Omega
Upsilon Phi
Initiation
Ritual
Opening
Ceremony
1907
The Senior Master privately announces to the Conductor
that the meeting will now he opened. at the same time taking the Chair and
giving three loud raps with the gavel. The Conductor then calls aloud:
C.: Let all who ant not members of this Fraternity retire.
S.M.:
Officers of this
Chapter of Omega Upsilon Phi, assume your proper positions. See that the doors
are securely guarded. Let all take notice. Three raps of the cave! calls
attention. Two raps calls the officers to
their feet. One rap calls the members to their feet or seats them, if already standing.
The Conductor
will here invest the officers and
members with regalia, taking
the password
from each one present in due form. If any be without the password, the regalia
shall be withheld and the same reported to the Senior Master, who will order the
Conductor to instruct and invest
the member
or do so himself. After finishing, the Conductor will advance to the altar and
making the sign of the
C.:
Senior Master, all is
correct.
S.M.: Conductor is the Secret Symbol on the Altar?
C.: It is.
S.M.: You will hold it aloft.
C. does so.
S.M. calls members to
their feet and says.
Let all take heed lest one unworthy enter here.
Then members in unison make the sign of the two degrees of the Fraternity, finishing with
the grand hailing sign and
words of Omega Upsilon Phi.
S.M.: First Junior Master, what is your
duty in this Chapter?
1st J.M.: It is my duty to second you in all things right, in decorum among
members and in whatever business may come before the Chapter.
S.M.: Second Junior Master what are your duties in this Chapter?
2nd J.M.: My duties are similar to those of the First Junior Master, except that
they rank second to his in importance.
S.M.: Conductor what are your duties?
C.: To perform such duties as are required to assist in the conduct of this
Chapter.
S.M.: Guard, what is your duty?
G.: To ascertain the fitness of all who enter.
S.M.: Priest, what is your duty?
P.: To guide the devotional exercises of this Chapter.
S.M.: You will do so now,
P.: Let us pray: Our God, who was and is, and is to be! Who created the world in six days,
and ordained the seventh to merited repose, grant us Thy presence and Thy peace.
Thy presence in all its storms.
Upon us and our efforts let Thy blessing rest. Turn us from evil.
Into
our heart direct the messenger of good, that from them may flow good will to all
our fellows.
Guide our
deliberations and our acts, that our endeavors may be sealed
with Thy approval. and
to Thy name be glory forever, Amen.
Members will all respond:
Amen
S.M.: Let all present before this uplifted symbol be reminded of their
obligations. I now declare this the … Chapter of Omega Upsilon Phi, to be duly
opened and qualified to transact all business properly coming before it.
S.M. seats member. Conductor returns symbol to the
altar, salutes and retires to his station in the room.
Initiatory
Ceremony
The whole initiation should be committed to memory by
the officers. This is the only perfect way. Chapters open invariably on the
third or Aesclepiadean degree and adjourns to initiation in the degree which is
to be worked.
The
Pledge
S.M.: Conductor, you will ascertain if any candidates are in waiting.
Conductor retires returns and reports.
C.: Senior Master, I find in waiting Mr. … who desires to be initiated
into the mysteries of this Fraternity.
S.M.: Scribe is Mr. … a duly elected candidate for initiation in this
Chapter?
S.: He is.
S.M.: Scribe, you will retire with the Conductor, collect the deposit and
prepare the candidate.
Conductor and Scribe retire. Scribe collects deposit
and hoodwinks the candidate, returning to the meeting he reports.
S.: Senior Master, the requisite deposit is in my possession.
Conductor escorts candidate to door, alarms in due
form. Gives password and says:
C.: Inform the Senior Master that
the Conductor, accompanied by a candidate seeks admission.
G.: Senior Master, the Conductor stands with out accompanied by a stranger whom he says to
be a candidate desirous of initiation.
S.M.: Admit them.
G., opens door and says:
By order of the Senior Master I admit you to this hall of Omega Upsilon Phi.
Conductor escorting candidate enters, passes once
around hall and halts before the Senior Master who says:
S.M.: Who comes there?
C.: Mr. … an accepted
candidate who is desirous of receiving a part in the rite and light of this
Fraternity.
S.M.: Has he the necessary qualifications of a candidate?
C.: He has.
S.M.: Mr. …, is this an act of your own free will an d accord?
CA.: It is.
S.M.: Do you promise that when called upon
you will take the initiations to the various degrees of membership in this
Fraternity, and that in the mean time you will not pledge yourself to or join
any other secret society or fraternity of students, without first obtaining the
permission of this Chapter of Omega Upsilon Phi?
CA.: I do.
S.M.: Do you realize that this constitutes a pledge based upon your honor as a
man. One which you will be expected to fulfill when the time comes?
CA.: I do.
S.M.: Do you furthermore promise that when you have been initiated to full
membership in this Fraternity you will pay promptly all dues, assessments, etc.,
as ordered by the Grand Chapter or the Chapter of which you are a member?
