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Official

FLORIDA MONITORCONTAIN INC INSTRUCTiON

IN THE

DEGREESOF

Entered Apprentice

Fellow Craft

Master Mason

GravesideFuneralServices

TWENTY-SECONDEDITION(POCKETVERSION)

1992CORRECTED1996

GL-214-4/96

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103 MRPOET SOULSYAROPENSACOLA FLORIDA35503 7625

PRONE (904) 4764196

EXECUTIVE ORDERNO. 6

I, D. Hayward Stuckey. Grand Master of Free and Accepted Masons ofFLorida, do hereby issue the following liecutive Order:

1. That the Committee on Work, under the direction of R.V. James V.Creecy, Chairman. ~ediate1y review the current editions of theOfficial Blue end Brown Florida Monitors and make corrections of anymisspelled, incorrect, omitted, or unnecessary words therein, beingcautious and careful not to change in any manner the properly adoptedvords, phrases, procedures or ceremonies according to the requirements ofRegulations 38.02, 38.03. 38.04 and Article XV, Section 5 of theConstitution.

2. When said Monitors have been corrected, they ace to he submittedto me for my review before being turned over to the Corporate Board forapproval and printing.

THIS EXECUTIVE ORDER DATED A1~D ISSUED THIS 18TH DAY OF JAIIUARY, A.L.5992, A.D. 1992.

N2. W.. D. RATWAID STUCKEYGRAND NASTER OP NASONS OP FLORIDA103 AIRPORT BLVD.PENSACOLA, FL 32503

Dear Grand Naster,

In accordance with your Executive Order No. 6, the Blue and Brown Mont tors hevebeen carefully and cautiously reviewed and corrections made of any misspelled,incorrect, omitted or unnecessary words therein.

We herewith submit the usterial prepared for publication of the new editionsof the Blue and Brown Nonitors for your consideratien, and, w)th the approval ofthe Corporate Board, for printing and publication.

Respectfully and Pratermally submitted,

James H. Creecy

Senmie F. (sill) Rowden

Joseph A. Williams

James N. Piersem

Jehn 5. Linebarier

James 5. Bimbop

Wilbur J. ~ith, Sr.

John A. Nangialette

D~ H5TV~j~d Stucicey, CranE

ATTEST:William 6. Wo1I,rand Secretary

Chairman

Zone I

Zone 2

Zome 3

Zone A

Zone S

Zone 6

Zone 7

‘Reinem tier Our Masonic I-lone iii You,-14’,))

‘O..,..L... a... 5S,..~2. 51.. A. V... —

D HAYWARD STUCKEYGRAND MASTEE

JAN58 H. CRERCYcsAIRMAN-ccjedITrER 014 USER

BUS, (904) 724-7462

January 20, 1992

2527 GREEN OAK DR.JACKSONVILLE, FL 32211

RIB, (904) 744-8975

ii iii

FLORIDA MASONIC MONITOR(POCKETVERSION)

CONTAINING INSTRUCTION IN

THE ENTEREDAPPRENTICEDEGREE,

THE FELLOW CRAFT DEGREE

THE MASTER MASON DEGREE

AND

GRAVESIDEFUNERAL SERVICES

TWENTY-SECONDEDITION

APPROVEDBY

M .‘. W .‘. D. HAYWARD STUCKEY

GrandMaster

GRAND LODGE, F. & A. M. OF FLORIDA

1992

CORRECTED1996

CONTENTSPage

Introduction 1TheLodgeandIts Government 3Qualificationof Candidates 4Admissionof Candidates 5OpeningandClosingtheLodge 5Tyler’s Oath 7Flag Ceremony 9PrayersUsedat Opening 11OpeningCharge 12PrayersUsedat Closing 13ClosingCharge 14Benediction 1 5SuggestedOrderof Business 1 5Preservation 16InstructionofOfficers 1 6Balloting 17

ENTEREDAPPRENTICEDEGREE:FirstSection:

SeniorDeacon’sQuestionsandLecture 26Prayerat Initiation 28Circumambulation 29Obligation 29Apron Presentation 30WorkingTools 31

SecondSection:Writing Ceremony 33

Third Section(Lecture):Symbolismof theDegree 33Monitorial EKplanationof Emblems 38Tenets 43ThePerfectPointsof Entrance 44Chalk, CharcoalandClay 46

ChargeatInitiation 47ChargeatInitiation ofaSoldier 49

THE FELLOW CRAFT DEGREEFirstSection:

Circumambulation 51

iv v

CONTENTS—(Continued)

Working Tools 52SecondSection- Winding StairsLecture:

Introduction 55TheTwo Pillars 57TheGlobes 58Orderin Architecture 59The FiveSensesof HumanNature 63TheSevenLiberalArts andSciences 67OuterDoor 71InnerDoor 73TheMoral AdvantagesofGeometry 73

Introduction 75Chargeat Passing 76

MASTER MASON DEGREE:FirstSection:

Circumambulation 78Working Tools 80

SecondSection:Caution 81FuneralDirge 84PrayeratRaising 85

Third Section(Lecture):Recapitulation 86Five Points 88Explanationof Monument 92Third Classof Emblems 92LastClassof Emblems 97

TheCharge 98

Presentationof LambskinApron 100

FuneralServices:GeneralInstructions 102OpeningAnnualFuneralLodge 106ClosingAnnual FuneralLodge 108Funeralat Grave 111GravesideDiagram 120Prayerusedin closingafter Funeral 121OptionalFuneralat Grave 121

Florida Masonic Work

INTRODUCTION

ORIGIN OFMASONRY AND ITS

ADVANTAGES

From the commencementof the world we may trace thefoundationof Masonry.Ever sincesymmetry began,andharmonydisplayedhercharms,ourOrderhashad a being.During manyages,and in manydifferent countries,it hasflourished.No art, no scienceprecededit. In the darkperi-odsof antiquity, whenliteraturewasin a low state,and therude mannersof our forefatherswithheld from them thatknowledgewe now so amply share,Masonry diffused itsinfluence.Thus scienceunveiled, arts arose,civilizationtook place,and the progressof knowledgeand philosophygradually dispelledthe gloom of ignoranceand barbarism.Governmentbeingsettled, authority was given to laws,andtheassembliesof theFraternityacquiredthepatronageof the greatand the good, while the tenetsof the profes-sion disseminatedunboundedphilanthropy.

Abstractedfrom the pure pleasureswhich arisefromfriendship so wisely constitutedas that which subsistsamongMasons,and which it is scarcelypossiblethat anycircumstanceor occurrencecanerase,Masonryis a scienceconfined to no particularcountry, but extendsover the

vi 1

FLORIDA MASONIC MONITOR

whole terrestrialglobe.Wherevertheartsflourish, there itflourishes too. Add to this, that by secretand inviolablesigns,carefullypreservedamongthe Fraternity, it becomesa universal language.Hencemanyadvantagesare gained;thedistantChinese,thewild Arab, and theAmericansay-

agewill embracea brotherBriton, and know that, besidesthe commonties of humanity,thereis still a strongerobli-gation to inducehim to kind andfriendly offices. Thespir-it of the fulminating priestwill be tamed, and a moralBrother,tough of a differentpersuasion,engagehis esteem;for mutual toleration in religious opinions is one of themost distinguishingandvaluablecharacteristicsof theCraft. As all religions teachmorality, if a Brotherbe foundto act the part of a truly honestman,his privatespecula-tive opinions are left to God and himself. Thus, throughthe influenceof Masonry,which is reconcilableto thebestpolicy, all thosedisputeswhich embitter life and sour thetempersof menare avoided,while the commongood, thegeneralobject, is zealouslypursued.

From this view of our system,its utility must be suffi-ciently obvious.The universalprinciples of the Art unite,in one indissolublebond of affection, men of the mostoppositetenets,of the most distantcountries,andof themost contradictory opinions; so that in everynation aMasonmayfind a friend and in everyclimateahome.

Such is the natureof our institution, that in the Lodge,which is confinedto no particularspot, union is cementedby sincereattachment,and pleasurereciprocallycommuni-cated in the cheerful observanceof every obliging office.Virtue, thegrandobjectin view, luminousasthemeridiansun, shinesrefulgenton the mind, enlivensthe heartandheightenscool approbationinto warm sympathyandcor-dial attention.—Preston.

THE LODGE AND ITS GOVERNMENT

THE LODGE AND ITS GOVERNMENT

1. The room in which a cettainnumberof Freemasonsassemble,for businessconnectedwith theFratetnity,is calleda Lodge.The assembly,or organizedbody of Freemasons,isalsocalledaLodge,just as thewordChurchis expressivebothof thecongregationand theplacein which they meetto wor-ship.A Lodgeof Freemasons,to be legally constituted,mustbein possessionofanunreclaimedChartergrantedby theGrandLodgein whosejurisdiction it is situated;theBook of the Law,theSquareandCompasses;theBook ofConstitutions;aCodeofBy-Laws; its Officers,and asufficientnumberof memberstoperformtheceremoniespertainingto theOrder. (Thenumbernecessaryis ptovidedby regulation.)

2. The Constitutional Officers of a Lodge are theWorshipfulMaster,SeniorWarden,JuniorWarden,Tteasurer,Secretary,SeniorDeacon,JuniorDeacon,Seniorand JuniorStewards,and Tyler, to which may be addeda Marshal, aChaplainandanOrganist.

3. A Lodgemustassembleat leastoncea month for workand instructionA 4. A ParticularLodgehasthe right to doall thewotk ofAncientCraft Masonry;to be representedatallthe Communicationsof the GrandLodge; to electand installits Officers, to increaseits numbersby the admissionof newmembers,andno membercanbe forceduponaLodgewithoutits consent;to makefor its governmentBy-Laws not conflict-ing with the lawsand edictsof the GrandLodge; to excludeamember,on causeshown, temporarilyor permanently;to levytax on its membersby By-Laws; to appealto theGrandLodgeor GrandMaster from the decisionof its Master; to exercisepenalauthorityover its ownmembers,andoverall unaffiliatedMasonsliving within the limits of its jurisdiction, and tochangeits time and plaLe of meetingwithin the town or citydesignatedin its Charterby amendmentto its By-Laws.

5. A LodgeUnderDispensationis a preliminaryorganiza-

2 3

THE LODGE AND ITS GOVERNMENTFLORIDA MASONIC MONITOR

tion of Freemasons,acting underauthority from the GrandMastet,and is not entitled to representationin the GrandLodge,cannotelector install Officers, is without authoritytoadopt By-Laws or a seal,but is authorizedto frame proposedBy-Laws,to besubmittedwith applicationfor Charter.

QUALIFICATiONS OFCANDIDATES

Thequalificationsthat are essentialin thosewho apply forinitiation into the mysteriesof Freemasonryareof two kinds,InternalandExternal.

It is true that the ritual of the First Degreesaysthat “it isthe internaland not the externalqualificationswhich recom-mendeda manto be madea Mason;” but the contextof thesentenceshows that the externalqualificationstherereferredto are “worldly wealthand honors.”The ritual, therefore,hasof courseno allusion to the sort of externalqualificationswhich arehereto bediscussed.

The internalqualificationsof aCandidatearethosethat liewithin his own bosom,andarenot knownto theworld. Theyrefer to his peculiardispositiontoward the institution— hismotivesanddesignin seekinganentranceinto it. Hence,theyareknownto himselfalone;andaknowledgeof themcanonlybeacquiredfrom his own solemndeclarations.

The externalqualifications are thosethat refer to his out-ward physicalfitnessfor initiation, and arebasedon his moralandreligiouscharacter,theframeofhis body, theconstitutionofhis mind, andhis socialposition.A knowledgeof theseis tobe acquiredfrom a careful examinationby a Committeeappointedfor thatpurpose.

Thepersonwho desiredto be madea Masonmustbe aman,believing in theexistenceof a SupremeBeing, andof a futureexistence;at leasttwenty-oneyearsofage;of good moralchar-acter,temperate,industriousand capableof readingandwrit-ing, and earninganhonestlivelihood; he must comeof his

Iown freewill and accord,uninfluencedby mercenaryor otherimpropermotives; be of sound mind and body; and notdeformedordismembered.

Any doubt of physical conformationshould be referredtotheGrandMaster.Theuseofan artificial substituteby candi-dates,to comply with the requirementsof the ceremoniesisnot permittedexceptby specialdispensationfrom the GrandMasterfor exceptionallygood causeshown.

ADMISSION OFCANDIDATES

By the regulationsof the Fraternity, a candidatefor theMysteriesof Masonrycannotbe initiated in any regularLodgewithout havingbeenproposedatleastonemonthprior to bal-lot, unless a Dispensationbe obtainedin his favor. All peti-tions for the Degreesof Freemasonrymustbemadein writingat a StatedCommunicationof the Lodge,giving name,resi-dence,age,occupation,andrefetences.Theform of petition isprescribedby Regulation.

OPENINGAND CLOSINGTHE LODGE

In all the regularassembliesof menwho areconvenedforwise and useful purposes,the commencementand conclusionof businessareaccompaniedwith someform. In everycountryin the world the practiceprevails,and is deemedessential.From the most remoteperiods of antiquity it may be traced,andtherefinedimprovementsof moderntimeshavenot total-ly abolishedit.

Ceremonies,when simply considered,it is true, are littlemorethanvisionary delusions;but their effectsare sometimesimportant.When they impressawe and reverenceon themind, and engagethe attentionby externalattractiontosolemnrites, they are irfterestingobjects.Thesepurposesareaffectedby judicious ceremonies,whenregularly conductedand properly arranged.On this ground, they havereceived

54

FLORIDA MASONIC MONITOR TYLER’S OATH

thesanctionof thewisestmenin all ages,andconsequent-Ly could not escapethe noticeof Masons.To beginwell isthemost likely meansto endwell; and it hasbeenproperlyremarkedthat whenorderandmethodareneglectedat thebeginning,theywill seldombefoundat theend.

Theceremoniesofopeningandclosing aLodgewith solem-nity and decorumthereforeareuniversally admittedamongMasons,and differ in eachof theDegrees,but so slightly asnot to affect theirgeneralcharacter.They must, therefore,beconsideredin referenceto the severalpurposesthat they aredesignedto accomplish.

To conducttheseceremonieswith proprietyoughtto be thepeculiarstudyof every Mason, especiallythosewho havethehonorto serve in ourCommunications.To personswho aredignified, every eyenaturally is directedfor proprietyof con-ductandbehavior;andfrom themotherBrethrenwho arelessinformednaturallywill expectto deriveanexampleworthy ofimitation. From a sharein theseceremoniesno Masoncanbeexempted.This is thefirst requestof the Masterand the pre-lude to all business.As soon as it hasbeensignified that theLodge is aboutto beopenedeveryOfficer should repair to hisstation or place, and the purposeof the Communicationshouldbecomethesoleobject ofattention.

A Lodgemustalwaysbeopenedin theThird Degreefor thetransactionof any businessexceptthat of initiating or passingacandidateinto themysteriesoftheFirst or SecondDegreeorfor examinationin the catechismof thoseDegrees.TheMastermayconductthe businessof theLodge in accordancewith theSuggestedOrderof Business,ortheMastermayrear-rangethe SuggestedOrderof Businessas his judgementandsounddiscretionmay dictate.The first businessafteropening,if it be a StatedCommunication,must be the readingof theminutesof the precedingCommunications,Statedor Called,for theinformationoftheBrethrenandfinal adoption.

TheLodgemustalwaysbeopenedandclosedwith ptayer.

TYLER’S OATH

(All presentat an examinationconductedon a cate-chism to seeif a Brother is eligible to visit a Lodgemust take the Tyler’s Oath. This doesnot applywhena Brother is being examinedfor advancementto anotherDegree.)

(The Chairmanof the ExaminingCommitteewill bereferredto as “CHAIRMAN.”)

CHAIRMAN

:

(Sneakingto all present.)

Eachof you will place your right hand upon the HolyBible. (done)

Eachof youwill say:“[,“—(done)

pronounceyourname,—(done)

andrepeatafterme.

Dosolemnlyswearor affirm.

(Eachpersonpresentmay useeither the word“swear” or “affirm.”)

ALL OTHERS

:

(Repeat.)

CHAIRMAN

:

That I have beenregularly initiated an EnteredApprentice,

ALL OTHERS

:

(Repeat.)

6 7


CHAIRMAN

:

passedto thedegreeof FellowCraft,

ALL OTHERS

:

(Repeat.)

CHAIRMAN

:

andraisedto thesublimedegreeof MasterMason,

ALL OTHERS

:

(Repeat.)

CHAIRMAN

:

in a regularLodgeof FreeandAcceptedMasons,

ALL OTHERS

:

(Repeat.)

CHAIRMAN

:

and that I am not laboringunderanychargeof suspensionorexpulsionfrom theOrder,

ALL OTHERS

:

(Repeat.)

CHAIRMAN

:

and know of no reasonwhy I shouldnot be allowed to sitwith my Brethren,

ALL OTHERS

:

(Repeat.)

FLAG CEREMONY

CHAIRMAN

:

sohelpmeGod.

ALL OTHERS

:

(Repeat.)

FLAG CEREMONY(OPTIONAL)

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

(Gives one rap of the gavel to call the Brethren toorder.)

Brethren,let uscometo order.

(Gives three raps of the gavel to call up theBrethren.)

BrotherSeniorDeacon,presentthe Flag of ourCountrywestof theAltar.

SENIORDEACON

:

(Whenaddressed(without his rod) takes the Flagfrom its receptacleon the northwestcorner of thedias, and proceedsto a placewestof the Altar, andstandswith the staffedFlag held in front of him, fac-ing east.)

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

Brethren,join me in the Pledgeof Allegianceto theFlagof ourCountry.

WORSHIPFULMASTEI{ AND BRETHREN

:

“I pledgeallegianceto the Flag of the United StatesofAmerica and to the Republic for which it stands;one

8 9

FLORIDA MASONIC MONITOR OPENINGAND CLOSING THE LODGE

nationunderGod; indivisible, with Liberty andJusticeforall.”

(During the pledge and while the Flag is being con-veyedfrom and to its place in the East, the Brethrenstandwith right handsover their hearts;exceptsuchas may be in Military Uniform, who maystand atright handsalute.)

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

BrotherChaplain,leadus in prayer.

CHAPLAIN

:

(Prayer maybe offeredat theAltar while kneelingorwhile standingat the Chaplain’s place in the Lodge.This is optionalwith theWorshipfulMaster.)

Almighty Fatherof us all, humbly we askThy blessingupon this symbol of our land, our homes,our liberties,moreespeciallywe beseechTheeto openour eyesthat wemay morefully enshrinewithin our heartsthe heritagewhich is ours, the valueof our liberties, the glory of thatsymbol before which we bow in reverenceonly less thanthat which we kneel to Thee.Suffer usall to pledgeanewin our hearts,aswehavepledgedwith our lips, anundyingdevotionto theFlag which standsfor theAmericawe love.Amen!

(If the Chaplaingoesto theAltar for prayer, he risesafter saying “amen” and returns to his placeandremainsstandinguntil the gavel is soundedby theWorshipfulMaster.)

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

Brother SeniorDeacon,return the FLag to its place of

honorin theEast.

SENIORDEACON

:

(TheSeniorDeaconcarries the Flag to the Eastandslowly and reverentlyplacesit in the receptacle,andthen returns to his place in the Lodge and remainsstandinguntil thegavelis soundedby the WorshipfulMaster.)

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

(Givesonerap with thegavel to seattheBrethren.)

(Eitherof thefollowingprayersmaybe usedat open-ing:)

PRAYERUSEDAT OPENING

CI-IAPLA IN

:

Most holy and glorious Lord God, the GreatArchitectof the Universe,the Giver of all good gifts andgraces!Thouhastpromisedthat, “where two or threearegatheredtogetherin Thy name,Thou wilt be in their midst andblessthem.” In Thy namewe haveassembled,and in Thynamewe desireto proceedin all ourdoings.Grant that thesublimeprinciplesof Freemasonrymaysosubdueeverydis-cordantpassionwithin us—soharmonizeand enrichourheartswith Thineown love and goodness—thattheLodgeat this time may humbly reflect that order and beautywhich reign foreverbeforeThy throne.Amen!

BRETHREN

:

Somote it be!

