Orange Order

 

Societies and clubs celebrating the victory of King William III date back to 1690.   The Orange Order itself arose out of disturbances in County Armagh, Ireland in the late eighteenth century, when Protestant 'Peep O'Day Boys' conflicted with Roman Catholic 'Defenders'.   Following the Battle of  the Diamond in 1795 near Loughgall, the new Protestant organization was founded.  Like Freemasons a Grand Lodge was soon formed.  (The founding members of the Orange Institution were Freemasons as was King William III, Prince of Orange.)  Very quickly after the foundation of the Order, there emerged a second 'Purple Marksman' or 'Plain Purple' degree.  Grand Lodge tried to stop local lodges from forming yet more degrees, but without much success.  Soon were found degrees with names such as 'Royal Arch Purple', 'Scarlet', 'Black, 'Green' and 'Apron'.    By the 1830's, these different so-called 'Black' degrees were being coordinated by bodies such as the 'Royal Black Association of Ireland', the 'Grand Black Order of Orangemen ' and the 'Magnanimous and Invincible Order of Blackmen'.  There was also a Scottish order variously called the 'Loyal Black Association of Scotland', the 'Imperial Grand Lodge of Knights of Malta and Parent Black Lodge of the Universe', and the Imperial Grand Encampment of the Universe and Grand Black Lodge of Scotland and the most Ancient Illustrious and Military Order of the Knights Hospitallers of St. John of Jerusalem'  This group began to issue Irish warrants in 1834 and in 1844 it formed a Grand Priory of Ireland. As their names suggest these 'Black' organizations were modeled upon the older chivalric orders-and more directly upon the chivalric orders found within the Freemasons.  In 1847, a body breaking away from the Grand Priory met with representatives of the Grand Black Order and the Grand Black Orange Lodge of Ireland, Thus was formed the Grand Black Chapter which exists to this day.    When someone joins the Orange Order today, he usually passes through both the Orange and Plain Purple degrees. Thence he may be invited to join a Royal Arch Purple Chapter.  He may then become a member of a Black Preceptory and pass through its eleven degrees, Royal Black, Royal Scarlet, Royal Mark, Apron & Royal Blue, Royal White, Royal Green, Royal Gold, Star & Garter, Scarlet Arrow, Link & Chain and Red Cross.

 

The Royal Arch Purple Degree (3rd degree) is based on the original theme of the Exodus of the Children of Israel from Egypt to the Promised Land.  The 2 1/2 reminds us of the tribe of Reuben, the tribe of Gad and the half tribe of Manasseh who, although their inheritance was assured on the other side of Jordan advanced in the vanguard of the army when crossing the river to assist their brethren to secure the Promised Land.

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

Here is what their aprons look like!

 

 

 

Here is what they looked like!

 

 

Additional Orange Order related web sites worthy of a visit are as follows:

 

The Orange Chronicle
http://www.orange-order.co.uk

 

http://www.orangenet.org/america.htm

 

http://www.balchinstitute.org/manuscript_guide/html/royalblackknights.html

 

http://www.royalblack.org/

 

http://www.dwilliamso.pwp.blueyonder.co.uk/imperial1.htm

 

A Special "Thank You" to Brother David Allen who supplied the history and many pictures in reference to this group.

 

Orange Degree
Loyal Orange Association

This ritual is used in the Loyal Orange Association of British America, 1926

All business connected with the affairs of the Association shall be transacted in open Lodge, guarded by a Sentinel and Tyler, and five members of a Primary Lodge shall form a quorum.
The altar shall be draped with the Union Jack, and the Holy Bible placed thereon.
The Sentinel and Tyler shall be examined by the Master before taking their places, to see if they are properly qualified to report on those applying for admission.
The Sentinel shall guard the approach to the Lodge; allow only properly qualified brethren to enter; and report anyone without the Annual to the Tyler.
The Tyler shall guard the entrance to the Lodge from the inside, and permit only qualified brethren to enter (unannounced). Those not having the proper qualifications he shall announce to the Deputy Master by giving their names and the number of the Lodge to which they belong, and obtain the necessary permission before admitting them. He shall keep the door of. the Lodge closed during the opening and closing ceremonies, the reading of the Minutes, the repetition of the Lecture, and the taking of a vote. He shall not permit any brother to leave the Lodge who is not in possession of the retiring password.
After the Master has declared the Lodge open, no brother shall be admitted without giving the Annual to the Sentinel, and the Pass to the Tyler, unless properly vouched for.
The chair having been taken by the Master, and the officers and members being in their seats, all the officers and brethren (except the Master, Tyler and Sentinel), shall be tested in the Annual and Pass by the Marshal and Lecturer, who shall report the result of their examination to the Deputy Master.
The Deputy Master shall then rise and say: Worshipful Master, all members present are in possession of the Orange Annual and Pass of this degree.
If any brother be present who has not the Annual and Pass, the Deputy Master shall add: Except Bro. ….
MASTER: Who can vouch for Bro. …, that he is in good standing in the Orange Association?
Note.—A member without the Annual must be vouched for by a member of the lodge to which he belongs, or in the event of no member of his lodge being present, he must produce a receipt for dues showing that he is in good standing, and must also pass an examination in the work of the degrees.
 
 
Prayer
 
The Master shall give three knocks: The brethren shall rise, assume the proper position, and the Chaplain shall then say: Almighty God and Heavenly Father, who of Thy gracious providence and tender mercy towards us, didst wonderfully conduct Thy servant, King William, and bring him safely through many difficulties, to preserve us from the attempts of our enemies to bereave us of our religion and laws, we humbly praise and magnify Thy most glorious name for Thy unspeakable goodness towards us, expressed in this act of Thy mercy. Be Thou still out Mighty Protector, and scatter our enemies that delight in blood: infatuate and defeat their counsels, abate their pride, assuage their malice, and confound their devices. Strengthen the hands of our present gracious Sovereign, and all that are put in authority under him, with judgment and justice to cut off all such workers of iniquity as turn religion into rebellion and faith into faction; that they may never prevail against us, or triumph in the ruin of Thy church amongst us; but that our gracious Sovereign, and his realms, being preserved in Thy true religion, and by Thy merciful goodness protected in the same, we may all duly serve Thee, and give Thee thanks in Thy holy congregation, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
All the brethren shall then repeat the Lord’s Prayer, as follows:
CHAPLAIN AND BRETHREN: Our Father which art in Heaven; hallowed be Thy name; Thy kingdom come; Thy will be done on earth as it is in Heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive them that trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil; for Thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.
The Chaplain shall then advance to the altar, open the Holy Bible, and read a portion of Scripture, after which he shall return to his station and the Master shall say: I now declare this Loyal Orange Lodge No. …, open in due form. God Save the King.
The Order of Business, as fixed by the Constitution and Laws, shall then be observed in conducting the. business of Primary Orange Lodge.           
 
 
Admission
 
On the admission of Candidates, the following form shall be used:
The Candidate being in attendance, the Worshipful Master shall direct the Lecturer and the Marshal, or two other brethren, to proceed to the ante-room and make the necessary preparations; which having been completed, they shall return to the lodge room door with the Candidate; and the Tyler having announced their return, and it having been ascertained that the necessary fee has been paid, the Worshipful Master shall rise and say: Brethren, Is it your pleasure that Mr. … be now admitted to membership in this Lodge?
Having received the necessary permission from the members, the Master shall direct the Tyler to open the door and admit the Candidate and his Conductors, who shall accompany him into the lodge room, bearing wands decorated with the color of the Degree, and the brethren shall rise and remain standing.
The Recording Secretary shall then say: Worshipful Master, introduced by Brothers ... and ..., Mr. … is now present before you and the members of this Lodge, seeking admission into the Orange Association.
MASTER: Friend, is it of your own free will that you seek admission into the Orange Association?
The Candidate, with his Conductors standing immediately in front of the chair of the Deputy Master, and facing the Worshipful Master, shall answer: It is.
CHAPLAIN: Brethren It is written: “In everything, by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known unto God.” Let us pray.
The Master shall then give two knocks and the brethren shall kneel in prayer.
CHAPLAIN: Direct us, O Lord, in all our doings with Thy most gracious favor, and further us with Thy continual help; that in all our works, begun, continued and ended in Thee, we may glorify Thy Holy Name. And, finally, by Thy mercy, obtain everlasting life, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
The Lord’s Prayer shall then be repeated by the Chaplain and the brethren, after which the Master shall give three knocks, when the brethren shall rise and remain standing while the following hymn is sung:
Onward, Christian soldiers, marching as to war,
Looking unto Jesus, who is gone before!
Christ, the Royal Master, leads against the foe;
Forward into battle see His banners go.
Onward, Christian soldiers, marching as to war,
Looking unto Jesus, who is gone before!
 
Like a mighty army, moves the Church of God:
Brothers, we are trending where the saints have trod;
We are not divided, all one body we,
One in hope and doctrine, one in charity,
Onward, Christian soldiers, etc.
 
