Lodge St John Stoneyburn 1186 Installation Ritual 2011

Transcription

1 Lodge St John Stoneyburn 1186 Installation Ritual 2011 RWM Bro Thomas Pollock RWIM Bro Thomas Duncan PM RWIM Bro Murray Robertson PM

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3 human misery and vice. May it teach us to measure our actions by the rule of rectitude, square our conduct by the principles of morality, and guide our thoughts within the compass of propriety. Thus shall we learn to moderate the passions, the excess of which deform and disorder the soul, and the brother who has thus far discharged his duty as a freemason, can patiently await the arrival of that awful moment, when the soul shall take wing to the mansions above. Remaining Brethren Remaining Brethren Please be upstanding. Such are the genuine tenents and principles of our order. May they be transmitted through the lodge pure and unsullied through all generations. To obtain this end, let us continue to cultivate the moral and social virtues, laid down on our Masonic tracing board, and improve ourselves in everything that is good, amiable and useful. And may the Great Architect of the Universe preside over our Temple, and under his sway, let us ever act with a dignity, becoming the high and venerable character of our institution. So mote it be. Brethren we will now close this ceremony of installation by singing two verses of Psalm 23 The lords my Shepherd I'll not want. RWM your first duty this evening is to invest your immediate Past Master with the jewel of his office. RWM I now place in your hands this gavel the emblem of power and authority in this, your mother lodge, and its possession not only carries great power, but also proportionate responsibility. May you ever wield it with discretion and wisdom, so that when the time comes to pass it on to your successor, you will be able to do so with a clear conscience and the satisfaction of a good job, well done. Installing Masters form in the West and Proclaim RWM, I give you your Brethren Brethren, I give you your new RWM Mallet handed to RWPGM Grand Lodge Benevolence Deputation's retire Lodge Closed The lodge is opened in due and ancient form. Deputations received Provincial Grand Lodge received Installing Masters admitted Principal Installing Master invited to take the chair Address to the brethren Brethren, freemasonry has been called a beautiful system of morality, veiled in allegory and illustrated by signs and symbols. The system has been practised and its precepts have been taught from time immemorial, and it has been handed own from generation to generation by our worthy predecessors. For the due preservation of the ancient landmarks, and for the solemn administration of our ritual, rites, and customs, the brethren have formed themselves into lodges, operating under a charter granted by the Grand Lodge of Scotland, and supervised by a District or Provincial Grand Lodge, the master of which is commissioned by Grand Lodge, and is directly responsible to Grand Lodge, for the efficient control of the lodges under his jurisdiction. The Aims and Objects of the craft are clearly defined by Grand Lodge, and these will now be read to you by my Worthy Installing Colleague Bro... Aims & Objects of the Craft In August 1938, the Grand lodges of England, Ireland and Scotland each agreed upon, and issued a statement identical in terms, except that the name of the issuing Grand Lodge appeared throughout. This statement, which was entitled Aims and Relationships of the Craft, was in the following terms:- 1. From time to time the Grand Lodge of Scotland has deemed it desirable to set forth in precise form the aims of Freemasonry as consistently practised under its jurisdiction since it came into being as an organised body in 1736, and also to define the principles governing its relations with those other Grand lodges with which it is in Fraternal accord. 2. In view of representations which have been received, and of statements recently issued which have distorted or obscured the true objects of Freemasonry, it is once again considered necessary to emphasise certain fundamental principles of the Order. 3. The first condition of admission into, and membership of the Order, is belief in the Supreme Being. This is essential and admits of no compromise.

4 4. The Bible, referred to by freemasons as the Volume of the Sacred Law, is always open in the lodges. Every candidate is required to take his obligation on that book, or on the volume which is held by his particular creed, to impart sanctity to an oath or promise taken upon it. 5. Everyone who enters freemasonry is, at the outset, strictly forbidden to countenance any act which may have a tendency to subvert the peace and good order of society, he must pay due obedience to the law of any state in which he resides or which may afford him protection, and he must never be remiss in allegiance due to the Sovereign of his native land. 6. While Scottish Freemasonry thus inculcates in each of its members the duties of loyalty and citizenship, it reserves, to the individual, the right to hold his own opinion with regards to public affairs. But neither in any Lodge, nor at any time, in his capacity as a freemason, is he permitted to discuss or to advance his views on theological or political questions. 7. The Grand Lodge has always consistently refused to express any opinion on questions of foreign or domestic state policy, either at home or abroad, and it will not allow its name to be associated with any action, however humanitarian it may appear to be, which infringes its unalterable policy of standing aloof from every question affecting the relations between one government and another, or between political parties, or questions as to rival theories of government. 8. The Grand Lodge is aware that there do exist bodies styling themselves as Freemasons, which do not adhere to these principles, and while that attitude exists the Grand Lodge of Scotland refuses absolutely to have any relations with such bodies or to regard them as freemasons. 9. The Grand Lodge of Scotland is a sovereign and independent body practicing Freemasonry only within the three degrees and only within the limit defined in its constitution. It does not recognise or admit the existence of any superior masonic authority however styled. 