Dear Confreres and Consoeurs,
As an international Order, we have a unique perspective. For over 250 years we have sought to form bonds and help those beyond our own borders as well as in our own communities.
If you think about some of the things our members have experienced in a quarter millennia, they include terrible wars and human tragedies. There have also been cholera epidemics, small pox, polio and the Spanish flu, as well as medical discoveries that cure or limit their impact. We are still here.
These are indeed challenging times that have disrupted our lives, families and work. As social creatures, we need contact with each other. We are used to being able to travel and meet without restriction. As we see event after event cancelled, we all wonder when we will return to normal.
But we will return to normal in time. Travel will resume, restaurants will open, and friends will gather again. It is hard to imagine it, just as a month or two ago it was hard to imagine where we are right now, but it will happen.
In the meantime, please stay in contact with your friends in the Order around the world and offer the support and brotherhood that are our founding cornerstones. Reach out and let each other know you are okay and remind them that they will be okay as well. Follow the rules of social distancing and self-isolation. Wash your hands. Don’t spread fear or rumours and look for opportunities to help others who may not be coping as well as you.
It is in challenging times that a Knight or Dame truly shows their commitment to their oath.
God bless you all,
JUNXIT AMICUS AMOR
HE The Chevalier Stephen Lautens GCJ
Grand Master