Having family in Lewiston, I read the Jan. 19 article “Biddeford city manager installed as Kora Shrine leader” on the Sun Journal’s website.

I congratulate Jim Bennett on his elevation to the office of Potentate (CEO). I wish him well.

All Shriners are Masons first and must retain their Masonic membership to become and remain a Shriner. I am a fifth-generation Mason and a second-generation Shriner.

I agree that a greatly important facet of the Shrine is its specialty care pediatric clinics. However, the fraternity existed 50 years before the first Shriners hospital was built in 1922.

I just wanted to be clear to readers that the main purpose of the Shrine is fraternal fellowship. And, a close second place are the kids’ hospitals.

Both aspects go hand in hand.

James Marples, Longview, Texas