Zeta Beta Tau
Rituals
The Initiation Ritual
1989
The
rush process, having adapted to better selectivity procedures, ends with the
offering of bids for membership. Immediately upon the acceptance of those bids,
new members are to be initiated (note the requirements on the completion of the
necessary forms and fees - including the Four Year Loyalty Oath) for the ZBT
Initiation Ritual.
While
this is a momentous occasion in every ZBTs life-long membership in the
Fraternity, the excitement of the moment may not permit an adequate forum for
the true and deeper meaning of our beliefs and ideals to be understood. It is
the ritual that we practice daily which forms the foundation for our lives as
Brothers and as responsible members of society. A mere single exercise of the
ritual does not, in and of itself, provide the basis for that life-long
learning and practice.
In
our Fraternity, ritual is not sacramental. It does not transform the participant·
rather, it points the way - the way to Brotherhood.
Once
a new member participates in the ritual for the first time, he is a full member
of ZBT. The ritual provides us with challenges for the conduct of our lives. It
is these principles which direct both the member development process and the
challenges placed upon each Brother.
The
Ritual of the Six Orders
The
rituals of our Fraternity make demands on us. They show us what we must do if we
are to be Brothers - one to another - and they cause us to promise to each other
that we will willingly undertake those obligations. Our rituals are designed to
insure that by the time of graduation, each Brother will understand what it
takes to meet the challenges of Brotherhood.
The
Ritual of the Six Orders elevates Brothers to Orders of achievement. They are
the achievements of growing, maturing, responsible human beings.
A
Brother begins with the first degree and having attained that accomplishment,
moves on through the Orders, in succession. It is hoped that each Brother will
strive to meet and satisfy the challenges of all six Orders by the time of his
graduation. The challenges of a maturing Brother are captured in the names of
our Orders;
ORDER
OF SERVICE
ORDER
OF CHARITY
ORDER
OF TRUTH
ORDER
OF JUSTICE
ORDER
OF WISDOM
ORDER
OF BROTHERHOOD
A
Brother may move through the sequence as quickly as he is able and as he
demonstrates by word and deed that not only has he fulfilled his charge but that
he lives his life toward a continuing commitment to the ideals and values of our
Order.
In
addition to these charges to our lives, each Brother has the obligation to study
the history of our Fraternity, the fraternity movement, his university or
college and the structure, organization and operation of his Chapter. This study
should be completed prior to the end of the first semester of membership and
before being admitted to the Order of Service.
The
Ritual of the Six Orders should be performed as often as is necessary so that it
recognizes the achievements of Brothers in a timely manner. Current thinking is
that the ritual should be performed once toward the end of each semester thus
providing an ample opportunity for each Brother's growth.
Additionally,
this ritual which elevates Brothers to new levels of achievement provides a
regular opportunity for all members of the Brotherhood to rededicate themselves
to the ideals and values we hold dear.
The
Graduation Ritual
The
Graduation Ritual is designed to ceremoniously transfer a Brother's affiliation
from his undergraduate active Chapter to his Alumni Chapter and to provide a
forum for the public sharing of the significant role each graduating Brother has
played in the life of the Chapter.
The
ceremony should be performed at either the last regular Chapter meeting of each
semester (assuming graduating seniors at that time), or at some special Chapter
meeting called specifically for this purpose, or even at a banquet function held
to honor the Chapter's graduating seniors. Since the Graduation Ritual does not
contain any esoteric elements, it provides a wonderful opportunity for Brothers
to share with non-brothers their personal experiences in what the Fraternity has
meant to them.
The
Ritual
is fundamentally a communications form. When the concepts are clearly presented
and understood, they allow the individual to personally identify and subscribe
to those concepts. The dignity of ceremony, well performed, validates the
concepts. Ritual provides a structure for permissible human interaction that
would not otherwise be accepted as a part of day-to-day life.
The Initiation Ritual
Instructions
The
Chapter is entrusted with the obligation to conform to the following rules which
will enhance the significance of the ceremony:
1.
Each participant should be thoroughly familiar with his part. Last minute
substitutions detract from the proper presentation of this Ritual.
2.
The CHAPLAJN shall insure that the audience is instructed in proper decorum: no
food, drink or smoking, proper attire, silence.
3.
A dress rehearsal is strongly recommended.
4.
The CHAPLAIN is responsible for preparing the setting and staging and, with the
assistance of the USHER, insuring that all present are in their proper places.
5.
Every effort should be made to see that the setting is exactly as described.
Where it is impossible to follow the directions to the letter, substitutions
should be made as close to these directions as possible.
6.
Every direction has been carefully conceived and much thought has been given to
the dramatic effect on all those present.
7.
The VICE PRESIDENT must have an alphabetical list of the full names of each of
the CANDIDATES and be certain of the proper pronunciations.
8.
Where those present are to repeat after the PRESIDENT, double slash marks / /
are used to indicate places to pause.
9.
When open flame candles are utilized, extreme caution should be exercised by all
ritual participants. Care should be taken to insure that furnishings, articles
of clothing, ritual robes and paraphernalia are not allowed to come into direct
contact with candle flames. Dripless candles should always be used, candle
holders must be used, paper hand guards must be used by participants who hand
carry candles during the ceremony. Ritual robes should be made flame retardant.
Your local fire department will be happy to spray the robes for you or recommend
a commercial source.
10.
The CHAPLAIN is responsible for the safeguarding as well as the proper storage
and maintenance of all ritual materials and scripts.
11.
No person may be initiated who has not taken part in a Pre-Initiation Meeting as
prescribed in the Brotherhood Program. At the Meeting, CANDIDATES will be
presented with a copy of the Initiation Examination (it may be in the form of
our Minimum Membership Standards or the Four Year Loyalty Oath - all three
commitments are equivalent). A CANDIDATE should not present himself for
initiation unless he is prepared to subscribe to the Initiation Examination
completely and without reservation.
12.
The Brotherhood and the CANDIDATES should be dressed in coat and tie for all
ritual events.
13.
Initiations will almost always take place prior to receipt by the Chapter of the
INITIATES' membership credentials. Resultingly, BIG BROTHERS should use their
pins at the time of initiation and allow their LITTLE BROTHERS to wear them
until their initiation credentials are received from the ZBT Office.
14.
The USHER is responsible for the Order of Admission into the ritual chamber and
for the chamber's security during the ceremony.
The Order of Admission:
A. The USHER allows the
ritual team to enter the chamber, robe and take their places.
