Reference Notes: Grand Commandery. Knights Templar of Oregon. Ten Man Opening Ceremony. With Tactics and Diagrams 2015

Transcription

1 Reference Notes: Grand Commandery Knights Templar of Oregon Ten Man Opening Ceremony With Tactics and Diagrams

2 TABLE OF CONTENTS GENERAL RULES 3 PROTOCOL 4 Grand Commandery 4 Constituent Commandery 4 TACTICS INSTRUCTION Flag Protocol 5 Commands 5 Footnotes (Notes) 6-7 SWORD MANUAL The Sword and Scabbard 8 Draw Sword and Carry Sword 9 On Guard 10 Present Swords and Sword Salute Order Swords 11 Communicating Across the Lines Forming an Arch of Steel 15 Return Swords 15 FLOOR DIAGRAMS ORDER of BUSINESS 21 List of Officers 21 RITUAL & TACTICS Full Form Opening Rehearsal of Duties Closing Purging Conclave Reception of Grand Officers Inspection Form 47 Reference Notes

3 Salute, coming to Carry Sword.) C.G.: Sir Knight (Senior or Junior) Warden, a Sir Knight has vouched for the visitor. (If no one present vouches for the visitor, the Captain General says:) The visitor will retire to the ante-room where an Examining Committee will wait upon him. (The examining Committee should be appointed by the Captain General and retire immediately after the Wardens are seated.) (When purging is completed or if satisfied that all present are Knights Templar, Wardens return to the East or if already there, face each other and report as follows:) J.W.: (Sword Salutes, holds salute and reports) Sir Knight Senior Warden, all on the North are Knights Templar. (Senior Warden releases Junior Warden with Sword Salute, both coming to Carry Swords together.) ( Both Wardens face the Captain General.) S.W: (Sword Salutes, holds salute and reports) Sir Knight Captain General, all present are Knights Templar. (Captain General releases Senior Warden with Sword Salute, both coming to Carry swords together.) (Wardens face each other, face west, return to their respective stations moving by the shortest route, face each other, Return Swords, step back one step and are seated.) GENERAL RULES 1. The plural form of Knight Templar adds an s to the word Knight making it KNIGHTS TEMPLAR. 2. All are Sir Knights, never Eminent Sir Knights, etc. The words Sir Knight, ( in Commandery ), Eminent, Very Eminent and Right Eminent are Honorary Titles. The name of an office is a Official Title. 3. When calling upon officers below the rank of Commander, use Sir Knight followed by his Official Title. Note: Officers are addressed by nature of their current office, not by nature of any past office held. 4. When addressing an officer, use his Honorary Title followed by his Official Title. Ex: Eminent Commander; Eminent Grand Warder; Sir Knight Generalissimo; Sir Knight Senior Warden. 5. While escorting a Sir Knight, we NEVER touch him. If there is a physical problem, a arm may be offered. 6. While escorting a Lady, the Bridle Arm ( left arm ) should always be offered. 7. Knights Templar in uniform NEVER BOW, but Hand Salute. 8. A Gavel is NEVER used in a Commandery of Knights Templar. 9. The Word debts is used when reciting the Lord s Prayer. All Prayers in Commandery end by saying Amen not the words So Mote it Be. 46 3

4 PROTOCOLS Official Title and Honorary title of Officers: ( When referring to an officer, the honorary title shall immediately follow his name ) Grand Officers: 1. Grand Commander: Sir Knight, Right Eminent Grand Commander 2. Deputy Grand Commander: Sir Knight, Very Eminent Deputy Grand Commander 3. All other Grand Officers are: Sir Knight, Eminent ( Title of Grand Officer ) Grand Generalissimo Grand Captain General Grand Senior Warden Grand Junior Warden Grand Prelate Grand Treasure Grand Recorder Grand Standard Bearer Grand Sword Bearer Grand Warder Grand Sentinel 4. Past Grand Commander (s): Sir Knight, Right Eminent Past Grand Commander. ( Rank right after the Grand Captain General, according to seniority of service.) 5. Constituent Commandery Officers: Commander: Sir Knight, Eminent Commander 6. All other Commandery Officers: Sir Knight, (Title of Officer) 4 How to purge a Conclave. C.G.: Sir Knights Junior and Senior Warden, (Wardens rise, take one step forward, face the Captain General, Draw Swords, Sword Salute and holds salute.) Are all present Knights Templar? (Captain General releases Wardens with Sword Salute, all three coming to Carry Swords together.) (Wardens march in unison to a point two paces in front of the Captain General and Generalissimo s Stations, Wardens FACE EACH OTHER and Senior Warden commands:) (see examination or purging floor diagram for floor work, page 17.) S.W.: Sir Knight Junior Warden, (Swords Salutes, holds salute.) Ascertain if all in the North are Knights Templar. (Senior Warden releases Junior Warden with Sword Salute, both coming to Carry Swords together.) ( then they About Face and if not satisfied that all are Knights Templar (see optional part of floor diagram, page 17) and go to and along the north and south sides of the asylum. If any person is unknown to the Wardens, they face the individual, go to ON Guard position and say:) JUNIOR OR SENIOR WARDEN: Are you a Knight Templar? (If negative answer.) Please retire. (If positive answer.) Can any Sir Knight vouch for you? (If a Knight competent to do so vouches for the visitor, and is sitting near him, the Warden may accept the voucher and pass on or reports as follows:) S.W. or J.W.: (Comes to Sword Salute, holds salute and reports) Sir Knight Captain General, I find a visitor whom I do not know to be a Knight Templar. (Captain General releases Warden with Sword Salute, both coming to Carry Swords together.) C.G.: Can any Sir Knight present vouch for the visitor? (Upon which any Knight present may arise, Hand Salutes the Captain General, and when the salute is acknowledged say:) Sir Knight Captain General, I vouch for the visitor as a Knight Templar in good standing. (Captain General releases the Knight with Sword 45

