Independent Order of Herdsmen
Initiation Ritual
First: This Ritual is issued by the Supreme Lodge of the Independent Order of
Herdsmen for use in all Subordinate Lodges of this Order. This Ritual is the
property of the Supreme Lodge, Independent Order of Herdsmen, and is loaned to
the Subordinate Lodge only during the period in which the Subordinate Lodge
remains loyal to the Supreme Lodge. At any time the Local Lodge becomes defunct,
or has its Charter revoked for any cause, this Ritual must be returned to the
Supreme Secretary. The President of the Local Lodge is held responsible for the
safekeeping of this Ritual.
1926
Second: At the Installation of Officers, the retiring President shall place
upon the President's pedestal the five Rituals and the key to the secret work,
and the President to be installed shall give a receipt for same. Receipt: This
day of 19- I have received from -, retiring President, five Rituals and the key
to the secret work of the Independent Order of Herdsmen.
Signed: President.
Third: The secret work as contained in the Ritual should be practiced as
often as possible. The Captain shall have the right to select the officers to
compose Initiatory Team should be careful to select those best fitted for each
position. To make the work more impressive, it is suggested that each officer
commit their part to memory.
General Instructions
The President shall be the Custodian of, and responsible for, the Rituals and
other Private Work of the Lodge not provided for, and shall see that all Rituals
are in the hall each meeting night.
The Inside Doorkeeper shall close the door, and shall allow no one to enter
or leave the Lodge Hall during the Opening Ceremonies.
Members shall not be admitted until after the Flag Salute.
Members may be admitted during the Initiation, but shall do so quietly, and
shall be seated near the entrance until the ceremony in progress has been
completed, when they shall advance to the Altar, salute in regular form, after
which they will be seated.
Lodges may be permitted to obligate candidates and give the secret work only
and initiated their candidates later.
The Bible is not to be closed at anytime whether giving prizes or not. The
only time the Bible is to be closed while the meeting is in progress is when the
Lodge desires to hold a raffle. Then the President instructs the Jr. Past
President to close the Bible and the President declare a recess.
Opening of the Lodge
President shall give two raps when calling up the Officers; Crook Bearers
lead the line of march on the right and left side of the hall, followed by the
Officers as follows: Left—Deputy, President, Recording Secretary, Assistant
Recording Secretary, Warden, Associate Junior Past President steps in line
immediately in front of the Warden, Outside Doorkeeper, Associate
Vice-President. On the right—Captain, Associate President, Financial
Secretary, Treasurer, Conductor, Inside Doorkeeper, Vice-President.
Crook Bearers shall march right and left to corners, right and left down
sides of hall, column right and left to the Vice-President's station, down
center open order to the President's station, column right and left to corners,
column right and left to Junior Past President and Associate Junior Past
President's stations, right and left in to the Altar, form column of twos, march
forward to Vice-President's station, column left, then right to the Anteroom.
All Officers shall follow the Crook Bearers when taking their stations.
All Officers will remain in retiring position except Financial Secretary who
shall step in line with the Treasurer, the Assistant Recording Secretary who
shall step in line with the Recording Secretary. All Officers shall about face,
and proceed to re-enter the Lodge Hall led by the Crook Bearers.
NOTE: The Deputy shall take her position at the right of the Associate
Vice-President's station. The Captain shall march to the left of Crook Bearer
No. 2, up to the President's station, where she shall step out of line,
permitting all Officers to pass; she shall then take her position to the right
of the President's station. The Crook Bearers shall column left past the
President's station, column left down side of Hall, column left to
Vice-President's station, column left open order down center to the President's
station, halt, right and left face inwardly; Crook Bearers countermarch to the
Vice-President's station, turn right and left inwardly, march through center,
Officers following to their stations. After President and Associate President
have been seated, the Crook Bearers shall retrace their steps through the
center, Vice-President and Associate Vice-President following; they shall then
turn right and left outwardly, march as close as possible to the line of
Officers, taking their positions at the head of each line; they shall then
column left to corner, column left down side of Hall, column left past
Vice-President's station, column left to Associate Junior Past President's
station, column left open order to the Junior Past President's station, halt,
right and left face inwardly; Crook Bearers shall countermarch to the Associate
Junior Past President's station, turn inwardly, march through center; Junior
Past President shall step in front of Altar; Crook Bearers shall escort her to
her station, walking three abreast; Crook Bearers shall turn inwardly, march
through center, seating the Associate Junior Past President in the same manner;
they shall then turn right and left outwardly, marching as close to their lines
as possible, taking their positions at the head of their lines; they shall then
column left, column left open order to the Recording Secretary's station; halt,
right and left face inwardly; Crook Bearers countermarch to the rear, right and
left inwardly march through center, Officers following, right and left face,
forward march past President's station, column left down sides of Hall, column
left to the Vice-President's station, to the corner, column left open order to
the Financial Secretary's station, halt, right and left face inwardly; Crook
Bearers countermarch to the rear, right and left turn inwardly, march through
the center, Financial Secretary and Treasurer following, right and left face,
forward march, column left down sides of Hall, column left to Vice-President's
station, column left open order down center, halt about two feet in front of
Altar, right and left face inwardly; Crook Bearers countermarch to the rear,
right and left turn inwardly, march through the center, Warden and Conductor
following; Inside and Outside Doorkeepers will right and left face, and follow
the Warden and Conductor. After the Warden and Conductor have been seated, the
Captain shall step about two paces forward so as to be in position to march to
the left of Crook Bearer No. 2; Crook Bearers shall forward march, column left,
column left to Junior Past President's station, then left oblique open order to
the Anteroom, halt, right and left face inwardly, Doorkeepers retiring through
open ranks, Captain taking her station at the left of the Vice-President's
station. Crook Bearer No. 1 will pass the Vice-President's station, turn left
when opposite Crook Bearer No. 2; both will forward march to their respective
stations, Deputy and Captain following.
PRESIDENT gives * to seat fee Lodge: Sisters and Brothers, the
hour has arrived for us to commence the business for which we have here
assembled. We have met here tonight to once more refresh our memories in our
obligations to our Order, for the diffusion of the Principles of Friendship,
Love, and Charity. Any person present who is not entitled to a seat in this
Lodge room will please retire to the Anteroom.
The Warden and Conductor will receive the Password from all members present
and report to me any not in possession of the same.
NOTE: The Warden and Conductor shall communicate the Quarterly Password to
the President, then proceed to take up the Password from each member present. If
any member present is not in possession of the Password, the Warden and
Conductor shall report the same to the President who shall then ask the
Financial Secretary if the member is in good standing upon the books of the
Lodge. If in good standing the President shall instruct the Warden and Conductor
to communicate the Password to said member. If the member is in arrears with her
or his dues, they must place themselves in good standing upon the books of the
Lodge to be eligible to receive the Password, and to be entitled to a voice or
vote on all business presented.
After the Warden and Conductor have received the Password from all members
present, they shall meet at the Vice-President's station, march forward to the
Altar, and report as follows:
WARDEN: Worthy President, I have examined all members on your
left, and find them entitled to a seat in this Lodge.
CONDUCTOR: Worthy President, I have examined all members on your
right, and find them entitled to a seat in this Lodge.
PRESIDENT: You may be seated.
NOTE: As the President calls the Officers for their duties, they shall rise,
repeat their charges, and remain standing until the Opening Exercises have been
completed, after which the President shall give one (1) rap, seating the Lodge.
PRESIDENT: Associate President, what are your duties?
ASSOCIATE PRESIDENT: My duties are to assist the President in the
discharge of her duties, and in her absence to take her chair and perform her
duties. I am also to serve as a member of the Relief Committee, visiting those
reported sick as our laws may require.
PRESIDENT: Vice-President, what are your duties?
