Directive No 20-21-6
Effective May 21, 2021
Brethren: Governor Carney has issued revisions and updates to his Coronavirus (COVID-19) restrictions that will continue to impact
the way we do things with our families, our businesses, and our many masonic activities. The recent announcements from the CDC and
Governor Carney's Office, it appears that there might be a little light at the end of the tunnel and restrictions are opening
up a little. In keeping with Governor Camey's announced updated restrictions, our fraternity here in Delaware will adhere to
the restrictions noted below, as well as all previously established practices as follows:
Occupancy restrictions (unless over 250 persons) have been lifted entirely.
Social Distancing requirements have been changed from 6 ft. to 3ft., and this Social Distancing must be maintained and managed.
Even though occupancy restrictions have been lifted, the 3ft. Social Distancing must be maintained. Seating in lodge rooms and
social areas, must be readjusted for the 3ft. Social
Directive No 20-21-6
Effective May 21, 2021
Distancing requirement, and "No Seating" areas to maintain social distancing
must be clearly marked. Table distancing and seating arrangements in banquet and social halls can be readjusted to maintain the
new 3ft. distancing requirements.
Individuals who have been fully vaccinated are not required to wear a mask (Indoors or Outdoors) unless they are in a crowded social
situation; all others must wear a mask. If the 3ft. Social Distancing cannot be maintained, even these individuals must wear a mask.
NOTE: Lodges are NOT authorized to inspect or require the presentation of vaccination certificates/cards of brethren who do not wear
face coverings; we are men of honor and we are a Cut Above...
Food Service Restrictions Continue: There can be no self serve food service. All food must be served by dedicated servers as per
the Phase II Directives and restrictions of the Governor's Office. No person, other than the server, shall touch any serving spoons,
and serving staff members should be dedicated to a particular serving spoon(s). Social Distancing in any buffet line must be maintained
(lodge responsibility).
If you are moving your venue to a place other that your lodge hall, it is the responsibility of the lodge to ensure that the chosen
venue is following the proper protocol and is adhering to the Governor's (and the Grand Master's) Directives and Restrictions.
Degree work may continue as long as all guidelines/directives are strictly followed. There are several steps that some lodges have
taken to ensure a safer degree conferral. Contact the Office of the Grand Secretary for suggested steps to be taken in a degree conferral.
ALL VULNERABLE INDIVIDUALS WHO HAVE NOT BEEN FULLY VACCINATED
should continue to avoid gatherings. Be sure to remind all of your members
who do not feel well, are sick, running a fever, or who may have any COVID symptoms, to stay home. If any member/guest is
uncomfortable attending a meeting or event, they should be encouraged to stay at home.
I again want to urge the Worshipful Masters of our lodges that have very limited seating capacity in their lodge "Blue Rooms", to consider
asking one of our larger lodges if you can use their lodge room for one or more of your meetings during these restricted times. This may
allow you to have a meeting that you might not otherwise be able to have as a result of the 3 ft. Social Distancing restriction.
Again, please be reminded that this is a time for us to pay particular attention to our brethren who may be in need and who may require
assistance. If you are worried about a fellow member or his family, please keep in contact with them via telephone, text, or email. Let
us remember our masonic obligations to relieve the distressed, and to aid with the health and welfare of our fellow brothers. Please
keep an eye on each other and be ready to exercise our masonic benevolence where and when we are able . . . and "Be a Cut Above"
Given under my hand and the seal of the Grand Lodge of Delaware this 20th day of May, 2021 AD, 6021 AL.
M:. W :. Jeffrey D. Haass, Sr. Grand Master
Note: This page is not the directive in its entirety but only highlights. Please click on the link below to read the entire directive.
GM Directive May 21, 2021