Independent Order of Odd Fellows (I.O.O.F.)
"Odd Fellows?" A very unique name for an organization, wouldn't you agree? A very strange sounding name, quite frankly. And yet it is the perfect name and describes perfectly the purpose of the organization. When I first heard the name "Odd Fellows," I knew that I had to know more. Because it was such a unique name. Who in the world would call themself an "odd fellow.?" And so I had to inquire as to what this name meant. What was its' origin as a name? . . . as an organization? This is the explanation which I was given.
The original founders of the Odd Fellows wanted to found an organization which consisted of helping others: They helped those who were in need. They cared about those who were sick and unable to take care of themself and their family. They would help in burying the dead. They would provide education for the orphans. And as these first members would go around doing good for others, people would look at them and question why in the world would somebody do that? Those sure are "Odd Fellows," they would say. This is one of the explanations for the origin of the name "Odd Fellows," but it surely the explanation which I like best because it exemplifies the whole purpose of the Odd Fellows.
From the Odd Fellows website we see that their mission is to:
”visit the sick, relieve the distressed, bury the dead and educate the orphan."
Without a doubt, the Odd Fellows does that and more. Each individual Odd Fellows lodge is individual and unique. In other words, they each provide unique and individual good works in their community. This is because each lodge consists of members of the community. And each of these members wants to join others in doing something good, something positive for their community. They want to be a positive influence and to stand up for those who need help.
For more information about the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, please visit their website:
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