10. On more than one occasion the Grand Lodge has refused, and it will continue to refuse, to participate in conferences with so-called International Associations claiming to represent Freemasonry, which admit to memberships, bodies failing to conform strictly to the principles upon which the Grand Lodge of Scotland is founded. The Grand Lodge does not admit any such claim, nor can its views be represented by any such association. ability with which you manage its affairs, whilst the happiness of the brethren, will be promoted by the zeal and assiduity, with which you promulgate the genuine tenents and principles of the order. As a pattern for you imitation, consider that glorious luminary, which regularly diffuses light and luster to all. In like manner, it will be your privilege, to communicate light, and instruction to the brethren of your lodge; to impress on them the dignity and high importance of freemasonry, charging them to practice out of the lodge, those excellent precepts which are taught within it, so that when anyone is said to be a freemason, the world may know that he is one to whom the burdened heart may pour forth its sorrows, to whom the distressed may prefer their suit, whose heart is guided by justice and whose hand is extended in benevolence. Worshipful Wardens Worshipful wardens please be upstanding you are too well acquainted with the laws of freemasonry, to warrant any doubt that you will be found wanting in the proper discharge of the duties of your respected offices, suffice it to observe that what you have seen praiseworthy in others, you will carefully imitate, and what in them may have appeared defective, you will in yourselves amend. You ought to be patterns of good order and regularity, as it is only by a due observance of the laws yourselves, that you can expect obedience to them from others. You are assiduously to assist the master in the discharge of the important duties of his office, and carefully instruct those whom he may place under your charge. From the zeal you have shown towards our excellent institution, and the desire you have evinced to promote its best interests, I entertain, no doubt, that your conduct will be such as to merit the approbation of your brethren, and the testimony of a good conscience. Office Bearers and Brethren Would the Office Bearers and Brethren of 1186 Please be upstanding. Brethren, such is the nature of our constitution, that as some must of necessity, rule and teach, so others must, of course, learn to submit and obey. Humility in both is an essential duty. The Brethren who have been appointed to assist in the government of the lodge, are too well acquainted with the principles of Freemasonry and the rules of good manners, to abuse the power with which they are entrusted, and you are too sensible, and too generous to envy their preferment. From the knowledge I have of both office bearers and members, I trust that all will have but one aim, to unite in the great design of communicating happiness. May you all enjoy every satisfaction and delight, which fraternal friendship can give, within these sacred walls. May freemasonry flourish in every part of the globe, and rise superior to all opposition. May it become influential in diffusing the light of wisdom, aiding the strength of reason, dispensing the beauties of virtue, and in lessening the aggregate of

5 destroy this book. Men have been imprisoned, tortured and even burned at the stake, for confessing, and defending its teachings. Legend has it, that when Latimer and Ridley were burned at the stake, in front of Old Bailiol College, Oxford, for defending, what they believed to be its teachings, Latimer cried out, as the flames licked about his feet, " Fear not Ridley, for on this day our blood will light a torch which will never go out!". And so it was, for there is, in the holy bible, an unyielding principle of survival, a spirit of power, not of man but of god. And so today, the American and British bible societies, print, and put into circulation, more than 15 million copies per annum, in over 500 different languages and dialects. The pages of the holy bible, have been moistened these hundreds of years, through tears of joy, and tears of sorrow. The pages have been thumbed and soiled, by fingers of princes in their palaces, and prisoners in their cells. Monarchs and peasants, Strong men, and penitent sinners, have found the holy bible,a great source of strength and consolation, of courage and of hope. When Sir Walter Scott lay on his death bed, he called to Lockhart " Bring me the book", "Which book?" inquired Lockhart, "There is only one book" replied Sir Walter, and the great bard passed away, with his hands on the holy bible. RWM in presenting this bible to you, your lodge bids you read it frequently, not with your eyes alone, but also with your heart, devotionally. And it will become an ever increasing source of guidance and light, in your efforts to become a better man, and, aye, a become a better mason. It is in the nature of this mortal world that other lights will fail you. RWM, this light, will never fail you, and as you increase in knowledge of it, so it will become a lamp unto your feet, and a light unto your future path. RWM I give you the Volume of the Sacred Law. Please be seated." Addresses RWM RWM please be upstanding. The brethren, having committed the lodge into your care, you cannot be insensible to the importance of the charge, and to your responsibility for the faithful discharge of the duties connected therewith. The honour, the reputation, and the usefulness of this lodge, will materially depend upon the skill and 11. There is no secret with regards to any of the basic principles of Freemasonry, some of which have been stated above. The Grand Lodge will always consider the recognition of those Grand Lodges which profess and practise, and can show that they have consistently professed and practised, those established and unaltered principles, but in no circumstances will it enter into discussion with a view to any new or varied interpretation of them. They must be accepted and practised whole-heartedly and in their entirety by those who desire to