Companions of the Stone
Lodge Ritual – Adept Text

 
1996

General Instructions
 
This ritual is provided to subordinate lodges of the Companions of the Stone as a means of guiding ordinary lodge business and assisting the work of the Order. Although the rituals of a subordinate lodge open in the Outer are not magical in nature, they should not be neglected or rushed through. They help ensure the smooth functioning of the lodge, and provide basic training in the outer aspects of ceremonial.
Every action in an open lodge is, in a sense, a ritual action. Companions should keep this in mind, and govern themselves accordingly. While grim seriousness is out of place in a lodge, the work will be equally hindered by a flippant or overly casual approach. Additionally, courtesy between Companions should be an unfailing rule, as it will prevent many difficulties. If two Companions have problems between themselves, they must be prepared to leave those problems outside the lodge door.
All movement in a lodge open in the Outer is "by the square" -- following straight lines and right angles. Movement in a lodge open in the First Degree is "by the circle" – following circular arcs -- and should move clockwise around the lodge unless otherwise noted. This should be adhered to by all officers and Companions.
All members should be addressed as ''Companion,'' followed by the member's lodge name or office, when the lodge is open. The Adept Dirigent shall be addressed as ''Companion Dirigent" only.
 
 
Opening In The Outer
 
Dirigent, *: Companions of … Lodge # … of the Companions of the Stone, assist me to open this lodge in the Outer. Companion Sentinel, see that the lodge is properly guarded.
Sentinel, goes to door: Companion Dirigent, the lodge is properly guarded.
Dirigent: Companion Summoner, confirm that all who are present have received the Word.
Summoner goes directly to the seat of the Adept Dirigent, and receives the grip and password. Summoner then goes by the square clockwise around the lodge, receiving the grip and password from all present. Should any be without these, the Summoner shall say:
Summoner: Companion Dirigent, a Companion (or Friend of the Order) without the Word.
In this case the Dirigent shall inquire of the Secretary if the Companion or Friend is in good standing in the lodge, and if so will instruct the Summoner to communicate the grip and password. When all present have given the grip and password, the Summoner shall return by the square to the center of the room, and say:
Summoner: Companion Dirigent, all have received it.
Dirigent: Let the officers of the lodge be proclaimed, that the Powers whose images they are may be reflected in the Spheres of those present and in the Sphere of our Order --- for by Names and Images all powers are awakened and reawakened.
Companion Adjuvant, your station and work?
Adjuvant: My station is the Throne of the West. My work is to keep the Gateway to the Outer World and watch over the Companions in their work, to receive the Signs from the Companions, and to govern the lodge in your absence. My emblem is the emblem of darkness and judgement, and it reflects the image of the Banner of the Evening Twilight, which is the Banner of the West.
Dirigent: Companion Secretary, your station and work?
Secretary: My station is beside that of the Dirigent, and my work is to keep full and impartial records of the work of the lodge, to prepare all official documents of the lodge, and to have custody of all lodge funds and property. My emblem is the emblem of communication, and it symbolizes the place of the word in the work of our Order.
Dirigent: Companion Summoner, your station and work?
Summoner: My station is in the East, beside and below the Throne of the East. My work is to examine all present before the opening of the lodge, to lead and report, and to make all announcements within the lodge. My emblem is the emblem of will, and also of pilgrimage, and it symbolizes the Quest for the Stone to which each of us has been called.
Dirigent: Companion Lecturer, your station and work?
Lecturer: My station is at the South of the lodge, and my work is to instruct the Companions in the wisdom of our Order. My emblem is the emblem of knowledge, handed down to us by the wise of past ages.
Dirigent: Companion Diviner, your station and work?
Diviner: My station is at the North of the lodge, and my work is to perform all divinations which may be required by the Companions for the guidance of our lodge and our Order. My emblem is the emblem of insight, born of perception of the many realms of being.
Dirigent: Companion Sentinel, your station and work?
Sentinel: My station is beside the Gateway to the Outer World, and my work is to answer any alarm at the outer door, to receive the grip and password from Companions before they enter the lodge, and to bar the uninitiated from the meetings of our lodge. My emblem is the emblem of discrimination, and it symbolizes the way of balance which is narrow as a sword's blade.
Dirigent: My station is the Throne of the East, in the place where the Sun rises. My work is to govern the Companions of this Lodge impartially in accordance with the rites and laws of our Order, as That which I represent governs all who seek the Ancient Wisdom. My emblem is the emblem of light and mercy, and it reflects the image of the Banner of the Morning Light, which is the Banner of the East. Companions, I call upon each of you to be true to your obligations and the principles of our Order. Let courage, wisdom, temperance and , justice govern all our actions as a lodge, so that the work of the Mysteries may be accomplished. ***, All rise. Let us invoke the Lord of the Universe.
All: Glory be unto Thee, Fount of the Undying! For Thy glory flows out rejoicing, to the ends of the Earth.
Dirigent: Companion Adjuvant, let the Light of the Stone be revealed among us.
Adjuvant: Companions, give the Sign of Silence. All except Dirigent make the Sign to Adjuvant, who responds with the same Sign. Companion Dirigent, the Light is revealed.
Adjuvant makes the Sign to Dirigent, who responds with the same Sign.
Dirigent: Companion Summoner, you will proclaim this lodge open in the Outer.
Summoner, from station: In the Name of the Lord of the Universe, Who works in silence and Whom nothing but silence can express, and in the presence of the Guardian Companions of our Order, I proclaim this lodge open in the Outer.
Dirigent: *. All are seated.
 