5 (The Commander introduces the Grand Officer, Presents to him the Sword of Command, and invites him to preside.) Grand Officer: Present Swords (The lines will come to Present Swords as Grand Officer s Staff proceed though the lines, there they form a line at the foot of the Dias, facing west, where they will be introduced. Prior to introducing his staff The Grand Officer dismiss the lines by command:) Carry, Swords. (the lines come to Carry Swords.) Return, Swords. ( The lines Return Swords) To your Stations, March. (The Knights return to their Posts) Grand Officer: (Introduces his Staff, and as the staff is introduce and as name and title are given, the officer will a advance one step (using the left foot) in front of line and Hand Salute, returning back one step to the original position. The Grand Officer will direct his Staff to take their seats and commands) Commandery, be Seated. (The Grand Officer may return command to Commander or Make a presentation.) TACTICS INSTRUCTIONS Flag Protocol The National Flag is Never dipped. When furled, the National Flag is not saluted. Officers use Present Sword when saluting the Flag when swords are drawn, all others Hand Salute. Commands 1. Commands are given at Carry Sword. Responses are given at Carry Sword. Sword Salute is released by either a Hand Salute or a Sword Salute. 2. Commands are to be given in two parts; the preparatory command and the execution. There is always a pause between the preparatory command and command of execution. For example, give the preparatory command DRAW, (pause until all Sir Knights are ready to draw their swords) then give the command of execution, SWORDS. 3. The officer issuing a command, such as DRAW - SWORDS will draw his sword first and come to CARRY and then give the command to others. Likewise, on the command RETURN - SWORDS, the officer will give the command and after it has been executed, he will return his own sword. The officer issuing a command will NEVER execute the order while he is giving the order to others. 4. NEVER Speak, through a Hand Salute or while at Present Swords. 5. When under arms, ALWAYS uncover using the Bridle Arm (left arm). When NOT under arms, ALWAYS uncover using the Sword Arm (right arm). 44 5

6 TACTICS INSTRUCTIONS Commands Cont d 6. When uncovering, On the preparatory command, when under arms, Un, grasp the front part of the chapeau with the left hand, On the command of execution Cover raise the Chapeau from the head, placing it on the right shoulder. When not under arms do the above using the right hand. 7. When recovering, On the preparatory command Re, lift the chapeau slightly. On the command of execution Cover, replace the chapeau on the head, dropping the hand to the side. Tactic Instruction Footnotes 1. When standing from a chair when under arms, Arise, take one step forward, facing officer requiring your attention, Draw Sword, come to Sword Salute and hold Sword Salute until released by either a Hand Salute or Sword Salute, returning to Carry Swords Together. 2. When completing a communication either give a Sword Salute if sword is drawn or a Hand Salute if not armed, when the Senior Officer returns the Salute, both return to Carry Swords or Drop Hands together. 3. The position of Attention, for all officers, is one step in front of their chairs. 4. The Captain General will see that all properties and paraphernalia are in place. 5. Treasurer, Recorder and Prelate do not bear arms at those positions. W.: The (Title) approaches. (Comes to Present Swords, holds Present Swords until the party has passed his position.) (The Sentinel comes to Present Swords, holds Present Swords until Party has passed his position.) C.: (Rises) Commandery, Atten-tion. G.: (On the square, escorts the guests to the foot of the lines, facing east, Sword Salutes, holds salute and reports:) Eminent Commander, I have the honor of introducing Sir Knight (Title of Grand Officer)(, and Staff) of the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of Oregon. (Commander releases Generalissimo with Hand Salute, Generalissimo coming to Carry Sword.) ( As the Commander leaves his station and advances from the east towards the center of the Asylum to greet the Grand Officer, the Generalissimo moves outside of the lines to a position to the east of the Junior Warden and opposite of the Captain General, facing inward, see page 24 and 25.) C.: (Commander goes through the lines, Hand Salutes, Grand Officer releases Commander with Hand Salute, Commander greets the Grand Officer saying:) Sir Knight (Title), welcome to Commandery No.. May I accompany you through the lines? (The Commander passes to the left of the guest and stations himself at the left rear of the guest.) C.G. (After the Commander has passed west though the lines and is greeting the Grand Officer, the Captain General commands:) Form a Arch of Steel, Cross (go to position of On Guard) Swords (go to position of Parry One and hold parry, which forms Arch.) (When Arch is formed the Grand Officer and Commander move though lines toward the east.) (When the Grand Officer and Commander have cleared the lines the Captain General commands:) Carry Swords. 6 43

7 by shortest route to the Warder who opens the door and remains at the door s edge.) C.: Sir Knight Captain General, (Rises, takes one step forward, faces Commander, Draws Sword, Sword Salute, holds salute.) Prepare the Asylum for the Reception of the Sir Knight, (Title of Grand Officer). (Commander releases Captain general with Hand Salute, Captain General coming to Carry Sword.) C.G.: Commandery, Atten-tion. Draw, Swords. (Commander does not draw his sword.) Form the lines for the Reception of the Sir Knight (Title of Grand Officer). Officers, Post. (Wardens will form in the eastern 1/3 of the Asylum, about 6 feet apart and face the west) Sir Knights in uniform with Swords, Fall, In. (Sir Knights in uniform with swords will form west of the Sir Knights Junior and Senior Wardens.) Inward, Face. (Captain General Faces the Commander, Swords Salutes and reports:) Eminent Commander, the lines are formed. (Commander releases Captain General with Hand Salute, Captain General coming to Carry Sword, He then takes station east of Senior Warden, faces inward.) OUTSIDE THE ASYLUM Footnotes Cont d 6. All Officers and Members always use the most Direct Route to perform their duty. Square corners are not used in Commandery, unless they are marching. The Warder always passes in front of the Standard Guard, then to the door, returning by the same route. 7. The Warder, not the Sentinel, opens and closes the door. He does not give the Battery when opening the door, He opens door and communicates with the Sentinel, closes door and gives Battery (with the flat of the blade). The Sentinel repeats the Battery from outside the door. ( *** *** *** * ). 8. There are two American Flags used in a Commandery, One in the East which is used for the Flag Presentation and returned to its honored station in the East and One in the West. 9. The Standard Guard DOES NOT SAY the Pledge when it presents the Flag in the center of the Asylum. 10. Prelate when robed either Bows or nods in response to commands. G.: (He then faces Grand Officer, Sword Salutes, holds salute and reports:) Sir Knight (Title of Grand Officer), the Eminent Commander of Commandery No. extends his compliments and the lines are formed for your reception. GRAND OFFICER: Sir Knight Generalissimo, escort me (or us) into the Asylum. (Grand Officer releases Generalissimo with Hand Salute, Generalissimo coming to Carry Sword.) G.: (Generalissimo remains with the Grand Officer.) WITHIN THE ASYLUM 42 7

