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J A sampk> illuMrahon or :tgJQ annuur h:1!«'d nn follO\\ing inrormalion:
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The year 2003 is h e re! Whe re did 2002 go? It went so fast; yet I feel a lot has been accomplished. I hope each of you ended last year and began this one by enjoying a gloriou> and happy holiday season.
Grand Lodge activity in 2002 wound down with our December Quarterly Com munication, which went well. II p leased me to receive ma ny comp liments, especially from our guests from other jurisdictions.
My theme for 2003 remains the same: "H O.P.E. - Helping Others Pursue Excellence." I fee l it's an important message and I have seen its impact at work through the year. But, Brethren, there's one area of con<:ern where we need to really put that empha!As to work. Our Blue lodges still face the problem of getting qualified members to fill the Stalions and Places. There still are Lodges thai have no a lterna ti ve but to merge be<"""use too few Members a re accepting the opportunity to serve with their Brethren - let a lone stepping forward as leaders. I ' H.O.P.E. • we can overcome this quickly. We must! As the New Year started, Grand Lodge established two new, golden opportunities for philanthropy that I'm sure will be nenr and dear to the hearts of Pennsylvan ia Masons "The Go ld Book Society" and "The Phi lanthropic Society" have been crea ted to give all of us the opportunity today to assure that permanent funds for the preservation of the Masonic Temple in Philddelphia will be available for posterity. The Gold Book Society and the Philanthropic Society give us ways to provide for imporlant restoratio11s and vita l preservations at our Masonic Temple We must sec that lhis building is well maintained and fully preserved for those who come after us. In this issue of The Pennsy/vonoo Freemason, you will find inserted an easy-to-read, brief brochure explaining the purposes and benefits of the two Societies. lust slip it out of the magazine, read It, and take act ion to jo in one o r bot h of the Socie ties. Please d o it now. Thinking of The Penmylvanio Freemason, with this issue we begin our 50th volume, which means we are in the year that will culminate in its golden anniwrsary. We're proud of our pubfiCation and I want to give a special thanks to the Freemason Committee and the Editor fo r the job they are doing for Pennsylvan ia Freemasonry. During 2002, I traveled north, south, east and west throughout Pe n nsylva11ia, vislted many of our Lodges, talked to many of you, and thoroughly enjoyed our fellowship together. bn't it great that we can live in a country where this happens? Fellowship is so important today, certainly as important as it was decades ago maybe more so It has b een basic to our Fraterni ty since "day o ne." Brethre11, we must appreclate and preserve our proud heritage, uphold the dignity of Freemasonry with renewed enthusiasm, cherish the traditions that n\ilde us great, and - above all - take on the and stewardship for our ty th roughout this g rea t lurisdiction. Oy doing that, we can we will we must pass a long a sound Fraternity to the future gener• tions o f worthy Bre thren With everyone's continued support in 2003 and beyond, our H.O. P.E. will be strong. We will e xcel.
May you have smooth saili11g in all you do . And, God America!
Sincerely and
Marvin A Cunningham, Sr.,
Grand Master
The
Across l'ennsylvanid, from Olde Ci ty in Philadelphia , Site of t he Maso n ic l cmp le circa 1867 throug h histori< Viilley Forge ilnd and on tn t h e Pi ttsburgh area. neiirly three uf Masonic hl•tory arc reflected from stately buildings, and monuntt:nt).
The Jll.t>Onic Temple In Philade lphia , the " h o me " for l'ennsy lv:u1ia Freemasons Ml tl th e laeaclqua r w rs for t he Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania- t h e oldest Ma<onl c Juri>diction in America- ranks among the top of the list . The magnificent lcmple Is unlike anything else In the 11ation, or even t he world, according to architec ts a11d artists, s tructur;tl engi n eers, and sch o la rs. Not only Is this gra11d >t ructurc recogni1ed as one of the wonders of the Masonic world, but also it I> rightfully entered on the Na tiondl Register of HI\IOric and 1he Na tional Regi ste r of toric i\rchlieC I IJI'C, Though It was amids t difficult post Civil War economic times, preparatory 10 the purchaw of a site for a new MaS<mlc ' lcmple, Samuel C. Perkins, then R.W. Senior Watden and a m e mber of the l}u ild ing con fld cn i ly repo rted to th e Grand Lodge u 11 April 7, 1869: "There arc milny o f th e who would be glad w contribute according to their means to thi s c heri s h l'<l e nterprise the noble whose ma, s lve and proportions w ill be a t once an ornamen t tn t h e C ity, and an endur ing monument of the dign ity and power of the Right Grand Lodge of 1 : ree and Accepted Masons of J><'nnsylvania and Mawnlc Jurisdiction thereunto belonging, and of the eterna l prin c iples of t he Fratcrnliy u nder t he w h o le C<u 1opy of ll e;twn." Brother Perkins w:1s rlg iH. Thruush faith , dedication, detenninatlon, and IIKal acuity, those Masoni c Brethren made the Masoni c lemple a reality It had been in 1867 th at the Grand Lodge purchased th e site, a fu ll c ity block measur ing 148 hy 245 feet at Broad and Filbert Streets, for .S 155,000. It< Cornerstone laid on St. j o hn the Saplist's Day, ju11c 24, 1868, and th e Masonic Temple dedicated on Sept. 26, 1873, the 87th anniversary of the lndepcndc11ce of the Gnu od Lodge
The Brethren planning and bu il ding for the future of Freemasonry in were f oresig hted and fM · •ighted in acquiring a choice properly that wa> then a I yMd ntlhe reaches of center ci ty. With in a fe w years, l'hlladc lph ia's C ity Ha ll wa s under co nst r uction across the street. Through nearly a century and a half , the history, culture, and heritage of the Masonic Temple and City have stood forth as prime historical landmark' in Ph iladelph ia . There I> an inte resting descriptive booklet (c. 1954) that really is an extensive, well-written tour guide of the Masonic !Cmple by Rro. Robert J. Angney, I'.M ., Philadelphia Lodge No. 72 ( now Philadelphia-Potter Lodge No 72), w h o Is Iden ti fied ns "Officl:tl Guitlc." The 32-pagc, pocket-sl1c publication that approved and authorized by Kalph M. Lehr, R.W. G rand Master (1954-1955) details th e <tory of the Masonic l'c mpl c from the >ito: se lect inn to t he completion of t he s r lendorous interior.
1\ro. i\ngncy reported: "T h e choice of t he a rchitec t to plan and carry out the imvurt:mt work of cn nstru ct inr; a building desirable and sui t ed for a Masonic Temple was decided by a competiti,•e plan .... The unanimous choice of the Committee were (sic) lhc plan s submitted b)• 1\rother james II Wi n drim," yn un g m<tn 27 yea rs of uge, who, was Ma>ttr of l'hilad<'lphia Lodge No. 72 when tht' Temple wa> dl'<licated on September 26, 1873." Tile magnificence of th(' lnterinr decor long bl-en wide ly p rocl.,il n ed and the his to r y, cultu re, trad it io n s, and of f-reemasonry permeating the lodge room>, halls, Ltbrary and Mu5eum, and function rooms arc world - renowned. llro. 1\ngney's a> to how that cmue to be Is qul1c in teresting. lie reports: "Sho rt ly after the dcdiC<Ition, t he members of the Fraternit y formed th e i\rr Association, with the object of dccand embt'lll•hing the various halls, giving lhcm arti>tlc, historic, and Masonic beauty. The funtls for the being supplied by its mcmb<! rs from an n ual dues of moe dollar each, contributions front lnd ividtw ls and from the various Masonic meeting In the Temple . Its purpose, as stated , was to b<!autify, to dignify, t o vivify th e cold, dead walls, nakl'<l p illars, ;u1d blank ceilings, so t h :t t th ey m igh t speak t hrough the mysllc sy mhoh un d histori c figures which adorn them, ;mel thus teach Frttma.onry to the eye, while its ritualistic ceremonies teac h It to both the eye ami the car and through thcn1 to th e understanding and the heart.