CA.: I do.
S.M.: Do you agree that if at any time prior to your reaching full membership
the Chapter becomes convinced that you are not a person worthy of further
progress, it may by a majority vote declare you to be such and ref use you
further progress?
CA.: I do.
S.M.: In the event of your being refused further progress do you promise to be
present at the hearing of the case, held to determine the justice of such an
act?
CA.: I do.
S.M.: I am satisfied. May the true light of fraternity be revealed to you by the
study of our laws an d precepts and by living the life of a good and loyal
member.
In
token of this agreement, I present you with this piece of metal the significance
of which is that your pledge is given. Wear it on all occasions, never allow it
to pass from your possession except at the door of this meeting room, and then
only to the Master of ceremonies, who will show you its duplicate on a larger
scale. Explain its significance to no one, and under no circumstances reveal a
part or parts, word or words, of what has here transpired, except to Brothers
…, whom I appoint as your instructors.
You
will be questioned by friend and foe and I council you to be true to your trust
if you would gain further advancement in this Fraternity. Your initiation to the
first degree will take place on …, at … o’clock in ….
Conductor reconducts candidate to place whence he came,
and returns to the meeting room.
Degree
of the Neophyte
S.M.: Conductor, you will ascertain if any candidates are in waiting.
Conductor retires, returns and reports.
C.: Senior Master, I find in waiting Mr. …, a duly pledged candidate who
is desirous of being received into the degree of the Neophite.
S.M.: Scribe, you will retire with the Master of Ceremonies collect the
balance of the fee and report.
Scribe and Master of Ceremonies retire. Scribe collects
balance of fee, returns to meeting room and reports.
S.: Senior Master, the full initiation fee is now paid.
S.M.: Brothers, we are about to receive a stranger. You will observe perfect
order and silence throughout that he may be properly impressed thereby. None but
the assistants and officers participating will be allowed to move about the
room. Conductor, you will prepare the altar, placing thereon the proper symbols.
In the meantime the Master of Ceremonies has prepared
the candidate by divesting him of all clothing, jewelry, etc., and reclothing
him in trunks and sandals, after which he knots a rope about his neck, leaving
the ends free between his shoulders.
Next he receives the symbol of the pledge and applies
the hoodwink. This done he escorts the candidate to the door and alarms with
three distinct raps which are answered by one from within, the Master of
Ceremonies raps once and the Guard opens the door.
G.: Who comes there?
M. of C.: The Master of Ceremonies accompanied by Mr. ..., a duly pledged
candidate who is desirious of receiving a part in the rites and lights of this
degree of our Fraternity.
G.: Is he duly and properly prepared?
M. of C.: He is.
G.: How may I know this to be so?
M. of C.: I hereby present you with the token which I have just received from him,
I give you my word, and am prepared to give you the pass word if necessary to
secure our entrance.
G.: Advance and give the password.
M. of C. does so.
G.:
Since you are in
possession of these qualifications, wait until your request can be communicated
to the Senior Master and his answer returned.
Guard closes door, advances to the altar and reports as
follows:
G.: Senior Master, the Master of Ceremonies awaits without our doors and
with him as Mr. …, who seems duly prepared having possessed the token and
being property vouched for by the Master of Ceremonies.
S.M.: Guard, you will place the token on the altar, proceed to your station
and admit the Master of Ceremonies with his charge.
Guard does so by giving one knock which is answered by
one from without. He then opens the door and says:
G.: By order of the Senior Master I bid you enter this hall of Omega Upsilon
Phi to be received in the form of our ancient brethren.
M.of C. escorts candidate forward and towards the 2nd J
. M. who presses over the candidate's heart the point of a sword or other sharp
metalic instrument. at the same time commanding:
2nd J. M.:
Halt! By
command of the Senior Master, I receive you on the point of a naked sword. If
you advance further it will pierce your vitals. The significance of this act is
manifold. First, it teaches you caution. Rush not madly through life lest you
suffer thereby. Next it teaches you attention for had you not been obedient to
the warning command you would have suffered severe injury. Therefore give close
attention to the words of council about to be spoken to you, that you may profit
thereby.
2nd J. M. steps aside and M. of C. escorts once about
the room, stopping before the 1st Jr . M.
1st J. M.:
My friend, you have escaped one danger thereby learning two valuable lessons.
Thus you will find it throughout your life. Experience accompanied by sound
reasoning and careful study will fill your mind with learnings choicest
treasures. There is still another lesson to be drawn from your reception, that
of association. Choose your companions with care, seeking only those of an
elevating nature. Bad associates lead the unwary in to pit falls which inflict
wounds more serious than those of the flesh. Wounds of the flesh heal kindly and
leave while cicatrices to mark the spot, but wounds of the character heal with
difficult and leave great black blots on the page of life's history. These
lessens you should keep in mind and in your daily walks of life show by your
conduct that you have
profited thereby.