VICE-PRESIDENT: My duties are to assist the President and
Associate President in the discharge of their duties, and in the absence of both
of them, to take the President's chair and perform her duties. It shall also be
my duty to serve as a member of the Relief Committee, visiting those reported
sick as our laws may require.
PRESIDENT: Associate Vice-President, what are your duties?
ASSOCIATE VICE-PRESIDENT: My duties are to assist the
Vice-President in the discharge of her duties, and in her absence to take her
chair and perform her duties. It shall also be my duty to serve as a member of
the Relief Committee, visiting those reported sick as our laws may require.
PRESIDENT: Junior Past President, what are your duties?
JUNIOR PAST PRESIDENT: My duties are to assist with the Devotional
Exercises by reading a portion of the Scripture, to construe the laws of the
Order, and to assist the President in the performance of her duties.
PRESIDENT: Associate Junior Past President, what are your duties?
ASSOCIATE JUNIOR PAST PRESIDENT: My duties are to assist with the
Devotional Exercises and to invoke God's blessing upon this meeting.
PRESIDENT: Recording Secretary, what are your duties?
RECORDING SECRETARY: My duties are to keep a correct record of the
business transacted during the meeting, attend to the correspondence of the
Lodge, and perform any other duties that I may be instructed to do by the laws
of the Lodge.
PRESIDENT: Assistant Recording Secretary, what are your duties?
ASSISTANT RECORDING SECRETARY: My duties are to assist the
Recording Secretary in the discharge of her duties, and in her absence I am to
take her chair and perform her duties.
PRESIDENT: Financial Secretary, what are your duties?
FINANCIAL SECRETARY: My duties are to collect the dues from the
members, giving them a receipt for the same; turn all money received by me over
to the Treasurer at the close of the meeting, taking his receipt for the same;
always have my books ready for auditing; and perform any other duties that I may
be called upon to perform.
PRESIDENT: Treasurer, what are your duties?
TREASURER: My duties are to receive all money from the Financial
Secretary, giving a receipt for the same; pay all warrants when legally
authorized, signed by the President, and attested by the Recording Secretary;
and perform any other duty that I may be called upon to do.
PRESIDENT: Warden, what are your duties?
WARDEN: My duties are to assist in taking up the Quarterly
Password from each member present, and report to the President any not in
possession of the same. It shall also be my duty to assist in the balloting for
Candidates, to have charge of the keys to the Wardrobe, assist in collecting all
Rituals, Ode Cards, and other Paraphernalia at the close of the meeting, placing
same under lock and key; and to perform any other duty required of me.
PRESIDENT: Conductor, what are your duties?
CONDUCTOR: My duties are to assist the Warden in taking up the
Quarterly Password from each member present, assist in the balloting for
Candidates, assist in collecting all Rituals, Ode Cards, and other Paraphernalia
at the close of the meeting; I am to take her station in her absence, and
perform any other duty required of me.
PRESIDENT: Inside Doorkeeper, what are your duties?
INSIDE DOORKEEPER: My duties are to receive the Quarterly Password
from each member entering, and report any not in possession of the same to the
Vice-President.
PRESIDENT: Outside Doorkeeper, what are your duties?
OUTSIDE DOORKEEPER: My duties are to keep order in the Anteroom,
and to receive the Permanent Password from each member entering.
PRESIDENT: Pianist, what are your duties?
PIANIST: My duties are to preside at the Piano, and render such
music as may suit all occasions during the meeting.
PRESIDENT: Captain, what are your duties?
CAPTAIN: My duties are to seat the Officers at the opening of the
meeting, have charge of all Ritualistic Work, and perform any other duty that I
may be called upon to do.
PRESIDENT: It shall be my duty to preside at the Lodge meetings,
to promote peace and harmony, to guard carefully the Charter of the Lodge, to
keep all Rituals and Private Work of the Order under secure lock and key when
not in use in the Lodge. It shall also be my duty to act as Chairman of the
Relief Committee, to visit the sick, to pay sick benefits as the laws provide;
and to assume such other duties that I may be called upon to perform.
We will join in singing our Opening Ode.
Opening Ode
The Morning Light is Breaking
Come, Herdsmen, gather near;
The sons of earth are waking
With loving help and cheer.
Each breeze that sweeps the ocean
Is calling from above,
To join with us in Friendship,
In Charity, and Love.
Let each and ev'ry member
Extend a welcome hand,
To those whom we find worthy
To join our noble band.
Let Friendship be our motto,
And God our only King;
And for our noble Order
Let all our praises ring. Amen.
PRESIDENT: The Junior Past President and the Associate Junior Past
President will conduct the Devotional Exercises.
Music.
NOTE: The Junior Past President, stepping down from the right of her station,
the Associate Junior Past President, stepping down from the left of her station,
shall turn right and left, march up the side of Hall toward the Vice-President's
station, turn right and left to the center of Hall; when in front of
Vice-President's station, turn right and left and march to the Altar.
The Junior Past President shall read a portion of the Scripture, which she
shall then announce as follows: "I have read … chapter …, verses … to
… inclusive." The Associate Junior Past President shall then say:
"Let us pray." She shall then offer the following prayer.
ASSOCIATE JUNIOR PAST PRESIDENT: Lord, we humbly invoke Thy
blessing upon the Officers and members of this Lodge. Grant, we beseech Thee,
Thine aid in the work for which we have here assembled.
Strengthen our hearts and hands in the building up of this Order. Guide us
aright in our deliberations this evening. Fill our hearts with love and sympathy
for humanity. Watch over us, and at last lead us into eternal life. Amen.
The Junior Past President and the Associate Past President shall right and
left about face and march to the Vice-President's Station, turn right and left
to the south Of the Hall, turn right and left down sides of the Hall to their
respective stations. During this time the Pianist shall play "My Faith
Looks Up to Thee"
The Warden shall salute the American Flag which is placed in a stand at her
right with the Military, then remove the American Flag from the stand. The
Conductor shall remove the Christian Flag from the stand and both carrying these
Flags with the staff at their right sides shall turn and right and left to sides
of Hall down to the Vide-President’s station, down center and halt about three
feet from the Alter, and present Flags straight forward so the Flags do not
touch the Alter for the Flag Salutes.
PRESIDENT: The Captain will lead in giving the Salute to the
American Flag and then the Christian Flag.
NOTE: The Captain shall occupy a position to the right of the President's
station, from which she shall give the Salute to the Flag.
After the Flag Salute, the Conductor shall place the Flag in a stand, which
is placed to the right of the Altar; she shall then take three steps backward,
make one-half left turn, march to the Vice-President's station, turn right to
side of Hall, turn fight down side of Hall, then right to her station. President
shall then give one (1) rap, seating the Lodge.
PRESIDENT: I now declare … Lodge No. … open for the diffusion
of the Principles of Friendship, Love and Charity.
Initiatory Work
PRESIDENT: Warden, retire to the Anteroom and ascertain if there
are any persons present who desire to learn the mysteries of our Order.
Music—March.
NOTE: The Warden shall retire and ascertain the number of Candidates, and the
names of those in waiting. She shall then return to the Lodge Hall, approach the
Altar, salute the President, and report. When marching to and from her station
to the Altar, the Warden shall march directly on a line with her station.
WARDEN: Worthy President, I find Candidates … in waiting to be
initiated. Here give the names of the Candidates.
NOTE: The Warden shall remain standing at the Altar after giving her report.
The President shall say:
PRESIDENT: Associate President, retire with the Warden to the
Anteroom, and collect the required fees.
Music—March.
NOTE: The Associate President shall march directly from her station to the
Altar, where she shall join the Warden; both salute the President, turn
inwardly, march to the Vice-President's station, column right, then left to the
Anteroom, where the Associate President shall collect the fees, if any.
