2 THE BANNER

Grand King M.E.Comp. E. Cyril Ferguson, 645

Deputy Grand King R.E.Comp. Jon. McAteer Pollock, 57

Assistant Grand King R.E.Comp. Richard Aughey, 565

Assistant Grand King R.E.Comp. G. Wendell McGrath, 56

Grand High Priest R.E.Comp. William J. Martin, 1012

Grand Chief Scribe R.E.Comp. David Wallace, 353

Grand Treasurer R.E.Comp. Thomas J. McCurley, 613

Grand Registrar R.E.Comp. W James Lynch, 1020/574

Grand Chaplains V.E.Comp. Henry Gilmore, 466V.E.Comp. Rev. Denzil Caldwell, 375V.E.Comp. Rev. H. James Parker, M.A., 763V.E.Comp. William Halliday, 763V.E.Comp. Jonathan M. Smith, 177

Assistant Grand Treasurer V.E.Comp. W. Ivan Conner, 178

Assistant Grand Registrar V.E.Comp. C. A. Ron Thompson, 350/574

Grand Captain of the Host V.E.Comp. John H. McCaughan, 149

Grand Supt of the Tabernacle V.E.Comp. Dennis W. Wheavil, 440

Grand Royal Arch Captain V.E.Comp. Russell Mailey, 140

Grand Captain of the Scarlet Veil V.E.Comp. Samuel I. Gourley, 51

Grand Captain of the Purple Veil V.E.Comp. Walter J. Ferguson, 811

Grand Captain of the Blue Veil V.E.Comp. Thomas M. Johnston, 246

Grand Directors of Ceremonies V.E.Comp. William T. Brown, MBE, 313V.E.Comp. George M. Graham, 413V.E.Comp. Ronald M. Barnes, 353

Grand Stewards V.E.Comp. James M. Alexander, 97/317V.E.Comp. James Wallace, 276V.E.Comp. Reginald Maguire, 140V.E.Comp. P. J. Steele, 162

Grand Organists V.E.Comp. Dr. Norman Close, 275V.E.Comp. Maurice McQuitty, 149V.E.Comp. Sylvester Agnew, MBE, 645

Grand Chaper Standard Bearer V.E.Comp. George A. Holland, 726

Grand King’s Standard Bearer V.E.Comp. George F. Cummings, 275

Grand Janitor V.E.Comp. John H. Frazer, 229

Grand Physician V.E.Comp. Dr. Edwin Henderson, 17

DISTRICT GRANDROYAL ARCH CHAPTEROF ANTRIM

Representatives on Grand Royal Arch Class of InstructionJohn C. Kettyle, James Caddoo, Albert L. Fullerton.Congratulations to George McFettridge on becoming an elected member.

Representatives to Grand Chapter Board of General PurposesJ. Lynas, A. Ireland, T. Killen, W. J. Halliday, N. Mayne, W. C. Colhoun, H. Gilmore,W. J. Martin, D. Wallace, C. Rea.

District Grand InspectorsM. J. Byers, D. T. Caruth, A. W. Coid, J. G. Devenney, J. S. Godfrey, A. McA. Ireland,M. Torrans, H. C. Mitchell, W. E. Moore, C. McBratney, J. S. Patterson,S. A. McCleave, R. Reid, S. D. Richardson, B. Scott, N. B. Smyth, T. M. Yarr.

Dates of Grand ChapterStated ConvocationsWednesday 7th May 2008Wednesday 17th September 2008Wednesday 5th November 2008Wednesday 4th February 2009

Dates of District GrandChapter Stated ConvocationsMonday 28th April 2008Saturday 7th June 2008Monday 27th October 2008Saturday 24th January 2009

Dates of Meetings ofDistrict Grand Chapter Boardof General PurposesMonday 21st April 2008Monday 2nd June 2008Monday 20th October 2008Monday 19th January 2009

Dates of Meetings ofCommittees of InspectionBelfast AreaMonday 21st April 2008Monday 2nd June 2008Monday 8th September 2008Monday 10th November 2008Monday 19th January 2009

North Antrim AreaFriday 16th May 2008Friday 15th August 2008Friday 21st November 2008Friday 20th February 2009

East Antrim AreaWednesday 2nd April 2008Wednesday 6th August 2008Wednesday 5th November 2008Wednesday 4th February 2009

Front Cover: Freemasons’ Hall, ArthurSquare before and after renovation.

IMPORTANTDATES

Extra copies available fromthe Editor: £2.00 each

OFFICERS FOR 2008

THE BANNER 3

ForewordWithin a few minutes of closing the Supreme GrandChapter for the first time as your Grand King, I wasapproached by R. Ex. Comp. G. Wendell McGrath,your District Assistant Grand King, to write aforeword for this issue of your very informativeDistrict magazine.

Your District Grand King, M. Ex. Comp. E. Cyril Ferguson,who had, a short while earlier, very kindly acted as one of mysponsors, was most insistent on having a photograph takenas soon as we exited from the meeting; now I understoodwhy!!

My other sponsor, to balance the north east, was M. Ex.Comp. Charles W. Olden, a former District Grand King ofMunster, whose District covers the south west. I was verypleased that he also had kindly agreed to act as my sponsor;we had joined Royal Arch Chapter of the Keystone, No. 3 inCork together on the same evening, many years ago.

Shortly after becoming a Royal Arch Mason, I was transferredback to Dublin, where I affiliated to Minerva Chapter No. 214,and found that I had a gained more new friends.

My Companions in Minerva later decided that I mightmake a good Registrar, and it took me thirty years to get outof that job.

I am very aware that, due to the proposed closure of theRosemary Street Hall, some Chapters are having to find newhomes and maybe even having to re-arrange their meetingtimes and dates; this can be upsetting for the Companions,but it is my sincere hope that all the problems can beovercome and that those Chapters will go on to furtherstrength in the future.

I would like to thank all the Companions who travelled forthe meeting of Grand Chapter, the Grand Lodge room waswell packed, and I very much appreciate the enthusiasticsupport I received.

by M. Ex. Comp. Michael J. Ward,Most Excellent and Supreme Grand King.

Bertie Miskimmon (Chapter 613)37 Cotswold Avenue, Belfast BT8 6NA. Tel 9058 6470

Chapters which meet in The Provincial Masonic Hall, BelfastNos. 7, 29, 417, 427, 439, 469, 551, 613

Bill Brown (Chapter 313)8 Donegall Crescent, Whitehead BT38 9LS. Tel 9337 8404

Chapters in Larne and Carrick AreaGlenarm 45, Islandmagee 162, Raloo 175, Carrickfergus 253,Ballycarry 260, Straid 276, Carrickfergus 313, Larne 375,Larne 615 & Carrickfergus 1012

Drew Coid (Chapter 189)1 Kelvin Close, Dan’s Rd, Ballymena BT42 2NZ. Tel 2564 4734

Chapters in Ballymena & Antrim AreaAntrim 28, Oldstone 56, Ballymena 149, Templepatrick 160,Connor 189, Broughshane 246, Ballymena 431, Portglenone 450,Ballymena 476, Cullybackey 537, Clough 574, Randalstown 598,Ahoghill 704, Ballymena 775, Broughshane 1020

J. McA. Pollock (Chapter 57)3 Chestnut Grove, Ballymoney BT53 7AT. Tel 2766 2590

Chapters in N. Antrim AreaVowferry 17, Ballymoney 57, Ballycastle 89, Bushmills 414and Portrush 1008

James McClurg (Chapter 140)7 Sycamore Rd, Dundrod, Crumlin BT29 4JE. Tel 9082 5320

Chapters which meet in Lisburn AreaNos. 178, 489, 565, 602, 783 and 811Also Crumlin 140, Ballinderry 326, Broomhedge 335and Derriaghy 651

Jim Patterson (Chapter 314/22)Tel 9086 2214

Chapters which meet in Crumlin Road andLigoniel Masonic Halls, BelfastNos. 21, 156, 166, 258, 327, 349, 378, 389, 502, 705, 726, 513

Bill Halliday (Chapter 763)414 Doagh Road, Newtownabbey BT36 6AN. Tel 9084 0112

Chapters which meet in Newtownabbey and WhiteabbeyMasonic CentreNos. 180, 275, 317, 466, 485, 512, 645, 647, 667, 672, 711, 763

Alex Ireland (Chapter 573)22 Silverbirch Road, Bangor BT19 6EU. Tel 9146 3281

Chapters which meet in Arthur Square Masonic Hall, BelfastNos. 10, 51, 54, 59, 64, 88, 97, 106, 154, 169, 177, 182, 226,229, 259, 314, 324, 340, 353, 372, 440, 573, 609, 659

EditorWendell McGrath (Chapter 56)57 Crosskennan Road, Antrim BT41 2RETel 9446 0117

Assistant EditorDrew Coid (Chapter 189)1 Kelvin Close, Dan’s Road,Ballymena BT42 2NZ. Tel: 2564 4734

THE BANNERPRODUCTION TEAM

Most Ex. Companion E. Cyril Ferguson, District Grand King,who was one of the Sponsors at the Installation of the MostExcellent and Supreme Grand King, photographed with theMost Excellent and Supreme Grand King and the MostExcellent Deputy Grand King, immediately following theCeremony on Wednesday 6th February 2008.

4 THE BANNER

The Companions of SirCharles Cameron R.A.C.No. 353 regret the death,on the 13th December2007, of their esteemedEx. Comp. Robert JohnPatterson (Bob). Theesteem Bob was held inwas clearly shown by thesheer numbers of people,from all walks of life, whoattended his funeralservice in the ParishChurch of St. Colman’s inCarrickfergus. He hadfought bravely and withgreat fortitude against hisillnesses for some years.

He affiliated to Chapter353 in 1999 and in duecourse became Ex. King.

He originally joined Chapter No. 77 in Newry where he gothis Mark Degree on the l2th September 1960 and his RoyalArch Degree on the 10th October 1960. He affiliated toR.A.C. No. 623 Armagh on 15th December 1971 and St.Andrews R.A.C. No. 1012 on 9th May 1978. Bob was wellknown and extremely knowledgeable throughout all thedisciplines of masonry that he was involved in.

In spite of his illness he was very determined to attend MostEx. Companion Cyril Quigley’s Installation as Ex. King ofCameron Chapter and indeed involved himself with thearrangements for that day, advising and liaising with the otherOfficers regarding the ceremony and ritual for that special andunique occasion. He was responsible for introducing to theChapter several new members, as one of his good friends Ex.Comp. Tom Bell will testify. He will be sadly missed by all hiscompanions but will be remembered for his love of masonry,the knowledge and advice he shared so freely, his concernabout the Masonic Benevolent Institutions and his irrepressiblelove of a bit of good natured banter at our Convocation andFestive Boards.

Ex. Comp. Robert John Patterson

I am sure that many of you were saddened to learn of thedeath of V. Ex. Comp. Jim Adamson on the 24th ofSeptember this year. Jim was well known, not only inCarrickfergus but throughout the District, as anenthusiastic mason in all the branches of our Order towhich he belonged.

He became a member of Royal Arch Chapter No. 253 on the22nd February 1955, was exalted to the degree of Royal ArchMason in May of the same year and served as Excellent King ofthe Chapter in 1970. He subsequently received his fifty-yearjewel, from the hand of our District Grand King, M. Ex. Comp.E. Cyril Ferguson at a Stated Convocation of the Chapter heldon the 13th June 2006. His service to Royal Arch Masonry wasacknowledged in 2007 when he was appointed a District GrandSteward in the District Grand Royal Arch Chapter of Antrim.

A long time leader of the Carrickfergus Class of Instruction, V.Ex Comp. Adamson was a very confident degree giver. Histalent in this field was not restricted to any one branch of theOrder, conferring degrees in the Craft, Royal Arch, the Councilof Knight Masons and the Preceptory with an individual stylewhich at once made the candidate feel at ease.

His love of history did not stop with Carrickfegus, and thesurrounding area but was reflected in his membership of boththe Chapter of Research and the Lodge of Research of which hewas Worshipful Master in 1992.

He played an active role in the Joymount PresbyterianChurch, acting as Treasurer for a number of years.

Jim’s passing will leave a gap in the ranks of CarrickfergusMasonry that will be very difficult to fill.

Ex. Comp. J. A. Penny, P.K. & Registrar R.A.C. No. 253.

DEATH OF WELL KNOWNCARRICKFERGUS ROYALARCH MASON

M. EX. COMP. MITCHELL J. BYERSjoined Mountmellick Royal ArchChapter No. 660. Shortly afterwards,on 21st April 1965, he affiliated toDalriada RAC No. 57. He was installedas Excellent King in Dalriada on 20thFebruary 1980 and became Registrar ofthat Chapter on 15th February 1984.

