York Rite Registered Apprentice Ritual
York Rite Registered Apprentice Ritual
RITUAL
REGISTERED LEARNER
YORK RITE / SYMBOLIC LODGES
The Registered Apprentice Ritual
The rituals of the American Blue Lodges were originally translated and
adapted for the Portuguese language under the auspices of the Supreme Grand
Chapter of Masons of the Royal Arch of Brazil, enabling the Obediences
Brazilian regulars work the Symbolic Degrees of the legitimate York Rite.
It was up to IrJoão Guilherme da Cruz Ribeiro to coordinate the work.
of translation and revision, being granted to the Grand Masonic Lodges and,
subsequently, organized by the Liturgy Commission.
The total or partial reproduction of this work is prohibited without express permission.
(Law No. 5,988, of December 14, 1973)
Illustrations:
João Guilherme and Luis Eduardo Santana
Organization:
Liturgy Commission
II
TERM OF AUTHENTICITY
This copy of the York Rite Ritual, whose authenticity I guarantee, remains
No. ___, to the Or. of _________________, on the ____ days of the month of
_______________ of the year ________, to whom it is entrusted to ensure its faithful and
or by any means.
________________________________
Grand Secretary of International Relations
VILLAGE
III
CESSION OF USE
The present copy of the Ritual of the Registered Apprentice Degree is intended
started on the ____ days of the month of _____________ of the year of _______ , which,
in this act assumes, freely and consciously, full and total responsibility for
its custody, responsible for ensuring its state of conservation and maintaining it,
they should not overlook him and return him, in the case of disconnection from the Order.
_____________________________________
Venerable Master
_____________________________________
Secretary
IV
SUMÁRIO
Presentation, X to XIV
Ordinary Session
Unknown visitor, 6
Admission Request, 24
Requesting entry, 50
Changes
V
Initiation Ceremony
–Preamble, 55
Preparation Room, 59
Oath, 104
Exhortation, 134
Instructions
Third Instruction
Supplementary Instructions
VI
GLOSSARY
Abbreviations
Apr–Entered Apprentice
Holy Bible
Cand–Candidate
Cond–Conductor
Cap–Chaplain
Cob–Cobridor (Tiler)
C–Compass
E–Square
Irmão (Brother)
Inst- Instructor
Mar–Marechal (Marshall)
Master of Ceremonies
MM–Master Mason
Mord–Steward
VII
Nív–Level
Org–Organist (Organist)
Word
Password
Pr–Prumo (Plumb)
Ps–Step
Secretary
Sn Fid–Sign of Fidelity
Sn Pn - Penal Signal
Sn Rp–Signal of Respect
Tq–Torque (Grip)
Tq Verd–True Grip
Treasurer
VM–Worshipful Master
VIII
Like Old, are you just arriving now?
And this is not all. A seventh Rite was practiced in the interior of São Paulo.
for some time by refugees from the American Civil War, but
disappeared when the Grand East of the Benedictines returned to the bosom of
Great East of Brazil, where the English presence is an excellent translation
the Modern English Ritual ensured that this prevailed and not the other,
forgotten.
Yes, for years on end, the York Rite—or, more precisely, the English Rite
Antigo–acabou esquecido entre nós. Uma lástima, porque seus rituais são os
closer to the original models, and also those that suffered the least
changes and interpolations of 'reviewers'. Their forms, consolidated by
Great Store of the Ancients, were transported to the United States when
these were still British colonies, and there they remained without major issues
changes in form and content. In England, however, the rituals would undergo
extensive modifications were made for the union of the two Greats
Rival stores, the Moderns (from 1717) and the Ancients (from 1751). Hence this
classification we created to understand the two Rites:
Modern English Rite, that created by the new rituals post-1813, among them the
Emulation;
It is this Rite that now returns to Brazil, at the initiative of the Supreme Grand
Chapter of Masons of the Royal Arch of Brazil.
João Guilherme C. Ribeiro, PGSS, MRA, MI, Deputy General Grand High
Priest - Latin America
X
Mensagem ao Recém Iniciado
You started in a Lodge that adopts the York Rite, the most practiced one throughout
the world. We estimate that in every 5 Masons in the world, at least 3 use
this practice. Despite the global 'supremacy', in Brazil it is still little
known. In our country, approximately 90% of the Stores use the Rite
Ancient and Accepted Scottish - REAA.
Who is who?
XI
A large Masonic Lodge confederated to CMSB, as a sovereign obedience,
has total authority over the degrees of Apprentice, Companion, and Master.
OSGCMRAB, as the entity responsible for Higher Degrees, realized that for
a greater expansion of the Chapters, Councils, and Commanderies, would be
it is necessary to provide support to the Symbolic Stores, even though I do not have authority
about them. There were obediences in Brazil that had provisions for the Rite of
York in its legislation, but they did not have the Rituals. It was necessary that the
Grand Lodges (CMSB), Grand Orient of Brazil (GOB) and Grand Orients
Independents (COMAB) had access to a Ritual.
The Grand Lodge of New York granted rituals for the SGCMRAB
translated and made available to the Brazilian Obediences. Our dear brother
João Guilherme Cruz Ribeiro made a marvelous adaptation and, with great
generosity freely ceded its use to all Regular Obediences
from Brazil. OSGCMRAB went even further, created a customizable edition...
Any Lodge that wished to adopt the York Rite would not need to
to worry about correction, layout, or printing, it would be enough to acquire the ritual already
with your own logo. Such ease provided in addition to a
explosion of the Rite, a great irony: standardization.
XII
monotheistic beliefs.
The common sense that should accompany all Freemasons must be able to
make him draw good teachings from any religion. Just say that
there are Higher Bodies of the York Rite, which have a "load of
Christianity" much more intense than that of the Symbolic Lodges, functioning in
non-Christian countries, such as Israel.
Finally...
We hope that this version of the ritual will be useful to all the brothers in
practice, in the study and dissemination of the York Rite, at this time we are
open to criticism, doubts, and suggestions.
Try to list the people who helped the York Rite spread through the
Bahian terraces like gunpowder fuses would be the almost certain guarantee of committing the
error of some omission, however it is mandatory to register the names of
Antônio Carlos Moreira, Luiz Carlos Barreira, Luís Eduardo Santana and Társis
Valentim Pinchemel. Let all the brothers who embraced this cause feel embraced,
lovingly embraced.
Organizing Committee
XIII
XIV
For those coming from other rites
You who come from other Rites may find our rituals strange at first,
but in a short time you will have no difficulty and certainly, thus
like us, will enjoy a lot. Several noticeable differences will be perceived,
we will now try to summarize in a way that facilitates the adaptation of those who visit
first time a Lodge that works in the York Rite.
Temple;
Entrance or Exit Procession;
Transmission of the Word at the opening and closing;
Destrocentric Circulation (Always from right to left);
Circulation of the Word between columns;
Battery;
Acclamation;
Bag (sack) of proposals and information;
Trunk of Solidarity; or,
The positions of Orator, Expert, Hospitaler, Chancellor, Sword Bearer, Bearer
Standard and Architect.
Meeting Location
The Meeting Place is not called a temple nor treated as such. Not
there is a ceremony of 'Temple Consecration' so that the meetings can
to occur. We have a Ceremony of Consecration of the Great Lights
Bible, Square and Compass). Only with these instruments
duly consecrated it is possible to hold the meeting anywhere
properly covered. Likewise, the places where the Guardians are located
they are not called thrones, but stations.
Disposition
If the Lodge has a room specially prepared for the York Rite, the
the greater differences felt will be:
The station (place) of the First Vigilante is located at the center of the West side of the Altar;
The existence of two side doors, instead of one central one. One of the doors
is used only in the granting of degrees;
The columns are located on the internal door to the left of the first guard;
XVI
Only the Secretary and Treasurer have desks, the lights use only one.
Column to support your instruments;
Order Signal
Circulation
The circulation in York Rite stores is always done walking in a straight line.
(like the DeMolays). It is not necessary to always circulate to the right as in
REAA and not even greeting while passing through the center of the room, right?
there is a delta to greet.
The only restriction is that no one can cross the imaginary line that goes from the
Holy Bible to the Venerable Master. The meaning of this rule goes back to
the Venerable Master must never take his eyes off the Volume of the Sacred Book
as a guide for your actions. The exception to this rule is in the well
specific in the degree conferral ceremonies.
This is the basic structure of a meeting. Ideally, the board should structure the
agenda before the start of the work to optimize time and eliminate steps
superfluous.
XVII
York Store Layout
Eighteen
Adaptation to the REAA Temple
Regarding the station of the Venerable Master, there have already been situations where
we simply ignore the existing table in the REAA temple. We placed the
chairs of the Venerable, Chaplain and Mastern line of the Eastern grid,
isolating the entire back part. This practice makes the whole Store level.
as determined by the ritual, but it can considerably reduce the usable space.
Some REAA temples have fixed candelabra, sometimes even with wiring.
built-in electric. If it is not possible to move these candlesticks to the positions
correct, it is better to use them in the position they are in than to risk
to damage the installation.
If it is not possible to adapt the room for the Ritual, adapt the Ritual to the Room.
Nineteen
York Rite layout in the Temple of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite
XX
RITUALISTIC GUIDELINES
The meeting starts with everyone inside the Store and wearing their aprons. The necklaces
the two officers must be seated in their chairs so that they can be placed under the
command of the Venerable Master.
Twenty-one
Beats with the Pack
In the York Rite, the knocks with the gavel made by the Venerable Master or by
one of the Watchmen has meaning. It is recommended that this explanation occurs
during the opening of the proceedings if there are visitors present who
ignore the Rite.
The Master and the 2nd Deacon knock on the outer door of the Lodge according to the
degree to which the Store is operating.
The knocks on the internal door of the Store (Preparation Room) will always be
attended by the 1st Deacon.
Solomon, King of Israel, used the crown as an emblem of royalty and symbol
of distinction. Following this ancient custom, the VM or whoever presides a
the meeting should be covered by a top hat.
( )
Imaginary Line
The area between the Venerable Master's station and the altar is sometimes called
Rug of the Venerable. No brother should cross the imaginary line between the
Altar and the VM while the Store is open, the exception is made when the
ritual works as it requires. The Venerable Master is responsible
for spreading Masonic light through the Lodge, and how Masons regard the Bible
Sacred as the source of this Light, therefore, we should never block it.
view of the Venerable Master on the Holy Bible about the altar.
Twenty-two
Seats of the Freemasons
The Holy Bible at the Registered Apprentice level should be opened at the Psalm
CXXXIII and the Square and Compass must be placed on the opposite side where
here is the verse, leaving it in sight.
Great Honors
The Great Honors are given with applause, first they clap three times.
palmas, sendo a mão direita por cima, depois mais três palmas, sendo a mão
left on top and finally three more claps, with the right hand
again on top.
