About

WHO WE ARE

We are a non-political and non-sectarian international fraternal order. Founded in 1819 by Thomas Wildey in Baltimore, Maryland, evolving from the Order of Odd Fellows founded in England during the 18th century. The order is also known as the Triple Link Fraternity, referring to the order’s “Triple Links” symbol, referring to our motto “Friendship, Love and Truth”.

Beyond fraternal and recreational activities, the Independent Order of Odd Fellows promotes the ethic of reciprocity and charity, by implied inspiration of Judeo-Christian ethics.

We meet the First, Third and Fifth Monday of every month (except holidays).
Meetings begin at 7 PM. Visitors may not participate in meetings.

OBJECTIVES

As an organization, the Independent Order of Odd Fellows aims to provide a framework that promotes personal and social development. Lodge degrees and activities aim to improve and elevate every person to a higher, nobler plane; to extend sympathy and aid to those in need, making their burdens lighter, relieving the darkness of despair; to war against vice in every form, and to be a great moral power and influence for the good of humanity. Teachings in the Order are conducted through the exemplification of the Degrees of membership. The Degrees are conferred on the candidate by their Lodge and are teachings of principles and truths by ceremonies and symbols. The Degrees are presented largely by means of allegory and drama. For Odd Fellows, the degrees in Odd Fellowship emphasize a leaving of the old life and the start of a better one, of welcoming travelers, and of helping those in need. Lodges also provide an international social network of members in 26 countries. The command of the IOOF is to “visit the sick, relieve the distressed, bury the dead and educate the orphan”. Specifically, IOOF has stated the following purposes:

  • To improve and elevate the character of mankind by promoting the principles of friendship, love, truth, faith, hope, charity and universal justice.
  • To help make the world a better place to live by aiding each other in times of need and by organizing charitable projects and activities that would benefit the less fortunate, the youth, the elderly, the environment and the community in every way possible.
  • To promote good will and harmony among peoples and nations through the principle of universal fraternity, holding the belief that all men and women regardless of race, nationality, religion, social status, gender, rank and station are brothers and sisters.
  • To promote a wholesome fraternal experience without violence, vices and discrimination of every form.

NON-DISCRIMINATION STATEMENT AND POLICY

International Order of Odd Fellows Lodge 74 does not, and shall not, discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion (creed), gender, gender expression, age, national origin (ancestry), disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status, in any of its activities or operations. These activities include, but are not limited to, hiring and firing of staff, selection of volunteers and vendors, and provision of services. We are committed to providing and inclusive and welcoming environment for all members and guests.

WHERE WE MEET

Mt. Zion Lodge #74
525 Greenwood Road
York, PA 17408