Alpha Sigma Phi
Initiation Ritual
1983
Opening the chapter
The
HSP takes his place and, using the gavel, cells the chapter to order. The HSP
remains standing. All other members and officers are seated.
HSP:
The Society will please come to order. Honored Custodian, secure the doors. The
officers and brotherhood will take their respective positions.
Pause.
HSP:
The coat-of-arms of Alpha Sigma Phi explains well the manner in which we come
together. Brother officers, what does it signify?
Each
officer rises when it is his turn to speak and remains standing.
HJP:
The crest is emblematic of our high ideals which, like the
HP: There is silver, representing sincerity in life, its beauty and
permanence reminding us of the heritage we hold from our older brothers and that
we each have an obligation to Alpha Sigma Phi for life.
HS: The field of gold holds an open book and our five principles of conduct
and character: Silence ... charity ... purity ... honor ... and patriotism.
HCS:
A Greek column, minus a capital, represents the Pinnacle of Fame which, with
character gained in Alpha Sigma Phi and with the support of our brothers, we may
seek to ascend.
HA: The ancient lamp of learning reminds us of the literary purpose of our
Society and our obligation to ever seek knowledge.
HE: The laurel wreath of victory is emblematic of the
HR: The ribbon reminds us of the date, December 6, 1845, when Alpha Sigma
Phi was founded and bears our open motto: "The cause is hidden, the results
well known" -which we are expected to exemplify in our lives.
HSP
gives three distinct raps of the gavel. All rise. The following song is sung by
all members.
A brotherhood
imperial
And joys not
immaterial,
Will follow rites
mysterical
In Alpha Sigma Phi.
Chorus: There's no
association
In all this mighty
nation,
That's an
approximation
To Alpha Sigma Phi
To Alpha Sigma Phi
To Alpha Sigma Phi.
So shout the jovial
chorus,
Here tutors cannot
bore us,
Nor college studies
floor us,
In Alpha Sigma Phi.
Chorus: There's no
association
In all this mighty
nation,
That's an
approximation
To Alpha Sigma Phi!
HM: By command of the Honored Senior Pater, I declare this meeting duly open
for the transaction of all business that may lawfully be brought before this
chapter of the Fraternity.
After
the HM speaks, the HSP gives one distinct rap of the gavel. All can then be
seated. If not a formal meeting, the HC may bring in the pledges.
Initiation
Scene 1 – The
Meditation
Equipment: Candle
and holder for each room.
-Candles for brothers accompanying the
HM.
-Passports for each candidate.
- Sacred
Package for each candidate.
Robes: HM in
white, hood up.
-Two brothers in black, hoods up.
Settings: Candidates have been told
earlier the time they are to appear in coat and tie and how to gain admission.
-Each candidate should be placed in a
separate room if possible and should be in silent meditation.
-The candidate can be seated at a
table or desk which should be entirely cleared.
-There should be a single lighted
candle so the candidate can see well enough to read the prayer.
-The candidate is left in meditation
for 10 to 30 minutes. The chapter quarters must be absolutely quiet during this
period.
Sacred
Package: A special scroll available from National Headquarters. The scroll
should be rolled and tied with cardinal and stone ribbon. If the chapter desires,
the scroll may be inserted into a small box. The box is then wrapped in white
paper and tied with cardinal and stone ribbons.
The
scroll is later given to the new brother as a special and very personal keepsake
of his initiation. On the scroll appears:
-Founding
date of the Fraternity: December 6, 1845.
-The
initial letters: Alpha, Sigma and Phi.
-The
five hieroglyphics representing the five cardinal virtues.
-The
name of the candidate, the date he pledged and the date of his initiation.
-Officers
of the chapter.
-Name
of the candidate's sponsor: Alumnus who proposed his name, his big brother, or a
special friend in the Fraternity.
-Names
of the members present at the initiation. All brothers present should sign the
scroll indicating that they are witnesses and participants in the experience.
Scrolls may be signed while the candidates are in meditation.
Note:
When
candidates are left alone -even in a group -they should be checked by a brother
at intervals. An emergency situation may arise and a candidate, in new
circumstances and under the period of silence, may not know how to react.
Brothers should know what to do should a candidate become overly excited or
nervous.
When all is ready, the HM should assemble the brothers, distribute the scrolls for
all to sign. The HM addresses the brotherhood:
HM: Brothers, you are asked to sign the sacred packages of our
brothers-to-be. By so doing, you record your participation as a witness to this
initiation and confinn that with the new brother, you are reaffirming your vows
to Alpha Sigma Phi.
The first scene to be
presented is The Meditation. The man who is to become our brother is about to
begin his journey. He is given a passport that he can use to continue after he
has meditated about the lifetime decision he is about to make. He is also given
a sacred package that symbolizes the mystery of our brotherhood and by the names
listed there symbolizes that bond for life that brothers offer ... that the
ideals of Alpha Srgma Phi are given meaning through the lives of our brothers.
