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THE MEDITERRANEAN PASSAND

THE ORDER OF MALTA

In conferring the Order in full ceremony, the rubric as set forth on Pages 48 through 54 of the "Ritual of the Grand Encampment of Knights Templar of the United States of America," 1979 edition, should be closely followed, where possible. Crucifix should be on lectern until Ritual Page 71, before line 1. No loud military commands shall be heard either in the opening or closing or during any part of the ceremony.

PROCESSION FOR ENTERING AND LEAVING THE CHAPEL

The Knights will march into the Priory in the manner set out in the Ritual, Page 55, "OPENING PROCESSION." Banners are positioned as follows: Beginning on the West with Number 1, they extend in numerical order toward the East, leaving as much space between each adjacent pair as the apartment will permit.

During the ceremony each banner shall have a Guard, each of the Guards being stationed on the same side of his respective banner.

At the Table in the West, the Guards seated at the table will be arranged two (2) Knights to the West, and three (3) to each side, North and South, facing East, so that the East end of the Table is open to view by the Candidate.

The procession out of the Priory will be in the reverse order to that of entering, the Capt. General forming the column along either the North or South side of the Chapel and fronting toward the Altar. After the Chaplain has extinguished the candles on the pedestal, the Prior and Lieutenant Commander, side by side, follow Chaplain in a triangle, passing before column out of Chapel. Column is then faced West and marched out of Chapel.

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OPTIONAL PROCESSION FOR ENTERING THE PRIORY

The Knights will march into the Priory in the manner set out hereinafter. Banners may be positioned in the Asylum in a manner most suitable to accommodate the Candidate(s) readily, to permit the Candidate(s) to see the Banners and hear the explanation during the conferring of the Order. The first banner will be in the West, the others arranged in sequence along the South side of the Chapel to provide for accommodation of the Candidate(s), leaving space between each adjacent pair of banners sufficient to receive Candidate(s), in compliance with general rule number one. (See attached diagram of Priory.)

The order of entrance of Knights into the Priory shall be:Captain GeneralMarshalFirst Knight seated at West end of Table in the West. (8)Second Knight seated at West end of Table in the West. (7)Westernmost Knight seated on North side of Table in the West. (6)Middle Knight seated on North side of Table in the West. (5)Easternmost Knight seated on North side of Table in the West. (4)Easternmost Knight seated on the South side of Table in the West. (3)Middle Knight seated on South side of Table in the West. (2)Westernmost Knight seated on South side of Table in the West. (1)Captain of the Outposts. Banner of St. John. Banner of Malta. Fifth Banner. Fourth Banner. Third Banner. Second Banner. First Banner.

Following the foregoing Knights, the Chaplain carrying the Bible and Cross, followed in a triangular configuration by the Prior with the Lieutenant Commander on his right.

This column of Knights enters the Chapel from the West along the South under command of the Captain General, who will "HALT," in the East with the entire column in line behind him within the Chapel. The Captain General will then step out of line to the side nearest the Altar, does an about face, and in a quiet voice commands: "LEFT FACE" (Captain General will then about face.)

The Chaplain, Prior and Lieutenant Commander then enter in a triangular formation and move along the front of the column and halts at a position Southwest of the Altar. The Chaplain then proceeds to the Altar, kneels and opens the Bible to the 19th Chapter of the Gospel of St. John, places the bare sword and Cross on the Bible, then rises and returns to a position in front of Prior and Lieutenant Commander, and the three then proceed along the front of the column and take their places at the Table in the East.

The Captain General about faces and Commands "RIGHT FACE" (toward East), "FORWARD MARCH". (Captain General remains in present position.) The Marshal leads the columns procession around the Chapel, across the East, the Knights dropping off, beginning with the Knights at rear of column, at their respective stations as they proceed.

The order of the Knights in column set out hereinabove is for the positioning of all the banners on the South side of the Chapel. As a result, the First Banner will drop off first, then the Second Banner, Third Banner, Fourth Banner, Fifth Banner, Banner of Malta and Banner of St. John. The column then moves along the North, then along the West, dropping off the Captain of the Outposts. The column circles the Table in the West, dropping off the three Knights on the South side of the Table in the West at their stations, dropping off the three Knights on the North side of the table in the West, at their stations, then the Two Knights at the West end of the Table in the West at their stations. The Marshal then moves along the South to the East, and he and the Captain General will proceed to their stations at the Table in the East.

Where the five ceremonial banners are positioned at points other than all along the South side of the Chapel, the arrangement of the Banner Guards would be such as to permit the Guards to drop off at their respective banners as the column or procession circles the Chapel and the Table in the West.

For the procession out of the Asylum after the closing, the Knights will march as follows:

Captain GeneralMarshalBanner of MaltaBanner of St. JohnKnights on the North side of the Table in the WestCaptain of the OutpostsKnights on the West end of the Table in the WestKnights on the South side of the Table in the West

First BannerSecond BannerThird BannerFourth BannerFifth Banner


In moving away from the Table in the West, the Knights on the North Side of the Table face West, the Knights on the West side of the Table face South, and the Knights on the South side of the Table face West.

The procession moves around the Chapel in line following the Captain General along the East, then along the North, the West, the South, the East again, then along the North, the West and the South until the Captain General stops at a position near the East. The column is halted by the Captain General, then faced in a front toward the North.

The Chaplain, followed in triangular configuration by the Prior and Lieutenant Commander, with the Lieutenant Commander on the right of the Prior, will leave the Table in the East and halt at a point to the North and East of Altar. The Chaplain will then proceed to extinguish the candles on the pedestal, then moves to the West side of the Altar and kneels, removes the sword and Cross and closes the Bible, then rises and moves into position in front of the Prior and Lieutenant Commander. The three will then proceed to retire from the Chapel along the front of the column of Knights. After the Chaplain, Prior and Lieutenant Commander have left the Chapel, the Captain General will move to the West end of the column and order the Knights to left face and forward march out of the Chapel.

ALTERNATE OPTIONAL PROCESSION FORENTERING AND LEAVING THE PRIOR

The Knights will be formed in a line to march into the Chapel as follows:1 Captain General

MarshalBanner of St. JohnBanner of MaltaFifth BannerFourth BannerThird BannerSecond BannerFirst BannerEight Knights to be seated at the Table in the WestCaptain of the Outposts

This column of Knights enters the Chapel along the South side under command of the Captain General who will halt in the East with the entire column in line

behind him completely within the Chapel. The Captain General will then step out of line, about face, and in a quiet voice command the Knights in line to "LEFT FACE" (toward the Altar).


The Chaplain, Prior and Lieutenant Commander then enter in a triangular formation after the procession of Knights has moved into the Chapel and the column has faced toward the Altar. The Chaplain, Prior and Lieutenant Commander halt at, and proceed to attend to, the Altar as in the Optional Entering Procession, then move to their places at the Table in the East as in the previous instructions.

The Captain General then quietly commands, "BROTHER KNIGHTS IN LINE, TAKE YOUR STATIONS". The Knights then move out of the column to their respective stations shown in the accompanying diagram.

In retiring from the Chapel after closing the Priory, the Captain General takes a position in the West on the South side near the entrance into the Chapel, faces East and addresses the Knights as follows: "BROTHER KNIGHTS FALL-IN, IN A COLUMN FACING ME." When the Knights have moved from their stations into the column, the Captain General then quietly commands, "RIGHT FACE," the Captain General simultaneously executes left face with the column.

The Chaplain, followed in triangular configuration by the Prior and Lieutenant Commander, then leaves the Table in the East and proceeds with extinguishing the candles and attending the Altar, then moving out of the Chapel as in the Optional Leaving Procession. When the three have retired from the Chapel along the front of the column of Knights, the Captain General then quietly commands, "LEFT FACE, FORWARD, MARCH." Captain General executes left face with Knights and leads column of Knights out of Priory.

PRIORY OF KNIGHTS OF MALTA

OPENING CEREMONIAL

(After the Knights have entered the Priory and taken their places, the Opening Ceremony will then proceed. Banners are all faced away from the center of the Chapel, so that they are not visible to the Candidate.)

(Salutes will be hand salutes except where otherwise specifically designated to be sword salutes in the Manual of Tactics. All Knights in cast are standing.)

PRIOR:CAPTAIN GENERAL, (Captain General faces Prior, hand salutes exchanged) WHAT IS THE FIRST AND MOST ESSENTIAL CARE OF KNIGHTS OF MALTA WHEN ABOUT TO OPEN A PRIORY?

CAPTAIN GENERAL:TO SEE THAT THE BRETHREN IN ARMS ARE SECURE FROM INTERRUPTION FROM THE OPPOSERS OF THE GOSPEL OF THE SAVIOR OF FALLEN MAN.

PRIOR:CAPTAIN GENERAL, SEE THAT THIS ASSEMBLY IS PROPERLY GUARDED, AND INFORM THE CAPTAIN OF THE OUTPOSTS THAT I AM ABOUT TO OPEN THIS PRIORY.

CAPTAIN GENERAL:(Captain General draws sword.) CAPTAIN OF THE OUTPOSTS, (Captain of the Outposts draws sword, sword salutes are exchanged) THE PRIOR IS ABOUT TO OPEN A PRIORY. YOU WILL STATION THE GUARDS AND DIRECT THEM ACCORDINGLY.

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CAPTAIN OF THE OUTPOSTS:(Captain of the Outposts goes outside the door.) BROTHER GUARDS, THE PRIOR IS ABOUT TO OPEN A PRIORY, YOU WILL TAKE YOUR POST AND GUARD ACCORDINGLY. (Captain of the Outposts closes door and returns to station.) CAPTAIN GENERAL, (Sword salutes exchanged) THE GUARDS ARE STATIONED, WE ARE IN SECURITY. (Captain of the Outposts returns sword.)

CAPTAIN GENERAL:EMINENT PRIOR, (Captain General salutes with sword, Prior returns with hand salute) THE GUARDS ARE STATIONED, WE ARE IN SECURITY.

PRIOR:CAPTAIN GENERAL, WHAT IS YOUR NEXT DUTY?

CAPTAIN GENERAL:TO SEE THAT EVERY CHRISTIAN WARRIOR PRESENT PROVES HIMSELF A LEGITIMATE SOLDIER OF THE CROSS AND BROTHER OF THE ORDER.

PRIOR:CAPTAIN GENERAL, YOU WILL MAKE THE INSPECTION. (Captain General moves along East to North, along North to West, along West to Southeast of Table in the West. He faces East, returns sword, and will give the Grand Hailing Sign and Grand Word of a Knight of Malta.)

