From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

The Rainbow Girls and DeMolay will be attending a dance at the Syria Shrine, 1877 Shriners Way, Cheswick PA 15024 on Friday December 29th. Car pooling from Franklin Myrtle Lodge at 5 PM. Dance is from 6:30PM to 10:30 PM. Pizza and drinks provided. Young women and men must bring permission slips and emergency medical data with them or they will not be able to attend. Questions - contact Sandy Lewis 785-6795 or Rich Palm 677-5146.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

“I don’t believe in a Christmas celebration by the Lodge. (A story from Long ago) I don’t think we ought to have one, or be asked to contribute to one or in any way engage in Christmas festivities, ” said the Junior Mason, emphatically and with marked disapproval of the little ante-room group nearby, making happy plans for Yule-tide. “That’s very interesting,” commented the Old Past Master. “I like to hear points of view unfamiliar to me. Would you mind telling me why?” “Of course I don’t mind. It’s very simple. Masonry is not Christian. King Solomon, of course, wasn’t a Christian, nor was either of the Hiram’s. Masonry admits to her ranks any good man of faith; Christian, Jewish, Mohammedan, Buddhist… it makes no difference, just so he has a Faith. Then, as a Lodge, we celebrate a holiday belonging to one faith.” “Now I personally am a Christian, and of course I celebrate Christmas. But my Brother across the way is a Jew, who does not recognize Christianity. To ask him to spend his proportion of Lodge funds in celebrating the birth of a Leader in whom he does not believe would be exactly like asking me to celebrate — with my proportion of Lodge money — the birth of Confucius. Of course, I have only one vote and the majority rules, but when it comes to personal contributions to a Masonic Christmas celebration, my hands will never come out of my pockets.” He shoved them deeper into his pockets as he spoke to emphasize his intention not to spend. “Hum!” answered the Old Past Master. “So you think your Jewish Brother across the way doesn’t recognize Christianity? Don’t you mean he doesn’t recognize Christ as the Son of God?” “Oh, Brother Samuels,” the Old Past Master called across the ante-room. “Come here a minute, will you?” The Jewish Brother rose and came forward. “I just wanted to ask you if you are in favor or against the Lodge Christmas celebration?” asked the Old Past Master. “Me? I am in favor of it, of course, both for the Lodge appropriation and the individual contribution.” “Thank you,” nodded the Old Past Master. Then as the Jewish Brother went back to his seat, he turned to the Junior Mason. “You see, my son, our Jewish friend is not narrow. He does not believe in Christ as the Redeemer, but he recognizes that he lives in a country largely Christian and belongs to a Lodge largely with Christian Brothers. To him the Christmas celebration is not one of His birthday, but of the spirit of joyousness and love which we mean when we sing, at Christmas time ‘Peace on earth, good will towards men!’ If you argue that ‘peace’ is only a Christian word, he might even quote to you the words of One who said ‘I bring you not Peace, but a Sword.'” “Now let me explain something to you. The Jew has just as much right to refuse to recognize Christ as the Son of God as you have to refuse to consider Mohammed the Prophet that the followers of Allah say he is. But as an educated man, you must know that Mohammed was a good man, a devout leader, a wise teacher. As an educated man, you admit that the religion founded by Buddha has much in it that is good and you admit that Confucius was a wise and just leader.” “Were you in the land where the birthdays of any of these were celebrated, would you refuse your part in the people’s joy in their Leader, simply because you followed another? I trust not. Well, neither do our Jewish brethren or our Mohammedan brethren desire to be left out of our celebration. They may not believe in the Divinity of Him that we, as Christians, follow, but if they are good men and good Masons… they are perfectly willing to admit that the religion we follow is as good for us as theirs is for them. Then they join with us in celebrating the day which is to us the glad day of all the year.” “Believe me, boy, Christmas doesn’t mean Christ’s birthday to many a man who calls himself Christian. It is not because of joy the He was born that many a good man celebrates Christmas. It is because his neighbor celebrates it, because it is a time of joy for little ones, because it is a day when he can express his thanks to his God that he is allowed to have a wife and family and children and friends and a Lodge, because of that very ‘peace on earth’ spirit which is no more the property of the Gentile than the Jew, the Chinese or the Mohammedan.” “It is in such a spirit that Masons join, all in celebrating Christmas. It is on the Masonic side of the tree we dance, not the Christian side. When this Lodge erects its Christmas tree in the basement and throws it open to the little ones of the poor of this town, you will find children of all kinds there; black, white, yellow, and brown, Jew and Gentile, Christian and Mohammedan.” “And you will find a Jew at the door and among the biggest subscriptions will be those from some Jewish brethren. There is a Jew who rents cars for a living who will supply us a dozen free cars to take baskets to those who cannot come. And when the Jewish Orphan Asylum has its fair, in the spring, you will find many Christian Masons attending to spend his money and help along the cause dear to his Jewish brethren, never remembering that they be of a different faith. That, my son, is Masonry.” “Charity is neither Christian nor Jewish, nor Chinese nor Buddhist. And celebrations which create joy in little hearts and feed the hungry and make the poor think that Masons do not forget the lessons in Lodge, are not Christian alone, though they be held at Christmas, and are not for Christians alone, though the celebration be in His honor. Recall the ritual: ‘By the exercise of Brotherly love we are taught to regard the whole human species as one family, the high and low, the rich and poor, who, as created by one Almighty Parent, and inhabitants of the same planet, are to aid, support and protect each other’.” “It is with this thought that we, as Masons, celebrate Christmas, to bring joy to our brethren and their little ones, and truly observe the Brotherhood of man and the Fatherhood of God, whether we be Jew or Gentile, Mohammedan or Buddhist.” The Old Past Master ceased and stood musing, his old eyes looking back along a long line of Lodge Christmas trees about which eager little faces danced. Then he turned to the Junior Mason. “Well,” he said smiling, “Do you understand?” “I thank you for my Christmas present,” came the answer. “Please tell me to which Brother I should make my Christmas contribution?” Peace be with you and yours this Christmas.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