8 Sword and Scabbard SWORD MANUAL The sword consist of the hilt and the blade. The hilt is divided into the gripe and the guard. The Gripe is the handle grasped by the hand. The Guard is the cross piece between the gripe and the blade. The blade is divided into the edge, back, sides and point. The edge and back are determined by the hilt. The right and left sides of the blades and gripe are the right and left sides in the position of carry swords. The scabbard is the receptacle of the sword; the opening of the same, is its mouth. Explanation of Draw Swords and Carry Swords Draw: Grasp the scabbard with the left hand, near its mouth, incline the hilt a little forward, seize the gripe with the right hand, and draw the blade until the right forearm is horizontal, back of hand against the breast. Swords: Draw the sword quickly, raising the arm to its full length, at an angle of about 45 degrees, the sword in a straight line with the arm, edge down, extending in the same direction as the right foot. This is also the position used by the Commander when declaring the Commandery opened. 8 WITHIN THE ASYLUM W.: (at the alarm, rises, Draws Sword, Sword Salutes, holds salute and reports.) Eminent Commander, there is an alarm at the door. C.: Sir Knight Warder, attend to the alarm. (Commander releases Warder with Hand Salute, Warder coming to Carry Sword.) W.: (moves directly to the outer door of the Asylum, opens door, comes to On Guard and commands.) Who caused the alarm? S.: (Sword Salutes, holds salute and reports) Sir Knight (Title of Grand Officer) and Staff of the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of Oregon, desire to be admitted. W.: Ask that the Sir Knight (Title of Grand Officer) please wait until the Eminent Commander is informed and the lines are formed for his reception. (releases Sentinel with Sword Salute, both coming to Carry Swords together, closes the door, faces east. Sword Salute, holds salute and reports:) Eminent Commander, the alarm was caused by Sir Knight (Title of Grand Officer) and Staff of the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of Oregon, who desire admission. (Commander releases Warder with Hand Salute, Warder coming to Carry Sword. Warder remains at the closed door of the Asylum.) C.: Sir Knight Generalissimo, (rises, steps one step forward, faces Commander, Draws Sword, Sword Salutes, holds salute.) retire and extend my compliments and escort Sir Knight (Title of Grand Officer) and Staff into the Asylum. (Commander releases Generalissimo with Hand Salute, Generalissimo coming to Carry Sword and Faces west.) G.: (See floor diagram for introduction, pages 24 and 25) ( Proceed 41

9 RECEPTION OF GRAND OFFICERS This reception may be held at a special or appointed hour during an Inspection or Official Visitation of the Grand Commander. When a Grand Officer visits a Commandery, he should be received with proper honors immediately after the Commander has opened the Commandery. Grand Encampment Officers, the Grand Commander, and Past Grand Commanders are entitled to be received under an "Arch of Steel", (Crossed Swords). All other Grand Officers or distinguished Templars will be received at "Present Swords". The Grand Master of Masons MAY be extended the Honor of being received under an Arch of Steel if not a Past Grand Commander (The key word is MAY.). SWORD MANUAL Cont d Carry Swords: Bring the back of the blade against the shoulder, the blade vertical, back of the gripe to the rear, the arm nearly straight down, the thumb and forefinger embracing the gripe, the thumb against the thigh, the other extended and joined in the rear of the gripe. From this position all movements of the sword manual begin, unless otherwise provided. Draw Swords and Carry Swords If the Grand Commander is accompanied by other Grand Officers, they will constitute his Staff and will, on entering the Asylum, march to his rear, according to rank. Past Grand Commanders behind the Grand Captain General. The Grand Commander makes known his presence, through the Sentinel, who will give an alarm at the door. OUTSIDE THE ASYLUM GRAND OFFICER: Sir Knight Sentinel, (Draws Sword, Sword Salutes, holds salute.) Inform the Commander that Sir Knight (Title of Grand Officier, of the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of Oregon, desires to be admitted. (Grand Officer releases Sentinel by Hand Salute, Sentinel coming to Carry Sword.) (Sentinel sounds *** *** *** * on Asylum door, using flat of blade.) 40 9

