Rituaal
voor de installatie van Knight Templar
Deze engelstalige versie van dit rituaal dateert van
1996. In Nederland wordt een vertaling van dit rituaal gebruikt, dat nagenoeg
gelijk is aan deze versie.
Preliminary directions
The apartment represents a Chapel of the Order. In the East is placed
an Altar om which are: a Bible, a Cross, two lighted candles and an alms
dish, The Sepelchre is in the centre of the Chapel
In the West is placed a table on which is provided Bread and Water.
The Eminent Preceptor's Chair is in the N.E. on the North side of
the Altar. A small pedestal must be provided for the use of the E.P.
The Chaplain is stationed in the S.E. of the South side of the Altar.
In most cases, when the Chaplain offers prayer, he stands in the middle
of the Altar, facing East, and removes his head-dress: after "A-men" has
been said or sung, he replaces his head-dress and resumes his place: the
exception to this is the Benediction given at the end of Closing the Preceptory
The First and Second Constables are stationed in the S.W. and N.W.
respectively, with the Marshal between them, who has the Deputy Marshal
on his left.
The Treasurer sits at the table in the N.E. on the left of the Registrar.
It is desirable that the Marshal should be a Past Preceptor.
The Marshal draws and returns his sword on all occasions when the
Knights are called "To Order" or told to "Be seated", except where stated:
on most occasions he sets the time for the other Knights for these drills.
Whenever possible the Candidate should be on the Marshal's left.
The Rubrics of this Ritual are framed for a Preceptory in which
a Deputy Marshal is appointed.
Where no Deputy Marshal is appointed, the Marshal will be assisted
by the 1st Herald.
The Deputy Marshal may, if it is desired, take charge of the Candidate
when there is only one, in which case he will be assisted by the 1st Herald:
M. then directs the movements of the Knights, Arch of Steel, Salutes etc.,
as laid down in the Ritual.
The Captain of the Guards is stationed within the entrance of the
Chapel. He draws his sword when the Knights are first called "To Order".
He keeps it drawn until the Knights "Return Swords" after the Preceptory
has been closed. When the Knights are called "To Order" he stands with
his sword at the "Carry". When the Knights are seated, he sits "at ease",
i.e. with the blade of his sword resting on his right shoulder, the right
hand holding the hilt of the sword, being crossed over the left, in front
of him.
Salutations of the Order A.B.c.t.
Bring the Sword from the "Carry" to the "Recover". By three distinct
outward movements of the wrist, raising the Sword to the right front, giving
the "A.B.c.t." at each movement.
The Salutations are given in Threes, the Sword being raised higher
each time, the Third being at the full extent of the right arm.
The number of Salutations to be given is to be stated by the Marshal
when calling the Knights to order for that Salutation.
Collection of Alms
Immediately prior to the collection of Alms, M. calls the Knights
to rise: they do not draw swords. The Templar Hymn may be sung during the
collection.
Towards the end of the collection the Chaplain moves in front of
the Altar and stands facing West. When the Almoner of other Knight making
the collection has completed, he stands in front of the Chaplain facing
East: he hands the Alms to the Chaplain, who turns right-about: he offers
the Alms to the Altar, turns right-about again and hands the Alms back
to the Knight who has collected them: he places them on the Treasurer's
table and returns to his place; the Chaplain returns to his place.
The M. instructs the Knights to be seated.
All propositions should be dealt with prior to formally closing
the Preceptory
Reports (other than those for the Candidate) are dealt with as follows:
Guard knocks ***** **
C. of G.: Brother 2nd Constable,
there is a report
2nd C. : Brother Captain of
the Guards, see who seeks admission
C. of G. to Guard: Who comes
here?
Guard: Knight …
C. of G. closes door and reports with the
S. of Crus.: E.P., Knight … seeks admission
E.P.: Admit him, Brother Captain
of Guards.
The Knight is admitted, draws his sword,
salutes the E.P. with the S. of Crus., returns his sword and takes his
seat.
Guarding the Sepulchre
The minimum number of Knights to guard the Sepulchre if four (on on each side): eight Knights provide a more impressive guard (three each on the North and South sides and one each on the East and West). It is desirable for the Marshal to nominate the Knights and rehearse this movement before the Preceptory is opened.
Form of Opening a Preceptory
An Arch of steel is formed in the West under
direction of the Marshal
M.: Brother Knights. To order.
E.P. enters under the Arch of Steel and
takes the Chair. The other Knights enter the Chapel and go to their places.
E.P. rises: Brother Knights.
To order. Assist me to open this Preceptory.
Are the approaches properly guarded?
Marshal proceeds to the entrance, sees
C. of G. at his post. He opens the door and sees Guard at his post. He
closes the door, returns to his place and reports.
M. (no sign): Eminent Preceptor,
the approaches are properly guarded.
E.P.: See that none are present
but Brethren of the Temple.
Marshal looks round the Preceptory and
satisfies himself that it is so. He gives the S. of Crus. And reports:
Eminent Preceptor, none are present but true Brethren of the Temple.
E.P.: Brother Registrar, call
the Roll.
Each Knight, when his name is called, says
"Here" and gives the S. of Crus..
E.P.: I call upon the Chaplain
to beseech Almighty God to send his Holy Grace amongst us.
