Investature

The investiture of officers takes place following the installation of the Worshipful Master, who invests each officer with the badge or jewel of his office and delivers a charge outlining his specific responsibilities 1.

The procedure begins with the Wardens. The Senior Warden is invested with the ensign of his office and charged with assisting the Master in governing the lodge, as well as ruling it during the Master's absence 1. The Junior Warden receives his badge of office and is tasked primarily with examining visiting brethren and introducing candidates 1. The Master then addresses both Wardens together, reminding them to maintain good order and enforce obedience by setting a proper example in their own conduct 1.

The Treasurer is invested next, followed by the Secretary, who receives the jewel of his office and is charged to record minutes, settle accounts, and issue summonses for regular meetings 1. The Deacons are then appointed, invested, and entrusted with columns as badges of office, being charged to assist the Master and Wardens in active duties and the practice of rites 1.

The Master subsequently invests the Stewards, charging them to introduce and accommodate visitors, collect fees, and keep accurate accounts of lodge expenses 1. Finally, the Master appoints the Tyler and delivers to him the instrument of his office along with a short charge 1. The investiture concludes with a general address to the assembled lodge on the nature of rule and obedience, urging humility, harmony, and mutual respect among all members 1.