Yes, that s the way it works And with a Masonic Homes gift annuity, you not o nl y receive the satisfaction of helping to further the mission of the Masonic Homes, you receive annuity payments for the rest of your life
Example: john and Mary jones are in their late 70's. They give $ 10,000 to Masonic Homes for a two-life gift annuity. Assuming a gift annuity rate of 7 .3 percent, they will receive $730 evety year for the rest of their lives. Even after one of them dies, the remaining spouse will continue to receive the payments On top of that, the joneses will receive a charitable income tax deduction and a substantial portion of their payments will be tax-free.
Why does Masonic Homes offer gift annuities? Many of our friends want to give mor e to the Masonic Homes but live on fixed incomes and can t afford to donate income-producing assets With our gift annuity program, they can make a significant gift and still retain lifetime payments. ln some cases, they can even increase their annual cash flow.
Example : Wtlma Wtlliams is 80 years old and has common stock in a company that pays her a dividend of 2 percent per year This me ans that $10,000 worth of stock provides Wtlma with a quarterly che ck of onJy $50 Wtlma can transfer this s tock to the Masonic Homes for a charitable gift annuity. Assuming a gift annuity ra te of 8 .8 p e rcen t, she co uld receive $220 e ach quarter, or $ 8 80 fo r th e ye ar. An d her paym e nts are s ecured by all th e a ssets of the
taxes - the se and other
and
ol our older friends. In fact, we find that some o f o u r donors obtain additional annuities as they get older because Qf the bigber pay· ment rates ·
There's something else our gift annuity donors receive: Recognition in our "Mission of Love• plaque shown above. This special group of forward-thinking people are partners with 'liS in planning for the future. Their gift annuities and other planned gifts let us know that vital resources are in the pipeline to help Masonic Homes fulfill our mission to the next generation.
Would you like to learn more about the Masonic Homes program?
Fred D. Rissinger, Director of Development, or John R. McFaaden, Planned Giving Officer; can provide you, without obligation, with a tailoJ'-made illustration showing you exactly bow a gift annuity can work for you Please complete and return the coupon below or call 1-800-599-6454.
(Please comp le te and re turn this coup on)
Dear Frie n ds at Maso ni c Ho mes:
0 Please send me information about gift ann u ities.
0 Please contact me about a personal visit or other ass istan ce
0 I have already provid e d for the Masonic Homes in my Will or other estate-p lanning document.
0 Please se nd me information abo ut any of th e follow ing:
0 Gi fts of Appreciated Property - A way to re d uce taxes
0 How yo u Be n e fi t from a Pooled Income Fund .
0 Use Yo ur Wi ll Powe r Name : Address:
W1nter at Va[[ey Forge - 1997
Displaying a gigantic banner with the Square and Compasses and shrouded by construction tenting to protect it from the weather, the National Memorial Arch overlooks the crude huts where beleaguered soldiers of the Continental Army huddled to combat the harshness of Winter more than two centuries ago.
THIS FORM
Similar Arch Dates to 81 A.D.
Restorati on on Schedule
The original splendor and dignity of the National Memorial Arc h at Vall e y Forge will be th e r e a gai n for all Americans to appreciate w ith prid e w h e n th e r e s t ora ti on tha t is mad e poss ible b y Free mas on s of P e nnsylvani a is co mpl e t e d this Sum mer At the e nd of 1996, th e extensive re stora ti on was we ll on s ch e dule and slightly more th an fifty p erce n t co mpl e ted. R W Grand Mas t e r Edward 0 . Weis ser h as announ ced plans for de dication c e remoni es, a parade and cele bration a t th e restored Arc h in Vall e y Forge Nati onal P a r k on Sunday August 24 Every Mas on an d fri e nd s hould w ant to and can be - a part o f thi s his t o r ic p roj ect. It is easy t o join in th e tribu te See "On the Cover " on page2.
ln th e modern era, s tructures that copy Roman triumphal arches w ere built mo stly as memorials rather than to commemora te battles. Th e y are to be found throughout the Wes te rn World, s uch a s the Brand e nburg Gate in Be rlin, th e Arc of Triumph in P a ris the Marbl e Arch in London and The Was hington Arch in N e w York City.
The Grand Master Speaks •••
Brethren:
Letters received by the Grand Master are an indication of the concerns and interests of the members. Many of the commu· nications that have come to me question if the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania is considering class-type conferral of degrees. I have considered the advantages and disadvantages of such classes for conferring degrees in Pennsylvania. Looking at our society, we find many types of occupations that require good men to spend many hours away from their homes to meet the demands of their occupations. Doctors, pharmacists, police officers, pilots , over-the-road truck drivers, servicemen , and salesmen are a few examples of jobs that require men to work unusual hours. These men would make good members; we need them, but because of their work schedule many frnd it difficult to plan for time to join any type of organizations.
I have sent several members of th e Friend to Friend Committee to Illinois and Florida to observe the procedures of those jurisdictions when degrees have been conferred on seve ral hundred members as a class I do not believe this type of conferral of work would be in keeping with our Masonic Law, and I do not want to break the Law. I have reviewed the voluminous reports of the investigative committee, and after consulting with the Landmarks Committee (our Past Grand Masters and Grand Lodge Line Officers) and presenting this information to the members at Grand Lodge on December 4, I have concluded that we can apply our current law and offer those men who have a desire to become Master Masons and whose circumstances prohibit the normal procedure, a program that will meet their needs. One might ask if these busy men become members, what good will they be for the lodges if they can't attend. It is poss ible that th ey would find time to visit lodges while on the road. Also, they may have so n s, sonsin -Jaw, grandsons or other relatives or friends whom they then can recommend. These individuals may find time in the future to attend lod ge functions when their work routine changes. Do you realize that 85 percent of our present membership seldom attends lodge?
I am approving a class-type program for May to be used at the local lodge level that can function within our Masonic Law. The necessary changes in the wording will be developed by the ritual staff with definite instructions providing the prescribed requirements are met. The requirements are as follows:
1. A man petitioning a lodge must have two signers
2. The lodge must investigate the petitioner.
3. The lodge must vote on the petitioner.
4. One month must elapse between the approval of the petition and the actual degrees.
5. Every man who is going to get all three degrees on the same date will receive a dispensation to receive the second and third degree without waiting the usual time.
This type of action by a lodge is in keeping with our Masonic Law, and we now can recommend a man to become a brother who, because of time restrictions, found the initiation process prohibitive. A Saturday class at the local lodge for these men will achieve our objectives of helping good men become Masons.