He was District Grand Janitor1989/90, Representative of the GrandRoyal Arch Chapter of Ontario1992/2000, Grand High Priest 2001 andhas been a District Grand Inspector formany years.

On his retirement as Registrar, on21st February 2007, the Companions ofDalriada presented him with a gift as atoken of their appreciation for his 23years of exceptional, faithful anddevoted service.

The photograph shows the Excellent King of Dalriada Chapter No. 57, Ex. Comp. R. J.McCoubrey making the presentation to M. Ex. Comp. Byers in the presence of the MostExcellent District Grand King, M. Ex. Comp. E. C. Ferguson and the Right Excellent DistrictDeputy Grand King, R. Ex. Comp. J. McA. Pollock.

EXCELLENTSERVICERECOGNISED

THE BANNER 5

The trip to Bishop Street Masonic Hall, Londonderry wassupported by Companions from the Chapter, their guestsand two ladies; altogether there were twenty eight on thebus.

We left Whiteabbey Hall at 9:00 am and travelled to the LodgeHotel in Coleraine for breakfast, which was served in a privateroom.

From there we travelled via Limavady to Bishop Street inLondonderry arriving at 12:45. We were met by M. Ex. Comp.Arthur Fielding who gave us a guided tour of the building andsome very interesting historical details.

The two ladies went off shopping, whilst we had ourconvocation in the Chapter Room, conferring the Royal Archdegree on a recently advanced brother. At the conclusion of theconvocation we had time for light refreshments before all met upto travel back to the Lodge Hotel in Coleraine for dinner.

At the Lodge Hotel we had an enjoyable meal and tombola withquite of number of prizes. all of which had been donated.

We arrived back at Whiteabbey at 9.00pm having had a mostenjoyable day.

V.E. Comp. W. G. Keil, Registrar

CARNMONEY RACNO. 645 OUTING

Companions of RAC 645 and friends after the Convocation in BishopStreet Masonic Hall.

Just finished a hearty breakfast in the Lodge Hotel.

Below: Winners all in the Lodge Hotel after Dinner.

V. Ex. Comp. Reggie Maguire, Registrar of Crumlin RAC No. 140,who was invested as District Grand Steward at the StatedConvocation of the District in the Provincial; Masonic Hall on 26thJanuary, is pictured with fellow Officers of 140 – Ex. Comp. JohnMorris, Excellent King, V. Ex. Comp. Russell Mailey, High Priest andEx. Comp. Mitchell Patterson, Director of Ceremonies togetherwith M. Ex. Comp. Gordon Leathem BEM, Assistant Grand Kingand M. Ex. Comp. E. Cyril Ferguson, District Grand King.

CRUMLIN 140 REGISTRAR HONOURED

Abercorn RAC No. 149 Ex. King and Council for 2008. Ex. King, Ex.Comp. W. S. Neill; High Priest, Ex. Comp. C. H. G. Watt and ChiefScribe, Comp. Alaister Wade.

Abercorn RAC No. 149

6 THE BANNER

The Copeland Bird Observatory is on Light House Island,known to the locals as “Bird Isle”- one of the Copeland Islands,which are offshore from Donaghadee. It is one of the outerislands beyond Big Copeland and actually out of sight behind itfrom Donaghadee. It can be seen from the H. S. S. beside MewIsland (the one with the Light House on it). A new Light Housewas built on Mew in 1884 and the one on Bird Isle demolished.Captain Kerr of Portavo, who formerly owned the island,donated it to the National Trust in 1966 during their EnterpriseNeptune scheme to save the coastline.

The Observatory was founded in 1954 by a Workers’Educational Association Class under the direction of the lateArnold Bennington, formerly Nature Correspondent of theBelfast Telegraph. It is one of a chain of 16 such places whoseactivities are co-ordinated by the British Trust for Ornithology.The main functions of an Observatory are to collect data onnumbers of migrating birds, to catch and ring as many as possible,to carry out studies of the breeding birds and to be an educationalcentre for all types of wildlife studies.

The Observatory is operated on about 100 days per year and isthe only one in the whole north west corner of the British Isles.A daily count of all species is recorded as well as weather records,birds ringed and birds passing out at sea (sea watching).Porpoises, dolphins and the occasional whale can be seen. Onone occasion three killer whales were spotted.

Breeding species include four types of Gull, Moorhens, WaterRails, Eider Ducks, Mallard Ducks, Black Guillemots, Fulmars,Stock Doves, Oystercatchers and on one occasion Ravens andPeregrine Falcons nested.

By far the most exciting birds to be seen during the summermonths are the Manx Shearwater and Storm Petrel. Both arecaught and ringed only during the night as they cannot come toland during the day or they could fall prey to the larger gulls. TheManx Shearwater is about the size of a Jackdaw with blackplumage on top and white underneath. They get their name fromhow they fly – very close to the water and using updrafts as theyshear along the waves. They breed underground, in rabbitburrows – as they have a sharp beak and claws they can easilyexpel an unsuspecting rabbit from its home. The rabbit of course

will dig another burrow and therefore the housing processcontinues with nature helping the species to survive. These birdsare unusual in that they live so long – our oldest one is almost fiftyyears old, a world record for this species and the second oldestbird in the world, the oldest being an Albatross. In the northernhemisphere they only come to land to breed and they spend therest of the year in the southern oceans around South America andthe Falklands. This is a round trip of approximately 5000 milesand when you consider that our oldest bird has been doing it forfifty years that’s a lot of miles. In the summer they can easily beseen from the Scottish ferry.

We keep track of individuals by catching and ringing them atnight. As they are adapted for life at sea, they have long wings andtheir legs are very far back on their bodies making them ungainlyon land and we can easily pick them up off the ground when wespot one in our torch beam. They arrive in March, rear one chickand leave again in October. The fully-fledged young bird isabandoned by its parents and with its own instincts finds its waysouth. It is not fully understood how birds migrate but starpatterns and magnetic fields are thought to play a part.

The accommodation on the island is of hostel standard andalways being improved, entirely by the voluntary labour ofmembers. We now have installed solar panels for light and hotwater. Cooking is by three gas cookers. There are fourdormitories, a large common room, a large kitchen for self-catering, a laboratory for ringing and weighing birds and even aflush loo!

It is usual to visit the island for a weekend – anyone is welcome,you do not have to be a member. From April to October, visitorsleave Donaghadee at 6.00 p.m. on Friday and return at 5.00 p.m.on Sunday. A Duty Officer is appointed by the committee to be incharge of each weekend. Visitors only need suitable clothing, asleeping bag, a torch (for night-time activity) and sufficient food.All cooking utensils and crockery are supplied. Day trips arenormally arranged in May and June for interested groups butindividuals are also welcome if there are empty seats available.Anyone interested should contact the Booking Secretary, NevilleMcKee, Telephone No. 028 94 433068.

THE LURE OF THE “BIRD ISLE”I have always had an interest in birds and animals and in 1974 a good friend and ornithologist, Neville McKee, took me on a day tripto the Copeland Bird Observatory. In 1975 I stayed for a weekend and was fascinated by the bird life and the tranquillity of the place.Since then I have been a bird ringer and recorder. During the past 30 years I acted in different capacities for the Observatory - as aMember of the Committee, Chairman and Records Secretary.

By Ex. Comp. Sandy McWilliams, RAC No. 56.

Ex. Comp. SandyMcWilliams all readywith binoculars andtelescope to spot a fewunwary birds.

Aerial view of the observatory from over Mew Island. The islands nearly touch atlow tide. The observatory buildings, situated in the old Light House buildings ofover 100 years ago, are on the highest point of the island – 40 meters above sealevel. There is a six acre walled “garden” beside the buildings.

THE BANNER 7

On Friday 30th November 2007 St Andrews RAC No 1012 held itsInstallation and Dinner at the Masonic Centre, Victoria Road,Carrickfergus. R. Ex. Comp. Jim Lynch represented Supreme GrandChapter and R. Ex. Comp. Wilbert Martin, V. Ex. Comp. Billy Brownand V. Ex. Comp. Tom Beckett represented District Grand Chapter.The important companions that evening were Comps. F. Close, D.Gillespie and S. Reid who were installed, in a most excellent mannerby Ex. Comp. Aaron Reid, after which the Companions and theirguests enjoyed an excellent Installation Dinner.

R. Ex. Comp. Jim Lynch, responding to the toast to SupremeGrand Chapter, briefed the companions on the recent events atSupreme Grand Chapter and future convocations.

V. Ex. Comp. Billy Brown responded to the toast to the DistrictGrand Chapter of Antrim. He briefed the companions on recentissues and encouraged all to attend both the next Convocation onSaturday 26th January 2008, when Ex. Comp. Peter Steele,Islandmagee RAC No.162 would be invested as a District GrandSteward, and the Dinner Dance at the Massereene Golf Club,Antrim on that same evening. He also informed the Companionsof the Convocation of DGC in the Provincial Masonic Hall,Rosemary Street on 7th June 2008 and the DGC Dinner Dance atthe Massereene Golf Club, Antrim on that same evening, whenthe Officers and Companions of Argyll and the Isles will be inattendance. On the evening Friday, 8th June, there would be afunction in Carrickfergus Masonic Centre as part of theweekend’s events. The convocation of DGC in Rosemary Streetwould be the last Masonic event in the Provincial Hall. In futureDGC would be holding their Convocations at different locations.A very successful Convocation was held earlier this year inCarrickfergus, hosted by St Andrews 1012 and other suchinvitations would be welcome. He wished the Excellent King,Council and Companions a successful year in office.

Ex. Comp. F. Close, Excellent King, Comp. D. Gillespie, High Priest,Comp. S. Reid, Chief Scribe and the Installing Officer Ex. Comp A. Reid.

The Excellent King, Council and Installing Officer accompanied by V.Ex. Comp. Tom Beckett, R. Ex. Comp. Wilbert J. Martin and R. Ex.Comp. Jim Lynch.

INSTALLATION ATST ANDREW’S RACNO 1012

The Excellent King and Council with the Officers andCompanions of Chapter No. 1008 and their guests at theInstallation of Officers on 12th December 2007.

The Excellent King and Council of RAC No. 1008 pose with theDistrict Deputy Grand King, the District Assistant Grand King and theDistrict Deputy Grand King, Londonderry, Donegal, Tyrone andFermanagh. R. Ex. Comp. J. McA. Pollock, Comp. J. Morrow, HighPriest, E. Comp. N. Stewart, Excellent King, Comp. P. Davis, ChiefScribe, R. Ex. Comp. G. W. McGrath, and R. Ex. Comp. D. Shackleton.

The District Deputy Grand King, the District Assistant GrandKing and the District Grand Registrar were delighted to bepresent at the Installation of Officers for 2008 of ChapterNo.1008, Portrush on 12th December 2007. The InstallingOfficer was V. Ex. Comp. R. Rankin and the Director ofCeremonies V. Ex. Comp. J. McKay – needless to say bothexpertly carried out their duties and the newly installedExcellent King, Ex. Comp. N. Stewart, impressively andmasterly invested his officers and conducted the closingbusiness. The Convocation was held in the new PortrushMasonic Hall, which is now one of the best in the country. Itis finished to the very highest standards and the Brethren ofPortrush are to be congratulated for their foresight andmeticulous planning.

INSTALLATION OFOFFICERS OF 1008FOR 2008

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8 THE BANNER

THE DISTRICT GRAND KING was certainly kept busy atthis year’s Installation of Officers at Doagh Union RACNo. 317 on 21st December 2007.

After being duly received and saluted, M. Ex. Comp. E. CyrilFerguson presided over the Chapter for the reading andaffirmation of the minutes. Next he proceeded to present Ex.Comp. Samuel Rodney with his 50-year Jewel and JubileeCertificate. After that the District Grand King joined with theExcellent King, Ex. Comp. Ivor Fletcher, in unveiling a portraitof the Director of Ceremonies, V. Ex. Comp. J. MichaelAlexander in his new District Chapter regalia. Then followedthe unveiling of a specially commissioned oak and polished brassRoll of Past Kings of Doagh Union Chapter 317 by the DistrictGrand King.

In his usual easy and precise manner, M. Ex. Comp. WilliamMcKelvey installed the Excellent King, Ex. Comp. Leslie Agnewand the Council for 2008.

Distinguished Supreme and District Grand Chapter Officers,visiting Companions and Chapter members alike enjoyed theentire ceremony and subsequent Festive Board at BallyclareGolf Club.