Crowns and thrones may perish, kingdoms rise and wane,
But the Church of Jesus constant will remain;
Gates of hell can never ‘gainst that Church prevail;
We have Christ’s own promise, which can never fail.
Onward, Christian soldiers, etc.
One rap shall then he given, and the brethren will be seated, after which the Worshipful Master shall address the Conductors of the Candidate as follows: Do you, brethren, answer for this friend, that he is of good report, a true and faithful Protestant, and a loyal subject of the King?
The Conductors, bowing to the Master, shall say: We do.
The Master shall further address the Conductors and say: Brethren, have you duly considered the responsibility you have undertaken to the Orange Association, and to this Lodge in particular, in thus becoming sureties to us for this friend?
CONDUCTORS: We have.
MASTER: And do you believe that he has been informed of the duties required of all true Orangemen, as fully set forth in the Constitution and Laws?
CONDUCTORS: We do.
The Master shall then proceed solemnly to examine the Candidates as follows: Friend, Assured by these brethren that you have been fully informed of the duties required of all true Orangemen; and being assured further, that you are of good report, a true and faithful Protestant, and a loyal subject of the King, I now desire for the further satisfaction of myself and the brethren present, to receive from your own lips distinct answers to the following enquiries:
MASTER: Do you promise to support the Protestant religion and earnestly strive to propagate its doctrines and precepts; will you endeavor yourself, seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit, to walk in public and in private consistently with this profession; and will you, to the utmost of your power, make your public and private acts harmonize with the principles of the Orange Association?
CANDIDATE: I do promise, and with God’s assistance, will endeavor to do so.
CHAPLAIN: In vain do they worship Me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. But continue thou in the things which thou hast been assured of, knowing that from a child thou hast known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation, through faith which is in Christ Jesus. In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves. Let all things be done with charity.
Then the Deputy Master, coming forward, shall place in the hands of the Candidate a copy of the Holy Scripture, saying: We place in your hands a copy of the Word of God.
CHAPLAIN: All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works. Search the scriptures. These things are written that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that relieving ye might have life through His name.
The Master shall then address the Candidate as follows: Bear always in mind, therefore, that a true Orangeman should honor and diligently read the Holy Scriptures, and make them the sole rule of his faith and practice; that, consequently, he should have a sincere love and veneration for his Heavenly Father; an humble and steadfast faith in Jesus Christ, the Saviour of mankind, the only Mediator between God and man; and also, that he should possess a firm reliance in the guiding, witnessing and sanctifying power of the Holy Spirit. Let me further exhort you ever to bear in mind that a true Orangeman should reverently observe the Lord’s Day, attend the public worship of God, and carefully train up his offspring and all under his control in the fear of God, and in the Protestant faith; that he should not take the name of God in vain; but, abstaining himself from swearing and profane language, use every opportunity of discouraging such like sinful practices in others. His conduct should be marked by prudence, honesty, temperance, and sobriety. He should cultivate truth and justice, devotion and piety, kindness and charity, concord and unity, and obedience to the laws. In a word, the glory of God, the welfare of man, the honor of his sovereign, and the good of his country should be the motives of his action.
Then the Deputy Master, coming forward, shall place in the hands of the Candidate a copy of the Constitution, saying: We now place in your hands a copy of the Constitution and Laws of the Orange Association. We trust you will study them well, and obey them in all lawful matters. And now, having confidence, from the assurances given to us, that you will well and truly discharge the several duties therein enjoined, God being your helper, we gladly receive you into our Association.
The Candidate shall then be brought to the altar.
The Chaplain shall then say: ”Be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour 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 armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day.”
The Worshipful Master shall give three raps and advance to the altar. The brethren shall rise and come to the sign of Fidelity. The Candidate shall kneel, place his left hand on the open Bible, his right hand over his heart, and say “I,” give his name in full, and repeat the following obligation:
 
 
Obligation
 
I, ..., solemnly and voluntarily promise, that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to his Majesty, and to his lawful heirs and successors in the sovereignty of Great Britain and Ireland, this Dominion and the Province of Newfoundland, so long as he or they shall support and maintain the Protestant religion. That I will, to the utmost of my power, defend them against all traitorous conspiracies and attempts which I shall know to be against him or any of them. That I will steadily maintain the connection between this Dominion, the Province of Newfoundland, the Mother Country and all Colonies and Dominions beyond the seas, and be ever ready to resist tall attempts to weaken British influence or dismember the British Empire. That I will be true and faithful to every brother Orange-man in all just actions, neither wronging him nor knowing him to be wronged or injured without giving him due notice thereof, and preventing it if in my power.
I further promise that I will not unlawfully have any carnal knowledge of a brother’s wife, sister, daughter or mother, and that I will also honor and respect the chastity of womanhood. That I will ever hold sacred the name of our glorious deliverer, King William III., Prince of Orange, in grateful remembrance of whom I solemnly promise (so long as I remain a member of a Lodge, and if in my power) to celebrate his victory over James at the Boyne, in Ireland, by assembling with my brethren in their Lodge. room on the Twelfth day of July in every year; or, should that day fall on Sunday, then on such day as my Lodge shall, by resolution, at a regular meeting, appoint for such celebration. That I am not now nor ever will be a Roman Catholic, nor am I married to, nor will I ever marry a Roman Catholic, nor educate, nor permit my children to be educated in that faith, or in any Roman Catholic School or institution, except where no Protestant or public schools exist. That I will resist by all lawful means, the ascendancy, extension and encroachment of the Church of Rome, at the same time being careful always to abstain from all unkind words and actions towards its members. That I am not a suspended or expelled member of the Orange Association.
I do further promise that I will do my utmost to support and maintain the Loyal Orange Association; obey all regular summonses, and pay all just dues (if in my power). That I will not unite with, or in any way recognize, any Lodge or body of men purporting to he Orangemen, unless such Lodge or body of men hold a warrant from the Grand Lodge of British America, or from some Grand Lodge recognized by the Grand Council of Orangemen (commonly called the Triennial Council); that I will use all my influence to promote fellowship and brotherly love amongst my brethren, and observe and obey the Constitution and Laws of the Association.
Lastly, that I will always conceal, and never in any way whatsoever disclose or reveal, the whole or any part of the signs, words, or tokens, that are now about to be privately communicated to me, unless 1 shall be authorized to do so by the proper authorities of the Orange Association, of which I am now about to become a member. So help me God, and keep me steadfast in this my Orangeman’s Obligation.
The Candidate shall then seal his Obligation by kissing the Holy Bible.
The Master shall here give two knocks, when the brethren shall kneel, and the Chaplain shall say: Almighty God, Judge of all men, to whom all hearts be open, and from whom no secrets are hid; look down, we beseech Thee, upon us, who are now assembled beneath Thy All-seeing eye; Thou hatest the deceitful heart; to Thee the false tongue is an abomination. Strengthen us, then, we implore Thee. that we may ever avoid falsehood, and cleave to that which is true. Dispose us to brotherly love and Christian charity, to be true and faithful to our brethren in all just actions; and as we do n6w receive this dear friend into our Benevolent and Loyal Association, may we be admitted info Thy Heavenly Kingdom. In Thy Name and looking to Thy Providence to direct us as to what is right, we do now receive this Brother to membership in our Society, trusting that Thou wilt so guide and govern his heart and actions, that he may long continue an ornament to our Association and a firm and steadfast supporter of Thy Church and people. Amen.
The Worshipful Master shall then give three knocks. The brethren, except the Candidate shall rise, and come to the sign of Fidelity. The Marshal shall then invest the Candidate with the regalia of the degree. The Worshipful Master shall then address the Candidate as follows: You have now been invested with the regalia of this degree, and we receive you, dear brother, into the religious and Loyal Association of Orangemen, trusting that you will abide a devoted servant of God, a true believer in His Son Jesus Christ, a faithful subject of the King, and a supporter of our Constitution. Be firm in the Protestant faith, holding steadfastly its pure doctrines, and observing its ordinances. Make yourself the friend of all pious and peaceable men by avoiding strife, and by seeking peace and ensuing it. Be slow to take offence and offer none, thereby giving the enemy no occasion to blaspheme. And ever remember that you do stand pledged henceforth before God, the brethren present, and the Association at large, on all occasions, and under any circumstances, to uphold the principles you have now professed, and to fulfil the solemn promises you have made, even to your own hindrance, disadvantage, and loss unto your life’s end.
The Worshipful Master shall then raise the Candidate by the right hand, and say: In the name of the Brotherhood I bid you welcome, and I pray that you may long continue among them, a worthy Orangeman, fearing God, loving the Brotherhood, honoring the King, and maintaining the law.
The Worshipful Master shall then return to his station, a fter which the following hymn shall be sung: Come in, thou blessed of the Lord,
Stranger nor foe art thou:
We welcome thee with warm accord,
Our friends our brother, now.
 
The hand of fellowship, the heart
Of love, we offer thee;
Leaving the world thou dost but part
From lies and vanity.
 
