Temple TIMES
A Message from Michael D. McKee, Executive Director
This has been a good year for the Masonic Temple. Our Masonic principles are based on actions, not mere words. On April 17, we hosted a gala for the Arch Street United Methodist Church to help support the repair of this historic building located right next to us.
This building has been our neighbor for 151 years. Our buildings stand side by side, showcasing the beauty of architecture.
In June, we hosted our third art and architecture tour with the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, based on the themes of Geometry and the Golden Ratio. The event sold out and was a huge success!
In September, The American Friends of Lafayette will host a gala at the Temple as part of a city-wide celebration of the 200th anniversary of Freemason and Gen. Lafayette’s return to Philadelphia.
We are conducting a building survey this year to plan for the upkeep of our building for the next 10 years and beyond.
Keeping the building in good condition is a challenge due to its age and complexity. However, our team is always up for the challenge because the preservation of history is critical to our future. Thank you for your support of our Masonic Temple.
A Lifetime of Supporting the Temple
Joyce Michelfelder, chartered advisor in philanthropy (CAP®) and director of gift planning at Masonic Villages, is a strong supporter of the Masonic Temple, Library and Museum.
Joyce grew up in a Masonic family in Philadelphia. Her father, Charles, was a member of Melita Lodge No. 295, Philadelphia, as well as the Shrine and Scottish Rite Consistory. Her mother, Mildred, was worthy matron of her Order of the Eastern Star chapter.
Joyce is currently a member of the Order of Eastern Star Signet Chapter No. 129 in Philadelphia.
“I grew up in an environment where every weekend as kids we did something related to the Masonic family, whether it was delivering candy or visiting children at Shriners Hospitals,” Joyce said.
Given her background, it’s fitting that Joyce has been advocating for
the Masonic Temple since 2004.
Joyce works with individuals to help them meet their charitable goals, through outright gifts or estate planning. She also meets with lodges to discuss general funding or project needs for the Temple.
“I do my job at the Temple because I love the building, I love the
people and I learn a lot,” Joyce said. “It’s also a way to honor my family and give back to the people that helped raise me.”
After graduating from college, Joyce wrote a successful technical grant for a non-profit organization, which led to a 40-year career in fundraising. Joyce served in senior management positions at various Philadelphia-based large health organizations before her current role as an advocate for the Masonic Temple.
“I ask people all the time why they want to support the Temple and what is motivating their gift” she added. “This is truly a helping profession. It’s a worthwhile cause and I know the money is well spent.”
For more information, contact Joyce at 610-825-6100 X61348 or email her at jmichelf@ masonicvillages.org.
Promoting Creativity at the Masonic Temple
When Santé Johnson was looking to utilize her embroidery skills in a community-based setting, the Masonic Temple was the perfect fit for what she wanted to do.
“My main goal was to have a space for people to find value within the Masonic embroidery collection, while learning and bringing ideas from the past into the present and future,” Santé said.
Establishing a hand embroidery space at the Masonic Temple contributes to the well-being of
the community by promoting cultural exchange and creativity.”
Sante, a federal hand embroiderer, worked with Mike McKee, Masonic Library and Museum executive director, to offer weekly embroidery sessions to Temple staff and the community at large.
During the Saturday sessions, students learn about the Masonic embroidery collection and stitching basics. Sante comes from a family full of Masonic ties. She strongly believes donors should support the mission of the temple.
Masonic Temple is Double Winner!
Visit Philly recently celebrated the people and places that Philly loves the most and the things that make Philadelphia a must-visit destination right now.
More than 30,000 people voted for their Philly faves in 10 categories as part of the inaugural Liberty Bell awards. The Masonic Temple was the only institution to win TWO awards, “Most Iconic Museum or Attraction Entrance” and “Philly’s Best Kept Secret.”
In addition to Philly bragging rights, the Masonic Temple scored two custom Liberty Bell awards, a photo shoot with Visit Philly’s photo and video team, and special coverage on their social channels.
Thanks to everyone who voted. This “Hidden Gem” won’t be hidden for long!