Some of us will be attending a funeral for William Huber who was a member of Fraternal Lodge. For reasons unknown to me he no longer a member in good standing. However he was well known in the fraternity and though we will not be preforming a Masonic Funeral, we will attend as brothers to show our respect. If you would like to join us, we will meet at Faymoors Restaurant at 9:30AM Saturday. Then proceed to President Chapel in the Village of President off Rt 62 about 3 miles south of the Hunters Station Bridge. Dress is coat and tie.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

Venango Chapter Order of DeMolay Interest in reviving this Chapter began late in 2016 and gathered strength over the next few months. It was first brought to me by Sandra Lewis, Past Mother Advisor, and Amanda Lewis, Current Mother Advisor of the Rainbow Girls in Franklin. Their knowledge of the workings of the Rainbow Girls was instrumental in this start up. Currently, we have five young men who have petitioned, have been investigated, and approved by the advisory board and are awaiting inition and degrees. We had hoped to have the Erie Chapter of DeMolay come to initiate them on December 16th. The State Officers found out about starting up this new Chapter and made it clear the State Officers would perform the ceremonies. It has been moved to Wednesday, January 10, 2018 at 7 PM in the Oil City Masonic Hall. There are two degrees the young men will receive in Pittsburgh in March. Our meeting nights will be the second Wednesday and fourth Monday of each month. Wednesday will be the stated meeting with a ritualistic open, business and close. Monday will be activities night. We have had interest from friends of our five new young men and expect the Chapter to grow rapidly. Petitioners need not have a Masonic affiliation. Requirements are: • You are a young man between the ages of 12 and 21. • You are of good moral character. • You believe in a supreme being (all religions welcome). Dues are a onetime fee of $60 for life membership. The young men, living in today’s society of broken promises, lack of trust and questionable moral values can be shown that there is another way of life. One that we Masons promote in all that we do and say. Please come on January 10th to support these young men and show them what true brotherhood really means. For more information or petitions contact: Cell Phone Home Phone Richard Palm 814-671-5146 814-677-5146 Assistant Chairman Brian Butchart (814) 516-4325 (814) 676-6247 Chapter Advisor Amanda Lewis 814-758-4439 Membership Chair

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

Congratulations to Brother Lou Carbaugh and the Shriners. See today's paper, front page. Third graders collecting items for the children at Shrine Hospital in Erie.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

REMINDER - Masonic Education tonight at 7 PM.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

The Venango chapter of the Order of DeMolay is finally getting started. Wednesday December 13th at 7 p.m. will be their first meeting at the Oil City lodge. Everyone is invited to attend if you're interested. If you have young men who might be interested this would be a good opportunity for them to see what we do.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

About 100 delinquent dues notices will be sent out in about a week. If you haven't paid your dues yet please get them in soon so we don't need to send this letter to you.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

If you would like to reserve a dinner for Lodge Tuesday night please call Jim Monson right away.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

If you would like to reserve a dinner at lodge next Tuesday evening please call Jim Munson today.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

This is a message I would prefer not to send out. But if I don't it could be worse later. As of today, 83 members have paid their dues for 2018. They must be in by next Tuesday (meeting night). There are about 118 members who will be receiving letters from the Worshipful Master reminding them they will be suspended in the January meeting. Please send in you dues as soon as possible. $75 for due and $5 for the Almoners fund (required by Grand Lodge) for a total of $80. Thank you brothers. Send to P.O Box 901, Oil City, PA or give it to one of the officers.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

Brother Barry Myers is in the Meadville Hospital (Old) room 367. His knee replacement became infected and required emergency surgery. He said he will be in the hospital for 2 to 6 weeks. He would appreciate some calls at 814-333-5000 Room 367. Prayer is the best medicine.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

To nights DeMolay Meeting has been postponed to December 13th at 6:30PM due to unforeseen circumstance.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

DeMolay board meeting this evening at 6:30 PM, at the Oil City Masonic Hall. Everyone is invited.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

Brother James Monson is home. Apparently he had some internal bleeding from the blood thinners he was taking. Doctors are telling him his in good shape. Thanks for the prayers.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

To all my fraternal brothers and sisters. Having met you and your families have made my life richer. Thank you and Happy Thanksgiving.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

CORRECTION - Brother Monson is in Hammot Hospital.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

Brother James Monson, Worshipful Master, was in the ER tonight and is now on his way to St. Vincent Hospital in Erie. The only thing we know right now is it is not his heart. Please pray for our Brother.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

There will be a Masonic Funeral, Sunday at 3:45 PM at Riensel's funeral Home, 116 Bissell Ave, Oil City, PA 16301, for Brother Donald Heater. Dress code is coat and tie.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

