Extemporaneous, or the following:
Supreme Architect of the Universe, accept our hearty thanks for the many mercies and blessings which Thy bounty has conferred upon us, and especially for this social intercourse with our brethren. Pardon, we beseech Thee, whatever Thou has seen amiss in us, and continue to us Thy protection and blessing. Make us sensible of our obligations to serve Thee, and may all our actions tend to Thy glory and our advancement in knowledge and virtue. Grant that the world—the little circle in which we move—may be better and happier for our having lived in it, and may we practice that Charity which is the bond of peace and the perfection of every virtue. Amen!
Response: So mote it be!
This charge may be used at closing:
Brethren: We are now about to quit this sacred retreat of friendship and virtue to mix again with the world. Amidst its concerns and employments, forget not the duties which you have heard so frequently inculcated and so forcibly, recommended in this lodge. Be diligent, prudent, temperate, discreet. Remember that around this altar you have promised to befriend and relieve every brother who shall need your assistance. You have promised, in the most friendly manner, to remind him of his errors and to aid his reformation. These generous principles are to extend further: Every human being has a claim upon your kind offices. Do good unto all. Recommend it more especially to the "household of the faithful." Finally, brethren, be ye all of one mind; live in peace; and may the God of Love and Peace delight to dwell with and bless you. Amen!
Response: So mote it be!
Benediction.
May the blessing of heaven rest upon us and all regular Masons! May brotherly love prevail and every moral and social virtue cement us. Amen!
Response: So mote it be!