17th March 2020
CORONA VIRUS (COVID-19)

Dear Sisters and Brothers

We are sure you are all well aware of the current world-wide pandemic involving the Corona Virus (COVID 19).

The health and welfare of our Members are a paramount responsibility and there are a number of Members concerned as to whether Order of the Eastern Star Meetings should take place. There are also Members who are in the high-risk group, in particular those suffering from serious chronic medical conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, lung disease and having compromised immune systems. If necessary, for their own safety, if they are concerned then they should stay at home. Otherwise Members should consider all the risk factors and make the appropriate decision pertaining to their individual medical conditions. All Members should be diligent and follow personal hygiene requests and follow the guidelines set forth by the various Health Authorities.

As to whether Chapter Meetings should take place, it is up to each individual Chapter to consider its risks and decide if a Meeting should go ahead. On the other hand, some Chapters may have to abide by directions issued in relation to the venue where they meet and Chapters need to take this into account.

It will be up to all Governing Levels to decide whether they continue with Official Visits in the interim and advise their Chapters accordingly.
Should a Chapter decide that they wish to cancel a Regular Meeting, they should make contact with their Governing Level for a Dispensation to be issued.

We appreciate your concern and patience and ask you to remember in your prayers those who are less fortunate and are being more severely affected by this virus.

Take care everyone.

Yours in Star Friendship
Blanche Watt  – Most Worthy Grand Matron
Paul Smith – Most Worthy Grand Patron
Elizabeth Taylor – WG Secretary