby you will gain confidence and
support.
{E, C, gives the pass sign and word of
a Crusader)
E. C. — ^Thus prepared, you may
proceed on your crusade, which you
will figuratively perform by proceed-
ing seven times round the Encamp-
ment, and be prepared to defend
yourself with your sword.
E. C. — To order. Sir Knights.
{The Knights stand to order with
drawn swords ^and under their respective
banners. The Expert conducts the No-
vice round the Encampmenty going up
the north side ; at each round the Can, is
^topped and challenged in the East^ the
Ceremony of Installation, 3 1
South-West, and the North- West, by
a Past Emt. Comr., and the ist and
2d Captains respectively, to whom he
gives the sign and word of a Crusader;
after he has been stopped and challenged
for tite third time by the 2d Captain,
the E. C is asked by the ist Captain to
remit the remainder of the term as
follows : — )
1st C. — Emt Comr., the Novice
has zealously prosecuted the cam-
paign up to the present time ; is it
your pleasure to remit the remaining
portion ?
E. C. — Most willingly I remit the
remaining four years of probation as
a Crusader.
(Expert conducts the Can, to the foot
of the Sepulchre, and the E. C thus
addresses him : — )
E. C. — With the point of your
sword you will assist the Sir Kn,ight
Expert to unveil the cross, and you
will then notice the scroll at its foot.
{The Can, unveils the cross on the
Sepulchre with his sword, and reads
the scroll)
E. C. — Whenever that mark, which
32 Knights Templar.
is formed from the initials of the Latin
inscription placed over our Saviour at
His crucifixion, is on your summons,
it will be your imperative duty, in
accordance with your obligation, to
obey it ; if unavoidable circumstances
render your personal attendance im-
possible, you must then by letter ex-
plain the cause of such inability to
the Eminent Commander by whom
the summons was issued.
{The following charge may be given or
omitted at discretion : — )
Charge.
I
E. C. OR Prelate. — Pilgrim, now a !
Novice of our Order, the ceremonies
in which you are engaged are calcu-
lated deeply to impress your mind,
and I trust will have a long and
happy effect upon your future charac-
ter. You were first, as a trial of your
faith and humility, enjoined to per-
form a seven years' pilgrimage ; it
represented the pilgrimage of life,
through which we are all passing ; we
Ceremony of Installation, "^33
are all weary pilgrims looking forward
to that asylum where we shall cease
from our labours, and be at rest for
ever. You were then directed, as a
trial of your courage and constancy,
to perform seven years of warfare ; it
represented to you the constant war-
fare with the lying vanities and de-
ceits of this world, in which it is
necessary for us always to be engaged.
You are now about to perform a year
of penance as a further trial of your
humility ; it is also a trial of that faith
which will conduct you safely over
the dark gulf of everlasting death, and
land your enfranchised spirit on the
peaceful shores of the blessed.
[Pilgrim, keep ever in your memory
this awful truth — ^you know not how
soon you may be called upon to ren-
der an account to that Supreme Judge,
from whom not even the most minute
act of your life is hidden ; for although
you now stand erect in all the strength
of manhood and pride of beauty, in a
few short moments you may become
a pale and lifeless corpse. Let these
considerations induce you to receive
P^'^'l^ to-day f jXes. ^""tl V'^-'l
VO^^ ^ maV v^ps atv^
to-"-"";.;, V* "f W
deatVv
dust'
^ tVvato*
sVave.
Ceremony of Installation. 35
Let the emblems of life and death
which lie before you remind you of
the uncertainty of your earthly exist-
ence, and teach you to be prepared
for the closing hour of your mortal
life ; and rest assured that a firm faith
in the truths revealed to you will
afford you consolation in the gloomy
hours of dissolution, and insure your
ineffable and eternal happiness in the
world to come.
E. C. — You are now to undergo
one year of penance and mortifica-
tion; you will therefore take that
S...1 in your left hand, and one of
those small lighted tapers in your
right, and banishing all worldly
thoughts, and mentally invoking the
blessing of heaven on your undertak-
ing, you will figuratively perform a
year of penance by walking slowly
round the Encampment, keeping your
eyes fixed on those emblems of life
and mortality.
E. C. — ^To order. Sir Knights.
(The Knights all stand to orofer^tfte \
Novice takes the s...l and a llgWied
/SS^V/s as directedy and proczzds. sl<wV)^
36 Knights Templar,
by himself once round the encampment.
While the Novice is performing tJie
year ofpenance^ a solemn dirge may be
played When the Novice has returned
to the West, he faces the £. C, who ad-
dresses him as follows: — )
E. C. — ^You will now repeat after me
these imprecations : — " May the spirit
which once inhabited this s...l rise
up and testify against me, if ever I
wilfully betray my obligation of a
Knight Templar."
E. C. — Seal it with your lips seven
times on the S...1.
{The Novice kisses the s... I seven
timeSy which is then replaced on the
sepulchre^
E. C. — May my light also be ex-
tinguished among men, as that of
Judas Iscariot was for betraying his
Lord and Master, and as I now extin-
guish this light."
{The Novice blows out the light; the
taper is replaced, but not re-lighted.)
E. C. — ^You will now retire to medi-
tate on the ceremony you have just
gone through, and to prepare yourself
for the honour of Knighthood. But
I
Ceremony of Installation, 37
in order to enable you to gain re-
admission, I will entrust you with the
casual sign and grand password of
our Order.
E. C. — ^The Rev. Prelate will now
read some portions of the Holy Scrip-
tures.
{Here the Prelate reads chap, viii.,
vers. I, 2, and 3, and chap. L, v. 6, of
Isaiah : — ^)
Prelate. — I gave my back to the
smiterSy and my cheeks to them that
plticked off the hair : I hid not my face
from shame and spitting'*
Prelate. — ^" Moreover the Lord said
unto mCy Take thee a great roll, and
write in it with a man's pen concern-
ing Maher-shalal'hash'baz. And I
took unto me faithful witnesses to re-
cordy Uriah the priest, and Zechariah
the son of Jeberechiah. And I went
unto the prophetess ; and she conceived,
and bare a son. Then said the Lord
to me, Call his name Maher-shalal
hash-bazy
E. C. — ^The sign is given thus
{Gives it) There is also another sign,
which is given thus {Gives it).
38
Knights Teniplar.
It is contained in the soth chapter of
Isaiah, and part of the 6th verse.
E. C — The grand password is ,
and is contained in the portion of
Scripture which has just been read to
you by the Rev. Prelate. It is con-
sidered a type of the Redeemer, and
in the Hebrew language it signifies,
" In making speed to the spoil he has-
tens the prey."
{The Novice salutes and retires^
END OF INSTALLATION.
PART FIRST.
z
]InstaUation.
Part II.
{Equerry without gives the knocks at
the door,)
C. OF L. — Sir Knight Second Cap-
tain, there is a report
2d C. — Emt. Comr., there is a re-
port.
E. C. — See who seeks admission.
2d C. {to C, of L,) — See who seeks
admission.
{The C, of L, goes to the door,)
C. OF L. — Our new Companion-in-
arms.
E. C. {to 2d C.)— Admit him.
{The Can, is admitted^ and presented
to the 2d C,y to whom he gives the sign
and password. He is thin presented to
tJie 1st C,y to whom also he gives the
sign and word. He is tlien directed to
halt in the Westy facing the E, C, and
gives the sign and word)
40 Knights Temfldr.
E. C. — Our new Companion will
now attend to a portion of the Holy
Scriptures which the Rev. Prelate will
read.
{Prelate reads iPetyCkap. il,vers. 1-17.)
Prelate. — " Whereforeylaying aside
all malice^ and all guiky arid hypocrisies ^
and envies^and all evil speakings^ as new
bom babesy desire the sincere milk of the
wordy that ye may grow tJiereby: if so
be ye have tasted that the Lord is gra-
cious. To whom coming, as unto a
living stonCy disallowed indeed of men,
but chosen of God, and precious y ye also,
as lively stoneSy are built up a spiritual
house, an holy priesthoody to offer up
spiritual sacrifices y acceptable to God by
fesus Christ. Wherefore also it is con-
tained in the ScripturCy Behold, Hay in
Sion a chief corner stone, elect y precious:
and he that believeth on him shall not be
confounded. Unto you therefore which
believCy he is precious: but unto them
which be disobedienty the stone which
the builders disallowedy the same is
made the head of the corner y and a
stone of stumblingy and a rock of offence,
even to them which stumble at the wordy
Ceremony of Installation, 41
being disobedient ; whereunto also they
were appointed. But ye are a chosen
generation^ a royal priesthood, an holy
nation, a peculiar people ; that ye
should show forth the praises of him
who hath called you out of darkness
into his marvellous light: which in
time past were not a people, but are now
the people of God : which had not ob-
tained mercy, but now have obtained
mercy. Dearly beloved, I beseech you
as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from
fleshly lusts, which war against the soul;
having your conversation honest among
the Gentiles ; that, whereas they speak
against you as evildoers, they may by
your good works, which they shall behold,
glortfy God in the day of visitation.
Submit yourselves to every ordinance
of man for the Lord's sake: whether it
be to the king, as supreme ; or unto
governors, as unto them that are sent by
him for the punishment of evil doers,
and for the praise of them that do well.
For so is the will of God, that with
well doing ye may put to silence the
ignorance of foolish men : as free, and
not using your liberty for a cloak of
4« Knights Templar.
maliciousness^ but as the servants of
God, Honour all men. Love the bro-
therhood. Fear God. Honour the
king''
E. — Sir Knight Expert, let the
cup of memory be presented to our
Companion-in-arms.
{Expert presents a cup of wine to the
Novice^
E. C. — Worthy brother, at your first
admission, you were refreshed with
bread and water ; we now invite you
to refresh yourself with the cup of
memory, which you will dedicate to
seven distinct libations ; you will
repeat them after me.
E. C. — ^To order. Sir Knights.
{The Knights all rise to order; the
E. C, dictates to the Can.y who repeats
after him^ and drinks to each of the fol-
lowing memorials : — )
E. C— First Libation : " To the
memory of M., A., and B., the three
Grand Masters who presided over the
Holy Lodge." {Novice drinks^
E.C.— Second Libation: "To
the memory of S. K. of L ; H. K. of
T. ; and H. A. B. ; the three Grand
Ceremony of Installation. 43
Masters who presided over the Sa-
cred Lodge." {Novice drinks)
E. C— Third Libation: "To the
memory of Z.,the prince of the people ;
H.,the prophet ; and J., the son of Jose-
dech the High Priest; the three Grand
Masters who presided over the Grand
or Royal Lodge " {Novice drinks)
E. C. — Fourth Libation : " To
the memory of St John the Baptist,
the forerunner of Christ/*
E. C— Fifth Libation : "To the
memory of John the Evangelist, who
finished by his learning what the for-
mer had commenced by his zeal."
{Novice drinks)
E. C— Sixth Libation : "To the
pious memory of all those valiant
knights who sealed their faith with
their blood, under the banner of the
Cross." {Novice drinks)
E. C. — Seventh Libation : " To
all Knights Templar, wheresoever dis-
persed over the face of earth or water."
{Novice drinks)
E. C. — You will now attend to an-
other portion of Scripture which the
Rev. Prelate will read.
44 Knights Templar,
{Prelate reads Rev.^ chap, ii., verse 17.
The Expert advances to the Can, with a
drawn sword and presents the stone)
Prelate. — *^He that hath an ear^ let
him hear what the Spirit saith unto tlie
churches ; to him that overcometh will
I give to eat of the hidden manna, and
will give him a white stone, and in
the stone a new name written, which
no man knoweth saving he that receiv-
eth itr
E. C. — ^Worthy Brother, it was cus-
tomary at the period of the institution
of our Order, for each Novice to be
required to sign his name with his
b...d on the North-East Corner of the
Mystical Stone, before he could ob-
tain the Sacred Word it enshrines ;
are you prepared to sign your name
on the Stone which is now presented
to you ?
{Expert presents the Stone, and asks
from what part of the Can's b ,,y he
shall d, ,wb...d with his Sword, After
ascertaining that the Can, is willing to
i:onform to the custom, he announces to
/y^^, C,//iattkeCan, is prepared to sign,)
E, C— Worthy Brother, accepXAiv^^
Ceremony of Installation. 45
your ready acquiescence as a sufficient
proof of your devotion to our Order,
we dispense with the observance of
the custom, further than to re-
quire you to moisten the pen with
your lips, and write your initials with
it upon the Stone.
{The Can, signs his initials on the
Stone, and is shown the Word, and
presented by the Expert with a small
Stone as a memorial?^
E. C. — You will carefully preserve
that memorial, for should you wish to
gain admission into a Knights Tem-
plar Encampment, you will, on pre-
senting that Stone and explaining the
circumstances under which you re-
ceived it, be recognised and admitted
as a Companion of our Order. Ap-
proach, Brother, and receive the
highest honour I can at present be-
stow upon you.
{The Can. is conducted to the East
by the 2d C; the E. C descends from his
throne; the Standards are raised; and
the Can. kneels on his left knee before
theE. C, who gives the Accolade as
I follows : — )
46 Knights Templar,
E. C. — In the name of the Holy,
Blessed, and Glorious Trinity, and by
the authority vested in me as a Knight
Commander, I make thee a Knight
of the Holy Temple and Sepulchre.
{The E. C, lays his Sword on the
Can,^ first on his left, then on his right
shoulder y and on his heady as he pro-
nounces the following words : — )
E. C. — Be loyal, brave, and free !
Arise, Sir Knight.
(After which the Chamberlain pre-
sents the Ribbon and Star of the Order y
on a cushion to the E. C, who throzvs
the Ribbon on the right shoulder of the
Knighty and says: — )
E.C. — Wear this Ribbon, the ensign
of our Order ; and this Star, an
emblem of the reward which the
great Captain of our Salvation has
promised to those who conquer in His
name, even the emblem of Himself ;
He being the bright morning Star,
whose rising brought health and sal-
vation to mankind, and light to those
who sat in darkness and in the shadow
of death. Bear this ever in mind, and
Ceremony of Installation. 47
d^ath. We clothe you with this
mantle of pure white, ennobled with
the Red Cross of the Order.
[It is an unequivocal symbol of light
and purity ; it has been honoured and
venerated in all ages, by every nation
and every people, since the Creation of
light out of darkness ; it is the most
exalted dignity that can be conferred ;
and I exhort you not to disgrace it
by actions which may reflect discredit
on our Order, into which you have this
day had the honour to be admitted.
Receive it undefiled, and produce it
without spot before the tribunal of
our Lord Jesus Christ, that you may
obtain eternal life.
Lastly, I present you with this
sword, which in the hand of a valiant
Christian Knight is endowed with
threemost excellent virtues — -
Its hilt with Justice ;
Its blade with Fortitude ;
Its point with Mercy ;
Which give this important lesson,
that having faith in the justice of our
cause, we must press forwaxdiNav^Jsxvccv-
daunted fortitude, ever temOT^CkecssN%
48 Knights Templar.
to extend the point of mercy to a
fallen foe.] *
E. C. — I will now entrust you with
the Grand Word, the Grand Grip, and
Grand Sign of the Order.
