OPEN INSTALLATION OF OFFICERS
Compiled By Ralph W. Omholt - Seattle
Open Installations are a major source of Masonic Pubic Relations. Thus, the following material is presented as a “boiler plate” dynamic guide / help for an impressive installation. While Installations are a ‘routine’ part of the Craft, an impressive installation is not a function of guaranteed performance; based in ‘trusted tradition,’ alone. A good installation is THOROUGHLY PLANNED and ORGANIZED!
200_
__st OPEN INSTALLATION OF OFFICERS
____ LODGE, NO. ___
FREE AND ACCEPTED MASONS
December __, 200_
7:30pm
INSTALLATION OF OFFICERS
Every officer of a Lodge must be regularly installed; a re-elected or re-appointed officer must be re-installed. The ceremony may be conducted in public (“Open Installation”) or in the presence of Masons only (“Tyled Installation”), with the appropriate/necessary changes.
Tradition calls for refreshments or a meal, associated with the installation. Thus, this is a detail which should be carefully coordinated – including budget / reimbursements.
Quality is important. If there are no budget constraints, the “paper-plate” image should be avoided.
Prior to a public installation, three or more Brethren of the Lodge, one or more of whom must be the Worshipful Master, Senior, or Junior Warden, must open the Lodge on the Master Mason Degree. This may be done either in the room in which the installation ceremony is held; or in a room adjacent to the room in which the installation ceremony is held, for example, the Preparation Room.
The Three Great Lights will be arranged / opened in a "normal" configuration on the Altar, with the Three Lesser Lights illuminated, during the ceremony. If the Lodge is opened in a room adjacent, the Three Great Lights will be opened in the room where the installation is to be held; they will remain ‘opened’ throughout the entire ceremony. The Senior Warden’s column remains standing; the Lodge is not “at refreshment,” it’s off-session.
At the appropriate time, the Worshipful Master will declare the Lodge "off session," direct the Junior Deacon to inform the Tyler, and thereafter proceed to invite in members of the public for the ceremony of installation. After the installation is completed, but not in the presence of non-Masons, the Worshipful Master shall declare the Lodge to be "in-session” or “on-session" and close the Lodge in due form.
It is the prerogative of the retiring Master to install his successor in office. In turn, the new Master, upon assuming the East, may install his remaining officers. Often – per tradition - this right may be waived. Any competent and well-qualified Past Master of a Lodge may, by proper request, act as the Installing Officer. If the Grand Master or his Deputy is present, deference and respect are to be shown to his will and pleasure. If the Grand Lodge team is to be utilized, they should be given a timely request.
At the hour appointed for the installation - the Lodge being open on the Master Mason degree - the Marshal, by direction of the Master or Installing Officer, will see that the Jewels of the officers to be installed (arranged in sequence), together with a small Bible, the Square and Compasses, a Rule (twenty-four inch gauge), a Plumb Line, the Book of Constitutions (Code), the Charter, a copy of the By-Laws, the Deacons' and Stewards' Rods, and the Tyler's sword, are placed, for convenient use, on a stand or table near the East.
If possible, whenever the brethren move from place to place during the ceremony there should be strains of music.
The installation requires timely planning - and ideally, a practice. The installing team – including entertainment - should be scheduled as much as a year ahead of time. The new Master should coordinate with the Secretary and any associated persons, as to any details – including re-confirmations and reminders. When an election is highly predictable, the current Master should coordinate with his successor, as to the details of the next installation. Indeed, the new Master should assist a know successor in planning such things as the Lodge meeting calendar, education events, charities, etc. Ideally, each Master should be charged with the advance planning of a continuum, and not to arbitrarily surprise the Lodge at each meeting. The next year’s officers and events should be planned as far in advance, as possible; including any Grand Lodge visitations. In theory, the District Deputy should oversee a significant amount of the planning; assisting as appropriate.
Among other details, timely plans should be made for the installation announcements, invitations, entertainment, decorations, printing & any gifts; including flowers / boutonnières. Additionally, any catering, as well as a setup & cleanup crew should be planned for. Any assistance such as a flag presentation team (Boy Scouts / DeMolay) and escorts (family, Jobs Daughters or Rainbow) should be requested – AND PLANNED - in a timely fashion. Follow-up calls/reminders should be made in a timely fashion, so as to allow contingency adjustment time; should any plans get unexpectedly changed, at the last minute.
As a minimum, each participating person should have a written agenda, and detailed instructions as to their role. Similarly, the supporting people require such instructions, as to assembly instructions, entry timing and signals into the Lodge room, etc. Nothing should be taken for granted. Ideally, a “buddy system” should be assigned, such that each person is aware of the person ahead of - and behind - them. No one should be ‘lost in the crowd.’
Traditionally, the chairs for the officers to be installed are placed in a semi-circle, west of the Altar. The Officers are to be seated in sequence. Each officer should be cognizant of the Marshal’s movements. In sequence, the officers being installed should automatically rise and position themselves, so that the Marshall can readily take them by their left arm & escort them into the appropriate position.