B. When the ritual team
is in place, the USHER invites the MEMBERS of the Chapter into the chamber.
c. When the Chapter
MEMBERS are at their places, the USHER invites the MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT
DIRECTOR to escort the CANDIDATES and their BIG BROTHERS into the chamber to
their reserved places.
D. When all are in the
chamber and at their respective places, the USHER closes the door(s) to the
chamber and guards it during the ceremony from the outside.
Once the USHER has dosed
the door, NO ONE is permitted to enter the chamber during the course of the
ceremony.
15.
The USHER is responsible for noting and protecting as "Reserved" the
seats set aside for the INITIATES and their BIG BROTHERS.
Lighting,
Audio-Visual Equipment and Props
1.
The ritual chamber should be partially darkened. Remember, people will be moving
about the room during the course of the ceremony. There should be enough light
to insure safe transit Because the room will be darkened, and candles will be
used, exits need to be clearly marked and kept clear for safe emergency passage.
2.
All audio-visual equipment should be installed/placed so that power and speaker
cords are either out of the way or securely taped to the appropriate surface.
3.
Candles: Dripless candles should always be used, secure candle holders must be
used, paper hand guards must be used by participants who carry candles during
the ceremony.
A.
candles lit when entering the ritual chamber:
1.
On the head table:
a. Two in front of the
PRESIDENT
b. One each in front of
the VICE PRESIDENT, the TREASURER, the SECRETARY, the MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT
DIRECTOR and the CHAPLAIN
PROPS
1.
Robes
A. Blue PRESIDENTS robe
B.White robes for the
VICEPRESIDENT, TREASURER. MEMBERSHIP
DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR and
SECRETARY
C. Red robe for the
CHAPLAIN
2.
Tables and Chairs
A. Head table of
sufficient length to comfortably seat the PRESIDENT, the VICE PRESIDENT, the
CHAPLAIN, the TREASURER, the SECRETARY,
and the MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR. Ideally, the table should be on a
riser. Six chairs should be placed behind the head table. The table should be
draped in a. white cloth.
B: A row of chairs
divided by a center aisle, but of sufficient number and total, to accommodate
all of the CANDIDATES for initiation should be placed six feet or more from the
head table and facing it. An equal number of chairs, placed in the same
arrangement, should be set immediately behind the CANDIDATES' chairs. These
chairs will be for the BIG BROTHERS.
C. The Chapter should
sit in rows of chairs, divided by a center aisle, behind the CANDIDATES and
their BIG BROTHERS.
3.
Ritual Books: One for each participant, at least seven: six spoken parts plus
the person handling the music.
4.
The Chapter Membership Book on the head table.
S.
Alphabetical list of CANDIDATES held by SECRETARY
6.
Seven dripless candles and seven secure candle holders
7.
A ZBT flag or banner
8.
A tape recorder, record player, or cassette player with speakers and appropriate
recorded ritual music.
9.
Matches
10.
Fraternity Pins. BIG BROTHERS should bring their Fraternity pins to the ceremony
and give them .to their LITTLE BROTHERS at the appropriate time.
The Ceremony
MUSIC
PRELUDE TO RITUAL AND DURING THE ENTRANCE OF THE CANDIDATES
See
Instructions for the Order of Admission into the ritual chamber.
With
the Chapter assembled in their appropriate places in the ritual chamber, the
MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR escorts the CANDIDATES and their BIG BROTHERS
into the ritual chamber and to their seats. The CANDIDATES' BIG BROTHERS will be
seated behind the CANDIDATES. When the CANDIDATES are at their seats the
MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR will instruct them to be seated.
MUSIC
Music
fades out.
PRESIDENT:
My Brothers, what are the
watchwords of our Fraternity?
If the Chapter
Members are uncertain of the appropriate response, the PRESIDENT may advise them
that their answer is, "Justice and Brotherly Love.”
ASSEMBLAGE:
Justice and Brotherly Love.
PRESIDENT:
Justice and Brotherly Love are
truly the watchwords of our Fraternity. Blessed is he who comes in the name of
the Lord. And, what does the Lord require of us? To do justice, to love mercy
and to walk humbly with our God.
Before we proceed
further, I call upon our CHAPLAIN to invoke a heavenly blessing on this
gathering. In so doing, we acknowledge again our belief in the Brotherhood of
Man and the Fatherhood of God.
CHAPLAIN:
Our Father, when you asked Cain, "where is your brother, Abel?" Cain
replied, "Am I my brother's keeper?"
We confess that we,
too, have, at times, denied our kinship to our fellow man.
We ask this day for
Your special blessing on Your sons, those who have long been bound to one
another by the pledges of fraternalism and those newly among us who are
committing themselves this day. May we all be worthy of the promises given and
received by each other.
We rejoice and are
thankful that You have given us Brothers as companions, helpers and guides. We
ask for strength and wisdom sufficient to be worthy of the gift of our Brothers.
We ask, also, for the courage to keep our Brothers by helping them in need,
confronting them in error and rejoicing in their health, prosperity and good
fortune. Amen.
Music
fade in, fade out.
MEMBERSHIP
DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR: Brother
President and Brothers, it is my high honor and fraternal pleasure to present to
you a candidate (several candidates) for initiation into our Fraternity. As I
announce each name, I ask that the CANDIDATE rise and remain standing. They are:
….
At
this point the MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR announces the names of each of
the CANDIDATES. When he is finished, he continues: Brother
PRESIDENT, they present themselves now for our examination.
PRESIDENT:
Oh, CANDIDATES, I shall tell
you why you have been chosen to be one of our Company. You were selected because
the Brothers of Chapter of Zeta Beta Tau Fraternity deem you to be one of us in
spirit and in the things which we seek in life. The judgment that you shared our
values and that you and we would find mutual pride in association was made by
each of us in our own heart and mind.
Before we proceed
further, I am obliged to examine you on your intentions and good faith. If for
any reason you cannot respond affirmatively to any of my questions, please
advise your BIG BROTHER who will see you safely escorted from this chamber.
CANDIDATES, if you
find that you can answer my questions affirmatively, please respond to each
with, "I do."
1. Do you agree to
study and master the ideals expressed in our rituals and further agree to make
them a part of your life?
2. Do you agree to
strive for academic achievement and to practice academic integrity?
3. Do you respect the
dignity of all persons? Do you promise not to physically, mentally,
psychologically or sexually abuse or haze any human being?
4. Do you promise to
protect the health and safety of all human beings?