CAPTAIN GENERAL:(Giving Grand Hailing Sign.) DO YOU COME IN PEACE?

KNIGHTS:(All giving Grand Hailing Sign together.) WE COME IN PEACE.

CAPTAIN GENERAL:THEN COME IN PEACE. (Captain General returns from the West to Station at Table in the East.) EMINENT PRIOR, (Hand salutes exchanged) I AM SATISFIED THAT ALL PRESENT ARE LEGITIMATE SOLDIERS OF THE CROSS AND BROTHERS OF OUR ORDER.

PRIOR:BROTHERS, LET US LAY OUR ARMS AT THE FOOT OF THE CROSSAND IMPLORE A BLESSING ON OUR PRESENT MEETING. (Swords of Knights at Table in the East are deposited on Table pointing to center of the Cross. Swords of Knights at Table in the West, Banner Guards, and Captain of the Outposts place their swords on floor, the points toward the East. Knights cross arms across their chest, right arm over left, during reading. Do not uncover. Those on sidelines rise.)

CHAPLAIN:(Chaplain may kneel or stand at station for prayer.) LET US PRAY. O THOU GREAT IMMANUEL, THE GOD OF INFINITE GOODNESS, LOOK DOWN UPON THIS PRIORY WITH AN EYE OF TENDER COMPASSION AND INCLINE OUR HEARTS TO THY HOLY WILL IN ALL OUR ACTIONS, THROUGH JESUS CHRIST OUR LORD. AMEN. (Knights uncross arms.)

PRIOR:BROTHERS, RESUME YOUR ARMS. (Knights at Table in the West, Banner Guards, and Captain of the Outposts resume their swords and return them to their scabbards. Swords on the Table in the East are left in place on the Table.) TOGETHER, BROTHERS.

PRIOR AND FOUR OFFICERS AT THE TABLE IN THE EAST:

(The Prior and the four officers at the Table in the East give the Grand Hailing Sign and Grand Word of a Knight of Malta.) DO YOU COME IN PEACE?

KNIGHTS:(All giving Grand Hailing Sign.) WE COME IN PEACE.


PRIOR AND FOUR OFFICERS AT THE TABLE IN THE EAST:(Giving Grand Hailing Sign.) THEN COME IN PEACE. (All drop arms.)

PRIOR:TO THE GLORY OF THE BLESSED SAVIOR, IN THE NAME OF ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST, AND BY VIRTUE OF THE POWER IN ME VESTED, I DECLARE THIS PRIORY OF KNIGHTS OF MALTA DULY OPENED. CAPTAIN GENERAL, (Hand salutes exchanged) INFORM THE GUARD.

CAPTAIN GENERAL:CAPTAIN OF THE OUTPOSTS, (Captain of the Outposts draws sword and salutes, Captain General returns salute with hand) INFORM THE GUARD THAT THIS PRIORY OF KNIGHTS OF MALTA IS NOW OPEN.

CAPTAIN OF THE OUTPOSTS:(Captain of the Outposts goes to door and opens it.) BROTHER GUARD, (sword salutes exchanged) THIS PRIORY OF KNIGHTS OF MALTA IS NOW OPEN. (Captain of the Outposts closes door, returns to station and reports:) CAPTAIN GENERAL, (Captain of the Outposts salutes Captain General with sword who returns hand salute) THE GUARD HAS BEEN INFORMED. (Captain of the Outposts returns sword.)

CAPTAIN GENERAL:EMINENT PRIOR, (Hand salutes exchanged) YOUR ORDER HAS BEEN OBEYED.

PRIOR:BROTHERS, BE SEATED. (Prior remains standing and will says:) BROTHER KNIGHTS, THIS PRIORY OF KNIGHTS OF MALTA HAS BEEN OPENED FOR THE PURPOSE OF

CONFERRING THE DEGREE OF THE MEDITERRANEAN PASS AND THE ORDER OF MALTA UPON A (CLASS OF) CANDIDATE(S).


PRIOR:BROTHER MARSHAL, (Marshal rises, takes up sword from Table and salutes Prior who returns hand salute) RETIRE AND PREPARE THE (CANDIDATE(S) or EXEMPLAR) FOR RECEPTION INTO THE DEGREE OF THE MEDITERRANEAN PASS. (Marshal retires, Prior is seated.)


THE DEGREE OF THE MEDITERRANEAN PASS

FULL CEREMONIAL

MARSHAL:(Marshal retires and prepares Candidate for reception into the Degree of the Mediterranean Pass. The Candidate, who must be a Companion of the Illustrious Order of the Red Cross, is prepared by being dressed in dark clothing, over which shall be a mantle similar in shape to the Malta mantle, except of white material with the red cross of the Order on the left breast in red material initialed in green; mantle to be fastened with white cord and tassel. Candidate does not wear a headdress, and is girded with sword and belt. Marshal and Candidate will both have swords drawn and be at carry swords. After preparation the Candidate is accompanied by the Marshal to the Door of the Guard Room where he makes an alarm.)

* * * * * * * * *

CAPTAIN OF THE OUTPOSTS:(After alarm, Captain of the Outposts rises, draws sword, goes to Door, and returns battery.)

* * * * * * * * * (Captain of the Outposts opens door and goes outside.) WHAT DO YOU DESIRE?

MARSHAL:(Giving Candidate's Full Name:) ______________, A COMPANION OF THE ILLUSTRIOUS ORDER OF THE RED CROSS, HUMBLY SOLICITS TO BE ADMITTED TO THE PRIVILEGES OF THE MEDITERRANEAN PASS, TO ENABLE HIM IN SAFETY TO UNDERTAKE A PILGRIMAGE TO THE HOLY SEPULCHER. HE PRAYS ALSO, IF FOUND WORTHY, TO BE RECEIVED AND ENROLLED A MEMBER OF THE ANCIENT ORDER OF ST. JOHN OF JERUSALEM, OR KNIGHT OF MALTA.

CAPTAIN OF THE OUTPOSTS:

GIVE ME THE SIGN, GRIP, AND WORD OF A COMPANION OF THE ILLUSTRIOUS ORDER OF THE RED CROSS. (Candidate having been previously instructed by the Marshal, gives the Captain of the Outposts the Sign, Grip, and Word, then both come to carry swords.)

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CAPTAIN OF THE OUTPOSTS:YOU WILL WAIT UNTIL YOUR REQUEST IS MADE KNOWN TO THE PRIOR AND HIS ANSWER RETURNED. (Captain of the Outposts returns to station in Chapel, closing door behind him, then addresses the Prior.) EMINENT PRIOR, (Captain of the Outposts salutes with sword, Prior hand salutes, no further salutes are exchanged between officers until specifically directed) (Giving Candidate's Full Name) ______________, A COMPANION OF THE ILLUSTRIOUS ORDER OF THE RED CROSS, STANDS WITHOUT, HUMBLY SOLICITING THE PRIVILEGES OF THE MEDITERRANEAN PASS. HE ALSO PRAYS, IF FOUND WORTHY, TO BE RECEIVED AND ENROLLED A MEMBER OF THE ANCIENT ORDER OF ST. JOHN OF JERUSALEM, OR KNIGHT OF MALTA.

PRIOR:CAPTAIN OF THE OUTPOSTS, FAR BE IT FROM US TO INTERPOSE ANY OBSTACLE TO THE FULFILLMENT OF HIS PIOUS PURPOSE. CAN YOU VOUCH THAT HE IS WORTHY, AND IN POSSESSION OF THE SIGN, GRIP, AND WORD OF A COMPANION OF THE ILLUSTRIOUS ORDER OF THE RED CROSS?

CAPTAIN OF THE OUTPOSTS:I CAN, EMINENT PRIOR.

PRIOR:IS IT YOUR PLEASURE, BROTHER KNIGHTS, THAT (Giving Candidate's Full Name) ____________________, A COMPANION OF THE ILLUSTRIOUS ORDER OF THE RED CROSS, BE ADMITTED A MEMBER OF OUR ORDER? (Knights give assent by holding up the right hand.) (Done.)

I DECLARE (Giving Candidate's Full Name) _________, A COMPANION OF THE ILLUSTRIOUS ORDER OF THE RED CROSS, DULY ELECTED TO RECEIVE THE MEDITERRANEAN PASS AND TO BECOME A MEMBER OF THE ORDER OF MALTA. CAPTAIN OF THE OUTPOSTS, YOU WILL ADMIT HIM.


CAPTAIN OF THE OUTPOSTS: (Captain of the Outposts goes to Door and opens it.) YOU HAVE PERMISSION TO ENTER. (Marshal and Candidate return swords. The Candidate, accompanied by the Marshal, enters the Chapel, moves to and stands immediately West of the Altar, facing Prior. Captain of the Outposts closes door, returns to station, returns sword, and is seated.)

PRIOR:(Prior remains seated at station.) BROTHER (Giving Candidate's Last Name) _________, WE HAVE CONSENTED TO YOUR ADMISSION INTO OUR ORDER, BUT BEFORE WE CAN PLACE YOU IN POSSESSION OF OUR SECRETS, ARE YOU WILLING TO PLEDGE YOURSELF TO KEEP INVIOLATE THE SECRETS AND MYSTERIES OF THIS ORDER?

CANDIDATE:I AM.

PRIOR:MY BROTHER, DO YOU ON YOUR HONOR AS A COMPANION OF THE ILLUSTRIOUS ORDER OF THE RED CROSS, SOLEMNLY PROMISE THAT YOU WILL NEVER IMPROPERLY REVEAL THE SECRETS WHICH WE ARE NOW ABOUT TO IMPART TO YOU?

CANDIDATE:I SOLEMNLY PROMISE.

PRIOR:(Prior rises, moves to East side of Altar facing Candidate.) THE INCIDENTS UPON WHICH THE DEGREE OF THE MEDITERRANEAN PASS AND ITS MODES OF RECOGNITION ARE FOUNDED, ARE RECORDED IN THE HOLY SCRIPTURES. (Prior faces and addresses Chaplain:)

REVEREND CHAPLAIN, (Chaplain rises and bows, Prior returns bow, all Knights in the cast conferring the Order, simultaneously, without orders, rise with and face Chaplain) YOU WILL READ A LESSON FOR OUR INSTRUCTION.


CHAPLAIN:(Candidate and all Knights in cast cross arms across chest, right arm over left, during reading. Do not uncover.) HERE BEGINNETH THE FIRST VERSE OF THE TWENTY-EIGHTH CHAPTER OF THE ACTS OF THE APOSTLES. (Verses 1-6.)

