COMMITTEES
SHARE THE SPIRIT
Share the Spirit was organized to allow the giver and the recipient interaction with one another. It is more than writing a check for an anonymous gift, making a donation to a third part entity or aimlessly sharing a gift without true direction. Grand Lodge equally shares $5,000 among the 6 lodges and the Lodges are encouraged to contribute also. The subordinate lodge chooses a recipient (rest home, hospital, school, etc.) to work with. Fellow Knights go out and personally but the gifts with particular clients in mind and distribute the gifts within the facility chosen. When possible, a Santa Claus is added to further delight the youngster if youngsters are involved. All of this must happen during the month of December with monies not used being returned to the Grand Lodge.
TED BERLIN HUMANITARIAN AWARD
This award named for a very benevolent Past Grand Chancellor is designed to go to a non Pythian in the community who gives of himself or herself above and beyond the call of duty. The humanitarian performance cannot be compensated in any way. It is a free act of giving on the part of the individual to better the community. Each lodge can nominate a recipient who is then recognized at the Grand Lodge banquet in June. A small honorarium comes with the recognition.
THE PYTHIAN OF THE YEAR AWARD
This award is presented by the Grand Chancellor to that particular Pythian who has best exemplified the ideas and goals of Pythianism. It is a Knight who stands above all other in providing knightly service to home, lodge and community. It is an award which is not given lightly and should be received in utmost respect and honor.
THE PYTHIAN PALADIN AWARD
This technically is not a Pythian award as such. Several years ago a Knight who at first remained “secret in penmanship” wrote barbs about some of the seemingly unjust ways that were cropping up in our Grand Lodge. While at first the uproar was great and great criticism was heaped upon this traitorous Knight, the shown through to the purpose of the writings. He had a business card which read Have Pun, Will Write, and then an e-mail address. This was reminiscent of the old TV Western of have Gun, Will Travel of Paladin fame. Individual who stick to the Pythian Principles are present a Sterling Paladin Pin with a “Pythian Paladin Parchment.”
