To Open a Council of the Red Cross

Shibboleth: A Templar Monitor, by George Cooper Connor, [1894], at sacred-texts.com

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TO OPEN A COUNCIL OF THE RED CROSS.

The Council Chamber is suitably arrayed under the direction of the Prince Master of the Palace.

RECEPTION OF SOVEREIGN MASTER.

PRAYER.

Almighty and Eternal Jehovah, the only living and true God whose throne is in the heavens, yet who regardest alike the princes and the people that dwell upon earth, we

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desire to thank thee for the many mercies and blessings with which thou hast been pleased to crown our lives. We thank thee for this social and fraternal intercourse with our Companions. Be mercifully near us at all times, and give us the aid of thy Holy Spirit to guide us into all Truth. Grant us thy grace to cheer and strengthen us in our journey through life, and deliverance from the snares and pitfalls of the Evil One. Incline our hearts to seek thy favor and protection, as our rightful Sovereign, that we may not be impeded in the great work of erecting a spiritual edifice that shall endure forever. Pardon all our sins, we beseech thee, and finally admit us into the presence of the King of Kings, as members of his eternal household. Amen! Response, Amen!

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or this:

Merciful Father, have mercy upon us, we beseech thee; put understanding in our minds, enlighten our eyes, and cause our hearts to cleave to thy law. Because we have trusted in thy Name we will rejoice and be glad in thy salvation, and in thy mercies, O Lord, our God. Cause us to cleave unto thy great Name forever, and bring upon us from the four corners of the earth the blessing of peace, harmony and prosperity. Blessed art thou, O Lord God, who hast chosen thy people in love. And when we have accomplished thy will upon earth receive us to thyself, and unto thy great and holy Name shall be the glory for ever and ever. Amen! Response, Amen.

SIGNS.

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REHEARSAL OF DUTIES.

In this rehearsal each Officer, when addressed, will arise and Salute. * * * The Officer will come to Carry Swords, and stand firm until the close of the Ceremonial, or until a subsequent order issued to him * * *

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THE WORK.

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The Council of the Illustrious Order of the Red Cross being open, and the Council Hall being properly equipped for the formation of the Grand Council.

HIGH PRIEST'S ADDRESS.