Cover of Autumn 2024 Freemason featuring men and boy caring evergreen tree.
Two men in military uniform and boy working together to lift evergreen tree.
Pennsylvania Freemason logo.

Autumn 2024

Grand Master Larry Derr and his wife sitting on motorcycle surrounded by men dressed in motorcycle gear with Square and Compass icon.
Men standing in front of construction business with graduation cap icon.
Group of Masons standing in front of their brick lodge building with hand shaking icon.
Young boys in baseball stadium, one making a heart with his hands with heart icon.

Freemasonry Today

Education

Membership

Philanthropy

Freemasonry Today

  • Freemasonry Today

    Grand Master’s Message

    Brethren,

    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.

    Leadership is a core component of any organization’s success. I am deeply appreciative of the steadfast work our District Deputy Grand Masters have committed to; it is a challenging, but integral role requiring extensive time, training and dedication. On Dec, 27, we will welcome 12 new District Deputy Grand Masters to take the reins from those who selflessly served our lodges in that capacity before them. I encourage you to show your support by attending their presentations.

    We should be proud of our fraternity and our good works. I’m excited to share that we’ve brought back the Grand Lodge float, which any lodge or district can reserve for parades in their local communities by contacting Brother John Cook, P.D.D.G.M., at Jcook@ pagrandlodge.org or the Grand Secretary’s office at gsoffice@pagrandlodge.org. We recently enjoyed an amazing cheering squad during the Little League World Series Parade in Williamsport. Spectators sang along with us to “Sweet Caroline” as we waved and handed out candy to the crowd (see p. 7).

    The Liberty Tree initiative, in partnership with America250PA, has been a resounding success across the Commonwealth, allowing us to play an integral part in our nation’s upcoming Semiquincentennial celebration. To see where these trees have been planted so far or to sponsor a tree in your area, visit PaGrandLodge.org/resources/liberty-tree-plantings. Upcoming liberty tree plantings are listed here: PaGrandLodge.org/events.

    Another way for lodges to involve their communities in a meaningful opportunity and showcase their good works is to host a blood drive. Not only will each donation save lives, but hosting lodges receive $10 per pint of blood from the Masonic Blood+Organ Donor Program, which can be designated for the lodge Almoner’s Fund to assist our brethren and their loved ones in need. Visit MasonicBloodandOrganDonors. org/contact to get started!

    One of the most amazing aspects of this fraternity is knowing you have brothers all over the world. We are looking forward to hosting Unity Day at our Masonic Temple in Philadelphia on Jan. 25, 2025, with our brethren from Connecticut, Delaware, New Jersey, New York and Puerto Rico.

    As we ponder our resolutions for 2025, I encourage you to include among yours a renewed dedication to your lodge, your brethren and your own Masonic enlightenment. May you and yours be blessed with health, happiness and a heart for charity.

    Sincerely and fraternally,

    Larry A. Derr
    R.W. Grand Master

  • Freemasonry Today

    Group of Masons reading book.

    America250 Initiatives

    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.

Freemasonry Across the State

Man throwing ball at dunk tank.

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Brother Eric Downs, D.D.G.M., hosted the Fifth Masonic District Picnic on July 28, during which 150 brethren, family members and friends enjoyed fellowship, food and fundraising. Eric was the first to enter the dunk tank to raise funds for the Centennial DeMolay Chapter, and R.W. Deputy Grand Master Rob Brink sent him under on his first throw. Brother Rob and his wife, Allison, as well as other district members, also took turns in the tank to cool off while supporting the youth.

Group of men eating together outdoors.

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On April 20, members of the 47th Masonic District visited Pride of the West Lodge No. 84, Prince Hall, in McKeesport, PA., followed by a picnic at the Dravosburg Masonic Grounds.

Group of men at a barn.

Fletcher St Riding Club 2

Members of Lodge No. 2, Mitchell Lodge No. 81 and William L. Elkins Lodge No. 281 spent a hot summer day constructing a hay stall for the Fletcher Street Riding Club in North Philadelphia, a nonprofit which has been teaching underserved youth in the city to ride and care for horses for 20 years.

Group standing in lodge room with people dressed as Star Wars characters.

Star Wars Program1

Rochester Lodge No. 229’s June stated meeting featured a program about the 501st Legion, a charity organization whose slogan is “Bad Guys Doing Good.” Families were invited to join for the program. While the lodge was conducting business, the families enjoyed Star Wars activities and games.

Grand Master Larry Derr with his wife sitting on 3-wheeled motorcycle with men dressed in motorcycle riding gear behind them.

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The 2024 Grand Master’s Ride took place Aug. 1 - 4 in Gettysburg, PA, hosted by the PA Widows Sons. The event included a motorcycle ride by the Friend to Friend Masonic Memorial and other historic sites; an opportunity to enjoy vendors, food trucks and music; and of course, quality time with brethren, their families and friends.

Masons on a parade float.

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On Aug. 13, Grand Lodge representatives participated in the Little League World Series Grand Slam Parade in Williamsport, PA, honoring the late Brother Carl E. Stotz, founder of the Little League.