The
HM and two brothers depart to present the scene to each candidate.
The
HM enters the room, flanked by two brothers. They stand in front of the
candidate, the HM in the center. The brother on the left carries a lighted
candle in his left hand and in his right hand the sacred package. The brother to
the right of the HM carries a lighted candle in his nght hand and in his left
hand, the passport. After a few moments of complete silence, the HM speaks {rom
memory:
HM:
Candidate, kneel before me.
Candidate, you are
about to undertake a fateful journey during which you will pass through the veil
which separates the outer world from the
Brother
hands candidate the passport.
Guard it well, for
without it, you cannot proceed. The prayer you perceive thereon must be
committed to memory before you start your journey.
I also give into your
hands a sacred package. Brother
hands candidate the sacred package, It contains a token of our
brotherhood, which symbolizes the trust and confidence reposed in you by those
who have taken the journey before you.
You may now rise and
prepare yourself for further instructions.
All
depart, leaving the candidate in complete silence. If necessary, the HM or a
brother may signal that the candidate can resume his seat. The candidate should
be given long enough to memorize the prayer before the start of Scene II. Allow
15 minutes. Keep time between other scenes as brief as possible.
Scene II – The
Examination
Setting: The HSP sits
at a table at one end of the room which has been draped in dark fabric to the
floor, giving the appearance of a draped chair.
-A low-burning,
flickering flambeau sits on the altar.
-The HSP sits in a
draped chair that is elevated slightly so he looms up in the darkness.
-To the HSP's left is
a draped table large enough to hold the special Pinnacle candle holder.
-The HJP sits at a
table at the opposite end of the room from the altar. There is one candle on the
table. No other light in the room.
-Brothers gather at
the back of the room, in front of the HJP's table. Complete silence mustbe
maintained.
-The five brothers
who are to read the virtues are positioned around the room. The five who carry
the candles are lined up in Front of the brotherhood and immediately behind
where the candidates will stand. The brother who is to gather passports has been
alerted.
When
all is ready, the HM addresses the brotherhood:
HM:
Brothers, we
are about to present The Examination. In this scene the candidate first
encounters our secrets. He is examined to determine if he properly prepared
himself dur ing his meditation. The symbolism of darkness and light reflects his
going from ignorance into knowledge about our Society as he learns our virtues
and is challenged by the symbolic presentation 'of the Pinnacle of Fame. He is
reminded that he will be taking vows for a lifetime. And he acquires a sponsor
who speaks in all our behalf, vouching for his worthiness. The drama of the
scene underlines that membership is shared only after serious, careful
consideration by all concerned.
Listen
carefully to the presentation of the five virtues as you reaffirm your vows to
Alpha Sigma Phi.
The
HM blindfolds the candidates. He then leads them to the outer door in single
file, each man with his right hand on the shoulder of the man in front of him.
The candidate at the head of the line has his hand on the HM's shoulder.
HM
gives five slow knocks.
HC
gives three slow knocks
HM
gives one knock.
The
candidates are led to a place in front of the altar. They should not be too
close for maximum effect. They are lined up shoulder-to-shoulder, facing the
altar. As candidates kneel and rise, the HM and a nearby brother should be alert
to any candidate heoinq difficulty and assist if needed by a steadying hand at
the elbow. The HM speaks from behind
the candidates.
HM:
Kneel and recite your prayer.
At
conclusion of prayer:
All
Brothers: Amen
HM: Rise.
Working
from behind the candidates, the HM removes the blindfolds. Another .brother in a
black robe, hood up, can assist. There is a long pause before the HSP speaks.
HSP: What
mortal enters these sacred walls and disturbs the spirits of night in their
wonted revelries?
HM: Oh
High and Mighty Mufti, tis a candidate seeking to learn the mysteries of our
sacred brotherhood.
HSP:
Who vouches for the candidate?
There
should be a 30 second
period of complete silence before the Mogul of Darkness answers.
HM: Oh
High and Mighty Mufti, I do.
HSP: Produce
your passport.
A
member in black robe, hood up, collects the passports from the candidates and
places them on the allar in front of the High and Mighty Mufti . .. then returns
to his place behind the candidates.
HSP: High
Mogul of Darkness, take this to the High Mogul of Light and have him translate
and return by you the message which I
perceive
bears the mystic symbols of our brotherhood, convincing me that he is legally
possesed of the same and is anxious to know its hidden meaning.
The
High Mogul of Darkness advances with a slow and heavy tread across the room and
collects the passports. He then takes the passports, and walking with the same
slow and heavy tread, goes past the candidates and to the back of the
room out of sight of the candidates where the HJP sits. He then speaks in
a low and deep voice.
