THE PENNSYLVANIA
VOL. LXIII, NO. 2
MAY 2016
The Many Faiths of Freemasonry
Christianity
Islam
Judaism
Buddhism
Hinduism
CONTRIBUTE
THE PENNSYLVANIA FREEMASON®
VOL. LXIII, MAY 2016, NO. 2
©2016 The R.W. Grand Lodge F.&A.M. of Pennsylvania
EDITORIAL BOARD
Chairman
Raymond T. Dietz, R.W.G.M.
S. Eugene Herritt, R.W.D.G.M.
Thomas Gamon, IV, R.W.S.G.W.
Jeffrey M. Wonderling, R.W.J.G.W.
Jeffrey W. Coy, R.W.G.T.
Mark A. Haines, R.W.G.S.
The Pennsylvania Freemason magazine staff
is looking for photographers and writers
to contribute their talents!
Please email a link to samples of your work to
[email protected] to be considered for the
publication. Contributors will receive a photo credit or byline.
The Pennsylvania Freemason reserves the right to use submissions
elsewhere, such as on the Grand Lodge website, Facebook page,
as a blog, etc.
Feature Focus
The Many Faiths of Freemasonry
This issue features several articles about how faith in a Supreme Being is important to
Freemasonry, but is a unifying, rather than a dividing, characteristic in our Craft.
Paul J. Roup, D.D.G.M.-54
EDITORIAL STAFF
Tina L. Raybold - Production Coordinator
Rich Johnson - Graphic Designer
Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation Staff
Masonic Library & Museum of Pennsylvania Staff
(Publication No. USPS 426-140) May 2016 Issue of The
Pennsylvania Freemason ® Published quarterly by the Masonic
Villages, One Masonic Drive, Elizabethtown, PA 17022. Articles
and photographs to be considered for publication should be sent
with local Masonic authority to the address above, to the attention
of The Pennsylvania Freemason ® or emailed to pafreemason@
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photographs and artwork become the property of the Grand
Lodge.
Published by the Masonic Villages, owned and operated by
the Grand Lodge of F. & A. M. of Pennsylvania, as a means of
soliciting the physical and financial support of the members, their
families and the public in general. Periodical postage is paid at
Elizabethtown, PA, and additional mailing offices.
We appreciate the many submissions we receive for consideration.
We apologize, but due to space constraints we are not able to
publish every submission we receive.
STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP
(Act of Oct. 23, 1962; Section 4369; Title 39, United States Code)
May 2016, The Pennsylvania Freemason ®, published quarterly by
the Masonic Villages, Elizabethtown, PA 17022. Publishers: The
Right Worshipful Grand Lodge of the Most Ancient and Honorable
Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons of Pennsylvania.
Editor: Raymond T. Dietz. Owner: The Right Worshipful Grand
Lodge of the Most Ancient and Honorable Fraternity of Free and
Accepted Masons of Pennsylvania. Known bondholders: none.
No advertising handled. Free distribution averages 124,000 each
quarter. I certify that the statements made by me are correct and
complete.
3
Freemasonry Today
Message from the Grand Master • Upcoming Events • Where Are they Now? •
Our Brothers’ Keepers • The Chain of Union
10
Masonic Education
Understanding Leads to Harmony • Freemasonry and the Death of God •
Freemasonry through Jewish Eyes • Open to Universal Principles • Masonic Book Review • Why is Freemasonry Unique? • Bring New Life to the Masonic Temple’s Grand Ballroom
20Philanthropy
Help For Our Heroes • Masonic Youth Practice Religious Tolerance • Improving Literacy in PA • Re-inventing Retirement • Masonic Villages’ Board Approves Strategic Vision for the Future • A $55 Million Transformation • Masonic Villages’ 2016 Wish List • Spreading Kindness • Support Our Dream
31Accomplishments
New Master Craftsman and Master Pillar Awards • Congratulations!
Raymond T. Dietz, Editor
Mailing address changes
If your address on the back cover of this magazine is not exactly
as you have provided it to us, please be aware that addresses are
modified through the various mailing process requirements required
by the U.S. Postal Service. If you have any questions or would like
to inform us of a change in address, please contact the Office of Gift
Planning at 1-800-599-6454 or [email protected].
Postmaster: Send address changes to:
The Pennsylvania Freemason ®, c/o Masonic Village, One Masonic
Drive, Elizabethtown, PA 17022-2199.
Subscribe to the online edition!
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If you would prefer to receive an electronic version of the magazine for your
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your request by emailing [email protected]. An electronic version of
the magazine is also available online at www.pamasons.org.
Save
a Tree
Brethren,
These first few months as your Grand Master have proven to
only increase my pride as a Pennsylvania Mason! I thank you for
embracing my initiatives with great dedication and enthusiasm –
together, we are already making a huge impact on our communities,
our military families, our widows, our members and our Masonic
Charities.
The Almoner’s Fund has quickly come to the rescue for our
Masonic families in need (see p. 6 for a recent example), and the
traveling gavel has been so successful that attendance at lodge
meetings has raised the roof of numerous temples across the state.
Many of you have already signed on the first line on petitions
for membership, inviting your family, friends, coworkers and
neighbors into our beloved fraternity. With the membership
incentive program, the gift of membership is two-fold. Some of you
have already received your gifts, others are saving up for bigger
prizes, and now, you have the option of donating your earned points
to the Masonic Children’s Home, as Brother Bob Duckett, Abraham
C. Treichler Lodge No. 682, Elizabethtown, was the first to do. What
a meaningful, generous way to give to our youth!
We have identified the schools in each of the seven Masonic
regions that would benefit most from the Raising a Reader
program, and with the help of our District Deputy Grand Masters,
41 classes in five school districts have already verbally accepted
the opportunity to adopt Raising the Reader by September. To learn
how you can support this initiative, see p. 23. We’ll have more
details about this exciting venture in the August issue.
As you will read on pp. 27 and 30, there is yet another way
to impact young lives – by supporting our dream of building a
Masonic Children’s Home in Sewickley!
Every day is an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of
our brethren, their families and loved ones. Lady Lynn and I enjoyed
spending time with residents at the Masonic Village at Sewickley
on Easter morning. Their cheerful smiles blessed our hearts, and
sharing the holiday with our Masonic family made it that much
more meaningful.
I hope you enjoy this feature-packed issue, which not only
provides opportunities to get involved, but offers inspiration,
education and updates on how you and your fellow brethren
are living out our Masonic oath and obligations and making our
communities that much stronger for our efforts. I encourage you
not only to read through these pages, but to share this magazine
with others who may have an interest in or questions about our
great fraternity. This is the first of many issues that will focus on
important, timely topics – such as how our brethren of different
faiths labor together in harmony and unanimity.
Sincerely and fraternally,
Raymond T. Dietz, R.W. Grand Master
UPCOMING EVENTS
JUNE QUARTERLY
COMMUNICATION
19TH ANNUAL
MEETING IN THE HILLS
Saturday, June 25 at 10 a.m.
Saturday, June 18 at 5 p.m.
TO THE MEMBERS OF THE GRAND LODGE:
You are hereby requested to attend the June
Quarterly Communication of the Grand Lodge of
Pennsylvania to be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday,
June 25, at the Greater Pittsburgh Masonic Center,
3579 Masonic Way, Pittsburgh, PA.
This meeting will be held Outdoors at Christner’s
Grove near Dawson, Pa. Casual dress – no shorts, blue
jeans or collarless shirts. All Master Masons are welcome.
James Cochran Lodge No. 614, Connellsville, will
host this annual outdoor event at Christner’s Grove.
A New York strip steak dinner will be served at 5 p.m.
A special meeting of James Cochran Lodge No. 614 will
be held at 6:30 p.m.
Tickets are $25 and may be ordered from Brother
Alan R. Sandusky (contact info below). Please send a
self-addressed stamped envelope with payment. Checks
should be made payable to “CDS Building Corporation.”
All ticket orders must be received by June 11. Directions
will be included with your return ticket order.
By Order of the R.W. Grand Master.
Mark A. Haines
R.W. Grand Secretary
GRAND MASTER’S
2016 EASTERN REGION
MASONIC CHARITY GOLF
TOURNAMENT
Contact: Alan R. Sandusky, P.M.