M. of C. conducts to the altar for prayer and obligation.
Candidate is directed to kneel on both knees pcg his -gt and on th a-t pm dn, hs
l-t hd or hs he-.
Senior Master calls members before the altar.
P.: Grant us Thine aid , O Mighty Father of the Universe, in our present
convention. Grant. Thou, that this candidate may receive Thy message of divine
wisdom; that he may consecrate his life to Thy service and the alleviation of
suffering mankind.
Imbue
him with strength and make him stead fast to keep and hold this his solemn
obligation until death shall come, and at last we pray Thee. O Heavenly Father,
receive him into Thy Fraternity above with Thy blessing, "Well done thou
good and faithful servant".
Members in unison:
Amen.
S. M.: My friend I now call upon you to take upon yourself the solemn obligation of
a brother, and I assure you there is nothing therein contained which will in any
way conflict with your religious or civil duties.
You
will say: I, pronounce your name in full and repeat after me: I, …, in the
presence of Almighty God, and the members here assembled, do most solemnly
affirm, that I take upon myself this obligation, of my own free will and accord.
I hereby promise and swear, that I will never expose, divulge or bet ray, any of
the signs, grips, words or passwords, or other secret work of Omega Upsilon Phi,
to any person or persons, except those entitled to receive the same, I knowing
them to be such, upon proper authority, or having duly tested, tried, and proven
them to be such, except in a lawfully constituted Chapter, and then for
instruction only.
I
furthermore promise and swear, that I will render strict obedience to the
Constitution, laws and officers of the Fraternity, and to the By-Laws of this or
any other Chapter, of which I may become a member.
I
furthermore
promise and swear,
that I will not injure a brother member, in character, person
or estate; that I will
guard and assist them as best I know, without harm to myself or family; that I
will constantly bear in mind, the welfare of this Chapter and Fraternity in
general.
I
furthermore promise and swear, that I will be present, as often as I can at the
meetings of this Chapter or any other Chapter of which I may become a member; to increase its membership within proper
bounds; to promote its harmony and to wear worthily its motto, "Omega
Upsilon Phi.”
I
furthermore promise and swear upon my most sacred honor, and pledge myself,
without any hesitation, mental reservation or secret evasion of mind to
faithfully observe and perform these separate and several promises to the best
of my ability.
Members in unison:
So let it be recorded.
S. M.: It is so recorded.
S. M.: Remove the cords we now hold the brother by a stronger tie.
M. of C does so.
S. M.: What do you most desire?
CA.: Light.
S. M.: With the assistance of the brethren you shall receive it.
M. of C. removes hoodwink.
S.M.: Brother, I extend to you the right hand
of fellowship. Arise. You will observe the position of my thumb and fingers.
This constitutes the grip of the first or Neophite degree of Omega Upsilon Phi.
2ths d-e-l- so b-gs a w-r- wch is ne-r s-o-n x-pt I s-ld fm th z, 2th a in a
manner wch wth th a-ste of th! I wll now ill ste.
Have
you the secret word of the Neopithe?
Answer:
I have.
Question:
Will you tell it me?
Answer:
I did not receive it this manner, neither will I thus impr it.
Question:
How will you then communicate it?
Answer:
By lettering with your aste.
Question:
Letter and begin.
….
The
word is correct.
Ths
wd … is the egsh nm fr th z of
By
means of this word and in this manner you will test a mnto astn wether he be a
member of this degree.
I
next invite your intention to the emblems upon the altar. The Holy Bible and the
endless chains, explained in this wise: As we are bound to each other by our solemn obligation
thus are we bound to our Creator by endless chains of love revealed to us by the
study of His Word. Here you see the small chain which was given you as a token
of your pledge: you will also note the large one which the Master of Ceremonies
showed you at the door. The endless chain is a symbol of unbroken friendship.
The smaller one is emblematic of the friendship which you bore us before you
entered this degree; the larger and stronger
one is emblematical of the imperishable friendship which should exist between
all brothers of Omega Upsilon Phi.
M. of C.: Behold the Senior Master approaching
upon the step under the Sign of a Neophite.
S M.: Th s-p is mad by pig th rg ft d cly in. fot
of th lt, hl of
rg ft
tcg th te of lt thby,
indicating your intention of walking in a straight
forward manner upright
and
honorable before God
and men. The sign refers to the position of your hands in taking the obligation.
Upon
entering or retiring from a Chapter of Neophites, you will advance
to the
altar and salute the
Senior Master
upon the step, under
the sign of the Neophite. Your salute
will be returned by the Senior Master after which you are at liberty to take your seat
or retire as the case may be.
I
now present you with this garment the regalia of the Fraternity. Carry it
to the First Junior Master who will
teach you how to wear
it as a Neophite.
