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GGrraanndd CChhaapptteerr ooff RRooyyaall AArrcchh MMaassoonnss ooff OOhhiioo

RITUAL SCHOOL OF INSTRUCTION

FIRST PUBLISHED IN AUGUST, 2012

LAST REVISED JANUARY 14, 2013

Ritual School of Instruction Page 2 of 25 Grand Chapter R.A.M. of Ohio

Preface

This Ritual School of Instruction was originally written for presentation by the District

Deputies Grand High Priest to the members within their district at a formal education

meeting. However, it is also beneficial to individual chapters and companions to have their

own copy as a primer for review in preparing to perform degree work and to brush up on

the fine points in each degree. Therefore, following the district’s Ritual School of

Instruction, this document was made available to all in both hardcopy and electronic form.

It begins with tips on how to perform excellent ritual by means of dramatic effectiveness.

Utilizing these tips will guarantee improved ritualistic and dramatic performance.

The remainder of the manual covers ritual mechanics, common errors and frequently

overlooked details that are contained in the ritual. Also included are many “Masonic

customs” of ritualistic performance of the Capitular degrees from sources other than the

ritual, that have been adopted as standard practice across Ohio.

Finally, Editor’s Notes are included that indicate corrections to errors and omissions in the

printed ritual that have been identified by the Ritual Committee and will be submitted at

the 2013 Grand Chapter Convocation for adoption. These “housekeeping” corrections will

then be included in the next printing of the ritual and documented in a Capitular Monitor,

upon which the Ritual Committee is presently developing.

The purpose of the ritual schools and this document is to promote excellence in ritualistic

performance and uniformity in the presentation of the Capitular degrees across this Grand

Jurisdiction. Ritualistic excellence should always be given top priority in properly conveying

the lessons of the degrees to the candidates.

This Ritual School of Instruction was originally written and published by Donald W. Owens

while serving as the Grand King and most recently updated while serving as Grand High

Priest, as part of his theme for the 2012–13 Capitular year, Royal Arch Masons –

Illuminating the Pathway of Life, where the elements of his theme are Ritual, Education

and Membership.

As a living document, it continues to be updated as additional ritualistic issues come to

light. The next major revision will occur after the 2013 Grand Convocation and the vote on

the proposed ritual changes. If you have a ritualistic concern you feel is important and

possibly could be included in this document, contact Donald W. Owens at:

[email protected]

mailto:[email protected]


Tips for Good Excellent Ritual Performance

The ritualistic work is what separates Freemasonry from all other organizations. We are not just a social or civic club. While other organizations have come and gone, the ceremonies of our various degrees are what have given us a uniquely strong bond that has endured for almost 300 years. Our ceremonies and traditions connect us to the organization’s historic past and the brethren that have preceded us. The authors of our ritual were highly intelligent and educated men. Their prose beautifully exemplifies the lessons of our degrees and helps connect us to our history as an organization of antiquity. When one Mason meets another, they have an immediate and mutual friendship and understanding of each other’s Masonic experience and know that the other is a man of character. It is through the unique and mutual bond of the lessons and the emotional experience of our ritualistic ceremonies that brings about a fraternal spirit among the brethren. Simply stated, the ritualistic ceremonies of the degrees are what make us who we are – it defines us as Masons.

Ritualistic excellence must always be given top priority. Never settle for mediocrity. Even “good” is not good enough – rather, strive for excellence! Make sure to read and follow the instructional notes in the ritual and not the speaking lines only.

Don’t just recite a part from rote memory, rather, mentally place yourself into the role to become and live the part rather than simply reciting expressionless words. Lifeless lines will put the candidates in a trance whereby they aren’t truly hearing the words, much less understanding the meaning of them.

This is especially true in the allegorical or dramatic sections. Understand the mindset and develop the personality of the character. Become the character you are representing rather than simply acting a part. You ARE King Solomon! You ARE Hiram, King of Tyre!

To a degree, these techniques are also beneficial not only for the allegorical characters, but even for the officer roles. For example, if you are the Right Worshipful Master in a degree, think, “I AM the Right Worshipful Master, this is ME speaking” and not just you playing or reciting the part of a character. You will be surprised at how this technique will dramatically (pun) improve your performance.

Have rehearsals and memorize your part BEFORE the first rehearsal. The rehearsals should be primarily for floor work and staging. Therefore, rehearsals go much better if no one has a book in his face. This also permits you to use the rehearsals to work on your delivery style and character personality, since you already know the words.

Don’t just learn your own part, but also become familiar with the flow of the entire degree. Know your cues and be ready to deliver your lines at the proper time. Don’t allow awkward pauses to occur. Conversely, don’t rush the lines. The dialogue should flow naturally, just like a normal conversation you would have with a friend.

Don’t hold back at rehearsals! Don’t be shy! Perform your part at rehearsals the way you intend to do it on performance day as that is the purpose of the rehearsals. This also helps to familiarize you with the acoustical properties of the room, the echoes and reverberations.

Speak slowly and distinctly. Project, but do not scream, which causes your voice to go into a falsetto effect that sounds unnatural. Speak your words clearly and with proper volume so that those in the far corner of the room can hear you. Don’t rush through your part. You have a


captive audience that is not going anywhere. People can comprehend slower speech far better than rapid speech. You want the candidates to understand the words and their meanings.

Stay in character at all times, even if there is a flub. Don’t make a “major production” of it when a mistake occurs. Recover as best you can and move on. You may need to ad lib a few words to get back on track, but do it in character and in a manner that no one notices – they simply think it was part of the script.

Don’t make distracting movements such as finger or foot tapping, head turns and twitches. Don’t adjust your costume and avoid scratching. Don’t talk, whisper, look at or make gestures to people that aren’t in the cast, not in the script and is out of character. Try to behave as a professional actor in a theatre. Would they be having private conversations with the audience?

Observe professional performers, their styles and techniques and emulate them. Watch how they speed up, slow down and make hand, body or facial gestures. Watch their eyes, mouth, hands and feet. How they move about, working the stage, the performers and the audience. How they stress certain words and phrases for proper emphasis. Pick a particular actor you like. What is it about him you admire? What makes him a great actor? Emulate him. All this too, will make a great improvement in your performance. It’s all in your mind! It’s all about attitude!

Always direct your speaking to the candidate or audience. If you are addressing another cast member, begin your part looking at the cast member, but then work yourself in a position to face and speak to the candidate or audience, perhaps not always directly, but sometimes at an angle. (Noah in the Past Master degree allegory is a good example.) Only on rare instances would you ever speak with your back to the candidate or audience. Notice how actors place themselves on stage or on the television studio in a scene. They are typically always facing or angled toward the audience or camera. They have to “hit their mark,” which is literally a mark, a piece of tape on the floor, that places them in the proper speaking position for the audience or camera. Do the same thing when performing Masonic ritual. Always hit your mark.

