School of Instruction
The Masonic School of Instruction is a dedicated educational institution within the Masonic fraternity that focuses on the comprehensive training and development of its members. It offers a structured curriculum designed to impart the essential knowledge, rituals, traditions, and ethical principles that define Freemasonry. Through a series of lectures, workshops, and practical exercises, the school provides a thorough understanding of Masonic symbolism, history, and philosophy. Members are guided in mastering the ceremonial aspects of lodge meetings, ensuring adherence to established protocols and enhancing their proficiency in various Masonic roles. The environment fosters fraternal bonds and personal growth, encouraging members to embody the core values of integrity, charity, and brotherly love both within the lodge and in their broader communities.
The First Masonic District School of Instruction exists to pass on knowledge in the work of Symbolic Masonry as authorized by the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania. Simply put, the primary purpose of the School is to assist the Lodges and its members with all ritual work. All Master Masons within the District are members of the School of Instruction and are welcome to attend.
We currently meet on the 4th Monday of the month at 7 PM at Manheim Lodge No. 587. Please check the School schedule for specific details on each meeting. To ensure that all of the Lodges receive the help they need, the School of Instruction comprises the following officers along with their current Lodge assignments.
Bro. Todd Bennicas, PM, Principal Instructor - Assigned to Mt. Olivet Lodge No. 704
Bro. Jason Martin, PM, Assistant Principal - Assigned to Columbia Lodge No. 286 and Ashara-Casiphia Lodge No. 551
Bro. Ken Van Fleet, PM, Assistant Principal - Assigned to Ephrata Lodge No. 665 and Mt. Lebanon Lodge No. 226
Bro. Todd Hoak, PM, Assistant Principal - Assigned to Abraham C. Treichler Lodge No. 682 and Millersville Lodge No. 476
Bro. Doug Scheid, WM, Assistant Principal - Assigned to Lodge No. 43
Bro. Jerry Fretwell, PM, Assistant Principal - Assigned to Manheim Lodge No. 587
Calendar of Events
January 22nd, 2024 Review of EA/FC Columbia Lodge No. 286
February 26th, 2024 Business of the Lodge
Meetings for Blood Chair, Youth Chair
Manheim Lodge No. 587
March 25th, 2024 DEGREE TEAM
*REGIONAL Instructor Visit – Sutcliff*
DISTRICT DEGREE TEAM
EA/FC Degree
April 22nd, 2024 Funeral Service
Meetings for MENTORS & Education
Millersville Lodge No. 476
May 27th, 2024 Examination of a Visitor Mt. Lebanon Lodge No. 226
June 24th, 2024 Degree Mechanics Lodge No.43 & Lodge No. 704
September 23rd, 2024 **3rd Degree – Master Mason ** Ephrata Lodge No. 665**
October 28th, 2024 Business of the Lodge Abraham C. Treichler Lodge No. 682
November 25th, 2024 Installation of Officers Elizabethtown Day Lodge No. 816