M. of C. conducts to 1st J. M.
1st J. M.:
This my brother, is a copy of the garb worn by our ancient ancestors. It was
first folded diagonally and worn over the left shoulder, the ends uniting upon
the right hip. Thus you will wear it, thereby signifying that you have entered
the cause of Omega Upsilon Phi . That the first point of attack, your heart, is
protected and thoroughly set on living the life of a true and devoted member.
The
Master of Ceremonies will now conduct you to a seat before the Senior Master,
there to receive the historical and explanatory lecture.
M. of C. conducts to chair.
SCRIBE: Among the deities of the ancient Greeks is one Aesculapius by name, in
whom we are particularly interested. The early history of this man is surrounded
by mystery. Archeological research at tributes to him a humble origin a noble
life and the attainment of a vast store of knowledge along medical lines, which
after death led him to be placed among the stars. But in Mythology we find the
more beautiful version of his existence.
Son
of Apollo by the nymph Coronis, born on a hillside, deserted by his mother and
left to perish, he was suckled by a goat, found by shephards who took him to
their breasts and reared him. The boy early developing a marked intelligence,
was instructed by Chiron in the mysteries and secrets of the then crude
medicine. All this he absorbed with avidity, soon surpassing his teacher. He
even succeeded so far as to restore the dead to life. His fame went abroad and
thousands sought his council that they might be healed. In after years he became
the foremost physician of
At
last Aesculapius died: just how, we know not, hut he is said to have perished by
a thunderbolt from the hand of Zeus, Pluto, the god of hades, having complained
that his realm was being depopulated. After his death Aesculapius was raised to
the rank of a deity and worshiped as the god of Medicine. His principal temple
was on a wooded hill near
S. M.: The significance of this degree you should also understand. In the first
place you were divested of all clothing, jewelry, etc.. and reclothed in the
garb of the uninitiated. This teaches you that it is the man and not his
exterior ornaments which we desire. You were directed to retain the token of
your pledge, thereby reminding you that the retentive memory holds fast to all
the lessons you have learned, or
will learn in your progress to full membership.
You
were directed to hold as secret the significance thereof revealing to none but
those qualified to receive the same; thus should you keep inviolate the secret
work of this Fraternity. You were hoodwinked and bound lest at the trial you
might be found unfit for further progress.
Your
entrance was guarded;
thus should your
actions and words be lest a false impression of your personality be made. The
lessons drawn from your entrance have already been explained to you. Your close
attention to the words of instruction reaches you to be studious; observe the
words of your instructors closely that you may be benefited thereby, that your
fraternity brethren may be glad to own you as such and the institution which you
some day hope to call your Alma Mater may point to you with pride as one of her
sons, The obligation which you have taken upon yourself this evening is a solemn one. It binds you as
long as life shall last. How well you keep it depends upon the sense of honor
which you now possess or may hereafter have inoculated. May this be of the
highest standard is the wish of every member of Omega Upsilon Phi. The thong
which bound you was removed thereby indicating our trust in your fidelity. Your
request for light was answered by the removal of the hoodwink. In the light of a
fellow member, study carefully our principles and precepts, constitutions and
laws, and at all times be ready to conform thereto and give cheerful obedience.
The
hand of friendship was given to you. This hand of friendship in our Fraternity
becomes a feeling of genuine brotherly love, one which should stimulate you at
all times to give a helping hand to a brother in distress. In the future
whatever your vicissitudes, I admonish you to remember the motto of this degree
and Onward Upward Persevere.
I
now declare a recess to welcome the new member.
To reassemble S.M. calls to order and says:
S. M.: Let all not members of the third degree retire.
Neophite approaches the altar, salutes and retires.
S. M.: We will now proceed with the regular order of business.
Order
of the
S.M.: Conductor, you will retire and ascertain if any candidates are in
waiting.
Conductor retires, returns and reports.
C.:
Senior Master, I find
in waiting Mr. ..., a tidy initiated Neophite who is desirous of having and receiving
further light in this
Fraternity.
S.M.: Master of Ceremonies you will retire and prepare the candidate.
Conductor
you will see that the symbols are properly arranged upon the altar.
M. of C. retires and prepares the candidate as before
with the addition of the mantle about his left shoulders.
M. of C. conducts candidate to door, alarms with two
raps, which are answered by two from within, this the M. of C. will return with one rap and then the Guard will
open the door and demand:
G.: Who comes here?
M. of C.:
Mr. …, a duly
initiated Neophite in search of further light in our fraternity.
G.: Has he made careful study of the lessons
of the previous?
M. of C.:
He has.
G.: Is he ready and willing to assume the responsibilities and prove himself worthy of
further advancement?
M. of C.: He is.
G.: Then let him wait until his wish can be communicated to the Senior
Master and his answer returned.
Guard closes door, advances to the altar and reports.
G.: Senior Master, the Master of Ceremonies awaits without and with him is Mr. … said
to be a duly initiated
Neophite in search of further light
in our Fraternity.
S.M.: Are you satisfied that the candidate is worthy of this degree?
G.: I am.
S.M.: Then admit him by the
password.