{The E. C. gives the Grand Wordy
the Grip, and the Sign to the New
Knight, The Expert conducts him to
his Stall, the Standards are raised,
and the Heralds proclaim him as fol-
lows : — )
E. C. — Heralds, you will now pro-
claim.
1st Herald. — Sir Knights of the
Order of the Temple, our Brother and
Companion, Sir Knight A. B., is this
day installed a Knight of our Illus-
trious Order.
(The Knights salute thrice)
2d Herald. — Long life, honour,
and prosperity to our newly-installed
Sir Knight A. B.; to our most Eminent
and Supreme Grand Master ; the
Grand Officers ; and all other Knights
of this Order.
( The Knights salute thrice, and the
* The portion within brackets xnav be given or
omitted at discretion.
Ceremony of Installation. 49
New Knight from his Stall salutes in
return^
E. C. — Sir Knights, you may now
take your seats.
E. C. — I will now explain to you
the symbols of the Order. The Three
Great Lights placed at the angles of
the equilateral triangle represent the
three favourite apostles of our Saviour;
namely, Peter, James, and John, of
whom the last named was the most
beloved ; for, leaning on our Saviour's
bosom, he received those instructions
which he communicated so faithfully
to the other disciples. The Nine
Smaller Lights, distributed equally be-
tween those already noticed, are em-
blematical of the nine other Apostles,
of whom one, represented by the
taper extinguished by you, betrayed
his Lord and Master. You may now
re-light the taper. {Done) So may
our Saviour lift upon you the light of
His reconciled countenance, and keep
you from falling.
The skull and cross-bones, the
emblems of mortality, ate ^\acce^
at the foot of the cross \ \}£\fcse.
:5
50 Knights Templar,
collectively remind us of tlie place
called in the Hebrew Golgotha ;
unto which Simon of Cyrene was con-
strained to bear the cross on which
our Saviour was crucified. The skull
also reminds us of the fate of one
Simon of Syracuse, who was admitted
into our illustrious Order, but violated
his obligation by betraying his trust
to the Infidels. They, although they
profited by the treason, despised the
traitor, and caused his head to be
struck off*, which they sent on a
charger to the Grand Master of the
Knights Templar ; who ordered it
to be placed on the point of a pin-
nacle or spire, and the skull to be
laid open, and the brains exposed to
the scorching rays of the sun, as a
warning to all othfers. It is in allu-
sion to this circumstance that the
Penal Sign of a Knight Templar
had its origin. (Gives Sign,)
The Lamb, the Dove, and the
Cock are sacred symbols of the
Order. The first is emblematical
of the Paschal Lamb, slain from the
foundation of the world. The Dove,
Ceremony of Installation. 51
of the Almighty Comforter, who de-
scended in a bodily shape on Christ
at His baptism, whereby His divine
mission was indicated to St John the
Baptist. The Cock is the monitor of
the Ordef ; for as his crowing heralds
the morn, so let it at that still hour
call to our remembrance our duties as
Knights Templar, and remind us to
ask thus early for assistance to per-
form them throughout the coming day.
May we ever welcome that sound as
a friendly caution, and not have reason
to fear it as the periodical memento of
a broken vow !
(tfjarge to a %nlf^t ?C«ttpIar*
( Which may be given at discretion^
E. C. — Sir Knight Companion, as
you have passed the First Degrees of
Masonry, and have been balloted for,
admitted, and dubbed a Knight Com-
panion of our most Christian and
Sublime Order, you are to mark and
learn all those parts of our Rules and
Mysteries, which you will find to be
ingeniously calculated to form and
qualify you to engage in services of
great moment.
We have been informed that you
earnestly desired and sought to be
admitted and united to our Christian
Order ; and that from free and disin-
terested motives ; so we kindly entreat
you to receive the instructions which
we do now, or may hereafter, inculcate
or enjoin.
Charge,
However strange and difficult our
ceremonies may at first appear, we
trust that you will be modestly in-
quisitive and uniformly attentive in
order to acquire such pleasing instruc-
tions as will be most expedient to
forward the great purpose of rational
and social converse.
As we are orderly assembled for
the most valuable of all purposes, so
we are likewise enlightened in a
peculiar manner, and strongly cement-
ed in the bonds of brotherly love,
governed by certain and allowed
Rules, supported by decency, guard-
ed by secrecy, skilled in mystery,
both delightful and instructive ; pos-
sessing the affection of each other,
and seriously devoting ourselves
thereto at stated times and seasons,
apart from all temporal concerns ;
conversing together without dissimu-
lation or reserve ; and abounding in
mirth, affability, and good humour.
We conceive you to be well inform-
ed in the three great qualifications
which are essential to form the
character of a Grand Mason — ^vlx..-.
54 Knights Templar,
Morality, Secrecy, and Brotherly
Love.
We expect that you will join with
us in all things, in labour and refresh-
ment, in silence and mirth ; always
rejoicing with us in prosperity, and
sympalJiising with us in adversity ;
and to be like the rest of your Breth-
ren, obedient to the E. C. ; respect-
fully attentive to all the presiding
officers, and diligent while in the En-
campment
If your time will possibly allow, you
are on no account to disobey the sum-
monses of your Encampment, but be
punctual to the hour appointed.
To all these promises we expect that
you will cheerfully comply ; and we
sincerely wish you much success in
the issue of your labours.
END OF THE CEREMONY OF
INSTALLATION.
(Cmtnong of Ingtallation of
{The P, E, C. introduces the E. C.
Elect to the E. C, and thus addresses
him )
P. E. C— Eminent Commander, I
have great pleasure in presenting to
you our worthy brother, Sir Knight
A. B., the E. C. Elect of this Encamp-
ment, to receive at your hands the
benefit of Installation, the better to
qualify him for that illustrious position.
E. C. — Eminent Bro., by the unani-
mous voice of tne Knights of this
Encampment, you have been elected
to preside over them as their Com-
mander during the ensuing year; it
is therefore .my duty to inquire of
you whether you are ready to accept
that honour, and to discharge the
duties of the responsible situation to
the best of your ability ?
Ans. — I am.
56 Knights Templar.
E. C. — Do you promise to maintain,
and cause to be maintained, the
ancient laws, rites, and ceremonies
handed down to us by our sainted
predecessors, with fidelity, piety, and
zeal ?
Ans. — I do.
E. C. — Do you promise to preserve
the honour and dignity of the Order,
and never to admit any candidate for
Installation unless with the full assur-
ance that he or they are worthy of
that distinction ?
Ans. — I do.
E. C. — Are you ready to enter into
a solemn engagement to adhere to the
promises you have made, and never to
divulge the secrets about to be en-
trusted to you as a Knight Com-
mander, unless it be to him or them
who may be lawfully entitled thereto }
Ans. — I am.
E. C- — Then let me request you
will join us in supplicating the assist-
ance of the Divine power.
i^The Reverend Prelate delivers the fol-
lowing Invocatio7i : — )
Prelate. — O God, the King of
Installation of E, C. 57
Glory, who hast exalted Thine only
Son, Jesus Christ, with great triumph,
into the kingdom of heaven, we be-
seech Thee to cast Thy bright beams of
light upon this our brother, that he,
being enlightened by the doctrine of
the blessed apostle and evangelist, St
John, may so walk in the light of Thy
truth, that he may at length attain to
the light of everlasting life, through
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
{After this Invocation^ the E, C,
proceeds : — )
E. C. — You will now place your
right hand on the holy Gospels ; grasp
that naked sword with your left hand,
and say after me : —
(The E, C. Elect, kneeli^zg before the
altar y places his right hand on the holy
Gospels y his left hand grasping a sword
held by a P. E, C, and tctkes the O.
B.:-)
Obligation.
I, A. B., in the name of the holy and
undivided Trinity, and in the presence
of this assembly of Knights of the
S8 Knights Templar,
Royal Exalted Religious and Military
Order of Masonic Knights Templar,
do hereby and hereon most solemnly
promise and vow, that I will, to the
best of my ability, discharge the duties
of E. Commander of this Encamp-
ment ; that I will maintain, and cause I
to be maintained, the laws, rites, and
ceremonies of this Christian Order;
and that while I hold the command of
this Encampment, I will preserve the
honour and dignity of the Order, and
enforce obedience to the Bye-Laws of
this Encampment, so far as lies in
my power ; that I will not divulge the
secrets about to be entrusted to me as
a Commander, unless it be to him or
them who may be lawfully entitled
thereto. To all these points I pledge
fidelity on the honour of a Man, a
Mason, and a Knight. So help me
Christ, and keep me steadfast in this
my solemn engagement of a Knight
Commander.
E. C. — You will seal that engage-
ment seven times with your lips
on the holy Gospels. {Seals seven \
times?)
Installation of E, C, 59
E. C. — Arise, Illustrious Knight,
my brother and successor.
(J'he E, C. Elect is now placed on the
right of the E. C, and the Knights are
requested to withdraw for a short time^
— when the E, C. thus addresses the E.
C. Elect:—)
E. C. — Illustrious Brother, the sec-
rets restricted to an Eminent Com-
mander of this Order, had their origin
at the time of the first Crusade. The
difficulties and sufferings to which the
small band of Christian warriors had
been exposed, had not only diminished
their numbers, but produced in the
remainder all the horrors of disap-
pointed zeal and enthusiasm. The
hopes of reaching the Holy City were
nearly lost, and despair had almost
taken possession of the little remnant
still enrolled under the banner of the
Cross ; their Commander, however,
remained faithful to his Oath, and
proceeded onward, and having one
morning ascended the hill on which
the village of Emmaus was situated,
he beheld, by the light of the rising
sun, the Holy City. This glorious
6o Knights Templar.
sight aroused all his enthusiasm, and
in the ecstacy of the moment, turn-
ing to those who were with him, he
made this sign — — , as a signal to his
followers to proceed. From these
circumstances the sign and word of
an Eminent Commander have been
derived. The sign is given thus ;
the word is .
(The E, C then places the E. C. in
the chair, and presents him with the
Baton y with a suitable address. After
which the Knights are admitted, and
salute the new Commander, and the
Officers are appointed)
END OF THE CEREMONY OF
INSTALLATION OF E. C.
L
€\ft Cmmong of Consecrating
an 3Encampmmt of ItntflfjtjS
STempIar,
The Sepulchre having been pre-
viously set out, but not lighted up,
the Fratres enter in procession (the
Juniors first in front), and file off to
their proper places, the Juniors at the
bottom of the Encampment, one on
each side. The Expert immediately
precedes the G. M. or his Deputy
but the other acting officers follow
j him according to seniority. The
I G. M. or his Deputy, having assumed
the throne, the business is proceeded
I with, first by opening the Encamp-
! ment in due form with the assistance
' of the Fratres present ; the G. M. or |
I Deputy states the object of the meet- I
ing, and calls upon the Registrar pro
I tern, to read the warrant of the M. E. ■
I
62 Knights Templar.
and S. G. M. sanctioning the Encamp-
ment. The G. M. or Deputy sum-
mons the Fratres whose names are
appended to the petition to appear
before him in the West ; he demands
of them whether they promise to
acknowledge the authority of the
M. E. and S. G. M. as the head of the
Order in England and Wales and its
dependencies, and whether they pledge
themselves to act according to, and
abide by, the laws and regulations of
the Order, as sanctioned by the Grand
Conclave of E. and W., and receives
their affirmation thereto. He then
inquires whether the Fratres named in
the petition as E. C. and other officers
have been duly chosen to preside in
the new Encampment, and on receiv-
ing a reply in the affirmative, he calls
on the Fratres to march in procession
round the Encampment seven times.
After the third round, all halt in their
former places, the G. M. or his Deputy,
accompanied by the Prelate and an
Aide-de-Camp, the latter bearing a
salver with a small vessel containing
corUy walks round the Sepulchre, scat-
Consecrating an Encampment 63
tering some corn on each corner of the
Sepulchre, the Prelate at the same
time giving this invocation : —
" May the Giver of all good things
shower down His best blessings on
this the Encampment."
The procession then passes twice
round the Encampment, and halts as
before, when the G. M. or Deputy,
accompanied by the Prelate and an
Aide-de-Camp, who on this occasion
bears a salver or vessel containing
winCy walks round the Encampment,
and sprinkles the corners of the Se-
pulchre with wine, the Prelate at the
same time giving this invocation : —
" May the Almighty give us thank-
ful hearts, and grant that we may be
ever ready to relieve the wants of
others."
The procession then again passes
twice round the Sepulchre, and halts
as before, when the G. M. or Deputy,
accompanied by the Prelate and Aide-
de-Camp, who on this occasion carries
a salver or vessel containing oil^ walks
round the Sepulchre, and sprinkles
the corners of it with oil, the Prelate
64 Knights Templar.
at the same time giving this invoca-
tion : —
" May He whose name is Love,
grant that the Members of this En-
campment may be ever of one mind
and one heart ; and may they and we
ever do unto others, as we would that
it should be done unto us."
The Candles in the Sepulchre are
now lighted up, and the Encampment
i is declared by the G. M. or Deputy
I duly consecrated. The Prelate now
1 gives this invocation : —
" May He who died on the Cross
protect this Encampment, and all
faithful Knights ; and may they ever
militate in His holy name."
The Banners are now lowered and
crossed before the G. M. or Deputy,
and consecrated, the Prelate giving
this invocation : —
" May the God of victory ever at-
tend a Knight Templar, militating
under these Sacred Banners in the
holy name of their blessed Saviour."
{During which the Knights all
stand presenting arms)
) The Standards being raised, and
Consecrating an Encampment, 65
the Knights standing to order, the
first Herald proclaims the consecra-
tion of the Encampment, in the South-
west, as follows : —
" I proclaim the Consecration this
day, in the Town of , in the
County of , of the Encamp-
ment of Masonic Knights Templar;
i registered in the Registry of the Grand
1 Conclave of England and Wales,
under the command of ,
I our Most Eminent and Supreme
j Grand Master; and I call upon all
I the Knights to salute three times/'
; The second Herald then proclaims,
in the North-west, as follows : —
j " Prosperity and honour to the
I Encampment, in the Town of |
I , in the County of , with long 1
life and health to our Most Emi- i
nent and Supreme Grand Master, and
I the Grand Officers, and all Eminent
j Commanders and Companions of our
i Ancient and Illustrious Order ; and I
I call upon the Knights present to
j salute three times/* !
I The Prelate then gives the follow- !
i ing Prayer: —
66
Knights Templar.
Prayer.
" Prevent us^ O Lord, in all our
doings, with Thy most gracious favour,
and further us with Thy continual
help ; that in all our works begun,
continued, and ended in Thee, we may
glorify Thy holy name, and finally,
by Thy mercy, obtain everlasting life
through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen/'
The G. M. or Deputy calls on the
Knights present to aid, honour, and
in every respect promote, the welfare
I ment, which has this day been conse-
crated.
END OF CEREMONY OF CONSECRATING
A KNIGHTS TEMPLAR ENCAMPMENT.
and prosperity of the
Encamp-
\
MmoxCs Sgjsftem of ^Examination
of t&e laogal, lExaltelr, anlr JHilt^
tars ^ iiHagontc l&nififjta
Cemplar in lEnglantr anti ^Ealeg.
PREFACE.
In order to harmonise with the
general working of Encampments,
the System is divided into Sections
and Clauses, for greater clearness, and
to admit of being given as time may
admit
SECTION FIRST.