5. Do you respect
your property and the property of others? Do you promise to neither abuse nor
tolerate the abuse of property?
6. Do you agree to
meet your financial obligations in a timely manner?
7. Do you agree not
to use nor support the use of illegal drugs? Do you agree to neither abuse nor
support the abuse of alcohol?
8. Do you acknowledge
that a clean and attractive environment is essential to both physical and mental
health? Do you agree to use all of your power to see that the Chapter property
is properly cleaned and maintained?
9. Do you promise to
challenge your Fraternity Brothers to abide by these fraternal expectations and
do you promise to confront those who violate them?
CANDIDATES, please be
seated.
MUSIC
fade in/fade out.
PRESIDENT:
Over our long history, tram our
Founders down to modern times, Brothers have, from time to time, attempted to
put into words our most significant beliefs.
In 1963, at our
International Convention, a group of undergraduate Brothers gathered to share
their frustrations and concerns over the then heavy societal attack on
fraternities.
In response to these
circumstances the assembled Brothers drafted and ultimately submitted to their
fellow delegates a simple reaffirmation of what they believed to be a summary of
the value of Fraternity. Their work is all the more special to us because it was
not the result of elder and accomplished alumni, but rather the heartfelt
expression of students.
Their statement has
come to be known in our Fraternity as the "Credo of Zeta Beta Tau."
I now call upon our
VICE PRESIDENT to share our Credo.
Listen closely to its
words, return to it often, make it a regular part of your lives.
VICE
PRESIDENT: We the members of
Zeta Beta Tau Fraternity believe that the development of the individual as a
responsible, mature member of society is the primary goal of the university
today.
We believe that
fraternity others to the university community a unique, desirable and successful
means of achieving this goal.
In fulfilling the
purposes of fraternity, we dedicate ourselves to the principles of:
INTELLECTUAL
AWARENESS. Fraternity creates an atmosphere conducive to the expansion of the
individual's intellectual horizons, the interchange of ideas within the academic
community and the pursuit of scholastic excellence.
SOCIAL
RESPONSIBILITY. Fraternity requires the .individual to commit himself and accept
his responsibility to participate.
INTEGRITY. Fraternity
generates a standard of personal integrity -a framework for the individual to
maintain honesty, exhibit loyalty and retain a sense of self-discipline.
BROTHERLY LOVE.
Fraternity inspires and expresses the interrelation or the individual with his
fellows his pride in the institution and respect for the wisdom or its
tradition.
MUSIC
fade in/fade out.
PRESIDENT:
Oh CANDIDATES, as our Credo
expresses our beliefs in words, so our elders have, tram time to time, provided
us with signs and symbols that likewise express much of what we hold dear.
I now call upon the
TREASURER of our Chapter to share with you the significance of some
of those symbols.
TREASURER:
The Fraternity's Crest holds
special significance for us all. The design is composed about a heraldic shield
with the Fraternity pin as its center and adornment. On either side of the
shield hang the balanced censers: justice has always been an essential
characteristic of our Fraternity and as you have already heard is a part of our
watchwords.
Behind the shield is
the facies with the axe and the torch representing, respectively, the
individuals of the Fraternity bound together by common interests and unflinching
truth.
Above the shield, is
a mailed fist representing our determination to maintain the Fraternity's
highest ideals.
Below the shield, in
a folded ribbon, are the initials of our Fraternity and two symbols of special
significance the clasped hands of friendship and the lamp of learning.
In the center of the
shield is a replica of the Fraternity's pin but without the letters ZBT. In
their place is a simple Greek temple. The Greek temple conveys to us the virtues
first taught by that ancient civilization - values that have stood the test of
time.
The pin of our
Brotherhood is no less significant. It has the shape of a diamond whose four
corners are joined, signifying that, although our Brethren may be scattered to
the four corners of the earth, they remain united by the bonds of Fraternity -
joined together even as the four corners of our pin.
The black field in
the center of our pin represents the future with its uncertainties. The skull
and crossbones remind us of the fate of those who have journeyed through life
alone, denying friendship and avoiding the company of their fellow men.
Low on the horizon
rises the six-pointed Star of Hope. That hope, born of comradeship and f1delity,
lights our way forever.
The points of the
Star are the lights of Service, Charity, Truth, Justice, Wisdom and Brotherhood.
Always treat this pin
of our Brotherhood as a treasured possession.
The words of our
Credo and the symbols of our Crest and pin are always kept fresh by the reminder
of our handshake.
As our name is one of
three words, so, too, is our grip one of three fingers. The CANDIDATES will
stand and remain standing. The BIG BROTHERS will now instruct and demonstrate to
the initiates the Fraternity's grip. The BIG BROTHERS will also place their
Fraternity pin on their LITTLE BROTHERS.
BIG BROTHERS
demonstrate the grip and place their Fraternity pins on their LITTLE BROTHERS,
after which the CANDIDATES maintain their standing position facing the
PRESIDENT. BIG BROTHERS are seated.
Initiations
will almost always take place prior to receipt by the Chapter of the INITIATES'
membership credentials. Resu1tingly, BIG BROTHERS should use their pins at the
time of initiation and allow their LITTLE BROTHERS to wear them until their
initiation credentials are received from the ZBT Office.
When
the grip has been demonstrated and the CANDIDATES pinned, the TREASURER
continues: CANDIDATES remain
standing. BIG BROTHERS be seated.
MUSIC
fade in/fade out.
PRESIDENT:
Oh CANDIDATES, we have invited
you to join our Order and you have accepted our invitation. We have examined
you, here today, on your intentions and good faith and we have shared with you
words, signs and symbols that hold historical and special meaning for our
Brotherhood.
Upon our petition,
this Chapter has been licensed by the Supreme Council of our Fraternity to
initiate you into our Brotherhood. Therefore, by the power vested in me, as
Chapter President, I now receive you as Brothers of Zeta Beta Tau Fraternity,
and endow you with all the rights, privileges, and responsibilities of one of
that rank.
From this day
forward, you shall be mown as our Brothers. Your names are written with ours and
the names of Brothers who have gone before in the records of Zeta Beta Tau. Our
names will be joined by those of Brothers yet unknown.
New Brothers, as the
SECRETARY calls your name, please come forward in turn, and at the SECRETARY'S
direction, sign the Membership Book of our Chapter and thereby be enrolled.
After you have signed
the Membership Book, return to your place and be seated.
The
SECRETARY reads the names of the newly initiated Brothers in alphabetical order.
