Omega Upsilon Phi
Initiation Ritual

 
1907


Opening Ceremony
 
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 Temple , announce
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 ur m ng. … bng th a of the gk wd … mng ve or mre fly tuslt fs.
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 Greece . He taught his knowledge to his two sons, Machaon and Podilarius, and they too gained great reputation serving with the Grecian troops throughout the Trojan war.
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 Epidaurus on the coast of Laconia , after the death of Aesculapius his sons transmitted to their descendants the knowledge which they possessed and thus the first society or order of medical men had its beginning. They were known as Aesclepiadeae, followers of Aesculapius and took a high rank among the priesthoods of the day. For a time membership was hereditary, but later, during the period of Roman conquest, it was changed and candidates were initiated who came from many nations. This lead to a wide dissemilation of knowledge and with the subsequent changes wrought by the wars of the middle ages and the events following thereon. The Aesclepiadeae became a much scattered and disrupted brotherhood, and finally vanished from sight as such only to reappear centuries afterwards, much changed ill both rites and composition, but imbued with the same spirit and working for the same cause, namely, the union of its members in the bonds of brotherly love, all working for the alleviation of the sick, and the betterment of mankind. This my brother, is the origin and object of Omega Upsilon Phi. We seek by co-operation and brotherly love to unite our members in one harmonious body, all working for the advancement of our science that mankind may there by be benefited.
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 Temple
 
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 Temple it was customary for him to remove his sandals and cleanse his feet. This you must also do since you are seeking admission to the Temple of Aesculapius the God of Medicine.
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 Temple .
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 Temple is symbolical of manhood. Here you will apply the knowledge you have gained in youth accompanying it with reasoning and sound judgment that you may be the better able to solve the problems in your path
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 Temple ?
!: 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 Temple .
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 Temple .
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 Temple .
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 Temple , and retire in due form there to prepare yourself for entrance upon the third or Aesclepiadean degree.
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 Temple seeking light in the Brotherhood of the Aesclepiadeae.
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 Temple approaches seeking further light through the Brotherhood of the Aesclepiadeae.
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 Rome , this word and sign were lost, and in place was substituted:
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 Temple
 
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.


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