Chaplain, stands in front of the Altar,
facing East, and removes his head-dress: Let us pray.
All Knights adopt the position of prayer.
Merciful Redeemer of perishing mankind, who has promised that Thou
wouldts be in the midst of those assembled in Thy Holy Name; look down
upon us, Thy humble servants, with an eye of tender compassion, and so
direct us that our labours may be begun, continued and ended in love to
Thee, affection to our companions, protection to the distressed, and obedience
to our Order. A-men.
The Lord's Prayer is then recited by all:
Our Father, which art in Heaven, Hallowed be Thy name. Thy kingdom
come. Thy will be done, in earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our
daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses. As we forgive them that trespasses
against us. And lead us not into temptation; But deliver us from evil:
For Thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory, for ever and ever. A-men.
All Knights return to the carry.
Chaplain replaces his head-dress and resumes
his place.
E.P.: Exhorting you, my Brethren,
to bear always in mind the solemn and sacred ties by which we are bound
to the Order and to one another, I now, in the name of the Holy, Blessed
and Glorious Trinity (All Knights come to the
Recover) and in the name of *Christ our Prophet, *Christ our
Priest, *Christ our King, declare this Preceptory to be open.
*The E.P. pronounces these words slowly.
He and the Knights salute with the S. of Crus.
The Chaplain opens the Bible on the Altar;
at the same time the Marshal that on the S.; both at St. John, Chap. 1.
E.P. takes his seat.
M.: Bro. Knights, I call upon
you to salute our E.P. with three.
The Knights give the Salutation of the
Order thrice taking the time form the M.
M.: Bro. Knights. Be Seated
Ceremony of Installation
The Candidate is prepared, habited as a
Pilgrim, wearing a mantle of brown, with a cord round his waist; a scrip
over his left shoulder; a water-bottle over his right shoulder; a pilgrim's
hat; and he carries a pilgrim's staff in his right hand. He is conducted
to the entrance of the Preceptory by the Guard. The Alarm (****) is sounded
without.
C. of G. (rises, gives the S. of Crus.):
Brother Second Constable, there is an alarm.
2nd C.: Ascertain the cause
thereof.
The C. of G. opens the door and, seeing
the Can., closes it and reports with the S. of Crus.: Eminent
Preceptor, a stranger is endeavouring to enter our Preceptory.
E.P.: Be cautious and see who
the intruder is.
C. of G. (opening the door):
Who comes here?
Guard: Companion …, a pilgrim
on his travels, weary and fatigued, having heard of this Preceptory of
Knights Templar, is anxious to take refuge herein and, if possible, to
be admitted to the privileges of the Order.
C. of G.: What recommendations
does he bring?
Guard: The Reverential or Hailing
Sign of a Royal Arch Mason.
C. of G. to Candidate: Show
me that sign. (Done).
C. of G.: Wait, while I report
to the Eminent Preceptor.
C. of G. closes the door, faces E.P. and
salutes with the S. of the Crus.: Eminent Preceptor, Companion
…, a pilgrim on his travels, weary and fatigued, having heard of this Preceptory
of Knights Templar, is anxious to take refuge therein and if possible,
to be admitted to the privileges of the Order.
E.P.: What recommendations does
he bring?
C. of G.: The Reverential or
Hailing Sign of a Royal Arch Mason.
E.P.: Let him be admitted with
caution.
Marshal goes to the door, receives Declaration
Book from the Guard and takes it to E.P. who examines it.
E.P.: I confirm that the Declaration
has been duly signed.
Marshal places Declaration Book on Registrar's
table. He then veils the Cross on the Sepulchre and returns to his station
in the West.
M.: Bro. Knights. To order!
E.P. remains seated.
M. with sword at the Carry, goes to the
door, Pilgrim is admitted by C. of G., and is received by M. who guides
him with his left hand on Pilgrim's right elbow; and conducts him to a
point about six paces away from and to the East of 2nd Con.
M. and Pilgrim then advance together towards
2nd Con., who challenges Pilgrim by presenting his sword to Pilgrim's breast;
M. must not attempt to parry Con.'s sword.
2nd C.: Who are you who dares
to penetrate thus far into our Preceptory?
M.: Companion …, a pilgrim on
his travels, weary and fatigued, having heard of this Preceptory of Knights
Templar, is anxious to take refuge therein and if possible, to be admitted
to the privileges of the Order.
2nd. C.: What recommendations
does he bring?
M.: The Reverential or Hailing
Sign of a Royal Arch Mason.
2nd C. to Can.: Show me that
sign.
To enable the Pilgrim to show the Sign,
2nd C. withdraws sword about 12 inches, but still maintains threat.
Pilgrim shows Sign
2nd C. brings sword to the Recover, then
to the Carry.
2nd C.: Pass in the name of
… .
M. leads Pilgrim to a similar point to
the East of 1st C.. M. and Pilgrim advance together towards 1st C. who
challenges Pilgrim in the same manner and the same words as 2nd. C. He
receives the same answers. Pilgrim shows Sign. 1st C. brings sword to the
Recover and then to the Carry
1st C.: Pass, in the name of
… .
M. leads Pilgrim to central point in the
West, midway between Constables and Sepulchre, facing East.
M.: Show that sign to the E.P.