108 Broadford Road, Connellsville, PA 15425
1-724-557-1441 • [email protected]
June 27, 2016
Lu Lu Country Club
1600 Limekiln Pike, Glenside, PA 19038
10 a.m. Registration begins
10:30 a.m. Driving Range and putting green
11 a.m. Lunch
Noon Shotgun start
5 - 6 p.m. Social hour, followed by an awards
dinner.
The fee for the outing is $150 per golfer or $580 per
foursome, which includes greens fee, cart, bag drop, use
of practice range, refreshments on the course, lunch,
social hour, dinner, gifts and awards.
Dress in your vintage 50s best
and come out for
a great night!
To register golfers or for sponsorship information,
contact: Brother Edward Achilles by June 18
(unless 120 golfers are entered before then)
6 Virginia Lane, Horsham, PA 19044
1-267-266-1119 • [email protected]
Registration is also available at www.concordia67.com or
www.grandmastersmasonicgolf.com.
For each golfer, include name, address, phone and email.
Make checks payable to “Charity Fund of Concordia Lodge
No. 67,” with note to “GM Charity Golf Outing.”
Please do not send cash.
4
June 25, 2016 at 6:30 p.m.
Syria Shrine, 1877 Shriners Way Cheswick, PA
Cost $45 per person
Includes Authentic 50s Foods & an Open Bar!
Call 1-724-274-7000 for Tickets
Pennsylvania Freemason
WHERE ARE THEY NOW?
Edward H. Fowler, R.W. Grand Master (1992-1993)
Brother Edward H. Fowler, Jr., served as R.W. Grand
Master in 1992 and 1993. Just before assuming the Grand
East, he retired as a manager of property, sales and excise
tax for Pittsburgh-based Aluminum Company of America
(ALCOA), where he had worked for 40 years.
The highlights of Brother Ed’s term as Grand Master
included taking part in the celebration of the 275th Anniversary
of the Grand Lodge of England and the dedication of the
Friend to Friend Masonic Memorial in Gettysburg. In 2014,
R.W. Grand Master Jay W. Smith invited him to take part in
the rededication of this memorial. In his address that day, he
noted, “The actual clearance to get approval for the building
of the monument took a considerable amount of time, effort
and the help of a lot of people.” He is incredibly proud that
he and his team persevered, and that the monument will be
there for people to enjoy for generations to come.
Brother Ed was raised in Avalon Lodge No. 657, Pittsburgh,
in 1953, not long after being honorably discharged from the
May 2016
Navy. He moved to Belle Vernon in 1972, but always kept his
membership in Avalon. “My son, Geary, and my grandson,
Geary, both belong there, as well,” he said. “We have been
able to share some Masonic experiences, and that’s nice.”
Acknowledging that it can be more difficult for today’s men
to commit to coming to Lodge, he said, “The world is totally
different today than when I became a Freemason.”
One thing, though, remains the same. “The situation with
Freemasonry is that if you don’t put anything into it, you don’t
get anything out of it,” says Brother Ed, and he has certainly
practiced what he preaches.
Since his term as Grand Master, Brother Ed has been active
in several other Masonic bodies. He was Grand Master of the
Allied Masonic Degrees; served as Provincial Grand Master of
the Royal Order of Scotland, 1997 - 2014; and was the Most
Eminent Grand Master-General of the York Cross of Honour.
One accomplishment he is most proud of is having
brought several invitational Masonic bodies from England
to the United States. “It took us about 20 years to convince
the leaders of those bodies that they would be successful in
the States,” he said, “but we were persistent, and it has been
good.” He worked with several friends who he has made over
the years to make it happen. “I was only one person playing
my part, but I’m proud of what we accomplished,” he added.
The bodies include The Operatives, The Order of Athelstan
and the August Order of Light. All are by invitation and require
Masonic membership to belong.
Outside of Masonry, Brother Ed is a retired Rotarian and
a member of Lynnwood Lutheran Church. He has been an
avid photographer for much of his life but had put it on hold.
“Photography takes a lot of time, but I’m slowly getting back
to it,” he said. Slowly may be the key, as Brother Ed has no
plans to scale back his Masonic commitments. “I really still
enjoy seeing the people I’ve met over the years. I’m not ready
to give that up.”
Past Grand Masters
www.pamasons.org/pgm
5
FREEMASONRY TODAY
OUR BROTHERS’ KEEPERS
by Brother P.J. Roup, D.D.G.M.-54
Carmen Bigler was at the end of her rope. Glen, her
husband of 57 years, had been living with Parkinson’s and
dementia, and things were getting difficult. “In September,
he was having problems with falling, and was in a nursing
home for two weeks in October for rehab,” she said. “We
live alone, and I am his primary caregiver. I felt helpless.
There was no way I could get him in and out of the house
without a ramp.”
She didn’t know where to turn. “I was sitting at the
kitchen table looking for help and some kind of answer.
His Blue Lodge notice was on the table. I picked it up, and
looking at the names of elected officers, Tom Heckman
[Lewistown Lodge No. 203] was one name I could put a
face to.” So she called him.
“I was the Junior Warden when Mrs. Bigler called me
and told me about their situation,” Brother Tom recalls.
6
Almoner’s Fund
www.pamasons.org/almoner
“Her husband, Glen, was a mechanic and had fixed my
motorcycle for me in the past, so I knew about their
situation.” Knowing Glen was a veteran, Brother Tom
contacted some veterans’ groups to see if they could
help as well, but there was so much red tape, he realized
it was going to be far easier and quicker to do it himself.
He reached out to then Senior Warden Randy Kibe to enlist
his help. “Tom brought up the idea at one of our meetings,
and I told him I would help in whatever way he needed me,”
Brother Randy recalls.
“I had the lumber I needed leftover from another
project, and I’m pretty handy,” Brother Tom said. “So I took
the measurements, and within a couple of weeks, Randy
and I had the ramp installed. I knew I could count on my
Lodge to help her out.”
“I was just so grateful they were willing to help me,”
Carmen said. “The hardest two things to do in this life are
to ask someone for help, and then be patient enough to wait
until you get it. And Tom was just so positive. He said, ‘You
asked for help, and I’m going to give it to you.’”
Brother Randy, now Worshipful Master, intends to keep
in touch with the Biglers to see if there is anything else the
Lodge can do. “The Almoner’s Fund will help us lend a hand
to the Biglers and others like them going forward,” he said.
“We just have to know that the help is needed, and we can
be there to pitch in.”
It was a beautiful spring day, almost 70° and sunny,
and 93-year-old Brother Clyde Jordan knew March 8
would be a day he would never forget. A Masonic Village
at Elizabethtown resident, Army veteran, 70-year Mason
(member of Kittanning East Brady Lodge No. 244,
Kittanning), Brother Clyde took off from Donegal Springs
Airpark and flew over the Gettysburg battlefield, enjoying
the scenery, while his wife of 70 years, Eva, smiled up at
Pennsylvania Freemason
the sky. Both Brother Clyde and Eva are facing life-limiting
illnesses and receiving care from Masonic Village Hospice.
“He always wanted to fly,” Eva said, “but we didn’t
always have the money. We raised our children first, then,
I said, ‘now is your time.’” As a licensed private pilot, Clyde
took plenty of flights for fun, sometimes bringing his sons.
Timothy Nickel, Masonic Village Hospice chaplain,
arranged the flight with volunteer Masons Larry Derr, Rick
Hamm and Wayne Laughner, who have now formed project
Brother Flight to help fund, gather volunteers and pilot
future flights for Masonic Village Hospice patients.
As Brother Clyde climbed out of the cockpit, he said,
“I’ll never forget this as long as I live. I never thought I’d
get to go up in a plane again. If I never get out of my chair
again, I’d be a happy man.”
Do you have a story of Masons helping other Masons
that you’d be willing to share? If so, send it to Brother
P.J. Roup at [email protected].
To view a recent news story on Masonic Village Hospice’s Last Wish program, visit
http://fox43.com/2016/04/18/elizabethtown-masonic-village-helps-patients-and-families-by-granting-final-wishes
May 2016
Almoner’s Fund
www.pamasons.org/almoner
7
FREEMASONRY TODAY
THE CHAIN OF UNION
by Brother P.J. Roup, D.D.G.M.-54
Politics and religion
– two things we are
admonished never to
dispute in Lodge. It is
interesting to note that
in the pantheon of the
millions of things that
could be discussed
in Lodge, only these
two
are
forbidden.
Why would that be?