10 On Guard SWORD MANUAL -Cont d On Guard From Carry, Advance the right foot about eighteen inches to the front bringing the left foot to a right angle with the right foot. The shoulders oblique to the front, head and eyes square to the front. At the same time, raise the sword hand on a line with the waist and about 2 inches from it. Drop the sword diagonally to the left, the blade about 18 inches in front of the left shoulder, edge to the front, thumb on back of gripe. The sword is held without constraint. This is the position used by the Wardens when challenging. It is also the position used before giving cuts when communicating the P.W.W. and the P.P.W. After communicating, return to On Guard before the command of Carry - Swords is given. Prelate, lead our devotions after which you will preside at the Altar. (Prelate goes to Altar, gives the closing prayer and then removes the wooden passion cross, Square and Compasses from the Bible, closing same, bows and returns to his station. C: (recovers and comes to carry swords and commands) Commandery, Re-cover. Carry, Swords. I now declare Commandery No. duly closed. C.: Sir Knight Warder, (Sword Salutes, holds salute.) inform the Sentinel. (Commander releases Warder with Sword Salute, both coming to Carry Swords together.) W.: (Moves directly to the outer door, opens door and announces:) Sir Knight Sentinel, this Commandery is closed. (Warder faces about, Sword Salutes, holds salute and reports.) Eminent Commander, the Sentinel is informed. ( Commander releases Warder with Sword Salute, both coming to Carry Swords together. Note: Warder remains at the door.) COMMANDER: Commandery, Return, Swords. Dis-Missed. Present Swords and Sword Salutes Present Swords is begun from the position of Carry Swords. Raise and carry the sword to the front, cross hilt as high as the chin and 6 inches in front of the neck, edge to the left, point 6 inches farther to the front than the cross hilt, thumb extended on the back of the gripe, wrist straight, all fingers grasping the gripe. The next command should be Carry - Swords. Sword Salute, also known as Officers Present. First, execute Present Swords, then drop the point of the Sword, edge to the left, to about 15 inches in front of, and prolongation of, the right foot, the arm hanging naturally, the elbow close to the body, back of hand down. Holds until released by a higher Officer, returning to the position of Carry Swords

11 CLOSING A COMMANDERY SWORD MANUAL --C0nt d C.: Sir Knight Captain General, (rises, takes one step forward, faces Commander, Draws Sword, Sword Salutes, holds salute.) I am about to close this Commandery. See that the Sentinel is informed and that he guards accordingly. (Commander releases Captain General with Hand Salute with Captain General coming to Carry Swords.) C.G.: Sir Knight Warder, (rises, takes one step forward, faces Captain General, Draws Sword, Sword Salutes, holds salute.) Inform the Sentinel that the Commander is about to close this Commandery and direct him to guard accordingly. (Captain General releases Warder with Sword Salute with both coming to Carry swords together.) W.: (Moves directly to the outer door in front of chairs, opens door.) Sir Knight Sentinel, (Draws Sword, Sword Salutes, holds salute.) the Commander is about to close this Commandery and directs you to guard accordingly. (Warder releases Sentinel with Sword Salute both coming to Carry Swords.) Present Swords Sword or Officers Salute Order Swords 1. Drop 2. Order Swords W.: (Returns to his station, Sword Salutes, holds salute and reports.) Sir Knight Captain General, the Sentinel is informed. (Captain General releases Warder with Sword Salute both coming to Carry Sword together.) C.G.: (Faces Commander, Sword Salutes, holds salute and reports.) Eminent Commander, your order has been obeyed. (Commander releases Captain General with Hand Salute, Captain General coming to Carry Sword.) C.: (Commander stands, takes one step forward, Draws Sword comes to Carry Swords and commands) Commandery, Attention. Draw, Swords. Order, Swords. Un-Cover. Excellent 38 Order Swords Drop the sword point to the ground, blade inclined to the rear, back of blade to the front. Bring the blade to a vertical position against the right toe, and place the hand on top of the hilt, three fingers in front of the gripe, thumb and little finger in the rear, elbow close to the body. Hold, but do not rest on the sword. 11

12 SWORD MANUAL - COMMUNICATING OBLIQUE-MARCH. When near their stations, he commands Standard Guard-Halt. About-Face. The Standard Guard should be one pace in front of their chairs at this point. END, FULL FORM OPENING Review of Rules for saluting the Flag, Adopted by the Grand Encampment. If in uniform salute. If in civilian clothes place right hand over heart. Never talk while at the salute. Officers and Past Commanders use Officer Present. Parry One, Two & Four Cuts One Two & Four Parry Three Cuts Three Communicating Across the Lines NOTE: These rules should govern all occasions whether in the Templar Asylum or in public. Rules for movements and Parries or Cuts. 1. Forward steps are approximately thirty inches. 2. Backward steps are approximately fifteen inches; therefore, two backward steps will equal the same as one forward step. 3. When parries or cuts are given, the wrist must be turned so that the flats of the left sides of the blades come in contact with each other, never the right, edge or back. In this way, the palms of the hands are toward the opposite Knight, (always pushing the blade), not the back of the hands, as in the On Guard position. 4. The order when communicating is as follows: From the Carry Swords position (by command). On Guard hold for a count of three following the Generalissimo and Captain General timing

13 Sw. B.: Standard Guard, Close Ranks, Forward, March. (see flag presentation floor diagram, page 24) (at front of Asylum) Standard Guard, Halt. C.: Commandery, Present, Swords. (All Sir Knights without swords come to Hand Salute. Standard Bearer Returns Sword, then proceeds east, retrieves Flag, does an About Face, proceeds back through Standard Guard, does an About Face and proceeds east until in line with Standard Guard.) Sw. B.: (Sword Bearer comes to Carry Sword.) Standard Guard, Carry, Swords. (see flag presentation diagram, page 24) Forward, Guide Center, March. (when facing the west commands) When near the point when an oblique movement is in order, he commands, LEFT OBLIQUE-MARCH. When near the foot of the dais, he commands. Standard Guard, Halt, Present-Swords. The Standard Bearer does not halt, but continues up the steps to the flag stand and places the Flag into it. He then returns to his place & renders the hand salute. The Warder and Sword Bearer uses Officer s Present. C.: (As Standard Guard comes to HALT and as the Sword Bearer orders Present, Swords. (The Commander comes to Carry Swords and commands.) Carry, Swords (all Sir knights without swords drop Hand Salute as you are NEVER to speak through any type of SALUTE.) Join with me in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of our Nation. (Standard Guard does NOT participate in Pledge and Warder and Sword Bearer remain at Present Swords.) (Done.) Standard Guard, return the Flag of our Nation to it s Honored Station in the East. Commandery, Present, Swords. (All Sir Knights without swords come to Hand Salute.) Sw. B.:(see flag presentation diagram, page 24) (Sword Bearer comes to Carry Sword.) Standard Guard, Carry, Swords. About-Face. Forward Guide Center March. When near point that a right oblique movement is in order, he commands, RIGHT 36 SWORD MANUAL - COMMUNICATING (Parry One or Cut One) Turn the wrist while executing an upward sweeping motion toward the right, the wrist as high as the head. The Flats of the left sides of the blades should meet lightly, about ten inches from the tips of the blades, the backs of the hands to the left. (Parry Two or Cut Two) Turn the wrist while executing a counter-clock sweeping movement over the head. The flats of the left sides of the blades meet again, backs of hands to the right. Parry Two looks similar to Parry One. (Parry Three or Cut Three) Disengage and make a circular motion clockwise over the head and downward, the left sides of the blades crossing, the points near the ground and backs of the hands to the left. (Parry Four or Cut Four) Come directly upward (no circular motion) turning the wrist (pushing the blade) to obtain the position of PARRY ONE. (see diagrams, page 12). 1. COMMUNICATE. When communicating the P.W.W. no steps are taken. When communicating the P.P.W., each Knight takes one step forward with the left foot before placing left hand on opponents right shoulders. They then communicate the word, afterwards coming back to the position of On Guard. 2. CARRY - SWORDS, on this preparatory / execution, bring the right foot backward to bring the heels together and come to the position of CARRY SWORDS. 3. The Next command should be Return Swords. 13