P. shows sign.
E.P.: Welcome in the Name of
…, rest yourself and partake of bread, the staff of life, and water, the
only refreshment we can at present proffer you.
M.: Bro. Knights. Be seated.
M. sets time by returning his own sword.
Dep.M. moves M.'s chair forward a few feet;
M. conducts Pilgrim to chair and seats him.
Dep.M. brings platter with bread and cup
with water from the table in the West, and hands them to M. M. offers platter
to Pilgrim, who takes piece of bread and eats; he offers cup to Pilgrim,
who takes it and drinks. M. hands platter and cup to Dep.M., who replaces
them on the table in the West. M. draws his sword and instructs Pilgrim
to rise, and leads him to central point in West. M. prompts Pilgrim in
all his replies. Dep.M. replaces chair.
E.P.: Pilgrim, you have sought
refuge in our Preceptory, and desire to be admitted to the privileges of
our Order; let me therefore demand of you: on whom in the hour of day do
you rely?
Pilgrim: On God.
E.P.: And on whom do you put
your trust for eternal salvation?
Pilgrim: In our blessed Saviour
Jesus Christ.
E.P.: Can you give me any proof
of your sincerity?
Pilgrim: I am willing to undertake
any task, however perilous, which may entitle me to admission under your
banner as a Soldier of the Cross.
E.P.: Then, as a proof of your
faith, I enjoin you a seven years' pilgrimage. This you will figuratively
perform by proceeding seven times round the Preceptory.
M.: Bro. Knights. To order.
E.P. remains seated.
M.: Guard the Sepulchre.
Constables remain at their stations. Certain
Knights, previously detailed, move directly to, and take post round the
Sepulchre, swords at the Carry, facing outwards.
M., with the sword at the Carry, precedes
the Pilgrim, as they march together round the Preceptory. M. should vary
the pace from quick during the first round to tired and slow during the
third round. On the third round, as M. approaches South-West corner of
Sepulchre:
2nd C. to Pilgrim.: Halt!
M. leads Pilgrim to central point in the
West where both Halt and facing East. M. to the south of Pilgrim.
2nd C. salutes with the S. of Crus.: Eminent
Preceptor, the Pilgrim has performed three years of his pilgrimage and,
having evinced a great zeal and fidelity, I beg to request that you will
remit the remainder of the term.
E.P.: Brother 2nd Constable,
I readily accede to your request and remit the remainder of the term.
M.: Bro. Knights. Resume to
your stations.
Chaplain, stands in front of the Altar,
facing East and removes his head-dress: Let us pray.
All Knights adopt position of prayer; E.P.
rises; Pilgrim, prompted, places right hand on heart.
Chaplain: O Great Emmanuel,
our heavenly Captain, look down, we beseech Thee, on this Preceptory and
impart Thy Holy Grace to the Candidate now before Thee, that he may acquit
himself as a good and faithful Soldier of the Cross and henceforward with
a firm resolution shun all occasions of offending Thee and so become worthy
of Thy acceptance and salvation. A-men. All Knights
return to the carry.
Chaplain replaces head-dress and resumes
his place.
E.P.: Let the Pilgrim now approach
the Holy Sepulchre and, kneeling on both knees and placing both hands on
the Holy Gospels, enter into a solemn obligation.
M. restrains Pilgrim from moving. Dep.M.
returns sword. M. removes hat and staff from Pilgrim, which he hands to
Dep.M., who disposes of them in a convenient place in the West. Dep.M.
draws sword again. M. instructs Pilgrim to advance to the Sepulchre, there
to kneel on both knees and to place both hands on the Holy Gospels.
M. gives cue to Constables, who advance
together on either side of Sepulchre, halt when they are abreast of the
Holy Gospels, turn inwards together, come to the Recover, then lower their
swords so that the blades are resting horizontally across the hands of
the Pilgrim, with the hilts lightly balanced in their right hands. All
other Knights remain at the Carry.
E.P.: Pilgrim, you will state
your Christian Names and Surname and say after me:
I, …, in the name of the Holy, Blessed and Glorious Trinity and
in the presence of the Knights here assembled, do hereby en hereon most
solemnly promise and swear never to reveal the secrets of a Knight Templar
to anyone beneath that rank, unless it to be a Candidate for the same,
in a lawful Preceptory of Knights Templar, and then only while acting as
a regularly installed Preceptor. 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 sovereign princes
or states; but, on the contrary, will defend him, even at the risk of my
life, where and whensoever his life or his honour may be in danger; that
I will, to the utmost of my power, protect the near and dear relatives
and connections of Knights Templar and if possible prevent all harm, danger
or violence to which they may be exposed. Lastly, I do most sincerely promise
to obedient to the supreme authorities of the country in which I do, or
may, reside; strictly to observe and maintain the Ancient Laws and Regulations
of the Order and the Statutes of the Great Priory of England and Wales
and its Provinces Overseas and to answer and obey, so far as lies in my
power, all summonses sent to me. To all these points I swear fidelity,
without evasion, equivocation or mental reservation of any kind. So help
me Christ and keep me steadfast in this my solemn obligation.
Constables raise their swords and 'engage'
them over Novice's head.
E.P.: You will seal that solemn
obligation seven times with your lips in the Holy Gospels.
Novice does so.
E.P.: Arise, Novice of our Order.
