Events

64th BMC Cancelled

Hello Brothers and Sisters,

We are all aware of the catastrophic effects that the coronavirus has caused world-wide.  We are also aware that the effects of the virus are much more serious in older people and those with pre-existing medical conditions- two categories in which many of our members are classified. 

 In an effort to slow the spread of the virus, most localities around the world have developed “stay at home” and “social distancing” policies.  Whereas these policies have reduced the number of infections and deaths, most medical experts appear to agree that the only thing that will truly eliminate or reduce the effects of this virus among the world’s population is the development of a vaccine for it. Therefore, a normal life as we knew it will not really be possible until we have a vaccine and even then, we might have to adjust to a new normal. 

In light of these facts and after much deliberation, MHGM John Green and the Committee of Management of the GUOOF in America and Jurisdiction have decided that it is in the best interest of our membership to cancel the 64th BMC in August 2020 and instead hold the session in August 2022.  The 2022 date would allow Districts to hold their sessions in 2021. We realize that this is an unprecedented move but it is the best way to protect the health of our members.  

The HGS will reimburse all fees that have been paid for registration or ads.  

Also, MHGM Green will continually provide updates on matters affecting the Order as we move forward.  Your comments or suggestions for the good of the Order are welcomed at any time. However, be aware that if you respond “to all” for any of my emails, your response will only be seen by about one fourth of our membership due to restrictions on emails by AOL.  

The MHGM and COM have two suggestions for the good of the Order at this time.  Since Peter Ogden Day is on May 17, if your locality restricts the number of people who can attend an event, consider the possibility of hosting the Service via Zoom, Goggle or conference call.  Secondly, and perhaps more importantly at this time, MHGM Green and the COM request that we all join as an unified Order in prayer on May 27 at 12 Noon.  Please pray for the Order and also for a cure for the coronavirus.  

In closing, I would like to share these words from a book entitled “Ail I Really Need To Know I Learned In Kindergarten” by Robert Fulghum.  It is my hope that these words will be thought-provoking for you.  

“ Most of what I really need to know about how to live and what to do and how to be, I learned in kindergarten.  Wisdom was not at the top of the graduate school mountain, but there in the sandpile at Sunday School.  These are the things I learned:  Share everything;- play fair-; don’t hit people;  put things back where you found them;  clean up your own mess;  don’t take things that aren’t yours; say you are sorry when you hurt somebody; wash your hands before you eat; flush;  warm cookies and cold milk are good for you;  live a balanced life;  learn some and think some and draw and paint and sing and dance and play and work every day some; take a nap every afternoon;  when you go out into the world, watch out for traffic hold hands and stick together”.

Please take care of yourself until we are able to meet again.

Fraternally,

Graham T. Paige, Grand Secretary

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