Since this is my first opportunity to address the membership following the December Quarterly Communication, I wish to thank the many brethren who attended the meeting in Philadelphia. This was the largest attendance that anyone can remember. The lodge rooms were overflowing with interested brethren. Lodge and individual contributions to the many Grand Lodge Charities were very generous The totals were well over $100 , 000.00. I wish to thank tho se who are supporting the National Memorial Arch Fund This project is truly a Pennsylvania Masonic project with numerous individuals as well as lodges and other Masonically affiliated groups responding. Masonic charity is again reaching out to provide stewardship of our national treasures. Thank you all.
Sincerely and fraternally,
Edward 0. Weisser
R.W. Grand Master
The Cover
You "ill be a part of this his· for a donation of $5 or more and have your name Of.) memorial included in the Gold Book that will be placed in tile time capsule at the Dedication in August. Please use the form available at all lodges or print clearly on a sheet of paper your name and (if applicab le the name to accompany "In Honor of" or "In Memory of") and your Lodge No. or Organization. Make checks payable to "Grand Lodge Charity Fund/National Memorial Arch" and maH to the Masonic Temple, One North Broad St., Philadelphia, PA 1910 7-2598 Contributions are tax -deductible as allow ed by law.
11 0 at Masonic Education Conference
More than 11 0 Grand Lodge Officers, District Deputies, and Regional and District Chairmen of Masonic Education and the Friend to Friend Committee attended the Eleventh Annual Masonic Education Conference at the Masonic Conference Center, Patton Campus, Elizabethtown, on Friday and Saturday, Oct. 11 and 12
The Friday evening program included: remarks by R.W.G .M. Edward 0. Weisser, Committee Chairman; John Suchanec, Director of the Masonic Outreach Program of the Masonic Homes; and F. Rick Knepper, P.D.D.G.M., Co-Chairman of the Blood and Organ Donor Committee.
After Dr. Charles H. Lacquement, Grand Lod ge Chaplain, opened the Saturday session, there was a stirring keynote address presented by James B. Wilkinson, Most Worshipful Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Virginia. He spoke eloquently on the need
for all Masons to be involved in the activities of the lodge and the fraternity.
The Lodge Program Competition followed and state winners were selected. The afternoon session was devoted to taking th e information of the Friend to Friend Program and of Masonic Education to th e lodges. Grand Master Weisser announced that he was combining the Friend to Friend and the Masonic Education Committees as a means of informing the lodges.
Dr. Elvin Warfel, Secretary to the Committee, spoke to the conference on the role of the District Chairmen. District Chairmen are being asked to visit each lodge to present information on membership, the Friend to Friend Incentive Program and the Masonic Education activities that are need ed to build strong lodges and enhance the fraternity.
RW. Gran d Master Edward 0 Weisser pre· sents a medall ion to M.W. Grand Master James B. Wi lki nso n {second from r ght) of Vi rginia, who was the keynote spea ker for the Eeventh An nual Masonic Education Conference At left is Marvin A. Cunn in gham , Sr , R.W. Junior Grand Warden; at right is Marv n G
Prince Hall's Mt. Horeb lodge No. 14 Moves To The lancaster Masonic Center
Members of Mt. Horeb Lodge No. 14, Prince Hall Affiliation, met in the Lancaster Masonic Center for the first time on Friday, Oct. 4.
There was a visitation by the Rev. Thomas A. Jackman, then the Prince Hall Grand Master of Pennsylvania, who performed dedication and consecration ceremonies. He was accompanied by other Grand Lodge officers and members of the six Masonic Lodges in Prince Hall's 5th Masonic District.
The Prince Hall Lodge in Lancaster has outgrown the facilities it owns and found that it would be difficult to expand or upgrade the building. Discussion leading toward locating Mt. Horeb Lodge in the Lancaster Masonic Center began a cou· pie of years ago . Approvals were received severa months ago from the Right Worshipful Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania and the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge, Prince Hall Affiliation, a s well as that of the Masonic Center trustees.
Winners of Lodge Program Competition Are Announced
The winne rs of the 1996 Lod ge Program Competition in the seven Masonic Regions presented their programs at the Eleventh Annual Masoni c Education Co nference on Oct. 12. The state winner of the Lod ge Program Competitions in the written category was John M. Roushey, of Jerusalem Lodge No. 506, Tacony (Philadelphia) in District D, Region I, who portrayed Benedic t Arnold. Michae l Epstein, of Columbia Lodge No 91, Philadelphia, in District C, Region I was the state winner in the Media category for his collection of "Freemasonry and Stamps."
The other Masonic Regional winners were: Re gion 2: Written, Thomas Wiest, P.M., Mt. Olivet Lodge No. 70 4, Lebanon, 60th Masonic District; and Media, Richard Gillardy, P.M. , William S. Snyder Lod ge No. 756, Harr is burg, 2nd Masonic Distri ct.
Region 3: Written, Joel A. Weiss, P.M., Mountain Lod ge No. 281, Altoona, 20th Masonic District.
Region 4: Writ ten, Charles C. Collins, P.M., Dormont Lodge No. 684, 57 th Masonic District; and Media, Philip M. Sandora, P.M., Wi lli am D. Mcilroy Lodge No. 758 , Dormont, 57th Masonic District.
Region 5: Written, Lloyd A. Riggie, P.M., Seneca Lod ge No. 805, Kittanning, 27th Masonic District.
Region 6: Written, Harvey E. Haag, P.M., Clearfield Lod ge No. 3 14, 21st Masonic Dist rict.
Region 7: Bradley L. Oman , Knapp Lodge No 462, Berwi ck, 35th Masonic District.
Prior to the first meeting of M t. Horeb Lodge No. 14, Prince Ha l A ffil iat on in th e Lancaste r Ma son ic Center, Wor shipful M aster Douglas Gra y {sec· ond fro m r ght), receives keys from Bro. John A. Ka ssees {second from eft), Pr es id ent o f th e Ce nter 's Boa r d of Directors. A t right s the Rev Th oma s A. Jackmon , then M.W Grand Master of Pen nsy lvania , Prince Hall Affi ia ti on and at left is Jay W. Smith , D.D G M. , 1st Masonic D strict
Speicher, R.W. Grand Treasurer; and in the center is Dr Charles Lacquement, Grand Chaplai n
Ground Breaking For New Danville Masonic Center
Ground was broken Oct. 23 for the construction of a new Danville Masonic Center. A twostory, 5,800 square-foot building will be built on a two-and-a-half-acre plot at the intersection of Rts 642 and 54 , north of the community. The $230,000 bui lding will be the fraternal home for more than 400 members who make up the Masonic Hall Association and will serve as the meeting place for Danville Lodge No.
