DIXIE SHRINE ASSOCIATION

The Dixie Shrine Association: A Legacy of Brotherhood and Philanthropy

 

The Dixie Shrine Association is a distinguished regional organization within Shriners International, dedicated to fostering brotherhood, service, and charity throughout the southeastern United States. With a strong commitment to supporting Shriners Children’s, the association plays a pivotal role in uniting Shriners from various temples to promote fraternal unity and philanthropy. Comprising 13 member temples across six southeastern states, Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, and Tennessee, the association represents a rich legacy. Dixie Shrine Association member temples include ABBA, ALCAZAR, AL CHYMIA, AL MENAH, CAHABA, HADJI, HAMASA, HASAN, JOPPA, MARZUQ, SHADDAI, WAHABI, and ZAMORA, all working collaboratively to uphold the Shrine’s mission. Through their dedication, these temples actively support Shriners Children's, organize charitable events, conventions, and fraternal gatherings, and make a lasting impact on their communities and the lives of children in need.

 

Origins and History of the Dixie Shrine Association

The Dixie Shrine Association was established to provide a regional connection among Shrine temples (chapters) in the southeastern U.S. The association’s roots can be traced to the broader history of Shriners International, an organization founded in 1872 by a group of Freemasons who sought to combine Masonic values with a more social and community-oriented mission.

As the Shrine fraternity grew across the country, regional associations like the Dixie Shrine Association were formed to strengthen the bonds between temples, coordinate regional activities, and expand charitable efforts. The association encompasses multiple states and serves as a unifying body for its temples, bringing together thousands of Nobles and their families for conventions, celebrations, and service initiatives.

​

Commitment to Philanthropy: Shriners Children’s

At the heart of the Dixie Shrine Association’s mission is its support for Shriners Children’s, a world-renowned network of pediatric hospitals specializing in orthopedics, burn care, spinal cord injuries, and cleft lip and palate treatment. Since the first Shriners Hospital was established in 1922, Shriners across the country, including those in the Dixie Shrine Association have played an essential role in raising funds and awareness for these life-changing medical facilities.

Through annual fundraisers, parades, and community events, the association helps provide children with world-class medical care, regardless of their family’s ability to pay. This commitment to charity remains one of the defining features of the association and its members.

​

Annual Conventions and Fraternal Gatherings

One of the most anticipated events in the Dixie Shrine Association’s calendar is its Annual Convention, a gathering of Nobles, families, and friends from across the region. These conventions serve multiple purposes, including:

• Strengthening fraternal bonds among Shrine temples.

• Discussing and planning charitable activities for the upcoming year.

• Recognizing outstanding contributions from Shriners dedicated to service and philanthropy.

• Hosting entertainment, parades, and social events that celebrate the rich traditions of the Shrine fraternity.

These conventions are often hosted in popular destinations such as Biloxi, Mississippi, where attendees enjoy a mix of business meetings, entertainment, and relaxation while reinforcing the mission of the fraternity.

​

Masonic Roots and Values

As part of Shriners International, the Dixie Shrine Association is deeply connected to Freemasonry, one of the world’s oldest fraternal organizations. All Shriners must first be Master Masons, ensuring that the principles of brotherhood, charity, and integrity are at the foundation of the Shrine’s mission.

The values that guide the association include:

• Brotherhood: Creating a strong network of like-minded individuals dedicated to mutual support and shared purpose.

• Charity: Raising funds and providing resources for those in need, particularly children requiring specialized medical care.

• Fun and Fellowship: Organizing social events, parades, and community activities to engage both members and the public.

• ​

Impact and Future of the Dixie Shrine Association

Over the decades, the Dixie Shrine Association has played an instrumental role in expanding the reach of the Shrine’s charitable efforts, helping countless children receive medical care and strengthening fraternal bonds across the region. As the organization continues to grow, it remains committed to its legacy of service, philanthropy, and fellowship.

With continued dedication from its members, the Dixie Shrine Association will undoubtedly carry its mission forward, ensuring that future generations of Shriners continue to make a difference in their communities and in the lives of children in need.