An Introduction to Buffaloism as practiced by the
Grand Lodge of England.
The Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes is a
Charitable Organisation which is active, not only in its local community, but,
at all levels of Society. It
is non-political, nor does it look to religion to inspire participation. It
does, however, inspire members to commit to a peaceful and meaningful way of
life. It is often described as an extended family, a social organisation or a
mutually supportive group of like-minded people; each true in its own way, they
do not adequately describe the true picture: that is painted on a much larger
canvas.
There are a number of sections or "banners"
of the R.A.O.B. and whilst they differ in numerical strength and procedures, all
have the same purpose freely and aptly described as "the pursuit of
Brotherhood".
We
are the Grand Lodge of England.
This introduction is not a literary composition on the
origin and development of the R.A.O.B., however to be able to understand the
Order we must first look at how it has progressed in the time it has been in
existence.
The origins of the Order were in the theatrical
fraternity of the 1820's. It was, it seems, born out of the need for social
activity. As time went on the Order grew and spread becoming active in
philanthropic works. It opened orphanages, readily took its place in the
community and accepted its responsibilities towards the needs of its members.
All the fascinating history of the Order is freely available to anyone who is
interested.
The
advent of the National Health Service and cradle to grave care ended the need
for the orphanages and the Order underwent a fundamental change to become the
organisation it is today. The combination of providing support and care for our
members and taking part in the wider life of the community at large has evolved
throughout the Order.
There are three main levels within the Order.
The Minor Lodge
The Minor Lodge is the cornerstone around which the
Order is built. First and foremost we are all members of our own Minor Lodge.
Brothers can, if they wish, belong to more than one Lodge; all Brothers must be
part of a Lodge. The majority of Lodges meet weekly; though some meet
fortnightly or monthly if needs dictate. Each
Minor Lodge supports its members and the community at a local level.
The Provincial Grand Lodge
A Provincial Grand Lodge collectively
administers a group of lodges known as a Province. Members who have chosen to be
active at this level and have proven their knowledge of the
rules
and procedures attend the P.G.L. to carry this out.
P.G.L. meets once a month.
The Grand Lodge
Grand Lodge is made up of delegates from Provincial
Grand Lodges and administers the Order nationally. Grand Lodge runs and
maintains the Convalescent Homes owned by the Order and supports the community
as a whole.
The degree of participation at any level is entirely
voluntary and at the discretion of each individual Brother. Many do confine
their activities to their own Minor Lodge and do not seek advancement. There is
no stigma attached to anyone who does not wish to become active at Provincial
Grand Lodge or Grand Lodge.
The
provision of care and support for our members works hand in glove with our
support for local, regional and national charities.
Buffaloism
The image we would wish to present is of a group, who,
by their works, encourage members of the community to lead satisfying and
enjoyable lives and who provide our members with a sense of belonging. Tangible
assistance is provided when needed. Importantly this support is not dependent on
what an individual puts in rather by what is needed.
The R.A.O.B. at all levels supports its community and,
through its charitable works, raises many millions of pounds for most worthwhile
causes, far too many to list, all chosen by the membership locally, regionally
or nationally.
The
range of charities we support is very wide as are the internal funds we have for
use for our members in times of difficulty or need.
The support we provide for our own lodge members and
their families is augmented by a comprehensive range of benevolent funds
administered by Grand Lodge and includes educational grants. Aged members and
widows of deceased Brethren benefit from our annuities or special grants. We are
particularly proud of the system which has been established to provide care for
widows with young children. Funded entirely by voluntary contributions they
receive birthday and Christmas gifts, family holidays, pocket money and savings.
In short we do our best to fill the material gap left by the husband and father
they have lost. As long as the need exists our assistance continues.
We
are not a secret organisation, our rules and ceremonies are in the public
domain. Our Order is steeped in history, much more information is available but
to go in too deep at this stage would only serve to confuse.
Membership
Membership is for life and members can be as active as
they wish at whichever level they choose. All
that is required is that you are a member of a Lodge; further progress is in the
hands of the individual as is the frequency of his attendance in his Lodge.
Convalescent Homes
The Grand Lodge of England owns two homes, one in Harrogate the other in Weston Super Mare. There we provide facilities for Brothers and their families when there is need for a period of recovery and support. We are very proud of both.
The
key words or Hallmarks of our Order are JUSTICE, TRUTH and PHILANTHROPY. These
are noble sentiments and we strive to work towards a better understanding of the
needs of our community. By encouraging our members to lead active and useful
lives we believe we can influence others and show that, by following our
philosophy, society can grow and improve.
The principle aims of the Royal Antediluvian Order of
Buffaloes are:
• Friendship
• Charitable Works
• Social Activity
• Mutual Support
• Care
If this introduction has left you with the desire for
further information we are more than willing to discuss and answer any questions
you may have.
For information about the R.A.O.B. G.L.E. in your area please contact: The Grand Secretary, R.A.O.B. G.L.E., Grove House, Skipton Road, HARROGATE, HGl 4LA.