be recognised as freemasons by the Grand Lodge of Scotland The Aims and Relations of the Craft RWIM. Election minute read Bro. secretary, would you now please read out the portion of the minute of election, appertaining to the office of Right Worshipful Master. All offices Declared Vacant Brethren, as I was at that regular meeting, I am satisfied that the Election of Office Bearers was carried out in accordance with the procedure and requirements laid down by the Grand lodge of Scotland, and that this lodge has been duly constituted for the purpose of Installation ceremony. I now declare all offices vacant. IPM Retires to Introduce RWM elect RWM would you now please retire and introduce to the brethren, the RWM elect. Brethren we will commence this ceremony of installation singing two verses of Psalm 100 All people that on earth do dwell. RWM presents Master Elect. Address to Master Elect. Brother..., it has been customary among freemasons from time immemorial, once in every year, to elect from among their number, an expert brother to preside over them in the capacity of Master. Their suffrages, have on this occasion, fallen on you, and we greatly rejoice at the selection the brethren have made. It is requisite in every candidate for the office of Master, that he be true and trusty, of good report, and held in high estimation among his brethren. He ought to be of exemplary character, courteous in demeanour, easy of address,

6 but steady and firm in principle. He must have been regularly initiated, passed and raised in the three established degrees of freemasonry; he should be well skilled in this, our Noble order and a lover of the craft. He must have been duly nominated, and elected by his brethren in open lodge assembled. You having been so elected and being otherwise duly qualified, it only remains for me to ask if you can conscientiously accept the office of Master, under these conditions and requirements? RWM elect: I can Previous to your installation, it is necessary that you assent to the charges and regulations which point out the duty of a Master of a lodge., and these will now be read to you by my worthy installing colleague Bro..., at the conclusion of which, I shall ask you for your unqualified assent. Charges and Regulations 1. You agree to be a good man and true, and strictly to obey the moral law. 2. You agree to be a peaceable subject and to conform to the laws of the country in which you reside. 3. You promise not to be concerned in plots or conspiracies against the government, but to submit patiently to the decisions of the Supreme Legislature. 4. You agree to pay a proper respect to the Civil Magistrate, to work diligently, live creditably and act honourably towards all men. 5. You agree to hold in veneration, the Original Rulers and patrons of the order of freemasonry and their regular successors, supreme and subordinate, according to their stations, and to submit to the awards and resolutions of your brethren, in Grand Lodge assembled, in every case consistent with the Constitutions of the Order; and that you will not practise or recognise in connection with the lodges, any degrees, except those of Apprentice, Fellow- Craft (including the Mark) and Master Mason, and the ceremony of Installed Master. 6. You agree to avoid private quarrels and to guard against all intemperance and excess. Laws and Constitutions I also present to you the constitution and laws of the Grand Lodge of Scotland, together with the Bye Laws of the Provincial Grand Lodge, and the Bye Laws of this lodge. An exact and intimate knowledge of these is essential, to enable you to guide your lodge aright, in all queries that may arise. And as your brethren look to you for knowledge and instruction, you must be well informed in all the Laws that regulate freemasonry in general, and this lodge in particular. Bible Charge RWM, please be upstanding. RWM, through the courtesy of your Right Worshipful Installing Masters, it now gives me the greatest of pleasure in presenting you, with the Volume of the Sacred Law, the Holy Bible, the first and greatest, of the three great lights in freemasonry. We have become accustomed to think of the holy bible as one book, because it is bound between two covers. It is not one book, but a large library, sometimes called the Divine library, and rightly so. It is composed of 66 separate volumes. 39 of which comprise the old testament, and 27 the new. It was over 1500 years in the making, and there is a period, of about 400 years, between the history of the last book of the old testament, and the first book of the new. Another 400 years passed, before they were translated by St. Jerome into a common language, and assembled into one collection, known as the Latin vulgate. Subsequently 10 centuries passed, before the first crude and impartial translation into English appeared, which resulted, in the first authorised version, in the reign of King James the 6th in the year of our lord 16 hundred and 11. The holy bible contains laws, its contains history, it contains poetry and prophesy, letters, morals, ethics and above all a revelation of divine light and truth. Its authorship is no less varied. Amongst it's contributors, were law givers and historians, poets and prophets, preachers,mystics, kings, collectors of internal revenues and fishermen Diverse as, are its subject matter and authorship. Remote as, are its types, figures, legends, myths and allegories, yet the intelligent reader discerns, running through it all with an ever increasing purpose, The divine revelation of Truth. As the silver threads run through the darker fabric, appearing here and there upon its surface, so flashes of light rise from its pages, revealing the mind and character of God. Everything that could be done, has been done, in the ages of intolerance to

