To the Masonic family and the non-masonic visitors I offer you Greetings from the 16th Masonic District, Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of North Carolina and Jurisdictions, Inc. (PHA).
Masonic Lodges and O.E.S. Chapters of our district date back to the 1800's and have included; Congressmen, Representatives, Educators, Businessmen, Ministers, but most of all, better Fathers, better Husbands, better Neighbors, and better men in general. These men are interested in their community and church and vigorously participate in both. You have seen us when we gathered, possibly in your church, for our annual observances of St.'s John Day and Prince Hall/Americanism Day. We have also gathered there just to come together as a Masonic Family to worship. You have also seen us when we were regaled as Shriners, Knights Templar, Cryptic Masons, Royal Arch Masons, and Princes of the Royal Secret. For to belong to any of these groups one must first be a Mason in good standing in his Lodge.
We sponsor Youth Groups, Knights of Pythagoras (boys) and Gleaners (girls). We provide positive role models and wholesome activities for these children. They are not taught to be little Masons or Eastern Stars but how to be contributing members of their community. These youth organizations engage in charitable efforts, proper organization decorum, and the importance of operating as a team. We have had most of our Youth Group members go on, to college, to become managers, into the Armed Services, and to be productive citizens in their communities.
Brothers, and Sisters your continued involvement in your respective Masonic organizations is needed. The programs and activities can only be successful if you are personally involved. To depend on another Brother or Sister to bear your part of the load is unfair. You have missed joy. The joy of the mother who received food and/or clothing for her children and herself, when she didn't know where the next meal was coming from. The joy of a sick Brother or Sister when you visit them. The joy of those who are in nursing homes or confined to their homes when you bring them words of encouragement. The joy, you feel, when the at risk youth succeeds in school or just gets through their teens without becoming pregnant or experiencing problems with the police, and knowing you had a hand in his/her accomplishment.
For those of you seeking information about the Masonic community, talk to you church members, club members or your next door neighbors. Though our precepts are based on the Holy Bible we are not a religion. We are not a secret society, but a society with secrets. Biblical lessons are emphasized in our lodge/chapter rooms for we are composed of members who strongly believe in living a life pleasing to God.
Thank you for visiting our web site we hope you enjoy our presents. I remain, forever,

Walking In the Light,

Howard R. Jones
Bro. Victor C. Cooper
16th D.D.G.M. of NC (PHA)

Victor C. Cooper