Almost half of the weekends out of the year, you’ll find the Masonic Conference Center – Patton Campus bustling with activity. Between the five Masonic youth groups’ annual conferences, the LifeSkills Conference, the Girls Leadership Camp and the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania and other Masonic organizations hosting events, as well as the Masonic Children’s Home Alumni Associations using the facilities, the campus is a popular destination.
Each group has different objectives and activities, but they all revolve around learning and growing as individuals and as groups working together. Staying overnight provides vital opportunities for socialization for members and allows for comprehensive leadership development.
“For youth, in particular, multi-day conferences allow time for a healthy mix of instructional training, hands-on experiences and understanding the importance of community service, charitable outreach, spiritual development and being positive role models,” David Berry, executive director, Masonic Youth Foundation, said.
A key component to fuel all that learning and growing is a good night’s sleep. Thanks to several Masonic groups, overnight attendees can rest a little easier on new mattresses and pillows.
Brother Kenneth Shinn, Worshipful Master, Houseman Lodge No. 211, Bristol, who is also the Masonic Youth Foundation District Youth Chairman for Masonic District 8 and a Masonic Youth Foundation Manager, presented a check in December for $5,000 on behalf of his lodge’s charity fund. Lodge No. 9, Philadelphia, also donated to the cause.
“Both our lodges have strong ties to the Masonic youth groups of Pennsylvania, with many of our members being Senior DeMolays, as well as advisors for Rainbow Girls and DeMolay,” Kenneth said. “We believe a good night’s rest is beneficial to our youth, and being well rested helps them to enjoy their activities throughout the weekend while they are on campus. For many who use the conference center, it can be the first impression of Pennsylvania Freemasonry. How we treat our youth and guests speaks volumes about how we as Masons take care of our own.”
Members of Aurora Assembly No. 189, Rainbow for Girls, in Waymart, took on the task of replacing all the pillows. Stephany Rush, Mother Advisor, led the group’s efforts as they reached out to local Order of the Eastern Star Chapters and Masonic lodges asking for donations. The girls also held a few yard sales, and in total, raised enough to purchase 106 pillows.
“Our girls – with any service project, they give 100%,” Stephany said. “Each Worthy Advisor picks a charity, and they work hard to fundraise for it it. They’re a bunch of giving kids.
“The nice part was in August, we got to sleep on the new pillows. We were there the day they were delivered and helped distribute them. The Patton Campus is such a beautiful place, and the kids just love it. They’re proud of the work they do.”
The camaraderie and development will continue for both youth and adults during weekend events for years to come, with the comfortable accommodations enhancing the experiences and memories made.
“On behalf of the entire Masonic Youth Foundation family – our professional staff, our Board of Managers and everyone who makes Patton Campus their home away from home throughout the calendar year – we offer our sincere appreciation,” David said. “The installation of the new mattresses has already made a difference for those who have used the campus, and the positive comments have been overwhelming. To all of those who took up this cause and were engaged in the fundraising for the project, we extend a huge thank you!”
