Order of Quelzalcoatl

The Order of Quetzalcoatl was founded on March 14, 1945, by the late Arthur J. Elian, Recorder of Anezeh Temple in Mexico City, who was an outstanding student of Mexican lore as well as an active 33rd degree Mason. His profound interest in all Masonic affairs crowned his efforts with all honors due him, having been Grand Master of the Muy Respectable Grand Logia Valle de Mexico, Emeritus Registrar of the Scottish Rite bodies, Recorder Emeritus of Anezeh Temple, and was fondly considered "Mr. Mason."

The Order is based upon authentic Mexican legend and depicts the eternal struggle between the forces of good and evil. This is the only Order of American origin, following the Masonic Tenets of Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth, which were exemplified in the life of Quetzalcoatl. Members of the order are known as Coates (KO-AH-TAYS) or Artisans, an Indian word which means twin brothers. Artisans are truly the "workers" of the Temple.

There are now in existence numerous Teocali’s in the United States of America organized under the umbrella of the Supreme Teocali which exercises general control over the affairs of the Order. Teocali is the Aztec word for lodge, or Temple. The jurisdiction of the Supreme Teocali is the See of North America. The Order of Quetzalcoatl is recognized throughout Shrinedom, and is enjoying phenomenal growth. a large number of Shrine officers on the local as well as on the Imperial Divan are "Coates" of the Order. Although the Order of Quetzalcoatl is a forum for fun and fellowship among the Artisans of the Temple, the Order has a serious side: Our philanthropy is to assist the Supreme Teocali and the local Shrine Temples in extraordinary activities with financial and moral support particularly in the area of transportation funds for the Shrine Hospitals for children.

The Order of Quetzalcoatl is a very unique organization of Shrine Masons. The Order is composed of only those who have distinguished themselves in their service to the Temples - who have associated together for fun and fellowship. Local Teocali’s are virtually autonomous, subject only to conformance to the Supreme Teocali bylaws. Each set is own membership qualification, meeting and attendance requirements, rules for elections of officers, fees and dues, in accordance with the general guidelines established by the Supreme Teocali. Local Teocali’s are combined into regional associations, similar to Imperial Shrine Associations.