 | |||
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
||
|
|||
|
In one of the earliest of charges to a new Master Mason, he is told, "Universal benevolence you are zealously to inculcate."
The multitude of lives touched by the human services that are made possible through all of the Masonic Charities verifies the sincerity with which that challenge has been accepted and how important it is among the Masons, their families, and the many friends who support our good works. That is why this annual report is more than printed words. It tells the story of caring people reaching out to help those in need.
As you read this report, it is easy to appreciate why the Masonic Homes of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania remains the premier example of universal benevolence at work.
The Masonic Homes at Elizabethtown just completed a seven-year building program that included the modern Masonic Health Care Center. It is your generosity that helps to provide the comfort and care in residential congregate or independent living; in health care, from respite care to adult day care; and to reach out to hundreds more through the Outreach Program. It is pure charity that keeps the Masonic Homes' Children's Home caring for youth in family-style homelike cottages.
We are enthusiastic about the merger of the Masonic Homes and the Eastern Star Homes. The kind of caring for which the Masonic Homes has been known is now available not just in Elizabethtown, but also at the Masonic Eastern Star Home-West in Pittsburgh, and the Masonic Eastern Star Home-East in Warminster. During 1998, watch for master plans for expansion of the Masonic Eastern Star Homes.
Masons continue to show their great concern for the welfare of youth. The Pennsylvania Youth Foundation consistently offers leadership and guidance, scholarships, activities, and facilities for Masonically-related youth organizations. The Pennsylvania Masonic Foundation for Children, which you knew as The Pennsylvania Masonic Foundation for the Prevention of Drug and Alcohol Abuse Among Children, makes possible training programs for teachers, counselors, and law enforcement personnel throughout Pennsylvania to interface and interact with youngsters in drug and alcohol abuse prevention programs.
Culture and Heritage of our fraternity, nation, and society are valuable. The Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania in the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania is world-renowned for its outstanding historical art collection and research capabilities.
Among the Masonic Charities, there is the Grand Lodge Masonic Charities Fund. It quietly, but effectively, helps people and communities, supporting worthy programs for education, treatment, personal relief, and disaster relief when and where it is needed.
You can make a tax-deductible contribution anytime to all of the Masonic Charities or directly to one of them simply by designating where you want your gift directed. Your generosity is greatly appreciated.
Universal benevolence seems an appropriate reference for your support. Thank you.
Sincerely and fraternally, |
||
|
|||
|
|
||
| | | |
Brethren and Friends:
