Under construction! We’re 60% done, 30% improvising, and 10% hoping the code doesn’t explode.
Potentate’s Statement 2025
Illustrious Sirs & Nobles all
I would like to thank you for your confidence in me to elect me as your 2025 Potentate for ORAK Shrine. It is with great honor & humility to be able to serve you, our fraternity, and our philanthropy, Shriners Children’s. I look forward to working together with each of you, as a team, dedicated to furthering our mission as Shriners and Masons.
In 2022, under the leadership of Illustrious Sir, Gary Tapley, and with the assistance of Noble, Dave Shafer as Chairman, we re-evaluated and developed a strategic plan to help guide us as we move into the future of ORAK Shrine and as Shriners. It is a living document and will need to be updated through the upcoming years, but it reminds us why we are Shriners.
Our Mission Statement- ORAK Shriners are Freemasons united as a Masonic fraternity based on Fun, Fellowship, and the principles of brotherly love, relief and truth.
Our Vision Statement- We seek to attract Freemasons of a variety of backgrounds, career paths, ages and interests, and the unique ideas, beliefs and perspectives they bring to our Shrine Family. Our members support each other, their community, and our philanthropy, Shriners Children’s. A unique aspect of ORAK Shrine is that creativity is encouraged.
Our numerous Units and Clubs are the backbone of ORAK Shrine, which include: Motor Patrol, Arab Patrol, Ritual Cast, Clowns, Pipes & Drums, South Lake Co Shrine Club, Hobart Shrine Club, Sportsman Club, Grill Fathers, Oriental Band, Arch Builders, Legion of Honor, Temple Guard and our Hospital Transport Unit. These Clubs and Units are integral for the furthering of our mission as Shriners, the awareness and support of ORAK and our Hospitals, Shriners Children’s.
Our Shrine Ladies are key in supporting ORAK Shriners and are currently preparing for their 10-thanniversary, of Ladies Tea’s, which will, as usual, be a tremendous event. We have several events throughout the year, and will be updating our website regularly, so you can stay up to date by checking our events, fundraisers, calendar, and club/ unit information.
THANK YOU!!! To our Nobility, Units, Clubs and Ladies!
John Richmond
Potentate 2025
Get ready to celebrate the season! The Orak Shrine Christmas Party is set for Saturday, December 13th, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM in Michigan City. This festive event is open to all Shriners, their families, children, and grandchildren, offering a wonderful chance to enjoy fellowship and holiday cheer together. We'll have food, fun, and maybe even a visit from the Big Guy! To participate, please be sure to register as soon as possible so we can get an accurate headcount. And for all the adults joining us: dust off your most outrageous holiday gear and come dressed in your ugliest Christmas sweater—let's make this a memorable, laughter-filled afternoon!