EVENTS AT DOAGH UNION RAC NO. 317

The Roll of Past Kings of RAC 317, unveiled by the District GrandKing, with the Officers of Doagh Union Chapter and Distinguishedguests.

Ex. Comp. Sammy Rodney being presented with his 50-year Jeweland Jubilee Certificate by the District Grand King, M. Ex. Comp. E.Cyril Ferguson and the Excellent King of Doagh Union RAC No. 317,Ex. Comp. Ivor Fletcher.

V. Ex. Comp. J. Michael Alexander being presented with his portraitby M. Ex. Comp. E. Cyril Ferguson and Ex. Comp. Ivor Fletcher.

The District Grand Registrar was delighted to be present atthe Installation of Officers for 2008 of Chapter No.476,Ballymena on 20th December 2007. The Installing Officer wasV. Ex. Comp. Richard Reid.

Ex. Comp. K. Hood, Past Excellent King, Ex. Comp. W. R. J.Armstrong, Excellent King, Comp. W. J. Russell, Chief Scribe andR. Ex. Comp. J. Lynch, District Grand Registrar.

Ex. Comp. W. R. J. Armstrong, Excellent King and Comp. W. J. Russell,Chief Scribe (Front Row, Third and Fourth from left respectively),together with Chapter Officers and Visitors at the Installation inBallymena Masonic Hall on 20th December 2007.

BALLYMENA RAC NO. 476

THE BANNER 9

There was a large turnout at the Stated Convocation ofRichview Royal Arch Chapter No. 711 on Tuesday, 6thMarch 2007 in Whiteabbey Masonic Centre, when theInstallation of Officers for 2007 took place.

In his usual easy and precise manner, M. Ex. Comp. JackLong installed Ex. Comp. Colin N. Bonnes as Excellent King,Comp. W. K. McFarland as High Priest and Comp. M.Henderson as Chief Scribe. Ex. Comp. Bonnes then, veryimpressively, installed his officers and conducted the closingbusiness.

Richview is a very unique Chapter, being originally made upof former pupils of the Masonic Boys’ School, and one cansense the special bond that exists within the membership andthe pride that they have in Chapter 711.

The Menu Cards, with photos of the outside and inside ofthe old school and what it looks like today and artisticallydesigned Table Mats were lovely mementos of a mostenjoyable convocation.

Right: The newly installed Excellent King and Councilof Chapter 775 – Michael Stewart, High Priest,Samuel Stewart, Excellent King and Lee Mathewson,Chief Scribe.

BALLYMENA RAC NO. 775

Above: Those in attendance, on 11th December 2007,at the Installation of Officers of Ballymena RAC No.775. The Installing Officer was Ex. Comp. RobertWilson (a chip of the old block?)

RICHVIEW ROYALARCH CHAPTERNO. 711

Companions of True Friendship Chapter No. 663 held their finalConvocation on 18th October 2007. The Chapter had anunbroken innings of 117 years.

Putting on happy faces are Ex. Comp. N. Leinster, Comp. N.Harewood, Ex. Comp. C. Hall, Ex. Comp. J. McVicker, Ex. Comp. J.Skelton, Ex. Comp. H. Alcorn, Ex. Comp. W. Ferguson and Ex.Comp. P. J. Alcorn.

A SAD FAREWELL TOTRUE FRIENDSHIP

10 THE BANNER

TWO SENIOR MEMBERS of ConnorRoyal Arch Chapter No. 189, V. Ex.

Comp. John C. McClure, in his 90thyear and still Director ofCeremonies, received his 60-yearBar and Certificate while Ex.Comp. George Peden receivedhis 50-year Jewel and GoldenJubilee Certificate.

The Installation Convocation,on 24th November 2007 was avery rare event – an Excellent

King was installed by his father. V.Ex. Comp. Crawford Mitchell,

District Grand Inspector installed hisson, Ex. Comp. Nigel Mitchell as

Excellent King of Connor Chapter 189.

CONNOR ROYAL ARCHCHAPTER NO. 189

V. Ex. Comp. John C. McClure, Director of Ceremonies, was theproud recipient of a Bar and Certificate to recognise his 60 yearsmembership of the Royal Arch Chapter.

The Excellent King of Connor RAC 189, V. Ex. Comp. RobertMcKillen presents Ex. Comp. George Peden with his 50-year Jeweland Certificate.

The newly installed Excellent King, Ex. Comp. Nigel Mitchell andCouncil pose with the District Representatives in attendance, R. Ex.Comp. Mac. Pollock, District Deputy Grand King, R. Ex. Comp. JimLynch, District Grand Registrar and (back row) M. Ex. Comp. DrewCoid, M. Ex. Comp. Fergus Jamison, V. Ex. Comp. Sam Letters, V.Ex. Comp. Crawford Mitchell and V. Ex. Comp. Albert Fullerton.

V. Ex. Comp. Crawford Mitchell with his son Ex. Comp. NigelCrawford who he installed as Excellent King of 189.

Ex. Comp. Sidney Wilson of Broomhedge Royal ArchChapter No. 335 was presented with a 50-year jewelat the Stated Convocation of the Chapter on 17thJanuary 2008. The District Assistant Grand King, R.Ex. Comp. Wendell McGrath, on behalf of themembers, made the presentation.

Over all of the 50 years, Ex. Comp. Sidney has remainedfaithful and enthusiastic, seldom absent from aconvocation. He has been Chaplain of the Chapter formany years and carries out his duties with dignity andsincerity. The officers and members appreciate hisperceptive advice on controversial issues and regulations.He is a popular companion who enjoys very much thefellowship in 335. All the companions look forward toenjoying his company at Chapter convocations for manyyears to come.

The Excellent King, Ex. Comp. A. Parkinson and Chapter Registrar, Ex. Comp.A. Murphy, admire Ex. Comp. Sidney Wilson’s 50-year jewel.

STILLDEDICATEDAFTER 50 YEARS

THE BANNER 11

WEDNESDAY, 28th March 2007 was an historic occasionfor Templepatrick Chapter 160. The Assistant Grand King,M. Ex. Comp. S. Gordon Leathem, B.E.M., was in attendanceto present R. Ex. Comp. Ingram Bill with his 50-year Jewel.The large turnout of members and friends reflected the highesteem in which R. Ex. Comp. Bill is held. R. Ex. Comp. R.Aughey, District Assistant Grand King and R. Ex. Comp. J.Lynch, District Grand Registrar represented the DistrictGrand Chapter.

After the Convocation all proceeded to the TempletonHotel where their ladies joined them for a memorableFestive Board.

M. Ex. Comp. S. Gordon Leathem presenting R. Ex. Comp. Ingram Billwith a 50-year jewel.

Front Row (left to right): R. Ex. Comp. Richard Aughey, District Assistant Grand King, the Assistant Grand King, M. Ex. Comp. S. GordonLeathem, B.E.M., the Excellent King and Council of Templepatrick Royal Arch Chapter No. 160, R. Ex. Comp. Ingram Bill and his brotherEx. Comp. Tom Bill.

TEMPLEPATRICK RAC NO. 160

PRESENTATIONTO MRSRODGERSMRS RODGERS (JOAN) worked asSecretary in the Provincial Masonic Hall,Rosemary Street, Belfast for many years.Chapter Registrars, and District Registrars inparticular appreciated her patience, hernatural “always ready to help” personalityand her seemingly unending knowledge ofChapter Laws and Regulations. Nothing everseemed too much for her and so a generalsadness filled the air when she announcedher intention to retire. Chapters in theDistrict Grand Chapter of Antrim wereasked if they would like to show theirappreciation for the work that Mrs. Rodgershad done by contributing to a presentationto her. At the District Grand ChapterDinner Dance on 26th January, inMassereene Golf Club, on behalf of theChapters in the District, M. Ex. Comp. CyrilFerguson, District Grand King, wasdelighted to hand over to Mrs. Rodgers acheque for £2000.00.

Above: Mrs. Rodgers poses with R. Ex.Comp. Richard Aughey, District AssistantGrand King, V. Ex. Comp. Ron Thompson,District Assistant Grand Registrar, M. Ex.Comp. E. Cyril Ferguson, District Grand Kingand R. Ex. Comp. Jim Lynch, District GrandRegistrar.Right: M. Ex. Comp. Ferguson presentingMrs Rodgers with the cheque.

(Photos by Pat McGuigan, Randalstown).

12 THE BANNER

THERE WAS a very large attendance (upper 60s) at theInstallation Convocation of Glenarm Royal Arch ChapterNo. 45 on Friday, 7th December 2007.

Under the leadership of M. Ex. Comp. Tommy Killen, Directorof Ceremonies, the ritual was outstanding – everyone playedtheir part to perfection.

Ex. Comp. Sam Brennan (a skilled master of this craft) installedthe Excellent King, Ex. Comp. R. McClure and Council, Comp. A.Tweed, High Priest and Comp. A. Haveron, Chief Scribe.

Excellent Comp. McClure impressively, and in keeping with thehigh standards set, installed and invested his Officers.

The District Assistant Grand King, R. Ex. Comp. G. W. McGrathwas called upon to present a Royal Arch Certificate to the newmember of Chapter 45, Comp. Robert Steele who, at 86 years ofage must be the oldest person ever to join a Royal Arch Chapter.Robert is a Bricklayer by trade and served in the Army during theSecond World War. Everyone in Royal Arch Masonry welcomeshim and hopes he will enjoy many years of good fellowship inChapter 45.

At the close of the Convocation, all enjoyed an excellentFestive Board in the Halfway House Hotel.

R. Ex. Comp. Wendell McGrath, DAGK presents Comp. Robert Steelewith his Royal Arch Certificate. The Immediate Past King, Ex. Comp.Robert McKay congratulates him and welcomes him into Chapter 45.

The newly installed Excellent King, Council and Officers of GlenarmRAC 45, with the District Assistant Grand King.

At the Stated Convocation, held on the 3rd December 2007 inthe Masonic Centre, Mill Brae, Larne, St. Patrick’s Union RoyalArch Chapter No. 175, Raloo, welcomed the District DeputyGrand King, R. Ex. Comp. J. McA. Pollock. Also present was V.Ex. Comp. H. C. Mitchell, District Grand Inspector.

The outgoing Excellent King, Ex. Comp. W. K. Houston,installed his successor, Ex. Comp. L. Wilson and the Council. Thiswas Ex. Comp. Houston’s first attempt at this degree but by hisperformance on the night he could have a job for life.

An enjoyable Festive Board was held afterwards where£133.00 was raised for the Benevolent Institutions.

On 28th December 2007, Chapter 28 was honoured by thepresence of the Most Excellent District Grand King at theirInstallation of Officers for 2008 in Antrim Masonic Hall.

Ex. Comp. Roy Lamont installed the Excellent King andCouncil in his usual exemplary manner under the watchful eyeof the Leader of the Seven Towers and Massereene Class ofInstruction, V. Ex. Comp. Albert Fullerton.

The newly installed Excellent King, Ex. Comp. ThomasMurray had obviously prepared well and, without referenceto book or notes, flawlessly installed his Officers.

Ex. Comp. Roy Lamont, the Installing Officer along with Ex.Comp. Thomas Murray, the newly installed Excellent King, whois being congratulated by his proud father, Comp. Sidney Murrayimmediately after the installation.

The Excellent King, Ex. Comp. Thomas Murray and Officers ofRAC 28 in the company of the District Grand King, M. Ex.Comp. E. Cyril Ferguson and other Distinguished Companions atChapter 28’s Installation of Officers for 2008.

ROYAL ARCHCHAPTER NO. 28

ROYAL ARCH CHAPTERNO. 175

GLENARM ROYALARCH CHAPTERNO. 45

THE BANNER 13

On Friday 16th November 2007 Chichester RAC No 313held its Installation and Dinner at the Masonic Centre,Carrickfergus. The Chapter was honoured with theattendance of the District Grand King, Most ExcellentComp. E. Cyril Ferguson and the event was very wellattended.

Ex. Comp. Harry Grainger, Director of Ceremonies, paid atribute to the late V. Ex. Comp. Jim Adamson, Past District GrandSteward, who was a regular visitor at the Installation Convocationand other Convocations throughout the year. A silent tribute andfinal salute were accorded by the Chapter where he was held inso high regard.

Companion Michael Blair was presented with his Royal Archand Mark Master Mason Certificates by the District Grand Kingand the Excellent King, Ex. Comp. John Houston.