1.
2.
3.
Great Honors are given to the Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master, Past
Grand Masters and Representatives of the Grand Master.
XXIII
XXIV
APRONS OF THE YORK RITE
25
Chaplain Marshal
Secretary Treasurer
XXVI
1st Butler 2nd Butler
Organist Cobridor
Twenty-seven
JEWELS OF THE YORK RITE
Twenty-eight
Chaplain Marshal
Secretary Treasurer
29
1st Butler 2nd Butler
Organist Cover
XXX
STICKS JEWELS OF THE YORK RITE
XXXI
32
Registered Apprentice
OPENING OF REGISTERED APPRENTICE STORE
Org–
VM–(C )
(Everyone sits down)
VM - Fulfill this duty and inform the Collector that I am about to open the
Lodge .......... No .... in the First Degree of Freemasonry, instructing him to take the
due note of this and governs accordingly.
(The 2ndD talks to the Coverer through the open door and without the stick)
2
Registered Apprentice
2ºD–I come to inform you that the Venerable Master is about to open the Lodge
.......... No .... in the First Degree of Freemasonry. Take note of this and
govern yourselves accordingly.
(O 2ºD fecha a porta para dar a batida)
2ndD–( )
(The Coverer responds)
Cob–()
(The 2ndD returns to its place and remains standing)
VM-Brother 2ndD...
2nd D - By a Mason Master from the outside, armed with the tool
appropriate to your profession.
VM–His duty?
2ndD - Observe the approach of intruders and curious people, and do not allow them to.
no one enter or leave except those duly qualified who have the
permission of the Venerable Master.
(the 2ndD sits)
3
Registered Apprentice
(the 2ndD takes his baton with his left hand and positions himself in front of
1st V station and does the Sn Fid and responds.)
Org–
(The 2ndD performs the verification by visually observing all those present and
your aprons, starting from the North side of the Store Room,
crossing the axis to the South side, ending in front of the Station
do 1st Vig.)
4
Registered Apprentice
VERIFICATION OF THE PRESENTS
5
Registered Apprentice
Unknown Visitor
1stV–Please leave the room under the escort of brother ......, until a
a commission shall be appointed to examine you.
(The 2ndD follows the stranger outside the Store, handing him over to the Cob and
returns to the Store Room
(The 1stV chooses two more Brothers, who go out to examine the strange.
together with the Cob)
(Being qualified, he will return to the Store Room. If not having the
necessary qualification will be asked to leave)
6
Registered Apprentice
1st V–(Sn Fid) Worshipful Master...
1st V - Now obtain it from the Brothers on the right and left, and communicate it to
Venerable Master in the East.
(If the Store Room has more than one level in the North and South, at this moment)
All workers must remain at the same level, except those who are in the
station of the Venerable Master
(During the entire verification in the Lodge Room, the 1st V remains standing)
The Deacons proceed to the East, each on his side of the Hall of
Store, taking the word of all those present, except the 2nd Vice, Treasurer, Secretary,
Great Officers and Brothers seated in the East
The deacons are in the East, each on his side of the Room.
Store and go to the front of the VM Station, the 1stD will communicate the Word to
VM at the highest level of the Station)
Org–
7
Registered Apprentice
WORD VERIFICATION
8
Registered Apprentice
WORD VERIFICATION
9
Registered Apprentice
(IN NO CASE A BROTHER SHOULD NOT HAVE THE WORD, the 1stD or 2ndD,
according to the location of the individual, stops in front of the stranger, and turns back-
to the Venerable Master and informs
Brother - I acknowledge!
VM–Brother (First or Second) Deacon invest him with the word and receive it from
his turn.
(IF NO ONE ATTESTS, the VM will ask the Brother to leave the Room for
a few minutes until a committee is appointed to examine it)
(the VM turns to the stranger)
VM - The word is correct and has been duly received in the East.
(The Deacons return to their places)
10
Registered Apprentice
1st V - From a store dedicated to the Holy Saints named John.
1st V – In the midst of a legally recognized Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons
constituted, duly gathered in a place representing the pavement
ground floor of the Temple of King Solomon, guarded with the B Sag, the Esq and the Comp,
together with a Letter or Dispensation from a Great Body of jurisdiction
competent, enabling her for work.
1stV–Seven or more.
1st V - The VM, the 1st and 2nd VVs, the Treasurer, the Secretary, and the 1st and 2nd Deacons.
VM–
(all the Officers stand up)
VM–Your duty?
11
Registered Apprentice
2ndD - Carry messages from 1stV, in the West, to 2ndV, in the South, and to other parts
from the Store, according to instructions. Respond to the alarms at the external door,
relating them to the VM, and making sure that we are properly
covered.
VM-Your duty?
1stD – Take the orders from the VM, in the East, to the 1stV, in the West, and to other parts
from the Store, as per guidance. Welcome and adorn the Brothers
Visitors, attend to the alarms at the internal door, as well as receive and conduct.
the candidates.
VM–Brother Secretary...
VM–Your duty?
VM–Brother Treasurer...
VM - Your duty?
12
Registered Apprentice
Your–Receive all the funds from the Secretary, maintaining a fair and accurate
accounting, make payments according to the Store's order, by means of
signature of the Venerable Master, as well as performing other duties that are
prescribed by our legislation.
Yours - No South.
2ndV – Observe the Sun at its meridian, which is the beauty and the Glory of the Day, and
thus summon the workers of the labor for rest; watch to ensure that the
rest does not turn into intemperance or excess and ensure that
we will return to work in due time, so that the VM can be honored and
they, thus, rejoice and be rewarded.
1st V - Because just as the Sun is in the West to close the day, the 1st V, in
West, helps the Venerable Master to open and close the Lodge, pays the Workers.
their salaries, if any apply to them, and see that no one leaves dissatisfied, for the
harmony is the strength and support of all institutions, especially the
wow.
Just as the Sun rises in the East to open and govern the day,
thus the Venerable Master rises in the East to open and govern the
Store, send the workers to work and give them the appropriate instructions.
13
Registered Apprentice
(the VM rises)
VM–Brother 1st V, it is my order that the Lodge .... No ..... be opened now at
First Degree of Freemasonry, and so it shall remain to deal with all the
matters that are presented to you regularly and constitutionally.
Communicate in this way to the 2nd V in the South, and he to the present Brothers, so that
Take due note of this and govern yourselves accordingly.
1st V - It is the order of the VM that the Store .... No. .... be opened now in the First Degree
from Freemasonry, and thus remain to address all matters that concern it
they shall be presented in a regular and constitutional manner. Communicate this.
form, to the present brothers, so that they take due note of this and
govern themselves accordingly.
2ndV–
(everyone else stands up)
2ndV–Brothers!
(All Brothers do the Sn Fid, except for the VM and the 1st V, and undo in
follower)
2nd V – It is the order of the Venerable Master, communicated to me through the 1st
Vigilante in the West, let the Store ..... No ..... be opened now in the First Degree
of Freemasonry, and so it remains to address all matters that concern it
shall be presented in a regular and constitutional manner. Similarly, I
I inform you so that you take due note of this and govern yourselves accordingly.
(R )
The Cape can remain in the East or head to the West.
to Altar;
If the Cap chooses to say the prayer at the Altar, he will be escorted by
March
14
Registered Apprentice
The Cap can choose to pray at the Altar standing with the Sn Fid.
you kneeling;
Everyone does the Sn Fid during the prayer facing the Altar.
CAP–Most Holy and Glorious Lord God, Great Architect of the Universe,
giver of all blessings and grace, You promised that where two or more
they are gathered in Your name You will bless them. In Your name we
we gather, and in Your name we wish to conduct our work.
Let the sublime principles of Freemasonry subjugate
all dissonant passion among us, in order to harmonize and enrich
our hearts with Your own love and kindness, so that the Lodge
may it humbly reflect the order and beauty that reign forever
before Your throne, Amen.
(Or) May the Blessings of God - refreshing like the dew of Hermon, that
descend from the mountains of Zion, be with us and govern us in our
works. Amen.
(Or) May the blessings of Heaven fall upon this meeting and may it be able to,
just as it began cheerfully, to be conducted with order and closed in
harmony. Amen
Everyone - So be it!
(Everyone undoes the Sn Fid)
(The cap returns to its place, if applicable)
VM – Attend to the Altar and expose the Three Great Lights of Freemasonry.
Org–
1st D does not use the staff when approaching the altar;
2. The 1stD lights the candles individually - First the one for L, second the
do O and lastly the one from S. The order of deletion is reversed;
3. The 1stD goes to the West of the Altar, does the Sn Fid and everyone does it
keeps the Sn Fid, displays the Three Great Lights without kneeling or
to bend;
4. Open the Bible to Psalm 133; position the E and the C in the degree.
from Apr. After adjusting the Three Great Lights, the 1st D gives a
step back without doing the Sn Fid, right after everyone undoes the Sn Fid
and the 1stD returns to its place.
15
Registered Apprentice
ATTENDING THE ALTAR - OPENING
16
Registered Apprentice
VM–(C )
I hereby declare the Store duly open and ready for work,
at the same time prohibiting any and all idle, immoral, or
anti-Masonic through which harmony may be disturbed.
2ndD–Collector Brother...
17
Registered Apprentice
Reception of the Grand Master and Delegation
VM - Brother Marshal...
(The Marshal announces the entry of the SGM and his entourage)
March–Venerable Master, the Most Serene Grand Master and his entourage will give
entrance to the Store Room.
VM Attention my Brothers!
(All IIr make Sn Fid);
The Sea may request assistance from other Officials to conduct the others
members of the SGM delegation, who will be taken to their seats
previously reserved);
(The Sea returns to the Atrium to escort the SGM);
(O Mar conduz o SGM até a Estação do VM no Leste à frente do Cortejo);
(The sea returns to its place, remaining standing).
VM or GM–
18
Registered Apprentice
RECEPTION OF THE GRAND MASTER – 1st moment
19
Registered Apprentice
RECEPTION OF THE GRAND MASTER - 2nd moment
20
Registered Apprentice
RECEPTION OF THE GRAND MASTER - 3rd moment
21
Registered Apprentice
VM - Brothers, join me in the promise of loyalty to our Country and
fidelity to our Flag.
(R )
Everyone - "I swear loyalty to Brazil and fidelity to its flag. May it be upon us,
“ moments of celebration or of pain, the Sacred Banner always hovers,
Pavilion of Justice and the A ”.
VM
(everyone sits down)
(C )
VM–Brother 1st D…
(The 1st D rises)
1stD–Visiting Brothers, please stand so that our Lodge can welcome you.
veins.
