Masonic charge for Master Masons

Title

Language

English

Year

1967

Rights

In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted

Fulltext

NOTES: Have lesser lights arranged around altar, or dim lights, and use altar spot lights, as the case may be. Reader stands in what seems to be the most desirable place while giving the charge. Candidate kneeling on the West side of Altar while charge is given. This charge is not intended to replace the regular charge, but to be used only on special occasions. In Mason’s Lodge, with darkened eyes with cable-tow about me. I swore to hail all mysteries, that Masons keep, and Masons prize; All Brothers’ secrets whispered low, all they speak, all things they do, in mystic manner taught me. On yonder Book, that Oath I took, and will I break it? Never! But stand bv this, (step of E.A.) and this, (D-G of E.A.) and this, (Si of E.A.) Forever and Forever. I swore to answer and obey, all Summons sent me duly by Brother’s hand or Lodge array, I swore that I would never stray, from ancient laws and rules that bound. Freemasons in the days renowned, but would observe them truly. 3 I swore to lead with generous care, all those in sorrow hidden; A brother on the darkened square, all mourners with disheveled hair, The orphan, doomed, alas to stray, upon a rough and rugged way, while tears gush forth unbidden. 4 1 swore to deal in honesty, with each true heart around me, That Honor... bright should ever be, unbroken bonds ’tween him and me, Nor wrong, nor guile, nor cruel fraud, should ever break that sacred cord, by which my Vows have bound me. 5 I swore the Portals close to guard (OR I swore to guard the Portals close) of the Masonic Temple; To rid the quarries of their dross, to build each mystic wall across, With body perfect, upright heart, and mind mature in moral art, in precept and example. 6 I swore the chastity to guard, of woman, true and tender. Of Mason's widow, wife or child, his mother or sister, undefiled. To them I pledge a brother’s love, by Him, who rules the Lodge “above", to be a true defender. My Brother: (or Brothers) These are your vows, be they your cares. And may such aid be given in answer to your earnest prayer, tliat you may ever do and dare, all that God’s gracious laws enjoin; So that when evening shades decline, You may be found in heaven. On younder Book these Oaths we took, and will we break them? Never 1 But stand by this, and this, and thia, Forever and Forever. We are grateful to the Okinawa delegation who allowed the publication of this Charge for the benefit of Lodges who may care to use it. Ed. MAY, 1967 23

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