April 21, 2010

Newton, Massachusetts, U.S.A – Bro. Louie Sarmiento, member of the I.O.O.F, Kapatirang Watchdog Lodge no.1, Philippines, was initiated into the degree of Humility by Bahamut Sanctorum No.108 of the Ancient Mystic Order of Samaritans or A.M.O.S.

The A.M.O.S is a playground for Odd Fellows. This fun branch was formed sometime in 1924 as a result of merger by various fun groups for Odd Fellows such as the Imperial Order of Muscovites, the Veiled Prophets of Baghdad, Knights of Oriental Splendor, the Ancient Mystical Order of Cabirians, and the Oriental Order of Humility and Perfection. These groups were formed sometime in the 1880’s.

A.M.O.S is involved in various community activities and projects, the proceeds go to charities in the local community. Because of this, the abbreviation A.M.O.S is also translated as “A Mile of Smiles”. As of 1995, there were approximately 3,000 members in the United States and Canada. To be a member, one must be an Odd Fellow in good standing. The female fun group for Odd Fellows and Rebekahs that is similar to A.M.O.S is called L.O.T.O or Ladies of the Orient.

Currently, the members of the I.O.O.F in the Philippines are planning to form two A.M.O.S sanctorum in the country. These sanctorum’s will be under the New England Division of A.M.O.S in Massachusetts, U.S.A, The petitions for charter were already forwarded to Bro. Michael Froimowitz, Past Grand of Hermann-Dexter Lodge No.133 and Bahamut Sanctorum No. 108. He played a big role in communicating to members in the Philippines about A.M.O.S. He also assisted the Odd Fellows Lodge in many aspects towards its betterment. He is currently making arrangements with the Supreme Sanctorum regarding dues, fezzes, etc.

The target date for the conferral of the Degree of Humility will be sometime on August 2010.

For more info: ioofphils@yahoo.com