Becoming a Shriner is a journey that involves more than just applying; it's about embracing a commitment to fellowship, philanthropy, and the values of Freemasonry. This guide will walk you through the process, answering common questions and providing a clear understanding of what it means to be a Shriner.
What is a Shriner?
Before diving into the application process, it's crucial to understand what the Shriners International is. Shriners are a fraternal organization, known for their vibrant parades, elaborate costumes, and, most importantly, their dedication to supporting Shriners Hospitals for Children. These hospitals provide specialized care for children with orthopedic conditions, burns, spinal cord injuries, and cleft lip and palate, regardless of the families' ability to pay. Membership in the Shriners International is open only to Master Masons (members of a Masonic Lodge).
What are the Steps to Becoming a Shriner?
The path to becoming a Shriner involves several steps:
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Become a Freemason: This is the foundational requirement. You must first join a local Masonic Lodge and progress through the various degrees within the lodge. The time this takes varies depending on the individual lodge and its processes. It's not a quick process, as Freemasonry emphasizes personal growth and understanding of its principles.
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Recommendation & Petition: Once you've achieved the degree of Master Mason, you can apply to join a Shriner's temple. This typically involves seeking a recommendation from a current Shriner member. You will then submit a petition to the temple, which will be reviewed by its members.
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Acceptance and Initiation: If your petition is accepted, you'll be invited to undergo the initiation ceremony into the Shrine. This ceremony is a significant event, highlighting the fraternity's unique traditions and rituals.
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Membership and Involvement: After initiation, you become a full member of the temple and are encouraged to participate in its various activities, from parades and social events to charitable fundraising and volunteering at Shriners Hospitals for Children.
What are the Requirements to Become a Shriner?
Besides being a Master Mason, there are some general requirements that are important to consider:
- Good Moral Character: Shriners emphasize strong moral character and ethical behavior. The organization seeks men of integrity and good standing in their communities.
- Commitment to Philanthropy: Shriners are expected to actively support the organization's charitable work, particularly the Shriners Hospitals for Children. This can involve volunteering time, donating money, or participating in fundraising activities.
- Active Participation: While the level of involvement varies among members, active participation in temple events and activities is encouraged. This fosters camaraderie and strengthens the bonds of brotherhood within the organization.
How Much Does It Cost to Become a Shriner?
The cost of joining a Shriners temple varies depending on the individual temple. There are typically initiation fees and ongoing dues, but the specifics should be clarified with the temple you're interested in joining. The financial commitment is a consideration, but the rewards in terms of brotherhood, philanthropy, and personal growth are often cited as far outweighing the costs.
What if I'm Not a Freemason? Can I Still Join the Shriners?
No. Membership in the Shriners International is exclusively for Master Masons. Becoming a Freemason is the prerequisite to joining the Shriners. You must go through the Masonic process before even considering applying to a Shrine temple.
Are There Different Types of Shriners?
While there's only one Shriners International, the organization is composed of many individual temples located throughout the world. Each temple has its unique traditions and activities, but they all share the common bond of supporting the Shriners Hospitals for Children and fostering fraternal fellowship.
What are the Benefits of Being a Shriner?
The benefits of becoming a Shriner extend beyond the social and charitable aspects. Members often cite:
- Strong sense of brotherhood and camaraderie: The organization fosters a strong sense of community and belonging.
- Opportunity to give back to the community: Shriners have the chance to make a tangible difference in the lives of children through their support of the hospitals.
- Personal growth and development: Membership provides opportunities for personal growth and self-improvement through involvement in various activities and leadership roles.
Joining the Shriners is a deeply rewarding experience for those who align with its values. This guide offers a solid understanding of the process, but it's always best to contact your local Shrine temple directly to get the most up-to-date and specific information regarding membership.
