The Master Mason and

The Masonic Traveller

Lesson 4

The Right Worshipful Grand Lodge

of
Free and Accepted Masons of Pennsylvania

INTERPRETATIONS OF
THE MASTER MASONS DEGREE
You have now been raised to the Sublime Degree of a Master Mason. It is indeed
a sublime degree, one to which a man might devote his whole life in study without exhausting it. Undoubtedly, you realized this yourself as you participated in its mysteries,
so that now you may appreciate a hint as to its meaning. Almost any interpretation of it,
especially one as brief as this, must necessarily be a hint only for the sake of stimulating
a man to reflect upon it for himself and to study it more thoroughly in the future.
In the first and second degrees, you found yourself surrounded by the symbols of
emblems of architecture. In the third degree, you found yourself in a different order of
symbolism, one cast in the language of the soul, its life, its tragedy and its triumph. To
recognize this fact is the first step.
The second step is to recognize that the ritual of the third degree may, by its nature
and by its purpose, have many meanings. It is not intended to be a lesson written
complete, finished, closed up, but rather to be a pointing out of paths, a new departure
and a series of inspirations awakening all the facultieslike a great drama, picture or
symphony to which one may return to find new meanings as an inexhaustible fountain
of truth.
There are countless interpretations of this degree, some true, some imaginative.
Most essentially, it is a drama of the immortality of the soul, setting fourth the truth that,
while man withers away and perishes, there is that within him which does not perish.
We say a man is initiated as an Entered Apprentice, passed as a Fellowcraft and
raised as a Master Mason. By this, it appears that it is the raising that most Masons have
found at the center of this degree. If you already know the significance of Raising, you
hold the key and will find your way into all the meanings of the degree.
The life of a man is organized in many groups and experiences; some are incidental,
while others of disease, sin, treachery, sorrow and loss of life are more tragic. If we can
find the wisdom and the strength to deal with these and if we can triumph over and solve
our problems, our characters will be secure and our happiness assured. Evil, in the form
of tragedy, is set forth in the drama of the third degree. Here is a good and wise man, a
builder, working for others and giving others work of the highest caliber we knowas it
is dedicated to God. Through no fault of his, he experiences tragedy from associates and
fellows. Here is evilpure and simplea complete picture of human tragedy.
The first step the Craft took in meeting this tragedy was to impose the supreme
penalty to those who had the will to destroy; they therefore had to be destroyed lest an3

other tragedy follow. The greatest enemy man has makes war on the good; no merciful
consideration can ever be given.
The second step was to discipline and pardon those who acted not out of an evil will,
but out of weakness. Forgiveness is possible if a man condemns the evil he has done,
since in spite of his weakness he retains his faith in the good.
The third step was to recover from the wreckage caused by the tragedy and save
whatever of value it had left undestroyed. Confusion had come upon the Craft but order
was restored. Loyal craftsmen took up the burdens left by traitors. It is in the nature of
such tragedy that he would suffer for evil and it is one of the prime duties of life that a
man must toil to undo the harm wrought by sin and crime otherwise, in time, the world
would be destroyed by the evils that are done in it.
But what of the victim of the tragedy? Here is the most profound and difficult lesson
of the drama, difficult to understand, difficult to believe if one has not been truly initiated
into the realities of the spiritual life. Because the victim was a good man, his goodness
rooted in an unwavering faith in God, that which destroyed him in one sense could not
destroy him in another. The spirit in him rose above the reach of evil. By virtue of it, he
was raised from a dead level to a living perpendicular. If you could raise yourself in spirit,
and have faith and forgiveness in similar circumstances, you would emerge a much
happier man than ever before.
The secret of such a power is in the third degree symbolized by the word. If the word
is lost, a man must search for it. If a man possesses that word, he has the secret of the
Masonic art. To rise to the height of spiritual life is to stand on a level above the reach of
such tragedy or the powers of evil. To have the spirit rest in God, to have a sincere and
unwavering faith in truth and goodness, is the inner secret of a Master Mason.

THE LEGEND OF HIRAM ABIFF

During our ceremony of the third degree, which is so well named the Sublime Degree,
you can hardly fail to have been impressed by the tragedy of Hiram Abiff. To understand
and appreciate it to the fullest, its profound richness of meaning is something that will
remain with you as long as you live. The tragedy of Hiram Abiff is the climax of the Master Masons Degree, the essence of Freemasonry and the foundation of its philosophy.
To understand its symbolism is to understand Masonry.
Hiram Abiff was a widows son of the Tribe of Napthali. He was from Tyre, a cunning
workman who was sent to King Solomon by his friend King Hiram of Tyre. Abiff is not a
surname as our use of it might indicate. In the English Bible, it is translated my father
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and his father. Taken literally this is confusing, but Masonic scholars are in general
agreement that Abiff is a Hebrew idiom indicating superiority in his craft and therefore,
in a general way, synonymous with Master.
The first step in understanding the story of Hiram is to realize that the whole of the
degree is symbolic. A few facts borrowed from history are used, but they are symbols of
what is happening in the life of every man.
Hiram Abiff is the acted spirit of the human soul, yours and mine, any mans. The
work he was engaged to supervise is the symbol of the work you and I have in the supervision, organization and direction of our lives from birth to death. The enemies he met
are none other than the symbols of those lusts and passions, which in our own hearts,
or the hearts of others, make war on our characters and our lives.
His fate is the same fate that befalls every man who becomes a victim of those
enemies, to be interrupted in ones work, to be made outcast from the mastership over
ones self, and at the end, to be buried under all manner of rubbish, which means defeat,
disgrace, misery and scorn. The manner in which he was raised from the dead level to
the living perpendicular again is the same manner by which any man, if it happens at all,
rises from self-defeat to self-mastery. And the Great Architect, by the power of whose
words Hiram Abiff was raised, is the same God in whose arms we ourselves forever lie,
and whose mighty help we also need to raise us out of the graves of defeat, or evil, and
even death itself. Did you wonder, while taking part in the drama, why you were personally made to participate in it? Why you were not permitted to sit as a spectator? You were
made to participate in order to impress upon you that it was your drama, not anothers,
that was being exemplified. No man can be a mere spectator of that drama because it
takes place in his own soul. Likewise, because it was intended that your participation
should itself be an experience to prepare you for becoming a Master Mason by teaching
you the secret of a Master Mason, which is, that the soul must rise above its own internal
enemies if a man is to be a Mason in reality as well as in the name. The reality of being
a Master Mason is nothing other than being the Master of ones self.
Did you wonder why it was that the three enemies of Hiram Abiff came from his own
circle and not from outside? It is because the enemies to be feared by the soul are always from within and are nothing other than its own ignorance, lusts, passions and sins.
As the Volume of the Sacred Law reminds us, it is not that which has the power to kill the
body that we must shun, but that which has the power to destroy the spirit.
Did you wonder why it was that after Hiram Abiff was slain, there was so much confusion in the temple? It was because the temple is the symbol of a mans character and,
5

therefore, breaks and falls when the soul, its architect is rendered helpless. Because
the craftsmen are symbols of our powers and faculties, they fall into anarchy when not
directed and commanded by the will at the center of our being.
The ritual emphasizes that the men of evil within us can be neither trained nor educated out of us. They must die so that the good man in us may live. Viewed in this light,
the drama of Hiram Abiff the builder, is a symbol of redemption and redemption is the
central theme of this degree.

