Ancient and Illustrious
Order Knights of Malta
First Degree - Knight of
Malta
Opening Ceremony
IMPORTANT:
All officers should learn the opening, closing and transfer work. It is much
more impressive than to read them from a ritual.
NOTE: All Commanderies working under
the jurisdiction of the Supreme Grand Commandery of the Continent of America
must be opened in the BLACK DEGREE, and may then be transferred. The Sir
Knight Commander having assumed his station, will call the Commandery to order
by giving one rap of the gavel.
Sir Knight
Commander: Sir
Knight Companions, we are about to hold a convocation of Knights of Malta of
the Order of St. John of Jerusalem. The officers and Sir Knights will clothe
themselves with the insignia pertaining to their tank and assume their
respective stations and posts.
When all is
in readiness.
Sir Knight
Commander: Sir
Knight Generalissimo, * * what is the
first care of a Knight of Malta in a duly convoked Commandery?
Generalissimo:
Sir Knight Commander, to see that the Guards are at their posts, the Warder
and Sentinel at their respective posts, and to be satisfied of their being in
possession of the required grip and words.
Sir Knight
Commander: Attend
to those duties and report to me.
Generalissimo:
Sir Knight-Guards, present yourselves at this station for inspection.
The Guards
advance and give the Generallissimo the grip of the Black Degree, also the
semi-annual, entrance and inside or
central
password.
Generalissimo:
Sir Knight-Guards, report for duty at your posts.
The Guards
then return to their posts and announce as follows:
First Guard:
Sir Knight Generalissimo, the First Guard is at his post and reports for duty.
Second Guard:
Sir Knight Generalissimo, the Second Guard is at his post and reports for
duty.
Generalissimo:
Sir Knight Warder, present yourself at this station for inspection.
The Warder
then advances and gives the Generalissimo the test as did the Guards.
Generalissimo:
Sir Knight Warder, retire to the preparation room, relieve the Sentinel and
direct him to present himself at this station for inspection.
The Warder
then retires to the preparation room, when the Sentinel enters the Council
Chamber and gives the Generalissimo the test as did the Guards and Warder.
Generalissimo:
Sir Knight Sentinel, retire to the preparation room, resume the duties of your
office and direct the Warder to report for duty at his post.
The Sentinel
then retires to the preparation room and announces as follows.
Sentinel:
Sir Knight Warder, it is the command of the Generalissimo that you report for
duty at your post.
The Warder
then returns to his post and announces as follows:
Warder:
Sir Knight Generalissimo, the Warder is at his post and reports for duty.
Generalissimo:
Sir Knight Commander, the Guards are at their posts, the Warder and Sentinel
at their respective posts, and I find them in possession of the required grip
and words.
Sir Knight
Commander:
Captain General * * what is the next
care of a Knight of Malta in a duly convoked Commandery?
Captain
General: Sir
Knight Commander, to strictly try and duly examine all present in the grips
and passwords of our Illustrious Order, that none but those entitled thereto
may be partakers of our solemn mysteries.
Sir Knight
Commander: Sir
Knight, attend to that duty by inspecting the Senior and Junior Wardens, and
by directing them to examine all present, except those already examined by the
Generalissimo, and report to me the result. * * *
Captain
General: Sir
Knights Senior and Junior Wardens, present yourselves at this station for
inspection.
The Senior
and Junior Wardens then advance and are inspected by the Captain General.
Captain
General: Sir
Knights, examine all present except those already examined by the
Generalissimo, and report to me in accordance with the duties of your office.
The Senior
and Junior Wardens then start, one at the right and the other at the left of
the Sir Knight Commander, and take from each companion in the Council Chamber,
except the Sir Knight Commander, Generalissimo, and Captain General, and those
already examined, the grip, semi-annual, entrance and inside or central
passwords, in the following manner: The Companion will advance the grip and
give the semi-annual, entrance, and inside or central passwords as quickly as
possible, the Senior and Junior Wardens remaining silent, passing around the
room until they meet. If there be any not in possession of the necessary grip
or passwords the Wardens will report to the Captain General, and he to the Sir
Knight Commander, who will either demand if any Companion present can vouch
for him or them as being in good standing, or request him or them to retire to
the preparation room in order to be examined in the work of the Degree by the
Senior and Junior Wardens, or such other Companions as may be deputized by the
Sir Knight Commander. If vouched for, he or they may be permitted to remain,
if not, he or they must withdraw. Sir Knight Commanders should, however, be
extremely cautious in accepting vouchers, and as a general rule, should
require all visiting Sir Knights to be examined. In cases of a large crowd the
Guards or other post officers can assist in making examinations or on special
occasions and large crowds the building can be tiled early and the Sentinel
and Warder be called to vouch for all who have entered.
SPECIAL NOTE:
If the Warder has taken the passwords from all at entrance door at a regular
convocation and is qualified to vouch for all Companions assembled, then the
Captain General can call upon him to so vouch and dispense with individual
opening examination providing there is no objection. When all present are
entitled to remain, the Captain General will say:
Captain
General: Sir
Knight Commander, all present are Companions of our Order.
Sir Knight
Commander: *
Sir Knight
Commander: Sir
Knight Prelate * * what is the further
care of a Knight of Malta in a duly convoked Commandery?
Prelate:
Sir Knight
Commander, to consult the Divine Word, and to offer up prayers and invocations
unto Almighty God that He may be pleased to look down graciously upon us and
bless our deliberations.
Sir Knight
Commander: Sir
Knight, we will attend to this ever important duty; you will lead us in our
devotions. Sir Knight Companions, * * *
All
Companions arise.
Captain
General: Sir
Knights, Fall In!
The Sir
Knights form into line.
NOTE: In case of large attendance and where conditions do not
warrant: the formation by Companions can be dispensed with and Companions
remain in their places
Captain
General: Sir
Knights, Attention Draw Swords! Sir Knight Prelate, the Commandery is ready.
The Prelate
then leaves his station and takes a position in rear of the altar, with his
back to the Generalissimo The Sir Knight Commander, Generalissimo and Captain
General step in front of their respective stations. The Standard Bearer, with
standard, and Sword Bearer, with colors, take positions in rear of the
Prelate, facing the Sir Knight Commander. When all are in position, the
Prelate will read one of the following passages of Scripture, or if desired,
some other passage from the Bible appropriate to the time: for instance a
Christmas lesson in that season.