10 11

FLORIDA MASONIC MONITOR OPENINGAND CLOSING THE LODGE

OPTIONAL PRAYERUSEDAT OPENING

CHAPLAIN

:

GreatArchitect of theUniverse! In Thy namewe haveassembled,andin Thy namewedesireto proceedin all ourdoings.Grant that the sublime principlesof Freemasonrymayso subdueeverydiscordantpassionwithin us—sohar-monize and enrich our heartswith Thine own love andgoodness—thatthe Lodge at this time may reflect thatorder and beautywhich reign foreverbefore Thy throne.Amen!

BRETHREN

:

Somote it be!

OPENINGCHARGE(OPTIONAL)

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

The waysof virtue are beautiful.Knowledgeis attainedby degrees.Wisdomdwells with contemplation;therefore,we should seek it. Let us then, Brethren,apply ourselveswith becomingzeal to thepracticeof the excellentprinci-ples inculcatedby our Order. Let us ever rememberthatthe greatobjectsof our associationare the restraint ofimproper desiresandpassions,the cultivation of an activebenevolenceand the promotionof a correctknowledgeofthe dutieswe owe to God, to our neighborand to our-selves.Let us be united, andpracticewith diligence thesacredtenetsof our Order. Let ~ll private animosities,ifany unhappilyexist, give place to affectionand brotherlylove. It is uselessparadeto talk of thesubjectionof irregu-lar passionswithin the walls of the Lodge if we permit

them to triumph in our intercoursewith eachother.Uniting in thegranddesign,let usbehappyourselves,andendeavorto promotethe happinessof others.Let us culti-vate the greatmoral virtues which are laid down on ourMasonic Trestleboard,and improve in everything that isgood, amiable anduseful. Let the benignGeniusof theMystic Art presideover our councilsand under her swaylet usact with adignity becomingthehigh moralcharacterof ourvenerableFraternity.

(AnOdemaybe sung.)

(Eitherof the following prayersmay be usedat clos-

ing:)

PRAYERUSEDAT CLOSING

CHAPLAIN

:

SupremeArchitect of the Universe,acceptour humblethanks for the manymerciesand blessingswhich Thybounty hasconferredon i~, and especiallyfor this friendlyand socialintercourse.Pardon,we beseechThee,whateverThou hastseenamissin us since we havebeentogether,and continueto usThy presence,protectionand blessing.Make us sensibleof the renewedobligationswe are underto love Thee,andasweareaboutto separateand returntoour respectiveplacesof abode,wilt Thou be pleasedso toinfluenceourheartsandminds, that wemay eachoneof uspracticeout of the Lodge thosegreatmoral dutieswhichare inculcatedin it, andwith reverencestudyandobey thelawswhich Thouha~givenusin Thy Holy Word. Amen!

BRETHREN

:

Somote it be!

12 13

FLORIDA MASONIC MONITOR SUGGESTEDORDER OF BUSINESS

OPT[ONAL PRAYERUSEDAT CLOSING

CHAPLAIN

:

And now, Almighty Father,we askThy blessinguponthe proceedingsof this communicationand, as we areabout to separate,we askTheeto keepus underThy pro-tectingcareuntil wearecalledtogetheragain.Teachus, 0God, to realize the beautiesof the principlesof our time-honoredinstitution, not only while in theLodge,but whenabroadin theworld. Subdueeverydiscordantpassionwith-in us. May we love oneanotherin thebondsof union andfriendship.Amen!

BRETHREN

:

So mote it be!

CLOSING CHARGE(OPTIONAL)

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

Brethren,you are now to quit this sacredretreatoffriendshipand virtue, to mix againwith theworld. Amidstits concernsand employments,forget not the dutiesyouhave heardso frequently inculcatedand forcibly recom-mendedin this Lodge. Be diligent, prudent,temperateanddiscreet.Rememberthat, at this Altar, you havepromisedto befriendand relieve everyBrotherwho shall needyourassistance.Remember,also, that you have promised tQremindhim, in themosttendermanner,of his failings, andto aid his reformation; to vindicate his characterwhenwrongfully traduced;and suggestin his behalf the mostcandidandfavorablecircumstances.Is he justly reprehend-

ed?Let theworld observehowMasonslove oneanother.

Thesegenerousprinciples are to extendfurther. Everyhumanbeinghasa claim upon yourkind offices. Do goodunto all. Recommendit more especiallyto the householdof thefaithful.

By diligence in the duties of your respectivecallings; byliberal benevolenceanddiffusive charity; by constancyandfidelity in your friendships,discoverthe beneficial andhappyeffectsof this ancientandhonorableinstitution.Letit not be supposedthat you haveherelaboredin vain, andspentyour strengthfor naught;for your work is with theLord andyour recompensewith yourGod.

Finally, Brethren, be ye all of one mind; live in peace,and may the God of love and peacedelight to dwell withandblessyou!

(An Odemay be sungat closing—it is optional withtheWorshipfulMaster.)

BENEDICTION

WORSHIPFUL MASTER

:

May the blessingof heavenrest upon us and all regularMasons! May brotherly love prevail, and everymoral andsocialvirtue cementus! Amen!

BRETHREN

:

So mote it be!

SUGGESTEDORDEROF BUSINESS

FlagCeremony(beforeopeningtheLodge.)ReadingMinutesfor informationandfinal adoption.Reportof the Masterof thebusinessbeforetheLodge.

14 15

FLORIDA MASONIC MONITOR BALLOTING

Reportsof sicknessanddistress.Reportsof petitionsfiled with theSecretary.Referenceof petitionsto Committees.Reportsof Committeeon Petitions.Balloting.Reportsof SpecialCommittees.UnfinishedBusiness.Generalbusinessandwork.Readingof Minutesfor approvalbeforeclosing.

(For authorityof theWorshipfulMasterseeArticle X,Section6, of the Constitution,andRegulations20.04,20.06and 25.27.)

PRESERVATION

In order to preserveourCeremoniesfrom innovation, itis essentiallynecessarythat every Officer shouldbe thor-oughly acquaintedwith them, and that a firm determina-tion shouldexist amongthe Craft to admit no change.Afew words hereor theremay not in themselvesappearofmuchconsequence,yet, by frequentrepetition,webecomeaccustomedto them, and thus open the door to evils ofmore seriousmagnitude.There is, and therecan be, nosafetybut in a rigid adherenceto theAncient Ceremoniesof theOrder.

darkness,helpless,ignorant anddestitute.Having beenwanderingamid the errorsand subjectedto thepollutionsof theouterand profaneworld, hecomesinquiringly to ourdoors, seekingnewbirth and the withdrawal of the veilthat concealsDivine Truth from his uninitiatedsight. TheCeremoniesof receptionand initiation, therefore,shouldbe conductedwith dignity and decorum,and the Degreeconferredin an impressivemanner,rememberingthat thefirst impressionsof a candidateoftenarethemostlasting.)

Balloting on Petitionsfor the Three Symbolic Degrees(This proceduremay be adaptedto voting on othermattersbefore the Lodge where a ball ballot is to beused.Seethe Digestof the MasonicLaw of Florida,Article X, Section 16 of the Constitution,Regulations35.01 through 35.13, and accompany-ing RulingsandDecisionsfor moreinformation.)

SECRETARY

:

(Reads the report(s)Committee(s).)

of the Investigation

INSTRUCTIONTO OFFICERS

(In the preparationof a candidatefor the EnteredApprenticeDegreeit is importantthat thosewho havehispreparationin chargecreatean atmosphereof sanctityaboutthe PreparationRoom.At the time of the receptionof a Candidatefor this degreethe Lodge is symbolic of theworld and his initiation symbolic of birth into the newlifeupon which he is aboutto enter.Therehe standswithoutour portals,on the thresholdof a new Masonic life, in

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

BrotherSeniorDeacon,

SENIORDEACON

:

(Riseswhenaddres~ed.)

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

Preparetheballot box.

16 17


Note:(The ballot box drawer should be lined with a softmaterial so as to cushionthe impactof balls andcubes. Multiple ballot boxesare not to be usedastheycan causeextremeconfusionif voting on morethan one or differentgroupsof petitionsat the sametime. Ballot boxesshould containsufficient balls andcubesto allow everyBrother to votehis convictiononeachballot.)

SENIORDEACON

:

(Holding up the drawer of the ballot box so theWardenscan seethat there are no balls or cubes init, he says:)

BrotherJuniorWarden,beholdtheballotbox.

BrotherSeniorWarden,beholdtheballotbox.

I

(After the Wardensacknowledgethe emptydrawerof the ballot box, he thenplacesthe open ballot bo~on thepedestalin theEast.)

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

(Inspectsthe ballot box and then closesit. No morethanfive petitions for theDegreesmay be takencol-lectively. Whenthere is more than one petition andthe Committeereports are favorable on someandunfavorableon others, a separateballot mustbetakenon eachpetitionwheretheCommitteereport isunfavorable.Collectiveballots may not be takenonmixed kinds of petitions, suchas: for the Degrees,affiliation, reinstatement, etc., even if theInvestigationCommitteereportsarefavorable.)

Brethren,wearecalledupon to ballot on the petition(s)

of Mr. (Messrs)Full Name,(Full Name,Full Name,FullName and Full Name) to receivethe three SymbolicDegreesof Freemasonry.Thereport(s)of the InvestigationCommittee(s) is (are) favorable.White balls elect andBlackcubesreject.

Be carefulwith yourballot!

Note:

(On single/individualpetitions, the WorshipfulMasterwould report favorable/unfavorableas report-ed by therespectiveInvestigationCommittee.)

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

(Salutesthe ballot with the Due Guard and Sign,castshis ballot, and thensays:)

BrotherSeniorDeacon,presentthe ballot box to (theTreasurer*),the Senior Warden,the Junior Warden,andthe Secretaryfor their ballot, and then place it upon theAltar (a tableWestof theAltar).

(*Note: The Treasurermay ballot first only when

he is occupyinghis regular placein theLodge.)

(Theballot box is to be placedon the Altar, north oftheBible, or on a pull out shelfon thewestsideof theAltar especiallydesignedfor this purpose. In theeventthe Altar is too small to hold the Bible and theballot box, a small table should be placednextto theAltar, on thewestside.)

SENIORDEACON

:

(After carrying 6ut the order of the WorshipfulMaster, takesa placein front of theSeniorWarden’sstation, facing the WorshipfulMaster. That positionenabling him to control the line(s) of Brethrenon the

18 19


north and/or south side(s) of the Lodgeroompreparatory to balloting. That position also prevent-ing him from inadvertentlyobservingthe ballot ofanyBrother, since the ballot box will be obscuredwhileballotsare beingcast.)

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

Brethrenof this Lodge, line up west of the Altar andproceedto ballot.

BRETHREN

:

(Form lines from west to easton either the north orthe south side of the Lodge room. At the directionof theSeniorDeacon,eachBrother proceedsto theAltar, saluteswith the Due Guard and Sign, andthen casts his ballot. In the eventthat lines form onboth the north and south sides, the SeniorDeaconwill begin the balloting with the first Brother on thewest endof the south line, followed by the firstBrother on the westendof thenorth line, alternatingonefrom the south line and thenone from the northline until all Brethrenin the lines have balloted. Inany event,eachBrother shall proceedto the ballotbox only whendirectedby the SeniorDeacon.)

UNIOR DEACON:

(After all Brethrenin the lineshave balloted, and attheSeniorDeacon’sdirection, proceedsto theAltar,salutes,castshis ballot andthenremainsat theAltarfor instructionsfrom the WorshipfulMaster.)

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

UNIOR DEACON:

(Retires in the usual manner.He then controls theanteroom doorfrom outsidetheLodgeroom. Duringballoting, no Brother should be allowed to enter orretire exceptby direct order of the W/orshipfulMaster, nor shouldany alarm be madeexceptunderthemostunusual,dire, or emergentcircumstances.)

TYLER

:

(Enters the Lodge in the usualmanner,and remainsat the Altar Line.)

Note: (TheAltar Line is an imaginary line runningNorth and South,approximatelythree(3) shortstepsWestofandparallel to theAltar.)

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

Brother Tyler, (repeatsthe instructionsand reads theInvestigationreport(s) as giventhe otherBrethren.)

TYLER

:

(Proceedsto the Altar, salutes,castshis ballot, andthenretires in theusualmanner.)

UNIOR DEACON:

(Enters the Lodge in the usual mannerand thenrepairs to his place in theLodge.)

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

Brethren,haveall membersof this Lodgewho are pre-sentballoted?

BrotherJuniorDeacon,retireandrelievetheTyler.

I

20 21


SENIORDEACON

:

(After waiting sufficient time to seeif any Brotherhas overlookedballoting, proceedsto the Altar,salutes,castshis ballot, andremainsat theAltar.)

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

I declaretheballot closed!

(Givesonerap to seatany standingBrothers.)

BrotherSenior Deacon,takechargeof the balLot boxandpresentit in theSouth,West,andEast.

SENIORDEACON

:

(Takescharge of theballot box and presentsit to theJuniorWarden,thenturns his backwhile theballot isbeinginspected.)

UNIOR WARDEN:

(Rises when the ballot box is placedupon hispedestal,inspectsthe ballot, and thenclosestheballotbox. He remainsstandinguntil seatedby theWorshipfulMaster.)

SENIORDEACON

:

I

(Again takescharge of the ballot box and presentsitto the SeniorWarden, then turns his back while theballot is beinginspected.)

SENIORWARDEN

:

(Riseswhen the ballot ~iox is placed upon hispedestal,inspectstheballot, and thenclosestheballotbox. He remains standinguntil seatedby theWorshipfulMaster.)

22

SENIORDEACON

:

(Againtakescharge of the ballot box and presentsitto the WorshipfulMaster. He then takesa place afew feet toward the Northeast, facing Southandremains there to return the ballot box to its restingplace in the Lodge room, or to prepare it for otherballoting.)

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

(Riseswhen the ballot box is placed upon hispedestal.)

BrotherJunior Warden,how do you find the ballot inthesouth?

UNIOR WARDEN:

Clear(Dark) in theSouth,WorshipfulMaster.

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

BrotherSenior Warden,how do you find the ballot intheWest?

SENIORWARDEN

:

Clear(Dark) in theWest, Worshipful N/laster.

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

(Opensthe ballot box and inspectsthe ballot. Iffound clear by himselfand the Wardens,he thendestroysthe ballot and returns the ballot box to theSeniorDeacon.)

Note:(In caseone or both wardensreport the ballot resultsdifferently from the findings of the Worshipful

23


Master, the WorshipfulMasterwill order the SeniorDeaconto againpresentthe ballot box in theSouth,Westand East; when done, he will again ask theWardenshow theyfind theballot. The Wardensandthe WorshipfulMaster mustfind the sameresultsbefore any declarationcan be made,either accep-tanceor rejection.)

SENIORDEACON

:

(Returnsthe ballot box to its restingplaceand takeshis seat, or retains it if additional balloting is antici-pated.)

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

Brethren,by your clear ballot, you have electedMr.(Messrs)Full Name, (Full Name,Full Name,Full Name,and Full Name) to receivethe threeSymbolic DegreesofFreemasonry.

(Givesonerap to seattheWardens.)

Note:

(If one or more blackcubesappearin the ballotbox on a collectiveballot, or only oneblackcubeon the first ballot of an individual petition, theWorshipfulMasterwill destroytheballot, but willnot usethe declaration as if elected; he will sayinstead:

BrotherSeniorDeacon,repreparetheballot box.

SENIORDEACON

:

(Preparesthe ballot box as before.A ballot will thenbe taken, using the regular procedure, on eachpeti-tion separatelyif a blackcube(s)appearedon a col-

lective ballot, or on the samepetition again if doneindividually and only one black cube appearedonthe first ballot. If only one black cubeappearson acollectiveballot, it is not to be consideredwhenbal-loting on the individual petitions. Rejectionof a peti-tion can only be madeon an individual ballot, not ona collective ballot, nor with one black cube on thefirst ballot on an individual petition. Rejectioncanonly occur when two or more black cubesare caston the first individual ballot, or one blackcubethefirst and oneor more on a successiveindividual bal-lot.)

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

Note:(Whentwo or moreblackcubesare castupona sin-gle petitionon the first ballot, or one or more blackcubes on the secondballot, the WorshipfulMasterdestroystheballot and thenwill say:)

Brethren,by yourdarkballot you haverejectedthepeti-tion of Mr. Full Name to receivethe three symbolicDegreesof Freemasonry.

(Givesonerap to seattheWardens.)

SENIORDEACON

:

(Returnsthe ballot box to its restingplaceand takeshis seat, or retains it if additional balloting is antici-pated.)

24 25

FLORIDA MASONIC MONITOR ENTERED APPRENTICEDEGREE

Entered Apprentice

Degree

First Section

SENIOR DEACON

:

(In the preparationroom speaksto the Candidate(s)and introducesthe Stewards,then speakingto theCandidate(s)says:)

Mr. (Messrs.)surname(and surname),everyCandidate,previous to his reception,is requiredto give his free andfull assentto thefollowing questions:

1. Do you seriouslydeclare,upon your honor, that unbi-asedby the impropersolicitation of friends, and uninflu-encedby mercenarymotives, you freely and voluntarilyoffer yourself(yourselves)as (a) Candidate(s)for the mys-teriesof Freemasonry?

CANDIDATE 5:

(Give(s)acceptableresponse.)

SENIORDEACON

:

2. Do you seriouslydeclare,uponyour honor,that you arepromptedto solicit the privileges of Freemasonryby afavorableopinion conceivedof the institution, a desireforknowledge,and a sincerewish of beingserviceableto yourfellow-creatures?

SENIORDEACON

:

3. Do you seriouslydeclare,upon yourhonor,that you willcheerfully conform to all the ancientusagesand estab-lishedcustomsof theFraternity?

CANDIDATE(S)

:


SENIORDEACON

:

Mr. (Messrs.)surname(andsurname),the institutionofwhich you areabout to becomea memberis by no meansof a light or trifling character,but of highest importanceand profound significance.Freemasonryis a systemofmoral instruction anciently taught by types, symbols andallegoricalfigures.Eventheceremonyof gaining admissionis symbolicalof aneventwhich we must all sooneror laterexperience.You are doubtlessawarethat whatevera manmaypossesson earth,whetherit be title, wealth,honor,oreven“a good reputation”will not gain him admissionintothe CelestialLodge above,but, before gaining admissionthere,he must becomepoor andpenniless,blind andnaked,entirely dependentupon thesovereignwill of theSupremeGrandMaster above.In order to impressthismore forcibly upon your mind, it is necessaryt y b d o youtwarda a c i agarbf y b theL.

Are y w t s t t regulation?

CANDIDATE(S)

:

SENIORDEACON

:

You w thenb p ~i aa h b w h g t w b y.CANDIDATE(S)

:


26 27


* * * * * * * * * * * * * *

SENIORDEACON

:

Mr. surname,you are * * * * * *

WORSHIPFULMASTER: (RISES)

:

Mr. (Messrs.)surname(and surname),asMasonswe aretaught never to enterupon any greator important under-taking without first invoking theblessingof Deity.* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

PRAYER

(At the Initiation ofa Candidate)

CHAPLAIN

:

(Standingat his place.)

VouchsafeThine aid, Almighty Fatherof theUniverse,to this our presentconventionandgrant that this (these)Candidate(s)for Masonrymay (each)dedicateanddevotehis life to Thy service,and becomea true and faithfulBrotheramongus.Enduehim (them)with acompetencyofThy divine wisdom,that, by the influenceof thepureprin-ciples of our Fraternity,he (they) maybe betterenabledtodisplay the beautiesof holiness,to the honorof Thy holyname.Amen!

BRETHREN

:

Somote it be.* * * * * * * * * * * * * *

CIRCUMAMBULATION

UNIOR WARDEN:

*

CHAPLAIN

:

Behold,how good andhow pleasantit is for Brethrentodwell togetherin unity.

SENIORWARDEN

:

*

CHAPLAIN

:

It is like thepreciousointmentupon the head,that randownupon thebeard,evenAaron’s beard,that wentdownto theskirts ofhis garments.

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

*

CHAPLAIN

:

As the dew of Hermon,and asthe dew that descer~dedupon themountainsof Zion; for theretheLord command-ed theblessing,evenlife forevermore.(133rdPsalm)* * * * * * * * * * * * * *

OBLIGATION* * * * * * * * * * * * * *

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

In thebeginningGod createdtheheavenand theearth,And the earthwaswithout form arid void, and darknesswas upon the face of the deep.And the Spirit of God

28 29


movedupon the face of the waters.And God said. “Lettherebe light,” and therewaslight. In humblecommemo-rationof that augustevent,I say * * * *

(Advancesto theAltar.)

