We believe that every young man has the potential to become a leader of extraordinary character....

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"DeMolay has been a great organization to me, and it gives me many great things"

We strive to not only create leaders, but extraordinary leaders of character. The Order of DeMolay teaches seven core values, which we call cardinal virtues, as the basis of good character. We are truly a brotherhood without borders, with members from all over the world. There are hundreds of thousands of members, advisors, alumni members and supporters worldwide. While the DeMolay program is International, every member belongs to a Chapter, which is close in proximity to their location. It is our Chapters that host fun events, fundraisers, charity drives and much more to impact their communities!

Bro. Gabe Castro

Our Story

The Order of DeMolay was founded in 1919 by Frank S. Land, a community leader and Freemason, in Kansas City, Missouri. The order was named after Jacques DeMolay, a historical figure who was supposedly connected with Masonry. The story of DeMolay is one of loyalty and friendship, and is the inspiration for the Order of DeMolay’s principles: 
 
 
  • The persecution of the Knights Templar
    In 1305, King Philip the Fair of France seized Jacques DeMolay and hundreds of other Knights Templar and threw them into dungeons. For seven years, they were tortured and held in inhumane conditions. 
     
     
  • The trial of Jacques DeMolay
    In 1314, DeMolay was tried by a special court that used a forged confession as evidence. DeMolay disavowed the confession, but was sentenced to be burned at the stake along with his friend Guy of Auvergne. 
     
     
  • The founding of the Order of DeMolay
    Land was inspired by DeMolay’s story and the problems facing young men who had lost their fathers during World War I. He invited young men to meet at a local Masonic lodge, and the group decided to name itself after DeMolay. The order’s rituals were based on the rituals of Freemasonry, and the order’s principles were based on seven cardinal virtues. 

Our Values

The Order of DeMolay is a youth organization that is based on seven core values, or cardinal virtues, that members are expected to live by: 

  • Filial love: The love and kindness that should be shown to parents 
  • Reverence for sacred things: Respect for others’ beliefs and a belief in a supreme being 
  • Courtesy: Kindness, respect, and philanthropy 
  • Comradeship: Being a faithful friend, especially in difficult times 
  • Fidelity: Being true to oneself and one’s values, and keeping secrets entrusted to one 
  • Cleanliness: Purity of thought, word, and deed, and a clear conscience 
  • Patriotism: Honoring one’s country and being a contributing citizen 

 

DeMolay also has a program called Squires for boys ages 9 to 11. Squires learn about justice, truth, and wisdom while participating in events and developing friendships.