Constables carry swords and resume their stations
Novice rises
M.: Bro. Knights. Be seated.
(Novice, M. and Dep.M. remain standing).
E.P.: Let the Novice be divested
of his Pilgrim's habit and assume the garb of a Soldier of the Cross.
M. leads Novice back to central point in
the West. M., assisted by Dep.M. takes off Pilgrim's habit, etc. Dep.M.
places them in the W. and hands tunic to M., who invests Novice.
M.: Standard Bearers take post.
Both Standard Bearers rise, and take post
on either side of Sepulchre, 1 St.B. to South, 2nd St.B. to North, both
facing Sepulchre. M. takes post on South side of Novice; Dep.M. takes post
a few paces behind Novice.
E.P.: The Novice will now attend
to a portion of the Holy Scripture.
During the reading by the Chap., each St.B.
in turn picks up the appropriate piece of regalia or armour as it is named;
1st St.B.: belt, spurs and helmet; 2nd St.B.: breastplate, shield and sword.
Breastplate, shield and helmet should be held by St.B. as though he himself
were wearing the item. Spurs should be held with the rowels pointing away
from the person. Sword should be picked up horizontally in both hands,
hilt to the South.
Chaplain, standing in his place, facing
West reads St. Pauls Epistel to the Ephesians, Chap 6, vv. 10-17 inclusive;
he pauses as each piece of regalia or armour is mentioned: 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 blood but against principalities,
against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against
spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole
armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day and, having
done all, to stand.
Stand, therefore, having your loins girt about with Truth,
1st. St.B. hands Novice's Belt and Frog
to M., who invests Novice.
and having the breastplate of righteousness,
2nd St.B. hands breastplate to M., who
invests novice.
and your feet shod with the preparation of the Gospel of Peace,
1st St.B. hands spurs to M., who touches
heels of Novice with them.
above all, taking the Shield of Faith, wherewith ye shall be able
to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.
2nd St.B. picks up shield, hands it to
M., who invests Novice.
And take the Helmet of Salvation,
1st St.B. picks up helmet and hands it
to M., who figuratively invests Novice.
and the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God. Chaplain
resumes his seat.
2nd St.B. moves to the East end of Sepulchre,
picks up Sword in both hands, hands it to M., who invests Novice
and instructs him to hold it at the Carry.
As each St.B. moves to West to hand the
piece of regalia and armour, M. positions himself on the appropriate side
of Novice, South for 1st St.B. and North for 2nd St.B., moving behind Novice
to get from side to side.
M., as he receives each piece of regalia
or armour, does not hold it up for E.P. to view it, but invests Novice
directly. Novice retains belt, shield and sword. After investing Novice,
he hands breastplate, spurs and helmet to Dep.M., who disposes of them
in a convenient place in the West.
Dep.M. places Cap on head of Novice, as
soon as M. figuratively invests Novice with helmet; M. adjusts Cap form
the front, so that Novice is wearing it correctly.
M.: Standard Bearers, resume
your stations.
Dep.M. and St.B. return directly to their
stations and remain standing.
M.: Bro. Knights, to order.
M. sets time by drawing his own sword.
E.P.: Being now armed as a Soldier
of the Cross, I must request you to make those professions which were made
by our sainted predecessors; you will repeat after me, suiting the action
to the words.
M. directs Novice to hold Sword close to
his left side, underneath the shield, as if sheathed. E.P. places his Baton
on pedestal and rises.
E.P.: I draw my sword in defence
of the Holy Christian Faith.
E.P. draws his sword, carrying it to the
right front above his head to the full extent of the arm. M. prompts Novice
to copy action of E.P. and to repeat his words.. E.P. returns sword to
his side; M. prompts Novice to return sword to side.
E.P.: I draw my sword in defence
of all Knights Templar. Novice copies as before.
I draw my sword in defence of the near and dear relatives and connections
of Knights Templar. Novice copies as before, but
returns sword to Carry.
You are now about to proceed on a seven years' warfare and, as you
may be stopped and subjected to an examination as a Soldier enrolled under
the banner of the Cross, I will entrust you with the sign and word of a
Crusader, whereby you will gain confidence and support.
The Sign is given thus: (E.P. demonstrates,
Novice copies) Bring the sword from carry to the recover, i.e.
blade vertical, the back of the hand to the front, the cross bar on the
hilt level with the mouth and about one inch from it; raise it to the level
of the cap badge, lower it to the level of the eyes, pass it in front of
the left eye, across to the front of the right eye, make a slight pause
and return to the carry.
You will notice that this Sign is made in form of a Cross. E.P.
demonstrates Sign again, Novice copies. It is called the Sign
of the Crusader.
This sign (E.P. demonstrates for the third
time, Novice copies) should always be given when addressing
the E.P., or on entering or leaving the Preceptory. It may be given with
the hand on certain occasions when the sword is not drawn.
The word is -----. Novice repeats. E.P.
returns his sword and resumes his seat.
Thus prepared, you may prosecute your crusade, which you will figuratively
perform by proceeding seven times round the Preceptory; and be prepared
to defend yourself with your sword.