Come with us, we will do thee good,
As God to us hath done;
Stand but in Him, as those have stood
Whose faith the victory won.
The Master shall give one knock, and the brethren shall resume their seats.
The secret work of the degree shall now be communicated to the Candidate in accordance with the Code of Instructions, after which he shall be conducted to a position in front of the Past Master’s station, and a Past Master shall address him as follows: Brother, the mysteries and secrets connected with the Orange Degree have now been communicated to you; and if you will only conform to the Obligation you have freely and voluntarily taken, we shall have cause to rejoice in this your initiation; but should you fail to observe the promises therein contained, then will our sorrow be great; first, on account of your fall; and secondly, on account of the injury that will thereby be done to our Association.
I entreat you to let your Obligation be your guide. Should the perpetration of crime ever enter your mind, reflect upon what you have now promised, and let it be a check to any and every evil thought that human wickedness may suggest. I further admonish you to be on your guard against the snares that may be laid for you by our enemies, and desire to impress on your mind the great value of caution, so that you will weigh well every word you may use in connection with the Order. I still further admonish you to be ever watchful when the Order is at work so that you may gain wisdom by listening to the advice and opinions of your seniors; and when you have heard them. you will be wise to reflect, and speak not; but treasure up the lessons in your heart, to the end that you may prove your great faith. There are two cardinal virtues which bind the Brotherhood of our Order; they are Union and Truth. By the honorable exercise of the latter, in your intercourse with the world, and especially with the Brotherhood, you will find that the former is to be, and will be maintained. Regard them, then, as the apple of your eye, only to be parted with in death. I trust that what I have said to you in the name of the Lodge will have its due weight; you will now be conducted to the altar, where the Worshipful Master will introduce you to those whom, hereafter, you are to regard as brethren.
The Candidate shall then be conducted to a position about two paces behind the altar, and facing the Worshipful Master who shall say: My Brethren, receive this Brother to your friendship and love.
The Worshipful Master shall then declare a short recess, and the members of the lodge shall come forward and welcome the new brother.
 
.
Closing
 
The Master shall give three knocks, and the brethren shall then rise and assume the proper position, and the Chaplain shall say: O God, whose name is excellent in all the earth, and Thy glory above the heavens; who hast so often miraculously preserved Thy Church and people from the secret contrivance and open violence of numerous conspirators; we bless and adore Thy gracious Majesty for Thy marvellous loving kindness to our Church and nation, in the preservation of our religion and liberties. And we humbly crave that the devout sense of Thy repeated mercies may renew and increase in us a spirit of steady allegiance lo our present gracious Sovereign, and a spirit of fervent zeal for our holy religion, which thou hast so wonderfully rescued and continued a blessing to us and to our posterity; all of which we humbly beg, for the sake of our blessed Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen.
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen.
The Master shall then leave the chair, and with the brethren, form a circle around the altar and join hands.
The Master shall then say: I now declare this Loyal Orange Lodge No. …, closed until the next regular meeting, except in case of emergency, of which all brethren shall have due notice. God Save the King.

Blue Degree
Loyal Orange Association

This ritual is used in the Loyal Orange Association of British America, 1926

No business connected with the affairs of this Degree shall be transacted except in open Lodge, guarded by a Sentinel and Tyler, whose duties are laid down in the Constitution and Laws.
Seven brethren shall form a quorum.
A canopy of pillars and a cross-piece hung with blue-colored curtains shall be erected in front of the entrance within the Lodge room.
The Sentinel and Tyler shall be examined by the Master before taking their places, to see if they are properly qualified to report on those applying for admission.
The chair having been taken by the Master, and the officers and members being in their seats, all the officers and brethren (except the Master, Sentinel and Tyler) shall be tested in the Annual and Pass, by the Marshal and Lecturer, who shall report the result of their examination, to the Deputy Master. The Deputy Master shall then rise and say: Worshipful Master, all present are in possession of the Orange Annual and the Pass of this degree.
(If any brother be present who has not the Annual and Pass), the Deputy Master shall add: Except Bro. …. When the Master shall say: Who will vouch for Bro. …, that he is in good standing in the Blue Degree?
Note.—A member without the Annual must be vouched for by a member of the lodge to which he belongs, or, in the event of no member of his lodge being present, he must produce a receipt for dues, showing that he is in good standing, and must also pass an examination in the work of the degree.
Should the brother be in possession of the Annual, but without the Pass, he may be vouched for by some brother who has sat with him in a Royal Blue Degree meeting. Otherwise, he must pass an examination in the work of the degree.
The Chaplain shall then read:  I shall see Him, but not now; I shall behold Him but not nigh; there shall come a Star out of Jacob, and a Sceptre shall rise out of Israel, and shall smite the corners of Moab, and destroy all the children of Sheth. And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying: Speak unto the children of Israel, and bid them that they make them fringes in the borders of their garments throughout their generations, and that they put upon the fringe of the borders, a ribband of Blue. That ye may remember and do all My commandments, and be holy unto your God. I am the Lord your God, which brought you out of the land of Egypt to be your God; I am the Lord your God.
The Master shall give two knocks, when the officers and brethren shall kneel and the Chaplain shall say: O Almighty and Everlasting God, who art the strength of them that put their trust in Thee, without whom nothing is strong, nothing is holy; look upon the hearty desires, of Thy humble servants, and stretch forth the right hand of Thy Majesty to be our defence against all our enemies. Enable us to love and serve. Thee as we ought. Render us worthy to inherit the rest prepared for all them that love and fear Thee. Teach us to watch and prepare for the coming of the Day of Judgment, so that we may worthily enter into Thy Kingdom, as stars of glory in the House of Israel. Grant these, and all other mercies which Thou seest we stand in need of, for the sake of Thy dear Son, our Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen.
MASTER: I now declare this Royal Blue Lodge open in due form. God Save the King.
The Master shall then give one knock, the brethren shall resume their seats, and the following order of business shall be proceeded with:
Repeating the Lecture.
Minutes of last meeting read and confirmed, and signed by the Master.
Applications for Advancement.
Balloting for Candidates.
Initiation of Candidates.
General Business.
Repeating the Lecture.
Lodge closed with Prayer.
 
 
Admission
 
On the admission of a Candidate, the following form shall be used:
The opening proceedings being completed, the Master shall direct the Conductors to proceed to the ante-room and prepare the Candidate as follows: Coat and vest to be removed; his left arm bared to the shoulder, and a Blue ribbon tied thereon, above the elbow. The Conductors, each holding a committee pole, decorated with blue ribbons, shall then approach the lodge room. In seeking for admission the Conductors, with the Candidate, shall knock and make a noise, as if in great trouble. There shall be a dim light in the lodge room from this time.
The Master shall then say: What lamentations and mourning do we hear in Israel; Tyler, Who is in trouble?
TYLER, behind the curtain, asks: Who is there?
CONDUCTORS: Brethren who flee from their taskmasters.
MASTER: Admit the brethren.
They remain behind the curtains.
MASTER: Why do the taskmasters pursue our brethren?
CONDUCTORS: The plagues of the Lord do but harden them, and they oppress our brethren ten-fold.
MASTER: What do our brethren want?
CONDUCTORS: Admission into the House of the Lord for shelter.
MASTER: Shelter our brethren.
The Candidate and his Conductors are then admitted within the lodge room, by passing the curtains, and they shall march around the room once, after which the candidate shall be brought in front of the altar facing the Master, who shall then say: Brother Marshal, Raise the furnace of burning ashes.
Here the Marshal shall place the furnace on the altar.
The following hymn shall then be sung:
Welcome from earth; lo, the right hand
Of fellowship to you we give!
With open hearts and hands we stand
And you in Jesus’ name receive.
 
Thou God that answerest by fire,
The spirit of burning now impart;
And let the flames of pure desire
Rise from the altar of our heart.
 
Truly our fellowship below
With Thee and with the Father is;
In Thee eternal life we know,
And Heaven’s unutterable bliss.
The Chaplain shall read as follows, the Candidate remaining in front of the altar and facing the Worshipful Master: And the Lord said unto Moses and unto Aaron. Take to you handfuls of ashes of the furnace, and let Moses sprinkle it toward the heaven in the sight of Pharaoh. And it shall become small dust in all the land of Egypt, and shall be a boil breaking forth with blains upon man, and upon beast, throughout all the land of Egypt. And they took ashes of the furnace, and stood before Pharaoh; and Moses sprinkled it up toward heaven; and it became a boil breaking forth with blains upon man and upon beast.
The Master shall then direct the Candidate to take ashes from the furnace and sprinkle three times toward Heaven.
MASTER: Knowest thou why we do this?
CANDIDATE: I do not.
MASTER: You did it, then, in obedience to the command?
CANDIDATE: I did.
MASTER: We do this as a type to show that even as the Egyptian taskmasters persecuted the Lord’s people, Israel, until they were delivered from bondage by Moses the servant of God, so were our Protestant fathers persecuted by Popery until the Lord i’i His mercy raised up deliverers, among the greatest of whom was William, Prince of Orange, whose name we bear and whose immortal memory we hold in reverence, hoping in the adoption of his name to emulate his virtues by maintaining civil and religious liberty without persecution or entrenching upon the rights of any.
Permit me also, Brother, to impress another truth upon your mind. It is this: That as Moses liberated the children of Israel from the land of bondage, so God sent His Son into the world in the likeness of sinful flesh to make us free from the law of sin and death. Stand fast, therefore, in this liberty and “walk in the spirit” if you would not fulfil the “lust of the flesh,” for the flesh lusteth against the spirit and the spirit against the flesh; and these are contrary the one td the other, so that you cannot do the things that you would. But if you are led fC the Spirit you are not under the law. Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these:
adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings and such like. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long suffering gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance, against such there is no law.
The Candidate shall now be led once around the room and back to the altar, during which time the Marshal shall remove the furnace from the altar and place thereon twelve lighted candles.
One bright star shall be placed in the East near the chair of the W. Master, the Candidate facing the Same.
The following hymn shall be snug, while the Candidate is being led around the room, concluding the same while in front of the altar.
As with gladness men of old,
Did the guiding star behold;
As with joy they hailed its light
Leading onward, beaming bright;
So most gracious Lord, may we
Evermore be led to Thee.
 