DUTIES, RIGHTS AND PRIVILEGES

You will not find all of the duties, rights and privileges of a Master Mason anywhere
fully or clearly stated and numbered. They are scattered here and there, some in the
form of symbols, others of customs and others of laws. Some are stated very clearly and
explicitly; others are merely implied.
A Master Masons first duty is to live by, and act consistently with, his obligation. Unless this is done, he cannot perform his other duties nor should he be able to claim his
rights and privileges. With this as a foundation, a number of those duties and rights will
be discussed in detail.
It is a Master Masons duty, legal and moral, to pay his share of the financial costs of
the Fraternity promptly and ungrudgingly. The payment of your annual dues becomes
due and payable no later than the first of January of each year. If it is not paid by that
date, you are in-arrears, which causes confusion in the Lodge.
If a Mason is unaffiliated, he has the right to petition for membership at any regular
Lodge. He may choose the Lodge to which he makes his petition, but he should seek
membership in some Lodge and become a member of the Fraternity.
One may hold his membership where he is happiest, or it is most convenient, provided he is elected to membership in that Lodge. A Master Mason has the right to resign,
if he is in good standingto be in good standing means to be current in dues. However, resignation does not release him from the obligation to the degrees and landmarks.
Visiting Lodges in which you do not hold membership is both a right and a privilege
for a Master Mason in good standing, though not a duty. It is a right in the sense that
he may seek admittance into any regular Lodge; it is a privilege in the sense that his
admission into the Lodge is contingent upon his being vouched for or examined, and
then permitted to enter by the Worshipful Master.
If you seek to visit a Lodge, you have the privilege of being vouched for if some
Brother is present who has sat in an open Lodge with you. This is done so that you are
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not compelled to undergo an examination every time you seek to visit a Lodge.
Masonic Charity, like visiting, is both a right and a privilege. Every Mason has the
right to ask for it upon need without injuring his dignity or endangering his standing. It is
a privilege in that neither a Lodge nor a Master Mason is compelled to give Charity. The
Lodge is not an insurance society, an organized charity or a death benefit association.
Nor is a guarantee given any member that he will receive what he asks. Each Lodge
and each Mason is under obligation to heed the call for Charity, but each is free to use
judgment whether to extend it.
Every Master Mason, in good standing, has the right of a Masonic burial. By previous
arrangementa simple request of the familythese rites will be tenderly performed by
the Brethren of his Lodge or as a courtesy by Brethren of a nearby Lodge if the deceased
Brother is at a location away from his home Lodge.
Among and most important of his rights, though exercised under unhappy conditions,
is his right of trial by his peers, under regulated conditions, with complete freedom to
present evidence in his behalf. This assures you that no Lodge can degrade you without
a fair trial. Neither his Lodge, nor any officer, or any member can remove him through
malice or spite. Nor can he be made to suffer the penalties of Masonry out of idle gossip
or hearsay. Right of trial, whether as an Entered Apprentice Mason, Fellowcraft Mason or
Master Mason, guarantees him all the securities of justice.
If he is brought to trial on charges of un-Masonic conduct (violation of Masonic Law)
and found guilty, he has the right of appeal to the Grand Lodge. This right is his guarantee against possible injustice or spiteful prosecution by some private enemy.
However, this does not deny a Grand Master from invoking Masonic discipline in appropriate circumstances.
Being a speculative Master Mason, you have new responsibilities and new burdens
thrust upon you. You are now responsible for others beside yourself. Your duty now is not
only to strive to become better yourself but also to teach others, both Masons and nonMasons by instructions and example. In the Lodge, you are able to take part in the work
of the Lodge of accepting one of those junior offices, which, with time and diligence, may
result in the Brethren electing you to serve as Worshipful Master of your Lodge.
Outside the Lodge, it is expected that the Master Mason will seek to improve the morals of men in society. As an Entered Apprentice Mason, he had been instructed to practice charity and to exercise universal benevolence. Now he is not only to do it himself,
but he is to inculcate in others the practice of universal benevolence. It is expected that
by his own conduct he will demonstrate to the world the highest principles of morality
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and virtue. It is not sufficient to only observe the letter of the law or to conform to the
behavior which society finds acceptable.
He must at all times uphold the fundamental principles of Brotherly Love, Charity and
Truth, and practice such time honored virtues as Faith, Hope, Charity, Temperance, Fortitude, Prudence and Justice. Taking an active part in your community, you must carry
these virtues into operation so that your neighbors may know, without your wearing any
badges that you are in fact a Master Mason.
Duty, Honor and Gratitude now bind you to your trust. Let no motive therefore, ever
make you swerve from your duty, but be true and faithful and imitate the example of that
celebrated artist whom you have now represented. Endeavor to convince the world that
merit has been your title to our privileges and that our favors have not been undeservedly
bestowed upon you.

THE TEACHINGS OF MASONRY

In summary, you have discovered that Masonrys teachings will make a Mason study
and learnit will force him to search out the truth, will compel him to take the initiative,
as a mature man should, so that the very act of learning is, in itself, a great educational
value. The purpose of secrecy is not to keep the candidate in the dark, but to stimulate
him to seek the light. The symbols and emblems do not conceal the teaching, they
reveal it; however, they reveal it in such a manner that a man must find it for himself.
Freemasonry has three great tenets or teachings: Brotherly Love, Charity and Truth.
Freemasonry is a Fraternity devoted to Brotherhood; however, this Brotherhood must be
understood in a special sense. Freemasonrys position is that Brotherhood is supported
by a religious basis. We are all brothers because God is the Father of us all. Therefore,
religion is one of the foundations of Masonry.
Masonry is dedicated to God, the Great Architect of the Universe. It keeps an Altar at
the center of every Lodge room, and the Volume of the Sacred Law lies open upon the
Altar. It begins and ends its undertakings with prayer. Its petitioners must believe in a
Supreme Being. All this is genuine religion, but not a formal religiousness. The religion
of Masonry, like all else in its teachings, is not set forth in creeds or in any other form of
words. The Mason must come upon it for himself and put it in such form as will satisfy
his own mind.
Along with religion, Masonry teaches the necessity of morality, requiring of its members that they be good men and true, righteous when tried by the square, upright when
tried by the plumb, their passions kept in due bounds by the compass, just in dealings
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with their fellows, patient with the erring, charitable, truthful and honorable.
Concerning the theological values of Faith, Hope and Charity, our Craft acknowledges,
The greatest of these is Charity. Each of us must stand ready to extend a helping hand
in relief of an unfortunate Brother or his dependents. Masonry, however, unlike some of
the sects and cults, does not advocate a charity carried to the limits of fanaticism. There
is such a thing as a cabletow, the extent of ability and opportunity. We are not expected
to give relief beyond the point where it would damage ourselves or create hardship for
our families.
Another of Masonrys great teachings is equality, symbolized by the level. The lesson
of equality you heard just recently, that in all respects all men are the same and equal,
but it is evident in many respects that men are very unequal, as in physique, in talent, in
gifts, in abilities and in character. It is, rather, the principle that we owe goodwill, charity, tolerance and truthfulness equally to each and all, and that in our Fraternity, all men
travel the same road of initiation, take the same obligations, pay the same dues and have
the same rights, duties, and privileges.
Consider the lessons taught by the Five Points of Fellowship by using the various
parts of the body. The first point is companionshipstanding together, proceeding together, going the second mile, providing spiritual and physical sustenance for one another. The second point symbolizes fellowship with our creatorwe must have fellowship
with both God and man and, therefore, live on both vertical and horizontal planes. This
point must remind us that we should daily pray for our fellowman, all our Brethren and
ourselves. The third point is further evidence of fellowshipa man needs privacy and
companionship. He must be able to confide his private and secret hopes and desires to
a close friend or Brother. He must be able to have intimate conversations with someone
with whom he has complete confidence.
The fourth point indicates our backs must be strong enough and willing to support
each others burdensthis calls for loyalty, character and discretion. It further stresses
the importance of fellowship. The fifth point is meant to teach us that we should be ever
ready to whisper good counsel in the ear of a Brother, tenderly remind him of his faults,
and give him due and timely warning of approaching danger.
Masonry, my Brother, according to the general acceptance of the term, is an art,
directed to the service and convenience of mankind.
A Freemasons Lodge is a temple of peace, harmony and brotherly love. Nothing is
allowed to enter which has the remotest tendency to disturb. A calm inquiry into the
beauty of wisdom and virtue and the study of moral geometry, constitute the chief em9