224, Mahoning Lodge No . 516, Danville Royal Arch Chapter No. 239, Calvary Commandery No . 37, and Danville Chapter No. 186, Order of the Eastern Star.
The new center is to be completed during next summer with cornerstone -laying ceremonies scheduled for Sept. 20. That date will coincide with the 150th anniversary of Danville Lodge and the 125th anniversary of Mahoning Lodge .
THE PENNSYLVANIA FREEMASON®
VOL. XLN, FEBRUARY 199 7, NO. I
Pub lication No. USPS 426- 140
Winter issue of I 997 of The Pennsylvania Freemason® at the Masonic Homes Eli zabe th tow n, Pe nn sylvani a
GRAND LODGE OFFICERS
Bro. Edward 0 We isser, R W. Grand Mas er
Bro. james L Ernene R W. Deputy Grand Master
Bro. Robe r L Dluge Jr. , R.W. Senior Grand Warden
Bro . Marvi n A. Cunningh am, Sr., R. W. junior Grand Warden
Bro. Marv in G. Spe iche r R W. Grand Treasurer
Bro Thom as W. j ackson , R. W. Grand Secretary
THE P ENNSYLVANIA FREEMASON COMMJTIEE
Bro. Blai ne E Fabian, Chairman and Editor
Bro Luth e r). Black Associate Editor
Bro. Paul D. Fishe r, Associa te Editor
Bro Fred D Rissinger, Assoc ia e Editor
Dr Glenys A. Wal dm an, Associate Editor
[Articles and photograp hs for publication should be sent to Th e
Editor, The Pennsylvania Freemason P.O Box 2614, West la wn, PA 19609-26 14 Al articles a nd photographs become the property of the G rand Lod ge.)
PA Masons Notified of New Life Insurance Benefit Plan
During November, all Pennsylvania Freemasons we re notified of the new benefits program that offers group te rm life insurance to qualifying membe rs of the fraternity and their spouses at attractively low rates and with no phys ical examinations necessary. The brochure that accompanied a letter from R.W Grand Master Edward 0. Weisser included an "easy as 1-2-3-4" application form and charts detailing the low premiums.
The life insurance program is no t only a major benefit for the Freemason an d h is spouse, but also, if he chooses, it can benefit the pe rmanent fund of his lodge and the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania. The member may select from options whereby 100% wi ll go to his des ignated beneficiaries; or, 50% to his designated be neficiaries and 50% to Freemasonry; or, 100% to Free masorny.
Ground-b reaking ce remonies we re con du cted by Masons representi ng th e two Bl ue Lodges, mem bers of the OES, the towns hip superviso rs, and th e contractor (1-r): Fro nt row- John W . Hai nes, P. D.D.G .M.; William H. Ri ce, Jr., D.D.G M , 35th Masonic District; Kenneth M. Seay, W.M., Mahon ing Lodge; Ronald A. Lamber t, W.M., Danville Lodge and President of the Hal l Association; Lois Myers, Associ ate Worthy Matron, Danville Chapte r, O.E.S.; Leroy J Swe itzer, P M., Mahoning Lodge and Vice President of th e Hall Assoc iation; Calvin Megargle, Valley Townshi p Superv isor; Fran k Co tner, contractor; th e Rev. H. R. Lou ghboro ugh, Chaplain of Mahon ing Lodge; and David R. Smelts, P. M. of Danville Lodge and Secreta ryTreas ure r of the Hall Associat ion. To the rear are officers and members of the two Blue Lodges.
MASONIC HOMES, One Masonic Drive Elizabethtown, PA I 7022-2 I 99
Published by the Masonic Homes, own ed and ope rated by the G rand Lodge of Free and Accep ted Masons o Pennsylva nia, as a me ans of soliciting the physica an d fi nan dal su pport o the o r the Fratem iry, their fa milies and th e pu blic n general.
Postlllillter: Send address changes to the Distribution O ffice a th e a d d ress above.
Second Class Postage Pai d at lancaster, PA /
MASONS OF NOTE
Two Lucite Awards, eac h earned by having been th e t__
Edwa rd 0. Weisser during th e Sept. 12 Stated Meeting o f Mar ion Lodge No 562 , Sco ttdale, by Richard J. Stemm ler, D.D.G.M., 30th Maso ni c District to Wo rshipfu l Master Ralp h E. King, Sr., and Kar l Burkhart, Sr.
El sew here, Luci te Awards a lso were presented to:
Dean E. Vaughn, P.M., Cumberland Star Lodge No. 197, Ca rl is le, by Edwa rd 0. Weisser, R.W G.M. at th e Decem be r Qua rterly
Howard D. Con fer, Osseo Lodg e No 317 , Wellsbo ro, by Ronald G . Bennett, D.D.G .M., 17th Masonic Distri ct.
James P Ea ton, Ve rona Lodge No. 548 , by Charles A Garnes, D.D.G .M., 38 th Maso ni c District.
Alf red M. Pedde r, P.M., Acac ia Lodge No 633 , Marienv ille, by W ill iam E Yeager, J r., D.D.G.M., 56th Masonic District.
Members of Warren Lodge No. 240 , in Mon trose, 15 th Maso ni c District, extended their ha nds to he lp a Brother in the fines t tr ad ition of Freemasonry. Fifteen members o f the Lodge gathered on Sa turday, Sept. 14, to cut, spl it, tra nspor t, and stack a traile r-l oad o f logs fo r Warren R. W illi ams, J r , P.M., who is rec uperating from a n exte nded ill ness. Th e wa r mth of the fi rewood w ill only be exceeded by the warmth of friendshi p a nd bro the rl y love provided by the Lodge bre thren.
Co ngra tulat io ns to Joseph E. Murphy, Execu ti ve Di rector of the Masonic Homes, a member of Abraham C. Treichl er Lodge No . 682 , Eli zabethtown, upo n being elected and insta ll ed as President o f the Pe nn sylvania Assoc iatio n of Non - Profit Homes fo r th e Aging (PAN PHA). He wi ll serve th roug h 1998
W hen Past Mas ter Arthur L. Dym o f WilliamS Snyder Lodg e No. 7561 Ha rrisb urg, con fe rred the Master Maso n's Degree fo r h is son, Aaron, o n Nov. 6 , R.W. Pas t Grand Mas te r George H Ho hens hil dt served in th e sta ti on of Junio r Wa rden.
