Who, What, When, & Why?

from Al Azar Grotto

Q...Is this connected with Masonry?
A...Only in that our membership is restricted to 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...Who started the idea?
A...Leroy Fairchild of Hamilton, Lodge No. 120, F. & A.M. It was unofficial until September 10, 1889, when the organization was formed.

Q...What was the organization called originally?
A...It was called the "Fairchild Deviltry 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 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 realization that here was an idea that could bring joy into life. There are about 201 Grottoes in the United States and Canada.

Q...When was the name adopted?
A...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.

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 whatsoever to do with symbolic Craft Masonry.

Q...Is there a ritual?
A...Perhaps the most spectacular, colorful and elaborate ritual seen anywhere.

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 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.

Q...Are the Lodges called "Grottoes"?
A...They are, and you should also know that many Grand Masters and Past Grand Masters, Governors of States, Ex-Governors, a Past President of the United States, and numerous civic leaders are Prophets.

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 thousands.

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 realization.

If you are a Master Mason in good standing, you can-and should-become a Prophet in the Grotto. Accept the three great gifts which await you; a sense of mystery, laughter, and fraternal GOOD FELLOWSHIP.