V. Ex. Comp. Billy Brown conducted the installation of theExcellent King, Ex. Comp. John Houston and the Council, Comp.Neil McArthur, High Priest and Comp. Andrew Brown, ChiefScribe. Ex. Comp. John Houston installed and invested hisofficers and closed the Chapter in a very commendable mannerafter which the Companions and their guests enjoyed an excellentInstallation Dinner.

The Most Excellent District Grand King, responding to thetoast to District Grand Chapter, spoke of the work of V. Ex.Comp. Jim Adamson, who he had installed as District GrandStewart in January and who had recently died. Jim did so much

INSTALLATION AT CHICHESTERRAC NO 313

The Excellent King, Ex. Comp. John Houston, Comp. Neil McArthur,High Priest and Comp. Andrew Brown, Chief Scribe.

Companion Michael Blair receiving his certificate from the ExcellentKing while the Most Excellent District Grand King looks on.

The officers of the Chapter with the District Grand King, M. Ex. Comp.E. C. Ferguson and Officers of the District Grand Chapter of Antrim.

for all branches of Masonry in the area and he would be greatlymissed at District Grand Chapter. He also said how delighted hewas to see Ex. Comp. Ken Humphries present at theConvocation and Dinner and how well he had acted as Janitorearlier in the evening. He wished Ken a continuing good recoveryto full health.

Members of Seven Towers and Massereene Royal ArchClass of Instruction had a meeting in Antrim MasonicHall on Friday, 16th November 2007.

In the photograph are V. Ex. Comp. Albert Fullerton, ClassLeader, V. Ex. Comp. Russell Mailey, Chairman and Ex. Comp.Roy Lamont, Registrar.

These three Companions, along with V. Ex. Comp. SamLetters, give of their precious time every third Friday in themonths of September to May (except December and January)to tutor Companions in Royal Arch ritual. Two classes are heldeach year in Antrim and the others are in Ballymena MasonicHall. The “students” invariably graduate with distinction.

The nights are very casual, enjoyable, interesting andworthwhile. Those Companions in office or going into officeare invited to go along.

Four “Kings Elect” are in the photo – Jack Cunningham,Richard Arbuckle, Thomas Murray and Samuel Stewart – thinkof how well these Companions did at their Chapter Installations– they all acknowledge the help they received at the class.

INSTRUCTORS & TRAINEES– ENTHUSIASTS ALL

14 THE BANNER

On Friday, 30th March 2007two buses with Companions,Ladies and luggage leftWhiteabbey Masonic Centrefor the biennial, eagerlyanticipated trip to Oban.More passengers boarded atLarne and soon all wereenjoying a hearty breakfaston board the Ferry to Troon.After a stop at Loch LomondShores the cheery grouparrived at The Royal Hotel inOban shortly after 3.00p.m.The sun was shining (as it dideach day), Companions fromArgyll and the Isles werethere to give us a warmwelcome, rooms were quicklysorted and the luggage wasunpacked (ladies have theiruses).

At 6.00 p.m. all enjoyed alovely dinner and the men set offto the nearby Masonic Hallwhere the rest of the eveningwas spent –a Craft meeting withdegree followed by the FestiveBoard and dancing. The ladiesarrived in time for the festivities.

On Saturday afternoon theladies went by bus to FortWilliam and had lunch in The BenNevis Hotel. The Companionsattended a meeting of theProvincial Grand Royal ArchChapter of Argyll and The Isles.In the evening, in the hotel, amarvellous and memorable

dinner dance with cabaret was enjoyed by all, including manyCompanions from Argyll and The Isles with their ladies. M. Ex.Comp. Sandy Cameron, Provincial Grand King of Argyll and theIsles, welcomed all and R. Ex. Comp. Mac. Pollock, DistrictDeputy Grand King of Antrim replied and the now traditionalexchange of bottles took place.

On Sunday some went on a bus trip through the valley ofGlencoe while others went to visit the island of Iona.

The return trip started on Monday at 10.00 a.m. after “Hasteye back” and “Till we meet again” farewells. Another stop atLoch Lomond Shores and Cairnryan was reached in time for the4.30 p.m. Ferry home.

Drew trying to coax a bird into his bedroom.

OBAN TRIP 2007

The Royal Hotel in Oban.

District Grand Chapter of Antrim visiting Argyle and the Isles atOban. L-R: R.E. Comp. W. J. Lynch, D.G. Registrar; R.E. Comp. T. J.McCurley, D.G. Treasurer; R.E. Comp. Jon. McA. Pollock, Dist. Dep.Grand King; M.E. Comp. C. F. A. Quigley, Past Dist. Grand King; R.E. Comp. G. Wendell McGrath, Dist. Asst. Grand King; R.E. Comp.Richard Aughey, Dist. Asst. Grand King; V.E. Comp. Ronald S.Barnes, Dist. Grand Director of Ceremonies.

A view of Oban with McCaig’sFolly in the background (this is alook-alike of Rome’s Colosseumand was built in 1897). Where’sDrew? (See bottom picture).

The two leaders exchangebottles.

Our Photographer was on hand to snap a spanking new shiparriving in Oban.

It is the NLV PHAROS and it was built in Poland. It is 85meters long and 16.5 meters wide, has a lot of sophisticatedequipment for hydrographic surveying and wreck finding, ahelicopter deck and 30 tonne crane as well as 30 cabins.Manned by 7 officers and 11 crew, it belongs to The NorthernLighthouse Board, whose base is in Oban, and is funded entirelyfrom the General Lighthouse Fund, which gets its money froma levy paid by shipping. The ship will service 215 lighthouses,157 buoys, 40 beacons and 26 racons in the Scottish and Manxwaters. It will also take on other contract work.

(Our photographer is obviously a very inquisitive being.)

The ‘Pharos’ arrives in Obanon 30th March 2007.

A first view of Iona.

Freemasons’ HallA R T H U R S Q U A R E

February 2007 saw the 100thbirthday of one of Irish masonry’smost venerable sons: Most Excellent Companion Cyril F.A. Quigley. In recognition ofhis lifelong contribution to Freemasonry in general andRoyal Arch Masonry in particular,and in celebration of the impendingre-opening of Freemasons’ Hall,Arthur Square after refurbishment,a very special event was convenedon10th March 2007. In the PrestonRoom of The Provincial MasonicHall, after being installed as Excellent King of his Chapter,the Quigley Keystone was revealed, identifying that theChapter Room in Arthur Squarewould henceforth be named“The Quigley Room”.

V E Companion Ronnie Wilson, P.D.G.S.,Temple RAC No. 51, one of the threeTrustees of Freemasons’ Hall,ArthurSquare, delivered the following:

E.K., Most Excellent CompanionQuigley, I am pleased to have beeninvited to participate in this uniqueoccasion this afternoon and particularly so upon its relevance toRoyal Arch Masonry.You are only too well aware of themagnitude surrounding this gathering today and that of recentweeks. Even Her Majesty the QueenElizabeth II knows about you!Now, within the gambit of Irish Masonry… A kind of… “never could happen”event will occur and become apparent before all at this convocation. When Royal ArchChapter Companions get involved to promote success it quite rightly becomes more than a Grand or aSupreme occasion. With your assistance, by participating, we willMark Well an occasion for thebenefit of many.However, the occasion of which we

shall soon refer is not actually here.Nevertheless, the benefit will indeedbe to your personal satisfaction andfor the many who shall go there.Not being there and nor being ableto physically see the benefit at present, cannot deter or deflect thereality of what has been accomplished.But only an Arthur Square Freemason,such as you, can resolve this conundrum.Most Excellent Companion Quigley,E.K. of Sir Charles Cameron,RAC 353, may I request the pleasureof your company beside me here.

The two companions approached the covered Keystone.

Please uncover ‘this work’ and examine if it is fair work, and notsquare work, but indeed work thatyou have not seen before.

The cover was removed.This Key Stone and the inscriptionupon it explains it all.

V E Comp Wilson then read the inscription aloud…

Marking A Masonic Lifetime “

”

Above left: A lifetime of masonic achievement,detailed on a plaque outside the Quigley Room.Left: Left to right - M. Ex. Comp. E. Cyril Ferguson, District GrandKing of the District Grand R.A.C. of Antrim, M. Ex. Comp. Charles R.Knipe, Most Excellent and Supreme Grand King of the SupremeGrand R.A.C. of Ireland, M. Ex. Comp Cyril F.A. Quigley F.C.A. PastDistrict Grand King of the District Grand R.A.C. of Antrim, M. ExComp. Bill Norquay, 3rd Grand Principal of the Supreme GrandR.A.C. of Scotland and Past Grand Superintendent of the ProvincialGrand R.A.C. of Argyll and the Isles, M. Ex. Comp. S. Gordon LeathemB.E.M. Assistant Grand King of the Supreme Grand R.A.C. of Ireland.

Freemasons’ HallA R T H U R S Q U A R E

The Quigley Room

Meets 3rd WednesdayJanuary, March, May & October at 7.30pm

Carol Service of Nine Lessons1st Saturday December

A fitting tribute to Most Excellent Companion Cyril F.A.Quigley, the Quigley Room is a comfortable, fully equippedmodern space, with traditional décor and a range of adjacentfacilities. It hosts Royal Arch Chapters, Preceptories,Councils of Knight Masons and Chapters of Prince Masons.

Main picture below: The Quigley Room.Top right: Quigley Room Table of Bookings for2008.Centre right:Memories of the past are evokedthroughout Freemasons’ Hall, in details such asthis impressive“True Blue 272” period throne.Lower right: A range of regalia, changing andstorage facilities are available for all users.

A RT H U R S Q UA R E M A S O N I C

CharityC O M M I T T E E

ADVISE

PROMOTE

ENCOURAGE

Meets each ThursdaySeptember to March 7.00 - 9.00pm

Dinner Dance 3rd SaturdayNovember

CIass of

P E R F E C T I O N E X E M P L I F I E DInstruction

Founded 1916A R T H U R S Q U A R E

Its objectives are to promote social and recreational activities amongst the members andtheir guests, and to support Masonic charities.A choice of four function rooms accommodatingup to 120 guests, a boardroom and modernkitchen (with catering provided by “Flo” ofFernhill Catering), suits a wide variety of requirements.

Recently completely refurbished, Freemasons'Hall is an undiscovered jewel of the architecturaland social heritage of Belfast. It is of great local interest, with many of the city’s forefathers immortalisedin its records, and it has borne witness to manysignificant events spanning three centuries.Centrally located in the historical heart of Belfast andnow the gateway to the spectacular Victoria Squareshopping development, Freemasons’ Hall was originallydesigned and built by Sir Charles Lanyon, renowned architect of Queen’s University and many other landmark buildings.Since 1878, Freemasons’ Hall has also hosted the Donegall Club, one of the oldest clubs in Ireland.

Freemasons’ HallA R T H U R S Q U A R E

Restoredfor the benefit of all

Below and right: Existing Craft Rooms restored to their original splendor.

Leighton Room

Nesbitt Room

Throughout Freemasons’Hall, the traditional

contrasts the new.Tactile signage and Braillefor the visually challenged.An induction loop system

assists the hearing impaired.

Below:Even smaller function rooms have restored originalfeatures - worthy settings for today’s Masonic gatherings.

www.arthursquare.org

THE BANNER 19

EX. COMP. BRIAN MCGOOKINwas born and brought up inCarrickfergus. After completing hiseducation at Carrickfergus TechnicalCollege he joined the service of theNorthern Bank in the early 1960’s.After various postings on both sidesof the Irish Border, he first enteredCraft Masonry via the “NorthWestern Gate” – that is to say, atBishop Street, Londonderry in 1974.Brian continued to spend most of hisworking life in the Maiden City at a

particularly difficult time due to civil unrest – indeed, at thattime bomb incidents, hold-ups and kidnap threats were all partof the routine, especially for Bank Officials.

Brian’s efforts in masonry were recognised when he wasawarded honours by the Provincial Grand Lodge ofLondonderry and Donegal.

He was appointed Branch Manager of the Northern Bank inRandalstown in 1992 and affiliated to Shanes Castle MasonicLodge No. 539. In 1998 he joined Randalstown Royal ArchChapter No. 598 and was Excellent King in 2006.

After retiring from the bank in 1996 Brian found he was ableto devote more time to his main interests – cycling withBallymena Road Club, golf at Moyola Park and RandalstownArches Association. This organisation was initially set up to actas a catalyst to help address the educational, social, businessand tourism needs of Randalstown and District. As a Body,Arches has also been mainly responsible for enhancing thegeneral appearance and public perception of the town for anumber of years. Brian continues to play a leading role inArches, on a purely voluntary basis.