R.W. G rand Secreta ry Thomas W. Jackson, who is Intenda nt Genera l, East of Kni g hts of th e Red Cross of Co nstan tine an d Ap penda nt Orders, insta ll ed R.W. Grand Treasurer Marvin G. Spe icher as Pu issa nt Sovereig n o f Constantine Conclave, Read in g. Thi s was the fourth time that Bro. Jac kson has insta ll ed his Grand Lodge assoc ia te, Bro. Speicher/ into a Masoni c office. He previously insta ll ed hi m as the R.W Grand Treasure r, as Worshipful Mas ter of Excelsior Mark Lodge No. 216 , and as Preem in ent Governor of Liberty Be ll York Rite College
The 22nd Annual Ox Roast was another big Labo r Day outing for Harmony Lodge No. 429 , Ze lienople W. Thomas Marlowe / D.D.G.M. of the 26th Masonic District, reports th at 920 dinners were served. Pictured in the midd le of the wo r kers who served the ox roast is R.W . Past Gra nd Maste r Hiram P Ball. Past G rand Mas ter Ball was Wors hi pfu l Ma ster of Ha rmony Lodge in 1944 and served as R.W . Grand Mas ter in 1970 and 1971 . A t top left is Worshipfu l Master Kenneth R Weyman
Abuse Prevention Efforts Recognized
The group term life insurance benefit is underwritte n by th e Ohio Nati on al Life Insurance Co mpany. Fo r further information, or if you have misplaced your app licatio n fo rm, co ntact: No r th American Benefits Co., P.O. Box 3056, Southeastern, PA 19398-3056, or call toll-free 1-800-537-4 565.
A t th e O ctobe r sta ted mee ting o f Ho b a h Lo d ge No. 276, Broo kvill e, Jo hn W. Postl ewait {seco nd fro m ri g ht) was recog nized by Th e Pe nn sylva nia Maso ni c Fo unda ti o n for th e Preve nti o n o f Drug an d Alco ho l Abu se A mo ng Child re n fo r hi s dedi ca ti o n in he lp in g to sta mp o ut add ictio ns amo ng th e yo ut h in o u r soc iety. The awa rd , a pewte r p late a nd ce rtifica te, was p resen ted by James D. O b erlin , {l e ft) D D.G.M., 52 nd Maso ni c District who had reco mm ended hi m fo r th e recog n iti o n
Bro . Pos tl ewa it is th e Di recto r o f A lco ho l a nd Dru g Awa re ness Ed uca tio n a nd Trai nin g a t C la ri o n Uni ve rs ity, th e 52 nd Maso ni c Dis trict Dr ug a nd Alco ho l Abuse Preve nti o n Cha irm a n1 a nd a n a cti ve p ubli c sp eake r for the Founda ti o n Assoc ia tes w ho jo in e d in recog ni z in g Bro. Pos tl ewa ite a re Dr Cha rl es D. Leac h {ho ld ing th e cer tifi ca te a t ri g ht), fo rm er Pres id en t o f C lar ion Un ive rs ity, an d Sho un W Taylor {h o lding th e pe wter p late), a stu dent e mp loye e in the Office of A lcohol and Drug Programs at the Un iversity.
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As William Penn Sees Us!
T e 194L OO">h;pful Ma>le' of Howell Lod ge No . 405, Ho ney Brook, Reo F. Ford {fro nt, second from left), assisted Russell W. Baker (front , right) D.D.G .M., 5th Masonic District, and Worshipful Master Gary L Dukeman (front,
left), in presenting 50-Year Emblems of Gold on Oct 23. Recipients with D.D .G .M. Baker, W.M. Dukeman , and P.M. Fo rd are (1-r): Front - Ira M. Buckwalter, Jr. ; Charles I. Miles; and Foster A Ranck. Rear - Marvin E. Ranck, J. Martin Bressler, C. Stanley Eckenroth , and John M Kurtz, Jr. Unable to attend to recei ve their Emblems were James A Geiger, Kermit H Zimmerman , and Samue l 0. Zimmerman .
In an open presentation , 1946 Worshipful Master o f Rochester
Lodge No. 229, John A Swanson {front, center) was present when William R. Marvin (front, second from right), D.D.G.M ., 37th Masonic District, and John W. Dunbar (rear, right) Worshipful Master, presented 50-Year Emblems of Go ld to {1-r) : Front - Owen G . Bernhardt, John l Wood and Robert E. Beck. Rear - Fl oyd M. Ward , Sr.; Charles S. Spanos; William R. Moore, Jr.; and Leonard K Ruckert, P.D.D.G.M.
e-Mason Square Club of PA Formed
More
Than 1,000 Attend
District's Awareness Expo Masonry in Pennsylvania looks to the future with the formation of the "eMason Square Club of Pennsylvania. "
A Square Club is a social organization for brethren who share a common interest or hobby This Square Club was formed by Pennsylvania Masons who enjoy working with com puters. R.W. Grand Master Edward 0 . Weisse r suggests that all Masons with an interest in computers ought to join, even if they do not own a computer. The goals of the eMason Square Club is to help Pennsylvania Masons learn about and enjoy all of the advantages that current technology has to offer.
An electronic Mason - an "e-Mason" -is someone who wants to share th e common bond of Freemasonry w ith other Masons in the e lec tronic age. The e-Mason Square Club of PA promote s
fellowship and an exc han ge of information. Charity is also an important part of the club. The Square Club already donated software recently to a local high sc hool in the Pittsburgh area.
Encouraged by almost daily growth, the club is dNiding the state into districts to allow future growth as local chapters form. Grand Master Weisser has approved an official site on the Internet for the posting of information and education about Freemasonry in Penn sy lvania. It is located at HTIP: / /WWW.ICUBED.COM/USERS / BLUELODGE/S OCLUB.HTML
Membership information packets are available from the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania; or, visit the e-Mason Square Club on-line at the above address for additional information.
More than 1,000 persons attended a Drug and Alcohol Awareness Expo for th e com muniti es o f Coatesvi ll e, Dow nin g tow n, and surrounding areas o f Chester Co unty on Sept. 28.
Accord ing to Russell W. Baker, D.D.G.M of th e 5 th Masonic District, "Th e tre me ndously successful aware ness e ffo rt was th e idea o f Wors h ipful Master Ed wa rd J. Dazio , of Williamson Lodge No. 309, Downingtown, and th e resu lt o f a lot of hard work by him ." Edward J. Stum m, the District's Cha irman o f Dru g and Alco ho l Abuse Amo n g C hild re n , and many b rethren throughout the Dis tr ict co ntributed to the success of th e event.