Guard passes to station opens the door and says:
G.: By order of the Senior Master I admit you upon the password.
M. of C.: My friend has not the password. I have it for him.
G.: Advance and give it.
M. of C. does so.
G.: The word is correct. Enter and be received as were the Neophites of past
ages.
M. of C. and candidate enter and are stopped by the
Second Junior Master who says:
2nd J. M.: When a Neophite sought admission to the
Candidate has sandals removed and his feet plunged into
a dish of water where he will wash them with his hands. After they are dried and
his sandals readjusted the Second Junior Master will say:
2nd J. M.:
This my friend is an ancient custom not devoid of meaning. It teaches you
preparation without which you can not hope to achieve success in your
undertakings. It also has another significance. As you cleanse your feet of the
dust of travel thus should you clean se your mind of all enmity towards your
fellow members, that your intercourse may be as heavens own blue illuminated by
day with the sunshine of brotherly love and studded by night with the stars of
pleasant recollections.
My
friend never speaks of
any man unless you are sure that what you say is true. No day
so fair but that by
the clouds of suspicion is not darkened; no effort so praiseworthy but by
suspicion may be marred and blasted; no path so straight, but by suspicious eye
looks tortuous and bent from its true course. We know it not in youth when we
come freshest from the hand of heaven. It is an earth engendered monster springing
from the rank slime of
our polluted years.
M. of C. conducts to First Junior Master.
1st J. M.:
My friend you have successfully passed the trials of the Neophite and are now
well on your way to reception in the Order of the
The
degree
of the Neophite was
symbolical of youth. In youth we struggle to attain knowledge that in after years we may live and profit thereby.
This the degree of the
In
your future progress
you will find many things which will tempt you to turn aside; you will be placed in positions which may endanger your
life itself. Meet and pass all with a steadfastness of purpose which wilt
demonstrate that you are worthy of reward. Thus you will find it throughout your life and thus
you must demonstrate your worth to your fellow beings. The Master of Ceremonies
will now conduct you to the altar of obligations.
Candidate is made to kneel on his left knee left hand
on a-t am uds and supporting right
hand pm dds con syl.
S. M. calls members before altar.
P.:
Let us pray. Our
Father who art in Heaven witness thou this covenant and record it on high. Thy
kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in Heaven. Grant that this
candidate may ever follow in Thy foot steps through life walking ever in the
straight and narrow path that leads to the gates of that temple above, not
builded by human hands but erected in Heaven by the Senior Grand Master of the
Universe for the reception of his faithful.
Amen
.
Members in unison:
Amen.
S.M.: Again I call upon you to take upon yourself a solemn obligation. I
assure you as before that there is nothing therein contained which will in any
way conflict with your moral, religious or civil duties.
You
will say I, pronounce your name in full and repeat after me. I, ..., in the
presence of Almighty God, and the members here assembled, do most
solemnly affirm, that I take upon myself this solemn obligation of my own free
will and accord.
I
hereby promise and swear, that I will never expose, divulge or betray any of the
signs, grips, words, or passwords, or other secret work,
of this or the previous degree, which I have thus far received, am about to
receive, or may hereafter be instructed in, to any person or persons, not a member
of this degree, except those entitled to receive the same, I knowing them to be
such
upon proper authority, or having duly tested, tried and proven them to be such,
except in a lawfully, constituted chapter, and then for instructions only.
I
furthermore promise and swear, that
I will not be present
at, nor participate in, an initiation or raising, to a higher degree, not in
strict accordance with the constitution. laws and ritual, then in force in the
Fraternity,
That
I will not hold brotherly intercourse with a suspended or expelled member, I
knowing him to be such, nor suffer it to be done by others, if with in my power
to prevent.
That
I will not countenance any refraction of law or order, nor will I maintain
membership
in any chapter not existing
in strict
accordance with the
constitution and laws of the Fraternity.
I
furthermore promise and swear, upon my most
sacred honor, and pledge myself without any hesitation, mental reservation or secret evasion of mind, to
forever faithfully observe and perform these separate and several promises to
the best of my ability as long as life shall last.
Members
in unison: So let it be recorded.
S.: It is so recorded.
S. M.: Remove the cords, we now hold the brother by a second and stronger tie.
M. of C. removes thongs.
S. M.: What do you most desire?
CA.: Further light and wisdom.
S. M.: With the assistance of the members here assembled you shall receive it.
M. of C. removes hoodwink.
S. M.: My brother, I again extend to you the hand of fellowship and bid you
arise, before you will note with care the position of my fingers. You will
observe that the grip of the Neophite is here embraced, which, with the addition
of this further arrangement of the fingers, constitutes the pass
grip of the
Fraternity. In shaking
hands with a brother
you will clasp his hand in the grip of the Neophite, and he will respond by so
placing his fingers as to make the pass grip of the Fraternity as you now see
illustrated.
2
ths dg alo bgs a word which is nr spoken except if lettered and syllabled lst fm
to it in manner which with the assistance of the ! I will now illustrate.