7 Marshall Brother..., I now invest you with the jewel of your office as Marshall which is the sword and baton crossed. It will be your duty to take charge of all outdoor processions of the lodge, to see that the brethren are marshalled according to their proper stations of rank and seniority, and to see that this lodge occupies its proper placein the procession, and generally to supervise all its movements. Standard Bearer Brother..., I now invest you with the jewel of your office as standard bearer which is the standard, pointing out that you will be entrusted to carry the lodge banner or crest. The lodge colours should be as highly prized by the lodge as regimental colours are by the regiment, and those who are entrusted with the care of the lodge standard, should be as staunch and dignified as a colour party of a regiment Inner Guard Brother..., I now invest you with the jewel of your office as inner guard which is the crossed swords. This jewel indicates that you are to suffer none to pass and repass, but such as are duly qualified, and enjoin you, emblematically, to set a guard over your thoughts, a watch on your lips, and to post a sentinel over your actions. Your duty is to admit brethren on proof, to receive candidates in due form, and to obey the commands of the WJW. Tyler Brother..., you have been appointed Tyler of the lodge, and I now invest you with the jewel of your office, which is the.sword Your duties are to see that the candidates are properly prepared, to give proper reports at the entrance to the lodge when candidates, members or visitors require admission.i also commit this sword into your hands, to enable you effectively to guard against the approach of Cowans and Eavesdroppers. It also reminds you, that you ought to prevent the approach of every unworthy thought or deed, and to preserve a conscience void of offense towards god and towards man. Charter RWM, I now place in your care the charter of the lodge. I sincerely hope and pray that while it is in your possession it will lose none of its Masonic luster, and will be transmitted to your successors pure and unsullied, as you now receive it. It is your duty to see that it is always in view while the lodge is in session, and, at the conclusion of the meeting,that it is stored in a place of security until next required. 7. You agree to be cautious in your behaviour, courteous to your brethren and faithful to your lodge. 8. You promise to respect true and faithful brethren, and to discountenance all Imposters and Dissenters from the original plan of the institution. 9. You agree to promote the general good of Society, to cultivate the social virtues, and to propagate the knowledge of the art of Freemasonry, so far as your influence and ability can extend. 10. You admit that it is not in the power of any man, or body of men, to make alteration or innovation in Freemasonry. 11. You promise to submit to the Most Worshipful the Grand Master for the time being, and to his Office-bearers, when duly installed; and strictly to conform to every regulation of Grand Lodge that is not subversive of the principles of Freemasonry. 12. You admit that no lodge can be constituted without a charter from a Grand Lodge, or other supreme body with similar powers, and that no countenance be given to an Irregular lodge, or to a person clandestinely initiated therein; and that no procession, consecration or other ceremonial of freemasons, clothed with the badges of the order, can take place without the special permission of Grand Lodge, or of the Provincial or District Grand Master of the Province or District, or, in his absence, of his Depute or his Substitute. 13. You admit that no person can be regularly made a freemason or admitted a member of any lodge without previous notice and due inquiry into his character. 14. You promise that no Visitors shall be received into your lodge without due examination, or producing proper vouchers of initiation in a regular lodge. Do you now cheerfully submit to these several Charges and Regulations of the Grand Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of Scotland, and promise to support them, as all good masters have done before you? RWM Elect: I do

8 Oath De Fideli Administered Then in consequence of your ready submission to these Charges and Regulations, and since it is the will, and pleasure, of the brethren of this lodge that you become the master, thereof, for the usual period, as they confide in your well known good behaviour and think you a fit and proper person to discharge the duties of that office, I enjoin you to walk uprightly before God and man, and strictly to follow the Constitution and laws of freemasonry in general, and to adhere to the Bye Laws of this lodge in particular. You will now approach the alter and take the Oath of Fidelity. You will kneel on both knees, place both hands on the VSL and repeat the following obligation after me... I,...in the presence of, the Great Architect of the Universe, and before these assembled witnesses, do solemnly promise, to perform the duties of, the office of Master of this Lodge, St. John Stoneyburn, Numbering 1186 on the roll of the Grand Lodge of Scotland, faithfully, zealously and impartially, to the best of my ability, during the ensuing twelve months, and until a successor, shall have been regularly elected, and installed in my stead. That while in the chair, I will not permit or suffer, any deviation, from the ancient customs and landmarks of the order, recognized by the Grand Lodge of Scotland, nor administer, or cause to be administered, any ceremony, contrary to or subversive of, our Constitution. That I maintain, pure and unsullied, the genuine tenents of the Order. That I will observe, and as far as lies in my power, strictly enforce those Charges and Regulations, to which I have just given my assent, and otherwise conscientiously perform, my duty as Master of the Craft. So help me God. As a pledge of your fidelity, and to render this obligation more binding, you will seal it by kissing the VSL, once with your lips. Kiss the book once. Arise newly obligated RWM of the lodge. Depute and Substitute Masters Named RWM, now would be an appropriate time to name your Depute and Substitute Masters. Lodge Passed and Raised Brethren as I am about to pass this lodge to the second square or fellow craft degree, if there is a brother who has not yet attained that rank or degree, please come forward to the carpet, declare it, and retire. Brethren can we have 3 brethren to retire. Junior Deacon Brother..., The jewel of your office as Junior Deacon, is the trowel. It teaches us to spread the cement of brotherly love and affection, that