This month we will have programs at our Stated Communications about the Scottish Rite, and Shrine. Next month we will have programs about the York Rite and other appendant Masonic bodies. But what I want to talk to you about here and now is a little known but vitally important Masonic organization. I am talking about the Masonic Benefit Fund (MBF). Earlier this year I had the privilege of being elected the Chairman of the MBF. The MBF was the first organization that I joined after being raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason. They didn't promise me further light, more degrees, or additional accolades. They only offered me the opportunity to fulfill part of my obligation. They offered me the chance to take care of the widows (or other beneficiaries) and orphans.

So what is the Masonic Benefit Fund? It's not an insurance policy, but a pre-collected fund comparable to a "sunshine" or "goodwill" fund that is maintained by the membership to provide relief to a Brother's beneficiary in a time of distress. A chance to help, aid, and assist a deceased Brother Master Masons widow and orphans. The MBF was established by a group of Masons in Districts 1 and 54 in 1925. MBF membership consists of, and is available to, Master Masons that are members of lodges in the eight Virginia districts (1A, 1B, 2, 3, 4, 8, 9, & 54) who apply for membership and pay the assessment as described below.

Upon receiving notice of the death of a member Master Mason, the MBF Secretary/Treasurer will prepare a check to present to the widow (or other beneficiary) by the most expedient means possible. This may be accomplished by the MBF Secretary/Treasurer, the Master of the member's Lodge, a personal contact, or by mail.

The amount of the benefit is determined by multiplying the number of members active in the MBF at the time of the Brother's death by the $1.85 benefit defined in our By-Laws. For example, if there are 1000 members, the designated beneficiary will receive a check for $1850, (1000 x $1.85). When the MBF Secretary/Treasurer has distributed ten (10) Benefits, he will advise the membership, by mail, of the names of the ten deceased members and indicate that an assessment of $27.00 ($2.70 x 10) is due and payable to replenish the MBF. Typically, you will receive an assessment of $27.00 three to four times per year.

To join, just contact me by email or phone and I will send you an application. Then just complete it (both sides) and submit it to the MBF Secretary with an initiation fee of $2.50. Earlier this year I was trying to help a widow through the first few weeks after her husbands death. One thing that really bothered her was all the tons of paper work that was required of her. The MBF doesn't do this, we just find out about the problem and issue the check.

Thanks for coming to our events last month. This month we have a couple of excellent programs, our First Friday AW - Social Event, a visit to Andrew Jackson Lodge No. 120, and a degree evenings. Please come out and support your Lodge and enjoy the fellowship of the Brethren.

Sincerely and fraternally,

"Tom"

STATED COMMUNICATIONS - The Stated Communications of this Lodge shall be held at the George Washington Masonic National Memorial (GWMNM), Alexandria, Virginia on the second and fourth Thursday of each month except the fourth Thursdays of November and December and for the additional Stated Communications for the observance of George Washington's birthday in February, June 24th for Saint John the Baptist Day and December 27th for the installation of Officers.

CALLED COMMUNICATIONS - Usually on 1st Thursday / 4th Tuesday or as announced herein.

LODGE RITUAL SCHOOL - Will occur the 1st Wednesday or as announced herein as necessary.

YOUTH MEETINGS AT GWMNM - Alexandria-Washington Chapter, International Order of DeMolay, meets the first and third Sundays at 2:00 pm in the North Lodge Room. Bethel No. 22, International Order Jobs Daughters, meets the first and third Sundays at 6:00 pm in the North Lodge Room.