The Associate President and the Warden shall re-enter the Lodge Hall,
approach the Altar and salute the President, when the Associate President shall
report as follows:
ASSOCIATE PRESIDENT: Worthy President, I have collected the
required fees.
PRESIDENT: You may be seated.
Music—March.
NOTE: The Associate President and the Warden shall march straight forward to
their stations and be seated. The President shall then say:
PRESIDENT: Captain, prepare the Team and Officers for initiation.
Music—March.
NOTE: The Captain shall retire the Team and Officers as follows: Crook
Bearers shall column right and left, Officers stepping in line in the following
formation. When they reach the Vice-President's station they shall march down
center open order to the President's station, Captain shall give the signal to
salute the President, column right and left to corners, Captain marching to the
left of Crook Bearer No. 2, column right and left to side stations, right and
left in to the Altar, forward to the Vice-President's station, Crook Bearers and
Captain marching three abreast, column left and right to the Anteroom.
The Team and Officers shall retire in the following order:
Left—Crook Bearer No. 1, President, Warden, Friendship (Banner), Associate
Junior Past President, Advisor, Samaritan, Guard, Guard, Outside Doorkeeper,
Love, Prelate, Associate Vice-President.
Right—Crook Bearer No. 2, Associate President, Conductor, Charity (Banner),
Junior Past President, Charity at Cabin, Traveler, Guard, Guard, Inside
Doorkeeper, Orphan, Widow, Vice-President
NOTE: The Crook Bearers shall march right and left to the corners, Officers
following, column right and left down sides to the Vice-President's station,
column right and left open order down the center to the President's station,
halt, salute the President, column right and left to corners, right and left to
side stations, right and left in to the Altar, twos forward to the
Vice-President's station, column left, then right, to the Anteroom.
In the Anteroom the Officers shall clothe themselves with the proper
Paraphernalia, about face, and prepare to re-enter the Lodge Hall in the
following manner:
The Junior Past President shall step in front of the Warden, and Friendship
(Banner) shall step in back of Charity (Banner), thus bringing the Junior Past
President and Charity opposite each other, and the Associate Junior Past
President and Friendship opposite each other.
The form for re-entering is as follows:
Left: Crook Bearer No. 2, Vice-President, Widow, Orphan, Inside Doorkeeper,
Guard,
Guard, Traveler, Charity at Cabin, Friendship, Charity, Conductor, Associate
President.
Right: Crook Bearer No. 1, Associate Vice-President, Prelate, Love, Outside
Doorkeeper, Guard, Guard, Samaritan, Advisor, Associate Junior Past President,
Junior Past President, Warden, President.
NOTE: The Captain shall march to the left of Crook Bearer No. 2; Crook Bearer
No. 1 shall march on the right, thus marching three abreast. When the Captain
reaches her position to the right of the President's station, she shall step ,
out of line, and when all Officers have passed she shall about face, and direct
the floor work from this position. The Crook Bearers shall lead the Team and
Officers around the Hall to the Vice-President's station, down the center open
order to the President's station, halt, right and left face inwardly; Crook
Bearers countermarch to the rear of line, turn right and left inwardly, march
through center, President, Associate President, Warden and Conductor following,
taking their respective stations. Crook Bearers shall then retrace their steps
through the center to Vice-President's station, Vice-President, Associate
Vice-President, Prelate, Widow, Love, and the Orphan following.
Crook Bearers shall then right and left face outwardly, marching close to
their line, and resume their places at the head of the lines. They shall column
left down sides of Hall past the Vice-President's station, column left down to
the Associate Junior Past President's station, column left open order to the
Junior Past President's station, right and left face inwardly. Crook Bearers
shall countermarch to the rear, turn right and left inwardly, march through the
center, Junior Past President and Charity (Banner) following. Crook Bearers
shall retrace their steps through the center to the Associate Junior Past
President's station, the Associate Junior Past President and Friendship (Banner)
following. The Crook Bearers shall then turn right and left outwardly and march
to their positions at the head of the lines; all shall right and left face,
column left to the corner, column left past the Vice-President's station, column
left oblique open order to the Cabin, halt, right and left face inwardly. Crook
Bearers shall right and left face outwardly, countermarch to the rear, right and
left turn inwardly, march through center, Advisor and Charity (at Cabin)
following, right and left face, column left to corner, column left to Junior
Past President's station, left oblique open order to the Anteroom. Crook Bearers
shall right and left face and the Inside Doorkeeper, Outside Doorkeeper, Guards,
Samaritan, and Traveler shall march through to the Anteroom.
Crook Bearers shall march down the center of Hall to their stations and be
seated.
After all Officers have been seated the President shall say:
PRESIDENT: Warden and Conductor, retire to the Anteroom and
prepare the Candidates for initiation.
Music—March.
NOTE: The Warden and Conductor shall march directly from their stations to
the Altar, salute the President, about face inwardly, march to the
Vice-President's station, column right, then left to the Anteroom. The Warden
shall give the following pledge to the Candidates:
Pledge
WARDEN: My friends, you are about to assume an Obligation and
become one of us, but before you can be admitted, there are a few questions that
you are required to answer. Are you willing?
Answer: I am.
Do you believe in a Supreme Being as a ruler of the universe?
Answer: I do.
Will you at all times defend the flag of our Country, support and uphold our
Public Schools?
Answer: I will.
Then we welcome you among us. But if you are becoming one of us through idle
curiosity, we do not desire your membership. If you wish to become a member of
our Order for the good you can do toward advancing our objects and principles,
then we welcome you.
To do this is a noble work, one that requires your best thoughts and greatest
efforts. Our principles are broad and mighty, our Charity is secret. Do you
fully understand the duties these questions and answers impose upon you? If so,
answer "I do."
NOTE: After the Warden has prepared the Candidates, she shall give one rap on
the inner door, which shall be answered with two raps by the Inside Doorkeeper,
who, with crook in hand, shall march to the Altar, salute the President, and
report as follows:
INSIDE DOORKEEPER: Worthy President, there is an alarm at the
door.
PRESIDENT: You will ascertain its meaning.
Music—March.
NOTE: The Inside Doorkeeper returns to the door, opens the wicket,
and says:
INSIDE DOORKEEPER: Who comes there?
WARDEN: Friends in search of instruction in the mysteries of our
Order. They have been duly elected, thoroughly examined, and prepared.
Music—March.
NOTE: The Inside Doorkeeper marches to the Altar, salutes the President, and
reports as follows:
INSIDE DOORKEEPER: Worthy President, the alarm was caused by
friends who seek admission to our Order.
PRESIDENT: In the spirit of Friendship, Love, and Charity admit
them that we may impart to them the secrets of our Order.
Music—March.
NOTE: The Inside Doorkeeper returns to her station, opens the door, the
Warden and Conductor enter with the Candidates.
The Warden shall lead, the Conductor shall march in the rear of the line of
Candidates. The Warden shall lead the Candidates around the Hall to the Junior
Past President's station, column left back of the Altar to the Associate Junior
Past President's station, halt, left face the President, who shall step to the
right of her station, join the Crook Bearers, march to the Altar three abreast;
Crook Bearers shall step back two steps, and remain standing while the President
administers the following Obligation:
PRESIDENT: My friends, will you help a worthy member of this Order
when in need ?
Answer: I will.
Will you keep your Charity a secret from this selfish world ?
Answer: I will.
Will you forego some of your business and social pleasures to sit at the
bedside of the sick or dying?
Answer: I will.
My friends, pause and think well before you take upon yourselves a solemn
obligation that will forever bind you, as it has bound us, to duties like these.
You will place your left hand over your heart and your right hand upon the Holy
Bible and repeat after me.