M. explains to the Novice: When
challenged, guard your head with your sword, thus: the
challenge is made in each case by a downward sweep of the sword, as if
to strike at the head of the Novice: this is parried by the Novice holding
his sword horizontally above his head with the right hand: when the blow
is parried the two swords form a cross. The Novice, accompanied by the
M., proceeds round the Preceptory and is stopped and challenged, in the
first round by a P.P. in the S.E., in the second round by the 1st C. in
de S.W. and in the third round by the 2nd C. in the N.W.
Just before each challenge is made, M.
cautions Novice: Guard your head.
Challenge: Who comes here?
Novice: A Soldier of the Cross
Challenge: Give me the Sign
of the Crusader. Done
Challenge: Give me the Word
of a Crusader. Done
Pass G…
After the Novice has been stopped and challenged
for the third time by the 2nd C., 1st C. to M.: Halt
M. conducts Novice to central point in
the West and both halt facing East.
1st C. salutes with the S. of Crus.: Eminent
Preceptor, the Novice has zealously prosecuted the campaign up to the present
time; is it your pleasure to remit the remainder of the term?
E.P.: Most willingly I will
remit the remaining four years of his probation as a Crusader.
The M. conducts the Novice to the N.W.
of the Sepulchre and goes to S.W. himself. Both face East with Swords at
the Carry.
With the pint of your Sword you will assist the Marshal to unveil
the Cross and you will then notice the scroll thereon.
Novice, assisted by M. unveils the Cross
on the Sepulchre and M. points to the scroll with his sword. He retains
crepe in his left hand.
That scroll bears the initials of the Latin inscription placed over
our Saviour at his Crucifixion.
M.: Bro. Knights. Be seated.
Marshal hands crepe to Dep.M., who disposes
of it. Novice is conducted by the M. to central point in the West, where
he stands facing East. He is divested of shield and sword, which are placed
in the West by Dep.M. M. remains standing to South of Novice.
E.P.: Worthy Brother, now a
Novice of our Order, the ceremonies in which you are engaged are calculated
to impress your mind deeply and, I trust, will have a lasting influence
upon your future character. You were first, as a trial of your faith and
humility, enjoined to perform a seven years' pilgrimage; it represented
the pilgrimage of life, through which we are all passing; we are all weary
pilgrims, advancing towards that haven where we shall cease from our labours
and be at rest for ever. You were then, as a trial of your courage and
constancy, directed to perform seven years of warfare. This represented
to you the constant warfare with the lying vanities and deceits 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
and of that faith which will conduct you safely over the dark gulf of death
and land your enfranchised spirit in the peaceful abodes of the blessed.
Let the emblems of life and death which lie before you remind you
of the uncertainty of your earthly existence 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 us will afford you consolation in the gloomy
hours of dissolution and ensure your ineffable and eternal happiness in
the world to come.
M.: Bro. Knights. To order!
E.P. rises
M. returns his sword; then moves to the
South side of the Sepulchre. The lights, except those on the Sepulchre
and Altar, should be extinguished by Dep.M., in which case the Preceptory
is not re-illimunated until Novice has retired at the end of Part 1. As
the lights are extinguished, and it is strongly recommended that they are,
then the Chaplain must have learned by heart the two portions of the Holy
Writ he is about to say.
E.P.: You are now to undergo
one year of penance and mortification; you will therefore take that skull
in your left hand and one of those small lighted apers in your right, and
banishing all worldly thoughts and mentally invoking the blessing of heaven
on your undertaking, you will figuratively perform one year of penance
by walking slowly round the Preceptory, keeping your eyes fixed on those
emblems of life and mortality.
The skull with face to Novice and the small
taper from the West end of the North side are here presented to the Novice
by the Marshal, who instructs him to keep his hands close together
The Novice proceeds slowly by himself once
round the Preceptory, and returns to his position facing the E.P. A solemn
dirge may be played during the Penance.
E.P.: You will now repeat after
me: May the spirit which once inhabited this skull rise up and testify
against me, if I ever wilfully violate my obligation as a Knight Templar;
and may my light be extinguished among men as was that of Judas Iscariot
for betraying his Lord and Master and as I now extinguish this light.
The Novice does so. The M. takes and replaces
on the Sepulchre first the unlighted taper and then the skull.
M.: Bro. Knights. Carry Swords.
E.P.: You are about to retire
to mediate upon the ceremony through which you have just passed and to
prepare yourself for the honour of Knighthood. And to enable you to gain
re-admission, I will entrust you with the Casual Sign and Grand Password
of our Order: The Chaplain will read a portion of Holy Writ.
Chaplain, standing in his place facing
West, reads or recites Isaiah, chap 50, v.6: I gave my back
to the smiters, and my cheeks to them that plucked of the hair: I hid not
my face from shame and spitting.
E.P.: The Casual Sign is given
thus, as if p.a.h.f.t.c. E.P. demonstrates, Novice
copies. It may be given with either hand.
Chaplain, standing in his place, facing
West, reads or recites Isaiah Chap. 8, v. 1: Moreover the Lord
said unto me. Take thee a great roll and write in it a man's pen concerning
Maher-shalal-hash-baz.
E.P.: The Grand Password is
Maher-shalal-hash-baz, (Novice repeats G.P.)
and is contained in the portion of Scripture which has just been read to
you by the Chaplain. It is in the Hebrew language and it signifies: In
making speed to the spoil he hasteneth the prey. You may now retire.