(The Visitors stand up)
1st D - Announce your names, your Lodge, your Obedience, and your East,
as well as the position you may eventually occupy, starting with this Brother.
(The 1st D points to one of the Visitors)
(The Visitor must identify themselves)
(After identifying the last one, the VM directs itself to them)
Everyone
VM–
22
Registered Learner
MINUTES OF THE LAST MEETING
VM–Brother Secretary...
(The Sec gets up)
VM - Brothers who wish to speak about the Minutes, I grant you the floor.
(If there are comments, the VM must submit them for voting)
(If there are no remarks)
VM–Brother Secretary...
(The agenda will be at the discretion of the VM, being previously organized by
Listening to the main officials, in addition to the Treasury and the Presidents of
Commissions, which can be divided into three distinct periods:
1. Subjects of Freemasonry in general and of Obedience in particular;
2. Store matters, such as opinions, petitions, approval
from above the administrative sessions;
3. Pending discussion matters and others; and Procedures
Specific, like instructions, secret scrutiny, affiliations,
regularizations, delivery of awards, and others).
VM–Brother Secretary.
23
Registered Apprentice
VM–Brother Secretary...
The siblings who have knowledge of any fact that discredits the
The moral suitability of the applicant has the obligation to present itself now.
REPORTS ON
THE ADMISSION PROPOSALS
VM - Brother Secretary...
24
Registered Apprentice
25
Registered Apprentice
VOTING ON PROPOSALS - 1st moment
26
Registered Apprentice
Brothers, you are about to exercise one of your most sacred rights.
as a Mason. Before your vote is cast, I want to remind you that
It is important to act in accordance with the best interests of Freemasonry.
You must not allow personal prejudices, personal hurts,
bitterness, resentments, and antipathies influence your vote. Therefore,
you should only consider the moral qualifications of the applicant.
VM–Brothers, we are authorized to vote on the petition of Mr. ..., about whom
our Commission reported favorably (or against).
(the 1st D hands the ballot box to the VM)
27
Registered Apprentice
VOTE ON THE PROPOSALS - 2nd moment
28
Registered Apprentice
VM-Brother 1st Deacon...
VM – Go to the 1st and 2nd Wardens, so that they can vote. Then, deposit your
vote and place the box on the Altar for the Brothers' voting.
(The 1stD takes the box for the Watchers to vote, starting with the 1st, and,
then, takes the box to the Altar
(After placing the box, the 1stD casts their vote and then stands up)
to the north side of the Store, facing North
The sea goes to the altar, places its vow and then stands beside.
South of the Store, facing South
VM–Brothers, let us proceed to the vote in the proper manner, starting with the brothers.
to my left.
29
Registered Apprentice
VOTING ON PROPOSALS - 3rd moment
30
Registered Apprentice
(No sign is given during the vote, unless the Venerable
Master orders the voting in the proper manner; in this case, each voter gives the
Sn of G and Sn Pn)
(The Brothers from the South Side line up and go to the Sea, which allows one to
to go to the Altar; each Brother votes and returns to their place
VM–Brothers, let us proceed to the vote in due form, continuing through the
brothers to my right.
(The Brothers from the North side form a line and go to 1st D, which allows one to...
One goes to the Altar; each Brother votes and returns to his place.
(As Cob may or may not vote, the VM must check first if he wants to or
do not vote; if so, the Sea will take the box to him)
31
Registered Apprentice
VOTING ON THE PROPOSALS - 4th moment
32
Registered Apprentice
VM - Brother 1st Vigilante...
(the 1st V rises)
VM–
(the 1stD heads to the Altar and closes the ballot box)
VM–Take the ballot box to the South, West, and East for inspection.
(The 1stD presents the box to the 2ndV, then to the 1stV and takes it to the VM)
(Be clear)
33
Registered Apprentice
(It is cloudy)
VM–So, I hereby declare Mr. ....'s petition rejected. This session is closed.
voting.
(When the Store's action is requested, a proposal must be made and its
defense; after the discussion, the VM proceeds
VM–Brothers, did you hear the motion? Any other comments? If you are in favor,
I voted with the conventional signal.
(Those in favor vote)
Vote against the motion. Those voting in favor, do so by the same sign.
(The opposing brothers vote)
34
Registered Apprentice
2ndV–NothingintheSouth.
VM–Does any Brother present know of any Brother who is sick or distressed, or
who needs our help or solidarity?
(Whoever has something to say, stands up with Mr. Fid and reports)
VM–
(Everyone stands up)
35
Registered Apprentice
DEATH AND ALTAR COVERAGE
36
Registered Apprentice
DEATH AND ALTAR COVERING
37
Registered Apprentice
DEATH AND COVERING OF THE ALTAR
38
Registered Apprentice
Lord, we thank You for this Your servant, reminding all the
that made him be loved. We thank You for the benevolent influence.
in your home and outside of it; for all the goodness and truth that he passed on from his
life for the life of others and for all the enrichment it brought to the world
with your presence.
We pray for those whose hearts are sorrowful and who, at this moment,
they need You more than ever. Support us all as we
shadows grow, the night comes and the troubled world calms down, when the
the fever of life is overcome and our work is completed. So, in Your
goodness, grant us a shelter, a holy rest and, finally, peace.
Amen.
All–So be it.
VM–
(everyone sits down)
(C )
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Registered Apprentice
WORD TO THE GOOD OF ORDER
VM
(The VM rises)
Notes:
(If more than one brother rises at the same time, the Venerable Master
will choose, at their discretion, the sequence in which the siblings will speak
(The brother who has already spoken and needs to make some)
supplement or a new statement, is placed again in the
in due form and awaits the authorization of the Venerable Master
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CLOSING OF APPRENTICE STORE
VM-Brother 1st V, do you have any other matters to present to the Lodge before
Shall I proceed to the closing?
(the 1st V stands up)
VM - Does any present brother have any other matters to present to the Lodge?
before I proceed to the closure?
(Small pause)
VM – What is the last, as well as the first and great care of the Masons
when gathered?
VM - Fulfill this duty and inform the Collector that I am about to close.
the Store .......... No ...., instructing him to take due note of it and govern himself accordingly
agreement.
(The 2nd D goes to the door and knocks ( ), being answered by the Cob. ( )(the 2nd D opens
the door and heads to the Cob)
2ºD–I come to inform you that the Venerable Master is about to close the Lodge
.......... No. .... Take due note of this govern yourselves accordingly.
(The 2ndD closes the door, returns to its place)
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2ºD–By a Master Mason from the outside, armed with the instrument
appropriate to your profession.
VM - His duty?
2ndD - Observe the approach of intruders and curious people, and do not allow them to
No one is allowed to enter or exit except those who are properly qualified.
permission from the Venerable Master.
(The 2ndD sits down)
1st V – My Oath.
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1stV–Seven or more.
1st V–The VM, the 1st and 2nd VVs, the Treasurer, the Secretary, and the 1st and 2nd Deacons.
1st V - To my right.
VM–
(All the Officials stand up)
VM–Your duty?
2ºD - Deliver messages from 1ºV, in the West, to 2ºV, in the South, and to other parts
from the store, as instructed. Attend to the alarms at the external door,
relating them to the VM, and making sure that we are properly
covered.
VM–Your duty?
1stD–To take the orders of the VM, in the East, to 1stV, in the West, and to other parts
from the Store, according to the guidance. Welcome and adorn the Brothers
Visitors, attend to the alarms at the inner door, as well as receive and escort
the candidates.
VM–Brother Secretary...
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VM–Your duty?
VM–Brother Treasurer...
Lord Master...
VM - Your duty?
You will receive all the funds from the Secretary, maintaining a fair and accurate
accounting, making payments according to the store's order, by
signature of the Venerable Master, as well as to perform other duties that are
prescribed by our legislation.
You–No South.
2ºV–To observe the Sun at its meridian, which is the beauty and the Glory of the Day, and
thus to call the workers of the work to rest; to watch that the
rest does not turn into intemperance or excess and ensure that
we will return to work in due time, so that the VM can be honored and
they, thus, rejoice and are rewarded.
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1st V - Because just as the Sun is in the West to close the day, the 1st V, in
West, helps the Venerable Master to open and close the Lodge, pays the Workers.
their salaries, if any are due to them, and sees that no one leaves dissatisfied, for the
harmony is the strength and support of all institutions, especially the
wow.
Just as the Sun rises in the East to open and govern the day,
thus also the Venerable Master rises in the East to open and govern the
Store, send the workers to work and give them the appropriate instructions.
(the VM stands up)
VM–Brother 1st V, it is my order that the Lodge ......... No. ......... be closed
now and remain this way until the next ordinary session, unless
extraordinarily convened, due to some emergency, or to provide
any timely news. Communicate to the 2nd V, in the South, and he to the Brothers
presents, so that they take due note of this and govern themselves accordingly.
1st V - It is the order of the VM that the Store ......... No. ..... be closed now and thus
stay until the next ordinary session, unless called
extraordinarily, due to some emergency, or to give some news
opportune. I communicate to the present brothers so that they take due note.
do this and govern themselves accordingly.
2ºV–
(Everyone else stands up)
2nd V - Brothers!
(All the Brothers do the Sn Fid, except for the VM and the 1st V, and undo in
followed
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It is an order from the VM that the Store ,,,,,,,,, No. ......... be closed now and thus
stay until the next regular session, unless called
extraordinarily, due to some emergency, or to give some news
opportune. Take due note of this and govern yourselves accordingly.
VM 1stV– 2ndV–
1st V – No Level.
(Everyone descends and stays at the same level as the Store Room)
CAP –All-Powerful Father, we ask for Your blessings on the work of this
session, and as we are about to part ways, we ask you to
keep us under Your protection until we meet again. Teach us,
O God, to understand the beauties of the principles of our venerable
Institution, not only while gathered in Lodge, but also when by
World. Subjugate all dissonant passion among us and allow us to
let us love according to the bonds of unity and friendship.
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Everyone—So be it!
(C )
VM–Attend to the Altar and close the Three Great Lights of Freemasonry.
(The 1st D goes to the front of the Altar, gives the Sn Fid, closes the Bible, when everyone
they undo the Sn Fid, then extinguish the candles in reverse order of
lighting: S, O and L.)
Org– (Music)
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ATTENDING TO THE ALTAR - CLOSURE
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I hereby declare the Store officially closed.
2ndD–Cover Brother...
VM–
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REQUESTING ENTRY
(The doorkeeper must sound the alarm for the Brothers who request entry.)
If it is someone the Collector cannot certify, they must ask
assistance.
Cob–( )
(The 2ndD waits for the right moment and announces)
VM–Admit it (them).
(The 2nd D opens the door and allows entry)
(The Brothers enter, move to the west of the Altar, give the P, Sn of G and the
In the Pen degree that the store is working, awaiting the VM to respond
in the same way, to take a seat in the Lodge Room).
