In a historic gathering that drew together over 1,300 members from across the globe, the Ancient Mystical Order Rosae Crucis (AMORC) commemorated the 50th anniversary of its English West Africa Administration from October 31st to November 3rd, 2024. The convention, centered on the theme of Universal Love, was a historic milestone.

The momentous occasion brought together members from diverse corners of the globe, including Australia, America, Europe and neighboring African countries such as Cameroon, Ghana and Côte d'Ivoire. The prestigious Obi Wali International Conference Centre buzzed with excitement as attendees shared stories and experiences that highlighted the unity and purpose of the convention.

Fr. Eugenius Idiodi, Grand Master-Designate of the English Grand Lodge of West Africa, delivered a heartfelt welcome address. He spoke glowingly about AMORC's mission to elevate human understanding and promote well-being on a global scale. “Our work extends beyond individual growth; it aims to enhance the quality of society as a whole,” he said.

A Message of Unity and Universal Love

Declaring that the convention theme was chosen to highlight love's role in personal and collective well-being, Fr. Idiodi noted that, “Universal love is a quality that permeates all aspects of life, impacting relationships within families, communities and even across nations. In today’s world, where divisions seem to multiply daily, our message is clear: love is a powerful antidote.”

The convention, held every four years, serves as a platform for AMORC members to unite and reinforce their bond of brotherhood and solidarity. By prioritizing love, care and thoughtfulness, AMORC members strive to create a more harmonious and equitable world, he added.

Fr. Idiodi's words resonated deeply with attendees who reflected on their personal journeys within AMORC. Among those present was Mary Okafor from Lagos who shared her transformative experience with AMORC. “When I first joined, I was searching for answers about my place in the world,” she recounted. “Through AMORC’s teachings on universal love and interconnectedness, I learned to see everyone as part of my family.” Her story echoed the sentiments of many attendees who found solace in AMORC’s ideals.

The convention offered a diverse array of lectures, workshops and spiritual experiences, allowing participants to delve deeper into the principles and practices of AMORC. Attendees shared their experiences and insights, fostering a sense of global community.

The theme also struck a chord with Samuel from Accra, Ghana. “In my community, we often face conflicts rooted in misunderstanding,” he shared. “AMORC’s emphasis on universal love inspires me to foster dialogue and connection among people.” Samuel’s reflections illustrated how the convention's teachings could be applied beyond its walls to address societal challenges.

The urgency of this message was palpable as participants reflected on Nigeria's current socio-political climate. Many voiced concerns over divisions exacerbated by tribalism and political strife. “We need to unite under a common goal of peace and progress,” said Amina Bello from Abuja. Her call for unity resonated with many who felt that embracing universal love could lead to healing within their communities.

As discussions unfolded throughout the convention, attendees were encouraged to embrace universal love as a guiding principle in their lives. The message was not just about personal growth but also about fostering a compassionate society. “When we recognize our common humanity,” Fr. Idiodi remarked at the press conference, “we can break down the barriers that divide us.”

A Call to Action

Fr. Idiodi noted that in a world often marked by division and conflict, AMORC’s message of universal love offers a beacon of hope. “By cultivating a spirit of compassion and understanding, individuals can contribute to a more peaceful and just society.”

He concluded by urging everyone present to share their experiences and insights with others: “Let us go out into the world and be ambassadors for peace and harmony.”

The Universal Call for Love: Reflections from a Distinguished Panel

The opening ceremony also featured a distinguished panel of Rosicrucian leaders to discuss the profound impact of universal love on humanity. In a world beset by crises—ranging from ongoing wars to the struggles of daily life—the quest for universal love has never felt more urgent.

The panel was composed of some of the most esteemed figures within the Rosicrucian Order: Sr. Olabimpe Giwa, Director of the English Grand Lodge of West Africa; Dr. Kenneth Idiodi, Honourary Grand Master of AMORC; Fr. Eugenius Idiodi, Grand Master-Designate for West Africa; Sr. Live Soderlund, Vice President of the Supreme Grand Lodge; and Fr. Claudio Mazzucco, Imperator of AMORC. Each of them shared their unique perspectives on love and its role in transforming the world.

Moderated by renowned journalist Dr. Reuben Abati, the panel explored AMORC’s mission and its relevance in today’s challenging world.

