The Theosophical Order of Service (TOS) is a world-wide organisation based on recognition of the unity of all life and aimed at reducing suffering and injustice at all levels – human, animal and environmental. The TOS was founded in 1908 by Dr Annie Besant, then International President of the Theosophical Society, to provide an opportunity for participation in activities which promote the first
Object of the Theosophical Society: ‘to form a nucleus of the Universal Brotherhood of Humanity, without distinction of race, creed, sex, caste or colour’. Study, meditation and service are the three components of theosophical living. The TOS provides a framework in which theosophical principles can be applied in daily life and to issues of contemporary concern. The distinctive, two-fold purpose of the TOS is selfless service to the needy and suffering and the inner transformation of the server that this requires. Dr Besant summarised the mission of the TOS in its motto:
A union of those who love in the service of all that suffers. Today there are active TOS groups around the world, united in their ideal of selfless service. The TOS is a non-profit organisation whose members are its greatest resource. They work as unpaid volunteers and donations are used for service projects, not for administration. History of the TOS
The Theosophical Order of Service, or TOS, as it is generally known to Theosophical Society members (or OTS or OST in some countries owing to language differences), was founded by Annie Besant (photo at right) in February 1908, six months after her election as President of the Theosophical Society, in response to the wish of a number of members “to organise themselves for various lines of service, to actively promote the first object of the Society: To form a nucleus of the universal brotherhood without distinction of race, creed, sex, caste or colour”. The motto chosen was “A union of those who love in the service of all that suffers”. Purpose of the TOS
The TOS offers a framework in which:
individuals may work along self-selected lines of service for the uplifting of humanity and the protection of the planet;
the practical application of theosophical principles to issues of contemporary concern may be explored;
social action as spiritual practice is honoured and nurtured. The Theosophical Society, with its emphasis on complete freedom of thought for every member, officially maintains neutrality in controversial political and social issues. The Theosophical Order of Service, on the other hand, acts as a forum where members may air their views and take stands on affairs of public interest. The TOS currently has branches in some 25 countries. In some of them it is a separately constituted, legally registered body and in others it operates as an autonomous department of the Theosophical Society. All activities are supported and supervised by the International Secretary of the TOS who reports regularly to the President. Membership of the Theosophical Society is not a requirement for joining the TOS or assisting in its activities. In fact anyone may participate without being a member of either organisation, though to take office as a National Director or local branch organiser, one must be a member of both.