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Registered Learner
CHANGES
VM–Call the workers from work to rest and inform them that they must
resuming work to the sound of the beat of the pack in the East.
2nd V–
(Everyone stands up)
2ºV –Brothers, by order of the Venerable Master, you are now called, from the
work for rest. In due time you will resume work to the sound of
beating of the pack in the East.
2nd V –
(Everyone sits down)
(The Venerable Master simply sounds the gavel in the East and everyone
they return to work immediately.
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Change of Degree for Work in a new Degree
Those who do not possess the new degree must be led outside of the
room
VM–
(Everyone gets up)
VM–
(Everyone sits down)
(To return to the previous level, proceed in the same way)
The knocks on the outside door will always be at the level the store has been
originally open
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INITIATION CEREMONY
Preamble
It is the responsibility of the Venerable Master to ensure:
VM - Check if there are candidates waiting. If there are, what are their
names and for which grade?
(The 2nd D goes to the door and gives(), being responded to by the Cob in the same way,
COB–The gentlemen ..., ..., ... and ... are waiting for the First Degree.
(The 2ndD closes the door and returns to its place)
2nd D–The gentlemen ..., ..., ... and ... are waiting for the First Degree.
VM–Brothers, The Sirs. ..., ..., ... and ..., having been duly accepted,
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are waiting to be initiated in the First Degree of Freemasonry. If there is no
objection, I will grant the Degree. (Pause)
VM–
1st M Cer–Being stripped of all metals; being neither naked nor dressed,
neither barefoot nor shod; with the left knee and chest bare; the eyes
bound and with a common rope around the neck.
VM - Show the workers of the task for rest and inform that they must
resuming work to the sound of the beat of the pack in the East.
2nd V–
(Everyone gets up)
2ºV –Brothers, by order of the Venerable Master, you are now called, from the
work for rest. At the right time you will resume work to the sound of
pounding of the pack in the East.
2nd V–
(Everyone sits down)
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EXIT TO PREPARATION ROOM - 2nd moment
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Preparation Room
1. The entire part corresponding to the Preparation Room can be
made in this sequence or before the start of the Session;
2. If before the session, the proponent or another Brother should take the
CCand for the Preparation Room at least 20 minutes before the
its beginning where the Brother secretary and the MMCers should be;
3. Once the preparation is completed and the candidate is blindfolded, he/she
must wait in the Preparation Room until the moment
to be taken by the MMCer;
4. A Brother must stay with the CCand in silence after the
arrival of the Sec that returns through the external door.
5. The appropriate decorum and the meditative atmosphere in the Room of
Preparation is vital for the candidate's mental preparation.
6. For each Cand there must be a Brother as a Driver.
The store, where you are about to be admitted, expects you to strip off
everything is not in accordance with the procedure of humility, reverence,
Respect and sincerity that you must now embrace, just as everyone else did.
those who have walked this path before you.
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Registered Apprentice
You declare, by your honor, that you offer yourself freely and voluntarily
Will there be a desire for Candidates for the Mysteries of Freemasonry?
CCand–Sim!
You declare, by your honor, that you request the privileges of the Franco-
Masonry by a favorable opinion regarding our Institution, by
I yearn for knowledge and the sincere desire to be useful to your neighbor?
(All CCand must respond)
CCand–Sim!
You declare, by your honor, that you will obey, with effort, the ancients.
customs and practices of the Brotherhood?
CCand–Sim!
The Sec returns to the interior of the Shop Room and heads to the West of the Altar and
inform the VM
VM–Brother Secretary...
After the Secretary leaves the Preparation Room, the MMCers prepare the
CCand, stripping them of all valuable objects, which must be
properly stored in individual bags or envelopes for
subsequent return
2ndMCer–Gentlemen, take off your pants to put on the ones I give you.
(The 2ndMCer delivers a pair of white cotton pants to each of the CCand)
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(The MMCers assist the CCands and adjust the shirts so that they do not stay
falling
(The CCand who are wearing t-shirts must take them off)
2nd MCer - Now, roll up the left leg of your pants. Put these on.
slippers.
(The MMCers give each Candidate a sandal for the right foot - style
Havaiana, the left foot remains barefoot.
CCand–Sim!
Once the preparation is completed, the CCand wait seated until the
MCMers, lead us to the Store Room.
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Registered Apprentice
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Candidates' Entrance to the Store
(After making sure that the Sec entered the Store and made the announcement
about the candidate's responses, the MMCers guide the CCands until the
store door
Cand–( )
(The 1st grade picks up the baton, goes to the door and gives ( )
(The 1stD leaves the door ajar and heads towards the 1stMCer)
1st M Cer–They are poor candidates, who find themselves in darkness and are
wishing to have and receive a share of the rights, lights, and benefits of this
Venerable Lodge erected to God and dedicated to the memory of the Saints of name
John, as well as all the Brothers and Companions who walked this
path before him.
CCand–Sim!
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Registered Apprentice
1stD–Having the CC and the necessary qualifications, make them wait until
The Venerable Master should be informed of your request and provide the response.
(The 1stD closes the door, goes up to the North and turns to the South, stopping in the West)
do Altar and communicates to the VM with Sn Fid)
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ENTRANCE OF CANDIDATES - 2nd moment
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Registered Learner
1stD–Yes.
1stD–Yes.
Org–
5. The four descend to the South, turn right to the West, and stop.
to the Northwest of the Store Room, under the command of the Sea, through
indication made with the stick or verbally;
6. The Sea positions the 1stD to the Northwest, facing the Room of
Preparation;
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8. The Sea positions the MMor, one at a time, beside him and of
facing East, to form the Arc;
9. After forming the Arc, the Sea is positioned to the right so that the
1ºD can open the door of the Preparation Room to announce the
entrance of the Candidates.
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CANDIDATES' ENTRY - 3rd moment
69
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CANDIDATE ENTRY - 4th moment
70
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CANDIDATES' ENTRANCE - 5th moment
71
Registered Apprentice
72
Registered Learner
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1ºD–Let them enter this Venerable Lodge, in the name of God. And may they be
received in the old and proper way.
Org–
VM–
4. The procession is formed in pairs in the following order: 1st D and Sea,
MMCer, each Driver with a Candidate, staying to their right and
or taking by the right arm;
5. When the last Candidate passes through the arch, the Stewards
they undo it and after closing the door, they join at the end of the
procession;
6. The Sea leads the procession until the Candidates stop in front
to the 1st V;
The 1stD heads towards a point directly in front of the CCands and
says, looking at them.
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Registered Apprentice
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RECEPTION OF CANDIDATES - 9th moment
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Registered Apprentice
1stD–Gentlemen, I was tasked with receiving you with the point of an instrument.
sharp piercing your uncovered left chest.
(The 1stD applies the instrument on the left chest of each Cand)
1stD–This is to teach you that, just as this instrument wounds the flesh,
in the same way your mind and conscience must hurt you if you try,
illegitimately, reveal the secrets of Freemasonry.
(The 1stD returns to the front of the line)
VM–
I led the CCand to the store center and helped them kneel down to the
prayer.
(Everyone turns to the East and approaches the altar);
2. (The CCand kneel on both knees);
3. (The VM and the Cap come down from the East and stand before the CCand)
4. (The VM, the Cap, and the other necessary Brothers put their hands)
left over the head of each Candle during the prayer).
5. (Everyone does the Sn Fid);
6. (VM R ).
Org–
All–So be it!
(O VM C ) and addresses each Candidate individually)
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Registered Apprentice
PRAYER–1st moment
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Registered Apprentice
PRAYER - 2nd moment
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Registered Apprentice
VM–Gentlemen, in all the great tests of life, in whom do you place your trust?
your trust?
(The Conductors assist the CCands in responding)
Cand–In God.
VM–
1. The procession is held around the Lodge Room, always in the direction
schedule
2. Start from the NORTH, EAST, SOUTH, when passing by the 2nd V, this will
raise and hit the pack, if everything is in order with the CCand;
3. If there is no strike, the sea interrupts the procession, and the 1stD
look to the control officer for instructions and to resolve the
problem without needing to return to the preparation room.
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Registered Apprentice
PRAYER - 3rd moment
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CANDIDATE INSPECTION
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2ºV–
1. The procession continues to the West and upon passing by the 1stV, it...
raise and hit the pack if everything is in order with the CCand;
1st V–
2. The procession continues, moving up from the North to the East, towards the
VM station and when passing through the VM, it rises and hits the pack.
if everything is in order with the CCand;
VM
The procession continues, descending through the South towards the Station of
2nd V and there to stop and await the prayer of the Cap, staying facing forward
to the West, joining the procession and positioning itself in the
west of the Altar to proceed with the Teaching of the Scriptures.
Cap- "Oh, how good and how pleasant it is for Brothers to live together in unity. It is like the
precious oil poured over the forehead, which flows over the beard, the beard
from Aaron, and descends to the hem of his garments. It is like the dew of Hermon,
that descends upon the mountains of Zion. For there the Lord has poured out His
blessings and life forever.
(O VM C )
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PRAYER OF PSALM 133
84
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PERAMBULATION
85
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(The sea orders that the procession stay facing the 2nd V)
1stD–CCAnd poor and blind, eager to receive a part of the rights, lights
the benefits of this Venerable Lodge erected to God and dedicated to the memory of
Saints named John, as well as all Brothers and Companions who
they have walked this path before him.
(The 2nd V addresses the CCand)
CCand–Sim!
1st D – For being free, of legal age, and for being well-recommended.
1ºD–(Sn Fid)
(The 1st V rises)
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Registered Apprentice
1stD–CCand poor and blind, wishing to receive a part of the rights, lights
the benefits of this Venerable Lodge erected to God and dedicated to the memory of the
Saints named John, as well as all the Brothers and Companions who
they paved this path before him.
(The 1stV addresses the CCand)
CCand–Sim.
1stV–For what other right do they hope to obtain this important privilege?
1st V – Having the candidates in possession of the necessary qualifications, I led them.
up to the VM, in the East, for examination.
(The Ocean leads the procession to the VM)
1stD–(Sn Fid)
(The VM is rising)
VM–Who goes there?
1st D–C And poor and blind, eager to receive a part of the rights, lights
the benefits of this Venerable Lodge erected to God and dedicated to the memory of
Saints named John, as well as all Brothers and Companions that
they paved this path before him.
(The VM addresses the CCand)
CCand–Sim!
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Registered Apprentice
VM–For what other right do they expect to obtain this important privilege?
VM - Why did you leave the West and travel to the East?
(The procession turns to the right, advances to the South, turns to the left)
to the East, left again towards the North, marches through the
North and to the West, on the north side of the store, as shown in the following image.