During the years I have known Brian I have always thoughtthat the Boys’ Brigade motto, “Sure & Steadfast,” summed uphow he is recognised by his fellow masons in Randalstown.Throughout his life he has been a giver, always willing to helpothers, always willing to help the cause of Masonry, alwaysthere to give wise council and support. Recently Brian hasbeen appointed as a Trustee of Randalstown Masonic Hall.

Ex. Comp. J. B.McGookin (Brian),RAC NO. 598By Ex. Comp. Len. McKnight, EK 2007

Unitas Royal Arch Chapter No. 485 has a pool Competition aftertheir “Closing” Convocation in June which is much enjoyed by all,the young and the not so young alike.

A near miss by a well known member.

V. Ex. Comp. Clifford Bell presented the Trophy to the winners.

UNITAS ANNUALPOOL NIGHT

GRAND LODGE OF ANCIENT, FREEAND ACCEPTED MASONS OF IRELAND

ARE YOU LOOKINGTO PROMOTE YOUR

BUSINESS?

Why not consider advertising in theGrand Lodge of Ireland Masonic Diary.

SUPREME GRANDKING INSTALLED

Present at the Installation of the Most Excellent and SupremeGrand King on Wednesday 6th February 2008 were (l-r): M.E.Comp. G. Wendell McGrath, Past Grand High Priest; V.E. Comp. W.James Lynch, Grand Captain of the Purple Veil; V.E. Comp. ThomasJ. McCurley, Grand Captain of the Scarlet Veil; V.E. Comp. WilliamR. Armstrong, Grand Steward; and M.E. Comp. Jon McA. Pollock,Past Grand High Priest.TEL: 028 9055 1811

20 THE BANNER

At the Stated Convocation of the William MeHaffey RAC No. 246,held on 4th December 2007, the Excellent King, Ex. Comp.Samuel D. MeHaffey presented Ex. Comp. Stanley Simpson witha 50-year Jewel.

V. Ex. Comp. Andrew Wylie, Chapter Registrar, paid a very warmtribute to Ex. Comp. Simpson, which was endorsed by the Excellent King.

The William MeHaffey Chapter meets six times each year and throughall those fifty years Ex. Comp. Simpson would not have been absent morethan ten times- a marvellous record for a worthy Companion. Ex. Comp.Simpson was not a Companion to be on his feet all the time, but, whenhe did decide to speak, he spoke words of wisdom. When difficultdebates took place his advice was very much taken on board and this wasa great help in the smooth running of the Chapter. Ex. Comp. Simpson,although he has received a 50-year Jewel is still very active, young at heartand very much involved in the running of the Chapter.

The Excellent King, Council, Officers and Companions of Chapter 246wish Ex. Comp. Simpson well and hope he will be long spared to bepresent at their Convocations and be part of the Friendship that prevailsin Chapter 246 Broughshane.

The Excellent King of William MeHaffey Chapter No.246, Broughshane, presents a 50-year Jewel to anoutstanding member, Ex. Comp. Stanley Simpson.

ST. ANDREW’S Royal Arch Chapter No. 1012, Carrickfergus,hosted the June Convocation of the District Chapter. When theinvitation came in to District it was gratefully accepted althoughthere some worries as to the suitability of the Carrickfergus Hall.The concerns were quickly dispelled on the day as it turned outto be a first class venue made especially so by the preparationsmade by the Companions in Carrickfergus and their warm andgenerous welcome and hospitality. Everyone agreed it was atremendous success. Congratulations and thanks to theCompanions of 1012 and to the ladies who helped to make it amemorable occasion.

DISTRICT CONVOCATION4TH JUNE 2007

M. Ex. Comp. E. Cyril Ferguson posing with the Excellent King of1012, Ex. Comp. F Close, Comp. D. Gillespie, High Priest and theRegistrar, Ex. Comp. W. T. Wallace.

Left: M. Ex. Comp. Cyril F. Quigley, Past District Grand King and V. Ex. Comp. Denzil Caldwell, District Grand Chaplain enjoying themselvesin Carrickfergus. Centre: V. Ex. Comp. Robert Wilson and M. Ex. Comp. Tommy Killen agreed that 1012 put on a good show. Right: ACarrick Companion lends a helping hand.

Left: In no hurry, M. Ex. Comp.Jack Godfrey, R. Ex. Comp.Alex. Ireland and M. Ex.Comp. Drew Coid relaxingafter the June Convocation inCarrickfergus.

EXEMPLARY RECORD FOR AN OUTSTANDINGFREEMASON

THE BANNER 21

Now I am not complaining, those are just cold facts and in noway reflect the joy and satisfaction I get from my role as DistrictGrand Registrar. The support I get from the Companions andBrethren and the warmth of the welcome I receive when visitingfar outweighs the time given.

Great events throughout 2007 included that wonderful day inFebruary when our Past District Grand King, M. Ex. Comp. CyrilQuigley celebrated his 100th birthday. This was furthercelebrated by the District Grand Chapter, when our presentDistrict Grand King, M. Ex. Comp Cyril Ferguson hosted a Dinnerparty in his honour on Thursday 15th February in RosemaryStreet Hall.

On the 30th March two coach load of Companions and theirpartners set out from Larne for our trip to Oban to visit our friendsin the Provincial Grand Royal Arch Chapter of Argyll and the Isles.This event is fully reported on elsewhere in this publication.

The Supreme Grand Royal Arch Chapter of Ireland honouredus with a visit to the District on the 2nd May. Our District GrandKing was the host at a Pre-Convocation Lunch in RosemaryStreet. This was very well attended, as was the Convocation.The Supreme Grand King, Most Excellent Comp. Charles R.Knipe congratulated the District Grand Royal Arch Chapter ofAntrim on the excellent arrangements, saying how mucheveryone had enjoyed their day.

By now the news of the possible sale of our beautiful MasonicHall in Rosemary Street was rife. Also at this time all the unitsthat had decanted to Rosemary Street during the refurbishmentof Arthur Square Masonic Hall were preparing to return. Youcould sense the ‘downer’ all this brought about. The 12 Chaptersin Rosemary Street would have to find a new home, with all theupheaval that would entail. For a sizable part of the year, throughno fault of the Chapters, they were to find themselves in a stateof limbo. Through all this the District kept going, theCompanions kept smiling and the Committees of Inspection keptmeeting and approving new Candidates.

As the year came to an end I was to STAND STILL and takestock. Joan Rodgers had retired from Rosemary Street Officeafter 33 years. Chapters were closing, some were talking aboutamalgamating and others had already done so. All this amountedto an enormous amount of extra administration work, for boththe Registrars and myself -: By-Law changes, handing in and therelocation of Warrants, plus Companions, this also entails theissue of numerous Clearance Certificates. I can’t help feeling thatall this has been a trying and stressful time for our Companionsand not in the best interests of our membership in Antrim.Supreme Grand Chapter has been very supportive; our DistrictGrand King obtained dispensation in order to assist Chapters withrelocation. Together as a District Team we have been closelymonitoring the situation and I am glad to say that almost all theremaining Chapters have now been successfully relocated. A lotof Companions and Chapters have offered assistance with therelocation and I thank them for this. I do however wish topersonally thank two Companions who have been to theforefront of the help and they are, Jack Long at Whiteabbey and

Ronnie Wilson in Arthur Square. Without their assistance thesituation would be a lot different.

I now LOOK FORWARD to 2008 and all that is ahead. My twogreat wishes are for stability and growth within our Chapters. Allthe Chapters meeting in Rosemary Street have been ‘sorted’ oneway or the other. I am glad to say that in all the movement onlya very small number of Companions have decided to ‘call time.’Most of those whose Chapters closed have moved to otherChapters within the District, although we did allow some to go toDown District. (We will receive a transfer fee in these cases!!) Sowe may be down in Chapter strength, but the membership lossto Royal Arch Masonry will be small. I now think of the DistrictOfficers who have also an anxious time ahead as new challengeshave to be faced and the well-being and protection of the Districtstructure considered.

Remember our greatest glory is not in never failing, but in risingup every time we fail.

As I continue to look forward to a more settled period I appealto every Royal Arch Mason to think very seriously about the RoyalArch and to actively seek out new members, thereby ensuringthe continued future of our great District and also playing our partin protecting the future of the Higher Branches.

I thank you all for your cooperation and support over this pastdifficult period. My thanks also to the Senior District Officers andmy colleague Ron Thompson for all his invaluable assistance. I alsothank the staff of Rosemary Street for their help.

I now look forward to June when the Companions from Argylland the Isles make their return visit to us. They arrive on Fridayafternoon the 6th June and on that evening we are all going toCarrickfergus where the Brethren and Companions havearranged a full programme of Communication and craic. OnSaturday 7th we hold our Stated Convocation in the ProvincialMasonic Hall in Rosemary Street, followed later that evening bythe District Dinner Dance in the Massereene Golf Club Antrim.Make a note in your diary now and plan to attend both theseevents. In so doing you will be involving yourself in makinghistory, not necessary the history we would like to see buthowever it will be history. This will be the last District GrandChapter Convocation to be held in Rosemary Street Hall. I amalso told that this will possibly be the last Masonic meeting everheld in the premises.

In closing, I have a very optimistic view of our future - I feel thatwe have emerged from the darkness, the light at the end of thetunnel is getting brighter by the day and we are together andmarching forward. Now there will be difficulties to overcome,someone once said, “In a day that you don’t come across anyproblems – you can be sure that you are travelling in the wrongdirection.”

ARE YOU AND YOUR CHAPTER TRAVELLING IN THERIGHT DIRECTION?

Fraternally,Jim Lynch,

District Grand Registrar.

THE DISTRICT GRAND REGISTRAR WRITES…

LOOK BACK, STAND STILL, LOOK FORWARD

My ever tolerant and supportive wife Elizabeth is often heard to say that she is a Masonic widowwhose husband is still alive. Whilst this may be her little joke, when I LOOK BACK on the past yearI must say she probably has a point. I took a little trip through my 2007 diary to discover that I hadattended 143 Masonic events. Although this covered all branches of the order that I am associatedwith, the Royal Arch Chapter, or as we say ‘The Red’ would have accounted for a large percentageof this. This does not take into account the working trips to Rosemary Street or the many hoursspent on District duties at home.

22 THE BANNER

The Excellent King and Council with the Officers and Companionsof Chapter No. 89 and their guests at the Installation of Officerson Saturday, 15th December 2007.

BALLYCASTLE RAC NO. 89THE DISTRICT GRAND KING and the District Grand Registrarwere delighted to be present at the Installation of Officers for 2008of Chapter No.89, Ballycastle on 15th December 2007. TheInstalling Officer was V. Ex. Comp. John McKay.

The Excellent King and Council of RAC No. 89 pose with theDistrict Grand King and District Grand Registrar. M. Ex. Comp. E.Cyril Ferguson, S. Simpson, High Priest, Robert Matthews, ExcellentKing, Robert Truman, Chief Scribe and R. Ex. Comp. Jim Lynch.

At the Stated Convocation of Crumlin RAC No. 140, on18th June 2007, the Companions showed their appreciationof V. Ex. Comp. William Samuel Cummings’ service to theChapter by presenting him with a Masonic Welfare FundJewel. On behalf of the members, R. Ex. Comp. WendellMcGrath, District Assistant Grand King, made thepresentation. The large turnout of members and friendsdemonstrated the high regard in which Bill is held.

Bill joined Crumlin RAC 140 in 1963 so has been a Royal Archmason for 44 years and for 43 of those years he has been an officebearer. Now, after 33 years as Chapter Registrar, due to ill health,Bill has had to retire from the office he has graced for so long.Until he took ill, earlier this year, he had only missed oneconvocation in Crumlin 140 and that was because he had to go toLondon on business and the plane he was returning on wasdelayed – 44 years and only absent once must be a record thatwill stand for a long time. He became Registrar in 1973 andduring his reign 96 new members joined the Chapter – roughly 3per year. Bill didn’t just serve – he put his heart and soul into thework. His minutes over those 33 years are a carefully written,grammatically correct, detailed record of the Chapter’s historysince 1973. No letter was unread in open chapter and no letterwas unanswered. He wrote sympathy letters to the bereaved andkept himself and the Chapter informed on the progress ofcompanions who were ill.

He was always trying to save the Chapter money. He printedthe circulars himself without charge to the Chapter. He got abargain of pink paper at a car-boot sale, which he used to printthe circulars on and delivered as many as possible by hand to savethe Chapter postage! To a senior member who was alwaysencouraging the members to support the Benevolent Institutions,a Masonic Welfare Fund Jewel was a very fitting present to markBill’s retirement.

