In today's fast-paced world, we all need to stop and appreciate the blessing of the family. Through the Annual Family Life Program, Scottish Rite Masonry is working to preserve and support the basic values that the family provides. We have all learned our basic life values and morals from the family environment. We must take the time to reaffirm, reinforce, and focus on the importance of the family as the center of the American way of life.
The Valley of Philadelphia sponsors three to four Family Life events per year. Each event is planned by the Second Lieutenant Commander of Benjamin Franklin Consistory, 32°. Activities such as picnics or visits to the Zoo or Aquarium are not only great family friendly programs, but they are also relaxed ways to spend time with Masonic/Scottish Rite Brethren, thereby strengthening fraternal ties and creating new friendships.
The Valley of Philadelphia has two bus trips each year, one in the Spring and the other in the Fall. Trips are planned by the Sovereign Prince of DeJoinville Council, Princes of Jerusalem, 16°. The trips are open to all Valley members and their families. This is a fun and informal way for the members to fellowship together. Past trips have been to locations such as; the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, the Sight and Sound Theater in Strasburg, PA and Radio City Music Hall.
The Valley of Philadelphia's Annual Worker's Night, is a way of thanking those Brethren who participated in the works of the Scottish Rite over the past year. Those Brethren who supported the growth of the Valley as first line signers on membership petitions are also invited to share in the festivities. Recent candidates are invited as well to welcome and expose them to a benefit of active membership. This yearly function is planned by the Thrice Potent Master of Philadelphia Lodge of Perfection, 14°. In the past, Worker's Night functions have included a performance of the Philadelphia Orchestra at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts and cruises on the"Spirit of Philadelphia."
This ecumenical service, planned each year by the Most Wise Master of Kilwinning Chapter of Rose Croix, 18°, is usually held in the Spring to memorialize our Brethren lost during the year. It is held each year in a church and presided over by the Valley Priors and certain Valley Officers. Through this Religious service, Scottish Rite Brethren of all faiths, and their families come together in remembrance and worship.
Ladies of the Valley The Members of the Valley of Philadelphia as well as visiting Brethren are encouraged to bring their Lady along with them to our Reunion meetings. The Ladies are always welcome to attend dinner. During the meeting, the Ladies always have an entertaining and in most cases, inter-active program. The wife of the Commander-in-Chief of Benjamin Franklin Consistory, 32°, usually serves as the President. She serves a two year term along with her husband. If the Commander-in-Chief's wife does not wish to serve, or the Commander is not married, the Ladies elect a President from among their membership. The President is responsible to plan the program for Ladies at each meeting. The expense of the Ladies program is paid for by the Valley. To become a member of the Auxiliary, a Lady must complete a membership application along with an annual membership fee of $5.00. Widows of deceased members are encouraged to remain active with the Ladies of the Valley, and many do.
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Copyright © 2007-2008 (Scottish Rite Bodies, Valley of Philadelphia). All rights reserved. Revised: January 10, 2007.