As you approach the East, the Sea must turn the procession as close as possible to
As possible altar, in order to leave enough space to turn the procession in
counterclockwise when he returns the candidates to the Station
do 1ºV)
Upon reaching the height of the West of the Altar, the procession stops and the 1st D does not play.
the stick to speak
88
Registered Apprentice
APPRENTICE TRAINING - 1st moment
89
Registered Apprentice
LESSON OF THE APPRENTICE STEP - 2nd moment
90
Registered Apprentice
...bringing the heel of the right foot to the arch of the left foot, forming with
this is a right angle, keeping the body upright.
CCand–Sim!
91
Registered Apprentice
FORMATION OF THE SYMBOLIC TEMPLE - 1st moment
92
Registered Trainee
(The Cand takes the Bible in his left hand and rests his hand
right over him, the Comp and the Left your right hand)
(Instructed by the 1stD and by the Conductors, the other CCand, likewise
kneeling, they make the same gesture, if it is not possible to provide
other Bibles, as if they were also holding the Bible, the left hand
with the palm up and the right with the palm down, the palms
separated by a few centimeters
The Sea is located in the west of the Store, right in the center;
2. The Sea orders the 1st Mord to position himself on its right side;
3. Then the Sea orders the 2nd Mord to position himself to his left;
4. Then, the Sea orders that the 1stMCer positions himself to the right of the
1st Bite;
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Registered Apprentice
FORMATION OF THE SYMBOLIC TEMPLE - 2nd moment
94
Registered Apprentice
VM–
(Everyone in the Store stands up, except the CCand)
Org–
The MMCCers turned to the West and await the command of the Sea;
95
Registered Apprentice
FORMATION OF THE SYMBOLIC TEMPLE - 3rd moment
96
Registered Apprentice
FORMATION OF THE SYMBOLIC TEMPLE - 4th moment
97
Registered Apprentice
98
Registered Apprentice
6. Upon returning, following the order of the Sea, the MMCCers align and
they organize the IIr that are forming the walls of the Temple
Symbolic, using the sticks to mark the limit of the
walls;
9. Upon arriving in the East, the MMCCers turned to the center of the Store,
they take a step and face West;
10. When the MMCCers turn to the West, the Watchers will too
they saw, in a synchronized manner;
11. The Sea gives the signal with the baton for the MMord and MMCCer
they form the bows with their staffs;
99
Registered Apprentice
FORMATION OF THE SYMBOLIC TEMPLE – 6th moment
100
Registered Apprentice
13. The VM descends from its Station, and before passing between the
Vigilantes, hand over the pack to the 1st V and the hat (if available
using) to the 2nd V;
101
Registered Apprentice
FORMATION OF THE SYMBOLIC TEMPLE - 7th moment
102
Registered Apprentice
103
Registered Apprentice
FORMATION OF THE SYMBOLIC TEMPLE - 9th moment
104
Registered Apprentice
VM–Gentlemen, if you are still willing to take the Oath, speak up.
your full name is and repeat after me:
(Small pause)
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Registered Learner
VM–... and help me bring these newly initiated Brothers to the true Light
Masonic.
(Pause)
In the beginning, God created the heaven and the earth. And the earth was without form and
empty; and the darkness covered the abyss and the Spirit of God hovered over the
surface of the waters. And God said: Let there be Light! And the Light was made.
(Pause)
Org–
VM–IIrm, being brought to the Light of Masonry, you first contemplated the
Three Great Lights, with the help of the representation of the Three Lesser.
The Three Great Lights of Freemasonry are the Square, the Compasses, and the Volume of Sacred Law.
thus explained: the B Sag was given to us as a rule and guide for our faith and
costume; or Esq, to regulate our actions; and the Comp, to restrict
our desires and keep our passions within their due limits
in relation to all of humanity.
(Pause)
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Registered Apprentice
VM – If from our sacred altars the Atheist, the Infidel, the Non-religious Man,
or even the libertine, could tear this Holy Bible, and thus remove,
or even obscure, the greatest Light in Freemasonry - that Light which has existed for centuries
has governed and guided the Masons - then we will no longer be able to
to claim the honorable title of Free and Accepted Masons; but while this
Sacred light shine upon our altars, as it illuminates the path
of the Masons by the golden rays of truth, Freemasonry will continue
spilling your benevolent influence over humanity. Protect then this
Holy and unchangeable Bible, as you would protect your own life. Defend
or how you would defend your country's flag. Live according to your
divine teachings, with the guarantee of a blessed immortality.
As the VM returns to the East, the lights are increased. The VM
he receives the hat from the 2ndV and puts it on, stays under the Arch with the VVig of
facing West
1stD–Observe the Venerable Master approaching the East taking the step,
with Sn of G and Sn Pn.
(The VM takes a step with the left foot)
VM - This is the G's Sn called in English Due Gard. (The VM does the G's Sn)
He alludes to the position of your hands when taking your oath.
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Registered Apprentice
VM - Now, I present to you my right hand, as a sign of friendship and love
fraternal. And I invest you with the Tq and the Pa. However, since you have not yet received
instruction, those who have answered for you until now will continue
responding.
(The 1stD arranges the new AApr so that they can participate in
transmission of Tq and Ssn
(The VM, the VVig and as many IIrm as necessary, take each of the
new AApr to give the Tq)
(The new IIr pay attention to the dialogue to repeat with the Ir that
took your hand, in a low voice
VM–I preserve.
1stD–I hide.
VM - What is this?
1stD–A Tq.
VM–From what?
1stD–Term.
1ºD–I did not receive it that way, I cannot convey it like that.
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Registered Apprentice
1stD–You start.
VM–You start.
1stD–A.
VM–...
1st D–B.
VM–...
1stD–B...z
VM–B...z is the name of this Tq and it must always be given in the correct manner.
spelling it out or dividing it in half. When spelled out, it should start
always with the letter ...
.... Now, greet the 2nd and 1st VV and prove to them that you have the step, of
From Sn G, to Sn Pn, to Tq and from Pa deAprendizRegistrado.
The VM returns to the East and on the way picks up the bundle with the 1st V;
VM-
(Everyone sits down, except the new AApr and the 1stD, who will remain aligned.)
to the west of the Altar
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Registered Learner
Dismantling the Symbolic Temple
1. VM returns to the East and on the way picks up the pack with the 1stV;
4. The 1stV and the MMCC stand upright facing East in front
to your places and the 2nd V to the right side of the 1st Mord;
5. Led by the 2nd V, the MMord and the Sea return to their
places where they remained standing;
The VM makes the pack sound for everyone to sit down, except for the
new Apprentices and the 1stD will be aligned to the west of the
Altar.
110
Registered Apprentice
UNDOING THE SYMBOLIC TEMPLE - 1st moment
111
Registered Apprentice
112
Registered Learner
PRESENTATION OF THE LEARNERS - 1st moment
113
Registered Apprentice
Presentation of the new Apprentices
1ºD–(Sn Fid)
(the 2nd V rises)
2ndV–What is this?
1ºD–Yes, I have.
(The new AApr give the Sn Pn along with the 1stD)
(The 2ndV responds with the same Sn Pn)
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Registered Apprentice
2ºV–What is this?
1stD–A Tq.
1stD–Tem.
1stD–I did not receive it this way, nor can I pass it on like this.
1stD–You start.
2nd person plural - You start
1stD–A.
2nd V - ...
1stD-B.
2nd V–...
1st D–B...z
2ndV–I am satisfied.
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Registered Learner
(The 1stD and the CCand go to the West and stop in front of the 1stV and align-
confront him) (the 1stD hits with his stick)
1stD–(Sn Fid)
(The 1st V rises)
1stD–Yes, I have.
(The new AApr give the Sn Pn together with the 1st D)
(The 1st V responds with the same Sn Pn)
116
Registered Apprentice
PRESENTATION OF THE LEARNERS - 2nd moment
117
Registered Apprentice
1st V - What is a Tq?
1stV–What is this?
1st D - The Tq.
1stD–Registered Apr.
1stD–Tem.
1stD–I did not receive it that way, nor can I transmit it that way.
1stD–You start.
1st D–A...
1st V–B...
1ºD–B...z
1st V - I am satisfied.
(The 1stD and the new AApr turned right, continue in simple lines to
to the North, they turned right and continued to the East, stopping
on the North side of the Store Room facing South, to the west, when the
VMfizer soar the pack
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VM–
(The VM leaves its Station to present the apron to the newcomers
apprentices, as per image)
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DELIVERY OF APRONS
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Delivery of Aprons
It may be that, in future years, the laurel will be placed upon your head.
of victory; may jewels capable of embellishing even be hung in your heart
the diadem of an Eastern potentate; more than that, with the light that
approach, your feet can guide you, cycle after cycle, up the stairs to
fame in our mystical circle and the high ranks of our Brotherhood
can fall upon your honored shoulders.
However, from mortal hands, until your liberated spirit has passed to
the high and entered through the pearly gates, never such an honor, so
emblematic of purity and perfection, it will be conferred upon you as this one now
I grant you.
May each of you inherit to hear from Him, the Supreme Judge, words
Well done, good and faithful servant! Enter into the joy of Your Lord.
Sir.
(Pause)
VM–Brother 1st Deacon, take them to the 1st V, in the West, so that he may teach you how to use it.
I eat as Registered Learners.
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USE OF APRONS
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1stD–By order of the VM, you should teach these Brothers how to use the apron
of Registered Apprentice.
(the 1st V leaves its Station, puts on the apron in the CCand and returns)
(After everyone is wearing their aprons, the 1st D and the new AApr turn towards each other)
to the East and stay in the same place
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INSTRUCTION TO THE LEARNERS
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INSTRUCTION TO LEARNERS
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Presentation of the Holy Bible
VM–I led the Brothers back to the place they came from, so that they
show them what they have been stripped of. Then, return with them to the Lodge Room.
The 1stD and the new AApr descend from the north side of the Store to the west
do Altar. Class 1D leaves a space between it and the new AApr for the
1st MCer;
2. The MMCCer composes the procession, to the left and right of the newcomers
AApr, in front of the Altar;
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STORE ROOM EXIT
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VM–My Brothers, greet as you have been instructed.
3. The new AApr and the MMCCer give the P, Sn of G and Sn Pn;
4. The 1stD does not greet, as it will not leave the Lodge Room;
5. NOTE: If there is more than one AApr file, complete each one.
the SSn leaves from the sides and awaits the outgoing procession, when
arrive at the last row, the MMCers give P, Sn of G and Sn Pn together
with the latest new AApr.
Org–
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EXIT FROM THE STORE ROOM
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TEST OF WRITING
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Writing Test
(The Writing Test, although not included in the ritual of the Grand Lodge of
New York, the base of this Ritual, was included here for its content.
didactic and coherent
(When the Initiates are ready, the 1st MCer gives three knocks on the
door )
VM–
(The Writing Test must be done individually and with all the new
AApr).