I—of my own free will and accord—in the presence of Almighty God and
these members—do solemnly promise that I will never reveal anything that is
entrusted to me—in any way—to any one. I further promise that I will never
repeat anything that I may hear about a member of this Order—but will always
protect them from the slander of their enemies. I also promise that I will not
wrong a member of this Order—and will defend the good name and reputation of
any member—always giving them the preference.
Should I see any of them in difficulty I will render every assistance in my
power to aid them. I will try to settle all disputes that might arise between
members of this Order in a fraternal manner—and with a spirit of love. I will
never recommend for membership any person whom I believe to be of unsound health
or immoral character. I will be obedient to all laws—rules, and regulations
that now exist—or that may hereafter be adopted by the Independent Order of
Herdsmen.
I will recognize the authority of the Supreme Board of Officers—and will
obey all orders emanating therefrom.
I will use every reasonable effort to promote the interest of this Order at
all times. Should I be suspended—expelled—or voluntarily leave this Order—I
will consider these promises and obligations binding upon me until death.
I solemnly promise—before God and man—that I will always keep and never
break this Obligation.
The Warden will extend to you the right hand of fellowship;
NOTE: The Warden shall clasp the hand of each Candidate, and repeat as
follows:
WARDEN: Sisters and Brothers, in behalf of … Lodge, No. …,
Independent Order of
Herdsmen, and in token of the Spirit of Friendship, Love, and Charity, I
extend to you the right hand of fellowship. Be ever faithful in your duties—always
bearing in mind the precepts of your Obligation.
Music—March.
NOTE: The Crook Bearers shall step forward on a line with the President, all
shall right about face, and march three abreast to their stations, when the
President shall give one (1) rap to seat the Lodge, after which she shall say:
PRESIDENT: Warden and Conductor, conduct the Candidates to the
Anteroom to await our further commands.
Music—March.
NOTE: The Warden, Conductor, and Candidates shall right face, march past the
Associate Junior Past President's station, column right, past the
Vice-President's station, then column left to the Anteroom.
The Prelate shall take his station in front of the Chapel, open Bible in
hand.
The Altar shall be removed from the center of the room, when the Captain
shall report as follows:
CAPTAIN: Worthy President, we are ready to proceed with the
initiation.
PRESIDENT: Inside Doorkeeper, admit the Warden and Conductor with
the Candidates, that they may learn the lessons of Friendship, Love, and
Charity.
Music.
Onward,Christian soldiers!
Marching as to war.
With the cross of Jesus
Going on before.
Christ, the royal Master,
Leads against the foe;
Forward into battle
See His banners go!
Onward.Christiau soldiers!
Marching as to war,
With the cross of Jesus
Going on before.
NOTE: The Warden shall conduct the Candidates to the station of the Associate
Junior Past President, halt, and face the Chapel. Members selected for this
purpose shall sing from the Chapel, "God Will Take Care of You."
Music.
Be not dismayed what-e'er betide,
God will take care of yon;
Beneath His wings of love abide,
God will take care of yon.
God will take care of you,
Thro' ev'ry day,
O'er all the way;
He will take care of you,
God will take care of yon.
The Widow and Orphan, clinging closely together, shall walk past
Vice-President's station, down side of Hall very slowly, past the Candidates,
when someone selected for this purpose shall repeat as follows: (The Widow and
Orphan may dress in white if desired.)
My Friends, the Grim Reaper entered our Lodge and removed from our midst a
Brother, who devoted his life to the promotion of the principles of our Order.
In our care is left his Widow and Orphan. The principles of Friendship, Love,
and Charity teach us to be ever ready and willing to give aid to all, when such
circumstances arise. As members of the Independent Order of Herdsmen, we have
obligated ourselves to duties like these.
NOTE: At this time the Widow and Orphan will have reached the Chapel, the
Prelate shall step forward toward the Widow and Orphan, and shall repeat as
follows:
PRELATE: My Friends, "let not your heart be troubled; ye
believe in God, believe also in Me." Your future seems as dark and gloomy,
as your hearts are sad and heavy; but in this sad hour there comes the golden
promise of our Order, the assurance of kindly sympathy and assistance, to
perform such works of mercy as will cheer the heart and enable the sorrowing to
face the future with hope and courage. Friendship, Love, and Charity are the
foundation stones of our Order. Friendship for our fellow man. Love for our
Creator. Charity, which is prompted by the heart, to do deeds of kindness.
PRELATE: When your heart is sad and lonely,
And your friends seem far away,
Turn to Him who is all holy
And He'll drive all your cares away.
When a dear ones seems to fail you
And for Friendship true you long,
Confide in Him, who is all true,
And He'll right your every wrong.
Jesus' heart is your true refuge,
To Him you can always flee;
Even when your hopes are sinking,
He will then a true Friend be.
He will soothe your lonely spirit,
He will love and bless and say,
"Come to me, and I will comfort you,
Today and every day."
May we always remember the blessed promise of our Heavenly Father:
"I will not leave thee, nor forsake thee,
I will thy greatest comforter be,
If thou wouldst but lean upon Me."
Music.
Be not dismayed what-e'er betide,
God will take care of yon;
Beneath His wings of love abide,
God will take care of yon.
God will take care of you,
Thro' ev'ry day,
O'er all the way;
He will take care of you,
God will take care of yon.
NOTE: The Prelate shall walk slowly toward the Anteroom door, with the Widow
marching on his left, and the Orphan on his right; both shall take hold of the
Prelate's arm. During this time, the ladies selected shall sing from the Chapel,
"God Will Take Care of You."
When the Prelate reaches the Vice-President's station the Widow and Orphan
shall march forward to the Anteroom, after which the Prelate shall resume his
station in front, and to the right of, the Associate Vice-President.
NOTE: At a signal from the Captain, the Warden shall turn right, march
forward to the President's station. Love shall march forward to the center of
Hall, Friendship and Charity shall march directly across the Hall to the center,
join Love, and face front. When in this position, the President shall say:
PRESIDENT: You will learn something of the meaning of the words
Friendship, Love, and Charity.
They represent the three Cardinal Principles of our Order that bind us so
closely together. You will now about face.
NOTE: Love shall stand in the center, Friendship to her right, Charity to her
left, facing the President. Friendship shall be the first to give her charge,
then Love, then Charity.
After they have completed their charges, Love shall lay her hand upon the
clasped hands of Friendship and Charity, during the singing of the Banner Song.
At a signal from the Captain, Love shall about face, Friendship and Charity
shall right and left face; at the second signal from the Captain, they shall
march to their stations and be seated.
NOTE: The three ladies may sing the Banner Song, or, if desired, a soloist
may be selected.
FRIENDSHIP: My Friends, permit me to call your attention to this
Banner with Friendship inscribed. Friendship is one of the greatest virtues, and
is one of the foundation stones of this Order. Friendship softens the sorrows
and thrills the hearts of humanity—like a tidal wave it sweeps through the
avenues of life. Wherever men and women meet and mingle together, Friendship
must sway their every action, and bind them together in an inseparable bond.
As in Æsop's fabled bundle of sticks, their strength is in their union.
Friendship is the inseparable bond that binds us heart to heart. Suffer not this
sacred bond to be broken, else we shall become separated and our strength shall
become weakened, and all the efforts of our noble Order shall come to naught.
Be strong and courageous, my Friend, and you will help to strengthen and
extend this spirit of Friendship, until the earth be filled with its blessings,
and until every human soul shall feel the uplift of its inspiring influence.