My Brother(s)uponbeing * * * * * *

The three * * * in Masonryare the Holy Bible,SquareandCompasses.

The Holy Bible is dedicatedto the serviceof God,becauseit is the inestimablegift of God to man, * *

* *; the Squareto the Worshipful Master, becauseit isthe proper Masonic emblem of his office; and theCompassesto the Craft,becauseby adue attentionto theiruse,we are taughtto circumscribeour desires,andkeepourpassionswithin dueboundstoward * * * * * aBrotherMason.

The three * * * * are the Sun, Moon andWorshipful Master,representedby * * * ~, and arethusexplained:As the * * * * * theLodge.* * * * * * * * * * * * * *

APRON PRESENTATION* * * * * * * * * * * * * *

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

You behold * * * * for the purposeof present-ing you with a lambskinor white leatherapron.* It is anemblemof innocenceand the badgeof a Mason,moreancientthan the GoldenFleeceor RomanEagle, morehonorablethan the Star and,Garter, or any otherorderthat canbe conferreduponyou, at this or any futureperiodby king, prince,potentate,or any otherperson,excepthebe a Mason. It is hoped * * * * yourself(your-

selves) * * * *

Takeit(them) * * * *, * * * *

(them) * * * * anEnteredApprenticeMason.it

* * * * * * * * * * * * * *

WORKING TOOLS

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

(Risesand stepsout on thesouth side of his pedestalwhenthe SeniorDeaconand Candidate(s)approachhis station.)

Beingclothed * * * * * * * * * *

The working tools of anEnteredApprenticeMasonaretheTwenty-four inchGaugeandCommonGavel.

TheTwenty-four inch Gaugeis an instrumentmadeuseof by operativeMasonsto measureand lay out their work,but we, asFree andAcceptedMasons,are taught to useitfor the more noble and glorious purposeof dividing ourtime. It being divided into twenty-four equalparts, isemblematicalof the twenty-four hours of the day, whichwe are taughtto divide into threeequalparts,wherebyarefound eight hours for the serviceof God and a distressedworthy Brother,eight for ourusualvocations,andeight forrefreshmentandsleep.

The CommonGavel is an ir~strumentmadeuseof byoperativeMasonsto breakoff the cornersof roughstones,the better to fit them for the builder’s use,but we, asFreeand AcceptedMasons,are taught to use it for the morenobleandgloriouspurposeof divestingourheartsandcon-sciencesof thevicesandsupeffluitiesof life, therebyfittingour minds as living stonesfor that spiritual building—thathousenot madewith hands—eternalin theheavens.

30 31


Agreeableto an ancientcustom, it now becomesmyduty to demandof you somemineralor metallicsubstance,not for its intrinsic valuealone,but that it maybedeposit-edamongthe archivesof this Lodge to show that youwerehereinmadea Mason.

* * * * * * * *7

CANDIDATE 5:* * * *

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

* * * * yourself(yourselves) * * * *7

CANDIDATE S

(May answer.)

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

I well knew,my Brother(s), * * * * *

Youwillnow * * * * * * * * corner.

SENIORDEACON

:

(PlacesCandidate(s).)

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

Youarenow * * * * * * * * *,aj~tandupright man and Mason, (just and upright men andMasons),and I give it you strictly in chargeever to walkandact assuchbeforeGodandman.* * * * * * * * * ,* * * * *

SecondSectionTHE WRITING CEREMONY

I

I

(At the direction of the WorshipfulMaster, theSenior Deaconis to conducteachindividual candi-date to the East where he will be instructedin theWritingCeremony.)

Third SectionTHE LECTURE OFTHE

ENTEREDAPPRENTICEDEGREE

WORSHIPFUL MASTER

:

BrotherSeniorDeacon,provide the Brother(s)with (a)seat(s)to receivethe lecture,which will now be deliveredby ________. (or, which I will now deliver.)

LECTURER

:

SYMBOLISM OF THE DEGREE

The First, or EnteredApprenticeDegreeof Freemasonryis intended,symbolically, to representthe entranceof maninto the world, in which he is afterwardsto becomea liv-ing and thinking actor. Comingfrom the ignoranceanddarknessof the outer world, his first craving is for light—not that physicallight which springsfrom the greatorb ofday as its fountain, but that moral and intellectual lightwhich emanatesfrom theprimal sourceof all things—fromthe GrandArchitect of the Universe—theCreatorof thesunandof all that it illuminates.Hencethe great,the pri-mary objectof theFirst Degreeis to symbolizethat birth ofintellectuallight in the mind; and the EnteredApprenticeis the type of unregenerateman, groping in moral andmentaldarkness,andse~ekingfor thelight which is to guidehis stepsandpoint him to thepathwhich leadsto duty andto Him who givesto duty its reward.

32 33

FLORIDA MASONIC MONITOR ENTEREDAPPRENTICEDEGREE

Thosearoundyou areyour Brethren,readyto dischargeall the offices of that intimate relation.They now bid youwelcometo their numberandfellowship,to their affectionsand assistance,to their privilegesandjoys; and throughmetheypromiseto protectyou by their influenceandauthori-ty, to adviseyou by their abilities and skill, to assistyourneedby their [iberality andbounty,and to cheeryou at alltimes with their kindnessand love. Your diligence andactivity, your skill in acquiring the instructions of yourDegree,andyourzeal in thecauseof Freemasonrywill leadyou forward to greaterheights,to clearerviews,andnoblerprivileges.

THE PREPARATION(OPTIONAL)

(Thepreparation is in all points symbolical.TheCandidateis in searchofLight and Wisdom.He rep-resentsthe individual manas he comesfrom thedarknessof the outer world, and he wandersin thisdarknessuntil first guided by experience,in which isinvolvedsuffering, calamity, and distress,and after-ward by ReasonwhenFaith andLoveunsealhis eyesto the light of knowledgeand liberty.)

RECAPITULATION

The Forms andCeremoniesof your initiation may haveseemedto you light and frivolous, if not absolutelyunmeaning,and of sucha naturethat they could havebeenwaivedoradoptedat pleasure;but suchI assureyou isnot the fact, as none of them could havebeenproperlyomitted; for it maywith truth be said of Freemasonrythatall of its FormsandCeremonieshaveemblematicalmean-ing and thosethroughwhich you havejust passedwill nowbeexplainedto you. This sectionis framedinto a lectureof

34

f

two parts, the first tracing thoseFormsand Ceremonies,and thesecondexplainingwhy youwerethusdealtwith.

Without the explanationgiven in this sectionthe mindof the initiate would still be in darkness;all would be mys-teriousand incomprehensible.WhentheseCeremoniesareproperly explained, the Candidatediscoversthat hisprogressis repletewith valuableinstructionand the asser-tion is confirmed that everycharacter,figure and emblemdepictedin the Lodgehasa moralsignification, inculcatesthe practiceof the noblestvirtuesand furnishessufficientproofof the correctnessof thedefinition that “Freemasonryis a systemof morality, veiled in allegory and illustratedbysymbols.”

You were first preparedby Almighty God * *

knocks.You were divested * * * * * * into the

Lodge.

Secondly,at the building * * * * * humanhands.

You wereneither * * * * * * * a Mason.

You were neither * * * * * * * “for toconfirm all things; a manpluckedoff his shoe,and gave itto his neighbor;and this wasa testimony in Israel.?’ Thiswedo, * * * * weareengaged.

You were * * * * * theform thereof.

(Variouspassagesof Scriptureare referredto in thissectionas explaining the traditions of Masonry andarefor referenceonly.)

(II. CHRONICbES2:16.

“And we will cut woodout of Lebanon,as muchas thou shaltneed: and we will bring it to theein floats by seato loppa; and

35


thou shaltcarry it up to Jerusalem.”)

(I. KINGs 6:7.“And the house,when it was in building, was built of stonemadeready before it was brought thither: so that there wasnei-ther hammernor axe nor any tool of iron heard in the house,while it wasin building. ‘)

(RUTH 4:7.

‘Now this was the mannerin former time in Israel concerningredeemingandconcerningchanging,for to confirm all things; amanpluckedoff his shoe,and gave it to his neighbor:and thiswasa testimonyin Israel.”)

(ST. MATTHEw 7:7.

“Ask, and it shall be givenyou; seek,and yeshall find; knock,and it shall be openedunto you.”)

You were caused * * * * * “Ask, and it shallbe givenyou; seek,andye shall find; knock, and it shallbeopenedunto you.” When applied * * * * it wasopenedunto you.~ You were received * * * *

to you.

You werethentold * * * * fearno danger.

You were conductedpared.

You will have observed,my Brother(s),

* Compasses,* * * * * * * * * * * * * *

truly pre-

* * * *

The right handhasin at[ agesbeendeemedanemblemof fidelity, and our ancientBrethrenworshippedDeityunder the nameFides, or Fidelity, which was sometimesrepresentedby two right handsjoined, and sometimesbytwo humanfiguresclaspingtight hands.

* * * * *

r

(OPTIONAL)(The placing of the right hand upon the HolyScripturesis distinctly laid down as a necessarypartof the formality of the oath, meaningthe HolyGospelsbeingtouched.)

You werepresented * * * * * * aMason.

The Lamb has in all agesbeendeemedan emblemofinnocence.He, therefote,who wearsthe Lambskinasthebadgeof a Masonis constantlyremindedof that purity oflife and rectitudeof conductso essentiallynecessaryto hisgaining admissioninto the Celestial Lodgeabove, wheretheSupremeArchitectof theUniversepresides.

You were placed * * * * * * andto all out-ward appearancea just and upright manand Mason, (justandupright menand Masons),andhe gave it you strictlyin charge: “ever to walk and act as suchbefore God andman.~~

(OPTIONAL)

(In the importantceremonywhichrefers to thenorth-eastcorner of the Lodge, the candidatebecomesasone who is to all outward appearancea perfectandupright manand Mason, the representativeof spiri-tual corner-stoneon which he is to erect his fwuremoral andMasonicedifice.)

(OPTIONAL)(A corner-stoneis perfectlysquareon its surface, itis in its formand solid, a cube.Now, thesquareandcubeare both impqrtant and significant symbols.Thesquareis an emblemofMorality, or thestrict perfor-manceof everyduty. The squareteachesus to regu-late our conductbeforeGodandman. The cube is a

36 37


symbolof truth and wisdom,and moral perfection.JusticestandsuponDivine truth.)

In the erectionof al[ greatand important buildings,especiallythoseof Masonicform, “The first or corner-stoneis taid in the northeastcorner.” You were therefore, thus,appropriatelyplacedto representa spirituat corner-stoneupon which you are to erect your future, “moral andMasonicedifice.’’

You werethenorderedreconductedto the placewhenceyou cameand therereinvestedwith that of which you hadbeendivestedandreturnedto theLodge.

(This Sectionexplainsthe mannerofconstitutingandtheproperauthority for holding a Lodge.Here,also,we learn whereLodges were anciently held, theirForm, Support,Covering, Furniture, Ornaments,Lights and Jewels,How Situated, and To WhomDedicated,as well in former timesas at present.)

HOLY BIBLE, SQUARE,COMPASSESAND CHARTER

A Lodge is an assemblageof Masons,duly congregated,having the Holy Bible, Squareand Compasses,and aCharteror Warrantauthorizingthemto work.

LodgeCommunicationsat the presentday areusuallyheld in upperchambers—probablyfor the bettersecuritywhich suchplacesafford. It maybe, however,that the cus-tom had its origin in a practiceobservedby the ancientJews of building their temples,schoolsand synagoguesonhigh hills, a practicewhich seemsto havemet the appro-bation of theA[mighty, who ~aidunto theProphetEzekieL“Upon the top of the mountain, the whole timit thereofroundaboutshallbemostholy.” -

38

ENTEREDAPPRENTICEDEGREE

FORM AND DIMENSIONS OFA LODGE

The form of a Lodge is an oblong * * *

(Masonicallymeaninga squarewithin a square).Its dimen-sions, from eastto west, embracingevery ctime betweennorth and south. In fact, its universalchain of friendshipencircleseveryportion of the humanfraternityand beamswherevercivilization extends.

THE SUPPORTSOFA LODGE

A Lodge is metaphoricallysupportedby threegreatpil-lars, denominatedWisdom, Strengthand Beauty; becausethereshouldbe wisdom to contrive,strengthto support,and beautyto adornall greatand importantundertakings.They are representedby the threeprincipal officers of theLodge: the pillar Wisdom,by theWorshipful Masterin theEast,who is presumedto havewisdom to openandgovernthe Lodge; the pitlar Strength,by the SeniorWardeninthe West,whoseduty it is to assistthe Worshipful Masterin the dischargeof his arduous[abors; and the pillarBeauty,by theJunior Wardenin the South,that situationenabling him the better to observethat bright luminarywhich, at its meridianheight, is thebeautyandglory of theday.

THE COVER[NO OFA LODGE

The Coveringof a Lodge is no less thanthe cloudedcanopyor starry-deckedheaven,where all good Masonshope at last to arrive by aid of that theo[ogical ladderwhich Jacobin his vision saw extendingfrom earth toheaven,the principal roundsof which aredenominatedFaith,HopeandCharity, which admonishus to haveFaithin God, Hope in im’mortality, and Charity toward altmankind. The greatestof theseis Charity; for our Faithmay be lost in sight, Hopeendsin fruition, but Charity

39


extendsbeyondthegrave, throughthe boundlessrealmsofeternity.

THE FURNITUREOF A LODGE

Every wel[ reguLatedand governedLodge is furnishedwith theHoly Bible, SquareandCompasses,togetherwitha Charteror Dispensation.The Holy Bible is dedicatedtotheserviceof God, becauseit is the inestimablegift of Godto Man, as the * * *, * * * * * ourBrethren.

(OPTIONAL)

(The Holy Bible is properly called a greaterLight inMason~, for from the centerof the Lodge it poursforth upontheEast, the Westand theSouthits reful-gentrays of Divine Truth. The Bible is usedamongMasonsas the symbolof thewill of God, howeveritmaybe expressed.)

The Squareis dedicatedto the Worshipful Master,becauseit is theproper Masonic emblemof his office, andthe Compassesto the Craft, becauseby a due attentiontotheir use, they are taught to circumscribetheir desiresandkeeptheir passionswithin due boundstoward all mankind,especiallytheBrethren.

THE ORNAMENTS

TheOrnamentsof a LodgearetheMosaic Pavement,theIndentedTesselandthe BlazingStar.

The Mosaic Pavementis a representationof the groundfloor ofKing Solomon’sTemple;theIndentedTessel,of thatbeautiful tessellatedborderor skirting which surroundedit.,TheMosaicPavementis emblematicalofhumanlife, check-eredwith good and evil; the IndentedTessel,or tessellatedborder,of the manifold blessingsand comforts which con-

stantlysurroundus, and which we hopeto enjoy by a firmrelianceon Divine Providence,which is hieroglyphicallyrepresentedby theBlazingStarin thecenter.

THE LIGHTS—HOW SITUATED

A LodgehasthreeLights, situatedEast,WestandSouth,Thereis nonein theNorth,becauseKing Solomon’sTemplewassituatedsofar north of the ecliptic that the sun,evenatmeridian,did not dart its rays into the northernmostpartthereof.The North, therefore,we Masonicallyterm a placeof darkness.

THE JEWELS

A Lodgehassix Jewels—threemovableandthreeimmov-able.

TheimmovableJewelsare theSquare,Level andPlumb.

The Squareinculcatesmorality; the Level, equality; andthe Plumb,rectitudeof conduct.

TheseJewelsare so termedbecausethey areappropriatedto particularpartsof the Lodge,whereaLone they shouldbefound—theSquareto the East, the Level to the Westandthe Plumb to the South. Although the Brethrenoccupyingthosestationsmayfrom time to time bechanged,theJewelswill alwaysbe foundin their respectivestationsin theLodge.

The movableJewelsare the Rough Ashlar, the PerfectAshlarandthe Trestle-board.

The RoughAshlar is a stonein its rude andnaturalstate,astakenfrom the quarry; the PerfectAshlar is onepreparedby the workmen, to be adjustedby the working tools of theFellow Craft; and the Trestle-boardis for the masterwork-manto drawhis designsupon.

By the RoughAshlar we are remindedof our rude andimperfectstateby nature;by the PerfectAshlar,of that state

40 41


of perfectionat which wehopeto arriveby a virtuous educa-tion, ourown endeavorsandthe blessingof God.Theopera-tive workmanerectshis temporalbuilding in accordancewith the designslaid down upon the Trestle-boardby themasterworkman; so shouldwe, both operativeandspecula-tive, endeavorto erectour spiritual building in accordancewith the designslaid down by the SupremeArchitectof theUniverse in the Great Book of Nature andRevelation,which is ourspiritual,moraland MasonicTrestle-board.

HOW SITUATED

Lodgesare situateddue eastand west,becauseKingSolomon’sTemple was so situated.Moses,by divine com-mand,after havingconductedthe children of Israel out ofthe land of Egypt, from the houseof bondage,through theRed Seaand into the wilderness,erecteda TabernacletoGod, which he situateddue eastand west,to commemoratethat miraculouseastwind which wroughttheirmighty deliv-erance.King Solomon’sTempleis saidto havebeena repre-sentationof thatTabernacle.

TOWHOM DEDICATED

Lodges were anciently dedicatedto King Solomon,ashewas our first Most ExcellentGrandMaster; but modernMasonsdedicatetheirs to SaintJohnthe Baptist andSaintJohn the Evangelist,who were two eminentpatronsofMasonry.Sincetheir time, thereis representedin every regu-lar and well governedLodge, a certainpoint within a cir-cle—thepoint representingan individual Brother; thecircle,the boundary-lineof his conduct toward God and man;beyondwhich he is neverto sufferhis passions,prejudicesorintereststo betrayhim, on any occasion.This circle is~betweenthe two perpendicularpara[lel lines, which repre-sentthoseSaints,who were perfectparallelsin Christianity,as well as in Masonry;and upon the vertex reststhe Holy

[Scriptures,which point out thewhole duty of man.In goingaroundthiscircle, wenecessarilytouchuponthesetwo lines,as well asupon the Holy Scriptures;and while a Masonkeepshimself thus circumscribedit is impossiblethat heshouldmateriallyerr.

TENETS

The principal tenetsof our professionare three-fold,including the inculcation and practiceof thosetruly com-mendablevirtues,Brother[y Love,ReliefandTruth.

BROTHERLY LOVE

By the exerciseof Brotherly Love,we are taught to regardthe whole humanraceasone family—thehigh, the low, therich, the poor—who,beingcreatedby oneAlmighty Parent,and inhabitantsof the sameplanet,ought to aid, support,and protect eachother. On this principle, Masonryunitesmenof everycountry,sectandopinion, andconciliatestruefriendshipamongthosewho might otherwisehaveremainedat a perpetualdistance.

RELIEF

To relieve thedistressed,is a duty incumbenton all men,but particularlyon Masons,who are linked togetherby anindissolublechainof sincereaffection.To soothetheunhap-py; to sympathizewith them in their misfortunes;to compas-sionatetheir miseries,and to restorepeaceto their troubledminds, is the greataim we have in view. On this basis, weform ourfriendshipsandestablishourconnections.

TRUTH

Truth is a Divine attribute,and the foundationof everyvirtue. To be good merk and true, is the first lessonwe aretaught in Masonry.On this themewe contemplate,and byits dictatesendeavorto regulateour conduct.Flence,while

42 43


influencedby this principle, hypocrisy and deceit areunknownamongus; sincerity andplain dealingdistinguishus; and the heartand the tonguejoin in promotingeachother’swelfare,andrejoicing in eachother’s prosperity.

THE PERFECTPOINTSOF ENTRANCE(Pectoral,Manual,GutturalandPedal)

In the future, my Brother(s),you will be ableto makeyourself(yourselves) * * * * *

* * * *

pectoral,manual,guttural andpedal,

andallude * * * * * * * * * andJustice.