As he does, each comes forward to the head table and signs the Chapter
Membership Book. After he has signed the Membership Book, he returns to his
chair and is seated.
MUSIC
Fade in musical interlude during signing and presentation; then fade out.
PRESIDENT:
May I ask all present to stand.
It is our tradition
that at the reception of new Brothers we all reaffirm our allegiance to our
Fraternity. Would all Brothers raise your right hand and repeat after me.
I swear (or affirm)
before God and these witnesses / / to be ever responsible / / for the well being
of my Brothers. / / Their problems will be my problems / / their wrong doings
will be mine to challenge / / their joys will be mine to share. / / I swear (or
affirm) that I renew this day / / the affirmative responses to my initiation
examination. / / I swear (or affirm) that I shall so live my life / / as to
bring honor and credit / / upon my Brothers / / myself / / and the Zeta Beta Tau
Fraternity. / / So help me God / / and may he keep me steadfast. / /
You may lower your
hands.
It ever your heart is
heavy and you would lighten its burden, seek a Brother. Your Brother will give
you comfort. He will strive to ease your pain. He will keep your secret even as
he keeps his own. He will honor your labors as you respect his.
In life's dark hours,
a Brother will always light your path.
If you are called
upon to aid a Brother, do so gladly, for you have sworn to support him.
My Brothers, let us
now form a circle, lock arms, sing our Fraternity Song and then welcome our new
Brothers.
MUSIC
fade in - music plays while new Brothers are being congratulated and all leave
the ritual room - fade out.
The Ritual of the Six
Orders
Instructions
The
Chapter is entrusted with the obligation to conform to the following rules which
will enhance the significance of the ceremony;
1.
Each participant should be thoroughly familiar with his part. Last minute
substitutions detract from the proper presentation of this Ritual.
2.
The CHAPLAIN shall insure that the audience is instructed in proper decorum: no
food, drink or smoking, proper attire, silence.
3.
A dress rehearsal is strongly recommended.
4.
The CHAPLAIN is responsible for preparing the setting and staging and with the
assistance of the USHER, insuring that all present are in their proper places.
5.
Every effort should be made to see that the setting is exactly as described.
Where it is impossible to follow the directions to the letter, substitutions
should be made as close to these directions as possible.
6.
Each PRECEPTOR shall have appropriate insignias for the INDUCTEES.
7.
The SECRETARY shall have in his possession the appropriate certificates for the
inductees.
8.
The MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR must have an alphabetical list of the full
names of each of the inductees and be certain of the proper pronunciations. The
list should be organized such that there is a separate list for each Order.
9.
Where participants are to repeat after the PRESIDENT, double slash marks / / are
used to indicate places to pause.
10.
When open flame candles are utilized, extreme caution should be exercised by all
ritual participants. Care should be taken to insure that furnishings, articles
of clothing, ritual robes and paraphernalia are not allowed to come into direct
contact with candle flames. Dripless candles should always be used, candle
holders must be used, paper hand guards must be used by participants who hand
carry candles during the ceremony. Ritual robes should be made flame retardant.
Your local fire department will be happy to spray the robes for you or recommend
a commercial source.
11.
The CHAPLAIN is responsible for the safeguarding as well as the proper storage
and maintenance of all ritual materials and scripts.
12.
The Brotherhood should be dressed in coat and tie for all ritual events.
13.
If at the time of this ritual there are no eligible inductees for one or more of
the Six Orders, then the precepts of those Orders will not be spoken. Instead,
the robes appropriate for those PRECEPTORS will be draped on their appropriate
chair with the legend showing. No candles will be illuminated at their stations.
14.
The USHER is responsible for the Order of Admission into the ritual chamber and
for the chamber's security during the ceremony.
The Order of Admission:
A The USHER allows the
ritual team to enter the chamber, robe and take their places.
B. When the ritual team
is standing in their places, the USHER invites the MEMBERS of the Chapter into
the chamber. As he does so, he instructs them to take their places and remain
standing until
instructed to be seated by the PRESIDENT.
C. When the Chapter
MEMBERS are in the chamber, standing at their places, the USHER invites the
INDUCTEES into the chamber and directs them to their reserved seats. He
instructs them to remain standing until instructed to be seated by the
PRESIDENT.
D. When all are in the
chamber and standing at their respective places, the USHER closes the door(s) to
the chamber and guards it during the ceremony from the outside.
Once the USHER has
closed the door, NO ONE is permitted to enter the chamber during the course of
the ceremony.
15.
The USHER is responsible for noting and protecting as ''Reserved" seats set
aside for the INDUCTEES.
Lighting,
Audio-Visual Equipment and Props
1.
The ritual chamber should be partially darkened. Remember, people will be moving
about the room during the course of the ceremony. There should be enough light
to insure safe transit, Because the room will be darkened, and candles will be
used, exits need to be clearly marked and kept clear for safe emergency passage.
2.
All audio-visual equipment should be installed/placed so that power and speaker
cords are either out of the way or securely taped to the appropriate surface.
3.
Candles: Dripless candles should always be used, secure candle holders must be
used, paper hand guards must be used by participants who carry candles during
the ceremony.
A Candles lit when
entering the ritual chamber:
1. On the head table:
a. Two in front of
PRESIDENT
b. One in front of
TREASURER
c. One in front of
SECRETARY
2. On the Alter:
a. Two on either side of
the opened Bible
3. VICE PRESIDENT
holding one lit candle
4. MEMBERSHIP
DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR holding one lit candle
B. Candles to be lit
during ceremony:
1. One on each
PRECEPTOR'S table, lit by the VICE PRESIDENT in accordance with the ritual
PROPS
1. Robes
A Blue PRESIDENTS robe
B. Six black PRECEPTOR'S
robes
C. White robes for other
VICE PRESIDENT, TREASURER, SECRETARY, AND MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
D. Red robe for CHAPLAIN
2. Tables and Chairs
A Head table of
sufficient length to comfortably seat PRESIDENT, TREASURER AND SECRETARY.
Ideally the table should be on a riser. Three chairs should be placed behind the
head table. The table should be draped in a white cloth.
B. Six small PRECEPTOR
tables (cabaret tables or card tables) each draped in white with a chair behind
each table.
C. A medium size table
for use as the Alter (a student's desk size) draped in white.
D. Three chairs, one
each for the VICE PRESIDENT, CHAPLAIN, and MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
placed at the opposite end of the room from the head table.