14 SWORD MANUAL -COMMUNICATING Kneeling, Depositing & Communicating the I. W. 1. At the command, KNEEL, bring the right foot about twenty-four inches to the front. Kneel on the left knee, the body and left thigh erect, the right leg below the knee nearly vertical, the right hand hanging at the side. 2. Un-Cover is done the same as when standing. Using left Hand. 3. At the command Deposit, bring the chapeau to the chest. On the command Chapeau, place the chapeau on the ground to the left of the right foot, feathers to the left, peak pointing toward the body. The cap is placed on edge with the cross up. The Cross on the Chapeau being displayed. Resume position of KNEEL. 4. At the command Interlace Fingers, the first division (on the south) will cross their arms, right over left. The Knight communicating will cross his arms during his communication. 5. After communicating, upon the command SECURE, separate fingers and grasp the visor of the chapeau with the left hand and place it on the right knee. At the command Chapeau, bring the chapeau to the right shoulder. 6. Re-Cover is done the same as when standing. 7. At the command Arise, rise while bringing the right foot backward into line. Carry Swords, faces west and comes to Present Swords.) C.: (Rises, Draws Sword and comes to Sword position of Draws Sword, see bottom of page 9 and says.) I now declare Commandery No. open in due form. (comes to Carry Swords and commands) Carry, Swords. (All come to Carry Swords.) Order, Swords. Un- Cover. Excellent Prelate, (Prelate bows.) preside at the Altar. (Commander then Orders Sword and Uncovers.) (Prelate moves to the Altar, opens the Bible to the Gospel of St. Matthew, Chapter XXVIII, places a small wooden passion cross on the right side of the Bible and displays the Square and Compasses on the left side of the Bible, bows and returns to his station.) C.: (Commander recovers and comes to Carry and commands) Commandery, Re-Cover, Carry, Swords. C.: Sir Knight Warder, (Sword Salutes, holds salute) inform the Sentinel that Commandery No. is now open and direct him to guard accordingly. (Commander releases Warder with Sword Salute, both come to Carry Sword together.) W.: (Moves directly in front of lines to the outer door, opens door.) Sir Knight Sentinel, (Sword Salutes, holds salute.) this Commandery is now open. Take due notice and guard accordingly. (Warder releases Sentinel with Sword Salute and both come to Carry Swords together.) (Warder closes door.) (Warder sounds *** *** *** *.) (Sentinel sounds *** *** *** *.) W.: (Returns to his station, faces Commander, Sword Salutes, holds salute and reports.) Eminent Commander, your order has been obeyed. (Commander releases Warder with Sword Salute, both coming to Carry Swords together.) 8. Both lines are now in their original positions. 14 Deposit Chapeau C.: Standard Guard, present the Flag of our Country at the center of the Asylum. 35

15 C.: Sir Knight Generalissimo, (Comes to Sword Salute) it is my order that Commandery No. be now opened for the dispatch of such business as may regularly come before it, requiring all Knights present to govern themselves according to the sublime principles of this Magnanimous Order. This you will communicate to the Captain General and he to the Knights. (Commander releases the Generalissimo by Hand Salute, Generalissimo comes to Carry Sword.) G.: Sir Knight Captain General, (Captain General, faces Generalissimo, Sword Salutes, holds salute.) it is the order of the Commander that Commandery No. be now opened for the dispatch of such business as may regularly come before it, requiring all Knights present to govern themselves according to the sublime principles of this Magnanimous Order. This you will communicate to the Knights. (Generalissimo releases the Captain General with Sword salute, both coming to Carry Swords together. Captain General faces west and commands.) C.G.: Commandery, Atten-tion. Draw, Swords. It is the order of the Commander that Commandery No. be now opened for the dispatch of such business as may regularly come before it, requiring all Knights present to govern themselves according to the sublime principles of this Magnanimous Order. Present, Swords. (Captain General and Generalissimo do not Present Swords at this time.) C.G.: (Faces Generalissimo Sword Salutes, holds salute and reports:) Sir Knight Generalissimo, the order of the Commander has been executed. (Generalissimo releases Captain General with Sword Salute, the Captain General then faces west and comes to Present Swords.) G.: (Sword Salutes, holds salute and reports:) Eminent Commander, your order has been obeyed. (Commander releases Generalissimo with hand salute, Generalissimo comes to 34 SWORD MANUAL ARCH OF STEEL RETURN SWORDS Forming an Arch of Steel 1. The lines are formed, facing inward and about three paces apart, at Carry Swords. 2. The Preparatory command to be given is, FORM ARCH OF STEEL 3. At the command CROSS, execute On Guard. 4. At the command SWORDS, take the position of PARRY ONE. 5. At the command CARRY, return to the position of ON GUARD. 6. At the command SWORDS, resume the position of CARRY SWORDS. Return First Motion 15 Return Swords 1. At the command RETURN, seize the scabbard near the mouth with the left hand, inclining it a little forward and, keeping the right hand near the body, drop the sword blade forward and to the left so that the point is about six inches from the floor and pointing to a line which is a prolongation of the left foot. Move the sword hand to the left, then raise the hand, drawing the sword blade between the first two fingers of the left hand. Insert the point of the blade in the mouth of the scabbard, edge to the front, assisted by the thumb and fingers of the left hand, eyes to the front, thrust the blade into the scabbard until the right forearm is horizontal. 2. At the command SWORDS, return the blade smartly and drop the hands to the sides.