" I low fa ithfu ll y our Masonic carried out the comp lctio11 of the prophetic vision or Brother V<tux (R.W.G.M. Richard Vaux, 11\611-69) dnd the ambitious plans of the Art i\s>ociation 1' p la in ly to those who have eyes to sec."
Each year, >evcral thousand Masons and their familic>, and the puhllc tour the grand Masonic Temple. Excellent audio-vhual of the Masonic Temple arc available by visiting thl' site of the Grand Lodge at www.pagrandlodgr.o rg . A full -co lor descriptive booklet , MtJ.>onlc Temple, 1'/Jiltulelp/ritt, Is available f or online from the Gift Shop at the web site address.
The tenets, principles, heritage, and pride of the Masonic Fraternity emanate from statues and monuments across the state that were p laced and presented by the Grand Lodge on beha If of the Freemasons of Pe•lmylvania . There are six Brethren dedicated to as>uring that hi>toric statues and monuments are maintained and preserved. They make up the Grand Lodge Committee on Preservation of Monuments
led by edward H. Fowler, Jr., R.W.P.G.M., who has been the Chairman since its authorization in 1999.
Mtcr a statue, monument, or structure is given us a gift, its maintenance and preservation is the responsibility of the rt•cipicnt. Freemasons want to assure that they arc properly maintained and continue to reflect their Mason· ic rclallomhips with dignity. Each memorial Is unique, so specific and detailed maintenance Is required for Its preservation. Commlltt'e member Inspects, discuss· es, and heirs assure that care and maintt'nance arc provided.
l;ac h Committee member resides near his assigned monument or stnocturc and devotes many hours 10 this activ ity. F.ach has developed a "working relationship" with th e management of the host organi7..ation or emity. With the approval of the R.W. Grand Master and elected Grand l.odge Officers, funds to maintain and preserve each of the s it es usually are provided £rom the Masonic C harities Fund that resLLits primarily from contributions.
john B. 1,1w, I'.M., Thomson Lodge No. 340, l'aoli , tracks and repO<ts on the condition of the George Washington at Prayer Monument overlooking the Congressional Medal of Honor Grove on the grounds of Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge. That monument was presented to the Freedoms Foundation by the Grand LodgeofPenmylvaniil In 1967 J t 1' La nu () ln • w, ...... . and rededicated in ceremon ies for the 25th anniversary in 1992.
Bro. l.aw frequently visits the site, conferring with the management at J ' rcedoms Poundation, and meeting wlth the contractors to review the work as they maintain and
refurbish the statue. He commented, "Being involved in the restoration of this monument has been a great educational expN ien ce. I had the opportunity to talk with in the art field . "
An extensive maintenance program was carried out at the site during past Summer and Fall. In addition, a new wayside display with audio explains the s ignifi cance of the George Washington at l'raycr Monument, especially noting the relationship of the Pat her of Our Country with Masonry.
Daniel J. Hinds, P.M., Covenant-Excelsior Lodge No 456, Philadelphia, Superintendent of the Masonic 'l'empl e in Philade lphia, reports on the condition of the Benjamin Franklin - Craftsma n Monu· ment. The statue, which was given to the City of Phi ladelphia, Is located on the north · west corner of llroad St. and john E Kennedy ll lvd., directly across the street from the Masonic Temp le. Bro. Hind s
Oanl e l J. H ·inds, I'.M. inspects the statue per iodic.1lly and works closely with City of Philadelphia's Preservation Committee 10 certain that It is maintained. There is a duplicate momunent of Brother FranklinCrahsman located near the Freemasons C1 d tural CentN at the Masonic Homes at Elizabethtown, which is main· ta incd by that facility.
john F. Schwartz, P.M., Good Samaritan Lodge No. 336, Gettysburg, reviews and inspects the Friend to Friend Masonic Memorial Monument in the National Cemetery Annex of the Ge tt ysburg National Military Park. The monument and facilities, along with landscap · ing improvemen ts, were dedi· cated and contributed to th e National Park Service in !993. The Frie nd to Friend Monument is the first of its kind
John F. Schwartz, P.M . ever granted permission to be presented to the Nationa l Park Service. It a lso is the first monument at Gettysbu rg Nat ional Military Park to have the patina coloring of the principal figures portrayed by the statue. Dur ing 2002, Rro. Schwartz Invested considerab le time and talent while work was accomplished to restore the origina l patina. The costs to maintain and Improve the monument are to be covered by the income from a Maintenance Trust Agreement that the Grand Lodge estab li shed with the
Na ti onal Park Service. Only the income from th at Trust can be used for maintenance. Bro. Schwartz's efforts and concern have fostered wonderful support and cooperation from th e management at the Gettysburg National Milltary Park in maintaining the facility and periodically lighth'g th e monument.
The Was hington National Memorial Arch and the Free mllSons Memodal Monum e nt
William L. Klngsbuty, P.M., Melita Lodge No. 295, Philadelphia, reviews and inspects the condition of th e rcconsHucted Nationa l Memo· ria I Arcll
The Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania's web site includes two very usefu l too ls for Pennsylvania Masom who are in need of info rm ation. Both can be found by clicking on the appropriate buttons located on the home page at www.pag randlodge.org
The Masonic Library and Museum has undergone a cyber "fa ce. Jift' and includes more pictures of the fascinating artifacts on disp lay in the Grand Lodge Museum This is an excellent way to learn about the richness of Masonic history that has been preserved for future gener· ations. Also provided is an oppo rtunity to become a con . t ributing member of the Masonic Llbraty and Museum. If we don't preserve and write our history, who will?
I•avilion at VA Medical Center William M. Kratzenberg, P.D.D.G.M., in spects and reports on the condi tion and improvements to th e structures and Masonic monument at the Veterans AdminIstration Medical Center in Aspinwall, north of l'lttsburgh. The Grand Lodge of l'ennsylvanla and contributed a recreationa l Willirun M.l<ratl.t!uberg. pavilion , improved Iand scap· P. D . D.G .M. ing, and placed a monument there In 1999 Bro. Kratzenberg has developed a close working relationship '"ilh the Administration and goes to the VA Medical Center regularly to in>pect the improvements and to visit with the veterans.
Eighty years ;ogo, on Nov. 14, 1922, Bro. E Pau l Long, th e n 21 years of age, was entered in Henodon Lodge No . 702. lie w;os passed to the Dcgrl'i' of a fellow Craft Mason nn J;on . 9, 192:1, ;ond raised to the l)cgrcc o f a Master Mason on Feb J:l Recognizing his 1:10 years as a Mason, Wil li am It Swinehart, D.D.G.M., 46th Masonic Dist ri ct (r ight) and David L. Re iner, W.M., llcrndon Lodge, presented a framed Ce rtifi ca te of Recogn ition to Bro. Long. At 102, he con· ti nues to be an iiCtive Mason, especia ll y faithfu lly au ending t l1e Tall Cedars meet ings near hi s h
The impressive nine-foot bronze statue of George Washington at Prayer at the Freedoms Foundation vividly portrays the Fatherhood of God and the Brotherhood of Man in which the heritage of Pennsylvania Freemasonry is imbedded. Robert E. Deyoe, the R.W.G.M. in 1966, autho· rlzed the statue to scu lpted by the wor ld-renowned artist-sculptor, Don· aid l)c l, uc, of Leonard , NJ, to stand at the entrance to The Congress ional Medal of Honor Grove at Free· doms Foundation at Valley Forge. llro. Deyoe sa id: " It was at Valley Forge that llro. Washington and the remnants of his army suffered through thE' bitter winter or 1777-78 in order to obtain freedom. The hero· ic spirit and devotion to freedom which burned in the hearts of Bro. Washington's Army must again be arouS<.-d in the hearts of our people "
At the Dedication on Sept. 9. 1967, the Chairman of the Directors of the Freedoms Foundation proclaimed: " that all the world may come to see the devotion which we hold for George Washington. the Father of our Country, <md may God b less the Masons of Pennsylvania, who have made a ll this possible."
