In large numbers, Pennsylvania Masons are using the Internet. If you're not one of them logging on to the Grand Lodge web site, you're missing a lot. Continuing a feature begun last issue, here are some more insights into the benefits and ease of use of the web site.

PRACTICAL: On-line Employment Center­ Through the foresight of the R.W. Grand Master, an "On-line Employment Center" is provided, via the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania web page exclusively for our members. It is an opportunity for Pennsylvania Masons to "network" with each other. Pennsylvania Masons can post their resumes and job listings, including volunteer opportunities. Membership is verified by the Grand Secretary's office, so you can be certain that you are communicating with a fellow Mason. It is no guarantee of a job, of course, but there is an unmistakable level of trust that Masons share with each other. In just the first few weeks that the Employment Center was on-line, more than 120 members signed on to the new service.

As a benefit to our members, this is open only to members of Pennsylvania lodges. One must register on-line before using the service. Even though it is one Mason dealing with another, the Employment Center allows the user to remain anonymous when inquiring about a job or resume. That's a nice feature, especially when the inquirer is currently employed and does not want to let co-workers know that he's looking elsewhere.

Log onto www.pagrandlodge.org and click on the Employment Center button.

For Masons who do not have access to the Internet, but would still like to participate, there are several options available. The best option is for him to ask a brother in his lodge to help. Or, he can gain free access to the Internet at most public libraries in Pennsylvania. Lastly, he can contact Bro. Thomas R. Labagh, Chairman of the Committee on Internet Services, (717) 367-1536, during regular business hours and he will assist in posting a resume or reviewing job opportunities.

EDUCATIONAL: Excellent Masonic Videos - Using a popular free software program called RealVideo® several excellent video programs can be watched on the Internet. All three segments of the Pennsylvania Grand Lodge's "Tools of The Craft" series are available for the Masons and the public to view. A video history of the creation of the FRIEND TO FRIEND monument at Gettysburg is very popular. In addition, the new video about the Masonic Homes is available, as is the new video on the Order of DeMolay.

ORGANIZATIONAL: Directory for Speakers - Finding a speaker for a lodge couldn't be easier than the click of a mouse button to get the information that is in the newly issued Speakers for Blue Lodges for 2000. Using the sophisticated system, any subject or any speaker by name, topic, or even region of the state where the speaker will be willing to travel, can be searched out. Simply fill in the on-line form and request all the speakers needed for lodge programs.

ENTERTAINMENT: 360º Images ­ Have you ever been to the Masonic Temple in Philadelphia? It's an almost indescribable feeling to stand in the middle of one of the magnificent lodge rooms and look all around the room. Now, through the magic of the Internet, everyone can have that same feeling by visiting the new open-line tours of the Masonic Temple and view the special BEHERE® images which lets the viewer see all around the room. Some of the pictures even allow the viewer to zoom in for a closer look. There are bonus images taken at the Masonic Homes in Elizabethtown, too. The full series of images have been released a few at a time since June 1 and will be complete by Aug. 31.