M.: Bro. Knights. Be seated.
Salute the E.P. with the S. of Crus with your hand.
M. conducts Novice to door and he retires.
E.P. sits. If Preceptory has been darkened, it is now re-illimunated by
Dep.M. The armour and regalia are replaced by the Dep.M. The kneeling stool
is placed in position in the East by the Dep.M. M. places the dagger is
his own belt and satisfies himself that the stone is in order and that
the regalia of the Novice is ready. The scabbard is placed in the frog
on the Novice's belt by the Guard, before the Novice is re-admitted.
Guard gives knocks ***** **
C. of G. rises, gives the S. of Crus.:
Brother Second Constable, there is a report
2nd C. rises, gives the S. of Crus. With
his hand: Eminent Preceptor, there is a report
E.P.: Inquire who seeks admission.
2nd C. sits and says to C. of G.:
See who seeks admission.
The C. of G. opens the door, faces E.P.
and salutes with the S. of Crus.: E.P. our new Companion-in-Arms.
E.P.: Admit him.
M. with drawn sword goes to the door. Novice
gives the casual sign and the Grand Password to C. of G. and is admitted.
He is then conducted by the M. to central point in the West.
M.: Salute the E.P. with the
S. of Crus, with your hand.
E.P.: Our new Companion-in-Arms
will now attend to a portion of Holy Scripture.
Chaplain, standing in his place facing
West, reads 1 St. Peter, chap. 2, vv. 11-17: 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 evil-doers, they may by your good
works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation. Submit
yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake; whether it be
the king, as supreme, or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by
him for 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 maliciousness, but as the servants of God. Honour all men. Love the
Brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the king. Chaplain
sits.
E.P.: Brother M., let the cup
of memory be presented to our new Companion-in-Arms.
M. returns sword, goes to the Southside
of Sepulchre and picks up cup of wine, which he presents to Novice: he
warns him in a whisper that he will have to sip the wine on seven separate
occasions when so directed.
M.: Bro. Knights. To order.
M. does draw his sword.
E.P. rises: 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. You will repeat
after me:
- To the memory of Moses, Aholiab and Bezaleel, the three Grand
Masters who presided over the Holy Lodge. Novice
sips.
- To the memory of Solomon, King of Israel, Hiram, King of Tyr and
Hiram Abiff, the three Grand Masters who presided over the Grand Lodge.
Novice sips.
- To the memory of Zerubbabel, the prince of the people, Haggai
the prophet and Joshua, the son of Josedech, the High Priest, the three
Grandmasters who presided over the Grand or Royal Lodge. Novice
sips.
- To the memory of St. John the Baptist, the forerunner of Christ.
Novice sips.
- To the memory of St. John the Evangelist, the Beloved Apostle
of Our Lord, who finished by his learning what St. John the Baptist had
commenced by his zeal. Novice sips.
- To the pious memory of all those valiant knights who sealed their
faith with their blood, under the banner of the Cross. Novice
sips.
- To all Knights Templar, wheresoever dispersed over the face of
the earth or water.. Novice sips.
M. takes cup, replaces it on the Sepulchre,
then returns to stand on South side of Novice.
M.: Bro. Knights. Be seated.
E.P. sits. M. remains standing.
E.P.: You will now attend another
portion of Holy Scripture.
M. goes to North of Sepulchre, opposite
the stone, facing South. Chaplain, standing in his place, facing West,
reads Rev. Chap. 2 v. 17.: He that hath an ear, let him hear
what the Spirit saith unto the 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 receiveth
it. Chaplain sits.
M. collects pen and stone and returns to
stand on North side of Novice.
E.P.: Worthy Brother, it was
customary at the period of institution of our Order for each Novice to
be required to sign his name with his blood on the North-East corner of
the Mystical Stone before he could obtain the Sacred Word which it enshrines;
are you prepared to sign (M. hands pen and stone
to Novice) your name on the Stone which is now presented to
you?
M.: Are you prepared to conform
to the ancient ceremony of the Order?
N., prompted by Dep.M.: I am.
M.: Whence will you have the
blood drawn?
N., prompted by Dep.M.: My arm
M. draws his dagger from his belt then
with his left hand and takes hold of N.'s left wrist and with his right
hand directs the point of dagger thereto.
M.: E.P., the Novice is ready.
E.P.: Worthy Brother, accepting
your ready acquiescence as a sufficient proof of your devotion to our Order,
we dispense with the observance of the custom (M.
releases N.'s wrist, replaces his dagger in his belt and takes his place
at N.'s side) further than to require you to moisten the pen
with your lips, and write your initials with it upon the Stone.
The Novice moistens pen with his lips,
writes his initials on the Stone and is shown the Word by the Marshal,
who replaces stone and pen on the Sepulchre: he then picks up small stone
from Sepulchre, which he presents Novice in the customary manner.
M. stands on North side of Novice, facing
South. He tells Novice to stretch forward his right hand, palm upward.
M. inclines his sword, so that the hilt is elevated, and the point rests
in the outstrechted right hand of the Novice: with his left hand M. slides
small stone down the blade of sword into Novice's right hand; he returns
sword to the Carry, closes Novice's fingers over stone, and tells him to
drop his right hand to the side.
