Brethren, ladies, and friends of Myrtle Lodge,
I pray that you all are well. Per the Grand Master’s latest ruling, I find myself unceremoniously thrust into the position of continuing to lead our beloved Lodge through an international pandemic. It is surreal, but at least we have nearly a year’s worth of experience. Governor Whitmer has extended her order until 20 December and I do not foresee the Grand Master contradicting our elected officials.
What that means for us, in a practical sense, is that all Masonic meetings will continue to be cancelled. While the Grand Master has empowered the Worshipful Master, Treasurer, and Secretary of each Lodge to pay the bills and keep the lights on we will continue to hold regular Teams meetings. I prefer for there to be transparency. The meetings will serve to keep everyone abreast of communications from the Grand Lodge and any necessary business, such as the paying of bills, that was conducted, as well as an opportunity to catch-up with one another.
However, that does not mean that the Lodge is closed, shutdown, &c. The Lodge is much more than a building, though they are especially important to us, and business meetings. It is a place we learn and practice virtues that we are then to take out into the world. Times of great difficulty are times when great virtue is most necessary. With a charitable heart we must concern ourselves with the most vulnerable in our communities, especially considering the Christmas season we are in. Therefore, our regular Food Drives on the third Tuesday of the month (15 December) will continue without interruption. I beg of you; please make yourself available, if possible, to help. I do not know if we have seen a greater need for this manner of neighborly love in recent times.
Lastly, if you and your family are struggling, please, let us know. Several of our members have access to various resources such as clothing closets, food pantries, &c. Our Grand Master has also instituted an almoner’s fund for the welfare of Brothers in distress. We should all recall that moment we found ourselves penniless. There is no shame in it, especially in our present circumstances.
I pray that you all remain safe, healthy, and well during this special time of the year.
Sincerely and fraternally,
Jake A. Foster
Worshipful Master
Myrtle Lodge No. 89, F&AM
Update, March 25, 2021:
Per the extension of the State of Michigan’s public health guidance, and the Grand Master's March 15th communication, our in-person meetings may consist of up to 25 members while wearing a mask and maintaining social distancing. As usual, our monthly Food Drive remains uninterrupted. Of course, if you are sick at all please remain home until you are well again.