Clause I. Qualification of Candidates.
II. ^rra^tjoaiS^ K^i^m^^^
III mmiQm&^^
68 Knights Templar.
SECTION SECOND.
Clause I. First part of Communication
before Introduction.
II. Second part of Communica-
tion before Introduction.
III. Investiture and Installation.
SECTION THIRD.
Clause 1. Explanation of Mysteries.
II. Description of Encampment.
III. Explanation of Symbols.
Q. From the South-west Angle ?
A. By the North-west Angle.
FIRST SECTION.
FIRST CLAUSE.
Q. What are the necessary qualifi-
cations for the admission of a Candi-
date for the Order 1
!
i M assort* s System of Examination, 69
A. There are three.
Q. Name them ?
A. 1st, That he should have been
received by Holy Baptism an Inheri-
tor of the Kingdom of Heaven. 2d,
That his life and actions, during his
state of manhood, should have evinced
a strict adherence to the precepts of
the Captain of our Salvation. 3d,
That he should have been regularly
initiated into the three probationary
degrees of Masonry, and exalted to !
the sublime degree of R. A. M. j
SECOND CLAUSE. i
j Q. How many preparations are i
necessary before he can be admitted? i
A. Three. |
Q. Name them
A. 1st, That he should be prepared \
in mind ; 2d, That he should be pre- |
pared in spirit ; 3d, That he should '
j be prepared in humility. j
I Q. Why in mind }
A. That he may properly consider,
! that as genuine merit is the pass to
! preferment, whether he feels himself
I justified in his claim.
70 Knights Templar,
Q. Why in spirit ?
A. Because, as our Order is both re-
ligious and military, he should not ne- i
gleet to consider whether he can fairly
present himself as a Disciple of Christ,
and brave enough in the hour of dan- |
ger to resist the unprovoked attacks of \
the Children of Darkness. ;
j Q. Why in humility ?
\ A. To commemorate the first gar-
1 ments adopted by our glorious pre-
I decessors before the Crusades, who, i
: in humble attire of Pilgrims, travelled
' through dangers and difficulties to
: Jerusalem, there to offer up their
prayers at the Shrine of their Saviour ; .
and in this appearance alone ought a ■
Candidate to be received into an En-
i campment of Knights Templar. |
i
THIRD CLAUSE. |
Q. The Candidate being thus pre- !
pared, whither is he conducted I
A. By the Outposts he is conducted l
/ to the entrance of the Encampment.
Q. How does he gain admittatvce ? '
-4. -Bk /our sounds of the trMm^eV\
MassorCs System of Examination. 7 1
. or, in time of peace, by four knocks at
! the outward gate of the Encampment
1 Q. To what does this allude ?
i A. To the number of degrees he
has obtained in Masonry.
Q. Who came to his assistance ?
A. The representative of the 2d
Captain, attended by a Herald.
Q. What did he demand ?
A. Who comes here ?
I Q. The reply ?
, A. A poor pilgrim on his travels,
i who, hearing that a Knights Templar
j Encampment is established here,
j craves admission.
! Q. What further inquiry was
made }
A. From whence he came, and for
what purpose ? to which he answers :
— From the West, going to Jerusalem,
there to pray for the forgiveness of
his own sins and those of his fellow
creatures.
Q. Upon what ground did he pre-
fer his request 1
A. By his possessing the Secrets of
the H. R, A.
Q, What was tvex\. dot^^'l
72
A. The Aide-dcrcamp of the 2d
Captain, having ascertained his pos-
session of the Secrets, desired him to
wait the commands of his Chief.
Q. What was the result ?
A. With the approbation of the
Knights assembled, the E. C. directed
the Candidate to be admitted with
caution and in ancient form.
SECOND SECTION.
FIRST CLAUSK
Q. The Candidate being admitted
within the entrance of the Encamp-
ment, what caution is observed ? |
A. The Second and First Captains j
satisfy themselves of the claim of the !
Candidate, and then introduce him. \
Q. What follows ?
A. The Can., not being in possession
of any test by which he can claim free
admission, is rejected, and being re-
freshed with bread and water, is ordered
to undergo the probation.
Q. Why is he refreshed with bread
and water?
Masson^s Syste?n of Examination, 73 ,
i
A. These were and are considered
by those who enter on their pilgrim-
age on earth as the staff of life.
Q. How many years is a Novice to
serve before he can be admitted a
Member of the Order ?
A. Fifteen years,
Q. Describe the servitude ?
A. Seven years as a pilgrim to try
his piety ; seven years as a soldier to
try his faith ; and one year of penance
and mortification to try his fideUty.
Q. Is no shorter period allowed ?
A. Only in cases of individual
merit, and then only by the power of
the E. C, emanating from the G. C.
j Q. Is the Candidate subject to any
obligation ?
A. I, A. B., in the name of the
Holy Trinity, and in the presence of :
the Knights here assembled, do here-
by and hereon most solemnly promise i
and swear never to reveal the secrets
of a Knight Templar to any one be-
neath that degree, unless it be to a
Candidate for the same, in a lawful
Encampment of KivighJis
) and then only whilst actm^^^^^^^*
74 Knights Templar,
\
larly installed Commander. I further- |
more solemnly promise, that I will |
faithfully defend and maintain the
holy Christian faith against all un-
provoked attacks of its enemies ; that
I will not shed the blood of a Knight
Templar in wrath, unless it be in the
just wars of Sovereign Princes or
States ; but, on the contrary, will
defend him, even at the risk of my life,
where or whensoever his life or his
honour may be in danger. That I
will, to the utmost of my power, pro-
tect the near and dear relatives and
connexions of K. T., and if possible
prevent all harm, danger, or violence
to which they may be exposed.
Lastly, I do most sincerely promise to
be obedient to the supreme authorities
of the country in which I do or may
reside, and strictly to observe and
maintain the ancient laws and regula-
tions of the Order, the Statutes of the
Grand Conclave of England and
Wales, and to answer ^ndobey, so far as
lies in my power, all summonses which
/ may receive, the same being duly
marked. To all these pom\.s \ ?w^^x
! Massoris System of Examination, 75
fidelity, without evasion, equivocation,
or mental reservation of any kind,
; under no less penalty than the loss
of life, by having my head struck off
and placed upon a pinnacle or spire,
I my skull sawn asunder, and my brains
exposed to the scorching rays of the
i sun, as a warning to all infidels and trai-
tors. So help me Christ, and keep me
steadfast in this my solemn obligation.
j SECOND CLAUSE.
i Q. What are the names of a Sol-
! dier of Christ 1
A. Strengthened by Faith, having
the Breastplate of RIGHTEOUSNESS,
and his feet shod with the preparation
of the Gospel of PEACE. He is armed
with the Shield of Faith, the Helmet
of Salvation, and the Sword of the
Spirit.
I Q. Being thus armed, what is en-
! trusted to his particular care }
\ A. The S. and P. W. of a Crusader.
' Q. Give me the Sign ?
1 A. {Done:)
Q. To what does it a\\\xd^"l
76
Knights Templar,
Q. Give me the P. W. ?
A. {Done,)
Q. To what does it allude ?
A.
Q. The Candidate having proved
his valour as a Christian warrior,
what is entrusted to him then ?
I A. The knowledge and import of
I the Sacred Word.
j Q. What was next entrusted to
i him ?
A. The emblems of Life and Death
are particularly recommended to his j
I contemplation. i
I Q. Why such awful emblems ? '
j A. That his thoughts should never !
I wander from the serious considera-
' tion of the uncertainty of human ex-
istence, and the awful situation in
which he has placed himself in refer-
ence to his obligation.
Q. The Candidate having fully
served the 15 years, what follows ?
A. He is declared a Novice of the i
Order, entrusted with G. S. and G. P. i
W., and allowed to retire for medita-
tion and repose.
MassorCs System of Examination, 77
I THIRD CLAUSE.
I Q. The Novice being now entitled
I to greater honours, how did he obtain
them ?
A. By virtue and pefseverance.
Q. Describe the manner ?
i A. Having announced himself in
due form to the Representative of the
2d Captain, he is re-admitted, ex-
amined by the 2d and 1st Captains,
and afterwards by the E. C.
Q. What is a Casual Sign, as al-
luded to ?
A. A certain motion of the hand,
which can only be understood and
1 answered by those who have been
regularly installed.
Q. Give me the Casual Sign }
A. {Done)
Q. To what does it allude }
A
Q. Give me the Gd. P. W.
A. (Done.)
Q. To what does it refer ?
j A. The prophecy against S^Tva.'axA
/ Israel, as recorded in HoVy VJrsX..
78
Q. The Novice being thus received,
what follows ?
A. After the Grand Prelate has
impressed on his mind the duty he is
ever to observe towards God, his
neighbour, and himself, he is refreshed
with the cup of memory.
Q. Thus refreshed, what was next
presented to him ?
A. The test of his sincerity ; which
with his blood is in token also of his
faith^ and which possesses a new name
i no man knoweth but he who has
j received it.
! Q. Being now in possession of this
1 great and mysterious memorial, what
I was next ordered ?
A. The Novice was ordered to ad-
vance to the East, and under the holy
I banner of our Order, to receive the ho-
r nour of Knighthood in ancient form.
! Q. Describe that form ?
I A. Being handed by the 2d
Captain to the foot of the throne, he
kneels on his left knee, while the
I Knights appear in full armour. The
/ E. C, places his sword on his shoulder ;
/ creates him a Knight ; and "m >i:aaX
I Masson^s System of Examination, 79
character he raises him as Knight
Companion of the Royal, Exalted,
Religious, and Military Order of the
Holy Temple and Sepulchre of Christ,
and orders him to be solemnly in-
vested with the insignia of the Insti-
tution.
Q. What concludes the Installa-
tion ?
A. Having been entrusted with the
G. S., W„ and G., by the Emt Cr., he
is most respectfully conducted to his
stall ; and by the Heralds in the S.
; W. and the N. W. he is regularly pro-
I claimed, and which the assembly ac-
I knowledges by a regular salute of arms.
THIRD SECTION.
FIRST CLAUSE.
Q. What mysterious knowledge is 1
entrusted to the members of our 1
Order i
A. The G. S., the G. W., and the !
G. G. ;
Q. What next } I
A. The descriptiotvo^o^lx'^^^^•^>ss^-
/ ment, and the Kiddetv \rcv^^^ •Cw^^^
8d Knights Templar^
emblems and symbols which are in-
dispensable in a Chapter of the Order.
Q. Please give me the Gd. S. ? !
A. {Done) \
Q. To what does it allude ? i
A
Q, Give me the G. W. ?
A. {Done)
Q. What does it express ?
A
Q. Give to the K t. next you the G. G. ? j
A. {Done) \
Q. What does it imply ? |
A. That we are to support each |
other through dangers and difficulties, '
and to stand or fall together in de- I
fence of the Christian Faith, against I
all unprovoked attacks of its enemies.
SECOND CLAUSE.
Q. How is an Encampment of K.
Templars situated ?
A. Due E. and W.
Q. What is its form } j
A. A close square. '
Q, On what ground do we place I
our sacred banner ? \
MassofUs System of Examination. 8i
A. On sacred ground.
Q. What makes the ground sacred ?
A. The Holy Cross raised in the
centre of a triangle.
Q. Why is the Holy Cross placed
in the centre }
A. That situation being equally
distant from the exterior lines, it
enables every individual in the En-
campment to behold the emblem he
bears, and to which he has sworn
fidelity.
Q. Is there any other reason ?
A. Yes. That in this sign we hope
to conquer ; from which reason the
Crusaders adopted the motto — " In
hoc signo vinces."
Q. How is the Triangle in the En-
campment represented >
A. By the situation of the Em.
Com. and the two leading Captains,
who from their situation figuratively
represent the extremities of each
angle, those intersecting the Close
Square from the S. W. and N. W. to
the point, thereby forming a triangle
between two parallel lines.
Q. What does the T, tepte^e'a^.'l
82 Knights Templar.
A. The Triune Essence of Deity.
Q. For what reason do we consider
the Western side the basis of the
triangle ?
A. For the reason, the nations to
the N., S., and West, from their geo-
graphical situation, could not at once
co-operate together, but being actu-
ated by one and the same laudable
motive, they united in the East, and
thus formed by their union a triangle
of Wisdom, Strength, and Beauty.
THIRD CLAUSE.
Q. What is considered a Chapter
of the Order.?
A. A Congregation of Knights in
H. Conclave, during any cessation of
Hostility or War.
Q, For what purpose do they con-
gregate .?
A. To maintain the Stability and
Honour of the Order, and to receive
such Novices as are deserving to be
admitted among them.
Q. What do we principally behold
a Chapter of Knights TempWI
MassofCs System of Examination, 83
A. A Representation of the Holy
Sepulchre.
Q. Why so ?
A. Because the recovery of the
Holy Sepulchre was the ground plan
of the Crusades.
Q. What further objects attract
your attention >
A. The emblem of our Faith, the
guide of our Life, and the hope of our
Salvation.
Q. How are they represented }
A. By the Cross, the Sacred Vo-
lume, and Holy Gospel.
Q. Do we not assign another reason
for the Cross, than being only an em-
blem of our Faith }
A. Yes. We consider also that it
represents the tree of Death and the
tree of Life. For as by the first
Adam Sin and Death were brought
into the world, so by the second
Adam we hope for life everlasting.
Q. What do we next discover ?
A. The emblem of Mortality, and
the severe punishment of Infidelity.
Q. How are they t^^t^^e.VL\.^^1
A By a human SkaW ^xifii.
84 JSk^is 2}mplm
Q. For what purpose are they
placed before us ?
A. To remind us of our obligation,
and to avoid the punishmfiltlajeallii
by Simon of Syracuse^
Q. Do we adbio#I^i|^ my iMta
S3r|iKbdtii& otir Chapter ?
A* Yes. Twdve U^ts, composed
of Three mA Nine Imm
Lights,
Q. How are they situated ?
A- They ane so placed as to fpim
a tnaijgle to the emblems akeady
describal, Hie Gtieater L^hts placed
at the extremity of each angle, and
these intersected by the Lesser Lights*
Q. What do these Lights represent?
A. The Twelve Apostles. The
thr«^ hm^ fepregent the three
lesscTj the less favourite Apostles^
including Judas Iscariot, wli0
trayed his Lord and Master.
ENG OF MASSOK'a SYSTEM Of
nine
THE
PERFECT CEREMONIES
OP TMB
INCLUDING THB
OR, THE MEDITERRANEAN PASS.
WITH THB SCftlPTURB READINGS IN FULL.
PnvaUly Printed for A, Lewis.
LONDON, 1876.
C€ifytr^gkL All RighU ReseroecL
I
CONTENTS.
Knight of Malta ^~ page
Preliminary Directions (Guard House, Chapter
House, Banners, &c.) 5
List of Officers, &c 8
Ceremony of Opening the Priory . . . xo
MecUterranean Pass ; or. Knight of St Paul , 12
CThe Complete Ceremony, with Scripture Read-
ing In full.)
Knight of Malta
Ceremony of Installation 93
Address by the £. P. 28
Ceremony of Qoang the Priory . • , • 34
36tntflfjt of Hdaltau
Preliminary Directions.
No one can be admitted to the
Order unless he has previously been
installed a Knight Templar. He must
also have the Mediterranean given
him.