 
Order Of Business
 
The following order of business is suggested, but may be modified by the Adept Dirigent as needed.
1. Roll call of officers.
2. Introduction of visiting Companions.
3. Reading of minutes of the last meeting.
4. Companions sick or in distress.
5. Reading of communications and bills.
6. Reading of applications for membership or advancement.
7. Reports of interviewing committees.
8. Balloting on applications for membership or advancement.
9. Admission of new members by imputation or transfer.
10. Conferring of Protection of the Order.
1 1. Financial report.
12. Reports of committees.
13. Unfinished business.
14. New business.
15. Lecture, instructional program or ritual work.
16. Good of the Order.
 
 
Roll Call of Officers
 
Dirigent: The Companion Secretary will now call the roll of officers.
Secretary remains seated. Summoner rises, and goes by the square to the center of the room, where he faces the Dirigent. The Secretary calls the lodge name and office of each officer, and the Summoner will answer "Present" or "Absent" as the case may be. If the office of an absent member is filled by another Companion, the Summoner will answer ''Absent,'' give the name of the substituting Companion, and add the name of the office and the words "pro tem."
Secretary: Companion Dirigent, the roll has been called (and absentees noted).
 
 
Introduction Of Visiting Companions
 
Dirigent: Companion Adjuvant, are there any visiting Companions to be welcomed?
Adjuvant: Companion Dirigent, there are (are not).
The remaining section is to be used only if there are visitors to be introduced.
Dirigent: Companion Summoner, present our visitors to the lodge. ***, All rise.
Summoner goes by the square to the seat(s) of the visitor(s), and leads them by the square to the center of the room, where they face the Dirigent.
Summoner: Companion Dirigent, I present to you and to our lodge Companion(s) … of … Lodge # …. (If visiting Companions hold offices, Summoner gives these also.)
Dirigent: Companions, I welcome . you to this meeting of
... Lodge # .... *. All are seated; Summoner returns visitors to their seats by the square, and returns to his place.
 
 
 
Reading Of Minutes
 
Dirigent: Companion Secretary, you will read the minutes of the last regular meeting of this lodge.
Secretary remains seated while reading minutes.
Dirigent: Companions, you have heard the minutes of our last regular meeting. Are there any corrections? (pauses) Hearing none, the minutes stand approved as read (or "as corrected").
Any corrections presented shall be entered into the minutes, and the Dirigent shall then say, "Are there any further corrections?" before proceeding as above.
 
 
Balloting
 
Dirigent: Companions, we will now prepare to vote on the admission of … to our lodge and our Order.
Companion Summoner, you will prepare the ballot-box.
Summoner rises, checks the ballot-box to see that it is prepared, and takes it directly to the seat of the Dirigent, who inspects it. Summoner next goes to the seat of the Adjuvant, who does the same. Summoner then returns and places the ballot-box on the altar below the Dirigent's station, with the opening facing the center of the lodge, and takes up his station at the center of the lodge facing Dirigent.
Dirigent: Companions, we will now ballot on the name just read. White balls elect, black cubes reject. Consider your vote well. ***, All rise.
Adjuvant advances a short distance from his station. Members on both sides file down to his station, form a single line behind him, and follow him to the center of the lodge. There, one at a time, they pass the Summoner and vote. When finished, they return to their places but remain standing. When all but Dirigent and Summoner have voted, the Summoner votes, then goes to the Dirigent's seat, and takes it (remaining standing) while the Dirigent, by the square, goes to the center of the lodge and thence to the ballot-box and votes. Dirigent then returns to his place, and Summoner returns by the square to the center of the lodge.
Dirigent: If all who are eligible have voted pause I declare this ballot closed. *, All are seated.
Summoner now advances to ballot-box, takes it, and goes by the square to Adjuvant's station, where Adjuvant inspects the ballot. Summoner then returns by the square to Dirigent's station, where Dirigent inspects the ballot.
Dirigent: Companion Adjuvant, do you find the ballot favorable or unfavorable?
Adjuvant: Companion Dirigent, I find the ballot favorable (or "unfavorable," as the case may be).
Dirigent: Companions, the application of … for admission to our lodge and our Order is accepted (or "rejected," as the case may be.)
Dirigent shall then destroy the ballot. Summoner then takes the ballot-box and returns to his station, unless there are more applications awaiting a vote.
Balloting on candidates for the Protection of the Order shall follow the same procedure, except that the words ''to the Protection of the Order'' shall replace the words ''to our lodge and our Order."
Balloting for advancement shall follow the same procedure, except that the words "advancement to the Grade of …" or "to the Second Degree" shall replace "admission to our lodge and our Order," and only those members who have received the Grade or Degree in question shall be permitted to ballot. The Companion whose advancement is the subject of the ballot shall retire in form to the anteroom while balloting takes place. The Summoner shall have the duty of receiving the password of the Grade or Degree from each Companion before allowing that Companion to advance to the ballot-box.
In the event that the Summoner has not received the Grade or Degree in question, the Dirigent shall appoint a substitute for the duration of the ballot.
 
