Bishop Elks Lodge (2024)

FAQs

What is the controversy with the Elks Lodge? ›

Controversies. Throughout American history, many Elks lodges have been criticized for excluding African-Americans, Jews, Italians, women, atheists, and others from membership. The Improved Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the World was founded in 1897 due to the exclusion of African-Americans from the BPOE.

They require belief in God, but do not venture to define God, so pretty much anyone but an atheist can join. In fact it is explicit in the instructions to new members that no one is to push any religious, partisan, or similar particular agenda within the Order.

The second question is more complex, even if the Elks Grand Lodge (the national organization) considers it a pretty easy question. Whether you're Catholic, Protestant, Mormon, Jewish, or Muslim, the answer is yes. Even many agnostics can honestly answer yes to that question.

Elks are Charity, Justice, Brotherly Love and Fidelity. With the practice of these virtues your community will be a better place in which to live. To be eligible for membership in the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, you must be a citizen of the United States over the age of 21 who believes in God.

Once fully grown, a bull elk averages 5 feet tall at the shoulders and can weigh between 700 and 1100 pounds. Female elk, known as cows, weigh between 500 and 600 pounds, and stand an average of 4.5 feet at shoulder height. Only bulls have antlers. Antlers.

Membership. The Order is a non-political, non-sectarian and strictly American fraternity. Proposal for membership in the Order is only by invitation of a member in good standing. To be accepted as a member, one must be an American citizen, believe in God, be of good moral character and be at least 21 years old.

The Moose order's, constitution re quires that its members and their wives be white and Caucasian. The Elks exclude nonwhites but not Jews.

This Fraternal Order was founded "To promote and practice the four cardinal virtues of Charity, Justice, Brotherly Love and Fidelity; to promote the welfare and enhance the happiness of its members; to quicken the spirit of American Patriotism and cultivate good fellowship."

During indoctrination, you will learn more about the Order's programs and charities. You will also be told during the program the date you will be initiated. After initiation as an Elk, you can take part in all meetings and social functions of the Lodge.

With more than 500 inns across the U.S., Elks members can take advantage of pet-friendly accommodations and access free Wi-Fi, HBO, ESPN, CNN and more at Red Roof Inns & Red Roof Plus. Find great rooms, comfy beds, budget-conscious rates and friendly staff nationwide.

What is the Elks oath? ›

I, Member Name, in the presence of God and this Lodge of Elks, do solemnly promise and swear that I will never reveal any of the confidential matters of this Order which have been, or may hereafter be, committed to my charge and keeping.

Gray wolves and mountain lions, both of which have been extirpated from the Great Smoky Mountains, are successful predators of elk elsewhere. Elk are vegetarian and eat grasses, forbs, and acorns, as well as the bark, leaves, and buds from shrubs and trees.

CHARITY, JUSTICE, BROTHERLY LOVE, AND FIDELITY. The motto of the B.P.O.E. is: THE FAULTS OF OUR BROTHERS AND SISTERS WE WRITE UPON THE SAND, THEIR VIRTURES UPON THE TABLETS OF LOVE AND MEMORY.

Since its founding on February 16, 1868, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks (BPOE) has been recognized by the noble creature that is the symbol of the Order. The elk is a peaceful animal, but will rise in defense of its own in the face of a threat. The majestic creature is fleet of foot and keen of perception.

Increase in us true benevolence, nourish us with all goodness, keep us faithful to our obligation, and lead us and all Elks beside the still waters of peace, for Thine is the power and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.

Purposes. This Fraternal Order was founded "To promote and practice the four cardinal virtues of Charity, Justice, Brotherly Love and Fidelity; to promote the welfare and enhance the happiness of its members; to quicken the spirit of American Patriotism and cultivate good fellowship."

Our Ritual contests provide a means for Elks who have prepared to exemplify the teachings of Elkdom to be rewarded for their time and effort and to be recognized for their contribution to the future of Elkdom.