There should be at least one person designated to remove the chairs, as the officers are installed. It must be remembered that the Senior and Junior Warden, Treasurer and Secretary will initially be presented West of the Altar, together, then the Junior Warden, Treasurer and Secretary will return to their seats, before being escorted to receive their collars & implements. Therefore, only one chair will be removed from the line, even though all three/four are called up to the Altar.
Installations vary in quality and detail. Some are incredibly brief, with little ‘pomp-and-circumstance,’ while others are rather complex, detailed and long. It’s up to the Master & Lodge, as to how complex an installation can become.
The following is presented as a generic guide; with room for creativity and improvisation.
INSTALLATION PROGRAM
OUTGOING MASTER: "Installing Flag Bearers, please retire and present the American and Canadian Flags west of the Altar. EVERYONE, please stand." (Raps *** as Flag Bearers enter room)
OUTGOING MASTER: “Installing Flag Bearers, deposit the Flags in a place of honor in the East." (Done.) "Citizens of the United States, join me in the pledge of allegiance to the Flag."
[INSTALLING FLAG BEARERS RETURN TO STATIONS AT SIDE LINE.]
OUTGOING MASTER: “Brethren and guests, please join in the singing of the American and Canadian National Anthems."
OUTGOING MASTER:
● Make welcoming comments.
● Announce that there will only be one photographer.
● Explain raps of gavel (i.e. for Masons only, guests will be asked to rise at appropriate times)
● Purpose of Installation (talk up Lodge, activities, etc.)
● Parting remarks as outgoing Master.
● Presentation to ___?
[Introduction of All Visitors]
OUTGOING MASTER:
● Visiting members of Job's Daughters? Adult Leaders?
● Visiting members of Rainbow for Girls? Adult Leaders?
● Visiting members of DeMolay? Adult Leaders?
● Worthy Matrons/Patrons of Eastern Star?
● Worthy Matrons/Patrons of Amaranth?
● Members of other Lodges. (Except 200_ Officers)
● Visiting Junior Wardens for 200_.
● Visiting Senior Wardens for 200_.
● Visiting Worshipful Masters for 200_. (PGH) [Public Grand Honors]
● Visiting Deputies to the Grand Master; Grand Lodge Officers and Committeemen. (PGH)
● Grand Master of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Washington. (PGH)
OUTGOING MASTER: “Brother Installing Marshal, please retire and escort the Installing Master to the East".
[Introduces _____ (INSTALLING OFFICER)]
[Outgoing WM then slips out side door to go to preparation room]
INSTALLING OFFICER: “Installing Marshal, please retire and conduct the other installing officers to the East line.”
(Introduces Installing Officers; then invites them to take their respective stations and places.)
Wor. Bro. _____, Installing Master (Assisting)
Wor. Bro. _____, Installing Marshal
Wor. Bro. _____, Installing Secretary
Wor. Bro. _____, Installing Treasurer
Wor. Bro. _____, Installing Chaplain
Wor. Bro. _____, Installing Sr. Warden
Wor. Bro. _____, Installing Jr. Warden
Wor. Bro. _____, Installing Sr. Deacon
Wor. Bro. _____, Installing Jr. Deacon
Commence the Installation of Officers
INSTALLING OFFICER: “Brother Secretary, you will announce the names of the officers [and escorts] elected and appointed to govern this lodge. As their names are called, the brethren will take [be escorted to] their positions standing in a semi‑circle, West of the Altar.”
200_ OFFICERS AND ESCORTS
“WORSHIPFUL MASTER:
BRO. _____ Escorted by ____, Past Honored Queen and Majority Member, Bethel #__, International Order of Job's Daughters.”
“SENIOR WARDEN:
BRO. _____ Escorted by _____, Worshipful Associate Advisor ____ Assembly #__, Rainbow for Girls.”
“JUNIOR WARDEN:
BRO. _____ Escorted by _____, Past Worthy Advisor, ____ Assembly #__, Rainbow for Girls.”
“TREASURER:
WOR. BRO. ____ Escorted by _____, Past Honored Queen, Bethel __ and Past Grand Bethel Honored Queen, International Order of Job's Daughters of Washington.”
“SECRETARY:
WOR. BRO. _____ Escorted by _____, Worthy Advisor, ____ Assembly #__, Rainbow for Girls.”
“CHAPLAIN:
BRO. _____ Escorted by , _____, of _____.”
“MARSHAL:
BRO. _____ Escorted by , _____, of _____ .”
“SENIOR DEACON:
BRO. _____ Escorted by _____, Past Worthy Advisor, ____ Assembly#__ and Past Grand Page, District #__, Rainbow for Girls.”
“JUNIOR DEACON:
BRO. _____ Escorted by _____, Honored Queen‑elect, Bethel # __, International Order of Job's Daughters.”
“SENIOR STEWARD:
BRO. _____ Escorted by , _____, _____, of _____ Assembly #__, Rainbow for Girls.”
“JUNIOR STEWARD:
BRO. _____ Escorted by , _____, _____, of _____ Assembly #__, Rainbow for Girls.”
“ORGANIST:
BRO. _____ Escorted by , _____, of _____ .”
“TYLER:
BRO. _____ Escorted by , _____, of _____ .”
