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What is the formal name of the Grotto?The Grotto is formally known as the Mystic Order of Veiled Prophets of the Enchanted Realm.
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How often do the Grottoes meet?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 thousands.
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What was the organization called originally?It was called the “Fairchild Deviltry Committee,” and at the first meeting it was decided to restrict membership to Master Masons in good standing.
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Is there a ritual?Perhaps the most spectacular, colorful and elaborate ritual seen anywhere.
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How did it become an important international organization?It grew immensely popular, because those who entered the Enchanted Realm . . . were enchanted . . . and said so. Letters poured in from Master Masons everywhere. There was an instantaneous revlization that here was an idea which could bring joy into life. There are about 201 Grottoes in the United States and Canada.
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Do you have a petition?Please contact a Grotto Member and they will walk you through the steps of joining and provide you with a petition.
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When was the name adopted?On June 13, 1890, the Supreme Council of the Mystic Order of 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.
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How does a Grotto obtain it's name and what is the criteria?Originally all Grotto names were to be of Persian character derivation. There is a list of acceptable names at our SC Office. The name selected must be approved by the Grand Monarch.
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What does IBN SAUD stand for or mean?In the beginning, all Grotto names were Persian. This is simply a Persian name that has no other significant meaning.
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Will you tell me more?Yes. It is a social organization for Master Masons only, with an emphasis on the Blue Lodge field. The organization has nothing whatsoever to do with symbolic Craft Masonry.
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Can you tell us details about the ladies' affiliate organization?Some Grottoes have a Ladies’ Auxiliary and some have Daughter’s of Mokanna.
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What is an enchanted lantern?It is a symbol from when the Grottoes first organized in 1890. Lanterns were lit and put out for where the meetings would be held.
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When did it start and where?In 1889, at Hamilton, New York. It sprang from a series of informal meetings, where Master Masons gathered for relaxation and laughs.
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What is the fee for re-instatement?The fee for reinstatement is currently $20.00 + your past and current dues at your Grotto, however, by the Grand Monarch Mitch Weinsting’s edict for this year and this year only, he is waiving the reinstatement fee and all that would be due would be the cost of your current dues at your Grotto.
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If there is no Grotto in your sate how does one start one?Please contact our office via phone or email and we will give you all the information you need.
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Is this connected with Masonry?Only in that our membership is restricted exclusively to Master Masons.
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Fun and frolic?Yes, indeed! But there is a serious side, the promptings of a social conscience, which concentrates on a basic charity.
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How do I join?You can join by directly contacting us.
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Is there some sort of a philosophy - a basic idea?Yes, it isn’t all 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.
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Could you explain the Mokanna head emblem?The Mokanna head is an illustration of an ancient Persian character in our initiation ritual. The following is how the Mokanna head became adopted as our logo:For a few years the Mystic Order of Veiled Prophets of the Enchanted Realm had no official emblem to wear. Word got around that the Mystic Order of Veiled Prophets were permitted to wear an emblem that set them apart from others and a black Fez head covering was selected with a Mokanna Head in the center, giving the name of the Grotto. Naturally, this attracted attention. The minutes of a February 26, 1903 stated meeting of Azim Grotto, Bronx, New York states: “Prophet Charles E. Lansing, Past Potent Monarch, after some preliminary remarks, descriptive thereto, presented to those present, a drawing in color of a headgear appropriate for the Order. The same was received with favor and by motion, regularly made and seconded and carried, it was unanimously decided to adopt and wear them on serious and other appropriate occasions.” In the minutes of October 29, 1903, it is recorded: “The Potent Monarch reported that the Fez worn by our members was, at the Annual Session of the Supreme Council held at Hamilton, New York on October 20, adopted as the official headgear for all Prophets of the Realm.”
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Did you say something about the Prophets sponsoring a charity?I did. Members of the Supreme Council began, as their International Humanitarian Objective, aid to the Cerebral Palsy Child, a charitable trust. It is directed by the Humanitarian Foundation of the Supreme Council, M.O.V.P.E.R. Funds are given annually to the United Cerebral Palsy Research and Educational Foundation. Many millions have been contributed by the Grottoes to Cerebral Palsy and other philanthropic charities, projects and organizations.
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Do you have an endowed membership program?The Grottoes of North America does not have an Endowed Membership Program. Our official charitable organization, The Humanitarian Foundation, has an Endowed Society.
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Are the Lodges called "Grottoes"?They are, and you should also know that many Grand Masters and Past Grand Masters, Governors of States, Past Governors, a Past President of the United States, and numerous civic leaders are Prophets.
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What are its purposes?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.
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Does the Grotto have groups / units to join like the Shrine?Yes we do! We have Bands, Choral-Vocal, Clowns, Drums and Bugle Corps, Revels, Drill and Parade, Motor Patrol and Dune Buggy, Pipe Band and String Band and Cast Units/Groups.
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How do I buy an Enchanted Lantern?You can puchase on line by clicking on the Humanitarian Foundation and Programs under our Quick Links on the left of your screen or at http://www.hfgrotto.org/ or by calling 614-933-0711.
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Who started the idea?LeRoy Fairchield of Hamilton, Lodge No. 120, F. & A. M. It was unofficial until September 10, 1889, when the organization was formed.
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What will I gain by joining the Grotto?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 relazation.
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How often do the grottoes meet?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 thousands.
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