Non-speaking roles or “one-liner” roles are very important to the action of the degrees. You are there to serve a very important purpose. There are many staging notes for non-speaking parts in the ritual. Be sure to know when you are to do something as well as when not to do something. Attendance at rehearsals is equally important for non-speaking as well as speaking parts. Attendance at all rehearsals by all cast members should be considered mandatory. Only when the entire cast is present can a meaningful rehearsal be held.

Non-speaking or “minor” characters need to be mindful of their stage positioning, or blocking as it is called, in relation to the audience and the other performers. Make sure that you are not obstructing the candidate’s view of the primary characters. Also, don’t crowd or bunch up in scenes with many performers. Spread out and make use of the entire floor. Good examples of this are the East Guards in the Past Master degree allegory or in the processions of the Most Excellent Master degree.

IMPORTANT: Don’t become complacent or lazy in ritual conferrals. For those that have seen the degree dozens of times, it is old hat, the same old thing. However, never forget that the candidate is witnessing the degree for the very first time. Remember the old adage about the importance of first impressions. Therefore, never take shortcuts on costuming, makeup, special effects, scenery and ritualistic performance. Think about it: how long does it take to roll up or take off your pants, to slip on a pair of sandals or to get a piece of paraphernalia out of the closet? Are you really saving that much time? Now, compare that meager time savings to the


benefits of doing things properly to impress the candidate. There is no comparison! Therefore, do it right and in full form every time.

Additionally, evaluate your costumes and paraphernalia. Are they shredding from age? Is the paraphernalia broken or missing? Do your beards and wigs look like abandoned bird nests and tumbleweeds?

Stop and think about the new candidate that enters your door. What do you suppose he is thinking when he sees shredded costumes with missing buttons? Degree paraphernalia that looks like it came from the dumpster out back? Do you think he will be inspired and encouraged to return or to take part? Work on improving the image of your degree work in these areas as well.

To summarize all these tips into a set of bullet points (which could be used as a “Quick Reference Guide” to refresh your mind before doing a part):

The ritualistic ceremonies define us as Masons – it’s who and what we are.

Good is not good enough. Strive for excellence.

Make sure to read the instructional notes, not just the speaking lines.

Understand the character mindset and personality and then become the character.

Have all your lines memorized before rehearsals.

Use rehearsals for staging, blocking and developing your delivery style.

Don’t hold back at rehearsals. Do it the way you intend to perform it.

Don’t just learn your own part, be familiar with all parts and how they fit in with yours.

Don’t rush and don’t allow awkward pauses. The dialogue should flow naturally.

Speak slowly and distinctly.

Stay in character at all times. Don’t talk to the candidates or audience out of character.

Recover from flubs by staying in character, ad-libbing a few words if necessary to get back on track.

Don’t make distracting movements, adjust your costume, non-scripted whispers or gestures.

Behave as a professional actor. Observe and learn from professional actors.

Work the stage, candidates and audience. Think about your eyes, mouth, hands and feet.

Work to face towards the candidate and audience. Don’t speak with your back to them.

Non-speaking or “one-liner” parts are very important. Take them seriously.

All cast members, whether large or small parts, or non-speaking, must attend rehearsals.

When your character is currently not the scene’s focus, make sure not to obstruct the main view.

Do it in full form every time – costumes, paraphernalia, sandals, beards, makeup.

Finally, relax, enjoy yourself and have fun! Acting is an exhilarating craft that we in Masonry have the opportunity, to a small extent, to experience. Don’t think you can’t do it. It’s worth repeating: It’s all in your mind! It’s all about attitude! You can do it.

Always remember however, that we are portraying ritual with important symbolical and allegorical lessons. Therefore, do not stray from the ritual by deciding for yourself that “it will be better” by adding things that do not belong. Follow the ritual precisely. And that leads us to the next section of this manual, beginning on the next page.


Ritual Mechanics, Common Errors, Frequently

Overlooked Details and Masonic Customs

GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS (General items and those common to multiple degrees)

APRONS, JEWELS AND COSTUMES

1. All officers and cast members of the Mark Master, Past Master and Most Excellent Master

degrees must wear plain white aprons. Other members present that are not Royal Arch

Masons must also wear white aprons. Royal Arch Mason aprons, Past Master aprons or

Symbolic Lodge officer aprons are not permissible. Those present who are not

participating in the degree and who are Royal Arch Masons may wear white or Royal Arch

Mason aprons. It must be emphasized that Symbolic Lodge officer aprons and Past Master

aprons should never be used in ANY of the Capitular degrees. (Page 6 and 7)

2. If an officer or cast member is in costume, an apron (and jewel) is not worn (Page 15),

unless it is specified in the ritual (Fellow Craft, Overseers, etc.) and in such case, it should

be a leathern apron. (Page 20, 24) Note that a “choir robe” worn by officers is not considered

a costume and therefore an apron should be worn when clothed in this style robe.

DUE GUARDS, SIGNS, SALUTES

3. Due Guards and Signs are not given during the degree allegories (dramatic sections) when

addressing or addressed by other cast members.

4. The final positioning of the feet when giving the Step in the Mark Master, Past Master and

Most Excellent Master degrees is heel to heel at an angle of 90 degrees (not 45 or some

other angle), as this is in conformity with Symbolic Lodge, that of the feet forming an

angle of a square. (Page 46, 84, 150 of Grand Lodge of Ohio Ritual). The definition of a square is

an angle of 90 degrees. (Page 56 of Grand Lodge of Ohio Ritual)

5. The ritual says to salute when addressing or being addressed by a superior officer. (Page 12,

29, 55, 73, 119) Neither the Grand Lodge nor the Grand Chapter rituals say to salute at the

conclusion of speaking. Therefore, salutes are not given at the conclusion of speaking or at

any other time unless the ritual explicitly says to do so, for example, while attending at the

Altar. Excessive and unwarranted saluting should be avoided. The concept that “when in

doubt, salute” is flawed thinking. Learn when and when not to salute and do it correctly.

TITLES

6. In the Mark Master, Past Master and Most Excellent Master degrees, the Presiding Officer

is titled “Right Worshipful Master” and ALL others are referred to as “Brother.” (Manual of

Suggestions for Chapter Officers) Royal Arch Mason titles, Symbolic Lodge titles or other

appendant body titles are not appropriate. For example, the title “Worshipful Brother”


should never be used in the Past Master or any other Capitular degree. The Most

Worshipful Grand Master if present could be the only exception. In a chapter of Royal

Arch Masons, only Capitular titles should be used (Page 4), again with the possible

exception of the Most Worshipful Grand Master, out of respect to that office.

7. Only Masonic titles are used. Masonry does not regard a man for his worldly wealth or

honor. (Page 28, line 7 of Grand Lodge of Ohio Ritual) Therefore, titles such as “Doctor,”

“Reverend,” “PhD,” etc. should never be used during a meeting, introductions or in

Masonic correspondence.

COVERINGS

8. The Presiding Officer should always wear a covering while presiding, during degrees and

during business meetings. (Page 65, 66)

9. The Presiding Officer should not select for himself an absurd covering. Regard for the

office, the degrees, the candidates and Capitular Masonry demand decorum and

respectability, otherwise the members may lose respect for the Presiding Officer in that he

is making a mockery of his office.