INSTALLING OFFICER: “Brethren of _____ Lodge, No. ___, you have heard the names of the brethren who have been selected as officers of your Lodge for the ensuing year. If any brother present knows of any just cause why any of the brethren should not be installed into office, he will make it known now.”
[THE OFFICERS‑ELECT ARE SEATED.] *
INSTALLING OFFICER: “Brother Marshal, are you satisfied that the brother selected to preside over this Lodge is eligible and well skilled in the noble science and royal art?”
INSTALLING MARSHALL: “I am satisfied, Worshipful Sir.” Automatically, turns and proceeds to conduct the new Master in front of the East. “I now present to you our worthy Brother _____ to be installed as the Worshipful Master of _____ Lodge, No. ___. We believe him to be of good morals, and of great skill, true and trusty; and, as he is a lover of the whole Fraternity wheresoever dispersed, we doubt not that our confidence in him is worthily bestowed.”
INSTALLING OFFICER: “Brother Marshal, you will place our brother at the Altar, there to receive the benefit of prayer, and to take his official obligation.”
THE MARSHAL WILL CONDUCT THE MASTER‑ELECT WEST OF THE ALTAR AND CAUSE HIM TO KNEEL, FACING THE EAST; IN LIKE MANNER THE CHAPLAIN WILL BE SIMULTANEOUSLY CONDUCTED EAST OF THE ALTAR; WHERE HE WILL KNEEL, FACING THE WEST, AND (THE BRETHREN BEING CALLED UP) OFFER THE FOLLOWING: “
BRO. _____: “Most Holy and Glorious Lord God! We approach Thee with reverence and implore Thy blessing on this brother, selected to preside over this Lodge, and now prostrate before Thee. Fill his heart with Thy fear; that his tongue and actions may pronounce Thy glory. Make him steadfast in Thy Service. Grant him firmness of mind. Animate his heart and strengthen his endeavors. May he teach Thy judgments and Thy laws, and be Thy true and faithful servant. Bless him, 0 Lord, and bless the work of his hands. Accept us in mercy. Hear, Thou, our prayer, and grant our earnest supplications. Amen!”
RESPONSE: “SO MOTE IT BE.”
[THE CHAPLAIN WILL ARISE AND BE RECONDUCTED TO HIS PLACE. THE MASTER‑ELECT WILL REMAIN KNEELING AT THE ALTAR; HANDS LOOSELY RESTING ON THE ALTAR.]
INSTALLING OFFICER: “Brother _____, you will now repeat your official obligation:”
"I solemnly promise, upon the honor of a Mason, that, in the office of Master of _____ Lodge, No. ___, I will, to the best of my ability, strictly comply with, abide by and enforce the Constitution and Regulations of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Washington, the By‑Laws of _____ Lodge, No. ___, and all Ancient Masonic Usages, so far as the same shall come to my knowledge."
[THE BRETHREN ARE THEN SEATED.]
THE MASTER‑ELECT REMAINS KNEELING.
INSTALLING OFFICER: “My Brother, previous to your investiture, it is necessary that you signify your assent to those Ancient Charges and Regulations which point out the duty of the Master of a Lodge.”
“You agree to be a good man and true, and strictly to obey the moral law?”
“You agree to be a peaceable citizen, and cheerfully conform to the laws of the country in which you reside?”
“You promise not to be concerned in plots and conspiracies against the government, but patiently submit to the law and the constituted authorities?”
“You agree to pay a proper respect to the civil magistrates; to work diligently, live creditably and act honorably toward all men?”
“You agree to hold in veneration the original rulers and patrons of Freemasonry, and their regular successors, supreme and subordinate, according to their stations; and to submit to the awards and resolutions of your brethren, when in Lodge convened, in every case consistent with the constitutions of Freemasonry?”
“You agree to avoid private piques and quarrels, and to guard against intemperance and excess? You agree to be cautious in your behavior, courteous to your brethren, and faithful to your Lodge?”
“You promise to respect genuine brethren, and to discountenance imposters and all dissenters from the original plan of Masonry?”
“You promise to pay homage to the Grand Master and to his officers when duly installed; and strictly to conform to every edict of the Grand Lodge (or general assembly of Masons) that is not subversive of the principals and groundwork of Masonry?”
“You agree to promote the general good of society, to cultivate the social virtues, and to propagate the knowledge of the mystic art?”
“You admit that it is not in the power of any person or body of men to make any alteration or innovation in the body of Masonry without the consent first obtained of the annual Grand Lodge?”
“You promise a regular attendance on the committees and communications of the Grand Lodge, on receiving proper notice, and to pay attention to all the duties of Masonry on convenient occasions?”
“You admit that no new Lodge can be formed without permission of the Grand Master or his Deputy, and that no countenance shall be given to any irregular Lodge, or to any person clandestinely made therein?”
“You admit that no person can be regularly made a Mason in, or admitted a member of, any regular Lodge without previous notice and due inquiry into his character?”
“You agree that no visitor shall be received into your Lodge without due examination or satisfactory evidence of his having been initiated in a regular Lodge?”
“These are the Regulations of Free and Accepted Masons. Do you submit to these Charges, and promise to support these Regulations, as Masters have done in all ages before you?”
