What is Rainbow?
The International Order of the Rainbow for Girls (called I.O.R.G., or Rainbow) is a 501c3 non-profit service organization for girls between the ages of 11 and 20. Rev. W. Mark Sexson founded our order in McAlester, Oklahoma, in April 1922. Rev. W Mark Sexson sought to develop an organization where young women could build self-confidence, respect, and leadership skills, all while serving their community. The organization promotes community service, as well as love and service to their schools, their homes and to each other.
Why is it called Rainbow?
In the Book of Genesis, after the flood, God made a covenant with the people that He would never again destroy the earth and placed a Rainbow in the heavens as a symbol of that covenant. The Reverend Mark Sexson, our Founder, believed that this symbol of God’s love was an appropriate symbol for the Order, so the Rainbow and its colors provided the inspiration for both the International Order of the Rainbow for Girls and for the lessons that are taught in the ceremonies of the Order through these colors of the Rainbow.
Who are members of Rainbow?
Rainbow members are between the ages of 11 and 20 years old. Rainbow welcomes everyone, regardless of race, creed, color or national origin. Parents can be assured that the values promoted by Rainbow are positive and uplifting. The lessons encourage members to be strong in spirit and kind in heart, respectful toward nature, and giving toward all humanity.
Can my parents be involved?
Absolutely! We want all parents to enjoy Rainbow with their daughter(s). Parents and adults can be as involved in the assembly as they want to be. Parents can attend all meetings as well as all the fun activities.
Is Rainbow a secret organization?
In today's world, parents are apprehensive about any activity that may be considered "secret." But Rainbow is different. Here are a few facts to keep in mind:
Similar to a sorority that brings groups of women together, Rainbow does have some closed meetings that only members attend. However, parents, grandparents or legal guardians are always invited to attend all closed meetings.
Families are welcomed and encouraged to participate in many activities and, if they choose, can become involved with Advisory Boards.
No actions will ever be required of members that would be against their personal beliefs or the beliefs of their church or home. Further, members are never asked to make pledges or participate in activities that would be contrary to their moral values or make them feel uncomfortable.
What does Rainbow do?
We primarily work to raise money for worthy causes, especially our Grand Service Project. All assemblies meet twice a month to hold meetings, to vote out money to pay bills, take sign-ups for upcoming activities and to practice our ritual and floor work. We also have fun activities, such as ice cream socials, going to local fairs, visits to water parks, sleep-overs, and many others. We also travel all over the state and occasionally to other states, visiting other rainbow girls within the order.
Do Rainbow Girls have a uniform?
Rainbow does have a dress code policy that applies to members and adults, whether attending a local Assembly, Grand Assembly or Supreme Assembly, or when representing Rainbow elsewhere.
The dress code specifies formal dresses for special meetings and day-time attire for other meetings. Surprisingly, Rainbow Girls enjoy the chance to “dress up” and discover the difference it makes when presenting themselves with grace and self-respect.
What is the Ritual?
The formal meetings and open ceremonies of Rainbow can be found in a book called the Ritual. When a member holds an office in the Assembly, she learns her station's lecture from this book. By presenting a memorized lecture, Rainbow Girls learn about public speaking and leadership.
What are your lessons and values?
We have 10 lessons that we teach: Love, Religion, Nature, Immortality, Fidelity, Patriotism, Service, Faith, Hope, and Charity. These 10 lessons teach us how to treat each other, our family, and our community.
How can I join?
Contact our Assemblies Mother Advisor by using the contact us form. You will be invited to attend upcoming activities so you and your family can meet the other members and adults and be given an application for membership.
Are there any requirements to join?
The only requirement is that you be ready to make friends and have a lot of fun getting to know the girls of the assembly and helping others in your community.
Are Rainbow Girls part of the or the Masons or the Order of the Eastern Star?
Yes and no. Originally, the Rainbow Girls were created for Masonic daughters and their friends, but today any girl who is interested in joining Rainbow Girls is welcome. The International Order of the Rainbow for Girls is affiliated only with the Masonic Lodges, Order of the Eastern Star Chapters, and Courts of Amaranth. It is not a religion, cult, or secret order. While many groups and organizations have “rainbow” in their title or organizational name, I.O.R.G. is NOT connected with any other group.