Charity is a defining pillar of the Grotto and an essential expression of its values. Contact us by email to find out how to donate and support our charitable work.

Through the Humanitarian Foundation, Grottos support charitable work that includes:

• Dental clinics and treatment programs for children with special health care needs
• Preventive oral health care, including cleanings and early intervention
• Oral hygiene education for children and families
• Assistance for families who lack access to adequate dental resources
• Partnerships with dentists, clinics, hospitals, and community organizations

One of the most visible expressions of this mission is the Doctor of Smiles program. Through this initiative, Grottos raise funds, coordinate volunteers, and support dental care services for children who might otherwise go without treatment. The program emphasizes dignity, compassion, and practical assistance.

“Oola Khan Grotto draws brothers from many lodges in the tri state area who value the therapeutic effect of levity. Whether it’s raising money for good causes or getting together for beers and bbq, they go out of their way to cheer people up because they know from experience that laughter and care are actions that pair very well together” – Robert Paul

• You can Email Us to find out more information or submit the below
• Reach out to us on our Facebook page and join us for one of our public events or monthly business meetings.  We have dinner at 6PM and open at 7PM; with occasional dates at local restaurants, so please contact us so we can plan with you.
• Ask a member you know for a petition, it’s an organization open to all master masons in good standing. 
• You’ll need to bring your dues card when you bring your petition. We will set up a time for your initiation once you’ve reached out to seek more good fellowship.

The Mystic Order of Veiled Prophets of the Enchanted Realm (M.O.V.P.E.R.)

Origins and Founding

The Grottoes International, formally known as the Mystic Order of Veiled Prophets of the Enchanted Realm, arose during a period of growth and experimentation within American Freemasonry in the late nineteenth century.

In the summer of 1889, a small group of Master Masons in Hamilton, New York began meeting informally outside the structure of regular lodge meetings. These gatherings emphasized conversation, fellowship, and shared enjoyment rather than ritual labor or formal instruction. Although relaxed in tone, the meetings remained rooted in Masonic values.

As participation increased, it became clear that these gatherings met a genuine need. Many Masons desired a space where fraternity could be experienced in a more social and approachable way while still honoring symbolism, tradition, and purpose.

On September 10, 1889, the group held its first formal meeting and adopted an organizational framework. In 1890, the body formally established its name, ritual identity, and governing principles, marking the birth of the Mystic Order of Veiled Prophets of the Enchanted Realm as a recognized Masonic appendant organization.

From its inception, the Grotto was designed to complement Blue Lodge Masonry and other appendant bodies rather than replace them. Its founders believed that Freemasonry is strongest when it offers balance between instruction, service, reflection, and fellowship.

The Grotto emphasizes fellowship as a meaningful practice. Gatherings are intended to strengthen bonds through shared experience, humor, and participation. While the tone is lighter than that of degree conferring bodies, it is never frivolous or disrespectful.

Membership is limited to Master Masons in good standing. This requirement ensures a shared foundation of Masonic values and allows the Grotto to function as a space of equality, approachability, and mutual respect. Rank and title are intentionally deemphasized in favor of participation and camaraderie.

Symbolism is central to the identity of the Grotto. Among its most important symbols is Mokanna, a figure drawn from literary and allegorical tradition.

Mokanna represents illusion, perception, and the power of belief. Within the Grotto, this symbolism serves as a teaching tool rather than a literal narrative. It encourages members to look beyond appearances and to recognize that fraternity is shaped by intention, sincerity, and shared understanding.

Grotto ritual is structured to be welcoming and engaging. Ceremonies emphasize inclusion, equality, and participation while remaining respectful of Masonic tradition. The purpose of ritual within the Grotto is not to confer degrees, but to create shared moments that reinforce identity, belonging, and fellowship.

After its formal organization, the Grotto expanded steadily across the United States. Local bodies known as Grottos were chartered under the authority of the Supreme Council, each serving a defined geographic area.

As Freemasonry expanded in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, the Grotto grew alongside it. Regional associations formed to coordinate activities, share resources, and strengthen fraternal ties between Grottos.

Each Grotto developed its own local traditions and customs while remaining unified by common ritual, governance, and mission. This balance between local identity and national unity has remained one of the defining strengths of the Order.

Throughout much of the twentieth century, many Grottos organized specialized units to enhance fellowship, participation, and public engagement. These units included motor patrols, bands, drill teams, ceremonial groups, and heritage organizations.

Units encouraged regular involvement and strengthened bonds among members. They also provided opportunities for public representation at parades, community events, and charitable activities.

Public appearances were never intended as spectacle alone. They reflected pride in membership, commitment to service, and the desire to present Freemasonry in a positive and approachable way. Unit participation reinforced discipline, teamwork, and shared identity within the Grotto.

Charity is a defining pillar of the Grotto and an essential expression of its values.

In 1949, the Humanitarian Foundation of Grottoes International was formally established by action of the Supreme Council. The Foundation unified charitable efforts across local Grottos and created a coordinated framework for long term humanitarian service.

The primary charitable mission of the Grotto is the support of children with special needs, with particular emphasis on dental and oral health care. This focus reflects the understanding that access to dental care is often limited for children with disabilities, medical challenges, or financial hardship.

Through the Humanitarian Foundation, Grottos support charitable work that includes:

• Dental clinics and treatment programs for children with special health care needs
• Preventive oral health care, including cleanings and early intervention
• Oral hygiene education for children and families
• Assistance for families who lack access to adequate dental resources
• Partnerships with dentists, clinics, hospitals, and community organizations

One of the most visible expressions of this mission is the Doctor of Smiles program. Through this initiative, Grottos raise funds, coordinate volunteers, and support dental care services for children who might otherwise go without treatment. The program emphasizes dignity, compassion, and practical assistance.

In 1953, the Enchanted Lantern was adopted as the symbol of charitable giving within the Grotto. The lantern represents light offered through sustained generosity and service rather than one time charity. Contributions to the Humanitarian Foundation ensure that dental care and related services remain available to vulnerable children across the country.

The Mystic Order of Veiled Prophets of the Enchanted Realm operates under a structured system designed to balance local autonomy with national unity.

At the international level, the Supreme Council governs the Order. It establishes policy, maintains ritual standards, charters new Grottos, and provides guidance to ensure consistency and continuity.

State and regional associations coordinate activities within their jurisdictions. These associations facilitate communication between Grottos, organize conferences and conventions, and support shared charitable and fraternal initiatives.

At the local level, each chartered Grotto is governed by its own elected and appointed officers. The Monarch serves as the presiding officer and is supported by an officer corps responsible for administration, ritual, finance, hospitality, and charitable coordination.

While Grottos have flexibility in shaping local culture and activities, all operate under the authority of the Supreme Council. This structure ensures accountability, preserves tradition, and supports long term stability.

In the modern era, M.O.V.P.E.R. continues to serve as a fellowship focused Masonic body rooted in tradition, service, and participation.

Modern Grottos strive to remain welcoming, inclusive, and active. Emphasis is placed on engagement, shared experience, and meaningful service rather than hierarchy or formality for its own sake.

Charity remains central, fellowship remains intentional, and symbolism continues to provide shared identity. Through adaptation guided by tradition, the Grotto remains relevant while honoring its origins.

More than a century after its founding, the Mystic Order of Veiled Prophets of the Enchanted Realm continues to fulfill its purpose by offering Masons a place of friendship, service, and shared meaning.