The GROTTO
Why?...When?...Who?...What?...
Q: Is this
connected with Masonry?
A: Only in that our membership is restricted
exclusively to Master Masons.
Q: What are its
purposes?
A: To bring a quality of SYMPATHY and GOOD FELLOWSHIP
into life, not only to member Prophets, but to everybody. An atmosphere of good, clean fun
and frolic prevails at all times.
Q: Fun and frolic?
A: Yes indeed! But there is a serious side, the
prompting of a social conscience, which concentrates on a basic charity.
Q: When did it
start and where?
A: In 1889, at Hamilton, New York, it sprang from a
series of informal meetings, where Master Masons gathered for relaxation and laughs.
Q: When was the
name adopted?
A: On June 12, 1890, the Supreme Council of the Mystic
Order Veiled Prophets of the Enchanted Realm was founded. Since then, it has brought
merriment and GOOD FELLOWSHIP into the lives of many thousands of Master Masons.
Q: Will you tell me
more?
A: Yes. It is a social organization for Master Masons
only, with an emphasis on the Blue Lodge field. The organization has nothing to do with
symbolic Craft Masonry.
Q: What was the
organization called originally?
A: It was called the "Fairchild Committee"
and at the first meeting it was decided to restrict membership to Master Masons in good
standing.
Q: What is the
formal name of the Grotto?
A: The Grotto is formally known as the Mystic Order of
Veiled Prophets of the Enchanted Realm.
Q: How did it
become an important international organization?
A: It grew immediately popular, because those who
entered the Enchanted Realm...were enchanted...and said so, letters poured in from Master
Masons everywhere. There was an instantaneous realization that here was an idea, which
could bring joy into life. There are about 167 Grottoes in the United States and Canada.
Q: Is there a
ritual?
A: Perhaps the most spectacular, colorful and elaborate
ritual seen.
Q: Is there some
sort of philosophy - a basic idea?
A: Yes, it isn't all gaiety, fun and frolic. There is a
solemn, serious motif. The lesson it teaches invokes the precept of the Golden Rule
translated into two words, GOOD FELLOWSHIP. A spiritual uplift results, a keener love for
life and laughter, a strengthened optimism.
Q: Did you say
something about the Prophets sponsoring a charity?
A: I did. Members of the Supreme Council began, as
their International Humanitarian objectives, Aid to the Cerebral Palsy Child, a charitable
trust. It is directed by the Humanitarian Foundation of the Supreme Council, M.O.V.P.A.R.
Funds are given annually to the United Cerebral Palsy Research and Education Foundation.
Over one million dollars has been contributed to date. Many millions have been contributed
locally by the Grottoes to Cerebral Palsy and other philanthropic charities, projects and
organizations. The new program, the GROTTOES of North America has undertaken, is to
furnish direct and immediate dental care to physically and mentally handicapped children,
regardless of race, color, or creed. This project is recognized throughout the Realm as a
worthy humanitarian effort. In order to promote this project and to aid the GROTTOES in
raising money for their local humanitarian efforts, the Humanitarian Foundation of the
M.O.V.P.A.R. has designed and produced stamps, which are sold by GROTTO members.
Q: Are the Lodges
called "GROTTOES"?
A: They are, among GROTTO members are many Grand
Masters and Past Grand Masters, Governors, Ex-Governors of the various states, numerous
other Government officials, and Masonic civic leaders. Four Past Presidents of the United
States have been members of the Order: Warren G. Harding, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Harry S.
Truman, and Gerald Ford.
Q: How often do
the GROTTOES meet?
A: The Prophets, who receive a black fez with their
membership, meet once a month, with a ceremonial twice a year. Our international
conventions present spectacular parades that are viewed and enjoyed by hundreds.
Q: What will I
gain by joining the GROTTO?
A: Worthwhile charitable effort...a pervading and
exhilarating sense of GOOD FELLOWSHIP; a ready smile and the hand of friendship. The last
advantage is a guarantee of high entertainment, genuine fun, and happy relaxation.
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