Reminder of Masonic Education tonight at 7 PM. Learn what it all about. Maybe start learning some of the ritual.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

To all my comrades in arms, past present and future, hope your Veterans Day was peaceful and honorable. Our country, with all its problems, is still the best place on earth to be, thanks to you.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

Thursday, November 9th at 7PM, the Venango Lodge of Perfection Stated Meeting. Your presents will be enjoyed by all. See you there.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

Reminder that Dues will not be extended into 2018 this year. They are due by the December Stated Meeting. It is $75 for dues and Grand Lodge requires an additional $5 for the Almoners Fund for a total of $80.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

Tuesday evening - Important event! Petrolia Lodge will present the "Flower Talk" for all ladies. The program will be after the 6:30 dinner. At 7PM, the Erie Chapter of the Order of DeMolay will present the program for al of us but especially the ladies (of all ages). This is the Chapter that is helping us set our own DeMolay Chapter in Oil City.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

New Castle Consistory, Scottish Rite Reunion is next Saturday, November 4th, beginning at 8 AM. If you are not a member of Scottish Rite and would like to join, contact Rich Palm at 673-0116 or Brian Butchart at 676-6247.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

Sunday's dinner went well. About 45 dinners were served. Photos to follow soon.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

Dinner, in honor of the members who have joined us in the last two years, tomorrow, Sunday, October 22nd from 4PM to 6 PM. Free to all members and their family's. Come and meet the brethren.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

You are a Master Mason. . . . Now what? What is next? Is there something else? Come to Lodge tomorrow evening at 7 PM, October 10th. Dress is street cloths. Meet in the TV Room on the second floor. When you run low on questions, I'll explain the three degrees. We will meet on the second Tuesday of each month (unless there is a degree) to discuss where we came from, and maybe, where we are going. See you tomorrow evening. Sorry this is a Mason only event.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

Family Night, Wednesday Sept. 27. 6 PM meet at Double Play in Oil City for dinner. When we are done, we will go to Franklin, Buffalo Street Lanes for some bowling. Everyone is invited, family of all ages, friends, neighbors, in-laws and out-laws (well may be not). Just come for a good time.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

Dinner before Lodge Tuesday evening. Reminder to sign up by Friday. Sign up on the list at lodge or call Jim Monson or Tad Moore. Ladies are invited. Speaker will be Mark Haffley of the Game Commission.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

I need a younger sharper mind to take over this internet service. I missed one of our new brothers on yesterday's post. Brother Adam best has also joined our family. Anyone interested in helping with the internet I would really appreciate it.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

News of a new member dinner has leaked out. It is not yet planned it will be coming probably in late October. Not to be confused with our family night tomorrow evening. 6 p.m. at Double Play for supper then to Franklin bowling lanes for bowling.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

Family Night, Wednesday Sept. 27. 6 PM meet at Double Play in Oil City for dinner. When we are done, we will go to Franklin, Buffalo Street Lanes for some bowling. Everyone is invited, family of all ages, friends, neighbors, in-laws and out-laws (well may be not). Just come for a good time.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

Welcome to our new Brother's, Joseph Becker, Arthur Bentley, Adam Best, David, Bialo, Richard Shull, Jr., and Robert Wilson. A new life begins.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

Welcome to our six newest brother's, Joseph Becker, Arthur Bentley, Adam Best, David Bialo, Richard Schull jr., Robert Wilson.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

One of our newer Brothers, Dannial Grimes, is in the hospital and could use our prayers. God's speed brother.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

Reminder of the Venango Lodge of Perfection Stated Meeting tonight at 7:30. Board meeting at 6 PM.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

We voted in favor of all the candidates for the One Day Class. I still need at least one more mentor for the September 23, 2017 trip to New Castle. Please contact Rich Palm if you can come. I will be meeting with the candidates to tour the Lodge at 6PM on Sunday September 17th and 18th. Mentor Training will be on those same days at 7:30 PM.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

If you have a part in the First Degree in the New Castle One Day Class, there will be a practice at Kedron Lodge in West Middlesex, on Sunday at 7 PM. If you need directions or would like a ride, contact Jim Monson or Rich Palm.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

Tuesday evening after the special meeting there will be a Past Masters meeting to decide the direction of this lodge in 2018. All Past Masters and current officers are encouraged to attend.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

Tuesday evening at 7PM there is a special meeting to vote on the 5 candidates for the One Day Class. Your vote is very important. This will not take long.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

Still need one more mentor for the One Day Class. More would be great. Please let me know by Tuesday evening at our special meeting. Mentor Training will be on Sunday, Sept. 17th and Monday Sept. 18th. at 7 PM. You only need to attend one or the other.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

Due to a minor error, there will not be a ballot on Tuesday evening. That will probably occur at a special meeting on the following Tuesday evening at a special meeting. More info on that later.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

This coming week is the start of the fall Masonic events. Most Masonic organizations shut down for July and August. Petrolia's stated meeting is next Tuesday evening. There is a dinner before at 6:30 for $12. If you are interested, please contact Brother James Monson or Dennis Butler so they can plan enough food. We will be balloting on many candidates . Please come to support them. Many more events coming. You will be receiving more messages about them as they come.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

Our open house this evening was met with some limited success. Three young ladies signed up for Rainbow Girls and 2 for DeMolay. We will need three more to begin a DeMolay Chapter in Venango County. Please reach out to any young men who would benefit, from joining. When these two young men have been investigated, the State Officer will come to the Oil City Lodge to confrere the degree.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