"AND WHEN THEY WERE ESCAPED, THEN THEY KNEW THAT THE ISLAND WAS CALLED 'MELITA,' AND THE BARBAROUS PEOPLE SHOWED US NO LITTLE KINDNESS FOR THEY KINDLED A FIRE AND RECEIVED US EVERY ONE, BECAUSE OF THE PRESENT RAIN AND BECAUSE OF THE COLD. AND WHEN PAUL HAD GATHERED A BUNDLE OF STICKS AND LAID THEM ON THE FIRE, THERE CAME A VIPER OUT OF THE HEAT AND FASTENED ON HIS HAND. AND WHEN THE BARBARIANS SAW THE VENOMOUS BEAST HANG ON HIS HAND, THEY SAID AMONG THEMSELVES, NO DOUBT THIS MAN IS A MURDERER, WHOM, THOUGH HE HATH ESCAPED THE SEA, YET VENGEANCE SUFFERETH NOT TO LIVE. AND HE SHOOK OFF THE BEAST INTO THE FIRE AND FELT NO HARM. HOWBEIT THEY LOOKED WHEN HE SHOULD HAVE SWOLLEN OR FALLEN DOWN DEAD SUDDENLY. BUT AFTER THEY HAD LOOKED A GREAT WHILE AND SAW NO HARM COME TO HIM, THEY CHANGED THEIR MINDS AND SAID THAT HE WAS A GOD."

HERE ENDETH THE FIRST LESSON. (Upon completion of the reading, Chaplain bows to Prior who returns bow. Then all in cast except Prior, Marshal and Candidate are seated with Chaplain.)

PRIOR:I WILL NOW INVEST YOU WITH THE SIGN OF THIS DEGREE. IT IS MADE BY HOLDING BOTH HANDS FORWARD, PALMS DOWN, AS IF WARMING THEM AT A

FIRE.THEN GRASP THE LOWER OR FLESHY PART OF YOUR LEFT HAND BETWEEN THE FOREFINGER AND THUMB OF YOUR RIGHT HAND.


RAISE THEM WITH A QUICK MOTION AND THROW OFF THE RIGHT HAND WITH A JERK, AS IF PLUCKING SOMETHING OFFENSIVE FROM YOUR LEFT HAND. THIS REFERS TO THE INCIDENT OF ST. PAUL PLUCKING THE VIPER FROM HIS HAND AND CASTING IT INTO THE FIRE, AND IS CALLED THE SIGN OF "MELITA." (Prior faces and addresses the Chaplain:) REVEREND CHAPLAIN, (Chaplain rises and bows, Prior returns bow, all Knights in the cast conferring the Order rise with and face Chaplain) YOU WILL READ ANOTHER LESSON FROM THE HOLY SCRIPTURES.

CHAPLAIN:(Candidate and all Knights in cast cross arms across chest, right over left, during reading. Do not uncover.) HERE BEGINNETH THE TWENTY-SECOND VERSE OF THE TWENTY-SEVENTH CHAPTER OF THE ACTS OF THE APOSTLES. (Verses 22-25.)

"AND NOW I EXHORT YOU TO BE OF GOOD CHEER FOR THERE SHALL BE NO LOSS OF ANY MAN'S LIFE AMONG YOU, BUT OF THE SHIP. FOR THERE STOOD BY ME THIS NIGHT THE ANGEL OF GOD, WHOSE I AM, AND WHOM I SERVE. SAYING, FEAR NOT PAUL; THOU MUST BE BROUGHT BEFORE CAESAR; AND, LO, GOD HATH GIVEN THEE ALL THEM THAT SAIL WITH THEE. WHEREFORE, SIRS, BE OF GOOD CHEER; FOR I BELIEVE GOD, THAT IT SHALL BE EVEN AS IT WAS TOLD ME."

HERE ENDETH THE SECOND LESSON. (Upon completion of reading, Knights drop hands, Chaplain bows to Prior, Prior returns bow, then all Knights in cast, except Prior, Marshal and Candidate are seated with Chaplain.)

PRIOR:

THE PASSWORD OF THIS DEGREE IS "FEAR NOT, PAUL." THE GRAND WORD OF THIS DEGREE IS "MELITA," THE ANCIENT NAME OF THE ISLAND OF MALTA.


BROTHER (Giving Candidate's Last Name) ________, IT WAS CUSTOMARY FOR THE KNIGHTLY SOLDIERS OF THE CRUSADES, PREVIOUS TO THEIR DEPARTURE FOR THE HOLY LAND, TO PREPARE THEMSELVES BY A GENERAL CONFESSION AND RECEPTION OF THE HOLY EUCHARIST, RECEIVING THE BENEDICTION OF THE CHURCH. IN ALLUSION TO THIS CUSTOM, BUT TO AVOID THE SEMBLANCE OF IRREVERENCE TO THE SACRED MYSTERY, WE SUBSTITUTE WATER FOR WINE AND COMMEMORATE IT TO REMIND US OF THE EXTREME PERILS, SUFFERING AND DESTITUTION ENCOUNTERED BY OUR PILGRIM BROTHERS OF OLD WHEN ON THEIR WAY TO THE HOLY CITY, FOR THEN THEY COULD PROCURE THE BARE NECESSITIES OF LIFE ONLY AT THE SWORDS POINT (Chaplain moves to position to right of and near Prior with Salver. Upon it is a cup of water and two or three pieces of bread.) YOU WILL NOW RECEIVE BREAD FROM THE POINT OF THE SWORD AND WATER FROM THE BLADE. (Prior takes up sword from Altar pierces bread with sword point without touching bread with hand, then presents it to Candidate, who receives and eats it. Prior then presents cup, supported by sword blade, to Candidate who takes it in his right hand and drinks from it. After Candidate partakes, the cup is taken by Prior and replaced on salver. Chaplain replaces salver on pedestal. Prior replaces sword on Altar.)

CHAPLAIN:(Chaplain raises right hand and says:) MAY YOU BE KEPT STEADFAST IN ALL YOUR SOLEMN PROFESSIONS AND BLESSED IN ALL PRAISEWORTHY OCCUPATIONS AND UNDERTAKINGS. (Chaplain returns to station and is seated.)

PRIOR:THIS CEREMONY CONSTITUTES YOU A KNIGHT OF ST. PAUL, OR THE MEDITERRANEAN PASS; IT IS THE PASS-

DEGREE OF THE ORDER OF MALTA. RETIRE, MY BROTHER, WITH THE MARSHAL, UNTIL PREPARATIONS ARE MADE FOR YOUR RECEPTION INTO THE ORDER OF MALTA. (Prior then returns to station at Table in the East and is seated. Marshal and Candidate then retire to anteroom.)


THE ORDER OF MALTAFULL CEREMONIAL

PRIOR:(Following the Mediterranean Pass, in the Order of Malta, standing in his station, Prior commands:) BANNER GUARDS, ATTENTION; DRAW SWORDS; (Done) DISPLAY THE BANNERS OF THE ORDER. (All of the Banners are then turned simultaneously inward facing center of the Chapel so as to be displayed to Candidate. All Banner Guards remain standing at carry swords by their respective Banners. Prior then addresses the Chaplain:) REVEREND CHAPLAIN, (Chaplain rises, faces Prior and bows, Prior returns bow) ATTEND TO THE ALTAR AND TO LIGHTING THE CANDLES. (Chaplain then takes Crucifix from lectern, places it on the Altar on left of Prior's station at Altar, to be facing Candidate, then proceeds to light the candles on the pedestal. Chaplain returns to lectern and is seated simultaneously with Prior.)

MARSHAL:(The Marshal, with the Candidate costumed as in the preceding Degree, makes an alarm:)

* * * * * * * * *

CAPTAIN OF THE OUTPOSTS:(After alarm, Captain of the Outposts rises, draws sword, and addresses Prior.) EMINENT PRIOR, (Captain of the Outposts salutes Prior with sword who returns hand salute) THERE IS AN ALARM AT THE ENTRANCE TO OUR CHAPEL.

PRIOR:CAPTAIN OF THE OUTPOSTS, ASCERTAIN THE CAUSE OF THE ALARM.

CAPTAIN OF THE OUTPOSTS:

(Captain of the Outpost goes to door, responds to the alarm:) * * * * * * * * * (Captain of the Outposts opens the door and passes out.) WHO COMES HERE?

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MARSHAL:A WORTHY KNIGHT OF THE MEDITERRANEAN PASS HUMBLY CRAVES ADMISSION TO THIS PRIORY.

CAPTAIN OF THE OUTPOSTS:HAS HE THE NECESSARY QUALIFICATIONS?

MARSHAL:HE HAS.

CAPTAIN OF THE OUTPOSTS:GIVE ME THE SIGN, PASS-WORD, AND GRAND WORD OF THE MEDITERRANEAN PASS. (Marshal assists Candidate.) LET HIM WAIT UNTIL HIS REQUEST SHALL BE TRANSMITTED TO THE PRIOR AND PRIORY, NOW IN COUNCIL, AND AN ANSWER RETURNED. (Captain of the Outposts closes door and returns to his station in Chapel and addresses the Prior:) EMINENT PRIOR, (Captain of the Outposts salutes Prior with sword who returns hand salute) THE ALARM WAS CAUSED BY A WORTHY KNIGHT OF THE MEDITERRANEAN PASS WHO HUMBLY CRAVES ADMISSION TO THIS PRIORY.

PRIOR:HAS HE ANSWERED THE NECESSARY QUESTIONS?

CAPTAIN OF THE OUTPOSTS:HE HAS AND HAS GIVEN ME THE SIGN, PASSWORD, AND GRAND WORD OF THE MEDITERRANEAN PASS.

PRIOR: ADMIT HIM.

CAPTAIN OF THE OUTPOSTS:(Captain of the Outpost goes to door, opens it.) YOU HAVE PERMISSION FROM THE PRIOR TO ENTER. (Before entering, the Marshal and Candidate return swords to scabbard. Captain of the Outposts stands aside to permit Marshal and Candidate to enter and after they pass into Chapel, closes door, then returns to station, returns sword and is seated. Marshal and Candidate enter from West, Candidate following Marshal and under his direction. They pass directly to First Banner.)

FIRST BANNER GUARD:(First Banner Guard challenges with sword at "On Guard.") HALT! WHO COMES THERE? (Marshal and Candidate stop in position to leave Candidate a clear view of the Banner.)

MARSHAL:A FRIEND.

FIRST BANNER GUARD:ADVANCE AND GIVE THE PASS-WORD.

