Q: What is the the OTO?

A: The Ordo Templi Orientis  is a Fraternal Organization of both men and women founded on the principles of Liber Al vel Legis, The Book of The Law. O.T.O. is dedicated to securing  the liberty of the individual as well as assisting them in their advancement towards Light, Wisdom, Understanding, Knowledge, and Power through Beauty, Courage, and Wit.

Q: How do I join Bubastis?

A: Joining Bubastis Oasis is as easy as showing up to an event to meet the membership, speaking with an officer, and paying a small fee for monthly dues which is currently just ten dollars per month. Membership at Bubastis however, does not constitute membership in either O.T.O. or E.G.C.

Q: Why do I have to pay dues?

A: Operating at the level at which Bubastis Oasis does, costs money. These dues are used to provide a Temple, maintain temple equipment and supplies, and are used solely for the benefit of our members. We are able to offer all the events, and functions we do only as a result of these dues payments, and other generous donations and pledges made by our membership. If we could offer all this for free, we would gladly do so, but the simple fact is…It costs money to provide what we do for our members.

Q: What is the Gnostic Mass?

A: Liber XV also known as The Gnostic Mass, is the central ritual both public, and private, of the E.G.C. within O.T.O.. It is a dramatic ritual which was composed by Aleister Crowley  in 1913. It is a eucharistic ritual, meaning that the celebrants are expected to participate in a “Communion” which consists of consuming a consecrated cake of light, and goblet of wine/water. In addition, there are other participatory aspects of the ritual which can be seen by reading it at the link above. All participatory elements are also explained prior to entering the temple for the ceremony, and missals containing these aspects are given to all who need them prior to each Mass.

Q: Can anyone come to a celebration of The Gnostic Mass?

A: Yes. Once an individual has made contact with the Oasis, and received the location to the temple, they are able to attend any celebration of the Gnostic Mass that is listed as such on the Bubastis Oasis calendar. Usually the entry will state that it is a public event, but unless it is specifically stated that the Mass is NOT public, anyone is welcome, and encouraged to attend. The Mass is our central ritual, and we provide it not just for our members, but very much for the public as well. Please do not hesitate to contact the Oasis if you would like to see the Mass.

Q: What does “93″ mean?

A: In the presence of Thelemites, you will very often hear them greet each other by saying “93!” This is thelemic short-hand for saying  ”Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law.” (AL 1:40) in greeting, or alternately “Love is the law, love under will.” (AL 1:57) in parting or response. The reason for this “shorthand” is that the greek words for both Will (Thelema) and Love (Agape) enumerate to the number 93. “Enumeration” is the result of using a system called Gematria, whereby numbers are assigned to specific letters in order to discover deeper meanings, and similarities by finding words which enumerate to the same number.