As with joyful steps they sped,
To that lowly manger-bed;
There to bend the knee before
Him whom heaven and earth adore;
So may we, with willing feet,
Ever seek Thy mercy-seat.
 
As they offered gifts most rare,
At that manger rude and bare;
So may we with holy joy,
Pure and free from sin’s alloy,
All our costliest treasures bring,
Christ, to Thee our heavenly King!
The Chaplain shall read as follows:
CHAPLAIN: Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, in the days of Herod the King, behold there came wise men from the East to Jerusalem, saying, Where is He that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen His Star in the East, and are come to worship Him. And, lo, the Star which they saw in the East went before them till it came and stood over where the young Child was. When they saw the Star they rejoiced with exceeding great joy. And when they were come into the house, they saw the young Child with Mary his mother and fell down and worshipped Him; and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto Him gifts; gold, frankincense and myrrh.
The Master shall give two knocks, when all the brethren shall kneel, and the Chaplain shall say: O Lord God, Judge of the world, who has commanded that creation should come forth to judgment, we entreat Thee to grant us life, grace and pardon. Thou, O Lord, holdest forth the lamp of righteousness for good to mankind, and to Thy honor and glory nations are made righteous. Thou inscribest our good deeds in the Book of Life, and Thy mercy is shown forth in our lives. As the morning star bringeth joy to the awakening world, so Thou, O Lord, by Thy Son our Redeemer, awakenest in the soul of Thy servants joy and everlasting life. Amen.
The Master shall give three knocks: the brethren shalt rise, come to the sign of Fidelity, and remain standing, while the Master, advancing to the altar, administers the following Obligation to the Candidate, who remains kneeling with his right hand over his heart and his left hand on the open Bible.
 
 
Obligation
 
I, ..., do solemnly and voluntarily promise, that I will never disclose, either in whole or in part, the signs, mysteries and symbols of this Degree, except I shall be duly authorized to communicate them by the proper authorities of this Association. So help me God, and keep me steadfast, in this my Obligation of the Royal Blue Degree.
The Candidate kisses the Bible and is here invested with the regalia of the Degree. The Master shall then raise the brother, and holding him by the right hand, shall say: In the name of the brethren of the R6yal Blue Degree I bid you heartily welcome. As your opportunities will now be advanced with your station among us, so likewise your neglect of the better means of serving this religious and loyal brotherhood would cause our more especial injury. For this cause, brother, increase in your diligence; be instant in season and out of season; for the higher we stand the more should we take heed, lest we fall.
The Master shall return to his station, give one knock, and the brethren will be seated, after which the Chaplain shall say: I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service, and be not conformed to this world, but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind that ye may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. For I say through the grace given unto me to every man that is among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith. For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office, so we being many are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another. Let love be without dissimulation Abhor that which is evil, cleave to that which is good. Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love in honor preferring one another. Not slothful in business, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord. Rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, distributing to the necessity of saints, given to hospitality. Bless them which persecute you, bless and curse not. Rejoice with them that do rejoice and weep with them that weep. Be of the same mind one toward another; mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceit. Recompense to no man, evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men. If it be possible as much as lieth in you live peaceably with all men. Therefore, if thine enemy hunger feed him, if he thirst give him drink, for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. Be not overcome of evil but overcome evil with good.
The secret work of the degree shall now be communicated to the Candidate in accordance with the Code of Instructions, after which he shall be conducted to a position in front of the Past Master’s station, and a Past Master shall address him as follows: Brother, I congratulate you upon your admission to this Degree, because it calls upon you for the exercise of greater activity and a nobler zeal. It is to prove to you a beacon of light; to keep your passions and prejudices under proper subjection. The bearing of the Degree is to bring your mind to the consideration of eternity. It is to prove to you by the Star in the East, the course of which was arrested over Bethlehem, how small beginnings can, by the decree of an All-wise Providence, have great and glorious terminations. It is to teach you the duty of being satisfied with your lot, when you remember your Saviour’s nativity and His high destination. Reflect that, however humble your lot, however unpolished your habits, by a constant life of virtue, faith in Christ, and the aid of God’s Holy Spirit, you may arrive at as near a state of perfection as sinful man can expect to attain. In your journey through life you will meet with men whose views on many important questions do not coincide with yours. This you must expect. As you know, there are twelve months in the year, each serving to produce different climatic results, and twelve different signs of the Zodiac, each having its own function. Even the twelve disciples of our Lord and Saviour were men of different types and possessed different characteristics, yet all were necessary to His work. All He demanded was faith and trust in Him. Being weak men He could not always depend upon them. It was for this reason that He sent them forth in pairs, knowing that they required the sympathetic cooperation of a brother, teaching that should you meet a brother imperfect in his life and work, you must exercise patience, and do your utmost to aid him in carrying out the high ideals of our Association as indicated in this Degree.
Therefore it now becomes your duty narrowly to watch your brethren. You are mildly to correct their errors, and to remonstrate with them on their approach to any evil action, and thus prove to them the worth and value of your exalted station. You must at all times exert yourself to keep our glorious Association from harm, and not allow the precincts of the Star to be desecrated. By your submission to your seniors, you will convince your inferiors of their duty to do likewise; and although you are particularly to see the sufferings and wants of your brethren relieved; yet, by virtue of that brilliant Star which you have assumed as your guide, you must feel that your benevolence should be universal.
Lastly, you are not to screen the faults of a brother from the Brotherhood; but you are, as far as possible, to screen him from the censure of the world, and to do all that is in your power for his reformation. You are at all times to treat his foibles with candor, and to admonish in friendship. Having thus secured to yourself this advancement, it is hoped by your continued practice of all that is good and commendable, and your avoidance of all that is bad and censurable, you will not give us cause to regret the step we have taken in advancing you as we have now done.
The newly-advanced brother shall then take his seat among the brethren.
 
 
Closing
 
In closing the lodge the Master shall give three knocks when the officers and brethren shall rise and come to the sign of Fidelity, the Chaplain saying: O God, Holy Ghost, sanctifier of the faithful, visit we pray Thee our lodge with Thy love and favor. Enlighten our minds with the light of the everlasting gospel; graft into our hearts the love of the truth, increase in us true religion, nourish us with all goodness and of Thy great mercy keep us in the same, O blessed Spirit, whom with the Father, and the Son, we worship and glorify, world without end. Amen.
The Master then shall say: I now declare this Royal Blue Lodge closed in due form. God Save the King.
 

Royal Arch Purple Degree
Loyal Orange Association

This ritual is used in the Loyal Orange Association of British America, 1926

No business connected with the affairs of this Degree shall be transacted except in open Lodge, guarded by a Sentinel and Tyler, and seven members of this Degree shall form a quorum.
The Sentinel and Tyler shall be examined by the Master, before taking their places, to see if they are properly qualified to report on those applying for admission.
Triple lights only shall be used in the room, and a proper Arch shall be erected in front of the Master’s chair.
The 9614 should consist of triangular pieces of wood with rounded edges on top, and joined together with rope.
The chair having been taken by the Master and the officers and brethren in their seats, all the officers and members (except the Master, Sentinel and Tyler) shall be tested in the Orange Annual and Royal Arch Pass by the Marshal and Lecturer, who shall report the result of their examination to the Deputy Master.
The Deputy Master shall then rise and say: Worshipful Master, all members present are in possession of the Orange Annual and the Pass of this Degree.
If any brother be present who has not the Annual and Pass, the Deputy Master shall add: Except Bro. ….
The Master shall then say: Who can vouch for Bro. … that he is in good standing in the Royal Arch Purple Degree?
Note.—A member without the Annual must be vouched for by a member of the lodge to which he belongs, or in the event of no member of the lodge being present, he must produce a receipt for dues shoving that he is in good standing, and must also pass an examination in the work of the Degree.
Should the brother be in possession of the Annual, but without the Pass, he may be vouched for by some one who has sat with him in a Royal Arch Purple meeting. Otherwise, he must pass an examination in the work of the Degree.
The fee for admission to this Degree must be paid in advance.
The Master shall then give three knocks, the brethren shall rise, give the prayer sign, and the Chaplain shall say: Now, we command you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly, and not after the traditions which he received of us. For yourselves know how ye ought to follow us; for we behaved not ourselves disorderly among you, neither did we eat any man’s bread for nought; but wrought with labor and travail night and day, that we might not be chargeable to any of you.
 