FORTITUDE

Fortitude is that noble and steadypurposeof the mindwherebyweareenabledto undergoanypain,peril ordanger,whenprudentiallydeemedexpedient,

(OPTIONAL)

(Thisvirtue is equallydistantfrom rashnessand cow-ardice, andshouldbe deeplyimpresseduponyourmindas a safeguardor securityagainstany attack that maybe made,by forceor otherwise,to extortfrom you anyof thosevaluable secretswith which you have beensosolemnlyintrusted,)

and which were emblematicallyrepresenteduponyour firstadmissioninto the Lodge, * * *, * * *, * *

PRUDENCE

Prudenceteachesus to regulateour lives andactionsagreeablyto the dictatesof reason,and is that habit by~whichwe wisely judgeandprudentlydetermineon all thingsrelativeto ourpresent,aswell as to ourfuturehappiness,

(OPTIONAL)

(Thisvirtue shouldbe your peculiarcharacteristic,notonly for the governmentof your conductwhile in theLodge but also whenabroad in the world. You shouldbe particularly cautiousin all strangeor mixedcompa-nies neverto let fall the least sign, tokenor wordwherebythe secretsofFreemasonrymight be unlawful-ly obtained, and,)

*everbearingin mind yoursolemnengagements ** * * * * * * * *

TEMPERANCE

Temperanceis that due restraintupon our affectionsandpassionswhich rendersthe body tameand governable,andfreesthemind from theallurementsofvice,

(OPTIONAL)

(This virtue should be your constantpractice, as youare thereby taught to avoid excessor contractinganylicentious or vicious habits, the indulgenceof whichmight lead you to disclosesomeof those valuablesecretswhich you havepromisedto concealand neverreveal, and which would consequentlysubjectyou tothe contemptanddetestationofall goodMasons,)

and constantlyremindsyou of the penaltyfor the violationof yourobligation, * * * *, * * * *

JUSTICE

Justiceis that standardorboundaryof rightwhich enablesusto renderto everymanhis just duewithoutdistinction,

(OPTIONAL)

(This virtue is not only consistentwith divine andhumanlaws, but it is the very cementand supportof

44 45


civil society; and, as justice in a great measureconsti-tutes the really goodman,so should it be your invari-able practice never to deviatefrom the minutusprinci-ples thereof;)

andby rememberingtheChargeyou receivedwhenstandingin thenortheastcornerofthe Lodge,* *, * *

CHALK, CHARCOAL AND CLAY

In the attainmentof Masonicknowledge,my Brother(s),it is hopedthat you will apply yourself(yourselves)with thesamefreedom,fervencyand zeal with which our ancientBrethrenare said to haveservedtheir masters,representedby Chalk,CharcoalandClay.

There is nothingfreer thanChalk, the slightest touchofwhich leavesa trace;anciently, therewasnothingmore fer-vent thanCharcoal,for to it, when properly ignited, themost obduratemetalswould yield; there is nothing morezealousthanClay, our Mother Earth, for it aloneof all theelementshasneverprovedunfriendly to man. Bodiesofwaterdelugehim with rain,oppresshim with hail anddrownhim with inundation;the Air rushesin stormsand preparesthe tempest;and Fire lights up the volcano; but the Earth,everkind and indulgent, is found subservientto his wishes.Thoughconstantlyharassed,more to furnish the luxuriesthanthenecessitiesof life, sheneverrefusesheraccustomedyield, spreadinghis pathwaywith flowers andhis tablewithplenty. Though sheproducespoison, still shesuppliestheantidote,andreturnswith interestevery goodcommittedtoher care;and whenat last he is calleduponto passthroughthe “dark valley of the shadowof death” sheonce morereceiveshim, and piously covershis remainswithin herbosom,thus admonishingus that from it we came,and to itwemustshortly return.

FORINSTRUCTION(OPTIONAL)

(Such is the arrangementof the differentsectionsinthefirst lecture, which, with theforms adoptedat theopeningand closingof a Lodge, comprehendsthewhole of the First Degreeof Freemasonry.Thisplanhas theadvantageof regularity to recommendit, thesupport of precedentand authority and the sanctionandrespectwhichflowfrom antiquity.)

Thankyou, Worshipful Masterand Brethren.(If otherthantheWorshipfulMasterdeliversthelecture.)

WORSHIPFUL MASTER

:

This, my Brother(s),concludesthe First, or EnteredApprenticeDegreein Freemasonry,except the * * *

* from time immemorial.

The Chargewill bedeliveredby Brother______

comeforwardandreceiveit.*(Worshipful Masterpausesfor SeniorDeacon to

takehis position.)

(The WorshipfulMastermaydesignatesomeotherBrother to deliver or read the Charge. In the eventthe WorshipfulMasterelects to deliver or read theCharge himself, he will omit the words “The Chargewill be deliveredby Brother_____

CFIARGEAT INITIATION

Brother(s),asyou arenow introducedinto the first prin-ciplesof Freemasonry,I congratulateyou on being accept-~edinto this ancientandhonorableOrder:—ancient,ashaving existedfrom time immemorial; and honorable,astending in everyparticular,so to renderall menwho willbe conformableto its precepts.No institution was ever

I’

Arise,*

46 47


raisedon a better principle or more solid foundation; norwere ever more excellent rules and useful maxims laiddown, thanare inculcatedin theseveralMasonicLectures.The greatestandbestof men, in all ageshavebeenencour-agersand promotersof the art; andhavenever deemeditderogatoryto their dignity to level themselveswith theFraternity, extendtheir privileges, andpatronize theirassemblies.Thereare threegreatdutieswhich, as a Mason,youarechargedto inculcate:

(The Worshipful Mastergives three raps with thegavel * * * and removeshis hat at thispoint.)

to god, your neighbor, and yourself. to god, in nevermentioningHis namebut with that reverentialawe whichis duefrom a creatureto his Creator; to implore Flis aid inall your laudableundertakings,and to esteemHim as thechiefgood.

(WorshipfulMastergivesone rap with the gavel *

and putshis hat on.)

To your neighbor, in acting upon the square,and indoing unto him asyou would he should do unto you; andto yourself, in avoiding all irregularitiesand intemperance,which may impair your faculties,or debasethe dignity ofyour profession.A zealousattachmentto thesedutieswillinsurepublic andprivateesteem.

In the stateyou are to be a quiet and peacefulcitizen,true to your government,andjust to your country.You arenot to countenancedisloyalty or rebellion, but patientlysubmitto legalauthority,andconformwith cheerfulnesstothe governmentof the country in which you live. In youroutwarddemeanor,be particularlycareful to avoid censureandreproach.

Although your frequent appearance at ourCommunicationsis earnestlysolicited, yet it is not meantthat Masonryshould interfere with your necessaryvoca-tions; for theseare on no accountto be neglected;neitherareyou to suffer your zeal for the institution to leadyouinto argumentwith thosewho, through ignorance,mayridicule it.~ At your leisurehours, that you may improvein Masonic knowledge,you are to conversewith well-informedBrethren,who will be alwaysasreadyto give, asyou will be to receiveinstruction.

Finally, keepsacredand inviolable the mysteriesof theOrder; as theseareto distinguishyou from the restof thecommunity,andmarkyourconsequenceamongMasons.If,in the circle of your acquaintance,you find a persondesirousof being initiated into the Fraternity, be particu-larly careful not to recommendhim, unlessyou are con-vincedthat he will conform to our rules; that the honor,glory, andreputationof theinstitution maybe firmly estab-lished,andtheworld at largeconvincedof its goodeffects.

CHARGE(AT THE INITIATION OF A SOLDIER)

Brother, our Institution breathesa spirit of generalphi-lanthropy.Its benefits,in a socialpoint of view, areexten-sive. In the most endearingties, it unitesall mankind. Inevery nation, wherevercivilization extends—andnotunfrequently amongthe wild savagesof the forest—itopensan asylumto a Brother in distress,and grantshospi-tality to the necessitousand unfortunate.The sublimeprinciples of universalgoodnessand love to all mankind,which areessentialto it,~ cannotbe lost in nationaldistinc-tions, prejudices,and animosities.The rage of contestandthe sanguinaryconflict have,by its recognizedprinciples,beenabated,and the milder emotionsof humanitysubsti-

48 49


tuted. It hasoften performedthe part of the Angel ofGoodness,in ministering to the wantsof the sick, thewounded,and the unfortunateprisoner of war. It haseventaughtthepride of victory to give way to the dictatesof anhonorableconnection.

Purepatriotism will alwaysanimateyou to everycall ofyourcountry to repelan invadingforeign foe, or in subdu-ing the rebellious intentionsof thosewithin the limits ofour own land who becomefaithlessto the high duty of acitizen. But should you, while engagedin the serviceofyour country,be madecaptive, you may find affectionateBrethrenwhereotherswould find only enemies.

The Institution also demandsthat you shall be a quietandpeaceablecitizen, true to yourgovernment,andjust toyour country; yielding obedienceto the laws which affordyou protection.

In whatevercountry you travel, when you meet aMason,you will find a brotheranda friend,who will do allin his powerto serve you; andwho will relieveyou, shouldyou be pooror in distress,to the utmostof his ability, andwith a readycheerfulness.

(If Brother other than the WorshipfulMasterreadsor deliverstheCharge,he will say:)

Thankyou, Worshipful MasterandBrethren.

(Thentakeshis seat.)

WORSHIPFUL MASTER

:

My Brother(s),pleasehaveaseatamongtheBrethren.

The Fellow CraftDegree

First Section

(The Squareis an important emblemin this degree.The Fellow Craft is instructed, on his entrance,thatthis symbolshouldbe a rule andguide ofhis conductwith all mankind,but especiallya BrotherMason.)

SENIORDEACON

:

Brother (surname),you areMason.

CIRCUMAMBULATION

* * * a Brother

UNIOR WARDEN:

*

SENIORWARDEN

:

*

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

*

UNIOR WARDEN:

**

CHAPLAIN

:

(Standingat his place.)

Thus he shewed(pronounced“showed”) me; and

50 51

FLORIDA MASONIC MONITOR FELLOW CRAFT DEGREE

behold, the Lord stoodupon a wall madeby a plumbline,with a plumbline in his hand.

SENIORWARDEN

:

**

CHAPLAIN

:

And the Lord saidunto me,Amos, whatseestthou?

And I said;A plumbline.Thensaid the Lord; Behold, I

will seta plumbline in themidst of my peopleIsrael.

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

**

CHAPLAIN

:

I will not againpassby themanymore:(Amos 7:7-8)* * * * * * * * * * * * * *

WORK[NG TOOLS

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

(Risesand stepsout on the southside of his pedestalwhenthe SeniorDeaconand Candidate(s)approachhis Station.)

Beingclothed * * * * * *

The working tools of a Fellow Craft Masonare thePlumb,SquareandLevel.

The Plumb is an instrumentmadeuseof by operativeMasons to try perpendiculars,the Squareto squaretheir,work, and the Level to prove horizontals,but we, asFreeand AcceptedMasons,are taught to usethem for morenoble and glorious purposes.The Plumb admonishesus to

walk uprightly in ourseveralstationsbeforeGodand man,squaringour actionsby the Squareof Virtue, ever remem-bering that we are traveling upon the Level of Time,toward “that undiscoveredcountry from whosebournenotravelerreturns.”

The Three PreciousJewelsof a Fellow Craft are theAttentive Ear, the Instructive Tongueand the FaithfulBreast.The * * * * * * * * * Breasts.

Youwillnowbe * * * * * * * *

Temple.* * * * * * * * * * * * * *

52 53


SecondSection

WINDING STAIRSLECTUREINTRODUCTION

SENIORDEACON (LECTURER)

:

My Brother(s),Freemasonrybeinganallegoricalsystem,all of its parts,points and secretsmust partakeof its sym-bolic construction.Every Ceremonyhasits mystical refer-ence,and everyLandmarkits [egitimate explanation.It isconsistentin all of its parts, which point to one and thesameobject,keptprominently in view in all of thedegrees.Every Landmarkand everymysticalCeremonyconstituteapLain type of some greateventwhich appearsto be inti-matelyconnectedwith ourbestanddearestinterest.

Conveying instructionby symbols hasbeena meansmadeuseof amongall nationsin all partsof theworld, dat-ing back in its history to the first teachersof man.All thewise men of the East, including Solomon, the greatandwiseKing of Israel,as well asthosefrom thehumblerwalksof life, haveveiled their discoursein allegory and illustrat-ed it by symbols.

TheFirst Degreein Masonryis symbolic andmoral.TheSecondembraceshistory and science.The Allegory ofFreemasonryis the building of King Solomon’s TempleatJerusalem,and our legendsdatefrom that epoch.Theworking tools thereusedfurnish us with manyof our sym-bols, and many of our ceremonieswere practicedby itsbuilders.In orderto facilitate thework of building andpre-vent confusion in the paymentof wages,the Craft weredivided into classes,or, aswe designatethem, Degrees,andto eachclasswas assignedmethodsof recognition.TheSecondClass, or FelLow Crafts, receivedtheir wagesin

[

54 55


Corn, Wine and Oil in the Middle Chamber.Hencewesay a Lodge oF Fellow Crafts representsthe MiddleChamberof King Solomon’sTemple, as doesthat of theEnteredApprenticethe Ground Floor. We termadvance-ment to this Degree“passing” and we say “passedto theDegreeof Fellow Craft,” for in goingfrom thegroundfloorto the Middle Chamberof King Solomon’sTemple, onenecessarilypassedbetweentwo beautifulbrazenpillars.

Freemasonryis classedundertwo denominations—OperativeandSpeculative.

OPERATIVEMASONRY

By OperativeMasonrywe allude to a properapplicationof the useful rules of architecture,whencea structurewillderivefigure, strengthandbeauty,andwhencewill resultadueproportionand a just correspondencein all its parts.Itfurnishesus with dwellings and convenientsheltersfromthe vicissitudesand inclemenciesof seasons;and while itdispLaystheeffectsof humanwisdom, as well in the choiceasin the arrangementof the sundrymaterialsof which anedifice is composed,it demonstratesthat a fund of scienceandindustry is implanted in manfor thebest,mostsalutaryandbeneficentpurposes.

SPECULATIVEMASONRY

By SpeculativeMasonrywe learnto subduethepassions,actupon the Square,keep a tongueof good report,main-tain secrecy,and practicecharity. It is so far interwovenwith religion as to lay us under obligationsto pay thatrationalhomageto theDeity which at onceconstitutesourduty and ourhappiness.It leadsthecontemplativeto viewwith reverenceand admirationthe glorious works of cre-

ation, and inspireshim with the mostexaltedideasof theperfectionof his Divine Creator.

We work in SpeculativeMasonry,but our ancientbrethrenwroughtin both Operativeand Speculative.Theyworked at the building of King Solomon’s Temple,andmanyothersacredandMasonicedifices.

Theywroughtsix daysandrestedon theseventh.

This sectionalso refers to the origin of the JewishSabbath,asweLl asto the mannerin which it waskept byourancientbrethren.

In six daysGod createdthe heavenand the earth,andrestedupon the seventh;the seventhday, therefore,ourancientbrethrenconsecratedasa day of rest from theirlabors,therebyenjoying frequentopportunitiesto contem-plate theglorious worksof creationand to adoretheir greatCreator.

*At the building of King Solomon’s Temple,before* * * * * Middle Chamber.

THE TWO PILLARS

(OPTIONAL—BIBLICAL REFERENCES)

(For he cast two pillars of brass, of eighteencubitshigh apiece, and a line of twelvecubits did compasseitherofthemabout. I Kings 7:15.)

(Also he madebefore the housetwo pillars of thirtyand five cubits high, and the chapiter thatwason thetop ofeachof themwasfive cubits. II Chron. 3:15.)

(And he madetwp chapiters of moltenbrass to setupon the tops of the pillars: the height of the onechapiterwas five cubits, and the height of the otherchapiterwasfive cubits. I Kings 7:16.)

56 57

FLORIDA MASONIC MONITOR FELLOW CR’kvf DEGREE

The approachto * * * * of fifteen * * *

* stronglyguarded.

Whencommencingthis * * * * pillars.The * * * strength; the one * * *

establishment.* * “c, these * * * estab-lish His kingdom.

They were cast * * * * five cubits inheight. (II Chron. 4-17)

(The symbolsof Unity, Peaceand Plenty are intro-duced,and their moral applicationexplained.)

TheseChapiters * * * * (I Kings 7:18-20),suggestsPlenty. TheseChapiterswere surmountedbyglobes.

THE GLOBES*The Globesare two artificial sphericalbodies, on the

convexsurfaceof which are representedthecountries,seasandvariouspartsof the earth,thefaceof theheavens,theplanetaryrevolutions, andotherimportantparticulars.

(*The globe with the stars is on the south and the

other is on thenorth.)

THE USEOF THE GLOBES

Their principal use, besidesservingas maps to distin-guish the outward parts of the earthand the situationofthefixed stars,is to illustrate and eKplain the phenomenaarisingfrom theannualrevolutionand thediurnal rotationof the eartharound its own axis. They are invaluableinstrumentsfor improving themind,and giving it themostdistinct ideaof any problemor proposition, as well asenablingit to solvethesame.

Contemplatingthesebodies,we are inspiredwith a duereverencefor the Deity and His works, and are inducedto

encouragethe studiesof astronomy,geography,navigation,andtheartsdependenton them,by which societyhasbeensomuchbenefitted.

(Referenceis heremadeto theMasonicOrganizationinto three degrees—theEnteredApprentice, theFellow Craft, and theMasterMason; and to its sys-temof governmentby three officers—theJuniorWarden, the Senior Wardenand the WorshipfulMaster.)

(The door for the middle chamberwas in the rightside of the house: and they wentup with windingstairs into themiddlechamber. (I Kings 6:8.)

Passingbetweenthe pillars * * * * fifteensteps* * * *

The three * * * —The EnteredApprentice,theFellow Craft andthe SublimeDegreeof MasterMason; thethree * * * * —the Junior Warden, (takes thestep), the Senior Warden, (takes the step), and theWorshipfulMaster, (takesthestep).

ORDERIN ARCHITECTURE

Thefive * * * * * * * * architecture.

By Order in Architectureis meanta systemof all themembers,proportionsand ornamentsof columns andpilasters;or, it is a regulararrangementof the projectingpartsof a buiLding, which, united with thoseof a column,form a beautiful,perfectandcompletewhole.

ANTIQUITY

From the first formation of societyorder in architecturemay be traced.When the rigor of seasonsobliged men tocontrive shelterfrom the inclemencyof the weather,welearnthat they first plantedtreeson end, and then laid

58 59


othersacrossto supporta covering.The bandswhich con-nectedthosetreesat top andbottomaresaidto havegivenrise to the ideaof the baseand capital of pillars, fromwhich simple hint, originally, proceededthe moreimprovedart of architecture.

The five ordersare thus classed:—Thetuscan,doric,ionic, corinthian,andcomposite.

THE TUSCAN

The Tuscanis the most simple andsolid of the fiveorders. It was inventedin Tuscanywhence it derivesitsname.

(OPTIONAL)

(its columnis sevendiametershigh, and its capital,baseand entablaturehavebut few mouldings. Thesimplicity oftheconstructionof this columnrendersiteligible whereornamentwould be superfluous.)

THE DORIC

The Doric, which is plain and natural, is the mostancient,andwas inventedby theGreeks.

(OPTIONAL)

(Its columnis eight diametershigh, and has seldomanyornamenton baseor capital, exceptmouldings—thoughthe frieze is distinguishedby rriglyphs andmeropes, and triglyphs composethe ornamentsof thefrieze. The solid compositionof this order gives it apreferencein structureswherestrength and a noblesimplicity are chiefly required. The Doric is the bestproportionedof all the orders. The severalparts ofwhich it is composedarefoundedon thenaturalposi-tion of solid bodies. In its first invention,it was moresimplethanin its presentstare. In aftertimes,whenit

beganto beadorned, it gainedthenameof Doric: forwhen it wasconstructedin its primitive and simpleform, the nameof Tuscanwas conferred on it.Hencethe Tuscanprecedesthe Doric in rank, onaccountofits resemblanceto that pillar in its originalstate.)

THE IONIC

TheIonic bearsa kind of meanproportionbetweenthemoresolid and delicateorders.

