Illinois State Grotto Association

Grotto Masons
of the Year

Mid-Year
Luncheon

THE GROTTO - FAQ's

Q:	Is this connected with Masonry?
Answer	Only in that our membership is restricted to exclusively to Master Masons.

Q:	What are its purposes?
Answer	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?
Answer	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?
Answer	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?
Answer	LeRoy Fairchield 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?
Answer	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?
Answer	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?
Answer	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 205 to 245 Grottoes in the United States and Canada.

Q:	When was the name adopted?
Answer	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?
Answer	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?
Answer	Perhaps the most spectacular, colorful and elaborate ritual seen anywhere.

Q:	Is there some sort of philosophy—a basic idea?
Answer	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?
Answer	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. Our grotto's charitable highlight is to Dental Care for Children with Special Needs.

Q:	Are the Lodges called "Grottoes"?
Answer	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?
Answer	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?
Answer	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.