 
Opening in the First Degree
 
Chief: Companions, you will assist me to close this lodge in the Outer and open it in the First Degree. Those present who are not Companions of our Order must depart. Companion Summoner, you will proclaim it so.
Summoner, *: Procul, Procul esti profani!
Anyone present who is under the Order's protection is at this point led out of the lodge room by the Summoner. When this is done and the door secured, the rite continues.
Chief: In the Name of the Lord of the Universe, and with the help of the Guardian Companions of the Stone, I assume the Throne of the East and take up the power of the Spiritual Sun.
Chief takes staff from its holder.
Chief: Companion Adjuvant, confirm that all present have witnessed the Light of the Stone. ***, All rise.
Adjuvant: Companions, give the Sign of Entering. All give Sign to Adjuvant, who responds with the Sign of Silence.
Chief of the Rite, all have witnessed it. Adjuvant then gives Sign of Entering to Chief, who answers with the Sign of Silence.
Chief, *. All are seated: The following Companions will take part in our present work. Names the Companions and the ritual offices they will be taking.
Chief: Companions N. and N., you will advance the altar to the center of the lodge, and· then purify and consecrate the lodge with water and fire.
The Companions chosen for this task will normally be the  Lecturer and Diviner, if these offices are filled; if not, any conveniently placed Companions may serve. Both go by the square to the sides of the altar, and move it to the center of the lodge directly, passing between the Pillars. When this has been done, a Companion seated in the East will place the throne of the Guide between the Pillars. The Companion on the South side then goes to the place of Fire, and takes up the censer, while the Companion on the North side of the altar goes to the place of Water and takes up the cup. They then circle with the sun, remaining at opposite ends of a line drawn through the altar. Each, beginning in the East, traces a cross in the air with the implement and then sprinkles or censes thrice to the quarter, doing this at each of the four stations.
As each returns to the East, he or she says:
Water: I purify with Water.
Fire: I consecrate with Fire.
They continue to circle until they have returned to the places of their respective elements, then replace cup and censer and return to their stations by the square.
Chief, ***, all rise: Let the Circumambulation take place in the Path of Light.
Circumambulation is performed: Summoner leaves the East and goes directly to North, facing West. Other officers move around hall with Sun and fall into place before Summoner in the order of their First Degree ritual offices; the order is Herald (who will normally be Summoner), Warden, Guide, Keeper of Water, Keeper of Fire, and Sentinel. Summoner then faces East and leads the procession clockwise around the hall. All lodge officers who are not taking part in the ritual work relinquish their stations as the circumambulation begins. The Warden passes the East once and then falls out as soon as he reaches the Throne of the West; the Guide falls out after passing the East twice; all others pass the East thrice, and then fall out as they reach their First Degree stations. When passing the East, each officer makes the Sign of Entering. When they have reached their First Degree stations, all officers stand in front of the podia.
Chief: The Circumambulation, symbolizing the rise of Light, is accomplished. Let us invoke the Lord of the Universe.
All: Holy art Thou, Lord of the Universe. (Sign of Entering)
Holy art Thou, Whom nature hath not formed. (Sign of E.)
Holy art Thou, the vast and the mighty One, (Sign of E.)
Lord of the Light and of the Darkness. (Sign of Silence)
Chief: Companion Warden, you will assume your station.
Warden, takes station: In the Name of the Lord of the Universe, and with the help of the Guardian Companions of the Stone, I assume the Throne of the West and take up the power of the Secret Fire.
Warden takes staff from its holder.
Chief: Companion Guide, you will assume your station.
Guide, takes station: In the Name of the Lord of the Universe, and with the help of the Guardian Companions of the Stone, I assume the Throne of Balanced Forces and take up the power of the Crescent Moon.
Guide takes staff from its holder.
Chief: The Companions assisting in the rite will assume their stations.
Keeper of Water: I take up the Cup of Water. Takes station.
Keeper of Fire: I take up the Censer of Fire. Takes station.
Herald: I take up the Staff and Lamp of Wisdom. Takes station.
Sentinel: I take up the Sword of Judgement. Takes station.
Chief, *: Companions, I ask you to join with me in establishing this lodge in the First Degree. Pause while the lodge on the Inner is built up. And so it is established.
All: So be it.
Chief: Companion Herald, you will proclaim this Lodge closed in the Outer and open in the First Degree.
Herald: In the Name of the Lord of the Universe, who works in silence and whom nothing but silence can express, and in the ·presence of the Guardian Companions of our Order, I proclaim that the Sun has risen and the Shadows flee away.
Chief: *.
Warden: *.
Guide: *.
Guide, *: Yehi Aur.
Warden, *: Fiat Lux.
Chief, *: Let there be Light.
All three together: And there is Light.
Chief: *. All are seated.
 
