Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Blog

Applying for scholarships can be a challenge, and sometimes even a burden for a student. A little guidance of what to look for will go along way in trying to secure funds for schooling. Here are five things that you should look for when filling out the PMYF scholarship application. These are in no particular order, just guide points to help you in filling out the application.  1. Please make sure that everything is attached to the application. This includes transcripts and other essentials that will help you during the process. If we didn't need it, we wouldn't have asked for it on the application.  2. Make sure that all information is filled out to the best of your ability. There may be some areas that don't apply, and a non-applicable is acceptable, but do the best you can to answer all questions.  3. Take some time to really think about the essay questions. Our graders look for well thought out answers to all of the questions and enjoy hearing your stories. 4. Li

Not sure what your lodge can do to help the Masonic Youth Groups in your area? Here is a list of 101 things that you can do to show your support. This list can also be found on the PMYF website at pmyf.org .  1. Sponsor or co-sponsor a local chapter, assembly, or bethel.  2. Invite a group to give a program at your lodge.  3. Allow a group to serve or help for lodge dinners as a fundraiser.  4. Tell your child, grandchild, niece, nephew, or neighbor about the Masonic Youth groups and encourage them to join.  5. Offer a "scholarship" for attendance at an annual session or other conferences.  6. Send cards of congratulation to newly elected youth group officers.  7. Complete training as an advisor for a youth group and be available as a "back up."  8. Provide transportation to events.  9. Sponsor the printing of their newsletter or other publication.  10. Provide a link on your lodge's website to the youth groups.  11. Offer to buy a meeting suit

What does Hodegos mean? This is a common question that is asked when someone earns the award of this name from the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, working with the Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation. The term Hodegos (pronounced "aue-day-goss") is a Greek word that translates to "a teacher of the inexperienced." It also can be interpreted as "a leader of the way, a guide." To sum it up, the term refers to the leadership and guidance provided by the adult volunteers who work with our youth in each of the three Masonic Youth Groups; Rainbow, Job's Daughters, and DeMolay. Each year, up to two adult volunteers from each organization are eligible to receive the Hodegos Award. An application must be submitted on behalf of the recipient to the PMYF office before October 15. This application is to be accompanied by three letters of recommendation; one from a youth participant, one from a local adult volunteer, and one from a state-level adult vol