Lesson One
And when they were escaped,
then they knew that the island was called Melita.
And the barbarous people
shewed us no little kindness; for they kindled a fire, and received us every
one, because of the present rain and because of the cold.
And when Paul had gathered a
bundle of sticks, and laid them on the fire, there came a viper out of the
heat, and fastened on his hand.
And when the barbarians saw
the venomous beast hang on his hand, they said among themselves, No doubt this
man 15 a murderer, whom, though he hath escaped the sea, yet vengeance
suffereth not to live,
And he shook off the beast
into the fire, and felt no harm,
Howbeit they looked when he
should have swollen, or fallen down dead suddenly: but after they looked a
great while, and saw no harm come to him, they changed their minds, and said
he was a god.
Lesson Two
For whosoever shall give you
a cup of water to drink in my name, because you belong to Christ, verily I say
unto you, he shall not lose his reward.
Lesson Three
But Thomas, one of the
twelve, called Didymus, was not with them when Jesus came.
The other disciples
therefore said unto him, We have seen the Lord. But he said unto them, Except
I shall see in his hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into his
side, I will not believe.
And after eight days again
his disciples were within and Thomas with them: then came Jesus, the doors
being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace be unto you. Then he saith
to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands, and reach hither thy
hand, and thrust it into my side: and be not faithless, but believing. And
Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and My God.
Lesson Four
Fear none of these things
which thou shalt suffer; behold the devil shalt cast some of you into prison,
that ye shall be tried, and each shall have tribulation ten days; be thou
faithful unto death and I will give thee a crown of life.
Lesson Five
And they came to a place
which is named Gethsemane, and he saith to his disciples, sit ye here, while I
shall pray. And he taketh with him Peter and James and John, and began to be
sore amazed, and to be very heavy. And saith unto them, My soul is exceeding
sorrowful unto death: tarry ye here, and watch. And he went forward a little,
and fell on the ground, and prayed that, if it were possible, the hour might
pass from him. And he said, Abba, Father, all things are possible unto thee;
take away this cup from me: nevertheless not what I will, but what thou wilt.
And he cometh and findeth
them sleeping, and saith unto Peter, Simon, sleepest thou ? Couldst thou not
watch one hour?
Watch ye and pray, lest ye
enter into temptation. The spirit truly is ready, but the flesh is weak.
And again he went away, and
prayed and spake the same words. And when he returned, he found them asleep
again, (for their eyes were heavy,) neither wist they what to answer him, And
he cometh the third time, and saith unto them, Sleep on now and take your
rest: it is enough, the hour is come; behold the Son of man is betrayed into
the hands of sinners. Rise up, let us go; lo, he that betrayeth me is at hand.
After reading
of the lesson the Captain General will command.
Captain
General: Sir
Knights, uncover. To your devotions.
At this
command each Officer will drop the point of his sword between his feet, the
sword perpendicular, flat of the blade to the front, with right hand resting
upon the hilt; (TWO) place the left hand on top of the right; (THREE) carry
left foot about 28 Inches to the rear, (FOUR) kneel on left knee, so that
front of knee will he on a line with the hollow of the right foot; (FIVE)
incline the head to the front, resting the forehead upon the hands. All Sir
Knights kneel on left knee
Prelate:
Let us pray: “Oh Lord God Almighty, grant us aid in propagating the divine
mysteries which this our justitution celebrates. As Thy servant Moses received
from Thee the Tables of the Law, so let us follow Thee according to the
commandments then transferred to us, and let our actions be in strict
accordance with the dictates of the gospel dispensation.”
Prelate and
Companions: Amen,
Amen, Amen.
Captain
General: Sir
Knights, Attention! Recover.
At this
command the Sir Knights raise their heads, (TWO) rise, at the same time bring
the left foot to the side of the right, (THREE) drop the left hand to the
side.
Captain
General: Sir
Knights, Carry Swords! Return Swords!
Sir Knight
Commander:
Officers, to your stations and posts.
At this order
the Sir Knight Commander, Generalissimo, Captain General, Prelate, Senior
Warden, Junior Warden, Standard Bearer and Sword Bearer return to their
stations and posts. The Warder and Sentinel do not take part in this
formation, hut remain at their posts.
The opening
ode will now be sung.
Sir Knight
Commander: Sir
Knight Senior Warden, arrange the altar.
The Senior
Warden than goes to the altar, opens the Bible and places the Swords in proper
position (crossed left on top) arranges the triangular lights, returns to
altar, faces the Sir Knight Commander.
Sir Knight
Commander: Sir
Knights, observe your Commander.
All
Companions must advance the hailing sign of the Black Degree.
Sir Knight
Commander: By
virtue of the authority vested in me, I do now declare ... Commandery, No.
..., opened in due and ancient form, strictly prohibiting any language or
conduct that may tend to disturb the harmony thereof; in memory of our ancient
forefathers, the KNIGHTS OF MALTA AND ST. JOHN.
The Sir
Knight Commander will give *** *** * which will be repeated by the
Generalissimo, Warder and Sentinel, after which the Sir Knight Commander will
give one rap with the gavel, and all will be seated.
No Companion
shall be permitted to retire after the Commandery has been opened without
permission of the Sir Knight Commander. When permitted to retire he must
advance to the altar and salute the Sir Knight Commander with the hailing sign
of the degree in which the Commandery is then open. When crossing the Chamber,
or when addressing the Sir Knight Commander, the hailing sign of the degree in
which the Commandery is open must also invariably be given, and in crossing
the door Companions are required to pass behind the altar: that is between the
altar and the Generalissimo.
Ceremony of Entrance
At
time set for initiation the working novice shall have been prepared by the
Senior Warden All officers retire from Commandery room.
A military march will be
played and the class brought in and seated. At the completion of the march
music, the Herald with a bugle calls (Attention).
