installation ceremony of worshipful master

The installation of a Worshipful Master begins with the candidate being presented at the pedestal, where he publicly assents to a series of Ancient Charges and General Regulations 12. These charges require him to obey the moral law, remain a peaceful subject to civil authority, avoid intemperance, respect Grand Lodge governance, and preserve the ancient landmarks and established traditions of the Order 1.

Following his assent, all brethren who are not Past Masters retire, leaving the Master Elect in the presence of a Board of Installed Masters 24. He is then invested with the Past Master's degree and inducted into the chair 24. When a Past Master is re-elected to serve an additional term, he is simply placed in the chair rather than re-installed, a procedure sometimes termed induction 34.

The remaining brethren are then re-admitted to the lodge to pay due homage to the new Master 12. The warrant of constitution is delivered to him, alongside the Holy Writings, the working tools, the minute book, and the various insignia of office, with appropriate charges delivered for each 1.

Once in the chair, the newly installed Master proceeds to invest his subordinate officers 12. He appoints his Senior and Junior Wardens, invests them with their respective badges, and charges them with their specific administrative and ceremonial duties within the lodge 1.