Founded 1908  ·  International

Theosophical Order
of Service

Serving all that suffers

"A union of those who love
in the service of all that suffers."

About the TOS Get Involved

What is the TOS

Theosophy in Action

The Theosophical Order of Service was formed to give members of the Theosophical Society a platform in which to do service to humanity — reflecting the three ideals of Theosophy: Study, Meditation, and Service.

The TOS is an organisation separate from the Theosophical Society, but has a direct bearing on the work of the Society. Many members actively participate in the humanitarian work of the TOS alongside their study and practice.

The Objects of the TOS

  • To minimise the sum of misery in the world
  • To forget self in working for others
  • To eliminate selfishness, greed, and the law of the market — and substitute selflessness, love, charity, and the law of mutual aid as the rule of the world
  • To live to the highest that is within each of us
The TOS — charity and service in action

History

Founded by Annie Besant

In 1908, Annie Besant — then International President of the Theosophical Society and one of the great social reformers of her era — founded the TOS in response to a deeply felt need: to translate theosophical ideals into organised, practical compassion.

Many members of the Society wanted a structured framework for active service — a way to embody the First Object of the Society: the Universal Brotherhood of Humanity. The TOS became that vehicle.

"Let not the fierce sun dry one tear of pain before thyself hast wiped it from the sufferer's eye. But let each burning human tear drop on thy heart and there remain, nor ever brush it off, until the pain that caused it is removed."

H.P. Blavatsky — The Voice of the Silence
Annie Besant, founder of the Theosophical Order of Service
Annie Besant, c. 1880s
Annie Besant, International President of the Theosophical Society
Annie Besant as International President

What We Do

Seven Departments of TOS Work

TOS work is organised across seven departments — each addressing a distinct dimension of human suffering and social responsibility.

Information Service

To act as the eyes and ears of the TOS in Australia — liaising with and supporting other like-minded community groups.

Social Services

Child welfare, prison reform, care of the aged, the sick, minority groups, the homeless, and the displaced.

Responsible Citizenship

Supporting better government, better education, and greater integrity in public life — including civil rights, ombudsman, and ecology.

World Peace

Racial amity, social and economic co-operation, and support of the Charter of the United Nations — including work for UN agencies.

Animal Welfare & Environment

Advocacy for humane legislation, conservation, and the responsible stewardship of the natural world.

Healing

Natural living, healing circles, and the study of vegetarianism as a foundation for conscious, compassionate health.

The Arts

Appreciation of beauty, the unfolding of creative ability, and promotion of music and the fine arts — particularly in service to humanity.

TOS bookshop and charity sale

TOS in Perth, W.A.

A Small Group, a Wide Reach

We are, as TOS in Perth, a very small group of dedicated volunteers who welcome you to serve humanity. The work is not onerous — but it does require true community engagement. It is about working toward building trust, long-term relationships, and a willingness to participate.

The TOS in Perth is separate from the Theosophical Society but works closely alongside it. You do not need to be a member of the TS to take part — only a willingness to serve.

  • Open to all — TS membership is not required
  • Regular service activities across the seven TOS departments
  • Community engagement, charity events, and local outreach
  • Run in the spirit of the First Object: Universal Brotherhood
Get Involved

Join Us

Getting Involved

The TOS welcomes anyone moved by its motto. Here is how to take part.

1

Come Along

Attend a TOS event or meeting to see the work firsthand and meet the people involved. No commitment required.

2

Volunteer

Offer your time, skills, or energy to a local project. Every contribution — however small — makes a difference.

3

Become a Member

Formal TOS membership connects you to a worldwide network of service. TS membership is not a requirement.

Please contact Kerry Holly or the Librarian at the Perth Branch of the Theosophical Society.

tos@tsperth.com.au Perth Branch Contact Form