Here's what the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania looks like from the brim of William Pe nn's hat atop City Hall in Philade lphi a. The picture, taken from scaffolding around the statue, not only provides a se ldom -seen view of the Masonic Temple , it also answers the question, "Where is there nearby parking?" Members of the staff of The Masonic Library and Museum were invited by colleagues at City Hall to climb on high and see the work being done on Alexander Milne Calder's ( 1846 -1923) monumental bronze portrayal of Pennsylvania's founder
First BaHo Scholarships Awarded
Robe rt Botto (seco nd from right) P.D.D.G.M., 37th Masonic District, presents o ne of th e District's first two $500 scholarships whi ch were named in hi s ho no r to Jessica Rae He rstin e. Wi lli am R. Marvin (seco nd from le ft) , D.D.G.M., presents th e other sc holarship to Ayn Carro ll Hunt ington. At left is Milfred W . Sm ith , Di strict Sc holarship Chairma n, and at right is Cla rence G. Herstin e, District Masonic Edu ca ti on Cha irman and fa th er of Jessica Rae. The sc holarsh ips are awarded to ac hi evin g family members of brethre n in th e Di str ict.
Perseverance, Euclid Lodge Masons Work For Big Brothers/Big Sisters
During Harrisb urg's Kipona Days that attract thou sand s to River Front Park, vol unte ers from Pe rseve ran ce Lodge No. 21 and Eucl id Lodge No. 698 in th e 2 nd Masonic District, staffed seve ral Pizza Hut concessions to raise fund s for th e Big Brothers/ Big Sisters of the Capital Reg ion. D.D.G.M. John D. Witmer, Jr. noted, "The mi ssion of the Big Brothers/Big Siste rs is to strengthen the comm unity's futur e through one -to -one serv ice to you th , and Masons are happy to have a par t in the effort" For many years , Kipona has been Harr isburg's annual Labor Day festival along the Susqueharma River. It features swimmin g and boating competitions and in re cent years has bee n expanded to include rides, food co ncessions, and other attractions .
=Mt-t=
The Masonic Homes' Adult Daily Living Center held an Open House on Friday, Nov 22 in the new center of the Ben Franklin building in the Masonic Health Care Center. The center had been in operation for one and a half years, and offers goal-oriented programs and services to adults 18 and older with physical and/ or cognitive impairments
The center's new location will provide participants with a variety of additional services to further improve their quality of life, such as easy access to physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech and language pathology and other ancillary clinics. Participants also will have access to the beauty/barber shop and therapeutic pool.
dult Daily Living Center Open House
The layout of the center allows for concurrent programming, so participants may enjoy more choices for recreational activities, social participation or quiet time. A private first aid room is also availab le for participants who require medical care. The center has three accessible restrooms; one has a walk-in shower for participants who desire to receive assistance with personal hygeine while at the center.
Resideets, employees, CIICI guests enioY refreshments at the Adllt Daly living Cellter Opel Hotse.
The center is designed with carefully selected furnishings: comfortable recliners, platform rocking chairs and a pleasing decor, to feel like "home" for up to 41 participants.
Adult day care is a valuable option for fami-
A Tribute to Brother and Pastor Charles H. Lacquement, D.D.
On Friday, Dec. 13, Bro. and Rev. C harl es H. Lacqueme nt, D.D., Director of Pastoral Care for the Masonic Homes, was honored for devoting more than 23 years to providing for the spiritual needs of th e brethren and th eir family mem· bers residing at the Masonic Homes. The 23rd Psalm Stain ed G la ss Window in the Roosevelt Building of the Masonic Hea lth Care Center was dedicated to Bro. La cquemen t by th e following: Abraham C. Treichler Lodg e No. 682; Lorna Kimmel Boer in honor of her father, W.
Arthu r Ku rtz, R.W.P.G.M., Robert Burns Lodge No.464; Edmund Sm ith, W.M., Perseverance Lodge No .2 I; Roge r Kramer, W.M.·Eiect , Perseverance Lodge No. 21; Dean Vaughn, member of Committee on Masonic Homes; George Moad, Harrisbu rg Co nsistory; Rev. Charles H. Lacquemen t, Director of Pastoral Care, Mason ic Homes; Fred Kay lor, W.M., Abraham C. Tre ich ler Lodge No. 682; Edwa rd 0. Weisser, R.W.G.M.; and Lorna Kimmel Baer, daughter of W. Orville Kimme l, R W.P G.M.
Orv ill e Kimmel, R.W. P.G.M.; Robert Burns Lodge No. 464; Perseverance Lodge N o. 21; officers and members of Harrisburg Consistory, A.A.S.R.; and Zembo Shrine , A.A.O.N.M.S. follo w ing verse: "A quiet man who wa lk s among us as an example of Christian life. A faithful pastor ca ring for others as one 'sound in faith, in love, and in steadfast· ness' (Titus 2:2L remindin g us on our journ ey that it matters not how we arrive at our de stination but who walk s with us on our way
Construction of New Independent Living Cottages Progresses
Many of the independent living cottages in Phase 1 are now under roof, and much progress has been made since DecembeJ; 1996 when the photo was taken. This is an exciting time for everyone concerned with the project, but especially for those who are waiting to move into their new homes. Several future residents have already sold their present homes and have moved into temporary apartments in the Elizabethtown area in anticipa· tion of their moving day.
Cottages are available in Phase 2 of the cottage construction project which will be completed the latter part of 1997. Call the Marketing Office at 1-800-676-6452 or return the coupon for more information on how you, too, can become a resident in one of the beautiful cottages, and enjoy all of the benefits of living here at the Masonic Homes.
Please send the coupon to: Marketing Office, Masonic Homes, One Masonic Drive, Elizabethtown, PA 17022
lies who provide care for a love d one with a physical or cognitive impairment because it allows families to keep their loved one at home, but also feel assured that he or she is receiving excellent care during the day while they are at work.
I Masonic Homes Will I Vzsit Rorid4 in 1997
Ove r the past few years th e Masoni c Homes has developed an d expan ded its se rvi ces to continue its long tradi · tion of providing exce llent care A represe ntative from the Maso ni c Hom es will visit seve ral sites in Rorida during 19 97 to inform brethren and th eir fam ilies about th e new se rvi ces offered through Independ ent Living, the Maso nic Health Care Ce nter, the new Lafayette Special Care Uni t, the Chil dren s Home, the new Adult Daily Living Center, the Ou tre ach Program, and more.
" It is our hope that many of our frie nds re siding in Rorida will acce pt an invitation to join with us, share refreshm ents and discover how th e Masonic Homes continues its dedicati on to pro viding th e highest quality se rvice in every aspect of care, " said john Suchanec, Maso nic Homes Outreach Directo r
Locations and da tes have not yet bee n se t Look for mo re inform ation about th e visit in the May iss ue of th e Pe nnsylvania Freemason. In th e meantim e, if you have question s about the upcomin g vi sit call john Suchan ec, at 1-800-462-7664.