cement which unites us all into one sacred band, a society of friends and brothers, among whom no contention should ever exist, but the emulation of those striving, who can work best and who can best agree Director of Ceremonies Brother..., I now invest you with the jewel of your office which is the cross batons or rods. They have been in all ages considered as emblems of power and authority. You duty will be to take charge of all ceremonies inside the lodge premises, to arrange the office bearers in their proper order when they desire to enter the lodge in procession, and above all, to see that meetings commence punctually at the time specified. Architect Brother...,The jewel of your office is the Corinthian column resting upon the arc of a circle, and it gives me the greatest of pleasure in investing you with it. Your duties will be to superintend any building operations that the lodge might engage in. I trust you will make your work as beautiful as the Corinthian column, and as symmetrical and accurate, as that arc of a circle Bible Bearer Brother..., It now gives me the greatest of pleasure in investing you with the jewel of your office, which is the open bible. This jewel reminds us that no properly constituted meeting of the lodge can be held unless the open bible is in its appointed place at each meeting of the lodge. You will therefore carefully select a seat, quite convenient to where the book is situated, so that you can quietly advance, and open and close it, and adjust the emblems for each degree as occasions arise.you will be entrusted to carry the VSL at any public procession, your position being to precede the RWM. Sword Bearer Brother..., I now invest you with the jewel of your office as sword bearer, which is the cross swords tied. Your duties are to precede the RWM in all processions. You will carry your sword sheathed, as it is emblematical more of Justice and Equity, than as a weapon of offense or defense

9 conduct the general correspondence of the lodge. Your regard for freemasonry and for this lodge will, I hope, induce you to discharge your duties with fidelity, and by doing so you will merit the esteem and approbation of your brethren. Treasurer Brother..., It gives me great pleasure to invest you with the jewel of your office, which is the Key. I have to remind you, that it is your duty to collect all contributions and fees and to keep an exact account of Lodge finance. You are to transmit to Grand Lodge the dues of Registering Intrants and affiliates, within one month of their initiation or affiliation, for diplomas. Annual certificates, representation fees and all other dues, and this whether the lodge sanctions it or not, these monies not being lawfully its property, but that of the Grand Lodge of Scotland alone, and for which you are personally responsible. Your regular and early attendance will afford the best proof of your zeal and attachment. Almoner Brother..., I now invest you with the jewel of your office, which is a copy, of the emblem seen in the portrait of the first Grand Master Mason in It is the extended compasses over the level, and symbolically denotes, that the compass of your work should extend to all freemasons. Your duty is to attend to the comfort, and comforting, of the aged and unfortunate among our brethren and their dependents. You must seek out the needy, visit the sick, and administer to, and if possible, anticipate their requirements, remembering always, that in the particular sphere of your activities, delay in visiting may bring you the overwhelming sorrow of having been too late. Chaplain Brother..., It now gives me the greatest of pleasure in investing you with the jewel of your office, which is the All Seeing Eye inside the Equilateral triangle. I need scarcely remind you that your duties as chaplain are to lead the devotional exercises of the degrees. In addition, the lodge should always be opened and closed with prayer, therefore it is incumbent upon you, to be punctual and regular in your attendance's. Senior Deacon Brother..., The jewel of your office as Senior Deacon, is the mallet and ought to teach you that skill without exertion is of little avail, that labour is the lot of man, for the heart may conceive and the head devise in vain, if the hand be not prompt to execute the design Lodge passed to second degree Brethren as I am about to raise this lodge to the third and high and sublime degree of a master mason, if there is a brother who has not yet attained that rank or degree, please come forward to the carpet, declare it, and retire. Brethren can we have another 3 brethren to retire. Brethren as we are about to form a board of installed masters, I cordially invite all reigning masters and past masters to remain in the hall. Would the remainder of the brethren please vacate the body of the lodge. We wont keep you waiting too long brethren. Lodge adjourned Board of Installed Masters Inst. Mast: WJW what is the first as well as constant care in a Board of Installed Masters WJW: To see the board is close tyled RWIM Inst. Mast: WJW you will direct that duty to be done WJW: Bro. IG you will prove this board of Installed Masters close tyled IG: WJW this board of installed masters stands closed tyled Inst. Mast: WSW what is the next duty WSW: To see that the Brethren present are Installed Masters RWIM Inst. Mast: W Wardens are you both satisfied that all present are Installed Masters and entitled to remain? WJW: Satisfied in the south RWIM WSW: Satisfied in the west RWIM Inst. Mast: WSW by what symbol in Freemasonry are Installed Masters to be proved WSW: By the perfect ashlar RWIM Inst. Mast: What is the Perfect Ashlar? WSW: It is a stone of true die, a perfect cube that can only be proved by the square and compasses. Inst. Mast: What is its moral significance to us WSW: It typifies to us the mind of man, disciplined and matured, reflecting in all its aspects the beauty of Piety and Virtue Inst. Mast: WSW you yourself being acquainted with the correct mode and procedure, you will prove the brethren assembled to be Installed Masters by a sign and thereafter demonstrate that proof to me by copying their example WSW: Brethren it is the command of the RWIM that you prove yourself Installed Masters by sign.

