FIRST MASONIC DISTRICT
The First Masonic District is a beacon of fraternity and brotherhood, renowned for its unwavering commitment to the principles of Freemasonry. This district stands out due to its rich history, vibrant community, and the exemplary conduct of its members. From its well-preserved lodges to the numerous charitable activities it undertakes, the First Masonic District embodies the true spirit of Freemasonry. The members' dedication to personal growth, moral integrity, and community service fosters an environment where both new and experienced Masons can thrive and find support in their Masonic journey.
Moreover, the First Masonic District excels in promoting education, leadership, and fellowship among its members. Through regular meetings, workshops, and events, the district ensures that its members are well-informed and engaged. The sense of camaraderie and mutual respect within the district creates a nurturing space where lifelong friendships are formed, and valuable knowledge is shared. The First Masonic District’s commitment to its core values and its proactive approach in addressing the needs of its members and the broader community truly set it apart as a paragon of Masonic excellence.
Larry A. Derr RWGM
Brother Larry A. Derr is a lifelong resident of Mount Joy, PA, and a graduate of Manheim Central High School. He earned a bachelor’s degree in industrial technology and drafting from Northwest Missouri State University, where he was also a member of the wrestling team.
Larry began his career as an estimator and construction manager for a firm in Mount Joy, where he served in various capacities. After 40 years of construction management in commercial masonry, Larry retired as Vice President. He was instrumental in the construction of numerous projects that were cited as Buildings of Excellence.
Larry served as a member of the Board of Directors for the Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers #5 and as a member of the Board of Advisors for the Lancaster County Vocational Technology Group and Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology. He also served as Chairman of the Apprentice Committee for the Associated Builders and Contractors Association. Larry enjoyed coaching youth baseball for the Mount Joy Athletic Association and is currently Vice Chairman of the Mount Joy Borough Water Authority.
Larry married his wife, Rochelle, on June 25, 1977, at Saint John’s Lutheran Church, where he was a parishioner and a member of the building committee for several years. They are the proud parents of a son, Dustin M. Derr.
Ronald B. Carson DDGM
My Masonic journey got off to an early start at the age of 13 as a member of the Lancaster Order of DeMolay. Then, Dad Smith (Brother Jay W. Smith, RWPGM) and his son, Steven J. Smith, (Past Master, Ashara-Casiphia Lodge No. 551) signed my petition for membership and there it all began. Over the next five years I learned about leadership, teamwork, charity, ritual, hard work, courtesy, honesty, and many things that we learn as Masons today. It was a life building and changing experience. This is why supporting our Youth Groups is so important to me. We, as Masons, need to continue to support our DeMolay, Jobs Daughters, and Rainbows so that we may help them to become successful leaders in our communities. My Grandfather, Brother Jacob G. Carson, a member of Columbia Lodge No. 286, attended most of my Stated DeMolay Meetings. It was by his conversations with other Masons and the curiosity of knowing this secret handshake that I knew someday I would be a Mason, just like him. When that time came, I petitioned Lamberton Lodge No. 476 in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Having served in several positions in the DeMolay, I knew prior to petitioning the Lodge that it would be my intention to become Master of the Lodge. Once approved and made a Master Mason several of the Brothers started to teach me the words to our ritual and before long I was performing the work. By showing an interest in their beloved Craft, my friendships grew and my year as Master was over before I knew it.
Thankfully, the District had another opportunity for me to serve as our Principal of the School of Instruction. I was able to establish a great relationship with the ten Lodges in our District. I am looking forward to continuing these friendships and maintaining your support and trust. Many of my friends have asked me over the years what the Masons are about and why does it interest me so much. To me, it is about men working together to achieve common goals and to learn from one another. It is also about education, charity, supporting our youth, community, history, fellowship, tolerance, patience, and leadership, all of the things that make life great. Masonry fills a man’ s heart and mind with goodness and hope.