HM: Oh, Venerable Mogul of Light, a debased mortal presents himself within
the outer wall to seek admission to our
HJP:
'Tis well. Let this my answer be given in due form. This passport certifies that
the candidate has been duly elected by secret vote to be initiated into the
HSP:
Your passport is right. Have you your Sacred Package?
Pause.
High Mogul of
Darkness, place it on the altar.
The
HM comes forward with slow and heauy tread, collects the packages from the
candidates and places them on the altar in front of the High and Mighty Mufti.
HJP:
The Sacred Package is a scroll upon which is inscribed: First, the date never to
be forgotten ─ December 6, 1845, marking the date on which our first
brothers assembled to form the Mystic Circle of Alpha Sigma Phi;
Second, the initial
letters of our secret motto concerning which you will receive instructions at a
later time; and,
Third, the
hieroglyphics representing the five cardinal virtues or attributes of character
which assist each brother to ascend the Pinnacle of Fame. Concerning the latter
you will shortly be instructed.
HSP:
High Mogul of Light, the sacred package is given into your keeping.
The
HM comes forward, gathers the sacred packages and takes them to the HJP.
HSP:
I ask that you deposit the same in the archives as evidence that the candidate
before us has been instructed concerning them.
A
door can be closed or other device used to create the sound of the packages
being deposited and locked away.
HJP:
Candidate, you have passed through preliminary examinations. Be self-possessed
and unafraid. On your action here depends your entrance into a brotherhood whose
light brightens the pathway of but a chosen few.
After you have
entered here and taken upon yourself the solemn obligations of Alpha Sigma Phi,
you cannot there after absolve yourself from them. All who are here have been
subjected to similar tests and are bound together by the same vows and
obligations you are about to assume; therefore consider well and let your
actions and words be witnessed by those in whose presence you now stand.
The hope, desire, and
purpose of our Society and those who are responsible for its operation is to
help our brothers acquire those attributes of character which will assist them
to ascend the Pinnacle of Fame. The challenge of Alpha Sigma Phi is the call to
an appreciation of man's noblest virtues. The challenge is beautifully expressed
in these words:
"Brothers,
whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are
just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever
things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise,
think on these things. "
The five virtues that
lead one toward the Pinnacle of Fame are represented to us by the five knocks
that were given by your sponsor as he requested permission to bring you with in
these sacred walls.
HJP
gives five raps of the gavel.
As
each virtue is read from different parts of the room, a brother in black robe
with hood up, walks to front of the room. He lights the candle he carries from
the flambeau and places it in the special Pinnacle candle holder. The candles
are placed from bottom to top. After the brother has placed his candle, he
returns to his previous spot behind the candidates. Ave different brothers place
the candles.
Brother
#1: The first of the five
virtues is SILENCE. You must maintain silence regarding the secrets of Alpha
Sigma Phi, and when admitted to our brotherhood you must maintain silence
regarding the mutual confidences of your brothers in the
Brother
#2: The second virtue is
CHARITY. You will not reach the fullest development in life without being
mindful of those less fortunate than yourself. May this virtue teach you that
your character will be enriched as you are privileged to extend a . helping hand
to others as you journey through life.
Brother
#3: The third virtue is PURITY.
Purity must prevail in thought, speech and deed. It demands a life of
consecration to a supreme and lofty purpose, a life of devotion in which all
that is vicious and tawdry will be dispelled.
Brother
#4: The fourth virtue is HONOR. Honor is its
own reward. Without it, we accomplish nothing. With it, all things are possible
within the scope of human endeavor.
Brother
#5: The fifth virtue is PATRIOTISM. It
indicates that one cannot progress far in life without a patriotic devotion to
those principles which have made this nation the land of justice, freedom and
opportunity.
HJP:
May the tenets of the Pinnacle of Fame:
Silence ... Charity … Purity ... Honor … and Patriotism each become a firm attribute of your character and if they
thus become a part of you, they will contribute in a large measure to your
attaining the Pinnacle of Fame in life, of which, may you be richly deserving.
Pause.
HSP:
You will
now
be conducted to the place from which you came, there to await further orders and
instructions.
HM
blindfolds the candidates and then leads them from the room.
Scene III – The
Obligation
Setting:
-A coffin in the center of an inner room. Inside the coffin, a "body".
-On
the coffin, a Bible open to Psalm 133, skull and crossbones.
-A
veil -a length of cloth - held by two brothers at the entrance to the inner
room.
-At
the head of the coffin, but far enough away to allow the formation of the Mystic
Circle, is the elevated throne, draped in dark fabric, for the HJP. HJP holds a
strong red light or pen light inside his robe.
-HSP
stationed outside of the inner room to read. All brothers ready to march into
inner room and form Mystic Circle; brother in lead carrying a lighted candle.
When
all is in readiness and all the members are sure of their roles, the HM
addresses them:
HM:
Brothers, we are about to present The Obligation. Our brother-to-be has
penetrated the outer wall of our secrets. Now he seeks the mysteries of the
inner walls. In this scene you are all asked to affirm your selection of this
man and your continued support of him as a brother.