10. The Presiding Officer’s covering should be immediately removed when the Inspecting

Officer, Grand High Priest or Grand Master approaches the East after he is introduced at

the Altar (not before) and Grand Honors are extended. The Presiding Officer remains

uncovered until the distinguished guest takes his seat.

11. All coverings (the entire cast) should be removed for the Pledge of Allegiance.

12. If in costume, head coverings should not be removed for prayer during degree portrayals as

you are representing an ancient character whose custom it was to remain covered during

prayer. (Choir robes are not costumes.) However, during the opening and closing

ceremonies, all head coverings should be removed during prayer as you are not portraying

a character at that time.

13. In the Mark Master, Past Master and Most Excellent Master degrees, just before and during

the Obligation, when God is mentioned, if not in costume, the covering should be

momentarily removed by the Right Worshipful Master and then replaced. (A choir robe is

not a costume.) If in costume, the covering should not be removed at these times.

14. In the Mark Master, Past Master and Most Excellent Master degrees, whether or not you

are in costume, it is not necessary to remove the covering during the Obligation. (Except at

the mention of deity, if not in costume, as noted above.)

ATTENDING TO THE DOOR

15. In the Opening of all degrees, raps on the door by the Junior Deacon or Royal Arch

Captain are given after the Tiler or Guard is informed and the door is closed. During the

degrees, conducting of business and the Closing, raps are given before opening the door.

Note that raps are never given both before the door is opened and after the door is closed –


it is either one or the other. (Page 29, 51 in the Mark Master and corresponding instructions in the

other degrees)

16. In the Mark Master, Past Master and Most Excellent Master degrees, the Right Worshipful

Master does not say to the Junior Deacon, “Attend to that duty” in the Closing. These

words are only said in the Opening.

17. In the Mark Master, Past Master and Most Excellent Master degrees, the line in both the

Opening and Closing ceremonies is, “…we are about…” Only in the Royal Arch Mason

degree Opening (and not the Closing) is the phrase “…I am about…” used. (Editor’s Note:

That the Right Worshipful Master says, “I am about” in the Royal Arch Mason Opening is an anomaly

from all other degrees in both Symbolic Lodge and Chapter and most likely was not intentional, but

rather, an error. For consistency with all other degrees, the Ritual Committee will recommend that the

line, “I am about” be changed to, “we are about” for adoption at the 2013 Grand Chapter Convocation.)

18. In the Opening and Closing ceremonies, the Junior Deacon or Royal Arch Captain informs

the Tiler or Guard WHILE the Senior Deacon (or Principal Sojourner) is performing his

duties at the Altar. (Page 32, 51 in the Mark Master and corresponding instructions in the other

degrees) It is important to understand that the lodge or chapter is officially open or closed

when the Presiding Officer declares it. Whether the Bible is open or not has no bearing

on the opened or closed status! Therefore, DO NOT wait for the Bible to be opened or

closed before informing the Tiler or Guard.

OBLIGATION AND ESOTERY

19. In the Mark Master, Past Master and Most Excellent Master degrees, the Right Worshipful

Master waits for the parallel lines to form before he approaches the Altar for the Obligation

and then approaches through the parallel lines. (Page 41, 58, 80) The parallel lines should

form from the Altar eastward, in line with the Stewards. The line should not extend West

of the Stewards and also should not be in multiple rows. If there are too many present, the

extras should return to the sidelines.

20. In the obligations of the four Capitular degrees, the word is never “of” but always “or” in

the phrase, “…my solemn oath or obligation…”

21. The presiding officer should never say, “You now behold me as the Acting Right

Worshipful Master.” If you are presiding at that moment, then you are in fact the Right

Worshipful Master! Therefore, never say the word “acting.”

22. In all the degrees beyond the Fellow Craft, it is always “more light” and never “further

light.”

23. In the Mark Master, Past Master and Most Excellent Master degrees, the Deacons’ and

Stewards’ rods should be held high, at a 45 degree angle, tucked between their arm (bent at

the elbow) and torso. The rods should never be carried horizontally or drooped; or with the

arm fully extended down at the waist. The rod should be carried proudly.


MARK MASTER

OPENING

1. The Right Worshipful Master should slowly give the signs during the Opening Ceremony

so all can follow. Hands should be dropped completely to the side between each sign and

pause for a brief moment before giving the next sign.

2. The Right Worshipful Master says, “…communicate to the Junior Warden that the

brethren may have due notice…” and the Senior Warden says, “…report to the brethren

that they having due notice…” (Page 31)

3. The Senior Warden says “…and govern themselves accordingly” and the Junior Warden

says “…and let it be done.” (Page 31)

4. The recitation at the end of the opening is a Charge, not a prayer. (Page 32) There should be

no bowed heads as if praying and no exclamations of “Amen” or “So mote it be” at its

conclusion. Coverings should not be removed.

FIRST SECTION

5. If the Craftsmen are in the lodge room, they should go to the Altar and retire with the

Marshal. (Page 34)

6. After the candidate is taken out following the Cover Obligation, the Marshal prepares the

candidate by removing his jacket and rolling up his shirt sleeves. He instructs the candidate

to remove all items from his pockets and advises him that he should consider himself

destitute as in the Entered Apprentice degree.

7. The Marshal and Senior Deacon follow behind the Craftsmen and candidate to return to

their seats. The Marshal does not go to his place via the South, but rather follows behind

the circumambulation to his seat.

8. When the Craftsmen and candidate are being conducted to the Junior Overseer, the Senior

Deacon and Craftsmen pass behind the Master Overseer when traversing from the North

side to the South side of the Lodge – they do not go in front of him. (Page 28)

9. Maintain six-foot spacing between Craftsmen and candidate. After the presentation to the

Junior Overseer and Senior Overseer, the first Craftsman advances 12 feet and stops. The

second Craftsman advances 6 feet and stops (The first Craftsman does not move at this

point.) After the candidate’s presentation, all three then move together. (Page 35)

10. The sections in brackets should be conferred on each candidate individually unless there

are five or more, in which case an exemplar may be used and the sections conferred only

once upon the exemplar. (Page 32)


11. The Marshal should rehearse with the candidate the Fellow Craft degree Due Guard and

Sign while in the Preparation Room. (Page 34)

12. Presenting the Keystone: Swing the stone back and then forward and up. The back of the

right hand is caught in the palm of the left hand. (Do not catch the right wrist.) (Page 34)

Everyone that either presents or returns the Keystone should do so in this same fashion.

Also, those receiving the Keystone from someone should make the same arm and hand

movements described above in preparation of receiving the stone.