LOVE: Love is the emblem of eternity—it is the Christ spirit spreading the
sublime doctrine of the Fatherhood of God and the Brotherhood of man. It is the
silver link—the silken tie, which binds our hearts together in one sacred
bond. Nearly two thousand years ago, Love, a flower divine, closed its petals on
the Cross of Calvary, and today bears its ripened fruit in that great spirit of
Love, which is the foundation stone of our Order, and, above this avalanche of
Love which has come to bless our times, we can look beyond the centuries to the
Cross borne by the lowly Nazarene on the far-off hills of Judea.
CHARITY: Charity teaches us to do deeds of mercy and kindness. Charity
renders good for evil, joy for sorrow. Charity is a flame, burning with
ever-increasing warmth and beauty within the heart. The Principles of our Order
teach us to fan the flame of Charity until the whole world has caught the
spirit, and emulates our example until it knows no limit—until it has
encircled the world with deeds of kindness, as the engirdling belt in the Milky
Way, blazing in the midnight sky.
Music
Here united in one union,
We at Friendship's Altar stand;
Pledged to serve and help each other
For our noble cause so grand.
Charity a noble virtue,
Close our hearts will be entwined.
For Fraternity unbending
Love will prove a blessing kind,
NOTE: After the three ladies have completed their charges and returned to
their stations, the President shall say:
PRESIDENT: Warden and Conductor, conduct our Candidates to the
station of our Associate Junior Past President.
Music—March.
NOTE: The Warden shall lead the Candidates to the Junior Past President's
station, column left to the Associate Junior Past President's station, column
right, and station the Candidates at the Associate Junior Past President's
station, where they shall be instructed in the lesson of Friendship, as follows:
ASSOCIATE JUNIOR PAST PRESIDENT: My Friends, in assuming our
Obligation you have entered into this fellowship.
The observance of our Principles will offer you many opportunities of doing
good. Meeting together with your Brothers and Sisters will serve to remind you
of your obligation to others, and will place you in a position to do good when
the occasion arises. We are here to teach you to be friendly to all. While our
Principles are all worthy of a high place in the esteem of our members, yet
Friendship is the greatest of them all. Friendship teaches us to be friendly, to
visit the suffering, care for the widow, comfort and educate the orphan.
Friendship is mighty in its stainless loyalty, and triumphs over all the vassal
years. It graces youth, honors manhood, and comforts age. When the night of
adversity is longest, when the storm is hardest, and the clouds darkest,
Friendship shines brightest to bring help to those who need it. Friendship and
Love stand erect as tireless truths, with hands outstretched to help crusaders
for the blazing boon of brotherhood. Friendship and Charity are the divine
principles which teach us to believe in the Fatherhood of God and the
Brotherhood of man. Both must forever live to comfort and bless mankind, or both
perish. Friendship, Love, or Charity never brought sorrow to a human heart, but
keep alive the memories of attachments in youth, even in the winter of old age.
You will do well, therefore, to be mindful of your Obligation, to ever
cherish and defend, at the cost of life itself, the Principles of Friendship,
Love, and Charity. May the lessons which they teach be indelibly impressed upon
your mind.
Warden and Conductor, conduct the Candidates to the station of our
Vice-President.
Music—March.
NOTE: The Warden shall turn right, and lead the Candidates to the
Vice-President's station; all shall left face the Vice-President, who shall
instruct them in the lesson of Love, as follows:
VICE-PRESIDENT: Love is the second great Principle of our Order.
It is a bond of union, for the mutual benefit of all within its circle. It is as
lasting as eternity. How comforting it is to members of our Order to know that
when all life's duties are o'er and they sink into that last calm repose, that
the loved ones they have left behind will be cared for. Love never casts a
shadow o'er a home, never wounds a human heart, never wrongs a human being. It
is never deaf to the cry of the needy, never blind to the wants of the
deserving. Its broad and noble heart deals gently with the erring in an endeavor
to reclaim them. It lifts up the fallen, aids those in distress, and upbuilds
the human race through sympathy.
Friendship, Love, and Charity are the greatest possessions of the soul. They
are the basis of all that is true, beautiful, and good. They sing all the songs,
and win all the smiles in life.
When you first entered this Hall we wanted you to realize that you had
reached a place where the common jars and discords of the outside world are
unknown; where men and women meet, in order to help each other in the great
battles incident to everyday life. As you learn the true meaning of the
Principles of our Order, you can stand upon its platform with a clear vision and
see the true destiny of man. There is much in life to live for, and you will see
many opportunities to do good. The constant meeting with others serves to remind
us of our Obligation to each other, and places us in a position to do good
wherever we see an opportunity. Now, my Friends, let this lesson linger in your
mind; ever cherish these Principles of fraternal love, and your name, and the
record of your kindness, will be inscribed among those of God's noble men and
women. Continue on your journey and, in the coming crisis of your life, may your
good purposes find contentment in Love's magic power.
Warden and Conductor, conduct our Candidates to the station of our Junior
Past President.
Music—March.
NOTE: The Warden, Candidates, and Conductor shall right face, and march to
the station of the Junior Past President, who shall instruct them in the lesson
of Charity, as follows:
JUNIOR PAST PRESIDENT: My Friends, man that is born of woman is
full of trouble, and, unaided, gropes his way through life, from the cradle to
the grave in darkness; but we, as Brothers and Sisters, are banded together to
help lighten each others burdens in sickness and distress. We are here today,
full of life, vigor, and ambition—tomorrow we are summoned to appear before
our Creator, and we are gone forever. But if our lives have been noble and
worthy, our Brothers and Sisters who remain will keep green the memory of our
good deeds. The scene which you have just witnessed has exemplified the comfort,
kindly sympathy and assistance which our Order renders in times of trouble and
distress.
Charity is the third great Principle upon which we stand. We teach that the
highest Charity is not in the gift of the thing, but it is the spirit that makes
charity the greatest of all virtues, bringing gladness into the cottage of the
poor, sending sunshine into some dreary soul, speaking kind words that, make
music to some heart, soothing the pillow of the suffering, binding up the wounds
made by mistakes in life, helping some fallen soul gain respectability, when the
world hurls its hissing maledictions, leading a mind from helplessness to
victory, from error to truth.
Charity is the feeling heart and helping hand that administers to the sick,
soothes the suffering, buries the dead, dries the widow's tears, and educates
the orphan. Brothers and Sisters banded together with strong hearts and willing
hands can accomplish much for their own happiness, and for the good of humanity.
The laying of a rose upon a pulseless breast, or the planting of a flower beside
a lonely grave, these are the deeds that Charity bids us do. Always remember
that Charity is one of the cornerstones of our Order that we all love so well.
Go into the byways and highways and invite the worthy to join us in our great
and good work.
Warden and Conductor, retire with the Candidates to the Anteroom to await our
further commands.
Music—March.
NOTE: The Warden, Conductor, and Candidates shall right face, march column
right around the Hall, past the Vice-President's station, then column left to
the Anteroom.
NOTE: The Captain shall arrange the Hall as follows: The Cabin shall be
placed to the right of the President's station, the Advisor shall take his place
inside the Cabin; Charity shall be seated near by, so as to be prepared to step
inside the Cabin and receive the Traveler. When all is in readiness, the Captain
shall report:
CAPTAIN: Worthy President, we are ready to proceed.
PRESIDENT: Inside Doorkeeper, we are prepared for the return of
the Warden and Conductor with the Candidates.
NOTE: The Inside Doorkeeper shall admit the Warden and Conductor with the
Candidates. The Warden shall column right, and lead the Candidates around the
Hall to the Cabin, while the Lodge will sing first and third verses of
"Blest Be the Tie That Binds."
Blest be the tie that binds
Our hearts in Christian love;
The fellowship of kindred minds
Is like to that above.
We share our mutual woes,
Our mutual burdens bear;
And often for each other flows
The sympathizing tear.
NOTE: When the Warden reaches the Cabin she shall give two raps on the door,
the Advisor from within the Cabin shall say in an aged voice:
ADVISOR: Who comes here to disturb one who is at peace with the
world?