Much of
this scene with its symbolism of death may seem morbid. One must consider that
when Alpha Sigma Phi was founded, life expectancy was much shorter. Men
lived with a greater awareness of the reality of death. It was important to
affirm something that could last forever: brotherhood. The scene reminds us of
our own mortality. Confronted with that, we can reflect on what in life is truly important
─ true friends and true values. This scene teaches
that Alpha Sigma Phi is a genuine celebration of life.
The
candidate is brought to the entrance of the outer room blindfolded.
HM
gives five knocks.
HC
gives three knocks.
HM
knocks once.
HM:
You stand at the
entrance of Alpha Sigma Phi. Behind the silent doors of
membership and brotherhood there are legions of loyal and-true brothers who wait
to welcome you. You are still at liberty to proceed or depart.
What is your pleasure?
After
the question has been answered in the affirmative, the candidate is conducted to
the outside of the inner room. The HM
should, if there are multiple candidetes in a line, remove the hand of each
candidate from the shoulder of the man in front of him. Make sure there is
enough space between each man for kneeling. The HM and other brothers should be
alert to any candidate needing the help of a steadying hand at the elbow when
they try to kneel and rise while blindfolded.
HM:
Around you are
those who have passed through similar trials. To prepare
yourself for further progress, kneel and meditate while the brothers chant a
prayer.
All
chant: Mid the
deep hush that o'er the earth is creeping,
Father I come to Thee.
With
humbleness of heart I bow entreating,
Be merciful to me, be merciful to me.
There
should be a pause of intense silence lasting about ten seconds. Then the HM
touches the candidate on the shoulder as a signal to rise. The room remains in
silence until it is almost painful. Then the HSP speaks in distinct and dramatic
tones.
HSP:
Mortal, thou seekest to penetrate behind the veil that only a chosen few can
pass.
The
HM pushes the candidate forward through the veil being held by two brothers so
it brushes across the candidate's face. Brothers holding the veil may need to
help it move across the candidate's face. Brothers should be on the other side
to catch the candidate after he passes through the veil and then position him
properly away from the entrance and facing the coffin and the HSP.
Once
all candidates are in place, brothers station themselves behind each candidate
to quickly remove the blindfolds in unison when the next words are spoken. The
HJP turns on his light a brief moment after the blindfolds are removed.
HSP:
In darkness, thou mayest find
light.
HJP
turns on light.
HSP:
And beyond the grave thou
mayest find knowledge. The grim tyrant, Death, ever follows in our footsteps and
claims us for his own when time cuts the brittle thread of life. Here, indeed,
is his empire, where now he sits in state. mocking at the relics of human glory.
Thus man passes away!
His name perishes from record and recollection! His history is as a tale that is
told! Even his very monument becomes a ruin!
Oh Spirit, wait upon
our would-be brother as he takes his fateful step that shall link him in the
The
HJP remains silent and motionless upon his throne. He allows the silence £0
become intense before speaking.
HJP:
What mortal this who breaks the
midnight gloom that hovers over our mysteries? Why this intrusion in forbidden
paths?
HM:
'Tis he who seeks to penetrate
the Mystic Circle that surrounds our brotherhood and be united in indissoluble
bonds with hearts that ever cherish Truth … Wisdom ... and Brotherly Love.
HJP:
Will he honor us as we would
honor him?
HM:
He will.
HSP:
Candidate. Are you willing to
take an obligation from which no act of yours can ever absolve you?
Candidate:
I am.
HSP:
Brothers, are you willing to
accept this candidate as a brother in Alpha Sigma Phi?
All,
in chorus: We are.
HSP:
Candidate. You will now advance
to the side of the coffin before you, kneel, place your left hand upon the skull,
the symbol of mortality, reposing upon the open Bible, the symbol of immortality.
Brothers, the
candidate is in position to take the obligation. Form the
At
this direction, the processional already formed in the outer room moves forward
with slow and measured tread. The leader carries a single lighted candle, and
after the Circle is formed, the leader shall light the flambeau on the coffin
with his candle and extinguish the candle. As soon as this is done and the
HSP:
Candidate. Raise your right hand and repeat after me the Obligation.
I, and repeat your
full name / of my own free will and accord / do most solemnly and sincerely /
promise and swear / upon my honor as a gentleman / and within the presence of
this brotherhood / never to divulge / or cause to be divulged / by words, /
signs, / looks, / writings, / or in any other manner, / anything pertaining to
the secrets of this Fraternity.
That I will obey its
rules and regulations / and seek to ever promote / the welfare and harmony of
its brothers. / And furthermore, I promise and declare / that I will give good
counsel / to a brother in Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity / and guard his confidences
as / would my own; / and that I will ever cherish / Truth, / Wisdom, / and
Brotherly Love.
