Update: New Massachusetts State Regulations

From the desk of the Grand Master, M.W. Richard Maggio

As you may have heard, Governor Charlie Baker, effective tomorrow (March 17th), has prohibited gatherings of over 25 people throughout the Commonwealth. This order is in effect through April 5th unless otherwise extended.

Obviously, we will adhere to this order. All upcoming events with 25+ attendees will be cancelled or postponed. We will work with our respective committee chairmen/event organizers to determine the best course of action for all Grand Lodge programs that will be affected. The Grand Lodge business office will remain open.

To all presiding officers in our Masonic Districts, Lodges, and appendant bodies – my belief in your autonomy hasn’t changed. Please take the appropriate steps to ensure your group adheres by our Governor’s order.

Our promise to be a fraternity that strives to care for its members is needed now more than ever. The important services our local programs like H.E.LP. offer to the community must continue. We must do everything we can to overcome this together. Let’s choose to continue to be a beacon of light for our communities, by doing all in our power to help one another, in any way we can.

This is not an easy situation, and monitoring it has weighed on me heavily. I take no pleasure out of having to send multiple COVID-19 updates to each of you. Health and safety, however, is our first priority.

Please take care to follow the guidelines of our local, state and federal leadership during this difficult time. May God bless you, your families, and the United States of America.