*:
Have you the secret word of the
!:
I have.
*:
Will you tell it me?
!:
I did not receive it in this manner neither will I this imt it.
*:
How will I then communicate it?
!:
By letters and syllables with your assistance.
*:
Letter and begin.
….
*:
The word is correct.
*:
Ths wr … is the egh nm fr th A tr of or mg … bg the A lt of th ek wr … mg in esh …. Ths tk in cnt wth th sct wo of th
N
tsls lity. ….
To
prove a man's claim of membership. First, having properly applied the test of
membership in the previous degree you will in like manner resort to a similar
course to satisfy yourself that the person you are examining is fully qualified
in this the Order of the
I
next invite your attention to the emblems upon the altar. The Holy Bible, shield
and dagger explained in this wise. As we in observance of our obligations and
teachings, in daily life, shield and protect each other, punishing they who
transgress,
thus does God shield
and protect, smiting beneath His awful vengeance they who observe not the words
and lessons of truth revealed in His divine work.
M. of C.: Behold the Senior Master approaching upon the step under the sign of the
Order of the
S. M.: My brother, the step and sign of this degree are in II prs th st is cmpd of
th se and sn of th N. Th sd is me by pcg th he of th le oo ag t th he of th rh rmn an agl of
nne dre or the open agl of a urc, by ere, thereby indicating your intention of
walking in a straightforward manner facing the responsibilities of life squarely
and openly, upright and honourable before God and man. The sign, composed of two
parts, each to be given with the appropriate step accompanying, refers to the
position of your hands in assuming the obligation of this and the previous
degree.
Master
of Ceremonies, conduct the brother to the First Junior Master who will teach him
how to wear his garment as a member of the Order of the
M. of C. conducts to 1st J. M.
1st J. M.:
As a
member of the Order of the Temple you are entitled to wear your garment covering
both shoulders thus … First
Junior Master places candidates head through the hole in the garments arranging
the points to fall in front, back and sides thereby indicating that
you are still further entitled to the fellowship and protection which our
Fraternity affords.
You
will now advance to the altar, salute the Senior Master, as a member of the
Order of the
Candidate accompanied by M. of C. advances to the
altar, salutes and retires.
Degree
of the Aesclepiadeae
One candidate at a time only may pass this degree up to the final reception.
Master of Ceremonies conducts candidate in citizens
attire to the outer door alarms with three raps answered by three from within
which he in turn returns with one. Guard opens door and demands:
G.: Who comes here?
M. of C.: A brother of the
G.: Has he our password?
M. of C.: He has it not. I have it for him.
G.: Advance and give it.
M. of C. does so.
G.: The word is correct, enter.
M. of C. conducts candidate once about the room, stops
and says:
M. of C.: The remainder of your journey will be entirely
in the
form of our ancient
brethren. That this may be successfully performed it will be necessary for me to
again apply the hoodwink.
M. of C. applies hoodwink and conducts twice man: about
the room, on the last time around the 1st Junior Master says:
1st J. M.: Senior Master, a brother of the
S.M.:
Has he proven himself
worthy?
1st J.M.: He has.
S.M.:
Are there any
objections to his further advancement?
None being made the Senior Master says:
S.M.:
Master of Ceremonies,
conduct the candidate to the altar for obligation.
M. of C. does so.
S.M.: U wl lae yr he sry tgr yr et fmn an ale of 90 dre yr as ultd tars hen
figers
x
ded and rpt after me.
Oath:
I swear by Apollo the physician, and Aesculapius and health, and all heal and
all the gods and goddesses that, according to my ability and judgment, I will
keep this oath and this stipulation, to reckon him who taught me this art,
equally dear to me as my parents, to share with him and relieve his necessities
if required, to look upon his offspring, in the same footing as my own brothers,
and to teach them this art, if they should wish to learn it, without fee or
stipulation. and that by precept, lecture and every other mode of instruction, I
will impart a knowledge of the art to my own sons, and those of my teachers, and
to disciples bound by a stipulation, and oath according to the Law of Medicine,
but to none others. I will follow the system of regimen, which according to my
ability and judgment I consider for the benefit of my patients, and abstain from
whatever is deleterious and mischievous.
I
will give no deadly medicine to any one if asked, nor suggest any such counsel,
and in like manner I will not give to a woman a pessary to produce an abortion.
With
purity and with holiness will spend my life, and practice my art. I will not cut
persons laboring under the stone, but will leave this to be done by men who are
practitioners of this work. Into whatever houses I enter, I will go into them
for the benefit of the sick, and will abstain from every voluntary act of
mischief and corruption. And further from the seduction of females or males, of
freemen and slaves.
Whatever
in connection with my professional practice or not in connection with it, I see
or hear in the life of men. Which ought not to be spoken of abroad, I will not
divulge as reckoning that all such should be kept secret.