MASTER‑ELECT: “I do.”
INSTALLING OFFICER: “Brother _____, in consequence of your cheerful conformity to the Charges and Regulations of our Ancient Fraternity, you are now to be installed Master of _____ Lodge, No. ___, in full confidence of your skill and capacity to govern the same.”
“Brother Marshal, you will conduct the Worshipful Master‑ elect to the East.”
INSTALLING OFFICER: “My Brother, with pleasure I now invest you with the Jewel of your Office, the Square.”
“As the Square is used by the operative mason to fit and adjust the stones of a building, that all its parts may properly agree, so you, as Master of this Lodge, are admonished, by the symbolic meaning of the Square, to preserve that moral deportment among the members of your Lodge which should always characterize the good and pure, especially the good Mason; and to exert your authority to prevent ill‑feeling or angry discussion arising to impair the harmony of their meetings.”
“You will now receive in charge the various implements used in your Lodge.”
THE MARSHAL, AS THE IMPLEMENTS ARE REFERRED TO, WILL HAND THE IMPLEMENTS TO THE MASTER, WHO WILL RETAIN THEM RESPECTIVELY DURING THE EXPLANATION BY THE INSTALLING OFFICER, AND THEN RETURN THEM TO THE MARSHAL; WHO WILL THEN PLACE THEM BACK ON THE TABLE.
INSTALLING OFFICER: “First, I present you with the Three Great Lights of Masonry: “the Holy Bible, Square, and Compasses.”
“The Holy Bible, the Great Light of Masonry, will guide you to all truth; it will direct your paths to the temple of happiness, and point out to you the whole duty of man.”
“The Square teaches us to regulate our actions and harmonize our conduct by the principles of morality and virtue.”
“The Compasses teach us to limit our desires in every station, that, rising to eminence by merit, we may live respected and die regretted.”
“I also present you with the Rule and Line. The Rule directs that we should punctually observe our duty, press forward in the path of virtue, and, inclining neither to the right nor to the left, in all our actions have eternity in view.”
“The Line teaches us the criterion of moral rectitude; to avoid dissimulation in conversation and action, and to direct our steps in the path which leads to immortality.”
“The Book of Constitutions you are to search at all times.”
“Cause it to be read in your Lodge, that none may pretend ignorance of the excellent precepts it enjoins.”
“You now receive in your special charge the Charter, by the authority of which this Lodge is held. As its lawful custodian, you are carefully to preserve and duly transmit it to your successor in office.”
You will also receive in charge the By‑Laws of your Lodge, which you are to see carefully and punctually executed.”
“And, lastly, I place in your hands the Gavel, an additional insignia of your rank and authority. Wield it, my brother, with prudence and discretion ‑ firmly, but never arbitrarily ‑ to the end that good order and harmony may be preserved.”
“I now seat you in the Oriental Chair, and cover you with that distinction which, in this Lodge, it is your privilege alone to wear.”
INSTALLING OFFICER WILL TAKE THE MASTER BY THE HAND, PLACE HIM IN THE CHAIR, PLACE A HAT ON HIS HEAD, UNCOVER, AND THEN CALL UP THE LODGE. THE MASTER WILL ALSO RISE AND HOLD HIS GAVEL ON HIS LEFT BREAST WITH HIS RIGHT HAND.
INSTALLING OFFICER: “Worshipful Master, behold your brethren. Brethren, behold your Worshipful Master and join with me in giving the Public Grand Honors.”
THE GRAND HONORS ARE GIVEN (3 X 3).
W.M. SEATS THE LODGE.
NEWLY INSTALLED MASTER MAY NOW INSTALL OTHER OFFICERS. THIS PRIVILEGE, HOWEVER, IS USUALLY WAIVED IN FAVOR OF THE ORIGINAL INSTALLING OFFICER, AND IN SUCH CASE THE MASTER UNCOVERS.
MUSICAL INTERLUDE (PAUSE)
INSTALLING OFFICER: “Brother Marshal, you will now conduct the Wardens, Treasurer and Secretary to the Altar for obligation. (To those Officers standing) Place your right hand over your heart and repeat after me: “I solemnly promise, upon the honor of a Mason, that I ò will, to the best of my ability, strictly comply with the Constitutions and Regulations of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Washington, the By‑laws of Kirkland Lodge, No. 150, and all Ancient Masonic Usages, so far as the same shall come to my knowledge, and will carefully and punctually perform all the duties appertaining to my office.”
IN PRESENTING THE OFFICERS, THE MARSHAL WILL ANNOUNCE THE NAME OF THE BROTHER AND THE OFFICE TO WHICH HE HAS BEEN ELECTED, RE‑ELECTED, OR APPOINTED; AND, WHEN INSTALLED, CONDUCT HIM TO HIS STATION OR PLACE IN THE LODGE. AS THE NEW OFFICER IS CONDUCTED, APPLAUSE IS APPROPRIATE.
