home > resource > demolay shield talk

The "SHIELD TALK" may be presented from memory by one or more active DeMolays at any public or private PA DeMolay Chapter activity. The Executive Officer has authorized its presentation because it may be used as an educational tool for members and the general public to explain the symbolism of the Emblem of the Order of DeMolay. This is the authorized Pennsylvania version as of January 1, 2004, with revisions to reflect the removal of the final pearl upon the death of original member Jerome Jacobson.

My brothers, I stand before you at this sacred DeMolay altar so that I may explain to you the symbolism of the beautiful insignia of our Order.

The insignia was designed by the founder of our great Order, "DAD" Frank S. Land. He designed it as a pin and symbol that recognizes us as DeMolays. This emblem is to be worn only by DeMolays and their representatives. Every part of this insignia has a particular significance, and we as DeMolays should know them by heart.

The CROWN is symbolic of the Crown of Youth and constantly reminds a DeMolay of his obligations and the seven precepts of his Order: Filial Love, Reverence for Sacred Things, Courtesy, Comradeship, Fidelity, Cleanness and Patriotism.

The TEN PRECIOUS STONES of the crown honor our founder, Frank S. Land and the nine youths whose ties of friendship drew them together in the formation of the Order of DeMolay. The Red Rubies honor those who have passed away. Pearls represented those living members of the original nine DeMolays. When, as to every man, the final summons came for each one of this honored group, a red ruby took the place of a pearl.

The HELMET is emblematic of chivalry which we as DeMolays display through our Courtesy and respect for womanhood and without which there can be no fineness of character.

The CRESCENT is a sign of secrecy and constantly reminds DeMolays of their duty never to reveal the secrets of our Order or to betray the confidence of a friend.

The five-armed WHITE CROSS symbolizes the purity of your intentions to always remember the motto of the Order, "No DeMolay shall fail as a citizen, as a leader and as a man."

The CROSSED SWORDS denote justice, fortitude, and mercy. They symbolize the increasing warfare of DeMolays against arrogance, despotism, and intolerance.

The STARS surrounding the crescent are symbolic of hope and should always remind us of those obligations and duties which one brother of the Order owes to another.

Be sure to wear this insignia proudly, whether it be on a pin or a crest. Don’t wear it any place where you would be ashamed to take your mother or your sister. Remember, in all humility, when you wear this emblem, you are representing and speaking for over three million other DeMolays scattered throughout the world, who cannot, for the moment, speak for themselves.

home > resource > demolay shield talk