I suspect that while
men can find a way to
disagree about almost
anything,
arguments
about religion and politics would most likely generate more
heat than light, and at the end, both would walk away as
entrenched in their own position as when they arrived.
Perhaps, then, you are wondering why this entire issue
is devoted to religion – a subject that many would consider
taboo. The simple answer is that we need to discuss it.
Freemasonry has been defined as, “kindness in the home;
honesty in business; courtesy toward others; dependability
in one’s work; compassion for the unfortunate; resistance
to evil; help for the weak; concern for good government;
support for public education; and above all, a life-practicing
reverence for God and love of fellow man.” But you need
only to examine the world around you to see that, outside
of the walls of Lodge, those things are in short supply.
Kindness, honesty, dependability and compassion are often
portrayed as weakness, and on the subject of religion,
the message is overwhelmingly, “Beware of them.” Who,
precisely, “them” refers to changes depending on who is
sounding the cry, but the message is always clear: we are
right, and they are wrong (perhaps even dangerous).
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Paranoia and demagoguery have all but replaced
reason and restraint. A quick scroll through most Twitter
and Facebook feeds will confirm this. Freemasonry,
however, teaches us to rise above the noise and to seek
similarities which unite, rather than differences which
divide. All major religions have some version of The Golden
Rule; all espouse love of others; all believe that there exists
in the heart of man, the divine spark of God. So perhaps
it is not religion that divides, but theology. In his book,
The Religion of Freemasonry, Joseph Fort Newton writes,
“[Religion] is the truth of life in its warmth and radiance,
its joy and pathos; [theology] is a system of reasonings and
conjectures, symbols, and traditions by which man seeks
to justify, clarify, and interpret the faith by which he lives.
Religion is poetry; theology is prose. It is the difference
between a flower garden and a book of botany, a manual of
astronomy and a sky full of stars.”
Religion, and the brotherly discussion of it, need not
be the elephant in the (Lodge) room. In this issue, you will
find an excerpt from Brother Christopher Rodkey’s paper,
“Freemasonry and the Death of God,” which he delivered
at the Pennsylvania Lodge of Research. You will also
meet Brothers Yasser Al-Khatib, Sankar Subramanian,
Michael Epstein and David Caplin. They have all found
in Freemasonry ways to enhance the practice of their
own religions, while at the same time broadening their
understanding of the world by associating with men who
have chosen different ways to worship God.
The Sufi poet, Rumi, said, “I go into the Muslim
mosque and the Jewish synagogue and Christian church
and I see one altar.” Freemasonry understands this, and her
altar is sturdy enough to support the Sacred Law of all who
believe in a Supreme Being.
Pennsylvania Freemason
“Freemasonry, however, teaches us to rise above the noise and to seek
similarities which unite, rather than differences which divide.”
– Brother P.J. Roup
May 2016
Title
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9
MASONIC EDUCATION
UNDERSTANDING
LEADS TO HARMONY
Meet Brother Yasser Al-Khatib
Brother Yasser AlKhatib, P.M., Fritz Lodge
No. 308, Conshohocken,
has been a Mason
since 2006. He serves
as the Chairman of
Masonic
Education
for District 6 and was
recently appointed to
the Committee on the
Academy of Masonic
Knowledge.
Brother
Yasser
moved
to
Pennsylvania in 2000
after completing his
bachelor’s degree in nursing at the American University of
Beirut. He works as a Nurse Manager at Temple University
Hospital and is an adjunct faculty at Neumann University.
A lifelong scholar, Brother Yasser earned his master’s
degree in clinical case management and his Geriatric Nurse
Practitioner post-master’s degree from Villanova University
in 2001 and 2003, respectively. He is currently pursuing
his MBA at Temple University. Brother Yasser resides in
Chesterbrook with his wife, Dina, their 2-year-old daughter
and newborn son.
Brother Yasser Al-Khatib was born and raised in an
Islamic household in Lebanon. His beliefs are displayed
via his application of the five pillars of Islam: attestation,
or a solid belief in one god, Allah, and Muhammad, as one
of his many prophets and messengers; prayer; fasting;
zakat, or charity; and pilgrimage to Mecca, if physically and
financially possible.
“Demonstrating compassion, earnestly striving for
harmony and fostering collaboration with others regardless
of their personal backgrounds or beliefs is key to the
Muslim faith,” Brother Yasser explains, “A practice which
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grooms the gentle and noble qualities that must govern the
daily interactions with human beings.”
Despite the misguiding propaganda and literature that
usually mislead the masses, Brother Yasser formed his
opinion of Freemasonry based on the “upright Masons
whom I was privileged to encounter throughout my early
years,” he recalls.
Growing up surrounded by family members and
friends of various religious denominations who were
Masons, Brother Yasser decided to join Freemasonry. “I
realized Freemasonry to be a medium that promotes close
friendship ties among men with diverse backgrounds and
a noble understanding of the mission of man on earth,”
he said. “Across history, communities thrived when their
members practiced such level of exchange. I viewed this
as essential to leading a successful life. My assumptions
turned out to be correct.”
Although Freemasonry is not a religion, Brother Yasser
finds that the Masonic emphasis on spirituality and civility
has strengthened his belief system. “My faith places a
strong emphasis on finding commonalities among humans
in order to unite in the pursuit of a greater good,” Brother
Yasser proclaims. “This great work in itself is a form of
worship and displays a strong belief in the Most High by
submitting to His wise will and command.”
Brother Yasser has received few inquiries from
enlightened brethren on his Islamic faith. “I am always
open to educated discussions that aim at promoting mutual
understanding,” he states. “I make every effort to respond
scholarly with references to the Islamic Holy scripture
and tradition.” In an effort to educate as many Brethren
as possible, he authored an article titled “Freemasons
United in Peace, Love, and Harmony” which was recently
published in the Living Stones Masonic Magazine. The
article discusses some of the Islamic and Buddhist
principles that are mirrored in Masonic Ritual, and can be
found through www.livingstonesmagazine.com.
Pennsylvania Freemason
“Freemasonry, as a universal brotherhood, has
throughout history promoted tolerance and love.
For the most part of my Masonic life, I have encountered
enlightened Brethren who have never judged me based on
any of my beliefs but rather on the actions and interactions
that represent a manifestation of my belief system.”
- Brother Yasser A. Al-Khatib
“The level of mutual respect and the lifelong
friendships that were forged through Freemasonry
opened the door for me to freely exchange beliefs and
ideas,” Brother Yasser states. “The opportunities arose
in being able to draw and present the comparisons
May 2016
between the tenets of Freemasonry and those of my
faith. I am convinced that such exchange helps improve
understanding and erase misconceptions.”
Online Edition
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MASONIC EDUCATION
FREEMASONRY
THROUGH JEWISH EYES
Meet Brethren from Columbia Lodge No. 91, Philadelphia
When Brother Michael Epstein, P.M., joined Columbia
Lodge No. 91, Philadelphia, in 1985, the membership
was predominantly Jewish. As the lodge has become
more diverse over the years, Brother Michael, along with
Brother David Caplin, P.M., and other Jewish brethren have
embraced the exposure to different traditions and religious
practices as part of their Masonic journey.
Brother Michael was raised in a Conservative Jewish
home and now belongs to a traditional Orthodox Jewish
congregation. He observes many of its rules and traditions,
and he studies laws and rituals with his Rabbi and as part
of the Partners in Torah program. The Torah lists 613
Commandments, and Brother Michael constantly strives to
incorporate more into his daily life. He served as president
of his synagogue and on its board of directors.
“I have a strong belief in God and find that this
provides me with an inner strength that keeps me
grounded,” he said.
Growing up, Brother Michael often heard stories from
his uncle and cousins about their Masonic experiences, but
he wasn’t immediately ready to join. After his aunt passed
away, his cousin asked if he thought of becoming a Mason.
“Remembering back to those stories and the happiness
Masonry gave to my family members, I decided to join,”
he said. “My relatives, all of whom were Jewish and were
involved in the Lodge, were examples that one could be
both religious and a Mason.”
Brother David Caplin is also a Conservative Jew. He
is active in his synagogue, participating in committees,
events, worship services and education, as well as taking
part in the greater Jewish community in southern New
Jersey where he resides. Being a part of the Jewish
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“family” is important to him and his extended family. While
he strives to be observant, life sometimes interferes.