SENIOR WARDEN
INSTALLING OFFICER: “Brother _____, you have been elected Senior Warden of this Lodge, and will now be invested with the jewel of your office (the Marshal places the jewel). The Level reminds us that we are descended from the same stock and partake of the same nature; and, although distinctions among men are necessary to preserve subordination, yet no eminence of station should make us forget that we are brethren and that he who is placed on the lowest spoke of fortune's wheel may be entitled to our regard; because a time will come, and the wisest knows not how soon, when all distinctions but that of goodness shall cease, and death, the grand leveler of human greatness, reduces us to the same state.”
“Your regular and punctual attendance is essentially necessary. In the absence of the Master, you are to govern the Lodge; in his presence, you are to assist him in the government of it. Your fitness for such important duties doubtless led to your selection for the office by your brethren; and it will be your duty, in evincing your love ò for Masonry and your attachment to the Lodge, so to act as to justify the full confidence of your brethren. Bro. ____, look well to the West.”
JUNIOR WARDEN
“Brother _____, you have been elected Junior Warden of this Lodge, and will now be invested with the Jewel of your office. The Plumb admonishes us to walk uprightly in our several stations; to hold the scales of justice in equal poise; to observe the just medium between intemperance and pleasure, and to make our passions and prejudices coincide with the line of our duty.”
“To you is committed the superintendence of Craft during the hours of refreshment; it is, therefore, indispensably necessary that you should not only be temperate and discreet in the indulgence of your own inclinations, but also careful to observe that none of the Craft convert the means of refreshment into intemperance and excess.”
“Your regular and punctual attendance is particularly requested; and we have no doubt that you will be ever watchful, whether at labor or refreshment, that the high twelve of observation may not find you with work, and ò that of the Craft you superintend, unperformed. Bro. _____, look well to the South.”
TREASURER
“Brother _____, you have been elected Treasurer of this Lodge, and will now be invested with the jewel of your office. It is your duty to take charge of the stocks and other property of the Lodge; to receive all moneys from the hands of the Secretary, keep just and regular accounts of the same, pay them out by order of the Worshipful Master and consent of the Lodge. We trust that your regard for the Fraternity will prompt you to the faithful discharge of the duties of your office.”
SECRETARY
“Brother _____, you have been re‑elected Secretary of this Lodge and will now be re‑invested with the jewel of your office. As the prosperity and success of the Lodge in a great measure depend upon the ability, faithfulness and assiduity of the Secretary, the office you assume carries with it great responsibilities, of which, we trust, you have a full appreciation. It is your duty to observe the will and pleasure of the Worshipful Master; ò record all proceedings of the Lodge proper to be written, transmit a copy of the same to the Grand Lodge when required; receive all moneys due the Lodge, pay them over to the Treasurer, taking his receipt therefore. Your good inclination to Masonry and your Lodge will induce you to discharge the duties of your office with fidelity; by so doing you will merit the esteem and applause of your brethren.”
SECRETARY-TREASURER
“Brother _____ you have been elected Secretary-Treasurer of this Lodge and will now be invested with the Jewels) of your Office. As the prosperity and success of the Lodge in a great measure depend upon the ability, faithfulness and assiduity of the Secretary-Treasurer, the office you assume carries with it great responsibilities, of which, we trust, you have a full appreciation. It is your duty to observe the will and pleasure of the Worshipful Master; record all proceedings of the .Lodge proper to be written, transmit a copy of the same to the Grand Lodge when required; take charge of the stocks and other property of the Lodge; receive all moneys due the Lodge, keep just and regular accounts of the same, pay them out by order of the Worshipful Master and consent of the Lodge. Your good inclination will induce you to discharge the duties of your office with fidelity; by so doing you will merit the esteem and applause of your Brethren.”
CHAPLAIN
“Brother _____, you have been appointed Chaplain of this Lodge. The Holy Bible [which is the chart and text-book of your sacred calling] is the Great Light of Masonry, and forever sheds its benignant rays upon every lawful assemblage of Free and Accepted Masons. From it we learn our duty to God, our neighbors and ourselves. Teach us from its life-giving precepts, and you will have faithfully fulfilled your sacred and important trust. It is fitting that an emblem of the sacred volume should be the jewel of your office, with which you will now be invested.”
MARSHAL
“Brother _____, you have been appointed Marshal of this Lodge, and will now be invested with the baton as the appropriate emblem of your office. It is your duty to form aria conduct all processions of the brethren of the Lodge on all public occasions; and to attend to such other interests, in the practice of our rites, as occasion may require and the Worshipful Master direct.”
DEACONS
“Brothers ____ and _____, you have been appointed Deacons of this Lodge, and will now be invested with the jewels of your office; and we place in your hands these rods, which you will bear in the performance of official duty as symbols of your deputed authority. It is your province to attend on the Master and Wardens, and to act as their proxies in the active duties of the Lodge, such as in the reception of candidates into the different degrees of Masonry, the introduction and accommodation of visitors, and in the immediate practice of our rites. The Square and Compasses, as badges of your office, we entrust to your care, not doubting your vigilance and attention. You will repair to your respective places in the Lodge.”