While
I continue to keep this oath unviolated, may it be granted to me to enjoy life
and the practice of the art, respected by all men in all times. But should I
trespass and violate this oath, may the reverse be my lot.
My
brother, this degree has no grip that of the previous degree being the one in
use in our Fraternity. In its place we have the secret mark placed upon each and
every member that he may be recognized in death as in life. The Master of
Ceremonies will prepare you for its reception.
Master of Ceremonies bares left arm and there on
impresses the mark.
This,
my brother, the imperishable mark of our Fraternity, you will reserve as a final
rest of membership. You will voluntarily expose it for the inspection of none
but members, you having first satisfied yourself that they are such.
After all the
candidates have successfully passed to this stage the Master of Ceremonies
beginning with the first removes the cords which bound them, and conducts them
still hoodwinked to the meeting-room, where the following preparations have been
made:
Altar covered with dark cloth. On altar is secret
symbol, Bible, chain, shield and dagger, behind which are two vessels, one
containing a strontium, the other a sodium salt, each saturated with alcohol,
and behind this a skeleton should be so arranged as to be plainly visible from
the position of the candidates.
Members in full regalia and each bearing an unlighted
alcohol torch are arranged before the assembled candidates.
Lights are turned out . All in readiness light s on
altar are started, hoodwinks removed
from candidates eyes; member nearest altar on each side lights his torch at
altar flame and passes fire to the one next him, and in this way the flame is
transmitted from one to an other down the line.
When all are burning brightly, the Senior Master leaves
his place near the altar, advances torch in hand to a position before the
candidates, members kneel and Senior Master says:
S.M.: Newly made brothers of Omega Upsilon Phi I bid you welcome to our Fraternity.
May the principles and lessons we have attempted to demonstrate ever guide you
in your future progress through fife. Thus far you have proven yourselves worthy
of membership. There yet remain some very import ant secret s for you to
receive.
Th
oto fm wch we dre or nae yu he in pr ary red. As a N U wre td th srt wr rsd by
th rk …. In th Odr of te T th sifc of …ws xpd and in ths the Bd of th Aspiae
we hv rvd th ning of th …. Ths tt ike is pces is th a of a rek wd.
Th
s wd kon as … tslts ito the egh wds of hah. Thfr by a cbtin of the … wos
we dre th cht ott … tsltg ….
The
ancient Aesclepiadeae had a sign and word which were given by a brother severely
pressed and in need of help that he might summon to his aid any member of the
Order who should hear the words or see the sign given.
The
penalty for its misuse or failure to respond when properly called was death.
During the period in which occurred the overthrow of
Th
st our ors of the H… oh. Th ws "I war y all" pcd by a in md by ang
th ption in wch U ok uon Urf ths oth and followed by a gn md by peg yr left fem
at ght agls wth th a m and cspg Ur rg hd or th sot whe U war th st ma.
In
this manner S.M. illustrates
you will give the g… h… s… and w… of the Aesclepiadeae. You are never to
give this sign or utter these words, except in a Chapter meeting. and then for
instruction only, unless you are in great need of help.
Should
you hear the words or see the signs given you will at once go to the assistance
of the person calling. The penalty for the misuse or failure to respond when
called is expulsion from membership and obliteration of the secret mark upon
your arm. Upon the altar you will observe a staff about which coils a snake.
This is the secret sign of our Fraternity, you will always find upon the altar
when a Chapter is working in this degree. The staff and snake were in ancient
times considered sacred to Aesculapius and were ever to be found upon the altars
of the ancient Aesclepiadeae.
To
enter a Chapter in session you will give three raps at the door, which will be
answered from within by one, two or three raps, according to the degree in which
the Chapter is working. This you will return with one rap signifying that
you understand and are prepared to enter. The Guard will then open the door and
demand the password.
Wch
we b th nme of th dg ten in sssn N… T… or A… as th cse my b.
Upon
your entrance you will immediately proceed to the altar and salute the Senior
Master upon the step, under the sign of the degree in which the Chapter is
working.
Your
salute will be returned by the Senior Master, after which you are at liberty to take your seat. In retiring from a
Chapter in session you will advance to the altar, salute the Senor Master as
before and if proper for you to retire he will return your salute, after which
you are at liberty to go.
In
saluting the Senior Master
you should always
remember that the third or Aesclepiadeaen degree has no sign or step that of the
previous degree serving for both.
This,
my Brothers, concludes the instruction in the secret work of our Fraternity. In
your future existence may you ever bear in mind the excellent precepts herein
contained. Study the lessons therein taught that you may be able to understand
their deeper meaning, which, if faithfully practiced, will lead you through life
honored and respected by all men in all times.
With
these closing remarks I commend you to the fraternal greetings of your fellow
members.
After greetings are over the Senior Master will call to
order and say:
S. M.: The newly made brethren will now proceed to the Scribe, there to sign
the book of records and receive a copy of the Constitution and Laws, after which
they will occupy these chairs on my right, there to receive the final lecture.