E. Straight rows of
chairs for Chapter Members, lined up on either side of the room, behind the
PRECEPTOR'S tables.
3. Ritual Books: One for
each participant, at least 13: 12 spoken parts plus the person handling the
music.
4. Bible on Alter
5. Chapter Membership
Book on Head Table
6. Induction
certificates held by the SECRETARY
7. Order insignia held
by the respective PRECEPTORS
8. Alphabetical lists of
INDUCTES by Order, held by SECRETARY
9. Fourteen dripless
candles
10. Twelve secure candle
holders
11. At lease two candle
hand guards
12. One National Flag (
13. Tape recorder,
record player, or cassette player with speakers and appropriate recorded ritual
music
14. Matches
The Ceremony
Music
prelude to ritual and during the entrance of the chapter, see Instructions for
the Order of Admission into the ritual chamber.
When
the Chapter and all participants are standing in their appropriate places in the
ritual chamber, and the USHER has closed the door; the ceremony proceeds.
MUSIC
fade out.
VICE
PRESIDENT: Brother President
and Brothers it is my high honor and fraternal pleasure to present to you
several or our Brothers for induction into the Orders or our Fraternity. They
have achieved the requirements ror entrance into their respective Orders and
they now seek elevation to their proper rank.
MUSIC
fade in/fade out.
PRESIDENT:
My Brothers, what are the
watchwords of our Fraternity?
If
the Chapter Members are uncertain of the appropriate response, the PRESIDENT may
advise them that their answer is, "Justice and Brotherly Love.”
ASSEMBLAGE:
Justice and Brotherly Love.
PRESIDENT:
Justice and Brotherly Love are
truly the watchwords of our Fraternity. Blessed is he who comes in the name of
the Lord. And what does the Lord require of us? To do justice, to love mercy,
and to walk humbly with our God.
MUSIC
fade in/fade out.
PRESIDENT:
MyBrothers, welcome to this
solemn investiture ceremony. We are gathered here to honor those among us who
have achieved much in accordance with the things for which we stand. Their
accomplishments add luster to the name of our Fraternity.
What they have
achieved insures their right to serve as our counselors and our judges. Our
University, our community, our Fraternity is enriched by their example as they
strive to become the best of what college manhood is capable.
We honor them because
they have honored the great truths and simple certainties of all civilized men.
Before we invest them with their new rank, it is appropriate that we remind
ourselves of those simple truths.
As such, I would ask
the CHAPLAIN to offer an invocation to the Author or Brotherhood.
Following the
invocation, please remain standing.
The
CHAPLAIN moves from his seat to the alter and offers the following prayer. When
he is finished, he returns to his place and remains standing.
CHAPLAIN:
Our Father, when you asked Cain, "where is your brother, Abel?" Cain
replied, "Am I my brother's keeper?" We confess that we, too, have, at
times, denied our kinship to our fellow man.
We ask this day for
Your special blessing on Your sons, who are here to be honored by us. Their
lives prove that they have accepted responsibility for their Brothers.
We rejoice and are
thankful that You have given us Brothers as companions, helpers and guides. We
ask for strength and wisdom sufficient to be worthy of the gift of our Brothers.
We ask, also, for the courage to keep our Brothers by helping them in need,
confronting them in error and rejoicing in their health, prosperity and good
fortune. Amen.
CHAPLAIN
returns to his place and remains standing.
MUSIC
fade in/fade out.
PRESIDENT:
The Companions of our Orders
not only recognize the Fatherhood of God and the Brotherhood of Man, but are
also loyal sons of their native land. let us, therefore, now pledge our
allegiance to our Country by reciting the pledge to the flag.
I call upon the
TREASURER to lead us in the pledge.
The
TREASURER moves from his seat and stands a few paces in front of the National
Colors, places his hand on his heart, and leads the assemblage in the recitation
of the pledge of allegiance. Upon conclusion, he returns to his seat.
TREASURER:
Brothers, join me, in the
pledge to our Flag.
I pledge allegiance
to the Flag,
Of the
And to the Republic
for which it stands,
One Nation, under
God, indivisible
With justice and
liberty for all.
PRESIDENT:
Brothers, please be seated.
MUSIC
fade in/fade out.
PRESIDENT:
My Brothers, we are now ready
to elevate and invest worthy men to the rank and honor to which they are
entitled.
It is not so much
what we do but rather what they have done that gives them distinction. They
honor us by their good works.
The
PRESIDENT moves through each of the Order Ceremonies as noted below and as there
are CANDIDATES for induction. If there are no CANDIDATES for induction for a
particular
Order(s),
the PRESIDENT skips over that Order and moves on to the next Order for which
there are CANDIDATES for induction.
The Orders
Order of Service
Ceremony
The
MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR, carrying a lit candle, rises from his chair and
moves to a spot midway between his chair and the Alter.
The
SECRETARY then calls out the names of the INDUCTEES to the Order of Service. The
INDUCTEES come forward and form a semi-circle in front of the MEMBERSHIP
DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR. When they all are in place, the MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT
DIRECTOR taps each INDUCTEE, in turn, ceremonially on the left shoulder three
times. When the MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR is finished, he returns and
takes his seat.
The
VICE PRESIDENT, carrying a lit candle, approaches the INDUCTEES. He instructs
them as follows: INDUCTEES, you
will follow me to the Station of your induction.
The
VICE PRESIDENT then leads the INDUCTEES to the PRECEPTOR OF SERVICE, fanning a
semi-circle in front of the PRECEPTOR'S table. When in place, the VICE PRESIDENT
lights the candle on the PRECEPTOR'S table and stands beside the PRECEPTOR
facing the INDUCTEES.
SERVICE: Service is a
bridge from man to man. By giving aid, comfort, or companionship to others, your
bridges grow in number.
And remember,
Brothers, your bridges will carry back to you the good will, the esteem, the aid
and the affection of your Brothers.
Nature makes us all
interdependent. Look for the chance to do something for others. Service is the
lifeline to your fellow man. No pain or grief or misfortune of one's own gives
reason for cutting that lifeline while the power to serve still remains.
Cultivate the habit
of service. Exclude it from your life and you will stand alone, shrunken into
the narrow limits of your own frame and senses. Make service a part of your
nature, and it will make you strong. a man among men.
Cultivate the habit
of Service, my friends, always.
MUSIC
fade in, play during the presentation of the insignias/fade out.
When
the PRECEPTOR has completed his address, he places the insignia of the Order of
Service on each INDUCTEE.