7th Annual Grand Lodge Sporting Clays Results

Thanks to our generous sponsors, these events netted $29,894 to support Grand Lodge Operations.

Shoot Sponsor:

  • Mill Creek Capital Advisors

Breakfast Sponsors:

  • Ballinger – Tun Tavern
  • Boyd Watterson Asset Management
  • Christenson Investment Partners
  • Matterhorn Capital Investments
  • River Road Asset Management, LLC
  • USI Insurance Services

5-Stand Sponsor:

  • Packwood USA Ltd.

Station Sponsors:

  • 5th Masonic District
  • 8th Masonic District
  • 10th Masonic District
  • CWP Industries Inc.
  • Catering By Design
  • Dallas Lodge No. 231
  • Robert Dunkle
  • Haja Lounge, Inc.
  • Informed Systems, Inc.
  • J. Simpson Africa Lodge No. 628
  • King Solomon’s Lodge No. 346
  • Koehler Marvin Realty
  • Laurel Nursery Garden Center
  • Manoquesy Lodge No. 413
  • McFadden Funeral Home
  • National Investment Services
  • New Temple Lodge No. 720
  • Pen Argyl Lodge No. 594
  • Pocono Lodge No. 780
  • Porter Lodge No. 284
  • Portland Lodge No. 311
  • Rego Enterprises
  • Dennis Robinson
  • Harry Rutter
  • Smith Elliott & Kearns
  • Super Duper Roofing & Construction
  • Regis Synan – Murraysville Mayor
  • Dennis Robinson
  • Whitfield Lodge No. 622

 

Western Shoot Results
High Shooter: Ken Heese
High Lady: Emily Ryan
High Team: Bryan Hynicka, Ryan Hynicka, Daryl Mull

Eastern Shoot Results
High Shooter: Aaron Rogal
High Lady: Lynn Nahrgang
High Team: Bill Nahrgang, Lynn Nahrgang, Gary Wisser, Will Carvinous

Thank you to Brother Alan Beidel, P.M., for chairing the Eastern Event, and to Brother Don Edmonds, P.M., and the brethren of Saucon Lodge No. 469, Coopersburg, for preparing the food.

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Get Involved

Visit the main Pennsylvania Masons site for a current list of upcoming events.

Education

  • Education

    Man holding tablet in one hand and writing on papers with the other.

    Is the BLIP on Your RADAR?

    A unique opportunity to make the most of your lodge's funds and investments. Read more about taking advantage of the BLIP.

  • Education

    Couple working with contractor in their home.

    Masonic Contractor Offers Home Improvement Tips

    Both home improvement contracting and Freemasonry are traditions for the Grove family. They use their 61 years of experience to share tips for improving and maintaining your home.

  • Education

    Exterior photos of nursery with plants and pots outside.

    Fraternal Nursery – The Benefits of Gardening and How-To’s

    A family and Mason-owned nursery share their tips for growing and maintaining your garden.

Membership

  • Membership

    Group of people standing in front of new Widows' Sons bus.

    Providing Transport to Those in Need

    The Tyrian Chapter of the PA Widows Sons Masonic Riders Association is now offering free transportation to doctors’ and other appointments, primarily for Masonic widows, veterans, Masons in need and children in distress.

  • Membership

    Two lodge members and United Veterans Council members, with items donated items to Allegheny Valley Homeless Shelter.

    Serving Their Country and Each Other

    Warren Lodge No. 726's large number of veteran members enage with community organizations to support veterans in the area, as well as a growing lodge membership.

  • Membership

    Group of men standing outside of large brick lodge building.

    Lodge Transformations Bring Growth and Community

    Good Samaritan Lodge No. 336, Gettysburg, and Fritz Lodge No 306, Conshohocken, recently finished renovation projects, providing better space for member activities and opportunities for engagement with the community.

  • Membership

    Group of men dressed in military uniform standing with Santa.

    Award-Winning Farm Donates Trees for Troops

    Since 2009, Brother Brandon Mytrysak has found a way to give back and honor military families through his family business. Their whole community comes together to brighten the holiday season on the Indiana County Military Base.

Philanthropy

  • Philanthropy

    Wide angle of stone building with gardens in front.

    Newly Renovated Apartments Coming to Elizabethtown in 2026!

    The first phase of a multi-year renovation of several buildings in the Village Green area of the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown will begin in March 2025, resulting in one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments with a kitchen, living room, washer/dryer and modern technology. Pennsylvania Masons will be given the first opportunity to reserve one of the 19 new apartments in the first phase prior to marketing to the general public. Entrance fees and monthly service fees are moderately priced compared to other homes on campus.

  • Philanthropy

    Graphic of curtains pulling back to reveal the word "NEW!" and box with question marks on each side.

    Introducing Our New Look

    We are excited to announce that beginning in early 2025, the Grand Lodge will unveil new logos for each of its Masonic Charities: the Masonic Villages; the Masonic Temple, Library and Museum; the Masonic Blood+Organ Donor Program; the Masonic Children’s Home; and the Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation. This initiative began with the rebranding of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania/Pennsylvania Masons earlier this year.