 
Prayer
 
Chaplain: Gracious and Almighty God, Thou who didst raise a wall of water around Thy servants, the children of Israel, on their right hand and on their left, and who didst save them from the power of Pharaoh and the perils of the Red Sea; by whose Divine permission in aftertimes our liberties have been secured and our most holy religion preserved; continue unto us Thy Almighty favor; may Thy heavenly love be the arch of our protection, and the increase of Thy Spirit amongst us the special mark of our seal and covenant with Thee. These, with all other needful blessings, we humbly beg, through the mediation of Jesus Christ our Lord and Saviour.
Brethren: Amen.
The Master shall then say: I now declare this Royal Arch Purple Lodge open in due form. God Save the King.
The Master shall then give one knock, the brethren shalt resume their seats, and the following Order of Business shall be proceeded with:
Repeating the Lecture.
Minutes of last meeting read and confirmed and signed by the Master.
Applications for Advancement.
Balloting for Candidates.
Initiation of Candidates.
General Business.
Repeating the Lecture.
Lodge Closed with Prayer.
 
 
Admission
 
On the admission of a Candidate the following form shall be used:
The opening proceedings being completed, the Master shall read the following admonition to the brethren: The mysteries and solemnities of this Degree require that the utmost respect, order and decorum be observed by all the brethren. Every brother shall remain in his place, and shall not leave it on any pretence, without directions from the Master. No brother shall indulge in any kind of levity, nor meddle with the form of Initiation, unless specially requested by the Master. Brethren conducting themselves otherwise may be expelled from the room by the Master.
The Master shall then appoint two brethren to proceed to the ante-room and prepare the Candidate, who shall be divested of his Coat and Vest, his left breast, and right leg and right foot bared with a P. on his back, a S. in his right hand, and B., he shall be brought to the Lodge room door; and the necessary articles required in the initiation being in their proper places, the Conductors shall knock for admission. The Tyler, after making the proper inquiries, shall announce to the Master the Conductors desire for admittance; and if satisfactory, the Master shall direct the Tyler to open the door and admit them and the Candidate.
The Receiver shall meet the Candidate on his entrance and give him . (p.)
Receiver: What feelest thou?
Candidate: … (p.)
The meaning is here to be explained.
The Candidate, shall then kneel on his right knee, and repeat the Lord’s Prayer; after which the Chaplain shall read the following portions of Scripture:
Chaplain: Moreover thou shalt make the tabernacle with ten curtains of fine-twined linen, and blue, and purple, and scarlet, and thou shalt make loops of blue upon the edge of the one curtain from the selvedge in the coupling. And thou shalt make an hanging for the door of the tent, of blue, purple and scarlet, and fine-twined linen. Lord, I cry unto Thee; make haste unto me; give ear unto my voice, when I cry unto Thee. Let my prayer be set before Thee as incense; and the lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice. Set a watch, O Lord, before my mouth; keep the door of my lips. Incline not my heart to any evil thing, to practise wicked works with men that work iniquity; and let me not eat of their dainties. Let the righteous smite me; it shall be a kindness; and let him reprove me, it shall be an excellent oil, which shall not break my head; for yet my prayer also shall be in their calamities. When their judges are overthrown in stony places, they shall hear my words, for they are sweet. Our bones are scattered at the grave’s mouth, as when one cutteth and cleaveth wood upon the earth.
But mine eyes are unto Thee, O God the Lord: in Thee is my trust; leave not my soul destitute. Keep me from the snares which they have laid for me, and the gins of the workers of iniquity. Let the wicked fall into their own nets, whilst that I withal escape.
The Candidate is now to be led three times on his journey, bearing his P. and S., and get ... (f’s), which are explained to him; he is then led to M. H., which having ascended, the number of steps are explained to him; then he is brought to the R. with three solemn steps, where he shall remain until further orders.
The Chaplain shall then read: And it came to pass when the people removed from their tents to pass over Jordan, and the Priests bearing the Ark of the Covenant before the people; and as they that bear the Ark were come unto Jordan, and the feet of the Priest that bear the Ark were dipped in the brim of the water here dip the right finger of the Candidate that the waters which came down from above stood and rose up upon an heap, and the people passed over right against Jericho. And the Priests that bear the Ark of the Covenant of the Lord stood firm on dry ground here remove Candidate’s foot from the R. in the midst of Jordan.
The Candidate shall then be directed to take … out of the R. with both hands, counting aloud as he does so. There shall be no interference with the Candidate during this part of the ceremony. The count being completed correctly, the Chaplain shall say: And it came to pass, when all the people had passed clean over Jordan, that the Lord spake unto Joshua, saying, Take you twelve men out of the people, out of every tribe a man, and command ye them saying: Take you hence out of the midst of Jordan, out of the place where the Priests feet stood firm, twelve stones, and ye shall carry them over with you, and leave them in the lodging place where ye shall lodge this night. That this may be a sign among you; and these stones shall be for a memorial unto the Children of Israel for ever.
The Candidate shall then be conducted to the Worshipful Master, where, kneeling under the Arch, he shall receive the Obligation. Three knocks shall then be given and the brethren shall rise and present the recognition sign. The Worshipful Master shall then instruct the candidate to place both hands on the open Bible, say “I,” give his name in full, and repeat the following Obligation:
 
 
Obligation
 
I, A. B., solemnly and sincerely promise, in the presence of Almighty God and of this Worshipful Lodge, erected to God and dedicated to Joshua, that I will always conceal the whole and every part of the secrets of a Royal Arch Purple Marksman; that I will not write them, print, stamp, stain, cut, hew, carve or engrave them, or any part of them, on any substance whatever, nor cause them to be done, so that they may become legible or intelligible, without due authority. And further, that I will not, verbally or otherwise, communicate them even to a brother of the Royal Arch Purple Degree, except after strict trial and due examination.
I also solemnly promise to keep the secrets of a Royal Arch Purple Marksman, given to me as such (except they may be contrary to the law of the land); that I will not wrong or injure any Royal Arch Purpleman, nor know him to be wronged or injured, without giving him timely notice thereof, and preventing it, if within my power. I further promise that I will not know a Royal Purple Marksman to be in want, hardship or distress (which has not been brought upon him by his own misconduct), without rendering him such reasonable relief and assistance as may be in my power, without injury to myself or family. I also further promise that I will not initiate, or be present at the initiation of any candidate into the dignity of a Royal Arch Purple Marksman, except there be present at least a quorum of the Royal Arch Purple Degree; nor will I initiate or be present at the initiation of any candidate into this Degree, without his first having paid the prescribed fee.  
Lastly, I swear that I will use all my influence to promote fellowship and brotherly love amongst my brethren; and that I will abide by a decision of a majority of the Lodge upon all business connected therewith: And all this I do solemnly promise, testify and declare, in the plain words by me spoken —and without any hesitation, secret evasion, or mental reservation whatever— So help me God and keep me steadfast in this my Royal Arch Purple Marksman’s Obligation.
The Candidate shall then seal his Obligation by kissing the Holy Bible.
After the Candidate has taken the Obligation and before rising, a mark shall be inflicted on the left breast with a rubber stamp, which shall be a facsimile of the lodge seal, after which the Chaplain shall say: And Jacob went out from Beersheba, and went toward Haran. And he lighted upon a certain place, and ‘he tarried there all night, because the sun was set; and he kook of the stones of that place and put them for his pillow and lay down in that place to sleep. And he dreamed, and behold a ladder set up on the earth, and the top of it reached to Heaven, and behold the Angels of God ascending and descending on it.
Here lay the Candidate on his back, placing a stone under his head, and covering his Jody with a canvas sheet; after which the Chaplain shall read: And behold, the Lord stood above it, and said: I am the Lord God of Abraham thy father, and the God of Isaac; the land whereon thou liest, to thee will 1 give it, and to thy seed. And behold, I am with thee, and will keep thee in all places whither thou goest, and I will bring thee again into this land; for I will not leave thee until I have done that which I have spoken to thee of.
The Candidate shall then be placed against the (W.) and underneath the (W.) while the Chaplain reads the following:  cried unto the Lord with my voice; with my voice unto the Lord did I make my supplication. I poured out my complaint before Him; I shewed before Him my trouble. When my spirit was overwhelmed within me, then Thou knewest my path. In the way wherein I walked have they privily laid a snare for me; I looked on my right hand, and beheld, but there was no man that would know me: refuge failed me: no man cared for my soul. I cried unto Thee, O Lord: I said Thou art my refuge and my portion in the land of the living. Attend unto my cry, for I am brought very low: deliver me from my persecutors; for they are stronger than I. Bring my soul out of prison, that I may praise Thy Name: the righteous shall compass me about; for Thou shalt deal bountifully with me.
The Candidate shall then have explained to him the penalties of the Degree. He shall then be shown the Lights and warrant, which shall be explained to him; and from thence led to a position immediately in front of the Master.
The following hymn shall then be sung:
O God of Bethel, by whose hand
Thy people still are fed;
Who through this weary pilgrimage
Hast all our fathers led.
 
