Song.
Tune—Old Hundred.
Genius of Masonry, descend,
And with thee bring thy spotless train,
Constant our sacred rites attend,
While we adore thy peaceful reign.
The first procession being made around the Lodge, the Grand Master having reached the East, the Grand Junior Warden presents the vessel of Corn to the G. Master, saying:
Most Worshipful: In the dedications of Masonic Halls, it has been of immemorial custom to pour corn upon the Lodge, as an emblem of nourishment. I, therefore, present you this vessel of corn, to be employed by you according to ancient usage.
The Grand Master then, striking thrice with his mallet pours the corn upon the Lodge, saying:
In the name of the great Jehovah, to whom be all honor and glory, I do solemnly dedicate this hall to Freemasonry.
The grand honors are given.
Bring with thee Virtue, brightest maid!
Bring Love, bring Truth, bring Friendship here;
While social Mirth shall lend her aid
To soothe the wrinkled brow of Care.
The second procession is then made around the Lodge, and the Grand Senior Warden presents the vessel of wine to the Grand Master, saying:
Most Worshipful: Wine, the emblem of refreshment, having been used by our ancient brethren in the dedication and consecration of their Lodges, I present you this vessel of wine, to be used on the present occasion according to ancient Masonic form.
The Grand Master then sprinkles the wine upon the Lodge, saying:
In the name of the holy Saints John, I do solemnly dedicate this hall to Virtue.
The grand honors are twice repeated.
Bring Charity! with goodness crowned,
Encircled in thy heavenly robe!
Diffuse thy blessings all around,
To every corner of the Globe!
The third procession is then made round the Lodge, and the Deputy Grand Master presents the vessel of oil to the Grand Master, saying:
Most Worshipful: I present you, to be used according to ancient custom, this vessel of oil, an emblem of that joy which should animate every bosom on the completion of every important undertaking.
The Grand Master then sprinkles the oil upon the Lodge, saying:
In the name of the whole Fraternity, I do solemnly dedicate this hall to Universal Benevolence.
The grand honors are thrice repeated.
To Heaven's high Architect all praise,
All praise, all gratitude be given,
Who deigned the human soul to raise,
By mystic secrets, sprung from Heaven.
The Grand Chaplain, standing before the Lodge, then makes the following