WARDEN: Worthy Advisor, it is the Warden with a Candidate (or
Candidates) who desires (or desire) to listen to the words of wisdom, that they
may profit by your years of experience.
NOTE: The Advisor shall step outside the Cabin door, lean heavily upon his
staff, during which time a spotlight shall be thrown on the scene. He will then
repeat the following charge:
ADVISOR: Tis well that my advice be such that ye may better
understand the lessons we teach. My Friend, in seeking to become a member of
this Order, you are seeking a noble and worthy calling of the purest beings that
earth can produce; for here, alone, is exhibited pure and unalloyed love.
Whoso cannot find happiness among these friends, and around his own fireside,
cannot find it elsewhere. Kings and mighty Generals have sought it elsewhere,
with a lavish expenditure of blood and treasure, only to be disappointed. Even
Solomon, the wisest of men, lavished uncounted gold, and squandered precious
hours to find it elsewhere, and pronounced his mightiest efforts vain.
If you would be happy, seek happiness in your own home, and around your own
fireside. Spend your hours in trying to help others, those you love, and those
who love you for what you are. Other friends may charm you while the sun is
bright, and all is blithe and gay, but it is to your true friends and to home
that you turn when sickness, poverty, and shame have turned the world against
you. However, if you will be true to your Obligation, you will ever find true
friends who will stand by you, through sickness and disappointments of this
life, and will ever be ready to administer to your wants. Now, my Friends, think
seriously of the admonition that I have given you tonight, for truth, honesty,
and brotherly love must and will be rewarded. I have never seen the righteous
forsaken, nor his seed begging bread.
You will about face.
NOTE: During the time the Advisor is giving his charge, a Campfire scene is
being arranged to the right of the Vice-President's station, toward the center,
around which is seated four men clothed in black robes, dividing their spoil,
which shall be imitation paper money.
The Warden shall column left around the Hall, pass the scene slowly, giving
the Candidates a chance to see what is being done by these men. She shall then
march to the President's station, halt, and all shall left face the center of
room. The Traveler shall enter from the left of the Vice-President's station,
walk around the Campfire scene twice, slowly, and observe the division of money.
When the Traveler leaves the scene one of the men in the group, selected for
this purpose, shall strike him with a blow which sends him to the floor, after
which the Traveler shall say at short intervals:
TRAVELER: Help! Help! I’ve been robbed and wounded. Will no one
help me?
NOTE: The Prelate shall enter from the right of the Vice-President's station,
walk slowly around the Hall to the right, toward the Traveler with open Bible in
hand, as if reading; looks at the Traveler, walks slowly away, hears Traveler's
cries for help, returns to the scene, looks upon the wounded man again, and
retires to the Anteroom without-giving aid.
During this time the Traveler shall say:
TRAVELER: Here comes a man of God—he will help. me. Oh, man of
God, I have been wounded and robbed. After a brief
pause, continues: No, he will not help me, he passes me by on the
other side. Must I perish here alone?
NOTE: The Samaritan enters from the left of the Vice-President's station,
walks slowly toward the prostrate form of the Traveler, while he is repeating
his cries for help. When reaching the Traveler, he stops, looks, upon him, then
leaning over him, says:
SAMARITAN: Poor fellow, he has been wounded, and is almost dead.
NOTE: The Samaritan rises, and proceeds toward the President's station, when
again the cry for help is heard. The Samaritan stands as in deep thought, then
hastily returns to the Traveler, raises him to a sitting position, gives him a
drink from his canteen, and in a loud voice says:
SAMARITAN: Though this man may be an enemy of mine, and of my
people, yet is he not my brother?
Members shall repeat in unison: My Brother.
NOTE: The Samaritan removes the cape from around his own shoulder, places it
around the Traveler, raises him to his feet, picks up the crook which the
Traveler was carrying, and assists him to an Inn for aid.
When about six .feet from the Inn, the Samaritan knock on the floor with the
Crook, thereby attracting the attention of Charity; who is stationed inside of
the Inn.
The Warden and Conductor with the Candidates shall follow the Samaritan to
the Inn. Charity hears the Samaritan's knock, open/the door, and steps outside;
she Samaritan shall then say:
SAMARITAN: Charity, this man I found wounded, and almost dead—do
for him as you would for one of your own, and when I return I will reward you
well.
CHARITY: Stranger, I will do all in my power to nurse him back to
health. Our reward we get from Him above. Always remember, "Do unto others
as you would have others do unto you." Bring him in, that I may administer
to his needs.
NOTE: Charity re-enters the Inn, followed by the Samaritan and Traveler,
closes the door. The Warden and Conductor with the Candidates remain in same
position, while a member selected to give the Lecture shall occupy a position
near the Inn, to the right of the President's station, when giving the following
charge:
During the Lecture the Captain shall arrange the scene of the "Rock of
Ages," which shall be placed to the right of the Vice-President's station.
A Sister, wearing a long white robe, shall kneel, and arrange herself as if
hanging on the Cross. Three Sisters shall group around the Cross, one to the
rear, in a kneeling position, hands folded, head bowed as if in prayer; one
standing to the left, with head bowed, hand over right eye, as if weeping; and
the other shall hold arms outstretched toward the Cross. These Sisters may wear
long white robes, if they so desire.
During the time this scene is being arranged, the following lecture shall be
given, while the Candidates are standing at the Cabin.
LECTURER: My Friends, the scene which you have just witnessed was
not introduced in a spirit of levity, or to trifle with your feelings, but it is
a way we have chosen to show you in a realistic manner the spirit of Love and
the weakness of man to stand alone. To show you that man, through all his life,
needs friends upon whom he can rely in time of trouble—staunch, true friends
who will do and dare for friendship's sake. This man was passed and unaided by a
Prelate—a man of God whom we would expect to give aid and sympathy and who
surely should be filled with a spirit of Love—but he passed him by on the
other side, and left him his fate alone. Soon there chanced to come a hated
Samaritan, an enemy of the wounded man and his race of people; yet he had
compassion on him. He gave him to drink, sheltered him with his own cape,
assisted him to an inn for shelter, and offered to pay for his care. Charity
refused to accept a reward, and willingly nursed him to health. Which of these
two me was his brother—the one who passed him by on the other side, or the one
who helped him to a place of safety? This act illustrates the necessity of
prompt action in assisting a Brother or Sister who may be in dire distress; to
relieve the sick or needy; or to defend those whom the enemies of purity may
endeavor to drag down to their own level. The one who tries to rob you of your
manhood or purity is an enemy of the worst type, and should be avoided as you
would a pestilence; but the one who is willing to risk his own life to save you
and direct you to the road that leads to happiness, honor, and prosperity is a
true friend, one upon whom you can depend. Cling to the friend and avoid the
enemy. This lesson we impact to you that you may escape the pitfalls of life,
and rejoice in the companionship of a Brother or Sister who is steadfast and
true. To our members whose hearts are troubled, this Order stands for security
and hope. Let the lessons which have convened mind that you will never neglect
an opportunity to lend a helping hand to a Sister or Brother who may need your
help.
You will about face and witness another beautiful and impressive scene.
NOTE: The Warden, Conductor, and Candidates shall about face, and witness the
scene "Rock of Ages," which shall be presented in the form of a
Tableau, on which a spotlight shall be thrown to improve the effect. During this
scene the Soloist shall sing "Rock of Ages."
Rock of Ages, cleft for me,
Let me hide myself in Thee;
Let the water and the blood
From Thy wounded side which flowed,
Be of sin, the double cure,
Save from wrath and make me pure.
At the conclusion of the singing, the Lecturer shall instruct the Warden to
conduct the Candidates to the Anteroom, to await our further commands.
