About Shriners
At Template Shriners, we embrace the values of Fun, Friendship, Family, and Philanthropy, creating a space where our members can engage in joyful activities while contributing to a greater cause. Our mission centers around supporting Shriners Children's, as we believe that together, we can make a significant impact. Whether you're looking to make lasting friendships or participate in charitable events, you'll find a welcoming community with us. Our History Goes Way Back in Time. All Shriners are Masons.
Our headquarters is Shriners International located in Tampa, FL. We are a unique organization that combines membership elements of fun, fellowship, and philanthropy, with a strong commitment to improving the lives of children in need through our healthcare initiatives for Shriners Children's
Who We Are
Shriners Believe in Brotherhood... Shriners are a brotherhood of men committed to family, engaged in ongoing personal growth, and dedicated to providing care for children and families in need. Our backgrounds and interests are diverse, but we are bound together by our shared values and a desire to have fun, do good, and build relationships that can last a lifetime. To be a Shriner, you have to be a Master Mason First.
What is a Shriner?
A Shriner is a man who professes a faith in God. As a man of faith, he uses the tools of moral and Ethical truths to serve mankind. A Shriner binds himself to like-minded men in a Brotherhood that transcends all religious, ethical, social, cultural, and educational differences. In fellowship, with his brothers, a Shriner finds ways in which to serve his God, his family, his fellow man, and his country. A Shriner is dedicated. He recognizes his responsibility for justice, truth, charity, enlightenment, freedom and liberty, honesty and integrity in all aspects of human endeavor. A Shriner is such a man!!
Our Goals
Philanthropy:
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Support children in need through medical care, education, and scholarships.
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Fund and operate Shriners Hospitals for Children, providing specialized medical treatment regardless of the family's ability to pay.
Brotherhood:
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Foster camaraderie and friendship among members.
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Promote a sense of belonging and community through shared values and experiences.
Community Service:
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Engage in local community service projects to improve the quality of life in their areas.
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Encourage members to volunteer and contribute to charitable causes.
Family Support:
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Provide support and resources for families of children receiving care at Shriners Hospitals.
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Create a welcoming environment for families to connect and share experiences.
Cultural and Recreational Activities:
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Organize events and activities that promote fun, fellowship, and cultural enrichment for members and their families.
Our Inspirations
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Masonic Principles:
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Rooted in the values of Freemasonry, including integrity, compassion, and charity.
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Historical Legacy:
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Inspired by the founding principles of the Shriners in 1870, emphasizing fun and philanthropy.
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Children's Health:
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Driven by the mission to provide hope and healing to children with complex medical needs.
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Shriners Children's Philanthropy
Overview
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Mission: To improve the lives of children by providing specialized healthcare and support services through a network of hospitals and clinics.
What is a Fez?
Shriners is a part of a fraternity that was founded in 1870. We are a fraternity of men dedicated to brotherhood, fun, and philanthropic activities.
One of the most iconic symbols of our fraternity is the fez. Worn by members of the Shrine, the fez is a red felt hat that is adorned with a black tassel and scimitar logo.
It was chosen as our symbol by our founder. The fez is a symbol of our commitment to our international brotherhood and philanthropy. It stands out in a crowd and has become a well-known symbol that represents a true Shriner.
Why Scimitar Logo?
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The scimitar stands for the backbone of the fraternity, its members.
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The two claws are for the Shriners fraternity and its philanthropy.
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The sphinx stands for the governing body of the Shriners.
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The five-pointed star represents the thousands of children helped by the philanthropy each year.
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The emblem also bears the phrase “Robur et Furor,” which means “Strength and Fury.”
How It All Started at the Knickerbocker Cottage
The Knickerbocker Cottage Story
William J. Florence
In 1870, there were several thousand Freemasons in Manhattan, many of whom lunched at the Knickerbocker Cottage at a special table on the second floor. There, the idea of a new fraternity for Masons, stressing fun and fellowship, was discussed. Together, Walter M. Fleming and William J. Florence established a separate fellowship to fulfill those ideals.
While on tour in Marseille, Florence, an actor, was invited to a party given by an Arab diplomat. The entertainment was a musical comedy. At its conclusion, the guests became members of a secret society. Florence took notes and drawings at his initial viewing and on two other occasions, once in Algiers and once in Cairo. When he returned to New York in 1870, he showed his material to Fleming.
Walter M. Fleming
Fleming created the ritual, emblem, and costumes. Florence and Fleming were initiated on August 13, 1870, and they initiated 11 men on June 16, 1871.
The group adopted a Middle Eastern theme and soon established a Temple, although the term Temple has now been replaced by Shrine Auditorium or Shrine Center. The first Temple established was Mecca Temple, established at the New York City Masonic Hall on September 26, 1872. Fleming was the first potentate.
In 1875, there were 43 Shriners in the organization. To encourage membership, the Imperial Grand Council of the Ancient Order of the Nobles of the Mystic Shrine for North America was created at the June 6, 1876 meeting of Mecca Temple. Fleming was elected the first imperial potentate. By 1878, there were 425 members in 13 temples in eight states, and by 1888, there were 7,210 members in 48 temples in the United States and Canada. By the Imperial Session held in Washington, D.C. in 1900, there were 55,000 members and 82 Temples.
Our Shrine Center History
Established in 1965, the Founding Fathers of the Shrine have proudly served our community while championing the mission of Shriners Children's. Our founder, John Doe, laid the foundation with a vision that continues to inspire us today.
With over 50 activities to engage our members and the community, we are excited to modernize our facilities under our new potentate's leadership. As we look ahead, we remain committed to preserving our rich history while creating new opportunities to serve those in need.
Shrine Office Information
Opening Hours
Mon
9:00AM - 5:00PM
Tue
9:00AM - 5:00PM
Wed
9:00AM - 5:00PM
Thu
9:00AM - 5:00PM
Fri
9:00AM - 5:00PM
Sat
9:00AM - 3:00PM
Location
123 Any Street,
St. Petersburg, FL 33713