ployments within the tyled recesses of the Lodge. The lessons of virtue, which proceed
from the East, like rays of brilliant light from the rising sun, illuminate the West and the
South, and as the work proceeds are absorbed by the workmen. Thus, while wisdom
contrives the plan, strength lends its able support to the moral fabric, and beauty adorns
it with curious and cunning workmanship. All this is accomplished without any compulsory or coercive means but on the principle of friendship and Brotherly love, which
guards the precincts of our temple, that nothing may enter or disturb the peaceful sanctity of that holy place.

PROFICIENCY IN THE THIRD DEGREE

Your Mentor Program has now planned the third and final study lesson on Proficiency
in the third degree. This meeting will deal with questions related to the Master Masons Degree. You have shown your proficiency with the first and second degrees. You
should be proud of this accomplishment. By this time, you must realize that an active
and accomplished Mason will continue to educate himself in vast knowledge related to
Masonry.
Having received the Master Masons Degree, you are beginning to realize you have
been raised to the sublime degree. This degree outlines the duties and responsibilities
of a Master Mason as he goes on through his life. By his conduct, he will demonstrate
to the world the highest principles of morality and virtue. Your committee has exposed
you to the nature of Masonry and they have asked you to show proficiency in these
degrees. Now these Masons will expect you to join and ranks of the craft and function
as a Master Mason.

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THE MASTER MASONS DEGREE PROFICIENCY

1.

Describe how you were prepared for the third degree.

2.

What is the story of the lecture in the East?

3.

Give the hailing sign and words of distress.

4.

Explain what took place when you were Raised.

5.

How is the apron worn in this degree?

6. Relate portions of the obligations you took.

What have you sworn to and what is the penalty?
7.

Give steps, signs, grips and word of a Master Mason.

8.

What are the five points of Fellowship?

9. Name the working tool used in the Master Masons Degree.

What is its Symbolic significance?
10. Describe position of Square and Compasses
upon the volume of Sacred Law.
11. What is required to visit another Lodge?
12. Where and when was the first official symbolic Grand Lodge formed?
13. Are any degrees higher than Master Mason?
14. Describe the proper way to take the Lions Grip.
15. What is the Ahiman Rezon?
16. Describe the balloting procedure.
17. How do you leave the Lodge room when the Lodge is in session?
18. What ways can you become involved in your Lodge?

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RECOMMENDING A PETITIONER
Recommending a man for the degrees of Freemasonry is a serious matter. The recommenders are staking their own reputation on the character of the petitioner. Hence,
it is not wise, nor can a member afford to be so careless as to sign a petition just to
accommodate a friend or another member.
Recommenders should have knowledge of certain basic facts and requirements relative to the procuring and processing of a petition. These are available from the Lodge
secretary when the blank form of the petition is requested. The petitioner should be
informed of the initiation fee and the current annual dues of the Lodge. He should be
informed that the Masonic Fraternity is not a beneficial or insurance type society.
The recommenders must make certain that the petitioner comes of good report and
is mentally and morally qualified for the degrees of Freemasonry. They should assure
themselves that the petitioner comes of his own free will and accord and that he can
financially afford this step without injury to himself or his family. He must reside in this
Jurisdiction (Pennsylvania) for one year before making application to be made a Mason.
Both recommenders should be in attendance at Lodge when the petition is presented
and when the petitioner is balloted upon. It is an appropriate responsibility of the recommenders to accompany their candidate when he appears for each degree and introduce
him to the various Brethren. It is particularly proper that the recommenders stay with the
candidate until the guide takes him for preparation.
The recommenders should feel free to advise the candidate, after he has been elected, along the lines of proper dress and cleanliness, so as to avoid any embarrassment
when he is notified to appear at the Lodge meeting. He should also be informed by his
recommenders, before receiving his degrees, that every word spoken and every phase
of the degree has a definite significance, which will become clearer to him as he progresses.
He should be assured that there will be no levity, by either word or act, during the
conferring of the degrees.
When recommenders consider it a sincere Masonic duty to properly process a petitioner and then personally see their candidate through the degrees, both a wholesome
effect and a lasting impression will result in the life of any newly made Mason. You have
then acquired another Brother to add to your equity in Freemasonry and strengthened
the Masonic fraternity as a whole.

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INQUIRY OF A PETITIONER FOR FREEMASONRY

Of all the committees appointed by the Worshipful Master of a Lodge, the most important to the Lodge in particular and to Freemasonry in general, is the Committee of
Inquiry. The Committee of Inquiry isthe Masonic sentryappointed to conduct a full
and searching inquiry on a petitioner. In their investigation, they must make sure that any
man who is not fitted for the teachings of Freemasonry shall be unable to gain admittance to the Fraternity.
The duties and responsibilities of the Committee of Inquiry are many. However, if the
recommenders have fulfilled their responsibilities, the task confronting the committee
can be somewhat reduced. Although the inquiry of a petitioner is a most important matter, the qualifications of the members on that committee are equally important and perhaps more so. As a member of the Committee of Inquiry, you are answerable only to your
own conscience. Your Lodge in particular, and Freemasonry in general, are dependent
upon your efforts and judgment. You are screening a person who can make the structure
of Freemasonry strong or weak.
As soon as the Worshipful Master appoints the Committee of Inquiry, the chairman
should assemble his committeewithout delayto afford as much time as necessary
for investigation. An inquiry of a petitioner should never be considered as routine but
as a serious matter that should command every effort and concern of all committee
members. The Committee of Inquiry is, in a sense, the eyes and ears of the Lodge and
Freemasonry as a whole. The decision by the Brethren at the ballot box is usually influenced by the report of this committee.
Each member of the Committee of Inquiry should be thorough, but unbiased. The
committee should work independently and collectively in carrying out the inquiry of the
petitioner. The inquiry should be pursued in every possible way.
It is important that whenever possible, each member of the committee visit and meet
the petitioner where he resides. Explain to the petitioner that a full and searching inquiry
is normal procedure in the processing of a petitioner for the degrees of Freemasonry.
While keeping the visit informal, maintain a concern that reflects the seriousness of
your mission. Encourage the petitioner to ask questions. If a petitioner is married, suggest that his wife join the interview and ascertain whether she concurs with the step
her husband is taking. During this interview, the petitioners motive to join Freemasonry
should be determined. Why did he petition your Lodge? What are his ideas of the character of Freemasonry? Has he any Masonic relatives? What does he expect to obtain
from his membership in Freemasonry? What does he expect to give as a member of
Freemasonry? Of what other organizations is he a member?
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While an inquiry should be done with dispatch, it should not be hurried. If additional
time is required to conduct a proper investigation, the Worshipful Master should always
approve such requests from the Committee of Inquiry.
Before signing your name to a favorable report, be certain that you would be willing
to welcome the petitioner into your home and your Lodge, and that you would be proud
to greet him as a Brother. Never sign a report in the presence of a petitioner.
The members of the Committee of Inquiry, in a sense, have been honored by the Worshipful Master by being entrusted with the character and reputation of the Lodge. This
honor imposes a tremendous responsibility. If you make your investigation a perfunctory
affair, you may be doing a disservice to yourself, your Lodge and even the petitioner.
However, if you attend to the full duty assigned to you, you will distinguish yourself each
time you serve, as the guardian of those sacred and cherished portals of Freemasonry.