STEWARDS
“Brothers _____, and _____ you have been appointed Stewards of this Lodge, and will now be invested with the jewel of your office; and we place in your hand this rod, which you will bear in the performance of official duty, as symbol of your deputed authority. You are to assist the Deacons and other officers in the performance of their respective duties; and, when the Lodge is at refreshment, it will be your province to see that the tables are well furnished, and to extend to members and visiting brethren such attentions as circumstances may suggest. Your regular and early attendance at our meetings will afford the best proof of your zeal, and of your attachment to the Lodge.”
ORGANIST
Brother _____, you have been appointed Organist of this Lodge, and will now be invested with the jewel of your office. Under the direction of the Worshipful Master, you will conduct the musical services of the Lodge. As harmony is the strength and support of all institutions, may the harmony over which you preside strengthen and support every gentle and ennobling emotion of the soul.
TYLER
Brother ____, you have been appointed Tyler of this Lodge, and will now be invested with the jewel and implement of your office. As the sword is placed in the hands of the Tyler to enable him effectually to guard against the approach of cow-tens and eavesdroppers, and see that none pass or repass but such as are duly qualified, so it should admonish us to set a guard over our thoughts, a watch at our lips, and post a sentinel over our actions; thereby preventing the approach of every unworthy thought, word, or deed, and preserving consciences void of offense toward God and man. We trust your regard for good order will prompt you to the faithful discharge of your duties.
CHARGE TO THE MASTER
INSTALLING OFFICER: “Worshipful Master (who rises), the superintendence and government of the brethren who compose this lodge having been committed to your care, you cannot be insensible to the obligations which devolve on you as their head, nor to your responsibility for the faithful discharge of the important duties pertaining to your office.”
“The honor, reputation and usefulness of your Lodge will materially depend upon the skill and assiduity with which you manage its concerns, while the happiness of its members will be generally promoted in proportion to the zeal and ability with which you propagate the genuine principles of our Institution.”
“As a pattern for imitation, consider the great luminary of nature, which, rising in the East, regularly diffuses light and luster to all within its circle. In like manner it is your province to spread and communicate light and instruction to the brethren of your Lodge.”
“Forcefully impress upon them the dignity and high importance of Masonry, and seriously admonish them never to disgrace it. Charge them to practice out of the Lodge those duties which they have been taught in it; and, by amiable, virtuous and discreet conduct, to convince mankind of the goodness of the Institution; so that, when a person is said to be a member of it, the world may know that he is one to whom the burdened heart may pour out its sorrow; to whom distress may prefer its suit; whose hand is guided by justice, and whose heart is expanded by benevolence.”
“In short, by a diligent observance of the By‑laws of your Lodge, the Constitutions of Freemasonry, and above all, the Holy Scriptures, which are given as the rule and guide of your faith, you will be enabled to acquit yourself with honor and to merit the confidence repose in you.”
CHARGE TO THE WARDENS
INSTALLING OFFICER:
“Brothers Senior Warden and Junior Warden (who rise), you are too well acquainted with the principles of Freemasonry to warrant a distrust that you will be found in wanting in the discharge of your respective duties. What you have seen praiseworthy in others, you should carefully emulate; and what in them may have appeared defective, you should in yourselves amend. You should be examples of good order and regularity; for it is only by due regard for the laws, in your own conduct, that you can expect obedience to them from others.”
“You are assiduously to assist the Worshipful Master in the discharge of his trust, diffusing light and imparting knowledge to all whom he shall place under your care. In the absence of the Master, you will succeed to higher duties; your acquirements, therefore, must be such that the Craft may never suffer for want of proper instruction.”
“From the spirit which you have hitherto evinced, I entertain no doubt that your conduct will be such as to merit the applause of your brethren and the testimony of a good conscience.”
CHARGE TO THE LODGE
INSTALLING OFFICER: “Brethren of ____ Lodge, No. ___, such is the nature of our constitutions, that as some must, of necessity, teach and rule, so others must, of course, learn and obey. Humility in bother is an essential duty. the officers who have been selected to govern your Lodge are sufficiently conversant with the rules of propriety and the laws of the Institution to avoid exceeding the powers with which they are entrusted, and o you are of too generous disposition to envy their preferment. I, therefore, trust that you will have by one aim ‑ to please each other, and to unite in the grand design of being happy and communicating happiness.”
“Finally, my brethren, as this Fraternity has been formed and perfected in so much unanimity and concord, in which we greatly rejoice, so may it long continue. May you long enjoy every satisfaction and delight which disinterested friendship can afford. May kindliness and brotherly affection distinguish your conduct as men and Masons. Within your peaceful walls may your children's children celebrate, with joy and gratitude, the annual recurrence of this auspicious solemnity. And may the tenets of our profession be transmitted through your Lodge, pure and unimpaired, from generation to generation.”
INSTALLING OFFICER: “Brother Marshal, you will make proclamation that the officers of ___ Lodge, No. ___, have been duly installed, with exception of (as appropriate).”
“WOR. BRO. _____: “I am directed to proclaim, and I do now proclaim, that the Worshipful Master, Wardens and other officers selected to govern ____ Lodge, No. __, have been duly installed into their respective stations and places, with exception of the (as appropriate).”
INSTALLING OFFICER: “Installing Chaplain, the benediction.” (Installing Marshal escorts Chaplain to Altar).
