Tall Cedars of Lebanon
A comprehensive exploration of the Tall Cedars of Lebanon, an international Masonic organization dedicated to brotherhood, charitable service, and supporting the vision of free care for children.
Discover the inspiring history of the Tall Cedars of Lebanon, from its founding in 1902 as a Masonic organization to its evolution into a global network dedicated to fellowship, community service, and unwavering support for Shriners Hospitals for Children. Learn about its symbols, traditions, degrees, and enduring commitment to making a difference in children's lives.
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History of the Tall Cedars of Lebanon
The Tall Cedars of Lebanon was founded with a vision of creating a unique Masonic organization dedicated to fellowship, fun, and charitable service to the communities they serve.
Founding and Origins
The Tall Cedars of Lebanon were founded on November 15, 1902, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The organization was created as a Masonic affiliated group dedicated to combining the traditions of Freemasonry with a unique emphasis on social fellowship, humor, and charitable works. The name "Tall Cedars of Lebanon" derives from the cedar trees of Lebanon, which are mentioned in ancient biblical and historical texts as symbols of strength, durability, and nobility.
From its inception, the Tall Cedars distinguished itself by maintaining a balance between serious Masonic principles and a lighter, more social atmosphere that emphasized fun, camaraderie, and genuine friendship among members. The organization quickly expanded from its Philadelphia origins to establish chapters throughout the United States and internationally, becoming known for its distinctive degree work and commitment to supporting charitable causes.
One of the most significant developments in the organization's history was the establishment of an affiliation with Shriners International, particularly in supporting Shriners Hospitals for Children. This partnership has become central to the Tall Cedars' identity and mission, with members actively working to raise funds and awareness for the network of hospitals dedicated to providing specialized pediatric care.
Philadelphia Origins
The Tall Cedars of Lebanon are established in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, as a Masonic organization emphasizing fellowship, social camaraderie, and charitable service combined with Masonic principles.
Geographic Growth
The Tall Cedars expand rapidly across North America, establishing councils in major cities. The organization develops its distinctive degree work and ritualistic traditions that remain central to its identity.
Charitable Mission
The Tall Cedars establish deeper connections with Shriners International and Shriners Hospitals for Children. Members begin active fundraising and support efforts for the hospitals' mission of providing free care to children.
Charitable Focus
The Tall Cedars increasingly focus on coordinated charitable initiatives supporting Shriners Hospitals. The organization becomes recognized for combining genuine friendship with meaningful humanitarian action and community service.
Modern Era
The Tall Cedars continue to grow and evolve, maintaining their unique blend of fellowship and charity. The organization remains committed to supporting children through Shriners Hospitals while preserving the traditions of Masonic brotherhood.
Mission and Philosophy
The Tall Cedars of Lebanon are guided by a philosophy that combines Masonic principles with genuine fellowship, humor, and dedication to charitable service.
Our Mission
The Tall Cedars of Lebanon exist to promote and maintain the highest principles of Freemasonry while creating genuine friendships and engaging in meaningful charitable service. We are dedicated to supporting the vision of Shriners Hospitals for Children—providing specialized pediatric care free of charge regardless of the patient's ability to pay—and improving the lives of children in our communities through service, fellowship, and action.
Core Philosophy
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Brotherhood
Build genuine friendships and strong bonds among members rooted in Masonic principles
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Fellowship
Create a welcoming community where laughter, camaraderie, and shared experience flourish
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Charity
Commit to meaningful charitable work that transforms lives, particularly through support for children
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Service
Take active roles in community improvement and humanitarian action
Organization and Structure
The Tall Cedars of Lebanon operate through a hierarchical structure with councils, degrees, and national leadership that preserves Masonic tradition while supporting charitable missions.
Local Councils
Individual Tall Cedar councils form the foundation of the organization. Each council operates independently while adhering to the national organization's principles and standards. Councils meet regularly to conduct ritualistic work, plan charitable activities, and build fellowship among their members.
Council leadership includes elected officers who oversee the organization of degrees, management of charitable projects, and coordination of activities supporting Shriners Hospitals and community service.
Degrees and Advancement
The Tall Cedars maintain several degrees of membership that members progress through, each with unique rituals, teachings, and responsibilities. The degree work emphasizes Masonic principles while incorporating the organization's distinctive character and humor.
Members who advance through the degrees take on greater responsibilities in the organization and gain deeper understanding of the Tall Cedars' philosophy, traditions, and charitable mission.
National Organization
The Tall Cedars operate under a national governing body that provides strategic direction, maintains standards, and coordinates major initiatives. The organization includes a Grand Tall Cedar and elected officers at the national level who oversee coordination between councils, development of programs, and partnerships with charitable organizations.
National leadership works to preserve the traditions and degree work of the organization while supporting councils' charitable work and ensuring alignment with the Tall Cedars' founding principles and mission.
Membership and Community
Tall Cedars membership offers unique opportunities to participate in meaningful degree work, build genuine friendships, and engage in charitable service alongside like-minded individuals.
Masonic Foundation
Members must be Master Masons in good standing, ensuring a shared foundation of Masonic knowledge, principles, and commitment to brotherhood within the organization.
Fellowship and Fun
The Tall Cedars are known for maintaining an atmosphere of genuine fun and camaraderie. Members enjoy events, gatherings, and social activities alongside the serious work of the organization.
Degree Work
Members participate in ceremonial degree work that emphasizes Masonic teachings, includes distinctive rituals unique to the Tall Cedars, and marks personal and organizational advancement.
Charitable Service
Members actively participate in fundraising and support activities for Shriners Hospitals and local charitable causes, making tangible differences in the lives of children and communities.
Leadership Opportunities
Members can assume various leadership roles within their councils and at the national level, developing skills and taking responsibility for the organization's mission and activities.
Community Connection
Members become part of a network that extends across North America and beyond, creating opportunities for friendship, travel, and shared commitment to supporting children's hospitals.
Charitable Mission and Impact
The Tall Cedars are deeply committed to supporting children through Shriners Hospitals for Children and various community service initiatives that improve lives and build stronger communities.
Shriners Hospitals Support
The Tall Cedars are major supporters of Shriners Hospitals for Children, the network of specialty hospitals dedicated to providing orthopedic care, burn treatment, cleft lip and palate services, and spinal cord injury rehabilitation to children regardless of their ability to pay.
Councils organize fundraising events, sponsor events, and actively work to raise awareness about the hospital's mission while directly supporting patient care and research programs that serve thousands of children annually.
Community Service
Beyond hospital support, Tall Cedar councils engage in community improvement activities, youth programs, disaster relief, and local charitable initiatives that address pressing needs in their communities.
These activities reflect the Tall Cedars' commitment to making visible, meaningful differences in the lives of children and families facing challenges and hardship.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about the Tall Cedars of Lebanon.
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