DECISIONS IN DIFFICULT TIMES

Reflections on Serving as Grand Master During the Pandemic

M.W.B. Michael J. McGuyer, P.G.M.

Thank you, M.W.B. Timothy Best, for the opportunity to reflect on my time as Grand Master during the challenging year of 2020. Like many, I initially believed the COVID situation would resolve in six months, and we’d soon return to normal. I was certainly mistaken. That year forced me to make difficult decisions, some of which I didn’t agree with personally, but were necessary for the greater good.

Doing the right thing is rarely easy. From the outset, it became clear that circumstances were rapidly shifting and becoming increasingly restrictive. Meeting capacities and guidelines were in constant flux. Whatever measures were required to protect our members, safeguard the Fraternity, and comply with government mandates had to be implemented. After many discussions with the Trustees, I made the difficult decision to place a moratorium on Degree work—a decision no Grand Master had ever intentionally made before.

Adapting to the ever-changing government guidelines for gatherings was like trying to nail Jello to a wall. It would have been simpler to close the Jurisdiction altogether, as others had done, but that wasn’t a solution we were willing to accept. The Trustees and I were committed to keeping Lodges active, knowing that prolonged inactivity could lead many to fail permanently. I was fortunate to have the invaluable support of Grand Secretary R.W.B. Rick Komraus, who provided daily updates on occupancy restrictions set by the Oregon Health Authority.

With edicts in place and attendance limits enforced, it became clear that Official Visits were no longer feasible. Rather than attempting to work around my own restrictions, I chose to lead by example and cancelled my calendar.

Th roughout that difficult year, I had no shortage of critics. A glance at my email inbox would confi rm that. But I was equally blessed with unwavering supporters. The Grand Secretary and his dedicated staff, the Jurisprudence Committee led by M.W.B. Anderson, who helped guide me through these uncharted waters, and the Trustees of the Grand Lodge, the fi nest group of men I could have hoped to work alongside. I also extend my deepest respect to the Worshipful Masters who led their Lodges with steadfast dedication during 2020 and 2021.

I believe it’s important to carry forward a few lessons: Take nothing for granted and be thankful—especially for the people who are part of your life. COVID’s harshest lesson was how easily those we care about can be taken from us. Never take your brethren for granted, and always treat them as if they’re leaving on a long journey.

Leadership carries the burden of second-guessing decisions. But I stand by the choices we made, grounded in our fidelity to Freemasonry. Looking back, I believe we did the right thing. Above all, I offer my deepest thanks to the one who deserves the most credit: the Great Architect of the Universe. As our Lodges return to full activity, may we embrace this opportunity to strengthen our bonds, rejuvenate our commitments, and carry the light of Freemasonry forward with renewed purpose and optimism.