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The Masonic Traveller

15

Welcome, My Brother
This Travelers Guide will help you experience many of the activities available to
Pennsylvania Freemasons through your Blue Lodge, your Masonic District, and even
through the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania.
Many of the activities will be appropriate for your wife and family.
It is the hope of your education committee that you would consider expanding your
Masonic experiences by engaging in as many of the activities described in the following
pages as you might desire.
Additionally, we would like to know your thoughts on the Mentoring Program you have
just completed and any of the Traveler experiences you might choose to experience.
You may send your comments through a letter addressed to: The Committee on Masonic Education, One North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107, or by sending an email
to us at committeeonmasoniceducation@pagrandlodge.org. We value your comments
and will be kept in confidence as requested.

YOUR BLUE LODGE

Examination of a Visitor
In order to gain admission to a Lodge that you have never visited, you must possess
a signed dues card and be able to pass a short oral examination consisting of words,
grips, and signs that prove that you really are a Master Mason. Your mentor and/or Lodge
instructors will carefully review these with you. Learn these lessons well as it is your
ticket to Freemasonry around the world!
Attend a Stated Meeting
Stated Meetings of your Blue Lodge are held monthly (with the exception of July and
August). Some Blue Lodges however meet every month of the year.
Attend an Extra or Special Meeting
Degrees are conferred by Blue Lodges at Extra Meetings held for that purpose. You
will be amazed at what you will learn by attending a degree conferral. When you were
raised, things probably were confusing to you, now is the time to return and concentrate
on the words and symbolism of the degrees.
Attend a dinner, special event or fundraiser. Attend a summer event sponsored by
your Lodge. Attend a Lodge Family Night or Ladies Night.
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Besides attending regular meetings, your Lodge may have many other events of
interest to you and your family. Check your monthly Lodge notice to see what events
have been scheduled.

Attend the District Deputys visitation

At least twice a year, the Grand Masters representative, the District Deputy Grand
Master, will visit your Lodge. During his visit, he will share information about Masonic
events throughout the District and the Grand Lodge. Attend the District Deputys visitation and learn about what is going on in Masonry outside of your own Lodge.
Attend a Masonic Funeral service
Masonic Brethren stand together in life and in death. The Masonic Funeral Service is
a beautiful and moving tribute that we provide to our deceased Brother. Ask your Lodge
Secretary to add your name to the list of Brethren who are called when a family requests
a Masonic funeral service.
Fill in a chair at a Lodge meeting
Does the ritual and floor work have a special interest to you?? Ask one of the officers
of your Lodge about filling in one of the chairs in the event an officer is absent. You will
learn quickly and you will be doing your Lodge a service.
Provide a program for your Lodge
Share your hobby, skill, or profession by presenting a short program to the Brethren
of your Lodge after a stated meeting. Contact the Worshipful Master and tell him about
your desire to present a program to the Lodge.
Be a first line signer on a Blue Lodge petition
Membership is the lifeblood of every organization. Your association with a Masonic
Lodge may spur your friends or relatives to inquire about Masonry and membership
therein. Be ready to guide them to a willingness to join. Sign that petition when asked
and make another good man a Mason.

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DISTRICT ACTIVITIES
Visit a District School of Instruction
Taking an interest in Masonic ritual? Want to learn a little bit more? The District
School of Instruction meets at least once a month to provide expert instruction on every
aspect of Masonic rituals and degrees. Every Master Mason is welcome to attend and
observe the ritual presented in its correct form. Ask any officer in your Lodge for the time
and date for your Districts School of Instruction.
Visit a Blue Lodge in your District
Get a group of your new Masonic Brethren together and visit other Lodges in your
District or go it alone. Either way you will make new friends, meet new Brothers, and
expand you knowledge of Freemasonry. Dont forget your dues card!!
Attend Masonic Family Night at a Baseball game. Attend Masonic Family Day at an
Amusement Park. Attend a Masonic District Summer Picnic or Golf event.
Your Masonic District may be sponsoring events of interest to you and your family.
District events are usually announced at a Lodge meeting and published in your Lodge
notice. This is a great chance to meet Brother Masons and make connections in a more
social setting.

GRAND LODGE FUNCTIONS

Visit the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia
The Masonic Temple is located at One North Broad Street. Guided tours are held
Tuesday thru Friday at 10 & 11 a.m. and 1, 2 & 3 p.m. and on Saturday at 10 & 11 a.m.
and noon. Please call prior to a planned visit to confirm that a tour will be given on the
day of your choice. 215-988-1917. Go to www.pagrandlodge.org for further information.
Attend a Grand Lodge Communication
Attend the Grand Masters visitation to a Lodge
Communications of the Grand Lodge and area visitations by the Grand Master are
listed in your Blue Lodge Notice.

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Visit and tour one of the Masonic Villages

1. Elizabethtown Since 1910, the Masonic Village, a not-for-profit continuing care
retirement community, childrens home and community service organization, has offered
its residents a fulfilling lifestyle that suits their individual needs. Residents have security
in knowing that health care services are available if needed, amidst the finest accommodations.
Retirement living options include 460 apartments and 218 cottages, available in a
variety of floor plans. Residential living has 211 residential suites and studios as well.
The personal care residence accommodates 127 residents, and the Masonic Health
Care Center is divided into neighborhoods where up to 453 residents may receive nursing services, including specialized attention for individuals with dementia, focusing on
optimizing their interests and abilities to enjoy life to the fullest.
Located on 1,400 acres of picturesque Lancaster County farmland, the Masonic Village has grown steadily over the years to provide for the daily needs of our Masonic Village family, while maintaining the vision of the Masons who began our Mission of Love.
From the original 11 residents, our population has grown to more than 1,700, with a
staff of more than 1,300 providing care and services to our residents, as well as others,
in our community.
The long-standing traditions of Freemasonry, which include supporting one another
and those in the community, enable the Masonic Village to provide services to eligible
individuals, Masons and non Masons alike, as part of our Mission of Love. Come see
what the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown has to offer you!
2. Sewickley Our caring community offers quality accommodations and health
care services to people throughout the Sewickley Valley and western Pennsylvania.
The Masonic Village offers retirement living apartments and villas, all available in
a variety of floor plans. As a lifecare community, the Masonic Village offers residents
personal care and skilled nursing services, should they ever be needed, within the same
monthly fee structure as they pay for retirement living services. Outpatient therapies also
are offered on the campus for residents convenience.
The more than 60-acre campus is conveniently located 15 minutes from downtown
Pittsburgh, with easy access to interstate highways, the Pittsburgh International Airport
and the areas numerous recreational opportunities.

