Tag: secret society

The Nourishment of Good Fellowship -By Ian Love-Jones

I recently chatted with Torbjorn Andersson, my friend and Odd brother abroad. We agreed that reflecting together on some aspect of the Order, regularly and in writing, would be a great way to let iron sharpen iron, and to always keep creative energy close at hand. That agreement fits perfectly with our first chosen topic — the nourishment of good fellowship. Here are my thoughts:

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Nourishment through Odd Fellowship -By Torbjörn Andersson

Maybe some of our first memories of the lodge involve meals being served after meetings. Warm food fresh bread and simple desserts created a sense of peace and equality. Around the table rank and title fade and ordinary, sometimes deep, conversations take over. We remember listening to stories from senior members who had served the lodge for decades as well as newly initiated brothers and sisters. Their wisdom arrived without pressure. A small remark about friendship or truth that became food for thought.

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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?

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

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.

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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. 

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

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. 

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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.

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