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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