March music is resumed and
all officers except the Standard Bearer and Color Bearer, enter in column of
twos, with swords at carry. The Sir Knight Commander entering last Column
marches to foot of throne, halts, faces inward, each rank back steps four
paces, presents swords and the Sir Knight Commander passes through and ascends
his throne. Bugle call.
Warder steps two paces
forward, faces Commandery and announces, “Sir Knight Commander (name given)
Warder resumes his position in ranks
Bugle call, Commander
signals * * * *, all Sir Knights arise.
(Colors) Choir sings
National Anthem as Color Bearer enters and moves to position (All men under
arms present swords, all others stand at attention.)
Bugle call, Choir sings
Onward Christian Soldiers as Malta Standard Bearer enters. All men under arms
present swords, all others stand at attention. After Colors and Standard are
in position; Captain General closes ranks, faces officers front, commands
officers to stations and posts. After officers reach their respective stations
and posts return swords at command of Captain General. Commander seats
Commandery.
Introduction of Candidate
Sir Knight
Commander: Sir
Knight Warder, what is the particular cause of our assembling here?
Warder:
Sir Knight
Commander, knightly association, the propagation of our Order, and the
initiation of such worthy novices as are desirous thereof.
Sir Knight
Commander: Sir
Knight Warder, are there any such worthy novices awaiting the pleasure of this
Commandery?
Warder:
Sir Knight Commander, there are (number) such novices.
Sir Knight
Commander: Sir
Knight Warder, have these novices been regularly elected, complied with the
requirements of our Order, and are they duly enrolled upon the register of
this Commandery?
Warder:
Sir Knight Commander, these novices have been regularly elected, have complied
with the requirements of our Order, and are duly enrolled on the register of
this Commandery.
Sir Knight
Commander: Sir
Knights Senior and Junior Wardens, you will retire and see that the novice is
properly prepared and ready to be introduced and then sound the alarm.
Those
officers march to the altar, salute the Sir Knight Commander, and retire to
the preparation room where the working novice is waiting, having been
previously prepared. Senior Warden gives alarm **** ****.
Sir Knight
Commander: Sir
Knight Warder, you will attend the alarm.
Warder
retires to the door and gives **** ****. Door is opened and Senior and
Junior Wardens advance just inside of Commandery with novice.
Warder:
Sir Knights Senior and Junior Wardens, whom do you bring within the portals of
this duly convoked Commandery, erected to God and dedicated to St. John the
Almoner.
Senior
Warden: Christian
novices who are desirous of serving the required probationary term, to qualify
them for enrollment among those valiant knights who guard and defend the
Christian Faith.
Warder:
How do they expect to gain admission?
Senior
Warden: All
novices have declared that they are white males over eighteen years of age,
and are true Protestants believing in the doctrines of the Holy Trinity as
expressed in the Apostles’ Creed and are in good health and physically and
mentally able to travel the work.
Warder:
What further do they declare?
Senior
Warden: Each
declares that he is now married to a Protestant or, being unmarried, will only
marry one of that Faith, and further, that he will only allow his children to
be educated in the Public Schools or in Protestant Institutions and in the
Protestant Faith.
Warder:
Is this enough to gain them admission?
Senior
Warden: No! But
they declare they are able to speak, read and write the English language, and
pursue some useful and gainful occupation and are law abiding citizens.
Warder:
Do you vouch for these matters and these novices?
Senior
Warden: I do.
Warder:
I am satisfied and will report to the Sir Knight Commander. You will await his
further orders.
Warder
returns to altar in center of Commandery, salutes Sir Knight Commander
Warder:
Sir Knight Commander, there are within our portals (number) Christian Novices,
who are desirous of serving the required probationary term to qualify them for
enrollment among those valiant knights who guard and defend the Christian
Faith.
Sir Knight
Commander: How do
you know them to be Christian Novices?
Warder:
They come to us
highly recommended, have complied with all our requirements and have been
admitted within our portals and vouched for by our Senior Warden.
Sir Knight
Commander: Being
vouched for by our Senior Warden their claim is just. You, therefore, are
commanded to permit their representative to advance under an arch of steel.
Bugle call.
Guards arise, advance to front of throne. Under orders of Captain General form
arch of steel. Wardens advance novice under forward arch. Bugle call.
Sir Knight
Commander:
Whereas our Christian Forefathers, the Knight Hospitallers of St. John of
Jerusalem, were joined together in a holy bond of brotherhood to guard and
defend the Christian religion against Turks and Infidels, so we, the members
of the same Illustrious Order, will, so far as in our power lies, imitate
their glorious acts and achievements with our lives and fortunes, by
supporting and defending the Christian Religion against all foes whatsoever.
Commander
takes taper from his pedestal and descends to just in front of novice.
Sir Knight
Commander: As a
Christian novice, I greet thee, but before you can be admitted to our number
you must pass around the Commandery Chamber seven times, with this burning
taper in’ your hand, which is an emblem of faith, in order to prepare yourself
to take the solemn obligation.
Commander
puts taper Into hand of novice and returns to his station.
Captain
General: Carry,
Swords! Close, ranks; MARCH Front, FACE!
The wardens
then move slowly forward and the officers who formed arch follow forming a
procession. Chamber darkened for pictures. Soft music continues throughout the
seven journeys around the chamber. Each time novice will, be accosted by
Generalissimo as procession approaches that station.
First time.
Generalissimo: Halt! Novice, I greet thee. Go feed the hungry. For
it is written, “I was an hungered and ye gave the meat”. Pass on.
(Slide 1).
Second time.
Generalissimo:
Halt! Novice, I greet thee. Give drink to the thirsty. For it is written, “I
was thirsty and ye gave me drink”. Pass on. (Slide
2).
Third time.
Generalissimo:
Halt! Novice, I greet thee. Clothe the naked with a garment. For it is
written, “Blessed is he that considereth the poor”. Pass on.
(Slide 3).
Fourth time.
Generalissimo:
Halt! Novice, I greet thee. Visit and ransom the captive. For it is written,
“If you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive
you”. Pass on. (Slide 4.)
Fifth time.
Generalissimo:
Halt ! Novice, I greet thee. Harbor the harborless. Give the widow and the
orphan where to lay their heads. For it is written, “Love worketh no ill to
his neighbor ; therefore, love is the fulfilling of the law”. Pass on.
