Model 373's 15th Installation Rites, the Scourge of Omicron, and GM's Circular No. 22

For a while, Model Masonic Lodge No. 373's 15th installation rites hang in the balance as the Omicron Variant made its presence felt but in a display of resilience and brilliant adaptation and with the guidance of its Past Master's Council, WB Wilfredo Pagay and his officers for the ensuing Masonic year were duly installed into their respective offices by VW Installing Officer Val Santos (PDDGM) with VW Master of Ceremonies Rhomel Martinez and VW Assistant Master of Ceremonies Aquilino Valino Jr. (PDGL). 

With the incoming Secretary down with COVID-19 and three more of the brethren testing positive during the mandatory pre-meeting antigen testing including outgoing WM Dean Barry Lao, a decision was made to shift to a Tyled installation form with just the Lodge's members who have tested negative participating.

Thus was how WB Wilfredo Pagay established some sort of record by occupying the Oriental Chair as mandated by his obligation as Senior Warden, presiding over the reception of dignitaries inluding RW Ariel Cayanan who is attending is first GOHAS duty as the Grand Junior Warden of the Grand Lodge of the Philippines, and surrendering the Worshipful Master's jewel in behalf of WB Dean Barry Lao before again ascending to the East where he was installed as the 15th Worshipful Master of Model Masonic Lodge No. 373. 

As the installation rites winded down, Grand Master Rolen Paulino's Circular No. 22 was circulated to suspend all Masonic activities within the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of the Philippines until further notice.

By that time, the brethren were already attending a subdued fellowship, thankful that they were able to pull through the installation rites despite the slew of sudden challenges and the absence of DDGM Hossain Shamsoddin Vostakalaei who allowed the ceremony to proceed under his authority.

Salud!