In my last post, I introduced you to the medieval practice of a Knights Vigil or the Vigil of Arms. Why would I post this on a blog about Masons?
What many of you don’t know is that one of my hobbies is medieval re-creation. I belong to a group that is very serious about history and re-enacting history. Trying to experience things the way they were in ages past. Still though, why is this relevant to Masonry? Some of what I described in my blog was a ritual of cleansing your soul, mind and body before taking on the responsibilities of Knighthood.
On March 19th, I will receive the Order of the Temple at the Evanston Commandery #58. This is a great honor in Masonry and at one time was a great undertaking and came with great honor and respect. I take this honor very seriously and it presents an opportunity where I can mix my hobby and my craft together. I will undergo the Vigil of Arms, modified a little to suit modern times, but the intent of the rite will remain intact.
It is my intention to complete the 6 actions, to prepare my mind, my body and my soul for such an honor and to prove myself worthy, if but to only myself and my God. I will have my hair cut into my usual summer “USMC” cut a little early this year. I will take my ritual bath, on my own to prepare for the ritual and I will fast from Dusk to Dawn. I will wear white. I will meditate on the two ideals of knighthood and how that may apply to my Masonic obligations (perhaps an after action paper on that subject!). I will keep my vigil through the night, but unfortunately I will not be able to attend mass because of the time I need to be at the Temple . I will find some alternative means to complete that action, perhaps that the old English Tradition of a breakfast.
I will include my closest Brothers and Friends in my vigil. I will invite them to join me for as long as they can through the night. But I will make it an enjoyable experience with indulgences from the 21st century such as food, drink and joviality. A celebration of sorts to commemorate the honored Masonic principal of Brotherhood.
With that said, now you see how I have tied the Knight’s Vigil to an honorable Masonic degree.
What say you?
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