Music—March.
NOTE: The Warden and Conductor shall conduct the Candidates to the Anteroom,
where the Candidate who is to take the work shall be prepared with a hoodwink,
and a chain placed about her neck. The Captain shall arrange the Hall as
follows: The Altar shall be placed in center of Hall. The King shall be seated
near the President's station, and after the Warden has conducted the Candidate
to the President's station, and she has given her charge, the pedestal shall be
moved and the King shall be seated in her station. Four Guards, each carrying
Spears, shall take their places near the King, two on each side. Friendship with
Assistant shall sit at the right and left of the Associate Junior Past
President. Love with Assistant shall sit near the Vice-President's station.
Charity, with Brother Assistant, shall sit at the right and left of the
Junior Past President's station. The Hall shall be in semi-darkness. When the
Hall is in readiness, the Captain shall report:
CAPTAIN: Worthy President, we are ready to proceed.
PRESIDENT: Inside Doorkeeper, admit the Warden and Conductor with
the Candidates, that they may learn the lesson of Charity.
NOTE: At this time the Inside Doorkeeper shall admit the Conductor with the
Candidates, except those who are to take the work, who shall remain in the
Anteroom with the Warden. After the Conductor has seated the Candidates, she
shall retire to the Anteroom where she shall join the Warden and Candidate. The
Warden, Conductor, and Candidate shall be admitted, walking three abreast to the
President's station, when the Conductor shall take her station and be seated.
During this time the members shall sing one verse of "Ninety and
Nine."
There were ninety and nine that safely lay
In the shelter of the fold.
But one was out on the hills away.
Far off from the gates of gold
Away on the mountains wild and bare,
Away from the tender Herdsmen's care,
Away from the tender Herdsmen's care.
NOTE: At the conclusion of the singing, the Warden shall say:
WARDEN: Worthy President, I have in my care a Friend whom I found
at the door. I will place him (or her) in your charge.
PRESIDENT: My Friend, you are now in a secret chamber, where the
world is shut out. None but those who prove themselves to be true and worthy can
be admitted to the presence of our King. You are now in darkness, and bound by
chains, and you will remain so until you have proven yourself to be what you
appear. Warden, lead on our Friend, until he proves himself to be worthy of the
Charity which we teach.
NOTE: The Warden shall escort the Candidate to the right around the Hall,
while repeating the following charge:
WARDEN: My Friend, rely on me, I am your Friend; I will endeavor
to guide you safely into the presence of our King. But before we reach our goal
you have to undergo many hardships. You are now about to enter the narrow
defiles of a large city where the Principles of Charity are unknown. Should you
fall by the wayside, fear not; I will remain with you to the end. Have courage,
and let nothing deter you on your journey. Press boldly forward, and you will
surely receive your reward.
NOTE: Here the Candidate reaches the "Rocky Road," several Brothers
shall jostle the Candidate for some little distance over the Rocky Road, but
care must be taken so that the Candidate will not be injured.
After the Candidate has reached the end of the Rocky Road, the Warden shall
again take hold of his arm and proceed toward the Palace of the King, march
around the Altar, while repeating the following charge:
WARDEN: We are now through the city, and the Palace lies just
beyond the mountains through which we must pass. Make haste here
the Warden and Candidate shall quicken their steps, for I see in the
distance a great storm approaching. Here give storm
effects. See the lightning flash, hear the thunder roar? We are now
through the mountains, and the storm has passed, and we are reaching the Palace
of our King. Remain here, and I will endeavor to persuade the Guard to admit us
to the presence of the King.
NOTE: Four Guards, spears in hand, two on each side of the King, shall be
ready to draw spears at the report of the Guard. The Warden shall instruct the
Candidate to remain standing, while she approaches the King's Guard, to the
right of the King, to whom she shall say:
WARDEN: Noble Guard, I have here a Friend who wishes to be
admitted to the presence of our King.
GUARD: Most Worthy King, our very doors are besieged by strangers
who seek to be ushered into your presence.
NOTE: The Warden returns to the Candidate, and escorts him to the King, when
the King shall say:
KING: Let me look upon this stranger.
NOTE: At this time the Guards stand with drawn spears as if to attack the
Candidate.
WARDEN: O Noble King, I have with me a Friend who desires
admission to our noble Order. He has passed the Committee, and has proven brave
and courageous. He seeks not to destroy, but wishes to promote the Order and
extend its usefulness.
KING: Warden, you may restore our Friend to light and liberty here
remove the hoodwink and the chain, and may the light flow into his
soul, and may the liberty which we now enjoy be to him what freedom was to the
slave. Always remember that by becoming a member of this Order you have entered
into a closer friendship with us as long as you prove to be a loyal and worthy
member. We have all taken this solemn Obligation, and it has never been broken
by any worthy member, and we hope that it will never be broken by you. We now
become your true Friends here the Guards will draw back
their spears), and we expect you to become ours. You must catch the
spirit, and learn to be a dispenser of Charity.
Warden and Conductor, place our Friends in a position to receive the lessons
of Friendship, Love, and Charity.
Music.
NOTE: The Warden shall lead the Candidates around the Hall, and back to the
President's station, where they will view the Tableaus of Friendship, Love, and
Charity. Each Officer shall stand during the scene at her station. A spotlight
shall be used on all scenes. Friendship and Assistant shall stand in front of
the Associate Junior Past President's station with their hands clasped; the
Associate Junior Past President shall lay her right hand on the clasped hands of
Friendship and her Assistant. The Sister selected for this Lecture shall proceed
as follows:
FRIENDSHIP: As they clasp their hands in fellowship and
friendship, one of the great Principles for which we stand, it is indeed a
beautiful sight. It represents the equality and helpfulness of all mankind.
No rich, no poor, no low; all standing upon the same platform—that of
Friendship.
NOTE: Love shall be standing slightly to the right of the Vice-President's
station, with left hand on the right shoulder of her Assistant, who is in a
kneeling position, with head thrown backward, eyes looking upward at Love, as if
grateful for her help. The Sister selected for this Lecture shall proceed as
follows:
LOVE: What a wonderful blessing is Love. Love strews roses in the
pathway of the heartbroken, and her spirit should be as radiant to all mortals
as the sun is to the earth. It binds us together that we may share the joys and
sorrows of others. Go now, "sustained and soothed by an unfaltering trust.
Approach thy grave like one who wraps the drapery of his couch about him and
lies down to pleasant dreams."
NOTE: The Brother Assistant to Charity shall be in a lying position, in front
of the Junior Past President's station, resting on his right elbow,, with his
left arm outstretched toward Charity, who shall lean forward, with both arms
outstretched toward Assistant, as if ready to give aid. The Sister selected for
this Lecture shall proceed as follows:
CHARITY: Charity teaches us that whenever we hear a cry of
distress, a moan of the heartbroken, or a wail of the suffering we should be
quick in our administration of Charity. Charity places us in an attitude where
we can feel another's suffering and know their every sigh; where sorrow flows
from heart to heart, and joy from eye to eye.
Our Lord and Saviour has proclaimed Charity as humanity's greatest virtue—that
it covers even a multitude of sins.
NOTE: At this time the Warden, Conductor, and Candidates shall form a circle
around the Altar; the Officers and the characters in the scenes shall form a
circle around the Candidates; all shall remain standing and join in singing,
"I've Anchored My Soul in the Haven of Rest."
Music.
NOTE: At the conclusion of the singing, the Warden shall say:
WARDEN: The Candiates will repeat after me—Go in peace, for as
much as we have sworn, both of us, in the name of our Lord, saying, the Lord be
between me and thee, and between my seed and thy seed, forever. Amen.
