Throughout this period of national and international emergency, the well-being and safety of our members has been paramount. This is why the guidance we have issued so far has gone beyond that published by the UK Government and Public Health England.
For our members overseas, our guidance has supplemented that provided by the local Public Health Authorities wherever they live.
As a result of the latest advice given by the UK Prime Minister yesterday, backed by the Chief Medical and Scientific Officers, our existing guidance has been reviewed and updated.
The Grand Masters of the Orders administered from Mark Masons’ Hall have jointly agreed an immediate General Suspension of all Masonic Activity for a period of four months. This means that no masonic meetings or related social activities should take place until further notice. A similar Notice of a General Suspension is being issued today by the United Grand Lodge of England, the Supreme Council of the Ancient & Accepted Rite and the Grand Lodge of Scotland.
Whilst regular masonic activity will now cease for the time being, the administration of our Orders will continue as usual with regular updates issued to let you know what is happening.
These are unprecedented times requiring unprecedented action and I feel sure you will agree that the suspension of all masonic activity now is the right thing to do. Our Orders are facing a considerable challenge as a result of the spread of the coronavirus and will do so for some months to come. So, it’s important that we do as much as we can to safeguard one another, maintain contact with one another by phone and email, and ensure that when the current emergency is over, we can fully resume the practice and enjoyment of our freemasonry.
With fraternal regards and best wishes.
R.Ill.Comp. Ryan A. Williams, P.G.Coun.
Grand Recorder