16 C: Sir Knight Senior Warden, your duty? S.W.: To attend Pilgrim Warriors; comfort and support Pilgrim Penitents and after due trial introduce them into the Asylum. C.: The station of the Captain General? S.W.: On the left of the Commander. C.: Sir Knight Captain General, your duty? C.G.: To see that due preparation is made for the conclaves of the Commandery; that the Asylum is in suitable array for the introduction of candidates and the dispatch of business; to execute the orders of the Commander, and in his absence and that of the Generalissimo to preside. C.: The station of the Generalissimo? C.G.: On the right of the Commander. C.: Sir Knight Generalissimo, your duty? G.: To assist the Commander in the duties of his office and in his absence to preside. C.: The station of the Commander? G.: In the East, or at the head of the Commandery. C.: His duty? G.: To distribute alms to poor and weary Pilgrims traveling from afar; feed the hungry; clothe the naked; and bind up the wounds of the afflicted; to inculcate the duties of charity and hospitality; and govern the Commandery with justice and moderation. (END OF OPTIONAL OPENING) 16 33

17 Treasurer. C.: The station of the Treasurer? Rec.: On the right of the Generalissimo. C.: Sir Knight Treasurer, your duty? Tr.: To receive in charge all the funds and property of the Commandery; pay all orders drawn on the Treasury; and render a true account when required. C.: The station of the Prelate? Tr.: On the right and in front of the Generalissimo. C.: Excellent Prelate, your duty? P.: To minister at the Altar and offer up prayers to Deity. C.: The station of the Junior Warden? P.: At the Northwest angle of the Triangle; on the right or in front of the Third Division when separately formed; and on the left of the Commandery when in line. C.: Sir Knight Junior Warden, your duty? J.W.: To attend poor and weary Pilgrims traveling from afar, accompany them on their journey and in due time recommend them to the Commander. C.: The station of the Senior Warden? J.W.: At the Southwest angle of the Triangle; on the right or in front of the First Division when separately formed; and on the right of the Commandery when in line

18 W: To sound the assembly; post the Sentinel; announce the approach and departure of the Commander; and see that the Asylum is duly guarded. C: The station of the Sword Bearer? W: On the right of the Standard Bearer, and on the right of the Second Division when separately formed. C: Sir Knight Sword Bearer, your duty? Sw. B.: To assist in protecting the Banner of our Order. C.: The station of the Standard Bearer? Sw. B.: In the West, and in the center of the Second Division. C.: Sir Knight Standard Bearer, your duty? St. B.: To display, support, and protect the Banner of our Order. C.: Why are you stationed in the West? St. B.: That the brilliant rays of the rising sun, shedding luster upon the Banner of our Order, may animate and encourage all valiant and magnanimous Knights, and dismay and confound their enemies. C.: The station of the Recorder? St. B.: On the left of the Captain General. C.: Sir Knight Recorder, your duty? Rec.: Faithfully to record the transactions of the Commandery, collect the revenue and pay it over to the 18 31

19 C.: Where were you created a Knight Templar? G.: In a regular and duly constituted Commandery of Knights Templar. C.: How many compose such a Commandery? G.: There is an Indispensable Number, and a Constitutional Number. C.: What is the Indispensable Number? G.: Three. C.: Under what circumstances may three form and open a Commandery? G: Three Knights Templar, hailing from three separate Commanderies, and acting under a lawful warrant, may form and open a Commandery of Knights Templar for the dispatch of business. C: What is the Constitutional Number? G: Nine, or more. C: When composed of eleven, who are they? G.: The Commander, Generalissimo, Captain General, Senior Warden, Junior Warden, Prelate, Treasurer, Recorder, Standard Bearer, Sword Bearer, and Warder. C.: The station of the Warder? G: On the left of the Standard Bearer, and on the left of the Second Division when separately formed. C: Sir Knight Warder, your duty? 30 19

20 C.: (recovers, then commands) Commandery, Re-cover, (and if Officers are kneeling) Officers, Arise. Sir Knight Captain General, (Captain General Hand Salutes, holds salute.) reduce the Triangle. (Commander releases the Captain General by Hand Salute. The Commander, Generalissimo and Captain General face east, return to Dais and face west. Prelate returns directly to his station.) C.G.: (From his station on the Dais) Reduce the Triangle. Officers, Post. (Officers turn and face their stations, move directly to their stations, one pace in front of their chair and Face East.) C.: Sir Knights, attend to the Signs. (Sign of the Mediterranean Pass, The Grand Hailing Sign of the Order of Malta and the Penal Sign of a Knight Templar.) Commandery, Be Seated. ---REHEARSAL OF DUTIES --- (See Black Commandery Ritual dated 1979, page 105) (USE AS OPTIONAL OPENING) C.: (Remains Seated) Sir Knight Captain General, (Captain General stands and Hand Salutes.) you will call the Officers to Attention and direct them to Draw Swords. (Commander releases Captain General by Hand Salute.) C.G.: (Draws Sword, Carries Sword.) Officers, Atten-tion. Draw, Swords. (All Officers, EXCEPT Commander, Stand, take one step Forward, Draw Swords, Sword Salute and Carry Swords. From this point forward, all Officers come to Sword Salute when addressed and return to carry when the Commander releases them with a Hand Salute.) C.: Sir Knight Generalissimo, are you a Knight Templar? G.: That is my title

