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CHARITY

MASONIC CHARITY - Masonic organizations throughout the United States donate over three million dollars a day to charitable causes. This does not include countless hours of voluntary service work provided as well.

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FREEMASONS HAVE A DUTY TO BE CHARITABLE - The Masonic fraternity is not a charity, nor was it founded as or currently exists as a purely charitable organization. That being said, one of the principle tenets of the fraternity is that every Mason is to be attentive to the needs of others.

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LOWTHER MANOR LODGE CHARITIES - As charity can be defined as “the voluntary giving of help” many of the activities we engage in have at least in part a charitable component. While our members engage in many acts of individual charity, our unity permits us to undertake larger charitable projects, some of which are highlighted below:

ACADEMIC SCHOLARSHIPS

   Over many years, at our stated meetings, many members donated $7.81 to our academic scholarship fund. Over the years, the principle of this fund grew to a substantial amount. Annually, a portion of the funds earnings are awarded to local high graduates, who seek to pursue a baccalaureate degree, and are in need of funds. The scholarships are awarded on the basis of academic excellence, leadership as evidenced by participation in activities and service, and financial need. Since the program’s inception the lodge has awarded more than $80,000 in scholarships. More information and application forms may be found on the SCHOLARSHIPS page of this web site.

VOCATIONAL SCHOLARSHIPS

   In 2005, the lodge membership, led by a formative group of members who were auto enthusiasts, recognized the need for a scholarship program for high school graduates who desired to pursue a technical degree or certification but lacked the funds. The vocational scholarship is principally funded through an annual car show conducted by the lodge. To date over $20,000 in vocational scholarships have been awarded. More information may be found on the SCHOLARSHIPS page of this web site and our CAR SHOW page.

ASSISTANCE TO OUR MEMBERS

ALMONER'S FUND - Almoner is an old term for an individual responsible for the distribution of alms, or money donated to charity. Each Pennsylvania lodge maintains a fund to be used for the relief of members who require financial assistance or services. Requests for assistance are held in strictest confidence.

MASONIC HOMES - Pennsylvania Freemasons and their eligible dependents are guaranteed admission to one of the Masonic Homes regardless of their financial status.

ASSISTANCE TO OTHERS IN NEED

CHARITY FUND - Lowther Manor Lodge's charity fund  can be used to assist members and non-members who are in need. Any member may bring a need to the Charity Committee. Some recent examples of Lowther Manor Lodge charitable projects include:

  • paying the tuition to send a young man with tourette syndrome to a summer camp where he is in a caring, accepting environment and receives help and support in dealing with his condition.

  • responding to an appeal from the Grand Lodge, by making a significant donation toward the funds for a family with a child in immediate need of a double lung transplant. 

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