(OPTIONAL)(Its columnis nine diametershigh; its capital isadornedwith volutes,and its cornice has dentils.Thereis both delicacyand ingenuitydisplayedin thispillar, the invention of which is attributed to thelonians, as the famous “Temple of Diana,” atEphesus,wasof this order. it is said to have beenformedafter the model of an agreeableyoungwoman,ofan elegantshape,dressedin her hair; as acontrast to the Doric order, which was formedafterthat ofa strong, robustnun.)

THE CORINTHIAN

The Corinthian,which is the richestis deemed~ ~ast~rpieceof art.

(OPTIONAL)

of thefive orders,

(Its columnis ten diametershigh, and its capital isadornedwith two rowsof leaves,and eight volures,which sustainthe abacus.The frieze is ornamentedwith curious devicgs; the cornice with dentils andmodillions. This &rder is usedin statelyand superbstructures. It was inventedat Corinth by CALLI-MACHUS, who is said to have taken the hint of the

60 61


capital of this pillar from the following remarkablecircumstance:

Accidentallypassingby the tombof a younglady, heperceiveda basketof toys, coveredwith a tile, placedover an acanthus-root,havingbeenleft there by hernurse.As the branchesgrew up, they encompassedthe basketuntil, arriving at the tile, theymetwith anobstruction, and bentdownwards. CALLIMACHUS,struckwith the object, set about imitating the figure;the vaseof the capital he madeto representthe bas-ket; the abacus,the tile; and the volutes,the bendingleaves.)

THE COMPOSITE

The Compositeis compoundedof the otherorders,andwascontrivedby theRomans.

(OPTIONAL)

(Its capital has the two rows of leavesof theCorinthian, and the volutesof the Ionic. Its columnhas quarter-rounds,as the Tuscanand Doric orders;it is tendiametershigh, and its cornice has dentils, orsimple modillions. This pillar is generally found inbuildings wherestrength, eleganceand beauty aredisplayed.)

THE INVENTION OF ORDERIN ARCHITECTURE

The ancientand original orckrsof architecturereveredby Masonsare no more than three~The Doric, Ionic andCorinthian,which were inventedby the Greeks.To these,the Romanshave addedtwo—the Tuscan,which theymadeplainer than the Doric, and the Composite,whichwas moreornamental,if not more beautiful, than theCorinthian.

The first threeordersalone,however, show inventionandparticularcharacter,and essentiallydiffer from eachother; the two othershavenothing but what is borrowed,and differ only accidentally:the Tuscanis the Doric in itsearlieststate; and the Composite is the Corinthianenrichedwith the Ionic. To theGreeks,therefore,andnotto theRomans,we are indebtedfor what is great,judicious,anddistinct in architecture.

Of thesefive orders,the ionic, doric, andcorinthian, asthe most ancient,are reveredby Masonsfor anotherrea-son;as * * * * beauty.

THE FIVE SENSESOF HUMAN NATURE

(An analysisof the humanfacultiesis nextgiveninthis section,in which the five ExternalSensespar-ticularly claim attention.)

The Five * * * * * * * Sensesof HumanNature,which areHearing,Seeing,Feeling,Smelling,andTasting.

HEARING

Hearingis that senseby which we distinguishsounds,andare capableof enjoying all the agreeablecharmsofmusic.

(OPTIONAL)

(By it we are enabledto enjoy the pleasuresof soci-ety, and reciprocally to communicateto eachotherour thoughtsand intentions,our purposesand desires;and thus our reasonis renderedcapableofexertingitsutmost power and energy. The wise and beneficentAuthor of Nature ihtended,by the formation of thissense,that we shouldbe social creatures,and receivethegreatestandmostimportantpart of our knowledge

62 63


from social intercoursewith eachother. For thesepurposeswe are endowedwith hearing, that, by aproperexertionof our rational powers, our happinessmaybe complete.)(Takesthe step.)

SEEING

Seeingis thatsenseby which wedistinguishobjects.

(OPTIONAL)(And, in an instantof time, without changeof placeor situation, viewarmiesin battle array, figuresof themoststately structures)and all the agreeablevarietydisplayedin the landscapeof Nature. By this sense,we find our way on the pathlessocean, traverse theglobe of earth, determineits figure and dimensions,and delineateany region or quarter of it. By it wemeasuretheplanetary orbs, and makenew discover-ies in the sphereof the fixed stars. Nay, more, by itwe perceivethe tempersand dispositions,thepassionsand affectionsofour fellow-creatures,whentheywishmostto concealthem;so that, thoughthe tonguemaybe taught to lie and dissemble,the countenancewilldisplaythehypocrisyto thediscerningeye.In fine,therays of Light, whichadministerto this sense,are themostastonishingparts of the animatedcreation, andrenderthe eyea peculiarobjectofadmiration.

Of all thefaculties,Sightis thenoblest.Thestructureof the eye, and its appurtenancesevince theadmirable contrivanceof Naturefor performing allits various external and internal motions, while thevariety displayedin the eyesof differentanimals,suited to their severalwaysof life, clearly demon-strates this organ to be the master-pieceof Nature’swork.) (Takesthe step.)

FELLOW CRAFT DEGREE

FEELING

Feelingis that senseby which we distinguishthe differ-ent qualitiesof bodies.

(OPTIONAL)

(Suchas heat and cold, hardnessand softness,roughnessand smoothness,figure, solidity, motion,and extension.Thesethree senses,Hearing, Seeingand Feeling, are deemedpeculiarly essentialamongMasons. It is by hearingwe distinguish * * *

“c, by seeingwe perceive * * * “c, and byfeelingwe receive * * * *.) (Takesthestep.)

SMELLING

Smellingis that senseby which wedistinguishodors.

(OPTIONAL)

(Thevarious kinds of whichconveydifferent impres-sions to the mind. Animaland vegetablebodies,andindeedmost other bodies, while exposedto the air,continuallysendforth effluviaof vastsubtilty, as wellin a stateoflife andgrowth, as in the stateoffermen-tation and putrefaction.Theseeffluvia, being drawninto thenostrils along with the air, are the meansbywhich all bodies are distinguished.Hence, it is evi-dent, that there is a manifestappearanceof designinthegreat Creator’s havingplantedthe organ ofsmellin the inside of that canal through which the air con-tinually passesin respiration.) (Takesthe step.)

TASTING

Tastingenablesus to make a properdistinction in thechoiceof our food.

64 65

FLORIDA MASON[CMONITOR FELLOW CRAFT DEGREE

(OPTIONAL)

(The organ of this senseguards the entranceof thealimentary canal, as that of smellingguards theentranceof thecanalfor respiration. From the situa-tion of both these organs, it is plain that they wereintendedby Nature to distinguishwholesomefoodfrom that which is nauseous.Everything that entersinto the stomachmustundergothe scrutiny of tast-ing; and by it we are capableof discerningthechangeswhich thesamebody undergoesin thediffer-entcompositionsof art, cookery,chemistry,pharma-cy, etc.

Smellingand Tastingare inseparablyconnected;andit is by the unnatural kind of life mencommonlyleadin society, that thesesensesare renderedless fit toperformtheir natural offices.) (Takesthestep.)

The properuseof thesefive sensesenablesus to formjust and accuratenotions of the operationof Nature;andwhen we reflect on the objectswith which our sensesaregratified, webecomeconsciousof them, and areenabledtoattend to them till they becomefamiliar objects ofthought.

What, therefore,canbe a more proper subjectfor theinvestigationof Masons?

To sum up the whole of this transcendentmeasureofGod’s bounty to man, we shall add that Memory,Imagination,Taste,Reasoning,Moral Perception,and allthe activepowetsof the soul, presenta vastand boundlessfield for philosophicaldiscourse,which far exceedshumaninquiry, and arepeculiar mysteries,known only to Natureand to Nature’sGod, to whom all are indebtedfor cre-ation,preservation,andeveryblessingweenjoy.

66

THE SEVENLIBERAL ARTSANDSCIENCES

(OPTIONAL)

(The sevenliberal arts and scienceswhich areGrammar, Rhetoric, Logic, Arithmetic, Geometry,Music, and Astronomy, are here illustrated.Grammar is the sciencewhich teachesus to expressour ideas in appropriate words, which we may after-ward beautifyandadorn bymeansofRhetoric;

WhileLogic instructsus how to think and reasonwithpropriety, and to make languagesubordinate tothought.Arithmetic, whichis thescienceof computingby num~ers,isabsolutelyessential,not only to a thor-ough knowledgeof all mathematicalscience,but alsoto a properpursuitof our daily avocations.Geometry,or theapplicationof Arithmetic to sensiblequantities,is, of all sciences,the mostimportant, since by it weare enabledto measureand survey the globe that weinhabit. Its principles extendto other spheresand,occupiedin thecontemplationand measurementof thesun,moon, and heavenlybodies,constitute the sci-enceof Astronomy;and lastly, when our minds arefilled, and our thoughtsenlarge~,bythecontemplationof all the wonderswhich thesesciencesopen to ourview,Music comesforward, to softenour hearts andcultivateour affectionsby its soothinginfluences.)

On the mind all our knowledgemust depend;let usthereforeconsidetthoseseven liberal arts andsciences,which sobeautifullyadornthemind and to which the *

* * * at which wehavenow arrivedallude.

The seven liberal arts and sciencesare Grammar,Rhetoric, Logic, Arithmetic, Geometry,Music, andAstronomy.

67


GRAMMAR

Grammaris the key by which alonethe door can be

openedto theunderstandingof speech.(OPTIONAL)

(It is Grammarwhich revealsthe admirable art oflanguage,and unfoldsits various constituentparts—its names,definitions, and respectiveoffices; itunravels, as it were, the threadof which the web ofspeechis composed.Thesereflectionsseldomoccur toanyonebeforehis acquaintancewith the art; yet it ismostcertainthat, without a knowledgeofGrammar,it is very difficult to speakwith propriety, precision,andpurity.) (Takesthestep.)

RHETORIC

It is by Rhetoric that the art of speakingeloquentlyisacquired.

(OPTIONAL)

(To be an eloquentspeakerin the proper senseof theword, is far from beingeithera commonor an easyattainment.It is theart ofbeingpersuasiveand com-manding; theart, not only of pleasingthefancy, butof speakingboth to the understandingand to theheart.) (Takesthestep.)

LOGIC

Logic is that sciencewhich directsus to form clear anddistinct ideasof things, andtherebypreventsus from beingmisledby their similitude or resemblance.

(OPTIONAL)

(Of all the humansciences,that concerningman iscertainly mostworthy of the human~mind,and the

propermannerof conductingits severalpowersin theattainmentof truth and knowledge.This scienceought to be cultivated as the foundationor groundwork of our inquiries, particularly in the pursuit ofthosesublimeprinciples whichclaim our attentionasMasons.)(Takesthestep.)

ARITHMETIC

Arithmetic is the art of numbering,or that part of themathematicswhich considersthe propertiesof numbersingeneral.

(OPTIONAL)

(We havebut a very imperfectidea of things withoutquantity, and as imperfectof quantity itself, withoutthehelpof Arithmetic. All the works of the Almightyare madein numbers,weight and measure; there-fore, to understandthemrightly, we ought to under-stand arithmetical calculations; and the greateradvancementwe madein the mathematicalsciences,the more capable we shall be of consideringsuchthingsas are the ordinary objectsof our conceptions,and be thereby led to a more comprehensiveknowl-edgeof our great Creator and the work of the cre-ation.) (Takesthestep.)

GEOMETRY

Geometrytreatsof the powersandpropertiesof magni-tudes in general,where length, breadthand thicknessareconsidered—fromapoint to a tine) ftom a line to a superfi-cies,andfrom a superfiQiesto a solid.

A point is thebeginningof all geometricalmatter.

A line is a continuationof thesame.

68 69


A superficieshas length andbreadth,without a giventhickness.

A solid haslength andbreadth,with a given thickness,which forms acube,andcomprehendsthewhole.

THE ADVANTAGES OF GEOMETRY

By Geometry,the architectis enabledto constructhisplansand executehis designs;the general,to arrangehissoldiers; the engineer,to mark out groundsfor encamp-ment; the geographer,to give us the dimensionsof theworld, and all things therein contained;to delineatetheextentof seas,and specify the divisions of empires,king-doms,and provinces.By it also, the astronomeris enabledto makehis observationsandfix thedurationof times andseasons,yearsand cycles. In fine, Geometryis the founda-tion of architectureand the root of mathematics.(Takesthestep.)

MUSIC

Music is that elevatedsciencewhich affectsthepassionsby sound.Thereare few who havenot felt its charms,andacknowledgedits expressionsto be intelligible to theheart.It is a languageof delightful sensations,far moreeloquentthanwords; it breathesto the ear the clearestintimations;it touchesand gently agitatesthe agreeableand sublimepassions;it wrapsus in melancholy,and elevatesus in joy;it dissolvesand inflames; it melts us in tendernessandexcitesusto war.

This scienceis truly congenialto thenatureof man,for,by its powerful charmsthemostdiscordantpassionsmaybeharmonizedand brought into perfect unison; but it neversoundswith suchseraphicharmonyaswhen employedinsinginghymnsof gratitudeto theGreatCreatorof theuni-verse.(Takesthestep).

ASTRONOMY

Astronomy is that sublime sciencewhich inspires thecontemplativemind to soaraloft and read the wisdom,strengthandbeautyof theGreatCreatorin theheavens.

Assistedby Astronomy, we ascertainthe laws whichgoverntheheavenlybodiesandby which their motionsaredirected;investigatethe powerby which they circulate intheir orbs; discovertheir size, determinetheir distance,explaintheir variousphenomena,and correctthefallacy ofthesensesby the light of truth.

How nobly eloquentof the Deity is the celestial hemi-sphere!—spangledwith the most magnificentheraldsofHis infinite glory. They speakto the whole universe;forthere is no speechso barbarous,but their languageisunderstood;nor nation so distant,but their voices areheardamongthem.

Theheavensproclaimtheglory of God;

Thefirmamentdeclareththe worksof His hands.(Takesthestep.)

OUTERDOOR

SEN]ORDEACON

:

Follow me, (if morethanone,say:) in singlefile.

(Goesto the * * * * * * * wherean emblemofplentyis introducedandexplained.)

Wehave * * * * * * * * * *

(Givesthreeraps with his rod.)* * * * * * * * * * * * * *

70 71


UNIOR WARDEN:

Whatdoesit denote?

SENIORDEACON

:

Plenty.

UNIOR WARDEN:

How represented?

SENIORDEACON

:

*By a sheafof wheatsuspendednearawaterfall.

*In olden times mostgrain was called “corn.~~ (See

Judges12, 1-6.)

UNIOR WARDEN:

How did it originate?

SENIORDEACON

:

In a quarrelbetweenJephthah,aJudgeof Israel,and theEphraimites.The Ephraimiteshad long beena stubbornand rebelliouspeople,whom Jephthahhad striven to sub-dueby mild andlenientmeasures,but without effect. Theywere highly incensedat Jephthahfor not being calledtofight and sharein the rich spoils of the Ammonitish war,and gatheredtogethera mighty army, crossedthe riverJordan,andpreparedto give Jephthahbattle; but, beingapprisedof their approach,he calledtogetherthe menofIsrael,went forth, gavethembattleand put them to flight;and to makehis victory morecompletehestationedguardsat thedifferentpasseson thebai~iks of the river Jordanandsaid unto them, “If ye see any strangerspassthis way, Sayunto them, * * * *•“ but theEphraimitesbeingof a

different tribe, could not frame to pronounce” * * ** ,, * ** * “ * * * *

* * * * * * * ,‘which * ** therefell that day forty andtwo thousand,afterwhich Jephthahruled quietly in Israeluntil the time of his death,in all aboutsix years.Since*

* * * * Middle Chamber.* * * * * * * * * * * * * *

INNER DOOR* * * * * * * * * * * * * *

SENIORDEACON

:

(Faces theCandidate(s)eastand takes three short *

* * * * * * * *

We havenow arrived * * * * * * andI directyourattentionto the letter(*) * * * * of Geometry.

(The light that showsup the letter “G” should be litor switchedon at the time indicatedby an asterisk(*), and remainson after this time, and through theMasterMasonDegree.)

THE MORAL ADVANTAGESOF GEOMETRY

Geometry,the first andnoblestof sciences,is the basison which the superstructureof Freemasonryis erected.ByGeometry,we maycuriouslytraceNaturethroughhervari-ouswindings, to hermostconcealedrecesses.By it, wedis-cover the power, wisdom, andgoodnessof the GrandArtificer of the Universe,and view with delight the pro-portions which connectthis vast machine.By it, we dis-coverhow the planetsmove in their respectiveorbits, anddemonstratetheir variousrevolutions.By it, we accountforthe returnof the seasons,and the variety of sceneswhich

72 73


eachseasondisplays to the discerningeye. Numberlessworldsarearoundus, all framedby the sameDivine Artist;which roll throughthe vastexpanseand are all conductedby thesameunerringlaw of Nature.

A surveyof Nature,and the observationof herbeautifulproportions,first determinedman to imitate the divineplan andstudy symmetry andorder.This gave rise to soci-eties,andbirth to everyuseful art. The architectbegantodesign;and the planswhich he laid down, being improvedby time and experience,have producedworks which aretheadmirationof everyage.

The lapseof time, the ruthlesshandof ignorance,andthe devastationsof war, have laid wasteanddestroyedmanyvaluable monumentsof antiquity, on which theutmost exertionsof humangeniushave beenemployed.Eventhe Templeof Solomon,sospaciousandmagnificent,andconstructedby so manycelebratedartists,escapednotthe unsparingravagesof barbarousforce. Freemasonry,notwithstanding,has still survived. The Attentive Earreceivesthe soundfrom the InstructiveTongue, and themysteriesof Masonryaresafely lodged in the repositoryofFaithful Breasts.Toolsand implementsof architecture,andsymbolic emblems,most expressive,are selectedby theFraternity to imprint on the mind wise and serioustruths;and thus, through a successionof ages,are transmittedunimpairedthemostexcellenttenetsof our institution.

(OPTIONAL)

(Everymemberadmittedwithin thewalls of this mid-dle chamber,should heedthe lessonshere inculcated,and considerthatas a Masonhe is a builder, not ofamaterialedifice but of a Templemore glorious thanthat of Solomon’s,a temple of Honor, Justice,

Purity, Knowledge,and of Truth, and that thesetools of the operativemasons’art, shouldindicatethelabor he is to perform, thedangerhe is to encounterand thepreparationhe is to makein the uprearingofthat spiritual building, that housenot madewithhands,eternal in the Heavens,whereinhis soul willfind rest forever, andforevermore.)

INTRODUCTION

SENIOR DEACON

:

(ConductstheCandidate(s)to theEast.)

Worshipful Master * * * * * * * * * ** * * *

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

Brother(s)surname(and surname), * * * * Itwas in * * * * that our ancientbrethrenwerereceivedand recordedasFellow Crafts, * * * * *

It was also in the * * * * they receivedtheirwages,which were paid them in Corn, Wine and Oil,emblematicalof Nourishment,Refreshmentand Joy, and

* * * * * * * *ofteachesus this importanttheafflicted.

(This sectionclosesby payingprofound homagetothe sacrednameof the Grand Geometricianof theUniverse.)

The letter ~, to which your attention * * *, * ** still higher * ~ * * * * * * signification

(gives threerapswith ~hegavel.) It is * * * * ** Universe,before whom all Masons,from the * *

* * * ~, to theWorshipful Masterwho presidesin the

East,shouldhumbly,reverentlyanddevoutly bow.

7475

FLORIDA MASoNiC MONITORFELLOW CRAFT DEGREE

(Givesa bowand thengivesonerap with thegavel.)

This, my Brother(s),concludesthe Secondor FellowCraft Degreein Freemasonry,except the * * * *

* ** * * * from time immemorial.

TheChargewill bedeliveredby Brother . Comefor-wardand receiveit.

(The WorshipfulMastermay designatesomeotherBrother to deliver or read the Charge. In the eventthe Worshipful Masterelectsto deliver or read theCharge himself, he will omit the words “The Chargewill be deliveredby Brother_____

CHARGE AT PASSING

My Brother(s), beingpassedto the SecondDegreeofFreemasonry,wecongratulateyou on yourpreferment.Theinternal, andnot the external,qualifications of a manarewhatMasonryregards.As you increasein knowledge,youwill improvein socialintercourse.