(Slide 5).
Sixth time.
Generalissimo:
Halt! Novice, I greet thee. Visit and relieve the sick. For it is written, “By
this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to
another”. Pass on. (Slide 6).
Seventh time.
Generalissimo:
Halt! Novice, I greet thee. Go bury the dead. For it is written, “Above all
things have fervent charity among yourselves”. Pass on.
(Slide 7).
Music stops.
Choir sings, “In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy
Ghost.” Amen.
Procession
moves around Council Chamber and the Guards fall out at their respective
stations. As Wardens and novice near the Prelate’s station he arises and
proceeds to the altar In the center of the Commandery, about six paces ahead
of the Wardens. The novice is conducted directly in front of the class facing
the Prelate.
Prelate faces
novice and class Wardens move to the edge of Commandery and stand at attention
so as not to detract from the Prelate’s work. Lights on.
Prelate:
Novices will
arise. Have each of you thoughtfully meditated over the manifold duties you
are about to assume as Christian Knights? You will answer.
Prelate:
It is well; but
before I can administer to you our solemn and binding obligation, it will be
necessary for me to ask you several questions, to which I request unequivocal
answers.
Prelate:
Is your reliance
for salvation solely upon the merits of our adorable Savior? You will answer.
Prelate:
Do each of you
promise to cherish spiritual joy; to strive to live without malice and to
repent of your sins? You will answer.
Prelate:
Do each of you
promise to display tolerance toward your adversaries ; to love justice ; to be
merciful ; to be sincere and pure of heart as a Christian Knight should? You
will answer.
Prelate:
Do each of you
promise, in consideration of the renunciation of the ancient vow of poverty,
to donate annually such sum or sums as you may deem convenient in aid of some
Protestant charity or charitable institution ? You will answer.
Prelate:
Do each of you
promise willing obedience in all things relating to this Christian Order, to
the properly constituted authorities? You will answer.
Prelate:
Are you willing
to defend the Christian Faith, if necessary at the expense of your life. You
will answer.
Prelate:
Glory be unto
God. Prelate raises his hand and prays.
Great God, Father of us all, thou alone knowst as to the integrity and
sincerity of these novices. Give them strength and power and purpose truly to
become Christian Knights to thy honor and glory forever.
Prelate and officers: Amen. Amen. Amen.
Prelate:
As Christian
Knights we are pledged to uphold, maintain and defend Protestantism, and if
there be any novice who has not received Christian baptism, then he should
attend to this important confirmation, for such was the example and will of
our great leader and commander, Jesus Christ.
Prelate:
You will advance
to the altar of obligation.
Wardens
conduct novice to altar and kneel him.
Prelate:
Novice, you will
place both hands upon the Holy Bible and crossed swords, palms down. Class
will kneel.
Sir Knight
Commander, * * *:
Sir Knights, ATTENTION! Form
around the altar as witnesses to the solemn obligations of these Christian
Novices, who are desirous of becoming Christian Knights.
The guards and officers take positions around the
altar as per diagram, cross the points of their swords over the Bible. The
other officers and guards wilt take positions relative to the four in center
held on horizontal plane. Sword movements are executed at command of the
Captain General
Captain
General: Sir
Knights, ATTENTION! Draw, SWORDS! Form, Cross! Sir Knight Prelate, the
Commandery is ready.
Prelate:
Novice, you are
now kneeling at the altar for the purpose of taking the solemn obligation of a
Knight of Malta. All novices will say I, and pronounce their name in full, and
repeat after me:
Obligation
... do solemnly and
voluntarily vow and swear, in the presence of Almighty God, and this duly
convoked Commandery, erected to God and dedicated to Christianity, that I will
be faithful and true to the ORDER OF KNIGHTS OF MALTA, of which I am now about
to become a member, and that I will ever observe and obey the constitution,
laws, rules and usages of the Order, and always maintain the Protestant
Religion, and Civil and Religious Liberty.
That I will be true and
faithful to every Sir Knight Companion of this Illustrious Order; that I will
at all times draw my sword in his behalf, if in a just cause, and that I will
always assist him in distress, if in my power so to do without injury to
myself and family.
That I will not initiate,
nor be present at the initiation of any novice except he be a true Protestant;
nor except there be present at least a quorum, unless authorized so to do by
dispensation from the Supreme Grand Commander or the Grand Commander having
immediate jurisdiction.
That I will bear true
allegiance to the Supreme Grand Commandery of the Continent of America,
working under Grand Charter from the Imperial Parent Grand Black Encampment of
the Universe, with headquarters at Glasgow, Scotland.
I solemnly vow that lam now
married to a Protestant, or being unmarried, that I will only marry one of the
Protestant Faith. I further promise to educate my children in the Public
Schools or in Protestant Institutions and in the Protestant Faith.
That I will exercise the
virtue of Christian charity toward the religious opinions of ail, and that I
will do my utmost to promote the unity of Protestant Christianity.
That I will never reveal any
of the signs, words or tokens, nor the secret mysteries of any degree of this
Illustrious Order, that I may at any time receive or be instructed in, except
it be to a true and lawful Sir Knight Companion, or within the body of a duly
convoked Commandery, in the proper discharge of my duties.
That I will not, by any
means whatsoever, make known or divulge the proceedings of this or any other
Commandery of this Order, unless it be to a Sir Knight Companion of this
Order, and to him only after strict trial and due examination.
To all of this I do most
solemnly and sincerely swear, with a firm and steady resolution to perform and
keep the same, without any hesitation, mental reservation, or secret evasion
whatsoever, so help me God.
You will now kiss the Holy
Bible.
Prelate:
Hearken now unto
the Divine Promise: “Be thou faithful unto death and I will give thee a crown
of life”.
Choir sings,
‘Be Thou Faithful Unto Death.”
Captain
General; Carry,
SWORDS! Return, SWORDS!
Sir Knight
Commander:
Officers, to your stations and posts.
All officers
return to their stations.
Sir Knight
Commander: *
Prelate:
Novice, you will
now be conducted to the Sir Knight Commander’s station, where you will be
presented with the arms of a soldier of the cross.