INSTALLING CHAPLAIN: “Almighty and Everlasting God! Whom cometh every good and perfect gift, send down upon Thy servants here assembled the healthful spirit of Thy grace, that they may truly please Thee in all their doings. Grant, 0 Lord, power of mind and great understanding unto those whom we have this day clothed with authority to preside over and direct the affairs of this Lodge; and so replenish them with the truth of Thy precepts, and adorn them with humility of life, that, both by word and good example, they may faithfully serve Thee, to the glory of thy Holy Name, and to the advancement, for all good purposes, of our beloved Institution. Amen!”
RESPONSE: “So Mote It Be.”
INSTALLATION PROCEDURE COMPLETE
NEW MASTER IS NOW IN CHARGE (TAKES OVER)
● MUSICAL INTERLUDE (Called for.)
● INTRODUCE MUSICIANS (As Appropriate):
● “Name / Institution / Status
● “Name / Institution / Status
● BIBLE SIGNING (Announced)
● NEW MASTER ESCORTED BY IMMEDIATE PAST MASTER. (AT SIDE DOOR)
● SIGNING OF TRAVELING BIBLE (If Appropriate)
● PRESENTATIONS
● PERSONAL/TRAVELING GAVEL (If Appropriate)
● TO IMMEDIATE PAST MASTER:
● PAST MASTER'S APRON
● PAST MASTER’S CERTIFICATE (If Appropriate)
● PRESENT FROM 200_ OFFICERS TO OUTGOING MASTER
● OFFICERS TRAVELING JEWELS (If appropriate)
● EXPLAIN PURPOSE TO GUESTS, ETC.
[NOTE: Unless a strict method is used, a “raw” exchange of lapel-pin Officer’s jewels can be sufficiently awkward as to detract from the ceremony.
● CALL FOR “ANY OTHER” PRESENTATIONS
● INTRODUCTIONS:
● 1997 OFFICERS (ELECTED OR INSTALLED) (JUNIOR WARDEN; SENIOR WARDEN; THE WORSHIPFUL MASTER (TO EAST BY SD) (PGH)
● SPECIAL GUESTS INTRODUCES FAMILY AND FRIENDS
● SENIOR WARDEN INTRODUCES HIS LADY, FAMILY AND FRIENDS
● JUNIOR WARDEN INTRODUCES HIS LADY, FAMILY AND FRIENDS
● OUTGOING MASTER INTRODUCES HIS LADY, FAMILY AND FRIENDS.
CLOSING REMARKS:
● CALL ON DISTRICT DEPUTY FOR REMARKS
● THANKS TO INSTALLING TEAM & ANY SUPPORTING PERSONNEL
● ANY REMARKS FROM SIDELINES.
● NEW MASTER'S REMARKS (Announces completion & requests everyone to adjourn into dining room. If a recessional is used, the Master should announce that the guests should follow the recessional into the dining room.)
RECESSIONAL:
● ____ STARTS PLAYING "[CHOSEN TITLE SONG]".
● If a retiring march is used, the newly installed officers should be called – in reverse order by title/name to introduce their lady / escort at the Altar, then assemble in the Northeast, officers to the outside, with their lady across. When the assembly is done, the Junior officers will be to the front of the line, with the Senior Warden at the West. The final announcement will be the Worshipful Master introducing his lady at the altar, then walking straight through the line, with the officers & ladies following in a “collapsing” fashion. If possible, members with swords / DeMolay may form an arch of swords at the entrance, for the final exit.
[SAMPLE INSTALLATION PROGRAM]
________ LODGE NO. ___
Free and Accepted Masons
of Washington
Open Installation of Officers
[symbol / picture]
Saturday, January __, 200_
2:00 p.m.
________ Masonic Center
______ Main Street
City, Washington
www.ourlodge.org
Elected Officers
Worshipful Master Brother _____
Senior Warden Brother _____
Junior Warden Brother _____
Treasurer WB _____
Secretary WB _____
[NOTE: Consideration should be given to a ‘simple’ officer listing, versus a breakdown.]
Appointed Officers
Chaplain Brother _____
Marshal Brother _____
Senior Deacon Brother _____
Junior Deacon Brother _____
Senior Steward Brother _____
Junior Steward Brother _____
Tyler Brother Brother _____
Installing Officers
Installing Master WB _____
Installing Senior Deacon WB _____
Installing Secretary WB _____
Installing Marshals VWB _____
WB _____
Bro. _____
Installing Chaplain WB _____
Installation of Worshipful Master
MWB _____
Installation of Senior Warden
RWB _____
Installation of Junior Warden
Brother _____
Installation of Treasurer and Secretary
WB _____
Installation of Chaplain and Marshal
WB _____
Installation of Deacons and Tyler
* *WB _____
Charge to the Master RWB _____
Charge to the Wardens WB _____
Charge to the Lodge RWB _____
Proclamation VWB _____
Benediction Brother _____
Program
Musical Prelude
Welcome
Presentation of American and Canadian Flags
Pledge of Allegiance and National Anthems
Introduction of 2003 Masters
Introduction of Grand Lodge Officers
Entrance and Introduction of Installing Officers
Entrance of Elected and Appointed Officers
Installation of Officers
Charge to the Master
Charge to the Wardens
Charge to the Lodge
Proclamation
Benediction
Remarks of New Master
Presentations
Introductions
Closing Charge
Retiring March of Officers and Ladies
Reception in Dining Room
Acknowledgments
Kitchen _____
Music _____
Photographer _____
“Others” _____
Pledge of Allegiance
I pledge allegiance to the flag,
Of the United States of America;
and to the republic for which it stands.