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3. Lafayette Hill Experience the accommodating lifestyle that awaits you at the
New Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill. Having completed significant renovations, our
look may have changed, but our Mission to provide quality care to our residents remains
the same as it has for more than 135 years!
Located on more than 21 scenic acres, the Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill is approximately 30 minutes from downtown Philadelphia. Enjoy the cultural, recreational and
artistic attractions this historic city has to offer and take advantage of trips we provide,
ranging from shopping to attending sporting events to spending the day in Cape May.
Our residents spend their days participating in an array of social and recreational
opportunities on campus including an in-house bowling alley, computer lab, Wellness
Center, wood shop, ballroom dancing and so much more. At the Masonic Village, the
responsibility of home maintenance falls on us so you have time to enjoy the best years
of your life.
4. Dallas Located high atop the Endless Mountains Region of Northeast Pennsylvania, the Masonic Village at Dallas is the Masonic Villages newest retirement community,
built on the grounds of the beautiful Irem Country Club.
Residents enjoy access to the country clubs premier golf course and a new clubhouse. The clubhouse features a restaurant with an outdoor patio, a pub, a ballroom for
special events and a game room, with the potential for a wellness center.
The Masonic Village at Dallas is approximately 15 minutes from Wilkes-Barre, allowing residents to take advantage of the citys recreational and cultural opportunities.
The regions mountains, streams, lakes and valleys provide many outdoor recreational
opportunities at nearby state parks. The Masonic Village at Dallas also is minutes from
Harveys Lake, the largest natural lake in the Commonwealth.
5. Warminster The Masonic Village at Warminster provides residents with comfort,
companionship and a life of dignity and security. The staff is dedicated to providing each
resident a gratifying lifestyle.
A conversation under a tree in the courtyard, a laugh shared with a friend, a caring
smile from a staff member residents enjoy all of this and more at the Masonic Village
at Warminster.
If youre looking for a comfortable, quaint and friendly place to call home, the Masonic
Village at Warminster is perfect for you! Charming in aesthetics as well as ambiance,
the Bucks County community is the smallest of our Masonic Villages, yet big on relationships, as residents and staff become like family.

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Apply for a Masonic License Plate

Show your pride in belonging to the Masonic Fraternity and display a Blue Lodge
license plate on your car. Applications can be obtained from your Lodge Secretary.
Join the Masonic Blood Donors Club
All Pennsylvania Masons are eligible for membership in the Masonic Blood Donors
Club. A donation of one unit of blood provides coverage for the immediate family.
Forms and other information about becoming a member of the Masonic Blood Donors Club can be obtained from your Lodge Secretary or the Grand Lodge website
(www.pagrandlodge.org).
Give the gift of life by donating blood.

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VISIT THESE HISTORIC MASONIC PLACES

George Washington National Masonic Memorial
www.gwmemorial.org
The George Washington Masonic National Memorial is a Masonic building and memorial located in Alexandria, Virginia. It is dedicated to the memory of George Washington, the first president of the United States, and a Mason.
The tower is fashioned after the Lighthouse of Alexandria (Egypt), in part because of
the common names of both cities (Alexandria, Virginia
was named for John and Philip Alexander, the citys
founders), and the Masonic interest in great buildings of
the ancient world. It sits atop Shuters Hill (named after
a Union fort on the same location), near King Street and
the Old Town district.
It is the only Masonic building supported and maintained by the 52 grand lodges of the United States. This
is counter to common Masonic practice, where a building is only supported by the Grand Lodge of the state in
which it resides. The building also houses the collection
of Alexandria-Washington Lodge No. 22, which contains most of the fraternal artifacts
of George Washington, including the Watson-Cassoul apron, sash, past master portrait,
working tools and trowel used to lay the cornerstone at the United States Capitol.
George Washington belonged to Alexandria Lodge 22, and was named the lodges
Charter Master in 1788. Records of Washington presiding over the lodge are non-existent, possibly due to a fire at the lodges original location in Alexandrias city hall, which
is where the lodge met until moving to the memorial in the early 1940s. Ground was
broken in 1922, the Cornerstone laid in 1923; it was completed in 1932.

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Friend to Friend Masonic Memorial, Gettysburg, PA

www.phoenixmasonry.org/masonicmuseum/friendZtoZfriendZmonument
www.dcmemorials.com/indexZindiv0007044.htm
The memorial conceived and sponsored by the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted
Masons of Pennsylvania, centers on a monument of two sculpted bronze figures atop
a large granite base. The figures portray the historically verified encounter between
Confederate Brigadier General Lewis Addison Armistead and Captain Henry Harrison
Bingham. Bingham was an aide to Union
Major General Winfield Scott Hancock on
Cemetery Ridge during Picketts charge of
July 3rd, 1863. This attack became known
throughout the world as the High Tide of the
Confederacy.
Although Armistead and Hancock had
been friends and fellow officers for many
years, their political differences came between them at the outbreak of the Civil War.
Armistead joined the newly formed Confederacy while Hancock chose to stay by the flag
of the United States. Both officers served their countries well and were promoted into
leadership positions.
After the two men went their separate ways, it was twenty-seven months before
they were to meet again. This meeting took place on the battlefield remembered forever
as Gettysburg. During Picketts charge, both officers were wounded. Armistead was
mortally wounded and Hancock received a wound from which he would be in hospital
care for many months. Armisteads cries for help were heard by several officers nearby,
and it was a fellow fraternity brother, Captain Bingham, who arrived and offered aid to
his fallen comrade-in-arms.
Armistead spoke of his close relationship with Hancock and he asked Captain Bingham to relay a message to his old friend. He entrusted his personal effects to the captain.
Armistead died two days later at the George Spangler farm hospital site.

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National Memorial Arch at Valley Forge

www.nps.gov/vafo/historyculture/arch.htm
Almost 91 years ago, in March 1912, ground was broken for the construction of
... a memorial arch within Valley Forge Park, in commemoration of the patriotism displayed and the suffering endured by Gen. George Washington, his officers and men.
Completion was delayed to wait for funding. The National Memorial Arch was dedicated
on June 19, 1917.
The 60-foot high, 49-foot by 18foot granite Arch was designed as a simplified version
of the Triumphal Arch of Titus in Rome. On the inner walls of the Arch are bronze plaques
with the names of the general officers at Valley Forge.
The National Memorial Arch stood for more than
80 years until it was closed to the public for safety
reasons.
The Masons of Pennsylvania determined to preserve the Arch in the grandeur it deserves and on
Mar. 15, 1996, R.W. Grand Master Edward O. Weisser signed an agreement with the National Park Service at Valley Forge for a restoration project. 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 Freemasons who were among the soldiers of his Continental Army
encamped there in 1777-78.
The United States Memorial Arch, is located at the intersection of Outerline Drive and
Gulph Road. It was designed by Paul Philippe Cret.
In 1907, the Valley Forge Park Commission developed a plan for the construction of
two arches, a Washington Arch at the Valley Creek entrance to the park, and a von Steuben Arch at the park entrance at the opposite end on Port Kennedy Road (North Gulph
Road and Route 23). These were to serve as entrance gates (the park was enclosed
with an iron fence at this time) as well as monuments honoring the two generals and
the troops. The bill for the two arches at $50,000 each was approved by the House of
Representatives in March 1910, but failed in the Senate. A bill for one arch was approved
in October 1910 for $100,000. Funds were appropriated in 1911, construction began in
1914 and dedication ceremonies were conducted on June 19, 1917.
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Washington at Prayer Statue

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 Free-masonry is imbedded. Robert E. Deyoe, the
R.W.G.M. in 1966, authorized the statue to be sculpted by the world-renowned artistsculptor, Donald DeLue, of Leonard, NJ, to stand at the entrance to The Congressional
Medal of Honor Grove at the Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge.
Bro. Deyoe said: It was at Valley Forge that Bro. Washington and the remnants of
his army suffered through the bitter winter of 1777-78 in order to obtain freedom. The
heroic spirit and devotion to freedom which burned in
the hearts of Bro. Washing-tons Army must again be
aroused 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, and may God bless the Masons
of Pennsylvania, who have made all this possible.
During 1976 when the nation was celebrating the
Bicentennial, Pennsylvania Freemasons held four Bicentennial Day Ceremonies, the last
of which was at the Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge. Despite the worst October
storms in history to that time, John L. Mc-Cain, R.W.G.M., led more than 1,000 persons
in a wreath-laying at the statue. The howling gales and sheets of rain on October 9
forced ceremonies to be moved inside. Fortunately, later the rain paused to permit the
wreath-laying.
A quarter of a century after the original dedication, Pennsylvania Freemasons refurbished the statue and on Sept. 5, 1992, R.W. Grand Master Edward H. Fowler, Jr. and
the Grand Lodge officers conducted well-attended re-dedication and wreath-laying ceremonies. At that time, Grand Lodge had an audio wayside display installed that provides
visitors with a taped message about Brother Washington.

