Prior to their Initiation, each Candidate for the Grade of Neophyte 0=0 is required to procure a pair of red footwear and a black robe, to be worn over street clothes during their ceremony.
Of these, the red footwear is usually the harder to obtain, for men particularly. At a pinch, a pair of red sock would do, but ideally the footwear are more substantial. They should be primary red in colour, and ideally have black soles. It is best to have footwear with soft soles, so that when moving in the quiet Temple, not too much noise is made. Some form of slip on footwear is ideal. I personally use a pair of red leather slippers typical of those found in the bazars of Morocco.
You should consider wearing in the footwear before your Initiation so that there is no discomfort during the ceremony to distract you.
Making the black robe yourself is preferable, rather than buying it. It should be made of natural fibre, so that it breaths, but more importantly, so that it is flame resistant! There are a lot of candles used in the Temple, and one can never be too careful. It has only occurred once in my 40 odd year experience, but one time our Hiereus got too close to a candle and his cloak caught fire – the material was a heavy cotton so just a small repairable hole was made. The colour is a deep black.
The robe should be in the shape of a Tau cross – that is the hem of the robe should be flared slightly, likewise the sleeves should be slightly longer at the cuffs, say 20cm or so. Longer might look more dramatic, but too long, and they will get candle wax on them at best…
The robe should be such that it hides any street clothes. A pocket or two are also excellent additions. At the least, if you live in a cold area in the winter, the pocket can hold a handkerchief which provides some level of dignity for a dripping nose! Pockets are also good places to put glasses if needed.
In addition to your your robes and footwear, you needed to have an approved motto sorted out beforehand (usually on your preliminary pledge form), and you bring with you a deep red, scented rose that you should ideally keep (dried) after your Initiation, for use in the Portal if you progress that far.
I hope this provides some practical guidance for those about to join.
Kasmillos