New and exciting events are coming in the next year. Starting with the Grand Lodge One Day Class on September 23. We currently have 7 candidates who will be going and we need one Mentor to be with each candidate. Additional Mentors to help with other lodge candidates as well, so any one who can come with us, please contact me. Will set up a training class to go over the little you will need to know. We have been approved for a One Day Class (ODC) in May of 2018. There will not be a Grand Lodge One Day Class next year. The new Grand Master to be installed in December, heard of some of the new things we did in our ODC and added a few more that we must do in 2018. These will be discussed later. I would like to change the form of our Family Night as well. Going to need some suggestions for this. In September, we will meet at "Double Play" restaurant for supper of your choice. Followed by a trip to Seneca Lanes for some Bowling. Please contact me with ideas for following months.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

e 2017 Prince of Jerusalem annual Steak Fry is over. 99 brothers enjoyed an evening of great food and even better fellowship. Many other events for the Valley of New Castle Scottish Rite can be found at there web site http://ift.tt/2uyM2xp.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

On Saturday, September 23rd there will be a one-day class in New Castle consistory. We need to supply at least seven mentors for the seven new candidates from our lodge. Additional mentors will be needed for candidates from other lodges. Degrees will be conferred from 8 a.m. until noon. If you are willing to help us with this project please let me know. I will schedule some time between now and then to practice what you need to know which is not much.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

Anyone interested in the DeMolay Chapter we are in the process of setting up this fall, we will be having a computer training course and clearances letters available for those who may be interested in joining our executive board or if you're just interested in what is taking place feel free to stop by. There is an open house on August 19th at 5 p.m. to invite young men and women to come and join both DeMolay and Rainbow Girls, please feel free to stop by and bring your kids and grandkids to this August 19th. event.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

Just got home from the lodge pick nick. Thank you Brother Brad Young. What a wonderful, tiring, day. Many photos after about 12 hours of sleep. Night.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

Remember that tomorrow night is not family night at lodge. That has been postponed until the 29th, Saturday, for the lodge picnic at Brother Brad Young's home on Sugarcreek Dr., Franklin.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

The Annual Pick-nick will be held at the residence of Brother Bradly Young at 637 Sugarcreek Dr.,Franklin, PA from 3PM to 8PM. Brother Brad will supply brisket, beans and mac and cheese. Bring a cover dish to round out the menu. Family are invited.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

Tuesday evening at 7:30 PM. Petrolia Lodge will be conferring the 2nd Degree, followed by the 3rd degree the same evening on Brother Travis Miller. Brother Clyde Miranda from Rouseville Fraternal Lodge will confer the 2nd for the first time and because he has conferred the 1st and 3rd. will qualify him to receive the Grand Lodge Proficiency Pin. Brother Luke Hoffman from Franklin Myrtle Lodge will conferr the 3rd. Thank you Brothers. Please come to support our new Brother.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

Practice for the second and third degree will be take place at 7 p.m. Thursday July 6th all officers are asked to attend.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

There will be a meeting at the lodge 7 p.m. Wednesday July 5th to discuss the car cruise in this fall. Anyone interested please attend.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

There will be a meeting at the lodge at 7 p.m. Wednesday evening July 5th to begin preparation for the car cruise this fall. Anyone interested please attend.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

Update - Our pick nick will not be on July 29 due to a conflict. The date will be posted as soon as we have a new one. Also, we are in the process of setting up 2 new committees and are looking for volunteers. First, a car cruise to take place this fall in Oil City, proceeds to go to the Child Diabetes and probably the Shriners Hospital. Second, an annual Masonic blood drive. Come and give blood and join the Masonic Blood club for free blood for you and your family for life. More to come.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

Reminder that our Stated Meeting will not be on July 4th, but a week later on July 11th at 7 PM (not 7:30). We will be conferring the 2nd and third degree on on Brother Travis Miller. Please come to welcome our new Brother.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

Reminder of Family Night this Wednesday evening at 6 PM.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

New Castle Consistory will hold its Quarterly Stated Meeting tomorrow, Wednesday at 7:30 PM. Three of our Venango Lodge of Perfection Brothers are running the meeting this month.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

Reminder that there is no District School of Instruction in June, July and August.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

Looking for some people to help set up a blood drive through the Masonic Blood & Organ Donor Club. A benefit to any Mason giving blood to this organization, you can become a member of the Masonic Blood Club which gives your whole family access to free blood in the future. Please contact Rich Palm at 817-673-0116.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

This weeks events!! Monday, Tionesta Lodge, York Chapter. Wednesday, First Degree at Petrolia Lodge. Thursday, Acacia Grotto.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

Forgot to mention the live band tomorrow night also. Petrolia Lodge will be Rock-n.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

Ladies are invited!!! Tomorrow night, Stated Meeting on Tuesday evening at 7:30. We will have a short meeting then Jim's FAMOUS Strawberry Short Cake and Ice Cream. This is not to be missed!!!