E.P.: You will carefully preserve
that memorial, for should you wish again to gain admission into a Preceptory
of Knights Templar, you will on presenting that Stone and explaining the
circumstances under which you received it, be recognized and admitted as
a Knight of our Order.
Should a Knight other than the E.P. be
invited to give the accolade, he will do so at this point and continue
with the following words: Approach my Brother and receive the
highest honour I can at present bestow upon you.
M. tells Novice to put the small stone in his pocket.
Constables and Standard Bearers do not
draw swords. Dep.M. hands cushions with regalia to Constables. Standard
Bearers collect Standards.
Marshal assembles an escort in the N.W.
in the following order: Standard Bearers, Novice, Constables carrying regalia
on cushions (2nd Constable carries the Ribbon, Cross and Star, 1st Constable
the Mantle and the Sword, hilt to the front and point tucked under his
right arm).
M. (when escort is formed): Brother
Knights to Order, Escort, March.
On arriving in the E., the Standard Bearers
take post in the North East and South East, both facing inwards. Novice
is conducted to West side of kneeling stool, facing East, with the Constables
on either side and slightly in rear of him. The M. stands behind him. M.
instructs Novice to kneel on both knees, to remove his cap and to hold
it in his left hand. On cue from the M., the E.P. leaves his chair and
stands between the Altar and the kneeling stool, facing West. M. presents
his sword to E.P.
E.P.: In the name of the Holy,
Blessed and Glorious Trinity, and by the authority vested in me as a Preceptor
of this Order, I make thee a Knight of the Temple and the Holy Sepulchre.
The E.P. lays the sword first on Novice's
left shoulder, then on his right shoulder and then on his head, as he pronounces
the following words: Be loyal - brave - and true.
E.P. hands sword back to M., who returns
it. E.P. takes new Knight by his right hand and raises him: Arise
Brother Knight.
M. removes kneeling stool, and instructs
the new Knight to replace his cap. Each Constable in turn presents his
cushion to E.P. who takes each item of regalia therefrom (except the mantle)
and invests the knew Knight saying: Wear this ribbon or sash,
the ensign of our Order; invests Knight with sash
under left arm and over right shoulder. This Cross; pins Cross
on Knights left breast; then takes Star and shows
it to Knight and this Star, an emblem of the reward which the
great Captain of our Salvation has promised to those who conquer in His
Name, He being the Bright Morning Star whose rising brought peace and salvation
to mankind and light to those who sat in darkness and in the shadow of
death. Bear this ever in mind, and continue His faithful soldier until
death. E.P. then pins Star on knew Knight's left
breast, below Cross.
M. takes mantle from cushion and places
it on new Knight's shoulders from behind; he hands cords to E.P.
E.P.: We clothe you with this
mantle of pure white. E.P. ties cords in front. It is ennobled with the
red Cross of our Order. E.P. lifts left side of
mantle and shows Cross to the new Knight. This is the symbol
of the Christian's Faith and Hope. E.P. takes
sword from cushion by the hilt with his right hand: Lastly,
I present you with this sword. E.P. holding sword
by cross-bar, places hilt in right hand of new Knight and instructs him
to hold sword at the Carry. Never draw it without cause nor
sheath it without honour. Return your sword, Brother Knight.
New Knight returns his sword, directed
if necessary by E.P.
E.P.: I will now entrust you
with the Grand Sign, the Grand Grip and the Grand Word of our Order.
The Grand Sign is made by: crossing the right foot over the left;
raising the arms in a horizontal position, palms to the front, and slightly
inclining the head over the left shoulder, in reverent allusion to the
posture of our Saviour at his crucifixion
The Grand Grip is given by: interlacing the fingers of the opposite
hands and with the disengaged hand grasping the opposite elbow, thus forming
a crude representation of the skull and cross-bones. This Grip may be given
with either hand.
The Grand Word is Emmanuel.
E.P. resumes his seat. The Marshal draws
his sword, then forms the escort in the reverse order to the former procession
and the new Knight is conducted to the West. M. when escort is formed:
Escort, March.
The new Knight is seated in Marshal's Chair,
which Dep.M. moves forward to West of the Sepulchre. Dep.M. collects cushions
from Constables, who resume their stations; Dep.M. disposes of cushions
in the West. M., with the Standard Bearers on either side of him, stands
behind the new Knight, all facing East. Dep.M. and Constables draw swords
and Heralds return swords. E.P. rises.
E.P.: Heralds, you will now
proclaim.
The Heralds step forward and remain facing
North and South respectively.
1st Herald, in the S.W.: Brethren
of the Temple. Be it known that our Brother and Companion, …, is this day
installed a Knight of our Illustrious Order and I call upon you to salute
him, taking the time from the Marshal.
The Knights give the Salutation of the
Order thrice, under direction of M.. The Heralds do not salute.
M.: Brother Knights with three.
2nd Herald, in the N.W.: Long
life, honour and prosperity to our Most Eminent and Supreme Grand Master,
the Great Officers and all other Knights of our Order, and I call upon
you to salute our newly installed Knight …, taking the time from the Marshal.
The Knights salute thrice under the direction
of the M., as before.
M.: Brother Knights. Be seated.