 
Ceremony Of The Equinox
 
Chief, *: Companions of … Lodge # … of the Companions of the Stone, let us celebrate the coming of the (Spring/Fall) Equinox. Companion Herald, you will proclaim the Equinox and announce the abrogation of the Password.
Herald, rises: In the Name of the Lord of the Universe, Who works in silence and Whom nothing but silence can express, I proclaim that the (Spring/Fall) Equinox has arrived and that the Password … is abrogated.
Chief, ***, all rise: Let us consecrate, according to our traditions, the return of the Equinox. *.
Chief: LIGHT
Warden: DARKNESS
Chief: EAST
Warden: WEST
Chief: AIR
Warden: WATER
Guide, *: I am the reconciler between them. All make the Signs of the First Degree toward the Altar.
K of F: HEAT
K of W: COLD
K of F: SOUTH
K of W: NORTH
K of F: FIRE
K of W: EARTH
Guide, *: I am the reconciler between them. All make Signs toward the Altar.
Chief: ONE CREATOR
K of F: ONE PRESERVER
Warden: ONE DESTROYER
K of W: ONE REDEEMER
Guide, *: One Reconciler between them. All make Signs toward the Altar.
Chief, returns staff to its place, goes to the West of the lodge, with the Sun, and thence to the Altar. If an Outer Lodge officer, he or she places the medallion of office on the Altar: The Word is departed from among us. I will seek it among the winds of Heaven. Takes Rose from Altar, goes to West and returns to station with the Sun, standing before the podium.
Warden, returns staff to its place and advances to the Altar. If an Outer Lodge officer, he or she places the medallion of office on the Altar: The Word is departed from among us. I will seek it among the waves of the Sea. Takes Cup from Altar, returns to station directly and stands before the podium.
K of W goes with the Sun to the West of the lodge, and advances to the Altar. If an Outer Lodge officer, he or she places the medallion of office on the Altar: The Word is departed from among us. I will seek it among the stones of the Earth. Takes Bread and Salt from Altar, goes back to West and returns to station with the Sun, standing before the podium.
K of F goes with the Sun to the West of the lodge, and advances to the Altar. If an Outer Lodge officer, he or she places the medallion of office on the Altar: The Word is departed from among us. I will seek it among the flames of the Fire. Takes the red Lamp from the Altar, goes back to the West and returns to station with the Sun, standing before the podium.
Guide returns staff to its place and advances directly to the East of the Altar. If an Outer Lodge officer, he or she places the medallion of office on the Altar: The Word is departed from among us. I will seek it in the heart of the Light. Guide remains at Altar.
Herald returns staff to its place but keeps lantern, goes with Sun to the West of the lodge, and advances to the Altar. If an Outer Lodge officer, he or she places the medallion of office on the Altar: The Word is departed from among us. I will seek it in the heart of the Darkness. Gives lantern to Guide and returns to station with the Sun. Guide also returns to place, bearing lantern.
Herald now goes from station directly to the East, and stands before Chief.
Chief, faces East, holds Rose high: Let us adore the Lord of the Universe.
Holy art Thou, Lord of the Air, Who hast created the Firmament. Chief makes a cross in the air with the Rose; all others give the Signs toward the East.
Herald goes to South, and stands before K of F.
K of F, faces South, holds Lamp high: Let us adore the Lord of the Universe.
Holy art Thou, Lord of the Fire, wherein Thou hast shown forth the throne of Thy glory. K of F makes a cross in the air with the Lamp; all others give the Signs toward the South.
Herald goes to West, and stands before Warden.
Warden, faces West, holds Cup high: Let us adore the Lord of the Universe.
Holy art Thou, Lord of the Waters, whereon Thy spirit moved in the beginning. Warden makes a cross in the air with the Cup; all' others give the Signs toward the West.
Herald goes to North, and stands before K of W.
K of W, faces North, holds Bread and Salt high: Let us adore the Lord of the Universe.
Holy art Thou, Lord of the Earth, which Thou hast made for Thy footstool. K of W makes a cross in the air with the Bread and Salt; all others give the Signs toward the North.
Herald returns to station directly. All face the Altar. Guide advances to East of Altar.
Guide, stands East of the Altar, facing West, and holds the lantern high: Let us adore the Lord of the Universe.
Holy art Thou, who art in all things -- in whom are all things. If I climb up to heaven, Thou art there, and if I go down to Hell Thou art there also. If I take the wings of the morning and fly to the uttermost parts of the sea, even there shall Thy hand lead me and Thy right hand hold me. If I say, peradventure the darkness shall cover me, even the night shall be turned light unto Thee.
Thine is the Air with its movement. Thine is the Fire with its flashing flame. Thine is the Water with its ebb and flow. Thine is the Earth with its enduring stability. Guide makes a cross in the air with the Lantern; all others give the Signs toward the Altar. Guide returns to station.
Chief resumes station, takes staff, *: In the name of the Lord of the Universe, Who works in silence and Whom nothing but silence can express, and in the presence of the Guardian Companions of our Order, I confer the new Password. It is ….
The officers duly elected to perform the work of the Lodge during the next six months are … gives name and office of each).
Chief, ***, all rise: The Initiate Companions present with us will now retire for a time.
Herald gathers up and leads out in procession to the anteroom all who have not been exalted to the Third Degree.
 