It is unnecessaryto recapitulatethe duties,which, as aFellow Craft, you are bound to discharge,or to enlargeonthe necessityof a strict adherenceto them, as your ownexperiencemusthave establishedtheir value. Our Lawsand Regulationsyou are strenuouslyto support,andbealways readyto assist in seeingthem duly executed.Youare not to palliate or aggravatethe offensesof yourBrethren,but, in the decisionof every trespassagainstourrules, you are to judgewith candor,admonishwith friend-ship and reprehendwith justice.

The study of the Liberal Arts, that valuablebranchofeducation,which tendsso effectually to polish and adornthe mind, is earnestlyrecommendedto yourconsideration,especiallythescienceof Geometry,whkh is establishedas

the basis of our art. Geometry,or Masonry,originally syn-onymous terms,beingof a divine and moral nature, isenrichedwith the most useful knowledge;while it provesthe wonderful propertiesof Nature, it demonstratesthemore importanttruths of morality.

Yourpastbehaviorandregulardeportmenthavemeritedthe honorwhich we have conferred,and, in your newcharacter,it is expectedthat you will conformto theprin-ciplesof the Order by steadilyperseveringin the practiceof every commendablevirtue. Such is the nature of yourengagementsasa Fellow Craft, and to thesedutiesyou areboundby themostsacredties.

(If Brother other than the WorshipfulMasterreadsor deliverstheCharge,hewill say:)

Thankyou,WorshipfulMasterandBrethren.


WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

My Brother(s),pleasehavea seatamongtheBrethren.

7677

MASTERMASON DEGREE

Master Mason

Degree

First Section

* * * * * * * *

SENIORDEACON

:

(Worksfrom his right to left whenCandidate.)

* * * *

more than one

Brother (surname,) you are * * * * *

Compasses * * * * so are * * * * con-tained betweenthe extendedpoints of the Compasses,which areFriendship,Morality, and BrotherlyLove.

CIRCUMAMBULATI ON

(TheChaplainstandsat his placeand recitesthepas-sagesofScripture.)

UNIOR WARDEN:

*

CHAPLAIN

:

Remembernow thy Creatorwhile theevil dayscomenot,

in the daysof thy youth,

SENIORWARDEN

:

*

CHAPLAIN

:

Nor the yearsdrawnigh, whenthoushaltsay,J havenopleasurein them; while the sun,or the light, or the moon,

78

or the stars,be not darkened,nor the ctoudsreturn aftertherain:

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

*

CHAPLAIN

:

In the day whenthe keepersof thehouseshall tremble,andthestrongmenshallbow themselves,

UNIOR WARDEN:

**

CHAPLAIN

:

And the grinders ceasebecausethey are few, and thosethat look out of the windows be darkened,and the doorsshallbeshutin thestreets,

SENIORWARDEN

:

**

CHAPLAIN

:

When thesoundof thegrinding is low, andheshall riseup at the voiceof thebird, and all the daughtersof musickshallbebroughtlow;

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

**

CHAPLAIN

:

Also whentheyshallbe afraidof that which is high, andfearsshallbe in theway.

79

FLORIDA MASONIC MONITOR MASTER MASON DEGREE

UNIOR WARDEN:

CHAPLAIN

:

And the almondtreeshall flourish, and the grasshoppershall be a burden,anddesireshall fail:

SENIORWARDEN

:

CHAPLAIN

:

Becausemangoethto his long home,and the mournersgo about the streets:or ever the silver cord be loosed, orthegoldenbowl be broken,or thepitcherbe brokenat thefountain,or thewheelbrokenat thecistern.

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

CHAPLAIN

:

Thenshall thedust returnto theearthas it was:andthespirit shall returnuntoGodwho gave it. (EccI. 12:1-7).* * * * * * * * * * * * * *

WORKJNG TOOLS

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

(Risesand stepsout on the southside of his pedestalwhen the SeniorDeaconand Candidate(s)approachhis station.)

Beingclothed * * * * * * * * * *

The working tools of a MasterMasonareall the imple-

mentsof Masonry, indiscriminately, more especiallythetrowel.

THE TROWELThe Trowel is an instrumentmadeuse of by operative

Masonsto spreadthe cementwhich unites the buildinginto one common mass; but we as Free and AcceptedMasons,aretaught to useit for the morenobleandglori-ouspurposeof spreadingthe cementof brotherly love andaffection; that cementwhich unites us into one sacredband,or societyof fiends and brothers,amongwhom nocontentionshouldeverexist,but that noblecontention,orratheremulation,of who bestcanwork and bestagree.

Youwill now * * * * * * * instruction.

SecondSection

CAUTION

WORSHIPFUL MASTER

:

It shouldbe impressedupontheWorshipfulMasterof allFlorida Lodges that they shouldnot permit the practiceOFROUGH AND UNSEEMLY work in the secondsectionof theMasterMason Degree.This portion of our ritual wasneverintendedto be usedas a meansof creatingmirth andfrivolity. It is without questionthemostsolemnpartof ourentiredegreework.

THE SCENE AT THE EAST GATE OF THE TEM-PLE REPRESENTSTRAGEDY AND DEATH, ANDUPON NO OCCASION DOES DEATH LEAVE US INA SPIRIT OF LEyITY. DEATH IS THE MOSTSOLEMN MOMENT IN THE LIFE OF ANY INDIVIDU-AL.

(The Worshipful Master shall read the above

80 8t

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

Fromthe * * * * * * * doyounot?

CANDIDATE

:

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

ltbecomes * * * * * * * * attheAltar.* * * * * * * * * * * *

CANDIDATE

:

(Prayer)* * * * * * * * * * * * * *

MASTER MASON DEGREE

II—‘3:0z

T.R

.

Cow

C!,I-C,,

w0zI-C,,w

I-I—

0C,)

EAST

jJ WM SEC

E~i~10 ROUGH ASHLA PERFECT ASHLAR

0I ________________

II

IIiiII

‘1KII I~.I III OE

.E3FO.II

-0

0

0A

U

INNER DOOR

PREPARATIONRQOM

~TOJ~AGE EJ____________ TYLER

0

I.

OUTER DOOR

ANTE-ROOM

WEST


Caution to the membersof his Lodge beforeconfer-ring the secondsectionof theMasterMasonDegree,each and every time. He may also remind theBrethren to respondto prayer only if it is givenorally.

)

(TheWorshipfulMaster is responsiblefor the selec-tion of theBrotherswho are to take theextraparts inthe conferring of the secondsectionof the MasterMasonDegree. WhenmorethanoneCandidate,it isthePrerogativeof the WorshipfulMasterto designatethe order in which they shall be taken. WhentheWorshipfulMaster is ready to proceedwith the sec-ond section,he requeststhe SeniorDeacon to con-duct theCandidateto theEast.)

C,)0C—II

8283


FUNERAL DIRGE

PLEYEL’S HYMN

Bol. emn strikes the f~an- ml chime, Notes or

- ~. -—

o,w de-pert-ing time; As we Jour-ney here be‘VA.

I) —

- I -

,~AI I I

• Iowa Thin.’ a pU-grim- age of woe.

* * * * * * * * *

(SECONDVERSE)Mortals, nowindulgea tear,For Mortality is here!Seehow wide her trophieswaveO’er theslumbersofthegrave!

* * * * * * * *

(THIRD VERSE)Lord ofall! Below—above—Fill our heartswith truth andlove;Whendissolvesour earthlytie,Takeus to Thy Lodge on high.

* * * * * * * *

* * *

* * *

* * *

* *

* * * *

* * * *

PRAYER AT RAISING

CHAPLAIN

:

Thou, 0 God, knowestour down-sittingand ourup- ris-ing, and understandestour thoughtsafar off. Shield anddefendusfrom theevil intentionsof ourenemies,andsup-port us underthe trials and afflictions we are destinedtoendure,while travelingthroughthis valeof tears.Manthatis born of a womanis of few days,and full of trouble.Hecomethforth like a flower, and is cut down; he fleethalsoasa shadow,andcontinuethnot. Seeinghis daysaredeter-mined, the numberof his months is with Thee;Thou hastappointedhis boundsthat he cannotpass; turn from himthathe mayrest, till he shall accomplishhis day. For thereis hopeof a tree,if it becut down, that it will sproutagain,andthat thetenderbranchthereofwill notcease.But mandieth, and wastethaway;yea,mangivethup theghost,andwhere is he?As the watersfail from the sea, and the flooddecayethanddrieth up, so manlieth down, and risethnotup till the Heavensshalt be no more. Yet, 0 Lord! havecompassionon the children of Thy creation; ad ministerthem comfort in time of trouble,and save them with aneverlastingsalvation.Amen!

BRETHREN

:

Somote it be!

KING SOLOMON

:

* * * * * * * * * * * * * *

* *

84 85


Third SectionLECTUREOFTHE

MASTER MASON DEGREE

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

BrotherSeniorDeacon,provide the Brother(s)with (a)seat(s)to receivethe Lecture,which will now be deliveredby ________. (or, which I will now deliver.)

LECTURER

:

My Brother(s), the lecture of the Third, or MasterMason,Degreeof Freemasonryis thestory of * * * atthe building of King Solomon’sTemple and is known astheHiramic Legend.

It was the desireof David, King of Israel, to erect anhouseat Jerusalemfor the serviceof the ever-living andtrue God wherein all nationsmight worship. This highhonorand distinguishedprivilege wasdeniedhim, howev-er, because,aswe readin thesacredscriptures,David wasaman of blood, and during almost the entire period of hisreign wasengagedin warswith surroundingnations.

We learnalso from thesamesacredsourcethat theGodof Israel promisedDavid that Out of his loins He wouldraise up a seedto serveHim, which Divine promisewaslater fulfilled in thepersonof Solomon,his sonandsucces-sor,who ascendedthethroneandreignedover Israel.

It was in the secondmonth of the fourth yearof hisreign, andafter David hadbeengatheredto his fathersandthe last high honorspaid to his memory, King Solomoncommencedhis preparationsto erecttheTemple.

He calledto * * * * * * a.ndmoney.

The Templewas locatedon Mount Moriah, neartheplace whereAbrahamwasabout to offer up his sonIsaac,and where David met and appeasedthe destroyingangelwhich wasvisible over the threshingfloor of Oman, theJebusite.

This magnificentstructureis said to havebeensupport-ed by fourteenhundredand fifty-three columns,two thou-sandnine hundred and six pilasters,all hewnfrom thefinest parianmarble. Therewere employedin its buildingthreeGrandMasters,threethousandand threehundredMastersor Overseersof the work; eighty thousandFellowCrafts,or hewersof wood and stonein the mountainsandquarries,and seventythousandEnteredApprenticesorbearersof burdens.All thesewere classedand arrangedinsuchmannerby thewisdomof Solomonthat neitherenvy,discordnor confusionwassuffered to interrupt or disturbthe peaceand good fellowship that prevailedamong theworkmen.

Among themen

Hewas * * *

Thuswas the *

It wasagreed *

*,inhis * * *

WhentheTemple

It was thecustom

Whenhe * ** * ~, heattempted

* * * that * *

* * * asubjectof * * *

“work on building.”* * GrandMasters.

* * of them and all

tife.* * * designs.

agree,* *

* * * his devotion.

* inch gauge, * * * the *

* * * * * builderssquare.

* * * his life.

Theanswer * * * feet.

Theother * * * shouldfuture occasionrequireit.

8687


Theythenendeavored * * * into the country.* * ‘i’, aswashis * * * the daybefore.

At this juncture * * * , which was indeed thefact. * * * e~cpressed * * * weremissing.

Therolls * * * without tidings.

The three * * * and reportedit * * *

Uponreceiving * * * with accordingly.

The * * * * * * ofothers.

Whenthey * * * before * * *

Whentheywere * * * therock.

When it was * * * inspection.

Whenthe * * * interment.* * * was accordinglyformed, * * *

* * *

Prayerwas thenoffered

to make

* * * the * * *

one.

As * * * stood * * * ear this(afternoon)evening.

It is a * * * breath.

The * * “‘, my Brother(s), * *

(morning)

(If the Lecturer desiresto use the optional explana-tion ofthe * * ~, heshouldskip all languagetotheplaceshownby threeasterisks***.)

* * * to * * * that we should be ever

readyto go on foot, andevenbarefoot,on a worthy MasterMason’serrandshouldhis neces~itiesrequireit, and webenobetterprovided.

* * * to * * * that weshbuldeverremem-

berour Brethrenin ourdevotionto Deity.* * * to * * * that the secretsof a worthy

MasterMason,whencommunicatedto us assuch, shouldbe as secureand inviolate in our breastsasthey were in hisbeforebeingcommunicated.


ready to stretchforth a hand to support a falling Brother,andaidhim on all lawful occasions.


ready to whisperwise counsel in the ear of an erring

Brother,andwarnhim of approachingdanger.

(OPTIONAL)

* * ** * * to thatwe shouldgo,

Whensicknessbrings a brother woe,To cheerhim on his bedofpain,Andnursehim backto health again.* * * to * * * whene’erwepray

At earlymorn or closeofday,A brother’snameshouldclaim a shareIn everythoughtand everyprayer.* * * to * * * therestilitokeep

A brother’s secretshiddendeep.To all theworld butus, unknown,Andhold themsacredas our own.* * * to * * * in firmestgrasp,

Encirclingarms andfriepdly clasp,Weshouldbefoundat duty’s call,To staya brother’s totteringfall.

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* * * to * * * whene’erwefind,

To err a brother is inclined,We’ll counselgivein gent’lest tone,Andbreatheit to his ear alone.

Then * * * to * * * and * * * to * * *

Truebrotherswe shouldeverbe,With* * *to* * *and* * *to * * *

Eachstrivingstill to do his best,We’ll whisperwordsof hopeand cheer,Withcheektocheekand** * *to* * *

Thus, my Brother(s), we are bound by an indissolublechain of sincereaffection,brotherlylove, relief and truth,* * * MasterMason.

I

90 91


Afterprayerand * * * to EasternNations.

Overthe * * * * * * herhair.

The * * * is emblematical * * * be found.

The great moral lessonsinculcatedby this legendare manyand very instructive, teachingus, as Masons, that we shouldlive virtuousand upright lives, everwalking in thepathsof truthandjustice, eventhough our livesbe endangeredthereby.

In its symbolic * * * it answersevery argumentinourfaith, andinsuressafety,eternaland neverending,and is instrongcontrastwith the developmentof those passionswhichdebaseand ruin all who indulge in them.

We are further remindedthat though thesefrail bodies mustdie andreturn to dust, we mayindulge thehope thatthrough themerits of the Lion of the tribe ofludah, our disembodiedspiritsshall be raisedandbe carried to realmsof bliss there to remainin God’s paradiseforever.

(If theLecturerdesiresto usetheshort formexplana-tionof the third classof emblems,he skipsall the lan-guageshownbetweenthe four asterisks * * * *

and thefive asterisks * * * *

The Third Class of Emblemsconnectedwith thisLecturearemonitorial.

SHORTFORM

They are: the three steps usuallydelineatedupon theMaster’scarpet,emblematicalof the threeprincipal stagesof humanlife, YOUTH, MANHOOD, and AGE; the POT OF

INCENSE, is an emblemof a pure heart;the BEEHIVE, is anemblemof industry; theBOOK OF CONSTITUTIONS,GUARDEDBY THE TYLER’S SWORD, reminds us to be watchful andguardedin our thoughts,words and actions; the SWORDPOINTING TO A NAKED HEART, demonstratesjustice; theALLSEEING EYE, pervadesthe inmost recessesof the humanheart; the ANCHOR AND ARK, are emblemsof a well-groundedHOPE and a well-spentLIFE; the FORTY-SEVENTHPROBLEM OF EUCLID, is an emblemof education;the HOURGLASS, is an emblemof humanlife; and theSCYTHE, is anemblemof time.

LONG FORM(OPTIONAL)

THE THREE STEPS

The threestepsusuallydelineatedupontheMaster’scar-petareemblematicalof thethreeprincipalstagesofhumanlife; Youth, Manhood and Age. In Youth, as EnteredApprentices,we ought industriouslyto occupy our mindsin the attainmentof useful knowledge;in Manhood,asFellow Crafts, we should apply our knowledgeto the dis-chargeof our respectiveduties to God, our neighbor,andourselves;so that, in Age, as MasterMasons,we may enjoythe happy reflection consequenton a well-spentlife, anddie in thehopeof a gloriousimmortality.

THE POTOF INCENSE

The Pot of Incenseis an emblemof a pureheart,whichis always an acceptablesacrifice to the Deity; and as this

92 93


glows with fervent heat,so should our heartscontinuallyglow with gratitudeto the greatandbeneficentAuthor ofour existence,for the manifold blessingsand comfortsweenjoy.

THE BEEHIVE

The Beehiveis anemblemof industry, andrecommendsthe practiceof that virtue to all createdbeings,from thehighestseraphin heavento the lowest reptile of the dust.It teachesus that, as we came into the world rationalandintelligent beings,so we should ever be industriousones;neversitting down contentedwhile our fellow-creaturesaroundusare in want, especiallywhenit is in our powertorelieve themwithout inconvenienceto ourselves.

When we takea surveyof Nature,we view manin hisinfancy, more helplessand indigent than the brutecre-ation; he lies languishingfor days,months,andyears,total-ly incapableof providingsustenancefor himself, or guard-ing againstthe attack of wild beastsof the field, orshelteringhimselffrom the inclemenciesof the weather.Itmight havepleasedtheGreatCreatorof Heavenand Earthto havemademanindependentof all otherbeings;but asdependenceis one of the strongestbondsof society;mankindwere madedependenton eachother for protec-tion and security,asthey therebyenjoy betteropportuni-ties of fulfilling thedutiesof reciprocalloveandfriendship.Thus man was formed for social and active life—thenoblestpart of the work of God; and he that will sodemeanhimself asnot to be endeavoringto add to thecommonstock of knowledgeand understanding,may bedeemeda dronein the hive of Nature,a uselessmemberofsociety,andunworthyof ourprotectionasMasons.

THE BOOK OFCONSTITUTIONSGUARDEDBY THE TYLER’S SWORD

The Book of Constitutionsguardedby theTyler’s Swordremindsus that we shouldbe everwatchfuland guardedinour thoughts,words and actions,particularly whenbeforethe enemiesof Masonry—everbearingin remembrancethosetruly Masonicvirtues,silenceandcircumspection.

THE SWORD

The Swordpointing to a NakedHeartdemonstratesthatjustice will sooneror later overtakeus; and althoughourthoughts,words andactionsmay be hiddenfrom the eyesof men,yet that

ALL-SEEING EYE

whom the Sun, Moon and Starsobey, andunder whosewatchful careevenCometsperformtheir stupendousrevo-lutions, pervadesthe inmost recessesof the humanheart,andwill rewardusaccordingto our merits.

THE ANCHORAND THE ARKThe Anchorand theArk areemblemsof a well-ground-

ed hope and a well-spentlife. They are emblematicalofthat Divine Ark which safely wafts us over this tempestu-ous seaof troubles,and that Anchor which shall safelymoor usin a peacefulharbor,wherethe wicked ceaseftomtroubling andthewearyshall find rest.

THE FORTY-SEVENTHPROBLEMOFEUCLID

The Forty-SeventhProblemof Euclid was an inventionof our ancientfriend and Brother, the greatPythagoras,who in his travelsthroughAsia, Aftica andEuropewas ml-

94 95


tiated into severalordersof priesthoodand raisedto theSublime Degreeof MasterMason.This wisephilosopherenrichedhis mind abundantlyin a generalknowledgeofthings, and moreespeciallyin Geometry,or Masonry.Onthis subjecthedrewout manyproblemsandtheorems;and,amongthe most distinguished,he erectedthis, which inthe joy of his hearthe called Eureka.In the Grecianlan-guagesignifying, I havefound it; andupon thediscoveryofwhich he is said to havesacrificeda hecatomb.It teachesMasonsto begeneralloversof theartsandsciences.

THE HOURGLASS

The Hour-glassis an emblemof humanlife. Behold!how swiftly the sandsrun, and how rapidly our lives aredrawing to a close! We cannotwithout astonishmentbehold the little particleswhich are containedin thismachine;how they passaway almost imperceptibly;andyet, to our surprise,in the short spaceof an hour they allare exhausted!Thus wastesman! Today,he puts forth thetenderleavesof Hope; tomorrow, blossoms,and bearshisblushing honorsthick upon him; the next day comesafrost which nips the shoot; and whenhe thinks his great-nessis still aspiring,he falls like autumn leaves,to enrichourmotherearth.

