Freemasonry: Historical Ceremonies and Rituals: Ceremonies and Rituals from the Rites of Mizraim and Memphis

The pervasive political interpretation of certain Masonic teachings might mislead the uninformed into thinking that all of Freemasonry is identical to this portrayal. However, this is not the case. The esteemed Masonic authorities maintain their distance from such fervor, steadfastly adhering to the age-old secular values of tolerance, moral advancement, and intellectual pursuit. These principles were widely esteemed by the enlightened society of the 18th Century. It's important to recall the words of Queen Marie-Antoinette to her mother, the Empress of Austria: "We are all united."

Throughout history, the presence of irrational persecution and divisiveness in all forms of human instruction has compelled the Masonic Order to adopt a protective stance to safeguard its core values. A historical incident in Malta during the Napoleonic wars illustrates this: French Masonic prisoners had established a Lodge with the consent of their English counterparts, only to be assaulted by a mob of Maltese villagers, incited by local clergy who spread wild accusations of sorcery. Following the ransacking, the clergy performed an exorcism on the site. This event is just one of many such occurrences.

The previous edition was limited to the ancient rites of the Rite of Memphis. Now, it has been expanded to include newer practices such as the Conjugal Recognition Ceremony, the Baptism of a Louveteau, a Funeral Service, a Ritual for a Masonic Banquet, and a Masonic Death. For completeness, it was essential to incorporate the Rituals of the Rite of Memphis, which date back even further, especially since the unification of the two Rites by Garibaldi resulted in a single unified authority.

In the process of preparing for commercial release, some details were necessarily left out, and others are absent from the historical manuscripts, as they were traditionally conveyed orally and never documented. This practice has long been a part of Masonic tradition, which we continue to honor.

Lastly, it's noteworthy that the publication of these rituals received unanimous consent at the grand International Convent of Paris in 1966. This fact is mentioned to dispel the irrational criticisms of some zealous detractors. Rest assured, we are not breaching any vows of confidentiality.