And I furthermore
promise and swear / that I will / to the extent of my opportunity and ability /
in whatsoever position in life I may be placed / lend aid and assistance to, /
and support the cause of, / a brother in this Fraternity.
That I will to the
end of life / cherish the friendships / that I shall form within its sacred
walls; / that I will not bring herein
/ the ambitions / jealousies, / and conflicts of the out side world; / that I
will ever cherish, / respect, / honor and obey / the teachings and principles of
Alpha Sigma Phi; / to all of which I give my unqualified consent, / So help me God.
Amen.
Lower your hands to
your side.
The
brothers break the circle of hands and kneel. There should be a pause of about
ten seconds after which the "Solemn Oath" is sung by the entire
brotherhood.
Once more the solemn oath
Comes
trembling through these Halls;
A child
of truth and friendship both
Is born within these walls.
Before our Sigma's throne
'Tis
sworn to love her best:
Nor e'er
should ought save death alone
From one
this blessing wrest.
We share
our mutual woes
Our
mutual burdens bear;
And
often for each other flows
The
sympathizing tear.
Blest be
the tie that binds
Our
hearts in Sigma Phi;
These
oaths sworn be'fore kindred minds
The
change of time defy.
There
should be several seconds of silence following the song. Then the HSP speaks.
HSP:
The oath which still trembles on your lips is of no light import.
May it
ever tremble there as a guide to you in life that you are
under a responsibiltiy to this Fraternity, its members, and yourself, to live an
upright life with honor to the community in which you make your home, your Alma
Mater which claims you as a son, and this Fraternity which claims you as a
brother. Guard well the mysteries of our Order, remember your Obligation, and
observe the principles and teachings you have received.
The
brothers rise and step back. The candidate is left kneeling for a few seconds in
silence, then is blindfolded and led back to the holding room.
Scene IV – The Charge
When
all is in readiness, the HM groups the brothers as indicated in the diagram and
then addresses them.
HM:
Brothers. We now present The Charge. This is the core of our teachings, so it is
appropriately presented by members of the Prudential Committee. In this scene, our brother-to-be learns the traditions of how a member of
this Fraternity conducts his life and his relationships with others. He
learns that the Fraternity is judged by his actions. He learns how to put into
practice what he has been taught. And he is reminded that his bonds to his
brothers and his Fraternity are for life. Let
The Charge to our brother-to-be serve as a period of self-reflection on how each
of us practices brotherhood.
The
HM brings the candidate. blindfolded, to the outer door.
HM
gives five slow knocks
HC
gives three slow knocks
HM
knocks once.
The
HM enters, leads candidates to a position in front of all the brothers and in a
row facing the three tables. He speaks from behind the candidates.
HM: I now present you to members of the Prudential Committee for further
instructions.
HM
removes blindfolds.
HE: Having suffered the same trials and moved within the Circle of this
brotherhood in the same shadows as those who have traveled this way before, you
are charged with your responsibility as a member of Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity.
You are truly our
brother, not by mere accident of birth or blood, but because of free choice of
selection, you have bound yourself to us by a sacred oath of loyalty and secrecy.
Let the dignity of this bond be with you always, leading you to help where help
is needed, and to render fraternal aid to those less fortunate.
In following this way,
silence was one of the first qualities exemplified. This was to teach you that
our Fraternity and its interests are not proper subjects for your discourse with
the outside world. Its name, achievements, purposes, and objects are not secret,
but its business, ritualistic work and the mutual confidence of its brothers are
highly so.
Another
quality taught was obedience. With it, our rules and regulations can be enforced
and our Society can prosper within itself and before the world. It becomes your
duty to adhere to the Constitutional authority within the chapter and the
Fraternity and in so doing to exemplify the virtues and teachings learned here.
Prudential
member-at-large: You
were given a sacred package and admonished to guard it as you would your life.
This was to teach you caution, a quality most valuable in our journey through
life. Courage is vital, but when accompanied by caution, it directs us to higher
planes and broader accomplishment.
In an
earlier scene of your initiation you learned the attributes of character that
will assist you to ascend the Pinnacle of Fame. Our Pinnacle does not suggest
wealth or notoriety but rather fulfillment. Achievement is the measure of our
faith and loyalty, Founded upon the rock of character, and with the talents
developed by training and education within the Fraternity, a man moves to those
higher levels in the service of his fellows.
You are
to recognize and treat as brothers all who may assemble within these Sacred
Walls. We expect you at all times to conduct yourself as a gentleman. This is
particularly true regarding your actions in the society of the outside world,
for if you should act in any unbecoming manner, other people will force your
Fraternity into unpleasant and unjust prominence and judge your brothers-as like
yourself.
You are
at liberty to worship God according to the dictates of your own conscience, and
in your own way and form. Let differences of politics and religion between
yourself and other members of the Fraternity cause no dissension and consider
them academic in your discussions with each other.