When
ail the INDUCTEES have been presented with their insignias, the VICE PRESIDENT
says: Companions of the Order
of Service, please return to your seats.
The
Vice President returns to his seat and remains standing.
Order of Charity
Ceremony
PRESIDENT:
I now charge the SECRETARY to
announce to us all the INDUCTEES to our second degree, the Order of Charity. As
your names are called, please rise and move to the center of the room, forming a
semi-circle facing the MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR.
The
MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR, carrying a lit candle, rises from his chair and
moves to a spot midway between his chair and the Alter.
The
SECRETARY then calls out the names of the INDUCTEES to the Order of Charity. The
INDUCTEES come forward and form a semi-circle in front of the MEMBERSHIP
DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR. When they are all in place, the MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT
DIRECTOR taps each INDUCTEE, in turn, ceremonially on the left shoulder three
times.
When
the MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR is finished, he returns and takes his seat.
The
VICE PRESIDENT, carrying a lit candle, approaches the INDUCTEES. He instructs
them as follows: INDUCI'EES,
you will follow me to the Station or your induction.
The
VICE PRESIDENT then leads the INDUCTEES to the Preceptor of Charity, forming a
semi-circle in front of the PRECEPTOR'S table. When in place, the VICE PRESIDENT
lights the candle on the PRECEPTOR'S table and stands beside the PRECEPTOR
facing the INDUCTEES.
CHARITY: Charity is
not confined to the mere giving of alms. For in the broadest sense, all men may
be said to be in need. Charity is the positive action growing out of compassion
for the need and misfortune of others.
It has been said that
you shall not wait until the camel is upon his knees before you ease his burden.
To help a man before he must call for your charity is charity in its most noble
form.
Charity is sympathy
in action. Sympathy! It is the touchstone of every secret, the key to human
understanding, the "open sesame" to all hearts. In gratitude tor the
gift of life, we should share that gift with others. The only true gift is a
portion of oneself.
We give of ourselves
when we give gifts of the heart, the mind, the spirit, and the gift of time
shared. The finest gift a man can give to his age and time is the gift of a
constructive and creative life.
Be thou Charitable,
my friends, always.
MUSIC
fade in, play during the presentation of insignias. fade out.
When
the PRECEPTOR has completed his address, he places the insignia of the Order of
Charity on each INDUCTEE.
When
all of the INDUCTEES have been presented with their insignias, the VICE
PRESIDENT says: Companions of
the Order of Charity, please return to your seats.
The
VICE PRESIDENT returns to his seat and remains standing
Order of Truth
Ceremony
PRESIDENT:
I now charge the SECRETARY to announce to us all the INDUCTEES to our
third degree, the Order of Truth. As your names are called, please rise and move
to the center of the room, forming a semi-circle facing the MEMBERSHIP
DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR.
The
MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR, carrying a lit candle, rises from his chair and
moves to a spot midway between his chair and the Alter.
The
SECRETARY then calls out the names of the INDUCTEES to the Order of Truth. The
INDUCTEES come forward and form a semicircle in front of the MEMBERSHIP
DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR. When they are all in place, the MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT
DIRECTOR taps each INDUCTEE, in turn, ceremonially on the left shoulder three
times. When the MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR is finished, he returns and
takes his seat.
The
VICE PRESIDENT, carrying a lit candle, approaches the INDUCTEES. He instructs
them as follows: INDUCTEES, you
will follow me to the Station or your induction.
The
VICE PRESIDENT then leads the INDUCTEES to the PRECEPTOR OF TRUTH, forming a
semi-circle in front of the PRECEPTOR'S table. When in place, the VICE PRESIDENT
lights the candle on the PRECEPTOR'S table and stands beside the PRECEPTOR
facing the INDUCTEES.
TRUTH: There is
nothing as powerful as Truth. It is the death knell of tyranny and the battle
cry of freedom. Though the burning flame of Truth is often eclipsed, it is never
extinguished. Truth may be submerged for a time, but it will rise above
falsehood as oil rises above water. The words or Truth are simple, but a false
tale needs a long preamble. There is no vice which so covers a man with contempt
and shame as to be found false and unworthy of trust. There is no virtue which
so clothes a man with respect and admiration as to be found truthful and honest.
Advocate and defend
the Truth, my friends, always.
MUSIC
fade in, play during the presentation of insignias, fade out.
When
the PRECEPTOR has completed his address, he places the insignia of the Order of
Truth on each INDUCTEE.
When
all of the INDUCTEES have been presented with their insignias, the VICE
PRESIDENT says: Companions of
the Order of Truth, please return to your seats.
The
VICE PRESIDENT returns to his seat and remains standing.
Order of Justice
Ceremony
PRESIDENT:
I now charge the SECRETARY to
announce to us all the INDUCTEES to our fourth degree, the Order of Justice. As
your names are called, please rise and move to the center of the room, forming a
semi-circle facing the MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR.
The
MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR, carrying a lit candle, rises from his chair and
moves to a spot midway between his chair and the Alter.
The
SECRETARY then calls out the names of the INDUCTEES to the Order of Justice. The
INDUCTEES come forward and form a semi-circle in front of the MEMBERSHIP
DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR When they are all in place, the MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT
DIRECTOR taps each INDUCTEE, in turn, ceremonially on the left shoulder three
times.
When
the MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR is finished, he returns and takes his seat.
The
VICE PRESIDENT, carrying a lit candle, approaches the INDUCTEES. He instructs
them as follows: INDUCTEES, you
will follow me to the Station of your induction.
The
VICE PRESIDENT then leads the INDUCTEES to the PRECEPTOR OF JUSTICE, forming a
semi-circle in front of the PRECEPTOR'S table. When in place, the VICE PRESIDENT
lights the candle on the PRECEPTOR'S table and stands beside the PRECEPTOR
facing the INDUCTEES.
JUSTICE: Justice is a
steady and unceasing disposition to render to every man his due. It is the
foundation stone upon which rests the entire structure of civilized human
relations. Without it, the moral world would sink into chaos.
We are born with an
embryonic sense of Justice. But essentially it is developed as we grow in
stature as civilized human beings.
Justice is the aim
and goal of all systems of law. The closer the system approaches the ideals of
justice, the higher is its station and value.
Justice includes
justice to oneself as well as to others. It means insisting upon one's rights in
the face of attempted wrongdoing by another.
The stability and
value of any society depends on the degree and quality of justice which its
members practice and defend.
