History of the OrderThe Order of the Secret Monitor is said to have originated in the Netherlands, but was introduced into England from America about 1875, by Dr. Issacher Zacharie. The Grand Conclave was established on the 17th June 1887, with Zacharie as the Grand Supreme Ruler, the first meeting taking place on 2nd July 1887. Since then the Order has grown both in this country and overseas. There are now over 450 Conclaves in the English Constitution, governed by a Grand Conclave through Provinces and Districts. The Order is founded on the wonderful story told in the Bible in the First Book of Samuel, of the enduring friendship between David and Jonathan. The unselfish devotion of these two friends is the basis of the Secret Monitor ritual and precepts. Friendship for one’s Brother is the paramount basis of its teachings, even as Brotherly Love is the first Tenet of the Craft. The Secret Monitor endeavours to practise that which other Orders preach. The Principle of the Secret Monitor should be to guide a Brother in times of difficulty, and to ensure as far as possible that none of us goes astray or is unnecessarily in need of succour or support. RegaliaThis is relatively inexpensive on entry, as it comprises one simple jewel, worn as a breast jewel until the status of Past Supreme Ruler is attained when it is worn from a collarette. On reaching Provincial or Grand Rank, a sash and a collarette and jewel are added.
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