(The 1st D stands up, grabs his stick, goes to the door, opens it and leads.
individually each of the new AApr to the Altar)
(The MMCers are waiting with the other new AAprs in the Room
Preparation
(The 1stD instructs the new Apr to greet the VM, taking the step, Sn of G and Sn)
Pn).
(the 1stD searches for one of the Initiates in the preparation room and takes him to the
table)
As such, you have been recommended by the Committee that investigated you. If you wish
to prove, to the Brothers present here, how right the Committee was in its
conclusions, writing any part of the ceremony through which you passed,
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I ask for your permission to go to the table of Brother Secretary, where you will be
provided the necessary instruments for that.
(When the new Apr starts to write, his hand is held by the 1stD, who
(pulls the pencil from your hand)
(The 1st D turns so that everyone can see what he is going to do and
break the pencil
VM – My Brother, there are not a few who think, for being in Lodge, in the
presence of the Venerable Master and with his supposed permission, who has the
right to do so. However, this is not the case! The secrets of Freemasonry never
they can be illegally written, under no circumstances and in any
circumstance!
(new pause)
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Org–
VM–Trazei-o a mim!
(The 1st D takes the new Apr in front of the VM)
(After the last one enters, the 1st and 2nd MMCer return to their places)
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Exhortation
But I know that from now on, your Oath of loyalty requires
conscious fidelity to Your Laws and extreme reverence for Your
Holy Name. The world itself calls pagan the one who does not recognize
God. This individual is a threat to society and a moral void in themselves.
even. The Freemason, who recognizes God in the environment of the Lodge and ignores or
blasphemy against Him outside of her, sins and transgresses your oath. Your spirit
Masonic must be proven by your true attitude towards our
Supreme Grand Master. The language in which the Masonic Oath is given must not
avow the God of the Mason. Resent against the blasphemy made to your Father
in Heaven, in the same way that you resent the blasphemy made against the
your father on earth. Strive to be a Mason who will adjust,
bravely, your loyal affiliation with the Father. Do not pay much attention to the mockery.
of men. Heed the call of conscience.
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First Instruction:
The instruction is the Master's office and must be given at ground level.
representing the ground floor of King Solomon's temple, where
the Apprentices were working
1stD – This is how I am recognized and accepted among brothers and companions.
1stD–My Oath
.
Fig 1–The Ground Floor
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VM - Give me a Sn.
(The 1st D gives the Sn of G)
VM - What is this?
1stD–Yes, I have.
(The 1st D gives the Sn Pn)
VM–What is a Tq?
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VM - Give me the Tq.
(The 1st grade gives the Tq)
VM - What is this?
1stD–A Tq.
Hey, how are you?
1stD–Tem.
1stD–I did not receive it that way, nor can I convey it like that.
1stD–You start.
You Start
1ºD–A.
VM–...
1stD–B.
VM–...
1stD–B...z
1stD–In my heart.
VM–Where next?
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1stD–Deprived of all metals, neither naked nor dressed, neither barefoot nor
shoe, the knee and the left chest bare, bandaged and having a rope on
around my neck. In this condition, I was led to the door of the Store and
given three distinct knocks, which were responded to with three knocks of
inside.
VM–Your response?
VM - Your response?
1stD–For being a man born free, of legal age, and well recommended.
1stD–Let him enter this Venerable Lodge, in the name of God, and may it be
received in the due and ancient form.
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1stD - Led to the center of the Store, and made to kneel to pray.
VM - Your response?
1stD–In God.
1ºD - Led me to 1ºV, in the West, where the same questions were asked.
made and the answers were given as before.
1stD - Led me to the VM, in the East, where the same questions were
made and the answers given as before. The VM also asked me about
where I came from and where I was going.
VM–Your answer?
VM - Why did you leave the West and travel to the East?
1st D –Sent me back to the 1st V, in the West, who taught me to...
approaching from the East in the proper and ancient manner.
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1st D–Advance the left foot, bringing the heel of the right foot into the groove of the
left foot, forming a right angle, with the body upright and the gaze to the East.
VM - How?
1st D–Kneel on the bare left knee, with the right forming the angle of a
square; the left hand supporting and the right resting on the B
Say, oh Esq and Comp. This is the proper and old way in which I rendered my
solemn Registration of Apr Oath.
1st D – I know.
Repeat it.
I promise and swear more, / that I will never write or have printed, / paint,
to print, to sculpt, to mark or to engrave / the smallest word, syllable, letter or
character / by which, / for my infidelity, / may be revealed the
secrets of Freemasonry. / All this very solemnly and sincerely /
I promise and swear, / without ambiguity, / mental reservation, / or misunderstanding of
any species, / symbolically connecting me to the penalty / of having my
cut throat, / my tongue ripped out / and my body buried in the
sands of the sea, / on the shore of the beach / where the tide rises and falls / twice in
twenty-four hours / if, at some point, / consciously, / violate my
solemn Oath / of Registered Apprentice. So help me God and me
keep firm.
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VM–Your answer?
1st Degree - Light in Freemasonry.
1stD – I received by order of the Venerable Master and with the assistance of the Brothers.
1st D–The Three Great Lights of Freemasonry, with the emblematic help of the
Three Minor Lights.
1ºD–A B Sag was given to us as the rule and guide for our faith and customs.
The Esq, to regulate our actions and the Comp, to define our
wishes and keeping our passions within appropriate limits.
1stD–Just as the Sun rules the day and the Moon governs the night, the Venerable
Master, with equal regularity, oversees and governs the Lodge.
1stD – The three lit candles, placed on candle holders located in the East,
West and South.
1stD–O VM approaching me, coming from the East, with the step, the Sn of G
and the Sn Pn of the Registered Apprentice. He extended his right hand to me as a sign
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of friendship and brotherly love, and invested me with a Tq and the Pa. Sent me
So to raise, greet the 2nd Lieutenant and the 1st Lieutenant and prove to them that I was in possession.
do Ps, Sn de G, Sn Pn, Tq and Pa of Registered Apprentice.
1stD –O VM, approaching me, coming from the East, for the second time,
he presented me with a lambskin or white leather apron, an emblem
of purity and the badge of a Mason. He asked me to take it to the First
Vigilante, in the West, who taught me to use it as a Registered Apprentice.
1stD - The working tools of a Registered Apr which are the Ruler of
Twenty-Four Inches and the Cutting Hammer.
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deserving; eight hours for our usual work, and eight hours for the
rest and sleep.
1st D–In the Northeast corner of the Store, in front of the VM. He informed me that I
he should remain standing, like a correct and just man and Mason. And he urged-
to walk and act as such, before God and men.
1ºD–I was led back to the place from where I came, covered with what had been
stripped, and I returned to the Store for further instructions.
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Second Instruction:
1ºD–Por dois motivos. Primeiro, para que eu não carregasse nada ofensivo
not defensive inside the Store. Second, because in the Temple of King Solomon
the sound of an axe, hammer or any other tool was not heard
metal.
VM – How such an imposing building was constructed without the sounds of axes,
hammer or other metal tools?
1stD - The stones were hewn, aligned, and numbered in the quarries in
that were originated. And the woods cut and prepared in the forests of
Lebanon. They were transported by sea on rafts to Joppa and, from there,
brought on land to Jerusalem, where they were placed with the help of
wooden instruments prepared for this purpose. When the construction was
completed, each part of it was adjusted with such precision that it seemed more like the
work done by the hands of the Supreme Architect of the Universe than by
man’s hands.
1stD–Due to being in accordance with an ancient custom adopted among the Masons.
Lemos, in the book of Ruth, regarding the way to change and redeem oneself, that
to confirm all things, the man takes off his shoe and hands it over to the
your neighbor. "This was a form of testimony in Israel. So, thus the
we do, demonstrating, in the strongest possible way, the sincerity of
our intentions in the work we are engaged in.
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1stD–To alert the Store and inform the Venerable Master that a poor
a candidate who is in the darkness was asking for admission.
The three knocks refer to a part of the Scriptures where it says: "Ask and
you will be given, seek and you will find, knock and it will be opened to you.
VM - Why were you brought to the center of the Lodge and made to kneel to
to pray?
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1stD – Because while I was in the dark, unable to see or avoid the
danger, I was taught that it was kept by the hands of a friend, in
whose fidelity I could trust with confidence.
VM - Why were you led, according to the rules, once around the
Store?
1ºD–So that the VM, the Vigilantes, and the Brothers could see that I was
properly prepared.
VM–Why did they make you kneel on your bare left knee, and not
about the law or about both?
1stD - Because the left side has always been considered the most vulnerable part
of the human body. Therefore, it was meant to teach me that I was entering
in the most vulnerable part of Freemasonry, that of AR.
VM - Why was your right hand placed over the B Sag, the Esq and the Comp,
and not your left hand, or both?
1stD – The right hand, according to our ancient Brothers, was considered a
sign of loyalty. The ancients worshipped a deity called Fides,
sometimes represented by two united right hands, other times by
two human figures holding each other's right hand. We use
the right hand, therefore, in this great and important undertaking,
testifying in the strongest possible way to the fidelity of our
purposes in the work we are engaged in.
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Third Instruction:
Part 1 - History
1ºV–A B Sag, the Esq and the Comp have already been partially explained to you, however
the Constitutive Letter was not.
Our Store operates under the auspices of a Great Body with jurisdiction
competent or, as we commonly call it, an Obedience, that is,
Grand Masonic Lodge, currently presided over by the Grand Master, Brother
...................................
The Constitutive Letter, which every regular Lodge is obliged to display, gives us the
legitimacy that enables us to confer the three Degrees of Freemasonry in a way
regular.
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Store Dimensions
1stD–The shape of a Store is oblong, that is, it has more length than
width. Its length goes from East to West; its width, from North to
Its height, from the Surface to the Firmament; and its depth, from
Surface up to the Center of the Earth. We say it is so extensive to
to denote the universality of Freemasonry and to teach, by analogy, the
the extension that should have the charity of the Mason.
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Support
Coverage
VM–A cobertura de uma Loja não é menor que a abóbada com nuvens ou
a sky adorned with stars, where all good Masons await
finally arrive, with the help of that ladder that Jacob saw in his vision,
extended from earth to the sky, whose main steps are Faith, Hope
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and Charity. Faith in God, Hope in immortality, and Charity towards
all humanity. The greatest of these Virtues, called theological, is the
Charity, for Faith can be lost from sight and Hope ends in
achievement. However, Charity extends beyond the grave, through the realms
unlimited from eternity.
