S. D.: Mr. ----, we have learned from the declaration, over your
signature, contained in your petition, somewhat of your motives in
applying for admission into our ancient and honorable Fraternity; but,
in order that you may not be misled as to the character or the purpose
of the ceremonies in which you are about to engage, the Lodge addresses
to you these preliminary words:
Freemasonry is far removed from all that is trivial, selfish and
ungodly. Its structure is built upon the everlasting foundation of that
God-given law--the Brotherhood of Man, in the family whose Father is
God. Our ancient and honorable Fraternity welcomes to its doors and
admits to its privileges worthy men of all creeds and of every race, but
insists that all men shall stand upon an exact equality, and receive its
instructions in a spirit of due humility, emphasizing in demeanor, in
conduct, in ceremony and in language the helpless, groping nature of man
at his birth and his needs of reliance upon Divine guidance through all
the transactions of life. You will here be taught to divest your mind
and conscience of all the vices and superfluities of life, and the Lodge
into which you are now to be admitted expects you to divest yourself of
all those worldly distinctions and equipments which are not in keeping
with the humble, reverent and childlike attitude it is now your duty to
assume, as all have done who have gone this way before you.
(Every candidate, previous to his reception, is required to give his
free and full assent to the following interrogatories propounded by the
S. D., in a room adjacent to the Lodge).
Do you seriously declare, upon your honor, that, unbiased by the
improper solicitation of friends, and uninfluenced by mercenary motives,
you freely and voluntarily offer yourself a candidate for the mysteries
of Freemasonry?
Do you seriously declare, upon your honor, that you are prompted to
solicit the privileges of Freemasonry by a favorable opinion conceived
of the institution, a desire for knowledge, and a sincere wish of being
serviceable to your fellow-creatures?
Do you seriously declare, upon your honor, that you will cheerfully
conform to all the ancient usages and established customs of the
Fraternity?
(Let there be no levity--but dignity and decorum.)