Through each perplexing path of life
Our wandering footsteps guide;
Give us each day our daily bread,
And raiment fit provide.
 
Such blessings from Thy gracious hand
Our humble prayers implore;
And Thou shalt be our chosen God,
And portion evermore.
The Lecturer shall then communicate the secret work of the Degree to the Candidate when all are advanced, and the Candidate shall be invested with the regalia of the Degree.
The Master shall then deliver the following charge to the newly-advanced brother: Brother. You have now been admitted, after strict trial, to this exalted Degree. It must have proved to you many facts, which, if duly considered, may tend to inform your mind, and to render less obdurate the propensity inherent in man to sin. Reflect, and you will see that man is not regarded by Orangemen on account of his worldly wealth; it is the wealth of the soul that we prize— not that which, when we perish, can avail nothing. Reflect, and you will have good cause to remember how much it has become your duty to render assistance to a brother in distress. Reflect, and you will find that much of your duty is enforced upon you by implication, which a clear mind, seeking for justice, will at once discover. Remember, then, your duty and your Obligations, and also how fatal and dark will be your plunge from this to eternal death, should you neglect them. Remember also, that it is only by obedience to our Father in Heaven that you can expect to pass from the darkness of this world to the light of everlasting life; and that prayer, and the practice of all that is good; together with a strong reliance upon your Saviour, can alone lead to this. Remember, too, that you prayed as being under the canopy of Heaven; therefore, take heed and recall to your mind the solemn hour of death, the awful one of judgment, and lastly eternity. A lesson has been taught you how these may be overcome; and if you hope to gain eternal life, I warn you that it is essential that you should have faith in Christ, for no one in his own weakness and sinfulness can be perfect. If, therefore, you hope for the charitable aid and- intercession of your Saviour, you should extend charity to others. In every way you are taught to avoid sin. When least expected the serpent may ‘be in your path. I therefore entreat you, as you hope to obtain salvation, that you omit no occasion which you may find to fulfil the vows you have now made.
The Candidate shall then be conducted in front of the Past Master, who shall say: Brother. Having attained to the Royal Arch (or third) Degree of the Orange Association, it is incumbent upon me, to briefly explain the various ceremonies through which you have passed, and to impress upon your mind the fact that this Degree is not one of a light or trifling nature, but of high importance and due solemnity. Your preparation for admission into this Degree is emblematical of an event which all, sooner or later, must experience. It is emblematical of your final exit from this world to the world to come. You are doubtless aware that no matter what a man may possess here on earth, it will not gain him admission to the celestial Lodge above. Therefore, to impress this more forcibly upon your mind you were neither naked nor clothed, barefoot nor shod, blindfolded, and deprived of all money and minerals.
You were neither naked nor clothed, to remind you that if you should ever meet a Brother, in a distressed condition, you should contribute as liberally to his relief as his situation requires and your circumstances will permit.
You were neither barefoot nor shod because it was an ancient Israelitish custom, referred to in the book of Ruth, as being in former times the manner and mode of changing and redeeming; “and to confirm all things a man plucked off his shoe and gave it to his neighbor, and this was testimony in Israel.” We do this as a pledge of our fidelity, and thereby signify that we will in all things conform to the established laws and customs of our Association.
You were blindfolded to remind you that as you were then in darkness, so should you keep the world without, as relates to the secrets of Orangeism; secondly, that your heart might conceive before your eyes beheld the secrets of the Order; and, lastly, had you refused to submit to the prescribed forms and ceremonies, and thereby being found unworthy to be taken by the hand as a brother, you might have been conducted out of the lodge without being allowed to discover even the form thereof.
You were deprived of all money and minerals because Orangeism regards no man on account of his worldly wealth or honors. It is the internal and not the external qualifications of a man that should render him worthy to become a member of this Degree.
The three distinct knocks were given on entering, first to alarm the lodge and inform the Worshipful Master that you were prepared for initiation, and secondly, to remind you of the words of our Lord, “Ask and ye shall receive, seek and ye shall find, knock and it shall be opened unto you.”
You were asked to kneel in prayer because no man should ever enter upon any great and important undertaking without first invoking the blessing of the Deity. You were then asked in whom you put your trust. This is according to the laws and usages of our Association because no man can be admitted to membership unless he be a firm believer in the Christian religion.
You were then taken by the right hand and told to arise, follow your leader and fear no danger. This was to remind you that as you were then in darkness and could neither foresee nor avoid danger, you were in the hands of trustworthy friends in whose fidelity you might safely confide.
The journey through the wilderness and the three great and mighty falls, were emblematical of our pilgrimage here upon earth, and the many trials and temptations incident thereto. No matter how great or small, high, or low, rich or poor, all must meet on the same common level; all must submit to the dominion of Death, Judgment and Eternity.
You were led under the Arch to remind you, first, that before attaining to rank or station in the Order, you must submit to be governed by the majority of the lodge and those placed in authority over you, and, secondly, to recall to your mind the Divine injunction that he who humbleth himself shall be exalted, and he who exalteth himself shall be abased.
In closing the Lodge, the brethren shall rise, and assume she proper position, and the Chaplain and brethren shall repeat the Lord’s Prayer.
CHAPLAIN AND BRETHREN: Our Father, which art in Heaven; hallowed be Thy Name; Thy kingdom come; Thy will be done on earth as it is in Heaven; give us .this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive them that trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil: for Thine is the kingdom the power and the glory, forever and ever. Amen.
The Master shall then say: I now declare this Royal Arch Purple Lodge closed in due form. God Save the King.
 

Royal Scarlet Order
Loyal Orange Association

 
This ritual is used in the Loyal Orange Association of British America, 1946

Opening
 
At the appointed hour, a quorum (7) being present, the W.C. shall take the chair and give * which shall be a signal for the Sir Knight Companions to clothe themselves in appropriate regalia and take their seats.
The D.C. shall, before taking his chair, give to the W.C. the Orange Annual and Entrance Pass.
W.C., rising: Sir Kt. D.C., You will ascertain if the doors of the Chapter room are guarded, and if the Herald and Sentinel are in possession of the Orange Annual and the Entrance Pass of a Royal Scarlet Companion.
The D.C. invites the Herald and Sentinel to advance, and tests them as directed by the W.C., at the same time giving the Herald the retiring pass for the evening.
If the Herald and Sentinel are not duly qualified, they shall be referred to the W.C., who shall impart to them the necessary information.
D.C., rising: W.C., I have ascertained that the Chapter room is properly guarded and that the Herald and Sentinel are in possession of the Orange Annual and the Entrance Pass of a Royal Scarlet Companion.
W.C., rising: Sir Kt. 1st Lecturer and Sir Kt. 1st Conductor, You will now test the Companions in the Orange Annual and Entrance Pass, and report to the D.C.
Both Sir Kt. Comps. before taking up the test shall advance to the chair of the W.C. and give the words in an undertone.
D.C., rising: W.C., All present are entitled to sit in this Chapter (or otherwise as the case may be).
W.C.: Marshal, You will now arrange the Chapter room for the proper working of the Degree.
The Marshal then covers the table with a Union Jack and places thereon an open Bible, and saluting the W.C., retires to his station.
C. Chap., rising: Behold, when we come into the land thou shalt bind this line of scarlet thread in the window which thou didst let us down by; and thou shall bring thy father, and thy mother, and thy brethren, and all thy father’s household home unto thee. And it shall be that whosoever shall go out of the doors of thy house into the street, his blood shall be upon his head, and we will be guiltless; and whosoever shall be with thee in the house, his blood shall be upon our head, if any hand be upon him. And if thou utter this our business, then we will be quit of thine oath, which thou hast made us to swear: Josh. ii., 18, 19, 20.
W.C.: * * *. All rise and make the sign of Kt.
C.Chap: Let us pray: Almighty and most merciful God. who in all ages hast shown Thy power and goodness, in protecting every society instituted by Thy people for righteous purposes; we yield Thee hearty thanks for the spirit of Christian kindness and charity, which Thou hast been graciously pleased to raise up amongst us. Grant, O Most Gracious Father, that all such virtues may abundantly flourish, and be the stability of our times. Vouchsafe, O Lord God, to continue unto us Thine Almighty protection; and grant to our gracious King good health, long life, abundant happiness and prosperity. Let Thy Providence ever guard our Illustrious Institution, and enable us to transmit it to posterity unimpaired and improved by our holy religion. Bless, we beseech Thee, every Knight Companion of this Noble Order; endow them with charity, with brotherly love, and loyalty; and give them a due and lasting sense of Thy mercies towards us. We humbly pray that the Knight Companions of this Chapter may increase in Grace and in that knowledge of Godliness which makes wise unto Salvation, and that when our lifes course is ended here on earth we may be brought to enjoy eternal happiness in Thy Kingdom. These and all other needful blessings, we humbly ask in the name and through the mediation of Jesus Christ our Redeemer and Saviour. Amen.
W.C.: By virtue of the authority in me vested by the Most Worshipful Grand Orange Lodge of British America, I now declare this Chapter open in due form.
God Save the King
The W.C. will give * *   * *   * followed in the same manner by the D.C. and the Herald and Sentinel, after which the W.C. shall give * seating the Comps.
 