Brother David is a third generation Mason. His
grandfather and father were Masons, as were many of their
friends, whose children Brother David grew up with.
“I knew as much about Freemasonry as a non-Mason
could know. I really looked forward to the day I could
be initiated,” he said. “I was assured there weren’t any
conflicts, as Freemasonry isn’t a religion. My grandfather
grew up in Orthodox Jewry and was moderately observant.
I figured if he had no problem, why should I?”
Judaism is a daily practice for Brother David. He looks
at everyday life, including Freemasonry, through Jewish
eyes and has a similar perspective to Brother Michael’s: “I
find so many connections and similarities as both require
a certain way of behaving. Both have duties of action. Both
require continuing education.
“When discussing Freemasonry, religion invariably
creeps in. This gives me the opportunity to compare and
contrast. Moreover, it gives me the opportunity to state
how Judaism reinforces Freemasonry and vice versa.”
Pennsylvania Freemason
Member Spotlight
“Judaism and Masonry teach
the same or similar moral
codes. Therefore, it is easy to
maintain both sets of principles in
interactions with my Brethren and
others with whom I have contact.”
– Brother Michael Epstein
May 2016
Title
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MASONIC EDUCATION
OPEN TO UNIVERSAL PRINCIPLES
Meet Brother Sankar Subramanian
Freemasonry
has
played a large role in
Brother
Subramanian
Sankar’s life, both personally and professionally. He has seen the fraternity as a strong way to
stay closely tied with his
family, community and
faith, as well as expand
his leadership abilities.
He, his wife, Nrutika;
daughter, age 14 and
member of the International Order of Rainbow
for girls; and son, age 7, enjoy travel, photography and
practicing their faith together. Having earned a bachelor’s
degree in physics and an MBA, Brother Sankar enjoys the
world of technology and manages information technology
infrastructure programs at HCL America Inc. A Past Master
of Fritz Lodge No. 308, Conshohocken, Brother Sankar
joined Freemasonry in 2009.
Though he knew little about Freemasonry prior to
becoming a member, Brother Subramanian Sankar had
no concerns about the fraternity interfering with his Hindu
religion, the teachings of which are based on humans being
driven to live long and happily with the understanding that
God is knowledge.
Many prayers and teachings of Vedas (ancient Hindu
scriptures) do not make any distinction between the Hindu
religion and other faiths. As an example, Brother Sankar
notes a prayer ending in the Sanskrit language, “Lokah
Samastha Sukinah: Bhavantu” or “May all beings in all
worlds be happy.”
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Brother Sankar says as in Hinduism and in
Freemasonry, prayerfulness strengthens one’s own freewill.
The Masons Brother Sankar knew led their lives in admirable
ways, and their adherence to their values impressed him.
This was the biggest motivating factor for Brother Sankar,
whose father-in-law was active in the fraternity, to become
a member.
Also a strong follower of his faith, Brother Sankar’s
father-in-law lived a prayerful life.
“He never asked me to join the fraternity for nearly
nine years,” Brother Sankar said, “but when I expressed my
interest to join, he swung into action. It seemed as though
he was waiting for my request all those years.”
Brother Swami Vivekananda, a Hindu scholar who
introduced the teachings to the West and inspired millions
across the globe, also had a great impact on Brother
Sankar’s Masonic journey. This eliminated any fear in
Brother Sankar’s mind that Freemasonry would conflict with
his religion.
Brother Sankar finds many commonalities between
the Hindu religion and Freemasonry, and breaks them into
segments including:
Compassion: Similar to Hinduism, Freemasonry
teaches men to act as friends, with love and compassion,
and suggests what is appropriate and righteous to the one
in need. “Freemasons handle difficult conversations in a
manner that is not hurtful,” Brother Sankar said. “The truth
is not compromised, but the Mason achieves the desired
end by tenderness.”
Duty Orientation: Within the fraternity, every Mason
knows his role well and how important one’s own duty is.
“In relation to Hinduism, the Bhagavad Gita, a very important
teaching, based on the Vedas, explains duty orientation at
length. It has been said a man who delights in his own duty
gains success,” Brother Sankar explained.
Pennsylvania Freemason
Member Spotlight
“All one needs is a discerning mind
to understand the universality of one’s
own teaching and present it after careful
consideration of sensitivities of those who
have different faiths. Thus, the sense of
brotherly love and healthy exchange of
ideas can prevail at the same time.”
-Brother Sankar Subramanian
Giving: A Mason makes a firm commitment to giving
from the very early stages of his Masonic journey. “The
attitude of giving becomes deeply ingrained in him as a
value,” Brother Sankar said. “One Veda states, ‘…overcome
your inability to give by giving.’”
In 2014, while Brother Sankar served as the Worshipful
Master of his Lodge, he took the opportunity to articulate
universal principles found in Hinduism that could be
appealing to members of the fraternity.
A sample of his communication reads, “... When the
response to a situation is determined by one’s own likes and
May 2016
dislikes, it will be mechanical and reactive. A mind in the
grip of reaction loses its freedom of will to act. A mind free
from reactions is quiet, receptive, objective and serene.”
Brother Sankar believes everyone can educate others
about their faith and openness.
“Every Mason is a leader in his own right,” Brother
Sankar said. “All one needs is a discerning mind to
understand the universality of one’s own teaching and
present it after careful consideration of sensitivities of those
who have different faiths. Thus, the sense of brotherly love
and healthy exchange of ideas can prevail at the same time.”
Online Edition
www.pamasons.org/magazine 15
MASONIC EDUCATION
FREEMASONRY
AND THE DEATH OF GOD
by Brother Christopher D. Rodkey
Rev. Dr. Christopher
D. Rodkey is a member
of Mt. Lebanon Lodge
No. 226 and Tyler of the
Pennsylvania Lodge of
Research. He is Pastor
of St. Paul’s United
Church of Christ in
Dallastown, Pa., and
teaches at Penn State
York.
His new book
is titled “The World is
Crucifixion.”
This is an excerpt
from a paper delivered at the December 2015 stated
meeting of the Pennsylvania Lodge of Research, which
will be published in its entirety in the next issue of its
“Transactions.”
When we take our oaths and obligations in Lodge
ritual, we place ourselves upon the altar, above an opened
book of sacred law. As a Christian, I interpret this to be a
sacrifice of self, an extension of the story of God sacrificing
Godself into creation, a sacrifice into the sacred history of
the Hebrew scriptures and into the incarnation of Jesus.
This is a God of change and perpetual redefinition or
transfiguration. These can all be expressed in the metaphor
of the death of God, as understood within the realm of
radical Christian theology: God changes over time, and
our perceptions and thinking of God must change with the
times. In the absence of an interventionist deity, following
the Christian tradition of Pentecost, the work of God is now
upon us.
Upon the altar, we sacrifice ourselves, and with this
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sacrifice, we release our personal desire for a God who
props up and conveniently justifies our own moral actions,
“deus ex machina.” By calling upon the name of God for
help and placing ourselves upon the altar and volume of
sacred law, proclaiming a fraternal bond between all of
the children of the one God, our conception of God must
change to no longer be a God of therapeutic moralistic
deism, but rather one which challenges and lures us into a
radically expansive new understanding of God and what it
might mean to be the bearer of the divine in this world.
Freemasons do not pronounce a specific doctrine of
this divinity. The fact that we are willing to accept, affirm
and fellowship with those whose theologies might be
very different from my own ... to believe that God may
be expressed legitimately in many different forms is
blasphemy to those who believe in a God of intolerance,
hate and ignorance. Freemasonry promotes the belief that
a single deity can be experienced through the presence and
human hands and faces of others who are different from
‘me’ in a tyled lodge.
What I am describing is not what some Christians
would call orthodoxy, or “right worship.” In fact, it is a
recognition of heterodoxy, “other” or “different worship.”
The acknowledgement of heterodoxy, or difference,
supports my own internal orthodoxies. But first, we must
be sacrificed; we must believe that God really does wish for
peace and harmony in humanity; we must ritually remove
the element of ourselves which elevates ourselves to that of
divinity, and walk with humility with others seeking divine
reconciliation together.
A consequence of postmodernity is a lack of religious
certainty, the disappearance of the Christian religious
“center” as intuitively placed in the center of public
discourse, and a rise of atheism. While many Christians
interpret these things as the enemy of faith, the fact is
Pennsylvania Freemason
“... we must believe that God
really does wish for peace and
harmony in humanity; we must
ritually remove the element of
ourselves which elevates ourselves
to that of divinity, and walk with
humility with others seeking divine
reconciliation together.”
