Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions? You’re in the right place. Whether you’re a parent exploring DeMolay for the first time or a young man curious about what we do, we’ve put together answers to the questions we hear most. From membership details and costs to safety practices and scholarship opportunities, you’ll find what you need below.
If you don’t see your question answered here, don’t hesitate to reach out as we’re always happy to help.
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What is the age range for boys/young men to join DeMolay?
DeMolay is for young men aged 12 to 21 years of age. We have a “Squires” program for boys aged 9 to 11 years old.
Who can join DeMolay?
Any young man who meets the three basic qualifications.
- The candidate must be a young man between the ages of 12 and 21. (9 to 11 for Squires)
- The candidate must be known to be of good moral and ethical character and possess a desire to be a better person.
- The candidate must believe in a monotheistic religion or profession of faith.
Is DeMolay a religion or a cult?
Absolutely not.
While we do require our members to profess a monotheistic profession of faith, DeMolay does not put any restrictions on what that means. Members are free to exercise their own freedom of religion as guaranteed by the United States Constitution. Christians, Jews, Muslims, and all other monotheistic religions are welcome and encouraged to participate in DeMolay.
As a parent/guardian, am I allowed to participate or become an advisor?
Yes. Family participation is welcomed and encouraged in DeMolay.
What are the benefits of joining DeMolay?
- DeMolays form bonds of friendship and brotherhood that last a lifetime.
- DeMolays must respect all Womanhood.
- DeMolays are taught to respect their parents / guardians / elders.
- DeMolays learn to plan, promote, and execute their own events
- DeMolays elect their own leadership team every six months
- DeMolays learn to give back to their communities through civic service and charitable fundraising.
- DeMolays learn how to run a business meeting using Robert’s Rules of Order.
- DeMolays learn valuable team building and project execution skills, both valuable skills in today’s job market.
- DeMolays learn public speaking skills through memorization exercises and public presentation opportunities
- DeMolays are given an unfair advantage in life compared to their peers.
How much does it cost for a young man to join DeMolay?
Currently Allentown Chapter charges a one-time initiation fee of only $50.00. There aren’t any annual dues or fees related to membership going forward.
Does DeMolay offer scholarships for higher education?
Yes. DeMolays have access to scholarships for higher education (college, university, and trade school) based on academic performance, participation in DeMolay, and financial need.
In Pennsylvania, DeMolays are eligible to apply for annual scholarships of up to $50,000.00 per year for multi-year terms.
Does DeMolay discriminate against races, nationalities, ethnic backgrounds, or other ethnic or religious cultures?
No. Young men of all races, ethnicities, nations of origin, backgrounds, ancestry, physical abilities, and monotheistic faiths are welcome to enjoy the Brotherhood of DeMolay.
Tolerance, harmony, and understanding are some of the primary tenets of DeMolay.
How do I know my young man will be safe with your advisors?
All PA DeMolay advisors are screened for criminal background checks, Motor Vehicle record checks, and sex offender lists as performed by the Pennsylvania State Police every five years. They undertake mandatory advisor training from the PA DeMolay over and above what is required by State Law. PA DeMolay also has “youth mental health” training for advisors free of charge and bi-annual Chapter/youth protection videos.
Nothing is more important in DeMolay than the safety and security of our youth in all aspects of their development as successful young men.