For the proper performance of this
Ceremony, two chambers are neces-
sary, — the larger representing the
Chapterhouse, or Council Chamber
of the Priory, and the other the Guard
Room ; and, if convenient, there should
also be a small waiting or preparation
room. There should be fifteen officers
present to form a perfect Chapter in
which the Order of Malta is given.
The Prior, the Prelate, and the Mares-
chal, must wear the mantle of black,
with a white eight-pointed cross on
the left shoulder. Knights of Malta
6 Knight of Malta.
being Knights Templar, may appear
in the costume of Knights Templar.
The Guard Room.
In this apartment must be an altar,
covered with black cloth, on which is
placed a crucifix, a Bible opened, when
the ceremony is being performed, at
the 27th chapter of the Acts of the
Apostles, and a drawn sword. A
faldstool for the Candidate to kneel
on should be placed before the altar.
In this chamber the Mediterranean
Pass is to be given.
The Chapter House.
According to an ancient Ritual,
three veils are drawn to represent the
passage of the Mediterranean Sea,
and Sentinels are placed as Guards,
and to receive the proper pass words.
For the " veils " the word " banners,"
hereinafter described (and five instead
of three), is substituted.
From the door, and at intervals to-
wards the seat of the Prior, five ban-
Arrangement of the Banners^ etc, 7
ners must be placed in rests. Nearest
the door should be a rest to hold the
White Banner, with the word " Pales-
tine, 1099," written on it ; next that,
a rest with a Red Banner, with the
word "Cyprus, 1287," written on it;
ne5;t that, a rest with a Black Banner,
with the word "Rhodes, 13 10," writ-
ten on it ; next that, a rest with a
Purple Banner, with the word " Can-
dia, 1523," written on it; and some-
where near to the Prior's seat, a rest
with a Gold-coloured Banner, with the
word "Malta, 1530," written on it.
These banners, during the Installation,
are to be guarded by five Knights, or
by the Chancellor, the two Lieuten-
ants, the Lieut.-General, and the Cap-
tain-General, who must stand in a line,
and opposite to each banner.
At the eastern or upper end of the
Chapter House, must be placed a table
with red cover, in the centre of which
must be worked or painted a white
level or figure, with lines drawn on it
meeting in the centre of the upper
portion of a cross, &c. When the
Priory is opened, the five following
8 Knight of Malta.
officers must be seated at this table,
viz. : —
1. The Eminent Prior.
2. The Captain-General.
3. The Lieut-General.
4. The First Lieutenant
5. The Second Lieutenant.
At the west of the Chapter House
there must be a table with a red cover,
in the centre of which must be worked
or painted a white Octagon, or eight-
sided figure (the Maltese Cross), hav-
ing a centre circle divided into four
equal portions, with, in each compart-
ment, the figures of — I. an ancient
galley ; 2. a ladder of five rounds,
with letters on each round corre-
sponding to the five banners, and a
speaking trumpet ; 3. a hand and
viper ; 4. a skull with a spear and a
sword. At this table the eight fol-
lowing officers are placed, viz. : —
1. The MareschaL
2. The Hospitaller.
3. The Admiral.
4. The Conservator.
5. The Bailie.
Arrangement of the Officers^ etc, 9
6. The Turcopolier.
7. The Chancellor.
8. The Treasurer.
These eight officers represent the
Knights Grand Cross of the respec-
tive langues of which the Order con-
sists, viz. : —
I. Provence. 2. Auvergne.
3. France. 4. Italy.
S. Arragon. 6. Germany.
7. Castille. 8. Anglo-Bavaria.
The Prelate is to have a seat in the
east of the Chapter House. The
Captain of the outposts is to be
seated in the west, near the door.
The rest of the Knights are seated in
two rows in the north and south sides
of the Priory. The two Banners of
the Order are the " Standard of St
John" and the " Standard of " Malta."
These are to be placed one on either
side of the Prior in the east, and other
Banners of the Knights attending are
to lie about the north and south sides
of the Chapter House.
END OF PRELIMINARY DIRECTIONS.
r
Cnretttons of ©penmfl ^Priorg.
E. P. — Worthy Captain -General,
what is the first and most essential
care of a Knight of Malta ?
C.-Genl. — To see that our brethren
in arms are properly protected from
all opposers of the Gospel of the
Saviour of fallen man.
E. P. — Worthy Lieut-Genl, do your
duty, and see that the Priory is pro-
perly guarded.
(T/ie Lieut-Gen, goes to door^ gives
13 knocks y tJien returns ^ and reports — )
L. G. — Eminent Prior, all is pro-
perly guarded without.
E. P. — Worthy Captain -General,
what is our next duty }
C. G. — To see that every Warrior
present proves himself a legitimate
son in arms, and brother of our Priory,
j E. P. — See that they be so.
(T/ie Captn,-GenL and Lieut-GenL
^c?ve each and all by tJie W. and
opening of the Priory. 1 1
C. G. — E. P., the Comp. Warriors pre-
sent have proved themselves legitimate
sons in arms and bros. of our Priory.
E. P. — Let us implore a blessing
upon our present meeting.
{All draw swords. The five officers
deposit their swords on the lines marked
on the table, and the eight other officers
place their swords in order)
Rev. p. — Let us pray.
Prayer.
O Thou Great Emmanuel, and God
of Infinite Goodness, look down upon
this Priory with an eye of tender com-
passion, and indine our hearts to Thy
holy will in all our actions, through
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
(E, P, and Kts, resume their swords)
E. P. — In the name of the Holy
Trinity, I declare this a duly opened
and constituted Priory of Kts. of Malta.
{Knocks given in form. The Minutes
of last meeting read. Proposals mcule,
or Resolutions passed)
END OF OPENraG
Mttiittxxmtm ^m; or, Itnfflfjt
of &t $aul
{TAf Priory being opened^ when the
Can, is ready the Guard knocks 12 and
I, and the Captain of the Outposts goes
to the door and receives from the Can,
the sign and word of a Knight Tern-
plar, and then requests him to wait
without while he makes a report^
C. OF O. — Eminent Prior, Comp. A.
B., a Knight Comp. of the Royal, Ex-
alted, Religious, and Military Order
of Masonic Knights Templar, bound
by a vow to undertake a pilgrimage
to the Holy Sepulchre, stands without,
humbly soliciting to be admitted to
the Secrets and Privileges of the "Me-
diterranean Pass," without which he
will be unable to visit the Holy Land ;
and, if found worthy, hopes to be
elected a Member of the Ancient
Order of the Kniglita of Malta.
E. P.—Worthy CapV^in ol
Knight of St Paul; etc.
13
posts, far be it from us to interpose
any obstacle to the fulfilment of his
pious purposes. Can you, Sir Knight,
vouch that he is in possession of the
S. and W. ofaK. T.?
C. OF O. — I can, Eminent Prior.
E. P. — Is it your pleasure, Sir
Knights, that Comp. A. B. be elected
a Member of our Order ?
{A Ballot takes place; the Chancellor
carrying round the B, B.y and the Hos-
pitaller the Bs, If the Ballot is unani-
mous in favour of the Can, — ')
E. P.— I declare Comp. A. B. duly
elected a Member of our Order ; and
you, our Worthy and Rev. Prelate,
and you, our Grand Mareschal, will
accompany me to the Guard Room ;
and you, our Worthy Captain-General,
be pleased to assume my seat dur-
ing my temporary absence, and take
charge of this Priory.
I {The E. P., Prelate, and G. Mare-
\ schal then leave the Council Chamber,
and enter the Guard Room)
The Guard Roo^h.
/ (T^ Can. must he habited
G _
1 4 Knight of St Paul;
K. Z"., and must have provided himself
with the Malta fewel; he then enters
into the Guard Room. The E. P, and
the Rev, Prelate take their places at the
right and left of the altar ^ the Mare-
schal standing with the Can, opposite the
altar)
E. P. — Comp. A. B., before I place
you in possession of the Secrets of the
M. P., are you willing to take a solemn
O. B. to keep inviolate the Secrets
and Mysteries of this Order ?
Can. — I am.
E. P. — ^Worthy Grand Mareschal,
be pleased to conduct the Can. to the
foot of the altar. {Done)
E. P. — Comp. A. B., kneel on both
your knees, and place both your hands
on the vol. of the Holy Evangelist,
repeat your names at length, and say
after me : —
Obligation.
I, A B., do hereby and hereon most
solemnly and sincerely promise and
/ vow to keep and conceal the Secrets
/ of this Order, and aivy 1 xsxa.^ \vere-
/ after receive, from a\\ wTv:«ox>2a>j
or^ Mediterranean Pass, 15
receive the same, under the penalty of
forfeiting the h...r of K...th...d. So
help me G., &c.
E. P.— You will seal that O. B. on
the N. T. {Dofie)
{The Prelate reads the 2*jth chapter
of the Acts of the Apostles y and also the
2Zth chapter^ to verse 6th, inclusive^)
And when it was determined that
we should sail into Italy, they delivered
Paul and certain other prisoners un-
to one named Julius, a centurion of
Aiigustus' band. And entering into a
ship of Adramyttium, we launched,
meaning to sail by the coasts of Asia ;
one Aristarchus, a Macedonian of
Thessalonica, being with us. And the
next day we touched at Sidon, And
Julius courteously entreated Paul, and
gave him liberty to go unto his friends
to refresh himself And when we had
launched from thence, we sailed under
Cyprus, because the winds were con-
trary. And when we had sailed over
the Sea of Cilicia and Pamphylia^ we
came to Myra, a city of Lycia. And
/y^^fr t/ie centiiricn found a sHlf oj
1 6 Knight of St Paul;
Alexandria sailing into Italy ; and he
put us therein. And when we had
sailed slowly many days, and scarce
were come over against Cnidus, the
wind not suffering us, we sailed under
Crete, over against Salmone ; and,
hardly passing it, came unto a place
which is called The fair havens ; nigh
w/teretmto was the city of Lasea, Now
when much time was spent, and when
sailing was now dangerous, because
the fast was now already past, Paut
admonished them, and said unto them.
Sirs, I perceive that this voyage wih
be with hurt and mu^h damage, not
only of the lading and ship, but also
of our lives. Nevertheless the centurion
believed the master and the owner of
tJie ship, more than those things which
were spoken by PauL And because the
haven was not commodious to winter
in, the more part advised to depart
thence also, if by any means they might
attain to Phenice, and there to winter;
which is an haven of Crete, and lieth
toward the south-west and north-west.
And when tJie south wind blew softly,
stipposing that tJiey had obtained their
or^ Meditcrranea7i Pass. 17
purpose, loosing thence, they sailed close
by Crete, But not long after there arose
against it a tempestuous wind, called
Euroclydon. And when the ship was
caught, and could not bear up into the
wind, we let her drive. And running
under a certain island which is called
Claude, we had much work to co^ne by
the boat: which when they had taken
up, tfiey used fielps, undergirding the
ship ; and, fearing lest they should fall
into the quicksands, strake sail, and so
were driven. And we being exceed-
ingly tossed with a tempest, the next
day they lightened tfie ship ; and the
third day we cast out with our own
hands the tackling of the ship. And
when neither sun nor stars in many
days appeared, and no small tempest
lay on us, all hope that we should be
saved was then taken away. But
after long abstinence Paul stood forth
in tfie midst of them, and said. Sirs, ye
should have hearkened unto me, and
not have loosed from Crete, and to
have gained this harm and loss. And
now I exhort you to be of good cheer :
for there shall be no loss of any man's
1 8 Knight of St Paul;
life among you, but of the skip. For
there stood by me this night tlte angel
, of God, whose I am^ and whom I serve,
I saying. Fear not, Paul tlwu must be
1 brought before Cwsar and, God kaik
<^ll tfiem that sail with thee.
W^kenfore, sirs, be of good cheer: for
I believe God, that it s/iall be even as
it was told me, Howbeit we must be
cast upon a certain island. But when
tJie fourteenth night was come, as we
were driven up and down in Adria,
about midnight tlte shipmen deemed
that ihey drew mar to some muntry;
and sounded, and fmmd it twenty fa-
thoms: and when tkey had gone a little
further, t/iey sounded again, and found
it jifieeit faiA&ms. Thm fmrwg kst
m^(M$mi fdiUM ^tm mks, they
m^ J^mm&rs out of the stern, and
far ^ day. And as the ship-
men were about to flee out of the ship,
when they had let down the boat into
t^w sea, under colour as though they
wtmld kavg mst mcMrs out of tJte
f&ih^^^ Pm^lsaid to the centurion and
to the soldiers, Except these abide in tlte
] ship, ye cannot be saved. Then the
or^ Mediterranean Pass. 19
soldiers cut off the ropes of the boat, and
let her fall off. And while the day was
coming on, Paul besought them all to
take meat, saying. This day is the four-
teenth day that ye have tarried and
continued fasting, having taken nothing.
Wherefore I pray you to take some
meat : for this is for your health : for
there shall not an hair fall from the
head of any of you. A nd when he had
thus spoken, he took bread, and gave
thanks to God in presence of them all:
and when he had broken it, he began
to eat. Then were they all of good
cheer, and they also took some meat.
And we were in all in the ship two
hundred threescore and sixteen souls.
And when they had eaten enough, they
lightened the ship, and cast out the
wheat into the sea. And when it was
day, they knew not the land : but they
discovered a certain creek with a shore,
into the which they were minded, if
it were possible, to thrust in the ship.
And when they had taken up the
anchors, they committed themselves unto
the sea, and loosed the rtuider bands,
and hoised up the mainsail to the wind.
20 Knight of St Paul;
and made toward shore. And fall-
ing into a place where two seas mety
they ran the ship aground ; and the
forepart stuck fast, and remained un-
moveable, but the hinder part was
broken with the violence of the waves.
And the soldiers' counsel was to kill the
prisoners, lest any of them should swim
out, and escape. But the centurion,
willing to save Paul, kept them from
their purpose ; and commanded that
they which could swim should cast
themselves first into the sea, and get
to land : And the rest, some on boards,
and some on broken pieces of the ship.
And so it came to pass, that they escaped
all safe to land. And when they were
escaped, then they knew that the island
was called Melita, And the barbarous
people shewed us no little kindness : for
they kindled a fire, and received us
every one, because of the present rain,
and because of the cold. And when
Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks,
and laid them on the fire, there came
a viper out of the heat and fastened
on his hand. And when the barbarians
saw the venomous beast hang on his
or^ Mediterranean Pass, 21
hand, they said ani07ig themselveSy No
doubt this man is a murderer ^ whom,
ttwugh he hath escaped the sea, yet ven-
geance suffer eth not to live. And he
shook off the beast into the fire, and felt
no harm, Howbeit they looked when
he should have swollen, or fallen down
dead suddenly: but after they had
looked a great while, and saw no harm
come to him, they changed their minds,
and said that he was a god!'
E. P. — I will now entrust you with
the S. and W. of this Degree. The S.
is the s...g of the h,..d, as if s...g off
a v...r, as S. P. did. The g. or t. is
given by t...g h...d of the l...e f...s
and t...g up the h...s, and "with the
f...ef...r and t...b l...g h...d of the
s...n on the b...k of each other's h...s.
The g. w. is "M...a;" the p. w. is
"F..r n.t, P..r
{The E. P. and Prelate retire, and
return to the Priory, and resume their
seats ; the Grand Mareschal remain-
ing with the Can.)
