Archive for the 'Shrine' Category
When I was young, my opinion of the Shriners was positive but vague. They were easy enough to recognize, usually decked out in their trademark red fez. It seemed that they were always funding and helping to run charity fundraisers. I remember that when the Shriners circus came to town it was one of the highlights of my childhood. Of course I was more interested in the exotic animals and acrobatic feats than the charity aspect.
As I got older, I recognized that members of the Ancient Arabic Order of the Nobles of the Mystic Shrine were more than just friendly guys who drove around in miniature cars during parades. They have a dedication to community service work that is practically unmatched in other fraternal orders. Shrine rings give members a sense of identity and belonging. In order to join, a person must be a Mason.