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Freemasons Pavilion and Monument at the

Pittsburgh Area VA Medical Center
On Armed Forces Day, May 15, 1999, the Free-masons of Pennsylvania honored
all veterans who served this great country by presenting a new, fully equipped, 3,000
square-foot Freemasons Pavilion with an additional 1,400 square-foot patio and a monument in a landscaped area of the Veterans Administration Medical Center at Aspinwall,
north of Pittsburgh.
The facility and its equipment provides a
place for residents of the VA hospital and their
families to visit, an outdoor place for entertainment, and a focal point for special activities.
In the dedication oration, R.W. Grand Master James L. Ernette said, We cannot, must
not, and will not ever forget those whose dedication and fortitude sustained liberty and
justice for us through more than two centuries. Our veterans are special people to whom
we will be forever grateful.

Benjamin Franklin Craftsman

Brother Benjamin Franklin Craftsman is the heroic contemporary bronze sculpture
directly across the street from the front door of the Masonic Temple on the northwest
corner of Broad St. and John F. Kennedy Blvd. in Philadelphia. The statue, which shows a young Franklin in
the process of printing on a hand press, was sculpted
by Joseph Brown in his studio in Princeton, N.J.
The Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania commissioned
the work and
presented it to the City on June 24, 1981 as a feature of the memorable five-day celebration commemorating 250 years of Freemasonry in Pennsylvania.
According to reports, a sea of people applauded
the gigantic parade led by R.W. Grand Master Joseph
E. Trate along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway to the Masonic Temple that preceded the
presentation of the sculpture to city officials.
An identical sculpture is in front of the Freemasons Cultural Center on the grounds of
the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown.
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Carl E. Stotz Monument Founder of Little League Baseball

On August 18, 2001 marked a historic day in South Williamsport, Pennsylvania, as
the life-size six-foot Rock of Ages granite statue of Little League Founder Carl E. Stotz
was unveiled to a crowd of several thousand. It was also a celebration of the generosity
of the Freemasons of Pennsylvania who contributed $500,000 to underwrite the commissioning of the Rock of Ages statue as well as underwriting the cost of the big league
style scoreboard at the Little League Stadium. Brother Robert L. Dluge, Jr., Right Worshipful Grand Master, Brother Douglas Hayhurst of Hayhurst
Memorials, and Brother Ronald A. Aungst, Sr., Right Worshipful Junior Grand Warden and project chairman, along with
the other Grand Lodge Officers and members of the Pennsylvania Freemasons, were among the dignitaries responsible
for creating, organizing and commissioning this Little League
project.
This historic event marked 62 years since Carl Stotz, a
Pennsylvania Freemason and member of Lodge No. 707,
founded the Little League in South Williamsport in 1939. The
statue of Carl Stotz was placed at the entrance of the Little
League Stadium complex.
From modest beginnings of a single league in 1939 with three managers including
Mr. Stotz, George Bebble and Bert Beeble, Little League has now expanded to 110 countries around the world with 8,000 teams and 3,000,000 players.
Douglas Hayhurst, a Pennsylvania Freemason and member of Lodge No. 299 and
noted memorialist in the area, commissioned Rock of Ages to handcraft the statue of
Founder Carl Stotz. Mr. Hayhurst, along with members of the Stotz family, commented
that The full size statue is so lifelike and the quality of the sculpture is so perfect that
Mr. Stotz really comes alive. Mr. Hayhurst also noted that John Hanna, the Rock of Ages
master sculptor who crafted the statue, took such pride in his work and it shows in the
quality of the result. The finished statue weights nearly 9,200 pounds and is crafted
from world famous Rock of Ages Sealmark granite.

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MASONIC TEMPLE
LIBRARY AND MUSEUM OF PENNSYLVANIA
The Masonic Temple, home of the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of
Pennsylvania, is located at One North Broad Street, in the center of Philadelphia. Since
its dedication in 1873, this architectural jewel has attracted hundreds of thousands of
brethren and visitors.
According to architects, artists, structural engineers and scholars, this magnificent
temple is unlike anything else in the world. Our mystic ancestors in Egypt, Greece, Italy,
Germany, France, Scotland and England are all suggested by the designs which distinguish the lodge rooms.
The building is comprised of the Grand Masters Suite; offices of the Grand Master,
Grand Secretary, Grand Treasurer and Masonic Education; the Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania; the Grand Banquet Room; Oriental, Corinthian, Renaissance, Ionic, Egyptian, Norman, and Gothic halls; the Temple Treasures gift shop; a large kitchen;
banquet rooms and other offices.
Located within the Masonic Temple, the Masonic Library and Museums collection of
books, documents, manuscripts, artifacts and photos can assist a person with navigating
through the extensive history of Freemasonry within Pennsylvania, as well as its impact
on our nation.
The Masonic Temple provides a meeting place for members to hold special recognitions such as lodge anniversaries or even weddings; for visitors attending events
which celebrate art and history; for students looking for real world experiences; and for
professionals in the field to converge ideas and practices. Through these community
connections, The Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania is furthering its professional reputation as a cultural benefit for the fraternity, the city of Philadelphia, the state
of Pennsylvania and visitors worldwide.
The Library, founded in 1817, is considered to have one of the finest collections for
the study of Freemasonry. It holds 75,000 volumes, 30,000 documents and manuscripts, and a vast number of print and photographic works. One treasure is Brother
Benjamin Franklins 1734 printing of The Constitutions of the Free-Masons, the first
Masonic book printed in America. The collection is available for public use within the
building. Pennsylvania Masons may borrow books from the circulating library.
Founded in 1908, the Museums collection consists of more than thirty thousand
items. Some prominent pieces on display are the Masonic apron presented in 1784 by
Brother Marquis de Lafayette to Brother General George Washington and Brother Ben28

jamin Franklins 1779 Masonic sash. There are also hundreds of portraits and various
other works of art, including statuary, antique glass, porcelain, china, antiquities, jewelry,
regalia, timepieces, curiosa, and Masonic history.

THE MASONIC CHILDRENS HOME

The Masonic Childrens Home, located on the Masonic Village at Elizabethtowns
1,400-acre campus, has been caring for children since 1913 and now has the capacity
to serve 40 youth within its five cottages. Our children have a unique opportunity to grow
and succeed through a supportive, homelike environment that gives them a chance to
receive friendship, care and guidance. As they mature, we provide the resources to prepare them to live on their own through our independent living program.
The Masonic Childrens Home is an ideal alternative for children who are orphaned,
being raised by aging grandparents, or who come from environments which do not provide the security and support necessary for a childs healthy growth and development.
Children admitted to the Masonic Childrens Home attend the Elizabethtown Area
School District. Upon graduation, higher education is an opportunity provided through
the Masonic Charities and is strongly supported by the Masonic Homes/Patton School
Alumni Association.
The Masonic Childrens Home is funded solely through generous contributions to the
Masonic Village at Elizabethtown. No charges are made to individuals, organizations, or
any units of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania or federal government for the services
provided by the Masonic Village to children accepted for care.
Through the generosity of Masons, the Masonic Childrens Home has always given
children in need the chance to succeed that they may not have been given otherwise.
Throughout the years, this mission has never changed.