– Brother Christopher D. Rodkey
that these are all direct results of Christianity having
passed through the crucible of modernity. An invitation
to retreat into the Old Certainties is attractive as a means
of resisting the forward movement of culture in history.
This is a primary theme we must understand to approach,
for example, the rise of both Islamic and Christian
fundamentalism: a retreat into the Old Certainties as a
means of combating the New Uncertainty.
A Masonic engagement with postmodernity is not
an escape into the old for the sake of the old or as a
means of evading the reality of our changing world. Nor
May 2016
is it a dismemberment of past traditions. Rather, it is a
reinvention and reinvigoration of the old in completely new
ways. To move into these directions requires us to return
to the Masonic tradition of seriously contemplating our
initiatory ritual within a postmodern context, a context
which includes our modernistic past. Where we move next
is to recognize that any gods that can be killed, should be;
declare the death of those gods – those certainties and
fundamentalisms – of the past, and move forward.
The cliff off of which we step is full of uncertainty. This
is, on some level, the point.
Online Edition
www.pamasons.org/magazine 17
MASONIC EDUCATION - Masonic Temple & Masonic Library and Museum
MASONIC
BOOK REVIEW
Bro. Brother’s Journal:
The Early Years, 1893-1911
Edited and arranged by Michael A. Halleran; illustrated by Ted Bastien
Richmond, VA: Macoy Publishing and Masonic Supply Co., Inc., c2011
By Glenys A. Waldman, Librarian
This diary of the heir to the Brother Pneumatic Cylinder fortune has been scrupulously edited by M.W. Past Grand
Master Michael A. Halleran, Esq., now Grand Librarian of the Grand Lodge of Kansas. During his long, adventurous
life, the genteel curmudgeon, Brother Hiram H. Brother (1872-1970), travelled all over the world and met many of its
Masonic dignitaries. Very much a child of his times, Brother Hiram could, however, detach himself from his world,
observing it with a jaundiced, even baleful, eye. He thus offers insights into the workings of human nature in general and
of the Masonic lodge in particular. Enhanced by delightful illustrations from the pen of Ted Bastien, this book will provide
hours of entertainment as well as food for serious thought. To borrow from the Masonic Library online catalog, visit
www.pamasonictemple.org/library or call 1-800-462-0430 ext. 1933.
Available for $29 plus shipping from the Masonic Library & Museum Shop at www.masonicmuseumgifts.com or 1-215-988-1973.
WHY IS FREEMASONRY UNIQUE?
By Glenys A. Waldman, Librarian, and Brother Seamus Stimpson,
Columbia Lodge No. 9, Philadelphia, and Madison Lodge No. 87, Connecticut
It’s not just because Freemasonry is the oldest and
largest fraternity in the world. It’s certainly not only because
of the socializing or networking for which it is well-known.
That is a characteristic of all fraternities.
There’s an aura around Freemasonry – not a “hard
core,” cabbalistic occult one, but an esoteric one of gentle,
friendly mysticism.
What is this gentle, friendly mysticism? Part of it is
the ritual. When it is well-memorized and well-performed
in Lodge, the ritual teaches life lessons allegorically so that
they can be more easily learned than they would be from a
dry textbook. With each degree conferred, the candidate is
absorbed more and more into the fraternity. After he becomes
a Master Mason, it is up to him – with the support of his
like-minded brethren – to continue his Masonic education
and deepen his absorption.
Freemasonry has a true philosophy as its foundation
and cornerstone: that of the late 17th and 18th century
Enlightenment, whose goals were uplifting the individual
by ending the abuses of the church and state, thus: liberty,
progress, reason, tolerance and fraternity. These tenets,
kept by Freemasonry, together with its relatively simple
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www.pamasonictemple.org
organization, provide a solid base and a respite from the
complicated, over-busy world of the 21st century.
For instance, Freemasonry’s ban on the discussion of
politics and religion immediately removes two of the greatest
bones of contention between people. This provides mental
“space” to be filled with discussion and – more important –
the practice of reason, tolerance and fraternity. The physical
space of the Lodge then becomes and remains one of peace
and harmony. As one of our past Grand Masters said, “There
are still good people in this world who want to be with likeminded individuals. [They want] to be with people whom they
can talk to without fear of reprisal and [in] whose company
they not only feel comfortable, but feel their families are
safe with them …”
These Masonic tenets, practiced all over the world,
provide a transcendental culture overarching the cultural
practices of any given country. This enables the members
to rise above themselves in solidarity with every other
Freemason. A Mason can travel the world and never feel
alone, because there is an immediate “click” – a bond – as
soon as the Masonic connection is known.
Pennsylvania Freemason
After
BRING NEW LIFE
to the Masonic Temple Grand Ballroom
To generate revenue and assist in the cost of maintaining the historic Masonic Temple – Masonic
Library and Museum of Pennsylvania, major renovations are transforming the Grand Ballroom
to encourage Masonic and public interest in renting the space for banquets, wedding receptions
and other special events.
Renovations include: fresh paint; newly installed stained glass windows featuring Presidents
and Freemasons Washington, Jackson, Roosevelt and Truman; recessed lighting; restored
floor tiles; and electrical and audio/visual updates. Plan a visit after July 1 to witness the
transformation first hand!
If your Lodge or District would like to take part in this wonderful opportunity to increase awareness
of the Masonic Temple – Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania within the fraternity and
the community, please complete the donation form below and send to:
Masonic Charities, Office of Gift Planning
One Masonic Drive, Elizabethtown, PA 17022
For questions, call 1-800-599-6454.
Before
Donor Recognition Opportunities:
Ben Franklin Statue – $500,000
Rectangle Murals (4) – $75,000 each
Half-moon Murals (7) – $50,000 each
Stained Glass Windows (4) – ALL SOLD
Masonic Clock – $50,000 – SOLD
Turkey – $25,000
Transom Window – $20,000 – SOLD
Pillars (16) – $10,000 each
Flag – $5,000
Support any of these items,
and we will place your
name on a Corian tile.
RESPONSE FORM
Lodge, District or Individual Donor Name: __________________________________________________________
Address: ____________________________________________________________________________________
City:_______________________________________ State:_________________ Zip:_______________________
Phone:________________________________________Email:___________________________________
Donation Amount: ________________________________ Date:___________________
 I/we would like to pledge our gift over a three or five year period (staff will contact you to discuss details).
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Method of Payment:
 Credit Card
 Check (payable to: Masonic Charities)  Visa
 MasterCard
 American Express
Account No.:________________________ Expiration Date: ____________ 3-digit Security Code:_______
The official registration and financial information of Masonic Charities may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling toll-free,
within Pennsylvania, 1-800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.
MTB2016
May 2016
www.pamasonictemple.org 19
PHIL ANTHROPY - Help For Our Heroes
HELP FOR OUR HEROES
ONGOING & NEW
PROGRAM INITIATIVES
Our focus and new initiatives as we move
forward with our “Help for Our Heroes” program
are as follows:
We will continue to:
• Provide calling cards, as our Pennsylvania
Air and Army National Guard units will once
again face deployments this year. While not all
deployments are to combat areas, they still take
guardsmen and women away from their families
for extended periods of time and deserve our
support. The Special Operations Air National
Guard Unit in Harrisburg has already requested
and received 100 calling cards earlier this year
for their deploying airmen and women.
• Support the “Ride to Recovery” program
at the Air National Guard Station in Horsham.
By providing funds to purchase equipment and
adaptive bicycles for participants, we will help
encourage military members and veterans with
brain injuries, post-traumatic stress issues,
20
Help For Our Heroes
www.pamasons.org/heroes
orthopedic injuries and amputations to overcome
and attain their goals.
• Assist our young enlisted personnel as they
start their careers and new families through our
support of military baby showers.
• Provide home repairs for the families of
deployed Air and Army National Guard members
through the hard and selfless work of our
Masonic brothers who are licensed contractors
in Pennsylvania.
Our new initiatives
will include:
• Providing support for our veteran Brothers
who are having difficulty obtaining assistance
through the Veterans Administration (such as
with benefits).
• Offering financial assistance to our active
military, Guard and Reserves who are struggling.