During 1976 when the nation was celebrating the lliccntennla l, Pennsy lvania l' rccmasnns held four lliccntennlal Day Ceremon ies, the Jasl of which was at t he l'recdoms Founda· lion at Va ll ey l'orgc. Desp ite the worst October storms in history to that t ime, John L. McC1 in, ltW.G.M., led mo re
"George Was hing to n at Praye r" presents a s trikin g pose aga ins t th e wa nin g la t e aft e rn oo n s unli g ht of a n earl y W inte r's s k y.
Co lleclihlcs of' Fl'i<'nd to Fl·icnd Monumelll
Product1on of the balance of the lim it ed edition "A merican Pewter" model sculptures of the Friend to Friend Masonic Memorial Monument has been to commemorate the tenth anniversary ln 2003 of the dedication of the spectacular fu ll-s i7.e statue In the National Military Cemetery at (;ettyshurg. When authorizing the resumption or production of the co llectib le model, Friend to Friend - A Brotherhood Undivided," Ma ,·vin 1\. Cunn ingham, Sr., R.W. Grand Master, nott.'ll that on ly a restricted number can be produced at this time. He explained that, when first ISsued In 1993, production of the col· Jectible model was limited to 5.000 pieces. The balance of the 5,000 ·American l'ewtcr' edition is now being made available. When you fltU'Chase one of these sculptures, you will own one of on ly 5,000 tha t will ever be issued. Furthermore, a gen· portion of the price for liliS colle<:tible is going toward raising nt'eded funds for the Mason ic Temple and Monument !>reservation Pund. To own and display lilts "piece of Masonic lli story; see pages 12 and 13 to reserve your sculpture from among this limited production .
oming
Almost 9 1 years ago, in March 19 12, ground was broken for t he cons tr uction or" ... a memorial arch with in Va ll ey Forge Park, in commemora t ion of th e patr iotism dis· played and the suffe ri ng endured by Gen. George Washington, his officers and men." Completion was delayed to wait fo r funding . The Na t ional Memoria l Arth was dedita t· eel on June 19,1917
than 1,000 persons In a wreath-layi ng at the statue. The how li ng ga les and shee ts of rain on Oct 9 fo rced cere· monies to be moved inside. l'ortu· nately, later the rain paused to permit the wreath·laying . A quarter of a cemury after the original dedication, Pennsylvania Freemasons refurbished the statue and on Sept. S, 1992, R.W. Grand Maste r Edward II . Fowler, Jr. and the Grand Lodge officers conducted well· attended re-dedication and wreath · laying ceremonies. At that rime, Grand Lodge had an audio wayside display insta ll ed that provides visitors with a taped message about Bro . Washin&>ton.
Th e cove r of I h e Bice nte nnia l Ded ic.'at ion Day p rogram prese nletl a d ra m atic pi cture o f t h e Geo rge Was hingto n at Prdye r s ta t u e.
The 60-foot high, 49-foot by 18· foo t granite Arch was designed as a simplified vers ion of the Triumpha l Arch of Titus in Rome . On the inne r wa lls of I he Arch are bronze p laq ues w ith the names of the general officers at Va ll ey forge
The National Memoria l Arch stood for more than flO years un til It was closed to the public for safety reasons.
The Masons of Pennsy lvania determ ined to preserve the Arch in the grandeu r it deserves and on Mar. 15, 1996, R. W. Grand Master Edward 0. Weisser signed an agreement with the National Park Service at Va lley Forge for a restoration proje<:t. On Aug. 24, 1997, the Grand Lodge unveiled the restored National Memorial Arch. At the base of the American flagpole facing the Arch, the Grand Lodge also erected a new monument that pays tribute to Bro. George Washington and the J: reemasons who were among the soldiers of his Continental Army encamped there In 1777-78.
Armi
The "Friend to Friend, a Brotherhood Undivided" statue and Its arcing granite "Wall of States" in t h e Nationa l Cemetery t\nnex at Gettysburg honors all Freemasons who fought in all the wars and conOicts of the country.
The larger-than-life figures created by the noted sculptor, llro. Ron 1\mlson, of Cai ro, NY, portray Union Captain and Brother 1-lenry Bing h am coming to the a id of Confederate Genera l and Brother Lewis Armistead during Pickett's charge at the Batt le of Gettysburg. II stands as a lasting tribute to the bonds of Brotherhood that transcend political differences and the emotions of war.
The scene port rays the moment when Gen. Armis· tead was being carried to medical aid and b)• chance encountered Cap t . Bingham, who was an Aide to Union Major General and Brother Winfield S. Han· cock. Confederate General Armistead, long a friend of Gen. Hancock, though then on opposite sides in the Wa r, asked Capt. Bingham to re lay a message of regret to his old friend a n d entrusted h is persona l effects to lhe Captain. Gen. Armis tead d ied two days later.
In th is 1993 picture, th e sc u lp to r, Bro. Ro n T uni so n ( bac k g ro und), is at work c ra ft in g th e Fri e nd to Frie nd s ta tu e.
On Armed Forces Day, May 15, 1999, the Freemasons of Penu· sylvania honored all veterans who served this great country by presenting a new, fully equipped, 3,000-square-foot ;: reemasons l'avillon with an additiona l 1, 400-square-foot patio and a mon· umcnt in a landscaped area of the Veterans Adm inistration Medical Center at Aspinwall, nor t h of Pittsburgh. The facility and its equipment provides a place for residents of the VA hospital and their fami li es to visit, an outdoor p lace for entertainment, and a focal point for special act ivities. In the dedication oration, R.W. Grand Master james 1 Ernette said, "We cannot, must not, and will not ever forget those whose ctcdlcatlon and fortitude sustained liberty and justice for us l'luough more than two centuries. Our veterans arc specia l peop le to whom we will be forever grateful."
llrother •Benjamin I ranklin Cr,tfhman " is the lwrolc tOntcrnporary brntll<' dlrt•c tly across till' \lrCCI from the front door of thc Mawnlc il'mp le on the north· ""'t corner of Bru.td St. and john Kennedy KIHI. in l'hil,tddphia. The \tatue. which a young m the of printing on a hand was by Jo..cph Brown 111 hi\ studio In l'rlmcton, N.J. lit e G rand Lodg<• of Penm)•lvania comm isslortt'(l the work and presented lito the City on june 2 4, 1981 <" a feature of the mcmor,thlc five-day cdehr.uion comnwmur:uing the 250 yea!\ of hccma'IOnr} in \ ccordlng to repom, a of propl<' .tpplauded the gigantic parade led by R.\\. (dall(l Master jo">eph [. Trate along th e lk njamln l',lfkway to the Temple that pi<'(Clil'd 1h e prc'\'rttatlon of the to ell y offlclaK" An ldcntil:al \tUipturc is in front of the Center untltt' ground-. of the \ilasontc !lome< at lllt.tlwthtown.
A circa 19KO photograph in the Archives of th e Masonic Library and Mu<eum of l'c nnsylvania pictures th e Brown (left) hi s working rnod e t of the )Culpt urc to R.W. Grand Master jose ph ll. 1 rate.
1 \ I ranklin - C rilfU•nan '' statue Is th e street from the Ma50nic temple In l'hll adclphia and a second one bin front of th e C nlturat C enter at the Masonic at F.llzatxt ht own.
By John E. Adams, Jr.. Membership Chatrtnan
Have you accepted the Operation Rescue/ Recovery challenge placed upon the trestle board by Grand Master Cunningham? Ha s your Lodge h e ld a "Friend -to- Friend ' program as recomm e nded?
Since Solomon II was Introduced zo years ago, Grand Masters have tried to reverse the devastating de<l ine in membership. Those efforts afforded moderate success, but were met with mixed reactions by the Members
Each program was e xcelle nt. Dedicated and concerned Breth ren worked diligen11y to carry forth the designs upon the tres tl e boa rd. Unfortunately, the ir e fforts were not fully accep ted by 100% of the Members. Negative responses ranged from "We never did it that way before' to It's solicitation.'