 
Order of Business
 
After opening the Chapter, the Order of Business shall be as follows:
1. Repetition of Lecture.
2. Reading and confirming the minutes of the preceding meeting.
3. Receiving applications for exaltation.
4. Balloting for applicants.
5. Exalting approved candidates.
6. General Business, Communications, Accounts, etc.
7. Election and Installation of Officers.
8. Repetition of Lecture.
9. Adjourning or closing.
NOTE: As the Chapter once opened remains open for seven days, the Comps. have the privilege, subject to the rules and their own by-laws, of varying the order of business.
 
 
Exaltation
 
There will be needed for this ceremony two Union Jacks, two swords having scabbards and belts, a pair of gilt spurs, two bowls of water colored to represent blood, a scarlet robe with cord and tassel to fasten it by, and the necessary vessels for passing the bread and water. One bowl with the spurs, sword and robe, shall be placed on a table in front of the W.C. The other bowl shall be placed on a table in the preparation room. (The scabbard shall be so arranged as to be easily detached from the belt.)
All things being ready in the Chapter room, the C. Scribe, accompanied by the two Sir Kt. Conductors, or, in their absence, two Knights appointed by the W.C., shall proceed to the preparation room where the C. Scribe shall cause the candidate to read and sign the obligation in the roll-book to be kept for that purpose, after which the C. Scribe returns to the Chapter room and reports as follows (If favorable):
C.Scribe: W.C., The Candidate, Bro. ... of ... L.O.L. No. ..., has subscribed to the obligation.
In the meantime the two conductors shall prepare the Candidate, whose right knee shall be bared, and holding the Bible with both hands, he shall be conducted by the two Knights to the door of the Chapter room, which on an alarm being given shall be opened by the H.: one of the Knight Conductors shall make the sign of sprinkling the side posts and lintel ot the door, and the H. shall say:
Herald: What mean ye by this sign?
Sir Kt. Conductor: It is symbolic of the passing of the Angel of the Lord over the houses of the children of Israel in Egypt when He smote the Egyptians and delivered His people.
The Entrance Password is then divided between the Herald and the Kt. Conductor, and the two Conductors with the candidate enter the Chapter room, where they are received by the Marshal, provided with chairs, placed as per plan, where the candidate remains during the singing of the following hymn, all the Companions being seated except the Marshal, who stands with drawn sword (at the carry) opposite the candidate.
 
O God, our help in ages past,
Our hope for years to come,
Our shelter from the stormy blast,
And our eternal home:
 
Under the shadow of Thy throne
Thy saints have dwelt secure;
Sufficient is Thine arm alone,
And our defence is sure.
 
Before the hills in Order stood,
Or earth received her frame,
From everlasting Thou art God,
To endless years the same.
 
A thousand ages in Thy sight
Are like an evening gone;
Short as the watch that ends the night
Before the rising sun.
 
D.C, rising and addressing candidate: Bro. ..., Behold the abode of the Sir Knight Companions of the Royal Scarlet Order. Here are to be found loyal men and faithful Knights who are banded together to uphold the King and the Constitution, defend the flag of our country, and maintain the Protestant Faith. Here all should dwell together in peace and harmony, ever seeking the advancement of the cause of truth and righteousness.
Are you prepared to proceed further?
Candidate answers.
D.C.: It is well; I admonish you, however to take heed lest you fall.
The Conductors, along with the candidate, rise up as if to proceed to the centre of the room, when the Marshal, who is still standing with the sword at the carry, calls “HALT!” The W.C. gives * and rising addresses the candidate: Why do you hesitate? What do you now require?
Candidate, prompted by Conductors: To be exalted to the dignity of a Knight Companion of the Illustrious Order of Royal Scarlet.
W.C.: It is a noble ambition. You ask that which has been sought by many and often refused. This Order of Knighthood to which you seek admission is conferred only upon those who have shown by their conduct that they are worthy of advancement. For this reason, and believing you to be what the rules of our Illustrious Order require, we consent to your exaltation, reminding you that none is permitted to receive this honor who is not sworn to maintain the integrity of the Empire, uphold the King and the Constitution, defend the flag of our Country, and preserve intact the connection between the Dominion of Canada, Newfoundland and the British Empire. Do you promise to abide by those our conditions of membership?
Candidate answers.
W.C. to candidate: Be seated.
C.Chap., rising: The Lord spake unto Moses and Aaron in the land of Egypt, saying: The blood shall be unto you for a token upon the houses where ye are; and when I see the blood I will pass over you, and the plague shall not be upon you to destroy you when I smite the land of Egypt. And this day shall be unto you for a memorial; and ye shall keep it a feast unto the Lord throughout your generations; ye shall keep it a feast by an ordinance forever. Seven days shall ye eat unleavened bread; even the first day ye shall put away leaven out of your houses; for whosoever eateth leavened bread, from the first day until the seventh day, that soul shall be cut off from Israel.
W.C., addressing the Companions: We will now partake of the feast in commemoration of the Passover.
The Marshal advances to the centre of the room with his sword at the carry, salutes the W.C. by coming to the “present”, which is answered by the W.C. raising his right hand to the forehead, after which the Marshal returns sword to scabbard and resumes his station.
Two Junior Knights shall then pass the bread around to the Kt. Comps. (excluding the candidate), the water following the bread in the same order.
When the ceremony is completed with all due solemnity, the W.C. shall give *.
W.C.: Bro. ..., Rise up and get ye forth. Go, serve the Lord as ye have said.
The Conductors with the candidate shall then proceed to the centre of the room opposite the W.C.
W.C., addressing the candidate: You will now kneel on your bared knee, place both hands on the open Bible, say “I,” and give your name in full, and repeat after me.
W.C. gives * * * when all the Comps. shall rise, give the sign of Kt. and remain standing.
 
 
Obligation
 
I do solemnly and voluntarily promise that I will inviolably preserve the whole and every part of the secrets of a Kt. Comp. of the Illustrious Order of the Royal Scarlet, and that I will never disclose the whole or any part thereof, except under such regulations as may be established by the Grand Orange Lodge of British America. I likewise solemnly and voluntarily declare that I am a true and faithful subject of His Majesty, and that I will, to the latest moment of my existence, preserve and maintain a faithful and steady allegiance to the Crown of Great Britain—being Protestant. I also solemnly and voluntarily declare that I will not wrong or injure, or cause to be wronged or injured, any Kt. Comp. of the Royal Scarlet Order; that I will give notice, if in my power, of all approaching danger which may come to my knowledge; and that in all things lawful I will give him the preference and support and assist him in his need to the best of my ability, where such preference and assistance may not tend to my own injury, or interfere with the duty I owe to my wife or family. That I will obey all summonses, pay all just dues when levied, and attend all meetings, if within my power. I solemnly and voluntarily promise that I will use my best endeavors to maintain the Royal Scarlet Order, that I will obey its ordinances, maintain its character, extend its influence, and promote its interests, to the best of my ability. So help me God, And may He keep me steadfast in this my obligation of the Royal Scarlet Order.
W.C.: Bro. ..., By this obligation you are bound unto death.
All the Companions: Faithful unto death.
W.C. gives *.
W.C.: You will now be conducted to the C. Chap.
Comp. Chap: We beseech Thee, O Lord, to hear our prayers and that Thou wouldst deign to bless this Thy servant. Endow him with wisdom from on high, to the end that he may be a true and faithful member of this Illustrious Order. Pardon whatever Thou hast seen amiss in this our service and help us to live together in the bonds of true Christian fellowship, and to Thee shall we ascribe all the honor and the glory, now and forever. Amen.
Marshal conducts the candidate to the centre of the room opposite the W.C., and buckles a sword around his waist.
W.C., addressing candidate: Receive this sword. Use it in your own lawful defence, and if needs be, draw it in defence of your country. Candidate draws sword. By its brightness it is an emblem of Faith, by its point it is an emblem of Hope, and by its guard it is an emblem of Charity. Fear no perils whilst thou are true to thine obligation, be firm and steadfast in the cause of truth Candidate sheaths sword; and even as you now place this good sword, bright and unsullied, in its sheath, take heed lest you defile its brightness by drawing it in an unjust cause.
The W.C. shall now approach the candidate, and taking the spurs, shall say: Seest thou these spurs. They signify to you that even as the disobedient and unruly horse fears their stroke, so must thou dread to depart from thy faith and from thy oath. They will now be placed upon the lowest part of thy person to remind thee that, although gold is of much value, it is not to be preferred to thy honor.
The Conductors then buckle on the spurs.
W.C.: We now know thee to be one of those who will be true to the obligation you have this night freely and voluntarily taken.
W.C. hands robe to Marshal, who places it on candidates shoulders.
W.C.: Beneath this robe mayest thou find a shelter from all evil influences that may assail thee, and a sure protection in thy hour of need.
The Marshal shall now present the scarlet cord to the W.C., who shall say: Let him that standeth take heed lest he fall. Be prudent and watchful. This yoke is pleasant and easy to be borne. By this scarlet cord I bind thee in token of thy obligation and admission to our Illustrious Order. And as I now cast this cord behind thee, Here the W.C. throws the end of the cord over the candidate’s left shoulder so will we cast thee out from amongst us shouldst thou prove an unworthy Companion.
The W.C. gives * * when all the Sir Kt. Comps. present assemble in a semi-circle behind the W.C., with the D.C. in the centre and the P.W.C. and Chap. at either end. The W.C. then directs the candidate to kneel, and sprinkles his head with the water, after which he will give the G T A S D T D W I Y sign, which is to be repeated by all the Comps., from right to left. Then follows the grip, in like order; and lastly the pass. The W.C., then striking the candidate three times on the shoulder with the sword, shall say: In the name of St. George, St. Andrew and St. Patrick; in token of the union of the Empire which thou hast sworn to defend, I dub thee Knight. Arise, Sir ..., Be thou vigilant and brave, ever ready to maintain the dignity, and preserve unsullied the reputation of the Illustrious Order of Royal Scarlet.
All but the Candidate and Conductors shall then be seated.
The following hymn shall then be sung:
 
