Petition for Membership

Fun & Fellowship

Shriners International was founded in 1872 as a Masonic fraternity that showcased fun and fellowship for its members. Shriners continue to carry on that tradition today.

No matter what your idea of having fun is, we can accommodate. Boating? Craft brewing? Woodworking? Kickball? Texas Hold'em? Grilling? There are clubs for all of those activities and thousands more. And, if there isn't a club or unit featuring one of your favorite interests, your Shrine Center can help you create one. The best part is, as a Shriner, you can connect with other members who share similar interests and hobbies.

Philanthropy

In 1922, fueled by their desire to make a difference in the world, Shriners founded their own philanthropy, Shriners Children's. Over the past century, it has become one of the largest pediatric sub-specialty healthcare systems in the world with locations in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

An exclusive benefit as a Shriner is the opportunity to serve in several meaningful and mission critical roles in support of Shriners Children's.

Family

Shriners International understands that family is a top priority for our members, and many events and activities at local Shrine Chapters are accommodating to spouses, children and grandchildren.

Becoming a Shriner is about building lifelong relationships that extend beyond ordinary friendships. When you join us, you become part of a network of hundreds of thousands of men of integrity from around the world who are committed to your success and well being.

You will soon discover that Shriners International is one big family.

What are the benefits of becoming a Shriner?

• Membership in a well-known fraternal organization recognized for its social and philanthropic activities.
• Opportunity to develop lasting friendships with others from all walks of life
• A variety of social activities available for the entire family and many special-interest groups to meet individual interests
• The privilege of being part of the "Worlds Greatest Philanthropy, "offering Shriners many opportunities to find personal fulfillment and satisfaction through supporting Shriners Hospitals for Children"

Shrine-Masons

While not all Masons are Shriners, all Shriners are Masons. Therefore, a man must become a Master Mason before he becomes a Shriner.

In 1870, a group of Masons met regularly for lunch at the Knickerbocker Cottage in New York City, and discussed the idea of forming a new fraternity for Masons, based on the fundamentals of Masonry, but with the added elements of fun and fellowship. From these discussions, Dr. Walter Fleming, a prominent physician, and Billy Florence, a famous actor, founded the Ancient Arabic Order of the Nobles of the Mystic Shrine (A.A.O.N.M.S.), now Shriners International, in 1872.

Fun fact: A.A.O.N.M.S. is an anagram for "A MASON."

Become a Shriner

Are you interested in joining a brotherhood of likeminded men? Take the first step today.

START YOUR JOURNEY

• Download a Membership Petition (PDF)