Wardens
escort novice to station of Sir Knight Commander. Prelate returns to his
station
Senior
Warden: Sir
Knight Commander, before you stands a Christian novice who, having taken the
solemn obligation, desires to be cased in the armor of a soldier of the cross,
and if found worthy, to be dubbed a Christian Knight.
Sir Knight
Commander:
Novice, I greet thee, and will case thee in Christian Armor, but before you
can be dubbed a Knight, I assign you eight years of warfare, which you will
perform as a trial of your constancy and courage.
Commander
descends in front of his pedestal and as investors proceeds, he takes various
articles from pedestal and hands them to Wardens to place on the novice.
Sir Knight
Commander: I now
invest you with this breastplate. It is the breastplate of righteousness,
being encompassed by which the faithful Christian Warrior is enabled to stand
in the evil day.
I now clothe you with this
mantle, whose bright color is emblematical of the blood shed for your
redemption by the Savior of the world. Receive it as the Lord’s yoke, for it
is easy and light, and will bring rest to your soul. Thereon emblazoned you
will find a cross, meet emblem of your Christian profession, and of the duty
you have assumed of supporting and defending it.
I now place this helmet on
your head. It is the Helmet of Salvation, and will protect you from all blows
which may be aimed at you in that direction.
I now gird on this shield.
It is the Shield of Faith, wherewith you shall be able to quench all the fiery
darts of the wicked.
And finally, I present you
with this sword, which, in the hand of a valiant Christian Knight, is endowed
with three most excellent qualities: The hilt with justice, the blade with
fortitude, and the point with mercy. It teaches us this important lesson, that
having faith in the justice of our cause, we must press forward with undaunted
fortitude, ever remembering to extend the point of mercy to a fallen foe.
Having become invested with
the sword, we expect you to make a declaration of the cause in which you will
wield it. Novices arise Give the sword
a flourish over your head and all novices repeat after me : I will wield my
sword in defense of innocent maidens, of destitute widows, of helpless orphans
and of the Christian Religion. Novices, be seated.
Sir Knight Prelate, read us
the lesson from Holy Scripture.
Prelate:
Finally, my
brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of His might.
Put on the whole armor of
God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
For we wrestle not against
flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the
rulers of darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.
Wherefore take unto you the
whole armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and
having done all, to stand.
Stand, therefore, having
your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of
righteousness.
And your feet shod with the
preparation of the gospel of peace.
Above all, taking the shield
of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the
wicked.
And take the helmet of
salvation, and the sword of the spirit, which is the Word of God.
Choir sings,
“Behold a Christian Warrior Stands.”
Sir Knight
Commander: Sir
Knights Senior and Junior Wardens, assist me in forming an arch of steel.
Captain
General: Sir
Knights Senior and Junior Warden, ATTENTION! Draw, SWORDS! Form arch of steel.
Wardens form
arch of steel as directed.
Sir Knight
Commander: I
shall now present you with the Pilgrim Warrior’s Pass, which will entitle you
to support, assistance and protection in your warfare. It is given at low
breath only, and under an arch of steel.
Commander communicates pass
to novice under arch formed by Wardens.
Sir Knight
Commander: The
meaning of the pass is Perfection, and has reference to that state which all
Christian Knights should strive to attain.
Captain
General: Carry,
SWORDS! Return, SWORDS!
Sir Knight
Commander:
Pilgrim Warrior, fare thee well; run the same course as all true knights
before you, and fight for the Christian Faith.
Commander
returns to station. Bugle call.
Captain
General: Sir
Knights, ATTENTION Draw, SWORDS!
Dim lights.
Choir sings, “Onward Christian Soldiers.” As music starts Wardens and novice
start slowly marching around Chamber. As they pass, the various officers and
guards they salute, and except the First and Second Guards, join the
procession. The size of the procession must be determined by the working
space. Wardens should so time march that at the completion of the song they
are approaching the station of First Guard.
First Guard,
stepping in front of novice, with sword at charge, lightly striking shield:
Halt ! Who comes
here?
Senior
Warden: A Pilgrim
Warrior, who has been assigned eight years of warfare and sent on a crusade as
a probation for knightly honors, and is now desirous of visiting the Holy City
while on his way.
First Guard:
A valiant warrior
you must be to have come thus far. Advance and communicate the Pilgrim
Warrior’s Pass.
First Guard
steps back. Wardens step forward far enough to form the arch of steel without
interference, Novice communicates pass to First Guard. Wardens return swords.
First Guard:
The pass is
right; may God speed thee on thy journey.
Bugle call.
March music as procession proceeds around Chamber. Music stops as they
approach Second Guard on second time around.
Second Guard,
stepping in front of novice with sword at charge, lightly striking shield:
Halt! Who comes here?
Senior
Warden: A Pilgrim
Warrior, who has been assigned eight years of warfare and sent on a crusade as
a probation for knightly honors, and is desirous of visiting the Holy City
while on his way.
Second Guard:
A valiant warrior
you must be to have come thus far. Advance and communicate the Pilgrim
Warrior’s Pass.
Wardens form
arch and pass communicated to Second Guard as was done in case of First Guard.
Second Guard:
The pass is
right; may God speed thee on thy journey.
Solemn march music as
procession moves around Chamber until near First Guard’s station and halts.
Novice is maneuvered so as to be facing picture screen.
Sir Knight
Commander: Sir
Knight Prelate, you will read the lesson from Holy Scripture.
Lights out.
Slide of “Garden of Gethsemane,” “Christ In Prayer. Betrayal” shown in
accordance with Prelate’s reading.
“Disciples in
Garden of Gethsemane.”
Prelate:
And they came to
a place which was named Gethsemane: and he saith to his disciples, sit ye
here, while I shall pray.
And he taketh with him Peter
and James and John, and began to be sore amazed, and to be very heavy.
And saith unto them, My soul
is exceeding sorrowful unto death; tarry ye here and watch.
And he went forward a
little, and fell on the ground, and prayed that, if it were possible, the hour
might pass from him.
And he said, Abba, Father,
all things are possible unto thee, take away this cup from me: nevertheless,
not what I will, but what thou wilt.
