10/05/2026
Congratulations Grand Master Brother Charles Amoroso
Historic First for Odd Fellowship in the Atlantic Provinces
NEW GLASGOW, NOVA SCOTIA — May 2026
The Independent Order of Odd Fellows across the Atlantic Provinces marked a historic milestone during the 166th Session of the Grand Lodge of the Atlantic Provinces, I.O.O.F., held May 8–9, 2026, in New Glasgow, Nova Scotia, with the election and installation of Bro. Charles Amoroso as Grand Master.
With his installation, Bro. Amoroso becomes the first Grand Master of Filipino heritage in the history of the Grand Lodge of the Atlantic Provinces and is believed to be the first Grand Master of Filipino heritage elected and installed outside the Philippine jurisdiction within the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. For the jurisdiction, this is not only a historic first, but also a meaningful reflection of the universal principles of Friendship, Love, and Truth.
The 166th Session, held on Summer Street in New Glasgow, brought together Lodges and members from Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador. Their presence reflected the unity of the jurisdiction and the enduring bonds that connect Odd Fellows throughout the region.
The Grand Lodge of the Atlantic Provinces, in continuous operation since July 26, 1855, has served Atlantic Canada for more than 170 years. Among the Order’s enduring contributions has been its support for the Maritime Odd Fellows Home in Pictou County, long recognized as an expression of the practical benevolence, care, and compassion at the heart of Odd Fellowship.
The roots of Odd Fellowship reach back to eighteenth-century England, with documented references in the 1730s. In North America, the Independent Order of Odd Fellows was formally established in 1819, laying the foundation for the Order’s growth across the continent. Today, the organization has a presence in approximately 30 countries around the world, carrying forward its historic mission of friendship, service, and mutual aid across cultures and communities. Across its long history, Odd Fellowship has also counted among its members notable public figures, including Sir John A. Macdonald, Canada’s first Prime Minister.
Born and raised in Manila, Philippines, Bro. Amoroso has proudly called Halifax, Nova Scotia, home since 2022. Before immigrating to Canada, he served in several Grand Lodge offices within the Grand Lodge of the Philippines, I.O.O.F., most recently as Deputy Grand Master. He was also among the leaders involved in the revival, growth, and strengthening of Odd Fellowship in the Philippines during an important period of development.
After settling in Halifax, Bro. Amoroso, together with several others, helped re-charter Atlantic Lodge No. 107 and Halifax Encampment No. 3, restoring an active Odd Fellows presence in downtown Halifax. This effort reflected vision, perseverance, and dedication, and formed part of the broader renewal of the Order in the Atlantic Provinces.
Receiving the office with humility and gratitude, Bro. Amoroso remarked:
“I receive this honour with humility and gratitude. This moment reflects the enduring strength of Odd Fellowship’s principles and the openness of the Order to those willing to serve with sincerity, dedication, and purpose. I hope it encourages others to see that fellowship and service can bring people together across backgrounds and communities.”
Election to the office of Grand Master is not merely honorary. It is earned through years of active participation, steady labour, leadership, and commitment to the good of the Order. The office carries with it the trust of the membership and the responsibility to guide the jurisdiction in its continued work.
Under the banner of PUSO, meaning “heart” in the Filipino language and standing for Principle, Unity, Service, and Order, Bro. Amoroso’s Grand Master’s Program calls the jurisdiction to put Friendship, Love, and Truth into action.
Among the program’s priorities are a renewed emphasis on service, membership growth, and new Lodge development. Lodges across the Atlantic Provinces are encouraged to continually support their local communities, with special attention to children’s breakfast programs and other practical acts of benevolence. The program also calls for steady membership growth and the development of new Lodges, ensuring that Odd Fellowship remains active, visible, and meaningful for future generations.
Bro. Jeff Dewtie, Past Grand Master, described the installation as a proud moment for the jurisdiction:
“This is a proud and historic moment for our jurisdiction. It reflects the values that Odd Fellowship has always upheld: character, service, and commitment. It also speaks to the continued growth of the Order and its ability to be strengthened by dedicated members from all backgrounds.”
For the Odd Fellows of the Atlantic Provinces, the installation of Bro. Charles Amoroso as Grand Master is more than a milestone. It is a living testament to the enduring power of Friendship, Love, and Truth, and a hopeful sign that Odd Fellowship continues to unite people of goodwill across generations, cultures, and communities.
The jurisdiction now moves forward with gratitude for those who laboured before us, pride in the strength of the Order today, and confidence in the continued light of Odd Fellowship across the Atlantic Provinces.
Friendship. Love. Truth.
About the Author
Bro. Vincent Zayas is a Past Grand of Atlantic Lodge No. 107, the current Chief Patriarch of Halifax Encampment No. 3, and serves as Grand Guardian of the Grand Lodge of the Atlantic Provinces, I.O.O.F.
For more information, visit www.oddfellowsatlantic.ca or follow the Grand Lodge of Atlantic Provinces, I.O.O.F. on Facebook at www.facebook.com/glapioof.