21 (Warder moves to a position between and in line with the Sword Bearer and Standard Bearer, facing east, completing the base of the Triangle.) C.G.: (When the Officers are in place, Faces East, Hand Salutes and reports:) Eminent Commander, the Triangle is formed. (Commander releases the Captain General with Hand Salute.) C.: Sir Knights Generalissimo, Captain General and Excellent Prelate, (Generalissimo and Captain General Hand Salute, hold salute, Prelate bows.) accompany me to the Triangle. (Commander releases them with a Hand Salute. Commander descends from the Dais and moves to a point four paces east of the Senior and Junior Wardens and stops. Generalissimo and Captain General About Face and remain stationary until the Prelate faces east within the Triangle, they then moves in unison to a position midway between the Commander and the Wardens, closing the Triangle and face inward.) (As the Commander is moving the Prelate moves directly to the center of the Triangle and faces east.) C.: (If the Officers in line can kneel) Sir Knights, to your devotions, Officers, Kneel. (Done.) (Sir Knights in line kneel on left knee, keeping the right foot in place, all others remain standing. If the Officers in line CAN NOT kneel, then the previous order is changed to:) Sir Knights, to your devotions. (The Commander then orders:) Commandery, Uncover. (All uncover except the Prelate.) C.: (still covered until after command) Excellent Prelate, lead our devotions. (Commander Uncovers) (Prelate gives prayer concluding with the Lord's Prayer using DEBTS not tresspasses, in which all join.) (PROPER ENDING TO ALL PRAYERS IS AMEN.) Opening: Introductions: Reading of Minutes: ORDER OF BUSINESS Receiving & Referring of Petitions: Reports of Committees & Balloting: Old Business: New Business: Communications: Bills: Announcements: Good of the Order: Sickness & Distress: Closing: Officers and their Abbreviations COMMANDER C. GENERALISSIMO G. CAPTAIN GENERAL - C.G. SENIOR WARDEN - S.W. JUNIOR WARDEN - J.W. PRELATE - P. TREASURE Tr. RECORDER - Rec. STANDARD BEARER -- St. B. SWORD BEARER -- --Sw. B. WARDER -- W

22 TEN MAN FULL FORM OPENING The hour for opening having arrived, the Officers in Full Templar Uniform or Cap and Mantle, and Prelate without sword, will assemble in the approximate center of the Asylum. The Treasurer and Recorder are not required to participate in the opening ceremony. COMMANDS: OFFICERS COMMANDERY = officers only. = Everyone C.: Sir Knight Captain General, (Captain General faces Commander, Hand Salutes, holds salute until released by the Commander.) See that the Asylum is in suitable array for my reception. (Commander releases the Captain General by Hand Salute, both immediately terminate the salute.) C.: Sir Knight Generalissimo and Excellent Prelate, (Generalissimo Hand Salutes, holds salute. Prelate bows if robed, Hand Salutes if not.) Accompany me to my apartment. (Commander releases them by Hand Salute, all terminate the salute together. Commander moves directly to his apartment using the outer door, followed by the Generalissimo and Prelate; Prelate on the left of the Generalissimo.) C.G.: (Draws Sword, comes to Carry Swords and moves directly to his station on the Dais, Halts and About Faces. (After the Commander has retired.) Sir Knight Warder, (Warder, if seated rises take one step forward, faces the Captain General, Draws Sword, Sword Salute, holds salute.) Sound the Assembly. (Captain General releases Warder with Sword Salute, both coming to Carry Swords together.) W.: Commandery, Atten-tion. (Warder Returns Sword.) across and on chest. If using Cap and Mantle, Knights place Cap on chest, top out.) Chapeaux. (If using uniform, deposit Chapeaux with top facing top (feathers facing feathers, if using Cap and Mantle, deposit Cap on edge, side by side, top facing top.). Interlace, Fingers. (Divisions raise hands to chest height, fingers spread, palms down. First Division crosses arms, right over left, Second Division does not cross arms. Divisions bring hands together and interlace fingers.) C.: Sir Knights, as your fingers are thus strongly interlaced, so should the hearts of all Knights Templar be firmly united in the bonds of friendship and brotherly love. Over this symbol of our faith, communicate. El. G-w-u. (page 14) (Commander Orders Sword and Un-covers while the word is being communicated then Re-covers and Carries Sword after communication is complete.) C.: Sir Knights, Secure, (Knights seperate their hands) Chapeaux. (Grasp Chapeaux or Cap and come to uncover position.) Re- cover. (and if kneeling) Arise. C.: Sir Knight Captain General, (Captain General, faces Commander, Hand Salutes, holds salute.) form the Triangle preparatory to our devotions. (Commander Sword Salutes and releases Captain General by Carry Sword. Commander then returns his Sword. Captain General and Generalissimo face east, move to the foot of the Dais. Captain General faces west and commands:) C.G.: Commandery, Atten-tion, Form the Triangle. Officers, Post. (See Floor Diagram, page 22, Forming the Triangle). (Sword Bearer takes one step to his left and two step backward, forming the base of the Triangle, facing East.) (Standard Bearer takes one step to his right and two step backward, forming the base of the Triangle, facing East.) 22 27