Not only the members of 140, but the District Grand Chapteras well, thank Bill for his long and outstanding service and wishhim a long and happy retirement.

Retirement for Bill? He is now writing a history of Lodge 140,which was constituted in 1810. He has the first 100 yearscompleted and is now working on the last 100!

R. Ex. Comp. Wendell McGrath, on behalf of the members ofCrumlin RAC 140, presents V. Ex. Comp. Bill Cummings with aMasonic Welfare Fund Jewel.

(Photo by Pat McGuigan, Randalstown)

V. Ex. Comp. Bill Cummings with members and friends at the StatedConvocation of Crumlin RAC 140 on 18th June 2007.

(Photo by Pat McGuigan, Randalstown)

LOYAL SERVICERECOGNISED

THE BANNER 23

THIEPVAL Royal Arch Chapter No. 1020, which sits inBroughshane, held their Installation of Officers for 2008in Clough Masonic Hall on 18th December 2007.

Ex. Comp. Jim McGuigan expertly installed the ExcellentKing, Ex. Comp. Jack Cunningham and Council, Comp. D. I.Loudan as High Priest and Comp. T. J. Nelson as Chief Scribe.Ex. Comp. Cunningham did a fine job in investing his officersand conducting the closing business. Two “Chains” representedthe District Grand Chapter, R. Ex. Comp. Richard Aughey andR. Ex. Comp. Wendell McGrath. A very enjoyable FestiveBoard followed in the hall and the usual toasts were honoured.

The District Assistant Grand Kings, R. Ex. Comp. RichardAughey and R. Ex. Comp. Wendell McGrath with the Ex. Kingand Council of Thiepval Chapter 1020, Comp. D. I. Loudan,High Priest, Ex. Comp. Jack Cunningham, Excellent King andComp. T. J. Nelson, Chief Scribe.

THIEPVAL ROYALARCH CHAPTERNO. 1020

CULLYBACKEY Royal Arch Chapter No. 537 was honoured by thepresence of the Most Excellent District Grand King and the RightExcellent District Grand Registrar at their Installation Ceremony onFriday, 7th December 2007 in Cullybackey Masonic Hall.

Ex. Comp. Robert McCosh expertly installed the Excellent King,Ex. Comp. Neil Burnside and Council, Comp. James McWilliams asHigh Priest and Comp. Stephen Burrows as Chief Scribe. Thenewly installed Excellent King installed his Officers in a mostimpressive manner.

The Festive Board following the Convocation was enjoyed by all.

Posing in front of historical memorabilia in Cullybackey Hall areMost Excellent Companion E. C. Ferguson, District Grand King,Comp. J. McWilliams, High Priest, Ex. Comp. N. Burnside, ExcellentKing, Comp. S. Burrows, Chief Scribe and R. Ex. Comp. J. Lynch,District Grand Registrar.

CULLYBACKEY ROYALARCH CHAPTERNO. 537

M. Ex. Comp. E. Cyril Ferguson,District Grand King, who is anhonorary member, attended theInstallation Convocation of RACNo. 56 on 6th December 2007 inAntrim Masonic Hall. OldstoneChapter is a flourishing Chapterwith 63 members, constituted in1920.

The outgoing Excellent King, Ex.Comp. Steven Pettigrew, in keepingwith the high standard of ritual that heexhibited in 2006 when investing his

officers, installed his successor, Ex. Comp. Richard Arbuckle, andthe Council, Comp. Norman Thompson as High Priest andComp. Adrian Sefton as Chief Scribe, in a manner whichimpressed all present. He had, a few days earlier, installed V. Wor.Bro. Arbuckle as Very Worshipful Master in the Lodge of MarkMaster Masons. No doubt, Ex. Comp. Pettigrew will have thepleasure of acting as Installing Officer at many installations in theyears ahead.

It was easy to see that Ex. Comp. Arbuckle was a graduate of theSeven Towers and Massereene Royal Arch Class of Instruction

Academy, in the admirable way heinvested his officers and conductedthe closing business. As usual, allenjoyed the Festive Board, in theMasonic Hall afterwards.

M. Ex. Comp. E. Cyril Ferguson, District Grand King, congratulatesthe Immediate Past King of RAC 56, after he was presented with hisPast King’s Jewel by Ex. Comp. Arbuckle.

The Excellent King of RAC 56, Ex.Comp. Richard Arbuckle poseswith the two senior members ofthe Chapter who, between themhave been members for over 120years, V. Ex. Comp. Walter Carsonand Ex. Comp. David McCausland.

OLDSTONE ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER NO. 56

The two Ernies relax atthe Festive Board after theInstallation in RAC 56 –Ex. Comps. Ernie Flemingand Ernie Carlisle.

The newly Installed Excellent King, Ex. Comp. Richard Arbuckle iscongratulated by the Installing Officer, Ex. Comp. Steven Pettigrewat the close of the convocation.

24 THE BANNER

In 2006, the members of Sir Charles Cameron Royal ArchChapter No. 353 realised a member of their Chapter, M.Ex. Comp. Cyril F. A. Quigley would be celebrating his100th birthday on 5th February 2007 and thought it wouldbe very appropriate to honour Cyril by asking him if hewould become Excellent King for that year. Cyril readilyagreed to serve as King for the third time, having done so,first in 1953 and then in 1997. So R. Ex. Comp. DavidWallace, Chapter Registrar, began making the necessaryarrangements for a rather unique and special Installationof the Excellent King, Council and Officers of Chapter 353for 2007. R. Ex. Comp. Wallace was greatly assisted by allthe members of the Chapter who were very enthusiastic tomake it a particularly special day for their popular andgreatly esteemed member. He thanks them all for theirassistance, particularly the late Ex. Comp. Bob Pattersonwhose advice and recommendations were most helpful.

The Installation Convocation was held in the W. W. PrestonRoom in the Provincial Masonic Hall, Rosemary Street, Belfast on10th March 2007. Distinguished guests welcomed and salutedincluded the Most Excellent and Supreme Grand King, M. Ex.Comp. Charles R. Knipe, M. Ex. Comp. S. Gordon Leathem,B.E.M., Assistant Grand King, M. Ex. Comp. E. Cyril Ferguson,Most Excellent District Grand King of Antrim, R. Ex. Comp.Wendell McGrath, District Assistant Grand King, R. Ex. Comp.Jim Lynch, District Grand Registrar, M. Ex. Comp. WilliamMcKelvey, M. Ex. Comp. Brian Mooney, M. Ex. Comp. Jack Long,M. Ex. Comp. William Nicholl, M. Ex. Comp. Thomas Redpathand M. Ex. Comp. Quigley’s special guest from Argyll and theIsles, the Third Grand Principal of the Supreme Grand Royal ArchChapter of Scotland, M. Ex. Comp. Bill Norquay.

M. Ex. Comp. William McKelvey, in an exemplary manner,installed M. E. Comp. Quigley in the chair as Excellent King,Comp. Ron. Wray as High Priest and Ex. Comp. Maurice Wray asChief Scribe. M. Ex. Comp. Quigley then proceeded to invest hisofficers in his usual articulate and precise manner. He thanked allthe companions involved in the Installation Ceremony, the dignityand decorum of which was greatly enhanced by the organ musicprovided by Ex. Comp. Neil Ritchie.

The following is an excerpt taken from the minutes of SirCharles Cameron RAC No. 353, dated 10th March 2007:

“The Registrar called upon the Director of Ceremonies, Ex.Comp. Colin Barnes, to escort V. Ex. Comp. Ronnie Wilson to thedais to make a presentation and address to M. Ex. Comp. CyrilQuigley. V. Ex. Comp. Wilson presented a photograph and awritten copy of his address to M. Ex. Comp. Quigley so that hecould read what was being announced to all the assembledCompanions. The address stated that the Trustees of ArthurSquare Masonic Hall, namely, Vance Rodgers, Alan R. G. R.Patterson, and Ronald Wilson had decided to name the newChapter Room The Quigley Room in honour of Most Ex.Companion Cyril Quigley for the truly dedicated service that hehas given and continues to give in this his centennial year to all theMasonic Orders and especially the Royal Arch Chapter. He wasthen escorted from the dais by V. Ex. Comp. Ronnie Wilson tounveil a beautiful inscribed Granite Keystone. (This is picturedelsewhere in this magazine – Ed.)

Most Ex. Companion Cyril Quigley said he was flabbergastedand he told everyone assembled that indeed it was a greatpersonal honour. He thanked the Trustees for this unbelievablegesture, which, at that time, he found difficult to take in.However, he soon recovered his composure and his mischievoussense of humour chipped in when he revealed that it still was agreat honour for someone named Quigley, as this was an old Irishname for an unkempt hairy person.”

After the Recession all the Companions returned to the W. W.Preston Room where photographs were taken to record thisunique and special occasion by the official photographer for theday, M. Ex. Comp. Drew Coid.

The Companions retired to the Festive Board Room wherethey were suitably wined and dined with an excellent four-coursedinner provided by Florence Galway of Fernhill Catering and hermost attentive staff.

M. Ex. Comp. Charles R. Knipe, Supreme Grand King, repliedto the Toast to the Most Excellent and Supreme Grand King andOfficers of the Supreme Grand Royal Arch Chapter of Ireland.

M. Ex. Comp. E. Cyril Ferguson, District Grand King of Antrim,replied to the Toast to the Most Excellent District Grand King andOfficers of the District Grand Royal Arch Chapter of Antrim.

M. Ex. Comp. William Thomas McKelvey proposed the Toast tothe Excellent King of Sir Charles Cameron Royal Arch Chapter.

Ex. Comp. Robert Patterson proposed the Toast to theImmediate Past King.

The Toast to Absent Companions was by Ex. Comp. RonaldGregg and to Visiting Companions by V. Ex. Comp. Ronald S.Barnes. Ex. Comp. Ernest Lusty replied to the Visitors’ Toast.

All the speeches were entertaining and in keeping with thisjoyful special occasion.

CENTENARIAN INSTALLEDAS EXCELLENT KING

M. Ex. Comp. Charles Knipe congratulates M. Ex. Comp. Cyril.

The M. Ex. and Supreme GrandKing, M. Ex. Comp. Knipemakes a presentation to M. Ex.Comp. Quigley.

Ex. Comp. Ronald Greggproposes the Toast to AbsentFriends.

THE BANNER 25

The Companions assembled at the Installation of M. Ex. Comp.Cyril F. A.Quigley (aged 100 years) as Ex. King of Sir CharlesCameron RAC No. 353.

The Excellent King and Council of Chapter 353 for 2007 – Comp.R. M. Wray, High Priest, M. Ex. Comp. C. F. A. Quigley, ExcellentKing and Ex. Comp. M. Wray, Chief Scribe.

Ex. Comp. Ernie Lusty replies tothe Toast to the Visitors.

V. Ex. Comp. Ronnie Barnesproposes the Toast to the Visitors.

“The Top Brass” M. Ex. Comp. E. Cyril Ferguson, M. Ex. Comp.Charles R. Knipe, M. Ex. Comp. Cyril F. A. Quigley, M. Ex. Comp.Bill Norquay and M. Ex. Comp. S. Gordon Leathem.

DISTRICT CONVOCATION26th January 2008

At the Stated Convocation ofDistrict Grand Chapter held inthe Provincial Masonic Hall,Rosemary Street, Belfast, onSaturday, 26th January 2008,four new District Grand Officerswere invested: V. Ex. Comp. F.G. Cummings, Past King ofChapter 275, as District GrandKing’s Standard Bearer, V. Ex.Comp. P. J. Steele, Past King ofChapter 162, and V. Ex. Comp.R. Maguire, Past King of Chapter140, as District Grand Stewardsand V. Ex. Comp. J. M. Smith,Past King of Chapter 177, asDistrict Grand Chaplain.

A newly invested trio: V. Ex. Comp. Cummings, V. Ex. Comp. Steeleand V. Ex. Comp. Maguire.

The Excellent King, Council and guests at Sidon’s “Closing”Convocation on 22nd May 2007.

SIDON RAC NO. 275

V. Ex. Comp. Dr. Norman Close, District Grand Organist,became the 109th Excellent King of Sidon Chapter No. 275when he was installed in the chair on 22nd January 2008 by M.Ex. Comp. Jack Long. Comp. R. Brian Carson was installed asHigh Priest and M. Ex. Comp. Jack Godfrey as Chief Scribe.

