SPJST comes from the Czech phrase Slovanska Podporujici Jednota Statu Texas, which translated in English means the Slavonic, Benevolent Order of the State of Texas.
Fraternal benefit societies are groups of people who share a common ethnic heritage, occupation, or general interest. By definition, a fraternal benefit society must be an incorporated society, without capital stock, organized and operated solely for the benefit of its members and their beneficiaries, and not for profit; have a branch – or lodge – system; have a representative form of government; and provide insurance and fraternal benefits.
Fraternal is another word for brotherly. It can also mean charitable, compassionate, neighborly, personal, and desiring to help others. There are many Fraternal organizations both nationally and internationally, such as: The Lions Club, Rotary Club, VFW, and Knights of Columbus. SPJST is a non-profit company that seeks to serve the common good, protect it’s members, and preserve the Czech Heritage.
It’s easy! Simply purchase a life insurance or annuity certificate to become a member. You can contact our Home Office at (800) 727-7578 or email info@spjst.org. SPJST Sales Agents can also assist you. Click here to find an Agent.
On a local or statewide level, members can participate in annual Czech festivals, including Westfest, Ennis Polka Fest, Kolache Fest, and more! Some lodges have groups of dancers that wear Czech outfits (called kroj) and they perform a dance called the Ceska Beseda. SPJST also sponsors Kolache eating contests at many events. Tarok is a Czech/Slovakian card game that is still taught and played today. Many Czech polka bands perform at SPJST halls and events statewide. There are also many Czech historical and ancestral material at libraries and museums, such as the Czech Heritage museum located next to the SPJST Home Office and the Czech library, archives, and Veterans Wall of Honor maintained by Texas Czech Genealogy Society, located at the SPJST Home Office.
While our common bond is Czech heritage and culture, we welcome all people to our organization.
The SPJST Home Office is located in Temple, Texas, at 520 North Main Street.