Grand Masters Decision September 10, 2018
To the Worshipful Masters, Wardens and Brethren
Brethren all,
It is now apparent from all forecast models that Hurricane Florence will impact South Carolina with high winds and rain beginning Thursday, September 13th through Monday September 17th.
All prediction models from this afternoon indicate that the northeastern shore of South Carolina will have an major impact with devastating rainfall and flooding for several days.
While it has yet to be determined where the eyewall will impact the east coast, this is going to be a major category 4 storm strength and rainfall amounts up to 20 inches which will impact on our Great State.
Safety is of the utmost importance for all citizens and for all of our members in this Grand Jurisdiction.
I am encouraging all Worshipful Masters to act in the best interest of your members and Lodges.
It is my decision as Grand Master of Masons to allow the Worshipful Master or Wardens to postponed the September Regular Communications as deemed necessary for the following reasons without need for Special Dispensation from the Grand Lodge and Grand Master for the Week of September 10th in preparation.
The following conditions are permissible reasons to postpone the Regular Communications under this Decision
Regular meetings scheduled during the storm the week of September 10th.
In the aftermath of the storm, if the Lodge has no power, no potable water (drinking water), or if the Lodge is unsafe from storm damage or otherwise.
In preparation for the storm, please encourage all your members to take the proper precautions by planning ahead and seeking the safest options for their families.
Check on your elderly members and make certain to follow up after the storm as well on their safety and well-being. This is what true Freemasons do for one another.
If possible, the Lodge should also prepare as best as possible in the primary impact zones to prevent and much damage as possible.
Sand Bags at the exterior wall to prevent water from entering under doorways in low areas.
Taping or securing windows and doors if necessary to prevent wind and water damage.
Unplugging or de-energizing appliance and unnecessary sources to protect against power surges that could cause fire.
Obtain some drinking water and necessary supplies if your lodge could possibly serve your members or community as a temporary shelter if necessary.
Plan where possible to be able to prepare a meal for displaced members, families if necessary. Grills may be very useful in the coming days.
It is indeed my prayer Brethren, for the safety and well-being of all of our members and communities.
May the God of Lovingkindness, Mercy and Grace be with us. Remember we make a difference every day as Freemasons, no matter what the day may bring!
Stand tall and remember that God is with us always.
Plan to resume Regular Communication as quickly as safety permits and to let your DDGM, the Grand Lodge and Grand Master of status of your Lodge as soon as possible.
If your Lodge has any other reason for delay Regular Communication, that would require Special Dispensation using the normal protocol.
Fraternally
Michael Smith
Grand Master
To the Worshipful Masters, Wardens and Brethren
Brethren all,
It is now apparent from all forecast models that Hurricane Florence will impact South Carolina with high winds and rain beginning Thursday, September 13th through Monday September 17th.
All prediction models from this afternoon indicate that the northeastern shore of South Carolina will have an major impact with devastating rainfall and flooding for several days.
While it has yet to be determined where the eyewall will impact the east coast, this is going to be a major category 4 storm strength and rainfall amounts up to 20 inches which will impact on our Great State.
Safety is of the utmost importance for all citizens and for all of our members in this Grand Jurisdiction.
I am encouraging all Worshipful Masters to act in the best interest of your members and Lodges.
It is my decision as Grand Master of Masons to allow the Worshipful Master or Wardens to postponed the September Regular Communications as deemed necessary for the following reasons without need for Special Dispensation from the Grand Lodge and Grand Master for the Week of September 10th in preparation.
The following conditions are permissible reasons to postpone the Regular Communications under this Decision
Regular meetings scheduled during the storm the week of September 10th.
In the aftermath of the storm, if the Lodge has no power, no potable water (drinking water), or if the Lodge is unsafe from storm damage or otherwise.
In preparation for the storm, please encourage all your members to take the proper precautions by planning ahead and seeking the safest options for their families.
Check on your elderly members and make certain to follow up after the storm as well on their safety and well-being. This is what true Freemasons do for one another.
If possible, the Lodge should also prepare as best as possible in the primary impact zones to prevent and much damage as possible.
Sand Bags at the exterior wall to prevent water from entering under doorways in low areas.
Taping or securing windows and doors if necessary to prevent wind and water damage.
Unplugging or de-energizing appliance and unnecessary sources to protect against power surges that could cause fire.
Obtain some drinking water and necessary supplies if your lodge could possibly serve your members or community as a temporary shelter if necessary.
Plan where possible to be able to prepare a meal for displaced members, families if necessary. Grills may be very useful in the coming days.
It is indeed my prayer Brethren, for the safety and well-being of all of our members and communities.
May the God of Lovingkindness, Mercy and Grace be with us. Remember we make a difference every day as Freemasons, no matter what the day may bring!
Stand tall and remember that God is with us always.
Plan to resume Regular Communication as quickly as safety permits and to let your DDGM, the Grand Lodge and Grand Master of status of your Lodge as soon as possible.
If your Lodge has any other reason for delay Regular Communication, that would require Special Dispensation using the normal protocol.
Fraternally
Michael Smith
Grand Master
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