13. It is the duty of the Marshal to form the Craftsmen in the proper order before the

processions proceed to the Senior Warden’s station to receive wages. The order of the first

procession is (Page 36):

Marshal

Craftsman

Craftsman

Junior Overseer

Senior Overseer

Master Overseer

Senior Deacon

Candidate

The order of the second procession is (Page 46):

Marshal

Junior Overseer

Senior Overseer

Master Overseer

Senior Deacon

Candidate

Craftsman

Craftsman

Notice that the only change is that the Craftsmen move from the front, to the rear of the

line – The Craftsmen are the “first and the last” and not the candidate! All others

maintain the same position. Here is a visual representation of the movement and

difference:

Marshal

Craftsman

Craftsman

Junior Overseer

Senior Overseer

Master Overseer

Senior Deacon

Candidate

Craftsman

Craftsman

For the second procession, notice that

the only difference is the Craftsmen

move to the end of the line – the first

becomes the last. Everyone else stays

in the same position. If you get it right

the first time, the second time is a no-

brainer!

NOTE: The ritual does not specify the

order of the three Overseers, but this

is the logical order, based on the floor

positioning of those officers’ places.

The Ritual Committee will propose

specifying this exact order.

Notice that the candidate

does not move to the

front of the line!


14. (Editor’s Note: The Ritual Committee will recommend that an instructional note be added to specify the

exact order of the Overseers in the processions for adoption at the 2013 Grand Chapter Convocation.)

15. The Overseers are officers and should remain at their places from beginning to end. Their

seats should not be removed from the floor when their part of the work is complete and

they should not sit on the sidelines. They do not get “demoted” during the degree!

16. The Junior Overseer hesitates to receive the candidate’s work. (Page 50) The Senior and

Master Overseers do not hesitate to receive it. (Editor’s note: The only indication of this hesitation

is in the Lecture. The instructional notes say nothing about it and the Ritual Committee will recommend a

note be added to Page 35 stating the Junior Overseer should hesitate to receive the Candidate’s work, for

adoption at the 2013 Grand Chapter Convocation.)

17. Sequence of events at the latticed window is: The Senior Warden says, “An impostor! An

impostor! Strike off his right hand!” The brethren rush forward and say, “Inflict the

penalty!” The Marshal raises his sword as if to obey. Then the Master Overseer steps

forward, raises his left arm and says, “Spare him!” (Page 37) This sequence should be

followed precisely and quickly, but not simultaneously. It is not supposed to be mass

confusion, but rather the individual statements should be clearly heard and understood in

their proper sequence. Also, do not add anything extra – what’s in the ritual is just fine.

18. No one should ever urge the candidate to thrust his hand through the latticed window for

wages and no words should be added to the ritual, such as, “Hands through the wicket.” It

should be the candidate’s decision and the cast must be prepared to perform either option

of the ritual.

19. The Marshal should never beat upon the latticed window with his sword – he only raises

his sword. (Page 37)

20. The Stewards, carrying their rods, should retire with the Marshal and candidate at the

conclusion of the First Section after the work in the quarries has concluded.

SECOND SECTION

21. When the Pass is communicated to the Senior Deacon at the door, he responds, “The Pass

is right.” (Page 38) When the Pass is communicated by the Senior Deacon at the Altar to the

Right Worshipful Master, he responds, “It is well.” (Not “The Pass is right.”) (Page 39)

22. The Marshal follows behind the Senior Deacon and candidate to return to his seat. The

Marshal does not go to his place via the South, but rather follows behind the

circumambulation to his seat.

23. The Marshal on his way to his seat should carry the chisel and mallet from the Preparation

Room door to the Right Worshipful Master after the candidate is received, unless a

separate set of working tools is available in the East. Ideally, three sets are used: one at the

Preparation Room door, one at the Quarries and one in the East.


24. The Senior Deacon and candidate should never slow down or stop for the scripture

recitations during the circumambulation. A proper pace should be determined in advance to

allow for the recitations. Once the pace is established, it is up to the Right Worshipful

Master or Chaplain to properly time the recitations.

As an alternative for a very small room, the Senior Deacon and candidate may stop in the

Northeast corner for the recitations. In this circumstance, the Right Worshipful Master (or

Chaplain) does not begin until they come to a stop and they do not resume the

circumambulation until the recitation segment has concluded. This stop/start procedure is

followed for each segment of the circumambulation.

25. At the three challenges, the Junior Warden says, “You have my permission to pass to the

Senior Warden for further examination” and the Senior Warden says, “You have my

permission to pass to the Right Worshipful Master for his examination.” All three in this

degree say, “The Pass is right.”) (Page 40) (Editor’s Note: That the Right Worshipful Master does

not say, “It is well” is an anomaly from all other degrees in both Symbolic Lodge and Chapter and most

likely was not an intentional change, but rather, an error. The Ritual Committee will recommend that the

line, “The Pass is right” be changed to, “It is well” for adoption at the 2013 Grand Chapter

Convocation.)

26. During the Obligation, the Senior Deacon stands directly behind the candidate. The Senior

Warden steps down to the floor and stands in line behind the Senior Deacon. (Page 41) The

Junior Warden steps down to the floor in front of his station. The general rule is that when

all are standing and the Right Worshipful Master descends to the floor, the Wardens also

descend so that no one is standing on a higher level than the Right Worshipful Master.

27. The Cable-tow should be tied near the candidate’s pocket for easy and discreet placement

of a quarter by the Senior Deacon.

28. The Right Worshipful Master must develop an appropriate dialogue when the candidate

cannot comply with his request for a loan, as there are no words written in the ritual to

recite to the initiate. The following is a suggestion:

My brother, if you do not have _____ dollars, I believe you. But remember your

obligation that if you cannot comply with my request, you should return me my mark

with at least the price thereof, which is a Jewish half-shekel of silver equivalent in

value to the fourth part of a dollar, which is a quarter. Therefore, place a quarter with

my mark and return them to me. (When the candidate cannot comply, say:) My brother, I am

certain that you have a quarter. Please check all of your pockets. (Continue to prompt

until the candidate produces the quarter.)

29. Do not ask for a ridiculous amount of money, thus making a mockery of this eloquent

scene. Around twenty dollars works well.

30. During the loan request, only the Right Worshipful Master is to speak and there should be

no urging from the sideline companions. The degree is not a comedic farce. Maintain

dignity and decorum.


31. The Right Worshipful Master following the Obligation gives only the Step, Due Guard and

both Penal Signs when approaching the Altar. The other signs are not given at this time,

but only as they are being described to the candidate. (Page 42) (Editor’s Note: That the Right

Worshipful Master says, “You now behold me as the Right Worshipful Master of this Lodge” is an

anomaly from all other degrees in both Symbolic Lodge and Chapter and most likely was not an

intentional change, but rather, an error. The Ritual Committee will recommend that the words, “of this

Lodge” be deleted at the 2013 Grand Chapter Convocation.)

32. Read the Esotery for the proper methods of giving the signs. (Page 42, 43)

33. The Right Worshipful Master raises the candidate after he explains the Pass Grip. (Page 44)

34. After the Obligation, the Senior Deacon should resume his staff from the floor stand so that

the Right Worshipful Master does not have to break the Pass Grip with the candidate when

he has him rise for the communication of the Real Grip.