MARSHAL:(Marshal steps forward one (l) step and in a low tone repeats password to First Banner Guard:) BIRTH. (Marshal returns to position.)

FIRST BANNER GUARD:(First Banner Guard returns to carry swords.) YOU HAVE PERMISSION TO PASS. (First Banner Guard remains standing at station with sword at carry. Marshal and Candidate approach the Second Banner.)

SECOND BANNER GUARD:(Second Banner Guard challenges with sword at "On Guard.") HALT! WHO COMES THERE? (Marshal and Candidate stop in position to leave Candidate a clear view of the Banner.)

MARSHAL:A FRIEND.


SECOND BANNER GUARD:ADVANCE AND GIVE THE PASS-WORD.

MARSHAL:(Marshal steps forward one (1) step and in a low tone repeats password to Second Banner Guard:) LIFE. (Marshal returns to position.)

SECOND BANNER GUARD:(Second Banner Guard returns to carry swords.) YOU HAVE PERMISSION TO PASS. (Second Banner Guard remains standing at station with sword at carry. Marshal and Candidate approach the Third Banner.)

THIRD BANNER GUARD:(Third Banner Guard challenges with sword at "On Guard.") HALT! WHO COMES THERE? (Marshal and Candidate stop in position to leave Candidate a clear view of the Banner.)

MARSHAL:A FRIEND.

THIRD BANNER GUARD:ADVANCE AND GIVE THE PASS-WORD.

MARSHAL:(Marshal steps forward one (1) step and in a low tone repeats password to Third Banner Guard:) DEATH. (Marshal returns to position.)

THIRD BANNER GUARD:(Third Banner Guard returns to carry sword) YOU HAVE PERMISSION TO PASS. (Third Banner Guard remains standing at station with sword at carry. Marshal and Candidate approach the Fourth Banner.)

FOURTH BANNER GUARD:(Fourth Banner Guard challenges with sword at "on guard") HALT! WHO COMES THERE? (Marshal and Candidate stop in position to leave Candidate a clear view of the Banner.)

MARSHAL:A FRIEND.

FOURTH BANNER GUARD:ADVANCE AND GIVE THE PASS-WORD.

MARSHAL:(Marshal steps forward one (1) step and in a low tone repeats password to Fourth Banner Guard:) RESURRECTION. (Marshal returns to position.)

FOURTH BANNER GUARD:(Fourth Banner Guard returns to carry sword.) YOU HAVE PERMISSION TO PASS. (Fourth Banner Guard remains standing at station with sword at carry. Marshal and Candidate approach the Fifth Banner.)

FIFTH BANNER GUARD:(Fifth Banner Guard challenges with sword at "On Guard.") HALT! WHO COMES THERE? (Marshal and Candidate stop in position to leave Candidate a clear view of the Banner.)

MARSHAL:A FRIEND.

FIFTH BANNER GUARD:ADVANCE AND GIVE THE PASS-WORD.

MARSHAL:(Marshal steps forward one (1) step and in a low tone repeats password to Fifth Banner Guard:) ASCENSION. (Marshal returns to position.)

FIFTH BANNER GUARD:(Fifth Banner Guard returns to carry swords.) YOU HAVE PERMISSION TO PASS. (Fifth Banner Guard remains standing at station with sword at carry. After leaving the Fifth Banner, the Marshal and Candidate move around the Chapel to West side of Altar, stop and face Prior, Marshal on Candidates right. After the Marshal and Candidate face Prior, Banner Guards return swords and are then seated simultaneously.)

PRIOR:(After guards are seated.) BROTHER MARSHAL, WHAT STRANGE BROTHER HAVE YOU IN CHARGE?

MARSHAL:(Giving Candidate's Full Name) ________, A KNIGHT OF ST. PAUL OR THE MEDITERRANEAN PASS, WISHES TO JOIN OUR RANKS AND FIGHT UNDER OUR BANNER.

PRIOR:STRANGER, WHAT PROOF HAVE YOU TO SHOW US THAT YOU ARE WHAT YOU PROFESS?

CANDIDATE:(Candidate prompted by Marshal, bows and points to the Cross on his Mantle.) I HAVE THIS.

PRIOR:MY BROTHER, IS IT STILL YOUR WISH TO JOIN OUR ORDER, AND FIGHT AGAINST ALL OPPOSERS OF THE GOSPEL OF OUR LORD AND SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST?

CANDIDATE:IT IS.

PRIOR:MY BROTHER, THE REQUEST YOU MAKE HAS BEEN DENIED TO MANY, BECAUSE THEY WERE DEEMED UNWORTHY OF THIS ORDER. BUT, CONFIDING IN YOUR PROBITY AND WORTH, WE WILL GRANT YOUR REQUEST, HOPING YOU WILL DEVOTE YOURSELF WITH ZEAL AND FORTITUDE TO THOSE NOBLE PRINCIPLES OF OUR ORDER, FAITH, HOPE, AND CHARITY. HAVE YOU ANY OBJECTION TO CONFORMING TO OUR RULES AND REGULATIONS AND TO WALKING IN STRICT ACCORDANCE THEREWITH?

CANDIDATE:I HAVE NONE.

PRIOR:(Prior rises in station and moves to East side of Altar, facing Candidate. All Knights in cast rise simultaneously with Prior, without order, and remain standing for obligation. Do not uncover or cross arms.) YOU WILL DRAW YOUR SWORD, (Candidate draws sword as instructed and proceeds as directed by Prior. Candidate is assisted by Marshal.) DEPOSIT IT ON THE ALTAR, KNEEL ON YOUR RIGHT KNEE, YOUR RIGHT HAND RESTING ON THE NEW TESTAMENT, CROSS AND SWORD. (Done.)

YOU WILL SAY I, PRONOUNCE YOUR NAME, AND REPEAT AFTER ME:

I,....., OF MY OWN FREE WILL AND ACCORD, IN THE PRESENCE OF ALMIGHTY GOD AND THESE WITNESSES, DO HEREBY AND HEREON, SOLEMNLY PROMISE AND VOW, THAT I WILL FOREVER KEEP AND CONCEAL THE SECRETS BELONGING TO THE ORDER OF MALTA; THAT I WILL NOT COMMUNICATE THEM TO ANY ONE EXCEPT

TO A TRUE AND LAWFUL KNIGHT OF THE ORDER, AND NOT UNTO HIM UNTIL AFTER DUE TRIAL, STRICT EXAMINATION,


OR LAWFUL INFORMATION, I SHALL HAVE FOUND HIM LAWFULLY ENTITLED TO THE SAME, OR WITHIN THE BODY OF A REGULAR AND DULY CONSTITUTED PRIORY OF KNIGHTS OF MALTA.

1THAT I WILL CONFORM TO THE STATUTES, RULES, AND REGULATIONS OF THE ORDER AND LIVE IN STRICT ACCORDANCE THEREWITH, UNDER THE PENALTY OF FORFEITING MY MEMBERSHIP AND OF BEING DESPISED AND CAST OUT FROM ALL WHO LOVE HONOR AND INTEGRITY. SO HELP ME GOD AND KEEP ME STEADFAST. (After word "Steadfast," all Knights in cast except Prior and Marshal, simultaneously, without order, resume seats at stations. Prior takes up sword from Altar [Not Candidate's sword] and with it, gently strikes the Candidate three blows on the right shoulder. Prior rests sword on Candidate's shoulder and says.) LET THIS TEACH YOU TO SUFFER PATIENTLY FOR CHRIST. (Prior takes sword from Candidate's shoulder and lays the sword on the Altar, then lightly strikes Candidate with open palm of right hand on Candidate's left cheek.) AWAKE! BE NOT ASLEEP TO YOUR DUTY, BUT WATCHFUL IN THE FAITH OF JESUS CHRIST, AND BE SUBMISSIVE TO THE GREATEST AFFRONT WHICH MAY COME TO YOU IN HIS CAUSE, EVER HAVING THE PEACE OF THE LORD WITH YOU. LET THIS BLOW, THE ONLY INDIGNITY YOU WILL HAVE TO UNDERGO, REMIND YOU THAT WHEN HE WAS REVILED, HE REVILED NOT AGAIN, AND THAT WHEN HE WAS BEFORE CAIAPHAS, THE HIGH PRIEST, SOME OF THOSE WHO STOOD BY SMOTE HIM WITH THE PALMS OF THEIR HANDS. (Matthew 26:67. King James Version.)

BY VIRTUE OF THE POWER AND AUTHORITY IN ME VESTED BY THE GRAND COMMANDERY OF THE STATE OF TEXAS, AND IN THE NAME OF ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST,

THE PATRON SAINT OF THE ORDER, I MAKE YOU (Giving Candidate's Full Name) ______, A KNIGHT HOSPITALER OF ST. JOHN OF JERUSALEM, PALESTINE, RHODES, AND MALTA. BE ZEALOUS AND VIGILANT FOR THE HONOR OF KNIGHTHOOD.


(Prior takes Candidate by right hand, but restrains him from rising, holding hand steadily. Note: If physical size prevents Prior from reaching over Altar to take Candidate's hand, Prior may go around North side of Altar to reach Candidate.) WE ADMIT YOU INTO OUR ORDER AND RAISE YOU BY A NEW NAME. (while saying:) ARISE (Prior raises Candidate with right hand) KNIGHT OF MALTA!

TAKE UP YOUR SWORD (Marshal assists Candidate to take up sword from Altar and follow remainder of instructions of Prior) AND WIPE IT CAREFULLY ON YOUR SLEEVE AND RETURN IT TO ITS SCABBARD. AS YOU HAVE WIPED AWAY THE SPOTS WHICH MIGHT DIM THE LUSTRE OF THAT BLADE, SO LET YOUR FUTURE LIFE BE PURE AND UNDEFILED. ITS BRIGHTNESS IS AN EMBLEM OF FAITH; LET IT NEVER BE TARNISHED. WIELD IT VIRTUOUSLY. FEAR NOT TO ENCOUNTER DANGERS AND PERILS FOR THE SAKE OF CHRIST. MAINTAIN JUSTICE, PROTECT AND RELIEVE POOR WIDOWS AND FRIENDLESS ORPHANS, FOR THIS IS THE TRUE FAITH AND JUSTIFICATION OF THE CHRISTIAN KNIGHT. HIS ELECTION, VOCATION, AND SATISFACTION IS TO OFFER HIS SOUL TO GOD, AND HIS BODY TO PERILS AND DANGERS IN HIS SERVICE.