END OF THE MEDITERRANEAN PASS.
Ifitntflfjt of JHalta.
Ceremony of Installation.
( When the E, P, resjimes his seat in
the east, the Captain-General, or some
other Knighty if numbers will alloWy
stands somewhere near the door of, but
within, the Chapter House, opposite to,
and with a drawn sword guarding, the
White Banner. The L ieut- General, or
some other Knight, stands a little dis-
tance off the Captain-General, opposite
to, and with a drawn sword guarding,
the Red Banner, The First L ieutenant,
or some other Knight, stands a little
distance off the Lieut-General, opposite
to, and with a drawn sword guarding,
the Black Banner. The Second Lieu-
tenant, or some other Knight, stands a
little distance off the First Lieutenant,
cfj>p^site to, and with a drawn sword
^^ardiug^thePurpkBanmr. TheCKau-
22
Ceremony of Installation, 23
cellar y or some other Knighty stands in
front of the E, P., opposite tOy and with
a drawn sword guarding, the Gold-
Coloured Banner. The five Knights
and the five Banners form an avenue,
up which the Mareschal and Can, ap-
proach the east The Mareschal tJteny
when all is ready, advances with the Can,
to the door o f the Chapter House , and
gives knocks JJJJJJJJJJJJ J
C. OfO. — {Opening the door, iftquires)
Who comes ?
Mar. — A worthy Knight and Sol-
dier of the Cross claims admittance.
C. OF O. — To what Order does he
belong }
Mar. — The Knights Templar.
C. OF O. — Has he the necessary
qualification }
Mar. — He has.
C. OF O. — Stop there a little while,
until I report him to the E. P. and
Knights in Council.
C. OF O. — {Having made his report,
and received orders to admit the Can,,
goes to the door and says ;) I have,
received orders to 3Ldm\\. ^ow..
I me the p. w.
2 4 Knight of Malta,
{This isgivcHy and the Mar. and Can,
enter and advance to the White Banner.
The Knight guarding this banner de-
mands ;)
1st Knight. — Can you give me the
w.?
{This is given, and the Knight drops
his sword, and they advance to the Red
Banner, The Knight guarding this
banner demands ;)
2d Knight. — Can you give me the
w.?
{This is given, and the Knight drops
his sword, andtliey advance to the Black
Banner, The Knight guarding this
banner demands ;)
3d Knight. — Can you give me the
w.?
{This is given, and the Knight drops
his sword, and they advance to the
Purple Banner, The Knight guarding
this banner demands .•)
4th Knight. — Can you give me
the w. t
{This is given, and the Knight drops
his sword, and they advance to the Gold-
Coloured Banner})
I E. P. — Can you give me the w. ?
Ceremony of Installation, 25
{This is given to the E. P., and tJie
Knight guarding that banner drops his
sword, and the Can. with the Mar. re-
main facing the E, P. All the Guards,
should they have places at either tdble^
resume them ; but should numbers suf-
fice, and the Officers having seats at the
two tables do not act as Guards, then
the Guards remain standing guarding
their Banners^
E. P. — Worthy Senior Lieut, what
stranger is this ?
1st Lieut.— He is a Companion of
the Temple, who wishes to join our
Order and fight under our banner.
E. P. — Stranger, have you obtained
the honour of knighthood t
Can. — I have.
E. P. — Have you any proof to show
us that you have }
Can. {bows to the E, P., and points
to the Cross on his breast, saying") — I
have this.
E. P. — Brother Knight, is it your
wish to join our bodyand fight against
all opposers of the Gospel of our Lord
and Saviour,under our Holy Banner ?
Can. — It is.
26 Knight of Malta,
E. V: — ITnvc 3 ou any objection to
conform yourscif to our rules and re-
giltai$Ws» ^nd to waLk in strict ac-
tbcrewith 1
GANi— I have noM.
E. P. — Will you swear?
Can.— 1 \vilL
E.. P.— Then let the Candidate
j kneel, and enter into the O. B. of a
! Knight of Malta.
i {The Mar. cmdMcts the Can, to the
! faldstool at the west of the five-sided
table, on which an opc?i Bible is placed
on a cushion. The Can. draios kis
swordy and placing it across the Bible ^
puts his r. h, on the B.y and kneeling
I on his r. k., repeats this O. B. after the
Prelate :—)
I, A. B., do hereby and hereon pro-
mise and vow, on the honour of a
Knight Templar, never improperly
to divulge the secrets aboitf to be
entrusted to me ; and tn sdt i«»aects
to conform to the regulations of this
Ancient Order, and \\ve ?>\7\!cm\.^'s»
Obligation.
Ceremony of Installation. 27
the Grand Priory of England and
Wales. So help me G.
{He seals the O. B. three times. The
E. P. then placing his sword on the
r. s. of the Can.y invests him with the
honour of Knighthood of Malta^ say-
ing:)
E. P. — By virtue of the power and
authority in me vested by the Grand
Priory of England and Wales, and in
the name of St John the Baptist (the
Patron Saint of this Order), I make
thee a Knight Hospitaller of St John
of Jerusalem, Palestine, Rhodes, and
Malta. Arise, Sir Knight! Be Valiant,
Bold, and True ! I now invest you
with the Jewel of our Order. {Done.)
The g. w. is The s. is ,
that of a K. T.
END OF INSTALLATION.
awiress ftg tfje (S. ^.
Worthy Bro. Knight, it is now
my duty to direct your attention to a
brief resunti of the history of this
Order, and its bearing on our present
Ceremonies.
The Order was originally founded
in Jerusalem, during the first Crusade,
in the year of our Lord 1099, by the
association of many pious Knights
with the Fratres of St John's Hos-
pital — an establishment previously
founded for the relief of Pilgrims
proceeding to worship at the Holy
Sepulchre.
The name Palestine, and the date
on the B. of B., commemorate the
country of our Lord's Nativity, and
have reference to this, the earliest
period of our Order, and also to the
place where the Otdet lowxA^^i.
28
History of the Order. 29
After a troublous existence in the
Holy Land, and in consequence of
being deprived, by the wars raging
in Europe, of their looked-for assist-
ance, the Order was compelled to
evacuate Palestine, and, in the year
1287, they established themselves in
the Island of Cyprus.
The name and date on the B. of L»
are in memory of this refuge of the
Knights of St John.
In 1 3 10, the Island of Rhodes be-
came the property of the Forces of
the Order, which had a few years be-
fore (in 1307) been strengthened in
numbers and enriched by the proper-
ties of the Templars, who were at that
time suppressed by the cruelty and
avarice of Pope Clement V., and Philip
le Bel, king of France, The remains
of the fortifications erected in Rhodes
by the Knights still bear testimony
to their architectural talent and their
engineering ability. The B. of D. has
reference to this period of our history.
In 1522, the Island of Rhodes was I
besieged by the Turks, •Cias. >
Emperor Solyman ^Vl^'^
30 Knight of Malta,
memorable defence, fell into the hands
of the Infidels ; the garrison, however,
were permitted to depart with all the
honours of war. From 1523 to 1530,
the Order found refuge in the Island
of Candia ; and in 1530, the Emperor
Charles V. ceded the Island of Malta
to the Order, on condition of using
all their abilities to repress the ravages
of the Moorish rovers, who at that
period infested the southern part of
the Mediterranean. These periods
of our history are designated by the
B. of Rand the B. of A.
The legend of the approach of the
Knights to this their final resting-place
has given rise to the distinguishing
w. . ds of the Order. The story runs,
that on coming to take possession of
the island, they approached the shore
rowing their galleys, two men to an
oar, the oars in their left hands and
their swords in their right hands,
singing a psalm in the words — "King
of kings," and " Lord of lords." The
natives of the island, seeing their ap-
proach \n a warlike guise, Imiled them
through a speaking-trumpet, saying,
History of the Order, 31
in the Arabic tongue : , which
means, D. Y. C. 1. P. ; to this the
Knights replied : ^, W. D. C.
1. P. ; to which the natives rejoined :
, T. C. 1. P. It is worthy of
remark, that these are to this day the
common form of salutation between an
Arab and a stranger.
The M. P., which you have received
in the introductory degree of Knight
of St Paul, was instituted at an early
period of the Order, in order that by
it the Pilgrims might distinguish one
another from the Moorish rovers who
tried to bar their passage to the Holy
Land.
Five officers of the Priory, viz., the
E. P. and his body guard, are seated
in the east of the Council Chamber,
at a table covered with a representa-
tion of the upper limb of a Cross of
Calvary. Their swords are all pointing
to one spot, that, namely, where the
...X...X...X...X... was supposed to rest,
figurative in a degree of the holy cha-
racter of the Order. The number 5 has
also an allusion to the 5 ...x...x...x...,
and is again repeated in the number
3 2 Knight of Malta,
of the rounds of the ladder, depicted
on one of the divisions of the orle
forming part of the Jewel represented
on the second table. These five officers
formed the personal staff in attend-
ance on the Grand Master of the Order.
The eight other officers are placed
at an octagon table in the west. This
table has on it the representations
of the Jewel of the Order. On the
centre are four divisions, with repre-
sentations of a ship, or ancient galley ;
a ladder of five rounds, with the letters
B. D. L. R. A. on the rounds, and a
speaking-trumpet; a cloven skull, a
double-handed sword, and a spear;
and a hand and viper. The ancient
galley is a representation of the ves-
sels formerly used in carrying corn
from Egypt to Rome, and the ladder
has letters in the rounds correspond-
ing with those on the five Banners ;
the skull is typical of the penalty of
death to traitors to the Order; the
double-handed sword was in use by
the Knights in the earlier period of
the Order; the spear reminds us of
the weapon which pierced the side of
History of the Order, 33
our Lord; and the hand and viper
the history of St Paul in connection
with the Island of Malta.
The eight officers sitting there re-
present the heads of the eight Lan-
gues or Tongues into which the
Order was divided. These were: —
Provence, Auvergne, France, Italy,
Arragon, Germany, Castille, and
Anglo-Bavaria. These eight Priors
also held the several offices in the
Order of Mareschal, Hospitaller, Ad-
miral, Conservator, Bailie, Turcopo-
lier, Chancellor, and Treasurer. The
eight-pointed star or cross is well
known as the Emblem of the Order.
The practical lessons to be drawn
by us from the study and contempla-
tion of the B. L. D. R. and A. of our
Blessed Lord and Saviour will be
more particularly brought to your
notice during the Ceremony of closing
the Priory, to which your attention
will presently be directed. Be seated,
Sir Knights. ( They all take tJieir seats.)
END OF THE E. P.'S ADDRESS.
Ceremong of Clostnfl t!je ^Irtorg*
E. P. — Worthy Capt-Gen., what
is the last duty of our Brethren in
Arms ?
C. G. — ^To close the Priory in peace
and good-will with all our Companions
in Arms, and in Christian charity with
all mankind.
E. P. — How can we best effect this
noble and God-like purpose ?
C. G. — By proving to friends and
foes the b...h, l...e, d...h, r..., and
a...n of C...t, the S...r of m...d.
E. P.— Pray, Worthy Capt.-Gea,
what do we learn from His b...h ?
C. G. — ^That the Great Captain of
our salvation was bom to redeem
fallen mankind.
E. P. — Worthy Lieut-Gen., what
do we learn from His 1 ..e
L. G. — All requisite for us to fol-
low — He being tiie Way, the Truth,
and the Life.
34
Closing the Priory, 35
E. P.— Worthy ist Lieut, what do
we learn from His d...h?
1st L. — That our debt of nature is
fully paid, and the rigour of the law
satisfied.
E. P.— Worthy Junior Lieut., what
do we learn from His r...n ?
J. L. — He being the Day-Star of
mercy, has risen to conduct our feet
into the paths of truth and peace.
E. P. — Thus, my Companions in
Arms, by the B., L., D., and R. of our
Blessed L. and S., we are taught to
live and die as Christians ; and it is
now my province to close this Priory,
by previously declaring, that by His
glorious A. He is gone before to open
the D. of the G. C. C. ; for He hath
said, In My Father's house are many
mansions, but I go to prepare the way,
and open the gates of Paradise, that
where I am My servants may be also.
{The E. P, tJien advances to the
centre of the Chamber^ and presents
with his r. h, the O. T. to the five
officers, who advance towards him,
and place their five swords on the B,,
kneeling on their r, k. The E, P.
36
Knight of Malta,
then with his L h, presents the N, T.
to the eight officers^ who advance
towards hivty and place their eight
swords on the kneeling on their
L k. Each set of officers rise and
return to their- seats, so soon as they
haife saluted the H, B, The rest of the
Knights stand to order the while the
E, P. then returns to his seat, and
says :)
E. P. — ^By virtue of the power vest-
ed in me, I declare this Priory of the
Knights of Malta duly closed, to re-
main so until it is my will and plea-
sure, or the will and pleasure of some
other duly authorised person, to open
the same again.
P. — Let us pray.
Prayer.
Merciful Redeemer of perishing
mankind, who hast promised that
Thou wouldst be in the midst of
those who assemble in Thy holy
name, look upon us with an eye of
tender compassion ; and so direct us
this day, that all our labours may
Closing the Priory, 37
be begun, continued, and ended in
love to Thee, affection to our com-
panions, and obedience to our Order.
Amen.
{Each of tlie five officers give five
knocks on the table with the pommels of
tJuir swords ; the eight officers give mte
knock on the table^ and the Priory is
closed^
END OF CLOSING THE PRIORY, AND
OF THE RITUAL OF THE KNIGHT
OF MALTA.
ROSE CROIX, i8'.
TRACING IMJXRU.
{ArruHgement of Altar ^
THE
PERFECT CEREMONIES
OF THE
llnigl^s of % anb f elitan
AND
Sjofamip f rims
OF THE ORDER OF
ROSE CROIX DE HEREDOM.
J^ein^ the l8« of the A. and A. Rite.
I
COPY OF THE RITUAL
OF THE
SUPREME COUNCIL OF THE 33*
FOR
ENGLAND AND WALES.
Established at Londott, October 36, 1845.
SSith tht In^tdkilmt 0f tht SR. (g^.
Privatily Printed Jbr A. Lendt.
LONDON, X876.
Copyr^. AU Rights Reserved,
CONTENTS.
PAGB
Officers of a Rose Croix Chapter • • • . 7
Candidate's Petition 9
Obligation 10
Promise of Allegiance ix
Preliminary Directions : — ...... 13
Black Room.
Chamber of Death.
Red Room.
Altar.
Grand Lodge of Perfection, 4<» to X4® . • • . x8
Grand Lodge of Pxinces of Jerusalem, 15^ and x6® . 19
Grand Lodge of Knights of the East and West, 17*^ . 20
Ceremony of Opening a Rose Croix Chapter . . ax
Ceremony ofClosing a Rose Croix Chapter . . 37
Ceremony of Reception : — 29
First Point.
Second Point.
Third Point.
Anthem.
Installation of the M. W. S., with O. 6. of Office, and
Charge by the newly-installed M. W. S. . .55
®fBitm of a i^ojse Croix Cfjapter.