10 WSW: RWIM the brethren present having proven themselves Installed masters by sign, and in obedience to your command, I thus copy their example. Inst. Mast: I acknowledge the correctness of the sign, and by virtue of the powers invested in this office, declare this to be a fully constituted board of Installed Masters, and all this I do by (give knocks). Divesting of RWM Your job is done, Your work is o'er You really can be proud You've led the lodge with dignity Of that, there is no doubt So from you shoulders, comes the chain whose emblems shine so bright and from your sleeves the cuffs come off to share a different light The sash which hangs around your neck with its lodge number on display is now removed with reverence to wear another day And finally the apron, which marks the master of St John With its innocence and purity, its time to pass it on you now stand there divested Just like in your first degree your faith in God cemented Of that we'll all agree But even now your jobs not done You're there to aid the Master A member of a well kent club an agin auld Past Master IPM invested with apron and sash IPM would you now present to the brethren, the Master Elect. IPM: RWIM, I present to you and the brethren assembled the Master Elect for the ceremony of Installation. WSW Brother..., you have been, by the voice of the lodge, elected as WSW thereof, for the usual time, in consequence of which, I invest you with the jewel of your office, which is the level. It indicates that we are descended from the same stock, partake the same nature, and share in the same hope, that though distinctions among men are necessary to preserve subordination, yet no eminence of station should make us forget, that we are all brethren, and that in all Masonic concerns, you are to consider your brethren as standing strictly on your own level. Your early and regular attendance at your lodge is particularly necessary, in order to assist in the good management thereof. WJW Brother..., you have been, by the voice of the lodge, elected as WJW thereof, for the usual time, in consequence of which, I invest you with the jewel of your office, which is the Plumb Rule, and denotes that your promotion to that office, is a recognition by the brethren of your uprightness and integrity, while it also reminds you, that those virtues should be conspicuous in the conduct of every brother, whose privilege it is to wear that jewel. Worshipful wardens, I now invest you with the cuffs of your office. Much has been said regarding the use of these cuffs, however in today's day and age they are purely decorative to enhance the regalia of your high offices I also place in your hands these gavels, emblems of authority: and these columns signifying strength and beauty. You are to strengthen and beautify the work of the RWM, and zealously to assist him in governing the lodge. WSW when the lodge is at work you column will be in the raised position, and when in recess your column will be in the lowered position. WJW when the lodge is in recess your column will be in the raised position and when the lodge is at work your column will be in the lowered position. Worshipful Wardens it is your privilege to represent the lodge at meetings of Grand Lodge and Provincial Grand Lodge. Brethren I give you your WSW and WJW. Secretary Brother..., you have been elected as secretary of the lodge, and it gives me great pleasure to invest you with the jewel of your office, which is the cross quills tied. It is your province to record minutes, issue the summonses for the regular meetings of the lodge, make due returns to Grand Lodge and

11 Investiture of Office Bearers Obligation Brethren, as you name is called out by the brother secretary, please come forward to the alter, Kneel on both knees, and place you right hand on the VSL. The brethren at the rear, please place your right hand on the shoulder of the brother infront of you. You will commence this obligation with the pronoun I, followed by your name in full, and in the appropriate place, insert the title of your office... I,..., do hereby agree, to accept the office of..., of this lodge, St. John Stoneyburn, and solemnly promise, to discharge its duties, to the best of my skill and ability, faithfully, zealously, and conciensciously, during the ensuring twelve months, and until a successor, shall have been elected, and installed in my stead, and that I will do my utmost, to forward the interest of the lodge, and support the master, in all his various duties. So help me God. Brethren, you will seal this obligation by kissing the VSL once. Brethren at the rear please kiss the VSL that is being passed amongst you. Brethren as I raise the Depute Master, I raise you all. With the exception of the Depute and Substitute masters please take a seat until your name is called. Depute Master Brother..., It gives me the greatest of pleasure in investing you with the jewel of your office as Depute Master, the Square and Compasses. You will observe that the two ends of the square are unequal in length, the shorter one pointing to time, the longer one to eternity. Combined with the compasses, it will teach you, not only to be thankful for what our heavenly father bestows on you in this world, but will constrain you to press forward in the paths of virtue, and to have in view the attainment of a blessed immortality. In the absence of the Master, Past master or any other installed past master of the lodge, it will be your duty to take upon yourself the duties of the chair. Substitute Master Brother..., I now invest you with the jewel of your office as Substitute Master, which is the square. It implies that you are worthy of the office conferred upon you, and as it shows when applied to work, whether it is rectangular and correct, so you are to observe that your conduct and actions, as well as those of the brethren, at least those in lodge assembled, are guided by the stern principles of rectitude and justice. It is your duty to preside in the lodge when the master, past master, any installed past master of the lodge or Depute master cannot be present. RWIM re-assures the master elect to relax and that this part of the ceremony is a little less formal. A reading from the VSL ChroniclesII Chapter IX verses 1-8 is read to the Master Elect. Inst. Mast: The proper method of kneeling for prayer in a board of installed masters is given in this manner, by kneeling on your right knee, Bowing your head slightly forward, and cupping your forehead thus. PCME Inst. Mast: Brethren, let us pray Inst. Mast: Vouchsafe thine aid almighty father, and supreme ruler of the universe, to this our solemn rite, and grant that this worthy brother, who is now about to be numbered among the rulers of the craft, may be endowed with wisdom to comprehend, judgement to define, and ability to execute thy holy law. Sanctify him with thy grace, strengthen him with thy mighty power, and from thine inexhaustible store, enrich his mind with true and genuine knowledge, so that he may be enabled to consecrate this lodge, to