NOTE: All Officers and Characters in the circle shall repeat in unison
"Amen." They shall then resume their stations. The Warden shall lead
the Candidates around the Altar to the President's station, where they shall be
seated, after which the Warden shall say:
WARDEN: Worthy President, I have the pleasure of presenting to you
these Friends who, having been instructed in the lessons of Friendship, Love,
and Charity, now desire to receive instructions in the various signs and secret
work of our Order.
PRESIDENT: My Friends, I will now instruct you in the secret work
of our Order. Wishing to enter the Lodge while in session, you will give an
alarm at the outer door. The Outside Doorkeeper will open the wicket, and to him
you will give in a whisper the Permanent Password, which is …. If correct, he
will admit you to the Anteroom. You will advance, and give three (3) raps on the
inner door. The Inside Doorkeeper shall report to the Vice-President that there
is an alarm at the door. The Inside Doorkeeper shall raise the wicket, and
through it you will give your name, and the name and number of the Lodge to
which you belong. This is … Lodge, and its number is …. You will then give
to him in a whisper the Quarterly Password, which for this term is …. The
Inside Doorkeeper shall report to the Vice-President, who shall order your
admission, if correct. The Inside Doorkeeper shall then admit you to the Lodge
Hall, when you will advance to the Altar, salute the Flag by placing the right
hand over the right temple, then drop hand to your side. You will then give the
Salutation Sign in this manner …. The President shall respond to the
Salutation Sign in this manner …. You will then be seated.
Should you desire to leave the room while the Lodge is in session, you will
arise and say, Worthy President, may I retire? If in order, you will be given
permission to retire. It is never in order to retire during the opening and
closing ceremonies, during the reading of the minutes, balloting for candidates,
or during the election of Officers. When the President has given you permission
to retire, you will advance to the Altar, salute the flag, salute the President
with the Salutation Sign, and retire.
The Recognition Sign is made by …. The Answer is made by …. Wishing to
test a member further, you will give the Challenge, which is …. The Answer is
…. The Grip of the Order is made by …. At the same time you will advance and
repeat these words, …; you will be answered by these words ….
The Voting Sign of the Order, when voting on any question, is made by the ….
This concludes the Secret Signs and Words of the Order, except the Distress
Signs and Words, which are the most important of all. The Distress Sign is made
with the …. The Answer is made in the same manner, using the …. The Distress
Words, which are to be used only when it would not be in order to use the Signs,
or when it is impossible to do so, are …. The Answer is ….
It is highly important that you remember these words, but you are never to
use them, unless when in immediate danger; in fact, you have obligated yourself
not to do so. To become more familiar with these words, you will repeat them
after me. ….
NOTE: If the Candidate repeats these Words, some of the Brothers standing in
the rear of the Candidates shall make a loud noise with a slap board, to prove
that they have not taken heed to their instructions. Care should be taken not to
frighten the Candidates too much.
After the confusion has subsided, the President shall say:
PRESIDENT: What is all this confusion?
The Vice-President shall answer.
VICE-PRESIDENT: Worthy President, the new members gave us the
Distress Words, and as true and faithful members we answered, as our Obligation
requires us to do.
PRESIDENT: My Friends, this is no idle ceremony, but is to teach
you an important lesson—that of remembering and keeping your Obligation. You
were instructed never to give these words except when in immediate danger, but
you thoughtlessly gave them when in no danger at all. The instantaneous answer
to your cry for help by the members present is to teach you that whenever duty
calls upon you for quick action to act at once. I hope the members present will
be always ready to respond to all duties connected with this Order as they have
appeared to do on this occasion.
My Friends, this concludes the Secret Work which will distinguish you from
those outside of our Order. It is very essential that you become familiar with
the work and aid in every laudable manner the furtherance of the purpose of this
Order. You will now be conducted to the Anteroom where you will exemplify the
fact that you have given heed to the instructions imparted to you. You will work
your way into the Lodge, where you will be introduced and welcomed.
NOTE: The Warden shall retire to the Anteroom with the Candidate who is to
work his way into the Lodge. The Conductor shall seat the other Candidates,
after which she shall take her position just inside the door of the Lodge Hall,
where she shall wait for the admission of the Candidate. After the Warden has
instructed the Candidate how to work his way into the Lodge Hall, and the proper
signs at the Altar, the Inside Doorkeeper shall admit him, the Conductor shall
then escort him to the Altar, where he will give the signs. The Conductor shall
then station the Candidate to the right of the Altar, toward the station of the
Associate Junior Past President. She shall then resume her station at the inside
door to await the admission of the next Candidate, if any. This procedure shall
continue until all Candidates have worked their way through the Lodge. After the
last Candidate has been placed at the Altar, the Conductor shall resume her
position at the door, where she will be joined by the Warden, both shall march
down the center of Hall to the Altar, salute the President, and turn right and
left, and take their positions at the end of the line of Candidates.
The President shall then proceed.
PRESIDENT: I will now instruct you in the use of the gavel. One
(1) rap calls the Lodge to order, and seats the members, when standing. Two (2)
raps calls up the Officers, three (3) raps calls up the entire Lodge.
Officers and members, I now have the pleasure of introducing to you these
Brothers and Sisters, who have been duly initiated and instructed into the Order
of the Independent Order of Herdsmen, and who are entitled to all the rights and
privileges of the Order, according to our laws.
In behalf of … Lodge, No. …, I bid you welcome. The Lodge will sing,
"Blest Be the Tie That Binds."
Music.
NOTE: The Conductor shall conduct the Candidates to the Financial Secretary,
where they shall pay their dues. The Warden shall take her station during this
time. After the Candidates have all paid their dues, the Warden shall march
around the Altar and conduct the Candidates to the Recording Secretary, where
they shall designate their Beneficiary. The Warden shall then seat the
Candidates, after which she shall march to the Vice-President's station, down
the center to her station, and be seated. At this time the Captain shall retire
the Team and Officers in the same form as seating. If time will not permit
retiring, the President may instruct the Officers to vacate their stations, and
the regular Officers to take their places. When the regular Officers have
resumed their stations, the Captain shall report:
CAPTAIN: Worthy President, we are ready to proceed with the
regular Order of Business.
Closing Ceremonies
PRESIDENT: I shall proceed to close this meeting. Financial
Secretary, please report the receipts and expenditures of the meeting.
At this time the Financial Secretary shall make her report.
PRESIDENT: Recording Secretary and Treasurer, please make notation
of the receipts and expenditures, and enter them in detail upon your records.
PRESIDENT: The Lodge will join in singing our Closing Ode.
President gives three raps with gavel.
Closing Ode
God be with you till we meet again,
By his counsels guide, uphold you,
With his sheep securely fold you
Till we meet, . till we meet,
Till we meet at Jesus' feet;
Till we meet, till we meet again,
Till we meet,
Till we meet, till we meet,
God be with you till we meet again.
Till we meet, till we meet again,
PRESIDENT: The Junior Past President and the Associate Junior Past
President will approach the Altar and unite in the Closing Exercises.
Music.
NOTE 1: The Associate Junior Past President shall offer the Closing Prayer,
after which the Junior Past President shall slowly and reverently close the
Bible.
ASSOCIATE JUNIOR PAST PRESIDENT: O God, wilt Thou impress upon our
hearts the truth that no one lives to himself alone, but that all, living for
Thee, must live sympathetically and lovingly with one another; in the name of
Christ. Amen.
NOTE 2: At the conclusion of the Prayer, all members shall repeat in unison,
"Amen."
Music.
The Junior Past President and Associate Junior Past President shall right and
left about face and march to the Vice-President’s station, turn right and left
to sides of Hall and march down sides to their respective stations.
PRESIDENT: Warden and Conductor, please collect all Rituals, Ode
Cards and other property of the Lodge and see that they are accounted for and
locked up.