1. Most Wise Sovereign.
2. High Prelate.
3. First General.
4. Second GeneraL
5. Grand Marshal
6. Raphael.
7. Herald.
8. Captain of the Guard.
9. Recorder.
10. Treasurer.
11. Organist.
12. Director of the Ceremonies.
&c., &a
Cantiftrate'js; ^petition*
We, the undersigned, most humbly
supplicate the Most Wise and Perfect
Sovereign, and the Very August,
Excellent, Puissant, and Perfect
Princes, now assembled, that you will
graciously condescend to admit us to
your Princely Order, prompted by a
humble zeal to obtain perfection. We
trust that the sincerity of our endea-
vours to promote the Glory of the
Cross and the Welfare of Mankind
will entitle us to your favourable
opinions. Assuring you that should
you be pleased to grant our request,
we pledge ourselves to bear allegiance
to this Sovereign Chapter, and to
pray for the prosperity and happiness
of the Princes of this Sublime Degree.
(Signed)
9
©Wtgation^
{To be used at page i8, which see)
I, A. B., in the presence of God,
Creator of the Universe, and calling
upon these my Brethren as witnesses,
do, upon this Sacred Book, most
solemnly and sincerely promise that
I will never illegally reveal any or
either of the s...s or m...s of or be-
longing to the several degrees of the
A. and A. Rite, from the 4° to the
17° both inclusive, which may hereto-
fore have been known by me, shall
now, or at any future time may be
communicated to me, under the
penalties, &c.
Z
Promise of aUegtance.
[To the Supreme Council of the 33°
to be written at the beginning of the
Golden Book or Register of each Chap-
ter, and to be signed by all Candidates
previous to the commencement of t/te
Ceremony^
We, the undersigned, being free
and accepted Master Masons, regu-
larly initiated, passed, and raised in a
Warranted Lodge, most solemnly
promise faithful allegiance, fealty, and
solemn submission to the decrees of
the Most Puissant and Sovereign
Grand Inspectors-General of the 33rd
.degree, duly, lawfully, and constitu-
tionally established on the 26th Octo-
ber 184s, sitting in Supreme Council
at their Grand East in London, for
England and Wales and the Depen-
dencies of the British Crown.
We do furthermore promise to
hold no Masonic Fellowship, Inter-
12 Perfect Ceremonies^ Rose Croix,
course, or Communion whatever, in
any of the Ineffable and Sublime
degrees or Orders of Ancient Free
and Accepted Masonry, with any
Mason, or body of Masons, which at
any time have been, or hereafter may
be, established in Great Britain or its
dependencies by any authority what-
ever, except with such as are or may
be duly recognised and acknowledged
as lawful by the aforesaid S. C. ; and
we do further declare that we will, after
our admission into the Order, as soon
as an opportunity shall conveniently
occur, sign our name in the Roll of
the Golden Book of the Order.
In testimony whereof we have
signed this promise and declaration
with our own hands this day of
(Signed)
Prelimittarg ©irections*
The R. C. Degree requires three
Chambers, and if possible an outer
or preparation room, for the recep-
tion of Candidates, where the follow-
ing degrees, to the 17th inclusive, are
to be given by name, unless the same
is done in extenso.
The first is named the BLACK ROOM.
This should be hung with black, the
floor covered with oil cloth, represent-
ing a Mosaic Pavement in black and
white squares or lozenges. In the
East, two black curtains, arranged so
as to be drawn asunder entirely, and
sufficiently open to show the Altar,
which should be raised with three
steps, and covered with black with a
white border, and on which Silver
or White Swords are worked [vide
Tracing Board), Behiad ^.tvd ^^m^
the upper step, a trscas^^t^^c^^
14 Perfect Ceremonies^ Rose Croix,
which are represented three Crosses
[^ide T. B.) ; the centre and highest
Cross should have the Mystic Rose
(black) placed on the centre of the
Cross, and surrounded by a crown of
thorns ; the other two Crosses should
have a Skull and Cross-bones depicted
at their feet. Behind the Curtain,
and at the foot of the Altar, should be
a triangular table, covered with black
cloth and a white fringe, round the
edge of which must be placed three
wax lights, a Bible, Compasses,
Square, and Triangle. Beside the
Altar, there should be a Couch for
the M. W. S. to recline on. On the
Altar, before the transparency, at the
foot of the Cross, should be placed a
Rose made of black crape. In the
centre of the room must be the Trac-
ing Board, and on the floor a painting
of Seven Circles in white upon a black
ground, and in the centre a rose. In
the North, South, and West, there
must be three pillars six feet high, on
the Capitals of which must be in-
scribed Faith, Hope, and Charity, or
rather their initials, F., H., C, painted
Arrange?nent of Chambers, 15
on small tins or cards suspended by a
hook to each pillar. Each column
must be surmounted by eleven lights,
disposed in a box having eleven holes
Black /* , , *\ Room be suffi-
ciently large, it may be
divided into two by a second black
curtain behind the Altar; at all events,
there must be a passage thence to
the Red Room, according to the posi-
tion of the apartments.
From the Black Room should open
the Chamber of Death, and thence
the Red Room ; but if this cannot be
managed, the Candidate, after being
refused admittance in the Second
Point of the Ceremony, must be sent
into the Reception Room, and the
Black Room transformed into the
Chamber of Death.
The Chamber of Death must
have the Emblems of Mortality
strewed about, and sundry obstruc-
tions so placed that the Candidate
and the letters
or C. respectively
centre. If the
1 6 Perfect Ceremonies^ Rose Croix.
may have some difficulty in groping
his way to the black curtain, behind
which a lamp of spirits of wine and
salt must be placed, the wick of the
lamp also strewed with salt, and two
or three persons in w...g s...s grouped
around it as c...s. The Chamber of
Death may be lighted by transparen-
cies representing Skulls, Cross-bones,
&c., or by seven flambeaux fixed in
Skulls and Cross-bones.
The Third Chamber, or Red
Room, must be brilliantly illumi-
nated, and all the Brethren, in their
highest costume, ranged with their
Banners behind them. The room
hung with red. In the centre, the re-
presentation of the mysterious ladder
of Seven Steps ; on the Altar must be
Seven Steps, and thirty-three lights.
Behind the Altar, a transparency
representing the Blazing Star witii
seven points, in the centre of which
the letter G. On the top step of the
Altar must be the Cubic Stone, in the
front of which a red rose opened with
J the letter G in the centre.
k L ,
Arranf:;fment of the Altar, 17
The Altar must be profusely or-
namented with roses, and perfumed
with attar of roses. No Cross should
appear in this part of the degree, but
the Word, when found, can be sus-
pended to a silk thread stretched
across, by small hooks behind each
letter, and above the Cubic Stone,
when they can be easily removed
previous to the Word being burnt.
The last part of the Ceremony is
given in the Red Room, arranged as
above, except that the Ladder is to
be removed, and a pedestal covered
with a white cloth placed at the east
end of the Tracing Board, on which
are placed a salt cellar, and a salver
with biscuits or passion cakes ; on each
side a cup, one containing the loving
mixture, the other spirits of wine,
with chloride of strontian, in which to
burn the Word.
In conferring the Degree of Rose
Croix, you will first give the degrees
by name from the 4th to the 14th
(both inclusive) in a Grand Lodge of
1 8 Perfect Ceremonies^ Rbse Croix,
Perfection, after the Candidates have
taken the Obligation, as on page lo.
You will then declare the Grand
Lodge of Perfection closed, and open
a Grand Lodge of Princes of Jerusa-
lem, and confer the 15th and i6th
degrees by name.
You will then declare the Grand
Lodge of Princes of Jerusalem closed,
and open a Grand Lodge of Knights
of the East and West, and give that
degree by name, with the signs,
tokens, and words.
You will then close the Grand
Lodge of Knights of the East and
West, and proceed to give the i8th or
Rose Croix degree in extenso. The
great length of time necessary is a
sufficient reason for not giving the
others in that manner.
The following table will show the
different degrees and their arrange-
ment : —
®ranli S^olige of ^Perfections
G. M. — By the power vested in me,
by the Supreme Council of the Most
Table of Degrees. 19
Puissant Sovereign Grand Inspec-
tors-General of the 33rd degree, I
declare this Grand Lodge of
open, and proceed to give you the
following degrees : —
4. Secret Master.
5. Perfect Master.
6. Intimate Secretary.
7. Provost and Judge.
8. Superintendent of Buildings.
9. Elect of Nine.
10. Elect of Fifteen.
11. Sublime Elect.
12. Grand Master Architect.
13. Royal Arch.
14. Scotch Knight of Perfection.
{Closed, and open with foregoing
formula)
®ranli ILoDise of ^rinceg of
15. Knights of the Sword and of
the East.
16. Prince of Jerusalem.
{Closed, and open with foregoing
formula)
20 Perfect Ceremonies^ Rose Croix.
ffiratUv Eotige of Itntgtts of t!|e
(SPagt anil tJje SEeist*
17. Knights of the East and West.
{Signs^ tokenSy and words) Look
over your right shoulder and say, N.
O. D. D. A. B. A. ; which is answered
by looking over the left shoulder, and
saying N. O. L. U. B. A. H. A. J.
Put the l...t h...d, with the fingers
straight, into the r...t h...d of the
Brother, who covers it with his other
h...d, both looking over the r...ts...r.
With the l...t h...d touch the Bro-
ther's l...t s...r, whilst he touches
your r...t s...r with his r,..t h...d.
Touch the l...t s...r, answered by
looking over his r...t s...r, saying
N. O. D. D. A. B. A., you say N. O. L.
U. B. A. H A. J.
The Knocks are, J
P. W.— N. O. L. U. B. A. H. A. J.
W.— N. O. D. D. A. B. A.
{Closedy and proceed with the Rose
/ Crc?ix degree in extenso)
Cernnons of ©penittfl a Ifitose
Croix dfjajiter*
(Tke Most Wise and Perfect Sove-
reign Knocks once, to be repeated by
the 1st and 2nd Generals, and on the
door to be answered from without^
M. W. S.— Very Excellent and Per-
fect Princes, be pleased to assist me
to open the Chapter of Princes
of the Rose Croix of H. R. D. M.
{The Princes all draw their Swords,
forming one column in the North and
another in the South; the ist and 2nd
Generals standing in advance of each
column in the West,)
M. W. S. — Thrice Excellent and
Perfect Generals, see that all is secure
within and without, and that none
but Princes of our Holy Order are
present in the recesses of our Sanc-
tuary.
22 Petfect Ceremonies, Rose Croix,
2nd G. — ^Very Excellent and Per-
fect Grand Marshal, see that the Castle
Gates are duly guarded.
{The Grand Marshal takes the Sigtiy
Token, and Word from the Inner
Guard, who receives the same from t/te
Outer Guard, who — if he is a Rose
Croix — comes inside for that purpose,
the door being locked. Whilst this is
doing, the 1st and 2nd Generals com-
mand their respective columns to sheath
Swords, and communicate with them,
passing from West to East, They then
command them to draw Swords, when
the Grand Marshal advances to the 2nd
General, and says : — )
G. M. — All is secure without.
2nd G. — {To 1st G,) All is secure
within.
1st G— (TV M. W, S) All is se-
cure, both within and without {giving
tlie Sign, &c)
M. W. S.— Thrice Excellent and
Perfect Generals, what is the hour }
1st G. — The ninth hour of the
day.
M. W. S.— Then it is the hour in
which the Veil of the Temple was
opening a Chapter. 23
rent in twain, when darkness over-
spread the earth, when the true light
departed from us, when the Altar was
thrown down, when the Blazing Star
was eclipsed, when the Cubic Stone
poured forth Blood and Water, when
the Word was lost, and when despair
and tribulation sat heavy on us.
{A solemn pause — all the Knights
drop the points of their Swords, and
bow their heads towards the East.
Solemn music.)
M. W. S. — Since Masonry has expe-
rienced such dire calamities, it is our
duty. Very Excellent and Perfect
Princes, to endeavour, by renewed
labours, to retrieve our loss ; and may
the benign influence of Faith, Hope,
and Charity prosper our endeavours
to recover the lost Word ; for which
purpose I declare this Chapter of
Rose ^ of H. R. D. M. duly opened,
in the name of the Great Immanuel.
repeated by the ist and 2nd Generals,
and within and without the door.)
M. W. S. — Most Reverend and
{M. W. S. knocks
J
24 Perfect Ceremonies, Rose Croix.
Perfect Prelate, the Chapter being
opened, what remains to be done ?
H. P. — To respect the decrees of
Providence ; to render worship to God
alone ; and with all humility and
patience to endeavour to obtain the
Word.
M. W. S. — ^Yes, very Excellent and
Perfect Princes, that shall be our aim.
Do you, most Reverend and Perfect
Prelate, invoke a blessing on our la-
bours.
{All sheath their Swords y and the
most Reverend and Perfect Prelate
says : — )
Prayer.
H. P. — Almighty and Everlasting
God, give unto us an increase of Faith,
Hope, and Charity; and that we may
obtain that which Thou dost promise,
make us to love that which Thou dost
command, through Jesus Christ, our
Great Immanuel. Amen.
{All lift their eyes to heaven, i. .,rl., ,e
their f...s, carry them to tfieir f. . .eh, . .ds
opening a Chapter. 25
with the p..,supf let them fall on the
s...h^ mid repeat six an<^ one times: — )
All. — H...a or H...h...n...h.
{The M, W, S. then raises his r..J
h,,,d to his f,,,eh...dy with the f,,,s
c,,,dy except the /..jr y...r, which he
r,,.Sy indicating that there is but one
Gody and says : — )
M. W. S. — Save, we beseech Thee,
Oh God in heaven. Creator and Sove-
reign of all things, us. Thine unworthy-
children.
M. W. S. — Be seated, Princes.
END OF THE CEREMONY OF OPENING
A ROSE CROIX CHAPTER.
Ceremony of Cloisttts a Hose
Croix Cfjapter.
{TheM, W, 5. knocks I J J J J J J
Z*?!^ Generals repeat them^
M. W. S.— Most Excellent and Per-
fect Prelate, What is the hour ?
H. P.— It is the f...t h...r of the
t...d d...y, being the f...t d...y of the
w...k, the h...r of a P...t M...n.
M. W. S. — ^What is the hour of a
Perfect Mason ?
H. P. — It is the hour when the Sa-
cred Word is found ; when the Cubic
Stone is changed into the Mystic
Rose ; when the Blazing Star has re-
appeared in all its splendour ; when
our altars have been renewed ; the
light restored to our eyes ; the clouds
of darkness dissipated ; and when the
New Commandment is given, "To love
one another."
27
28 Perfect Ceremonies^ Rose Croix.
M. W. S. — Let us, then, my Excel-
lent Companions, observe this New
Commandment, "To love one an-
other," the result and perfection of all
preceding Masonry, which will enable
us to erect an edifice in our hearts to
the Glory of the Lamb, to whom be-
longeth Might, Majesty, Dominion,
and Power ; who liveth and reigneth
world without end. Amen.
{All make the Sign of the Good
Shepherd, and bow with revere nce. The
M. W. S. gives J J J J J J J and
says : — )
M. W. S. — Pax Vobiscum.
{The Generals repeat the Knocks,&c.)
M. W. S. — This Chapter is now
closed, in the name of the Great
Immanuel.
END OF THE CEREMONY OF CLOSING
A ROSE CROIX CHAPTER.