Dedication of Chapel/Multipurpose Room Benefits for Handicapped
On Dec. 10, Rabbi Mark Greenspan formall y dedica ted the One Wes t Chapel /Mu ltipur pose Room as a beit hami· drash, with a mezuzzah on th e doorposts entering the building. To furth er apprecia te in th e religious significance of the mezuzzah , read Deuteronomy 6: 3-10. Jewish se rvices are cur· rently held in the facility during Passover, Yom Kippur, Rosh Ha sha na and Chanukah.
Last April the Chapel/Multi - pur· pose Room had been dedica ted as a Christian place for worship. A Chris ti an service is held in the facility eve ry Sunday at 2 :00p .m.
Bro. and Rev Cha rl es H. Lacq uement, Director of Pastoral Care for the Mason ic Homes, assists Rabb i Ma rk Greenspa n as he prepares to hang a mez uzza h on the doorp ost of one of the three en tranceways to th e Mason ic Hea lth Ca re Center Asse mbly Room
Rabbi Mark Gree nspan, of Beth El Temple in Ha rri sburg, lights a meno rah du ri ng th e dedicat ion ce re mony, whi ch took place during Cha nukah.
Masonic District C in Philadelphia held its first Awards Night Banquet at the Philadelphia Racquet Club on Oct. 19, during which it presented its charity project proceeds of $2,500 to the Pegasus Riding Academy. Pegasus offers a program through which handicapped riders gain therapeutic benefits from the motion of the horses. District C plans for the Awards Night to be an annual event. Participating in the presentation are (1-r): George Haynes, W.M., Leonard Forman Lodge No. 782; Eugene M. Palter, District Masonic Education Chairman; Harvey Perleman, W.M., M. S. Brotherhood Lodge No. 773, a representative of th e Pegasus Riding Academy; Joseph DiPinto, Jr., D.D.G.M., Raymond C. Mohr, W.M. , St. Alban -Swain Lodge No. 529; Robert C. O'Connor, W.M., WilliamsonCorinthian Lodge No. 368; and Martin I. Bogdon, W.M., Palestin e -Roxborou gh Lodge No. 13 5.
If You Have A Child With Mental Retardation, Could Your Family Benefit from Quality Respite Care? If your Answer is "Yes!" We Need to Hear from You!
The Masonic Homes is working to determine whether a sufficient number of Pennsylvania Masons' families would benefit from such services to warrant the development of a Mental Retardation Respite Care Program
In Pennsylvania today, approximately 65,000 people are served by the State Mental Retardation System. Services include residential facilities, employment, adult rehabilita· tion services and family suppor t services. Unfortunately, up to 13 ,000 more people are current· ly on waiting lists, unable to benefit from this assistance network until their name moves up the list. In the meantime, they wait, their famili es wait, and th ey hold out hoping that they'll receive help soon
A diagnosis of mental retardation includes a broad spectrum of mental impairments ranging from those persons with mildly diminished mental capacity to thos e so severely impaired that they cannot care for themse lves. Many of these individuals, broadly classified as "severely"
It is expected that the parents of a child with mental retardation will provide the most basic forms of care that many of us take for granted, and the parents will continue to provide this ass istance as their mentally retarded child ages. Although adult children with mental r etardation are generally not in a position to live entirely on their own, in many ways they expect to be treated as adults. Parents maintain concern that their adult children will succeed in their endeavors, build relationships of their own, and be safe throughout the proces s In so doing, the parents try to help their children develop those skills necessary to be as independent as possible; yet they constan tly recognize the d ependence their adult child has on them.
The proposed Respite Care Program wo uld serve as a tem porary she lter,or " home, " for an ad ul t ch ild w ith mental re tarda ti o n wi th -
It is often impossible for the parents caring for an adult child with mental retardation to take a vaca tion, go away for a long weekend, spe nd quality time i n th e ca rin g envi ronme n t and beauty of the Mason ic Hom es. together, or even accomplish s uch fundamental tasks as going to the grocery store. Thi s brings us to the greatest concern that or "profoundly" mentally retarded, are cared for in group homes or are institutionalized. However, there are many more , diagnosed as "mildly" or "moderately" mentally retarded, who are able to function at a relatively high level and live in the community, most
Respite care is defined as an interval ofrest or relief. Available in periods for up to two weeks at a time and annually for up to 30 total days, respite care would offer a safe and secure environment for the adult with mental retardation as well as assurance for the parent who must be apart from his or her adult child for a period of time. often with their families.
Some of these individuals are fortunate enough to attend sheltered workshops, maintaining a degree of productivity which enhances the quality of their lives. Some become productive citizens, holding jobs and functioning within their respective communities However, even those who maintain a high leve l of functioning require basic assistanc e from their parents. As the mentally retarded child ages, so do the parents, and the natural aging process creates a serious concern as to how that child will ultimately receive care
parents of adult chil dr en w ith mental retardation possess: To whom can I turn to provide quality, safe, secure, and caring services for my child? As one Masonic family speaki ng about their 34-year-old daughter so aptly stated , "We're lookin g for an umbrella to be held over her while we're away."
The young woman referr ed to is an adult, mildly retarded, holding a job, and responsible for her own transportation to and from work. She was graduated from high school and has a relationship with a young man whom she cares for very much . She has become re sponsible for much in her own needs. Nevertheless , her parents remain concerned about her we ll-being and find it difficult to go away on a vacation and leave her behind. In the past they would not even have considered taking an exten ded vacation without taking her along. Now, however, the y hold hope because the Masonic Home s in Elizabethtown is studying the ne ed for a Respite Care Program to help them and other famili es in similar positions.
Masonic Homes Respite Care for Adults Diagnosed with Mental Retardation
If you would be interested in using th e Respite Care p rogram at the Masonic Homes should it be approved, please provide the following information and return thi s r e pl y le tte r to the Masonic Homes Please apply postage.
I provide care to an ad ul t c hild w ith mental retard a tion.
YES 0 NO 2 . Co unty of Re sidence 3. I am intere s ted in respite care for my child(ren).
4. I am ab le to provide transp orta tion to the Masonic Homes fo r my adult
5 With a maximum use of 3 0 d ays per calendar year, approximately how m any days per year would you use the re s pi te care facility at the Masonic Homes in Elizabethtown?
1 - 7 DAYS 0 8 - 14 DAYS 0 15-21 DAYS
ADDRESS:
The responsibility of caring for a child with Mental Retardation is enormous. What are otherwise considered to be normal tasks -- meals, toileting, clothing, teaching, exercising, and moving become stressful, continuous efforts that take a set/ere toll on parents.
LODGE NAME & N UMBER -
TELEPHONE NUMBERS DAYTIME
EVENING - -
Thank you for your participation in this survey. We look forward to investigating ways in which we can improve the quality of life for all Mason s and their families.