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

A lot of activity in the next week. Eastern Star meets tonight (Thursday) at 7:30 PM. Franklin Myrtle Lodge meets Monday evening at 7:30 PM. Oil City's, Petrolia Lodge and Knox Edenburg Lodge both meet Tuesday evening at 7:30. Then Rouseville Fraternal Lodge is Wednesday evening. Venango Lodge of Perfection meets Thursday evening. Hope to see you at at least one of these events.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

Erie Speedway - Crash-a-rama, we have access to tickets for $17.50 per person. Usually $25. If you are interested, you must contact me by Monday evening to arrange the tickets. Text, email or call Rich Palm, 814-673-0116, richpalm@zoominternet.net

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

Welcome to all of our new Brothers! This Wednesday evening May 24th at 6PM. All are invited to the Oil City Masonic Hall for Family Night. Family, friends, neighbors, relatives, weather they are Masons or not. Pool tables, movies, table games are always available. We can discuss what happened this week end with anyone interested.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

A great big thank you to Sister Sandy Lewis and her rainbow girls for preparing the food we had today at the one-day class you have made our day much better and we appreciate it thank you.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

Sandy Lewis will be working with the ladies to "tie-dye" a pillow case, during our One Day Class. She would like children (boys and girls) from 12 to 21 years of age to come also. She has something in store for them also.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

All attending the One Day Class, candidates and Master Masons, are encouraged to bring your wife or girlfriend. There will be some ladies there to entertain them while we are upstairs doing the Work. Doors open at 8 AM, Degrees will start at 9 AM. Lunch will be served between the Second and Third Degree at about 11:30,

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

Petrolia Lodge needs your help! Saturday's One Day Class - there will be 20 candidates coming. We need 20 mentors, and 12 officers at a minimum. We need everyone to come be mentors. Its easy and you will make a new friend. If you can make it, please contact Rich Palm.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

This week's events at Petrolia Lodge! Tuesday evening 7 p.m. Sandy Lake Lodge. School of instruction for the District 53. Wednesday evening at 6 p.m. a special meeting to vote on new petitions for the one-day class. Wednesday evening at 7 p.m. . Degree practice for the one-day class. Saturday morning for the one-day class doors open at 8 a.m. Mentor practice from 8:15 to 8:45 degrees begins at 9 a.m. We need as many members as possible to come to the one-day class to act as mentors for the new candidates.

Monday evening 7 p.m. May 15th there will be a meeting at Petrolia Lodge for incoming new candidates and mentors. The purpose is to take a tour of the building, discuss masonry and answer any questions before the one-day class. All are invited including wives. Any questions contact Richard Palm 673-0116.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

Congratulations to Brother Clyde Meranda! He was signed off to confrere the Third Degree this evening by the Principal of the School of Instruction, Brother James Monson.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

Four petitions read tonight. Investigations are underway. Special meeting to vote on these four next Wednesday May 17th at 6 p.m.

Special meeting tonight at 6 p.m., yes that is 6 p.m. to read for new petitions for Lodge. We must have a quorum for this short meeting that should only last about 10 minutes. At 7 p.m. several of the new candidate will be coming to the lodge for a tour and to answer any questions, everyone is welcome to join us.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

Brother Richard McCleary our district Deputy Grand Master had back surgery this morning in Pittsburgh. We pray this will relieve the pain that you've been suffering for the last year or so. Hope things have gone well and we can see you again soon. Godspeed my friend.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

OFFICERS FOR DEGREES Has it been a while since you participated in degree work? Petrolia Lodge is looking to replace all of our officers for the One Day Class on May 20th, so they can be mentors to our candidates. If your interested or if you have new members in your lodge who have not had the opportunity to be an officer yet, please call Richard Palm at 814-673-0116 to schedule some training. Thank you Brothers.

Thomas Marsh, father of our brother Troy Marsh, passed away Saturday morning. Our condolences to the marsh family. There will be no visitation for Mr. Marsh.
Our sympathy is extended to the brother Troy Marsh and his family at this time hour of loss.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

Eight members of the Venango Lodge Of Perfection will be leaving about 1PM Friday April 25th to attend the Council of Deliberation officers training at the Patton Campus of Elisbethtown. Safe travels and come back ready to inspire.

Brother Brad Young and myself were not able to attend the practice this evening.  Brad had a run in with some spiders that sent him to the doctor.  My brother-in-law passed away and it was a night at the funeral home.  I hope all went well at practice.

Reminder of one third degree and two second degrees to be conferred Thursday evening beginning at 7PM.  Hope many of you will be able to attend to welcome our new Brothers into the family.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

Reminder of Family Night at the Oil City Masonic Hall this Wednesday evening at 6PM. Bring some food to share, we sit down at 6 PM for supper, the game movies, pool, or talk after. Family and friends are invited.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

There is a meeting at the Oil City Masonic Hall on Monday April 24th at 6PM. Dave Berry will be there form DeMolay Headquarters to answer our many questions. This is a very important meeting for all board members. If you can't make it please email Sandy Lewis or myself.

Events this next week.  Monday evening, April 24th at 6 PM.  Meeting with Dave Berry from DeMolay from Elizabethtown.  This is a very important meeting that will answer all the questions we have and then some.  Board members, if you can not make this meeting please email Sandy Lewis or myself.

