About Us

The Order

The Order of Knights of Pythias is a time-honored chivalric order and fraternal organization dedicated to living out the knightly virtues that uplift mankind—Friendship, Charity, and Benevolence.

Our name comes from the legendary story of Damon and Pythias, two friends whose unwavering loyalty and honor stood the test of life and death. Their bond of trust and sacrifice continues to inspire our members around the world.

Knights of Pythias are inducted and initiated in local lodges—called Castles—which are united under the Grand Lodge of their state or domain, and all under the authority of the Supreme Lodge. Here in Florida, our Grand Lodge proudly carries forward these traditions with dignity and strength.

New candidates are carefully chosen and initiated through time-honored rituals. These ceremonies preserve and pass down our inheritance of brotherhood, trust, and life-long friendship—just as they have for more than 150 years. Rooted in the wisdom of the Ancient Greeks, the teachings of Pythagoras, the knightly traditions of Medieval Europe, and the founding of our own Order, our ritual work inspires and instructs every Knight who experiences it. Within our Castle Halls, the highest ideals of loyalty, courage, and honor continue to thrive.

The Grand Lodge of Florida is dedicated to putting our motto—Friendship, Charity, and Benevolence—into action not only among our members but also in the wider community. We proudly support charitable initiatives, including fundraising for medical research, scholarships for young people, and aid to families in need. Our efforts also extend to youth programs, summer camps, and community service across Florida.

Beyond service, the Knights of Pythias offer fellowship and family life. Our members enjoy social gatherings such as dinners, dances, family outings, and community events. We also provide programs that support health, financial stability, and care resources for our members and their families.

For over a century, the Knights of Pythias have been a place where lasting friendships are forged, noble ideals are lived out, and lives are enriched through service, fellowship, and honor. Here in Florida, we invite you to join us in continuing this proud legacy.

The Order

The Order of Knights of Pythias is a time-honored chivalric order and fraternal organization dedicated to living out the knightly virtues that uplift mankind—Friendship, Charity, and Benevolence.

Our name comes from the legendary story of Damon and Pythias, two friends whose unwavering loyalty and honor stood the test of life and death. Their bond of trust and sacrifice continues to inspire our members around the world.

Knights of Pythias are inducted and initiated in local lodges—called Castles—which are united under the Grand Lodge of their state or domain, and all under the authority of the Supreme Lodge. Here in Florida, our Grand Lodge proudly carries forward these traditions with dignity and strength.

New candidates are carefully chosen and initiated through time-honored rituals. These ceremonies preserve and pass down our inheritance of brotherhood, trust, and life-long friendship—just as they have for more than 150 years. Rooted in the wisdom of the Ancient Greeks, the teachings of Pythagoras, the knightly traditions of Medieval Europe, and the founding of our own Order, our ritual work inspires and instructs every Knight who experiences it. Within our Castle Halls, the highest ideals of loyalty, courage, and honor continue to thrive.

The Grand Lodge of Florida is dedicated to putting our motto—Friendship, Charity, and Benevolence—into action not only among our members but also in the wider community. We proudly support charitable initiatives, including fundraising for medical research, scholarships for young people, and aid to families in need. Our efforts also extend to youth programs, summer camps, and community service across Florida.

Beyond service, the Knights of Pythias offer fellowship and family life. Our members enjoy social gatherings such as dinners, dances, family outings, and community events. We also provide programs that support health, financial stability, and care resources for our members and their families.

For over a century, the Knights of Pythias have been a place where lasting friendships are forged, noble ideals are lived out, and lives are enriched through service, fellowship, and honor. Here in Florida, we invite you to join us in continuing this proud legacy.

Testimonials

“As a Knight, I’ve had the opportunity to serve my community in ways I never imagined. From supporting local charities to helping organize youth programs, the Order has given me a platform to make a real difference. It feels good to know that our work touches lives across Florida.”— James T., Melbourne, FL

“What I love most about the Knights of Pythias is that it feels like family. My children enjoy the social events, and my wife and I have made wonderful friendships. At the same time, I’m part of a tradition that has stood strong for over 150 years. It’s an honor to be a Knight of Pythias in Florida.” — Robert S., Tampa, FL

“Joining the Knights of Pythias has been one of the most meaningful decisions of my life. I found not only lifelong friends but a true brotherhood built on honor and trust. The lessons of Friendship, Charity, and Benevolence guide me every day, and I’m proud to live out those values here in Florida.” — Michael R., Boca, FL

Apply to Join

Lodges in Florida

Pythagoras #7 (Leesburg)
Meets at : Leesburg IOOF Lodge   2401 Virginia Dr. Leesburg, FL
Contact: Brian Zeppa leesburgioof58@gmail.com
Bay #12 (Clearwater)
Meets at: Clearwater Masonic Lodge  705 S. Hercules Clearwater, FL
3rd Sundays at 6:30PM
Contact: Matt Cordoves floridapythians@gmail.com
Hermion #27 (Ocala)
Meets at: Arbors of Ocala  2251 NE 19th Ave. Ocala, FL
Contact: Juan Hernandez  juan399@verizon.net
Palm Beach-Rainbow #203 (Palm Beach)
Meets at:
Contact: Irving Margulies  pimarg@comcast.net
Boca-Delray-Boynton #206 (Boynton Beach)
Meets at:
Contact: Daniel Simon  dannysimon433@yahoo.com
Kings Knights #221 (Tamarac)
Meets at:
Contact: Mitchell Weinstein   mew03151966@yahoo.com

Grand Lodge Contact Information:

Florida Grand Lodge

Knights of Pythias

Grand Chancellor
Juan Hernandez   #27
Grand Vice Chancellor
Daniel Simon   #206
Grand Prelate
Mel Farber PGC   #203
Grand Secretary
Bruce Laster PGC  #221
Grand Treasurer
Jack Nalick PGC #206
Grand Master at Arms
Allen Plotnick PGC  #221
Grand Inner Guard
Matt Cordoves PGC-MO  #12
Grand Outer Guard
Janice Simon   #206
Supreme Representative
Sir Irving Margulies PGC  #203
Supreme Representative
Bruce Laster PGC  #221

FRIENDSHIP – CHARITY – BENEVOLENCE