THE SCYTHETheScytheis anemblemof Time, which cutsthebrittle

threadof life, andlaunchesus into eternity.Behold! Whathavcic thescytheof Time makesamongthehumanrace.Ifby chancewe shouldescapethe numerousills incident tochildhood and youth, and with h~alth and vigor arrive tothe yearsof manhood;yet, withal, we must soon be cutdownby the all-devouringscytheof Time, andbegatheredinto thelandwhereour fathershavegonebeforeus.

96

THE LAST CLASSOF EMBLEMS

The last classof Emblemsarenot monitorial, but are assecretas any of the ceremoniesof this Degree.They are* * * * * * * *

The * * * * wasthe * * * * death.

The * * * it was that received * * * yours andmine.

The * * * wasthe * * * yoursandmine.

The Sprigof * * * valeof tears.Thus we closethe explanationof theemblemsupon the

solemnthoughtof deathwhich, without revelation,wouldbe dark andgloomy; but the evergreensprig of acaciawhich bloomed at the headof the grave of the illustriousdeadremindsus of that it~mortal part of manwhich sur-vives the grave and shall never,never,neverdie. * *

* wasa man * * * a propertribute paid to hismemory.

97


Then let us imitate this good manin his virtuous andamiableconduct; in his unfeignedpiety to God; in hisinflexible fidelity to his trust; that we may welcome thegrim tyrant Death as a kind messengersent from theSupremeGrandMasterto summonusfrom this imperfectto that all-perfect, glorious andcelestial Lodge above,wheretheSupremeArchitectof theUniversepresides.

Thankyou, Worshipful Master,andBrethren.

(TheLecturerthen takeshis seat.)

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

This my Brother(s), concludesthe Third or MasterMasonDegreein Freemasonry,except

the * * * * * * * * * fromtime

immemorial.

TheChargewill bedeliveredby Brother_____

Arise,* comeforward, andreceiveit.*(Worshipful Masterpausesfor SeniorDeaconto

takehis position.)

(The WorshipfulMastermaydesignatesomeotherBrother to deliver or read the Charge. In the eventthe WorshipfulMaster elects to deliver or read theCharge himself, he will omit the words “The Chargewill be deliveredby Brother

CHARGE

Brother(s),yourzeal for our institution, theprogressyouhavemadein ourmysteries,and yoursteadyconformity toour useful regulations,have pointedyou out as a properobjectfor this peculiarmarkof ourfavor.

Duty and honornow alike bind you to be faithful to

98

everytrust; to supportthe dignity of yourcharacteron alloccasions;and strenuouslyto enforce,by preceptandexample,a steadyobedienceto the tenetsof Freemasonry.Exemplaryconducton your part will convincethe worldthat merit is thejust title to ourprivileges,and that on youour favorshavenot beenundeservedlybestowed.

In this respectablecharacter,you are authorizedto cor-rectthe irregularitiesofyour less informedBrethren;to for-tify their minds with resolutionsagainstthe snaresof theinsidious, and to guardthem againstevery allurementtovicious practices.To preserveunsullied the reputationofthe Fraternityought to be your constantcare; and, there-fore, it becomesyour province to caution the inexperi-encedagainsta breachof fidelity. To your inferiors in rankor office, you areto recommendobedienceandsubmission;to your equals,courtesyand affability; to your superiors,kindnessand condescension.Universal obedienceyou arezealouslyto inculcate;and by the regularityof your ownconduct,endeavorto removeeveryaspersionagainstthisvenerableinstitution. Our Ancient Landmarksyou arecarefully to preserve,andnot suffer them, on anypretense,to be infringed,or countenancea deviationfrom ourestab-lishedcustoms.

Your honorand reputationare concernedin supportingwith dignity the respectablecharacteryou now bear. Letno motive, therefore,makeyou swerveftom yourduty, vio-late yourvows, or betrayyour trust; but be true andFaith-ful, andimitate theexampleof that celebratedartist whomyou have this eveningrepresented.Thus you will renderyourself(yourselves)deservingof thehonorwhich wehaveconferred,and worthy of the confidencewe havereposedin you.

99

FLORIDA MASONIC MONITOR PRESENTATIONOF LAMBSKIN APRON

(If Brother other than the WorshipfulMasterreadsor deliverstheCharge,he will say:)

Thankyou, Worshipful Master,andBrethren.


WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

My Brother(s),pleasehavea seatamongthe Brethren.

PRESENTATIONOFLAMBSKIN APRON(SeeRegulation38.15)

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

My Brother(s),I now presentyou this lambskinorwhiteleatherapron.(*) It is an emblemof innocenceand thedistinguishedbadgeof aMason.

It may be that, in thecomingyears,upon yourheadwillrest the laurel wreathsof victory; from your breastmayhangjewelsfit to gracethediademof an Easternpotentate;nay, morethanthese,with light addedto thecoming light,yourambitiousfeetmay treadroundafterroundof the lad-der that leadsto fame in our mystic circle, and even thepurpleof theFraternitymayrestupon yourhonoredshoul-ders;but neveragainfrom mortal hands,neveragainuntilyour enfranchisedspirit shall have passedupwardandinward throughthepearlygates,shall any honorsodistin-guished,so emblematicalof purity and all perfections,beconferredupon you as this which I now bestow.It is yours;yours to wear throughoutan honorablelife, and at yourdeathto be depositedupon the coffin which shall encloseyour lifelessremains,andwith them laid beneaththeclodsof thevalley.

Let its pure and spotlesssurfacebe to you an ever-pre-

sentreminderof a “purity of life and rectitudeofconduct,”a never-endingargumentfor nobler deeds,for higherthoughts,for greaterachievements.And whenat last yourweary feet shall havecometo the endof life’s toilsomejourney,and from your nervelessgrasp shall drop foreverthe working tools of life, may the record of your life andactionsbe as pure and spotlessasthis fair emblemwhich Iplacewithin yourhandstonight; andwhenyour tremblingsoul shall standnakedand alonebefore the GreatWhiteThrone, thereto receivejudgmentfor the deedsdonewhile herein thebody, may it beyourportionto hearfromHim who sittethas theJudgeSupremethewelcomewords:“Well done, good and faithful servant! Thou hastbeenfaithful overa few things; I will maketheerulerovermanythings! Enterthou into thejoy of thy Lord.”

100 101

FUNERAL SERVICEINSTRUCTIONS

General Instructionsfor

Masonic Funeral ServicesThe ceremoniesthat are observedon the occasionof

funeralsare highly appropriate.They areperformedas amelancholyMasonicduty, and asa tokenof respectandaffectionto thememoryof a departedBrother.

GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS

1. No Freemasoncan be buriedwith the formalitiesoftheFraternity,unlessit beat his own request,or that of hisnext of kin, communicatedto the Worshipful Masterofthe Lodge of which he died a member, foreignersorsojournersexcepted;nor unlesshe be a MasterMason ingood standing.Therecan be no exceptionto this restric-tion.

2. Fellow Craftsor EnteredApprenticesarenot entitledto Masonic funerals,nor canthey be allowed to unite, asMasons, in thefuneralprocessionof a BrotherMason.

3. No Lodge, or body of Masonsassuch, canunite inthe funeral serviceof a personnot a Mason,without per-mission of theGrandMaster.

4. TheWorshipful Masterof theLodge,havingreceivednotice of the deathof a BrotherMaster Mason who is amemberof his Lodge, and a requestthat the deceasedBrotherbe buried with the ceremoniesof the Craft, fixesthe day and hour for the funeral (unlesspreviouslyarrangedby the relativesand ftietids of thedeceased),andinstructsthe Secretaryto notify the members.He mayinvite other membersand other Lodges.ashe considersproper, but the whole ceremonymustbe underthe direc-

tion of the Worshipful Masterof the Lodge of which thedeceasedwasa member.

5. Upon the deathof a sojournerwho had expressedawish to be buriedwith Masonic ceremoniestheprovisionsof Regulations38.21 through38.28mustbecompliedwith.The dutiesprescribedin theseRegulationswill devolveupon the Worshipful Master of the Lodgewithin whosejurisdiction the deathmay occur; and if in a place wheretherebe more thanone Lodge, thenupon the WorshipfulMaster of the oldest Lodge, unlessotherwisemutuallyarranged.

6. Whenevercivic societiesor the military unite withMasonsin theburial of a Mason, thebody of thedeceasedmustbe in chargeof theLodgehavingjurisdiction.

7. If the deceasedwasa Past GrandMaster,or an elec-tive or appointive Grand Lodge Officer, the GrandSecretaryshould be immediately notified by the Secretaryor Worshipful Master of the Lodge in whosejurisdictionsuchmemberresided.If he wasa PastGrandMasteror anelective GrandLodge Officer, the GrandLodge may takejurisdiction.

8. The pall-bearersmaybe Masons,selectedby thefam-ily. If thedeceasedwas amemberof aRoyal Arch Chapter,Council,Commanderyor Consistory,a portionof thepall-bearersmaybe takenfrom thesebodiesseverally,howeverthereis no requirementthat thepall-bearersbeMasons.

9. The properclothing for a Masonic funeral is a blackhat, black or dark clothes,black neck-tie,white gloves,and a plain white cloth or lambskinapron, with a bandofblack crepearoundthe left arm, abovethe elbow, and asprig of evergreenon the breast(SeeRegulation38.21).The Worshipful Master’sgavel,theWardens’columns,the

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FLORIDA MASONIC MONITOR FUNERAL SERVICEINSTRUCTIONS

Deacons’and Stewards’rods, the Tyler’s sword and theMarshal’sbatonshouldbe trimmedwith blackcrepe,neat-ly tied with white ribbon. The Bible may be coveredwithblackcrepe.

10. While the body is lying in statein the coffin thereshouldbeplaceduponthe lattera plain white apron.

11. If a Past or PresentGrandMaster, Deputy GrandMaster,or GrandWardenshould join the processionof aparticularLodge,properattentionshouldbepaidto him orthem.They takea placeaftertheWorshipfulMasterof theLodge.Two Deacons,with white rods,shouldbeappointedby theWorshipFulMasterto attendsuchGrandOfficers.

12. Whenthe headof the processionshall havearrivedat the place of interment,or wherethe servicesare to beperformed,the lines should be opened,and the highestofficer in rank, precededby the Marshal and Tyler, passthroughreversingtheorder.

13. Upon arriving at theentranceof the cemetery,theBrethrenshouldmarchin openorderto the tomb or grave.If thebody is to beplaced in a tomb,the Tyler should takehis placein front of the opendoor,and the line be spreadsoasto form a circle. Thecoffin shouldbedepositedin thecircle and the Stewardsmay cope the GreatLights at thefoot of the coffin, and the Deaconsmay cope theWorshipfulMasterat theheadof thecoffin. The paIl-bear-ersretire from theside of thecoffin afterdepositingit. Themournersmay be locatedat the foot of the coffin, or oneither side, and the Worshipful Masterand otherOfficersat the head. If the coffin is to be placed in a tomb, theMasonic service shouldbe complet~dbeforetheundertak-er placesthe coffin in the tomb. If the body is to bedepositedin the earth,the Brethrenshould form aroundthegrave.

14. After the Clergymanshall haveperformedthe reli-gious servicesof the Church, the Masonicservicesshouldbegin. (SeeNo. 21.)

15. A Lodge in processionis to beunderthesamedisci-pline asin thelodge-room.

16. Masonicfuneral servicesareof two kinds: “Churchor residence”and “grave.” Servicesareheld in the lodge-room,Churchor residenceonly whentheycannot becon-ductedat thegrave.The Masonicserviceat theChurchorresidenceshouldnot beconductedunlessby specialrequestof the family. The “grave” ceremonyis always to be con-ductedat a cemetery.The ceremonyin theLodge-roomisoptionalwith theWorshipfulMaster.

17. In openingtheLodge,theWorshipful Mastermakespro tem appointmentsto fill any vacanciesamongtheOfficers. When theLodge is opened,he statesthe purposeof the Communicationand the Brethrenare instructedintheir respectiveduties and positionsin theprocessionandat the grave,which shouldbe rehearsed.He selectssomesuitableBrother to act as Marshaland, if the processionisvery large,may appointassistantsor authorizethe Marshalto select them. Before leaving the lodge-room, theWorshipful Mastershouldgive any special instructionsorinformation that he may deemdesirable.When all is inorder, the Brethrenleavethelodge-roomand go in carstotheappointedplaceof meeting,wherethey form underthedirectionof the Marshal. At the conclusionof the publicserviceto beperformed,theyreturn to the lodge-roomandthe Lodge is closed.No one should leave the procession,either in going to or returningfrom the funeral, exceptincaseof real emergency.(Also seeReg.38.42for otheroptionsfor Called Communicationsto conductfunerals.)

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FLORIDA MASONIC MONITOR FUNERAL SERVICEINSTRUCTIONS

18. When an Emergentor Called Communicationof aLodge is called to conduct a Masonic Funeral, theWorshipful Mastershouldwear his hat at all times duringtheLodgeopeningandclosingexceptwhile prayeris beingoffered, including the Benediction.Whenthe funeralpro-cessionarrivesat thegrave, the Worshipful Mastershouldremove his hat and remainuncovereduntil after theBenediction.The provision for a Worshipful Master to beuncoveredat a Masonic funeral serviceshall not applywhen thedeceasedwasa memberof a religious groupthatwears a headpieceduring a funeral service. It is notrequiredthat the Worshipful Masterand Craft be uncov-eredat the funeralserviceof a deceasedBrotherwho was amemberof a religious faith or group that traditionallyremaincoveredduringa funeralservice.

19. In conductingMasonicfunerals,Worshipful Mastersare authorizedto useany of the funeral servicesin theFlorida Monitor, or any arrangementof parts of suchser-vices.

20. The arrangementsarounda grave,as shownin theDiagram for grave-sideservicesmay be rearrangedto meetprevailingconditions in the cemeterywhere the serviceisto be held.

21. The Worshipful Master may presideat a FuneralService,or he may designateanotherto act as MasterofCeremonies.The minister may be requestedto pronouncetheBenedictioninsteadof theChaplain.

PROCEDUREFOROPENINGA LODGEAT THE BEGINNING OF THE YEAR

FORTHE PURPOSEOFCONDUCTING FUNERAL CEREMONIES

(WorshipfulMasterOpensLodge in MasterMason

Degreeusingregular OpeningCeremony.)

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

This Lodgehasbeencalled andopenedfor the purposeof conductingfuneral ceremoniesfor our Brotherswhodepartthis life duringtheensuingyear.

BrotherSecretary,ensurethat accuraterecordsarekeptof all funeral ceremoniesconductedby the Lodge duringthe ensuingyearand that each is reportedat the nextStatedCommunication.

(Givesthreeraps to call up the Brethren.)

By authority in me vested,I now declare this CalledCommunicationof Name LodgeNo.______Free and AcceptedMasons,adjourned,but continuouslyopenduring theensuingyearfor thepurposeofconductingfuneralceremonies.

BrotherSeniorDeacon,closetheGreatLights. (Done.)

BrotherJuniorDeacon,inform theTyler.

JUNIOR DEACON

:

(Takeshis Rod when addressed,goesto the outerdoorand opensit.)

BrotherTyler.

TYLER

:

BrotherJuniorDeacon.

UNIOR DEACON:

The Worshipful Masterhasadjournedthe Lodge, takedue noticethereofand tyle accordingly.

(Returnsto his placeand standsat attention.)

106 107

AA


WorshipfulMaster,theduty is performed.

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

(Givesonerap to dismisstheBrethren.)

PROCEDUREFORCLOSINGA LODGEWHICH WAS OPENEDAT THE

BEGINNING OFTHE YEARFORTHE PURPOSEOF

CONDUCTING FUNERAL CEREMONIES

NOTESAND INSTRUCTIONS

(This closingceremonyis to be conductedby theretiring (outgoing)WorshipfulMaster. If held imme-diately prior to installation of the new officers, theLodge will still have to be openedby the retiringWorshipful Master,either in Called or StatedCommunication,and the incoming officersinstalled in that Communication,which thenwould be closed after the installation by thenewly installedWorshipfulMaster.)

(The newWorshipful Mastermay then, at hisdiscretion,call and opena Lodge in regularformin the MasterMasonDegreeto conductfuneralceremoniesduringhis termof office.)

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

(Givesonerap.)

Brethren,let uscometo order. (Done.)

Brethren, I am about to reconvenethe CalledCommunicationof Name Lodge No.______

FUNERAL SERVICEINSTRUCTIONS

andAcceptedMasonsof (date) , which wasopenedfor the purposeof conductingfuneral ceremoniesduringtheyearnowendedandto thenclosethesame.

Brother Junior Deacon,requestthe membersof thisLodge to comeinside the Lodge room, and thenclosethedoor.

UNIOR DEACON:

(Riseswhenaddressedandgoesto theouter door.)

Brethren, the Worshipful Masterrequeststhe membersof this Lodge to comeinside theLodge room.

(After the Brethrencome inside the Lodge room, hecloses the door, returns to his place and takeshisseat.)

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

BrotherSeniorWarden,are all presentMasterMasons?

SENIORWARDEN

:

(Riseswhen addressedand answersaffirmatively orpurgesLodge if necessary.)

WORSHIPFUL MASTER

:

(Givesthreeraps to call up theBrethren.)

By authority in me vested,I now declarethe CalledCommunicationof (Name) Lodge No.______FreeandAcceptedMasonsof date , reconvened

in theMasterMasonDegree.

Brother Senior Deacon,display the Great Lights.(Done.)

BrotherJuniorDeacon,inform theTyler.

108 109


UNIOR DEACON:

(Takeshis rod whenaddressed,goesto the outerdoorand opensit.)

BrotherTyler.

TYLER

:

BrotherJuniorDeacon.

UNIOR DEACON:

TheWorshipfulMasterhasreconvenedtheLodgein theMaster MasonDegree,take due notice thereofand tyleaccordingly.

(Closes the door, returns to his placeand standsatattention.)

WorshipfulMaster,theduty is performed.

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

(Givesonerap to seattheBrethren.)

Brethren,this Lodgehasbeenreconvenedfor the pur-poseof completingthoseduties for which it was opened,and to close thesame.During the period it hasbeenopenwehaveconductedfuneralceremoniesfor _______(number)

of our departedBrothers.

(The WorshipfulMaster or Secretarymayread thenamesof thedepartedBrothers.)

Let us standa momentin respectand memoryof theseBrothers.

(Gives three raps to call up the Brethren. After aperiodofsilence,he says:)

BrotherChaplain,leadusin prayer.

FUNERAL AT GRAVE

CHAPLAIN

:

(Givesthefollowingor otherappropriateprayer.)

Almighty Father, we thank Theefor the privilege ofhavingknown our departedBrothers and for their contri-butions to Masonry. Let time, as it healsthe woundsthusinflicted upon our heartsand upon the heartsof all whowere nearand dear to them, engravethereonlessonsalways distinct and legible. Let the loss of our Brothersincreaseour affection for thoseyet spared. We askThyblessingon the bereavedrelativesand friends in the hourof their desolationand beseechTheeto fold the armsofThy love and protectionaroundthem in their hour ofneed. And whenour time comes,as it must to all men,may we be worthy of Thy love and meet Thy call withfaith andcourage.Amen!

BRETHREN

:

Somote it be!

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

(Givesonerap to seatthe Brethren.)

(Optional: announcements,comments,minutes,etc.)

(TheLodge is then closed using the regular closingceremony.)

FUNERAL AT GRAVE

(After theClergymanhasperformedthe religious ser-vice of the Church, the Masonic serviceshouldbegin.)

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

We haveassembledheretodayasFreemasonsto payour

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FLORIDA MASONIC MONITOR FUNERAL AT GRAVE

respectsto the memory of a deceasedBrother whoseremains lie beforeus andto inter themwith MasonicRites.BrotherChaplain,leadus in prayer.