Recently, a young senior airman and his girlfriend,
both of whom are students, had a baby, and while
Pennsylvania Freemason
his Air National Guard Unit in Ft. Indiantown Gap was trying to assist,
they needed additional help. Together, with the March of Dimes, we
provided diapers, toys, clothing, a stroller, a baby monitor and a gift
card for purchasing formula. In addition, Brother and Col. Harris Brooks
had the opportunity to explain Freemasonry and Help for Our Heroes
to the entire unit.
Veterans are
Invited to Join
the PA Masons
Veterans Incentive Program
www.pamasons.org/incentives
Freemasons recognize that our freedom isn’t
free. Every male Veteran, including those
servicemen who are in Active Duty, Reserves
and/or Honorably Discharged, will have his
initiation fees reduced by $50 from the Grand
Lodge of Pennsylvania and the Lodge he
chooses to join, for a total savings of $100.
May 2016
Help For Our Heroes
www.pamasons.org/heroes 21
PHIL ANTHROPY - Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation
MASONIC YOUTH
PRACTICE RELIGIOUS TOLERANCE
Just like Freemasonry, our Masonic Youth Groups –
Rainbow, DeMolay and Job’s Daughters – all require belief in
a Supreme Being as part of their membership eligibility. While
a Holy Bible is the most common book found on the altars in a
DeMolay Chapter, a Rainbow Assembly and a Job’s Daughters
Bethel, candidates may choose to take their obligations and
make their promises on a book that more specifically represents
their faith tradition such as a Jewish Tanakh, a Koran, a Holy
Vedas, a Book of Mormon or other sacred text on an altar in
a Masonic youth group meeting.
The Christian nature of many of the ritual ceremonies is
only a local preference, as determined by each youth group;
however, they can and will adapt to match the faith traditions
professed by their members.
Our Masonic Youth groups were all formed in the early
part of the 20th Century and received their structure and
values from the Masonic fraternity. Thus, the emphasis
on religious tolerance is a hallmark of each organization.
Tolerance doesn’t mean that we all agree on matters of faith;
it means that we all share a common respect for people of
faith. This broad acceptance of the understanding that God
can be worshipped as the same Supreme Being, but under
different names as revealed to each member in his or her own
22
Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation
faith tradition, creates a profound common ground on which
the youth members stand. When young people figure out that
this is the means of peaceful coexistence in a world filled with
religious strife, they realize how powerful a concept religious
tolerance, as practiced by Freemasonry, can be.
For youth members, the expression of religious tolerance
sometimes comes easier than the actual expression of true faith,
perhaps because religion confounds young people more than
any other subject. Many youth group members have grown up
in a family that does not participate in any faith community.
Over the past 20 years, it has become more common to hear
a youth member say, “I don’t know what I really believe,” or
“I don’t know what to believe.”
At the Masonic Conference Center - Patton Campus
in Elizabethtown, which is the center of our Grand Lodge’s
support for our youth program, the young people are required
to participate in a worship service in the William A. Carpenter
Interfaith Chapel, which features powerful symbols of the
importance of religion in the Masonic fraternity. Through
its sponsorship of Rainbow, DeMolay and Job’s Daughters,
Freemasonry in Pennsylvania is providing our young people
with a practical exposure to the true value of living a life that
includes a regular expression and practice of religious faith.
www.pmyf.org
Pennsylvania Freemason
PENNSYLVANIA MASONS
Improving Literacy in PA through Family Involvement
The Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, the Pennsylvania Masonic Youth
Foundation and the Masonic Villages, as part of our Outreach efforts,
have committed to helping vulnerable children and families throughout
the Commonwealth through their support of a nationally-acclaimed early
literacy program. Through the generosity of Pennsylvania Masons, their
families and friends, Raising a Reader (RAR) will provide books, materials,
parent training and engagement support and library connections. The
program not only significantly improves child literacy, but strengthens
families and empowers a generation of children to read, learn and
succeed.
By launching programs in schools throughout the seven Masonic
regions, the objectives of this project are to:
• Help families build the home-based literacy routines critical to
developing children’s language and comprehension skills.
• Build exposure. Brethren in lodges close to participating
schools could be asked to support the program by visiting
the schools, when invited, to be recognized for the support
Pennsylvania Masons are contributing to improve the literacy
landscape.
If your Lodge or District would like to be one of the first groups
to participate in this program, please complete the donation form below
and send to: Masonic Charities, Office of Gift Planning, One Masonic
Drive, Elizabethtown, PA 17022. Please also share this opportunity with
any businesses in your community that would like to provide support.
Please be sure to indicate your support is for the RAR program.
If you have questions or need additional information, please contact
the Masonic Outreach Program by calling 1-800-462-7664 or emailing
[email protected].
RESPONSE FORM
Lodge, District or Individual Donor Name: __________________________________________________________
Address: ____________________________________________________________________________________
City:_______________________________________ State:_________________ Zip:_______________________
Phone:________________________________________Email:__________________________________
Donation Amount: ________________________________ Date:___________________
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Method of Payment:
 Credit Card
 Check (payable to: Masonic Charities)  Visa
 MasterCard
 American Express
Account No.:________________________ Expiration Date: ____________ 3-digit Security Code:_______
The official registration and financial information of Masonic Charities may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling toll-free,
RAR-2016
within Pennsylvania, 1-800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.
May 2016
Raising a Reader
www.pamasons.org/reader 23
PHIL ANTHROPY - Masonic Villages
MEET OUR MASONIC VILLAGES
The Masonic Villages are home to more than 2,815 residents across the state. Each person brings a wealth of life
experiences to share with others. In a series of articles, we’ll highlight some of these unique individuals
and how their move to Masonic Villages has changed their lives.
Re-inventing Retirement
Strong concentration, quick reflexes and a high degree
of hand eye coordination; maybe the game of table tennis
isn’t for everyone, but for Brother Merr Trumbore, it’s his
passion. As a youngster, Brother Merr, member of George
M. Dallas Lodge No. 531, Dallas, Pa., played table tennis
in a friend’s attic, but at that point, it was considered more
“goofing around” than anything. Still, as the friends ate
snacks and dueled each other, Brother Merr was learning the
rules of the game, discovering and advancing his talent one
afternoon at a time.
At age 13, Brother Merr moved from his friend’s attic
and discovered a “first-class” table tennis club located two
blocks away from his home in Bethlehem. Needless to say,
he became “hooked.” To Brother Merr, this experience turned
“ping pong” into “table tennis,” a much more sophisticated
game, at least by the sound of it. He played at the club
between 20 and 25 hours each week.
“After my homework was done, of course,” Brother Merr
said with a smile. “Thousands of hours I spent practicing.”
Brother Merr often accepted advice from the players
who practiced endlessly. Little did he know he would one day
master the sport, just as they had.
Brother Merr went on to play in several professional
leagues, challenged several former national and international
champions and became a life member of the U.S. Table
Tennis Association. He has been an active tournament player
for nearly 60 years. His best accomplishments include
winning a silver medal at the 1993 Senior Olympics in Baton
Rouge, La., and ranking eighth, nationally, in the over 70 age
division.
The secret to being successful at table tennis? “Having
a first-class coach and hitting thousands of balls,” Brother
Merr said. “Always spend as much time as you can behind
the table.”
Bro. Merr moved to Masonic Village after losing his
wife of 50 years. The 10-acre Maryland farmette they owned
and operated together became too much for him. He chose
Masonic Village at Dallas, in part, because of its level of
activity and close proximity to Misericordia University. As
a still-avid sports fan, he and some of his neighbors attend
college games together.
Once in a while, Brother Merr practices with
Misericordia’s women’s and men’s tennis teams. He often
gives the teammates a “run for their money” by hitting with
them and giving some pointers, though admittedly, he says
he learns more from them. According to Brother Merr, table
tennis and regular tennis are not so different. Both involve
that strong concentration, quick reflexes and coordination.
Tennis is on a larger scale, seemingly harder, but actually
allows more time to react.
Based on his national rankings and love for life,
Brother Merr has continued his passion well into his years
at Masonic Village, where he’s been enjoying meals at Irem
Clubhouse and the comfort of his villa. “The combinations
of activities here are more than enough to satisfy even those
residents with the most diverse interests,” Brother Merr said.