Soldiers of Christ, arise,
And put your armor on:
Strong in the strength which God supplies
Through His eternal Son.
 
Stand, then, against your foes,
In close and firm array;
Legions of wily fiends oppose
Throughout the evil day.
 
Leave no unguarded place,
No weakness of the soul;
Take every virtue, every grace.
And fortify the whole. 
 
W.C.: Comp. Lecturer, You will now instruct the Candidate in the secret work of the Royal Scarlet Order.
The signs, passwords and lecture will then be communicated to the Candidate.
The W.C. will now deliver the following charge: Sir Knight , Having passed through the other degrees of the Brotherhood, you have now been admitted to companionship in this the highest degree of the Loyal Orange Association. You will have observed that through every grade the Word of God is to be your guide through life. It is also expected of you that you will hold life itself as a trust from your Heavenly Father, to be employed in His service and the advancement of His kingdom. After the obligation you have freely ad voluntarily taken, it will only be necessary for me to remind you that you will be expected to obey the Rules and Regulations of this Chapter and conform to the ceremonies of this Illustrious Order. Prove yourself to be worthy of the trust which has been reposed in you by your Companions. And I charge you on your honor as a Christian that in your life and conduct you bring no discredit upon the high and noble principles we are individually and collectively pledged to maintain. I now invest you with a scarlet sash, the distinctive badge of this Order, and may God our Father, who is a tower of strength to all those who put their trust in Him, be your support and your guide as long as life shall last.
The Conductors now retire to their stations, and the Marshal takes his place, at the side of the candidate, and leads him in front of the W.C., who rises and addresses him as follows: Companion ..., You will now retire with the Marshal to the anteroom and work your way out and into the Chapter room.
The Marshal will return to the Chapter room with each candidate in the order in which they were exalted. The Marshal before entering, must allow sufficient time to permit a small Union Jack. 3 x 6 feet, to be spread on the floor a short distance from and in front of the D.C., and a guard of honor (consisting of six or more Kt. Comps, three or more on a side) shall form on either side of the flag, with swords, if they have them, at the carry, and leaving space on each side for the candidate to walk towards the D.C. without walking on the flag. As each candidate enters and salutes the chair, the W.C. shall rise and address him as follows: Sir Kt. Comp. ..., I am pleased to see that you have paid such due attention to the instructions given you that you were able to work your way into the Chapter room. You will now face the D.C. for further instructions and admonition.
D.C.: Sir Kt. Comp. ..., You will please come forward, passing through the guard of honor, and give me the grip.
NOTE: The Marshal faces about with the candidate and remains in that position until he receives further instructions from the D.C.
The candidate moves forward. Should he put a foot on the flag, the Kt. Comps. on guard will bring their swords to the “thrust”, pointing to his breast; or, if they have no swords, will stop him with their arms, and the D.C. will reprimand him in the following words: Sir Kt. Comp. ..., You have been weighed in the balance and found wanting. You have sworn to be a true and faithful subject of His Majesty the King. Is it the part of a true and faithful British subject to trample under his feet-the symbol of Britain’s power and glory, and of sacred blood-bought liberties? Learn from this to be ever on the watch that you fail not in word or act.
If the candidate passes to the D.C. without walking on the flag, the D.C. will extend his hand and receive the grip and say: Sir Kt. Comp. ..., You have proved yourself a right worthy Kt. Comp. of the Illustrious Order of Royal Scarlet. You have shown that you are thoroughly imbued with a proper respect and reverence for the symbol of Britain’s power, and the liberties we all so highly prize. May you ever prove as vigilant and worthy a Knight Companion as you have now done.
When all the candidates have passed through this ceremony, the D.C., holding a flag in his hand, will say: Sir Kt. Comp. ..., This flag is the flag of your country. Beneath its protecting folds we live in peace, in the full enjoyment of civil and religious liberty. It has been carried to victory in every quarter of the habitable globe. It speaks to us of a thousand victories by land and by sea. It has sunk in the gloom of disaster, but has never gone down in disgrace. Be true to the flag; it is the flag of the Empire, and we look upon it with more than a common affection. The eye of patriotism kindles when the sunbeams kiss its folds, for it is to us an emblem of Britain’s power, a symbol of British justice, the glory of the past and the hope of the future of this Dominion.
“We use it to show our devotion
To our King, to our Country and Laws;
It’s the outward and visible emblem
Of advancement and Liberty’s cause.
 
You may say it’s an old bit of bunting;
You may call it an old colored rag;
But Freedom has made it majestic,
And time has ennobled the flag.”
 
D.C.: Marshal, You will now present the candidate to the Past W.C., from whom he will receive final instructions.
Past W.C.: Companion, You have been invested with the emblems of this degree and raised to the dignity of a Sir Kt. Companion of the Royal Scarlet Order. I will now instruct you further in their significance. The flax reminds us of the agreement entered into between Rahab and the two spies whom she concealed, and who were sent by Joshua out of Shittim into Jericho. The King of Jericho sent unto Rahab to bring forth the men, but she brought them to the roof of her house and hid them with stalks of flax, and when the danger had passed, she made them swear unto her that they would also show kindness unto her father’s house, and give her a true token. And they answered, I S V X A W U B X U I V X R I S V G X W U X R I S X S D D B V X Y I D X D Z W G X I S V X L S G W Y B G G X. And if thou utter this our business, then we will be quit of thine oath, which thou hast made us to swear. She then let them down by a cord from the window. May this lesson ever call to your mind your obligations of fidelity and covenants with your Companions. The lamb, chalice and bowl are symbolical of the solemn rites of the Feast of the Passover. The lamb was selected and slain on the night of the exodus of Israel, and its blood being sprinkled upon the door-posts of the house of Israel, afterwards became the symbol of the salvation of their first-born from death. The destroying angel passed through the land of Egypt, leaving sadness and death to every family, from Pharoah down to the meanest of his subjects, passed over the houses the door-posts of which were sprinkled with the blood of the slain lamb. It also reminds us of the “lamb of God that taketh away the sin of the world”. The Union Jack, we cannot help looking upon it with more than common love, for it contains the red, white and blue, emblematic of the mottoes of our Order: Faith, Hope and Charity. The red is for zeal and warmth in the “faith” of our noble cause. The white is for purity of thought, peace and good will, of promise and “hope” to every Sir Knight Companion. The blue is for fidelity to the last and that sweet “charity” that loveth still beyond the tomb. I will now introduce you to your future associntes. Sir Knights, you will now come forward and welcome our new Companion.
 
 
Closing
 
W.C. gives * * * when all the Comps. rise and come to the sign of Kt.
W.C.: Comp. Treasurer, What are the receipts of the evening?
W.C.: Companions, Our duties for the evening being ended, you will now assist me in closing (or adjourning) this Chapter.
Chaplain and Companions: Our Father, which art in Heaven; Hallowed be Thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in Heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive them that trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation. But deliver us from evil; for Thine is the Kingdom, the power and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.
W.C.: I now declare this Royal Scarlet Chapter adjourned (or closed) in due form.
God Save the King
The W.C. will give * *   * *   * followed in the same manner by the D.C., the Herald and Sentinel, after which the W.C. shall give *.

 

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