Charity is a universal characteristic of Masonry. It has been said that “the Masonic Way is to give without remembering and to receive without forgetting.”

Shortly after 1717, when Lodges were still associations of stoneworkers and masons, the cessation of cathedral building and the expansion of overseas trade lessened the importance of the masons’ companies, and they had to change to survive. From active trade associations whose primary function was the regulation of workers and their qualifications, as well as their working conditions, wages, rights and responsibilities, they gradually became mutual benefit societies concerned largely with charity and relief for the destitute and unemployed.

One of the many civic activities we participate in is cleaning up our community.

A scholarship is financial support awarded to a student, based on academic achievement or other criteria that may include financial need, for the purpose of schooling. There are various types of scholarships – the two most common being merit-based and need-based. The donor or department funding the scholarship sets the criteria for recipient selection, and the grantor specifically defines how the money is to be applied. The funds are used to defray the costs of tuition, books, room, board and other expenses directly tied to a student’s educational cost through the university.

The membership of University Lodge #631 have elected to offer scholarships to graduating seniors from local high schools or families of University Lodge members, to assist his or her pursuit of higher education. This scholarship will be a one-time award valued at $2,500. Criteria for selection include scholastic achievement, financial need, community involvement, and participation in extracurricular activities.