At Masonic Village, Brother Merr can continue his life’s
passions, making sure to re-invent the word “retirement”
every day. “I’m surrounded by pleasant folks, and that’s all
you really need.”
www.masonicvillages.org
Pennsylvania Freemason
24
Masonic Villages
EXPLORE THE MASONIC VILLAGE
OF YOUR CHOICE AT AN UPCOMING EVENT
(RSVPS REQUIRED):
MASONIC VILLAGE AT DALLAS
36 Ridgway Drive, Dallas, PA
1-570-675-1866 or 1-866-851-4243
[email protected]
Contact us to schedule a personal tour.
MASONIC VILLAGE AT ELIZABETHTOWN
One Masonic Drive, Elizabethtown, PA
1-800-676-6452
[email protected]
Open house: June 8 at 11 a.m.
MASONIC VILLAGE AT LAFAYETTE HILL
801 Ridge Pike, Lafayette Hill, PA
1-610-828-5760
[email protected]
Lunch and Learns: June 7 or June 22 at 10:30 a.m.
MASONIC VILLAGE AT SEWICKLEY
1000 Masonic Drive, Sewickley, PA
1-412-749-6862 or 1-866-872-0664
[email protected]
Lunch and Learn: June 23 at 10 a.m.
May 2016
MASONIC VILLAGES’ ADMISSIONS POLICY
Admissions to the Masonic Villages are governed by
the board of directors, members of which are elected by
the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania. The board of directors
approves or disapproves applications for admission primarily
on the basis of need. Decisions concerning admission, the
provision of services and referrals of residents are not based
upon the applicant’s race, color, religion, disability, ancestry,
national origin, familial status, age, sex, limited English
proficiency (LEP) or any other protected status.
Regardless of your financial situation, you can afford
to move to a Masonic Village! When you choose to live at
the Masonic Villages, you are not required to turn over your
assets; you maintain complete control of them. Fraternal
support enables the Masonic Villages to serve all eligible
individuals as part of our Mission of Love.
Please contact the Admissions or Marketing Office at
the Masonic Village of your preference for information on the
living area desired. www.masonicvillages.org.
AUTUMN DAY 2016
SAVE THE DATE
September 24, 2016, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Join members and friends in celebrating Autumn
Day at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown. The event
will feature entertainment, information, delicious food
served from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., farm market stands,
children’s games, tours, Masonic family organization
booths and much more.
Masonic Villages
www.masonicvillages.org 25
PHIL ANTHROPY - Masonic Charities
MASONIC VILLAGES’ BOARD APPROVES
VETERANS’ GARDEN
IN SEWICKLEY
Masons have long supported our military who sacrifice daily to preserve our
freedom. With the extensive interest shown in the Veterans Grove and Eternal Flame in
Elizabethtown, the board of directors have approved the construction of a Veterans Garden
and Pond at the Masonic Village at Sewickley to recognize and honor veterans on the other
side of the Commonwealth. A life-sized bronze statue of Brother George Washington in
his military regalia will be prominent in the Sewickley design. An unveiling and dedication
ceremony will take place in May 2017.
Several featured items such as the statue, water fountain, pond and benches are
available for individual recognition on a bronze or Corian tile. Contact the Office of Gift
Planning for more details at 1-800-599-6454.
Individuals and Lodges may purchase pavers to be inscribed with the name
of donor(s), veteran(s) or loved one(s) serving in the armed forces. The sale of the
pavers support the construction and maintenance of these sacred areas at either the
Elizabethtown or Sewickley locations. See donation form to the right.
VETERANS’ GROVE
& ETERNAL FLAME
IN ELIZABETHTOWN
26
Masonic Charities
www.masoniccharitiespa.org
Pennsylvania Freemason
STRATEGIC VISION FOR THE FUTURE
CLUBHOUSES RENAMED
The board of directors have recognized two R.W. Past Grand Masters for their leadership during critical times of growth
for the Masonic Villages. They honored the late Brother Arthur J. Kurtz with a plaque on the Clubhouse in Elizabethtown for his
role in establishing retirement living at that location in 1989. In addition, they honored the late Brother James L. Ernette for his
part in the founding of the Masonic Village at Sewickley in 1999.
Because both brethren played integral roles in expanding the Mission of Love services Masonic Villages provide, the
clubhouses have been named after them, respectively.
A NEW CHILDREN’S HOME
The Masonic Children’s Home in Elizabethtown has served youth for more than a century.
To expand this charitable offering to more children in the western part of the Commonwealth,
the board of directors has approved for the Office of Gift Planning to solicit funds for a potential
Masonic Children’s Home at the Masonic Village at Sewickley.
Anyone who wishes to help develop positive futures and endless possibilities for children
who need it most are encouraged to send a check, made out to “Masonic Charities” and mail
it to: Masonic Charities, Office of Gift Planning, One Masonic Drive, Elizabethtown, PA 17022
Note in memo section: “MCH at Sewickley.” Or, donate online at www.MasonicCharitiesPa.org.
If you have any questions, call 1-800-599-6454.
DONATION FORM
As a way of honoring or memorializing an individual, Name (donor) _______________________________________________________________
a paver can be inscribed to permanently honor an Address____________________________________________________________________
individual(s) service to our country. Indicate the
City ______________________________ State __________________________ Zip ________
location where the paver is to be installed:
 Sewickley Veteran’s Garden
 Elizabethtown Veteran’s Grove
Phone (
) _____________________ Email ____________________________________
Choose a paver size:
 12”x18” Paver ($500) will accommodate 5 lines with no more than 20 characters per line
 8”x12” Paver ($250) will accommodate 4 lines with no more than 14 characters per line
Please print paver inscription below exactly as you would like it to appear; spaces are included in character count.
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Credit Card

VISA  M
astercard  American Express
Card#_______________________________________________
Exp. Date _____ /_____ /_____
Security Code (3 digit) __________
Please return both completed form
and check payable to the Masonic Charities to:
Office of Gift Planning • Masonic Village
One Masonic Drive, Elizabethtown, PA 17022
Phone _______________________________________________
VG16
Signature___________________________________________
Masonic Charities
May 2016
www.masoniccharitiespa.org
27
PHIL ANTHROPY - Masonic Charities
A $55 MILLION TRANSFORMATION
Renovations to the Masonic Health Care Center and
Freemasons Building at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown
have transformed residents’ neighborhoods (units) from
institutional models into household designs, enhancing
residents’ health and well-being.
The $55 million project, which began in October 2011
and will be completed this year, includes renovations to
10 skilled nursing neighborhoods and one personal care
neighborhood, which together are home to 577 residents.
Work was finished in phases to provide the least amount of
disruption to residents. The project included a focus on energy
efficiency and sustainability and will finish several million
dollars under budget.
The project earned a first place Award of Excellence in
construction from the Keystone Chapter of Associated Builders
and Contractors in 2013.
Replacing dining rooms, new country kitchens in each
skilled nursing neighborhood provide residents more variety in
what they’re eating. They are able to select from two entrées,
and dining attendants prepare their meal upon ordering. The
aroma from the fresh meals enhances the experience and has
led to a decrease in supplement use.
Residents’ suites in the Masonic Health Care Center
received new paint and décor, and some expanded suites are
no longer separated by a curtain, but by a windowed partition
with drapery for privacy. European bathrooms feature new
fixtures, walker-accessible showers and granite tiles. Common
28
Masonic Charities
spaces have been refurbished with new furniture, a fireplace
and décor. Larger living rooms offer more room for gathering.
Nurses’ stations were previously located in the center of
each neighborhood. Now referred to as care bases, they have
been reconfigured, leaving fewer walls and more open living
space. A new call bell system links to cell phones rather than
pagers and allows entire departments to communicate. All
renovated neighborhoods are equipped with the new system.
The entire Freemasons Building, which is home to personal
care residents, underwent a major renovation and now features
the Terrace View Restaurant (shown above) in place of three
separate dining rooms. All common areas and suites have also
been updated, with eight new suites bringing the number of
accommodations to 135. A new hair salon was added, and
outdoor areas have been enhanced.
Renovations also included a new Transitional Care Unit,
comprised of 28 private and 10 semi-private suites, for shortterm rehabilitation. This unit is open for residents of Masonic
Village and the community who are recovering from an injury,
illness or surgery. The goal is to strengthen and prepare
patients to return home.