As Abati began the session, the excitement was palpable. His voice resonated with conviction as he asked, “Is there really anything like universal love? What does it mean to be a Rosicrucian?” His words echoed a question that, perhaps now more than ever, resonates globally. He pointed to the ongoing turmoil in the Middle East, the war between Ukraine and Russia and the struggles of citizens in Nigeria to reconnect with each other. “If there is love,” he said, “our society will be a much better place to live.”

Sr. Soderlund spoke of love’s transformative power. “Love is the greatest thing of all,” she said, urging those present to recognize the importance of understanding love on different levels. “Rosicrucian teachings talk about the law of attraction to explain love. We need to come closer to each other and respect one another to achieve universal love.” Her own experience of being embraced by love when she arrived in Nigeria was deeply moving and she advised, “Do to others what you want others to do to you.”

But the conversation soon turned inward, as Dr. Kenneth Idiodi  highlighted a paradox many face in society: "We are told to love our neighbors as we love ourselves. But experiences show that many of us do not love ourselves enough." He pointed to the selfishness that often permeates public service and governance, which he believes stems from a lack of universal love. "The decay in society today, in politics, in governance and even in the family, is a direct result of this absence of love."

Fr. Eugenius Idiodi echoed this sentiment, adding that love for power often eclipses love for others, creating bitterness and division. “If the love of power can be superseded by the power of love itself,” he said, “the world would have some peace.”

Walking the Path of Love

The discussion shifted to self-mastery and the journey each Rosicrucian takes.

Sr. Giwa explained that Rosicrucian studies encourage members to begin with self-awareness. “Man Know Thyself,” she said, explaining that mastering oneself is essential before one can extend true love to others. “The Order emphasizes Self Mastery,” she explained. “You can extend love to others only after mastering thyself and it is only then that the idea of universal love can begin to take hold of the individual.” This idea resonated deeply with Abati, who asked, “Is self-mastery a journey or a destination?”

Fr. Mazzucco responded with a metaphor that captivated the room: "I consider walking in the mountains to be a metaphor for the Rosicrucian path. It’s not just about reaching the top—it’s about the experience of walking with others and observing the order around us.” This, he said, illustrates the journey of self-mastery, where each individual learns not only from themselves but also from their interactions with others.

The conversation around self-mastery also brought up the question of whether Rosicrucianism is a religion. Dr. Kenneth Idiodi clarified that AMORC is not a religion in the traditional sense. “We are a school, a fraternity, a traditional and initiatic order,” he explained. "Rosicrucians come from various religious backgrounds, united by a shared quest for wisdom, knowledge and truth."

The Role of Rosicrucians in Nation Building

As the panel explored how Rosicrucians can contribute to nation-building, Fr. Eugenius Idiodi drew from personal experience. "Growing up in Nigeria and other parts of the world, we’ve seen how Rosicrucians have made significant contributions to their societies by taking on leadership roles," he said. "It is time for Rosicrucians to step forward, be the best of ourselves and rise to the challenges ahead."

The conversation also turned to the global crises that plague society today. When asked how universal love could bring peace to regions in conflict, Fr. Mazzucco reminded the room that while conflict is an unfortunate part of history, many “unsung heroes” work tirelessly behind the scenes to bring peace. “If we focus on the positive examples of humanity,” he urged, “we will find hope.”

The Rosicrucian Path: A Quest for Truth

The panel wrapped up with a question that seemed to encapsulate the essence of the Rosicrucian path: What defines a Rosicrucian? Dr. Kenneth Idiodi responded with a profound thought: "The Rosicrucian is a walking question mark. We are not bound by dogmas. We seek wisdom, knowledge and the truth about life, the universe and our purpose within it."

The conversation was a powerful reminder that love — whether for oneself, for others or for the world — is a force that can heal, transform and unite. As the panelists shared their wisdom and personal reflections, it became clear that the Rosicrucian Order, AMORC, offers more than just teachings on spirituality — it offers a path toward self-discovery, peace and the universal love that has the power to change the world.

The convention not only celebrated AMORC's achievements over the past 50 years but also ignited a collective resolve among its members to foster kindness and mutual respect in an increasingly fragmented world. With stories of transformation echoing throughout the conference halls, it was clear that this celebration was more than just an anniversary; it was a reaffirmation of faith in humanity’s capacity for love and unity.