And he cometh, and findeth
them sleeping, and saith unto Peter, Simon, sleepest thou? Couldest not thou
watch one hour?
Watch ye and pray, lest ye
enter into temptation. The spirit truly is ready, but the flesh is weak.
And again he went away. and
prayed, and spake the same words.
And when he returned, he
found them asleep again, (for their eyes were heavy), neither wist they what
to answer him.
And he cometh the third
time, and saith unto them, sleep on now and take your rest: it is enough, the
hour has come; behold the son of man is betrayed into the hands of sinners.
Rise up, let us go; lo, he
that betrayeth me is at hand.
Music: ”In
the Garden” or “Holy City.”
Slide:
“Garden of Gethsemane”
Senior
Warden:
Companion, this scene represents the Garden of Gethsemane, wherein our Savior
began his agonizing passion ; (Slide: ” Holy City
of Jerusalem”) and this the Holy City of Jerusalem, which is
typical of that heavenly city within whose sacred precincts all Christian
Knights hope some day to arrive, after having passed through the novitiate,
pilgrimage and warfare of this world, and partaken of the sorrow and
bitterness of death. (Slide: ” Streets of
Jerusalem.”) Along those streets our Saviour, mocked by soldiers
went. (Slide: ”Christ at Prayer.”)
Within the shade of that garden, bearing the burden of a world’s sin, He
prayed earnestly that, if possible, the cup of affliction might pass from Him;
and to His weary disciples He gave the ever memorable exhortation: Watch and
pray, lest ye enter into temptation. Be thou faithful, O Christian Warrior!
Watch and pray, that, when your hour may come, heavenly consolation may be
awarded you, your departure be triumphant, and your rest that which remaineth
only unto the people of God.
Bugle call,
lights dim. Solemn march music as procession encircles chamber twice, stopping
as commanded by First Guard
First Guard,
challenge is executed as before:
Halt ! Who comes here?
Senior
Warden: A Pilgrim
Warrior, traveling from afar, who having passed eight years of warfare, is now
desirous of receiving the honors and rewards that await the valiant soldier of
the cross.
First Guard:
If he has the
Pilgrim Warrior’s Pass let him advance and communicate it.
Wardens form
arch as before.
First Guard:
The pass is
right. I will acquaint the Second Guard with his request.
First Guard
advances toward Second Guard.
Second Guard:
Halt! Who comes
here?
First Guard:
A Pilgrim
Warrior, traveling from afar, who, having passed eight years of warfare, is
now desirous of receiving the honors and rewards that await the valiant
soldier of the cross.
Second Guard:
By what right
does he seek admission?
First Guard:
By the benefit of
the Pilgrim Warrior’s Pass.
Second Guard:
Advance and give
it to me as communicated.
First Guard
communicates pass under an arch of steel in regulation form.
Second Guard:
The pass is
right. I will acquaint the Sir Knight Commander with his request.
Second Guard:
Sir Knight
Commander, a Pilgrim Warrior, traveling from afar, who having passed eight
years of warfare, is now desirous of receiving the honors and rewards that
await the valiant soldier of the cross.
Sir Knight
Commander: By
what right does he seek admission?
Second Guard:
By the benefit of
the Pilgrim Warrior’s Pass.
Sir Knight
Commander:
Advance and give it as communicated.
Second Guard
communicates pass in regulation form.
Sir Knight
Commander: The
pass is right, and his pilgrimage is ended. Sir Knight Second Guard, it is
therefore my command that the Pilgrim Warrior be advanced.
Second Guard
returns to his station.
Second Guard:
Sir Knight First
Guard, it is ordered by the Sir Knight Commander that the Pilgrim Warrior be
advanced.
First Guard:
Pilgrim Warrior,
pass on.
Procession
passes around Chamber and all officers but the Wardens fall out at their
respective stations Wardens proceed until before the Sir Knight Commander’s
station.
Senior
Warden: Sir
Knight Commander, before you stands a Pilgrim Warrior, who, having passed
eight years of warfare, is now desirous of receiving the honors and rewards
that await the valiant soldier of the cross.
Sir Knight
Commander: Well
done, good and faithful servant is it still your desire to be admitted in the
bosom of this knightly brotherhood?
Novice
answers: It is.
Sir Knight
Commander: In
token thereof sheath your sword, be divested of your implements of warfare and
approach the altar.
Wardens
divest novice of armor and advance him to the altar.
The Sir
Knight Commander is now standing before it.
Sir Knight
Commander: In
granting your request, and admitting you a Knight among us, we can offer you
only severe duty. If on this condition, you are still desirous of enlisting
under our banner, kneel before me. Class will kneel. Sir Knights will arise.
Sit Knight Prelate, you will lead us in prayer.
Captain
General: Sir
Knights, ATTENTION! Draw, SWORDS! Present, SWORDS!
Prelate,
advances to front of class and kneels:
O God, our Great Heavenly
Father, graciously look down, we beseech Thee on these novices upon whom the
honor of Christian Knighthood is about to be conferred. Arm them continually
with the sword of the spirit, the shield of faith and the helmet of salvation.
Grant that they may ever continue true and faithful soldiers of the cross, and
at last may be found worthy of admission into Thy eternal reward.
Amen. Amen. Amen.
Choir sings.
“The Lord’s Prayer.”
The novice
who is now kneeling, is then knighted in the following manner: The Sir Knight
Commander taking the sword strikes the novice lightly with the blade of the
sword three times. Once each on the right shoulder, middle of back and left
shoulder, at the same time saying:
By virtue of the authority in me vested as Commander and Prior of our Ancient
Fraternity, I do dub and create thee, and through thee every Christian Novice
here assembled, A Knight Hospitaller of St. John of Jerusalem, of Palestine,
of abodes, and of Malta. Be thou true, valient and secret. Arise,
taking novice by right hand Sir ... in
memory of our ancient Forefathers, the Grand Black Knights of Malta and Saint
John.
Bugle call,
lights in.
Captain
General: Carry,
SWORDS! Return, SWORDS. Officers to your stations and posts.
Sir Knight
Commander: Sir
Knight Generalissimo, you will deliver the charge and then, assisted by our
Sir Knight Captain General and Prelate, you will proclaim the installation.