   
Inner Order Ceremony
 
Before the opening of this ceremony, the regalia of the Dirigent is brought to the Chief's station, and the Guide (if a member of the Inner Order) moves to a seat at the side of the hall.
Chief, *, seats lodge: My brothers and sisters, in the name of the Rose Cross, I greet you all.
It is known in our secret wisdom that the things which are above continually lift to their realm the things that are below, and return them after a great transfiguration. Thus the work of Wisdom is continued, and the grace of the supernal Zion is communicated to the Zion which is on Earth, whereat the worlds rejoice and are fulfilled.
I therefore ask you to join with me in my intention, to assume this external and visible lodge of the Companions of the Stone into the House not made by Hands, builded of lively Stones, the Company of the Adepts. And so it is assumed.
All: So be it.
At this point, the inner temple is visualized.
Chief: Brothers and sisters of the Rose Cross, we know that there is a certain Palace or Temple, erected of old by Wisdom as a Witness to the Mysteries that are above the sphere of Knowledge, and that this Temple or Palace is of the Supernal Triad. Here the Shekinah dwelt until the first creation was made void, the Holy Place laid waste, and the Children of the House of Wisdom taken into the captivity of the outer senses.
There we have worshiped since in houses made with hands. Yet never have the whispers of the higher realm been absent from our hearts, and this is the token that we may yet return into the House which is above. As in the Temple of the Heart, so in the outer Temple of Initiation, we have present certain teachers from Within, deputed to guard and lead the Lesser Mysteries and those who advance therein, that they may he fitted in due course to participate in the Light which is beyond it.
It is by the virtue of this link that I have assumed those things that are without into the things that are within at this secret meeting held at the (Spring/Fall) Equinox, for the solemn purpose of proclaiming a new Dirigent charged with the keeping of this Lodge for the coming six months, one part of  the temporary period that intervenes between us and our rest; and it is by the virtue of this link that I call upon the Guardians of our Order and await their presence.
At this point, there is silence to commune with those who may come in the Light, and to receive from them what authority and power they bring to what follows. A minimum of 3-5 minutes should he allowed for this phase.
Chief, ***, all rise and give LVX signs with Chief: Brothers and sisters of the Rose Cross, by the power vested in me, I now proceed to install and invest the Adept Dirigent of … Lodge # … of the Companions of the Stone. Let the Dirigent Elect approach the East.
Chief: Adept Companion N., you have been elected by the Companions of your Lodge to serve as Adept Dirigent for the next six months. Are you willing to assume these duties and responsibilities?
Dirigent: I am.
Chief: Then you will give the Grand Sign of the Rose Cross.
Dirigent does so.
Chief: The Sign is correct. You will give the Grand Word of the Rose Cross.
Dirigent does so
Chief: The Word is correct. *, seats lodge. Let us therefore remember, that when the Body is assumed by the Word, then we become living Souls. Thus it is that we persevere in the Pathway of the Cross as we look for the Assumption of the Rose. Will you thus persevere?
Dirigent: I will.
Chief: Then attend with care to the Charge of the Dirigent.
The Office of Dirigent involves grave duties and responsibilities, since in the Dirigent's hands is the management of the affairs of the Lodge of the Outer Order, whereby the influx of Light is maintained. Take counsel, therefore, with the Inner Order on all important occasions, and strive to maintain a regular communion with the Guardians of the Outer Temple, so that the Temple and its Rites may exhibit, after your tenure, an even greater beauty and an increased light. Remember that the Guardians of the Outer Temple are deputed from within, and let you labor with them that Peace may he maintained with Power. I therefore ask you again, whether it is your will to take on these burdens?
Dirigent: It is.
Chief, ***, calls up lodge: Then you will repeat after me:
I, Brother/Sister …, in the name of the Lord of the Universe, and of the Eternal Unity which I seek with all brothers and sisters of the Rose Cross, do solemnly promise that I will fulfill, to the utmost of my power, the Office which has been chosen for me, and which I have accepted freely; that I will maintain the Rites of the Order and the well-being of the Lodge and each of its members; that I will work together with the Guardians of the Lodge and the Order, and govern in harmony with the Council and the Grand Assembly, without fear or favor, in accordance with the dictates of my own conscience. This I affirm by the Symbol of the Rose Cross, and may all here present witness my pledge.
All: So be it.
Chief, *, seats lodge: Companion Dirigent Elect, I name you, Adept Dirigent of … Lodge #_... of the Companions of the Stone, and empower you to govern the work of the Outer Order under the dispensation of the Guardians for the coming six months. May the Light which is behind the Veil shine through you from your throne in the East on the Companions of the Order, and lead them to the perfect day, when the Glory of this world passes, and a great light shines over the splendid sea.
Receive the insignia of a Dirigent Adept. Chief places it on Dirigent. Bear it unspotted; keep clean your heart beneath it; may the virtue which it typifies stay with you even after the term of your office, and maintain you in your search after the White Stone on which a new name is written which none knows but the one who receives it.
By the Power in me vested, I install you as Dirigent Adept of … Lodge # … of the Companions of the Stone. May you be enthroned also in your proper place among those who are Above.
He leaves his place and seats the new Dirigent.
Brothers and sisters of this lodge, behold your Dirigent, clothed with the attributes of the lawful Governor of the Mysteries for those our Order is leading toward the Light. You are the Adepti of these Mysteries; assist our Dirigent to proclaim them, that those who are without may be led in love to that which is within. Join now, all present, in a common act of thanks. ***, all rise and face East.
Chief: We give thanks, Fountain of all Being, for the manifestation of thy Light that has been granted us, and for the firm hope of further Light beyond. Keep our Companion Dirigent in the ways of thy Justice, that our Dirigent may well and worthily direct the guidance of those who have been called from the tribulations of Darkness into the Light of this little Kingdom of thy love; and grant too that going forward in love for Thee, they may pass from the Desire of thy House into the Light of thy Presence.
Chief: Brothers and sisters, the work of the Light for which we have assumed this Temple has been accomplished, and the Lodge has received its Dirigent. Let us return from the Inner
Temple, and set our faces toward the Outer. * At this point, all are seated and the Inner Temple is de-visualized. After the return, the Chief continues.
Chief: By the power in me vested, I return this Temple to its place in the Outer World, taking with it those graces and benedictions we have been permitted to bestow. And so it is returned. fu the name of the Lord of the Universe, who works in silence and whom nothing but silence can express.
All: Amen.
Chief knocks thrice. All rise and give LVX signs with Chief.
Chief knocks once, and all are seated. The Dirigent remains in the Throne of the East. The Guide, if an fun er Order member, returns to the Throne of Balanced Forces.
 