35. Editor’s Note: In the Biblical recitation at the bottom of Page 44, there is a word omission. It should read,

“…concerning all the ordinances…” (The word “all” has been omitted in error. The Ritual Committee

will propose this correction for adoption at the 2013 Grand Chapter Convocation.)

36. The “confusion” is created by the Overseers only. There should be no disturbance of any

kind created by any other person. (No stomping of feet, shouting, moving about the room,

etc.) (Page 45) Maintain dignity and decorum. The degree is not a burlesque or Vaudeville

floorshow lampoon. Leave that to the immature college fraternity boys.

37. The Master Overseer alone goes to the East to present the Keystone to the Right

Worshipful Master and the other two Overseers remain at the Altar. (Page 45)

38. After presenting the Keystone, the Right Worshipful Master should wait for the Master

Overseer to return to the Altar before saying his line. After his line, the Overseers

immediately return to their places and sit. (On the floor, not the sidelines!) (Page 45)

39. The Marshal does not say “Fall in” during the formation of the second procession. (Page 46)

(Editor’s Note: For consistency and to avoid the semblance of Knights Templar, the 2013 Ritual

Committee will recommend the elimination of “Fall in” both times.)

40. If a soloist does not sing the two songs, appoint a Reader to read the lyrics. (Page 47, 49)

41. Receiving wages the second time: everyone forms a semi-circle West of the Altar after

payment and the Marshal then goes to each person one-at-a-time and asks how much they

received, going to the candidate LAST. (Page 47)

42. If not the Right Worshipful Master, the person delivering the Charge should stand near the

Southeast corner of the Altar so that the candidates do not have to turn sideways or

backwards. The Charge should always be delivered with the candidates facing the East.

43. Although the ritual states that the Charge may be read, it is highly preferable and

recommended to deliver it from memory. The last impression the candidate receives in the

degree conferral should not be someone reading from the book. (Editor’s Note: The Ritual


Committee will propose the removal of the instructional note that the Charge “may be read or recited”

for adoption at the 2013 Grand Chapter Convocation.)


PAST MASTER

OPENING

1. As detailed in the General Instructions section of this manual, remember that in the Past

Master degree the officers should not wear Symbolic Lodge aprons nor use Symbolic

Lodge titles. This is not a Convocation of Past Masters under the auspices of the Grand

Lodge, but rather a Capitular degree. Don’t confuse the two.

2. Although he has no duties, for consistency with the Mark Master and Most Excellent

Master degrees, a Marshal should be included in the cast of the Past Master degree (Page 4,

54)

3. The Penal Sign goes downward and back to the throat. (Page 59) It is a deliberate tracing

along the chin and neck. The hand is then dropped naturally to the side. There should be no

quick jerking of the hand away from the head or neck.

4. The Right Worshipful Master says, “…communicate to the Junior Warden that the

brethren may have due notice…” and the Senior Warden says, “…report to the brethren

that they having due notice…” (Page 56)

5. The Senior Warden says “…and govern themselves accordingly” and the Junior Warden

says “…and let it be done.” (Page 56)

6. The recitation at the end of the opening is a Charge, not a prayer. (Page 57) There should be

no bowed heads as if praying and no exclamations of “Amen” or “So mote it be” at its

conclusion. Coverings should not be removed.

FIRST SECTION



Junior Warden steps down to the floor in front of his station. The general rule is that when

all are standing, when the Right Worshipful Master descends to the floor, the Wardens also

descend so that no one is standing on a higher level than the Right Worshipful Master.

8. After the Obligation, the Senior Deacon should resume his staff from the holder so that the

Right Worshipful Master does not have to break the grip with the candidate when he has

him rise for the communication of the Grip of a Past Master.

9. The Right Worshipful Master raises the candidate after he says, “…with the assistance of

the Senior Deacon. Arise.” (Page 59)

10. In explaining the Grip to the candidate (Page 60), if the Right Worshipful Master does not

grasp the candidate’s upper arm until he says, “…not easily broken,” the candidate is less

likely to grasp the Right Worshipful Master’s arm. (Try it! It usually works.)


11. When the Junior Warden calls the Lodge from Labor to Refreshment, he does not tell the

Junior Deacon to inform the Tiler and the Senior Deacon does not attend at the Altar. (Page

60) The call to Refreshment is figurative, as in the Master Mason degree allegory. The

Junior Warden says, “…you be called…” (and not “…this lodge of Past Masters…” and,

“take notice and govern yourselves accordingly.” (Not “take notice thereof,” and not “let it

be done.”)

12. Editor’s Note: The note on Page 60 states that the candidate is seated before the Right Worshipful Master

tells the Junior Warden to call from Labor to Refreshment. For consistency, this order should be given

and executed while the candidate is standing at the Altar and then seat the candidate after its completion.

The reason is for uniformity with what is done in Symbolic Lodge at the conclusion of the First Section of

the Master Mason degree. The Ritual Committee will propose this correction for adoption at the 2013

Grand Chapter Convocation.

13. Make sure to seat the candidates so that they have a good view of the Allegory. Cast

members, particularly East Guards, should be careful not to block the candidate’s view of

the two Kings and Noah. (Page 63)

ALLEGORY

14. Editor’s Note: The note on Page 61, the last one before the line of the First East Guard, “…but not

wearing crown or scepter…” is poor wording and the Ritual Committee will recommend for that these

words be changed to “…but without crown and scepter…” for adoption at the 2013 Grand Chapter

Convocation.

15. Editor’s Note: To enhance the symbolism of the missing King, three chairs, one of which is left vacant,

should be placed in the Southeast. King Solomon should sit in the middle chair and Hiram, King of Tyre

should sit on his right. The vacant chair on his left may, if desired, be covered with a black drape. The

ritual committee will propose that the instructional notes on Pages 61 and 62; and the diagram on Page

70 be changed to indicate three chairs, not two, be adopted at the 2013 Grand Chapter Convocation.

16. Guards should stand still after Noah passes so as not to be a distraction, they do not

continue to pace or march back and forth. Don’t upstage the main characters! East Guards

retire out of sight so as not to block the view from the candidates. Candidates should have

an unobstructed view of the East, the two Kings (both while standing and seated) and

Noah. (Page 63)

17. Noah kneels twice in front of King Solomon. First, on Page 63 he kneels and salaams.

King Solomon later motions for him to rise on Page 64. Second, Noah kneels on Page 64

(no salaam this time) and Hiram, King of Tyre motions for him to rise, also on Page 64.

18. Editor’s Note: When King Solomon references the missing Hiram Abif on Page 64, he should motion to

the empty chair. The ritual committee will propose that this instructional note be added at the 2013 Grand

Chapter Convocation.

