Words from the Worshipful Master

My brothers,

These last few days have been difficult on all of us. Watching our friend and brother pass to the Celestial Lodge far too soon, is heart-wrenching to say the least. Our brother W:. Chris Chag was an integral part of our lodge and our lives and yet, has laid down his working tools. There is no doubt that he will be sorely missed. Please keep his family and his children in your prayers. The days ahead for them will be almost unbearable. My own prayers are for them to find strength in one another and in the GAOTU. For all of you who were able to attend his service, thank you. Your presence was greatly appreciated.At the same time, Chris’s passing has left a gigantic hole in the lodge order of things that must be done. I know as well as anyone, that filling his
shoes is an impossible task. However, we have no choice. With that in mind, I have chosen to appoint W:. Jay Cebollero as our Secretary Pro Tempore and have sent that decision to the Grand Master. In keeping with the Digest of Masonic Law and the protocols of our lodge, we will hold an election at some point where a brother will then be elected and installed as our Secretary. In the meantime, my hope is that you will give our brother Jay your full support.

In addition, as everyone is quite aware, the Corona virus has invaded our country, our state and county. It is possible that it may even infect one of us. The Grand Master has issued an edict granting us the right to dismiss our stated meetings if we choose. At this time, I have decided that we will continue to meet but with an abundance of caution. Here are a few important guidelines that I am implementing:
1. If you are sick or feel that your health or the health of a loved one may be impacted because of the Corona Virus, please stay home.
2. If you are an officer and feel you should stay home, please let me know as soon as possible so that arrangements can be made to have someone sit in your place.
3. I have instructed our Junior Warden not to provide meals until further notice. I have concerns we could pass the virus on without realizing through the kitchen. Please plan to eat at home prior to lodge or join us after for refreshments at Irish Rite (Gators).
4. As much as I know that brothers love to greet another with a handshake or a hug, please refrain from doing so. In addition, please practice good hygiene inside and outside of the lodge. The CDC & other health agencies all tell us that washing our hands and refraining from touching our face can play a big role in keeping the virus at bay.

Finally, my brothers, thank you for those who have been praying for me. It means so much to me. You should know that you too are in my prayers. The days ahead will be indeed be challenging. But I believe Winter Park is strong and up to this challenge. If there is something you need or something you think we need to address, you are welcome to reach out to me. Above all, remember that we are brothers.

All my best to each of you,

Chet Tokar,
Worshipful Master
“As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another”