 
Installation Of Officers
 
Chief: The Initiate Companions will now resume their places in the lodge. They are brought back in by the Herald, in procession, and take their seats. Companions of … Lodge # … of the Companions of the Stone, behold your Dirigent, our Companion …, who has been duly installed in the presence of the Guardian Companions of the Stone. I proclaim him/her the Preserver of Mysteries among you for the following six months. Companion Dirigent, in the presence of the members of your lodge, I call upon you to make your confession.
New Dirigent: Companions of our Order, the whole intention of our Mysteries, and of the outer Initiations they enshrine, is to purify and consecrate the soul through symbol, ceremony and sacrament so that it may be withdrawn from the domination of outer things, and, once withdrawn, to assist it to know its true direction that it may take on its proper place and power in the universe, in harmony with the Will of the Infinite. This therefore I do confess and testify, from my throne in this Lodge of the Companions of the Stone, and I pledge myself, to the best of my ability, to so guide and direct the work of this Lodge that each of you may be made ready for the greater Mysteries and the supreme and inward Initiation.
New Dirigent: fu virtue of the power committed to me, I proceed to invest the officers of this lodge. Let the Adept Adjuvant come to the East. Adjuvant advances to the throne of the Dirigent. By the power committed to me, I ordain you Adept Adjuvant of this lodge for the ensuing six months, and empower you to act in my stead, and with my full power, when circumstances require me to be absent from any meeting of this lodge.
New Adjuvant: I accept this responsibility. Goes to east of the Altar and dons medallion. The Word is restored to us.
Goes to West, and then resumes place.
New Dirigent: Let the Secretary come to the East. Secretary advances to the throne of the Dirigent. By the power committed to me, I ordain you Secretary of this lodge for the ensuing six months, and empower you to have custody of all records and resources of the lodge.
New Secretary: I accept this responsibility. Goes to east of the Altar and dons medallion. The Word is restored to us.
Goes to West, and then resumes place.
New Dirigent: Let the Summoner come to the East. Summoner advances to the throne of the Dirigent. By the power committed to me, I ordain you Summoner of this lodge for the ensuing six months, and empower you to proclaim and execute the laws of our Order.
New Summoner: I accept this responsibility. Goes to east of the Altar and dons medallion. The Word is restored to us.
Goes to West, and then resumes place.
New Dirigent: Let the Lecturer come to the East. Lecturer advances to the throne of the Dirigent. By the power committed to me, I ordain you Lecturer of this lodge for the ensuing six months, and empower you to instruct the Companions in the wisdom of our Order.
New Lecturer: I accept this responsibility. Goes to east of the Altar and dons medallion. The Word is restored to us. Goes to West, and then resumes place.
New Dirigent: Let the Diviner come to the East. Diviner advances to the throne of the Dirigent. By the power committed to me, I ordain you Diviner of this lodge for the ensuing six months, and empower you to guide the lodge in its work through the exercise of your gifts.
New Diviner: I accept this responsibility. Goes to east of the Altar and dons medallion. The Word is restored to us. Goes to West, and then resumes place.
New Dirigent: Let the Sentinel come to the East. Sentinel advances to the throne of the Dirigent. By the power committed to me, I ordain you Sentinel of this lodge for the ensuing six months, and empower you to guard this lodge and to test all who enter with the words and signs of our Order.
New Sentinel: I accept this responsibility. Goes to East of the Altar and dons medallion. The Word is restored to us. Goes to West, and then resumes place.
Herald then comes forward and replaces the Elements in their proper places on the Altar. Dirigent then rises from the Throne of the East, relinquishing it to the Chief of the Rite, and returns to station. The Chief may address the lodge. When this is done, Chief begins the Closing of the First Degree.
 