It's time fOI' each M.1 son to be concerned about the scrtomness of the situation Here are the facts: Membership in Pennsylvania peaked in 1960 at2S7,9 1Sand since then has declined stedclily. The membership as of Dec. 6, 2002 was 134,396, ··a toss of 1 23,519, or a 48% decline.
lodges a re merging a t a rapid pace Twelve surrendered theor Warrants during 200 1. In 2002, another six lodges surrendered their Warrants. Presently there are 456 Slue lodges in Pe nnsylvania . There are reasons lor mergers, such as financial ci rc umstances brought on by declining membership and in creased ope ra t in g expenses. Anoth e r is lack of compe ten t and dedicated leaders hip bec ause too many Brethren see k titles, but are not w illing to furnish the required leadership. We need to become more concerned as to why l11ere are so many resignations and suspensions for non-payment of dues.
1 he apathy among the Brethren who have fallen by the wayside Is dllficult to exp lain.
are statistics as of Dec 13, 2002: Elected to Membership - SS2; In itiations - 1, 964; Restorations - 378 ; M embers Deceased - 3,380; Members Expelled - 4 ; Members Resigned - 504; Members Suspended - 1, 618; and N et loss for 2002 -2,6 12.
On Dec 28, 2001, R W.Grand Master Marvin A. Cunningham, Sr., in troduced 'Opera tion Rescue/Recovery to s tem the tid e or the declining membership in Pennsylvania This simplified approach to spreading the tight of Freemasonry is the challenge sel forth for our Symbohc Lod ges
IT'S TIME... let's do the job! As k your n e w Wor shipful Ma st er when the next ' Friend to Fri e nd " program is sch edu led for your lodge
Twenty-five young men were inducted Dec. 7 in to the Order of DeMolay in cere monies in Memorial Hall at th e Mason ic Con ference Cente r, Elizabethtown, honoring the Ri ght Worshipful Grand Master, Marvin A. Cunningham, Sr Members of the class rep resented DeMolay Chapters lrom Allentown, Butler, Chambersburg, Col umbia, Elizabethtown, Erie, Greensburg, Harrisburg, Ph il adelphia, Prospect Pa rk, and Scranton .
A remod el ing project is being planned lor the Mason ic Eastern Star Hom e-E ast for 2003. Many new changes are being planned for the facility, including new wJtl cove rings, carpet, new bathroom doors, and an upgrading of the heattng , ventilabon, and air conditlonmg system to be more responsive to residents' needs. Details on how to support this exc thng project are available through the Offtce of Gift Planning at 1 (800) 599 -6454. Ask to speak to Bro . john R. McFadden, Director ol Gift Planning-East Region or Bro. Alvin H Blitz, Esq., Chief Director of Gift Piilnning
By (A.,r,l LfJot. ( uraf()r: 71, ALuotuc Lbr.uy 1JMJ M11vum o} T he Mnso rtl c Librat)' <111\1 of Pennsy lvania i s fo r tuuatl' to have In its a fine tollection or Masonic C hln ew export porce lain . rhis collection, consis ting of punch howls, todd y jugs, and mugs, provides :t glimpse of th e relationship between the C hina trad e or the late 16th and early 19th cent uries. Many o f the items produced for tradl' with the West WNC Crl'ated spec ifi ca ll y with the western market in mind ; m:my porcelains dep ic ted b ib li cnl sce n es, land)capc•, a old co pi es or popu lar engrav ings . A wealthy patron co uld have his porcela in designed to s uit hi• indi vidu al taste. Such de•ign s fea tured pe rsonal coats uf M ilt S and th e ame of the respl>c li vc patron, as we ll as the symbols of a !'articular group with whom the patro n was
Thts is one of two signs King David Lodg e No 763, Kingston, purchased for the com munity baseball fields. Hugh E. Williams, Jr., D.D.G.M., 12th Masomc Dostnct, satd that the Lodge's efforts tn the programs of The Penn sylvania Masonic roundation for Childre n show that "Masons Care About Children" and actively support the youth of the community in participating in sports instead of drugs and alcohol.
A wonderful exa mpl e of thi s l ) p c nf export porce la in Is the Uniun Lodge p11 nch howJl. Th e Unio n Lodge pun c h bowl, measuring 9•/l" in height with a diameter of 2 1•/:". was to Union Lodge No. 121 (Philade lphia) in 1812 as a gift of gra tlt u de from Brother s C a leb Ash and Hen ry Toland, Jr. 1\pp.1rent ly llroth t> rs Ash and Toland had been in s trumental in the ucalion of Union Lodge No . 121, but w e re ca lled abroad ( th e loca ti on b n u l known) before they co uld th e petition to th e Grand Lodge o f l'enmylvania in Nove mber of 1810, when U11ion Lodge No. 121 was Upon th eir return to l'cllmylvania in 181 2, Brothers Ash anc.l lh land petitiurtcd Union Lod ge No. 12 1 to admit th e m as foundation memI heir was
grJntt>d, and to their apprl'('l,l· tion. the two men pre..entt'<l till' Lodge with a handsome China bowl" (exce rpt from looge minute' tl.ticd Apr il I 6, 1812). 'I he punch bowl h intricate!)' dt•co· ratt'tl with MJ>onic S)·ntbol\ in >hades of ponl., grt'Cn, blue. purpk. vcpla. orange. enJilld and The l tll er lor of th e how l h a' Ml ail\t'Cing <')eat 1he centerJ. Around the rim of the hll e rim is a band of anc.l t:or,ll, frnm which hang beaded terminating in coral 011 tlw of the bowl are two OJliXl"-'<1 <lx-slded lmcrlbed Union I oc.tge No. 121. fietwt'l'n the two >tar> on Ofl(>O<Itc si de' arc l\lasonic >ymiJo" <urmounted b)' an all-seeing Most of the symbols are easily identified, such as th e \quare and Corn!,('vel, coffin, and the three cand ies representing th e three liglm. It I< interesting tel note how th e Chlnc\C arti<t Interpreted certain \las onic symbols. the m osaic til('<., traditional ty rendered in colors of black ,111d wh ile, a l't' al'\· thctlcally plea<in!l in >epi• 1he sprig of ,l(.tela often found in < htn e•e landscape paU1tings, and the children at C hanty\ lap only lllu\· l flltC h ow )tnt n gc We,tcrn fCII IllfC\ rnu<t have appeared to the C h ine\l'4 If vou are lnterc>ted in more' about export porwiJon, h)' rhe \fawnic UbrJr} Jnd Mu<eum of l'enmylvama and IMgc through A Wlutc •rt1111r Guide t o C/1111< 11' i.vpnrt t>orreltllu, II)• Arlene M. l'almet, t1mlll1e C/lim1 J'rmlt• 178-1-1844, jean <iordon l .t'C. 4
The
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A view of the retirement living clubhouse and as of December 2002
"Here they come, and we can't ic Village at 59wickley overlooking the wait!" 1 he story echoed by thosE' Ohio River Valley. words began in December ol 2000 as According to Jeff Mohler, Ma rketing the marketing team at th e Masonic VII- Manager at Sewickley, the dream will rage at Sewickley began meeting peo- become rea lity on Mar. 17 when the pie to talk about a dream. lirst residents will move into their new That dream h <1d il > root> much edrli· apartment home> Ma ry Jane Hyre, a er, but then, for th e first time, future Marketing A>sistant, sa id, "Future res· re>idents were able to >ee only floor idems show up at the model apartplans and could peer out the w indow of men t almost eveoy day with mea su ra comtruclion trailer dt wood ed ing tapes. They share stories about acreage. Only a slight glimp>e was vis- selling their homes and how they are ible of what wou ld become th e Mason - packed and ready for the move "
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' mort· lnl'ormution uboul ! < HPiirl'lllrnf l. hin!( nl the \ill:&!(< ul Se11 il'l h·):
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"'1 Mtlsonk Vill..'g<' .ll Sc.wkkley Blod u .ue ,..... RetiH. 'fl'lelll Uving M.nonit vtll'9! '" Scw;cklcy Vodoo
Plea.st complel e coopoo and rttum to: 0 11 1(4!
