Only in that our membership is restricted to exclusively to Master Masons.

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.

Yes, indeed! But there is a serious side, the prompting of a social conscience, which concentrates on a basic charity.

In 1889, at Hamilton, New York. It sprang from a series of informal meetings, where Master Masons gathered for relaxation and laughs.

LeRoy Fairchield of Hamilton, Lodge No. 120, F. & A. M. It was unofficial until September 10, 1889, when the organization was formed.

It was called the "Fairchild Deviltry Committee," and at the first meeting it was decided to restrict membership to Master Masons in good standing.

The Grotto is formally known as the Mystic Order of Veiled Prophets of the Enchanted Realm.

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 which could bring joy into life. There are about 201 Grottoes in the United States and Canada.

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.

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.

Perhaps the most spectacular, colorful and elaborate ritual seen anywhere.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

You can join by directly contacting a Grotto in your area. Go to the Main Page then to the Quick Links. Listed is a Map of the Grottoes. On the left is the Grottoes in Order with their city and state. On the right is a map of North America with the locations posted. Using the information there you can determine the closest Grotto. Also on the Quicklinks are the Grottoes by State. Type in the Grotto name you found listed on the map and you will find the contact information.

You may also contact our Supreme Council Office at 614-933-9193 and we will direct you to your closest Grotto or have a Grotto Officer contact you.

You can email us directly via the Contact Us tab.

The Grottoes of North America does not have an Endowed Membership Program. Our official charitable organization, The Humanitarian Foundation, has an Endowed Society.

Please contact a Grotto Member and they will walk you through the steps of joining and provide you with a petition.

Please contact our office via phone or email and we will give you all the information you need.

In the beginning, all Grotto names were Persian. This is simply a Persian name that has no other significant meaning.

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.

At this time, there is consideration taken on names relevant to current trends. This issue will be discussed at our 2012 Supreme Council Session in July.