07/23/2026
✨ Meet the Mission ✨
Meet Matthew Holland, Monarch of El Asha Grotto in North Carolina—a Grotto he helped establish. But that's only part of his incredible story. Matthew is also the first Monarch in Grottoes International history to have cerebral palsy.
Matthew's journey began after connecting with fellow Masons on TikTok. While visiting them in Texas, they introduced him to Grottoes International and encouraged him to join. From the very beginning, Matthew found what he was looking for: a Masonic body filled with fun, fellowship, and a community that welcomed him.
Years later, Matthew found himself far from the Grotto community where his journey started. Rather than letting the distance stop him, he brought Prophets from across the East together to establish El Asha Grotto. When it came time to choose the Grotto's first Monarch, the vote was unanimous—Matthew was the clear choice.
When asked what it means to be the first Monarch with cerebral palsy, Matthew described the experience in one word: "Undefinable."
Matthew says Grottoes International "spoke to him" because of its mission to bring Special Smiles to Special Children. Living with cerebral palsy himself, he wanted to support a cause that serves children with disabilities—helping them receive specialized dental care and accommodations that can make a lifelong difference.
His commitment to the mission doesn't stop there. Matthew is planning a poker night that he hopes will bring together all four North Carolina Grottoes, with proceeds benefiting the Humanitarian Foundation and helping provide dental care for children with special needs.
Matthew's story reminds us that the mission of Grottoes International is powered by dedicated Prophets who turn compassion into action. Through fellowship, leadership, and service, he's helping create more Special Smiles for Special Children. ❤️🦷