VilloMJC "l S(..owidt.loy 1000 Sewickley, PA I S14 3
Some even have been so eager that they wanted to move into the model apartment right away.
People now can see the actual residences the dream's reality that many could envision looking through that trailer window two Decembers ago. for many others who never had the chance to peer through the constructiOn tr,llfer window. it is important to see where they are going to live before committing to a move "There is really nothing like this (Masonic Village at Sewickley) in Western Pennsylvania," said Market· ing Counselor Carole Martacusa. "There is a whole new attitude about retirement community liv ing and many more folks are laking advantage of the security and the wonderful lifestyle that it offers," she added. Attend one of the Masonic Village at open house events on feb. 20 or Mar 26, from 10 a.m. to 2 p .m., or call Maoy Jane to ll -free at 1 (866) 872-0664 to schedule your personal tour.
This feb. 27 through Mar. I, R.W. Grand Master Marv1n A. Cun · ningham, Sr., h1s Wlfe, Rosalie, along with the other Grand Lodge Officers, members of the Commit · tee on Masonic Home1, and thelf lad1e1, will host three Masonic reunions lor Pennsylvania Freemasons who now reside In Florida permanently or during the winter months. The purpose of the reunions is to increase awareness about the expansion ol services and opportunities provided through the Masonic Homes of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania . The reunion on Thursday, Feb. 27, will be held in the Tampa Air· port Marriott. On Friday, Feb. 28, it will be in the Sahib Shrine Center, Sara sot•, and on Mar. 1, In the Palm Beach Cardcns Marriott. All three reunions will include a reception at 11 a.m., lunch at noon, a program at 1 p.m., nnd a socia l hour frorn 2 p.m . to 3 p.m. During cnch program, Grand Master Cunningham will awMd 50-year Emblems of Cold to Brethren In florida.
Also during the program, joseph E. Murphy, C.E. O. ol the Masonic Homes, and members of the Masonic Homes' staff will share important, helpful inlormation about the benefits and lull continuum or services provided for Masons, their fam ilies, and others by the Masonic Homes in EliLa · bethtown, Sewickley, and Wdrmln · ster. Bro. Murphy also Wlll share informatiOn about serviCes at the MasoniC Home of Pcnmylvania at Lafayette as that commu111ty will umte with the MasoniC Homes of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania on )an. 1, 2004.
Invitations to attend one ol the reunions wt>re being sent early In January to Pem1sylvanla Masons residing in norlda . If a Pennsyl · vania Mason residing in florida has not received an invitation, he should call (71 7) 367 - 1121, ext. 33488.
Ioften come to the Masonic at f.lit,1l"W:I htown from ll<'Oplc who arc umurc of what level of care their loved one1> might living is the common topic for inquiry
A good desniption for lng would be within au htdejX'ndenl and homelike atmosphere. • In an assistt-d living program, needs are assessed according to the amount of assistance an indi' ldual requires with of daily living, mch as dressing, Ita thin g, nr takin g accurawly For the 1-w:rsnn needing a<sistall CC, knowing help is there if it needed vcr)' co mforting
A<<isted living (services) is among th e fastest wowing types of resi(lcnces 1·equested by seniors who ca nnot entirely make it on their own, l> ul do not nccd nursing Ctlrc. Unfortunately, ma ll)' seniors wait until they need it before for living. Sp<ICC in t l1c urea <tl the Ma.)onic Homt!:, at Elizabethtown h limited.
T h e ma jo rit y of rooms '"e occupied by rc>tdeuts who were living at the Masonic llomcs before tK'Cding that level of care. As an Integral part of the Masonic llomes continuing care policy, those resident\ enjoy the <ecttrity that their future needs will bt> met without mm•ing to another facility.
'Ideally, living meet a higher level of d.•ily than penpic can pt'rfomt fnr thcm<elv(.";. Smart planning fnr the nll\trc might mean that <hould consider moving before needs TI1e opportunit y to pMticip.1te in activities and socialiLC <.:omcs more eas il y when one the futtlle is secure. in rc>:.i· dential livinR in Elil<lbethtown i> an ideal way o f doing that . lksiden tial living provides a pri · living unit with access to shutlle buses, medical and support staff, a varicly of and, most Impor tant, con tentment, safely, and
One or the most rewarding gilts that rreemasons, members or the Order or Tite Eastern Star, Lodges, Chapters, families, organizations. and others Cdn make is one that honors or commemorates the life of a loved family member, Brother or Sister, friend or colleague Such contributions perpetuate the names of the persons in whose memory or honor the gifts are made and tbt> thoughtfulness ol the persons making the contributions.
security. living
several op t lom from wltldt to choose. A single occu pant ml):llt cons id er a one- room or a two -room accommodation. Married l'Cluplcs ;trc offered larger unit s with sltti ttg rooms and bedrooms. 1'1·1vatc baths ;trc \ Wnda rd to all unit s. No roo ms have kitch e ns l>ccausc meal s a 1·c inc lud ed In the rco id c n cy: hut resident s arc wclcc>mc to l'qulp their space with a small rcf1·igera tor n 1 · 111icrn-lridgc.
Plann ing for li1C future can ,t;trl toda y lt y ,·a!ling thc Ma<onic I lome<' Admi"icut' <tnd Ht•<itlrnt Services Dq>Mtmcnl ,11 I (II()(J) -12 2-1 2 0 7
The Hunu:' \t<IH will answrr or nttail a hrcx.hun' with all of the neetled infornt.tllon Yon 1an also e - mail the ncpartmt•nt at
The C:ommlltcr on Ma•onlc Hom<!< acted t n mrrt <uh•tantla l needs specili<!d hy mrmhrr< and the comnHulit y to prnvldc more rcsidrntin l accommodntl011< rnr with mil(! to modl!rnte ment:d rct:mlation. Their decl·
The current construction project at the Masonic Village at Sewickley oilers many litting gilt-naming opportun ities that will touch and enhance the lives of residents. Giftinq opportunities start from SS,OOO to name a specific room and range up to S1,500,000 to name the Clubhouse, which is the hub of the retirement comm unity. A "friend-to· Friend' program has been implemen ted to assist those residents whose funds have been depleted and cannot afford the monthly service fee . Those gifts are set at the S 1,000 entry level. For more information on g1fting opportumties available at the Masonic Village at Sewickley and a brochure listing all of the naming opportunities available at the Masonic Village at SewiCkley contact )ant? W Blnley at the Gift Plann111g Olllcc at (412) 741-1400 ext. 3011.
sion approved the Residen· Hal Respite Cottage at the Ma>On· ic Homes at Elizabethtown as a rC>idcnt ial home on a permanent basis rather than continuing to offer nccommndations for shortterm
"I hr action considered the recent clcclining interest In shortterm The residential progr;un will 'crvc eigh t· adults on a permancn1 basis and wi ll no offer an accommodat ion for sho rt-term respite services.
The lifestyle of retirement living continues to gain universally, not just in popularity, but also In demand. Because of the high level of Interest in that concept, Retirement Living seminars will be conducted at convenient locations beginning in March. The presentations w ill focus on retirement living communities in general and, more spe<ltlcally, retirement li ving at the Masonic Homes at Elizabethtown.
Invitations wi ll be extended by the Retirement living Marketing Department at the Masonic Homes in Elizabethtown to those eligible Brethren and their spouses, ages SS and over. This year's theme is "Plan Now for Your Future!" As more Americans are reaching their retirement years, quality continuing care retiremen t communities may have significant waiting lists clue to increased demand for senior housing. This demand will be even greater for those persons desiring a retirement commun ity with on-site health care services. Participants in the semina rs will learn about the various living accommoda tions and options as we ll as other services offered including health care, activities, recreational opportunities, loca attractions, and other pertinent information necessary for prospective residents to make an Informed decision for their future. The seminars will include a quest on and answer session fo ll owing each presentation.
