C. O.—‘ Grant, O Lord, that those who are

now about to be invested with the government of this Lodge may be en- dued with wisdom to instruct their Brethren in all their duties: may brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth ever prevail amongst its members; and may this bond of union increase and strengthen the several Lodges throughout the world. Bless all our
"Brethren wherever dispersed over the face of the earth and water, and grant a speedy relief to all who are oppressed or distressed. We especially and affectionately commend to Thy es- pecial care and attention all the mem- bers of the Fraternity; may they in- crease in knowledge of Thee, and love of each other. And, finally, may we finish ail our work here below with Thy approbation; and then leave thig earthly abode for Thy Heavenly
268
The Ceremonies (Consecration)
Temple above, there to enjoy Light, _ Bliss, and Joy evermore.’
42. Chant (Omnes): ‘So mote it be.’ The D. of C. then arranges the petition- ing Brethren as before, on each side of the Lodge Board, when—
43. The Consecrating Officer constitutes the Lodge, thus:
‘TI now constitute this Lodge, denomin-
ated thet 7 ae Lodge, numbered
fssa 4 Im the Reeister-of theoG, *L.
of England, through the blessing of
Divine Providence, to the purposes of
; "Freemasonry, and, in the name of the
M..W. G. M., I constitute and form
you, my good Brethren, into a Lodge
of F. and A. Masons; henceforth I em-
power you to Initiate, Pass, or Raise
Candidates for Freemasonry, and to
perform all the Rites and Ceremonies
conformably with the ancient Charges,
and the Constitutions of the Order.
And may the G. A. O. T. U. prosper,
direct, and counsel you in all your proceedings.’
44. Chant (Omnes): “So mote it be.’ 45. Hymn.
‘Glory to God on high ! Let heaven and earth reply. Praise ye His. name. 269
Freemasonry and its Etiquette
Masons His love adore,
Arched in their mystic lore,
And cry out evermore, Glory to God!’
46. Patriarchal Benediction.
‘The Lord bless and preserve thee; The Lord make His face to shine upon »thee And be gracious unto thee; The Lord lift up His countenance upon thee, And grant thee peace.’
47, Chant (Ommnes): ‘So. mote it be.’
(End of Consecration Ceremony.) * * * * 48. The Lodge is resumed in the Second Degree.