Tuesday, April 25th, at 7PM is practice for the one 3rd degree and two 2nd degrees on the April 27th.  Again, if you can't make it to the degrees on the 27th, please contact me as soon as possible.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

District 53 School of Instruction, Tuedsday April 18th at 7PM at Sandy Lake Lodge.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

Practice for a 3rd and two 2nd. degrees on April 27th will be Tuesday April 18th at 7PM. All offices are to attend. All Master Masons are encouraged to attend. Officers, if you can't make it, contact Rich Palm or Brad Young for another time.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

I was asked, why two pages. This second page was my intended destination all along. Our other page is for Petrolia Lodge and was my training grounds. It will take a little time to develop the new page and the web page as well. Keep watching, I hope to make it better.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

Go to the Masonic families of the Allegheny Valley actual website there you can access the calendar that in time will show all Masonic bodies meetings within the Venango County and surrounding areas. Also any special events taking place. I am asking all bodies to create a Google Calendar so that we can attach it to this one.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

Miss Stephanie Kiesel , Worthy Advisor Elect Would like to invite you to Franklin Assembly #19 IORG Saturday April 15, 2017 Dinner @ 4:00 Installation @ 5:30 Men: Suits, Women dresses/skirts and blouses. If you have a daughter or granddaughter 11 to 21, this would be a good event to take them to. They (and you) get a chance to see what Rainbow Girls do.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

All future posts for general Masonic information will be posted to this facebook page and to the new Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley web page. The Petrolia facebook page will continue to exist. If this works right, what ever is posted to this page will show up on the Petrolia Page also.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

Search for Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley. You will find a web page that includes a calendar of all events of all bodies in our area. If your Masonic body has a google calendar, please contact me so I can link to it. Finally a one calendar where you can see all events. This is a work in progress. Please be patient with us till we get it right. Rich Palm 814-673-0116 richpalm@zoominternet.net

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

We are finally bringing this site together. This is the first step into an "all Masonic body" group. With the help of Steve Luxbaucher, your should be able to find a wealth of information pertaining to all Masons in and near Venango County.

From Masonic Families of the Allegheny Valley

REMINDER: Venango Lodge of Perfection Meeting Tonight at 7:30

Masonic Funeral for Brother Jack Bankson will be at Morrison Funeral Home Wednesday at 7PM.  All Mason's are encourage to attend.  Please arrive by 6:45 PM.

I was given an incorrect name for my previous post.  The name of the Brother who passed is Jack Bankson, not Knight.

Sadly I must report Brother Jack Knight, 33 degree, a member of Rouseville, Fraternal Lodge has been called home by the Grand Architect of the Universe.  Masonic Services will be held at Morrison's Funeral Home.  Day and time will be posted when they become available.

Some events coming up this week.  First is Monday evening at the Oil City Masonic Hall.  York Rite Chapter will meet for their Stated meeting at 7:30 PM.

Thursday also at the Oil City Masonic Hall, Venango Lodge of Perfection of the Scottish Rite will meet at 7:30 PM. 

Crash‑A‑Rama featuring School Bus Figure 8 Racing

Saturday, May 27, 2017, 7:00 PM

This is the weekend after our One Day Class.  We may have a line on some reduced price tickets.  This is a $25 per person event, we are looking at nearly 40% cut.  I'll update you as this develops but keep this Saturday evening open.

A great day at lodge today.  First we have a new Entered Apprentice Mason, Brother Larry James, and a new Master Mason who has our labor force, Brother Daniel Grimes.  There were 7 members who have joined us in the last year who were officers in the degree team.  Four for the very first time.  Ryan Graham was Senior Warden, Matthew Swartz as Junior Warden, Tadd Moore as Senior Master of Ceremonies and Jesse Hanna as Guide in both degrees.  Also, Lloyd Welch as Senior Deacon, Steven Miller as Chaplin, and Richard Guthrie as Tyler.

It does my heart good to see new members stepping up.  Our lodge will be in good hands soon. If anyone would like to learn any part or just interested in learning about Masonry in general.  Please contact Rich Palm any time.

One of our degrees tomorrow canceled out just an hour ago.  We are down to a 3rd and a 1st degree.  Be there by 8:15.  Degree starts at 8:30 AM.  See you there.

Remember tomorrow evening (Wednesday) is Family Night.  Bring some food for a shared supper at 6 PM.  Games or what ever afterwards.  We will discuss other activities that we can explore.

Family Night

Wednesday night.  Bring some food to share.  We will sit down to eat at 6 PM.  There is talk of a bowling night also.  We will discuss that and see what happens.

District 53 School of Instruction

Sandy Lake Lodge, business meeting begins at 7PM.  Instruction begins at 7:30PM.  All officer and prospective officers are to attend.  All Master Mason's are encouraged to attend.  If you would like any individualized training, feel free to contact Rich Palm.  We will find something that will work.

Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite.

Welcome to our new Brother Jesse Hanna, into the Valley of Oil City, Venango Lodge of Perfection. 

Reminder to all, New Castle Consistory Reunion in on April 1st beginning at 8AM.  Be there by 8:45 at the latest. 

Lodge Practice

Monday, March 20th., 7PM.  Working on Guide, and work of the Lodge.  Hope a few senior Masons will come help with the instruction.  See you there.

Tonight at 7 PM and Saturday March 18th at 9 AM. New members from the Fall Reunion in New Castle will receive their Pass Ports and AASR Jewels. If you are a Master Mason and would like to 

join, come in this evening we can take you in.

Brother Hanna and I will be meeting at lodge tomorrow, Monday, at 6pm to work on guide for all three degrees.  All Master Masons are welcome to join us.

If you ware the colors, act the part!