Prudential
member-at-large: You
will soon be recognized as a member of Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity. As a member
of this Fraternity you have the right to expect that every brother will so
conduct himself that you will have no cause to be ashamed of your connection
with him through this Fraternity, and you will not fail to conduct yourself less
carefully.
The
badge which will be presented to you and which you will hereafter wear will
receive no higher esteem from those outside than the measure of honor it
receives from you.
Through it all you
have passed the tests of manhood, and we have become completely bound, one unto
the other, by insoluble ties. Our brotherhood bestows honor and influence on you
and expects you to reflect honor and influence on it.
The Obligation which
you have taken is not to be lightly considered, it binds you to us as a brother
all through life. It means not alone the friendship of the present, but from
this moment until that instant when you and we are gathered to our Fathers in
that silent sleep of death, we are under a mutual obligation of friendship to
each other.
For life, your duty
to us and ours to you are constantly reciprocal. To visit the sick, administer
to their wants, to guard the confidence of a brother as you would your own, and
to assist a needy brother if you can, are all part of the Obligation you assume.
Uphold this
brotherhood and the principles and characteristics upon which it was founded,
and by so doing you thereby confer upon it and upon yourself, the reflection of
honorable living, good citizenship and the light of learning.
The
HM replaces the blindfolds. Then the HE speaks.
HE:
You will now conduct the
brother-to the place from which I he came and there prepare him for final
instructions.
Scene V
– The Presentation
When
all is ready, the HM assembles the brotherhood. The brothers line up on the
sides of the room in roster number sequence. The lowest roster number is the
first man to the left of the HSP. If there is room and adequate folding chairs
or benches are available, the brothers may sit, facing the center of the room.
The roster number sequence should continue around the room so the highest roster
number is the last man to the HSP's right. Alumni or guests of other chapters
are given the first chairs to the HSP's left.
HM:
Brothers. We come now to The
Presentation. Our brother-to-be is now, following The Charge, a brother. This
scene is one of celebration, of joy. We welcome him with joyous singing. We now
invest our brother with our symbols, signs and instruct him in our heritage and
traditions. The cycle is complete ... from meditation to examination to
obligation to charge ... now our brotherhood celebrates!
The
HM leads the candidate to the outer door without blindfolds.
HM
gives five slow knocks
HC
gives three slow knocks
HM
knocks once.
The
HM enters, leading the candidates. They
should be in roster number sequence.
They
follow without hands on shoulder. As soon as the candidates are into the room,
the HSP gives one knock ofhis gavel. AU members rise.and immediately begin
singing. The HM
leads the candidates between the rows of brothers to the table at the end of the
room where the HSP, HJP and HC wait. He
lines the cendidates up in sequence shoulder to shoulder facing the table. The
new brother who will be the first to sign the roster book should be standing to
the far left of the HSP.
All
singing: There's no association in all this mighty nation
That's
an approximation to Alpha Sigma Phi
To Alpha
Sigma Phi, to Alpha Sigma Phi
There's
no association in all this mighty nation
That's
an approximation to Alpha Sigma Phi
To Alpha
Sigma Phi, to Alpha Sigma Phi
There's
no association in all this mighty nation
That's
an approximation to Alpha Sigma Phil
At
the conclusion of the singing, the HSP strikes his gavel once and all sit.
HM:
I now have the pleasure of presenting you to the Honored Senior Pater for
further instructions.
HSP:
I am pleased to welcome you within these walls. We have chosen you from among
many to make you our friend, and from among our friends to make you our brother.
The chaplain will now
offer a prayer.
HC: Let us pray.
Gracious and mighty
God, in Thy infinite wisdom and love, Thou didst ordain brotherhood as the
spirit and way of abundant living. We earnestly pray that the brotherhood we
foster within these sacred walls may ever deserve Thy sanction and Thy favor.
Save our comradeship from triviality, selfishness, pride and shame. Make us
worthy of the ideals and traditions of the Fraternity we love and serve. Amen.
HSP:
To prepare yourself for further
progress it will be necessary for me to administer to you our final oath. Raise
your right hand and repeat after me the following obligation:
I, and give your full
name / do most solemnly and sincerely / promise and swear / upon my honor / and
within the circle of this brotherhood / that I will not be guilty / of unseemly
conduct / within the walls of this Fraternity / nor will I permit the same by
others / if within my power to prevent.
And I furthermore
promise and swear / that I will respect / the authority / of the governing
bodies of this Fraternity / and of this institution / and to the extent of my
opportunity and ability / will assist them in their efforts / to develop men of
strong character. / In keeping with this ethical code and purpose / I shall
endeavor / by my influence and deeds / to prevent within my chapter / all
conduct prohibited by my Fraternity or this institution / and all dishonorable
behavior.
These affirmations I
make / with the understanding and conviction / that to be a member of Alpha
Sigma Phi / is to be, in every good sense, / a gentleman. / So help me God. / Amen.