M. returns his sword at the Carry. Heralds
return to their stations and sit. Standard Bearers replace Standards in
the West, return to their stations and sit. When all is ready, M. directs
new Knight to rise; Dep.M. replaces chair and sits. The M. conducts the
new Knight to North-West corner of Sepulchre, where he stands.
E.P. rises and moves to North-East corner
of Sepulchre. M. returns to his station, returns his sword and sits.
E.P.: I will now explain to
you the symbols of the Order. The three Great Lights placed at the angles
of the equilateral 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 between those already noticed, are emblematical
of the nine other Apostles, of whom one, represented by the taper extinguished
by you, betrayed his Lord and Master. You will now re-light and replace
the taper. The new Knight does so.
Chaplain advances to S.E. corner of Sepulchre
and (only in Holy Orders with the right hand raised) recites:
So may our Saviour lift up the light of His reconciled countenance upon
you and keep you from falling. Chaplain returns
to his seat.
E.P.: The skull and cross bones,
the emblems of mortality, are placed at the foot of the Cross; these collectively
remind us of the place called in the Hebrew Golgotha, unto which Solomon
of Cyrene was constrained 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 and sent to the
Grand Master of the Knights Templar, who ordered it to be placed on the
point of a pinnacle or spice, the skull to be laid open, and the brains
exposed to the scorching rays of the sun, as a warning to all others. It
is in allusion to this circumstance that this sign was formerly given in
our ceremony. E.P. demonstrates with the thumb
of the right hand; new Knight copies.
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 is symbolical of the Almighty Comforter, who descended
like a Dove on Christ at His baptism, whereby His divine mission was indicated
to St. John the Baptist. The Cock is the monitor of the Oder 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 thus early to ask for assistance
to perform 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
reminder of a broken vow.
E.P. returns to his seat. M. rises, draws
his sword and conducts the new Knight to the East, where the E.P. shows
the Warrant and gives him a copy of the Statutes and By-laws of the Preceptory.
The new Knight is then conducted to a seat
in the North-West of the Preceptory, either behind of on the East of the
North Column of the Arch of Steel. M. returns to his station, returns his
sword and sits.
Form of Closing a Preceptory
E.P.: Bro. Knights, all business
for the advancement of the Glory of the Cross and for the Honour of our
Order having been completed, we may now close this Preceptory for, praise
be to God, all is well, and God grant that it may so continue and goodness
be every day increased.
Bro. Knights. E.P. rises. To
order. Listen to our Precepts.
Chaplain, standing in his place, facing
West: Love, honour, and fear God; walk after His commandments.
Maintain and defend the Christian Faith and honour, dignity and interests
of our Order. Be loyal to your Sovereign, dutiful to the Grand Master and
obedient to those who rule over you. Prefer honour to wealth. Be just and
true in word and deed. Give no willing cause of offence to any; but, while
opposing wrong and injustice, deport yourselves courteously and gently.
Assist the distressed, the widow and the fatherless. Eschew all debasing
employment, recreation and company; abhor pride and selfishness and so
raise the standard of chivalrous honour, striving for the welfare of your
Brethren. Chaplain then reads Psalm 122:
I was glad when they said unto me, let us go into the house of the Lords;
Our feet shall stand within thy gates, O Jerusalem; Jerusalem is builded
as a city that is compact together; Whither the tribes go up, the tribes
of the Lord, unto the testimony of Israel, to give thanks unto the name
of the Lord. For there are set thrones of judgement, the thrones of the
house of David. Pray for the peace of Jerusalem; they shall prosper that
love thee. Peace be within thy walls, and prosperity within thy palaces.
For my brethren and companion's sakes, I will now say, Peace be within
thee. Because of the house of the Lord our God, I will seek thy good. Chaplain
stands in front of the Altar, facing East and removes his head-dress.
Let us pray. All Knights adopt position of prayer.
Chaplain: O Merciful Lord, grant
Thy Holy protection and salutary blessing to this Preceptory. Enlighten
its rulers with the rays of Thy Brightness, that they may see the just
ways of our heavenly Captain and may by their example teach the Knights
committed to their charge so to follow them through this wilderness of
temptation that, being armed with the Shield of Faith and the Breastplate
of Righteousness, they may overcome the enemies of Thy Holy Name and finally
arrive at the Heavenly Jerusalem, through Jesus Christ our Saviour. Amen.
All Knights return to the Carry. Chaplain
replaces head-dress and resumes his place.
E.P.: In the name of the Holy,
Blessed and Glorious Trinity and in the name *Christ
our Prophet, *Christ our Priest, *Christ
our King, I close this Preceptory. *E.P. pronounces
these words slowly. He and the Knights salute with the S. of Crus.
Chaplain, stands in front of the Altar,
facing West, without removing head-dress: Let us pray. Knights
adopt position of prayer. May the blessing of our Heavenly Captain
descend upon us, and remain with us now and ever more. Amen.
Knights carry swords, Chaplain closes Bible
on Altar, at the same time M. closes Bible on the Sepulchre.
An Arch of Steel is formed in the West
under the direction of the M. and E.P. retires.
Order of Recession: Dep.M.; E.P.; Chaplain;
2nd Constable and 1st Constable; Great Officers (in pairs, seniors leading).
M. remains in the Temple. Knights not forming the Arch of Steel stand to
order at their stations. They return swords under the direction of the
M. and disperse when the Arch of Steel is dismissed.