About Us

The Order of Quetzalcoatl was established on March 14, 1945, in Mexico City, marking the beginning of a distinguished tradition. Shriners from Arizona and Southern California traveled to Mexico City to visit the newly opened Shrine Hospital, where they witnessed the initiation of members into this emerging Order. Inspired by what they saw, some chose to join the ranks themselves. Upon returning to their Shrines in the Southwestern United States, they shared the ritual and teachings they had encountered, leading to the formation of local teocallis (chapters). The Order quickly gained traction and expanded to Shrines across the country, eventually forming a Supreme Teocalli to oversee the growing network of chapters.

To join the Order, one must first be a Mason and a Shriner, with membership extended by invitation to those who are recognized for their dedication and service to their Shrine and to the Shriners Hospitals for Children. Members are typically distinguished by their tireless contributions, known for being the “hard workers” of their Shrine centers.

While the Order provides opportunities for camaraderie and fellowship, its core mission remains focused on philanthropy, particularly supporting the Hospital Transportation Fund of Shriners Hospitals for Children. These funds are used to cover transportation costs for children and their families traveling to and from the Shrine hospitals. In addition to fundraising, members often visit the hospitals, offering their support in various ways. The Order’s primary charity is the Transportation Fund for the Mexico City Shrine Hospital, to which tens of thousands of dollars are donated annually.

The ritual of the Order is a meaningful journey, divided into three distinct degrees. Upon acceptance into membership, an individual is first initiated as a Coate (tribesman), pledging to advance through the two remaining degrees. The Artisan degree, which must be achieved within one year of joining, is a full-feathered ceremonial rite that qualifies the Coate to become an Artisan of the Order. The highest honor is the Master Artisan degree, which is conferred during the annual Feast of Fire in mid-October or at other authorized Supreme events. All Artisans and Master Artisans are encouraged to make a pilgrimage to a Temple of Quetzalcoatl and to visit the Mexico City Shriners Children’s Hospital, regardless of where they received their degrees.