(Chaplain approaches Prior with lighted candle. Prior takes candle from Chaplain and places it in Candidate's right hand.) "THIS BURNING TAPER IS PLACED IN YOUR RIGHT HAND, THEREBY SYMBOLIZING THAT YOU SHOULD ALWAYS BE ZEALOUS, AND EVER ACTUATED BY THAT CHARITY WHICH IS THE PERFECTION OF HUMAN LIFE. IT ALSO SYMBOLICALLY ADMONISHES YOU THAT HENCEFORTH YOU SHOULD BE A SHINING LIGHT TO OTHERS BY YOUR EXEMPLARY CONDUCT. (Prior takes candle from Candidate and hands it to Chaplain, who returns it to pedestal. Marshal removes Red Cross Mantle

from Candidate and hands Mantle to Captain of the Outposts. Then Chaplain brings forward Maltese Mantle and hands it to Prior. Chaplain returns to lectern. Prior proceeds with Cross on Mantle displayed. Prior holds Mantle over left arm and points to Cross.) MY BROTHER, DO YOU BELIEVE THAT THE SAVIOR DIED ON THE CROSS FOR THE REMISSION OF SIN?


CANDIDATE:I DO.

PRIOR:THE CROSS IS ALSO THE SIGN OF OUR ORDER. WE COMMAND YOU TO WEAR IT UPON YOUR MANTLE TO DESIGNATE YOU AS A MEMBER THEREOF. (Prior moves to West side of altar and places mantle on Candidate, assisted by Marshal, and ties the same while saying:) BY THIS CORD I BIND YOU IN TOKEN OF YOUR VOW AND RECEPTION INTO THE ORDER. (Prior returns to East side of altar and continues:)

TAKE THIS MANTLE WITH THE CROSS IN THE NAME OF OUR HOLY RELIGION, AND ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST, FOR THE IMPROVEMENT OF YOUR FAITH, THE DEFENSE OF CHRISTIANITY, AND THE SERVICE OF THE POOR. FOR THIS REASON, WE PUT THE CROSS ON YOUR BREAST, THAT YOU MAY LOVE IT WITH ALL YOUR HEART, AND THAT WITH YOUR RIGHT HAND YOU MAY BE EVER READY TO DEFEND IT.

I MUST ADMONISH YOU, MY BROTHER, SHOULD IT EVER HAPPEN, THAT IN COMBATTING THE ENEMIES OF OUR ORDER YOU SHOULD PROVE UNFAITHFUL TO YOUR VOWS, TURN YOUR BACK ON YOUR ENEMIES, AND DESERT THE STANDARD OF THE CROSS AND FLY, YOU WILL BE DEPRIVED OF THAT HOLY SIGN, ACCORDING TO THE ANCIENT STATUTES AND CUSTOMS OF OUR ORDER, BEING FALSE TO THE PROFESSIONS YOU HAVE MADE, AND YOU WILL BE CAST OUT FROM AMONG US AS AN UNWORTHY AND CORRUPT MEMBER.

(The Chaplain presents Maltese Cross to Prior, borne upon a black velvet cushion, after presenting Cross to Prior, Chaplain returns to station and

is seated. Prior moves to West side of altar and invests Candidate with Cross while saying:) I NOW INVEST YOU WITH THE CROSS, OR


JEWEL, OF THE ORDER. (Prior returns to East side of Altar and continues:) IT IS THE MALTESE CROSS. ITS EIGHT POINTS ARE SYMBOLICAL OF THE EIGHT LANGUAGES INTO WHICH THE ORDER WAS FORMERLY DIVIDED. IT HAS, HOWEVER, A HIGHER AND MORE IMPORTANT MEANING THAN THIS, FOR IT SYMBOLIZES AND REMINDS YOU OF THE EIGHT BEATITUDES RECORDED IN THE HOLY SCRIPTURES. (Prior turns toward and addresses Chaplain.) REVEREND CHAPLAIN, (Chaplain rises. All Knights in Cast simultaneously, without orders, rise with Chaplain, quietly draw swords or take up swords from Table, then come to carry swords. Chaplain bows. Prior returns bow.) YOU WILL READ A LESSON FROM THE HOLY EVANGELIST.

CHAPLAIN:(Chaplain moves to Lectern. All Knights in Cast then come to present swords as Chaplain says 'HERE' and remain at present during reading. Prior, Marshal, and Candidate cross arms across chest, right arm over left, during reading.) HERE BEGINNETH THE THIRD VERSE OF THE FIFTH CHAPTER OF THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO ST. MATTHEW. (Verses 3-11, Inclusive.)

BLESSED ARE THE POOR IN SPIRIT: FOR THEIR'S IS THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN.

1BLESSED ARE THEY THAT MOURN: FOR THEY SHALL BE COMFORTED.

BLESSED ARE THE MEEK: FOR THEY SHALL INHERIT THE EARTH.

BLESSED ARE THEY WHICH DO HUNGER AND THIRST AFTER RIGHTEOUSNESS FOR THEY SHALL BE FILLED.

BLESSED ARE THE MERCIFUL: FOR THEY SHALL OBTAIN MERCY.

BLESSED ARE THE PURE IN HEART: FOR THEY SHALL SEE GOD.


BLESSED ARE THE PEACEMAKERS: FOR THEY SHALL BE CALLED THE CHILDREN OF GOD.

BLESSED ARE THEY WHICH ARE PERSECUTED FOR RIGHTEOUSNESS SAKE: FOR THEIR'S IS THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN.

BLESSED ARE YE, WHEN MEN SHALL REVILE YOU, AND PERSECUTE YOU, SHALL SAY ALL MANNER OF EVIL AGAINST YOU FALSELY, FOR MY SAKE.

HERE ENDETH THE FIRST LESSON. (Simultaneously without orders, all Knights in cast come to carry swords except the Prior, Marshal and Candidate who uncross arms. Chaplain bows to Prior, who returns bow, and then faces Candidate. Knights in cast then quietly return swords to scabbards or to places on Table and are seated simultaneously with Chaplain.)

PRIOR:MY BROTHER, THESE VIRTUES YOU SHOULD CHERISH IN YOUR HEART FOR THE CONSOLATION AND PRESERVATION OF YOUR SOUL. THEREFORE, THAT YOU MAY HAVE THIS PRECIOUS SYMBOL ALWAYS BEFORE YOUR EYES, YOU WILL WEAR IT ON YOUR BREAST NEAR YOUR HEART, AND NEVER DESERT IT OR LAY IT ASIDE. (Prior turns toward and addresses Chaplain:) REVEREND CHAPLAIN, (Chaplain rises. All Knights in cast simultaneously, without orders, rise with Chaplain and quietly draws swords or takes up swords from the Table, and come to carry swords. Chaplain bows. Prior returns bow.) YOU WILL READ ANOTHER LESSON FROM THE HOLY EVANGELIST.

CHAPLAIN:(Chaplain moves to lectern. All Knights in cast then come to present swords as Chaplain says 'HERE,' and remain at "present" during reading.

Prior, Marshal and Candidate cross arms across chest, right arm over left, during reading.) HERE BEGINNETH THE TWENTY-FOURTH VERSE OF THE TWENTIETH CHAPTER OF THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO ST. JOHN. (Verses 24-29, Inclusive.)


"BUT THOMAS, ONE OF THE TWELVE, CALLED DIDYMUS WAS NOT WITH THEM WHEN JESUS CAME. THE OTHER DISCIPLES THEREFORE SAID UNTO HIM. WE HAVE SEEN THE LORD. BUT HE SAID UNTO THEM, EXCEPT I SHALL SEE IN HIS HANDS THE PRINT OF THE NAILS, AND PUT MY FINGER INTO THE PRINT OF THE NAILS, AND THRUST MY HAND INTO HIS SIDE, I WILL NOT BELIEVE. AND AFTER EIGHT DAYS AGAIN HIS DISCIPLES WERE WITHIN, AND THOMAS WITH THEM: THEN CAME JESUS, THE DOORS BEING SHUT, AND STOOD IN THE MIDST, AND SAID, PEACE BE UNTO YOU. THEN SAITH HE TO THOMAS REACH HITHER THY FINGER, AND BEHOLD MY HANDS; AND REACH HITHER THY HAND, AND THRUST IT INTO MY SIDE: AND BE NOT FAITHLESS, BUT BELIEVING. AND THOMAS ANSWERED AND SAID UNTO HIM. MY LORD AND MY GOD.

JESUS SAITH UNTO HIM, THOMAS BECAUSE THOU HAST SEEN ME, THOU HAST BELIEVED: BLESSED ARE THEY THAT HAVE NOT SEEN, AND YET HAVE BELIEVED."

HERE ENDETH THE SECOND LESSON. (Simultaneously without orders, all Knights in cast come to carry swords except the Prior, Marshal and Candidate who uncross arms. Chaplain bows to Prior, who returns bow, and then faces Candidate. Knights in cast then quietly return swords to scabbards or to places on Table and are seated simultaneously with Chaplain.)

PRIOR:I WILL NOW INVEST YOU WITH THE SIGN, GRIP, AND WORD OF THE ORDER. (Marshal assists Candidate in carrying out instructions of Prior, communicating sign, grip, and words.)

THE SIGN AND GRIP: ONE SAYS, "REACH HITHER THY FINGER AND FEEL THE PRINT OF THE NAILS," THEY

JOIN RIGHT HANDS AND FORCE THE FIRST FINGER INTO THE CENTER OF THE PALM.


THEN HE SAYS, "REACH HITHER THY HAND AND THRUST IT INTO MY SIDE," EACH EXTENDS HIS LEFT HAND AND PRESSES HIS FINGERS INTO THE LEFT SIDE OF THE OTHER, STILL HOLDING ON BY THE GRIP; WITH ARMS THUS CROSSED THEY GIVE THE WORD. ONE SAYS, "MY LORD;" THE OTHER RESPONDS "AND MY GOD." (Marshal and Candidate drop hands.) THE NAME OF THIS SIGN AND GRIP IS "INFIDELITAS" UNBELIEF. IT TEACHES US THAT THERE IS AN UNBELIEF WHICH TRANSCENDS A RATIONAL SKEPTICISM; THAT WE SHOULD POSSESS A POWER OF FAITH TO RECEIVE DIVINE TRUTH, EVEN THOUGH UNACCOMPANIED BY PHYSICAL EVIDENCE, AND THUS ENTITLE US TO THAT COMMENDATION OF OUR DIVINE TEACHER.

"BLESSED ARE THEY THAT HAVE NOT SEEN, AND YET HAVE BELIEVED."

