Autumn Day was a wonderful celebration at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown, as we were joined by more than 7,000 Pennsylvania Masons, their families and friends on September 11th, Patriot Day. It is always an enjoyable time to meet and greet individuals from across the Commonwealth, and some visiting from as far away as Florida, to view first-hand the Mission of Love that the Family of Freemasonry accomplishes through our Masonic Villages.

The skies were clear and the food was great -- but it's the fellowship that makes this day spectacular. Everywhere you turned, you could feel the excitement of the entertainment, as faces delighted, toes tapped and hands clapped with the many bands playing. Young eyes marveled at the model railroad club, the clowns' antics and the jugglers' stunts. Shoppers delighted in the many goods and wares offered at the gift, craft, woodworking and farm market stands.

The Wachovia Masonic Village Charity Mini Grand Prix created additional excitement this year, as 15 Masonic and community racing teams came together to Share the Light of Freemasonry by combining friendly competition, skill and fun to raise charitable funds.

Thanks to all of you for being a part of this special day. If you were unable to join us, I encourage you to mark your calendar for next year's Autumn Day: Saturday, September 24th.

For many of us, Autumn Day is almost like a regular holiday, with all of the preparations to gather with our Family of Freemasonry and enjoy fellowship. This holiday season, I invite you to share your time and talents with our residents at the Masonic Village nearest you. Come by yourself, with your family or with one of the many Masonic groups to which you may belong. Bring holiday cheer, a smile, a handshake or a hug to someone who may not have family nearby to make the season extra special. You may find that you'll enjoy yourself so much that you'll want to make a regular commitment. For more information on the various volunteer opportunities and needs at each of our locations, please contact the community nearest you at the phone number or e-mail address indicated below.

Masonic Village at Elizabethtown:
(717) 367-1121, ext. 33175, or e-mail MVEvolunteers@masonicvillagespa.org
Volunteer needs: assistance with Saturday afternoon programs; escort wheelchair residents to/from Sunday afternoon church service; donations of prizes/gifts for activities.

Masonic Village at Lafayette Hill:
(610) 825-6100 or e-mail MVLHvolunteers@masonicvillagespa.org
Needs: one-on-one visitation; musicians, storytellers and entertainers; carpenters and craftsmen to construct games and other items to be used by the Recreation Department; letter writers to assist residents with correspondence to friends and loved ones; computer teachers to assist residents in our computer lab; activity facilitators to provide a special program for residents; pet visitation -bring your friendly pet for a visit.

Masonic Village at Sewickley:
(412) 741-1400, ext. 3200, or e-mail MVSvolunteers@masonicvillagespa.org
Needs: assist in the gift shop; escorts for group outings; one-on-one visitation with residents; share a special interest, hobby or collection; entertainment, such as playing the piano, storytelling or showing slides; lead or assist with craft projects; assist with manicures.

Masonic Village at Warminster:
(215) 672-2500 or e-mail MVWvolunteers@masonicvillagespa.org
Needs: trip escorts; provide entertainment programs; assist with craft projects; one-on-one visitation.

May you and your loved ones be blessed for your service to our residents and others in need this holiday season.

Keep Sharing the Light

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