Freemasonry Today

As I reflect on the past three months, I am filled with pride and gratitude for the dedication, unity and progress demonstrated across our lodges. From our recent June Communication to vital initiatives in membership, education and community service, these months have reaffirmed our commitment to the principles that bind us together.

Approximately 350 brethren attended the June 4, 2025 Communication at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown, with more live streaming the proceedings.

R.W. Grand Master Larry A. Derr, R.W. Deputy Grand Master Robert D. Brink and Deputy Grand Secretary Peter M. Kraus traveled to Boston in April to celebrate the 250th Anniversary of Brother and Past Grand Master Paul Revere’s historic ride, the ensuing the battles of Lexington, where the “shot heard ‘round the world” was fired, and Concord, Massachusetts.

As I reflect on the last 15 months, a profound sense of pride comes over me. Our journey together as brothers in Freemasonry has been marked by noticeable achievements that resonate deeply within our lodges. We have not only upheld our values but have also made a significant impact that reinforces the spirit of Brotherhood, Charity and Service.

I am proud to announce that for the first year since 1971, we have not had a lodge merger or a lodge go dark. This is a direct reflection on the dedicated work of two key committees. Blue Lodge Revitalization Committee Chairman Brother Joseph Reuter, P.M., provides lodges and districts with creative ideas for planning and promoting quality events and increasing participation. Membership Engagement Committee Chairman Brother Steven Shimp, P.M., assists lodges with membership recruitment and retention. Both brethren are excellent resources for helping your lodge thrive and enhance membership satisfaction.

If your lodge has lost some valuable members, now is the time to reach out and remind them of what they’re missing: socialization, educational opportunities, charitable activities and a multitude of lifelong benefits for themselves and their families.

We are excited to unveil new logos for each of the Masonic Charities to be implemented throughout 2025. This follows the rebranding of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania/Pennsylvania Masons in 2024. The rebranding aims to create cohesive, modern logos that reflect each charity’s unique mission while strengthening their collective identity.

PA Masons are thrilled to welcome 11 new District Deputy Grand Masters.

As we reflect upon 2024 and prepare for the New Year, I am grateful for our many accomplishments.

Our Blue Lodge Revitalization and Membership Engagement committees have been doing an outstanding job rejuvenating lodges statewide by helping them become more active and financially secure. As a result of lodges following our charge to Ignite the Light Within and working hard to re-chart their journey in a positive direction, we have not had any mergers or loss of presence in our local communities. I am enthusiastic about this trend and confident our efforts will result not only in an increase in membership, but greater involvement and heightened membership satisfaction.

Pennsylvania Masons are celebrating the 250th Anniversary of our nation’s founding in 2026 in numerous ways. Read more about the results of historical essay submissions and other initiatives.