V. Ex. Comp. Smith, newlyinvested District Grand Chaplain.

26 THE BANNER

I WOULD LIKE to take a couple of moments and tell you alla little about Rosemary Street Masonic Hall, built to be theheadquarters of the Provincial Grand Lodge of Antrim. Thisparticular building was designed by Belfast ArchitectsMessrs. Young & MacKenzie and built by Messrs Stewart &Partners, building and civil engineering contractors.

The Foundation Stone was laid on the evening of the 7th October1954, by the Most Worshipful the Grand Master of Ireland, MostWor. Bro. Raymond F. Brooke, ably assisted by Right Wor. Bro.Rupert Stanley LL.D, Provincial Grand Master of the MasonicProvince of Antrim.

The building was designed in the Neo-Classical style andconstructed mainly in post-tensioned insitu reinforced concrete. Ittook some fifteen months to complete and was officially opened onSaturday the 1st December 1956. In the Provincial Museum is asmall collection of black and white photographs of the WorksUnderway and the Trowel and Other Implements used in theFoundation Laying and Opening Ceremonies.

The building itself is four storeys, comprising a large under-croftwith kitchens, museum, offices and sundry storerooms. On theground floor are located the formal dining rooms, the administrativeoffices for the Province, the old clubrooms and the library. The firstfloor has a series of lodge-rooms, where the individual Lodges meetand the Provincial Grand Lodge-room is also located here. TheSecond floor has more lodge-rooms for the accommodation of theBrethren. This Hall is the administrative headquarters of Antrim,and is home to over sixty separate Lodges, Chapters andPerceptories.

The Provincial Grand Lodge-room, on the first floor, is a largeassembly room with provision for seating some three hundredBrethren. Due to the presence of an elaborate and vibrant mural bythe local artist Mr John Luke, this room is considerably enhanced.This work, based on the biblical scene of the Building of KingSolomon’s Temple is most apt for a Masonic Hall.

The mural was originally commissioned in 1955 by Messrs Young& Mackenzie, Architects, and was their gift to the new Provincialheadquarters then under construction. It is one of only three suchmurals painted by John Luke in Belfast, one being located in BelfastCity Hall and the other in the Belfast College of Technology. Othersmaller examples of Luke’s vibrant use of colour can be examined inthe collections of the Ulster Museum.

The other Lodge-rooms are quite plain and functional inappearance.

Scattered throughout the building are portraits of many of theMasonic Brethren associated with both the Province of Antrim andthe Rosemary Street Hall.

As you came through our Main Porch, you will have seen thecommemorative plaque to Henry Joy McCracken, the BelfastLeader of the United Irishmen, who originally lived in this area.Henry Joy came from Presbyterian stock and as a result of hisinvolvement in the 1798 rebellion, he was brutally put to death, as awarning to others. There were many Freemason’s involved in the‘98, and we are pleased to be able to mark these links by providinga home for this fine plaque.

There are many other Masonic sites in the city including theMasonic Pillar and commemorative Perceptory window locatedwithin St Anne’s Cathedral and the Masonic lamp-standard, whichcan be seen directly outside of the Ulster Hall. In St George’s ParishChurch there is a magnificent memorial to the memory of SirRobert Baird, a well known Belfast business man and a pastTreasurer of The Grand Lodge of Ireland, and just across the way inCornmarket, is the magnificent Arthur Square Hall.

Now, we shall spend a few moments looking into the early historyof Freemasonry in Belfast, looking at a few of Belfast Lodges fromtheir earliest beginnings in the middle of the Seventeenth Century tothe present time. As most of you are already aware, Freemasonryin Belfast has a long and proud history behind it. The first formal

published listing of Belfast Lodges is to be found in the 1782 editionof “Ahiman Rezon” edited by Lawrence Dermott, the Secretary ofThe Grand Lodge of the Antients in London, and this particular issue(the 5th Edition) was printed and published by James Magee at TheBible and Crown, in Bridge Street, Belfast. In those days they didn’tstint in the titles of their books and in this case the full title reads:-

“AHIMAN REZON or A HELP TO A BROTHER shewing theExcellency of Secrecy, and the first cause of the Institution ofFREEMASONRY; the Principles of the Craft, and the benefits arisingfrom a strict observance there; the sort of Men that ought to be Initiatedinto the Mystery, and the kind of Masons that are fit to govern Lodges,with their proper behaviour in and out of the Lodge. The ancient Mannerof Constituting new LODGES and all the CHARGES etc, likewise, theprayers used in Jewish and Christian Lodges etc. etc.”

This remarkable work – an able fore runner to our Laws &Constitutions of modern times, was the first such work widelyavailable in the kingdoms of England, Ireland and Scotland. It is herethat we get our first published record of the Lodges then workingwithin the towne of Belfast at that time.

“The Regular Lodges at present in Belfast:1. The Members of the Orange Lodge (No 257) Assemble once a

fortnight at The Donegall Arms; the Lodge consists of about 120members.

2. The Members of the New Blue Lodge (No 272) Assemble oncea month at The Sailor in Mill Street, about 30 Members.

3. The Members of No 491 Assemble once a month in HerculesLane, upwards of 40 Members.

4. The Member’s of Rodney’s Lodge (No 587) Assemble once amonth, in Pottinger’s Entry; this Lodge consists of upwards of 30Members.

5. Also a military Lodge (No 354) held at The Sailor in Mill Street”.We have a full list of members for The Orange Lodge No 257 at

that date, and it includes most of the prominent people of Belfast,such as Samuel Bristow, James Hyndman, William Magee, ThomasBanks, Samuel Ferguson, George MacCartney, John McKibbon,Thomas Sinclair and James Fowler.

Interestingly our friend Dermott actually omits the earliestrecorded Belfast Lodge from his list. There is no mention of TrueBlue Lodge No.182, which was originally Warranted on the 5thOctober 1748. This may be due to the fact that the Lodge hadstopped meeting for a few years and was not revived until March1782 when the Lodge was known as the Belfast Orange Lodge.

I should, at this point remind you all, that the colours Blue &Orange had no party or political significance at that time, they weremerely a way of distinguishing the Lodges, one from another. Lodge257, The Orange Lodge was originally warranted on the 6th June1755, and it was revived, mainly by the efforts of Amyas Griffiths, onthe 4th January 1781. It was also at that time known as “TheGentleman’s Lodge”.

Historically we find that this second title was well deserved asLodge 257 was clearly very active in the social occasions of the day.One good example of this was their selfless donation of £100.00towards the erection of a new Linen Hall in the centre of Belfast in1783. Proof of this generosity can still be found inscribed on acopper plate 8” long x 5” inches broad, which was recovered duringthe removal of the old White Linen Hall, for the erection of ourcurrent Belfast City Hall. This was found lying across the FoundationStone, and had the following inscription:-

“The first stone of the Belfast White Linen Hall was laid the 28th ofApril, A.D. 1783, in the year of Masonry 5783 by John Brown Esq,Worshipful Master of The Orange Lodge of Belfast No 257, High Sheriffof The County of Antrim and Major of the Belfast Battalion ofVolunteers, assisted by the Wardens & Brethren of said Lodge andaccompanied by the Members of the other Lodges, the Sovereign,Burgesses and Principal inhabitants of the town. In aid of which Building,the Orange Lodge presented the Managers with the sum of £100-00”.

A FEW INTERESTINGAND HISTORICAL JOTTINGS(Extracts from a paper by V. Ex. Comp. Robert Bashford, Chapter No. 574 and Chapter of Research No. 222.)

THE BANNER 27

This copper plate is now safely stored and duly deposited in thearchives of the Ulster Museum, and hopefully will be put on displayin the not too distant future.

The new White Linen Hall was conceived with a desire topromote the welfare of the community at large, and the Masons, bysupporting the scheme with such generosity, proved once again,that their charity was not confined to their own Order, but asLawrence Dermott said in the dedication to his fifth edition of“AHIMAN REZON” in 1782:-

“You pay no particular attention to Country, Religion, or to Station,but are happy in diffusing Bliss indiscriminately to all the Honest, andWorthy of every Denomination, of every Country, of every Persuasion andof every Rank.”

In proof of that statement, one can also point to their support ofthe old Poor House, which was strictly undenominational. Theearliest public action of Lodge 257, after its revival in 1781, was toassemble at the Donegall Arms on St John’s Day, 1781 and march inprocession to St Anne’s Church, where their Chaplain, the Rev.Matthew Garnet, Vicar of Carnmoney and Constable of BelfastCastle, preached. A handsome collection was taken up for thePoorhouse of the towne. On the following St John’s Day, thepreacher was the Dissenting Minister, the Rev. James Bryson.

The attendance at Divine Service on St John’s Day became anannual event and, on each occasion, a collection was taken on behalfof the old Poor House. St Anne’s Parish Church was not the onlyChurch that the Orange Lodge attended, as will be seen from thefollowing circular: -

“Orange Lodge-room, Belfast. Wednesday – July 1785.At the particular request of the commanders of the Belfast Volunteer

Corps, The Brethren of the Orange Lodge of Belfast No 257 arerequested to meet at the Lodge-room precisely at ten thirty o’clock infull uniform, in order to clothe, and march in procession to the RomanCatholic Mass-house, where the agreeable Priest of Belfast hasundertaken to preach before them.

Signed by Order, James Hyndman, Secretary”.The Mass-house referred to was the old Catholic Church of St

Mary’s in Chapel Lane, which stood behind the row of houses,where the present St. Mary’s now stands.

We have already learned that John Brown, the Master of Lodge257 was Major of The Belfast Battalion of Volunteers. Otherprominent Lodge Members, serving with the Belfast Battalion,included Robert Bradshaw, the Junior Warden, who was aLieutenant and the Rev James Bryson, who was Chaplain to theBelfast First Volunteer Company. It was this same John Brown,who, in 1797, when the Antrim coast was threatened with Frenchinvasion, was responsible for raising four companies of YeomanInfantry.

In June of that same year, the Members of 257, in open Lodge,gave voice to their view:-

“That we will, with our lives and fortunes, support and maintain hispresent majesty, King George III, our happy Constitution and thesuccession to the Throne in his Majesty’s illustrious House.

That we will aid and assist, to the utmost in our power, all civilmagistrates in the execution of their duty.

And that we will use our utmost endeavour to suppress all riot anddisorder and support and maintain our ancient and honourable Societyin its truest intent and meaning.

Signed by Order:- James Montgomery, Master: John Brown, PastMaster: John Gault Smith, Secretary.”

To our eyes today such a political statement is unthinkable, but inthe period of 1798, political comment from Masonic Lodges waswidespread, and could be read in most of the newspapers of theday. Indeed matters reached such a state in 1798 that Grand Lodgeitself was finally forced to go to the press and publish the followingreminder:- “that no discussion on political or religious topics arepermitted in open Lodge and the Grand Lodge must insist that allIrish lodges refrain from such discussions, or the publication of same

from this day forth, Signed by Order, Nicholas Loftus, Grand Secretary– 3rd January 1798”.

Before leaving our Brethren in the Orange Lodge, I would justmention a few of the Lodge Brethren who did walk close to theedge in 1798. Members such as Henry Hazlett, a pronouncedradical and one of the shareholders in “The Northern Star”, anewspaper virtually synonymous with the movement of theUnited Irishmen in Belfast. He was eventually arrested by theDublin Authorities, and imprisoned in Kilmainham Jail on a chargeof Treason.

Another member, John Hughes, a bookseller from 20 BridgeStreet, Belfast, was arrested as “A United Man” in October 1797 andwas charged with High Treason. To save his neck, he eventually, andreluctantly, turned informer and eventually immigrated toCharlestown in South Carolina.

On the side of the Crown, Brethren such as The Rev GeorgeMcCartney, an active magistrate, and the man who originallyissued the Warrant for the arrest of William Orr representedLodge 257. After a memorable trial, where the jury were believedto be nobbled by the Crown, Orr was later hanged atCarrickfergus Castle.

McCartney was in Antrim to attend a meeting of Magistrates asthe Rising commenced and was one of the men who tried to go tothe aid of Lord O’Neill, as he was fatally piked in the early part ofThe Battle of Antrim. Lord John O’Neill himself, a well regardedand benevolent landlord and magistrate, was himself a member ofThe Orange Lodge No 257.

Finally I come to the most infamous Member of all – JamesMcGuckian, a Belfast solicitor, with his home and offices on thecorner of Fountain Street and Donegall Square North. He joined theUnited Men in 1796 and acted as their solicitor. He was arrested in1798, turned Informer and consequentially gave over to theAuthorities many low ranking United Men. He remained in Belfastand eventually died in 1817.

It is interesting to note, that the meeting place of The OrangeLodge, the Donegall Arms, was seized by the Military and used as aprison during the latter half of 1798.