I WILL NOW INVEST YOU WITH THE GRAND HAILING SIGN AND GRAND WORD OF A KNIGHT OF MALTA; ALSO THE GRAND TOKEN AND WORD OF THE ORDER.

(Marshal assists Candidate to give sign and word, as directed by Prior.)THE GRAND HAILING SIGN:PLACE BOTH HANDS TO THE MOUTH, AS IF SPEAKING THROUGH A TRUMPET, RIGHT HAND IN FRONT OF THE LEFT.

THE GRAND WORD OF A KNIGHT OF MALTA: ONE SAYS: "DO YOU COME IN PEACE?"ANSWER: "WE COME IN PEACE."RESPONSE: "THEN COME IN PEACE."

THE GRAND TOKEN AND WORD:

DRAW SWORDS,


(As instructed by Prior, Marshal and Candidate draw swords and carry out instructions.) AND COME TO A CARRY. ADVANCE LEFT FEET AND PLACE THEM BESIDE EACH OTHER. INTERLACE FINGERS OF LEFT HAND, MOVING ARMS BACKWARD AND FORWARD AS IF ROWING A BOAT; THE SWORDS HELD UPWARD IN THE RIGHT HANDS, SAYING TOGETHER THE GRAND WORD:"KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS." (Without orders, Marshal and Candidate assisted by Marshal return swords to scabbards and face Prior.)

THE PASS-WORDS OF THE ORDER ARE, BIRTH, LIFE, DEATH, RESURRECTION, AND ASCENSION. THESE WORDS ARE USED IN COMMEMORATION OF THE BIRTH, LIFE, DEATH, RESURRECTION, AND ASCENSION OF OUR SAVIOR.

(Prior turns toward and addresses Chaplain.) REVEREND CHAPLAIN, (Chaplain rises. All Knights in cast simultaneously, without orders, rise with Chaplain and quietly draws swords or takes up swords from the Tables, and come to carry swords. Chaplain bows. Prior returns bow.) YOU WILL READ ANOTHER LESSON FROM THE HOLY EVANGELIST.

CHAPLAIN:(All Knights in cast come to present swords as Chaplain says 'HERE,' and remain at present during reading. Prior, Marshal and Candidate cross arms across chest, right over left, during reading). HERE BEGINNETH THE NINETEENTH VERSE OF THE NINETEENTH CHAPTER OF THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO ST. JOHN. (Verse 19 only.)

"AND PILATE WROTE A TITLE, AND PUT IT ON THE CROSS AND THE WRITING WAS "JESUS OF NAZARETH, THE KING OF THE JEWS."

HERE ENDETH THE THIRD LESSON. (Simultaneously without orders, all Knights in cast come to carry swords except the Prior, Marshal and Candidate who uncross arms. Chaplain bows to Prior, who returns bow, and then faces Candidate. Knights in cast then return swords quietly to scabbards or to places on Table and are seated simultaneously with Chaplain.)


PRIOR:THE SACRED WORD OF THE ORDER IS "INRI." IT IS FORMED OF THE INITIALS OF THE FOUR LATIN WORDS WHICH WERE SET UP OVER THE HEAD OF OUR BLESSED SAVIOR UPON THE CROSS. (Prior will point out explanation on crucifix while saying:) "IESUS NAZARENUS REX IUDAEORUM." "JESUS OF NAZARETH, THE KING OF THE JEWS."

YOU WILL NOW GIVE YOUR ATTENTION TO THE HISTORICAL AND EXPLANATORY LECTURE CONNECTED WITH THIS ORDER, UNDER THE DIRECTION OF THE MARSHAL. (Prior addresses Marshal:) KNIGHT MARSHAL, (Marshal draws sword and salutes Prior who returns hand salute) YOU WILL INSTRUCT THE NEWLY MADE KNIGHT OF MALTA. (Prior then returns to station at the Table in the East and is seated before Marshal proceeds with lecture.)

MARSHAL:MY BROTHER, I WILL NOW DIRECT YOUR ATTENTION TO A BRIEF RESUME OF THE HISTORY OF THIS ANCIENT CHIVALRIC ORDER, AND ITS BEARING UPON THE PRESENT CEREMONIES. WHILE DOING SO WE WILL PASS BY THE DIFFERENT CEREMONIAL BANNERS, AND THEIR SIGNIFICANCE IN CONNECTION WITH THE HISTORY AND TRADITIONS OF THE ORDER WILL BE EXPLAINED TO YOU." (First through Fifth ceremonial Banner Guards rise simultaneously, without orders, draw swords, and come to carry swords at stations. Then the Marshal and Candidate proceed to FIRST BANNER, "Birth.")

FIRST BANNER GUARD:(First Banner Guard salutes Marshal, who returns salute.) THIS ORDER WAS FOUNDED AT JERUSALEM IN THE YEAR OF

OUR LORD 1099, BY THE ASSOCIATION OF A NUMBER OF PIOUS KNIGHTS WITH THE FRATRES OF ST. JOHN'S HOSPITAL, AN ESTABLISHMENT PREVIOUSLY FORMED FOR THE RELIEF OF PILGRIMS WHO HAD COME TO WORSHIP AT THE HOLY SEPULCHRE.


(Banner Guard will point with sword to name and date while saying, "The name and date, etc.") THE NAME AND DATE UPON THE WHITE BANNER, BIRTH, PALESTINE, 1099, COMMEMORATES THE COUNTRY OF OUR SAVIOR'S NATIVITY; THE PLACE WHERE THE ORDER WAS FOUNDED, AND THE FIRST EPOCH IN ITS HISTORY. (Banner Guard salutes Marshal, who returns salute. Banner Guard remains in station at carry swords. Marshal and Candidate pass to SECOND BANNER, "Life.")

SECOND BANNER GUARD:(Second Banner Guard salutes Marshal, who returns salute.) AFTER A TROUBLED EXISTENCE OF TWO HUNDRED YEARS IN THE HOLY LAND, AND BEING DEPRIVED BY THE WARS RAGING IN EUROPE OF NEEDED AND LOOKED FOR ASSISTANCE, THE ORDER WAS COMPELLED TO EVACUATE PALESTINE, AND IN 1287 IT ESTABLISHED ITSELF ON THE ISLAND OF CYPRUS, AND SETTLED IN LIMISSO. (Banner Guard will point with sword to name and date while saying, "The name and date, etc.") THE NAME AND DATE UPON THE RED BANNER, LIFE, CYPRUS, 1287 COMMEMORATES THE SECOND PLACE OF THEIR SOJOURNING, AND THE SECOND EPOCH IN THEIR HISTORY. (Banner Guard salutes Marshal, who returns salute. Banner Guard remains in station at carry swords. Marshal and Candidate pass to THIRD BANNER, "Death.")

THIRD BANNER GUARD:(Third Banner Guard salutes Marshal, who returns salute.) ON THE FIFTH OF AUGUST, 1310, THE ISLAND OF RHODES BECAME THE PROPERTY OF THE ORDER BY RIGHT OF CONQUEST FROM THE SARACENS. IN 1312 THE ORDER WAS STRENGTHENED IN NUMBERS AND ENRICHED BY THE SEQUESTERED PROPERTY OF THE KNIGHTS

TEMPLAR, WHO WERE IN THAT YEAR SUPPRESSED BY THE CRUELTY AND AVARICE OF POPE CLEMENT THE FIFTH AND PHILLIP THE FAIR, KING OF FRANCE. THIS WAS THE FIRST DIRECT APPROACH TO THAT UNION BETWEEN THE TWO ORDERS, WHICH WAS SUBSEQUENTLY FORMALLY DECREED BY THE POPE.


FROM THIS PERIOD THEY WERE KNOWN AS THE KNIGHTS OF RHODES. THE REMAINS OF THE FORTIFICATIONS ERECTED THERE BY THE KNIGHTS, STILL BEAR TESTIMONY OF THEIR ENGINEERING SKILL AND ABILITY. IN 1522 THE ISLAND OF RHODES WAS BESIEGED BY THE TURKS UNDER THE EMPEROR SOLYMAN THE SECOND, AND AFTER A MEMORABLE DEFENSE, THEIR FORTIFICATIONS BEING REDUCED TO RUINS, SCARCELY ONE STONE REMAINING STANDING UPON ANOTHER, THEY WERE COMPELLED TO SURRENDER AND EVACUATE THE ISLAND, AFTER AN OCCUPANCY OF MORE THAN TWO HUNDRED YEARS. SO DEEPLY HAD THEIR DESPERATE PROWESS EXCITED THE ADMIRATION OF THEIR FOES, AND SO FIRMLY IMPLANTED WERE THE CHIVALRIC IDEAS OF THE TIME, EVEN IN THE BOSOM OF THE INFIDELS, THAT THE KNIGHTS WERE ALLOWED TO WITHDRAW UNMOLESTED, AND WITH THE HONORS OF WAR. (Banner Guard will point with sword to name and date while saying, "The name and date, etc.") THE NAME AND DATE UPON THE BLACK BANNER, DEATH, RHODES, 1310, COMMEMORATES THE THIRD PLACE OF THE SOJOURNING OF THESE VALIANT KNIGHTS, AND THE THIRD EPOCH IN THEIR HISTORY. (Banner Guard salutes Marshal, who returns salute. Banner Guard remains in station at carry swords, Marshal and Candidate pass to FOURTH BANNER, "Resurrection.")

FOURTH BANNER GUARD:(Fourth Banner Guard salutes Marshal, who returns salute.) DURING THE PERIOD FROM 1523 TO 1530 THE ORDER CEASED TO EXIST AS A SOVEREIGN POWER, AND THE REMNANTS OF IT WANDERED FROM PLACE TO PLACE WITHOUT A HOME. DURING THIS MOST DEPRESSING PERIOD IN

THEIR HISTORY, THEY WENT FIRST TO CASTRO IN THE ISLAND OF CANDIA, THENCE SUCCESSIVELY TO VENICE, VITURBO, VILLA FRANCA, SYRACUSE, AND MESSINA. (Banner Guard will point with sword to name and date while saying, "The name and date, etc.") THE NAME AND DATE OF


THE PURPLE BANNER, RESURRECTION, CANDIA, 1523, COMMEMORATES THIS THE FOURTH MEMORABLE PERIOD IN THE HISTORY OF THE ORDER. (Banner Guard salutes Marshal, who returns salute. Banner Guard remains in station at carry swords. Marshal and Candidate pass to FIFTH BANNER, "Ascension.")