Seminar locations are schedu ed In the areas surrounding greater Philad elph ia, A ll entown/Beth l ehem, Scranton/WilkesBarre, State Coll ege, Johnstown/Altoona, and Elizabethtown. There will be postc.ud mailings with specific inforn1ation regarding upcoming seminar locations and elates
If you, or your spouse, are at least age SS. plan to attend a local seminar or call to arrange an individual appo in tment with a represen tative of the Retirement living Marketing Office A tour of the Masonic Homes' highly rated retirement community will be provided as well as the opportunity to place your name on the priority list. (A Pre-Age Qua l · ified Priority List Application is available for those who are between the ages of 55 and 64). Ca ll 1 (800) 676·6452 or complete and mail the coupon tod ay. Send me more information about : Retirement Living at the Masonic Homes!
You are invited to part cipate in the third Penny Pa rty at the Masonic Eastern Star 850 Norristown Rd., Warminster, on Saturday, Mar. 22. Beginning at noon, there wil l be an enjoyable fund-rais ng event sponsored by the Home's Advisory Board to benefit the residents. Be part of the fun and meet the staff, residents, their families, and friends. The minima $3 .0 0 cost will include food and refreshments. There will be opportunit es to win more than 100 gifts and gift certificates For more information, call Cathy Welsh at (215) 672-2500
The Masonic Eas tern Sta r Home-East offers Medicare and Medicaid -certified nursing accommodations lor 28 residents in need of ongoing support services. The assist· ed living area accommodates 34 res id ents who requ ire assi stance lor some o f their da ly activi t es, such as bathing and dressin g Part ol the M i ssion of the Masonic Eastern Star Home-East i s to serve individua l s in Philade lphia County who are day-one Medicaid recipients. For more in formation on admissi ons to the M asonic Eastern St ar Home-East, call (215) 672-2500.
Athnissious to the Masouic llomes ar·e govt"!mcd by t he on i\'lasonic ll omes= members of which are elected by the Grand Lodge. The Committee on Masonic lomes approves or disapproves applical ions ror admission primmily on lh<' basis o r need. De<'lsions concen ing admissiO J \ 1hf' provision of scJvic<".s :tn<l r<'fCI1-als of residents arc nol upon I he appllcam's m cc, color, r<'l is;Jon, clisahiiHy, anc('Stry, nari o nal origin , f:lmilial sra11 1s1 ngP 1 sex or any ol her prOt('f'trd
Th<' Comm tte•<' on Masoni c Homes has app t·ovcd rhc fo llowing sf'lvicC' leve l s for admissi o n to the 1\• l aso nic Hom es. rontar r the Admiss i ons o r· Markcling Oflit'e for infol'matlon on whi ch sctvice l e, 'els nre elig b l e f or admission to thf'\ l i vi ng ar<:'a desit·ed:
Masonic H omes at Eli:tltuethtown Admis.")i o ns fo •· Resid ential, A::;sb;rcd Living, and Health Care/Nursi nt: Se rvices: (800) 422-1207
Mm k et i ng fo•· Retirement Living Accommodations : (800) 676-6452
Masonic Stur H ome E••st at Warminster Admi.sions for Living and HeaJU1 Care/Nursing Services: (2 15) 672-2500
Masonic Village nt Sewickley Admissions for I l calth Cm·c/Nursing (4 12) 74L-J400, extens i on 3020
Admissions for Assisted Living Setviccs: (7 17) 741·1400, extens on :1600 for Retirement Liv i ng Accommodalions : (•112) 741-1400, ext.CIIs i on ao:IO, or r.oll -rre<' 872-!)(i\l'l
For the first time, a reunion was held In Phoenix, AZ, on Saturday, Nov 16 for Pennsylvania Masons and their lad es who reside permanently In Arizona, or who were there during that time.
Marvin A. Cunn in gham, Sr., R.W. Grand Master, his wife, Rosalie, and the other Grand Lodge Officers, and their ladies, greeted the guests. Grand Master Cunningham presented 50-year Emb ems of Gold. Staff of the Masonic Homes provided information about the services and opportun ities provided through the Masonic Homes of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania. Recipients of SO-Year Emblems of Gold (seated) are Harold M. Jeffries, Jr., a member of Fayette Lodge No. 228, Un iontown, now residing in Scottsdale; and Samuel f. Levy; Sol omon Lodge No. 231, Pittsburgh, now residing in Sun Oty.
Service L eve 1:
PA Maste l·
A membe •· in l(o(){l standin,: for a minimum or flve ctunulativc years in the R IV. Gr<md o r F.& A.M. or PA or the M.W. Pt·ince llall Gmnd Lodge or F.& A.M. of PA.
PA Eastern Star
A PA Eastenl St,u· member n good standing for u ndnimum of live cumul:..t t ive Non PA Maso ns who became Eastern SLm· ancr Jammry [ 1008, will be required to gain mctnl.>e rship in a Pi\ lodge to be eligib e fm· admission, unless the prima ty state docs not per1nit dual members hip.
Wife of PA Maste r Mason
S pouse or I'A Star
Spouse:; who HI'(' Masons f i"Oitl any jurisdiction are e lig ible
Widow <>f I'A MARte r Ma,;o n Widows co nlinu(' to he c li gi hl <" l hl'ough ttwit· Masonic h ush;1nd even if l"hf'\y rf!many.
Mother of PA Mnst<•r Mn so n
Daugltter of PA Mason
S i ster of PA Mast.e•· Mason
Sen,ice Level 2:
G ra ndmo t h e r· or I'A Mns t.e r Mason
Grnndfn tiler of PA Mnste t' Mason
Father of PA Master Mason
Moth el' in·law of PA Maste r Maison
Fnth c.,. in - law of I'A Mnste •· 1\•Jason
Son of PA Maste r Mason
Spo u se of PA Eastern Star who s not a Mason
Sc r·vicc t_.e veJ 1 & 2 with than 5 years' IUCJUbert;IU.t>
Service Level 3:
Other J>A Masonic Ke lnti ves
<.;o nsidcration also is given tv uiJwr .-t •lalivt:-s of PA Maso n:;. W<' also cons i d e r PA Sen or DcMobty, tmijoril y llltJmbers of PA lob 's f>nughler'S and PA R::riubow S<•rt i o r rllf'rllht-)rs of PA uf Pythagoras , arut of fcntalt•-rel(ll<•< l PA Masonic' o rgau iza rions in good
Employees of Grand Lod ge o.- t:h c MaA(mi c HonH!S wit:h n minimum of 20 yco.a-s of sc a•vicc
Master Mason of Ot11er· .Juri sdictions
A mcmhc t· in good standing for n minimu m of fivf'\ cu mulative years i n anotht"r jurisdiction rce:ogni'l.l"'d hy l hc nrnncl I A")ctgc of PA nnd SJ)Ol t:COC' or Wi(low.
Serv ce Level 4 :
Others on bcJutlf of Pennsy l va nia
l ndivi.dual.s .fivnn Srwuir.e I 2, .'1, mrtl 4 rn't' rmMitim'efl for· <ulmissiou <lcpmul!llfl on u:<riling rwtl rwr•ilal>ilily in the t u 'e<r.
The forst half of 2003 is a busy period for the Di rector of the Rotualistoc Work, the Regional Instructors. and ritual workers throughout th e Jurisd iction. During the first quarter, they have been involved with th e presentation o f five new Dis. trict Deputy Grand Masters and a lodge Room dedication. Ten Sectoon.11 Schools of lnstructoon ,,e scheduled begon. ning in March. Larry A. Buuard, Director of th e Ritualistic Work, reported that more than 1,200 Brethren attended ses· sions of th e School ot tnwuction in 2002. He is op tim istic that the attenddnce in 2003 wilt be even larger. The dates lor the Schools of Instruction wilt be:
March 1 Pillsburgh April 5 Clearfie ld
March 8 Scranton April 12 Everett
March 15 New Castle April 26 Philadelphia
March 22 Muncy May 3 Uniontown
March 29 Harrisburg May 10 Erie
"Br-• Work!"
