Odd Fellowship and Superheroes Part 1 -By Torbjörn Andersson

Every fellowship begins with a single act of courage. Within the Odd Fellow world this courage emerges when an individual chooses service over comfort, compassion over indifference, and dignity over pride. While ancient symbols hold deep meaning, a surprising guide can be found in the heroes of the cartoon universe. Their stories reveal a truth […]

The Story of the Steward -By Ian Love-Jones

I’ve noticed that the stories which Odd Fellows seem to love most are the stories of stewards. This is true whether those stewards are sovereigns, seekers, shepherds or supporters, guides or guards, companions, caretakers, or complete outsiders.

AN OPEN LETTER CONCERNING THE RECENT COMMUNICATION TO ALL IOOF LODGES FROM THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE OF THE SGL -by Kurt Roggli, PGCh, CA

The letter’s tone is unmistakable. We are “admonished” that “non-negotiable” obligations are to be followed “without deviation”, “without exception”, responses to be “written in ink”, and so on. Wouldn’t friendship and love dictate that SGL guide its members with benevolent care rather than stern rebukes?

The First 90 Days as an Odd Fellow: Elevating Mankind Through Friendship, Love & Truth -By Jesus Paz

In a world obsessed with self-interest, joining this Order is an act of quiet rebellion. You’ve chosen to walk a different path — one built on the foundation of Friendship, Love, and Truth. But how do you live that out in today’s world?

Degree Work Tips -by Aiden Brink

When I first joined my lodge our degree work had much to be desired, it was always haphazard, no one knew which costumes were which, there was always a last minute scramble putting people into each place as needed. Despite this haphazard nature I still fell in love with doing degree work. I began learning parts, not just reading, but actually memorizing and performing. We acquired some nondescript robes and props which gave us more flexibility.

A Bit of History and Understanding of Historic Regalia -by Kristopher Gratz, VA

While the collar never went away, the rope regalia was seen as a more appropriate option during the depression / WW2 years. This lasted for decades until the multi-colored chain regalia became popular. Still minimalist, with a bit of flash. Fast forward to now, there are very few members who understand the meaning behind the different embroidery patterns, colors or accessories of the collar regalia.

A Resplendent Display: An argument for Regalia and its importance -by Aiden Brink

In those early years regalia looked a little bit different than it did today, in fact Odd Fellows were in the habit of wearing both collars, sashes, and aprons. You can find many examples of beautifully decorated aprons and collars from the early years of our order, which demonstrate in their intricate designs the care and regard with which their owners held OddFellowship.

Member Retention Seminar -by Toby Hanson, PGM, PGP

We’ve all had the experience of people coming to join the lodge only to leave after the Initiation and never come back. I have collected some suggestions from various sources to help keep those members engaged so they will continue to attend lodge meetings and events and become valued, regular members.

How has Odd Fellowship Changed You? -by Ian Love-Jones

Some members entered Odd Fellowship with Odd Fellow’s values already firmly intact. I hope that statement did not cause a collective gasp, because I’m about to wade in further into that idea.

It’s unlikely that someone was drawn to Odd Fellowship because they had no concept of Friendship, Love, and Truth, community, or sharing – and simply wanted to celebrate those values for the very first time.

Which is the Most Important? Friendship, Love, or Truth? -by Ron Mills

I was recently asked of the 3 words which is the most important, Friendship, Love, or Truth? While there was no right or wrong answer in the question, it poses a philosophical question. Can you have Friendship without Love or Truth? Can you have Love without Truth or Friendship? I share these thoughts of mine, […]

Keeping It Simple (Through the Complexities) -by Ian Love-Jones

This writing is not about doing away with those valuable, and sometimes even critical complexities. Those structures and business processes help a great deal with elevating voices, keeping lodge doors open, lights on, charities funded, and member efforts organized. As we navigate those complexities though, it’s important to remember the simpler spirit of Odd Fellowship.

Trouble At The Top -by Toby Hanson PGM, PGP (WA)

I’ve heard so many stories from new members who have to battle older, more entrenched members who have grown complacent and no longer care to follow the Code or their jurisdictional constitution. While I can and do empathize with those who have carried the burden of keeping a charter on the wall for many years, their actions are often detrimental to the survival of the lodges they have worked so hard to preserve.