19. After King Solomon says that Noah will succeed him, both Kings rise and bow (not a

salaam) to Noah. (Page 64)


20. When the officers are instructed to assume their stations and places, Hiram, King of Tyre is

Senior Warden; Noah seats candidate in Junior Warden’s Station and sits beside him; West

Guard is Senior Deacon; South Guard is Junior Deacon. (Page 65)

21. King Solomon does not go to the East until all are in position and the candidate is

observing. Make sure all other room movement has ceased so that the candidate is

watching King Solomon when he falters. (Page 65)

22. King Solomon is seated once. He does not rise and re-seat himself more than one time. (Page 65)

23. East Guards return to the floor after seating King Solomon. (Page 65)

24. King Solomon gives one rap to call everyone to attention. He does not give two or three

raps for anyone else to stand. Everyone except Solomon and the East Guards should be

seated. (Page 65)

25. When King Solomon’s strength fails at the Altar, ALL officers immediately rise and rush

to his aid and assist him out. (Page 65)

RESUMPTION OF REGULAR LODGE (THIRD SECTION)

26. The lodge is not formally called back to Labor. The call to Refreshment is figurative, as in

the Master Mason degree allegory, which also is not formally called back to Labor. All

officers enter the lodge room (if they exited following the Allegory) and resume their

stations and places.

27. Noah seats the candidates in the South. (Page 65, 66)

28. The Senior Deacon conducts the candidates from the South to the East. (Page 66)

29. The candidate should be seated with the Grip by the Right Worshipful Master and Senior

Deacon. (Page 66) The candidate is seated once. He is not caused to rise and sit again

multiple times. (The practice of seating and rising three times is not in the ritual.)

30. There should be no frivolity during the “Lodge for Masonic Instruction.” (Page 67) There

should be no disturbance created to test the candidate’s use of the gavel. The Past Master

degree is a degree of dignity. A lodge composed of dignified Past Masters would not create

such a disturbance. Just follow the ritual. No such disturbance is documented in the ritual.

The only “challenge” to the candidate is the propounding of the questions. The candidate is

only in charge of the meeting for Masonic instruction, not the lodge of Past Masters itself.

So logically, if such a disturbance did occur, it is the Right Worshipful Master and not the

candidate, who should resume the gavel to subdue the disturbance. The degree is not a

three-ring circus. Leave the clowns with Barnum & Bailey.

31. If two coverings are used (recommended), the Right Worshipful Master should remove his

covering during the questioning of the candidate and resume his covering at the conclusion

of the same. This symbolically represents that the candidate is in charge of the Lodge for


Masonic Instruction. However, the candidate is not in charge of the Lodge of Past Masters. (Page 67)

32. Fully explain the answers to the questions being propounded to the candidate. Do not give

just a simple “correct,” “incorrect,” “yes” or “no.” Have detailed answers written out or

better yet, use the revised questions in the back of the Code, 2013 Electronic Edition –

Draft.

33. When the candidate is told to rise, the Right Worshipful Master and Senior Deacon assist

him by means of the Grip, thus completing the admonition that the candidate sits and rises

by means of the Grip when first assuming the station in the East.

34. All candidates (unless an exemplar is used with five or more candidates) should be placed

in the East (on the floor facing East, in front of the Right Worshipful Master in his station)

for the “Virtual Past Master” instruction. Alternately, the last candidate may be seated with

the rest and then the Right Worshipful Master addresses the entire class, either from his

station, or after approaching the class.

35. The candidate or exemplar should be conducted to the Altar for the Altar Lecture. (Page 67)

The rest of the class should remain at their seats.

36. If not the Right Worshipful Master, the person delivering the Charge should stand near the

Southeast corner of the Altar so that the candidates do not have to turn sideways or

backwards. The Charge should always be delivered with the candidates facing the East.

37. Although the ritual states that the Charge may be read, it is highly preferable and

recommended to deliver it from memory. The last impression the candidate receives in the

degree conferral should not be someone reading from the book. (Editor’s Note: The Ritual

Committee will propose the removal of the instructional note that the Charge “may be read or recited”

for adoption at the 2013 Grand Chapter Convocation.)


MOST EXCELLENT MASTER

OPENING

1. After giving the movement of the Penal Sign, drop hands to the side naturally. (Page 81)

There should be no second movement of flailing or flinging the hands as if throwing

something. Think about it – there is no second movement in any of the degree signs. So,

why do some brethren do it in this degree? (The Mark Master has two separate penal signs;

it is not two movements of one sign.)

2. Editor’s Note: Near the middle of Page 73, there is a missing word. The Right Worshipful Master’s line

should read, “Attend to that duty and inform the Tiler that we…” (The second occurrence of the word

“that” is missing.) For consistency with all other degrees in both Symbolic Lodge and Chapter, the Ritual

Committee will propose this correction for adoption at the 2013 Grand Chapter Convocation.

3. The Right Worshipful Master says, “…communicate to the brethren that they may have

due notice and govern themselves accordingly” and the Senior Warden says, “…take

notice thereof and let it be done.” (Page 74)

4. The ritual does not state that only the officers form circle around the Altar, therefore all

brethren present should form circle. This also makes it much easier to form a circle.

5. If kneeling is not possible, simply leave that line out. Don’t say anything nonsensical, such

as, “kneel while standing” or “symbolically kneel.” (Page 75)

6. Only the Right Worshipful Master recites the Twenty-third Psalm. All others remain silent. (Page 75)

7. While it is sometimes used as a prayer, the ritual does not state that the recitation of the

Twenty-third Psalm is used as a prayer in this instance. There should be no bowed heads as

if praying and no exclamations of “Amen” or “So mote it be” at its conclusion. Coverings

should not be removed.

8. If the brethren did not kneel, then leave out the line, “Arise.” (It is silly to say “Arise” if

everyone is already standing! Don’t be silly!) (Page 75)

9. The brethren should wait at the Altar until the Right Worshipful Master and Senior Warden

resume their stations and then without instruction, resume their seats. (Page 76)

FIRST SECTION

10. When the Right Worshipful Master calls on the Marshal the second time, he goes to the

Altar, gives the Due Guard and holds it until instructed to retire by the Right Worshipful

Master, at which time he gives the Penal Sign and then retires. (Page 76)

11. Editor’s Note: The first call upon the Marshal on Page 76 should be to the Senior Deacon. In all the

previous degrees from Entered Apprentice through Past Master, it is the Senior Deacon that is called on


to give the name of the candidate. The Ritual Committee will propose this correction for adoption at the

2013 Grand Chapter Convocation.

12. If the Stewards are in the lodge room, they should go to the Altar and retire with the

Marshal. (Page 76)

13. The Marshal should instruct the candidate of the Pass while in the Preparation Room.

14. Editor’s Note: There is an error on Page 77, near the middle of the page. The line “He has” should be

delivered by the Marshal. The next line, “Give it” and the subsequent two lines should be delivered by the

Senior Deacon. (The ritual reversed the two officers for these lines.) The Ritual Committee will propose

this correction for adoption at the 2013 Grand Chapter Convocation.

