Centennial Memory #94: Founding of the Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation

To celebrate the DeMolay Centennial, PA DeMolay will be counting down 100 memories worth celebrating that took place within the DeMolay Chapters and Jurisdiction of Pennsylvania.

This specific memory is a lot bigger than just Pennsylvania DeMolay. The founding of the Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation has benefited DeMolay, Rainbow, and Job's Daughters within Pennsylvania, as well as other youth of the Masonic Fraternity. It has given all three organizations a statewide home to coordinate activities at the Masonic Conference Center - Patton Campus, as well as provide other programs to benefit all Masonic Youth.

In December of 1981, the Right Worshipful Grand Master, Samuel C. Williamson, established the foundation to help provide programming for the youth.

“The soundest investment we can make is an investment in the youth of our land, for they are the leaders of the future. From their ranks will come the statesmen, educators, politicians, ministers, scientists, and future presidents of this great country, and Freemasonry must make quite sure that it provides a generous portion of that leadership.”

Since the establishment. Several scholarships have been provided for students in need. Anti-bullying programs have been put together to help administrators discourage bullying. Young adults are invited to programs that enhance life lessons and awareness. DeMolay specifically has been able to host many programs at the Masonic Conference Center, including a topic that be will discussed more in depth in a later post, the Key Man Conference.

For the record, this will not be the last post that involves "Dad" Sam Williamson, who has proven to be a major influence in DeMolay, especially in Pennsylvania. In the meantime, here are some photos from the early reconstruction of the Masonic Conference Center.

Until next time - "Dad" Joe Pullin

DeMolay to Freemasonry

The Order of DeMolay, along with all other Masonic Youth Groups, is sponsored by the Free and Accepted Masons. One common misconception is that all DeMolay members become Masons. Although this can, and often times is the case, it is not a forgone conclusion that a member of DeMolay will one day become a Mason. Although DeMolay is sponsored by the Freemasons, the two are separate organizations. Having seen many friends and brothers join the Masonic lodge, I can say that it is a special occasion when they are raised to the sublime degree of a Master Mason.

DeMolay and Freemasonry have the same principals and focus, which can make it easy for people to consider DeMolay members to be "junior masons." They both take pride in serving the community through fellowship and service. Both Orders believe in a fraternal practice, creating brothers among men. DeMolay's purpose is to help young men to become better citizens and leaders, while Freemasonry helps good men to be better men and leaders. The comparisons clearly show why DeMolay members often times grow into great Masonic leaders.

When I was 19, I became a Mason of Frankford Lodge #292 in Philadelphia. The best part of joining, aside from instantly being welcomed by every member of the lodge, was to see all the DeMolay Advisors and fellow members, who are also Masons, support me through the journey. A few of them even took part in the degrees, with my Ritual Advisor serving as my guide. I look around today and see that this still occurs. Past State Senior Councilor, Anthony Trento of Chester Pike Chapter, became a Mason earlier this month. In attendance were three of his DeMolay brothers, two of which he served with as a State Officer. As DeMolay and Freemasonry show throughout their practices, and this post confirms, once a brother, always a brother.

Until next time - "Dad" Joe Pullin       

 

Sam Williamson: The Godfather of Pennsylvania DeMolay

Today is the birthday of a very special person in the hearts of the members and advisors of Pennsylvania DeMolay, "Dad" Samuel C. Williamson. Today "Dad" Williamson celebrates his 90th birthday. In a way, this post is a Throwback Thursday post mainly because you will see some of the best pictures we have of "Dad" Williamson throughout his time with DeMolay. 

"Dad" Williamson served as the Right Worshipful Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania from 1982 to 1983. In that time, he founded the Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation, which dedicates its existence to the support of the Masonic Youth Groups in Pennsylvania. "Dad" Williamson served as Executive Officer from 1987 to 2000. This past year, "Dad" Williamson was inducted into the DeMolay International Hall of Fame.

To this day, "Dad" Williamson shows overwhelming support to the Pennsylvania DeMolay program. I had the privilege of being at the surprise party thrown for "Dad" Williamson last week (Sam, I still take no responsibility for throwing that party.) In that room, it was great to see how many people were affected in a positive way by the teachings of Sam Williamson. Thank you "Dad" Williamson for all that you do for Pennsylvania DeMolay. Happy Birthday! Enjoy your special day!

Until next time - "Dad" Joe Pullin

Throwback Thursday: Autumn Day 2013

It's Thursday, which means according to the social media world that today is "Throwback Thursday." With Autumn Day taking place this Saturday at the Masonic Village in Elizabethtown, I figured we should try to remember how much fun we've had during such event. 

The year was 2013, and to be honest, I think this is the most recent Autumn Day that I have attended (I only know that because I saw myself in some of the photos, which you will not see.) For those that have never been to Autumn Day, it is a community festival that takes place at the Masonic Village. Members of all Masonic affiliated groups gather together to enjoy the festivities. Food and entertainment is provided by the hardworking staff. Masonic Youth Groups gather to promote their programs to the public.

So, enjoy these photos, and join us this year at Autumn Day to make some new memories. 

Until next time - "Dad" Joe Pullin