The Mason ic Homes at Eliza bethtown recent· ty was named as one ot
to work in r 1"\fl!I!E the Places to Wort< in PA." The award program, creal· ed in 2000 by the Gov Ridge·Schweiker Adm in istration, is the fi rst ot its kind offered by a state.
This survey and award p rog ram was designed to identify, recognize and honor the best places of employment in Pennsylvania, benefiting the state's economy. its work· force and businesses. The Best Places to Work in PA pro· gram selects the top I00 companies split into two 50 medium companies (50-250 employees) and 50 ldrge sized coonJ><lnies (more than 250 employees). The Masonic was named the 13th Best Place to Work in PI\ ioo the largercatego ry.
"The recognit ion and honor of the Masonic llomes at Elizabethtown is indicative of the standards of e xcellence set and support receoved by Pennsylvania Freemasons and the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania," said Joseph E. Murphy, Chief Executive Officer for the Masonic Homes of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania. He added, "1 his recognition occurred because of the responses and oponions from our dedicat!'d staff."
l'c r.cvcrance l.odge No. 2 1, l larrl sburg, provides a ca d emic scho la rs hip< an nually to <nppo rt the l'ennsy lvanla Big 33 Scholarship Foundation. Mickey Minnich, Director of thl' Rig .U, pi'CS('nted s 1,000 awards to four s tudents: Kr istin a Bauer o f MI'Chanicsburg ltlgh Schoo l, Lhl' Un ivers it y o f Plttsbtu·gh; Megan of Mill.-rsburg High School, au.-nding th<' Susquehanna University; Jonathan 5.1nders of Carlisle High School, auending Grove City College; and Shawn Walters of Ce ntral Dauphin East High allcnding Bu ckM II Uni vcr> lt y. The llig 33 has awarded mo re t h an S I. S million In Started in 1957, the Big 33 football game each year matches the top 33 high school from throughout Pennsylvania with the 33 high school all · sta r players from Ohio in the lllg 33 game In Hershey.
In the presence of R.W. Grand Master Marvin A. Cunningham, Sr. and a large representation or Grand Lodge Officers and District Deputy Grand Masters, Ryan Robert Allen Aungs\, 20, the son ot Ronald A. Aungst, Sr., R.W.S.C.W., received the three Degrees and was made a Master Mason in LaBelle Valley Lodge No. 232, Jersey Shore on Oct. 26. The new Mason's father, R.W.S.G.W. Aungst conferred the E.A. Degree and Ronald A. Aungst Jr.. brother to the new Mason, served as the Guide. The Fellow Craft Degree was conferred by Allen J. Henninger, P.D.D.C.M., 18th Masonic District, and R.W.S.C.W.
Aungst served as the Guide. The Master Mason's Degre e was conferred by Robert L. Dtuge, Jr., R.W.P.G.M. and R.W.S.G.W. Aungst again served a.s the Guide. The Charges lor all three Degrees were delivered by Cary B. Stahley, D. D.C.M., 17th Masonic District.
TI1e Mawnic Org.lll Donor Program was created during the administration of Edward 0. Webscr, R.W.l'.G.M. ( 1996·1997), as some· thing vital that Mason and his family members could do to help fellow human beings. It was cout-eived due to the growing n eed for viable o rgan s for transplantation. The purpnsc of the M;oson ic Organ Donor Committ ee Is to encourage Masons to consider becoming organ donors. Nearly BO,OOO Americans arc awaiting lifc.,avlng tran,. plants. Many of th e m will <li e because 11n o rgan I< n ot availab le. That's wh)• th e Organ Donor Committee "l'lea<c consldN becoming an organ donor.•
The process is very s impl <>. Fach todg<> s hould have a s upply of o rgan donor ca rd s. All one has to do is fill out the information and carry it in his wallet. It 15 imperatiVl' to noll· fy your family of your decision. One's next of kin is responsible for making the final deci· sio n for orga n dona t ion. Therefore, it is a necessity that the famil)• knows one's wishes. PleiUC t<ike that now - beconw an organ dono r.
The Academy of on line provldt.•\ t•v.-ry· thing you nred to know to become- • recognl . ud Scholar. The crite-ria ttrt lhte-d tor •dvancemrnt to thethree of scholarship The suggested reading list is itlong with contdct poinh for the conunlttcc and n lht of Ct>rllfied Mtl\tN Md\Onic Scholttrs.
Thh end much more c•n be found by cHcking home •t www p•grondfodge.org
Pictured after the conferrals are (1-r): Front - Donald l. Albert, R W G.S.; Stephen Gardner, R W J C W.; Bro Aung s t, Sr., R.W.S.
P.D.D.G.M. Henninger; Richard A. Loreman, D D G.M ., 18th Masonic District; and D.D G.M. Stahley.
Becky Gotshall, a member of Job's Bethel No. 16, Chambersburg, was presented the S300 firstplace 11ward as the winner of the seventh annual Masonic Blood and Organ Donor Poster Contest by john L. Stains, O.I>.G.M., .lrd Masonic District. The poster was reproduced and dlstrlb· uted to alllodg<>s and youth group< for display. The si'Cond-placc award of S200 was won by S.1ra Sowers, a member of job's Daughtl'rS, Bcthl'l No. 17, Hershey. Th ird place, a $100 award, was won by Jonathan Ta)•lor, a member of Tri-County Chapter, OrciN of DcMolay, Canonsburg.
The decision to tower the age to 18 years when men may petition Lodges is popular for older DeMolay members. There are at least 15 who had the Masonic Degrees con · !erred. They included State Master Councolor Gregory C. Deal in Cedar Lodge 800, Grove City, and Deputy Stdte Master Councotor Stephen l. Prazenoca in Abraham C. Treochler Lodge 682, Elizabethtown. The Master Mason's Degrees were conferr!'d on them two days apart in their respective Lodges by Thomas R. Labagh, DeMolay Executive Officer, and a Degree team made up of DeMolay staff members. The lirst meetong that Bro. Deal attended after he became a Master Ma son was the Quarterly Communication of the Grand Lodge of Pennsyl· vania on Dec. 4, where he was greeted and introduced by the R. W. Grand Master, Bro. Marvin A Cunningham, Sr
Also. Bro . Deal was invited to att<>nd the banquet of the Grand Holy Royal Arch Chapter the evening after the Grand Lodge session It was a huge surprise for him and the bled Royal Arch Masons when Ronald L. Pennell, Most Excellent Grand High Priest, declared him to be a Royal Arch Ma son At Sight ·· something that had never been done before. Greg woll receive the Capitular Degrees in Mound Chapter 212, Greenville.
The newest Bethel of Job 's Daughters in the state, Bethel U. O. (Under Dispensation) of Birdsboro, was instituted Aug 31, 2002. This is the first new Bethel in the state since 1983. Located halfway between Reading and Pottstown, the Bethel serves a large regoonat area that has never had Job's Daughters.
Pennsylvania DeMotay is rebuilding in Bellevue, Pittsburgh, th rough the dedicated efforts of Dennis Sneddln, thl' 47th Masonic District's Youth Chairman, Joe Schrock, P M , Avalon Lodge No . 657, and several other Brethren. The group already has enthusiastic new young members The young men decided "Steel City Chapter• is a name that them and they whole· heartedly endorsed it.