  • Philanthropy

    Two smiling men with Team Philadelphia shirts on and metals from sport events.

    Competing in the Transplant Games

    Brothers Bill Soloway and Cameron Smith competed in the Transplant Games as part of Team Philadelphia. The Transplant Games are a biennial summer Olympic-style competition that raises organ and tissue donor awareness by showcasing the abilities of individuals who have undergone life-saving transplant surgeries.

  • Philanthropy

    Three smiling children with the Phillie Phanatic.

    A Phillie “Fan”Tastic Event

    Thanks to donors, youth from the Masonic Children’s Home and adult residents of the Bleiler Caring Cottage traveled by charter bus to Philadelphia to watch the Phillies beat the Miami Marlins on Sunday, June 30, at Citizens Bank Park. They were joined in a private suite by Masonic Villages and Grand Lodge leadership, as well as Masonic Children’s Home staff and board members.

  • Philanthropy

    Group of boys at Keyman Conference.

    PMYF 2025 Scholarship Opportunities

    The Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation (PMYF) needs your help! We’re in the midst of our 2025 Scholarship Application season, which runs until March 15, 2025, and we want your help in growing participation in this exciting opportunity for undergraduate students.

  • Philanthropy

    Smiling man dressed in suit outdoors.

    Masonic Village Names Executive Director

    Michael Katzenmoyer was promoted to Executive Director for the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown upon the retirement of Brother Mike Rowe, effective Sept. 30, 2024.

  • Philanthropy

    Smiling women at luncheon.

    Widows Guild Offers Comfort & Connections

    On July 17, 128 widows and guests attended the annual luncheon at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown to recognize and honor Masonic widows residing on the campus and in the surrounding community. 

PMYF Summer Fun in Photos

Group of smiling children with bear mascot.

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LifeSkills 2024

Two girls onstage with Mrs. Pennsylvania.

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Girls’ Leadership Camp

Group of children watching a speaker.

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Girls’ Leadership Camp LifeSkills 2024

Smiling girls showing off cake.

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Girls’ Leadership Camp

Group of boys at Keyman conference.

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KeyMan 2024

Boy playing kickball.

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Knights of Pythagoras

For more information on any of the Masonic youth groups (DeMolay, Knights of Pythagoras, Job’s Daughters, Rainbow Girls and Ruth Mitchell Tucker Girls Youth Department) or how you can volunteer to support them, contact the Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation today at 1-800-266-8424 or pmyf@pagrandlodge.org.

Follow the foundation’s happenings on social media:

Giving is Mutually Beneficial

DONORS SHARE HOW SUPPORTING MASONIC CHARITIES HELPS THEM MEET THEIR PERSONAL & FINANCIAL GOALS

Let us help you find a meaningful way to support your favorite Masonic charity and fulfill your objectives. Contact us at MasonicCharitiesLegacy.org or call 1-800-599-6454.

“Giving through the Cornerstone Circle makes donating to Masonic Village a seamless process. I get to give a decent amount on a frequent basis, but not have a large impact to my personal finances at the end of the year.

Matt M., Lititz, PA

“Moving to Pennsylvania from out of state, the seminars we attended were extraordinarily helpful in understanding everything that had to be changed. From the get-go, the gift and estate planning resources have been incredibly helpful, and we feel very fortunate to have had them at our disposal. Nick explained the various Masonic Charities and provided us with a list of vetted attorneys and accountants whose expertise, combined with that of our financial advisor, helped us get our gift plan in order. We are thankful for all their support and guidance as we completed our bequest.”

Nancy & Jim H., Elizabethtown, PA

“I am a 52-year Mason, so supporting the worthwhile causes through the Masonic Charities is important to my wife and me. Contributing to the charities with a required minimum distribution from our IRA allows us to give without our gift being subject to tax. The staff at the Masonic Charities office has always been thoughtful and warm in showing their appreciation.”

Ralph & Roseann T., Chambersburg, PA
“My experience with the Office of Mission Advancement and Development was terrific! Nick came to my home and helped me with the details of my bequest to the Masonic Village. I had a very enjoyable afternoon attending my first Franklin Legacy Society reception. It was great getting to know the Masons and their wives at my table, and of course, the food was also scrumptious! I can hardly wait for the next one.”
Yvonne K., Elizabethtown, PA

“We’re grateful to Linda for helping us with our Charitable Gift Annuities. Her advice to take two rather than one with both our names turned out to be the answer we were looking for, because it provided us a greater tax deduction and a guaranteed monthly income stream while accomplishing our goal of supporting Masonic Village. We appreciate her time and effort in helping us complete the forms and get it all set up. It was truly a win-win.”

Eileen & Bob M., Elizabethtown, PA

View our charitable solicitation disclosures by visiting MasonicCharitiesPa.org

Autumn 2024 Issue of The Pennsylvania Freemason is 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@masonicvillages.org. Except by special arrangement, all articles, 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) Autumn 2024, 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: Larry A. Derr. 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 82,000 each quarter. I certify that the statements made by me are correct and complete.

Larry A. Derr, Editor