S. M.: Your attention I would now direct to this chart. Here you see a variety
of symbols, each of which has its meaning. The significance of these though to a
great extent patent is nevertheless considered a part of the instruction of this
degree, and as such should be considered of a secret nature.
The
Eye, all seeing and ever watchful, refers to the car e and supervision of our
Creator, for to Him we are indebted for every blessing we enjoy, and midst the
trials and struggles of life there is a world of consolation in the thought.
But
the symbol of the all seeing eye also reads a terrible lesson to the plotters of
iniquity, and especially those whose crimes are against humanity: It tells them
that although they execute their wicked purposes in the depth of darkest night
where mortal eyes can not observe them, there is an eye from whose scrutiny they
can not flee, an eye which sees all their shameful deeds as clearly in the
deepest midnight as in the splendor of noonday. Yet this lesson is all too
frequently forgotten and the sons of violence go forward in their mad career ,
but sooner or later in this world or the next , shall they be brought face to
face with their crimes, and though clothed in purple and seated in high places
of power they shall be hurled down to shame and everlasting contempt.
The
Wreath
The
Wreath of oak and olive is an emblem of strength and peace. For centuries the
oak has been symbolical of strength. Year in and year out these mighty monarchs
of the forest withstand the destructive influences of storm and time. Season
after season they bring forth leaves and bear the seed which is to replenish the
earth and amidst all the tumult and change of their existence they add regularly
each year one little ring of new growth. Thus should we by steadfastness of
purpose with stand the storms of out existence returning regularly to the
springtime of life, but to put forth renewed efforts that to our minds may be
added some new knowledge.
Ever
since the dove came soaring back to the ark, with the olive branch, denoting
that the wrath of God was appeased and peace once more pervaded the earth, the
olive branch has been a symbol of peace.
In
time of peace all nature puts forth her grandest efforts and mankind experiences
the greatest blessings. So should you maintain peace in your existence if you
wish to prosper. At peace with God, yourself and your neighbor, industrious,
strong of purpose and temperate in your habits, success awaits you.
The
Star
The
Star is an emblem of guidance. As the mariner guides his vessel over the stormy
deep, ever keeping in sight the light from the guiding star, thus should we
shape the courses of our lives, ever keeping in sight the light emanating from
that greatest of all guiding stars, the Bible.
The
In
ancient times temples were erected and in them were conducted the worship of the
particular god to whom they were dedicated. To this very custom we owe the
tradition upon which our Fraternity is founded. Vast amounts of treasure and
labor were invested in the production of these edifices, and in many instances
the process of building covered years of time.
Great
care was taken of the exterior surrounding's and interior decorations ranged
from simplicity to splendour. Did it ever occur to you that we in our daily life
are each erecting a temple more beautiful than the productions of the artisans
of ancient or modem times?
The
mind wherein resides the soul of man is a temple. As we surround our selves with
the things of this life, we should not forget the influences they have upon our
minds. Literature, science and art are three great beautifiers of the human mind
and as such should be cultivated. The great masterpieces of all ages, but tell
of the forces at work in the development of the master intellect; and yet, you
may say what matters it, we are here to-day and gone to-morrow?
And
I answer you that whatever influence beautifies the mind, also has a tendency to
immortalize the soul, so that when the sands of time are running low in the hour
glass of human existence, and the scythe of the silent reaper is about to sever
forever the thread that binds us to this earth, we may look upwards and onwards
and behold with complacency a vision of that temple on high, not builded be
mortal hands but
erected by God in all eternity.
Thus
we close the explanation of the emblems upon the solemn thought of death.
Closing
Ceremony
The S.M. will
rise and
say:
S.M.: We have again had the privilege of meeting and the pleasure and profit of
the intercourse which our Fraternity affords.
For
the faithfulness of the officers and the attendance and attention of the
members, thanks are due from all to all.
Ere
we separate I would urge you all to be true to your obligations.
S.M. calls officers
to their feet.
S.M.: And as we now separate let the motto of each one be:
1st J.M.: Onward.
2nd J.M.: Upward.
P.: Persevere.
S.M.: And may we all be worthy wearers of Omega Upsilon Phi. for by this sign
we conquer. Priest your prayers.
S.M. calls members to their feet.
P.: O God, dweller in heaven and inhabitant of earth, bow down Thine ear. We
ask for every member of this Chapter, Thy care. Thy protection as thou dost lead
us onward through the years may
our feet not stray from the path of virtue. Subdue every discordant passion
within us. Make us to love one another in the bonds of union and friendship. May
brotherly love prevail, and every moral and social virtue cement us. Amen.
Members
repeat in unison: Amen.
S.M.: Conductor you will collect the Rituals and Regalia and place them on the
altar.
After which the S.M. will say:
S.M.: This, the … Chapter of Omega Upsilon Phi, I hereby declare duly closed
until the night of …, the … of …, at … o’clock, unless otherwise
opened in special session and every member duly notified thereof.