DeMolay is an organization dedicated to preparing young men to lead successful, happy, and productive lives. Basing its approach on timeless principles and practical, hands-on experience, DeMolay opens doors for young men aged 12 to 21 by developing the civic awareness, personal responsibility and leadership skills so vitally needed in society today. DeMolay combines this serious mission with a fun approach that builds important bonds of friendship among members in more than 1,000 chapters worldwide.
DeMolay alumni include Walt Disney, John Wayne, Walter Cronkite, football Hall-of-Famer Fran Tarkenton, legendary Nebraska football coach Tom Osborne, news anchor David Goodnow and many others (find a more complete list of famous DeMolays here).
Mission Statement
DeMolay is the premier youth organization dedicated to teaching young men to be better persons and leaders. Under the "Advisorship" of adults; leadership skills, civic awareness, responsibility, and character development are learned through a variety of self directed, real world applications and activities. DeMolay builds confidence; teaches responsibility, cooperation and community service; and fosters trust, respect, fellowship, patriotism, reverence, and sharing.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is DeMolay?
DeMolay is a dynamic group of young men, between the ages of 12 and 21, who are active and like challenges. Whether on the softball field, in the chapter room, on the dance floor, or at the annual statewide convention, DeMolay Leaders of New Jersey is definitely where the ACTION is! DeMolay Leaders of New Jersey is part of DeMolay International, a nonprofit international youth organization that was founded in 1919 in Kansas City, Missouri, where our international headquarters is located, and is dedicated to helping today’s youth become tomorrow’s leaders. What do DeMolay members do? Basically, just about anything they want. Because DeMolay chapters are run by DeMolays! Members are encouraged to be DIRECTLY responsible for their chapter’s activities. Dances, fundraisers, sporting event trips, softball and basketball tournaments, pool parties, competitions, community service projects—you name it—as long as it is within our guidelines and is done in the presence of at least two special, certified and trained adult men, called “Dad” Advisors.
Where do DeMolays Meet?
DeMolay chapters meet at least twice each month at a local Masonic lodge building, the one that belongs to each chapter’s Masonic sponsor. The sponsor provides an adult group, or Advisory Board, to supervise the Chapter’s activities.
What is in DeMolay for me?
The answer to that is easy… as much as you put into it! Active DeMolays expand their circle of friends, practice public speaking, enjoy fun activities, help their community, learn how to be team players, and effective leaders. There are also many opportunities to visit other chapters and to meet young women that belong to organizations similar to DeMolay. If there is one thing that DeMolay chapters are famous for, it is their activities with other fun organizations. Hayrides, beach parties, dances, theme parties: dream it and it can be done by you in your DeMolay chapter!
What are the membership requirements?
DeMolay accepts applications from young men between 12 and 21 years of age. It is required that applicants be of good character and believe in God or a Supreme Being. While DeMolay does not teach or require any particular religion, it encourages members to attend their own place of worship. Although prospective members need a Mason and a DeMolay to sponsor their petition for membership, they do not need to be related to either to join DeMolay.
What is the initiation like?
DeMolay’s initiation is a two-step process that is a serious, deeply meaningful ceremony. The first section explains the virtues of DeMolay by which one should guide his life. The second section is a thrilling drama about the final days in the life of our namesake, Jacques DeMolay, who gave up his life rather than betray his friends. The initiation contains no hazing or embarrassing acts, as they have no place in DeMolay.
How can I join?
You can apply for membership online, or if you would like more information about DeMolay Leaders of New Jersey, contact us through this web site.
