Dear Companions,

With the current expanding situation of COVID-19 (Coronavirus) and the anxiety it is causing, the General Grand Council (Officers or Regional Deputies) will not be required to attend any Grand Sessions for the next 30 days. It is a Masonic fact of life that the majority of our officers are in the vulnerable groups that have been described: over 60, underlying health issues, or caring for others with underlying health issues. If they attend, it is because they enjoy your fellowship, and they will be taking every precaution possible to NOT cause heightened risk for any of your members.

We have received notice that the Arkansas Grand Sessions have been delayed until June because of the global pandemic. I would encourage all York Rite members to consider delaying their sessions/conferences even though these events are not usually large, but the majority of our members are in the vulnerable group and the risk is high. If any Grand Councils/Grand York Rites decide to delay or cancel their sessions, please give us as early a notice as possible so that we can adjust our scheduling.

Near the end of the 30 days, I will take another look and issue another advisory letter.

Fraternally,

David A. Grindle, KYGCH, GGOSV
General Grand Master