thy most holy name, SMIB. Obligation of Installed Master Brother..., you have already taken a solemn obligation as regards the duties of the master of this lodge, St. John Stoneyburn 1186, I now call on you to take yet another obligation, with respect to the secrets of an Installed master. Do you sincerely promise and solemnly swear, that you will conceal these secrets with the same strict caution as previously stated. Master Elect: I can. Then you will come forward to the alter, kneel on both knees, place both hands on the VSL, repeat your own name in full an say after me... I..., in the presence of, the most high, and of this worthy and worshipful board of installed masters, do hereby and hereon, solemnly swear, that I will always hele and conceal, all the secrets restricted to the master in the chair, and never real them to anyone in the world, unless it be, to a duly Installed Master, or to a MM, regularly elected to the office of Master, of the lodge, and not even to him, except in the presence, of three or more Installed Masters besides myself, and at a meeting, regularly convened for that purpose. To these points, I solemnly swear to observe, without evasion, equivocation, or any mental reservation whatsoever, under the ancient,

12 but now purely symbolical penalty, of having my r... h... s... o... and s... o... my l...s... and there to be left to w... and d... or that my t... should c... to the r... of my m... sooner than I would willingly, or knowingly violate this solemn OB of an installed master. So help me God. As a further pledge of your fidelity, you will now kiss the VSL three times. Rise newly obligated Installed Master. Let me once more call your attention to the three great lights of freemasonry, which are the VSL, the square and the compasses. The VSL is that great light which will guide you to all truth, direct your steps in the paths of happiness, and point out to you the whole duty of man. The Square teaches you to regulate your life and actions, according to Masonic rule and line, and to harmonise your conduct in this life, by the principles of morality and virtue. The compasses teach you, to limit you desires in every station of life, that, rising to eminence by merit, you may live respected and die regretted. Secrets Masonic tradition informs us, that at the completion of king Solomon's temple, a vast concourse of people were assembled to behold the magnificent structure, that crowning pride of Jerusalem's glory. Among those who were attracted by curiosity, or more worthy motives, was the Queen of Sheba, attended by officers of state and a very numerous retinue. Accompanied by King Solomon, they entered the temple and seeing A...m, chief master mason, standing in this position, and wishing to present him to his very distinguished guest, King Solomon beckoned him thus,...a...m, either misinterpreting the gesture, or from the humility which usually accompanies true genius, hesitated to advance, and it was only after his Royal master had beckoned him a second, and yet third time, was he induced to present himself. As he approached the Royal Party, A...m made this sign of Obeisance, and would have prostrated himself at his masters feet, but King Solomon prevented him, by taking hold of him in this manner..., and saying, Rise G...m (signifying Stone squarer or excellent mason). As the Royal party was about to retire, A...m saluted them thus..., from when were derived the grip and word of a installed master, and the sign and salutation of a master of the arts and sciences. The signs are five in number, four casual and one penal. Proclamation From West Brethren, for the second time, and from the West, I proclaim Brother..., Master of this lodge, St. John Stoneyburn 1186 on the roll of the Grand Lodge of Scotland, for the ensuing twelve months, or until such a time as a successor in office, shall be duly elected and installed in his stead, and in token of your fealty to him, I now call on all brethren present to be upstanding and salute him as Fellow Craft Masons 2nd Degree Tools RWM, I now present to you the working tools of a FC which are the Square, the Level and the Plumb Rule, reminding you, that not only your own brethren, but the whole of the outside world, will judge by the rectitude of your principles (give square), the charity and humanity of your disposition (give level) and the uprightness of your life and conduct (give Plumb rule), whether you are rendering yourself worthy of your high office. Reduce lodge to the first degree Admit Entered Apprentices Proclamation From South Brethren, for the third time and from the South, I proclaim Brother..., Master of this lodge, St. John Stoneyburn 1186 on the roll of the Grand Lodge of Scotland, for the ensuing twelve months, or until such a time as a successor in office, shall be duly elected and installed in his stead, and in token of your fealty to him, I now call on all brethren present to be upstanding and salute him as Entered Apprentices 1st Degree Tools RWM, I now present to you the working tools of an EA which are the 24inch Gauge, the mallet and the chisel, They serve specially to remind you as master, without neglecting your ordinary duties in life, part of your time (give 24inch Gauge), must be devoted to serious thought regarding the interests of your brethren, that you must not look upon labour (give mallet) for your lodge as a toil, but a pleasure, and that during your tenure of office, you must use your best skill and most persevering endeavours (give chisel), to educate your brethren in the truest tenents of freemasonry, that they may be as polished Ashlars in the building of our moral and spiritual temple, to the glory of him who is the GAOTU

13 I now place you in the SWC, where, as a MMM, you received the reward of your industry and skill. This should remind you, that as RWM, it is your duty to produce good and square work, work worthy of reward, and a place in the divine temple. I now place you in the NWC, where, as a MM you were laid on the L..., and raised to the P... Let this now recall to you the lesson you learned, that the duties in this life are but the preparation for those things in a higher existence, That true honour is reached, only through self sacrifice, and that, in all things noble and good, we ascend on stepping stones of our dead selves, to a higher immortality. And I now conduct you to the E... and place you in the chair of L..., from which exalted position you can survey the course you have traversed, and, as the sun rising in the E..., opens the day and disperses his cheerful light over the earth, that profit may result from the labour it enlightens, and pleasure from the beauty it reveals, so you are placed here in the E..., to open your lodge, enlighten the brethren, and within the compass of your powers, keep them true to the square of justice, so that profit may result from the labour, and pleasure from the beauty of our ancient and honourable fraternity Proclamation from East Brethren from the first time and from the E..., I proclaim