GREETINGS from LINDA JACKSON

Director of Philanthropic and Widows’ Support

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

I hope 2023 is off to a good start and that you had a memorable holiday season. The new year is traditionally a good time to reflect on the year behind us and set a plan for the year ahead, and as such, I would ask that you consider joining the Masonic Widows’ Guild. The Winter issue of Blue Slipper Stories is mailed to over 14,000 women and is dedicated to growing the Masonic Widows’ Guild.

If this is the first time you have received Blue Slipper Stories, you may be unfamiliar with the Masonic Widows’ Guild, so I offer this brief history. The Masonic Widows’ Guild was formally established in 2016 by the Masonic Villages of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania to strengthen relationships, recognize and assist the widows of Pennsylvania Masons.

It is estimated that 75-100 women are widowed each month by the loss of their husband, and caring for them is a priority for the fraternity. Listed below are reasons you might consider joining the guild as a widow of a Pennsylvania Mason:

• Through membership in the Widows’ Guild, you will receive important information about programs and services available to you as a Masonic widow. The Masonic Outreach Program provides financial support to widows in need, as well as access to financial and legal services.

• Three times annually, you will receive the Blue Slipper Stories newsletter with informational and inspirational articles. Leave

• All members of the Widows’ Guild receive a Blue Slipper pin and a personalized membership card. The Blue Slipper pin is the universal symbol that the wearer is a Masonic widow.

• You will receive an invitation to a Masonic Widows’ Guild luncheon in your area. Throughout the year and at various locations, luncheons are held to welcome new members and honor existing members. These events are wonderful opportunities to make new friends and fellowship with other Masonic widows.

• As a member, you have access to the membership directory, which is a listing of contact information by Pennsylvania counties, providing an opportunity for members to connect with one another.

• Most importantly, members of the Widows’ Guild know they are not alone! You have comfort in knowing help and support is only a phone call or email away.

So, as you set your goals for this year, I hope you will consider joining the Masonic Widows’ Guild. There are no fees or other obligations associated with membership, and with over 1,550 members, you will be in good company. Masonic widows are bonded by their special connection to each other and to the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania through the Widows’ Guild.

If you would like to receive your Blue Slipper pin and membership, please contact me at 717-367-1121, ext. 33497, or lmjackson@masonicvillages.org

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The Pennsylvania Masonic Widows’ Guild is in place to recognize, honor and support the widows of Pennsylvania Masons. If you have questions about the Widows’ Guild or would like to become a member and receive your blue slipper pin, please call Director of Philanthropic and Widows’ Support Linda Linda Jackson at 1-800-599-6454 or email lmjackson@masonicvillages.org.

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