A man that ignores
the principles of justice, and on the contrary, pursues a plan of deliberate
injustice, carries the seed of self-destruction and oblivion. A man that is
imbued with a sense of Justice carries the seed or progress and is of ultimate
benefit to humanity.
Do Justice and see
Justice done, my friends, always.
MUSIC
fade in, play during the presentation of insignias, fade out.
When
the PRECEPTOR has completed his address, he places the insignia of the Order of
Justice on each INDUCTEE.
When
all of the INDUCTEES have been presented with their insignias, the VICE
PRESIDENT says: Companions of
the Order of Justice, please return to your seats.
The
VICE PRESIDENT returns to his seat and remains standing.
Order of Wisdom
Ceremony
PRESIDENT:
I now charge the SECRETARY to
announce to us all the INDUCTEES to our fifth degree, the Order of Wisdom. As
your names are called, please rise and move to the center of the room, forming a
semi-circle facing the MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR.
The
MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR, carrying a lit candle, rises from his chair and
moves to a spot midway between his chair and the Alter.
The
SECRETARY then calls out the names of the INDUCTEES to the Order of Wisdom: The
INDUCTEES come forward and form a semi-circle in front of the MEMBERSHIP
DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR When they are all in place, the MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT
DIRECTOR taps each INDUCTEE, in turn, ceremonially on the left shoulder three
times.
When
the MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR is finished, he returns and takes his seat.
The
VICE PRESIDENT, carrying a lit candle, approaches the INDUCTEES. He instructs
them as follows: INDUCTEES, you
will Callow me to the Station of your induction.
The
VICE PRESIDENT then leads the INDUCTEES to the PRECEPTOR OF WISDOM, forming a
semi-circle in front of the PRECEPTOR'S table. When in place, the VICE PRESIDENT
lights the candle on the PRECEPTOR'S table and stands beside the PRECEPTOR
facing the INDUCTEES.
WISDOM: It has been
said that he is wise who learns from every man.
Wisdom consists of
the fullest application of one's knowledge, talents, and understanding to the
pursuits of life. It is knowing what can be done and what should be done,
tempered by what virtue and conscience dictate ought to be done.
Wisdom requires
knowledge and discretion, but, above all, it requires understanding. Wisdom is
the art of knowing what things are important and what things matter not.
As a rock is not
shaken by the wind, wise people falter not amidst blame and praise.
Seek Wisdom, my
friends, always.
MUSIC fade in, play
during the presentation of insignias, fade out.
When the PRECEPTOR
has completed his address, he places the insignia of the Order of Wisdom on each
INDUCTEE.
When
all of the INDUCTEES have been presented with their insignias, the VICE
PRESIDENT says: Companions of
the Order of Wisdom, please return to your seats.
The
VICE PRESIDENT returns to his seat and remains standing.
Order of Brotherhood
Ceremony
PRESIDENT:
I now charge the SECRETARY to
announce to us all the INDUCTEES to our sixth degree, the Order or Brotherhood.
As your names are called, please rise and move to the center of the room,
forming a semi-circle facing the MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR.
The
MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR, carrying a lit candle, rises from his chair and
moves to a spot midway between his chair and the Alter.
The
SECRETARY then calls out the names of the INDUCTEES to the Order of Brotherhood.
The INDUCTEES come forward and form a semi-circle in front of the MEMBERSHIP
DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR. When they are all in place, the MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT
DIRECTOR taps each INDUCTEE, in turn, ceremonially on the left shoulder three
times.
When
the MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR is finished, he returns to his chair,
extinguishes his candle, and is seated.
The
VICE PRESIDENT, carrying a lit candle, approaches the .INDUCTEES. He instructs
them as follows: .INDUCTEES,
you will follow me to the Station of your induction.
The
VICE PRESIDENT then leads the INDUCTEES to the PRECEPTOR OF BROTHERHOOD, forming
a semi-circle in front of the PRECEPTOR'S table. When in place, the VICE
PRESIDENT lights the candle on the PRECEPTOR'S table and stands beside the
PRECEPTOR facing the INDUCTEES.
BROTHERHOOD:
Brotherhood is the antithesis of bigotry and intolerance. It's essence is human
understanding and a respect for the dignity of man. Bigotry has no head and
cannot think, no heart and cannot feel. Judge no man by his creed, class, color,
or station in life, but by himself alone.
Your Brother guards
your Interests as his own. He neither flatters nor deceives. He gives praise to
your good deeds, and equally condemns your bad acts.
Your Brother is he
who understands your silence; is true to himself and therefore to you.
You will find in the
heart of your fellow man the reflection of your own image. The spirit of
Brotherhood flows deep in the springs of our democratic heritage. In the
broadest sense, the recognition or the inherent dignity of all members of the
human family is the foundation of freedom, justice and peace in the world.
Brotherhood is the
strongest weapon of democracy. It is the golden thread in the fabric of peace.
"The crest and
crowning of all good,
Life's final star, is
Brotherhood."
Live in a spirit of
Brotherhood, my friends, always.
MUSIC
fade in, play during the presentation of insignias, fade out.
When
the PRECEPTOR has completed his address, he places the insignia of the Order of
Brotherhood on each INDUCTEE.
When
all of the INDUCTEES have been presented with their insignias, the VICE
PRESIDENT says: Companions of
the Order of Brotherhood, please return to your seats.
The
VICE PRESIDENT returns to his seat, extinguishes his candle, and is seated.
Resumption of Ritual
PRESIDENT:
Will the PRECEPTORS of the Six
Orders please rise. My friends and my Brothers, you have been twice fortunate in
what you have just experienced. The PRECEPTORS of our ORDERS have shared with
you the wisdom of your degree, the essential truth of your Order. But, equally
as important, you have progressed further on your journey to the City of
In the name of all
who wear our pin, I charge you with the solemn responsibility to live by the
precepts of your Order and to teach others to do so. If there be any hypocrisy
in your commitment to your Order, you will shame not only yourself but those of
us who surround you here this day.
PRECEPTORS, you may
be seated.
I now call upon the
SECRETARY, once again, to announce the name of each Brother and the Order into
which he has been inducted. As each name is read, please come forward and
receive your credentials. After you have received your credentials, return to
your place and be seated.
The
SECRETARY should have the items organized for easy presentation, handing the
correct materials to the PRESIDENT at the appropriate time.
The
SECRETARY reads out the names of the INDUCTEES for each Order, starting with the
Order of Service and continuing in sequence to the Order of Brotherhood. Before
beginning each Order, he announces "Companions of the Order of
Service." Etc; etc.