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THE PENNSYLVANIA MASONIC YOUTH FOUNDATION

The Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation is a non-profit foundation dedicated to
developing leadership and character among the youth of Pennsylvania. The foundation
provides resources, training, conferences and adult leadership to a variety of Pennsylvania sponsored Masonic youth groups.
The Mission of the Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation is to lead the Masonic
Fraternity in providing services on behalf of young people and training for adults who
work for the betterment of youth. To accomplish this Mission, the Foundation enhances
the programs of the Masonic youth groups, supports initiatives to keep children safe
from violence, abuse and exploitation, and provides specialized education for adults
who offer leadership to youth in the Commonwealth.

MASONIC YOUTH GROUPS

Pennsylvania DeMolay DeMolay is a youth leadership and service organization
open to young men from the ages of 12 to 21. The Order takes
its name from Jacques DeMolay, the last Grand Master of the
historic Knights Templar, who suffered a martyrs death rather
than betray his fellow Knights. Members must profess a sincere
faith in God, and be of good moral character. The teachings of DeMolay center on 7 Cardinal Virtues: Love of Parents, Reverence, Courtesy, Comradeship, Fidelity, Cleanness,
and Patriotism
Pennsylvania Rainbow The Order of the Rainbow for Girls is
open to young ladies from age 11 to 20 who believe in God and are
of good moral character. Founded in 1922 by Reverend W. Mark
Sexson, the moral lessons of the Order are taught in beautiful ceremonies based on the 7 colors of the Rainbow. There are Rainbow
Assemblies located in many areas of Pennsylvania.
Pennsylvania Jobs Daughters The Order of Jobs Daughters
is open to young women from 10 to 20 who believe in God, are of
good moral character, and are related to a Master Mason. The lessons of Jobs Daughters are based on the Biblical book of Job, and
especially Job 42:15: In all the land were no women found so fair as
the daughters of Job; and their father gave them inheritance among
their brethren.

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CHIP
The Pennsylvania The Pennsylvania Masonic Child Identification Program (CHIP) gives
law enforcement and recovery officials the necessary materials to find missing children,
while giving parents peace of mind. Almost 320,000 children
have participated in this valuable program. A childs family is
given a small vinyl Purple Packet that contains a video, still
pictures, and fingerprints, of their child. A DNA kit is also provided to parents for completion at home. No copies are retained by the Masons or given
to any government agency. The Purple Packet is fully compatible with, and has been
adopted by, the Pennsylvania AMBER ALERT system.
The CHIP program is provided for free as a result of generous public and private donations. CHIP events are coordinated through the Masons of Pennsylvania, and all events
are sponsored by the Grand Lodge or by a local Masonic lodge.

THE MASONIC CHARITIES FUND

The Masonic Charities Fund is general in its name, but very special in the way it
quietly provides help where and when it is needed. Not only does it epitomize the meaning of charity, but it also exemplifies in deeds a principal characteristic of the Masonic
fraternity, the Brotherhood of Man and the Fatherhood of God.
A not-for-profit charitable organization, the Masonic Charities Fund was created in
1993 by the Right Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Pennsylvania as part of its mission to distribute charitable donations to entities that qualify as
charitable organizations under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.
Most recently, the Masonic Charities Fund has focused its support on the restoration
and preservation of the Masonic Temple in Philadelphia. The Masonic Temple stands as
a monument of the strength, stability and energy of the Craft in Pennsylvania. Efforts
to raise funds for this Masonic treasure are now a significant priority of the Masonic
Charities Fund in order to ensure that future generations may benefit from the past accomplishments of Freemasonry.
The Masonic Charities Fund also supports The Masonic Library and Museum situated
within the Masonic Temple.

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TALL CEDARS
www.tallcedars.org
Tall Cedarism is to promote wider acquaintances and friendship among men already
bound together by fraternal vows: To perpetuate itself as a fraternal and social organization, and to provide for its orderly government.
Being incorporated on March 18, 1902 they were known as the Tall Cedars of Lebanon of the United States of America. However, on November 13 1971 in their 70th year
of existence they instituted a Forest in Canada, and became known as the Tall Cedars
of Lebanon of North America. While our strength of
membership lies in the eastern section of the United
States they are slowly expanding westward.
It was some time around 1846, after the meetings
of the Grand Lodge and some of the Blue Lodges in
the Pennsylvania and New Jersey area that they would
have the Tall Cedar Degree performed. The Degree at this time was perceived as a form
of hazing and was eventually revised by Rev. George S. Gassner who was instrumental
in making up the current ritual. It comes directly from the first book of Kings Chapter 5
verses 1 though 10, and the second book of Chronicles, Chapter 2 verses 8 and 9. Of
the two passages, the first book of Kings, Chapter 5 is more specific. It revolves around
the building of the Temple of Jerusalem, and that King Solomon had to rely in the help of
King Hiram of Tyre who send his Hewers of Wood into the forest of Lebanon to strike down
and shape all the tall cedars for use in the Temple thus the Tall Cedars of Lebanon have a
biblical background and performance of the Tall Cedar Degree in the Blue Lodges at the
conclusion of their meetings brings us closer to our Masonic forbearance.
All down through the years the Tall Cedars of Lebanon had in one way or another, on
occasion contributed to worthy causes, However they really became of age when they
decided that no organization could continue to prosper unless it had a definite uplifting
objective for the benefit of humanity. These were the remarks of the Most Worshipful
Grand Master Harry Campbell of Washington, DC in 1933. After years of investigation
and research in 1951 they found not only a worthy cause but one which desperately
needed support muscular dystrophy.
The Muscular Dystrophy Association of America submits monies in the form of research grants to various universities and colleges in the search and cure for muscular
dystrophy. It was decided that the Tall Cedars of Lebanon of North America would become a part of this project with the Jerry Lewis Tall Cedar Day Camp in the summertime
and to provide for a little bit of fun for these children in the summertime.
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YORK RITE
www.yorkrite.org
When you join Freemasonry in Pennsylvania, you are told that it is a lodge of free and
accepted ancient York masons. York Rite Masonry is based, historically, on the ancient
York Constitutions, which King Athelstan of York, is said to have given in 920 AD to the
Guild of Stonemasons for their governance. Centuries later, the organization of Freemasonry in England, Scotland and Ireland adopted those Constitutions, which eventually
made its way to this country.
In the belief that Master Masons are interested in further light and knowledge beyond
just the first three degrees, one might consider the
search in the bodies of the York Rite; i.e., a Chapter
of Royal Arch Masons, a Council of Royal and Select
Master Masons, and a Commandery of Knights Templar
Chapter The degrees of a Royal Arch Chapter
focus on the building and completion of Solomons
Temple, its dedication, the decision to confer the Master Masons word on the more meritorious of the Fellowcraft, the destruction of Solomons Temple and the loss of that word, and its discovery
at the rebuilding of the Temple. The Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons in Penna.
supports local charitable work, and focuses on support throughout Penna. of the Ronald
McDonald Houses.
Council The degrees of a Council of Royal and Select Master Masons continue to
bring to light the ancient truths and moral values taught through the lessons of those
degrees. In the Royal Degree, one gets to meet Hiram Abiff and learn of the secret vault
beneath the Temple where the ancient relics of Masonry were stored. We learn also of
the consternation caused by his death and the decision of King Solomon and King Hiram
of Tyre the change the plans for conveying the secret word. The deree of Select Master
Mason continues the story of the building of that secret vault and the preservation of the
secret mysteries of our ancient brethren. A newly-made Select Master is justly informed
that he has passed the circle of perfection in Ancient Craft Masonry. The Super Excellent Degree, intensely dramatic and spectacular, drives home a great Masonic truth. The
Grand Council of Royal and Select Master Masons of Pennsylvania encourage local charity support, while encouraging all members to support the Special Olympics by donations
and direct help. God.
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Commandery The York Rite journey continues to a Commandery of Knights Templar. While tracing their historial lineage back to the Crusades of the 11th and 12th
Centuries, modern Masonic Knights Templar emerged in the 18th century as a part
of the Masonic fraternity. It is Christian in nature, dealing with lessons taught in the
New Testament. While they are semi-military in order and appearance, their degrees,
or Orders, promote the noble principles of Love, Truth, Charity, Hospitality and Universal
Benevolence. The Grand Commandery and its national counterpart support a national
Education Foundation, which gives scholarship grants to college students, and a national
Eye Foundation, which provides for individual eye care for those who cannot afford it, as
well as supporting research projects for the cure of eye diseases. Knight Templary was
instrumental in sponsoring early chapters of the Order of DeMolay.
A Master Mason is eligible to petition a Chapter of Royal Arch Masons. You must be
a Royal Arch Mason to petition a Council of Royal and Select Master Masons and/or a
Commandery of Knights Templar.