brother..., master of this lodge, St. John Stoneyburn 1186 on the roll of the Grand Lodge of Scotland, for the ensuing twelve months, or until such a time as a successor in office, shall be duly elected and installed in his stead, and in token of your fealty to him, I now call on all brethren present, to be upstanding, and salute him as Master Masons 3rd Degree Tools RWM, I now present to you the tools of a MM which are the Skerrit, the pencil and the compasses. With their operative uses and moral significance you are familiar, but let me remind you, that a straight and undeviating course of action (give skerrit), a careful noting and observance (give pencil), of all that may best conduce to the welfare of your lodge, and the personal and constant practice of all Masonic virtues (give compasses), both in and out of the lodge, are the pre-eminent duties of the master of the chair. Reduce lodge to the second degree Admit Fellow crafts The first casual sign is called the sign of the P... and is given in this manner PCME The second casual sign is called the B... sign and is given three times. PCME. The third casual sign is called the sign of Ob... and is given in this manner. PCME The fourth casual sign is called the R... sign and is given in this manner. PCME. The fifth sign or penal sign is given in this manner PCME... and refers to the penalty of your obligation. This is the grip with which King Solomon raised A...m and G...m is the title he bestowed on him. Sash and Cuffs RWM I now present you with the Sash and cuffs of your office. As with the WSW and WJW, these cuffs enhance your regalia and signifies to other brethren the exultant position which you now hold. Masters Apron RWM, I present to you the Apron of RWM. You will observe that it is made in two parts. The lower part being the form of a square or rectangle. In ancient times the earth was thought to be flat or square, so this part represents the Earthly or Temporal part. The upper part is in the form of a semi sphere, but was formerly in the form of an equilateral triangle. This represents the Tri-ine essence of the Deity, and is therefore considered the Spiritual part of the apron. You will observe that on the lower part of the apron, there are two bands of gold braid. The outer band represents your journey through the lodge to the high position you now hold. The inner band should remind you, that you still have a long and arduous road ahead of you. Also on this part of the apron are two levels, which serve to remind you, to act on the level at all times, not only with your brethren within the lodge, but with all in whom you come in contact with in your journey through life. You must keep the work of the lodge on the level, so that neither Envy or Emnity may arise amongst your brethren. Seven spherical balls are suspended from the tassels on your apron. These represent the seven liberal arts and sciences, and should remind you to make a study of them to aid you to direct the work of your lodge, while the chains,

14 Should remind you of the strong links of fellowship which bind the members of our beloved craft throughout the world. On the upper flap of your apron you have a representation of the sun, the moon, and seven stars. The sun is that luminary of Gods creation, which regularly brings light and warmth to our planet, and without which, there would be no life. The moon reflects the light of the sun, into its darkness of the night. It reminds us that the longest night must end in the dawn, and the seven stars guide us through the night, until we finally arrive at the dawn of understanding. In the center of the apron is a representation of the masters jewel, but I will have more to say of that later in the ceremony. Your life, like your apron, cannot be complete, until the Spiritual descends into the Temporal, and there we have the masters apron, in all its glory and beauty. But always remember, that the beauty is superimposed on the lambskin, and we must build our lives on the sure foundation of innocence and purity. The Apron is that part of the apparel which is dearest to the heart of a mason. It therefore gives me great pleasure to invest you with the apron of RWM of this lodge. It is the highest honour any lodge can bestow on one of its members, and I do so binding it to you with the bond of friendship, and the clasp of brotherly love." Masters Jewel RWM, I now present you with the Jewel of your office, which is the square and Compasses resting upon a segment of a circle and enclosing a sun in full splendour. The square and compasses have always been the characteristic emblems of craft freemasonry. The segment of a circle may fitly be considered as symbolical of the dome of heaven, and the sun in full splendour, as an emblem of Gods majesty and goodness. In their combined sense, we may then learn that so long as freemasonry continues to base its precepts and teachings on heavenly truths, the GAOTU will be in the midst of all its meetings, and shed the rays of his benign beneficence over all its good works. RWM Placed in the Chair And now with the Grip and word G...m of an installed master, I now place you in the chair of King Solomon. Benediction (RWPGM) The lord bless thee and keep thee, and be gracious unto thee. The lord lift up his countenance upon thee and give thee peace from this time forth. And may the Most high endow thee with a sufficient portion of that Monarchs wisdom, to enable you to perform the duties of your Office. Brethren, Bro.... having been duly installed into the chair of King Solomon, if you are fully satisfied that this has been done in the proper constitutional manner, please come forward and salute him as an installed master. Brethren can we have PGL first, then followed by the Past Masters of 1186, then followed by visiting Reigning and Past Masters. Board Closed Brethren the purpose of this board having now been accomplished, I now declare this board of installed Masters closed, and all this I do by... Brethren personal congratulations are now in order. Lodge Resumed in Third Degree Brethren during our temporary absence, I had the honour and pleasure, of installing Brother... into the chair of King Solomon, proof of which is contained in this document, which I now pass to the brother secretary for his perusal, and if satisfied, he will see that it is remitted to Grand Lodge for registration Squaring the Carpet (4 Corners) RWM I now place you in the NEC of the lodge, where you once stood as a humbled EA, poor and penniless. May that recollection ever keep you from vain glory, in your superior knowledge and position as RWM. True knowledge ever leads to humanity, and the more we learn, the more we become aware of our own ignorance of this infinite universe around us. I now place you in the SEC, where as a FC you were taught the unalterable truth of science, and stood there, eager and willing to join in the work of building the divine temple. May that memory inspire you, as RWM, to ascend the winding stair of knowledge, that leads ever upwards to the sanctuary of truth.