Please lower your
hand.
You will now be
acquainted with all the mysterious signs and tokens of our order and invested
with our insignia. Will the Honored Junior Pater explain the coat of arms.
During
the explanations of the coat-at-arms and the badge, the HM may step forward and
point to the symbols or sections being explained. He may use his hand. a pointer
or a sword.
HJP:
The coat-of-arms of the
Fraternity was designed with several ends in view. In addition to its heraldic
value as a distinctive sign manual by which its possessor is identified with the
Fraternity, it contains representations of many of its teachings, principles and
ideals and is a constant reminder of them to the wearer.
The crest is
emblematic of our high ideals which, like the phoenix, will ever rise again even
if temporarily cast down or overthrown.
The shield has
emblazoned on it our mystic language, our history as an institution, and our
standards of life as men.
The dexter chief and
sinister base are fields of argent or silver, the metal used by Homeric Greeks
to represent sincerity in life, and symbolic of deeds well performed and worthy
of being perpetuated in memory. To us, the beauty and permanence of those
quarters bear witness to the loyalty and leadership of our older brothers who
pass on to us so rich a heritage.
The sable band dexter
is indicative of secrecy and emblematic of the character of our brotherhood.
Upon its face you perceive three golden stairs, each representative of a word of
our secret motto.
The sinister chief
quarter is a field of gold on which reposes the open book bearing on its pages
our five principles of conduct and character, and supporting the pen, all
emblematic of our position among men and of the literary purpose of our Society.
Upon the dexter base
quarter we trace the graceful lines of the Greek column, minus a capital and
seeming to lose itself in infinite space. This is the mystic representation of
the Pinnacle of Fame whose unmeasureable heights indicate that he who would
scale them must depend on his character, learning and ability for the full
measure of success.
At its base, the
ancient lamp of learning throws out its burning rays, reminding us that we
should reflect the light of our Alma Mater and be instruments for transmitting
her wisdom and valuable knowledge to those with whom we mingle in life.
Reclining at the base
of the column, we find the laurel wreath of victory, the reward of efforts well
expended and wisely directed. Likewise, it is also emblematic of the Mystic
Circle into which you are now being admitted and from which you can never
escape, a circle where Truth guides the relationships among its members and
dictates the ethics they shall observe, where Wisdom guides the intellect and
through collective effort seeks to help each other perform his part in the
uplift of the human race, and where Brotherly Love sweetens college life,
furnishing us with golden memories even after time and change have carried us
far away.
Under its base, the
graceful ribbon reminds us of the date, December 6, 1845, when Alpha Sigma Phi
was founded at Yale University, and also bears the words of our open motto,
"Causa Latet Vis Est Notissima" -The Cause is Hidden, The Results Well
Known -all of which you are expected by your life and in your contacts with
others to exemplify.
Honored Senior Pater,
I now present the brother to you for further instruction.
HSP:
This is the badge by which you will hereafter be known as a member of this
Fraternity. The gold border which surrounds it is an emblem of the bright bond
of friendship which must ever unite the members of this Fraternity.
The black enamel
signifies the impenetrable veil of secrecy with which her every private act is
shrouded.
The pen and book are
emblematic of the highly literary and useful character of our Fraternity as an
educational force in the lives of her members.
The five
hieroglyphics upon the pages of the open book are mystic symbols of the
principles of our order, namely: Silence ... Charity ... Purity ... Honor ...
and Patriotism ... attributes of character that will assist you to ascend the
Pinnacle of Fame in life.
Silence must ever
surround our secrets.
Charity towards our
fellows, and especially for their weaknesses and natural imperfections, is
worthy of our
best emulation.
Purity of thought and
life cannot but reflect honor and the character possessed by one who practices
it.
Honor needs no
commendation. It is its own reward. Without it we accomplish nothing, with it
all things are within the scope of human possibility.
Patriotism, that
virtue which makes heroes of all men, and which makes national institutions a
power for the upbuilding of the human race. is the fire that warms the blood
when the hearthstone is in danger. It is the mainstay of the citizen and
soldier, the social force that preserves, for posterity, the glories of the past
and the privileges of the present.
Read
the following line with distinction and fervor.
Upon these principles
of manhood and these standards of conduct our Fraternity firmly rests.
Beneath the book,
upon the shield, you perceive the three Greek letters, Α Σ Φ
carved in gold and golden in their meaning. They are the initial letters of our
secret motto, Greek words never to be spoken or written except within the wall
of this Fraternity.
The words are:
Alathace, Sophia, Philadelphos, and signify: Truth, Wisdom and Brotherly Love.
You will wear this
badge on vest, shirt or sweater, on the left side over the heart. No member,
undergraduate or alumnus, shall permit his badge to be worn by a woman except
she be his betrothed or his wife. Never in times of stress or adversity must you
dispose of this badge, and upon your death you shall bequeath it to the
Fraternity.
