The Order of the Round TableThe Order of the Round Table is an international fellowship for young people from diverse backgrounds and beliefs. We are dedicated to nurturing moral and spiritual growth through the potent mediums of ceremony and symbolism. Our timeless practices are designed to inculcate enduring values, fostering virtues like kindness, courage, and righteousness throughout different life stages.
Our educational approach harmonises intellectual growth with an in-depth understanding of our interconnectedness with the universe. We guide children to seek out spirituality in every aspect of life, instilling the understanding that strength can peacefully coexist with gentleness, truth can be communicated with kindness, and justice and love are mutual allies. Our aspiration is to ignite a sense of stewardship for nature and fellow humans. We welcome children and young people to join us in discovering their unique expression of the sacred, the magical, and the boundlessly compassionate, particularly in a world that often prioritises secular and individualistic pursuits. Our Constitution
Aim:
To promote the development of young people in achieving their full physical, intellectual, social and spiritual potential as individuals, responsible citizens and as members of their local, national and international communities. Objectives:
Activities to Promote These Objectives:
Our Ceremonies and Symbols
The Order of the Round Table carries forward the time-honoured tradition of ceremonial practices, offering a rich tapestry of symbols and rites to inspire and guide our young members. These ceremonies, including the Flower Ceremony, the Light Ceremony, and the Sword Ceremony, serve to stimulate intuition, imagination, and a sense of spirituality. They teach cooperation, promote unity, and deepen understanding of our shared universe.
In our ceremonies, we utilise symbols drawn from the legends of King Arthur, each radiating with profound yet accessible meaning. The empty chair of the King represents the highest ideal one seeks, while the Knights of Love, Strength, and Wisdom embody virtues to cultivate in our journey towards self-realisation, symbolised by the Grail. The Round Table, central to our ceremonies, symbolises life, growth, and equality. The circle, a testament to eternity and fraternity, reinforces the ideal that all are equal. Above the King’s Chair, the Star represents the Universal Light, mirrored by the Lighted Candle, reminding us of the divine spark within each of us. Through this blending of ceremonial rites and evocative symbolism, we aspire to kindle the spiritual and moral development of our young members, helping them navigate life's journey with wisdom and compassion. Our History
In the early 20th century, an innovative vision took shape within The Theosophical Society, giving birth to The Order of the Round Table on July 5th, 1908. George Herbert Whyte, a dedicated Theosophist, was inspired by the chivalric values of King Arthur's Round Table and sought to inculcate them in the young. These ideals were encapsulated in two central tenets: "Something to try to do" and "Something to try to be".
By the end of 1908, Round Tables were established in various parts of England, and soon, the concept spread to Australia, New Zealand, and numerous European countries. George's devotion to the Round Table continued even as he served in World War I. His courageous actions during the recapture of Jerusalem earned him the Military Cross. However, he tragically succumbed to his wounds, leaving a legacy of bravery and wisdom. His wife, Ethel, the first Chief Secretary of the Order, carried forward their shared vision, ensuring that the Order continued to serve its purpose - fostering spiritual growth and moral development in young people around the world. Their dedication forms the bedrock of our rich history. |
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