1st V - Every regular and well-governed Lodge is furnished with the B Sag, the Esq and
Comp, along with a Constitutive Letter or a Waiver. AB Sag,
inestimable gift of God to man, is dedicated to His service and about
then the neophytes take their Oath. The Esoteric is dedicated to the VM, being the
Masonic emblem of your office. And the Comp is dedicated to the corporation.
porque, pela devida atenção ao seu uso, somos ensinados a circunscrever
our desires and keep our passions within their proper limits.
Ornaments
2ºV–The ornaments of the Lodge are the Mosaic Floor, the Dentate Border and the
Flaming Star. The Mosaic Pavement is a representation of the floor.
ground floor of the Temple of King Solomon. The Notched Edge is a representation of
beautiful checkered border or baseboard that surrounds it. The Mosaic Pavement is
emblematic of human life, marked by good and evil.
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Lights
1stD - A Store has three Symbolic Lights, located in the East, West, and South.
Masonically, we consider the North as a place of darkness.
2nd D - A Store has six Gems: three are movable and three are immovable.
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2ºD–The Real Estate Jewels are the Esq, the Nív, and the Pr. They are thus named.
because they belong to specific parts of the Store, where they should be found:
East is the Left, West is the Right, and South is the Down. The Left teaches morality,
Niv, equality and Pr, the righteousness of conduct.
The Mobile Jewels are the Rough Stone, the Polished Stone, and the Clipboard.
(Trestleboard) or Drafting Board. The Rough Stone is that stone in its
rudimentary and natural state, just like taken from the quarry; the Polished Stone
that already prepared by the workers with the work tools of
Workers; and the easel on the stands serves so that the Master can
design your projects.
By the Rough Stone, we are reminded of the imperfect state that is ours
by nature; through the Polished Stone, we are reminded of the state of perfection in
what we hope to achieve through education, by our own efforts and by the
blessing of the Divinity. Just as the operative Worker raises his construction
temporary according to the designs made on the Board by the Master, we,
both as operational workers and as speculators, we must
strive to erect our spiritual construction according to the
drawings made by the Supreme Architect of the Universe in the Great Book of
Revelation that is our Masonic Clipboard.
Store Situation
2ºV – A Store is situated exactly from East to West, because the Temple of
King Solomon was thus situated.
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Who the Store is dedicated to
1stD–In the past, the Stores were dedicated to King Solomon, since it is
said that he was our first Grand Master. However, the Masons
speculators dedicate their Shops to the memory of Saint John the Baptist and Saint
John Evangelist.
2nd D–The Point represents the individual Brother; the Circle, the boundary line of
your conduct in relation to God and man, outside of which he will never go
to submit to your passions, to your prejudices, or interests that
they can betray him. This circle is bounded by two parallel lines, tangent and
Perpendicular, representing the Saints named John. Over the apex
they rest on the Sacred Scriptures, which indicate all the duties of man.
By outlining this circle, we necessarily touch these two lines and
the Sacred Scriptures. As long as a Mason remains thus, circumscribed,
It is impossible for him to make a mistake, materially.
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Through the exercise of Fraternal Love, we are taught to look at the human race.
as a family: the high and the low, the rich and the poor. Created by an All-Father
Powerful beings inhabiting the same planet that should help, assist, and protect
each other. In this principle, Freemasonry unites men from all
countries, beliefs, races, cultures, and opinions, promoting true friendship
among those who, otherwise, could remain forever
separated.
The truth is a divine attribute and the foundation of all virtue. To be good and
truth is the first lesson we learn in Freemasonry. In this way,
while influenced by this principle, hypocrisy and falsehood are
unknown among us. Sincerity and integrity distinguish us. With us,
the heart and the tongue come together to promote each other's well-being and
I rejoice in the prosperity of others.
(pause)
VM - My Brother, the signs, the touch, and the word have been explained to you, however
não os pontos perfeitos da vossa iniciação. Eles são quatro: o Peitoral, o
Manual, the Gutural, and the Pedal.
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Fig 11 - Cardinal Virtues
1ºV–A strength is that noble and firm purpose of the mind, through which
we are capable of enduring suffering, risks, or dangers. This virtue is distant
diametrically opposed to recklessness and cowardice. It should be deeply.
impressed in your mind, as a safeguard or security against
any attempt that may be made, either by force or in another way,
to extract from you any of the secrets that were entrusted to you so
solemnly. This virtue was, emblematically, represented in your
first admission to the Store when you were received with the tip of a
sharp instrument pressing against your bare left chest. This is the first
perfect point of your initiation, the Breastplate.
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virtue must be your constant practice so that, in this way, you may be
taught to avoid excesses and licentious acts, whose indulgence could
divert you from the path of righteousness and lead you to reveal the secrets that
you promised to keep and never reveal. Such betrayal would lead you to contempt of
all good Masons or up to the symbolic penalty of your Oath, the
of having your throat cut, your tongue torn out and your body
buried in the sands of the sea, on the shore of the beach, where the tide rises and falls twice
times in twenty-four hours. This is the third perfect point of your
initiation, the Gutural.
2nd V - The Apprentices must dedicate themselves to the service of their Masters with
freedom, fervor, and zeal, attitudes that are emblematically represented
by the Chalk, by the Coal, and by the Earth.
VM - There is nothing freer than chalk, which the lightest touch already leaves.
a line.
There is nothing more caring than the Earth, our mother earth. Only she,
among all elements, it never showed insensitivity to man. Although
constantly whipped, more to provide luxuries than to provide
basic needs of life, the earth never denies us its fruits, covering
of flowers our path and of abundance our table. If from it springs the
poisons, the antidote also sprouts. It returns to us abundantly all the
well entrusted to your care. Finally, when we are called to pass
through the Valley of the Shadow of Death, she welcomes us once again. And with tenderness
envelop our remains in your core, alerting us that we came from the earth and,
Certainly, we must return to her.
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Third Instruction:
The best men, at all times, have encouraged and promoted the
Art, and they never considered it degrading to their dignity to equate themselves with
Brotherhood, extending its privileges and promoting its assemblies.
1st V - There are three great duties that, as Masons, you must remember: towards
God, for your neighbor and for yourself. For God, never
mentioning Your Name, except with due reverence, the duty of the creature
to your Creator, begging for His help in all tasks and
recognizing Him as the Supreme God.
With your neighbor, acting fairly, not doing to him what you would not
Would you like him to do with you, doing to him what you would like him to do?
you did.
, and finally, for you, avoiding all irregularity and intemperance that
it may harm your faculties or demean the dignity of your belief.
A zealous commitment to these duties will earn you the esteem of all.
Be serene citizens and lovers of peace, loyal to your government and
be just with your country. You must not tolerate disloyalty or rebellion, but
patiently submit to legal authority and gladly accept the
government of the country in which he/she lives.
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The Tie
The Tie
We know that in Brazil there is a culture that predates the very arrival of the Rite.
of York in Symbolism, which is the identification of the rites practiced through the
tie color. We know that there is no rigidity regarding this issue.
ritualistic, however for the integration of the practitioners of the rites in this
in the context of Brazilian Freemasonry, the use of the Blue tie has become convention.
Royal among the practitioners of the York Rite.
This decision also helped the colleagues who, when visiting the
Stores practicing other rites generate less strangeness with the
your folded aprons.
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Registered Apprentice Exam
1stD–The Brother ...... presents himself for the Registered Apprentice exam.
VM–My brother, the exam in connection with this degree is necessary to know about
memory, the Recognition, the Oath and a Questionnaire about the
instructions, by which you need to have knowledge so that you can pass on to
Degree of Trade Companion. Are you willing to do it now?
Recognition
I preserve.
R–I hide.
P–What are you hiding?
R–All the secrets of a Freemason in Freemasonry, to which this refers
Thanks.
P–What is this?
R–Um Tq.
P–Of what?
R–Registered Apprentice
Do you have a name?
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R–Tem.
Can you give me?
R–I did not receive it this way, I cannot transmit it like that.
P–How will you transmit it?
R–Spelled out or divided in half.
P–Spell it out and start.
R–You start.
You start
R–A.
P–...
R–B.
P–...
R–B...z.
I am satisfied.
Oath
R–
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Questionnaire
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Just as the Sun governs the day and the Moon governs the night, the Venerable Master,
with equal regularity, governs and rules the Lodge.
What are the names of the three main pillars that support a Store?
R–Wisdom, Strength, and Beauty, because there must be Wisdom to plan,
Strength to sustain and beauty to adorn all the great and important
enterprises.
P–How many are there and how are the Store Gems divided?
There are six Jewels, three of which are movable and three are immovable.
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P–What is the meaning of Real Estate Jewels?
R–O Esq teaches morality, Niv teaches equality, and Pr teaches righteousness of conduct.
P–What are the most important principles of the Mason of the York Rite?
R–Fraternal Love, Support, and Truth.
P–How many and what are the Perfect Points of your initiation?
R–Quatro: Chest, Manual, Guttural and the Pedal.
The Perfect Points represent how many and which Cardinal Virtues?
R- Four: Fortitude, Prudence, Temperance, and Justice.
(The 1stD returns with the Apr to the Preparation room if there are others to
take the exam
(After everyone has completed the exam, the store conducts an evaluation to
approval)
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Recognition of the Apprentice in the REAA
Roofing
On visits with formalities at the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite stores,
collective or individual, at the discretion of the Ven M
, visitors will be made the
following questions, being the same among CCol , after giving the P of
Apr And Sauded the Lights (VM, 1st V and 2nd V).
Note - The Registered Apprentice who intends to visit a Scottish Rite Store
Old and Accepted, besides the Recognition of York, must decorate the roofing.
do REAA.
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A Journey through the Blue Store
Introduction
This Ceremony is intended to instruct and assist the newly initiated brothers.
to feel more familiar and at ease in the Store room since this is
key of traditions, symbols, and mysteries unknown until then. The
the program can also awaken interest in the brothers in
deepening of Masonic studies.
This program is not a formal ritual and should be carried out lightly.
the presenter brother should lead the journey at the pace he thinks is best
adequate both in movement and in his speeches. Thus, he can impose
your own tone of voice and expression during the journey through the Store. How
Suggestion, one can choose a brother to act as the narrator and another
play the role of a guide.
Preparation
The VM must indicate a brother prepared to lead the journey. The presenter
must instruct all the officers to extend their hands in a sign of friendship and
fraternal love whenever you are presented to the brother who is
being guided.
When it is said 'your jewel is...', the officer must show the jewel of their office.
lifting it up. When the presentation is completed at a certain location
At the station, the guide or narrator should thank the officer by mentioning
at your position (title) (thank you VM, thank you Ir 1ºD, etc), the officer will sit in
your place and soon after the guide will move along with the brothers who are being
guided to the next point of the journey.
The following text represents the complete ceremony. The guide or narrator
there is the option to edit or modify it as the occasion demands, but it is
it is recommended that the introductory parts of the text be read in full.
