News
Pennsylvania Masonic News
Where does Freemasonry come from?
Much like anything that has existed for more than 300 years, it’s hard to find exact proof or provide one specific answer to the question that often mystifies the minds of many: “Where does Freemasonry come from?” This question has prompted thousands of books, movies like “The Lost Symbol” and “National Treasure” and conspiracy theories galore. On the bright side, these ideas keep people interested in the fraternity and often bring interested men to our [...]
Farewell My Brother – Thoughts on Masonic Funerals
While there is so much beauty to be found all throughout our Masonic ritual, there is no place where it is more prevalent than in the Masonic Funeral Service. The heartfelt words of farewell spoken by the Worshipful Master, the humble prayer recited by the Chaplain, and the unison echoes of the assembled Brethren combine to make that ceremony one which never fails to tug at the heart strings of every person present. Here are [...]
Just what do Freemasons do?
Over the last 300 years, Freemasons in Pennsylvania have been active members of their communities. The Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania has built and invested in five Masonic Villages; founded and maintained the Masonic Children’s Home; given out more than $1 million in scholarships to students; assisted parents and children with problems like bullying and drug abuse; and saved and restored priceless books and artifacts relating to the founding of the United States. Yet, one question [...]
Gingrich Joins Century Club
Congratulations are in order for Bob Gingrich, a member Prince Edwin-Spring Creek No. 486, Middletown, and a resident of the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown. He recently received the Century Club award from the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania for conferring 100 Masonic degrees. Two months after becoming a Mason in 1988, he conferred his first degree and has continued every year since. He conferred six degrees in 2015 alone! “It’s fun to see when someone is [...]
Lodge 460 Fires Civil War Cannon
Credit: Kevin Jones, D.D.G.M. 35 On Sept. 8, 2015 Oriental Lodge No. 460, Orangeville, sponsored a program prior to its stated meeting for all members and guests. Members of “Thompsons Battery C” Civil War reenactment unit performed a wonderful demonstration of how Union Army Artillery units worked and fought using an authentic 12 Pound model 1836 Field Howitzer cannon. The unit was comprised of Gary Hoover (Captain) of Lodge No. 106, Williamsport, Eric Stahley, MSA [...]
Red Lion Lodge Honors Masonic Families
Credit: G. Scott Fair, D.D.G.M. 43 Red Lion Lodge No. 649, located in Red Lion, PA, recently presented Lewis Jewels to many of their members. The Lewis Jewel may be worn by a Mason, if, at the time of his Initiation, his father was a Mason in good standing. At the October Stated meeting of the Lodge ten jewels were presented to the brethren. Receiving their jewels were Bros. Samuel Laucks, Kayle Fry, S.W., Michael Keener, [...]
District 34 Supports Masonic Youth
Credit: Robert C. Snyder, D.D.G.M. 34 In response to Bro. Robert J. Bateman, R.W.G.M.’s initiative for brethren to become more involved with our Masonic youth, the 34th Masonic District held a Masonic Youth Group Day on Oct. 24, at Everett Lodge No 524 in Everett. The day was organized by the efforts and dedication of Bro. B. Monte Kemmler, P.M., Chaplain of Mount Union Lodge No 688 and the 34th Masonic District Youth Chairman. All [...]
Meadville Masons Sponsor Summer Learning
Credit: Michael Cain, M. Ed. & R. Jospeh Haberlin, D.D.G.M. 25 Right at the beginning of summer, when most kids are heading for vacation, over 20 young people spent one week of their summer vacation returning to school. But not just an ordinary school. It is the Ben Franklin School of Industry. With a skill set based focus and project driven curriculum, students were immersed in a dynamic and rich educational experience at no cost [...]