The
HC, HSP and HJP rise. With the HC leading the way, they go to the front of the
table and move down the row of candidates, moving from right to left. The HC
removes pledge pins. The HSP pins on The Badges. The HJP pins on the talisman
roses. They then return to their seats.
Note:
The Badges should be placed on the table in the proper sequence. The Badges
should already have their clasps open and inserted through short lengths of
cardinal and stone ribbons. The clasps remain open to facilitate their
placement. The badges are placed on the shirt over the heart, never on coat
lapel. The talisman boutonniere is pinned on the coat lapel.
HSP:
I have presented to you the
colors of the Fraternity, cardinal and stone. These are to be worn with your
badge for three days after your initiation to assist you in more fully
establishing in your heart and soul forever the vows which you have given to the
Fraternity today.
You have been
presented the flower of Alpha Sigma Phi. The talisman rose, traditional emblem
of endless life, symbolizes the continuing vitality and heritage of our
Fraternity. It shall be used at all ceremonials as a token of Alpha Sigma Phi's
abiding influence and strength.
Honored Marshal, you
will now conduct the Brother to the Honored Scribe, there to sign the roster
book, signifying his commitment to the Constitution and by-laws of this
Fraternity as well as the Constitution and by-laws of this chapter and its
charter.
The
HM conducts the Candidates to the HS table at the opposite end of the room.
Candidates should be in proper roster number sequence. In addition to the roster
book, copies of the chapter and National Fratemity’s Constitution and by-laws
should be on the table. The roster book should already have the candidate’s
name, roster number and date typed in with a line for signing.
HM:
Honored Scribe, by direction of
the Honored Senior Pater, I present this brother who wishes to sign the proper
documents to become officially enrolled as a member of Alpha Sigma Phi
Fraternity.
HS: Honored Marshal, your request shall be obeyed.
In signing these
documents, you affirm your dedication to truth .•. wisdom ••• brotherly
love ••. to our stand for high scholarship, building of character and
responsible social development. You pledge your support of the Fraternity now
and throughout your life. You affirm your willingness to perpetuate friendships
by personally offering others the chance to join our brotherhood and you pledge
your support for a strong national Fraternity that shares its brotherhood coast
to coast.
The
HS hands the brother a black ink pen and indicates where he is to sign. He gives
the new member his membership card. He indicates that the shingle displayed on
the table may be picked up later.
The
HM (assisted by other brothers if there are a number of candidates), moves each
new brother after signing back to the table at the front of the room. He lines
them up in roster number sequence, single file, one behind the other, facing the
table. When all new brothers have joined the line, the HS speaks.
HS:
Honored Marshal, please inform
the Honored Senior Pater that the documents have been properly signed.
HM:
Honored Senior Pater, I wish to
inform you that your orders have been obeyed, and that the documents are
properly signed.
HSP:
Tis well. Brothers, form the
Mystic-Circle about us.
The
HSP moves from behind the table. The brothers on each side of the room stand and
move in to form the
HSP:
By virtue of the authority vested in me as Honored Senior Pater of this chapter,
I declare you a duly initiated member of Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity and entitled
to all its rights and privileges. In token of my friendship, esteem and
brotherly love, I extend to you the right hand of fellowship and with it the
grip of the Fraternity.
The
HSP demonstrates the grip to each brother. He explains that the grip should be
used with caution other than in the chapter room. He explains how the grip is
given to a brother when there may be outsiders present. He shows how the grip
begins as a regular handshake. He indicates placement of younger and older
brother's hands.
After
the HSP has demonstrated the grip to the first new brother, he introduces the
first initiate to the first brother in the Circle, saying: "Brother …;
Brother …, using the initiate's name last. That brother then introduces the
initiate to the brother on his left and the initiate continues around the Circle
in this manner,
the
HSP shows the next initiate the grip and repeats the introduction process, until
all new initiates are introduced to every brother. After being introduced to the
last brother in the Circle, the initiate takes his place in the Circle to the
right of the HSP. The
Farewell, ye walls of
Sigma Phi!
Farewell, ye walls of
Sigma Phi!!
Farewell, ye walls of
Sigma Phi!!!
Farewell, ye walls of
Sigma Phi!!!!
The
HC should assist the HM in securing all ritual equipment properly before leaving
for any planned celebration. The next day all material should be checked,
cleaned, correctly wrapped, boxed and packaged and then stored. A List of new
supplies needed should be made at this time so all is in readiness for the next
initiation.
The
HM holds a meeting with all new initiates within three days of initiation to
allow them to read copies of the ritual and to discuss the meanings and
symbolism of the various scenes and objects. If the chapter has a ritual team,
the entire group should take part in the discussion meeting. The chapter’s
advisor(s), if an initiated brother, should be invited to take part. Any brother
who wishes to attend is welcomed.