Generalissimo:
Sir, Knights, having, after strict trial and due examination, been found
worthy of admission into our Ancient and Illustrious Institution – ancient, as
dating its existence from the period of the crusades in 1048 and illustrious
in deeds of valor and pure beneficence – and having had conferred upon you the
distinguished honor of Christian Knighthood, you are now welcome to
participate in the defeats and triumphs, joys and sorrows, which await all
valiant and trusty soldiers of the cross.
As Gethsemane with its
solemn memories is indelibly engraved upon the throbbing heart of our Holy
Christianity, let us derive from its hallowed shade that spirit of humility
and obedience which characterized our suffering Lord yet conquering Redeemer.
With the light of faith brightly burning amid the recesses of our hearts, let
us daily meditate upon the respective duties to God, our neighbors and
ourselves. Thus, having been faithful unto death may we receive the crown
which fadeth not away; and, having come off victorious over principalities and
powers, may we enter triumphantly into the Celestial City; there with Christ
our Commander, to live and reign world without end.
You will now face the
Commandery.
Sir Knight
Commander: * * *.
Generalissimo:
The Junior Warden, as a Knight Hospitaller, will invest you with an apron. h
is a badge of innocence, charity and hospitality, which will remind you of
your duty to the friendless, the poor and needy also of the labors of our
ancient brethren in the hospital at Jerusalem.
Junior Warden
invests novice with apron, flap turned in.
Generalissimo:
The Senior Warden will invest you with your knightly Spurs.
Senior Warden
will affix spurs.
Generalissimo:
The spurs signify that, as the horse fears them when he swerves from duty, so
should you fear to depart from your post or violate your solemn vow.
Bugle call.
Generalissimo: In
the name of the Holy Trinity, and by the order of the Sir Knight Commander,
hear ye, Sir Knights, that I proclaim Sir ... and through him every Christian
Novice to be duly installed a Knight Hospitaller of St. John of Jerusalem, of
Palestine, of
Rhodes and of Malta.
Bugle call.
Captain
General: In the
name of the Holy Trinity, and by order of the Sir Knight Commander, hear ye,
Sir Knights, that
I proclaim Sir ..., and
through him every Christian Novice to be duly installed a Knight Hospitaller
of St. John of Jerusalem, of Palestine, of Rhodes and of Malta.
Bugle call.
Prelate:
In the name of
the Holy Trinity, and by order of the Sir Knight Commander, hear ye, Sir
Knights, that I proclaim Sir ... and through him every Christian Novice to be
duly installed a Knight Hospitaller of St. John of Jerusalem, of Palestine, of
Rhodes
and of Malta.
Bugle call.
Sir Knight
Commander: Sir
Knights, assist me to confer the Grand Honors upon our newly made Sir Knights.
Grand Honors
conferred.
Sir Knight
Commander, *: Sir
Knights, from the ceremonies through which you have just passed a deep
significance must be derived. You entered the doors of this Commandery in a
secular habit, and without girdle, to signify that of your own free will and
accord, and with the proper appreciation of the important step you were
taking, you had presented yourself for initiation. You passed seven times
around the Commandery with a lighted taper, emblematic of faith, in your hand,
not only for the purpose of acquiring the knowledge of the duties which, as a
Christian Knight, you owe in an especial manner to suffering and deceased
humanity but also to remind you that in your travel through this benighted
sphere the light of faith will mark out and brighten your path, and, in God’s
own perfect and appointed time, conduct you to the regions of eternal light
and happiness.
You assumed the binding
obligation with the swords of your companions suspended over you, to typify,
that while making the solemn and irrevocable vow, the sword of the spirit was
hovering around for the purpose of striking with remorse the guilty conscience
which would presume to call upon its Maker to witness a false oath.
And finally, while engaged
in those chivalric duties which were to fit you for your knightly spurs, you
sojourned for a season at the hallowed Garden of Gethsemane, within view of
the Holy City, to remind you that even in the midst of life’s severe trials,
the Christian Warrior is not far removed from the heavenly city of his choice.
Be wise. Be faithful. Be true.
Sir Knight, I will now
instruct you in the signs, grand countersign, grip, passwords and secret
customs appertaining to this Illustrious Degree.
There are two passwords: one
called the Grand Countersign, the other the Pilgrim Warrior’s Pass.
The Grand Countersign is ...
and is given by a companion to the Sentinel when he desires to enter the
Council Chamber, and the Commandery is at labor in the Knight of Malta Degree,
and is the general working password of this degree.
The Pilgrim Warrior’s
Pass-your attention is particularly directed to the peculiar nature of this
pass, which must never be communicated save at low breath, and under an arch
of steel. To form an arch for the purpose of communicating this pass, give six
cuts with the sword: three under cuts, three over cuts at the sixth cut take
one step forward with the left foot, and another with the right, and divide
the pass with your companion at low breath, thus ...
A practical
explanation is here given by the Senior and Junior Wardens.
I trust that in this as in
all other matters relating to our Order you will seek that perfection which so
well becometh the valiant pilgrim warrior.
The signs: there are two:
the sword sign and the hailing sign.
The first sign of a Knight
of Malta is the sword sign, and is given thus ... and is preparatory to the
giving of the hailing sign, which is given thus ... The hailing sign,
advancing it,
accompanied by the explanatory words ... keeps perpetually before us the
fidelity which should characterize a Christian knight, and the honesty and
integrity justly expected of him.
The Grand Countersign ...
being transrated signifies ... is given thus ...
The grip is given thus ...
If challenged for the grip
it will be your duty to withhold it unless the party challenging presents its
complement, which is ... and refers to the words of our Saviour ...
The recognition or test sign
of a Knight of Malta is made thus ... representing Paul on the island of
Melita: and the answer is given thus ... representing the throwing down of the
viper.
The number of this degree is
eight, and is typified by the eight points of the Maltese cross.
Eight is also the number of
raps given at the inner door of the Council Chamber, when desirous of entering
the same, and the Commandery is at labor in the Knight of Malta Degree. They
are given thus: **** ****.