FIFTH BANNER GUARD:(Fifth Banner Guard salutes Marshal, who returns salute.) ON THE 24TH OF MARCH, 1530, THE EMPEROR, CHARLES THE FIFTH, CEDED THE ISLAND OF MALTA TO THE ORDER, UPON CONDITION THAT THEY WOULD DEFEND IT AND REPRESS THE RAVAGES OF THE MOORISH ROVERS, WHO AT THAT TIME INFESTED THE SOUTHERN PORTS OF THE MEDITERRANEAN SEA. ACCORDINGLY, UNDER L'ISLE ADAM, THE THEN GRANDMASTER---ONE OF THE BRIGHTEST NAMES IN THE HISTORY OF THE ORDER, THEY TOOK POSSESSION OF THE ISLAND AND THENCEFORTH ACQUIRED THE ADDITIONAL TITLE OF KNIGHTS OF MALTA. (Banner Guard will point with sword to name and date while saying, "The name and date, etc.") THE NAME AND DATE ON THE YELLOW BANNER, ASCENSION, MALTA, 1530, COMMEMORATES THIS THE FIFTH MEMORABLE PERIOD IN THE HISTORY OF THE ORDER. (Banner Guard salutes Marshal, who returns salute. Banner Guard remains in station at carry swords. Marshal conducts Candidate to West side of Altar facing East and returns sword. The (5) Ceremonial Banner Guards return swords simultaneously with Marshal, without orders, and are seated.)

MARSHAL:(Marshal remaining west of Altar.) THE LEGEND CONNECTED WITH THE APPROACH OF THE KNIGHTS TO THEIR FINAL AND MOST RENOWNED ABIDING PLACE HAS GIVEN RISE TO THE DISTINGUISHING SIGN AND WORD OF THE

ORDER. THE TRADITION RUNS, THAT ON COMING TO TAKE POSSESSION OF THE ISLAND, THE KNIGHTS APPROACHED THE SHORE IN THEIR GALLEYS, TWO MEN TO AN OAR, THE OARS IN THEIR LEFT HANDS


AND THEIR SWORDS IN THEIR RIGHT HANDS, SINGING A PSALM AS THEY ROWED, IN THESE WORDS: "REX REGUM ET DOMINUS DOMINORUM" (ENGLISH, KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS) THE ISLANDERS SEEING THEM APPROACH IN THIS WARLIKE MANNER, HAILED THEM THROUGH A SPEAKING TRUMPET, SAYING IN THE ARABIC LANGUAGE "AH TIE TOOM BIS SAH LAHM?" (DO YOU COME IN PEACE?) TO WHICH THE KNIGHTS RESPONDED IN THE SAME TONGUE, "AH TIE NAH BIS SAH LAHM." (WE COME IN PEACE.) THEN THE ISLANDERS RESPONDED, "FA TWO BIS SAH LAHM," (THEN COME IN PEACE). IT IS WORTHY OF NOTE THAT THESE WORDS, OR SUBSTANTIALLY THE SAME, ARE THE COMMON FORM OF SALUTATION BETWEEN AN ARAB AND A STRANGER AT THE PRESENT DAY.

WE HOLD THAT THE ORDER NOW CONFERRED UPON YOU HAS DIRECT CONNECTION WITH THE RELIGIOUS BRANCHES OF THE OLD ORDER. IT PRESERVES THE MEMORY OF THE UNION THAT TOOK PLACE BETWEEN THE PERSECUTED TEMPLARS AND THE KNIGHTS OF ST. JOHN, AND WHICH WAS CONTINUED IN SCOTLAND, WHERE THE COMBINED ORDERS HELD THEIR LANDS IN COMMON UP TO THE TIME OF THE DISPERSION OF THE RELIGIOUS HOUSES AT THE REFORMATION. WE, AS MASONS, PERPETUATE CULTIVATE AND PRACTICE THE CHRISTIAN AND CHIVALRIC PRINCIPLES OF THE ANCIENT ORDER, IN CONNECTION WITH THAT OF THE TEMPLARS AS A PEACEFUL CHRISTIAN SOCIETY, TO WHICH WE NOW WELCOME YOU AS A BROTHER.

THE MEDITERRANEAN PASS, WHICH YOU RECEIVED IN THE INTRODUCTORY DEGREE OF KNIGHTS OF ST. PAUL,

TRADITION INFORMS US, WAS INSTITUTED AT AN EARLY PERIOD OF THE ORDER TO ENABLE PILGRIMS ON THEIR WAY TO THE HOLY LAND


TO RECOGNIZE EACH OTHER, AND AS A PROTECTION AGAINST THE MOORISH ROVERS WHO INFESTED THE MEDITERRANEAN SEA AND PALESTINE. ACCORDING TO THE AMERICAN RITUAL SEVEN OFFICERS COMPOSE A PRIORY. THEY ARE THE PRIOR, LIEUTENANT COMMANDER, CAPTAIN GENERAL, CHAPLAIN, MARSHAL, CAPTAIN OF THE OUTPOSTS, AND GUARD. THE FIRST FIVE OF THESE OFFICERS ARE SUPPOSED TO BE SEATED AT THE TABLE IN THE EAST, ON WHICH IS REPRESENTED THE UPPER AND TRANSVERSE LIMBS OF A LATIN CROSS. THEIR NAKED SWORDS, WHEN DEPOSITED ON THE TABLE ALL POINT TO ONE SPOT -THE CENTER- WHERE THE HEART OF OUR SAVIOR RESTED WHEN HE SUFFERED UPON THE CROSS. THIS IS SYMBOLIC IN A DEGREE OF THE CHRISTIAN CHARACTER OF THE ORDER. THE NUMBER 5 ALSO SYMBOLICALLY REMINDS US OF THE PASSION OF OUR BLESSED SAVIOR, AND OF HIS FIVE WOUNDS UPON THE CROSS.

THE NUMBER IS AGAIN REPEATED IN THE ROUNDS OF THE LADDER, DEPICTED IN ONE OF THE QUARTERS OF THE CIRCLE UPON THE CROSS ON THE TABLE IN THE WEST. (Marshal draws sword and turns Candidate toward the West and places him sufficiently close to view Table. )

A KNIGHT AT THE TABLE IN THE WEST:(All Knights at Table in the West remain seated except the Knight who is to explain the Table in the West, who rises, draws his sword and comes to carry, salutes Marshal, who returns salute. The Knight will point with sword to each of the illustrations. Cover of Table in the West will be displayed, if required during explanation, by lifting it off Table or by lifting ends of Table.) THERE ARE EIGHT KNIGHTS SEATED AT THE TABLE IN THE WEST. ACCORDING TO THE

EUROPEAN CEREMONIAL, THESE KNIGHTS ARE OFFICERS OF THE PRIORY. THEY REPRESENT THE EIGHT LANGUAGES INTO WHICH THE ORDER WAS FORMERLY DIVIDED, WHICH WERE: PROVENCE, AUVERGNE, FRANCE, ITALY, ARAGON, GERMANY, CASTILE, ANGLO-BAVARIA.


THE TABLE AT WHICH THESE KNIGHTS ARE SEATED HAS DEPICTED UPON IT A LARGE MALTESE CROSS, ON THE CENTER OF WHICH IS A CIRCLE, DIVIDED INTO FOUR EQUAL QUARTERINGS BY TWO TRANSVERSE BARS CROSSING EACH OTHER AT RIGHT ANGLES IN THE CENTER.

EACH OF THE FOUR QUARTERS OF THE CIRCLE HAS A FIGURE DEPICTED UPON IT: (The Knight at the Table in the West will point with sword to each of the Illustrations.)

A SHIP OR ANCIENT GALLEY.

A LADDER, WITH FIVE ROUNDS OR STEPS, WITH THE LETTERS B.L.D.R.A., ONE ON EACH STEP, AND A SPEAKING TRUMPET.

A HAND AND A SERPENT.

A HUMAN SKULL, CLOVEN IN TWAIN FROM THE TOP WITH A DOUBLE-EDGED SWORD, AND A SPEAR BENEATH IT. (Knight stops pointing and returns to carry swords.)

THE GALLEY REMINDS US OF THE MARITIME CHARACTER OF THE ANCIENT ORDER, BOTH IN WAR AND COMMERCE.

THE LETTERS ON THE STEPS OF THE LADDER CORRESPOND WITH THOSE ON THE FIVE CEREMONIAL BANNERS, AND ARE THE INITIAL LETTERS OF THE PASS-WORDS ON THOSE BANNERS.

THE HAND AND THE SERPENT REMINDS US OF THE HISTORY OF ST. PAUL, IN CONNECTION WITH THE ISLAND OF MALTA.

THE HUMAN SKULL, CLOVEN BY THE TWO-EDGED SWORD,


REMINDS US OF THE PENALTY THAT WAS INFLICTED UPON TRAITORS TO THE ORDER IN ANCIENT TIMES. THE SPEAR AGAIN REMINDS US OF THE PASSION OF OUR BLESSED SAVIOR, FOR WITH SUCH AN INSTRUMENT THEY PIERCED HIS SIDE. (Knight at table in the West salutes Marshal, who returns salute. Knight at table then returns sword and is seated.)

MARSHAL:(Marshal and candidate return to immediately West of Altar, and face East.) I WILL NOW DIRECT YOUR ATTENTION TO THE GRAND BANNERS OF THE ORDER, OF WHICH THERE ARE TWO: (Marshal points with sword to Banner of St. John) THE BANNER OF ST. JOHN, (Marshal points with sword to Maltese Banner) AND THAT OF MALTA. (Marshal comes to carry sword. Guards at St. John Banner and Maltaese Banner rise, draw swords and come to carry swords.)