For more information about newly-renovated nursing,
personal care and transitional care accommodations available
now, please contact 1-800-422-1207 or MVEadmissions@
masonicvillages.org.
www.masoniccharitiespa.org
Pennsylvania Freemason
Qty. Capital Need
Cost Per Item
Masonic Village at Elizabethtown
2
Door alarms
$50
12
Digital cameras
$150
114 Silent alarm systems
$174
13
Hair dryer stations for spas
$600
5
iPads
$600
4
Computer tablets
$700
1
Espresso machine
$800
4
Electric lift recliner
$900
1
Digital keyboard accessories
$1,000
11
Bose stereo systems
$1,100
5
Shower chairs
$1,500
1
Eva Pneumatic platform walker
$1,800
1
Portable sound system
$2,502
22
Vital signs machines for AOD
$3,500
2
Pianos (Roland - acoustic)
$6,000
4
Wheelchair glider swing
$6,000
Hospice
8
Tickets to local baseball game
$13
5
Gift cards to local diner
$20
2
Gift cards to local restaurant
$50
5
Donations for transportation costs
$100
5
Gift Cards to local spa
$100
5
Hospitality cart supplies
$100
2
Special events bus trip cost
$150
1
Week at the shore
$1,500
Children’s Home Needs
40
Holiday gift fund
$50
4
Chairs - office
$100
4
Computer chairs
$100
2
Computer desks
$200
1
Soccer net
$300
1
Barnstormer’s game
$1,500
12
College books (stipend)
$1,000
Camps/excursions
$3,500
Bleiler Cottage Needs
1
Refrigerator
$1,300
Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill
1
LifePack CR Plus
$1,900
District of Columbia museums with lunch and $2,400
transportation
Harvest Ball event
$2,500
Drama lessons/activities for residents
$3,000
Masonic Village at Sewickley
1
Hand rail tilt and roll scale
$1,550
1
ARJO sit to stand lift
$4,100
1
4 Channel e-stimulation (electric)
$4,400
1
Occupancy sensors for apartment hallway
$20,000
Masonic Village at Dallas
1
Cot or Roll Away Bed
$250
2
Awnings (retractable)
$2,300
1
Sound System
$600
Masonic Village at Warminster
10
Wood working kits
$100
1
Pergola with awning
$6,000
May 2016
MASONIC
VILLAGES’
2016
WISH LIST ITEMS
OFFICE OF GIFT PLANNING
1-800-599-6454
Thank you to the following individuals who have provided
for the following items since the last issue:
Masonic Village at Elizabethtown:
Joseph H. Brown Lodge No. 751: Computer tablets
Margie Brown: Wheelchair cushions
Brother Robert and Eileen Duckett: TVs for spas
Friendship- Williams Lodge No. 400: Wheelchair cushion
Patti Kinder, Dawn Roser, Ann Anstadt, Debi Hoover, Martha
Hodges, Pam Fogle, Kenneth and Kay Matthews, Jennie Taylor: Musical instruments
Mozart Lodge No. 436: Wheelchairs
Masonic Children’s Home:
Renee Dragotta: Various items
Brother Gerald and Patricia Kemmerer: College books
Masonic Village Travel Club: Various items
Brother Richard and Judi McKnight: Various items
Brother Louis and Rose Marie O’Brian: Various items
Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill:
Anonymous: Hospital pillow, yoga blocks and mats, foam roller
Masonic Village at Sewickley:
Margaret Headland: Music therapy
Brother William and Marlene Moisey: Dining room food cart and birthday linens and centerpieces
Brother Richard and Michelle Muth: Piano dollies
Masonic Village at Warminster:
Friendship-Williams Lodge No. 400: Woodworking kit
There is an all-inclusive wish list posted on the Masonic Charities
website at www.MasonicCharitiesPA.org, or feel free to contact the
Office of Gift Planning at 1-800-599-6454. Please note that if funds
donated for any item listed are over- subscribed, the funds will be
used for additional wish list items or needs in the same service area.
Masonic Charities
www.masoniccharitiespa.org 29
PHIL ANTHROPY
Together, we can touch hearts, encourage dreams and
change the lives of future generations.
- Lady Lynn
SUPPORT OUR DREAM
... O
F A MASONIC CHILDREN’S HOME
IN WESTERN PA
Passionate about supporting today’s youth, Grand Master Ray and First
Lady Lynn Dietz envision a Masonic Children’s Home at the Masonic Village at
Sewickley to make a difference for all youth across the state. Their desire is that
one day there will be enough financial support from caring individuals to build
this dream into a reality. The board of directors has agreed to make this part of
its strategic vision.
“My hope is that we may someday build a loving place in Sewickley, much
like the one we operate in Elizabethtown, that children can call “home” and escape
life’s hardships” Lady Lynn said, “... where they will find support, guidance,
opportunity and love.”
In lieu of purchasing Ladies Pins during Grand Master Dietz’s term, Lady Lynn
has donated those funds toward a future children’s home in western Pennsylvania.
SPREADING KINDNESS
Brother Marion Mort, Lamberton Lodge No. 476, Lancaster, recently
received his 70-Year Masonic Service Emblem and the Grand Master’s
medallion (shown right). At 100 years young, Brother Marion has been
blessing various charities with the fruits of his lifelong labor – one
being the Masonic Children’s Home, to which he gifted $100,000 for
educational scholarships.
“I never thought I would be able to do this, but I came through
rather successful,” he said. He had a vision and worked hard to achieve
it. Over 53 years, he grew what started as a fledgling wholesale paper
business without ever buying a single ad. All of his customers came
through word of mouth by satisfied customers until he sold it in 1989.
One of six young children whose father died of the flu pandemic
in 1919, Brother Marion knows what it’s like to be in need and benefit
from the kindness of others. Now it’s his turn to be the benefactor.
“Money is like manure,” says the bright-eyed, humble gentleman. “It’s
no good unless you spread it. It’s gratifying to realize you can help
people become more independent.”
Brother Marion and his late wife, Louise, have two children, two
grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Their legacy will carry
on through them, as well as through countless others who will benefit
from their generosity.
30
Masonic Charities
www.masoniccharitiespa.org
Pennsylvania Freemason
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
CONGRATULATIONS!
Brother D. William Roberts, P.D.D.G.M.-37, Doric Lodge
No. 630, Sewickley, was presented the Grand Master’s
Outstanding Service Medal at the Annual Grand Communication
on Dec. 28, 2015. This honor is presented to Masons who
have distinguished themselves through service to their
community, Lodge or Grand Lodge.
Brother Elisha Fields, age 106, Adelphic Lodge No. 424,
Jamestown, recently received his 60-year Masonic Service
Award from Grand Master Raymond T. Dietz, in the presence
of his daughters (shown above). He is the former owner of
the Westford Milling Company, a feed and grain supplier to
local farmers in the Pymatuning Lake area.
NEW MASTER CRAFTSMAN
AND MASTER PILLAR AWARDS
Grand Master Raymond T. Dietz has announced the following new awards programs to enhance the
current Master Builders Awards:
Master Craftsman Award
Master Pillar Award
To attain the Grand Master’s achievement recognition
award, a Master Mason must satisfactorily complete this
three-part program:
Part 1: Mentor Program – An internet based learning program
Part 2: Masonic History – An internet based learning program
Part 3: A personal adventure in Masonic fellowship and learning
To attain the Grand Master’s highest achievement
recognition award, a Master Mason must satisfactorily
complete all of the requirements set forth for the Master
Craftsman Award, plus:
Part 4: A personal adventure in Masonic leadership
For additional information about and criteria for these awards, visit www.pamasons.org/honors.
May 2016
Incentives
www.pamasons.org/incentives 31
Thousands of Reasons
to Invite Good Men to Be Masons!
And a Special Gift For You
New Member Incentive Program
www.pamasons.org/incentives
Invite a worthy man to become a Mason, and
not only will you offer him the gift of membership, but
you will be rewarded for your efforts, as well! After your
candidate receives his First Degree, you, as the first
line signer, will be credited with 60 points through
the new Pennsylvania Masons’ Incentive Program.
You can choose to do one of three things: 1. Accrue
your points to receive a specific gift, 2. Immediately
receive merchandise displayed on the incentive
program website or 3. Donate your points to the
Masonic Children’s Home, where the points will be
used to select gifts for the youth who reside there!
In addition, a member will receive a new Masonic
tie for each of the first four petitions on which he is
a first-line signer once the candidate receives his
Third Degree!
Join us for a One Day Masonic Journey
October 29, 2016 www.bapamason.com