Odd Fellowship, Humanitarianism, PREACH IT!!

Can you do without human sympathy? Humanitarianism is the view that all human beings deserve respect and dignity. Humanitarians work towards advancing the well-being of humanity as a whole. It is the antithesis of the “us vs. them” mentality that characterizes tribalism. Humanitarianism drives people to save lives, alleviate suffering, and promote human dignity. Humanitarianism […]

Thomas Wildey’s Life and Love of Odd Fellowship

True, he was known to many now living; but even they were not admitted to the knowledge of his private walks, or to witness those home scenes which more than any other indicate the man. He was at all times reticent, or entirely silent, about himself, and his solitary life gave no glimpse into the obscurity of his domestic secrets. He was manifestly of humble extraction, and might be ranked one remove above a common laborer.

New Symbol Shirt Designs by Ainslie Heilich

I have been working on some minimalism/geometric monoline designs to represent the Degrees of Odd Fellowship. It was tough to figure out what symbols to include or exclude, but I am pleased with the overall inclusion.

These designs are available in the Heart in Hand Store, and are able to be placed on tons of unique products if tshirts aren’t your thing. As always, all proceeds benefit my home Lodge.

Beware of Do Nothings, “Nice Guys”, and other Low Hanging Fruit

Not to be confused with actively seeking help or assistance, we are taught that showing desperation as individuals will attract nothing good. If we are desperate for a date then we will attract the scumbags who see us as an easy score. If we are desperate for a job then we will only get the lowest offers possible.

The Music of Odd Fellows Reclaiming the Odes Closing Ode – Italian Hymn -by Todd Swanson

Last time, we looked the Opening Ode “Columbia” written by Odd Fellow Brother John Seiffert. Next, we examine the Closing Ode set to the tune, “Italian Hymn”. As I mentioned in my last article, the odes of Odd Fellows have been set to several familiar tunes not necessary written by or for the Odd Fellows. The first of the closing odes being a composition from Felice De Giardini known as the (Italian Hymn).

YOU GOTTA WORK IT

Have you left the Order? Are you frustrated enough to think about leaving? Every week we have people come into this Order who are looking for something in their lives. Something that will transform their thinking, beliefs, outlooks on life, personal paradigms, friendships, and family lives. Some join to learn the secrets of the Illuminati […]

Reclaiming the Odes- COLUMBIA -by Todd Swanson

The goal of my personal project is to make the odes more accessible to the greater Odd Fellows community.

THE ENLIGHTENMENT, NATURE, AND REASON

The universe uses emblems or symbols to reveal itself to humanity. In ancient days, groups of philosophers and mystics used the symbols of the natural world to teach deep philosophical ideas to their initiates. The Rosicrucians, also originally known as Brothers of the Rose Cross, are an ancient Order supposedly connected to the Templars. The […]

Learn the Lodge Officer Jewels- new art by Ainslie Heilich

In order to help with the process of learning which piece of regalia goes where…and to answer the eternal question, “is this one for the Secretary or Financial Secretary?” I have designed this chart, using the same room layout image found in our charge books.

HOW WE “BURIED THE DEAD” IN 1880

Our fraternal order has traditionally buried the dead. Even though we don’t do this to the extent we used to, we still conduct funeral ceremonies for our recently departed. I’ve also heard of a lodge somewhere that used to supply pall bearers simply out of respect for a deceased person who may have died alone […]

IOOF Ciphers designed by Ainslie Heilich

For a long time I have been a fan of Turbayne’s “Monograms and Ciphers” book so I was inspired to make some IOOF related ones. These are free for any Odd Fellow or Lodge to use for the Good of the Order so long as it is not for personal profit. If you are using these for a shirt I would love it if one was sent my way.

Odd Fellows of Today: Our first VLOG!

Check out our first VLOG! If this goes well we would like to do more videos and vlogs to supplement our written content. Let us know what you think and subscribe to the channel for more!

Ainslie Heilich and Jenn Sereno sit down and chat about their experiences as active members of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. The conversation spans a big span of topics from getting new members, putting on events, community outreach, the value of learning from long time members, and the future of the IOOF.