15. When the Pass is communicated to the Senior Deacon at the door, he responds, “The Pass

is right.” (Page 38) When the Pass is communicated by the Senior Deacon at the Altar to the

Right Worshipful Master, he responds, “It is well.” (Not “The Pass is right.”) (Page 77)

16. The Marshal follows behind the Senior Deacon and candidate to return to his seat. The

Marshal does not go to his place via the South, but rather follows behind the

circumambulation to his seat.

17. The Senior Deacon and candidate should never slow down or stop for the scripture

recitations during the circumambulation. A proper pace should be determined in advance to

allow for the recitations. Once the pace is established, it is up to the Right Worshipful

Master or Chaplain to properly time the recitations.

As an alternative for a very small room, the Senior Deacon and candidate may stop in the

Northeast corner for the recitations. In this circumstance, the Right Worshipful Master (or

Chaplain) does not begin until they come to a stop and they do not resume the

circumambulation until the recitation segment has concluded. This stop/start procedure is

followed for each segment of the circumambulation.

18. The Senior Deacon after giving the raps at the Junior Warden’s station should pause for

few seconds before delivering his lines. (Page 78) Suggested Ode for this scene is “Solemn

Strikes the Funeral Chime” that can be played either during or after the Senior Deacon’s

address. If played after, the procession should not advance to the Senior Warden until the

conclusion of the Ode. (Page 79)

19. The Senior Warden says, “The Pass is right. You have my permission to pass to the Right

Worshipful for his examination.” The Right Worshipful Master says “It is well.” (Not

“The Pass is right.”) (Page 79)



general rule is that when all are standing and the Right Worshipful Master descends to the

floor, the Wardens also descend so that no one is standing on a higher level than the Right

Worshipful Master.


21. The Grand Hailing Sign is made by stepping back with the right foot, not by stepping

forward with the left foot. (Page 81)

22. The Right Worshipful Master should say the words “admiration” and “adoration” at the

proper times. These words are used three times and the order is, “admiration,” “adoration”

and “admiration.” (Page 80)

23. The Right Worshipful Master raises the candidate after he explains the Word. (Page 82)

SECOND SECTION

24. If a soloist does not sing the processional songs, appoint a Reader to read the lyrics. The

Reader (for the actual Reader parts as well as the songs) should be familiar with the degree

so that he knows what to read and when. If the candidates are participating in the

processions, do not begin reading or singing until they have entered the room so that they

can hear the words! (Page 91, 92, 99, 104, 110)

25. The Keystone should be carried low, not shoulder high, so that it can be examined and

alluded to by King Solomon in his opening soliloquy. (Page 91)

26. The Keystone should be carried and placed in the Arch by Craftsmen (or the candidates).

Overseers are supervisors and do not do the manual labor and do not wear aprons. (Page 85,

92)

27. The Craftsmen remove their aprons as they leave. The candidates do not leave the room at

this time. After the Procession has left, the Senior Deacon collects the candidates’ aprons. (Page 92, 93)

28. The Ark does not have the writing on the side panels in this degree. Be sure to reverse

them if necessary. (Page 16, 23)

29. The High Priest is immediately in front of the Ark in the procession. (Page 94, 96)

30. The Four tables are carried in the following order: On the right (South) side, first the

Candlestick (East) and then the Holy Vessels (West). On the left (North) side, first the

Shewbread (East) and then the Altar of Incense (West). (Page 97)

31. Local customs vary, but in a strict following of the ritual, only the High Priest and the Ark

Bearers recite together, “I believe in God…” (Some logical discretion is needed here, as

often the candidates are the Ark Bearers and obviously don’t know the words.) (Page 101)

32. The High Priest backs out of the Holies of Holies. (Page 102) This is the only occasion

where the ritual says to back out in the primary ceremony. In the Alternate Ceremony, the

ritual says nothing about the High Priest, but says for the Ark Bearers to back out. (Page

106) However, tradition is that the High Priest, Table Bearers and Ark Bearers always back

out of the Sanctum Sanctorum and the Holy of Holies.

33. Staves are not removed from the Ark. (Page 146)


34. If the candidates are part of the procession, they do not leave the room with the rest of the

cast, but remain inside for the Senior Warden’s address. (Page 107)

35. The High Priest does not retire with the procession, but maintains a vigil at the Sanctum

Sanctorum for the remainder of the Allegory. (Page 102, 107, 110) The ritual states that the

four Ark Bearers also remain with the High Priest, but in actual practice these days, there

wouldn’t be much left of the procession. Therefore, tradition is that the Ark Bearers retire

with the procession, leaving the High Priest alone at his vigil. (Many times the candidates

are the Ark Bearers and obviously must retire.)

36. For the Final Event, the lights are very dim and are turned out completely at the conclusion

of the Prayer. After the cast rises and gives the Grand Hailing Sign, the lights are turned on

full. (Page 110, 111, 112) (Editor’s Note: There is a contradiction in the Instructional Notes. On Page

111, the instruction is to turn the lights out when the fire descends. On Page 112, the note says for the

lights to be turned out as King Solomon kneels for prayer. The former seems to be the most appropriate

time, with the lights going entirely out at the prayer’s conclusion so that Solomon is not delivering the

prayer in complete darkness. The Ritual Committee will propose this correction – deleting the note on

page 112 – for adoption at the 2013 Grand Chapter Convocation.)

37. King Solomon’s monologue on Page 111 is one of the rare occasions where the actor’s

back is to the audience while speaking. (Page 111) However, a good performer would begin

that way for the first long paragraph, but starting with the second paragraph, would turn

around and address the cast, facing the audience.

38. At the conclusion of the Prayer, the following sequence rapidly occurs, in this order: the

fire descends upon the Altar of Sacrifice and simultaneously the Shekinah light appears;

the High Priest exclaims, “The Shekinah of Israel!”; all prostrate themselves, giving the

recitation three times; they then rise and give the Sign of Admiration; the lights are turned

on full. The ritual states that the characters drop their hands and a song is played and sang.

However, if there is not a music department, tradition is that the characters hold the Sign

while the Reader recites the last reading. At its conclusion, the cast drops their hands and

retire.

39. The candidates should replace their aprons before the start of the Lecture. (Page 113)

40. There should be no delay in beginning the Lecture. Officers resume their stations even if in

costume. Shut down all lights and special effects from the last scene and as quickly as

possible, replace the Altar and Lesser Lights. All props from the Allegory should be left in

place until after the Closing. (Page 113)

41. Each candidate should have a member take him by the Grip for the final line by the Right

Worshipful Master. However, the Right Worshipful Master is the ONLY one to say the

final line and final two words. In addition, even he says it only ONCE, not one time for

each candidate. (Page 114)


ROYAL ARCH MASON

OPENING

1. The Excellent High Priest says, “The First Master’s station” and not, “The Master of the

First Veil’s station.” (And similarly for the other veils.) (Page 120–121)

2. The Excellent High Priest says, “Companion of the First Veil” and not, “Companion

Master of the First Veil” (And similarly for the other veils.) (Page 120–121)

3. The ritual does not state that only the officers form circle around the Altar, therefore all

companions present should form circle. Alternately, the Excellent High Priest and Captain

of the Host could add the words “officers only” at the conclusion of their lines to match the

tradition of only the officers forming the circle. (Page 123)

4. When only the officers form circle, the Masters of the First and Second Veil should go to

the North side of the Altar, the Principal Sojourner, Royal Arch Captain and Master of the

Third Veil go to the South Side. (The ritual does not specify this, but it is the logical

placement, based on their station’s position on the floor.)