23 C.: Form the lines for rehearsal. (Captain General and Generalissimo march to a point two paces east of and in line with the Senior Warden and Junior Warden respectively and face inward.) C.G.: (Captain General faces east. Sword Salutes, holds salutes and reports) Eminent Commander, the lines are formed. (Commander releases Captain General by Sword Salute both coming to Carry Swords together.) ( Captain General faces inward.) C.: First division, (Division on the South) Communicate to the Second Division the P.W.W. On Guard. (page 13 and 14, without further commands, give 4 parries or cuts and communicate the P.W.W.:) M-h-s-l-h-b. (returning to the position of On Guard when done.) C.: Carry, - Swords. C.: Second Division, (Division on the North) Communicate to the First Division the P.P.W., On Guard. (See page 13 and 14, without further commands, give 4 parries or cuts, then advance the left foot, placing their left hands on the right shoulders of the Knights opposite, and communicate the P.P.W.) G. A-p-o-a-s. (returning to the position of On Guard when done.) C.: Carry, Swords. Return, Swords. (Officers in line Carry Swords, Return Swords) (Commander does not return his sword, but remains at Carry Sword.) C.: First Division, communicate to the Second Division the I.W. (page 14.) (and if the Officers in line can kneel) Sir Knights Kneel. (Sir Knights kneel on left knee by sliding the right foot forward.) (If one Knight can not kneel all Knights will remain standing.) C.: Un-cover. (With left hand, place Cap or Chapeaux on right shoulder.) Deposit, (If using uniform, Knights place Chapeaux 26 C.G.: Officers take your stations. Commandery be seated. (After everyone is seated, the Captain General fills any vacant Officers station.) C.G.: Sir Knight Senior Warden, (Senior Warden rise, take one step forward, face the Captain General, Draw Swords, Sword Salute and holds salute.) Are all present Knights Templar? (Captain General releases Warden with Sword Salute, all come to Carry Swords together.) (If Conclave needs to be purged refer to page # 45.) S.W: (Sword Salutes, holds salute and reports) Sir Knight Captain General, all present are Knights Templar. (Captain General releases Senior Warden with Sword Salute, both coming to Carry swords together.) (Wardens face each other, face west, return to their respective stations moving by the shortest route, face each other, Return Swords, step back one step and are seated.) C.G.: Sir Knight Warder, (Warder rises, takes one step forward, Draws Sword, Sword Salutes, Hold Salutes) Post the Sentinel and inform him that a Commandery of Knights Templar is about to be opened and direct him to guard accordingly. (Captain General releases Warder with Sword Salute and both come to Carry Swords together.) S.W: (Sword Salutes, holds salute and reports) Sir Knight Captain General, all present are Knights Templar. (Captain General releases Senior Warden with Sword Salute, both coming to Carry swords together.) (Wardens face each other, face west, return to their respective stations moving by the shortest route, face each other, Return Swords, step back one step and are seated.) C.G.: Sir Knight Warder, (Warder rises, takes one step forward, Draws Sword, Sword Salutes, Hold Salutes) Post the Sentinel and inform him that a Commandery of Knights Templar is about to be opened and direct him to guard accordingly. (Captain Gen- 23

24 eral releases Warder with Sword Salute and both come to Carry Swords together.) C.G.: Sir Knight Warder, (Warder rises, takes one step forward, Draws Sword, Sword Salutes, Hold Salutes) Post the Sentinel and inform him that a Commandery of Knights Templar is about to be opened and direct him to guard accordingly. (Captain General releases Warder with Sword Salute and both come to Carry Swords together.) W.: (Faces about, returns to his station in front of chairs, faces east, Sword Salutes, holds salute and reports:) Sir Knight Captain General, the Sentinel is at his post and the Asylum is duly guarded. (Captain General releases Warder with Sword Salute, both coming to Carry Swords together) ( Warder Returns Sword and is seated.) C.G.: Sir Knight Senior Warden, (Senior Warden Rises, takes one step forward, Draws Sword, Sword Salutes, holds salute.) form the lines for the reception of the Commander. (See Floor Diagram Forming the Lines, page 18. Captain General releases Senior Warden with Sword Salute, both coming to Carry Swords together). S.W.: Commandery, Atten - tion. Draw, Swords. Officers, Post. (Wardens march to the center of the asylum, stopping about three paces from each other. The Senior Warden faces east. All other Officers remains at their station.) S.W.: (Sword Salutes, holds salute and reports:) Sir Knight Captain General, the lines are formed. (Captain General releases Senior Warden with Sword Salute both coming to Carry Swords together) C.G.: Sir Knight Junior Warden, (Faces Captain General, Sword Salutes, holds salute.) Repair to the apartment of the Commander, and inform him that the lines are formed and the Asylum is in suitable array for his reception. (Captain General releases Junior Warden with Sword Salute both coming to Carry 24 swords together) (The Commander is positioned outside the door in such a position as to allow the escort to manuever, with the Generalissimo and then the Prelate furthest from the door.) J.W.: (About Faces. Proceeds by the shortest route to two paces south of the Standard Bearer and the Sword Bearer. WARDER moves in front of chairs to Outer Door as Junior Warden approaches his post. Arriving at Commander s apartment, Junior Warden Faces Commander, Swords Salutes, holds salute and reports:) Eminent Commander, the lines are formed and the Asylum is in suitable array for your reception. C.: Sir Knight Junior Warden, proceed to the Asylum. (Commander Hand Salutes, releasing the Junior Warden.) J.W.: (Junior Warden comes to Carry Swords, (the Junior Warden marches to his position opposite of the Senior Warden, and commands) Inward Face. (Commander remains at the door of the Asylum until the Warder announces his approach.) (Warder doesn t announce his approach UNTIL lines are formed.) W.: The Eminent Commander approaches. C.G.: Commandery, Present, - Swords. (All except the Commander and his escort come to Present Swords.) C.: (The Commander, followed by the Generalissimo and Prelate enter the Asylum. Warder closes inner door and resumes his station as the Commander and his escort move through the lines to the East. The Commander and his escort Hand Salute the Beauceant as they pass. Commander uncovers with his SWORD arm as he passes through the lines. Upon reaching their stations, the Commander and Generalissimo face west, Both Draw Swords, the Commander comes to CARRY SWORDS and the Generalissimo comes to PRESENT SWORDS. The Commander orders:) Carry, - Swords. Sir Knights not in line, Return, Swords. Be Seated. 25