"In the name of the most worshipful grand lodge of the state of new lodge, by the name of duly constituted.” I proclaim this lodge, This proclamation is made thrice, with the honours of masonry. The grand master then orders, that the lodge be registered in the grand lodge books, and that the grand secretary signify the same, to the regular lodges. The grand chaplain then makes the concluding prayer, and the grand procession being formed in the same manner as before, returns to the hall. The grand master, deputy grand master, and wardens, being seated, the procession continues round the hall, and upon passing the several grand officers, pays them due homage. During the procession, which passes three times round the lodge, the following is sung: HAIL, MASONRY divine! Long may'st thou reign: Great fabrics still arise, Hiram the architect, Chorus Three Times. CHAPTER XXIX. A Charge at Constituling, which, with occasional abridgments, may be used at the Visitation of Lodges, by the M. W. Josiah Bartlet, Esq. of Massachusetts. THE attainment of happiness, in some form or other, has been the constant pursuit of man; but while wealth, honour and pleasure, have been prevailing objects of attention, the philanthrophist has employed his talents, by various means, to sweeten the bitter cup of adversity, and extend the blessings of friendship and universal charity. Among these, the institution of free-masonry, sustains a distinguished rank; and although we cannot on this occasion, delineate its origin or history, we are well assured, that its principles and influence have existed from the earliest ages, continued in different nations, and been diffused in a degree, proportionate to the rise and progress of learning, arts, freedom, and religion; nor have the beneficial effects, of its doctrines and precepts, been wrapt up in the veil of secrecy, for we might look back, to the times of the patriarchs and prophets, and find the names of those, who were justly venerated for their wisdom, prudence, and liberality; and, in every generation, from the days of Solomon, to the present period, we might trace the virtue, benevolence, and patriotism, of those, who have strenuously advocated, the interests of this ancient fraternity. It is by a frequent recurrence, to the nature and design of our society, that we are enabled to illustrate its usefulness; and, at this time, it is peculiarly proper to consider the general method of preserving inviolate, and transmitting to posterity, its privileges. The qualifications of candidates for initia tion, first claim our attention; and is a subject, in which, the honour and happiness of the craft are so deeply interested, that it is the indispensible duty of every good mason, to consider it. Natural benevolence, industry, temperance, and economy, are the characteristic marks of an honest mind, and if united, will lead to utility and public influence. But when from personal motives, or with a view to benefit the funds of the lodge, we admit a person of doubtful character, we not only violate our trust, but defeat our own purposes; for agreeably to the words of an inspired grand master of old, "In the house of the righteous is much treasure; but in the revenue of the wicked is trouble." Prov. xv. 6. The next object of importance, is the appropriation of a suitable time, for the instruction of Entered Apprentices and Fellow Crafts; for it frequently happens, for reasons, which, at the time may appear plausible, that brethren are admitted Master Masons, in a manner injurious to themselves, and derogatory to the lodge; since, as they have suddenly attained this privilege, they have fewer inducements for improvement, and are seldom qualified to fill with dignity, any of the important offices belonging to the institution. A punctual attendance at the stated meetings, when our necessary avocations will permit, is essential to the prosperity of the lodge, and highly conducive to our improvement as individuals. It discovers a respect for the institution, enlivens our fraternal union, reminds us of our engagements to each other, and cherishes those friendly sentiments, which are the strength and ornament of our profession. In a country like this, where every member of the community is versed in the rights of society, and taught from his infancy, that distinctions and preferment should be the reward of merit only, it is scarcely proper to mention the necessity of prudence and circumspection in the choice of officers. Those, who are honoured with the suffrages of the brethren, should always remember, that their dig nity consists in an entire conformity to the laws and regulations, under which they are appointed; and the members should consider, that a due submission, to the constitutional commands of those, who are appointed to govern, is no more than a just compliment to themselves. A regular intercourse with the grand lodge, either by the master and wardens, or a discreet and well informed representative, is of the greatest consequence, as it not only promotes that harmony, which is the cement of our society, but is the easiest way of communicating with those, who are alike prepared, to sympathize in all our sorrows, and participate in our joys. By a frequent and attentive perusal of the book of constitutions, and other publications: of a similar nature, we shall be acquainted with the duties of our calling, and may be qualified, not only to preserve the ancient land marks of our fathers, but to sustain with honour, the most exalted offices among the brethren. The flourishing state of masonry in this country, has greatly contributed to enlarge the boundaries of social happiness; and a general enjoyment of its principles and ceremonies, has, with the enjoyment of civil and religious freedom, extended the blessings of philanthrophy among every class of our fellow Gitizens. |