5. Editor’s Note: As indicated above, strictly following the ritual, all present should form circle. However,

the companions on the sidelines are seated, not standing, when this order is given, therefore making this

clumsy and awkward. The Ritual Committee will propose the lines “…form the companions around the

Altar…” and “Companions, form circle…” to “…form the officers…” and “Officers, form circle…”

respectively, for adoption at the 2013 Grand Chapter Convocation.

6. The companions should maintain the grip at the Altar until after the instruction is given to

form groups of three. (Don’t release the grip immediately after balancing three times

three.)

7. The prayer used is the Authorized King James Version, Book of Matthew. The correct

words are, “which” (“which art in heaven”), “in” (“in earth”) and “debts,” not “trespasses.”

(“And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.”)

8. If all companions present formed circle, to save time, only the officers are required to form

groups of three. If this is desired, the Right Worshipful Master should add the words

“officers only” for the instruction to form groups of three. The others would then resume

their seats. (Page 123)

9. With officers only, in forming groups of three, the three platform officers should form in

the East, the Principal Sojourner, Royal Arch Captain and Master of the Third Veil should

form on the South side, West of the Altar and the Captain of the Host, Master of the First

Veil and Master of the Second Veil should form on the North side, West of the Altar. This

then places the Altar in the center of the three triangles, thus symbolically forming the

Royal Arch emblem, with the Altar and its contents representing the Triple Tau. The

principal officer in each group of three should be on the east side, at the apex of the

triangle.


10. The easiest and quickest way to grasp each others’ wrists is to give the Entered Apprentice

Due Guard, flipping the left hand over, palm down. It is then a simple matter to reach and

grasp the others’ wrists.

11. If kneeling is not possible, simply leave that line out. Don’t say anything nonsensical, such

as, “kneel while standing.” or “symbolically kneel.” (Page 123)

12. If the companions did not kneel, then leave out the two words, “Arise and.” (It is silly to

say “Arise” if everyone is already standing! Don’t be silly!) (Page 123)

13. After the balance three times three, the triangles formed with hands and feet are

immediately broken. (Page 124)

WORK

14. Read the instruction on Page 129 on how to form the Living Arch. This grip is not the

same as in communicating the Royal Arch Word. The Grip is held breast high and not

lowered as candidates pass under. There should be no hazing or horseplay during this or

any other scene in any of the degrees.

15. Candidates are West of the Altar, not at the Altar, for prayer. They are later caused to rise,

conducted to the Altar and caused to kneel for the Obligation. (Page 129, 130)

16. Platform officers should go to the Altar and return to their stations in triangular form. (Page

130)

17. Editor’s Note: The note on Page 131 stating the text may be read from a scroll, does not indicate when the

reading from the scroll concludes. The reading should conclude at the end of the Burning Bush scene.

Therefore, a note, “Conclusion of reading from the scroll” should be added following the note on Page

132 that states, “Candidates arise.” The Ritual Committee will propose this correction for adoption at the


18. Editor’s Note: On Page 132, there is an opening quotation mark at the start of the Voice of God scene, but

no closing quotation mark. There should be a closing quotation mark before the instructional note and

then another opening quotation mark following that note. Finally, there should be a closing quotation

mark after the last recitation of the Voice of God. The Ritual Committee will propose these punctuation

corrections for adoption at the 2013 Grand Chapter Convocation.

19. When alarm is given, all three Veilsmen and the Royal Arch Captain assemble inside the

first veil. (All veils remain closed.) After the Principal Sojourner responds, the first veil is

opened and all four step outside the veil. After the candidates are given permission to

enter, all four return to their stations passing through the veils (and not by going outside the

veil structure). All veils remain closed except the first. (Page 141)

20. The fourth veil is not opened until the candidates are given permission to enter. (Page 143)

21. Once opened, the veils are never closed and reopened. They remain open for the remainder

of the degree. They or any one of them are not closed and reopened for the Principal

Sojourner and candidates when returning from the ruins. (Page 146)


22. The Masters of the Second and Third Veils do not say anything when the laborers return

from the ruins. The Principal Sojourner, Master of the First Veil and Royal Arch Captain

each say, “Laborers from the ruins with discoveries for inspection.” Jeshua, the Royal Arch

Captain and Master of the First Veil then each say in turn, “Admit the laborers,” “They

have permission to enter” and “You have permission to enter.” (Notice the slight difference

in each of these lines.) (Page 146)

23. Staves are not removed from the Ark. (Page 146)

24. The lid is replaced on the Ark after the Pot of Manna is returned. (This is important so that

the candidates may see the items that sit on the lid when they are referred to by the cast.) (Page 148)

25. Remember that all reading is done from right to left. Therefore, if pointing to the lettering

and words with a finger, make sure to motion with the finger from right to left.

26. Editor’s Note: Haggai’s line near the bottom of page 148, where he says “Deposited in the year 3000…”

is missing the word “the.” The Ritual Committee will propose the addition of this word for adoption at the


27. The dramatization on Page 149 is the climax of not only the degree, but of Capitular

Masonry! Therefore, the characters need to build excitement. They should be elated over

this discovery. (Page 149)

28. With three candidates, no one needs to come from the sidelines to assist in communicating

the Word, as each officer is assigned a position. (See diagram on Page 150.) Only if there

are more than three candidates will additional companions be needed to assist. (Page 150)

29. If kneeling is not possible, simply leave out the lines to kneel and to rise. Don’t say

anything nonsensical, such as, “kneel while standing” or “symbolically kneel” and do not

say “Arise.” (It is silly to say “Arise” if everyone is already standing! Don’t be silly!) (Page

150)

30. Jeshua hands the Triangular Plate to Zerubbabel and after his line, returns it to Jeshua, who

then hands it to Haggai. After his line, all three make the exclamation in unison and then

Haggai returns the plate to Jeshua. (Page 151)

31. Editor’s Note: The ritual instructional notes only says for the three in the East to extend their arms when

they exclaim “Holiness to the Lord,” when the Ark is first presented to them earlier in the degree. It does

not say to extend their arms when they make this exclamation near the end of the degree, though it is

tradition to do so. Also, variations exist across the state on just how the arms are extended. The Ritual

Committee will propose that an instructional note be added to extend the arms for the second occurrence

of this exclamation and also determine if the arms should be extended in a certain manner.

32. If the candidates are unable to kneel for the crowning, Zerubbabel should not direct them

to do so and should leave out the line “You will rise.” (It is silly to say “You will rise” if

everyone is already standing! Don’t be silly!) (Page 152)

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