Cerentong of Jcleccptton*
{TJte Candidates should have on the
Jewels and Insignia of their Masonic
ranky as Knights of the East and West,
and any other Jewels except those not
recogftised by the S. C.
The Candidates are placed in tJie re-
ception room, which sltould have a door
leading into the black room, in which
the first point of the degree is given ;
so that, when it is desired, what takes
place in the reception room should be
Iieard in the other room, and vict versa.
The Candidates are required by the
Outer Guard to write their names,
abodes, profession, and Masonic titles
{Knights of the East and West), on
a petition to be advanced to the honour
of a Sovereign Prince Rose Croix. {See
Candidate's Petition, page 9.)
The Grand Marshal leaves the black
room and goes to the Candidates. He
3© Perfect Ceremonies^ Rose Croix
looks over the petition^ and adds the age
33. He then goes back to the Chapter
with the petition, and presents it to the
M, W, S., who announces the names,
and a ballot takes place, after which,
if the result is favourable, the Cere-
mony proceeds, and solemn mtisic com-
mences. All the Princes, except tlie
Officers of tlte Chapter engaged in the
Ceremony, sit on very low forms covered
with black. The Princes must be
dressed in black, with a black apron,
usually the reverse of the Rose Croix ;
and white handkerchiefs to hold to their
faces, placing their left hands upon their
necks with their knees crossed. There
must not be any ornaments worn of
any higher degree, but these are reserved
for the red chamber, which must con-
trast with this room in s/iow and splen-
dour. The Grand Marslial knocks,
rnrn j
2nd G. — M. W. S., an alarm.
M. W. S. — Thrice Excellent and
Perfect Generals, see who disturbs this
Princely Chapter.
{The 1st and 2nd Generals leave their
Ceremony of Reception. 31
seats^ go to the door^ and inquire of the
Grand Marshal: — ^
Gs. — Wherefore this alarm ?
G. M. — These Worthy Knights of
the East and West, having confided
to me a petition which has been pre-
sented to our M. W. S., now beg to
be admitted to receive an answer.
{The Generals return and report as
follows : — )
1st G.— A. B. and C. D., worthy
Knights of the East and West, who
have confided a petition to the Ex-
cellent and Perfect Grand Marshal,
which has been presented to the
M. W. S., now request to be admitted
to receive your answer.
M. W. S. — Summon the Excellent
and Perfect Grand Marshal to con-
duct them hither.
{Trumpet sounds, Gd. M. and Can-
didates enter and hteel^
M. W. S. — Who and what are you ?
Cand. — Nobly born, and of the
tribe of Judah.
M. W. S. — What is your rank }
Cand. — Knights of the East and
West.
32 Perfect Cere?nomes^ Rose Croix.
M. W. S. — Give me the sign, &c.
Cand.— (G^/V^j it.)
M. W. S. — What is your age ?
Cand. — Thirty-three.
M. W. S. — Your petition has been
favourably received by this Princely
Council ; but whilst we admire your
zeal and courage, and your conduct
inspires us with confidence and
esteem, alas ! you come amongst
us at a time when we are overwhelmed
with grief and the deepest sorrow.
Consternation now spreads horror
over our brows, an earthquake heaves
its convulsive power. The Veil of the
Temple is rent asunder {here the cur-
tains before t/ie altar are drawn
asunder\ and the hour of darkness is
come upon us. Our Altars are thrown
down ; the Cubic Stone pours forth
blood and water ; the Blazing Star
is eclipsed ; our Shepherd is smitten ;
and the Word is lost.
{A pause^ and slow music!)
M. W. S. — Nevertheless, we rejoice
that you have arrived at this hour of
peril, since, as courageous and valiant
Knights, we trust that you will assist
Ceremony of Reception. 33
us in our endeavours to retrieve our
loss and recover the Word, in which
case only shall we be able to confer
upon you that distinction you so ear-
nestly desire.
Cand. — ^We promise faithfully to
aid you in your labours, and to obey
whatever commands you hiay be
pleased to impose upon us.
M. W. S.— Then, worthy Knights,
I direct you to travel thirty-three
y eleven to the North, eleven to
the South, eleven to the West, return-
j ing to me in the East with whatever
j information you may obtain during
I your travels ; and I particularly com-
i mend to your meditation the beauties
of the New and Better Covenant;
and that you may more completely
appreciate its excellence, let us in-
voke guidance and direction from
above.
Prayer.
H. P.— Oh! Almighty and Sove-
reign Architect of the Universe, who
penetratest into the most secret re-
34 Perfect Ceremonies^ Rose Croix,
cesses of the hearts of men, purify
ours with the sacred fire of Thy
Divine Love. Banish from this Holy
Sanctuary the impious and profane,
and grant that we, being solely occu-
pied with the great work of our re-
demption, may be enabled to distin-
guish the precious metal from the
dross, and may not be deceived in the
choice of those we are about to per-
fect, and may the bond of our union
be ever cemented by peace, benevo-
lence, and good will. Now to the
King Eternal, Immortal, Invisible,
the only wise God, be the kingdom,
power, and glory, now and for ever.
Amen.
M. W. S. — Depart in peace. Our
Excellent and Perfect Grand Marshal
will conduct you to the Pillar of
Wisdom in the North, the Pillar of
Beauty in the South, and the Pillar
of Strength in the West
{Music The Candidates then
proceed on their travels^ conducted by
tJte Grand Marshal, Each time on
passing the Altar they bow, and on
arriving at tJie Pillars in tlie Norths
Ceremony of Reception, 35
Souths and West, they take up the
respective letters F,y H,, and C, which
have been previously placed there, and
standing in the West, the Grand Mar-
shal presents them to the M. W. S.,
saying: — )
G. M. — I beg to present to you
A. B. and C. D., Knights of the East
and West who have completed the
thirty-three travel imposed on
them.
M. W. S. — ^What have you obtained
in your travels ?
Cand. — We have searched in and
about the Pillars in the North, South,
and West for the lost Word, but
have only succeeded in finding the
letters F., H., and C, which we beg to
present.
{The Candidates give the letters to
the Grand Marshal, by whom they are
presented to the M, W, S.)
M. W. S. — I congratulate you on
the success which has already re-
warded your exertions. These letters
are the Initials of those Virtues by
whose assistance you will be led to
the discovery of the mysterious Word*
36 Petfect Ceremonies^ Rose Croix.
But before I can further explain myself,
I must call on you to take a solemn
obligation to keep inviolate the secrets
and mysteries of our Order. Are you
ready to take this obligation ?
Cand— We are.
M. W. S. — Then you will kneel be*
fore the Cross, place your right hands
on the Volume of the New Testament,
across your hands a Sword and Com-
passes. Repeat your several names»
and each say after me : —
Obligation.
I, A. B., in the name of the Holy
and Undivided Trinity, and before the
Holy Cross, in the presence of this Per-
fect and Princely Council, do hereby,
and hereon, promise, that I will never
reveal the secrets or mysteries of this
Princely Order of the Rose Croix of
H. R. D. M. to any one in the world
not lawfully entitled thereto, or whom
I believe not to have been duly quali-
fied in a true and lawfully constituted
) Chapter. I furthermore pledge my
k /
Ceremony of Reception. 37
sacred word of honour, that I will at
all times pay due allegiance to this
Sovereign Chapter, and to the Su-
preme Council under whose authority
this Chapter is held. All this I
solemnly pledge myself to observe
without evasion, or mental reservation
of any kind. So help me God, and
keep me steadfast in this my obliga-
tion.
M. W. S. — ^You will seal this seven
times on the New Testament. {Done)
M. W. S. — ^Arise, newly perfected
Companions.
{The Candidates retire to the West)
M. W. S. — It is now my duty to
inform you, that the seven circles
round which you have travelled re-
present the six periods of the world's
existence, now about to close with the
Second Advent of our Great Immanuel,
when time will be swallowed up in
eternity, of which the Seventh Circle
is an emblem. I congratulated you
before on your happy return from your
travels, and on your having found
the initials of the three fundamental
principles of our Order, Faith, Hope,
38 Perfect Ceremonies^ Rose Croix,
and Charity, assisted by which virtues
we have no doubt you will ultimately
succeed in attaining the one great end
and object of all our researches, that
word on which our everlasting salva-
tion must depend ; for Faith is the
substance of things hoped for, the
evidence of things not seen ; Hope
maketh not ashamed ; and Charity
sufferfeth long, and is kind ; Charity
envieth not, vaunteth not itself, seek-
eth not her own, is not easily pro-
voked, thinketh no evil, rejoiceth not
in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth,
beareth all things, hopeth all things,
endureth all things ; Charity never
faileth; now we know in part, but
when that which is perfect is come,
that which is in part shall be done
away. Let us pray.
Prayer.
H. P. — ^Almighty and Everlasting
God, give unto us an increase of Faith,
Hope, and Charity ; and that we may
obtain that which Thou dost promise,
make us to love that which Thou dost
Ceremony of Reception. 39
command, through Jesus Christ our
Lord. Amen.
M. W. S. — ^The Candidates may
now depart, and prepare, by medita-
tion on the New Law, and by the
practice of Faith, Hope, and Charity,
to enter again on their travels in
search of the lost Word.
But before they do this, let them
be presented with a black apron, for
by that badge we distinguish all
amongst us who are in search of the
lost Word.
I
I
I
i
Second Point.
(The Caftdidates now enter the black
roontf clothed in their highest Masonic
costume. A procession is formed of all
present; first the M. W, 5., the Prelate,
the 1st and 2nd Generals, and the other
Officers; then the Princes, the Grand
Marshal, a?td the Candidates,
They walk round t/te room, solemn
viusic playing, and all bow on passing
the Cross. At the third round, the M,
W, S, passes to the red room ; at the
fourth round, the Past Sovereigns
of the Order, those above the i8**, and
the Prelate, pass out ; at the fifth round,
the Generals and other Officers follow;
at the sixth, the Princes of tfie Order;
and at the seventh round, tJie door is
closed against the Candidates and the
Grand Marshal as they attempt to
d
Ceremony of Reception, 4F
e 7iter. Th e Cands, give tlie knocks^
J J J J J J J Captain of the
Guard replies from within^ saying : — ^
C. OF G. — You cannot enter here,
unless you give me the Word.
Cand. — We cannot ; we are travel-
ling in search thereof, and which by the
practice of Faith, Hope, and Charity,
and by the help of the new and
better Covenant, we hope to obtain.
{The Captain of the Guard opens
the door^ examines - their dress y and
says: — ^)
C. OF G. — This attire is not com-
patible with that humility which is
necessary for those who wish to re-
cover the lost Word. Retire, and
clothe yourselves in dust and ashes,
and I will then summon Raphael to
your assistance.
{They retire to the reception room,
wlure their Jewels are taken off^ and
c. . .e is placed upon tJieir heads.
In the meantime — if there is no cham-
ber of death — the black room has been
thrown into confusion and darkness^ a
lamp of spirits of wine and salt is
burning 071 the floor, and bones and skulls
42 Perfect Ceremonies^ Rose Croix.
are supposed to be strewed about. The
Candidates are introduced by the Grand
Marshal^ who slips out and leaves them
alone. After a short time, Raphael
comes forward^ and says : — )
R. — I come to conduct you through
the depths of darkness, and the valley
of death, to the mansions of bliss,
but first you must undergo dangers,
difficulties, and afflictions ; but be of
good cheer ; armed with the virtues
you have already obtained. Faith will
support you when tempted to despair,
Hope will cheer you on your road,
and Charity will sustain you in every
trial; till, having travelled through
the abyss of darkness, you finally
arrive at the mansions of bliss, whither
our Heavenly Sovereign is gone be-
fore. Approach and follow me.
(The Music played should be the
Dead March in Saull' and then
changes to the more joyful air of^^ Sound
the Loud Timbrel der Egypt's dark
Sear Raphael takes the Candidates
into the red room, round which they
march three timeSy when he thus
addresses the M. W. S. :—
Ceremony of Reception. 43
R.— M. W. S., I bring with me these
worthy Knights, who, having travel-
led through dangers, difficulties,
and the Valley of the Shadow oN
Death, in search of the lost Word,
and having fortified themselves with
the three Cardinal Virtues of Faith,
Hope, and Charity, now supplicate to
be rewarded for their labours.
M. W. S.— Most Worthy and Per-
fect Raphael, we doubt not that these
worthy Knights, assisted by your
powerful aid, are worthy of every dis-
tinction, and I shall now call on them
to ascend the ladder which leads from
darkness to glory and perfection.
M. W. S.— (7> Cand.)— First, how-
ever, let me ask how you came hither?
Cand. — Through darkness, diffi-
culties, and dangers.
M. W. S. — ^What supported you ?
Cand. — The example of our Sa-
viour's sufferings.
M. W. S.— What do you seek to
obtain ?
Cand.— The lost Word.
M. W. S. — Then, as yoM -jLy^^ ^-^
Jhave proceeded >3cvms i^x wj^^^^
44 Perfect Ceremonies^ Rose Croix,
to be well prepared to ascend the
mysterious ladder leading to the man-
sions of glory and perfection, you may
commence, pausing on each step, and
replying to my questions as your Con-
ductor, the Excellent and Perfect
Raphael, shall direct you.
{At the iststepy the M. W. S. says: — )
M. W. S. — What is that virtue
which leads from earth to heaven ?
Cand,— F.
{A t the 2nd step, the M, W, S, says: — )
M. W. S. — What virtue supports
you when oppressed by shame and
sorrow ?
Cand.— H.
{At the zrdstepy the M. IV, S,says:—)
M. W. S. — What is the perfection of
every Christian virtue ?
Cand.— C.
{At the 4th step, the M, W. S. says:—)
M. W. S. — Whence come you ?
Cand. — From J... a.
{A t the 5 th step, the M, W. S. says:—)
M. W. S. — By what village did you
pass?
Cand.— N...h.
{At the 6th step, theM, WS,says:-^
Cerejnony of Reception » 45
M. W. S. — Who conducted you ?
Cand.— R...L
{Attke jtk step, the M, W. S, says:—)
M. W. S. — Of what tribe are you ?
Cand. — J...h.
M. W. S. — Give me the initials of
the four last words.*
{Raphael hands the L..s to the M,
W. 5.)
M. W. S.— Worthy Knights, you
have indeed, by the aid of Faith,
Hope, and Charity, succeeded in find-
ing the lost Word. By Faith you
have found the Rose of Sharon, and
by Faith you have been enabled to
apprehend Him who will never leave
you nor forsake you. By Hope you
have obtained a HeaVen-born bless-
ing, which will console you under all
difficulties and distresses, and will
teach you under all the afflictions of
* The following is given in some Cliapters : —
M. W. S. — Give me the initials of the four last
words.
Cand.— J. N. R. J.
M. W. S.— What do these four letters signify?
Cand. — ^Jesus Nazarenus Rex Judseorum.
M. W. S. — Ora pro nobis.
Cand. — Miserere nobis.
46 Perfect Cerefnonies, Rose Croix,
your earthly pilgrimage to expect a
better and more enduring inheritance.
By Charity you have beheld the per-
fection of every Christian virtue. Now,
by taking the initials of the last four
steps of your journey, and by putting
them together, you will have found
Him who is the Word ; for St John
says, "In the beginning was the Word,
and the Word was with God, and the
Word was God." " I am Alpha and
Omega, the beginning and the ending,
saith the Lord, which is, and which was,
and which is to come, the Almighty.'*
Now, worthy Knights, having found
the Word of the New Law, I will
affix it in its proper place.