 
Closing in the First Degree
 
Chief, *: Companions, you will assist me to close this lodge in the First Degree. Companions N. and N., you will purify and consecrate the lodge with water and fire.
This will normally be done by the Keepers of Water and Fire, if these offices have been filled in the ritual; otherwise, any conveniently placed Companions may perform this duty. The officers advance with the Sun to the stations of Water and Fire, as necessary, and from there purify and consecrate as in the Opening of the First Degree. As each comes to the East a second time, he or she says:
Water: I purify with water.
Fire: I consecrate with fire.
The officers continue around to the stations of Water and Fire, replacing cup and censer, and then return with the Sun to their own stations if necessary.
Chief, ***, all rise: Let the reverse circumambulation take place in the Path of Light.
Circumambulation is performed: Chief rises, staff in one hand. All other officers with staffs
return these to their places. Herald then leaves the East and goes around hall against Sun, Warden, Guide, and Keepers of Water and Fire falling in behind, in that order. The procession then passes the East and circles counterclockwise around the hall. The Warden falls out after passing the East once, resuming his First Degree station; the Guide passes the East twice, and then does the same; the others pass the East thrice, and then fall out as they reach their First Degree stations. When passing the East, each officer makes the Sign of Silence.
When they have resumed their stations, officers stand in front of their podia.
Chief: The reverse circumambulation, symbolizing the fading of Light, is accomplished. · Let us invoke the Lord of the Universe.
All: Holy art Thou, Lord of the Universe. Sign of Entering.
Holy art Thou, whom Nature hath not formed. Sign of E.
Holy art Thou, the Vast and the Mighty One, Sign of E.
Lord of the Light and of the Darkness. Sign of Silence.
Chief: *. All are seated.
Chief: Companion Warden, you will relinquish your station.
Warden: In the Name of the Lord of the Universe, and with the help of the Guardian Companions of the Stone, I give back the power of the Secret Fire and relinquish the Throne of the West. Rises and moves in front of podium.
Chief: Companion Guide, you will relinquish your station.
Guide: In the Name of the Lord of the Universe, and with the help of the Guardian Companions of the Stone, I give back the power of the Crescent Moon and relinquish the Throne of Balanced Forces. Rises and stands before throne.
Chief: The Companions assisting in the rite will relinquish their stations.
Keeper of Water: I give back the Cup of Water.
Keeper of Fire: I give back the Censer of Fire.
Herald: I give back the Staff and Lamp of Wisdom.
Sentinel: I give back the Sword of Judgement.
All rise and stand in front of stations as they speak.
Chief: Nothing now remains to us but to partake together in silence of the Communion of the Four Elements, and to remember the mysteries we have witnessed and the obligations we keep. Goes to West of altar.
I invite all beings present, therefore, to breathe with me the perfume of this Rose, as a symbol of Air; to feel with me the warmth of this sacred Fire; to eat with me this Bread and Salt as types of Earth, and finally to drink with me from this cup: of Wine, emblematic of Water.
Communion of Elements is performed. Chief goes to East of altar as Warden advances to West of altar. When Warden has partaken, Chief returns to the Throne of the East and Warden goes to East of altar. Guide, Keepers of Water and Fire, and all members follow, each in turn receiving and then offering communion. Herald comes last of all. As the officers finish offering communion, they go to the West and then pass with the sun to their Outer lodge stations; one of the Companions seated in the East will remove the throne of the Guide from between the Pillars at this time. At the end of the communion, only the Chief occupies his or her First Degree station.
Herald, finishes wine: It is finished. He goes to the West after the member who has served him, and returns to his Outer lodge station with the Sun.
Chief: May that which we have received maintain and strengthen us in our quest for the Stone. Companions N. and N., you will now retire the altar from the center of the lodge.
This will normally be done by the Lecturer and Diviner, if these offices have been filled; if not, any conveniently placed Companions may do so. They advance by the square to the sides of the altar and move it back to its place in front of the Dirigent's station, then return to their stations by the square.
Chief: In the Name of the Lord of the Universe, and with the help of the Guardian Companions of the Stone, I give back the power of the Spiritual Sun and relinquish the Throne of the East. Companion Summoner, you will proclaim this lodge closed in the First Degree and opened in the Outer.
Summoner, from station: In the Name of the Lord of the Universe, who works in silence and whom nothing but silence can express, and in the presence of the Guardian Companions of our Order, I proclaim that the Sun has set but its Light remains.
Chief: *. All are seated.
 
 
Closing in the Outer
 
Dirigent, *: Companions of … Lodge # … of the Companions of the Stone, assist me to close this lodge in the Outer. As we now go forth into the world, let us recall our obligations and the principles of our Order, so that love toward one another and silence regarding our mysteries may preserve our lodge, our Order, and our secret wisdom.
All: So be it.
Dirigent: Companion Sentinel, when the lodge is closed, you will permit the Companions to depart.
Sentinel: I will, Companion Dirigent.
Dirigent, ***, calls up lodge: Companion Adjuvant, let the Light of the Stone be concealed among us.
Adjuvant: Companions, give the Sign of Silence. All present except the Dirigent make the Sign toward Adjuvant, who responds with the same Sign. Companion Dirigent, the Light
is concealed. Adjuvant then makes the Sign to Dirigent, who responds in the same way.
Dirigent: Companion Summoner, you will proclaim this lodge closed.
Summoner, from station: In the Name of the Lord of the Universe who works in silence and whom nothing but silence can express, and in the presence of. the Guardian Companions of our Order, I proclaim this lodge closed.
Dirigent: *.
 
 
Inner Work
 
This outline of the inner work of the Equinox Ceremony, including Outer and Inner Opening and Closing, may be used, together with official papers on the First Degree lodge, as a study guide by Companions who will be participating in the celebration of the Equinox. All inner work should be committed to memory, however, so that the outer work of the ritual may be performed smoothly and effectively.
The work of the Outer Opening and Closing is done every time the lodge works in the Outer. Though apparently simple, it should not be neglected or rushed through, as it has lessons to teach both the lodge and the individual Companions.
 