ANCIENT SCOTTISH RITE

www.supremecouncil.org
The Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite is an appendant Masonic organization that a
Master Mason may join in order to continue a quest for Masonic education beyond the
third degree. The Scottish Rite consists of the 4th through 32nd Degrees along with an
honorary 33rd Degree awarded for exceptional service to Freemasonry or humanity.
Each Degree in the Scottish Rite presents a dramatic lesson regarding mans service
to God, his Brethren, his Family, or his Country. Pennsylvania is part of the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rites Northern Masonic Jurisdiction,
which is governed by a Supreme Council, located in
Lexington, Massachusetts. The Northern Masonic Jurisdiction is composed of fifteen states north of the
Mason-Dixon line.
The true origin of the Ancient Accepted Scottish
Rite has been obscured by the passage of time, but
most Masonic scholars tend to agree that the Scottish Rite had its origins in France, not Scotland. Many
Scottish Masons had fled to France during the political upheavals in the 17th and 18th
centuries, and became active at a time when the Degrees of the Rite were evolving in
French Freemasonry. One of these degrees was known as Ecossais, or Scotch Master
Degree. This degree is possibly the nearest connection Scotland had historically with
34

the Scottish Rite and has caused some to think mistakenly that the Rite originated in
Scotland. In reality, a Supreme Council for Scotland was not even established until 1846.
By the mid-eighteenth century, a group of twenty-five different degrees were assembled
into what is often called the Rite of Perfection. Estienne Morin, a Freemason in southern
France, was given the authority to carry these Rites to the New World. By the mid-to-late
1700s, Morin and his appointed Deputies had established the first Scottish Rite Lodges
of Perfection in Albany, New York and Charleston, South Carolina.
The Scottish Rite also practices charity. It supports the 32 Masonic Learning Centers
for Children. These centers, spread out across the entire Northern Masonic Jurisdiction, provide professional individualized tutoring at no cost to the parents, for children
disabled by dyslexia. The Scottish Rite provides money in the form of fellowship grants
for research to alleviate and cure the effects of schizophrenia. The Scottish Rite provides college students with scholarships through the Abbott Scholarship Fund. Finally,
the Scottish Rites National Heritage Museum, located in Lexington, Massachusetts, was
founded as a gift to our nation during its bicentennial year. It houses one of the finest
collections of materials and artifacts relating to Freemasonry in the world, along with a
collection of fine art and documents relating to the Revolutionary War. The museum also
contains the Van Gorden-Williams Library and Archives which serves as a repository and
research facility for Masonic history.

SHRINERS INTERNATIONAL
www.shrinersinternational.org
Shriners International is a fraternity based on fun, fellowship and philanthropy, and
their best-known symbol is the distinctive red fez. Currently, there are 7 temples (chapters) located throughout Pennsylvania. Men who wish to
become Shriners must be members of Freemasonry and
achieve the status of Master Mason.
Within each temple, there are clubs and units for
members with various interests and hobbies. The fraternity may be best known for its colorful parades, circuses
and clowns. However, there are also many other participation options for members, from leadership development and public speaking to networking and special interests.
Shriners International was founded in 1872 and continues to support Shriners Hospitals for Children as its official philanthropy. The first Shriners Hospitals for Children
35

opened in 1922, and today, there are 22 hospitals throughout North America providing
specialty care without financial obligation to patients or their families.
The Shriners are active supporters of the health care system thousands volunteer
as drivers, transporting patients to and from the hospitals for care, and many others
visit and entertain patients. Shriners also serve as tour guides and volunteer in various
departments at the hospitals. Many temples organize fundraisers to benefit Shriners
Hospitals for Children, and Shriners voluntarily serve on the local and international
boards for the hospitals and health care system.

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37

Record of Activities

Date

1. Examination of a Visitor................................................... ____________

2. Attend a Stated Meeting................................................. ____________
3. Attend an Extra or Special Meeting.................................. ____________
4. Attend a dinner special event or fundraiser..................... ____________
5. Attend a summer event sponsored by your Lodge............. ____________
6. Attend a Lodge Family Night or Ladies Night.................... ____________
7. Attend the District Deputys visitation............................... ____________
8. Attend a Masonic Funeral service.................................... ____________
9. Fill in a Chair at a Lodge meeting.................................... ____________
10. Provide a Program for your Lodge................................... ____________
11. Be afirst line signeron a petition.................................... ____________
12. Visit a District School of Instruction.................................. ____________
13. Visit a Blue Lodge in your District.................................... ____________
14. Attend Masonic Family Night at a Baseball game.............. ____________
15. Attend Masonic Family Day at an Amusement Park.......... ____________
16. Attend a District Summer Picnic or Golf event.................. ____________
17. Visit the Grand Lodge of PA............................................. ____________
18. Attend a Grand Lodge Communication............................. ____________
19. Attend the Grand Masters visitation to a Lodge................ ____________
20. Visit and tour one of the Masonic Villages........................ ____________
21. Apply for a Masonic License Plate................................... ____________
22. Join the Masonic Blood Donors Club............................... ____________
23. Visit a Masonic Historic site............................................. ____________
Send comments to committeeonmasoniceducation@pagrandlodge.org

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 Check out these Masonic websites

www.pagrandlodge.org
www.gwmemorial.org
www.supremecouncil.org
www.yorkrite.org
www.tallcedars.org
www.nps.gov/vafo/historyculture/arch.htm
www.phoenixmasonry.org/masonicmuseum/
friendZtoZfriendZmonument
www.dcmemorials.com/indexZindiv0007044.htm
www.shrinersinternational.org

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The Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania

One Broad Street Philadelphia, PA 19107-2598

215-988-1900
e-mail: gsoffice@pagrandlodge.org
web: www.pagrandlodge.org