a dispensation granted them for that purpose, do now desire to be constituted into a regular lodge, agreeably to the ancient usages and customs of the fraternity." Their secretary then delivers the dispensation and records to the master elect, who presents them to the grand master. The grand master examines the records, and if they are found correct, proclaims, "The records appear to be properly entered, and are approved. Upon due deliberation, the grand lodge have granted the brethren of this new lodge a charter, confirming them in the rights and privileges of a regularly constituted lodge; which the grand secretary will now read." After the charter is read, the grand master then says, "We shall now proceed, according to ancient usage, to constitute these brethren into a regular lodge." Whereupon the several officers of the new lodge deliver up their jewels and badges to their master, who presents them, with his own, to the deputy grand master, and he to the grand mas ter. The deputy grand master now presents the master elect of the new lodge to the grand master, saying, "MOST WORSHIPFUL, "I present you brother, whom the members of the lodge now to be constituted have chos en for their master.” The grand master asks them if they remain satisfied with their choice. (They bow in token of assent.) The master then presents, severally, his wardens, and other officers, naming them and their respective offices. The grand master asks the brethren if they remain satisfied with each and all of them. (They bow as before.) The officers and members of the new lodge then form in the broad aisle, in front of the grand master; and the business of consecration commences, with solemn music. Ceremony of Consecration. The grand master, attended by the grand officers, and the grand chaplain, form themselves in order, round the lodge, which is then uncovered. All devoutly kneeling, the first clause of the consecration prayer is rehearsed, as follows, viz. "Great Architect of the Universe! Maker and Ruler of all Worlds! deign, from thy celestial temple, from realms of light and glory, to bless us in all the purposes of our present assembly! "We humbly invoke thee to give us, at this and at all times, wisdom in all our doings, strength of mind in all our difficulties, and the beauty of harmony in all our communications! "Permit us, O thou Author of Light and Life, great Source of Love and Happiness, to erect this lodge, and now solemnly to consecrate it to the honour of thy glory!" "Glory be to God on high." [Response by the Brethren.] "As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be! Amen." During the response, the deputy grand master, and the grand wardens, take the vessels of corn, wine, and oil, and sprinkle the elements of consecration upon the lodge. [The grand chaplain then continues:]' Grant, O Lord our God, that those who are now about to be invested with the government of this lodge, may be endued with wisdom to instruct their brethren in all their duties. May brotherly love, relief and truth, always prevail amongst the members of this lodge; and may this bond of union continue to strengthen the lodges throughout the world! "Bless all our brethren, wherever dispersed : and grant speedy relief to all who are either oppressed or distressed, "We affectionately commend to thee all the members of thy whole family. May they increase in the knowledge of thee, and in the love of each other. "Finally: May we finish all our work here below, with thine approbation; and then have our transition from this earthly abode to thy heavenly temple above, there to enjoy light, glory and bliss, ineffable and eternal! "Glory be to God on high!" [Response by the brethren.] "As it was in the beginning, is now, shall be! and ever "Amen! so mote it be! Amen!" Then succeeds solemn music, while the lodge is covered. The grand chaplain then DEDICATES the lodge, in the following terms: "To the memory of HOLY SAINT JOHN, we dedicate this lodge. May every brother revere his character, and imitate his virtues. "Glory be to God on high!" "As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end! "Amen! so mote it be! Amen!" A piece of music is then performed, whilst the brethren of the new lodge advance in procession, to salute the grand lodge, with their hands crossed upon their breasts, and bowing as they pass. They then take their places, and stand as they were. The grand master then rises, and constitutes the new lodge in the form following: In the name of the most worshipful grand lodge, I now constitute and form you, my good brethren, into a lodge of free and accepted masons. From henceforth I empower you to act as a regular lodge, constituted in conformity to the rites of our order, and the charges of our ancient and honourable fraternity; and may the Supreme Architect of the Universe prosper, direct and counsel you in all your doings." [Response by all the brethren.] "So mote it be!" The ceremony of installation then succeeds. Second Section. Ceremony of Installation. The grand master* asks his deputy, "Whether he has examined the master, nominated in the warrant, and finds him well skilled in the noble science and the royal art?" The deputy, an *In this, and other similar instances, where the grand master is specified in acting, may be understood any master who performs the ceremony. |