 
Outer Opening
The Sign of Silence
When this is given, all Companions visualize a barrier of indigo light surrounding the lodge space, separating it from the outside world.
 
First Degree Opening
The Sign of Entering
When this is given, all Companions visualize four angelic figures with outspread wings, one at the middle of each wall of the lodge. From them, a protective barrier of light spreads around the hall, just within the barrier of secrecy.
 
Purification and Consecration
The cup and censer are each visualized as being at the center of a sphere of light of the appropriate color (blue for water, red for fire), and each traces a circle of this color around the lodge as they are taken to the four stations.
 
The Circumambulation
During the circumambulation, those who are circumambulating visualize themselves moving upwards, as though climbing a spiral stair. As they do this, a sphere of golden-white light comes into being above the altar: the Hidden Sun. The invocation to the Lord of the Universe is directed toward this.
 
The Awakening of the Thrones
Chief, Warden and Guide all have special patterns of energy to set up in the First Degree lodge. This is done as each of these officers takes his or her staff and throne; the Chief does this near the beginning, the others after the circumambulation. Other members should visualize a sphere of light - red for Chief, black for Warden, white for Guide - forming around the officer as the staff is taken up.
 
The Establishing of the Lodge
The lodge on the Inner in the First Degree may be studied in detail in the papers and lectures on the subject assigned to the various Degrees. In general, members should again visualize the four angelic figures at the sides of the lodge room, the spheres of light for water and fire and the three Thrones at the appropriate stations, and the Hidden Sun over the altar. This visualization should be maintained until the Chief seats the lodge at the end of the Opening.
 
The Equinox
The Formulation of the Quarters
The interchanges among the officers at the four quarters of the lodge at the beginning of the rite complete the dispersal of the energies of the past term, a process which begins with the abrogation of the Password. At each knock by the Guide, the Hidden Sun is seen to expand but also to fade, until by the third knock it can no longer be seen. All this should be visualized by the Companions.
 
The Surrender of Office
The presence of the elemental energies in the elements of the communion is affirmed and visualized by the Companions as these are taken to the four quarters. This completes the dissolution of the Hidden Sun, and in a certain sense of the lodge as well.
 
The Invocation of Light
As the Herald goes to the four quarters, and the officer at each quarter invokes the Lord of the Universe, the Companions visualize the presence of the element in that quarter. Air is seen as an open plain at dawn, with wind blowing through the grass and billowing clouds above; Fire is seen as a shimmering desert scene at noon; Water is seen as a beach at sunset, with waves rolling in from the distance; Earth is seen as a forest at midnight, with snow on the ground and the stars of the Great Bear visible above. When the Guide invokes the element of Spirit in the center, Companions visualize light coming from all four directions to reestablish the Hidden Sun; this is crystallized by the Chief's knock and proclamation of the new password.
 
Inner Order Ceremony
The Inner Temple
The Inner Temple, which is visualized after the Chief's act of assumption, is a bare room with eight windows, four in the comers and four in the walls, and a circular window also set in the roof, which is very high above it. Although this establishes an astral Temple, it is done in such a way that it points well beyond the simple astral. The speech following is made by the Chief bilocated, as it were, in both Temples.
From this speech of the Chief to the end of the period of silence is the core inner connection of the Rite, as the Higher and Lower are joined. In what follows, the Inner and Outer are superimposed, and thus the visualization "needs certain landmarks (the eight windows) to tie it to the Lodge. It is in this period of connection that the transition is made from the first to the second half of the whole ceremony - from the ascent of the lodge into the realm of potential, to its descent into the realm of manifestation.
 
Installation of the Dirigent
When the new Dirigent makes the Grand Sign, all Adept Companions visualize the Banner of the East in his or her aura, filling the whole aura and intensely luminous. When the regalia is placed about his or her neck, the image of the banner contracts and fuses with the medallion.
 
The Signs of Light
Each time the LVX Signs are performed, the Light is drawn down from above, and fills the Inner Temple or the lodge. The Adept Companions should contemplate the Signs as they are made, just as in any other context where they are used.
 
Installation of Officers
Transmission of Office
When the new Dirigent ordains each officer for the new term, all Adept Companions visualize the symbol of that office in the new officer's aura, in front of the heart area, where the medallion of office will rest. This image is larger than the medallion, but contracts and fuses with it when the new officer proclaims the restoration of the Word and takes on his or her regalia.
 
First Degree Closing
Purification and Consecration
This is done as in the Opening.
 
The Circumambulation
This is the reverse of the Opening circumambulation. Members visualize themselves spiraling downwards, as though descending a spiral stair, while the Hidden Sun fades but does not disappear.
 
The Veiling of the Thrones
The Warden and Guide take down their special, energy patterns after the circumambulation, when so instructed by the Chief. The Chief does the same after the altar is retired from the center of the lodge. Other members visualize the spheres of colored light disappearing from around each officer at these times.
 
The Closing of the Lodge
When the Summoner proclaims that "the Sun has set but its light remains,'' members visualize the faded Hidden Sun expanding outward into infinite space and dissipating. The remaining structures of the inner lodge disappear in this process as well, the barrier of secrecy alone remaining.
 
Outer Closing
The Sign of Silence
When this is given, all Companions visualize the barrier of indigo light unraveling and fading out into nothingness.