Mystic Order of Veiled Prophets of the Enchanted Realm

It is a social organization for Master Masons, and as such, all Master Masons are welcome to join. [2] It encourages renewed interest in the Blue Lodges and the study of its deeper teachings in a social and relaxed atmosphere,[3] though it makes no claim to be a part of Symbolic Craft Masonry. [4]

Members are distinguished by a black fez with a red tassel and sometime with a Mokanna head in the middle.[5] A Monarch (President of a single grotto), wears a black Fez with a purple tassel and a Grand Monarch (President of the Order) wears a black Fez with a Yellow tassel, all other Grand Officers wear a black Fez with a white tassel.[6][7]

The Mystic Order of Veiled Prophets of the Enchanted Realm, also known as M.O.V.P.E.R. or The Grotto, was founded in the summer of 1889 by LeRoy Fairchild and other members of Hamilton Lodge #120 in Hamilton, New York.[8] They organized quality gentlemen meetings for discussing blue Lodge deeper meaning with fun and good fellowship.[9] At their meeting on September 10, 1889, they decided to call the group the “Fairchild Deviltry Committee” and restrict membership to Master Masons in good standing. The idea of the Order proved to be attractive, and many Masons joined.[8] In response to requests, other groups were formed in other areas, and on June 13, 1890 the former “Fairchild Deviltry Committee” duly established and formed the Supreme Council, Mystic Order of Veiled Prophets of the Enchanted Realm.[8] Its purpose was officially "to add in greater measure to the Masonic fraternal spirit the charm of radiant cheerfulness and to maintain within the fraternity an impetus of royal good fellowship and study the Blue Lodge degrees". It is a social organization for Master Masons, and as such, all Master Masons are welcome to join. It encourages renewed interest in the Blue Lodges, though it makes no claim to be a part of Symbolic Craft Masonry.[2][10]

For a few years the Mystic Order of Veiled Prophets of the Enchanted Realm had no official emblem to wear. Word got around that the Mystic Order of Veiled Prophets were permitted to wear an emblem that set them apart from others and a black Fez head covering was selected with a Mokanna Head in the center, giving the name of the Grotto.[8]

From 1902 on, the Supreme Council would elect and transition power to officers on a yearly basis.

The minutes of a February 26, 1903 stated meeting of Azim Grotto, Bronx, New York states: “Prophet Charles E. Lansing, Past Potent Monarch, after some preliminary remarks, descriptive thereto, presented to those present, a drawing in color of a headgear appropriate for the Order. The same was received with favor and by motion, regularly made and seconded and carried, it was unanimously decided to adopt and wear them on serious and other appropriate occasions.” [11][4][12]

A Grotto Fez design from the Las Vegas Grotto Sin-A-Tra, distinguishable with its black fez and red tassel.

In the minutes of October 29, 1903, it is recorded: “The Potent Monarch reported that the Fez worn by our members was, at the Annual Session of the Supreme Council help at Hamilton, New York on October 20, adopted as the official headgear for all Prophets of the Realm.”[13]

The Chelminar Grotto, situated in Yakima, Washington, was established in 1921 and continues to be operational to this day. On the other hand, the Zafar Grotto, located in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, stands as one of the largest Grottoes in the nation, boasting a membership of over 350 individuals. While many Grottoes intentionally maintain a smaller membership to foster a sense of close-knit fellowship, this selective approach occasionally draws criticism for perceived elitism from other Masons.[14][2]

Artistic depiction of Mokanna, The veiled Prophet

The logo of the Grotto, M.O.V.P.E.R., is distinguished by a Mokanna head, giving the name of the Grotto. This emblem sets members of the Mystic Order of Veiled Prophets apart from others.[10][15]

Exploration of the historical narrative surrounding the Grotto organization necessitates a comprehensive understanding of its emblematic figure, Mokanna, and the origins of this intriguing tale. To embark on this journey of knowledge, one must transport themselves to the distant past, specifically to the year 779 AD, where we find the enigmatic figure known as Al-Muqanna, whose epithet translates from Arabic as "the Veiled One." Though he commenced his earthly existence as a humble clothes pleater, Al-Muqanna's life took a momentous turn when he espoused the radical teachings of Abu Muslim of Khorasan. Following Abu Muslim's tragic demise, Al-Muqanna, in an audacious move, established a religious sect premised on the notion that Abu was a reincarnation of the Divine, and upon his passing, this divine mantle was passed on to Muqanna. Such beliefs were nothing short of radical, earning Al-Muqanna the antipathy of more conventional religious adherents.[16]

It is intriguing to note that Al-Muqanna was reputed to habitually veil his visage, ostensibly to conceal the splendor and magnificence of his countenance from his fervent disciples. However, a different narrative emerges from the accounts of locals, who, unenthusiastic about his unconventional interpretation of Islam, contended that the veil was merely a ruse to obscure the fact that he was bald and had lost an eye. In due course, Al-Muqanna and his followers mounted a rebellion, but their rebellion was ephemeral, as the authorities orchestrated his immolation within the confines of his residence. A fate most gruesome, one might add.[17]

The story, however, did not conclude with Al-Muqanna's fiery demise. Fast forward a millennium, and one encounters the distinguished Sir Thomas Moore, who penned a romance titled "Lalla Rookh." This novella unveils a captivating narrative featuring a resplendent Princess, the eponymous Lalla Rookh. She embarks on a journey to wed a distant prince she has never met and, understandably, carries with her a certain trepidation. Yet, her apprehension finds respite in the presence of a minstrel and raconteur accompanying her entourage. Entranced by his mesmerizing tales, one of which is the enthralling "Veiled Prophet of Khorasan," she eventually discovers that this storyteller is none other than her betrothed prince in disguise. Their union heralds a happily-ever-after, a familiar trope in romantic tales.[18]

The contemporary ritual of the Grotto organization loosely draws inspiration from Moore's narrative, adorned with distinct Masonic embellishments along the way. It is imperative to acknowledge that each Grotto branch may impart its unique interpretation of the story. Thus, the opportunity to witness a Grotto initiation should not be missed, for it is an occasion to partake in a captivating narrative that melds history, mystique, and fraternal traditions into a tapestry of symbolic significance and cultural resonance.[19][20]

The Mystic Order of Veiled Prophets of the Enchanted Realm, also known as the Grotto, is guided by a philosophy that goes beyond simple enjoyment and celebration. This philosophy is deeply rooted in the concept of Good Fellowship, a principle that mirrors the essence of the Golden Rule.

Good Fellowship is more than just mutual respect and reciprocity; it represents a spirit of camaraderie, unity, and shared joy. This philosophy encourages spiritual growth, a renewed love for life and laughter, and a strengthened sense of optimism. It transforms ordinary experiences into moments of joy and fulfillment.

While The Grotto is often seen as a journey filled with joy, fun, and frolic, the Grotto recognizes a solemn and serious motif beneath this surface of gaiety. This motif is not an abstract concept but a tangible philosophy that shapes our actions and perceptions.

As members of the Grotto, individuals are encouraged to adopt this philosophy. It serves as a guiding light in their journey, leading them to find joy in shared experiences, treat others with kindness and respect, and embrace life with laughter and optimism. Amidst the complexities of life, this philosophy serves as a reminder of a simple yet profound truth: Life is not just about fun and frolic; it’s about learning, growing, and fostering Good Fellowship.[21]

• Supreme Council, Grottoes of North America
• Grotto Humanitarian Foundation
• Source information