(Many thanks to Robert for these extracts from one of his papers.)

Freemasons’ Hall, Arthur Square ManagementCommittee now issue a circular, as and when necessary,entitled, “No Secrets.”

In the issue dated February 2008, it is interesting to notethat, in the first annual accounts statement since the hall wasrefurbished, it shows there were borrowings of £30,000.00less than what was on the financial budgets to PGLA and theBank when they were securing permission and finance.

Also noted is that the hall is a very busy place – 64 Lodges,23 Royal Arch Chapters, 9 Preceptories, 2 Councils of KnightMasons and 3 Chapters of Prince Masons will be holding theirmeetings there before the summer recess. The District RoyalArch Chapter of Antrim, Board of General Purposes andBelfast Committee of Inspection will be holding their meetingsthere from September.

The premises are also making money – Millward BrownMarketing have already hired rooms for 15 days, Belfast CityManagement and the Combined North, South, East and WestBelfast Trust have also used the hall for workshop days/afternoons.Action Cancer has booked 2 days later in the year.

Well done and best wishes to the forward looking andenthusiastic Management Committee of Freemasons’ Hall,Arthur Square.

NO SECRETS

28 THE BANNER

Some pictures taken at the very successful District GrandChapter Dinner Dance on 26th January 2008 in MassereeneGolf Club.

Dinner Dance

Ex. Comp. David Morgan, Past Assistant Director of Ceremonies ofthe Supreme Grand Royal Arch Chapter of England and Wor. Bro.John Fenning, Past Grand Standard Bearer of the Grand MasterMasons Lodge of England, enjoying the evening.

A very young at heart, V.Ex. Comp. Walter Carson with a ‘friend’.

R.Ex. Comp. Richard Aughey and Mrs. Aughey.

V.Ex. Comp. Jim McFarland and Mrs. McFarland.

M.Ex. Comp. Bill Cummings and Mrs. Cummings.

V.Ex. Comp. John Creighton, Ex. Comp. Brian Bonar with Mrs. Bonarand Mrs. Creighton.

Rt. Ex. Comp. David Wallace,District Grand Chief Scribe,poses with wife Linda.

V.Ex. Comp. Billy Brown,District Grand Director ofCeremonies, relaxes.

Ex. Comp. Hugh Rodgers and wife Joan relaxing at the Dinner Dance.

THE BANNER 29

INTRODUCTIONIn our Bible stories and in Royal Arch Masonry we hear and read

of Aaron and his prominent part in the history of the Jewish people.This short article takes a look at Aaron’s background and family, hisfunction with particular reference to his priesthood, and the rod,which we all associate with Aaron.

EARLY LIFE AND FAMILYAaron was born in Egypt about 1200 BC. He was the elder son

of Amram and Jochebed, the older brother of Moses, who wasthree years younger and the younger brother of Miriam who was anumber of years older. Aaron was the great-grandson of Levi.Aaron’s wife was Elisheba, daughter of Amminadab, sister ofNaashon. He had four sons Eleazar, Ithamar, Nadab and Abihu. Hewas known as a powerful and persuasive speaker, a skill he wouldlater use to great effect on behalf of Moses.

AARON’S TASKDuring his later life Aaron fulfilled the role of a representative,

using both his skills as a speaker and as a person who understoodand got on well with people and then as the High Priest of Israel.Because of Aaron’s ability as a speaker he represented Moses, bothwith the people and in negotiations with the Egyptian Pharaoh. Inthe case of the former function the weaknesses, inherent in us all,came to the fore. He and Moses gave signs to the peoplereinforcing the fact that they were on a divine mission on behalf ofthe people.

At the command of Moses he initiated the first three plagues,blood, frogs and lice.

We next hear of Aaron when he, with Hur, supports Moses whenhis hands were heavy in the battle with Amalek.

Aaron was not permitted to accompany Moses to Sinai when hewas given the revelation; it was Joshua who was permitted into thepresence of the Lord. This occurrence permitted the creation ofthe circumstances whereby Aaron would be depicted in the worstpossible light. During the absence of Moses and Joshua, Aaronyielded to the demands of the people, and made a golden calf as animage of the Almighty, who had delivered them out of the land ofEgypt. The rebellion of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram was the nextoccasion we hear of Aaron.

This rebellion arose because of the preferential treatment givento the family of Aaron. Traditionally it was to the eldest son of afamily who performed the religious duties in a family but theAlmighty chose Aaron as opposed to the elder branch of the familyof Rueben. This was the real reason for the rebellion although eachleader had a separate agenda. The 3 Rubenite leaders rebelled andwe remember the fate of those who murmured. But even this didnot act as a lesson to the people and they murmured against Mosesand Aaron. It was at this juncture that Aaron next appears in hispriestly role.

As we know from our ritual Moses commanded Aaron to makean atonement to save any further suffering by the people from theplague which the Lord had sent to them as a punishment. We readthat he stood between the living and the dead and the plague wasstayed, thus preventing any further suffering by the people. Thisrebellion occurred at the time when the tribe of Levi was set apartfor the priesthood on behalf of the Nation. Aaron was anointed andconsecrated to the priesthood, arrayed in the robes of his office,and instructed in its very important duties. On the day of hisconsecration his sons, Nadab and Abihu, were consumed by firefrom the Lord for having offered incense in an unlawful manner(Leviticus 10).

THE DUTIES OF THE HIGH PRIESTThe High Priest was the representative of the people and he

alone made atonement for their sins. Like many ecclesiastical dutiesthey were considerable and most required attention at least daily.

Positive DutiesMust be cleansed before duties; Must be robed as laid down in

the Volume of the Sacred Law; Prepare the altar; Cleanse himselfthe required number of times; Slaughter the offerings; Prepare themenorah; Alone enter the Holy of Holies once a year on the Dayof Atonement; Sprinkle the sin offering on the Mercy Seat; Offerincense; Burn the offering; Offer the offerings; Clothe himself;Make confession; Read the Torah as required; Burn incense withinthe Holy of Holies.

Negative DutiesDo not attend funerals; Do not rend clothes for the dead; Be

without sin or have sin expiated by sacrifice prior to duties.Aaron with Moses, entered into the tabernacle so as to take

possession thereof. As they “came forth and blessed the people.And the glory of the Lord appeared to all the multitude: And beholda fire, coming forth from the Lord, devoured the holocaust, and thefat that was upon the altar: which when the multitude saw, theypraised the Lord, falling on their faces” (Leviticus 9:23, 24).

So was the institution of the Aaronic priesthood inaugurated andsolemnly ratified by the Lord.

AARON’S RODIn the Christian tradition Aaron’s rod first appeared after the

rebellion of Korah when Moses was commanded by the Lord tocut up a tree trunk into twelve portions, one for each of the twelvetribes of Israel. The rods were placed in a sealed tent and nextmorning Aaron’s rod had blossomed with almonds, giving Aaronand the Levites a special place and legitimacy in the minds of thepeople. Jewish tradition gives Aaron’s rod even greater history. Therod was used by Aaron at the court of the Pharoah when it turnedinto a serpent and swallowed up the Egyptian magicians’ serpentswhich had sprung from their rods. Aaron used his rod to bring forththe first three plagues upon the Egyptians.

What became of Aaron’s rod which had done such mysteriousdeeds? The answer is given to us in Hebrews Chapter 9 Verse 4:

“Which had the golden censer, and the ark of the covenant overlaidround about with gold, wherein was the golden pot that had manna,and Aaron’s rod that budded, and the tables of the covenant”.

This portion of scripture indicates to us how important the rodof Aaron was to the people of Israel that it should be placed in theArk of the Covenant, a relic of the importance of the Aaronicpriesthood.

THE DEATH OF AARONNeither Moses nor Aaron were permitted to enter the promised

land. The reason is believed to have been the lack of deference forthe Almighty when, during the Exodus, Moses struck the rock toget water for the people. He had been instructed to speak to therock. The death of Aaron is as mysterious as his life. The volume ofthe sacred law gives two accounts of the event. The principal onegives a detailed statement to the effect that, soon after the aboveincident, Aaron, accompanied by his son Eleazar and Moses,ascended Mount Hor, which is believed to have been identifiedwith the Jebel Nebi Harun (“Mountain of the Prophet Aaron” inArabic), a twinpeaked mountain 4780 feet above the sea-level(6072 feet above the Dead Sea) in the Edomite Mountains on theeast side of the Jordan-Arabah valley. At Mount Hor, Mosesstripped Aaron of his priestly garments, and transferred them toEleazar. Aaron died on the summit of the mountain, and thepeople mourned for him thirty days (Num. xx. 22-29; comparexxxiii. 38, 39). The other account is found in Deut. x. 6, whereMoses is reported as saying that Aaron died at Mosera and wasburied there. Mosera is not on Mount Hor, since the itinerary inNum. xxxiii. 31-37 records seven stages between Moseroth(Mosera) and Mount Hor. In Jewish tradition this is explained bythe people having retired to Moseroth after a defeat in battlewhere they mourned Aaron.

AARON THE MAN WITH THE RODV.E. Companion W. T. Brown, MBE, Chichester RAC No 313 and Director of Ceremonies DG Royal Arch Chapter of Antrim.

This is an extract from V.Ex. Comp. Brown’s Paper

30 THE BANNER

ARTICLESWANTEDIf you have any articles for the Bannermagazine please forward them, togetherwith any accompanying photographs, tothe editor:

Wendell McGrath (Chapter 56)57 Crosskennan Road, Antrim BT41 2RE.Telephone 9446 0117

THE MAY 2007 Convocation of Supreme Grand Chapter washeld in the Provincial Masonic Hall, Rosemary Street, Belfast.

There was a large turnout and the Convocation was a greatsuccess. Everyone was delighted with the arrangements and ourown worthy Registrar was greatly praised for his meticulousplanning and preparations – the compliments he received wereextremely well deserved.

The senior Officers of Supreme Grand Chapter: The Most Excellentand Supreme Grand King, M. Ex. Comp. Charles R. Knipe, M. Ex.Comp. Michael J. Ward, Deputy Grand King, M. Ex. Comp. S.Gordon Leathem, B.E.M., Assistant Grand King, M. Ex. Comp.Walter G. McCrea, Grand High Priest and M. Ex. Comp. J. McA.Pollock, Grand Chief Scribe.

V. Ex. Comp. John N. Rowden, Deputy Grand Organist.

M. Ex. Comp. Michael J. Ward, Deputy Grand King with M. Ex.Comp. Edward C. W. Smith, District Grand King of Meath andNorth Connaught.

M. Ex. Comp. Kenneth Vance, District Grand King of Down and hisAssistant District Grand King, R. Ex. Comp. Cyril Beers.

The Most Excellent and Supreme Grand King, M. Ex. Comp.Charles R. Knipe, with M. Ex. Comp. E. Cyril Ferguson, DistrictGrand King of Antrim and M. Ex. Comp. Cyril F. A. Quigley, PastDistrict Grand King of Antrim.

SUPREME GRAND CHAPTER2ND MAY 2007

THE BANNER 31

On behalf of the members of Crumlin RAC No.140, V. Ex. Comp. Bill Cummings, retiredRegistrar, presents Ex. Comp. Reggie Maguire,current Registrar, with District Regalia, at therequest of the District Grand King, M. Ex.Comp. E. Cyril Ferguson.

(Photo by Pat McGuigan, Randalstown)

CRUMLIN RAC NO. 140

V. Ex. Comp. James McClurg installed the Excellent King, Ex. Comp. John Morris andthe Council, V. Ex. Comp. Russell Mailey, High Priest and Comp. Philip Mooney, ChiefScribe of Crumlin RAC 140 on 17th December 2007 in Crumlin Masonic Hall. They arepictured here with the District Grand King, M. Ex. Comp. E. Cyril Ferguson, R. Ex.Comp. Wendell McGrath, District Assistant Grand King, Ex. Comp. Pat McGuigan,Immediate Past King, Ex. Comp. Reggie Maguire, Registrar, V. Ex. Comp. Bill Cummings,retired Registrar and nonagenarian, V. Ex. Comp. Walter Carson.

IN CONCLUSIONI SINCERELY thank all those who gave of their time to write articles or takephotos and send them to me. The Banner is the result of the efforts of all thesecompanions. Special thanks for the exceptional assistance I receive from M. Ex.Comp. Drew Coid. Again I thank Peter in DCG for his patience and artisticexpertise in the production of this journal, which I hope you, the reader, will enjoy.

Please support those who have placed advertisements, without theirgenerosity the Banner could not be produced.

THE EDITOR

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