Concordant Boby Series - Lifting the Vale: The Grotto

The Prophets and the Master 

On Wednesday, October 14, 2015, Harmonie Lodge No. 699 O.M. held another in a series of well-attended Concordant Body Nights.  This time around, the members of Harmonie invited the Veiled Prophets of Zulekia Grotto No. 10 to discuss the Mystic Order of Veiled Prophets of the Enchanted Realm. 

This was a special night for many of our Harmonie members, as many of our Brothers are very active in the Grotto.  Additionally, our Fellowcraft Club the RJKFC has teamed up with Zulekia Grotto on more than one occasion to march in several local parades, including the Buffalo Saint Patrick’s day Parade and the Lancaster 4^th of July Parade.  Honestly, you could not ask for a better group to go parading with!

As Brothers gathered for the evening’s event, you could feel the excitement in the air.  It was a night filled with good cheer and fellowship.  Many Brothers wore their Black Fezzes adorned with a Mokanna head and red tassels, which is how members of the Grotto are distinguished.

Brother Prophet Bob Chapman took to the podium to enhance our knowledge of the Enchanted Realm.  He presided over the presentation masterfully.  The presentation was done in a special answer and question format, which was purposefully designed to give Brothers a better understanding of everything Grotto. 

Brother Prophet Chapman took questions from other Prophets stationed in the audience.  In this way, Brother Prophet Chapman was able to provided insightful information on the history of the organization and its intended purpose.  He explained that the Grotto was formed in 1889 as the "Fairchild Deviltry Committee" and the it grew out of informal meetings by members of the Hamilton Lodge #120 in Hamilton, New York, who wished to seek "relaxation from the sterner duties of life by holding occasional informal meetings for fun and good fellowship" and play practical jokes on each other.  Moreover, he informed those in attendance that the Grotto encourages renewed interest in the Blue Lodges, though it makes no claim to be a part of Symbolic Craft Masonry.  He concluded by informing all that it is a social organization for Master Masons, and as such, all Master Masons are welcome to join. 

After the informational presentation concluded, everyone in attendance enjoyed a taste of that famous Grotto good fellowship.  It is always a great night when you hear nothing but laughter and see smiles on every face you pass. 

If you are interested in learning more about Zulejia Grotto No. 10, please feel free to contact me .

I look forward to seeing you all at our next regular communication.

- Brother Prophet Jon Korta