Brother Kenneth W Bleiler, D. D .G.M., his daughter Debbie and wife Elaine, Rydel, PA feel that the Respite Care Program, if offered by the Masonic Homes, would greatly benefit their family.
"An umbrella to hold ove r her: " A strong metaphor for the kind of care the Maso ni c Homes is co ns idering to offer parents of adult children w ith mental retardation. This proposed Respite Care Program would serve as a temporary shelter, or "home," within the beautiful environment of the Masonic Homes. Here, an adu lt child w ith mental retardation co uld find respite for themse lves and
thei r parents, in a quality, safe, and caring setting.
Respite care services are offered to families with mentally retarded children throughout the Commonwealth at the county
With all their time de11oted to the disabled child, a couple finds little time or energy to get out and relax together. With so much energy directed to their child, a couple is afforded minimal time with each other. An immeasurable amount of energy is spent trying to locate serllices for a child with mental retardation. If a family is fortunate enough to find a provider, endure the waiting list, and have ser11ices in place, how will it be funded?
Frequently, one parent takes a part-time job to make the extra money to pay for the ser11ices. level by local MH/MR offices or through private providers; however in many areas it is often difficult to find availabl e bed space for individuals who require respi t e care services. The Masonic Homes is surveying Pennsylvania Masons and their families to determine the needs of our Fraternity. Based on the response of the enclosed su rvey, the Masonic Homes will determine the need to establish a respite care program in Elizabethtown.
Maintaining the physical and emotional health to continue to perform these care-giving duties, parents must find time to take care of themselves as well. They must be provided the opportunity to get away, to exercise, to relax, to find some measure of personal enjoyment.. .to vent, to gamer support, and to rejlect,rejresh and renew themselves.
Guest Lodging Rooms Available at Masonic Homes Masonic Homes Food Services
Two guest lodging rooms are avai lable to fam ili es and friends of residents of any area at th e Mason ic Homes Th ese rooms are in the Masonic Hea lth Care Center between Lafayette Wes t a n d Lafayette East. Each room h as two si ng le beds; a bathroom w ith a showe r ; te levisio n; and fresh lin ens, soap, and towe ls. The rooms are near the cafeteria, where guests may purchase lunch and dinner
The guest lodging room s may be reserved for one night or several. Cots or baby cr ibs are not availab le. Phone-in reservations may b e placed through the Masonic Health Care Cen te r Gift Shop, (717) 367-1 1 2 1, ext. 33636, during n orma l operating hours: Monday through Fr iday, from 9:00 a.m throu gh 3:30 p.m.; and Saturday and Sunday from 1 :00 p.m. through 4 :00 p.m.
A "bu ll e tin board message" on th e Gift Shop extension (33636) wi ll provid e instructions on reser ving those rooms; h owever, it w ill not be programmed to take messages. If a fam il y needs lodging after hours, the family or staff members may dia l the Masonic Homes' operator ("0" ).
Rooms will be reserved on a first-come, first-served basis. If plans are altered, advance cance llation is requested so another famil y may have the oppor tunity to use the room.
Cost per room per night is $32 .00 plus ta x, payable by cash, check, or traveler's c h eck at th e tim e of check-in.
Check-in times are Monday through Friday, after 2:00 p.m., and weekends after 4 :00 p.m. Check-out times are Monday through Friday a t 11 :00 a.m. and weekends at 1 :00 p.m.
The Masonic Homes' Food Services Department was featured in the November issue of Food Management magazine because of its versatility in providing food service for many leve ls of care. The department consists of more than 180 employees , who serve a variety of appetizing menu items daily to more than 1,200 residents and 950 employees. The artic le focused on the department s unique ability to prepare a wide variety of delicious and nutritious meals for a large number of repeat diners; adhere to special needs of individuals with specific requirements; and present the food in a consistent, attractive and timely manner.
New District Deputy Grand Masters
/_ R W Grand Master Edward 0. W e isse r h as appointed the following new District Deputy Grand Masters:
Masonic District A
Thomas J. Miller
W illiam L. Elkins Lodge No. 646
Philadelphia , PA
For Lodges Nos 115 125, 230, 27 1 482, 487 , 591 , and 646
14th Masonic Di strict
D Carl Peel
Solem Lodge No 330, Haml in
For Lodges Nos. 218, 249 , 330 , 344, 466, and 542
16th Ma sonic District
Larry D. Sharer
Evergreen Lodge No. 163 , Monroeton
For Lodges Nos. 70, 108, 163, 263, 306,415 418,471, and 618
19th Masonic District
Jeffrey L. Nale
Union Lodge No. 324 Mifflintown
For Lodges Nos. 203 , 319, 324
37 1 , 376 , 381 and 458
22nd Masonic Dis trict
Cecil V Gallup
McKe on Lodge No. 388 , Smeth port
For Lodges Nos. 334, 342 , 388
505 ,5 55 , 5 8 0, 5 98,and 7 49
24th Masonic Di strict
Glenn W Olsen
Oasis Lodge No. 416 Edinboro
Fo r Lo dg es No s 347, 362 , 366
3 9 2 3 9 9 , 416,42 5 ,4 55,6 95 , a nd 70 8
38th Masonic District
W Robert Semeth y, Jr.
Infinity Lo dg e No. 5 46 , Pe nn Hills Twp
For Lo dges No s. 546 , 548 , 6 35 683 , 766 and 786
40th Masonic District
William R Dillon
Boyerto wn Lodg e No. 7 41
For Lo dges Nos. 75 , 254, 446, 553 , 585 595 , and 7 4 1
52nd Ma son ic Di strict
Erich Viertel
Po rke r C ity Lo d ge No 5 21
For Lodg es No s 27 6, 277, 5 20, 52 1, 522, 5 3 6, and 5 5 9
56th Mason ic District
A rthur C. Va nNort
Acacia Lod ge No 633 Marien ville
Fo r Lo d ges Nos 24 1, 3 6 5, 4 1 2, 5 4 7 , 557 633, a nd 72 6
57th Masonic District
Robert T. Addleman , Jr.
