IOOF - Columbia Lodge #207

FRIENDSHIP, which hears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, is the first step toward progress and personal enrichment, and the forefather of Temperance, Prudence, and Justice: Unrestrained LOVE is the basis of all life's ambitions---the controlling passion of service to humanity, more powerful than the atom---more potent than any finite source: Inflexible TRUTH, the imperial virtue, begets economic stability, equality under the law, freedom of enterprise, the highest of ethical standards, and lasting peace, the ultimate goal of fraternity: Universal BROTHERHOOD OF MAN under the FATHERHOOD OF GOD is necessary to the survival of the world, and can be accomplished only through the catalysis of fellowship---implanting the togetherness which stems from understanding and goodwill among peoples, states and nations.

Recognizing the university of human brotherhood, its organization is designed to embrace the world within its jurisdiction. Intended solely to disseminate the great principles of Friendship, Love and Truth, nothing of a political or sectarian character is permitted within its portals. Toleration in religion, obedience to law and loyalty to government, are its cardinal principals. Misfortune, misery and death being written in fearful characters on the broad face of creation, our noble order was instituted to uplift the fallen; to champion humanity; to be its guide and hope, its refuge, shelter and defense; to soften down the asperities of life; to subdue party spirit and by the sweet and powerful attractions of the glorious trinity of Friendship, Love and Truth, to bind in one harmonious brotherhood people of all classes and all opinions.
The brightest jewels which it garners are the tears of widows, and orphans, and its imperative commands are to visit homes where lacerated hearts are bleeding; to assuage the sufferings of a member; but the dead; care for the widows and educate the orphans; to exercise charity towards offenders to construe words and deeds in their least unfavorable light; granting honesty of purpose and good intention to others; and to protect the principles of Odd Fellowship until death. Its laws are doctrines to inspire purity of thought, loyalty to the government under which we live; its intentions are peace on earth and good will towards all.

I AM AN ODD FELLOW

I believe in the Fatherhood of God, and the Brotherhood of man.

I believe in Friendship, Love and Truth as basic guides to the ultimate destiny of all mankind.

I believe my home, my church or temple, my lodge, and my community deserve my best work, my modest pride, my earnest faith, and my deepest loyalty, as I perfonn my duty "to visit the sick, relieve the distressed, bury the dead and educate the orphan" and as I work with others to build a better world, because, in spirit and in truth, I am, and must always be, grateful to my Creator, faithful to my country, and fraternal to my fellowman.

I AM AN ODD FELLOW.