Temples of Virginia
History of the Mystic Shrine
By the scimitar and crescent you wear upon your coat,
You proclaim that you're a Shriner. It's a sign for men to note.
It's a symbol that your fellows have abiding faith in you;
They believe that you are worthy and they trust in all you do.
But I wonder, fellow Noble, as I meet you here and there,
If you've really caught the meaning of the little badge you wear?
Are you mindful of its splendor? Are you watchful of its fame?
Are you careful as you travel not to bring it into shame?
You proclaim that you're a Shriner, every passer-by can see
That you've pledge to do the right thing wheresoever you may be,
But, world-wide, your brothers suffer loss and injury from you,
If you do the wrong act which a Shriner wouldn't do.
By the token you're wearing, you're expected to be fine;
We have taught the world it's something to be chosen by the Shrine;
And the man who wears its emblem has his fellow guarantee
That a gentleman of honor he is known and pledge to be;
And if he shall fail that standard by some thoughtless word or whim,
All Shriners, wide world over, shall be put to shame by him.
By the scimitar and crescent which you so proudly display,
You are bound to live and travel in a bigger, better way.
You must dignify the emblem, so none whom you may meet,
Be he friend or foe, may whisper that the Shrine is but a cheat.
You must play the man at all the times, you must keep your conduct fair,
And be worthy of the crescent and scimitar you wear.
Shriner's Creed
We believe that care for the less fortunate, especially children who suffers burns and crippling diseases, is our institutional calling.
We are patriots, willing to serve his country with fidelity and courage. We cherish independence under law and freedom with responsibility.
We honor family. We respect our parents, wives and children. We should instill in our children the tenets of this creed, and the heritage from which it emanates.
As individuals we pledge ourselves to integrity, virtue and nobility of character. Our intentions will be honorable, our relations will be trustworthy and our spirits forgiving of each other.
As brother we offer each other fraternal affection and respect. Together we will support each other in adherence to this creed, so that we and our communities will be better because of our fraternity and its principles.
As Shriners we look beyond ourselves to serve the needs of others, especially children who cannot help themselves. We believe Shriners Hospital to be the world's greatest philanthropy, and we covenant with each other to support its "temples of mercy" with spirit, time, talent and means.