To gain admission to your
Commandery when open in the Knight of Malta Degree, you will give any ordinary
alarm on the outer door, the Sentinel will open the door or wicket and satisfy
himself that you are a member of the Commandery. You will then be admitted to
the ante-room and the Sentinel will take from you the grip and grand
countersign: you will clothe yourself with an apron and the Sentinel will
announce you. On entering the Council Chamber you will give the same grip and
grand countersign to the Warder, then advance to the altar and give the sword
and hailing sign, which being responded to by the Sir Knight Commander you
will take your seat.
Sir Knights, you will pay
attention while the Senior and Junior Wardens deliver the lecture of this
degree, most of which should be committed to memory by all Sir Knights before
being advanced to the second degree. Our Preceptor will arrange for your
instruction.
Lecture
Senior
Warden: Sir
Knight, what were you?
Junior
Warden: A novice.
Senior
Warden: What
then?
Junior
Warden: A Knight
Hospitaller.
Senior
Warden: What
next?
Junior
Warden: A Knight
of Rhodes.
Senior
Warden: What are
you now?
Junior
Warden: A Knight
of Malta.
Senior
Warden: How am I
to know you as such?
Junior
Warden: By my
being in possession of the grand countersign whereby all true Knights of Malta
know and recognize each other.
Senior Warden: Will you give it to me?
Junior Warden gives grand countersign in regular
form.
Senior Warden: When is it given?
Junior Warden: To the Sentinel and
Warder to gain admission to the Commandery when at labor in the Knight of
Malta Degree, and is the general working password of the degree.
Senior Warden: How else shall I know
you?
Junior
Warden: By the
Pilgrim Warrior’s Pass
Senior
Warden: How is it
given?
Junior
Warden: Under an
arch of steel in a low breath only.
Wardens
exemplify giving the pass.
Sir Knight
Commander: Each
newly made Sir Knight will now arise and advance beneath the arch of steel and
receive the
Pilgrim Warrior’s Pass.
All novices
given pass by Commander.
Sir Knight
Commander: Your
attention is particularly directed to the peculiar nature of this pass and the
manner and form in which it is given. This must never be forgotten as it is a
vital point in your examination if visiting another Commandery. Sir Knight
Wardens you will proceed.
Senior
Warden: Are you
proficient in the work?
Junior
Warden: I was
carefully instructed and passed due examination.
Senior
Warden: Give me
the sword sign.
Junior Warden
gives the sword sign.
Senior
Warden: Give me
the hailing sign.
Junior Warden
gives the hailing sign; divides explanatory words with
Senior Warden.
Senior
Warden:
Have you the grip of a Knight of Malta?
Junior
Warden: Come and
see. Senior Warden
gives
complement.
Senior
Warden: Will you
advance the test or recognition sign of a Knight of Malta?
Junior
Warden: I will if
you will tell me when and where it should be used.
Senior
Warden: It should
only be used in a duly convoked commandery, instructing a Sir Knight, or in
examination of one who claims admittance.
Junior Warden
gives sign. Senior Warden gives answer. Wardens salute Commander and take
seats.
Choir sings,
“Again Has Come the Closing Hour.”
Prelate
(prayer):
Almighty Father, we ask thy blessing and the
out-pouring of thy spirit upon all Knights of Malta and especially upon these
newly made Christian Knights. Help and guide them in the paths of truth and
righteousness and may their lives be so conducted that in the end our Great
Commander can say: “Well done good and faithful servant, enter thou into the
joy of thy Lord.”
All
Knights: Amen. Amen. Amen.
Sir Knight
Commander: The
Commandery will now be at ease while we welcome these newly made Christian
Knights, and after their retirement we will close in due form.
Closing
Sir Knight
Commander: Sir
Knight Generalissimo, ** what is the
constant care of a Knight of Malta?
Generalissimo:
Sir Knight Commander, to be a true and faithful soldier of the CROSS, In all
things emulating the life, and, if need be, suffering the death of his blessed
Lord and Master.
Sir Knight
Commander: In so
doing, whose will doth he execute?
Generalissimo:
The will of God.
Sir Knight
Commander: Thou
hast said it. Let us strive so to execute His will that the end of this life
may be but the beginning of a blissful eternity. We will now proceed to close
this Christian Commandery. * * *
Observe your
Commander.
All
Companions rise and advance the hailing sign.
Captain
General: Sir
Knights, ATTENTION ! Draw Swords!
The
Commandery is prepared as in the opening. The Prelate accompanied by the Sword
Bearer and Standard Bearer advance to the altar.
Prelate:
Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.
Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles
of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against
principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this
world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you
the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and
having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with
truth, and having on the breastplate~. of righteousness, and your feet shod
with the preparation of the gospel of peace. Above all, taking the shield of
faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked,
and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the
word of God.
Captain
General: Sir
Knights, uncover! TO YOUR DEVOTIONS.
At this
command each officer drops the point of his sword to the floor and kneels on
his left knee as previously explained. He then removes his cap or chapeau with
his left hand and places it upon his right, which rests upon the hilt of
sword. Sir Knights kneel on left knee.
Prelate:
Let us pray: “Refresh us, O Lord, we beseech Thee, with Thy blessing, and
grant that we may neither here nor hereafter violate the bonds of morality and
virtue. Incite us to inwardly digest the hidden mysteries of our Order, so
that we may profit by the instructions we have received, and emulate one
another in upright example.”
Prelate and
Companions: Amen,
Amen, Amen.
Captain
General: Sir
Knights, ATTENTION! Recover! Return Swords
At these
commands Officers replace caps or chapeaux and rise, bring swords to carry and
return swords. Sir Knights arise.
Sir Knight
Commander:
Officers, to your stations and posts.
When this has
been done: Sir Knight Commander:
Sir Knight Senior Warden, disarrange the altar.
The closing
ode is now sung.
Sir Knight
Commander: Sir
Knights, peace be unto you. By virtue of the authority vested in me I now
declare this Convocation closed.
The Sir
Knight Commander will then give * * * * * * * which shall be repeated by
the Generalissimo, Warder and Sentinel after which the Sir Knight Commander
will give one rap of the gavel, when the Commandery is dismissed.