Pleasant Hills-Guthrie Lodge No 759
For Lodges Nos. 269 509, 684 743, 758, 759, 761 , 794, and 808
58th Mas onic District
Thomas R Reich
Elysburg Lodge No. 414
For Lodges Nos 255 , 294 357, 378 414, and 737
OTHER APPOINTMENTS
Floor Appointments
Grand Steward
William A. Wetterau
Southampton -Radiant Star Lodge No. 806, Ha tboro
Grand Pursuivant
Emanuel ig les ias
Leonard Forman Lodge No. 782 , Philadelphia
Aides To The Grand Master
Jam es T. Young Thomson Lodg e No. 340, Pao li
David Ja cobs
G. Gran t Brittingham Lodge No. 788 , Woods id e
Nelson M. Baird Norristown Lodge No 620
A Lafayette Lodge Missed
In th e story about "Lafayette and Washington Together in Fayette County" on Page 4 of the November issue, it was repor ted that there are thr ee lodges in Pennsylvania named for Bro. Lafayette. There are fo ur: three listed under "Lafayette;" and the fourth listed as "Ge n eral Marquis de Lafayette . "
Apologies to Ge neral Marqui s de Lafayette No. 795, Riegelsville, for the oversight, and thanks to the Lod ge Secretary, W. Ke nneth Stout, Jr., for setting th e reco rd straig ht.
R.W. Grand Lodge Officers
Re-Elected at Quarterly
R. W. Grand Lodge Officers we re reel e cted during the Quarterly Communication of Grand Lodge on December 4. They are:
Edward 0. Weisser, R.W. Grand Master; James L. Ernette, R.W. Deputy Grand Master; Robert L. Dluge , Jr., R W. Sen ior Grand Warden; Marvin A. Cunningham, Sr., R.W. Junior Grand Warden; Marvin G. Speicher, R.W. Grand Treasurer; and Thomas W. Jackson, R.W. Grand Secretary.
Elected to serve on the Committee on Masonic Homes are: Carl R. Flohr, William L. McCarrier, Norman A. Fox, Dean E Vaughn, D. William Roberts, Rob ert L. Engel, and Guy T. Matthews.
7 In Perry Lodge No. 392 Receive Jackets
Seven brethren of Perry Lodge No 392, Erie, who were first- line signers for e leven new Masons, were presented Gra nd Master's purple jacke ts at the October 8 stated meeting by Wors hi p ful Master James W. Berger. Re c ipients wi th th eir jacke ts are (1 -r): Front row - Richard D. Hanks , Donald W. Schi ck , Paul E Mas ters, and Richard N. Fitzsimmons; Second rowDennis W. Weed , Robert D. Gorna ll , Jr , and Ern est C. Hornaman. In th e rear with the Wo rs hipful Ma ster is Rob e rt K Parrish , P.D.D.G .M. , 24 th Ma so ni c Di strict
Have We Helped
Too Much?
By Bro . Thomas W. jackson R.W. Grand Secretary
My Brothers:
You have heard and read my concerns for years about the lack of knowledge of Freemasonry by our membership While attending the World Conference of Grand Masters in Portugal in September, I learned that their lodge s meet weekly with two of those meetings eac h month dedicated to Masonic education
I relate to you a little tale I heard a number of years ago which iJlustrates a vital issue affecting our society in general , and could affect our fraternity in particular, because of its inhere nt goals.
A littl e boy one day found a cocoon of a moth and observed movements within the cocoon. He realized that the moth was attemptin g to emerge into its final m e tamorphic statethat of a vibrant, living adult. The boy decided that he would help the moth in escap ing the confi n es of the cocoo n, so he cut the cocoon to p e rmit the moth to emerge. To his disappointme nt, th e moth failed to open its wings and develop into the adult he expected and soon died.
His mother, noting the disappointment on the face of the little boy, explained to him that, in order for the moth to reach its full potential, it was necessary for it to emerge on its own. The struggles of the moth were for a purpose -to enable it to gain strength to rise abov e the world upon which it used to crawl. The struggle was a necessary part of its life. She told him that because he did no t al low it to s truggle to mature, it would n either walk n or fly. When th e boy reduc e d th e strug gle , the moth was never abl e t o achieve its potential.
Is this perhaps indicative of what is h a pp e nin g to mu ch of our socie ty in
Santa Says Thanks
Dear Editor :
How do Mrs. Claus and I say "thank you" to so many gracious people who he lped us make the holidays happier fo r the many res idents at the Masonic Homes eac h year. Perhaps this le tter wi ll do it.
general today ? Is has been the goal of generations to attempt to make life easier for each succeeding one, to give much and require little , and, in reducing the requ irement to struggle to ac h ieve are pos s ibly reducing much of the hope for reaching full potential There is no way to fully quantify or qualify the effect of this attitude upon society, but there is enough evidence to e xpress concern.
In my last few years in education, I w atched a high·quality, highlyrespected private colle ge continually lessen the requirements of performanc e by th e student body. These requirements range d from academic standards to dre ss code s The schoo l is no lon ger in e xiste nce and it died as a little -res pected institution.
Pe rhaps in Freemasonry today we are not requiring enough from our members to learn more about the Craft, its ideals and its purposes. I never witnessed more enthusiasm for Freemasonry than I did in Portugal, and the average age of their members is 39 years. These Brothers know the Craft and resp ect its meaning. The y have create d a successful operation, and success breeds success.
Is it possible that we have helped too much to op en a Masonic cocoon and thereby r e moved a requirement for maturation? Our ancient Brethren knew well that membership carried with it responsibility. Maybe, in our attempts to make life easi e r, we are requiring t oo little. A number of times in my life , I have noted that when less was required, less is what was receiv ed. If we don't kno w what we are , w e can' t b e wha t w e we r e Think about it!
ye ar as we make o ur ro unds sp reading lOY to so many, we are fill ed with joy ourselves. We wo uld like you to know that as we are doing that, we are also wishing a Me rr y Christmas and a Happy Han ukkah to all o f you "San ta's help ers" who make it possible. Our " Ho- Ho- Ho" would not be so joyful--in fact , we wou ld not be able to be th e generous Santa an d Mrs. Claus--without the he lp of so many loving, caring people like you, members of man y lodg es and perso nal fri ends w ho mad e all th e ho mem a d e cookies a nd candy available.
Thank You to all , and let me be th e first to w ish yo u a Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah for 1997.
Frate rn a ll y, Sa nta Claus (J. Walter Price) P S : Joll y 01' St Ni c k also owes spec ia l thanks to Mrs . Claus (El aine ) for her grea t personal effor ts.
at th e Masonic Homes each year.
Ten Regional Ritualistic Meetings Set for '97
Ten Regional Meeting s of th e Schools of Instructi on are schedu led for 1997: Feb ruary 22 .. Uniontown April12 .. Ridgeway
March 8 New Castle April19 Allentown March 15 ...... Pittsburgh April 26 .. Philadelphia March 22 .Johnstown May 3 Erie ApriiS Harrisburg May 10 William sport
Santa (J. Wa lter Price) and Mr s. Claus (E laine Price ) spread holiday joy among the reside nts