Freemasonry is not just a fraternity, it is a way of life.  Brothers, if you are going to be some where or doing something on you own time, that does not reflect Masonic values, please don't ware the Masonic colors.  This applies also to social media on the internet.  Few people out side of our lodge room knows much about Masonry.  If they see someone with a Masonic symbol on a hat a jacket a shirt or finger, doing or speaking things less than appropriate, they see all Masons as being the same.

Brothers, help us keep our fraternity the best there is. Thank you.

March 11, 8:30 AM, New Castle Consistory, Sectional School of Instruction for all Blue Lodge officer, all Master Mason's are invited as well.  This is several Districts involved in this Training.

Scottish Rite

1. Fish Fry, Friday March 3rd. New Castle Consistory, Program begins at 6:30 PM
2. Reunion Practice
1. New Castle beginning at 2PM. 
2. Venango Lodge of Perfection 14th Degree 2 PM
3. New Castle Stated Meeting, Installation of Officers.  Dinner before $10 per person, ladies invited.  Call for reservations.
4. Spring Reunion, Venango Lodge of Perfection. March 9th 7:30 PM.  Petitions can be turned in that night.
1. New members who have not yet received their jewels and passbooks will receive them at this meeting.

Rich Palm's vell iphone is oct of acción again. Plenes use home phone, I will return tour call when  I can.

Brother Monson is home and doing well.  He is very weak and still needs some assistance.  Don't expect to see him out of the house for a while.

Please disregard the last post concerning practice for Degrees.  It was incorrect.  I will review and post the correct dates soon.

Brother Monson will be returning home this evening.  He is in good shape but will be weak for a while.  Family will be staying with him for a while to help out.  Give him another day to settle in then I'm sure he will welcome some calls and visits.

Annual Stag Fish Fry in New Castle is coming March 3rd. 

If you are interested, you much contact Rich Palm by Wednesday February 22nd, 673-0116.  I must call in reservations.  There is no cost. 

As of now, we have 9 men waiting for degrees in Petrolia Lodge and more petitions coming in.  Some have progressed as far as the second degree, most have not started at all. With our Master in the hospital, it has been a challenge to keep things going.  Some of these will be waiting for the One Day Class on May 20th.  Others want to follow the traditional path.  Some with be following a combination of both.  We need help from all Masons regardless of what lodge you are from.  We hope to have at least two complete teams of officers to keep from "burning out."  Our next practice is on February 28th at 7 PM.  We hope to have Wardens, appointed officers and conferring officers contact us to be sure we can cover all the chairs.  As in our last One Day Class, we hope to fill all chairs with officers from other lodges.  This will allow our officer and members to be mentors for the new candidates.  All other lodges are invited to bring any candidates you may have to the One Day Class.  Just remember they must be investigated, and voted on before the Class.  Lunch will be served at the One Day Class.  I assume we will confrere the First and Second, then break for lunch before the Third.  We did that last year and it worked well.  Questions, please contact Rich Palm at 814-673-0116.

Brother Monson is doing better.  All IV's are out and he is much more alert.  Still having some trouble with his heart a little out of rhythm but that apparently happens with this type of surgery.  A few visits and a lot of cards will improve his spirits.  He still has a ways to go before he comes back home.  Best guess, about a week.  Then a month or more of therapy.  Remember this brother in need in your prayers.

Brother Monson is out of ICU and in room 2419 and is ready for visitors if your are able.  I will be leaving in a few minutes to visit him and may have more later today.

Reminder - Thursday night at 7 PM, we will conferrer one Second Degree at Lodge.

Visited Brother Monson this afternoon.  He is awake now but still under some sedation.  He was sitting up in a chair and we spoke for about an hour.  He was getting tired and I didn't want to push it.

He is in fairly good sprites but my guess is he will be in the hospital for several more days.  Because he had the airway tube for so long, his speech is effected and a little difficult.  That should clear soon.  As much as many of you would like to visit or call him, I would suggest waiting for a few more days to give him a chance to build his strength.  He seems to be doing well and all is coming along as expected, but he is still weak and needs a little more time.  His family is very supportive and visit him daily.  Keep him in your prayers.

Lodge of Perfection 14th Degree Practice on the following Sunday afternoons at 2 PM.

2/12/2017
2/26/2017
3/12/2017

Other Degree practices not yet finalized.  Will post as soon as we know.

Brother Monson is awake!  I hope to visit him tomorrow if I can get there in time.  He is in Room 3108 at  St. Vincent Hospital, 232 W. 25th St. Erie PA 16544 (for cards).  He does not have a phone in his room.  More tomorrow, I hope.

Degree Practice for Members.

There are new pitetions coming in and more to coming.  Many would like to take the traditional path of one degree per month.  This is great but it will take 2 or 3 extra meetings per month.  To keep from wareing out our officer, we are going to begin practice sessions to teach anyone interested, to preform the duties of the appointed offices.  All Master Masons from any lodge are invited to attend.  This month the dates are as follows.

Sunday, February 12th at 4 PM

Tuesday, Februay 28th at 7 PM

I hope to keep these session to only one hour.  You need not attend both, but you are welcome if you like.  In addition, I will be approaching all Past Masters from all lodges to sit in as Wardens or to confer degrees.  This is not restricted to Petrolia Lodge only.  Any questions, call Rich Palm at 677-5146 or 673-0116.