CHAPLAIN

:

Almighty and most merciful Father,we adoreTheeasthe God of time and eternity.As it hathpleasedTheetotakefrom the light of our abode,onedearto ourhearts,webeseechTheeto blessand sanctify unto us this dispensa-tion oF Thy providence.Inspire our heartswith wisdomfrom on high, that we may glorify Theein all our ways.May we realize that ThineAll-Seeing Eye is upon us, andbe influencedby theSpirit of truth andlove to perfectobe-dience—thatwe may enjoy Thy Divine approbationherebelow. And whenour toils on earthshall haveended,maywe be raisedto theenjoymentof fadelesslight and immor-tal life in that kingdom wherefaith andhope shall end,and love andjoy prevail througheternalages.And Thine,O RighteousFather,shall be theglory forever.Amen!

BRETHREN

:

So mote it be!

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

The solemnnotes that betokenthe dissolutionof thisearthlytabernaclehaveagainalarmedour outerdoor,andanotherspirit hasbeensummonedto the land whereourfathershavegonebeforeus.

Again we arecalledto assembleamongthe habitationsof the dead,to beholdthe “narrow houseappointedfor allliving.” Here, aroundus in that peacewhich the worldcannotgive or take away, sleepthe unnumbereddead.The gentle breezefans their verdantcoYering, but they

heed it not; the sunshineand the storm passover them,andtheyarenot disturbed;stonesandletteredmonumentssymbolize the affection of surviving friends, yet no soundproceedsfrom them,savethat silent but thrilling admoni-tion, “Seek ye the narrow pathand the strait gatethatleadunto eternallife.”

We areagaincalledupon to considerthe uncertaintyofhumanlife, the immutable certaintyof death,and thevanity of all humanpursuits. Decrepitudeand decayarewritten uponevery living thing. The cradleand the coffinstandin juxtaposition to eachother; and it is a melan-choly truth that so soonaswebegin to live, that momentwe also begin to die. It is passingstrangethat, notwith-standingthe daily mementoesof mortality that crossourpath— notwithstandingthat funeralbells so often toll inour earsand the “mournful processions”go aboutourstreets—wewill not moreseriouslyconsiderour approach-ing fate. We go on from designto design, addhope tohope,andlay out plansfor theemploymentof manyyears,until we are suddenlyalarmedat the approachof theMessengerof Death,at a momentwhen we leastexpecthim, and which we probablyconcludeto be the meridianof our existence.

What, then,areall theexternalsof humandignity—thepowersof wealth, the dreamsof ambition, the pride ofintellect, or the charmof beauty—whenNaturehaspaidherjust debt?Fix your eyeson this lastsadsceneandviewlife strippedof its ornaments,and exposedin its naturalsettingand you must be persuadedof the utter emptinessof thesedelusions.[n tlie grave,all fallaciesaredetected,all ranksare leveled,all distinctionsare doneaway. Herethe scepterof the prince and the staff of the beggararelaid side by side.

112 113


While we drop a sympathetictearover the grave of ourdeceasedBrother, let us castaroundhis foibles, whateverthey mayhavebeen,the broad mantleof Masoniccharity,nor withhold from his memorythe commendationthat hisvirtuesclaim at ourhands.Perfectionon earthhasneveryetbeenattained;the wisest, aswell as the bestof men,havegone astray.Suffer, then, the apologiesof humannaturetopleadfot himwho canno longerpleadfor himself.

Our presentCommunicationandproceedingswill havebeenin vain and uselessif they fail to excite our seriousreflectionsandstrengthenour resolutionsofamendment.

Be thenpersuaded,my Brethren,by this exampleof theuncertaintyof humanlife, of the unsubstantialnatureofall its pursuits, and no longer postponethe all-importantconcernof preparingfor Eternity. Let us eachembracethepresentmoment,and while time andopportunity permit,preparewith carefor that greatchangewhich we all knowmustcome,whenthe pleasuresof theworld shall ceasetodelight and be as a poison to our lips, and while we mayenjoy the happy reflectionsof a well-spentlife, the exer-cise of piety and virtue will yield the only comfort andconsolation.

Thus shallour hopesbe not frustrated,nor we be hur-ried unpreparedinto the presenceof that all-wise andpowerful Judge,to whom the secretsof all heartsareknown. Let us resolveto maintainwith sincerity thedig-nified characterof our profession.May our Faith beevincedin a correctmoral walk anddeportment;mayourHope be bright as the glorious mysteriesthat will berevealedhereafter;andourCharity boundlessasthewantsof our fellow-creatures.And, havingfaithfully dischargedthe greatdutieswhich we owe to God, to our neighbor,and ourselves,when at last it shall pleasethe Grand

Masterof the Universe to summonus into His eternalpresence,may the Trestle-boardof our whole lives passsuchinspectionthat it may be given unto eachof us to“eat of the hidden manna,” and to receive the “whitestonewith a new name” that will insureperpetualandunspeakablehappinessat His right hand.

(TheMaster,displayingtheapron, continues:)

The Lambskin,or white leatherApron, is an emblemofinnocenceand the badgeof a Mason. It is more ancientthanthe GoldenFleeceor RomanEagle, morehonorablethantheStarandGarter,whenworthily worn.

This emblemI now place on the coffin of our deceasedBrother. By it we are remindedof the universaldominionof Death.The arm of Friendshipcannotinterposeto pre-vent his coming; thewealthof the world cannotpurchaseour release;norwill the innocenceof youth or the charmsof beautypropitiatehis purpose.The mattock, the coffin,and the melancholygrave admonishus of our mortality,and that,sooneror later, thesefrail bodiesmust moulderintheir parentdust.

(TheMasterdepositsit uponthecoffin.)

(TheMaster,holdinga sprigof evergreen,continues:)

The evergreen,which oncemarkedthe temporaryrestingplaceof theillustrious dead,is an emblemof our faith in theimmortalityof thesoul. By it we areremindedthatwe havean immortal part within us, that shallsurvive thegrave,andwhich shall never,never,never die. By it we areadmon-ishedthat, thoughlike our Brotherwhoseremainslie beforeus,we too shallsoonbe clothedin the habilimentsof deathand depositedin the silent tomb, yet throughour belief inthe mercyof God, we may confidentlyhope that our soulswill bloomin eternalspring.This, too, I depositin the grave

114 115


with the exclamation,“Alas, my Brother!”

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

(Deposits the sprig of evergreenon the coffin onbehalfof all theBrethrenpresent.)

Note—At the conclusionof the service, eachBrother may individually deposita sprig of evergreenon thecoffin.

FUNERAL HONORS

(ThePublic Grand Honorsare givenin thefollowingmanner: Both arms are crossedon the breast, withthe left over the right and theopenpalmsofthehandsstriking theshoulders;they are then raised abovethehead, thepalmsstriking eachother, and thenmadetofall sharply on the thighs, with head bowed.This isgiven three times. While the honorsare beinggiventhe third time, whenthe arms are crossedon thebreastsay: “We cherishhis memoryhere.” Whenthehandsare extendedover the head, say: “We com-mendhis spirit to God who gave it,” and when thehands are extendedtoward the ground, say: “Andconsignhis bodyto the earth.”)

WORSHiPFULMASTER

:

(GivesthePublic GrandHonors.)

(Thethird time—witharmscrossedoverthebreast.)

We cherishhis memoryhere.(Bring the palms togetherabovethe head, lookingupward.)

We commendhis spirit to Godwho gaveit.

(Bring the handsquickly to the thighs with the headbowed.)

And consignhis body to theearth.

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

Inasmuchasit haspleasedAlmighty God, in His infinitewisdom, to take unto Himself the spirit of our deceasedBrother,we thereforecommithis body to thegrave.

Earthto Earth.

(Earth beingsprinkledon thecoffin.)

Ashesto Ashes.

(Earthbeingsprinkledon thecoffin.)

Dustto Dust.

(Earth beingsprinkledon thecoffin.)

Thereto remainuntil the trump shall soundon the res-urrection morn. We can confidently leave him in thehandsof a Beingwho doethall thingswell; who is gloriousin holiness,fearful in praise,doingwonders.

(TheWorshipfulMasterthencontinuesthe ceremony:)

From time immemorialit hasbeenthe customamongtheFraternityof FreeandAcceptedMasons,at the requestof aBrother, to accompanyhis remainsto the place of inter-ment,andthereto depositthemwith theusualformalities.

In conformity to this usage,and at the requestof ourdeceasedBrother,whosememorywerevere,andwhoselosswe now deplore,we have assembledin the characterofMasons,to offer up to his memory,beforetheworld, apart-ing tributeof our affectkn, therebydemonstratingthesin-cerity of our past esteemfor him, and our steadyattach-mentto theprinciplesof theOrder.

116 117


The GreatCreator,havingbeenpleasedout of His infi-nite mercyto removeourBrotherfrom the caresand trou-bles of this transitoryexistenceto a stateof endlessdura-tion, thus severinganotherlink from the fraternal chainthat binds us together,may we who survive him be morestrongly cementedin theties of unionand friendship,thatduring theshort spaceallotted us here we may wisely andusefullyemployour time, and, in the reciprocalintercourseof kind andfriendly acts,mutually promotethewelfareandhappinessof eachother.

To thoseof his immediaterelativesand friends,who aremost heart-strickenat the losswe have all sustained,wehavebut little of this world’s consolationto offer; we canonly sincerely,deeplyand most affectionatelysympathizewith them in their distressingbereavement;but wecansaythat He who tempersthe wind to the shorn lamb looksdownwith infinite compassionuponthewidow andfather-less in the hour of their desolation;and that the GreatArchitect will fold the arms of His love and protectionaroundthosewho put their trust in Him.

Then let us improve this solemnwarning,so that whenthe sheeteddeadarestirring, when the greatwhite throneis set, we shall receivefrom the OmniscientJudgethethrilling invitation, “Come, ye blessed, inherit the king-dompreparedfor you from thefoundationof theworld.”

(May call for a songto be rendered.)

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:


CHAPLAIN

:

Most GloriousGod, Author of all good and Giver of all

mercy, pour down Thy blessingsupon us, and strengthenour solemnengagementswith the ties of sincereaffection.May thepresentinstanceof mortality remindusof ourownapproachingfate, and by drawing our attention towardThee,the only refuge in time of need,may we be inducedto so regulateour conduct kere that when the awfulmomentshall arrive at which we must quit this transitoryscene,theenliveningprospectof Thy mercymaydispelthegloom of death,and that after our departurehenceinpeaceandThy favor, wemaybe receivedinto Thine ever-lasting kingdom, and therejoin in union with our friend,andenjoy that uninterruptedand unceasingfelicity whichis allotted to thesoulsofjust menmadeperfect.Amen!

BRETHREN

:

Somote it be!

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

Thewill of Godis accomplished.

BRETHREN

:

Somote it be!

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

From dustwecame,anduntodust wemustreturn.

BRETHREN

:

May we all be recompensedat the resurrectionof thejust. Amen!

(Thustheserviceends~,and theprocessionwill returnto the placewhenceit cameor be dismissedas direct-ed by the WorshipfulMaster.AlsoseeReg.38.42.)

118 119

FLORIDA MASONIC MONITOR OPTIONAL FUNERAL AT GRAVE

PAST MASTERSNo. 2 Master of Ceremonies only at the

request of the Worshipful Masterw

.1-

. . . . . . .

U,LU

z0

0C

zm

C,,-Im

CD0zC’,

MOURNERS (1)

MARSHAL @J.S.@

PRAYERUSEDIN CLOSINGAFTERFUNERAL

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

(Givesthreeraps with thegavel.)


CHAPLAIN

:

SupremeGrandArchitectof theUniverse1in Whomwelive and move, andhaveour being:—Wedo mosthumblybeseechTheeto impressdeeplyuponour mindsthesolem-nities of this day. Grant that this afflicting dispensationmay renew our faith in Thy wisdom and goodness,strengthenour belief in the immortality of die soul,—thatmost comforting tenet of our belovedFraternity, andenableussoto live that we maynumberourdaysandapplyourheartsuntowisdom.

Grant us Thy Divine Assistance.0 most merciful God,to redeemour misspenttime; and give unto us wisdomtodirectus, strengthto supportus, andthebeautyof holinessto adornall our labors. And wlien our work on earth isdone, and when our bodiesshall return to mingle withtheir kindreddust,maywebe receivedinto Thy keepingtodwell foreverin that spiritual housenot madewith hands,eternalin theHeavens.Amen!

BRETHREN

:

Somote it be!

OPTIONAL FUNERAL AT GRAVE

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

We haveassembledheretodayasFreemasonsto pay our

121

.s.o.

C,,z0C,,

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GREATLIGHTS

•S.S. •TYLER

Mourners may be located at gither location gg shown. (1, 2 or 3)

The Secretary Should be pIace~i at a ~onygnlentplace.

120


respectsto the memory of a deceasedBrother whoseremainslie beforeusandto inter themwith MasonicRites.


CHAPLAIN

:

Almighty and most merciful Father,we adoreTheeasthe God of time and eternity.As it hathpleasedTheetotakefrom thelight of our abodeonedearto our hearts,webeseechTheeto bless and sanctifyunto us this dispensa-tion of Thy Providence.Inspire our heartswith wisdomfrom on high, that we may glorify Theein all our ways.May we realize that Thine All-SeeingEye is upon us, andbe influencedby thespirit oftruth and love to perfectobe-dience,that we may enjoy Thy divine approbationherebelow. And whenourtoils on earthshall haveended,maywebe raisedto the enjoymentof fadelesslight and immor-tal life in that kingdom wherefaith and hopeshall end,and love and joy prevail througheternalages.And Thine,O RighteousFather,shallbe theglory forever.Amen!

BRETHREN

:

So mote it be!

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

The solemnnotes that betokenthe dissolutionof thisearthly tabernaclehaveagainalarmedour outerdoor,andanotherspirit hasbeensummonedto the landwhere ourfathershavegonebeforeus.

Again we arecalled to assembleamongthe habitationsof thedead,to beholdthe “narrow houseappointedfor allliving.” Here, aroundus, in that peacewhich the worldcannotgive or takeaway, sleeptheunnumbereddead.Thegentlebreezefanstheir verdantcovering,but they heedit

122

not; the sunshineand the storm passover them, and theyare not disturbed;stonesand letteredmonumentssymbol-ize theaffectionof surviving friends,yet no soundproceedsfrom them,savethat silentbut thrilling admonition,“Seekye the narrowpathand the strait gatethat leadunto eter-nal life.”

From time immemorial it hasbeen the customofFreemasonsto escortthe mortal body of a Brother to itsfinal resting place, where in fraternal sympathytheMasonicserviceof intermentis givenin his honor.

All that is mortal of our belovedBrother lies beforeus;the earthly houseof his immortal life hasfallen. It is theinevitable adventureof us all, wkich no wealthor honor,no power or stationcanavert.Once morewe meetuponthe level—the common level of a greatsorrow. Let usremembertkat while we are but human,we partake,aswell, of the Divine nature, and, as children of theHeavenlyFather,havebeentaught to trust thepowerthatdoethall thingswell, in deathasin life.

One subjectupon which Masonrysoundsno uncertainnote is the doctrineof the immortality of the soul. Wekave implicit faith that weshall meetagainandbe reunit-ed with thosewhom we have long loved and lost for awhile.

(TheMaster,displayingtheApron in his hand, says):

The Lambskin or white leatherApron is an emblemofinnocence,and the time-honoredbadgeof a Free andAcceptedMason—moreancientthan the GoldenFleeceor RomanEagle;morehqnorablethantheStarandGarter,whenworthily worn. This emblemI now placeon thecof-fin of our deceasedBrother. By it we areremindedthatthroughthe universaldominion of deathour Brotherhas

123

FLORDA MASONIC MONITOR OPTIONAL FUNERAL AT GRAVE

finished his earthly labor, and that his accountnow restswith God.

(TheMasterdepositsit uponthecoffin.)

(TheMaster, holdinga sprigofevergreen,continues):

The evergreen,which once markedthe temporaryrest-ing placeof the illustrious dead,is an emblemof our faithin the immortality of the soul. By it we are remindedthatwe have an immortal part within us that shall survive thegraveandwhich shallnever,never,neverdie. By it we areadmonishedthat, though like our Brotherwhoseremainslie beforeus, weshallsoonbe clothedin thehabilimentsofdeathand depositedin the silent tomb, yet, throughourbelief in the mercyof God, we may confidentlyhopethatour soulswill bloom in eternalspring. This, too, I depositin thegravewith theexclamation,“Alas, my Brother!”

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

(Depositsthe sprig of evergreenon the coffin onbehalfofall theBrethrenpresent.)

Note—At the conclusionof the service,eachBrother may individuafly deposita sprig of evergreenon thecoffin.

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

(May call for a songto berendered.)

FUNERAL HONORS

(ThePublic Grand Honors are givenin thefollowingmanner: Both arms are crossed.on the breast, withthe left overthe right and the openpalmsof thehandsstrikingthe shoulders;theyare then raised abovethehead, thepalmsstrikingeachother, and thenmadeto

fall sharply on the thighs, with headbowed. This isgiven three times. While the honors are being giventhe third time, when the arms are crossedon thebreastsay: “We cherishhis memoryhere.” Whenthehandsare extendedover the head, say: “We com-mendhis spirit to God who gave it,” and when thehandsare extendedtoward the ground, say: “Andconsignhis bodyto theearth.”)

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

(GivesthePublic GrandHonors.)

(Thethird time—botharms crossedover the breast.)

We cherishhis memoryhere.

(Bring palms togetherabove the head, lookingupward.)

We commendhis spirit to Godwho gave it.

(Bring the handsquickly to the thighs with the headbowed.)

And consignhis body to the earth.

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

Inasmuchas it haspleasedAlmighty God, in His infinitewisdom, ~o take unto Himself the spirit of our deceasedBrother,we thereforecommithis bodyto thegrave.

Earthto earth.


Ashesto ashes.


Dust to dust.

(Earthbeir~g sprinkledon thecoffin.)

124 125


Thereto remainuntil the trump shall soundon the res-urrection morn. We can confidently leave him in thehandsof a Beingwhodoethall thingswell; Who is gloriousin holiness,fearful in praise,doingwonders.

To therelativesandfriends who aremostheart-strickenat the loss theyhavesustained,we canonly offer our mostsincereand affectionatesympathyin this their bereave-ment, and commendthem to the loving careof ourHeavenlyFather,Who looks down with infinite compas-sion upon them in the hourof their desolationandWhowill fold the armsof His love andprotectionaroundthosewho put theirtrust in Him.


CHAPLAIN

:

Almighty God, we askThy blessingas we turn fromthesesolemnservicesto the no less solemntasks of life.We have consignedour Brother to the grave, and withunfalteringtrustwecommendhis Spirit to Thy care.

Gatheringheresuchfresh experienceof Thy love,catchinghere suchglimpsesof the exceedingglory thatawaitsus, maywefeel that it is betterto go to thehouseofmourningthan to go to the houseof feasting.And now,0Lord, we pray for Thy handto leadus in all the pathsourfeetmusttread;andwhenthejourneyof life is ended,maylight from our immortal home illumine the dark valley oftheshadowof death,and voicesof loved oneswelcomeusto that “housenot madewith hands,eternalin the heav-ens.”Amen!

BRETHREN

:

So mote it be!

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

Soft and safe to thee,my Brother, be this thy earthlybed. Fragrantbe the acaciasprig that here shall flourish.May the earliestbuds of spring unfold their beautiesonthis, thy restingplace; andheremay the sweetnessof thesummerroselinger latest.Thoughthecold blastof autumnmay lay themin thedust, andfor a time destroytheloveli-nessof their existence,yet the destructionis not final, andin the springtimethey shall bloom again.So, in the brightmorningof theworld’s resurrection,may thy mortal framenow laid in the dust by the chilling blastof death,springagain into the newnessof life, and expand,in immortalbeauty,in realmsbeyondtheskies.Until then,farewell.

BrotherChaplain,you will pronouncetheBenediction.

CHAPLAIN

:

Grant unto our Brothereternalrefreshmentandrest, 0Lord, andlet Thy mystic light perpetuallyshineuponhim.

The Lord blessus andkeepus, theLord makehis facetoshineuponusandbe graciousuntous.TheLord lift up Hiscountenanceupon us, and give us peaceboth now andforevermore.Amen!

BRETHREN

:

Somote it be!

WORSHIPFULMASTER

:

Brethren,this concludesourservice.

(Thustheserviceends,and theprocessionwill returnto theplacewhenceit cameor be dismissedas direct-ed by the WorshipfulMaster. Also seeRegulation38.42.)

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