ST. JOHN BANNER GUARD:(St. John Banner Guard salutes Marshal, who returns salute and Banner Guard proceeds with explanation. Banner Guard will point with sword to parts of Banner during explanation.) THE BANNER OF ST. JOHN IS RED, HAVING PAINTED UPON IT A WHITE GREEK CROSS, THE BARS OF THE CROSS EXTENDING TO THE EDGE OF THE BANNER, AND ON THE CENTER OF THE CROSS A "PASCHAL LAMB". THE LETTERS F.E.R.T. ARE ALSO ON THE BANNER, ONE IN EACH QUARTER. THESE ARE THE INITIAL LETTERS OF THE FOUR WORDS IN THE LATIN SENTENCE, "FORITUDO EJUS RHODUM TENUIT," WHICH IN ENGLISH IS "HIS COURAGE PRESERVED RHODES." ACCORDING TO A TRADITION OF THE ORDER, THESE LETTERS UPON THE BANNER HAD THEIR ORIGIN DURING THE GRAND MASTERSHIP OF VILLARET, EARLY IN THE FOURTEENTH CENTURY. IN 1315 THE TURKS

LAID SIEGE TO RHODES, THE NEW HOME OF THE ORDER, AND WERE REPULSED BY THE BRAVE CHRISTIAN KNIGHTS. AMADEUS THE FIFTH, COUNT OF SAVOY, HAVING RENDERED TIMELY AND VALUABLE ASSISTANCE TO THE BESIEGED KNIGHTS HOSPITALERS DURING


THIS ATTACK, THE GRAND MASTER, IN COMMEMORATION THEREOF, CAUSED THE LETTERS TO BE ADDED TO THE BANNER OF ST. JOHN. THE DESCENDANTS OF THE COUNT AMADEUS HAVE, SINCE THAT TIME, ALWAYS BORNE ON THEIR SHIELD A WHITE CROSS, WITH THE WORD FERT AS A DEVICE, -THE WORD BEING COMPOSED OF THE INITIAL LETTERS OF THE LATIN WORDS, AS BEFORE DESCRIBED. (Banner Guard salutes Marshal, who returns salute. Banner Guard comes to carry and remains standing until both Banners have been explained.)

MALTESE BANNER GUARD:(Maltese Banner Guard salutes Marshal, who returns salute. Banner Guard proceeds with explanation. Banner Guard will point with sword to parts of Banner during explanation.) THE MALTESE BANNER IS BLACK, HAVING UPON IT A SILVER OR WHITE MALTESE CROSS, WITH A CROSS OF ST. JOHN ON A SMALL SHIELD RESTING ON THE CENTER.AROUND THE CROSS THE LEGEND, "REX REGUM ET DOMINUS DOMINORUM." (Banner Guard salutes Marshal, who returns salute, and both come to carry swords. Marshal and Banner Guards at St. John and Maltese Banners then return swords simultaneously, without orders, and Banner Guards are seated.)

PRIOR:(Prior rises and moves to East side of Altar, then continues:) AND NOW, MY BROTHER, IN BEHALF OF THE KNIGHTS OF THIS PRIORY I BID YOU A HEARTY WELCOME TO ALL THE RIGHTS AND PRIVILEGES, EVEN TO THE DISINTERESTED FRIENDSHIP AND UNBOUNDED HOSPITALITY WHICH EVER HAS DISTINGUISHED AND WE TRUST WILL LONG CONTINUE TO ADORN AND CHARACTERIZE THESE NOBLE ORDERS. WITH THE AGE AND THE OCCASION WHICH GAVE THEM BIRTH, THEIR

ADVENTUROUS AND WARLIKE SPIRIT HAS PASSED AWAY, BUT THEIR MORAL AND BENEFICENT CHARACTER STILL REMAINS, BRIGHT IN ALL ITS PRIMITIVE BEAUTY AND LOVELINESS, TO INCITE, AS IN DAYS OF THEIR GREATEST GLORY, THAT SPIRIT OF REFINED AND MORAL CHIVALRY WHICH SHOULD


PROMPT US TO PRESS ONWARD IN THE CAUSE OF TRUTH AND JUSTICE, STIMULATING US TO EXERTION IN BEHALF OF THE DESTITUTE AND OPPRESSED, TO WIELD THE SWORD, IF NEED BE, WHEN "PURE AND UNDEFILED RELIGION" CALLS US IN HER DEFENSE, AND IN A BROTHER'S CAUSE, TO DO ALL THAT MAY BECOME MEN. THEY ALSO TEACH THE TRIUMPH OF IMMORTALITY - THAT, THOUGH DEATH HAS ITS STING, ITS INFLICTION IS BUT FOR A MOMENT; THAT THIS FRAIL ORGANIZATION, THOUGH HERE SUBJECT TO THE MANY 'ILLS THAT FLESH IS HEIR TO,' POSSESSES AN IMMORTAL SOUL WHICH SHALL SOAR TO REALMS OF ENDLESS BLISS, AND, BEYOND THE POWER OF CHANGE, TO LIVE FOREVER.

MY BROTHER, YOU WILL NOW BE SEATED. (Prior returns to station at Table in the East and is seated. Marshal conducts Candidate to seat on side lines, opposite side on which exiting column is halted. Marshal returns to station at Table in the East, draws sword, deposits it on the Table, and is seated.)

PRIORY OF KNIGHTS OF MALTA

CLOSING CEREMONIAL

PRIOR:(Prior rises and takes up his sword from the Table in the East before giving order:) BROTHER KNIGHTS, ATTENTION! (All Knights in cast rise simultaneously draw swords and come to carry, except the Knights at the Table in the East who take their swords from the table, and come to carry.) LIEUTENANT COMMANDER, WHAT IS THE LAST DUTY OF A PRIORY OF KNIGHTS OF MALTA?

LIEUTENANT COMMANDER:TO CLOSE THE PRIORY IN PEACE AND GOODWILL WITH ALL BRETHREN IN ARMS, AND IN CHRISTIAN CHARITY WITH ALL MANKIND.

PRIOR:HOW CAN WE BEST EFFECT THAT NOBLE AND CHRISTIAN PURPOSE?

LIEUTENANT COMMANDER:BY PROVING TO FRIENDS AND FOES ALIKE, OUR BELIEF IN THE BIRTH, LIFE, DEATH, RESURRECTION, AND ASCENSION OF OUR BLESSED SAVIOR.

PRIOR:WHAT ARE WE TAUGHT BY HIS BIRTH?

LIEUTENANT COMMANDER:THAT THE GREAT CAPTAIN OF OUR SALVATION WAS BORN TO REDEEM FALLEN MAN.

Revised - 04/01/97 Malta - Closing Ceremony - Page 1

PRIOR:WHAT ARE WE TAUGHT BY HIS LIFE?

LIEUTENANT COMMANDER:ALL THAT IS REQUISITE FOR US TO FOLLOW; HE BEING THE WAY, THE TRUTH, AND THE LIFE.

PRIOR:WHAT ARE WE TAUGHT BY HIS DEATH?

LIEUTENANT COMMANDER:THAT THE DEBT OF NATURE MUST BE PAID AND THE RIGOR OF THE LAW SATISFIED.

PRIOR:WHAT ARE WE TAUGHT BY HIS RESURRECTION?

LIEUTENANT COMMANDER:THAT HE, BEING THE DAY-STAR OF MERCY, HAS RISEN TO CONDUCT OUR FEET IN THE PATHS OF TRUTH AND PEACE.

PRIOR:THUS, BROTHERS IN ARMS, BY THE BIRTH, LIFE, DEATH, AND RESURRECTION OF OUR BLESSED LORD AND SAVIOR, WE ARE TAUGHT TO LIVE AND DIE AS CHRISTIANS; REMEMBERING THAT IN HIM WHO MADE HIS GLORIOUS ASCENSION INTO HEAVEN, WE HAVE A SURE AND STEADFAST MEDIATOR WITH THE FATHER, FOR HE HATH SAID, "IN MY FATHER'S HOUSE ARE MANY MANSIONS; I GO TO PREPARE A PLACE FOR YOU, THAT WHERE I AM, THERE YE MAY BE ALSO."

BROTHERS, I AM ABOUT TO CLOSE THIS PRIORY; YOU WILL ASSIST ME IN THIS CEREMONY. LET US AGAIN LAY OUR SWORDS AT THE FOOT OF THE CROSS, AND INVOKE A BLESSING BEFORE SEPARATING. (Swords of Knights at Table in the East are placed on Table as before. Banner Guards, Knights at Table in the West and Captain of the Outposts place their swords on the floor as in opening. Knights cross arms, right arm over the left, but do not uncover.)

CHAPLAIN:MERCIFUL REDEEMER OF PERISHING MANKIND, WHO HAST PROMISED THAT THOU WOULDST BE IN THE MIDST OF THOSE WHO ASSEMBLE IN THY HOLY NAME, LOOK UPON US WITH AN EYE OF TENDER COMPASSION, AND SO DIRECT US THAT ALL OUR LABORS MAY BE BEGUN, CONTINUED AND ENDED IN LOVE TO THEE, AFFECTION TO OUR BRETHREN, AND OBEDIENCE TO THE PRINCIPLES OF OUR ORDER. AMEN.

PRIOR:BROTHERS, RESUME YOUR ARMS, (All Knights resume swords and come to carry) RETURN THEM TO THEIR SCABBARDS, (All Knights return swords to scabbards) AND LET PEACE REIGN AMONG US. TOGETHER, BROTHERS.

PRIOR AND FOUR OFFICERS AT TABLE IN EAST:(Prior and Four Knights at Table in the East all give Grand Hailing Sign and say:) YOU CAME IN PEACE?

KNIGHTS:(All Giving Grand Hailing Sign.) WE CAME IN PEACE.

PRIOR AND FOUR OFFICERS AT TABLE IN EAST:(Giving Grand Hailing Sign.) THEN DEPART IN PEACE.

PRIOR:TO THE GLORY OF OUR BLESSED SAVIOR, IN THE NAME OF ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST, AND BY VIRTUE OF THE POWER IN ME VESTED, I DECLARE THIS PRIORY OF KNIGHTS OF MALTA CLOSED. CAPTAIN GENERAL, (Captain General faces Prior, Hand salutes exchanged) YOU WILL DISMISS THE GUARD.

CAPTAIN GENERAL:(Captain General faces and addresses Captain of the Outposts.) CAPTAIN OF THE OUTPOSTS, (Captain of the Outposts draws sword and salutes. Captain General returns hand salute.) YOU WILL DISMISS THE GUARD; THIS PRIORY OF KNIGHTS OF MALTA IS CLOSED.

CAPTAIN OF THE OUTPOSTS:(Captain of the Outposts goes to door, opens it, goes out and dismisses Guard, then returns to station, leaving door open, addresses Captain General.) CAPTAIN GENERAL, (Captain of the Outposts Salutes sword. Captain General returns hand salute.) THE GUARD IS INFORMED. (Captain of the Outposts returns sword.)

CAPTAIN GENERAL:(Captain General then faces and addresses Prior.) EMINENT PRIOR, (Hand salutes exchanged) YOUR ORDER HAS BEEN OBEYED.

PRIOR:(If closing procession is used the Prior will address the Captain General as follows:) CAPTAIN GENERAL, FORM THE PROCESSION FOR LEAVING THE PRIORY. (Follow tactics as appropriate under Malta Instructions at beginning of Order.)

(If closing procession is not used, Prior will say:) BROTHERS, YOU ARE DISMISSED - GO IN PEACE.

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