A. A society is operating on the lodge system if it has a supreme governing body and subordinate lodges into which members are elected, initiated or admitted in accordance with its laws, rules and rituals. Subordinate lodges shall be required by the laws of the society to hold regular meetings at least once each month in furtherance of the purposes of the society.

Terms Used In Virginia Code 38.2-4101

  • Adult: means a person 18 years of age or more. See Virginia Code 1-203
  • Laws: means the society's articles of incorporation, constitution and bylaws, however designated. See Virginia Code 38.2-4103
  • Lodge: means subordinate member units of the society, known as camps, courts, councils, branches or by any other designation. See Virginia Code 38.2-4103
  • Month: means a calendar month and "year" means a calendar year. See Virginia Code 1-223
  • Rules: means all rules, regulations or resolutions adopted by the supreme governing body or board of directors which are intended to have general application to the members of the society. See Virginia Code 38.2-4103
  • Society: means fraternal benefit society, unless otherwise indicated. See Virginia Code 38.2-4103

B. A society may, at its option, organize and operate lodges for children under the minimum age for adult membership. Membership and initiation in local lodges shall not be required of such children, nor shall they have a voice or vote in the management of the society.

Code 1950, §§ 38-255, 38.1-570; 1952, c. 317, § 38.1-638.2; 1968, c. 654; 1986, c. 562.

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