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The guide must gather the brothers who will participate in the journey before the opening.
of the works and accommodate them in seats near the northeastern corner of the
Shop.
The instructions for execution during the presentation are in red.
in parentheses and emitaphilic.
As soon as the Venerable Master finishes the other orders of the day and does the
question "Does any brother present have any other matters to present to"
Loja?”, if there are no other remarks from those present, the Guide stands up
and the presentation begins.
VM - Permission granted
(The Guide still standing, invites the new brothers to stand up. He
extends his hand greeting them, and begins)
As you can see, the Charter of the Lodge (points to the letter
is placed in a visible location in the Lodge Room, in other Rites it is
normally placed in front of the Venerable Master. No Lodge can
conduct your work legally without your articles of incorporation being at
show in the store room. Just like every store you will visit has the
the right to make you prove that you are regular Masons, you too
you have the right to verify your articles of incorporation as proof of regularity
of these. It is important to remember that once the Store has opened its
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This is the sign of fidelity that is the sign by which the mason demonstrates
respect and is always executed when it is to speak or when requested by a
senior hierarchy officer. If you wish to speak in the Store, you must
raise and make the sign of fidelity and wait to be authorized by
Venerable Master to speak. You should undo it after greeting the
Venerable Master and the other brothers.
Another important guideline is that no side conversations are allowed in
Store.
There are other occasions when the loyalty signal is executed: during the
prayers of the Chaplain when he offers prayers to the deity; when the
First Deacon attends to the altar to open or close the Great Lights
(Holy Bible, the Square and the Compass) he makes the sign of fidelity and
Everyone must repeat and maintain until the moment when the First Deacon gives
a step back, when everyone undoes the sign; when the Venerable
Master is at the altar taking the oath of some candidate or still in the
entry at the Grand Master's Lodge. During the Oath of Loyalty to the Country and
Loyalty to the Flag and in the execution of the National Anthem, the signal used is that of
Respect.
(The Guide demonstrates the Sign of Respect)
(Turning to the Venerable Master)
His title is that of Venerable Master and he will always be addressed that way.
when the Store is open. Your title carries a synonym of
respect does not imply that it should be revered in any way or
adored, once this position has no religious connotation.
Its use is based on an English custom around the 13th century in which it
used the honorific title 'Your Venerance' or 'Venerable' as a mark of
respect for men who held positions of honor or authority. The
Masons have adopted this latest one, and it has been used in their work.
for several hundred years.
The jewel of your craft (The Venerable Master raises his jewel to demonstrate it)
it is the square, a symbol of morality and virtue. It is also
represented in his apron. The Venerable Master is the president of
store works; he must be elected or someone appointed by the elected Master
to use your station for a purpose and for a period of time
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determined. The brother who sits in the East and is adorned with the jewel and the
the Master's apron will always be considered and addressed by the title of Venerable
Master while you are there.
In the hand of the Venerable Master is his gavel, a symbol of authority in the room.
from the Lodge. With it, the Venerable Master can call his officers to stand up.
with two taps, make everyone present in the store stand up
with three beats and feel with one beat. If there is any discussion in
store room, everyone must be silent while listening to the sound of a beat of a
Venerable Master. Ignoring a blow from the Venerable Master is
considered a serious deviation from appropriate Masonic conduct.
This is our brother Past Master (He stands up and shakes the hand of the
brother) The insignia of your office (the Past Master shows it). His jewel is a
open compass with a sun in the center. At the base of the compass, there is a bar
curve connecting the points, called quadrant, marked in degrees like the
protractor, to measure angles. The sun symbolizes its ancient position in
east (Orient). The quadrant is a tool of complex geometry,
symbolizing that the Past Master possesses superior knowledge.
To the right of the Venerable Master is the Flag of our country. It must always be
to be on display when the Store is working. It is our custom to recite
part of the anthem of the flag during the opening of the Lodge's proceedings. If you all
are visiting a store in another jurisdiction and it adopts the same
costume or something similar, you are not obliged to do so. You must
stand as the other members in a sign of courtesy and respect to their
traditions.
(Still standing in the northeast corner of the Store, they face South)
The area between the Venerable Master's station and the altar is sometimes called
of the Venerable Carpet. No brother should pass between the Altar and the East
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while the Store is working, the exception occurs when the work
ritualistic actions demand. The Venerable Master is responsible for spreading the
Masonic light through the Lodge, and how the Freemasons consider the Sacred
Scriptures as a source of this light, therefore, we should never block.
the vision of the Venerable Master for the Holy Bible about the Altar.
(The Guide escorts the new brothers to a position in front of the First)
Deacon
Here we have our brother First Deacon (The First Deacon stands up
and he shook his brother's hand). The insignia of this officer (the First Deacon to
it is the square and compass with a radiating sun at the center. This
the emblem is also found on your staff and on your apron. It gives the
welcome to the Store and check if they are properly
dressed like Masons. It was he who acted as the guide in which you
they placed their trust during the initiation. He conveys the orders of
Venerable Master by the Lodge and attends to the altar during the opening and closing.
from the Store.
This is our brother Treasurer (He stands up and shakes the brother's hand)
The insignia of your office (the Treasurer shows it) are the crossed keys and
they represent the keys to the safe and signify the trust placed in it for
manage the financial resources of the Store. All income and expenses
financial matters must go through him, always with the approval of the Venerable Master and
of the Secretary.
These are the two pillars that represent those that existed at the entrance of
temple of King Solomon. They guard the Inner door of the Lodge. This door leads to
to the preparation room where you prepared to embark on life
Masonic. This door is used only for the entrance and exit of candidates to
receive some degree or from the brothers who accompany them during the work of
degrees, it should never be used by another mason to enter or exit from
Store.
(Moving to the West of the altar and facing the masters of
ceremonies)
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to assist the Venerable Master in the ritualistic ceremony of the Lodge. They were
who made the first contact with you in the preparation room and
they guaranteed that you were duly and faithfully prepared to enter.
They also took part in the escort as they walked through the store room.
during the initiation.
This is our brother First Watchman (stands up and shakes hands with the
brother). The jewel of your work (the First Watchman shows the jewel) is the level, a
emblem of equality and balance. The First Watchman is second in
command of the Lodge and assumes the duties of the Worshipful Master in his
absence. During the initiation, he was one of those responsible for checking if
you were properly and faithfully prepared and then if you
They were in possession of the signs and touches. He usually presides over the
commissions of the Store and the projects for the Venerable Master.
Our brother Cobridor guards the External door. His insignia (he shows it) is the
drawing of a single sword and the instrument of his trade is the sword. He
keeps the Store of external intruders and prevents anyone from listening to the
What's going on through the door. He still checks if all those
those who wish to enter the Store are properly dressed, lastly, must
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Guide–(Sn Fid) Thank you Brother Second Deacon, please keep the
external security door.
(The Second Deacon closes the outer door)
(The guide turns left towards the Organist)
On the other side of the outer door, we have our brother Organist (this one is
(raises and shakes hands with the brother) who provides us with support
music of our works. The importance and power of music, one of
liberal arts will be explained to you at a future level. Your insignia is the
lyre (she shows it), an ancient musical instrument. The organist is the only one.
an official who does not have a specific place in the Store, their place can be
changed according to the moment.
These are the Stewards of the Lodge (they stand up and shake hands with the
brother); their insignias(these show them) are the cornucopias, or the Horns
of Abundance. This is generally the first position that a brother who wishes
build your career through the positions of the Store until you reach the East (Orient) occupation.
They are responsible for helping with the preparation, serving, and cleaning up after dinners.
or parties and assist in the cleaning and maintenance of the Store. Traditionally, the
Masonic stores celebrate festive dates twice a year and the stewards
are responsible for serving the festive banquet. They also took part
of the procession during its initiation.
This is our brother Second Vigilante (he stands up and shakes hands with
brother). The Second Vigilante is the third official of highest hierarchy and it is up to
he, in the absence of the Venerable Master and the First Vigilant, opens the Lodge and
I led her in her work. Her jewel (he showcases) is the plumb line, a
emblem of ascendance. With the permission of the Venerable, it is he who calls.
the workers of the work for rest and supervises the brothers during
this period. He is also the manager of the Store facilities and organizes it.
for parties and dinners. He is still one of the officials who examined them during
the initiation.
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This is our brother Secretary (he stands up and shakes the brother's hand). His
the insignia are the Crossed Feathers (he shows it) and symbolizes the instrument by
It is used to record all the procedures of the Store. The
the secretary is responsible for receiving all the money that is sent to the
Store it and pass it to the hands of the Treasurer. When requested by
Venerable Master, he summons all the members of the Lodge.
This is our brother Marshal (he stands up and shakes the brother's hand). His
the insignia are the crossed short batons (he shows it) and its instrument of
work is the short baton, a symbol of authority. In the past, this was
a symbol of the Officer responsible for the horses and stables of the Lords
Englishmen, a position of great importance and prestige. In the Lodge, the Marshal
is responsible for all Masonic processions or parades and for conducting
dignitaries and authorities who are visiting the Lodge. He also assists the
Venerable Master to maintain order in the Lodge Room.
You will notice that these are the fifteen officers who make up a Lodge.
A Registered Apprentice Shop requires a minimum of 7 officers: Worshipful
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Some Stores may adopt additional officials, such as the Historian and the
Educator. While the Grand Lodge does not officially adopt these positions, they
will not possess jewels or emblems of their trade.
(The guide leads the brother to the West part of the Altar)
Here, at your request, you were introduced to the most important symbols of
Freemasonry the Holy Bible, the Square and the Compass, the Three Great
Lights of Freemasonry. The Lodges are referred to as "Blue" Lodges or
Symbolic Stores. The color Blue is the emblem of Friendship, a characteristic
peculiar of the old operational Stores just like our Stores
Currently, Freemasonry is not a religion, nor is it political; therefore, our
symbolic teachings can be accepted by all men who are
beneath the Blue Canopy of the Skies.
My brothers, it was a great pleasure for me to guide you on this journey through
store room tonight, to explain and instruct you on some of our
ancient and honorable customs. As you were able to see tonight, each
Mason under the Blue Canopy of the Skies will extend to you the hand of friendship and
fraternal love in all opportunities. Your brothers went through many
hours learning and practicing the parts that were up to him for execution
of this ceremony today. We are always ready to
share the Light that comes from Freemasonry, all you need to do is
ask.
Congratulations and many happiness, my brothers, on your progress in our
order.
(The Guide leads the brother to his seat and returns to the West part of
altar turning towards the Venerable Master
Guide –(Sn Fid) Venerable Master, I thank you for the opportunity and
privilege of leading these new brothers on this Journey through the Lodge.
(The Guide returns to his seat).
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