We also have a One Day Class scheduled in May.  All lodges are invited to send candidates.

Monson update - Brother Jim is having some trouble.  Dennis Butler and Rich Palm visited him in St. Vincents Hospital this afternoon.  His surgery went well, his heart is functioning as expected.  His lungs are in bad shape.  He has pneumonia and his lungs are filling up.  It was necessary to sedate him and place a tube in his air way and to aspirate his lungs.  His kidneys shut down for a while but are now coming back.  The nurse said he would be sedated until at least Monday evening and would not be able to talk until probably Tuesday sometime.

He is in Room 3108, but do not try to call or visit him until at least Tuesday.  Your prayers will be the best medicine we can send him and his family.

Brother Monson is not well enough today to talk on the phone.  His daughter is on her way to Erie to see him.  We may get an update later this evening.

This message from Brother Monson's family.     He had a sucessfull quadruple bypass surgery.  He came out of surgery at 3:30 PM and vital signs were all looking great and was told the surgery went smoothly.

Going to be late this evening before he begins to wake up.  I'll try to call him tomorrow and update when I can.

Rich Palm

Brother Monson is resting comfortably, surgery tomorrow morning at 9AM.  Going to be 5 hours on the table.  Keep him in your prayers.  Updates when there is new information.

Brother Jim Monson PM/WM

We received word this morning that Brother Jim Monson PM/WM suffered a heart attack late last night, and is currently in the Intensive Care Unit at St. Vincent's Hospital in Erie.  Bypass surgery is being scheduled, but there are no further details at this time.  Brother Monson and the family have asked for no phone calls at this time, but cards may be sent to:

St. Vincent Hospital
Room 3116 - Jim Monson
232 West 25 St
Erie, PA 16544

We all wish Brother Monson a speedy recovery, and offer our help and assistance should he need it in the coming days and weeks.

Petrolia Lodge is to serve desert to the ladies of Eastern Star this Thursday, February 2nd at about 8:30 to 9:30 PM.  Brother Monson and Palm will be attending an official Visit in Sharpsville that evening and will not be able to serve.  Need three volunteers to help serve.   If you are able, please contact Rich Palm at 677-5146.  Thank you.

At 2 PM, Sunday, at the Oil City Masonic Hall, the Girl Scouts of the area will be meeting to discuss what may be done to save Singing Hills Girl Scout Camp.  The public is invited to attend.  The camp has been in operation since 1949 and has served many girls in our area.  If you have any ideas that may help, please attend this important meeting.

HELP!

DeMolay needs your help.  We are near setting up a local chapter but we need more Board Members.  Simple task, about an hour on the computer taking the training course.  Usually one meeting a month in casual dress.  Last count we had 6 signed up.  We need 10.  If you can help, please contact Sandy Lewis at 814-758-6495.  Please leave your name and number, she will call you back very soon.  She will tell you the particulars and where to find the training course that you can take at your leisure.  Thanks for your your help.

As of Thursday evening, we now have two new Masons and one new Fellow Craft Mason.  Most of the floor officers were new and did an outstanding job.  Its been a while since we have done much degree work in the traditional way.  A few mistakes were made but that was to be expected.

Special thanks to Brother Harvey Long for stepping in at the last minute to confer the Second degree.  Two of our officers, Lloyd Welch and Todd Anthony, had to leave the minute the lodge was closed for work.  Hope you made it in time.  Brother Jesse Hanna stepped in at the last second to be Junior Deacon.  One very fast lesson and he did it perfectly.  Thank you all for a great evening.

We hope to begin training session at lodge to learn the floor work for opening and closing the lodge and the degree work.  We would like to have backups as we may be doing more and more degree work in the future.  Would like to have some men to cycle through the chairs to keep from burning out the ones there now.  All Master Masons will be invited.  We will let you know when this is set up.

Four events coming up this week.  First is Tuesday evening, the District 53 School of Instruction at Lake Lodge in Sandy Lake beginning at 7 PM.  The second is Wednesday evening, the Scottish Rite in New Castle Consistory stated meeting beginning at 7:30 PM.  Third is the Acacia Grotto meets at the lodge at 7:30 PM on Thursday.  Fourth is the conferral of 2 First degrees and 1 Second Degree also on Thursday evening at 7 PM, in Petrolia Lodge.

Masonic Funeral Service

For Brother Robert J. Reed, a 50+ year member of Petrolia Lodge #363, who traveled on to meet the Great Architect of the Universe on Friday.  A Masonic Funeral Service will take place Monday, 6:45 PM at Morrison Funeral Home.  Try to arrive by 6:30 PM.  All Brothers are asked to come and bid a fair well to our Brother.  Coat and tie are dress for the event.  If you have never attended a Masonic Funeral, we meet in a designated room and enter as a body.  You will be told where we meet when you enter the funeral home.

Morrison Funeral Home

110 Petroleum St.

Oil City, PA  16301

The Rainbow Girls of Franklin, Assembly #19

invites you to their first Friends of Rainbow Fun Day.  They are taking a trip to the National Aviary Allegheny Commons West, located at 700 Arch St., Pittsburgh, PA    15212, and everyone is invited.

Sunday January 22, 23017, meet behind the Franklin Masonic Hall at Noon.  After the visit to the Aviary they will be stopping on the way home to have dinner.  All expenses are on your own.  RSVP Sandy Lewis at 814-758-6495.