One nation under God.
Indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.
THE STAR SPANGLED BANNER
Oh, say, can you see, by the dawn's early light,
What so proudly we hailed at the twilight's last gleaming?
Whose broad stripes and bright stars, thro' the perilous fight'
O'er the ramparts we watched, were so gallantly streaming.
And the rockets red glare, the bombs bursting in air,
Gave proof through the night that our flag was still there.
Oh, say, does that star-spangled banner yet wave
O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave?
0 Canada!
O Canada!
Our home and native land!
True patriot love in all thy sons command.
With glowing hearts we see thee rise,
The True North strong and free! From far and wide,
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.
God keep our land glorious and free!
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.
Thank you for sharing this special time here with us this evening. Thanks also are extended to all members of the Masonic family for their support given in so many ways. Please have a safe trip home and we hope you can visit our Lodge again in the near future.
____ Lodge Past Masters
[LIST]
THINGS TO THINK ABOUT
Arrange for families/friends to be grouped – perhaps in the same section of the Lodge Room. Any of the Grand Lodge team should be so grouped, preferably on the north-side, in the front.
If feasible, make arrangements for any visiting Masters to be identified, via a written note, for introduction. The visiting Wardens may also be introduced, but this obviously extends the program.
Introductions should be done in a “confident” manner. Avoid looking mystified / bewildered. The Master and Wardens should have a reasonable idea of who is present, avoiding a “meek” impression.
GOOD:
“All elected and installed Senior Wardens for 2005; assemble West of the Altar!”
POOR:
“Are there any Senior Wardens? Please meet me West of the Altar.”
The officers being installed should be wearing the apron of their new office.
“Stand-in” officers may be asked to temporarily occupy the Warden’s spots, but such isn’t required. If so, they should be in place, prior to the start-up – IF – there is no march-in of the installing officers. If the installing team is marched in, these “temps” should be among them.
Two installing Marshals may be used to expedite the installation, so that as one officer is being escorted to his station, the “secondary” can be escorting the next officer to be installed.
Extra chairs should be placed for the incoming Senior Deacon, Marshall & Chaplain. Three chairs to the Northeast, Four chairs in the Southeast.
The installation implements should be inventoried, for completeness, with the table appropriately placed for easy access to the various implements. The officer collars & jewels should be arranged in sequence, with the Master’s collar & jewel at the podium. The Charter tube should be pre-opened, with the Charter pulled partially out.
Ideally, the Deacon should hand the implements to the Marshal.
If there is no flag presentation planned, the Flag should be placed in the East.
As implements are handed to the officers, they should be received in their left hand, prepared for a handshake.
If there are no Grand Lodge officers present, introductions may be deferred to the Festive Board, otherwise, all Masonic introductions should be done in the Lodge Room.
The Deacons and Stewards should be ready to stand so that the Marshall can walk between them & seize their arms; expediently escorting them.
Ushers should be appointed to “shoo” the guests into the Lodge Room, enabling a timely startup.
The Installing Deacon should escort the Outgoing Master & Installing Marshall to the East, then take his station.
The Installing Marshal should be briefed to shake the new officer’s hand at the officer’s new station, adding a word of congratulations.
When directed, the Deacon retires through the Lodge Room entrance & leads the installing officers West of the Podium. The Master should be pre- positioned between the Altar & the installing officer line. With a brief word of welcome, by the Master, the installing team will assume their positions, as their name and title is called.
If a formal flag presentation is used, either the Deacon & Marshall will typically be instructed to present the flags, or an outside team, such as Boy Scouts or DeMolay. The persons directed will go to the flags & march them West of the altar, crossing, so that the American flag is closest to the altar. If the Marshall & Deacon are used, they can add the step of marching, so as to criss-cross in front of the altar, en route to the flags.
If escorts are used to present the new officers for installation, it’s a “nice” step to have the officer escorted to the West of the Alter, bow to the escort, turn & bow to the Master, then take their seats. In the absence of an escort, the bow to the master makes for a nice bit of polish.
SETTING PROTOCOL
At no later than Installation time, the Master & officers should have written and/or electronic information on their counterparts in the given district – names, Lodges, locations, phone numbers and E-mail addresses. Officer group visitations should be planned and carried out – so as to ‘set an example.’ Ideally, the Lodge officers should have Masonic business cards and a pocket Lodge name tag. Communication protocol should be set. If an officer is intending to visit a Lodge, he should send at least an E-mail or make a phone call to his colleague at the Lodge. The communication should contain “news” of the Lodge, so as to allow the ‘resident’ officer the opportunity to stimulate conversation. If the Lodge officers have no dynamic fellowship; what will the Lodge members have? “Fellowship” should not be an accident.
