Requirements for Membership
A person of good character, of any race, nationality and social status, who is loyal to their country and believes in a Supreme Being, the creator and preserver of the Universe, is eligible for membership. Odd Fellowship strictly forbids any interference with one’s religious beliefs or political opinions. Candidates for Odd Fellows lodges must be at least 16 years old, although youth branches admit members from ages 8 to 18. Lodges charge an initiation fee and annual dues. The amount of dues is set by each lodge, but tends to be around $80 annually in Massachusetts.
How to Join
To become a member of an Odd Fellows lodge, the path across the world is almost the same. Those interested are advised to either contact the nearest local lodge via telephone or email, meet a current member, or come to an Odd Fellows sponsored event and let the members know your intentions.
A candidate must be sponsored by a current member, so the first step towards joining is to find someone who is a current member. Ask around, you would be surprised who is an Odd Fellow. If you do not know a member, consult the on-line Lodge Directory and use that information to contact the lodge. You can also e-mail the Grand Secretary and he can help you find the right lodge. Once you have a sponsor, you must fill out an application, which you can find here or from a member in person.
After You Have Applied
When the lodge has received your application, they will appoint an interviewing committee of three members. These members will call on you, both to ask questions and to answer any questions you may have concerning the lodge. One purpose of the interviewing committee is to give a candidate at least three familiar faces in the lodge. At the next meeting, the interviewing committee will report back to the lodge. The lodge will ballot to accept you as a member. The lodge will then contact you or send you a letter announcing your election to membership and the date and time for initiation.
