TIPS FOR SPONSORING MASONIC YOUTH

Many lodges in Pennsylvania already sponsor one or more Masonic youth groups while others are considering the possibility. These few "Steps to Success" will help your lodge improve its support of youth groups in your area:

Promote membership in the Masonic youth groups: Spread the word about the great programs of Rainbow, DeMolay, and Job's Daughters, among the children, grandchildren, relatives, and neighbors of the members of the sponsoring body.

Visit youth meetings or public functions: It is important that the sponsoring body be represented by an officer at the public installation of officers held several times each year. Occasional visitations to a regular meeting or an activity by members or officers will show the young people that the sponsoring body is committed to their organization.

Financial assistance is helpful, but not necessary. The youth groups know that they are expected to raise their own funds for activities, charity, Masonic service, etc. However, Masonic sponsorship of some of the special educational activities available to the youth will be helpful.

Provide a proper place for the youth members to meet. Masonic Youth Groups should meet in a lodge room. After all, their rituals were written by Masons, and were designed for lodge rooms. If it is not always available, a social room may suffice for informal meetings, but a lodge room is almost essential for all ritualistic presentations such as degrees and the semi-annual installation of officers. If rent must be charged, it should be reasonable, and within the funding capabilities of young people. If rent is being contemplated, ask this question: "How much rent does a church charge its youth group?" Is Freemasonry's relationship to Masonic youth any different?

Provide a good moral and fraternal example for the youth. The purpose of our youth groups is to take good young people and make them into good young adults. We are, in essence, imparting Masonic principles to our youth.

If you follow those guidelines, you will be providing a great service to the youth of your community.