Establishing loca l scholarship programs is d 'hot topic' in many Lodges these days The Pennsylvania Youth Foundation can help your Lodge with the process, even if you choose not to establish them as part of the P Y.F. Education · al Endowment Fund. Call or wrote for a copy of our helpful step-by-step book let, "Nine Steps To Establishong A Scholarship Program •
"Maso n ic Youth Month ' In 2002 was a great success, with more than 250 Lodges reporting on use of the videotape It is known that other Lodges showed the video, but didn't return the program evaluation. A number ot lodges have placed the video Into their Masonic Education program. If you haven't seen the video, and can't get to Lodge. P. Y.F. will be glad to send one to you, or you can view It on -li ne at www pagrandlodge org / pyf
!A While on a trip to Alaska l9f late last summer, Cl arence W Martin, th en -W M ., M a n·· helm Lodg e No. 587, visited MI. )uneau -Gastineaux lodge No 21 in juneau. H. Daniel McCrummen, W.M. of the lodge In Alaska, said that they " get very few visitors at ,, Blue Lodge meeting and never any from Bro. Martin was presented with a fine si lver proof medallion struck in commemoration of their 1OOth anniversary in Freemasonry.
!A While serving in the East '/IIJif during 2002, H a ll Shaver, Sr., W .M ., Wyoming Lodge No . 468, presented his daughter, Dawn, with her gavel when she was installed as Worthy Matron of Ham>ony Chapter No. 58, Order of the Eastern Star. She also is the Mother Advisor of Harmony Assembly No. 74, International Order of Rainbow for Girls.
!A Robe rt F. Beitzel , P. M ., • will retire from 34 years of service as a line Officer in one capacity or another in Lodge No. 43, Lancaster Bro_ Beitze not only served as Worshipfu l Master, but also served for 17 years as a Trustee, and the past 11 yea rs as Trea · su rer In addition, he has head · ed the Lodge Funera Team since 1994, and has been an active community volunteer.
The Mason ic Ed ucation Comm i t· tee of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania concluded a busy year of 2002 with 104 Lodge Educatio n c hairm en from acr oss t h e state attending a one-day seminar at th e Masonic Homes a t Elizabe th town . Ill. llro. C. DeForres t Trex ler, 33", Deputy for Pe nnsylvania, Ancien t Accep t ed Scottish Ril e, N.M.J., addressed the Masonic educators on the su bj ec t o f th e Fa m ily of l'reemasonry. He to ld t hem that one of their most important fLIIlC· tions is not o nl y being able t o <mswer yuestions about Bl ue Lodge Masonry, b u t also those questions raised by Maste r Maso n s abo ut the appendant bodies and how they fit into the fa mil y of Freemasonry. semi na r also covered topics such as: What is the ro le and what arc t h e responsibil iti es of a Lodge Educat i on C hairman? Now to help the officers In th e Lodge. I low t o get educational mate ria l s. Th e I m portance o f presenting edu· cation packets to th e new members and what constitutes good Lodge programs. Materials n eed· ed for deve lop i ng good Mentor Prog rams were dis tribu t ed. llro Edward 0. Weisser, Chairman, announced tha t t he re wil l be a Dist ri ct Ed uca t ion trai n ing sess io n on Feb. 22 in the Masonic Homes at Elizabe thtown.
On Dec 3, the Federal Burea u of I nvestigation presented It s prestigious Commun ity Serv ce Award to The Pennsylvania Mason i c Foundation for C hildren. Bro . Raymond G. Brown, Execu ti ve D i rector (shown in photo), representing the !>resident o f the Found ation's Board o f l)irectors, James 1.. Erne u c, R.W I' G.M , accep t ed t h e awa rd on be h alf of the Masons of Pen n sylvania. This awa rd i s presen t ed t o orga ni 7,..1tio n s and i ndi v idual s who have prov ided o ut sta nd ng serv ice in their commu n t ies. The Fou n · dat ion for C hi ld ren qualificcl for th e award of it s effo l'l s wi th the J uni o r F.B.I. Program , D.A It.E. , l' rn jcc t C.A.R E. (b ully i ng and v io ence preven t on l ra i ning) , St uct cnt Assista n c,; T<-a m training, and ot he r projects.
On Oct. I 7, R.W. Grand Master Marv in A. Cunningham, Sr. and a group of Pen n sy l va ni a Freemasons vis ited t h e Eri e Veterans Administration M edical Cente r to meet and g reet veterans, donate a gift to the Cen t er, an d present a volun· leer service award on behalf o f the Mason c Service Associa tion to a d ed · cated Pennsylvania Mason. " Good luck from a 'swabbie' to a 'fly· boy" was th e p arting w ish by Marvin A. Cunn ingham, Sr., R.W.G.M., when visil· ing veteran Thomas Scu lly (above). The visitin g Ma sons are )ames T. Young, Aide to the Grand Master; Ric hard Fi tzsimmons, PM , Perry-Keyston e Lodge N o. 392, Erie; Grand M as t er Cunn ngham, Sr.; Donald A Snyder, D.D.G. M ., 24th Masonic District; Marvin G. Speic h er, R.W. Grand Treasu rer; and G. Ken t Hack· ney; Aide to the Gran d M aster.
Grand Master Cunningham presented a Masonic Service Associat ion Certificate of Recognition to Bro. Rob ert L. Laird (center in picture below), Lawrence Lodg e N o. 708, Eri e, for his years or se r· vice as a vo unteer at the Er e VA Medical Center. Previou sly, on behalf of the Ma sons of Penn sylvan ia, the Grand Mas· ter presented a check to )ames A Palmer (righ t in p ic ture), Di rector, Erie VA Med· ica l Cen t er, to purchase a digital c am era an d equipment fo r t h e Center's r ecreatio nal faci li t ies.
James L. Sieber ln sLall ed as \V.M. of Penn sy lva nia Lodge of Research
)ames L. Siebe r, P.M ., Cumbe rland Valley
Lodge N o. 31.5, Sh ip pensbu rg, was nstalled as Wo rsh ipful Master of the Pennsylvania Lod ge of Research at its meeting in the Mason ic Center, West Read ng, on Saturday, Dec 7 Other officers elected and installed are : S.W., John W. Pos tl ewa it, W .M ., Hoba h Lodge No. 276, Brookville; ) W., Th eodore w. Schick, ) r., Jordan Lodge N o 673, All entown; Treas., Danny R Mc Kn ig ht, P.D.D.G.M., Vic t ory Lodge No 694, Butler; Sec., Charles S. Cann ing, P.M , jordan Lodge No 673, Allen t own; and Trustees, John L. Winkelman, PM ., Chandler Lodge N o. 227, Wes t Reading; Wi lliam E. Yeager, P.D.D.G. M ., joseph Wa rren Lodge No 726, Warren; and W jack Ya t es, P.D.D.G M , Lodge No 408, M eadville.
There will be a specia l meetin g of the Lodge o l Research at Springfield ·Hanby Lodge No. 767, Springfie ld, at 10:00 AM on Satu rday, Ma r. 1. All Master M asons are invited to attend. The St ated j une 1 meeting will be in the Pittsburgh area . Membership in the Lodg e of Research is open to all M as· ter Masons who are members o f Lod ges recognized by the Grand lodge of Pennsylvan ia Applications for membership are available from Charles S. Canning, Sec , 2938 W. Chew Street, All entown, PA 18104 .
A degree team comprising members of the PIN Club in western Pennsylvania - a Masonic group of law enforcement personnel - conferred Master Mason's Degrees on Wayne Charles Kline and Kevin Lee Linde· muth, both members of the Pennsylvania State Police, In john M. Read Lodge No. 536, Reynoldsville, on Oct. 12. Participating in the Degree were ( 1-r): Front rowDaniel Konieczka; Albert Roll; Michael P Whepley, W.M. of john M. Read Lodge; Bros. Lindemuth and Kline, the newly raised Masons; Richard Carnes, the Conferring Officer; and Dona d L. Miller, D.D.G.M., 52nd Masonic District. Middle row - Howard Silbaugh; )ames Cochran; Paul McCommons; Bert Korieth; Danny R. McKnight, P D.D.G.M ; Thomas Leicht; Leo McCaffery; and Gene Hlavac. Back row - Terry Kline, father of Bro. Kline; )ames Jackson; Martin Joyce; Thomas Sherwin ; Allen Brown; Roland Wise; and Rodney Williams .
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