Overview

[Contents UPDATED on March 18, 2021] The aim is to create a 21st century reference book of the essentials of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. This book hopes to acquaint potential candidates, members and leaders with a straight-forward approach of its origin and history; philosophy and purposes; degrees, teachings and symbols; organizational structure, functions of officers, regalia and jewels of office. But this does not aim to teach the rituals or any of its signs and passwords. This does not also aim to supplant the Code of General Laws but only to emphasize the generally accepted rules within the IOOF. Evolving from the traditions of the English craft guilds and journeymen associations nearly 300 years ago, the Odd Fellows refers to a number of fraternal orders, friendly societies and service organizations existing in more than 30 countries today. This branch, the Independent Order of Odd Fellows (IOOF), was established on April 26, 1819 in Baltimore, Maryland, USA, by Thomas Wildey and four members from England. The IOOF is also known as the Three Link Fraternity , referring to its Triple Link Chain symbol that represents its motto: Friendship, Love and Truth. Membership education and mentoring are very important prerequisites for a successful and growing non-profit organization. However, the last Odd Fellows Manual was published more than 100 years ago. In a survey study participated by exactly 2,120 members from all over North America, Latin America, Europe, Australia and Southeast Asia, majority of the respondents are in agreement that Odd Fellowship lacked the needed modern literature to educate and mentor its members. A lot about the IOOF has already changed. The focus and purposes of the organization has also evolved. The rituals, symbols, regalia and Code of General Laws have been amended and revised through the years. With modern technology, access to historical documents has also become easier. Furthermore, a lot of new evidence and modern research studies are coming out to light which calls for a need to re-visit and re-write the origins and history of Odd Fellowship. It is now easier to confirm or debunk claims written many years ago. This suggests that most of the manuals and books published many years ago have become outdated although not completely obsolete. This book is an attempt to fill that gap.

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