Constituting a Newly Chartered Lodge.
After the grant of a charter the new Lodge thus created should be constituted, and its officers installed, by the Grand Master or his Deputy or some past or present Master. The Lodge is opened on the Third Degree. The Marshal forms the officers of the new Lodge in front of the Installing Officer, whereupon the Deputy G. M. addresses the G. M. as follows:
Most Worshipful, a number of brethren, duly instructed in the mysteries of Masonry, having assembled together for some time past by virtue of a dispensation granted them for that purpose, do now desire to be regularly constituted as a lodge agreeably to the ancient usages and customs of the fraternity.
The charter is presented by the D. G. M. to the Grand Master, who examines it and, if correct, proclaims:
G. M.—The charter appears to be correct and is approved. Upon due deliberation the Grand Lodge has granted the brethren of this new Lodge a charter establishing and confirming them in the rights and privileges of a regularly constituted Lodge. We shall now proceed according to the ancient usage to constitute these brethren into a regular Lodge.
The officers of the new Lodge deliver up their jewels and badges to their Master, who presents them, with his own, to the D. G. M. and he to the G. M.
The D. G. M. then presents the Master-elect to the G. M., saying:
D. G. M.—Most Worshipful, I present to you Brother ——, whom the members of the Lodge now to be constituted have chosen for their Master.
The G. M. asks the brethren if they remain satisfied with their choice. (They bow in token of assent.)
The Master-elect then presents, severally, his Wardens and other officers, naming them and their respective offices. The G. M. asks the brethren if they remain satisfied with each and all of them. (They bow as before.)
The officers and members of the new Lodge form in front of the G. M. and the business of consecration commences.
The G. M. and grand officers form around the Lodge, all kneeling.
A piece of solemn music is performed while the Lodge is being uncovered, after which the first clause of the consecration prayer is rehearsed by the Grand Chaplain, as follows:
Great Architect of the Universe; Maker and Ruler of all worlds. Deign from Thy Celestial Temple, from the realms of light and glory, to bless us in all the purposes of our present assembly. We humbly invoke Thee to give us at this, and at all times, Wisdom in all our doings, Strength of mind in all our difficulties, and the Beauty of harmony in all our communications. Permit us, O Thou author of life and light, great source of love and happiness, solemnly to consecrate this Lodge to Thy honor and glory. Amen.
Response by the Officers of the Grand Lodge:
As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
The Grand Officers will then rise.