{TheM. W. 5., or the PrelaU, places
the letters over the cubic stone on the
altar. All present point their swords
towards it^ kneeling on their right knees,
Tliey then rise, and give seven salutes^
the music playing softly all the time)
M. W. S.— The Candidates will
please to approach the East {Done.)
Worthy Knights, I rejoice to confer
upon you the reward you have so well
earned, and I trust that by the prac-
Ceremony of Reception. 47
tice of those virtues that have this day
been commended to your notice, you
will indeed be led to the Word, which
is the Way, the Truth, and the Life.
Kneel, therefore, before the Altar, and
receive those honours to which you
are now entitled.
{The Candidates kneel in the East^
the M, W. S, passes from left to right,
and confers upon them the honour of
being received into the degree of Rose
Croix^ saying : — ^
M. W. S. — By virtue of the power
and authority in me vested by the
Supreme Council of England and
Wales, I hereby make, create, and
constitute you, now and for ever, a
Knight of the Pelican and Eagle, and
Prince of the Order of Rose Croix.
Rise, Perfected and Puissant Prince of
Rose Croix, and receive the emblems
of our Order.
M. W. S. — 'I present you with this
Rose {giving one), an emblem of Him
who is the Rose of Sharon and the
Lily of the Valley. I invest you with
the Collar and Jewel of the Order.
[Done.) And, lastly, I seal you with
48 Perfect Ceremonies^ Rose Croix.
the Seal of Perfection. (Applies a
signet or sealy with a crown for device^
to tJte forehead of each Candidate^ Be
careful, by the exercise of Faith,
Hope, and Charity, to continue to de-
serve these emblems, which are sym-
bols of hidden truths known only to
the perfect Mason.
I will now communicate to you the
signs and words of this Degree. The
first sign is called the Sign of A n.
It consists in r...g the e...s to H...n,
and at the same time c»..g the h**.s
turned p» . .s o. . .w. . .s, and f» . .s i. . .rl. . .d
upon the f...eh...d, from thence let-
ting them d...p upon the b...y.
The second sign is given thus : —
L. . .t your r. . .t h. . .d to your f. . .eh. . .d,
with f...s c...d, except the i...x f...r,
which is r...d, — thus indicating that
there is but one God in heaven, Crea-
tor and Sovereign of all things.*
The third is called the Sign of the
Good Shepherd or Pastor, and is given
by c...g the a...s with the l...t upper-
/
/-
* Also, in some Chapters, c.s the r...t 1... b...d
the l...t c...
Ceremony cf Reception* 49
most on the b...t, giving the word
S. N. E. I. R. O. ; which is answered
in the same way, and by replying
M. U. C. S. I. B. O. V. X. A. P. ; the
h...d of one is then r...d with f...r
p...g to H...n, saying, E. H. D. E. D.
N. E. C. S. A. ; and the other, p...g
d...nw...s, says, E. H. D. E. D. N. E.
C. S. E. D.*
Here let me observe, that when the ^
Chapter is called to Order, or when-
ever the M. W. S. is addressed, all
C...S their h...s on their b...s, as in
the foregoing sign, which is also used
on entering or leaving a Chapter.
Excellent and Perfect Grand Marshal,
you will place the newly-perfected
Princes Rose Croix between the Pillars
in the West, and let them be duly
proclaimed.
* In some Chapters the secrets are thus given : —
Approach each other, and place reciprocally your
h...s on each other's b...s, forming a d...e c...s ;
then in the e...r one says, I. and N., R. and I. ;
then one says, the other, P...x V...m.
The h...d of one is then r...d, with the i...x f...r
p...g U...S, sa3ring, , the other with the f...r
p...g d...s says
D
50 Perfect Ceremonies^ Rose Croix.
j G. M. OR Herald. — By command
i of the M. W. S., I proclaim A. B.
' and C. D. Knights of the Pelican
■ and Eagle and Perfect and Puissant
Princes of Rose Croix, and I sum-
mon them accordingly to take their
seats in this Princely Chapter.
{Trumpet sounds^ or music plays,)
I
Third Point.
{The Princes enter two and two, in
solemn silence; the Grand Marshal and
the youngest Candidate first, then the
other Candidates, and so on, the eldest
last, finishing with the M. W. S. All
have white wands in their hands. They
pass round the room seven times, the
Choir performing, " Behold how good
and pleasant it is for brethren to dwell
together in unity T They then place
themselves round the table!)
M. W. S.— Excellent and Perfect
Princes, we have now arrived at the
culminating point, or Perfection of
Masonry ; let us then unite in admit-
ting to the living circle of our hearts
those who have this day been received
into our Princely Order. Let us in-
vite them, according to oriental cus-
tom, to break bread and eat salt with
us, pledging to each other our fidelity
51
52 Perfect Ceremonies^ Rose Croix.
and our friendship in the goblet of
fraternal affection ; invoking thereon
the blessing of Him who is the Rose
of Sharon and the Lily of the Valley,
by whose assistance we hope to pro-
gress here on earth towards that per-
fection which shall be consummated,
when, bursting from the tomb, we rise
to join our Great Immanuel in the
skies, and are united for ever in a
happy eternity.
{The M, W. S, then takes a biscuit^
breaks off a piece, and presents it to the
Prelate or highest Brother present, who
breaks off a piece and presents it to his
neighbour; and so on. The first two
then dip the broken pieces at the same
time in the salt and eat it, and pass the
salt cellar. They then take the goblet,
and exchanging "P..jir V...sc...m,'*
drink and pass it on. When all have
participated, the M. W. S. proceeds, if
any is left, to pass it round again, till
all is consumed
M. W. S. — ^AU is consumed.
{They then form the living Circle^
M. W. S. — Gloria in Excelsis Deo,
Ceremony of Reception. 53
et in terra pax, hominibus bonae Vo-
luntatis.
ANTHEM.
Gratefhl notes and numbers bring,
While the name of God we sing ;
Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord,
Be Thy glorious name adored*
Men on earth, and Saints above.
Sing the Great Redeemer's Love ;
Loid, Thy mercies never fail.
Hail, Hail, Celestial Goodness, Hail I
While on earth ordained to stay.
Guide our footsteps in Thy way ;
Mortals, raise your voices high.
Till they reach the echoing sky.
Men on earth and Saints above,
Sing the Great Redeemer's Love ;
Lord, Thy mercies never fail,
Hail, Hail, Celestial Goodness, Hail I
M. W. S.— Excellent and Perfect
Princes, we rejoice to have united in
this feast of fraternal affection. Let
us now treasure up the sacred doc-
trines of the Order in the safe reposi-
tory of our hearts. I now request our
Most Reverend and Perfect Prelate to
remove the Sacred Word, that it be
not exposed to the eyes of the pro-
fane, but consumed according to an-
54 Perfect Ceremonies^ Rose Croix,
cient custom, as a perpetual memorial
of our veneration of Him who was
sent to consummate the Redemp-
tion of all those who faithfully and sin-
cerely put their trust in Our Risen
Immanuel.
{The Most Reverend and Perfect
Prelate then consumes the Word, during
which the Princes silently retire one by
one to their seats , the youngest first^
H. P. — Consummatum est.
{Music and chanting,)
Choir.—" Now lettest Thou Thy
Servant depart in Peace."
END OF THE CEREMONY OF
RECEPTION, ROSE CROIX DEGREE.
Itttftallation of t!je §&.
ISiost Croix Chapter*
( TAe M, W. S. Elect is to be presented
for Installation in the following words
by the Grand Marshal to the Installing
Brother : — )
G. M. — Illustrious Brother, I have
the honour to present to you our Bro-
ther A. B., who has been selected to
fill the distinguished office of M. W. S.
of this Chapter during the ensuing
year. He is well skilled in our su-
blime mysteries, and observant of the
moral precepts of our forefathers ;
and I have no doubt that he will dis-
charge the important duties of his
office with zeal and fidelity.
Inst. Bro. — I fully respect and ap-
preciate your recommendation, Bro-
ther Grand Marshal, and request that
you will place the M. W. S. elect in
the West. {Done.)
5S
56 . Perfect Ceremonies^ Rose Croix,
Inst. Bro.— (/^ M. W. S. Elect.)
Worthy Brother, having been elected
to the important and honourable Sta-
tion of M. W. S. of this Chapter, it is
with unfeigned pleasure that I enter
upon the discharge of the duty of
Installation.
As the head of an Institution found-
ed upon the Christian religion, and
the practice of Christian virtues,
you will sensibly realise the great re-
sponsibility of the new relation in
which you now stand to your brethren,
and I am fully persuaded will so con-
duct the important interests about to
be committed to your hands, as to re-
flect honour upon yourself and credit
upon your Chapter. It is, however,
my duty to propose certain questions
to you relative to your office, to which
I must request unequivocal answers.
1st. Do you solemnly promise, on
the honour of a Prince Rose Croix,
that you will do all in your power to
promote the general good of our
Order, and on all proper occasions be
ready to give and receive instructions,
particularly from the Supreme Coun-
I
Installation of the M. W. S, ' 57
cil of the 33'', whose authority you
hereby recognise and submit to ?
2nd. That to the utmost of your
power you will preserve the solemnity
of our ceremonies, and behave in
open Chapter with the most profound
respect and reverence, as an example
to your brethren ?
3rd. That you will not acknowledge,
or have any intercourse with, any Rose
Croix Chapter which does not work
under a constitutional warrant or dis-
pensation from the Supreme Council
of the 33°, or any foreign authority re-
cognised by this Council ?
4th. That you will not admit any
Visitor into your Chapter without
strict examination, and then only if
he acknowledges the authority of the
Supreme Council ?
5 th. That you will observe and sup-
port such Bye-Laws as may be made
by your Chapter, in conformity to the
Constitution of the Supreme Council
of the 33°, and their general regula-
tions, under whose authority you
work ?
6th. That you will pay due respect
58 Perfect Ceremonies^ Rose Croix,
and obedience to the instructions of
the Sovereign Grand Inspectors-Gen-
eral, and will resign your Chair to
them severally when they may visit
your Chapter ?
7th. That you will bind your suc-
cessor in office to the observance of
the same rules to which you have
now assented ?
8th, and lastly. Do you submit to
all these conditions, and do you pro-
mise to observe and practise them
faithfully ? {He assents)
{The Installing Brother then directs
the Grand Marshal to make the M,
W, S. elect kneel in tJie East before
him ; and holding a Sword horizon-
tally, tJie edge towards the M, W. S.
Elect, who will place his left hand on
tJte same, and right hand upon his left
breast, he will administer the following
O, B, of Office, to be repeated by the
M. W, S. Elect in an audible voice: — )
O. B. OF Office.
I, A. B., do solemnly promise, upon
^ my honour as a Prince Rose Croix, a
Installation of the M. W. S. 59
Master Mason, and a Gentleman, that
I will, to the best of my knowledge
and ability, faithfully discharge the
duties incumbent upon the Office to
which I have been appointed ; that
I will support and maintain the Bye-
Laws of the Chapter, and the Laws
and Constitution of the Supreme
Council of the 33^
{He salutes the Vol. of the S. L. once
with his lips)
Inst. Bro. — I now present to you
the Charter of your Chapter ; you will
receive it as a sacred deposit, and
never permit it to be used for any
other purposes than those expressed in
it, and safely transmit it to your suc-
cessor in office ; failing in whom you
are to deliver it up to the Supreme
Council of the 33° only.
I also commit to your hands the
Holy Bible, the great light in every
degree of Masonry.
The doctrines contained in this
! Sacred Volume create in us a belief in
the existence of the Eternal Jehovah,
the one true and living God, the
Creator and Judge of all things in
6o Perfect Ceremonies, Pose Croix.
heaven and earth. They also con-
firm in us a belief in the dispensa-
tions of His Providence. This belief
strengthens our faith, and enables us
to ascend the first step of the Grand
Masonic Ladder. This Faith natur-
ally produces in us a Hope of becom-
ing partakers of the promises ex-
pressed in this inestimable gift of
God to man, which Hope enables us
to ascend the second step.
But the third and last, being
Charity, comprehends the former, and
will continue to exert its influences
when Faith shall be lost in sight, and
Hope in complete enjoyment.
And now, M. W. S., permit me to
induct you into the Chair of your
Chapter, and, on behalf of the Princes
of the Rose Croix here assembled, to
offer you my most sincere congratula-
tions on your accession to the honour-
able station you now fill.*
It will henceforth be your special
duty to preserve inviolate the Laws
* Some Chapters here present the M. W. S.
with a rose, aiid the collar and jewel of his rank,
Installation of the M. W, S. 6i
and Constitutions of the Order, to dis-
pense Justice, reward Merit, encourage
Truth, and diffuse the sublime prin-
ciples of Universal Benevolence.
You will distribute alms to the
poor and weary Pilgrim, clothe the
naked, and bind up the wounds of the
afflicted.
You will inculcate the duties of
Charity and Hospitality, and govern
your Chapter with justice and modera-
tion ; and finally, my Brother, may
the bright example of the holy and
righteous men of old — the illustrious
heroes of former ages, whose match-
less deeds have shed a bright lustre
on the name of Knights of the Rose
Croix — encourage and animate you
to the faithful performance of every
duty.
Princes, behold your Most Wise
Sovereign, and recollect that the pro-
sperity of your Chapter will as much
depend on your support, assistance,
and obedience, as on the assiduit)'',
fidelity, and wisdom of your Sove-
reign.
{The M. W, S. then appoints his
62 Perfect Ceremonies^ Rose Croix.
Officers ; after which he gives the fol-
lowing Charge to the Chapter : — )
CHARGE DELIVERED BY THE NEWLY-
INSTALLED M.W.S.
M. W. S. — Princes Rose Croix, the
present occasion forms an important
and interesting epoch in the history
of your Chapter, and I cannot doubt
that it will long continue to be asso-
ciated in your minds with the pleasant
recollections of the past.
Those of your Brethren who have
been selected to preside over you,
have been appointed to their respec-
tive offices with the customary cere-
monies of the Order ; you are here-
after to look to them for counsel and
direction, and they to you for co-
operation and support in the discharge
of the duties which have been com-
mitted to their hands. Let there
exist a perfect unity of sentiment be-
tween you ; or, if there must be a dif-
ference, let it be of emulation in the
exercise of those good qualities which,
while they dignify our nature, add
Installation of the M, W. S. 63
lustre to the highest and beauty to
the lowest station.
Let .the principles and precepts of
morality and fervent piety, which are
continually ascending from our Altar,
repress every unkind thought, and
smooth every asperity of feeling.
Let us all remember that we should
be children of humility, and in our
lives and conversation, and in our
fraternal intercourse, so illustrate the
beauty and excellence of our Order,
that without comprehending our mys-
teries, the world may exclaim, " How
good and pleasant it is for brethren
to dwell together in unity !" Brethren,
this is the will of God, that with well-
doing you put to silence the ignorance
of foolish men ; as free, and not using
your liberty for a cloak of malicious-
ness, but as the servants of God.
Honour all men. Love the brother-
hood. Fear God. Honour the Queen.
END OF THE ROSE CROIX DE
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