MUSIC
fade in, play softly during the presentation of the credentials, fade out.
The
PRESIDENT remains seated until he has completed the Resolution at the end of the
section that follows. He then stands with the rest of the ASSEMBLAGE and remains
standing through his pronouncement of "Amen." He resumes his seat when
he instructs others to "Please be seated.”
PRESIDENT:
My Brothers, although fraternity is a celebration of life it is fitting that as
men who have pledged to help one another, we should pause, from time to time, to
remember our Brethren who have passed to the Chapter Eternal.
They were once as we
are today - living, laughing, and loving one another. The quality of their
commitment to each other as school boys and the lifelong devotion of many of
them to ZBT permits us to be here today. They represent our link to our
Founders. It is fitting that we remember them now.
Rise, please and
honor their memory and our heritage by a moment of silence, each in his own
heart, pledging, once again, to do our individual part to insure that we will
pass our Brotherhood on to a new generation.
The
PRESIDENT pauses to allow all to rise, then continues: We
resolve to remember them. Though mostly unknown to us in person, we share a
sense of loss at the passing of true and loyal Brothers.
MUSIC
fde in, plays softly during moment of silence and for a brief period following
the Amen, fade out.
All remain silent for
a moment. The PRESIDENT signals the end of the Memorial by saying,
"Amen." he then says: Amen.
Please be seated.
My Brothers, we now
behold the 'City of
To understand the
hearts and minds of our Founders, when they committed themselves to the creation
of a new Brotherhood, we must hear the text that they heard, and that they used,
as the foundation for what they created.
It is important to
note that they drew not upon their own inspiration, but were inspired, instead,
by the promise of the Prophet Isaiah, whose prophecy has ever been held dear by
those who believe in the possibility of a more perfect world.
Therefore, I call
upon our CHAPLAIN to share with us once again that greatest of prophecies - the
justification for the commitments we make and for our hope of true Brotherhood
among all men.
The
CHAPLAIN goes from his sear to the Alter. The Bible is opened to Isaiah, Chapter
1, Verses 24 through 27. He reads the passage from the ritualbook. The
translation of this passage may differ from text to text. After the reading, he
returns to his seat.
Therefore, says the
Lord, the Lord of Hosts,
The Mighty One or
I will console Myself
from My adversaries,
And I will avenge
Myself of My enemies.
And I will turn My
hand upon you,
And purge away your
falsehood,
And will take away
all of your impurities;
I will restore your
judges as at the first,
And your counselors
as at the beginning;
Afterwards, you shall
be called the City of
The faithful city.
And they that return
to her with righteousness.
The
CHAPLAIN is seated.
PRESIDENT:
The Greek letters, Zeta Beta
Tau, represent the Hebrew of Isaiah, which we have translated into English,
"
Isaiah's prophecy was
adopted by our Founders as the name of our Fraternity.
These words of Isaiah
bring to all mankind the promise of
Our pilgrimage to the
City of
Those who travel on
this pilgrimage with us may be known, if in doubt to each other, by our
password. The password is composed of the first letters of the first names of
the founders of Phi Epsilon Pi. It is the one method of recognition between
Brothers which no outsider can secure. The password is given in the form of a
charge or challenge and the words are never to be used together. Thus, the first
part of the password, is a challenge, and the second part of the password is a
response spoken by the person who is challenged.
Let me demonstrate.
The
PRESIDENT faces the Chapter and issues the challenge to the Chapter: AWA.
The
CHAPTER responds, in unison, to the challenge with: MASA.
After
the charge and response is given, the SECRETARY and PRESIDENT exchange the
Fraternity grip.
The
PRESIDENT and the SECRETARYare then seated and the PRESIDENT continues: Although we have done it here for demonstration purposes, in a real
encounter, the parts of the password are never spoken aloud but are always
whispered.
In fact, the password
is rarely used. In my own experience as an officer of the Chapter, I have
rarely, if ever, used the password other than at ceremonies such as this. It is
to be used only as a final method of recognition of a stranger when all other
methods have definitely failed to establish the fraternal identity of that
stranger.
Recognize him who
gives it as a Brother. If he is in need, help him. God divided man into men that
they might help one another.
My Brothers, as it is
our custom, at such ceremonies, I ask all to stand, raise your right hand, and
repeat the oath of rededication.
Brother CHAPLAIN,
please approach the Alter, and on our behalf place your left hand upon the
Sacred Scripture of Isaiah, and lead us in the oath of rededication.
The
CHAPLAIN moves to the Alter, places his left hand on the open Bible, and leads
the Chapter in the oath: Following the oath, he remains at the alter to offer
the benediction: Brothers,
raise you right hand and repeat after me: I swear (or affirm) before God and my
Brothers / / to rededicate myself to the precepts of our Fraternity. / /
I also swear (or
affirm) to carry out to the best of my ability / / its aims, ideals, and
aspirations. / /
I swear (or affirm)
that I will always stand ready / / to help a Brother in need. / / To confront
him when he is in error / / and to rejoice with him / / in his health,
happiness, and good fortune. / /
I swear (or affirm)
to keep close to my heart / / the prophecy of Isaiah / / and to continue my
pilgrimage to the City of
I further swear (or
affirm) that I will at all times / / conduct myself so as to reflect honor / /
upon my country / / upon my university / / and upon the Zeta Beta Tau
Fraternity. / / So help me God / / and may he keep me steadfast. / /
You may lower your
hands and remain standing.
PRESIDENT:
Brother CHAPLAIN, will you give us the benediction. Behold, how good and how
pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!
CHAPLAIN:
Our Father, as we leave this chamber, we ask that you send us forth into the
world to do the work you have given us to do and that you will keep us safe and
dose to each other until we convene again. Amen.
PRESIDENT:
If ever your heart is heavy, and you would lighten its burden, seek a Brother.
Your Brother will give you comfort. He will strive to ease your pain. He will
keep your secret even as he keeps his own. He will honor your labors as you
respect his. In life's dark hours, a Brother will always light your path.
If ever you are
called upon to aid a Brother, do so gladly, for you have sworn to support him.
My Brothers, let us
form, a circle, lock arms and sing our Fraternity song.
The Brothers move
from their seats and form a circle with linked arms and sing "Here's to Our
Fraternity."
Brothers, we stand
adjourned.
MUSIC
fade in - play while Brothers leave the ritual room - fade out.